Stay updated with the biggest headlines for Friday, 2 January- politics, crime, sports, and more – all summarized for quick reading. Get instant access to breaking news, major developments, and trending stories in just one click. Perfect for busy readers who want news on the go.
Top news of the day
On New Year's Eve, the country's leading food delivery platforms, Zomato, Swiggy, and magicpin, recorded record-breaking orders. Significantly, operations remained virtually unaffected despite a nationwide strike called by a section of gig workers demanding better wages and working conditions.
Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal stated on the social media platform X that Zomato and Blinkit delivered at a record pace. He stated that over 4.5 lakh delivery partners together delivered over 7.5 million orders (an all-time high) to over 6.3 million customers. With the cooperation of local law enforcement, some anti-social elements were kept under control, ensuring smooth service.
Exiled Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch from Balochistan, Pakistan, has written an open letter to Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on the occasion of the New Year. In this letter, he cited the historical ties between India and Balochistan and appealed for increased cooperation. On behalf of the 60 million citizens of Balochistan, Mir Yar Baloch extended New Year greetings to the 1.4 billion people of India.
Referring to the historical ties between India and Balochistan, the Baloch leader highlighted the historical, cultural, religious, and commercial ties between India and Balochistan in the open letter. He wrote that the two regions have centuries-old ties, rooted in shared traditions and beliefs. He described the Hinglaj Mata Temple as a symbol of shared cultural heritage, saying that such sites connect the two societies.
A massive fire that broke out during New Year's Eve celebrations in Switzerland's famous ski resort of Crans-Montana has shocked the entire country. The death toll has risen to 47, police and local authorities have confirmed. The fire spread so rapidly that people at the scene had no time to react.
According to officials, the incident occurred at 'Le Constellation' Bar, located in the Alpine region of Valais Canton. A large number of people were present at the bar for New Year's celebrations. Suddenly, a fire broke out and quickly engulfed the entire premises. According to eyewitnesses, smoke and flames spread everywhere within minutes.
On Friday morning, the last day of the first trading week of 2026, the Indian stock market witnessed a slight increase. The BSE Sensex opened with a gain of around 100 points at around 85,300, while the NSE Nifty50 traded marginally above 26,150 with a gain of 14 points. The market remained volatile until 9:15 am.
The market showed further positive signs during the pre-open session. At around 9:03 am, the Sensex rose by more than 150 points to cross 85,350, while the Nifty also remained in the green with a slight increase. However, experts believe that a cautious mood still prevails in the market.
According to AI analysis, the year 2026 could prove to be a year of emotional strength and inner peace for Cancerians. This year, you will need to pay special attention to your family life and mental balance. You will receive support from your family and understanding in relationships will increase.
From a career perspective, 2026 holds the potential for stability for those in employment. Major fluctuations are unlikely, but hard work can be rewarded. This year, especially for women, could bring success and recognition. Regarding financial well-being, there are signs that income will remain balanced. Profits from past investments are likely, boosting financial confidence.
With the start of the new year, gold prices have again seen a rise in the domestic market. On the morning of January 2nd, the price of 24-carat gold in the capital Delhi rose to ₹1,35,220 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold reached ₹1,23,960 per 10 grams. In Mumbai, 24-carat gold was recorded at ₹1,35,070 and 22-carat gold at ₹1,23,810 per 10 grams.
Gold prices are also trading steadily higher in the international market. Spot gold prices remain around $4,310.89 per ounce. Market experts believe that international gold prices may remain range-bound in the short term, but investors' demand for safe havens will continue to support gold.
The weather across the country turned harsh on the first morning of the New Year. From the hilly areas to the plains of North and Central India, severe cold prevailed. Dense fog disrupted normal life. Orange and yellow alerts have been issued in several states regarding cold wave and fog. Rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir and surrounding mountainous regions have further aggravated the cold.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, an active Western Disturbance has moved from northern Pakistan and Afghanistan and reached Punjab and surrounding areas. Due to this, North India is overcast, with rain and snowfall being recorded in many areas. A cyclonic circulation has formed in the upper air surrounding Haryana, making the Western Disturbance more effective.
New Delhi: Get all the day’s essential news—politics, crime, sports, and more—in a quick, easy-to-read format. Stay informed with breaking updates and top stories in just one click. Perfect for busy readers who want fast, reliable news summaries anytime, anywhere.
