ISRO successfully launched its heaviest communication satellite CMS-03, weighing 4,410 kg, on the LVM3-M5 ‘Bahubali’ rocket from Sriharikota, marking a major step in India’s self-reliant space capabilities.

ISRO scripts history as 'Bahubali' rocket injects heaviest satellite in orbit

ISRO successfully launched its heaviest communication satellite CMS-03, weighing 4,410 kg, on the LVM3-M5 &lsquo;Bahubali&rsquo; rocket from Sriharikota, marking a major step in India&rsquo;s self-reliant space capabilities.

In a historic Christmas Eve mission, ISRO's heaviest rocket, LVM3-M6, successfully placed a heavy US communication satellite into orbit on Wednesday, a feat described by the space agency chief as a season's gift to the country.
The 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite is part of a constellation of global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mission to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity through satellite that would enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming and data for everyone, everywhere at all times.
ISRO said the LVM3-M6, nicknamed 'Bahubali' for its heavy-lift capability, injected the satellite into its intended orbit in a textbook launch. LVM3-M6 carried the communication satellite as part of a commercial deal between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC). NewSpace India is the commercial arm of the ISRO.
On Wednesday, the 43.5 metre tall rocket soared majestically at 8.55 am from the second launch pad here at the end of a 24-hour countdown. After a flight journey of about 15 minutes, the spacecraft got separated from the launch vehicle and it was successfully placed into the orbit, bringing all-round cheers in the Mission Control Centre here.
On the successful launch, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said, "I am extremely happy to say that the LVM3M6 Bahubali rocket has successfully placed the Bluebird Block-2 satellite into the intended orbit. Let me congratulate NewSpace India and AST Space Mobile on the outstanding achievement."
The satellite was placed in a 518 km circular orbit against the planned 520 km altitude, he said, describing it as a "textbook launch". The LVM3 rocket has demonstrated its 100 per cent success rate, he added.
Weighing 6,100 kg, the communication satellite is the heaviest payload to be placed into the LEO in LVM3 launch history from Indian soil, the space agency said. The previous heaviest was the LVM3-M5 Communication Satellite 03, weighing about 4,400 kg, which was successfully launched by ISRO on November 2 in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
According to Narayanan, this is the first time ISRO has launched two LVM3 rockets within just 52 days, following the earlier successful mission on November 2. Addressing his team from the Mission Control Centre post the launch, he thanked them for one of the finest performances of any rocket and said this mission brings India's total to 434 satellites launched for 34 countries.
"The reward for hard work is more work, and we have a lot of programmes on hand," he remarked. Narayanan hailed the successful launch of the Bluebird Block-2 satellite as a "New Year and Christmas gift to Bharat." He reflected on a year of achievements, driven by high-stakes missions such as the NISAR mission, taken up with NASA, CMS-03 and the latest mission.
On the ambitious Gaganyaan mission, he said, "We have to accomplish uncrewed missions, and we are getting towards that." With the industrial consortium fully prepared, Narayanan, who is also the Secretary of Department of Space, said another launch from an Indian startup is scheduled in just a few weeks.
Already, the developmental phase of small satellite launch vehicles (SSLVs) is completed, and "we are going to start the operational phase of SSLVs," he said. One of the important commitments made by the central government is the commission of navigation satellites.
"That satellite series we are going to continue and we are going to start placing them in the intended orbit," he said. Wednesday's mission is aimed at deploying the next-generation communication satellite designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones.
AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network, which is accessible directly by smartphones and designed for both commercial and government applications.
The LVM3-M6, also known as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-MkIII), is a three-stage rocket with a cryogenic engine designed and developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre. The vehicle uses two S200 solid rocket boosters to provide the huge amount of thrust required for the lift-off. The booster has been developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram.
According to AST SpaceMobile, it has launched five satellites, Bluebird 1-5, in September 2024, which provide continuous coverage across the United States and other select countries. The company has planned to launch similar satellites to augment its network support and has partnered with over 50 mobile operators across the globe.
The LVM3-M6 is the sixth operational flight of LVM3 and third dedicated commercial mission to launch the Bluebird Block-2 spacecraft. The LVM3 has a spectacular pedigree of completing eight consecutive successful launches, including the ambitious Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 missions, the space agency said.

Delhi Traffic Police issues traffic diversions and restrictions in Saket, affecting key roads and malls during Christmas celebrations on December 24-25.

Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory ahead of Christmas celebrations

Delhi Traffic Police issues traffic diversions and restrictions in Saket, affecting key roads and malls during Christmas celebrations on December 24-25.

