India Halts Privatisation, Invests Billions in State-Owned Firms

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is shifting focus from privatisation to bolstering state-run firms, allocating billions in rescue packages, government sources and documents reveal. Despite earlier plans to reduce state involvement in business, New Delhi has scaled back its ambitious divestment strategy. In early 2025, the government has earmarked approximately $1.5 billion to financially support two struggling state-owned enterprises after attempts to privatise them failed to attract buyers. This marks a significant policy pivot for Modi's administration.

[Follow and Comments]

Supreme Court Declines to Hear Challenge on Felon Voting Ban

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to review a challenge to Mississippi's lifetime voting ban on individuals convicted of various felonies. Originally enacted in 1890 during the Jim Crow era, the policy remains one of the strictest in the nation. The justices rejected an appeal claiming the ban violates the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause and the 8th Amendment's prohibition of cruel and unusual punishments. The provision bars voting rights even after sentences are completed.

[Follow and Comments]

Trump Plans Military DEI Ban, COVID Vaccine Troops Reinstated

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to sign executive orders removing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from the military while reinstating thousands of troops discharged for refusing COVID vaccines during the pandemic, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Hegseth, a decorated veteran and former Fox News personality, narrowly secured Senate confirmation despite strong opposition from Democrats and some Republicans. His appointment marks a significant win for Trump, advancing his controversial defense agenda.

[Follow and Comments]

Chiefs Defeat Bills to Secure Super Bowl 59 Berth

The Kansas City Chiefs edged past the Buffalo Bills 32-29 in the AFC championship game, securing their spot in Super Bowl 59. A crucial stop after the two-minute warning defined the game as Kansas City’s defense denied Buffalo's 4th-and-5 attempt near midfield. Patrick Mahomes led the Chiefs to their third consecutive Super Bowl berth, setting up a rematch with the Eagles from Super Bowl 57. Buffalo, despite strong regular-season performances, has now lost to Kansas City in four of the last five postseasons.

[Follow and Comments]

DJ Unk, Creator of Iconic Hit "Walk It Out," Passes at 42

Atlanta hip-hop artist DJ Unk, known for his 2006 anthem “Walk It Out,” has died at 42. His family confirmed the news on January 24, 2025, though the cause of death remains undisclosed.

DJ Unk rose to fame with his debut album Beat’n Down Yo Block!, featuring hits like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step.” His work defined Atlanta's hip-hop scene, with “Walk It Out” becoming a cultural phenomenon, cementing his legacy in music.

[ Follow and Comments ]

Suzuki Motor's Ex-CEO, Sushil Modi, Pankaj Udhas Receive Padma Awards

Osamu Suzuki, who transformed Suzuki Motor into an international brand, JS Khehar, former Chief Justice of India, MT Vasudevan Nair, Malayalam literature icon, and singer Sharda Sinha were among seven recipients of the Padma Vibhushan for "exceptional and distinguished service."

Bibek Debroy, Manohar Joshi, Sushil Modi, Pankaj Udhas, and PR Sreejesh were awarded the Padma Bhushan for "distinguished service of high order." Arijit Singh, Ricky Kej, and Harvinder Singh were among 113 Padma Shri awardees.

[Follow and Comments]

Firerose Claims ‘Truth Is Coming to Light’ About Ex Billy Ray Cyrus

Firerose, 36, spoke out about ex-husband Billy Ray Cyrus, 63, following his controversial performance at Trump’s Liberty Ball. Cyrus’ on-stage frustration over technical difficulties was labeled an "epic disaster" by fans.

“What’s public now reflects much of what I experienced privately,” Firerose stated, expressing hope for Cyrus’ healing. The couple’s tumultuous seven-month marriage ended in August 2024, with both accusing each other of abuse during divorce proceedings. Firerose remains focused on faith, music, and healing.

[Follow and Comments]

Massive Protests Erupt in Slovakia Over PM Robert Fico’s Pro-Russia Policies

Tens of thousands protested across Slovakia against Prime Minister Robert Fico’s perceived pro-Russia stance, following his controversial trip to Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin. This rare Kremlin visit by an EU leader since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine fueled public outrage. Protesters in Bratislava emphasized Slovakia’s commitment to European values and opposition to collaboration with Russia. Fico’s comments suggesting a potential shift away from the EU and NATO further ignited tensions.

[Follow and Comments]

Liverpool Cruise Past Ipswich to Extend Premier League Lead

Liverpool hosted Ipswich at Anfield, aiming to maintain their top position in the Premier League. Arne Slot's squad, six points clear of Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, showcased depth and form after a perfect Champions League run. Ipswich, still recovering from a 6-0 loss to Manchester City, faced another tough challenge. Kieran McKenna's struggling side, now 18th, hoped for an upset to aid their relegation battle but couldn't match Liverpool’s dominance.

[Follow and Comments]

Trump Allies Target Key GOP Senators Over Cabinet and Votes

Trump allies and far-right activists are pressuring GOP senators Joni Ernst, Thom Tillis, Bill Cassidy, John Cornyn, and Lindsey Graham with primary challenges. These moves stem from disputes over Trump’s Cabinet picks, impeachment votes, and bipartisan efforts, showcasing the former president’s continued sway in Republican politics.

