Current Affairs Weekly PDF – December 2024 – 4th Week

(24 – 31)

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

DPIIT & HDFC Bank Sign MoU to Strengthen Product (GDP) from the current 17% to
India’s Startup Ecosystem 25% as part of its long term vision of achieving
‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry (MoC&I) entered into a Memorandum of AR Government and IA Signs MoA for
Understanding (MoU) with Mumbai(Maharashtra) Management of
based HDFC Bank Limited, India’s largest private ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of
sector bank by assets, to provide startups with world-
Valor’
class banking and financial services.
In December 2024, the Arunachal
✓ The DPIIT also signed an MoU with Tally
Pradesh (AR) government signed a Memorandum of
Solutions Private Limited, a software
Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Army (IA) for the
company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, to
management of the ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing
digitally empower startups in the
Museum of Valor’ in Tawang, AR.
manufacturing sector.
✓ The MoA was formalized by Kangki Darang,
Tawang Deputy Commissioner and Brigadier V
NITI Aayog releases Report “S.A.F.E. S Rajput of the 190 Mountain Brigade in the
Accommodation: Worker Housing for presence of Chief Minister(CM) of
Manufacturing Growth” AR, Pema Khandu.
On December 19 2024, National Institution for
Transforming India (NITI) Aayog chaired by Prime DRDO, IIT Delhi and Industry Partners
Minister (PM) Narendra Modi released a report Signed 10 Tripartite Agreements in New
titled “Site Adjacent Factory Employee(SAFE)
Delhi
Accommodation: Worker Housing for Manufacturing
On 19th December 2024, the Defence Research and
Growth.” The report highlights the importance of
Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Institute of
secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient housing
Technology (IIT) Delhi and industry partners signed 10
solutions for industrial workers to support India’s
tripartite agreements during the event ‘DRDO-
manufacturing growth.
Industry-Academia – Global Approach to Readiness of
✓ The initiative was launched as part of
Indigenous Military Applications’ (DIA-GARIMA)
the Union Budget 2024-25, with the aim of
organised by DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of
addressing worker accommodation challenges
Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi, Delhi.
in industrial zones across India.
✓ The agreement was signed in the presence
✓ It will be executed under a Public-Private
of Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department
Partnership (PPP) model, with Viability Gap
of Defence Research & Development (R&D),
Funding (VGF) support and contributions from
Ministry of Defence(MoD) and Chairman
anchor industries which will lead to enhanced
of DRDO,
productivity, lower attrition and increased
Professor Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT
investment in the manufacturing sector.
Delhi, and industry representatives.
✓ India is aiming to elevate its manufacturing
sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic

