Chief minister Omar Abdullah (File photo)

SRINAGAR: J&K chief minister’s Omar Abdullah’s National Conference (NC) has foregrounded a recently adopted resolution for restoration of special status, seeking to blunt claims that the party has jettisoned a core issue and is cosying up to BJP.Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar stressed the resolution, passed on Nov 28 at NC’s working committee — its highest decision-making body –was a message to all that the party’s ideological position remains unchanged.“In the working committee meeting, party legislators stressed that we must not be seen as giving up on our political agenda of restoring the special status under Article 370. The resolution reaffirms our commitment to special status. It reflects the dominant sentiment within the party,” Dar told TOI.The resolution states that “the working committee unanimously reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the restoration of J&K’s special status”, adding the issue is central to aspirations and dignity of the people and must be addressed without further delay. “The party will continue its principled fight for its full restoration.”NC also urged the Centre to immediately restore full statehood to J&K, as “promised on the floor of Parliament, repeatedly affirmed in public domain, and noted by Supreme Court”.NC’s manifesto for the 2024 polls had vowed to strive for restoration of “Article 370 and statehood as prior to Aug 5, 2019” — when the Centre abrogated the special status and turned J&K into a Union territory.On Nov 6 last year, weeks after NC was voted to office, J&K assembly passed a resolution seeking special status. Later, NC was accused by one of its own MPs, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, and opposition PDP of giving up on Article 370 and concentrating on “restoration of statehood”.Dar said several legislators in the working committee meeting pushed for protests in Delhi to press for statehood, citing difficulties they face at the ground level in getting developmental work executed. But the leadership decided to wait at this stage. “The party expects the Centre to restore statehood as promised in Supreme Court and Parliament,” Dar said.Another NC functionary, Salman Sagar, underscored concerns about attempts to link the party with BJP and the need to counter such narratives firmly.“Central govt and BJP are two different things. As a border state, maintaining a working and cordial relationship with Centre is necessary. But that does not mean we are aligned with BJP. CM (Omar) has made it clear we will never partner with BJP. He reiterated this in the working committee meeting, too. We have decided to challenge any narrative that seeks to portray NC as BJP-friendly. We will fight this narrative war,” Sagar said.

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December, the final month of the year, brings a mix of cultural, national, and global observances. In India, the month is marked by public holidays, regional festivals, and national commemorations, while globally, it highlights awareness campaigns on health, human rights, and environmental issues.Key national days in India include Vijay Diwas (Dec 16), celebrating India’s military achievements, and Kisan Diwas (Dec 23), honoring farmers’ contributions. Christmas on Dec 25 is a nationwide public holiday, and New Year’s Eve on Dec 31 is observed in several states, including Manipur and Mizoram. Regional and tribal celebrations such as Indigenous Faith Day and Tamu Losar reflect India’s diverse cultural traditions.Globally, December features important awareness days such as World AIDS Day (Dec 1), International Human Rights Day (Dec 10), International Mountain Day (Dec 11), and National Energy Conservation Day (Dec 14), focusing on health, equality, sustainability, and social inclusion.

List of Important Days in December 2025

With weekends and Christmas as the main breaks, December is marks the end of the year and hopes, aspirations for the new one.

Significant holidays in India

From Christmas festivities to tribal commemorations and the birth or death anniversaries of revered personalities, the month offers a diverse calendar of public holidays. These observances reflect India’s rich cultural and regional diversity, allowing communities to celebrate their unique traditions while coming together in shared national celebrations. Here is a look at all the public holidays in India during December 2025, along with the states where they will be observed, as per Economic Times.

Stephen Curry with Seth Curry (Image via Getty)

Stephen Curry’s brother Seth Curry is coming back with the Golden State Warriors. When he had joined the Warriors in the training, it definitely looked like a family affair, but unfortunately Seth was waived off just before the 2025-26 NBA season started, all thanks to the financial restriction of the franchise. However, the Golden State Warriors added Seth Curry to their roster for the ongoing NBA season. According to ESPN’s senior NBA insider Shams Charania, Seth Curry was signed for a year by the Golden State Warriors recently. The dream of the Curry brothers playing together for the same NBA franchise is finally coming to fruition. Seth Curry and his superstar brother would be representing the Warriors for the remaining season.

