UP CM Yogi Adityanath addresses public grievances, concerns during ‘Janta Darshan’ in Lucknow (Photo credit: ANI)

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday addressed public grievances and concerns during ‘Janta Darshan’ in Lucknow, where he met people from different parts of the district and personally listened to their issues.During the public outreach event, the chief minister reviewed written applications submitted by citizens and assured them of timely assistance and resolution. He also interacted warmly with children present at the venue, addressing their concerns and encouraging them to actively participate in community development.

Earlier, on Sunday and even on November 18, CM Yogi Adityanath held a ‘Janta Darshan’ at the Gorakhnath Temple premises in Gorakhpur.On November 16, CM Yogi Adityanath addressed public grievances and concerns during ‘Janta Darshan’ in Lucknow.During the “Janta Darshan” meeting, CM Yogi met with women and children to listen to thier grievances, which were presented by the general public. He reviewed the written applications of several people and assured support and resolution.Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday participated in the Pran Pratishtha and Aathman Bhandara at Siddha Baba Palnath Ashram in Jhajjar, Haryana and emphasised the significance of Sanatan culture, highlighting its role in shaping human evolution.He highlighted the spiritual legacy of the Nath community and underscored that Sanatan culture, linking India’s spiritual heritage, from Kailash’s Shiva to Rameshwaram’s temple, showcases the country’s rich cultural tapestry.On Sunday, the chief minister also held a review meeting in Sambhal, assessing ongoing development works and the law-and-order situation. He directed government and district officials to develop Sambhal in a phased manner, emphasising that the district’s development is a key government priority, a release said.In the first phase, he instructed officials to restore ancient pilgrimage sites and traditional wells. The second phase should focus on projects such as a museum and light-and-sound facilities. He also called for swift action on the construction of the District Court, jail, and PAC unit in Sambhal.The chief minister reviewed the performance of several departments, including Revenue, Home, Justice, Charitable Works, PWD, Tourism-Culture, and Urban Development.

School Holiday in December 2025

December has finally arrived, bringing with it the stretch students across the country look forward to all year, winter breaks, Christmas celebrations and the gentle slowing down that marks the end of the academic calendar. After a busy November filled with examinations in many states, schools are now shifting into a lighter schedule as temperatures begin to drop and year-end activities take over.Unlike summer holidays, December breaks don’t follow a uniform pattern across India. Each state, and often each school, sets its own calendar depending on the weather and institutional policies. But there is one common trend: the second half of December typically offers the longest cluster of holidays for schoolchildren before the new year begins.

When are schools likely to close in December 2025?

Schools across several northern and central states are expected to go on winter break sometime between December 20 and December 24, with most reopening only in the first week of January. This period usually covers Christmas, New Year’s Eve and the coldest days of the season.

Important festive holidays in December

Even in states without long winter breaks, certain days will be observed as holidays across most schools:

Some schools also club these festive holidays with year-end events, annual functions or cultural programmes, adding to the excitement of the month.

Why December still feels special for students

December is more than just a month of holidays, it marks a much-needed pause in the school year. The weather encourages a slower pace, families plan outings and reunions, and students get a short but meaningful break before the academic race picks up again in January.Even for schools, this period is valuable: campuses use the downtime for repairs, planning sessions and preparations for final-term activities.

Representative image (ANI)

NEW DELHI: Gold and silver opened strongly in domestic futures on Monday, driven by a softening dollar, expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut and a weaker rupee.Gold February futures traded at Rs 1,30,383 per 10 grams, up Rs 879 (0.68%), while silver March futures surged to a new peak of Rs 1,78,620 per kg, gaining Rs 3,639 in early trade.Silver price growth was supported by a weaker rupee and expectations of a US rate cut. Analysts expect the metal to maintain strong momentum amid global economic developments and currency fluctuations.On the international front, spot gold was slightly down at $4,221.68 per ounce by 0.2%, after hitting a near three-week high on Friday.US gold futures for December delivery rose 0.2% to $4,261.60 per ounce, while silver climbed 2.2% to a fresh high of $57.59 per ounce. Market experts expect gold and silver prices to remain volatile this week, with movements influenced by fluctuations in the dollar index, global financial markets and upcoming US Federal Reserve policy meetings.Gold recently touched five-week highs, while silver surged to record levels, driven by expectations of a rate cut in the US and profit-taking in the dollar index.“Safe-haven buying also emerged for precious metals after trading was halted in the CME due to overheating at its data center,” said Manoj Kumar Jain of Prithvifinmart Commodity Research, according to PTI. “However, optimism over a Russia-Ukraine peace deal limited gains in precious metals,” he added.

