As the year draws to a close, December 29 brings a mix of serious environmental concerns, weather warnings, political developments, crime updates, sports milestones, entertainment buzz, and important consumer news from across the country and beyond. From hazardous air quality in the national capital to intense cold waves sweeping several states, here is a detailed roundup of the Top 20 news stories of December 29, explained clearly in one place for quick reading.

1. Delhi Air Pollution Reaches Alarming Levels

Air quality in Delhi continues to deteriorate, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the dangerous 400 mark in several areas. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), breathing outdoors has become extremely difficult, especially for children, senior citizens, and those with respiratory issues.

2. Shocking Train Accident in Bihar’s Jamui

A goods train derailed late at night near Simultala station in Jamui district, Bihar. Five wagons fell into a nearby river, and visuals of the accident went viral on social media. Rail traffic on the route was disrupted for hours.

3. Firing Over Land Dispute in Rohtas

Rohtas district witnessed violent clashes after a land dispute escalated into heavy firing in Lala Atimi village. Over 50 rounds were reportedly fired, leading to the death of one person. Police have arrested more than a dozen suspects, and security has been tightened in the area.

4. Major Rail Disruption on Jasidih–Jhajha Section

Another freight train derailment near Telwa bridge caused massive disruption on the Jasidih–Jhajha rail route. At least 17 trains were cancelled and 35 diverted, leaving passengers stranded in freezing temperatures.

5. President Droupadi Murmu Begins Jharkhand Visit

President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Ranchi for a three-day visit to Jharkhand. She was received by the Governor, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and senior officials at the airport.

6. President Murmu’s Historic Submarine Journey

President Murmu created history by boarding INS Vaghsheer for a sea sortie, becoming only the second Indian President after Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to undertake such a naval experience.

7. Political Heat Rises in Bihar

Political tensions are escalating in Bihar as speculation grows over shifting alliances. Rebel voices within RLM have sparked debates, with opposition parties accusing the BJP of attempting to form a new government.

8. Big Blow to Naxalism in Bihar

In a significant development, three high-ranking Naxalites, each carrying a reward of ₹3 lakh, surrendered before Bihar’s DGP in Munger. A large cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered.

9. Jharkhand Weather Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in seven districts of Jharkhand. Kanke recorded a chilling low of 2.5°C, the lowest in the state.

10. Dense Fog and Cold Wave Warning Across States

IMD has warned of dense to very dense fog and severe cold conditions from December 28 to January 1 across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and nearby regions.

11. India Registers Highest T20I Score vs Sri Lanka

The Indian women’s cricket team created history by recording their highest-ever T20 International score against Sri Lanka. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma delivered explosive starts.

12. Smriti Mandhana Crosses 10,000 International Runs

Smriti Mandhana became only the second Indian woman cricketer after Mithali Raj to complete 10,000 international runs, putting her within reach of breaking more records.

13. Shreyas Iyer Set for Team India Comeback

Shreyas Iyer is likely to return to the Indian squad during the ODI series against New Zealand in January after fully recovering from injury.

14. ‘Border 2’ Teaser Sparks Buzz

Ahead of its January 2026 release, actors including Ahan Shetty spoke about ‘Border 2’, calling it a tribute to real-life soldiers. The teaser has received an overwhelming response.

15. Huma Qureshi’s Intense Look in ‘Toxic’ Revealed

The makers of ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ unveiled Huma Qureshi’s character look, creating a strong buzz on social media ahead of the 2026 release.

16. ₹8 Crore Cyber Fraud Busted

Police exposed a major cyber fraud case involving ₹8 crore, where investors were cheated in the name of stock market investments. Links to Patna and Ghaziabad have been uncovered.

17. IDFC First Bank Changes Credit Card Rules

IDFC First Bank announced major changes to credit card benefits, including reduced rewards and lounge access across several card categories.

18. Massive Discounts on Samsung Smart TVs

Samsung Smart TVs ranging from 32 to 65 inches are available at heavy discounts during Flipkart’s Year-End Sale, attracting buyers nationwide.

19. CUET UG 2026 Exam Update

The National Testing Agency (NTA) confirmed that CUET UG 2026 will be held in May and advised students to update their documents well in advance.

20. World’s Most Expensive Substance Revealed

Not gold or diamonds, but a rare scientific material holds the title of the world’s most expensive substance, with a price that leaves people stunned.

These were the Top 20 news stories of December 29, covering everything from public safety and weather to sports, cinema, finance, and education—bringing you a complete snapshot of the day in one click.