The Delhi Traffic Police on Wednesday issued an advisory informing people about traffic diversions and restrictions in parts of south Delhi, particularly in the Saket area, in view of Christmas celebrations scheduled on December 24 and 25.
According to the advisory, traffic diversions will be implemented around Select City Mall, DLF Avenue Mall and MGF Metropolitan Court Mall in Saket to ensure smooth vehicular movement and public safety amid an expected surge in footfall. The special traffic arrangements will come into effect from 2 pm onwards on both days.
Police said Press Enclave Road and several internal roads of Saket and Pushp Vihar will be affected due to the restrictions. To manage congestion, diversions will be enforced at key junctions, including Sheikh Sarai red light on Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Asian Market Red Light on Mehrauli-Badarpur (MB) Road and PTS Malviya Nagar Red Light on Sri Aurobindo Marg.
As part of the traffic regulations, all median cuts from Sheikh Sarai to Hauz Rani will remain closed during the restricted hours. Heavy vehicles and DTC/cluster buses will not be permitted on both carriageways of Press Enclave Road.&nbsp;
Additionally, DTC and cluster buses will not be allowed to ply towards Pushp Vihar from MB Road via the Asian Market Red Light, the advisory stated.The traffic police also suggested alternative routes for commuters to avoid inconvenience.&nbsp;
Commuters travelling from Chirag Delhi towards Qutub Minar have been advised to take the route via Khanpur T-Point, MB Road and Lado Sarai T-Point.
Those heading from the IIT Flyover towards Sangam Vihar or Sainik Farm have been advised to use the route via TB Hospital red light, Lado Sarai red light, MB Road, Chirag Delhi and Khanpur red light.&nbsp;

AAP leaders, led by Isudan Gadhvi, addressed a public meeting in Rajkot’s Jasdan constituency, criticising long-term governance, farmer distress, policing issues and rising costs in Gujarat.

AAP holds ‘Gujarat Jodo Jansabha’ in Rajkot, raises concerns over governance, farmers and policing

AAP leaders, led by Isudan Gadhvi, addressed a public meeting in Rajkot&rsquo;s Jasdan constituency, criticising long-term governance, farmer distress, policing issues and rising costs in Gujarat.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) organised a public meeting titled &lsquo;Gujarat Jodo Jansabha&rsquo; at Dodiyala village in Rajkot district&rsquo;s Jasdan Assembly constituency.
AAP Gujarat State President Isudan Gadhvi, State Youth President Brijraj Solanki, along with party office-bearers and workers, were present at the event. According to the party, villagers attended the meeting in large numbers.
Addressing the gathering, Gadhvi spoke about governance in Gujarat over the past decades, stating that the BJP has ruled the state for the last 30 years and that Congress was in power for 30 years before that. He said farmers faced difficulties even during the Congress regime and referred to incidents where bullets were fired on farmers. He alleged that while political leaders and senior bureaucrats have progressed, farmers, the poor, marginalised sections, the middle class and small employees have not seen development.
Gadhvi also spoke about disparities within the police system, stating that a constable caught taking ₹200 is transferred immediately, while IPS officers allegedly possess wealth worth crores without facing action. He compared police salaries in AAP-ruled Punjab and Gujarat, claiming that police personnel in Punjab receive a salary of ₹70,000, while those in Gujarat are paid ₹20,000, and alleged that police personnel in Gujarat face arbitrary transfers and pressure to carry out wrongful work.
Referring to employment and social conditions, Gadhvi said outsourced employees, farmers, and women in Gujarat are distressed. He also claimed that some BJP leaders themselves have said that the party is no longer the same. He alleged that several IAS and IPS officers have accumulated properties in states such as Kerala and Bihar and said he has prepared a list of such officers. He stated that if given the opportunity, he would recover money allegedly taken from the public.
Gadhvi attributed the rise in fertiliser prices to a reduction in subsidies, alleging that this was due to pressure from the United States. He claimed that the entry of cheap cotton from the US could harm Gujarat&rsquo;s farmers. Referring to price trends, he said that while the cost of items such as motorcycles and gold has increased significantly over the years, cotton prices have remained unchanged.
He also spoke about villages described as &ldquo;BJP villages&rdquo; and questioned continued political support despite rising costs and stagnant farm incomes. Gadhvi alleged that farmers are being pushed out of agriculture and claimed that large corporate interests could eventually take over agricultural land, leading to higher inflation affecting both rural and urban populations.

ISRO successfully placed the 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite into Low Earth Orbit using its LVM3-M6 rocket, marking the heaviest payload in LVM3 history and enabling global direct-to-mobile 4G and 5G connectivity.

