News Highlights: All 15 Indians rescued from hijacked MV Lila Norfolk

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Colaba and Nehru Science Center in Worli, among other major museums, which have received threatening emails

JN.1 variant total cases at 110; no new JN.1 cases today

Finance Ministry says advance estimates for FY24 highlight sustained growth momentum

India women's team beat Aus by 9 wkts in first T20I at DY Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Titas Sadhu takes 4-wickets; Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma hit half-centuries

India leads 1-0 in three-match series

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on the Consecration Ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, says, "This was the expectation of the people of India for centuries together. This is a reality now that on January 22, there will be 'Pran Pratishtha' by PM Modi. This is the spiritual environment in the country and Indians in the world. The environment of peace, justice, equality, love and affection is growing everywhere."

Speaking on his book 'Why Bharat Matters' at the Golden Jubilee Celebration of PES University, EAM Dr S. Jaishankar says, "We are today holding our ground. Whether it is a complicated issue like the conflict in Ukraine and the pressures that come with it, or whether what has been happening in the Indo-Pacific and how do we ensure that there is stability and there is order. It could be the Quad. There were pressures on us to not do the Quad. There were pressures on us to restrict our economic dealings with Russia. We stood firm against both."

EAM Dr S Jaishankar addressing the Kashmir issue at the Golden Jubilee Celebration of PES University, says, "Today it is very clear, in fact not now, it was very clear by 1970s, that taking the Kashmir issue to the UN Security Council was a fundamental error. We were taken in for a ride by a set of countries who had their geo-political agenda, who used Kashmir as an issue of vulnerability."

The rescue operations of the hijacked vessel MV Lili Norfolk, by the Indian Navy warship INS Chennai, were seen live by the Indian Navy officials at the naval headquarters using the feed sent by the MQ-9B Predator drones of force. Soon after the piracy incident was reported last night, the drones were directed to keep an eye on the ship and provide real-time information to the officials concerned: Defence officials

"ED was conducting searches on the three premises of Sahajahan Sheikh, Convenor of TMC, North 24 Parganas in case of "PDS scam of West Bengal. During the searches. On one of the premises, ED team with CRPF personnels was attacked by 800-1000 people with an intention to cause death as these people were carrying weapons such as Lathis, stones & bricks. In this incident 3 ED officials have been grievously injured. Injured ED officials are being admitted to hospital for treatment. Violent mob also snatched/robbed/stole personal/officials belongings of ED officials such as their mobile phones, laptop, cash, wallets, etc. and badly damaged some of the ED vehicles," tweets Enforcement Directorate (ED)

The board of Oil India has granted approval for incorporation of a wholly-owned subsidiary company (WoS) dedicated to the green energy business.

All personnel, including 15 Indian nationals, aboard the hijacked MV Lila Norfolk, have been successfully secured and are confirmed to be out of danger.

Indian Navy Marine Commandos are currently engaged in sanitizing various sections of the vessel, ANI reported citing military officials.

The pirates' hijacking attempt appears to have been thwarted by a strong warning from the Indian Navy and the interception by an Indian Naval warship's Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA).

INS Chennai is positioned near MV, providing assistance to restore power generation and propulsion, facilitating the vessel's journey to its next port of call, as per the Indian Navy.

"I am very very proud of the work that has been done during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The entire country came together to celebrate all those who matter, all those who sacrificed their well-being for the well-being of this nation," says Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi after visiting Nazrul Kalakshetra in Agartala.

India Faces Pakistan in New York

Group A for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 features India, Pakistan, USA, Canada, and Ireland. The opening match will see USA facing off against Canada.

"INS Chennai diverted from AntiPiracy patrol intercepted MV Lila Norfolk at 1515h on 05Jan 2024. MV was kept under continuous surveillance using MPA, Predator MQ9B & integral helos. IndianNavy MARCOs present onboard the Mission Deployed warship boarded MV & commenced sanitisation," posts Indian Navy.

"Over the last few years, a large part of the world admires how we came through Covid. We handled what was an immensely complex diplomatic challenge in the G20 presidency. We not only took it up, we not only got outcomes and brought everybody to the table, we actually even got a long-awaited reform there done, which was to get in the African Union," says External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar while speaking on his book 'Why Bharat Matters' at the golden jubilee celebrations of PES University, Bengaluru.

Indian naval warship INS Chennai has reached the hijacked vessel MV Lila Norfolk off Somalia coast. The Indian warship has launched its helicopter and issued warning to pirates to abandon the hijacked vessel. The Indian crew on board are safe and Marine Commandos MARCOS are ready for operations: Military officials to ANI

Military officials informed the elite Marine Commandos of the Indian Navy have boarded the hijacked MV Lila Norfolk and are set to conduct sanitization operations

FY24 gross fixed capital formation growth seen at 10.3% versus 11.4% in FY23

FY24 manufacturing growth seen at 6.5% versus 1.3% in FY23

FY24 construction sector growth seen at 10.7% versus 10.0% in FY23

The statistics ministry has released its first advance estimate of GDP for 2023-24.

