News in Brief Today: December 18 brings several important developments from India and across the world. From strict new pollution regulations in Delhi to an unprecedented cancellation of an international cricket match due to dense fog, the day has been packed with major headlines. Alongside this, Google has launched its first global UPI-linked credit card in India, concerns over IndiGo’s flight disruptions have reached Parliament, and fresh intelligence suggests that ISIS continues to pose a global security threat. Here is a detailed and easy-to-read summary of today’s key news stories.

Today’s Key Events to Watch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. During this visit, India and Oman are expected to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This agreement is likely to boost sectors such as textiles, food processing, automobiles, auto components, and gems and jewellery, strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

In the national capital, new pollution-related restrictions come into effect from today. Vehicles without a valid PUCC (Pollution Under Control Certificate) will not be allowed to refuel. To enforce the rule, 537 police personnel have been deployed at petrol pumps, and 126 checkpoints have been set up across Delhi. Entry of vehicles below BS-6 emission standards has also been restricted.

Delhi Air Pollution: Work From Home and Vehicle Curbs Implemented

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated to hazardous levels, prompting authorities to implement strict emergency measures. From today, only BS-6 compliant vehicles from outside the city are permitted to enter Delhi. Vehicles without a valid PUCC will be denied fuel and may also face fines.

To reduce traffic and emissions, the government has mandated 50% work-from-home for offices. All construction activities have been banned, and trucks carrying construction materials have been barred from entering the city. These steps are aimed at preventing further deterioration of air quality and safeguarding public health.

India vs South Africa 4th T20 Abandoned Due to Dense Fog

Heavy fog and extremely poor visibility in Lucknow led to the cancellation of the fourth T20 International between India and South Africa. The match, scheduled at the Ekana Stadium on December 17, could not even proceed to the toss. After nearly three hours of waiting, umpires officially called off the game.

India currently leads the five-match series 2-1, and South Africa can now only manage a series draw at best. The final T20 match will be played in Ahmedabad on December 19, where both teams will look to end the series on a high note.

Google Launches First Global Credit Card with UPI Support in India

Google has launched its first global credit card in India in partnership with Google Pay and Axis Bank. Issued on the RuPay network, this co-branded credit card can be linked directly to UPI, allowing users to make payments via UPI while using credit.

One of the standout features of this card is instant cashback and rewards on every transaction, which can be redeemed immediately. Google highlighted that only around 20% of Indians currently have access to credit, and this product aims to expand financial inclusion by combining UPI’s reach with credit card benefits.

IndiGo Crisis: Parliamentary Panel Seeks Clear Answers

A Parliamentary committee has expressed dissatisfaction with the responses provided by IndiGo Airlines, the DGCA, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation regarding recent flight disruptions. The committee noted that several questions remained unanswered and has asked all parties to appear again after 15 days.

IndiGo had canceled hundreds of flights over several days starting December 2, causing major inconvenience to passengers and raising concerns about operational preparedness and regulatory oversight.

ISIS Threat Persists, Training Links Found in Philippines

Despite its defeat in 2019, ISIS continues to remain a significant global security threat. Recent attacks in Syria and Australia have once again highlighted the group’s continued influence. A deadly attack near Palmyra in Syria claimed the lives of two US soldiers and a civilian, while an attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney killed 15 people.

Australian authorities believe the Sydney attack was ISIS-inspired. Investigations revealed that the accused had traveled to the Philippines in early November and allegedly received four weeks of military-style training in Davao City. Reports suggest that ISIS operatives are still receiving training and logistical support in the region.

In Summary

December 18 has been marked by strict environmental action in Delhi, weather-related disruptions in international sports, new financial products boosting digital payments, and serious global security concerns. Together, these developments reflect the fast-changing landscape of governance, technology, public safety, and international affairs shaping the day’s news.