ISRO's LVM3 rocket places US communication satellite into low earth orbit

ISRO successfully placed the 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite into Low Earth Orbit using its LVM3-M6 rocket, marking the heaviest payload in LVM3 history and enabling global direct-to-mobile 4G and 5G connectivity.

In a historic Christmas Eve mission, ISRO's heaviest rocket, LVM3-M6, successfully placed a US communication satellite into orbit on Wednesday.&nbsp;
The Bengaluru-headquartered space agency said the LVM3-M6 has successfully placed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into its intended orbit.
The Bluebird Block-2 mission is part of a global LEO (Low Earth Orbit) constellation to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity through satellite. This constellation would enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming and data for everyone, everywhere at all times.
LVM3-M6, also known as 'Bahubali', carried the communication satellite as part of a commercial deal between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC). NewSpace India is the commercial arm of ISRO.
The 43.5 metre tall rocket soared majestically at 8.54 am from the second launch pad here on Wednesday. After a flight journey of about 15 minutes, the spacecraft Bluebird Block-2 got separated from the vehicle and it was successfully placed into orbit.
On the successful launch, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said, "I am extremely happy to say that the LVM3M6 'Bahubali' rocket has successfully placed the Bluebird-Block 2 satellite into the intended orbit. Let me congratulate NewSpace India and AST Space Mobile on the outstanding achievement."
The satellite was placed in a 518 km circular orbit against the planned 520 km altitude, he said, describing it as a "textbook launch". The LVM3 rocket has demonstrated its 100 per cent success rate, he said.
According to Narayanan, this is the first time ISRO has launched two LVM3 rockets within just 52 days, following the successful M5 mission on November 2. Addressing his team from the Mission Control Centre, he thanked them for one of the finest performances of any launch vehicle and said this mission brings India's total to 434 satellites launched for 34 countries.
"The reward for hard work is more work, and we have a lot of programmes on hand," he remarked. The ISRO chairman hailed the successful launch of the Bluebird Block-2 satellite as a "New Year and Christmas gift to Bharat."
He reflected on a year of achievements, driven by high-stakes missions such as the NISAR mission, CMS-03 and the Bluebird Block-2 mission.
On the ambitious Gaganyaan mission, he said, "We have to accomplish uncrewed missions, and we are getting towards that." With the industrial consortium fully prepared, Narayanan, who is also the Secretary of Department of Space, said another launch from an Indian startup is scheduled in just a few weeks.
Already, the developmental phase of small satellite launch vehicles (SSLVs) is completed, and we are going to start the operational phase of SSLVs, he said. One of the important commitments made by the central government is the commission of navigation satellites.
"That satellite series we are going to continue and we are going to start placing them in the intended orbit," he said.
Weighing 6,100 kg, the communication satellite would be the heaviest payload to be placed into the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in LVM3 launch history from Indian soil, the space agency said. The previous heaviest was the LVM3-M5 Communication Satellite 03, weighing about 4,400 kg that was successfully launched by ISRO on November 2 in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
The mission is aimed at deploying the next-generation communication satellite designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones. AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network, which is accessible directly by smartphones and designed for both commercial and government applications.
The LVM3-M6, also known as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-MkIII), is a three-stage rocket with a cryogenic engine designed and developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
The vehicle uses two S200 solid rocket boosters to provide the huge amount of thrust required for lift off. The booster has been developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram.
According to AST SpaceMobile, it has launched five satellites, Bluebird 1-5, in September 2024, which provide continuous coverage across the United States and other select countries. The company has planned to launch similar satellites to augment its network support and has partnered with over 50 mobile operators across the globe.
The LVM3-M6 is the sixth operational flight of LVM3 and third dedicated commercial mission to launch the Bluebird Block-2 spacecraft. The LVM3 has a spectacular pedigree of completing eight consecutive successful launches including the ambitious Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 missions, ISRO said.

Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari cites worsening Delhi-NCR air quality affecting his health, calls for promoting electric and hydrogen vehicles, and highlights eco-friendly ethanol-powered cars.

Nitin Gadkari highlights Delhi-NCR pollution, urges shift to cleaner transport

Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari cites worsening Delhi-NCR air quality affecting his health, calls for promoting electric and hydrogen vehicles, and highlights eco-friendly ethanol-powered cars.

Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari drew attention to the persistent pollution problem in Delhi-NCR during a recent event, noting its direct impact on his health.&nbsp;
"I live here for three days, (and) I get allergies because of this pollution," he revealed.
Speaking at the book launch of veteran journalist and former central information commissioner Uday Mahurkar in Delhi, Gadkari highlighted the role of transportation in worsening air quality. "I am the transport minister and 40 per cent of pollution happens because of transport itself," he said.
Emphasising the urgent need for alternatives to fossil fuels, he questioned India&rsquo;s approach to energy consumption. "What kind of nationalism is this? Fossil fuels are limited, and pollution is increasing. Can't we reduce fossil fuel usage? Why can't we promote electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles, which can lead to zero pollution?" Gadkari asked, noting that the country spends around Rs 22 lakh annually on fossil fuels.
The minister also spoke about his eco-friendly flex-fuel vehicle, powered entirely by ethanol, highlighting its potential to cut pollution and reduce dependence on imported fuels.
Gadkari&rsquo;s comments come amid worsening air quality in the capital. On Tuesday, Delhi&rsquo;s air quality reached the severe category with a 24-hour AQI of 412, making it the second-most polluted city in India. Noida recorded an average AQI of 426, the highest in the country. By Wednesday morning, the AQI improved slightly to a very poor category, but forecasts suggest it will remain very poor over the next six days.
This is not Gadkari&rsquo;s first warning about Delhi pollution. During last December&rsquo;s smog season, he had expressed reluctance to visit the city. "Every time, while coming to Delhi, I think whether I should go or not. Itna bhayankar pollution hai (The pollution is just terrible)," he had said.

Authorities issued a low danger avalanche warning in Doda, Ganderbal, Kishtwar, Poonch, and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir following recent heavy snowfall in higher reaches.

Avalanche Warning Issued for 5 Jammu and Kashmir Districts

Authorities issued a low danger avalanche warning in Doda, Ganderbal, Kishtwar, Poonch, and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir following recent heavy snowfall in higher reaches.

An avalanche warning was issued in five districts of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday in view of the recent heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of the Union territory, officials said.
The low danger avalanche warning has been issued for Doda, Ganderbal, Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban districts.&nbsp;
The avalanche is likely to occur 2,800 metres above these districts during the next 24 hours, they said.
People have been asked to avoid avalanche-prone areas and follow official advisories.
Most of the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir have received moderate to heavy snowfall this week.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO for successfully placing the heaviest satellite BlueBird Block-2 in orbit using LVM3, highlighting India’s growing role in global commercial space and preparations for Gaganyaan.

PM Modi Applauds ISRO for LVM3 Launch of Heaviest Satellite

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO for successfully placing the heaviest satellite BlueBird Block-2 in orbit using LVM3, highlighting India&rsquo;s growing role in global commercial space and preparations for Gaganyaan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated ISRO for placing the heaviest satellite in orbit from India using the LVM3 rocket and strengthening the foundation for future missions such as the Gaganyaan.&nbsp;
The prime minister also said that the success of the heavy-lift LVM3 rocket also reinforced India's growing role in the global commercial launch market.&nbsp;
ISRO's LVM3 rocket places the 6.5 tonne Bluebird Block 2 satellite of US-based form AST Space Mobile into a 520 km circular orbit.&nbsp;
"A significant stride in India's space sector. The successful LVM3-M6 launch, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the spacecraft of USA, BlueBird Block-2, into its intended orbit, marks a proud milestone in India's space journey," PM Modi said in a post on X.&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Powered by India&rsquo;s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful. With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/f53SiUXyZr">pic.twitter.com/f53SiUXyZr</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2003681952323502169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
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"It strengthens India's heavy-lift launch capability and reinforces our growing role in the global commercial launch market," the prime minister said.&nbsp;
PM Modi said the LVM3 launch was also reflective of efforts towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat and congratulated hardworking space scientists and engineers.&nbsp;
"India continues to soar higher in the world of space! Powered by India's youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful," the prime minister said.&nbsp;
"With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global partnerships," he said.&nbsp;
"This increased capability and boost to self-reliance are wonderful for the coming generations," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

Delhi’s Air Quality Index improved to 336 on Wednesday morning, moving from 'severe' to 'very poor', with fog reducing visibility and temperatures hovering between 10°C and 19°C.

Delhi's Air Quality Improves from Severe to Very Poor

Delhi&rsquo;s Air Quality Index improved to 336 on Wednesday morning, moving from 'severe' to 'very poor', with fog reducing visibility and temperatures hovering between 10&deg;C and 19&deg;C.

