On this special report, India Today correspondent Mir Farid reports from Kangduri Heights in Gulmarg, where heavy snowfall has finally ended the month-long drought. Braving freezing temperatures of between minus seven and minus eight degrees, Farid highlighted how the fresh snowfall has brought much-needed cheer to the tourism industry just ahead of Christmas and New Year. He said the ‘captivating waves’ of snow provide a ‘once in a lifetime experience’ for tourists visiting the region. The report reflects the relief of local travel operators and stall owners who depend on the number of tourists for their livelihood. Farid mentions that while the second stage of the Gondola is closed due to the blizzard, the first stage is open and ‘absolutely amazing’. Cameraperson Tariq Lone captured breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks as Kashmir prepares to welcome 2026.

A senior political leader criticized the ruling party’s opposition to changing the name of MNREGA, calling it a distraction from the benefits of the scheme. The Speaker accused the party of ignoring freedom fighters and engaging in minority appeasement by celebrating Christmas except Diwali. The interview also took aim at the new political party launched by an actor, calling it a ‘glorified fan club’ and questioning its feasibility. The speaker also discussed political aspects of the upcoming 2026 elections, strength of alliances and upcoming film releases.

In an exclusive interview with India Today, one of the speakers addressed the intense political atmosphere ahead of the crucial BMC elections. Discussing a possible alliance between the Thackeray brothers, the man emphasizes that any form of ‘grandstanding’ against the Marathi people ‘cannot be accepted, cannot be tolerated’. The speaker issued a stern warning regarding the protection of Marathi identity and clearly said, ‘If you divide, you will be beaten, if you insult Marathi.’ The conversation also reportedly highlights deep concerns about businesses moving from Mumbai to Gujarat, which the speaker claims will not be tolerated. Additionally, the individual cites the history of the Congress Party to counter the political narrative, specifically pointing to the 1983 Sikh riots. The speaker claims that the issue of Marathi Manoos is becoming a center issue in the upcoming elections and warns that those who will not respect the local culture will have to face consequences.

In a sad breaking news development from Tamil Nadu, seven people have died in a horrific road accident near Cuddalore. Reporting live on the incident, India Today senior editor Pramod Madhav confirmed that a government bus collided with two vehicles after a sudden tire burst. The collision caused the bus to veer onto the opposite side of the road, cross the center median line and collide with oncoming traffic. Pramod Madhav said, ‘The incident report shows that the front four tires of the bus had burst, due to which the bus actually crossed the center median and collided with these two vehicles.’ The accident occurred near Tikkakudi in Cuddalore district. Rescue teams and passengers reached the spot to help the people trapped inside the damaged vehicles. While the injured are undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital, unfortunately seven people died on the spot. Anchor Jessica Goyal led coverage of this developing story.