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MNRE: Gujarat, Maharashtra and UP Lead in development in the MedTech sector were
Rooftop Solar Installations launched by the government.
✓ The government has allocated Rs 400
under PMSGMBY
crore for the establishment of medical device
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable
parks and Rs 500 crore for supporting
Energy (MNRE) data released in December
the MedTech industry’s growth through
2024, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Uttar
research and innovation. The aim is to achieve
Pradesh (UP) are the top 3 states with the highest
‘‘Universal Health Coverage’’ and position
number of rooftop solar installations under ‘Prime
India as a global leader by 2047.
Minister -Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana(PMSGMBY)’.
✓ As per the data, Gujarat has topped among all
states in the country with 2,86,545 rooftop Union Minister Jitendra Singh launches
solar installations, followed by Maharashtra India’s first anti-pesticide bodysuit “Kisan
(with 1,26,344 installations) and UP (with Kavach”
53,423 installations) ranked at 2nd and 3rd Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for
spot, respectively. Science and Technology; Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra
Singh unveiled Kisan Kavach, India’s first-of-its-kind
Govt Sanctioned Rs. 4388 Crore Under PM- anti-pesticide bodysuit. It is designed to protect
KUSUM Scheme to Solarize Agriculture farmers from the harmful effects of pesticide exposure.
✓ Kisan Kavach was developed by the
In December 2024, the Government of
Department of Biotechnology’s BRIC-inStem
India(GoI) sanctioned Rs. 4388 crore under the
and Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd., both based in
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha
Bangalore, Karnataka.
evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme to
solarize agriculture for states across India. The Nodal
Ministry for the scheme is the Ministry of New and CII, AICTE sign MoU to boost industry-
Renewable Energy (MNRE). oriented skill development
✓ It focuses on setting up 10,000 MW of The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the All
decentralized grid-connected renewable India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) have
energy power plants on barren land, with each signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
plant having a capacity between 500 kilowatts enhance the skill development across AICTE-approved
(kW) and 2 MW. institutions. It was signed during the 11th CII Global
Summit on Skill Development 2024 in New
Union MoS Anupriya Patel highlights India’s Delhi, Delhi.
MedTech Vision at 21st CII Annual Health ✓ The theme of the 11th CII Global Summit on
Skill Development 2024 is “Building a
Summit in New Delhi
Resilient Skilled Talent Pool: Driving
On December 19 2024, the Confederation of Indian
Industry Growth.”
Industry (CII) hosted the 21st Annual Health
Summit with the theme “Transforming Healthcare for
Viksit Bharat 2047” in New Delhi (Delhi). The summit Indian Railways Launches ‘Sanraksha App’
featured an exhibition highlighting the latest medical for Enhanced Passenger Safety
innovations and technologies, paving the way for a In November 2024, Indian Railways(IR) introduced the
future-ready healthcare system. Pan-India ‘Sanraksha’ mobile application(app),
✓ During the summit, the National Medical which aims to boost passenger safety by improving the
Device Policy and schemes for strengthening training of frontline safety personnel. The app
infrastructure, promoting research and skill integrates advanced technologies, including data

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analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to provide Partnerships for a Shared Future” which
smart learning and real-time feedback. outlined a wide range of collaborative
initiatives, from energy partnerships to regional
Union Minister Rammohan Naidu Unveils security cooperation.

100 Years Celebration Logo of

NSCBI Airport in Kolkata
On 13 December 2024, Union Minister Kinjarapu
Rammohan Naidu, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA),
unveiled the centenary celebrations logo of Netaji
Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
(NSCBI Airport) in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB),
commemorating 100 years of its service.
✓ A special commemorative stamp and coin
were also released to honor the airport’s 100-
year journey, along with the launch of an MoD and L&T Signs Contract for 100
exclusive art book showcasing India’s rich additional K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled
cultural heritage through modern airport
Artillery Guns
architecture.
On December 20 2024, the Ministry of
✓ A dedicated UDAN Yatri Café will be opened
Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth Rs
at the airport, catering to passengers traveling
7,628.70 crore with Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) to
under the Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN)
supply 100 additional K9 VAJRA-T self-propelled
scheme. The café will provide quality,
tracked artillery guns, each with a 155 millimetre
affordable meals to enhance the travel
(mm)/52 calibre for the Indian Army (IA). The contract
experience for passengers.
was signed by senior officials of the MoD and the
Representatives of L&T Limited in the presence of
Overview of Sri Lankan President Anura Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi
Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to India from (Delhi).
December 15 to 17, 2024 ✓ This procurement come under the ‘Buy
President of Sri (Indian)’ initiative, aiming to bolster the Army’s
Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake(AKD), visited India firepower and operational capability.
from December 15 to 17,2024, marking his first ✓ The initiative also supports
bilateral trip to India after Sri Lanka’s presidential and India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and the ‘Make
parliamentary elections. He was accompanied by in India’ mission by involving Indian industries,
Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath and Deputy including the Ministry of Micro, Small and
Minister of Finance Anil Jayantha Fernando. This visit Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
was undertaken at the invitation of the Indian Prime
Minister(PM) Narendra Modi. ‘E-Shram Portal’ Registers 30.48 Crore
✓ India and Sri Lanka sign two agreements Workers nationwide; UP Leads with 8.37
on Double taxation, capacity building and
Crore Registrations
training in the presence of Sri Lankan President
The E-Shram portal , the world’s largest database for
Anura Kumara Dissanayake and PM Narendra
unorganized workers, has
Modi in New Delhi(Delhi).
recorded 30,48,02,313 (30.48 crore) registrations till
✓ Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara
December 19 2024. The portal was launched by the
Dissanayake along with PM Narendra Modi
Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E) on 26th
issued a joint statement titled “Fostering

