Ladakh has welcomed its first multiplex with the launch of a PVR INOX two-screen cinema in Leh town, perched at about 11,500 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest multiplexes in India. The facility, opened on December 20, 2025, offers advanced 2K projection, Dolby 7.1 surround sound and 3D technology, attracting locals, tourists and army families seeking indoor entertainment in the region’s harsh winter conditions. Previously, Leh relied on a mobile digital theatre. While many residents are excited, some locals worry the cinema could influence cultural identity amid ongoing discussions on preserving Ladakh’s heritage. (PC: The Telegraph)

The US has confirmed seizing the oil tanker Marinera (formerly M/V Bella 1) in the North Atlantic for violating US sanctions on Russia and Venezuela. The US European Command announced the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security seized the vessel pursuant to a federal court warrant after tracking by USCGC Munro. The tanker had been sailing under a Russian flag after renaming from its Guyana registration while fleeing US pursuit in the Atlantic. Three US Air Force special operations aircraft departed Scotland's Wick Airport heading toward Iceland's Reykjavik, with a British RAF military transport also heading there, though their connection to the tanker operation remains unclear. The announcement follows White House comments suggesting military action in Greenland remains "always an option." (PC: Reuters)

Pakistan Army's ISPR chief, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, sparked controversy by using the colloquial phrase "Maza na karaya toh paise wapas" (If you don't enjoy it, get your money back) while threatening India. During a briefing, he claimed India won't accept Pakistan's existence and alleged Kabul acts as an "Indian proxy." Chaudhry stated Pakistan's destiny remains in its own hands, warning provocatively: "Come from wherever, come alone or with someone. If it's not enjoyable, you'll get your money back." This follows previous controversy when he winked at journalist Absa Koman while calling jailed former PM Imran Khan a "mental patient." Pakistan's leadership has accused Afghanistan, India, and TTP of conspiring against Islamabad.

US President Donald Trump claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally approached him regarding India's pending defence purchases and trade issues, particularly delayed Apache helicopter deliveries. Speaking at the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump recounted Modi's request: "Sir, may I see you please? Yes!" He stated India had ordered Apache helicopters that remained undelivered for five years before Modi intervened. Trump emphasized his strong personal rapport with the Indian leader, saying "I have a very good relationship with him." The remarks highlight Trump's continued focus on bilateral relations with India, touching on both defence cooperation and trade matters. Trump's comments come amid ongoing discussions about US-India strategic partnerships and commercial ties between the two nations.

Security forces have come into contact with militants linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in the forest near Kamadh Nullah in Kathua district, officials said. The encounter began on Wednesday evening in Kahog village after security teams received information about the presence of two to three suspected militants. Forces from the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Kathua have been searching the area and are engaged with the hiding suspects. Reinforcements have been sent to the scene to support the ongoing operation. Police and army units continue to tighten the cordon around the area. No casualties have been confirmed so far. (PC: HT)

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced that the 18th-century Quran on which he swore his oath of office will be publicly exhibited at the New York Public Library’s main branch. The manuscript, copied in Ottoman Syria and once owned by Black scholar Arturo Schomburg, was part of Mamdani’s private midnight swearing-in ceremony as the city’s first Muslim mayor. Written in black ink with red markings and intended for everyday use rather than ornamentation, the Quran is now presented with photos from the ceremony to symbolize inclusion and shared civic heritage. (PC: NDTV)

The Election Commission (EC) has explained that a Status Information Report (SIR) hearing notice linked to Nobel laureate Amartya Sen’s voter registration in West Bengal resulted from a technical discrepancy—a reported age mismatch in his enumeration form during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Officials stressed that all voters are equal and that senior citizens over 85 like Sen will not be required to physically attend hearings; corrections can be made at their residence. The notice triggered political backlash, with the Trinamool Congress calling it a “shameful farce,” a claim the EC has rejected. (PC: The Telegraph)

Renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs sharply criticized U.S. foreign policy, calling the much-touted “rules-based order” a myth and accusing Washington of pursuing decades-long regime-change tactics driven by military and intelligence institutions rather than constitutional governance. Speaking after his UN Security Council testimony on Venezuela, Sachs described the U.S. capture of Venezuela’s leader as a violation of international law and highlighted the strategic motives tied to ideology and oil. He warned that Iran could be the next target, potentially provoking a far more dangerous global conflict, and urged BRICS nations to uphold international law. (PC: India Today)

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly condemned recent post-poll alliances between local BJP leaders and rival parties, the Congress and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), in Ambernath and Akot municipal councils as “unacceptable” and a breach of party discipline. He clarified that such tie-ups were neither approved by BJP leadership nor aligned with party policy, and ordered that they be undone, warning of strict disciplinary action against those responsible. The controversial alliances have sparked political backlash, with critics from Shiv Sena (UBT) accusing BJP of opportunism and violating coalition norms. (PC: PTI)

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has publicly addressed its recent communication with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding security concerns for the national team at the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India. The issue followed controversy over pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL release, prompting Bangladesh to request their four World Cup matches be moved to co-host Sri Lanka. The ICC reportedly assured commitment to Bangladesh’s full participation and expressed willingness to collaborate on addressing safety issues, according to BCB. Both parties continue discussions to find a workable solution ahead of the February tournament.