Govt estimates FY24 GVA growth at 6.9% versus 7.0% in FY23

Govt projects FY24 nominal GDP growth at 8.9% versus 16.1% in FY23

Pune Police on a complaint by Pune BJP chief Dheeraj Ghate, have registered an FIR against NCP Leader (Sharad Pawar faction) Jitendra Awhad over his controversial remarks on Lord Ram.

FIR registered at Vishrambaugh Police station under IPC section 295 A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage reli­gious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or reli­gious beliefs)

Government sources said a meeting with representatives from shipping companies and exporters was held on January 4 to assess the impact of the Red Sea situation. The cost of freight and insurance has risen due to ships being compelled to opt for longer routes to avoid the Red Sea region. While there is currently a month's inventory acting as a safeguard for imported items, potential disruptions may occur if the Red Sea crisis persists. Although there is no shortage of containers, the longer route across Africa has led to a 14-day increase in turnaround time. Exporting goods to Europe, the US, and Latin America is experiencing delays, resulting in heightened costs. The Defence Ministry is actively providing security for consignments in high seas.

On ED summons to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Shiv Sena (UBT faction) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi says, "Any political party standing against the BJP stands to be targeted through ED, CBI, and IT. Whether it is with the AAP, TMC, or the immense role they (BJP) played to bring down the MVA government in Maharashtra, how they continue to cover up for the once corrupt who are now BJP leaders and have been given clean chit."

Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal: In FTA talks, country after country is focussing on how can they get a pie in the Indian automobile sector. In FTA talks with UK, London is asking for a market share in India's automobile sector.

Live news updates: Gangster Sharad Mohol shot at in Pune, hospitalised

ED officials, allegedly assaulted by supporters of TMC leader Sheikh Sajahan when they tried to raid his residence in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district earlier today, have been taken to a private hospital in Bidhannagar.

PM Modi has written to Japanese PM Fumio Kishida following the recent earthquake in Japan and expressed deep anguish and condolences. The PM said that India stands in solidarity with Japan and is ready to extend all possible assistance: Sources

The Cabinet has given its approval for the comprehensive scheme "PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)" under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. This overarching scheme is designed with the following major objectives:

1. Augmentation and sustenance of long-term observations of the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth to record the vital signs of the Earth System and its changes.
2. Development of modeling systems to understand and predict weather, ocean, and climate hazards, along with studying the science of climate change.
3. Exploration of polar and high seas regions for the discovery of new phenomena and resources.
4. Development of technology for exploring and sustainably harnessing oceanic resources for societal applications.
5. Translation of knowledge and insights from Earth systems science into services for societal, environmental, and economic benefit.

The Ministry of Education has reported an overwhelming response to the 7th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) 2024, with over 1 crore students, parents, and teachers registering for the event as of today. The registration process, initiated on December 11, 2023, is set to conclude on January 12. Pariksha Pe Charcha serves as a platform for interaction between students and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, providing valuable insights and guidance on dealing with exam-related stress and challenges. The substantial number of registrations reflects the keen participation and anticipation surrounding this educational initiative.

In a concerning development, the merchant vessel MV Lila Norfolk has fallen victim to piracy, being hijacked by pirates approximately 300 nautical miles east of Somalia. The vessel, en route from Port Du Aco (Brazil) to Khalifa Bin Salman in Bahrain, is currently under the control of pirates. Indian Navy's warship INS Chennai has been dispatched to the location, rapidly closing in on the hijacked vessel. Military officials confirm ongoing communication with the crew as part of efforts to assess and address the situation. The Indian Navy remains actively engaged in responding to this maritime security incident.

Broad tenets of the agreement include long-term energy planning including clean energy for Indian Railways, developing an energy efficiency policy and action plan for railway buildings, planning for procurement of clean energy, technical support for addressing regulatory barriers, and bid design and management support for large scale renewable procurement, a statement by the ministry of railways said.

As part of the MoU signed between India & the US, the Indian Railways will adopt measures from the US Railways to reduce dependence on imported fuel such as diesel and coal for operations.

South Africa's corrections department has reported that Oscar Pistorius, the former Paralympic athlete, has been released from prison on parole. This development comes as a significant update in the ongoing legal saga surrounding Pistorius, who was initially convicted for the killing of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, in 2013. The parole release marks a new phase in Pistorius's legal journey, with implications for the broader discussions on justice and rehabilitation.

The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into reported irregularities involving fake tests and ghost patients at Mohalla Clinics in the capital. The request for a thorough investigation comes amid concerns over the integrity of healthcare practices and the need to address any potential malpractices in the functioning of these community health centers. The call for a CBI probe reflects the commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the healthcare system.