City-wise gold rates today:

Delhi

In Delhi, 24K gold is trading at Rs 13,063 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,975 per gram and 18K at Rs 9,801 per gram. Compared to yesterday, 24K gold rose by Rs 66, 22K by Rs 60, and 18K by Rs 49 respectively.

Bengaluru

Today in Bengaluru, 24K gold is priced at Rs 13,048 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,960, and 18K at Rs 9,786. The rates have increased by Rs 66 for 24K, Rs 60 for 22K, and Rs 49 for 18K since yesterday.

Mumbai

In Mumbai, 24K gold stands at Rs 13,048 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,960, and 18K at Rs 9,786. Compared to the previous day, 24K rose by Rs 66, 22K by Rs 60, and 18K by Rs 49.

Chennai

Chennai’s gold prices today are Rs 13,167 per gram for 24K, Rs 12,070 for 22K, and Rs 10,065 for 18K. The increases since yesterday are Rs 98 for 24K, Rs 90 for 22K, and Rs 70 for 18K.

Kolkata

In Kolkata, 24K gold is Rs 13,048 per gram, 22K gold is Rs 11,960 and 18K gold is Rs 9,786. Compared to yesterday, the rates have gone up by Rs 66 for 24K, Rs 60 for 22K and Rs 49 for 18K respectively.

Hyderabad

The gold prices in Hyderabad today stands at Rs 13,048 per gram for 24K, Rs 11,960 for 22K and Rs 9,786 for 18K. The prices have increased by Rs 66, Rs 60 and Rs 49 respectively since yesterday.

Jaipur

In Jaipur, 24K gold is trading at Rs 13,063 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,975 and 18K at Rs 9,801. The rates are up by Rs 66 for 24K, Rs 60 for 22K, and Rs 49 for 18K from the previous day.

Ahmedabad

Today in Ahmedabad, 24K gold is Rs 13,053 per gram, 22K gold is Rs 11,965 and 18K gold is Rs 9,791. Compared to yesterday, 24K rose by Rs 66, 22K by Rs 60 and 18K by Rs 49.

Bhubaneshwar

Bhubaneshwar’s gold rates are Rs 13,048 per gram for 24K, Rs 11,960 for 22K and Rs 9,786 for 18K. Compared to yesterday, marking rose by Rs 66, Rs 60 and Rs 49 respectively.

Pune

In Pune, 24K gold is priced at Rs 13,048 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,960 and 18K at Rs 9,786. The rates increased by Rs 66 for 24K, Rs 60 for 22K and Rs 49 for 18K since yesterday.

Kanpur

In Kanpur, 24K gold trades at Rs 13,063 per gram, 22K at Rs 11,975 and 18K at Rs 9,801. Compared to the previous day, 24K rose at Rs 66, 22K at Rs 60 and 18K at Rs 49.

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India‘s momentum in the 1st ODI against South Africa was further boosted by Kuldeep Yadav, who delivered a crucial blow in the 14th over, dismissing Tony de Zorzi for 39. With a review confirming the ball was pitching in line and in front of middle stump, the South African batter was trapped LBW. As the wicket fell, Virat Kohli erupted in celebration, roaring with delight, showcasing his intense passion for the game. His aggressive reaction highlighted the intensity of the moment, as India tightened their grip on the game.

Virat Kohli channels his inner celebration as Kuldeep Yadav strikes in Ranchi ODI

The atmosphere in Ranchi was electric as Kuldeep Yadav delivered a critical breakthrough in the 14th over of South Africa’s innings. De Zorzi, looking comfortable at the crease, was caught in front by a legspinner from Kuldeep that pitched on middle stump and turned sharply. After a brief review, it was clear that the ball would have hit the stumps, and the South African batter was sent back for 39.

