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Volcanic Ash Plumes Under Watch as Centre States There Is ‘No Cause for Concern’

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Dhruv
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Volcanic

Air travel across India faced major disruption after a volcanic eruption in Ethiopia sent massive ash clouds drifting across several countries and eventually into Indian airspace. The impact was felt nationwide as many flights were cancelled or forced to operate with delays.

The civil aviation ministry said it was coordinating closely with air traffic control, the India Meteorological Department, airlines, and global aviation bodies to manage the situation and minimize inconvenience to passengers. Officials emphasized that uninterrupted communication and monitoring were underway at all levels.

After the volcano erupted, the ash plume moved over Yemen, Oman and the Arabian Sea before reaching Gujarat and Rajasthan on Monday evening. Around midnight it edged toward Delhi, and throughout Tuesday it continued spreading across eastern and northeastern regions of the country.

The ministry, in a post on X, stated that it was keeping a close watch on the developments and would keep travelers informed with regular updates. It added that flight operations across India were still functioning smoothly, with the Airports Authority of India issuing the necessary advisories and alerting pilots and airlines as required. Officials reassured the public that there was no immediate reason to worry.

According to the IMD, the volcanic ash cloud is passing through the upper troposphere and is gradually moving toward China. The agency clarified that the cloud has no effect on India’s local weather or ground-level air quality and that the main influence is on aviation routes operating at higher altitudes. The IMD expects the plume to exit Indian airspace completely by Tuesday evening.

Flightradar24 has been mapping the movement of the ash cloud as well, noting that it is currently positioned over northern India and advancing quickly toward Chinese territory.

Narottam Sahoo, an advisor to the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology, said that the Ethiopian volcano had been dormant for nearly twelve thousand years and became active again due to tectonic shifts in the region.

Based on current assessments from the IMD, the ash cloud is expected to clear out of India by 14:00 GMT, which corresponds to approximately 7:30 in the evening according to local time.

Actor Celina Jaitly Files Domestic Violence Case Against Husband

By
Alina Khan
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Celina Jaitly
Celina Jaitly

Bollywood actor Celina Jaitly has filed a case under the Domestic Violence Act against her husband Peter Haag, alleging domestic violence, cruelty, and manipulation. A Mumbai court has issued a notice to Haag, an Austrian entrepreneur and hotelier, following the complaint.

Marriage and Family Background

Celina Jaitly and Haag married in Austria in 2011. The couple has three sons. They became parents to twin boys in March 2012, followed by a second set of twin boys in 2017. One of the twins born in 2017 died due to a hypoplastic heart condition.

Celina Jaitly appeared in several Hindi films including No Entry, Apna Sapna Money Money, Money Hai Toh Honey Hai, Golmaal Returns, and Thank You.

Separate Legal Matter Involving Brother

In a separate legal matter last month, Jaitly approached a Delhi court seeking assistance for her brother, Major (retired) Vikrant Jaitly. She stated that he has been “illegally abducted and detained” in the United Arab Emirates.

According to her petition, her brother has resided in the UAE since 2016, where he was employed with the MATITI Group, a company engaged in trading, consultancy, and risk management services.

Allegations Against Ministry

Jaitly alleged that the Ministry of External Affairs has not secured basic information about her brother, including his welfare conditions and legal status, since his detention in September 2024.

Following the petition, the Delhi court directed authorities to facilitate contact between Jaitly and her brother, and to ensure contact between him and his wife.

Case Status

The domestic violence case filed in Mumbai court is currently in its initial stages, with notices issued to the respondent. No further details about the specific allegations or proceedings have been made public at this time.

The legal proceedings related to her brother’s detention in the UAE remain ongoing, with the court’s directive to authorities now in effect.

Both cases represent separate legal matters being pursued through different courts in India. The domestic violence case falls under the jurisdiction of the Mumbai court system, while the petition regarding her brother’s detention was filed in Delhi.