Following a significant security breach on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack on December 13, 2023, the accused individuals, identified as Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D, were brought to the Patiala House Court by the Delhi Police Special Cell. In the incident, the perpetrators jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber during Zero Hour, releasing yellow gas and shouting slogans before being subdued by MPs. Simultaneously, two others, Amol Shinde and Azad, sprayed colored gas while expressing dissent outside the Parliament House premises. The police have also arrested Lalit Jha and Mahesh Kumawat in connection with the case, and all individuals are currently undergoing interrogation in police custody.

1993 Mumbai bomb blast accused Dawood Ibrahim's four properties to be auctioned at the Income Tax office in Mumbai by the Ministry of Finance Department of Revenue under SAFEMA (Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of Property) Act, 1976).

Accused Lalit Jha, Mahesh Kumawat and Amol gave consent for the polygraph test.

Accused Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan gave consent for polygraph, narco analysis and brain mapping.

Accused Neelam refused to give consent for the polygraph test. Delhi's Patiala House Court extends the police custody of all the accused for the next eight days.

An Enforcement Directorate (ED) team faced an attack, and its vehicles were damaged in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district while attempting to raid the house of a block-level functionary associated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). The raid was part of an investigation into an alleged ration scam, according to media reports.

The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has urged the initiation of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe to investigate alleged irregularities related to fake tests and the existence of ghost patients at Mohalla Clinics in the city.

Addressing the media in Kathmandu, Nepal, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S Jaishankar announced a significant financial package for the reconstruction of infrastructure in the affected districts. He stated, "I also communicated yesterday to Nepal PM Prachanda, our decision to extend the financial package of Nepali rupees 1,000 crore, equivalent to 75 million US dollars." Emphasizing the positive trajectory of India-Nepal relations, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted substantial advancements in various sectors. During his recent visit, crucial agreements were signed, particularly in the power sector cooperation and project implementation domains, reinforcing the deepening collaboration between the two nations.

In a rapid response to the evolving situation, the Indian Navy has initiated decisive measures by launching a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) and diverting INS Chennai, originally deployed for Maritime Security Operations, to provide immediate assistance to the hijacked vessel 'MV LILA NORFOLK.' The MPA conducted a thorough overflight of the vessel in the early morning of January 5, 2024, establishing direct communication and ensuring the safety of the crew on board. The Indian Navy remains committed to safeguarding maritime security and protecting the welfare of seafarers in collaboration with international partners.

Continuing its vigilance, naval aircraft persist in monitoring the movements of the hijacked 'MV LILA NORFOLK.' The Indian Navy has further mobilized INS Chennai, which is swiftly closing in on the vessel to provide assistance. The unfolding situation is under close scrutiny, with coordination underway among various agencies and the Maritime Security Task Force (MNF) in the region. The Indian Navy, in collaboration with international partners and friendly foreign nations, reiterates its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region.

The Indian Navy revealed on Friday that it is actively monitoring the situation surrounding the hijacking of the 'MV LILA NORFOLK,' a Liberian-flagged vessel, near the coast of Somalia. With 15 Indian crew members on board, the Navy has established communication with the ship and is closely observing the developments. According to a military official, Indian Navy aircraft are actively monitoring the vessel to ensure the safety of the crew amidst the ongoing situation.

An earthquake measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale shook Lunglei, Mizoram on Friday at 7:18 am, with a depth of 10 km, as reported by the National Center for Seismology. No major damages have been reported. Stay tuned for updates on seismic activity in the region.

India’s December services PMI of 59.0 highest in three months

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal conveyed birthday wishes to former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, applauding his resilience against alleged false cases. Kejriwal commended Sisodia's unwavering courage amid legal challenges, emphasizing his inspiration in the face of adversity.

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) disclosed the recovery of illegal foreign-made arms, over 100 liquor bottles, ₹5 crore in cash, and various assets, including properties in India and abroad, during raids at the premises of former MLA Dilbag Singh and his associates.

An encounter between security forces and terrorists is underway in the Chotigam area of Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir. The exchange began on Friday morning, marking a heightened situation in the region.

On Thursday, the national capital experienced its first 'severe cold day' of the season as the maximum temperature plummeted to 12.5 degrees Celsius, seven degrees below normal. The day was colder than hill stations like Shimla (13°C) and Dharamshala (19.2°C).

Polling for the Karanpur Assembly seat in Sriganganagar district, Rajasthan, commenced at 7 am on Friday. BJP nominee Surendra Pal Singh TT, already a minister in the new state cabinet, is contesting. District Collector Anshdeep confirmed the voting hours from 7 am to 6 pm.

State Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury rejects seat-begging, triggering a clash with TMC. He accuses TMC of prioritizing service to PM Modi over opposition alliance. TMC criticizes Chowdhury, emphasizing the seat-sharing discord.

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