Economic reforms in 2025 set stage for India’s global rise: Economist

IANS | December 30, 2025 8:32 PM

New Delhi, Dec 30 (IANS) Economist and former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Ved Jain, on Tuesday said that allowing 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector will prove to be a positive step for India’s economy and consumers.

Experts reckon holding inclusive election would honour former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia's legacy

IANS | December 30, 2025 8:21 PM

Dhaka, Dec 30 (IANS) Expressing grief over the passing of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, the former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, on Tuesday said her legacy should be honoured through inclusive elections to be held in February 2026, with the participation of the Awami League. Sikri noted that both the former Prime Ministers of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia, had fought side by side to restore democracy in the country.

Punjab: 4 kg heroin seized; seven held

IANS | December 30, 2025 7:25 PM

Chandigarh, Dec 30 (IANS) In a breakthrough, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has busted a cross-border drug smuggling cartel with links to Pakistan-based handlers with the arrest of seven accused and recovered 4.075 kg heroin, one kg methamphetamine, commonly known as ICE, and one 9mm Glock pistol from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Tuesday.