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August 2021 which aims to support the unorganized ✓ It has decided to exempt gene therapy
workforce, vital to India’s economy. completely from GST. This move aims to make
✓ It creates a National Database of Unorganised advanced medical treatments more
Workers (NDUW), verified with Aadhaar, to accessible for people.
deliver targeted welfare schemes, social ✓ The Council has decided to extend the
security and job opportunities. A total of Rs. concessional 5% GST rate on food inputs of
704.01 crores were allocated for NDUW for food preparations under HSN 19 or 21 that are
the period Fiscal Year 2019-20(FY20) to FY25. supplied for food preparations used for free
distribution to economically weaker sections
Union Minister Amit Shah Attends SSB’s (EWS) under various Government of India
(GoI) led programs subject to the existing
61st Raising Day Event in West Bengal
conditions.
On 20th December, 2024, Union Minister Amit
✓ The Council has decided to raise the GST rate
Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of
from12% to 18% on sale of all old and used
Cooperation (MoC), attended the 61st Raising
vehicles, including Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Day function of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in
List of Goods and Services with Revised GST Rates:
Siliguri, West Bengal(WB) as the Chief Guest.
✓ During the event, Union Minister Amit Shah Previous New
digitally inaugurated the Integrated Check Name of
S.NO. GST GST
Point (ICP) in Agartala, Tripura and the newly Items
Rate Rate
constructed residential complex of the Border
Guard Force (BGF) at Petrapole, WB.
Sale of all
old and used
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar vehicles,
Inaugurates GSI Geoscience Museum in 1. including 12% 18%
Gwalior Electric
In December 2024, the Vice President (VP) of Vehicles
(EVs)
India Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the state-of-the-
art Geological Survey of India (GSI) Geoscience
Ready to Eat
Museum at the Victoria Market Building
popcorn
in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (MP).
mixed with
✓ The museum was developed in coordination
salt and
with the Gwalior Municipal Corporation(GMC)
2. spices, if 5% 12%
and the National Council of Science Museums
supplied as
(NCSM).
pre-
packaged
Highlights of the 55th GST Council Meeting and labelled
The 55th Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council
meeting chaired by Union Ready to Eat
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance popcorn
3. 5% 18%
(MoF) and Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MoCA) was mixed with
held on December 21, 2024 at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. sugar
✓ Among several recommendations by the GST
Council, the most notable was the reduction of
GST rate on Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) to 5%.

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Union Minister Bhupender Yadav releases DoP and MEA signs agreement to establish
India State of Forest Report 2023 600 additional POPSKs
On December 21 2024, Union In December 2024, the Department of Posts (DoP),
Minister, Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Communications(MoC), signed an
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) released the agreement with the Ministry of External
18th edition of ‘India State of Forest Report(ISFR Affairs (MEA) to establish 600 additional Passport
2023)’ on Volume I and Volume II at Forest Research Seva Kendras (POPSKs) at post offices nationally.The
Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. new POPSKs are expected to be operational by 2028-
✓ According to the report, India’s total forest and 29.
tree cover in 2023 stands at 827,357 square
kilometer(sq km), which is around 25% of the
geographical area of India .This marks an
overall increase of 1,445 sq km from 2021,
with forest cover alone rising by 156 sq km.
Top 3 states of Forest and Tree cover:

Geographical
Rank State
Area

Madhya Pradesh
1 85,724 sq km
(MP)

