As India reels amid steep tariff hike by Mexico, ranging up to 50 per cent, an official said New Delhi is actively engaging with Mexican authorities over what it views as a “unilateral” move to raise duties on a wide range of products.The discussions, the official said, are aimed at finding solutions beneficial to both countries, while keeping open the option of protecting Indian exporters’ interests. The comments were made to PTI.

The tariff increases apply to countries that do not have free trade agreements with Mexico, including India, China, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia. According to the official, India had raised concerns even when the initial bill was introduced.India’s Embassy in Mexico approached the Mexican Ministry of Economy on September 30, seeking special consideration to shield Indian exports from the revised tariff structure.“India values its partnership with Mexico and stands ready to work collaboratively toward a stable and balanced trade environment that benefits businesses and consumers in both countries,” the official said.India and Mexico are also preparing to begin discussions on a free trade agreement, with formal negotiation parameters expected to be finalised shortly. Analysts believe such an agreement would help insulate Indian companies from the new duties, which were implemented under American pressure to align Mexican tariffs with US measures against China and to curb indirect shipments into the American market.The Mexican Senate approved the tariff legislation on December 11, with ratification by both chambers of Congress. The move is intended to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce trade imbalances.Under the decision, import duties ranging from 5 to 50 per cent will apply to around 1,463 product categories from countries without free trade agreements with Mexico, including India. The detailed product list has not yet been published. The revised tariffs will come into effect from January 1, 2026.“The Department of Commerce is engaged with Mexico’s Ministry of Economy to explore mutually beneficial solutions which align with global trade rules,” the official said.A senior-level discussion has already taken place between Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and Mexican Vice Minister of Economy Luis Rosendo, with further technical-level meetings planned. “India reserves the right to take appropriate measures to safeguard the interests of Indian exporters, while continuing to pursue a solution through constructive dialogue,” the official added.The official noted that the actual impact on Indian exports would depend on how critical these goods are to Mexican supply chains, as well as the ability of Indian companies to secure exemptions or pass on costs to Mexican consumers.India, the official said, views unilateral MFN tariff increases without prior consultation as inconsistent with the principles of predictability and transparency underpinning cooperative economic engagement and the multilateral trading system. The government is continuing its assessment of Mexico’s tariff changes while remaining in close contact with all stakeholders.Industry bodies have voiced concern over the move. FIEO Director General Ajay Sahai warned that the decision could affect sectors such as automobiles, machinery, electrical goods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles and plastics.“Such steep duties will erode our competitiveness and risk disrupting supply chains that have taken years to develop,” Sahai said, according to PTI, calling for faster progress on a comprehensive trade agreement.ACMA has also indicated that Indian auto component manufacturers could face higher cost pressures due to the increased duties on exports to Mexico.India’s exports to Mexico stood at $5.75 billion in 2024–25, while imports from Mexico were valued at $2.9 billion.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep shock and distress over the chaotic mismanagement at Salt Lake Stadium during Lionel Messi’s visit

KOLKATA: ‘I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi,’ West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said after thousands of fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the football icon were left disappointed, sparking chaos at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium.In a post on X, Banerjee said “I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium. I was on my way to the stadium to attend the event along with thousands of sports lovers and fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of their favourite footballer, Lionel Messi.

“I sincerely apologise to Lionel Messi, as well as to all sports lovers and his fans, for the unfortunate incident. I am constituting an enquiry committee under the chairmanship of Justice (Retd.) Ashim Kumar Ray, with the Chief Secretary and the Additional chief secretary, Home and Hill Affairs Department, as members,” she wrote.

“The committee will conduct a detailed enquiry into the incident, fix responsibility, and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. Once again, I extend my heartfelt apologies to all sports lovers,” she added further.