Kohli, standing at first slip, wasted no time in showing his emotions as he celebrated the dismissal. With his fists raised high, he roared in delight, rallying his team as India gained the upper hand. Kohli’s celebration reflected the intensity of the game, and it was clear that he was determined to make his mark with the bat and inspire his team.

As the game progressed, the Indian bowlers continued to apply pressure on the South African batting line-up, but the image of Kohli’s passionate celebration would remain one of the highlights of the match. The fall of de Zorzi’s wicket shifted the momentum in India’s favor, and they looked to capitalize on it as they tightened their grip on the match.

Here’s the video:

We all missed this version of Virat Kohli 🥵pic.twitter.com/BYohtNp71m

— Dive (@crickohlic) November 30, 2025

Also READ: IND vs SA: Virat Kohli shuts down Test retirement U-turn talk with clear statement

Virat Kohli’s stunning century guides India to 17-run victory in the 1st ODI against South Africa

In a thrilling encounter at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, India triumphed over South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI of the 2025-26 series. Kohli’s masterful 135 off 120 balls anchored India’s total of 349/8. South Africa’s chase fell short despite a valiant fight led by Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch, as they were bowled out for 332 in 49.2 overs.

Kohli’s knock included 11 fours and 7 sixes, further extending his record of 52 ODI centuries. His innings was pivotal in India’s strong total, with key contributions from Rohit Sharma (57), KL Rahul (60) and Washington Sundar (13). The South African bowlers, including Nandre Burger and Ottneil Baartman, struggled to stem the run flow, and despite a late flurry from Jansen (70), India’s bowlers led by Kuldeep Yadav (4/68) and Arshdeep Singh (2/64) maintained control.

In South Africa’s innings, the early breakthroughs, with Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock falling cheaply, left them reeling. Kuldeep and Harshit Rana capitalized, dismissing key middle-order batters, including De Zorzi (39) and Dewald Brevis (37). South Africa’s tail wagged with Bosch and Jansen, but the target proved too steep. Kohli’s spirited celebrations following key wickets, especially when Kuldeep struck, highlighted the intensity of the contest. This win gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next ODI scheduled to take place in Guwahati.

Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Harshit Rana gives an aggressive send off to Dewald Brevis after dismissing him during Ranchi ODI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: On the opening day of the Parliament Winter Session on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on behalf of the House, welcomed Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan as he presided over the Rajya Sabha for the first time. Radhakrishnan assumed office in September, becoming the country’s new Vice President and succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar.Addressing the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said, “Respected Chairman, the Winter Session is beginning today and it is a proud moment for all members of the House. It is a proud moment to welcome you…On behalf of the House, I heartily congratulate you. And I wish you all the best.”The prime minister assured full cooperation from MPs, saying, “I assure you that all the members sitting in this House, while maintaining the dignity of the Upper House, will always take care of your dignity as well. I assure you that they will maintain decorum. Our Chairman comes from a simple family, a farmer’s family, and he has dedicated his entire life to social service. The political field has been one aspect of it, but the mainstream has been social service. He has been dedicated to society. He is an inspiration and a guide for all of us who are interested in social service.”PM Modi also recounted the Radhakrishnan’s work in Jharkhand, saying, “I saw the bond you forged with the tribal communities in Jharkhand. The way you visited even small villages, the chief minister of Jharkhand would proudly mention these things whenever he met me. Whether you had a helicopter or not, you would travel in whatever vehicle you had, stopping at small places at night. We all know your spirit of service and the way you took it to new heights as Governor... I have realised one thing that people sometimes feel the burden of their position, and sometimes they get overwhelmed by protocol. But I’ve noticed that you have no connection with protocol…”Earlier in the day, just before the Winter Session began, PM Modi addressed the media and targeted the Opposition, urging them to move past their defeat in the recent Bihar assembly elections. He also took a jibe at the Opposition’s approach in Parliament, saying, “Whoever wants to do drama can do it. There should be delivery here and not drama…the emphasis should be on policy, not slogans.”