Arunachal
2 67,083 sq km
Pradesh (AR)

3 Maharashtra 65,383 sq km GoI abolishes ‘No-Detention Policy’ for

Top 3 states of Forest cover: Classes 5 and 8
In December 2024, the Government of India(GoI) has
Geographical abolished the ‘no-detention policy’ for Classes 5 and
Rank State
Area 8, allowing schools to fail students who do not clear
year-end exams. It will be applicable to over 3,000
Madhya Pradesh central schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas(KVs),
1 77,073 sq km
(MP) Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas(JNVs), Sainik
Schools(under the Ministry of Defence,MoD) and
Arunachal Eklavya Model Residential Schools(EMRS)(under the
2 65,882 sq km
Pradesh (AR) Ministry of Tribal Affairs, MoTA).
✓ The Ministry of Education(MoE) issued the
3 Chhattisgarh 55,812 sq km
notification on December 16 2024, has
amended “Right of Children to Free and
GSV and IN signed MoU to Enhance Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, as
revised by the RTE (Amendment) Act, 2019”,
Logistics Education and Research
outlining the changes to the promotion criteria.
In December 2024, Vadodara(Gujarat) based Gati
The amended rules, titled the RTE
Shakti Vishwavidyalaya(GSV) and Indian
(Amendment) Act, 2024.
Navy(IN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to enhance education, research, and training in
logistics-related fields for the IN.

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Union Civil Aviation Minister Launched prevent and manage NCDs in children by
‘UDAN Yatri Cafe’ and special centenary improving community healthcare and primary
health services.
tributes at Kolkata Airport Celebrations
In December 2024, Union
Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Ministry of Civil Team Russia won the 13th edition of
Aviation (MoCA) Admiral’s Cup 24 Sailing Regatta
launched ‘UDAN Yatri Cafe’ and ‘Centenary Postal The “13th edition of the Admiral’s Cup Sailing
Special Cover’ during the inauguration ceremony of Regatta” for the year 2024 was organised by the Indian
the Centenary celebrations of Netaji Subhas Chandra Navy (IN) featured 53 skilled sailors, including 14
Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata, West women, from 25 nations held at the Indian Naval
Bengal (WB). Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala from 8th to 13th
✓ Union Minister also unveiled the Centenary December 2024.
Celebrations Logo of NSCBI Airport. Apart ✓ Team’s Category – The Admiral’s Cup 24 was
from them, he announced a series of initiatives won by Team Russia, which was represented
that include the release of a commemorative by Lieutenant (Lt) Gorkunov Petr llyich and
My Stamp, Souvenir coin and a coffee table Cadet (Cdt) Loshichinina Polina Vladislavovna.
book. ✓ In the men’s individual category,
Lt. Gorkunov Petr Lyich of Russia
AIM and UNDP Launch 7th Edition of Youth won first place, followed by Second
Lieutenant (2Lt) Darius Lee Kheng Wee of
Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2024-
Singapore and Ensign Pappas Vissarion HN of
2025 Greece, won second and third places
In December 2024, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) respectively.
under the National institution for Transforming India ✓ In the women’s individual category, Ensign
(NITI) Aayog and the United Nations Development Camilla Bernabei from Italy won first place,
Programme (UNDP) in partnership with Citi followed by Cdt Loshichinina Polina
Foundation have virtually launched the seventh Vladislavovna from Russia and SLt Isha Shah
edition of the ‘Youth Co:Lab National Innovation from India at second and third places
Challenge for 2024-2025’. respectively.
✓ The 2024-2025 edition will be implemented in
collaboration with Bengaluru(Karnataka) based
PM Modi Visited and Inaugurated Various
AssisTech Foundation(ATF).
Projects in Madhya Pradesh
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Madhya
UNICEF Partners with West Bengal Govt to
Pradesh (MP) on 25th December 2024 on the
Enhance Juvenile Diabetes Care occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of former PM
In December 2024, the United Nations Children’s Atal Bihari Vajpayee inagurated and laid foundation
Fund (UNICEF) has partnered with the West stone of various projects including –
Bengal(WB) Government to enhance the treatment of ✓ Foundation stone of Ken-Betwa River Linking
children affected by Non-Communicable Diseases National Project
(NCD), including juvenile diabetes. ✓ Inauguration of Omkareshwar floating solar
✓ UNICEF collaborates with WB’s Department of project
Health and Family Welfare(DHFW) and ✓ Foundation stone of Atal Gram Sushasan
Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & buildings
Research (IPGMER) & Seth Sukhlal Karnani ✓ Release a commemorative stamp and coin
Memorial (SSKM) Hospital, Kolkata, WB to marking the 100th birth anniversary of former
create a Primary Health Care (PHC) model to PM Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

