India witnessed a fast-paced news cycle on December 5, with significant political meetings, aviation disruptions, policy decisions, and major national updates dominating the day. From high-profile diplomatic engagement to widespread airline cancellations and important recruitment announcements, here is a detailed look at the top 20 stories that shaped the day.

1. Prime Minister Welcomes President Putin for High-Level Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India on Thursday evening for a two-day visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received him at the airport with a warm embrace, followed by an official dinner. This marks Putin’s first India visit after a four-year gap.

2. Over 300 Indigo Flights Cancelled as Operational Crisis Deepens

Operational issues at Indigo persisted for the third consecutive day, resulting in the cancellation of more than 300 domestic and international flights. Several others faced significant delays, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and frustrated.

3. Former Governor Swaraj Kaushal Passes Away at 73

Senior advocate and husband of late leader Sushma Swaraj, Swaraj Kaushal, passed away at the age of 73. He previously served as the Governor of Mizoram. Leaders across the political spectrum expressed grief over his demise.

4. Supreme Court Issues Directions on Workload Concerns of BLOs

The Supreme Court addressed concerns about alleged deaths and extreme workload pressure on Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The bench, led by the Chief Justice, directed states and union territories to ensure appropriate working conditions.

5. BJP Chief J.P. Nadda Begins Two-Day Visit

BJP national president J.P. Nadda began a significant two-day tour, sparking discussions on possible political shifts and cabinet restructuring in the region.

6. Approval Granted for New Sugar Mills

A major announcement came from the state’s sugarcane department, confirming that all closed sugar mills would be reopened, and several new units would be established. Farmers and local youth are expected to benefit significantly from this initiative.

7. VVIP Vehicles to Get Toll Exemption

A new initiative has been launched to exempt toll tax for official vehicles of ministers, MPs, MLAs, and other VVIP categories. Mandatory registration under the scheme must be completed within three months.

8. Land Records Portal to Be Strengthened

The official land records system will undergo a major upgrade with tighter monitoring of documentation, enhanced accountability, and the formation of an expert panel to improve accuracy and transparency.

9. Google Releases ‘Year in Search 2025’ Report

Google’s annual search trends report revealed that IPL, artificial intelligence, and Gemini dominated online queries this year. The full list showcases key national and global trends.

10. Spotify Wrapped 2025: Top Artists Revealed

Spotify released its much-awaited annual “Wrapped” feature, highlighting top artists, songs, and new listening statistics. Music lovers can now compare their trends with users of similar age groups through the new “Listening Age” feature.

11. Hardik Pandya Cleared for National Team Return

After passing his fitness test, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to join the national squad for the T20 series against South Africa. He will leave the domestic tournament midway to report to the team.

12. Toxic Gas Leak Claims Two Lives Near Coal Mine

A gas leak in a coal-rich region claimed two lives, prompting authorities to evacuate more than 1,000 residents for safety reasons. Emergency teams have intensified monitoring in the affected zone.

13. Political Remarks Spark Debate

A prominent political leader raised concerns over vote division among minority communities, citing recent election patterns. The comments stirred intense discussion in the region.

14. Over 900 Government Job Vacancies Announced

A new recruitment notification was issued for 935 positions under the Education Department, offering opportunities for eligible candidates. Details regarding qualifications, salary, and application deadlines are now available.

15. Young Candidate from Munger Becomes IPS at 22

Urmi Sinha, a young aspirant from Munger, cleared the UPSC exam at just 22, securing an All-India Rank of 170 and earning a place in the IPS. Her achievement has inspired countless students.

16. Explained: Why Indigo Faced a Sudden Crisis

Mass cancellations across multiple airports created chaos as passengers struggled to find alternatives. The crisis is linked to duty-time regulations affecting crew availability.

17. Elon Musk Warns of Possible Global Conflict by 2030

Tech billionaire Elon Musk issued a stark warning regarding potential geopolitical tensions escalating into a major conflict within the next five to ten years. His remarks sparked widespread global discussion.

18. Madhuri Dixit Shares Personal Love Story

In a candid podcast conversation, actor Madhuri Dixit spoke about meeting her husband Dr. Shriram Nene and how mutual respect and understanding formed the foundation of their relationship.

19. Businessman Clears Farmers’ Debt in Heartwarming Gesture

A diamond trader paid off loans worth nearly Rs 90 lakh for 290 farmers to mark his mother’s death anniversary, bringing relief to hundreds of families burdened by longstanding debt.

20. Inside President Putin’s High-Security Transport Fleet

Ahead of the annual India-Russia summit, details about President Putin’s advanced aircraft and motorcade—equipped with state-of-the-art defense and communication technology—drew widespread attention.