No statements from Peter Haag or the Ministry of External Affairs were immediately available regarding these matters.

Punjab Govt’s Efforts for 350th Martyrdom Celebrations Lauded, With Tent City Free Services Impressing Visitors

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Dhruv
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Punjab
Punjab

To honor Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the Punjab government has established three large tent cities where thousands of devotees can stay without paying anything. These temporary accommodations have been created with remarkable attention to detail, and their overall quality has impressed everyone who has visited.

People staying in these tent cities have spoken highly of the arrangements. Even though everything is free, the administration has ensured that no comfort is compromised. Every tent offers a clean and peaceful environment, creating a homely atmosphere for visitors.

Since the weather is cold, the administration has taken special measures to keep devotees warm. Each tent has been equipped with thick blankets and soft mattresses, and the tents have been designed in a way that prevents cold air from entering. This has allowed devotees to sleep comfortably even during chilly nights.

Many who arrived expecting basic facilities were surprised to see how well the tent cities have been built. Electricity and lighting are available in all tents. The washrooms and bathrooms have been kept clean, and safe drinking water has been arranged separately.

Free transportation has also been made available. Shuttle buses and e rickshaws run frequently, making it easy for devotees to travel between the tent cities and the Gurdwara. No one needs to walk long distances, as all transport services are being offered at no cost.

Medical services are functioning round the clock within the tent cities. Doctors and support staff remain on duty throughout the day and night. Medicines are also being provided free of charge. Additional care has been arranged for senior citizens and children, and hot nutritious meals are being served in the langar.

Security has been given equal importance. Police personnel and volunteers are stationed throughout the area, and CCTV cameras monitor all movements. Separate safety arrangements have been put in place for women and children, and the entire complex is well lit throughout the night.

With these arrangements, the Punjab government has shown that free facilities can still meet high standards. Devotees have expressed that they felt completely at ease and experienced comfort similar to what they would have at home. For those attending the commemoration of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, these tent cities have truly been a blessing. The effort put in by the administration is receiving praise from all corners.

PM Modi Hoists Flag at Ram Temple in Ayodhya Ceremony

By
Alina Khan
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PM Modi
PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the Dhwajarohan (flag hoisting) ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the temple’s completion.

The event coincided with Vivah Panchami, observed as the ceremonial wedding anniversary of Lord Ram and Sita according to Hindu tradition.

Ceremony Details and Attendees

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, religious leaders, government officials, and members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust attended the ceremony alongside over 8,000 invited guests. The ritual marked the opening of all 44 doors of the temple for worship activities.

During his address, PM Modi stated: “This dharma dhwaj (religious flag) will serve as an inspiration; life may be lost but promises must not be broken, meaning that what is said must be done.”

Prior to the main ceremony, PM Modi offered prayers at the Sapt Mandir, a newly constructed structure within the temple complex.

Ritual Significance and Distinction

Temple priests describe the Dhwajarohan as representing the spiritual activation of the entire temple structure. However, it differs fundamentally from the Pran Pratishtha ceremony conducted on January 22, 2024, which consecrated the Ram Lalla idol and initiated daily worship while construction continued.

The Dhwajarohan specifically marks the architectural and ritual completion of the temple building itself, signifying the structure’s sovereignty rather than focusing on the deity.

Flag Specifications and Symbolism

The saffron flag incorporates multiple symbolic elements. The sun represents Lord Ram’s Suryavansh lineage, while the Om symbol denotes spiritual significance. The flag features imagery of the Kovidar tree, described as a hybrid of Mandar and Parijat in the Valmiki Ramayana, symbolizing purity and prosperity.

An Ahmedabad-based parachute manufacturing firm constructed the flag over 25 days using parachute-grade fabric and premium silk threads. Weighing 11 kilograms, the flag was designed in consultation with senior Army officials to withstand environmental conditions including sun exposure, rain, and strong winds.