A decade from now, the fund you barely talked about will likely be the one that did most of the work. (AI image)

Here’s a scene I’ve seen many times.A new investor starts a SIP. Within a month, the portfolio already has seven funds: a mid-cap, a small-cap, a PSU theme, a “manufacturing” theme, an international fund, a sector fund, and one “special opportunities” fund—because each one looked great on a “top returns” list.Another new investor starts with one fund—a plain flexi-cap fund or a broad index fund—and just keeps investing.Five years later, the second investor usually has a bigger corpus and far less stress.Not because they found a magical fund. But because they began the right way.What your first mutual fund should doYour first mutual fund has a simple job:

This is the “learning to drive” phase. You don’t start by driving in the hills at night in the rain. You start on a steady road.So your first fund should be boring in the best way—broad, diversified, and easy to stay invested in.Good beginner choices are:

These are not flashy. That’s exactly why they work.Why “hot” funds are a bad starting pointMost beginners choose funds the way people choose restaurants—by looking at what’s “trending”.Apps and websites push:

The trap is simple: yesterday’s winner is often tomorrow’s disappointment.Sector and thematic funds are not evil. They’re just sharp tools. If you’re still learning, sharp tools increase the chances of getting hurt.Why?

So the fund didn’t “fail”. The investor’s timing did. And timing is the one skill beginners shouldn’t be forced to master.One simple fund often beats many clever ones (in real life)Over a full market cycle—up, down, then recovery—broad-market funds tend to be easier to hold, and that matters more than people admit.For example, consider the periods from August 2013 to December 2017 and from December 2017 to March 2020.

Performance breakdown

Now add reality: most investors didn’t stay invested in the theme through the full cycle. Many entered late and exited early.That’s why “best returns” lists can be misleading. They show what a fund did. They don’t show what investors earned.How many funds do you need in your first 2–3 years?Most beginners think diversification means “more funds”.It doesn’t.If you own five equity funds, chances are you own the same top 20–30 stocks five times. That’s not diversification. That’s repetition with extra paperwork.For the first two to three years, a good rule is:Start with 1–2 funds.That’s enough.A simple structure:

If you can’t explain why you own a fund in one sentence, you probably don’t need it—yet.“But what about small caps, international exposure, sectors, themes?”Later—maybe.Think of these as “satellites”. You add them after your “core” is in place.Start with the core first because:

When we design a first portfolio in Value Research Fund Advisor (VRFA), we usually start with 1–2 core funds that can quietly do the heavy lifting for decades. Once the foundation is solid, we add anything else if needed.A practical, quick check before you pick your first fundBefore you choose, ask yourself:

That last question is the real test.Because your first mutual fund is not about being clever. It’s about being consistent.The whole pointIf you do just two things right at the start, you’ll be ahead of most investors:

Ignore the noise. Ignore the “top returns” carousel.A decade from now, the fund you barely talked about will likely be the one that did most of the work.(Sneha Suri is Lead Fund Analyst – Value Research’s Fund Advisor)

NEW DELHI: Star batter Virat Kohli produced another innings of authority and patience on Sunday while also stepping into territory that has belonged to only one man for two decades. With his 52nd One Day International hundred in the first ODI against South Africa, Kohli went past Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of 51 Test centuries and became the only cricketer in history to score more than 51 centuries in a single format of international cricket.

The feat also marked the 7000th international hundred in men’s cricket.India lost former captain Rohit Sharma after a fluent 57 off 51 balls, but Kohli stood firm on a pitch that demanded both discipline and calculated strokeplay. He came in early, settled quietly and gradually took control of the innings as the partnership with Rohit began to flow. Their stand of 136 off 109 deliveries gave India the platform they needed after a brisk start.The moment of history arrived in the 38th over. Marco Jansen delivered one back of a length outside off, and Kohli opened the bat face neatly to guide the ball past third man. The timing was effortless, and the boundary took him to a landmark that had been approaching steadily through the afternoon. Kohli leapt, punched the air and acknowledged a Ranchi crowd that rose in one voice. It was not overplayed, simply a celebration of mastery, built brick by brick.He eventually fell for a brilliant 135 off 120 balls, caught by Rickelton running back from cover after mistiming an attempted loft. As he walked off he raised his bat to all four stands, and Ranchi responded with a standing ovation befitting the moment.A record surpassed, a new peak reached and history rewritten in Kohli’s name.

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