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Punjab becomes 5th state to provide 100% MoSPI: Monthly Per Capita Expenditure
piped water supply to rural household Increased by 9% in rural areas and around
In December 2024, Hardeep Singh Mundian, Minister 8% in urban areas in 2023-24
for Water Supply and Sanitation, Punjab, announced In December 2024, the Ministry of Statistics and
that Punjab has become the fifth state in India to Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the
provide 100% piped water supply to rural households results of Household Consumption Expenditure
under the “Jal Jeevan Mission(JJM) – Har Ghar Survey: 2023-24 (HCES: 2023-24). As per the latest
Jal(HGJ)” Scheme. survey, the average Monthly Per Capita Consumption
Expenditure (MPCE) in rural and urban India has been
Gujarat’s Masali becomes First Border Solar estimated to be Rs 4,122 and Rs 6,996, respectively in
Village in India 2023-24, without considering the values of items
received free of cost by the households through various
Masali village in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, has
social welfare programmes.
become India’s first border solar village, contributing
to the India’s solar energy program aimed at achieving ✓ While, the average MPCE (without imputation)
in nominal terms has increased by about
self-reliance in the energy sector and to fulfil the goal of
8% and 9% in urban and rural areas of the
a sustainable future by using renewable energy.
country, respectively in 2023-24 from the level
✓ The project, with a total cost of Rs 1.16 crore,
of 2022-23.
is funded by a Rs 59.81 lakh subsidy under
✓ States with highest average MPCE for urban
the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli
Yojana, along with Rs 20.52 lakh in public areas in 2023-24: Telangana (Rs 8,978); Tamil
Nadu (TN) (Rs 8,165); Karnataka (Rs 8,076);
contributions and Rs 35.67 lakh in Corporate
Maharashtra (Rs 7,363) and Andhra Pradesh
Social Responsibility (CSR) support.
(AP) (Rs 7,182).
✓ States with highest average MPCE for rural
Indore’s Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport areas in 2023-24: Kerala (Rs 6,611); Punjab
Becomes India’s 1st Zero-Waste Airport (Rs 5,817);TN (Rs 5,701) and Telangana (Rs
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, Madhya 5,435).
Pradesh(MP),became India’s 1st zero-waste airport ✓ Sikkim reported the highest MPCE among all
with the inauguration of 3,000 square feet (sq.ft) the Indian states, with Rs 9,377 in rural areas
Material Recovery Facility(MRF) at the airport by Union and Rs 13,927 in urban areas for 2023-24.
Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Ministry of Civil ✓ Chandigarh reported the highest MPCE among
Aviation(MoCA). all the UTs, with Rs 8,857 in rural areas and Rs
✓ The airport’s zero-waste achievement is based 13,425 in urban areas for 2023-24.
on the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,
and Restore.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Inaugurated
✓ The Zero-Waste Airport Project is a joint
India’s First Bio-Bitumen National Highway
initiative between IndiGo’s corporate social
India’s first sustainable road using lignin-based bio
responsibility arm, IndiGoReach, the Airports
bitumen was inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin
Authority of India (AAI), and the AAS
Gadkari, Ministry of Road Transport and
Foundation (a non-governmental organization
Highways(MoRTH) at the Nagpur-Mansar Bypass on
focused on sustainable development).
NH (National Highway)-44.The project has been
launched by the Pune (Maharashtra) based Praj
Industries, a leading company in industrial
biotechnology.
✓ Praj Industries developed this project in
collaboration with Council of Scientific and