Official Reception

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel received PM Modi at the airport upon his arrival in Ayodhya. The Prime Minister subsequently conducted a roadshow through the city, with crowds gathering along the route.

The ceremony represents a major phase in the temple’s development following years of construction and legal proceedings surrounding the site.

Maruti Dzire Leads India’s Sedan Sales in October 2025

By
Alina Khan
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Maruti Dzire
Maruti Dzire

India’s sedan segment recorded strong sales during October 2025, driven by festive season demand and manufacturer incentives. The Maruti Suzuki Dzire maintained its position as the country’s best-selling sedan, while several models showed varying year-on-year performance.

Sedan Class Top Performers

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire led the sedan segment with 20,791 units sold in October 2025, representing a 63.73 percent year-on-year increase from 12,698 units in October 2024.

The Hyundai Aura secured second position with 5,815 units sold during the month. The Honda Amaze followed in third place with 3,630 units, while the Volkswagen Virtus recorded sales of 2,453 units to claim fourth position.

Mid-Segment Sales

The Skoda Slavia registered 1,648 units in October 2025, showing marginal 0.67 percent year-on-year growth from 1,637 units in October 2024.

Tata Tigor, including both internal combustion engine and electric variants, recorded combined sales of 1,196 units in October 2025, an increase of 926 units from the previous year, representing 29.16 percent year-on-year growth.

Declining Models

Two established sedans experienced year-on-year sales declines. The Hyundai Verna sold 824 units in October 2025 compared to 1,004 units in October 2024, marking a decline in sales volume.

The Honda City recorded 578 units in October 2025, down from 1,004 units in the same month last year, representing a 42.43 percent year-on-year decrease.

Premium Segment

The Toyota Camry, positioned in the premium sedan category, sold 276 units in October 2025, up from 176 units in October 2024, showing 57 percent year-on-year growth.

Market Context

The October sales figures reflect festive season buying patterns, a period traditionally associated with increased automobile purchases in India. Manufacturers offered various discounts and incentives during this period to capitalize on heightened consumer demand.

While sport utility vehicles continue to dominate global automobile markets, sedans maintain a substantial market presence in India across multiple price segments, from entry-level models to premium offerings.

The data indicates differentiated performance across sedan models, with entry-level and premium segments showing growth while some mid-segment models experienced declining sales compared to the previous year.

Labour Law Reforms Could Generate 7.7 Million Jobs, Says SBI Report

By
Alina Khan
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Labour
Labour

India’s new labour codes, which consolidated 29 existing labour laws into four comprehensive codes, could reduce unemployment by up to 1.3 percent over the medium term, according to a State Bank of India report released recently. The reforms came into effect on November 21, 2025.

Employment Generation Projections

The SBI report projects that the labour reforms could generate employment for approximately 7.7 million (77 lakh) additional workers. This assessment is calculated based on the current labour force participation rate of 60.1 percent for individuals aged 15 years and above, and an average working-age population of 70.7 percent across rural and urban areas.

The report stated: “India’s new Labour Codes after a short transition phase could reduce unemployment by upto 1.3 per cent over the medium term. This would imply additional employment generation of 77 lakh people.”

Formalisation and Social Security Coverage

According to the analysis, implementation of the labour codes will increase formalisation in the workforce by at least 15 percent. This would raise the proportion of formal workers to 75.5 percent from the current estimated 60.4 percent, based on Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data.

The report indicates that social sector coverage could expand to 85 percent, with overall social security coverage expected to reach 80-85 percent within the next 2-3 years.

Impact on Unorganised Sector Workers

India currently has approximately 440 million workers in the unorganised sector, with nearly 310 million registered on the e-Shram portal. The report assumes that 20 percent of these workers could transition from informal to formal payroll, directly benefiting around 100 million individuals through improved job security, social protection, and formal employment benefits.