Seth Curry was re-signed by the Golden State Warriors for remaining 2025-26 NBA season

After a span of 12 years, Stephen Curry and Seth Curry are finally coming together for the remaining 2025-26 NBA season with the Golden State Warriors. Reportedly, Seth was re-signed by the Warriors on Monday. According to ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania, Seth Curry finally comes back with the Warriors for the remaining NBA season. His post on X mentioned, “Seth Curry intends to re-sign with the Golden State Warriors on Monday to a deal for the remainder of the season, sources tell ESPN. Curry – who shot an NBA-best 45.6% from 3-point range in 2024-25-joins older brother Stephen on the Warriors for his 12th season in the league.”Reportedly, this particular move has been expected ever since the Golden State Warriors waived him off in October. Initially he became a part of the Warriors back in September, but unfortunately he was waived off due to salary constraints. Seth Curry has built a strong NBA career despite moving frequently, playing for nine teams over a period of eleven seasons. Yet he has never shared an NBA court with his talented brother—until now. Like Stephen Curry, his little brother Seth Curry is an elite three-point shooter. In fact, his career three-point percentage is .433, which is slightly higher than Stephen’s .423 from long range.Also Read: Stephen Curry’s wife Ayesha Curry returns to big screen after a year brushing off marriage rumours and refocusing on her acting career

India kicked off the ODI series against South Africa under the weight of scrutiny, following a 2–0 loss in the preceding Test series. With regular captain Shubman Gill sidelined, the team faced early challenges but displayed poise and resilience, clinching a 17-run win in the opening match of the three-game series in Ranchi.

IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli lead vintage Indian innings

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early departure for 18 left India teetering, but Rohit Sharma responded with a blend of caution and calculated aggression, scoring 57 off 51 balls and surpassing Shahid Afridi’s record for most ODI sixes. Kohli’s 135 off 120 balls was a masterclass in timing and shot selection, bringing up his 83rd international century.

Amid a flurry of wickets, Virat Kohli maintained composure, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries against South Africa in 50 over format and overtaking Ricky Ponting for most sixes as a No. 3 batter. The duo’s partnership was instrumental in propelling India to 349/8, with contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja ensuring a strong finish. The innings blended technical precision, mental resilience, and tactical acumen, putting South Africa under immediate pressure. The Ranchi crowd erupted at every milestone, reflecting the significance of the performance. Kohli’s acceleration, particularly in the latter overs, demonstrated his unmatched ability to dominate in high-stakes situations.

Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred

Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav seal India’s convincing victory

Chasing 350, South Africa’s innings began in a precarious manner, losing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock to Harshit Rana in quick succession. Aiden Markram followed, dismissed by Arshdeep Singh, leaving the visitors reeling at 11/3. Dewald Brevis’s 37 offered resistance, and a 97-run partnership between Matthew Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen (70) revived faint hopes. However, Kuldeep Yadav’s pivotal over removed both batters, breaking the partnership and swinging control back to India. Despite late contributions from Corbin Bosch and Prenelan Subrayen, the required run rate proved insurmountable.

The disciplined bowling, strategic field placements, and aggressive pace from the Indian bowlers maintained consistent pressure. Harshit Rana’s fiery spells, coupled with Yadav’s sharp spin, exemplified India’s tactical execution. Arshdeep’s early breakthroughs provided a solid foundation for the innings. The fielding unit complemented the bowling, saving crucial runs and maintaining intensity throughout the innings. South Africa’s inability to rotate strike effectively compounded their difficulties. Even experienced batters struggled against India’s varied attack, demonstrating the home side’s dominance. India closed out a 17-run victory, taking a 1–0 lead in the series. The win reinstated confidence post the Test series defeat, reinforcing India’s control over the ODI campaign.

Here’s the fans reacted:

मेरे तन के ज़ख़्म ना गिन अभी,
मेरी आँख में अभी नूर है

मेरी बाज़ुओं पे निगाह कर,
जो ग़ुरूर था वो ग़ुरूर है #INDvSA #ViratKohli #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/wqqUXC3VYx

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 30, 2025

The OGs are back with a bang 🔥🇮🇳#INDvSA pic.twitter.com/k3vd5Y0iYB

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 30, 2025

He is back in his engine room. #ODI
👌👌 Top class #INDvRSA pic.twitter.com/jS9762AV9h

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) November 30, 2025

This is brilliant stuff from Harshit Rana. Making the new ball talk 👏

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 30, 2025

This guy can bat a little

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) November 30, 2025

Kumble won India a lot of ODIs in the 90s but you’d have to go with Kuldeep as their finest ever spinner in this format. He’s not just maximised novelty but also evolved and upgraded himself to be a match-winner even now.

— KASHISH (@crickashish217) November 30, 2025

Another special day for @imVkohli 52nd ODI hundred and still setting the standard for consistency and hunger. Brilliant innings. 💯🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/IXrCyjkcyg

— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 30, 2025

Virat Kohli’s 83rd century is a testament to his passion and discipline, which continues to set new benchmarks. His remarkable journey remains an inspiration for every young cricketer. A fabulous knock @imVkohli @BCCI pic.twitter.com/B33jitvK5H

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) November 30, 2025

Such a good cricket match. At 11-3, we thought there was an early finish looming. But a combination of grit, skill and a wet ball has given South Africa a whiff

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 30, 2025

India score 349 and hold their nerves to win by 17 runs against South Africa in Ranchi!