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 Industrial Research – Central Road Research Authority of India (NHAI), and Oriental
Institute (CSIR-CRRI) , the National Highways Structural Engineers(OSE).

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Zscaler ThreatLabz Report : India Tops Fukuoka –

11,335,5
Global List for Mobile Malware Attacks 3 Tokyo Japan
51
According to the “Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, Haneda
IoT, and OT Threat Report” by Zscaler Inc.,
headquartered in United States America(USA), India Hanoi – Ho
Vietna 10,631,4
tops the list globally in mobile malware attacks, 4 Chi Minh
m 35
accounting for 28 % of worldwide attacks. This marks a City
significant jump from its previous 3rd place ranking in
2023. India surpasses the United States (US) at 27.3% Melbourne Australi 9,217,37
5
and Canada at 15.9%. – Sydney a 7

Mumbai – 7,963,68
OAG Data: Mumbai-Delhi Becomes World’s 8 India
Delhi 6
Eighth Busiest Domestic Flight Route in
2024
In December 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) based
global travel data provider Official Airline
Guide (OAG) released a report titled “Busiest Flight
Routes in the World 2024”. According to the report,
the Mumbai(BoM)-Delhi route in India ranked
the 8th busiest domestic route in the world in 2024,
with airlines operating 7.963 million seats. In 2023, it
was in 9th place with 7.276 million seats.
✓ The Busiest International Airline Route in 2024
is Hong Kong(HKG) to Taipei (TPE) with 6.8
million seats.
Top 5 Busiest Domestic Flight Routes of 2024:

Ran Route Countr

Seats
k Name y
Official visit of PM Modi to Kuwait from
Jeju 21st to 22nd December 2024
Internation South 14,183,7 Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi made an official 2-
1
al – Seoul korea 19 day visit to Kuwait from 21st December to
Gimpo 22nd December 2024 at the invitation
of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the
Sapporo
Amir of the State of Kuwait.
New
11,931,5
2 Chitose – Japan
72
Tokyo
Haneda

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India, Kuwait sign four MoUs to strengthen
medicine,
cultural, defence cooperation:
management,
India and Kuwait signed four Memorandum of
media, and
Understandings (MoUs) in the areas of defence, sports
science.
and cultural cooperation. The MoUs are as follows –
To adopt solar
Sr.
MoU/Agreement Objective energy and
No.
addressing
Kuwait’s
common
To promote membership of
challenges to
bilateral 4 International
promote usage
cooperation in Solar Alliance
of solar energy,
defence in areas (ISA)
develop low-
including carbon growth
training, economies.
MoU between exchange of
India and Kuwait personnel and PM Modi gets Kuwait’s highest honour ‘The Order of
1 on Cooperation experts, joint Mubarak Al Kabeer’:
in the field exercises, PM Modi was awarded the Wisam Mubarak al-
of Defence defense industry Kabeer, or the Order of Mubarak the Great, by Sheikh
cooperation, Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on 22nd
supply of December 2024. This is the highest national award of
equipment, and Kuwait.
Research and
Development IPBES Nexus Report: Developing Countries
(R&D). Struggle to Take Action on Reducing
To promote
Pollution
cultural On December 17 2024, the Intergovernmental
exchanges in art, Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and
Cultural Ecosystem Services (IPBES) launched its assessment
music, dance,
Exchange report on the Interlinkages Among Biodiversity,
literature,
Programme Water, Food and Health known as the Nexus Report.
2 theatre,
(CEP) between ✓ As per the report, Pollution is a main driver
conserve
India and Kuwait responsible for degradation of biodiversity,
cultural heritage,
(2025-2029) water quality and human health. This latest
R&D in culture,
and organization report was approved by delegates of 147
of festivals. countries that are members of IPBES at the
11th IPBES Plenary session held in Windhoek,
To enhance Namibia.
Executive exchange of ✓ The report has identified 5 ‘nexus
Programme (EP) sports leaders, elements’ including: biodiversity, water, food,
for Cooperation participation in health and climate change, and found that all
3 these elements are interconnected, influence
in the Field of programs, and
Sports (2025- exchange of each other and have consequences when
2028) knowledge and combined.
skills in sports