[Follow and Comments]

Trump’s Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Sworn In Amid Controversy

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, was sworn in as Secretary of Defense after a contentious confirmation process. Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote in the Senate’s 50-50 split. Hegseth vowed to rebuild the military and restore the “warrior ethos.” Despite allegations of misconduct and Republican dissent, Trump praised Hegseth, calling him a strong leader for the Pentagon.

[Follow and Comments]

Carolina Hurricanes Land Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall in Blockbuster Deal

The Carolina Hurricanes pulled off a significant trade, acquiring Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche and Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks in a three-team deal. Carolina sent Martin Necas, Jack Drury, and draft picks to Colorado. Chicago retained part of Rantanen’s salary and received a third-round draft pick.

The move is expected to strengthen Carolina’s playoff chances as they make a push for the Stanley Cup.

[Follow and Comments] 

Madison Keys Shocks Aryna Sabalenka to Win Australian Open

Madison Keys claimed her first grand slam title, defeating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in the Australian Open final. The win ended Sabalenka’s bid for a historic third consecutive Melbourne title. Sabalenka’s frustration was evident as she smashed her racket post-match.

Keys, 29, becomes the fourth-oldest first-time grand slam champion, having saved match points in her semi-final. Meanwhile, Alfie Hewett secured his 10th wheelchair singles title. Jannik Sinner will defend his men's title tomorrow.

[Follow and Comments]

Celtics Struggle in 117-96 Blowout Loss to Lakers

The Boston Celtics endured their largest defeat of the season, falling 117-96 to the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Anthony Davis (24 points), Austin Reaves (23 points), and LeBron James (20 points) led L.A., while Boston’s supporting cast faltered. Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and the bench combined for a dismal 14-for-44 shooting performance. Despite solid contributions from Kristaps Porzingis (22 points), Jaylen Brown (17 points), and Jayson Tatum (16 points), the C’s couldn’t recover.

Boston will aim to rebound Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks.

[Follow and Comments]

Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski Wins Reelection in Alaska

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski secured her reelection in Alaska, defeating Trump-backed GOP rival Kelly Tshibaka in the November 8 ranked-choice election. Final results were announced Wednesday after no candidate initially received over 50% of first-choice votes. Murkowski, who voted to convict Trump during his impeachment trial, faced backlash from the former president, who campaigned against her. The race also featured Democrat Pat Chesbro and Republican Buzz Kelley, who endorsed Tshibaka after suspending his campaign.

[Follow and Comments]

Identity OTT Release: When and Where to Watch Tovino, Trisha Thriller

The psychological thriller Identity, starring Tovino Thomas and Trisha Krishnan, is set to stream on Zee5 starting January 31. Directed by Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, the film, which premiered in theatres on January 2, 2025, explores intense emotions and relationships with gripping twists. Dubbed in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, it will be available in four languages. With a stellar cast, including Mamtha Mohandas and Gautham Menon, Identity promises an emotional and thrilling ride.

[Follow and Comments]

YSRCP’s Vijayasai Reddy Quits Politics, Announces Rajya Sabha Resignation

YSRCP national general secretary V Vijayasai Reddy announced his decision to leave politics, stating he will resign from his Rajya Sabha seat on January 25. Clarifying it as a personal decision without external pressure, he expressed gratitude to the YS family for their decades-long support. Reddy emphasized his future lies in agriculture and ruled out joining any political party. While highlighting political differences with TDP, he maintained personal respect for leaders like Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan.

[Follow and Comments]

Trump Ends Security Protections for Pompeo, Bolton, and Hook

Former President Donald Trump has revoked security protections for ex-officials Mike Pompeo, John Bolton, and Brian Hook, citing no need for lifelong security. The decision took effect Wednesday night, as reported by The New York Times. Bolton confirmed the move, expressing disappointment, while Trump defended the action, labeling Bolton “very dumb.” Critics argue the decision puts the trio at risk, given previous assassination threats from Iran. Pompeo and Hook served key roles in Trump’s foreign policy team.

[Follow and subscribe]

Trump to Release More JFK, MLK, and RFK Files

Former President Donald Trump announced plans to declassify remaining files on President John F. Kennedy's assassination, along with documents on the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy. While 97% of JFK-related records are already public, the new order directs officials to create release plans within 15-45 days. JFK was assassinated on November 22, 1963, with the Warren Commission concluding Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, though skepticism remains. Historians eagerly await insights from the forthcoming files.

[follow and subscribe]

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black Remastered Released, Ninja Gaiden 4 Teased

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is now available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5, remastered with Unreal Engine 5 for enhanced graphics. This version features updated visuals, new playable characters, and a gore toggle option. It also includes a Hero Play Style mode, making it more accessible for casual players. Additionally, Ninja Gaiden 4 has been announced, introducing a new hero, Yakumo, alongside series favorite Ryu Hayabusa. Fans are excited for the franchise's fresh chapter.

[Follow and Subscribe]