What triggered the chaos

Thousands of fans at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium were left frustrated on Saturday after Argentine football star Lionel Messi cut short his appearance at a ticketed event, sparking scenes of chaos.Videos circulating on social media showed spectators breaking barricades, throwing bottles and chairs, and venting their anger inside the stadium. Many fans said they could not get a proper view of Messi despite paying between Rs 5,000 and Rs 25,000 for entry.“The minimum price of the ticket was 5 thousand, and why were the VVIPs around Messi? We couldn’t even see him… Why weren’t the police taking action? Everyone was furious. We want the refund,” one frustrated fan said. Another described the event as an “absolute disgrace,” claiming Messi did not take a full lap of the stadium as expected.

India has relaxed visa norms for China the two countries take steps to mend relations strained by the eastern Ladakh border standoff in 2020. In its latest push, India will now make entry easier for Chinese professionals visiting for short-term.According to sources cited by PTI, Chinese nationals coming to India for limited durations will no longer need to apply for long-validity employment or “E” visas. Instead, they will be eligible for business visas meant for shorter stays, a shift aimed at cutting down approval timelines. All applications for business visa will be processed within three to four weeks. However, as norms for professionals ease, other applicants will have to pass existing security screening.While the revised norms are applicable across nationalities, Chinese professionals are expected to gain the most from the change. The move is expected to ease travel for Chinese technical experts required by Indian companies that rely on Chinese machinery and equipment. Over the past few months, both countries have taken steps focused on people-to-people engagement. India restarted the issuance of tourist visas to Chinese nationals in July, while direct flights between the two countries resumed in October. Other agreed measures include facilitating visas, resuming the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and marking 75 years of diplomatic relations. High-level diplomatic engagement has also accompanied these moves. Back in August, PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to strengthen bilateral engagement to address current challenges and seek a “fair” resolution to the border dispute. During their interaction in Tianjin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Summit, the two leaders also committed to boosting trade and investment to help stabilise global commerce. The momentum continued ahead of PM Modi’s China visit, when Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi travelled to New Delhi. The visit resulted in the announcement of several confidence-building measures aimed at a “stable, cooperative and forward-looking” relationship, including maintaining peace along the frontier, reopening border trade and encouraging investment flows.

Lionel Messi, visiting India as part of his GOAT Tour India 2025, was forced to cut short his lap of honour. (Image credit: Agencies)

NEW DELHI: Kolkata witnessed an unprecedented mix of chaos and celebration as football superstar Lionel Messi made his much-anticipated appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The Argentine legend, visiting India as part of his GOAT Tour India 2025, was forced to cut short his lap of honour after an overwhelming crowd led to bottles being thrown by frustrated fans. Unable to catch a glimpse of the superstar, some spectators resorted to vandalising banners and seats, while others booed officials and politicians, highlighting serious security challenges amid the frenzy.

Despite the tumult at the stadium, Messi’s day also featured moments of admiration and excitement. Earlier, he virtually unveiled a towering 70-foot statue at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town, South Dum Dum. The iron statue, depicting Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, was constructed in just 40 days as a tribute to his incredible achievements on the field. West Bengal Minister and Sree Bhumi Sporting Club President Sujit Bose confirmed, “We have talked to his manager, and today we will talk to Messi… He gave his consent for the statue and they are also happy…” Bose added that Messi and his team were delighted with the installation.The arrival of Messi in Kolkata early on Saturday morning drew massive crowds across key city locations, with fans eager to catch even a fleeting glimpse of the football icon. The excitement reflected Messi’s immense popularity in India, particularly in West Bengal, and underscored the global appeal of the World Cup-winning captain.Watch the video hereWatch the video hereThis visit marks Messi’s first trip to India since 2011. During his previous visit, he had played a friendly match at Salt Lake Stadium, where Argentina defeated Venezuela 1-0, leaving an indelible memory for fans. After 14 years, the legendary footballer’s return has sparked immense enthusiasm, with fans preparing elaborate celebrations to welcome him.While the chaos at Salt Lake Stadium underscored the challenges of managing such large gatherings, the day also celebrated Messi’s legacy and his deep connection with Indian football fans. Between the unveiling of his monumental statue and the excitement at the stadium, Kolkata truly witnessed a historic occasion in honour of one of football’s greatest icons.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders across parties paid solemn tribute to security personnel martyred in the 2001 Parliament terror attack. Remembering their bravery and sacrifice, the nation reaffirmed its unwavering stance against terrorism. The attack, which claimed 14 lives, was a stark reminder of the threats faced by the “temple of democracy.”

