Major Overhaul in Pension Rules for 2026
The Indian government has unveiled the much-anticipated New Pension Rules 2026, effective from December 9, 2025, marking a significant step towards strengthening social security for financially dependent citizens. These reforms are designed to provide greater security and long-term benefits to senior citizens, widows, and individuals with disabilities.
Under the new regulations, senior citizens aged 60 and above will receive a revised monthly minimum pension ranging from ā¹1,500 to ā¹4,200, depending on their income category and state-specific slabs. The scheme also includes free annual health check-ups, subsidized medicines, and hospital care subsidies. Widows are set to receive special pension benefits between ā¹1,800 and ā¹3,800 monthly, along with immediate assistance for sudden health or legal issues. For persons with disabilities (PwD), benefits have been strengthened, offering ā¹2,000 to ā¹4,500 per month based on the severity of their disability, and beneficiaries will no longer require repeated physical medical verifications annually, instead utilizing digital verification via government health IDs and Aadhaar-based certification. The new rules aim to reduce financial stress and improve the dignity of life for millions, with a focus on streamlined applications and timely disbursement of benefits.
Microsoft Pledges $17.5 Billion for India's AI Future
In a massive boost to India's technological landscape, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced a $17.5 billion investment over the next four years (2026-2029) to accelerate the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure and capabilities. This commitment represents Microsoft's largest investment in Asia and builds upon an earlier $3 billion pledge made in January 2025. The funding aims to bolster India's digital infrastructure, enhance skills, and develop sovereign capabilities to support the nation's AI-first future.
Key areas of focus for this investment include building hyperscale infrastructure, with a new data center in Hyderabad expected to go live in mid-2026, and expanding existing data centers in Chennai and Pune. Microsoft is also doubling its commitment to equip 20 million Indians with essential AI skills by 2030 and integrating advanced AI capabilities into government digital platforms like e-Shram and the National Career Service, benefiting over 310 million informal workers.
US Visa Appointments Disrupted by New Social Media Vetting Policy
Hundreds of Indian citizens seeking H-1B and H-4 visas for the United States are facing uncertainty and travel disruptions as US Consulates in India have begun canceling and rescheduling appointments. This disruption stems from a new US State Department policy, effective December 15, 2025, which mandates social media screening for all H-1B and H-4 visa applicants.
Applicants are now required to make their social media accounts public for review by consular officers, a measure that expands on existing policies for student and exchange visitor visas. The intensive nature of these background checks has led to appointments being pushed out by several months, with many rescheduled for March 2026 or later. This situation is creating significant challenges for individuals with scheduled travel, new job opportunities, or those who visited India and require stamping to return to the US.
Indian Chess Prodigies Achieve International Milestones
In the world of chess, India continues to make its mark with young talents achieving significant milestones. Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has secured his spot in the prestigious 2026 Candidates Tournament by winning the FIDE Circuit 2025. The 19-year-old prodigy consistently led the race throughout the season, capping a dominant year with first-place finishes in several elite tournaments including the Tata Steel Masters and London Chess Classic Open.
Adding to India's chess glory, 3-year-old Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha from Madhya Pradesh has become the youngest player in the world to earn an official FIDE rating. At just 3 years, 7 months, and 20 days old, Sarwagya achieved a FIDE rapid rating of 1572, surpassing the baseline requirement and defeating multiple adult players in rated events. His remarkable achievement highlights India's growing prominence in global chess and the emergence of exceptionally young talent.