January 1, 2026 8:35 AM

‘Praying for peace, happiness in society’: PM Modi extends New Year greetings to nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday conveyed warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of the New Year, expressing hope for peace and prosperity in society. In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Wishing everyone a wonderful 2026. May the year ahead bring good health and prosperity, with success in your efforts and fulfilment in all that you do. Praying for peace and happiness in our society.” Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended New Year greetings through a social media post. â...

December 31, 2025 1:40 PM

New Year rush swells at Vaishno Devi shrine as thousands throng Katra for blessings

A massive influx of pilgrims has been witnessed at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, with thousands of devotees arriving in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, to seek the blessings of the revered deity as the New Year approaches. The pilgrimage town is brimming with energy and devotion, as pilgrims from across the country gather to begin the New Year on a spiritual note. The shrine is experiencing heavy footfall, with a continuous stream of devotees. Many pilgrims are reaching the base camp well in adv...

December 30, 2025 1:42 PM

Mumbai Metro Line-3 to run overnight on New Year: MMRC

Mumbai’s Metro Line-3, also known as the Aqua Line, will operate throughout the night on January 1, 2026, to facilitate safe and convenient travel for commuters celebrating New Year’s Eve, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) announced. According to MMRC, the special extended night service will begin after 10:30 pm on December 31, 2025, and continue until 5:55 am on January 1, 2026. Regular metro services will resume from 5:55 am onwards on January 1. The initiative is aimed at ensurin...

December 29, 2025 2:47 PM

New Year in Rajasthan likely to begin with winter rains, cold winds

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that New Year in Rajasthan is expected to begin on a chilly note, with cold winds and winter showers likely in parts of the state. According to the IMD, a western disturbance is set to become active on December 31 and January 1, bringing light rainfall to northern and western Rajasthan. The rain is mainly expected in districts of the Bikaner division and the Shekhawati region, including Bikaner, Churu, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and adjoining areas. Weather...

December 22, 2025 1:12 PM

Snowfall recorded in Kashmir as Chillai Kalan begins

Snowfall in the higher reaches and rain in the plains of the Kashmir Valley over the past 24 hours ended a three-month-long dry spell on Monday, as the 40-day harsh winter period, locally known as Chillai Kalan, began on a positive note. The Gulmarg ski resort received nearly nine inches of snowfall during the last 24 hours, draping the destination in a pristine white blanket. Skiers, Christmas and New Year revellers, along with stakeholders from the tourism sector, had been eagerly awaiting th...

January 1, 2025 11:47 AM

Putin tells Russians at New Year that ‘everything will be fine’

President Vladimir Putin told Russians in a New Year address that the country would move forward with confidence in 2025, though he offered no specific promises on the economy or the war in Ukraine. At a time when many ordinary people are worried about rising prices and the central bank's 21% interest rate is squeezing businesses and homebuyers, Putin reassured Russians that their wellbeing was his top priority. He framed Russia's challenges as part of a wider historic mission, evoking past vi...