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to the security personnel who lost their lives in the 2001 Parliament terror attack.Prime Minister along with Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and other parliamentarians paid their tributes at Parliament.Leaders across parties joined the remembrance. Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi arrived at Parliament to honour the fallen personnel, while Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath remembered their sacrifice, calling the attack a brutal assault on the nation’s sovereignty.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari also saluted the security forces who protected the “temple of democracy”.“Saluting the brave who laid down their lives on 13 December 2001 to protect the temple of democracy during the terrorist attack on the Parliament House. Their sacrifice for the protection of the nation will always be remembered.” Gadkari said.The Central Reserve Police Force also paid tribute to Constable Kamlesh Kumari of the 88 Battalion on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack, remembering her courage and sacrifice.“Tribute to the Brave… On 13 December 2001, during the terrorist attack on the Parliament in Delhi, Constable Kamlesh Kumari of 88 Battalion, #CRPF, demonstrated indomitable courage and unparalleled valor by pursuing the terrorists amidst heavy firing and continuously providing information about their activities to her fellow personnel.” CRPF’s X post read.“Due to her courageous actions, all five terrorists were neutralized. During this incident, she sustained serious injuries and ultimately sacrificed her life on the altar of duty. For her indomitable courage and extraordinary bravery, she was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra. The brave ‘balidani’ receives the eternal salutations of CRPF,” the post said.Defence minister Rajnath Singh also paid his tributes in a post on X, in which he wrote:“Remembering and paying heartfelt tributes to the brave security personnel who stood as an unbreakable shield during the cowardly terror attack on Parliament House. They laid down their lives to protect the soul of our democracy. Their courage, supreme sacrifice and unwavering sense of duty will forever live in the nation’s conscience and inspire India’s resolve.”On December 13, 2001, five terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed stormed the Parliament complex, killing 14 people, mostly security personnel. Parliament reiterated its resolve to stand firm against terrorism. The terror attack took place around 40 minutes after Parliament was adjourned, and about 100 members were present in the building.

A California jury ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $40 million to two women who claimed its talc-based baby powder caused their ovarian cancer. The women testified that decades of use led to major surgeries and chemotherapy. Johnson & Johnson plans to appeal, stating the verdict is aberrant and lacks evidence.

A California jury on Friday ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $40 million to two women who said decades of using the company’s talc-based baby powder led to their ovarian cancer.Kent was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014, and Schultz was diagnosed in 2018. Both California residents said they used J&J’s baby powder after bathing for 40 years. Their treatments involved major surgeries and dozens of rounds of chemotherapy, they testified at the trial, Reuters reported.In closing arguments viewed on Courtroom View Network, Andy Birchfield, an attorney for the women, told the jury, “Absolutely they knew, they knew and they were doing everything they could to hide it, to bury the truth about the dangers.”Allison Brown, an attorney for Johnson & Johnson, said, “They don’t have the evidence in this case, and they hope you don’t mind.” She argued that no major US health authority backs the alleged connection and no study shows talc can migrate from the outside of the body to the reproductive organs.Erik Haas, Johnson & Johnson’s worldwide vice president of litigation, said in a statement the company plans to “immediately appeal this verdict and expect to prevail as we typically do with aberrant adverse verdicts.”Johnson & Johnson is facing lawsuits from more than 67,000 plaintiffs who say they were diagnosed with cancer after using its baby powder and other talc products, according to court filings. The company says its products are safe, do not contain asbestos and do not cause cancer. J&J stopped selling talc-based baby powder in the US in 2020, switching to a cornstarch product.J&J has sought to resolve the litigation through bankruptcy, a proposal rejected three times by federal courts, most recently in April. The bankruptcies had put most cases on hold. Brown and Kent’s cases are the first to go to trial since the latest Chapter 11 attempt was dismissed.Before the bankruptcy attempts, J&J had a mixed record in talc trials, with verdicts as high as $4.69 billion awarded to women who said baby powder caused their ovarian cancer. The company has won some trials outright and had other verdicts reduced on appeal.The majority of lawsuits involve ovarian cancer claims. Cases alleging talc caused a rare and deadly cancer called mesothelioma make up a smaller portion of the claims J&J is facing. The company previously settled some of those claims but has not struck a nationwide settlement, so many lawsuits over mesothelioma have proceeded to trial in state courts in recent months. In the past year, J&J has been hit with several substantial verdicts in mesothelioma cases, including one for more than $900 million in Los Angeles in October.