Delhi's air quality saw some improvement on Wednesday morning, with the AQI moving to 'very poor' from 'severe' the day before, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The national capital's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 336 in the morning, as against 415 on Tuesday, the CPCB data showed.&nbsp;
Of Delhi's 40 air quality monitoring stations, 36 recorded AQI in the 'very poor' category. Nehru Nagar recorded the highest reading of 392, the CPCB's Sameer app showed.
An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'.Fog and smog reduced visibility in some parts of Delhi early in the morning.
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 10.2 degrees Celsius, 2.7 notches above normal. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 19 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The humidity level stood at 100 per cent. The IMD has forecast moderate fog during the day.&nbsp;

India called in Bangladesh envoy Riaz Hamidullah to demand a thorough investigation into the killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, following protests and rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh.

India calls in Bangladesh envoy, seeks thorough probe into killing of Hadi

India called in Bangladesh envoy Riaz Hamidullah to demand a thorough investigation into the killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, following protests and rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh.

India on Tuesday called in Bangladesh envoy Riaz Hamidullah and sought a thorough probe into the killing of Bangladeshi student leader Sharif Osman Hadi amid a sharp downturn in ties between the two countries.
New Delhi's move came hours after Indian envoy to Dhaka, Pranay Verma, was summoned to the foreign ministry to lodge a protest against "regrettable incidents" outside the Bangladesh high commission in New Delhi.
There have been protests outside the Bangladesh high commission against the recent lynching of a Hindu worker in the strife-torn neighbouring country.
At the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Hamidullah was told that Bangladesh should carry out a proper investigation into the killing of Hadi, people familiar with the matter said.
India's call for a detailed probe into Hadi's killing came as unsubstantiated allegations about an Indian hand in his death triggered anti-India sentiment in that country. There have been protests outside Indian missions in Bangladesh following Hadi's death.
Last week, a group of angry protesters tried to storm India's assistant high commission in Chittagong. India subsequently suspended its visa services in the mission.
Following the summoning of the Indian envoy, the Bangladesh foreign ministry said it conveyed its "grave concern" to the envoy over "regrettable incidents outside the perimeter of the Bangladesh high commission and residence in New Delhi" on December 20, and acts of vandalism at the Bangladesh visa centre in Siliguri on December 22.
"Bangladesh also expressed deep concern over violent protests staged outside the premises of the different diplomatic missions of Bangladesh in India," it said.
Bangladesh has witnessed a fresh wave of unrest following the death of Hadi last week. Hadi was a prominent face in the anti-government protests that forced the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government.
Amid the fresh protests, a Hindu man, Dipu Chandra Das, was killed in Bangladesh's Mymensingh.
India last Wednesday too summoned Bangladesh envoy Hamidullah and conveyed its strong concern over certain extremist elements announcing plans to create a security situation around the Indian mission in Dhaka.
India's action followed after certain extremist elements announced plans to hold protests around the Indian high commission in Dhaka.
In a statement, the MEA had said that India "completely rejects the false narrative" sought to be created by extremist elements regarding certain recent events in Bangladesh.
"It is unfortunate that the interim government has neither conducted a thorough investigation nor shared meaningful evidence with India regarding the incidents," it had said.

IPL founder Lalit Modi posted a video from Vijay Mallya’s 70th birthday celebration in London, referring to them as India’s “two biggest fugitives” amid ongoing legal cases.

‘Biggest fugitives’ Lalit Modi, Vijay Mallya captured on London party video

IPL founder Lalit Modi posted a video from Vijay Mallya&rsquo;s 70th birthday celebration in London, referring to them as India&rsquo;s &ldquo;two biggest fugitives&rdquo; amid ongoing legal cases.

IPL founder Lalit Modi has posted a social media video from a party for Vijay Mallya&rsquo;s 70th birthday in London, referring to the pair as the &ldquo;two biggest fugitives&rdquo; of India.
The video on his Instagram handle is the second in the past few days capturing birthday celebrations for Mallya, wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges in connection with loans to the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.
&ldquo;We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India,&rdquo; Lalit Modi, the founding commissioner of the Indian Premier League (IPL), can be heard saying in the video. The caption to the Instagram post reads: &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday my friend Vijay Mallya&rdquo;. &ldquo;Something for you media folks. Wat (sic) your heard out with envy,&rdquo; adds Lalit Modi.
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Mallya, who turned 70 on December 18, can be seen smiling along with partner Pinki Lalwani. The latest video post follows a few others showing glimpses of a pre-birthday bash at Lalit Modi's Belgrave Square home in central London.
&ldquo;An amazing celebration for my dear friend Vijay Mallya at my house last night for all his friends and family who flew in from all corners of the world. Another cornerstone achieved by the King of Goodtimes &ndash; his 70th birthday. Wish him all the happiness and success,&rdquo; read the previous post.
Images shared by some of the guests who were at the party included glimpses of high-profile guests such as British actor Idris Elba and Indian entrepreneurs including Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw.
Both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya face legal challenges in India around allegations of financial impropriety, which they both have denied. Mallya is believed to be on bail in the UK as he continues to refuse extradition while a &ldquo;confidential&rdquo; legal matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, is resolved.
Earlier this year, a consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) won a court appeal in London to uphold a bankruptcy order against him in a long-standing legal battle seeking repayment of a judgment debt of around 1.05 billion pounds owed by Kingfisher Airlines.
In October, it emerged that Mallya had discontinued an application to annul the UK bankruptcy order, which meant the &ldquo;Trustee in Bankruptcy&rdquo; could continue to pursue his assets for the banks to realise the repayment of the judgment debt.

