As new round of trade talks began in Delhi, United States Trade Representative (USTR) said India has tabled its “strongest proposals yet” for a bilateral trade deal — calling them the “best-ever” received from any country. However, USTR also described India as a “tough nut to crack,” noting Delhi remains resistant to allowing U.S. imports of row crops, meat, and dairy. Still, American negotiators called India a “viable alternative market,” signaling willingness to advance talks. On India’s part, top officials reiterated that any deal will protect interests of farmers, dairying and small-scale producers. (PC: India Today)

Donald J. Trump has officially rolled out the “Trump Gold Card” programme, allowing foreigners to obtain U.S. permanent residency — and eventual citizenship — by paying US $1 million. Under the scheme, individuals pay $1 million plus a $15,000 processing fee; corporations can secure visas for foreign employees by paying $2 million per employee. The programme replaces the older investor-visa route previously known as EB-5 visa programme, and deviates from the job-creation requirement under EB-5. The administration frames the Gold Card as a “more powerful” green card — aimed at attracting global talent, foreign investment, and boosting U.S. revenue. Critics warn that it favours the wealthy and could undermine traditional immigration values. (PC: Reuters)

Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana made her first public appearance after calling off her wedding with music composer Palash Muchhal. Speaking at the Amazon Smbhav Summit 2025, she avoided personal details but stated that nothing matters more to her than cricket. Mandhana said she stays focused by avoiding overthinking and draws strength from wearing the India jersey. Reports earlier confirmed that the wedding was cancelled due to personal and family reasons. Her appearance and statements signal a clear prioritisation of her cricketing career as she prepares for upcoming national and international commitments. (PC: NDTV)

A massive blaze ripped through Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in North Goa around 11:45 pm on December 6, killing 25 people. While firefighters and rescue teams fought the blaze, the club’s owners booked flights to Phuket at 1:17 am and later flew out from Delhi around 5:30 am. Their passports have since been revoked and a Blue Corner notice issued for their apprehension. Meanwhile, a court denied their interim relief, and co-owner Ajay Gupta was arrested. (PC: Moneycontrol)

During a parliamentary debate on electoral reforms, Amit Shah accused the Congress of systemic “vote chori” (vote theft), alleging three historical episodes involving Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. He argued that the Congress’s successive election defeats stem from flawed leadership rather than faulty EVMs or voter-list issues. Shah defended the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls as necessary to remove “infiltrators” from voter lists. He said EVMs had been used successfully under Congress rule in 2004 and 2009. (PC: Rediff)

IndiGo Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta has apologised for the week-long flight disruptions that began on December 3. He said the airline had “let customers down” but stressed that services are now back to normal. Mehta denied claims that IndiGo created the crisis to avoid new pilot rest rules, calling the charges “untrue.” He said the delays were caused by technical issues, bad weather, congestion, and changes in crew planning. IndiGo will bring in outside experts to study the failures. Mehta said the airline must work hard to win back public trust. IndiGo is now operating its full schedule.

The probe into the Goa nightclub fire, which killed at least 25 people on December 6, shows that owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra booked tickets to Thailand while the blaze was still being controlled. Records show they used MakeMyTrip at 1:17 AM and later took an IndiGo flight to Phuket at 5:30 AM. The brothers have sought transit anticipatory bail to avoid arrest on their return. Another owner, Ajay Gupta, has been detained, while co-owner Surinder Kumar Khosla is under an LOC. Police also found the brothers used a SIM card issued in a former driver’s name and that their luxury cars are missing. (PC: X)

Kerala has opened its first Gen Z post office at CMS College in Kottayam. It works as an extension of the Kottayam Head Post Office. The new facility is designed to attract young users. It offers digital services, QR code features, and modern design elements. The space also includes better seating, bright lighting, and updated counters. Officials say the aim is to make postal services more friendly and useful for students and young adults. The post office will help users access services faster and with more comfort. It is part of a plan to modernise post offices across the State. (PC: The Hindu)

The United States has proposed a new rule that may require foreign tourists to share their social media history from the past five years. The rule would apply to visitors from about 40 countries who travel to the US without a visa using the ESTA system. Officials say the move is to improve national security. The plan also asks for old phone numbers, email addresses, and details of family members. Digital rights groups warn it could harm privacy. Travel experts say the rule may slow down approvals and could reduce the number of people visiting the US. (PC: BBC)

The Goa government has formally requested the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to revoke the passports of nightclub co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, following the deadly fire at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora, which killed 25 people. The brothers left India soon after the incident, prompting the CBI to seek an Interpol Blue Corner notice. The MEA confirmed it is examining the request under the Passports Act of India. A Delhi court refused interim protection from arrest for the duo, while their lawyers argued they were only licensees, not owners, and uninvolved in daily operations. Meanwhile, Goa police have arrested five managers and staff members linked to the tragedy. (PC: NDTV)