A coalition of 20 US states, led by California, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over a new $100,000 fee imposed on H-1B visas, arguing that the move is unlawful and threatens access to essential public services such as healthcare and education.The legal challenge, announced by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, targets a policy introduced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) following a presidential proclamation issued in September. The fee applies to all new H-1B visa petitions filed after September 21, and represents an unprecedented increase from the existing charges, which typically range from under $1,000 to around $7,500.

In the lawsuit, the attorneys general argue that the Trump administration has exceeded its authority by imposing a fee far beyond what Congress has authorised. They say the policy violates the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) by bypassing mandatory notice-and-comment rulemaking and by setting a charge unrelated to the actual cost of processing visa applications.

Bonta said the measure runs counter to the purpose of the H-1B programme, which allows US employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers in “specialty occupations” requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. These include doctors, nurses, researchers, teachers and engineers.“California knows that when skilled talent from around the world joins our workforce, it drives our state forward,” Bonta said, warning that the fee would place “illegal financial burdens” on public employers and worsen existing labour shortages.The coalition, which includes states such as New York, Illinois, Washington and Massachusetts, is seeking to block the policy and have it declared unconstitutional.

Impact on schools, hospitals and public services

The states argue that the fee will hit public sector and non-profit employers hardest, particularly schools, universities and hospitals, many of which are exempt from the annual H-1B cap of 65,000 visas. These institutions, they say, cannot absorb an additional $100,000 cost per hire without cutting services or diverting funds from other programmes.The lawsuit highlights the scale of existing shortages. During the 2024–25 school year, nearly three-quarters of US school districts reported difficulties filling teaching posts, especially in special education, science and bilingual education. Educators are among the largest occupational groups using H-1B visas, with tens of thousands employed across the country.Healthcare is another major concern. In the 2024 fiscal year, almost 17,000 H-1B visas were issued for medical and health occupations, including physicians and surgeons. The US is projected to face a shortfall of up to 86,000 doctors by 2036, a gap that is already acute in rural and low-income areas, including parts of California.

Trump tightens grip on H-1B visas with higher fees, deeper vetting

The Trump administration has sharpened its focus on the H-1B visa programme as part of a broader immigration crackdown, signalling tougher scrutiny, higher costs and expanded data collection. A new proposal seeks five years of social media history from all visitors to the US, including those from visa-waiver countries such as the UK, Japan and Australia. While not yet final, the measure reflects a wider push towards deeper vetting that goes well beyond tourists and directly affects skilled migrants.For H-1B applicants, social media vetting is already mandatory from December 15, alongside stricter compliance checks. The impact is magnified by structural bottlenecks. The H-1B cap remains frozen at 85,000 visas despite soaring demand, while Indians account for over 70% of approvals. Even those who secure visas face decades-long green card backlogs due to per-country limits.

White House defends move amid wider backlash

The Trump administration has defended the fee as part of a broader effort to reform the H-1B system and prioritise American workers. A White House spokesperson said the policy would discourage abuse of the programme and protect domestic wages, insisting the action was lawful.Critics, however, say the measure risks damaging the US economy and international relationships. Lawmakers have warned that the fee disproportionately affects Indian professionals, who hold an estimated 70 per cent of H-1B visas, and could strain US–India ties while driving skilled workers towards countries with more welcoming immigration systems.