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A 65-year-old farmer, who has been protesting at Ghulal Toll barrier for the last 10 months, ended his life on Sunday by hanging self from a pipe using a piece of cloth that is used to wrap around head. The incident happened hours before Bharat Bandh by farmer unions. The deceased farmer's wife is also participating in protest against Centre's three farm laws at Delhi's Tikri border. Farmers learnt about the incident when they saw the deceased's hanging body on Monday morning.

Bharat Bandh: farmer ends life by hanging self in Ludhiana

Bharat Bandh: farmer ends life by hanging self in Ludhiana

A 65-year-old farmer, who has been protesting at Ghulal Toll barrier for the last 10 months, ended his life on Sunday by hanging self from a pipe using a piece of cloth that is used to wrap around head. The incident happened hours before Bharat Bandh by farmer unions. The deceased farmer's wife is also participating in protest against Centre's three farm laws at Delhi's Tikri border. Farmers learnt about the incident when they saw the deceased's hanging body on Monday morning.

The Union Cabinet has approved Phase 5A of the Delhi Metro at a cost of Rs 12,015 crore, adding over 16 km and 13 new stations to the network, with completion targeted in three years.

Cabinet clears Delhi Metro Phase 5A project worth Rs 12,015 crore

The Union Cabinet has approved Phase 5A of the Delhi Metro at a cost of Rs 12,015 crore, adding over 16 km and 13 new stations to the network, with completion targeted in three years.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved Phase 5A of the Delhi Metro project at a cost of Rs 12,015 crore, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said while briefing reporters on Cabinet decisions.
The approved phase will add around 16 km to the Delhi Metro network, comprising 13 stations, of which 10 will be underground and three elevated.
Vaishnaw said the project is expected to be completed within three years. With this expansion, the total length of the Delhi Metro network will exceed 400 km once the project is operational.
According to official details, the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared three new corridors under Phase V(A): R.K. Ashram Marg to Indraprastha (9.913 km), Aerocity to IGD Airport Terminal-1 (2.263 km), and Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj (3.9 km).
<img src="https://cdn.editorji.com/694bbfa630131_1766571942.jpg" width="524" height="308">
The combined length of these corridors is 16.076 km, and the total project cost has been estimated at Rs 12,014.91 crore. Funding will be sourced from the Government of India, the Government of Delhi, and international funding agencies.
Officials said the Central Vista corridor will provide metro access to the Kartavya Bhawans, offering doorstep connectivity for office-goers and visitors in the area. Once operational, around 60,000 office workers and nearly two lakh visitors are expected to benefit daily. The new corridors are also expected to reduce road congestion, pollution, and fossil fuel usage.
The R.K. Ashram Marg&ndash;Indraprastha stretch will extend the existing Botanical Garden&ndash;R.K. Ashram Marg corridor and connect the redeveloped Central Vista area with other parts of the city. The Aerocity&ndash;IGD Airport Terminal-1 and Tughlakabad&ndash;Kalindi Kunj sections will extend the Aerocity&ndash;Tughlakabad corridor, improving airport connectivity with southern Delhi, including areas such as Saket and Kalindi Kunj.
Once completed, the R.K. Ashram Marg&ndash;Indraprastha corridor will enhance links between West, North and Old Delhi with Central Delhi. The other two corridors will connect South Delhi to Domestic Airport Terminal-1 via areas including Saket and Chattarpur, significantly improving intra-city connectivity.
Officials said these extensions of the Magenta Line and the Golden Line are expected to ease traffic congestion, cut vehicular pollution and contribute to economic activity in the national capital.
Stations planned along the R.K. Ashram Marg&ndash;Indraprastha section include R.K. Ashram Marg, Shivaji Stadium, Central Secretariat, Kartavya Bhawan, India Gate, War Memorial&ndash;High Court, Baroda House, Bharat Mandapam and Indraprastha. The Tughlakabad&ndash;Kalindi Kunj corridor will have stations at Sarita Vihar Depot, Madanpur Khadar and Kalindi Kunj, while the Aerocity station will be extended to IGD Terminal-1.
Meanwhile, construction under Delhi Metro&rsquo;s Phase-IV project, covering 111 km and 83 stations, is ongoing. Officials said around 80.43% of civil construction work on the three priority corridors has been completed, with phased commissioning expected by December 2026.
At present, Delhi Metro handles an average of 65 lakh passenger journeys daily, with the highest-ever ridership of 81.87 lakh recorded on August 8, 2025. The network currently consists of 12 lines spanning about 395 km with 289 stations across Delhi and the NCR, making it the largest metro system in India and one of the largest globally.

