Iran Faces Massive Protests Amid Internet Blackout; Trump and Reza Pahlavi Back Demonstrators

January 9, 2026

Iran Faces Massive Protests Amid Internet Blackout; Trump and Reza Pahlavi Back Demonstrators

Millions in Iran protest sharply amid internet and power cuts by the regime. Reza Pahlavi and President Trump support protesters, warning authorities. Violence and arrests escalate across cities as economic fears fuel unrest.

Explosive Device Blasts Near School Bus in Purameri, Kerala; No Injuries Reported

January 9, 2026

Explosive Device Blasts Near School Bus in Purameri, Kerala; No Injuries Reported

A crude explosive went off by a roadside as a school bus passed near Purameri in Kerala. No one was hurt. Police have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation.

Russia Strikes Ukraine with Hypersonic Missiles; Kyiv Hit by Deadly Drone and Missile Attacks

January 9, 2026

Russia Strikes Ukraine with Hypersonic Missiles; Kyiv Hit by Deadly Drone and Missile Attacks

Russia launched Oreshnik hypersonic missiles at Ukraine overnight in retaliation, hitting near EU borders. Kyiv faced deadly drone and missile strikes killing 4 and injuring 22. Over half a million lost power in Russian Belgorod due to Ukrainian counterattack.

Himachal High Court Orders Panchayat Polls by April 30, Rejects Govt's 6-Month Postponement Plea

January 9, 2026

Himachal High Court Orders Panchayat Polls by April 30, Rejects Govt's 6-Month Postponement Plea

Himachal Pradesh High Court has rejected the government's request to delay Panchayati Raj elections by six months. The court directed elections to be completed by April 30, 2026, with the entire election process finished by February 28.

SBI Launches Global Capability Centre and 11 New Branches in Bengaluru

January 9, 2026

SBI Launches Global Capability Centre and 11 New Branches in Bengaluru

State Bank of India opens its first Global Capability Centre in Bengaluru, along with 11 new branches. SBI also announces big community support projects in Karnataka.

India’s IT Firms Set for Muted Growth with 4% Revenue Rise in Q4 Amid Sluggish US Demand

January 9, 2026

India’s IT Firms Set for Muted Growth with 4% Revenue Rise in Q4 Amid Sluggish US Demand

India’s top IT firms are expected to post about 4% revenue growth and 5% profit rise in the December quarter. Weak US demand, client holidays, and macro challenges limit growth. AI demand may pick up by 2026. TCS, Infosys, and HCLTech forecast slower growth. Earnings season begins January 12.

India-Nepal Border Committee Meets to Boost Security Ahead of Nepal Elections

January 9, 2026

India-Nepal Border Committee Meets to Boost Security Ahead of Nepal Elections

India and Nepal officials met to ensure peace and safety along their border during Nepal's upcoming elections. Key police and district officials promised tight security and smooth cooperation.

UK Denies Palestinian Scholar's Plea to Reunite Family from Gaza Amid Visa Hurdles

January 9, 2026

UK Denies Palestinian Scholar's Plea to Reunite Family from Gaza Amid Visa Hurdles

Bassem Abudagga, a Palestinian PhD student in the UK, was denied family reunion as Home Office ruled visa rules and security concerns prevent evacuating his wife and children from Gaza.

Gambian Leaders Challenge FGM Ban at Supreme Court After Child Deaths

January 9, 2026

Gambian Leaders Challenge FGM Ban at Supreme Court After Child Deaths

Religious leaders and an MP in Gambia have moved to overturn the country's ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) at the supreme court. The case follows tragic deaths of two babies last year. Women's rights activists warn this move signals a global backlash against protections for women.

Baby Shark Tops YouTube's Most Viewed Videos with 16.56 Billion Views

January 9, 2026

Baby Shark Tops YouTube's Most Viewed Videos with 16.56 Billion Views

Baby Shark Dance leads as the most viewed YouTube video with 16.56 billion views. Kids' nursery rhymes and global music hits like Despacito make up the top 10 list.