Scorecard: https://t.co/Eqm8mZhQwr#india #INDvsSA #1stODI #ranchi #viratkohli pic.twitter.com/QjqYh5ylJz

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 30, 2025

Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century celebrations interrupted after a fan slips past security and bows at his feet in Ranchi

Thane: The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has introduced a new online pet registration system, allowing pet owners to apply, pay, and renew their respective pet licences from the comfort of their locations without visiting municipal offices. The registration will currently only be for dogs, but the window for pet cats could open soon. The entire online process including payment gateways could be operational in the coming days, officials informed.“The web portal will allow pet owners to fill out licence applications, upload required documents, track approval status, and make online payments,” said Dr Prasad Patil, Chief Medical Officer at Thane Corporation. “Renewal reminders will also be automated, helping residents stay compliant year after year. The platform will also provide TMC with real-time data on pet vaccinations, overall health, and owner details.“Currently, there are around 15,000 pets in the city, of which only 7,000 are registered with the corporation. Officials said the present cumbersome offline process often discourages many residents, resulting in inconsistent records and low compliance across the city. The registration numbers would increase if the system was streamlined and made effortless, making it easier not just for the pet parents but also for officials in terms of record-keeping, vaccination coverage, and communication regarding mandatory care and health protocols.Officials said the corporation is also introducing a dedicated helpline for citizens to lodge complaints related to pet animals, aimed at improving grievance redressal for stray incidents, nuisance complaints, or issues with unregistered pets.

India’s Virat Kohli (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli secured his 52nd ODI century with a score of 135 off 120 balls, leading India to a 17-run victory against South Africa in the first ODI at JSCA Stadium. His performance, marking his 83rd international century, helped establish India’s control through a 136-run partnership with Rohit Sharma.India posted a total of 349/8. South Africa’s response, despite early setbacks at 11/3 and 77/4, showed resilience through Matthew Breetzke’s 72 and Marco Jansen’s 70, followed by Corbin Bosch’s quick 67 off 51 balls.The match concluded in the final over with South Africa reaching 332, falling short by 17 runs when Bosch was dismissed on the second ball with 18 runs needed.Kuldeep Yadav proved crucial with figures of 4/68, particularly with his dismissals of Breetzke and Jansen in quick succession. Rohit Sharma’s contribution of 57 runs, featuring three sixes, helped him surpass Shahid Afridi’s record for most ODI sixes at 352.India, led by KL Rahul and featuring veterans Rohit and Kohli in ODIs exclusively, took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.“Today was really nice to kind of get into the game like that. Pitch played decently in the first 20-25 overs before it started to slow down. Was just about staying in the space of enjoyment. Of course when you get a start, you get into the situation, you know what needs to be done. The experience kicks in,” said Kohli, who was named Player of the Match.“I’ve never been a believer of preparation. All my preparation is mental. As long as my physical levels are up and the mental sharpness is there, then you know it’s fine. I took a day off before the game. I’m 37 and need time for recovery,” he added regarding his approach to workload management.“That’s how it’s always going to be – I’m just playing one form of the game. If you’ve played 300-odd games and so much cricket, you know when you’re hitting balls in practice, you know the reflexes are there and the physical ability is there to bat long. As long as you’re hitting the ball well and playing good cricket, it’s about physically fit, mentally ready and excited.”Kohli’s 52nd century, achieved with a boundary off Jansen, surpassed Sachin Tendulkar‘s record of 51 Test hundreds for most centuries in a single format.A memorable moment occurred when a fan breached security to touch Kohli’s feet, demonstrating the local crowd’s admiration. The series continues in Raipur for the second match on Wednesday.

Stock market holidays for December: As November comes to a close and the final month of the year begins, investors will want to know on which days trading sessions will be there and on which days stock markets are closed. are likely keeping a close eye on year-end portfolio adjustments, global cues, and corporate earnings.For this year, the only major, away from normal scheduled market holidays in December is Christmas, observed on Thursday, December 25. On this day, Indian stock markets, including the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE), will remain closed across equity, derivatives, and securities lending and borrowing (SLB) segments. Trading in currency and interest rate derivatives segments will continue as usual.Markets are expected to reopen on Friday, December 26, as investors return to monitor global developments and finalize year-end positioning. Apart from weekends, Christmas is the only scheduled market holiday this month, making December relatively quiet compared with other festive months, with regards to stock markets.The last trading session in November, which was November 28 (next two days being the weekend) ended flat. BSE Sensex slipped 13.71 points, or 0.02 per cent, to settle at 85,706.67, after hitting an intra-day high of 85,969.89 and a low of 85,577.82, a swing of 392.07 points. Meanwhile, the NSE Nifty fell 12.60 points, or 0.05 per cent, to 26,202.95, halting its two-day rally.