Economic Implications

With an assumed savings rate of approximately 30 percent, the reforms could increase consumption by around Rs 66 per person daily following implementation. The report projects this would result in an overall consumption boost of Rs 75,000 crore over the medium term, potentially stimulating domestic spending and economic growth.

Four Labour Codes

The reforms merged existing legislation into four codes: The Code on Wages, 2019; The Code on Social Security, 2020; The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020; and The Industrial Relations Code, 2020. These codes aim to simplify labour regulations and improve workplace governance for both workers and enterprises.

YouTube Music Launches 2025 Recap Feature with AI-Powered Insights

By
Alina Khan
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YouTube
YouTube

YouTube Music has begun rolling out its annual 2025 Recap feature to users globally, providing personalized statistics on their listening activity throughout the year. The feature is now accessible on both iOS and Android platforms.

YouTube Music Availability and Access

Multiple users have reported receiving access to the feature, with confirmations appearing on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. Users can access the Recap through a banner displayed within the app or by navigating to their profile picture and selecting “Your Recap” from the menu.

The YouTube feature displays information in a story-style format, beginning with total listening time and progressing through various statistical categories including most-played tracks, top albums, preferred genres, and podcast listening data.

Key Features and Data Points

The 2025 Recap includes several analytical components. A calendar view tracks daily listening patterns for specific artists, while a “musical passport” feature identifies the geographic origins of users’ most-streamed artists. The platform aggregates data across multiple categories, allowing users to view their consumption patterns by artist, album, genre, and podcast content.

Individual statistics cards can be downloaded and shared across social media platforms, enabling users to display their listening preferences publicly.

AI Integration

This year’s edition introduces an artificial intelligence assistant accessible through the “Ask anything about your 2025” feature. The AI-powered chatbot responds to user queries about their listening habits with personalized analysis and commentary.

Sample prompts include requests to “Invent five genres to describe my listening,” “What is the oldest song I listened to,” “Guess my Zodiac sign based on my 2025 listening,” and “How did my listening change over the past year?” The feature aims to provide conversational insights beyond standard statistical summaries.

Industry Context

YouTube Music’s Recap release precedes the expected launch of Spotify’s annual Wrapped feature, anticipated within the coming weeks. Apple Music operates a different model, offering monthly Replay statistics throughout the year along with an annual overview.

The competitive landscape of music streaming platforms has increasingly emphasized year-end analytics as a user engagement tool, with personalized statistics becoming a standard offering across major services. These features serve both as marketing tools and retention mechanisms within the subscription-based streaming industry.

Tata Motors Launches All-New Sierra SUV After 3-Decade Hiatus – Deets Inside

By
Alina Khan
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0
Tata Motors
Tata Motors

Tata Motors is set to unveil the all-new Sierra SUV today, marking the return of the nameplate after being discontinued in the early 2000s. The vehicle was previously displayed in production form at the company’s Sierra Day event and is now positioned to compete in the midsize SUV segment.

Market Positioning and Booking Details

The 2025 Sierra will slot above the Curvv in Tata’s internal combustion engine SUV lineup. The company has opened bookings for Rs 21,000 as it prepares to compete against established rivals including the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Victors.

Design Features and Recognition

The exterior retains the original Sierra’s boxy silhouette while incorporating modern design elements. Key features include flush glazing, a panoramic sunroof, connected LED daytime running lights, projector headlamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, and flush door handles. The vehicle has received the Red Dot Design Award for its aesthetic execution.

Interior Configuration and Technology

The cabin adopts Tata’s “Life Space” philosophy, offering two distinct layouts depending on variant. Top-spec models feature the TheatrePro triple-screen setup with a unified glass panel housing the driver display, infotainment system, and passenger screen. Mid-level variants receive a dual-screen configuration with a digital instrument cluster and heads-up display.

Standard equipment across variants includes dual-zone climate control, powered and ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera system, and electronic parking brake. The audio system comprises a 12-speaker JBL setup with Dolby Atmos and features a SonicShaft soundbar. Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are included for enhanced safety.

