January 9, 2026

Bhumi Pednekkar, PETA Donate Mechanical Elephant to Cherukunnu Temple

Actor Bhumi Pednekkar and PETA India have donated a 3-metre-tall mechanical elephant named Cherukunnu Karthikeyan to a temple in Thrissur. This move supports animal welfare by avoiding real elephants in rituals.

January 9, 2026

EU Approves Biggest Free Trade Deal with Mercosur After 25 Years, Protests Erupt

The European Union has agreed on the largest free trade deal with Mercosur countries, ending 25 years of talks. The deal sparked protests from farmers and environmental groups in several EU countries. Supporters say it boosts economic ties and reduces reliance on China, while critics warn of risks to agriculture and forests.

January 9, 2026

Storm Goretti Brings Record Winds, Heavy Snow to Germany and France

Storm Goretti hit France and Germany with record winds over 210kph and up to 20cm of snow. Nearly 400,000 French homes lost power. Germany braces for freezing cold and blocked roads.

January 9, 2026

Swiss Bar Owner Detained After Deadly New Year's Fire Kills 40

Jacques Moretti, co-owner of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, has been detained after a New Year's Eve fire killed 40 people. The blaze also injured 116, many under 20. Investigators suspect the fire started from sparklers on champagne bottles igniting foam. Officials launched manslaughter and arson investigations.

January 9, 2026

Farmers Protest in Yadgir Demanding Action over Housing Scheme Irregularities and Rural Cleanliness

Farmers in Yadgir protested against officers for giving houses to wrong people under a housing scheme. They demanded quick action and better village cleanliness to avoid disease. Officials promised to take steps after receiving their memorandum.