Delhi High Court expresses displeasure over GST on air purifiers amid 'very poor' air quality, urging authorities to grant temporary tax relief.

Delhi HC expresses displeasure over no tax exemption on air purifiers in 'emergency situation'

Delhi High Court expresses displeasure over GST on air purifiers amid 'very poor' air quality, urging authorities to grant temporary tax relief.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday expressed displeasure over the authorities doing nothing to grant exemption from taxes on air purifiers in this &ldquo;emergency situation&rdquo; when the air quality index (AQI) is &lsquo;very poor&rsquo;.
A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the authorities&rsquo; counsel to take instructions on the issue and inform it at 2:30 pm.
The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to the central government to classify air purifiers as &ldquo;medical devices&rdquo; and reduce the goods and services tax (GST) to the five per cent slab. Air purifiers are currently taxed at 18 per cent.
At the outset, the bench expressed displeasure that nothing has been done in the matter and said that every citizen requires fresh air, which the authorities were not able to provide.
&ldquo;Let the purifiers be provided. That&rsquo;s the minimum you can do. When will you come back?&hellip;. Even if it is for temporary, give exemption for next one week or one month&hellip; Consider this an emergency situation, only for temporarily. Take instructions and come back.
&ldquo;We will place it before the vacation bench only for compliance. As we speak, we all breathe. You know how many times we breathe in a day, at least 21,000 times a day. Just calculate the harm you are doing to your lungs just by breathing 21,000 times a day, and that&rsquo;s involuntary,&rdquo; the bench said.
The petition by advocate Kapil Madan said that purifiers cannot be treated as luxury items in view of the &ldquo;extreme emergency crisis&rdquo; caused by severe air pollution in Delhi.
It contended that access to clean indoor air has become indispensable for health and survival.
&ldquo;Imposition of GST at the highest slab upon air-purifiers, a device that has become indispensable for securing minimally safe indoor air, renders such equipment financially inaccessible to large segments of the population and thereby inflicts an arbitrary, unreasonable, and constitutionally impermissible burden,&rdquo; the plea said.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis criticised the newly announced Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS alliance, calling it an attempt to create artificial political hype ahead of municipal elections.

Fadnavis mocks Sena (UBT)-MNS alliance, compares hype to Russia-Ukraine peace talks

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis criticised the newly announced Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS alliance, calling it an attempt to create artificial political hype ahead of municipal elections.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday criticised the newly announced alliance between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), describing it as an attempt to artificially generate political hype despite both parties having lost relevance.
Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis compared the publicity around the alliance to major international events, saying, &ldquo;They are trying to create hype as if something as historic as peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are taking place, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Vladimir Putin finally sitting across the table. This hype is being deliberately manufactured by both Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS.&rdquo;
He added that both parties had weakened themselves through what he termed appeasement politics, which led to a decline in their support base. &ldquo;These are parties that have lost relevance after indulging in appeasement politics and losing their support. Their coming together offers no benefit to the people,&rdquo; Fadnavis said.
The Chief Minister further suggested that the alliance was motivated by political survival rather than ideology. &ldquo;In a desperate attempt to save their existence, they have joined hands, believing that no party can win alone. However, the people of Maharashtra have seen our work, and it is on that basis that the Mahayuti will emerge victorious,&rdquo; he asserted.
Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS Alliance Announced
Earlier, UBT Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray publicly announced their alliance ahead of the upcoming municipal elections. The announcement came after the cousins paid tributes to party founder Balasaheb Thackeray.
Raj Thackeray said, &ldquo;The moment that Maharashtra was waiting for a long time that Shiv Sena and MNS should come together, today we are officially announcing the same.&rdquo;
Uddhav Thackeray added, &ldquo;We have come together to stay together.&rdquo;
The alliance also signals a renewed focus on identity politics in Maharashtra. Uddhav Thackeray emphasised that the needs of the Marathi manoos would remain a priority, while Raj Thackeray stated, &ldquo;Maharashtra is bigger than any quarrel; we are announcing that our alliance has been formed, the mayor of Mumbai will be a Marathi and will be ours.&rdquo;
Upcoming Municipal Elections
The Maharashtra State Election Commission has scheduled elections for 29 municipal corporations across the state, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). Polling is set for January 15, with counting to take place on January 16.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS leader Raj Thackeray announce alliance for Mumbai and Nashik civic polls, finalising seat sharing for key municipal corporations.

Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Forge Alliance for BMC Elections

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS leader Raj Thackeray announce alliance for Mumbai and Nashik civic polls, finalising seat sharing for key municipal corporations.

Putting months of speculation to rest, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray on Wednesday formally announced the alliance of their parties ahead of the January 15 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.
Addressing a joint news conference in Mumbai along with Raj, Uddhav said the two parties have come together to stay together. The cousins said they have united for the cause of &lsquo;Marathi manoos&rsquo; and Maharashtra.
Uddhav said their grandfather Prabodhankar Thackeray, a social reformer and writer, was a key figure in the Samyukta Maharashtra movement and so were his father Bal Thackeray and uncle Shrikant, Raj Thackeray&rsquo;s father, who played a role in ensuring that Mumbai continues to be a part of the state.
&ldquo;Mumbai's mayor will be Marathi and will be ours,&rdquo; Raj said.
Uddhav said the parties have finalised their seat sharing for the Nashik Municipal Corporation where elections are due on January 15, along with Mumbai and 27 other municipal corporations in the state.
Talks are underway for an alliance between the two parties in other civic bodies, he added.
&ldquo;Those who can't bear to see what is happening in the BJP can also come with us,&rdquo; Uddhav said.
The much-hyped news conference lasted barely for 16 minutes without any clarity on the seat-sharing arrangement in the 227 ward-BMC. Raj did not share details of the seat sharing between the two parties for the high-stakes BMC elections, leading to speculations that talks are still underway in some wards that have influence of both the parties.
The news conference was held at a luxury hotel in Worli, the constituency of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray. The backdrop banner at the news conference had the image of Bal Thackeray, the founder of undivided Shiv Sena, and party symbols of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS.
Prior to coming to the venue, Raj and Uddhav paid respect to Bal Thackeray at his memorial in Shivaji Park. They reached the venue together in Raj&rsquo;s vehicle.
The family bonhomie was on full display at the press conference. Uddhav&rsquo;s wife Rashmi and son Aaditya, and Raj&rsquo;s wife Sharmila and son Amit were also present.
In the state assembly polls last year, the Shiv Sena (UBT) won 20 of the 288 seats, while the MNS drew a blank.
The parties came together to oppose Maharashtra&rsquo;s government&rsquo;s decision to introduce a three-language formula in schools and &ldquo;imposition&rdquo; of Hindi language. They held a joint 'victory rally' in July to celebrate the state government's decision to withdraw its orders on the introduction of Hindi along with Marathi and English for Classes 1 to 5.

Unnao rape case survivor terms Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s Delhi HC bail “kaal” for her family and announces plan to challenge verdict in Supreme Court.

Unnao rape case survivor to move SC against suspension of Sengar's jail term

Unnao rape case survivor terms Kuldeep Singh Sengar&rsquo;s Delhi HC bail &ldquo;kaal&rdquo; for her family and announces plan to challenge verdict in Supreme Court.

The 2017 Unnao rape case survivor on Wednesday termed the Delhi High Court's decision to suspend the jail term of expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar "kaal (death)" for her family and said that she would move the Supreme Court against it.
The HC on Tuesday suspended the sentence of Sengar, who is serving life imprisonment in the case, and ordered his release on bail pending the disposal of his appeal against his conviction by a trial court in December 2019.
In its order, the high court directed that Sengar shall not come within a 5-km radius of the victim's residence and shall not threaten the survivor or her mother. It also said violation of the conditions would automatically lead to cancellation of bail.
Sengar, however, will remain in jail since he is also serving 10 years' imprisonment in the custodial death case of the victim's father and has not been granted bail in that case.
Reacting to the verdict, the survivor, who was a minor when she was kidnapped and raped by Sengar in 2017, told PTI over phone from Delhi that security for her family members, lawyers and witnesses had already been withdrawn and the court's decision had deepened her fears.
"If the convict gets bail in cases like this, how will the country's daughters remain safe? For us, this decision is no less than 'kaal' (death)," she said.
"Those with money win, those without money lose," she rued.
The survivor, who was heading out with her mother to stage a protest near Mandi House against the verdict, added that she would challenge the HC order in the Supreme Court.
The Unnao rape case and other connected cases were transferred from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi on the directions of the Supreme Court in August 2019.

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