Powertrain Options

Tata Motors will offer three engine choices: a new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing an estimated 160-170 bhp and 250-280 Nm of torque, a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol for entry variants, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Both manual and automatic transmissions will be available. An electric variant is planned for future introduction.

Pricing and Availability

Tata Motors will announce pricing later today, with market expectations placing the Sierra between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). Six exterior color option

Delhi AQI Remains in ‘Very Poor’ Category as Work-from-Home Mandate Imposed

By
Alina Khan
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0
Delhi AQI
Delhi AQI

Delhi AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday, recording an overall AQI of 363, showing marginal improvement from the previous day. However, multiple monitoring stations crossed into the ‘severe’ zone, prompting authorities to enforce Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan.

Critical AQI Levels Across Monitoring Stations

Rohini recorded the capital’s highest AQI at 416 as of 8 am Tuesday, placing it firmly in the severe category. Anand Vihar followed with an AQI of 401, while both Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur registered readings of 400. Several other monitoring stations approached the severe threshold of 400, indicating widespread hazardous air quality across the city.

NCR Cities Report Deteriorating AQI

The National Capital Region continued to experience toxic air conditions. Noida recorded an AQI of 390 in the very poor category, though this marked an improvement from Saturday when the city had entered the severe zone. Ghaziabad reported an AQI of 348, while Gurugram stood at 311, both in the very poor range. Faridabad fared relatively better with an AQI of 222, though still classified as poor.

Volcanic Ash Adds to Air Quality Concerns

Air quality monitoring agencies have detected a plume of volcanic ash from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano reaching Delhi. The volcano erupted on Monday for the first time in approximately 12,000 years. Experts warn this development could further intensify smog conditions in the national capital region.

Government Implements Work-from-Home Protocol

In response to deteriorating Delhi AQI, authorities have mandated that government offices and all private establishments operate at 50 percent staff capacity. The remaining workforce must work from home under Stage 3 GRAP measures. The directive, issued in Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena’s name, requires private offices to ensure only half their staff are physically present while others “mandatorily” work remotely.

Essential services including hospitals, private healthcare facilities, fire departments, public transportation, and water and sanitation operations remain exempt from these restrictions, ensuring critical services continue uninterrupted during the air quality emergency.

Bollywood Icons Pay Tribute as Veteran Actor Dharmendra Passes Away at 89

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Alina Khan
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Dharmendra
Dharmendra

Veteran actor Dharmendra, known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” passed away at his Mumbai residence on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The actor had been experiencing age-related health issues and had reduced his public appearances in recent months.

Industry Pays Homage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dharmendra’s death as marking “the end of an era in Indian cinema,” calling him “a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played”.

Actor Akshay Kumar remembered the late star, writing: “Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be—our industry’s original He-Man. Thank you for inspiring generations. You’ll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti.”

Southern cinema star Jr NTR expressed his condolences: “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dharmendra ji… An era he defined can never be replaced and the warmth he brought to Indian cinema will stay with us forever.”

Tributes from Co-Stars

Farhan Akhtar posted a heartfelt message acknowledging Dharmendra’s six-decade career spanning over 300 films: “Thank you for six decades of entertainment. We are fortunate to have experienced your warmth, your kindness, your generosity, your charm, your intensity and your wit, on and off the screen.”

Filmmaker Karan Johar shared an emotional tribute, calling Dharmendra “the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema” and noting his “enigmatic screen presence.” He added: “Today there is a gaping hole in our industry a space that can never be filled by anyone.”

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, who worked with Dharmendra on the film Anupama, shared personal memories of the actor in an exclusive conversation with India Today TV.

Final Film Appearance

Dharmendra was last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His final on-screen appearance will be in the war biopic Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025.

The actor is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, second wife Hema Malini, and daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, for his contribution to Indian cinema.

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