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India & China signed Six Point Pact to kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, more
Resume Mansarovar Yatra, Nathula Border than three times the capacity of the ‘Three
Gorges Dam’, currently the world’s largest, in
Trade
central China.
On December 18, 2024, India and China have signed a
six-point agreement to resume the Kailash
Mansarovar Yatra and Nathula border trade during India to fund worth Rs 2,371 million in Sri
the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives (SRs) Lanka for development projects
on the China-India Boundary Question in Beijing, China. In December 2024, India will provide Rs 2,371
✓ The agreement also addresses key issues such million to Sri Lanka for 33 development projects in
as cross-border river cooperation, representing education, health and agriculture sectors in the eastern
a significant move toward rebuilding trust province. Nalinda Jayathissa, the cabinet spokesman
between the two nations. and the Health Minister of Srilanka informed that the Sri
Lanka Government has approved a proposal to sign a
China Approves Construction of World’s Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) to strengthen
bilateral ties and socio-economic growth between
Largest Hydropower Dam on Brahmaputra
India and Sri Lanka.
River
On December 25, 2024, China approved the
USA declares ‘Bald eagle’ as National Bird
construction of the world’s largest hydropower dam
on Yarlung Zangbo River, the 5th largest river of China after 240 years
in Tibet (China),a region where the Brahmaputra river In December 2024, President of the United States of
flows into India and Bangladesh. America (USA), Joseph Robinette Biden signed a
✓ With an estimated investment of USD 137 bipartisan bill that officially designates the “Bald
billion, the dam, situated near the India-Tibet Eagle” as the National bird of the USA. The significant
border, will be the largest infrastructure project recognition formalizes the bald eagle’s role as a
in the world. symbol of American strength and power, a position it
✓ The project, part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan has held informally for over 240 years.
(2021-2025), aims to generate 300 billion

BANKING & FINANCE

India and ADB signs USD 350 million loan ✓ The Maharashtra government signed a
agreement to expand manufacturing sector Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
In December 2024, the Government of India (GoI) and the ADB for financial assistance of Rs 1,527
crore(USD 200 million) for Phase II of
the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD 350
the Nagpur Metro project.
million policy-based loan agreement under the second
subprogramme of Strengthening Multimodal and
Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) programme to SEBI Notified New Asset Class “SIF” with
improve and modernize India’s logistics sector. Minimum Investment of Rs 10 Lakh
✓ The loan agreement was formalised with the In December 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board
involvement of the Department of Economic of India (SEBI) notified a new asset
Affairs (DEA),Ministry of Finance (MoF); class “Specialised Investment Fund (SIF)” between
Department for Promotion of Industry and Portfolio Management Services (PMS) and Mutual
Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce Funds (MFs). As per the SEBI directions, the new asset
and Industry(MoC&I) and the ADB. class will accept investments of Rs 10 lakh or
above across all investment strategies. However,

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accredited investors are exempted from the policyholder receives guaranteed income benefits
requirement of minimum investment amount. along with 110% of the total premiums paid at the end
✓ As per the new rules, it is mandatory for the of the payout period.
fund manager of SIFs to have the relevant
National Institute of Securities
Market (NISM) certification.
✓ As per the new SIF regulations, an investment
strategy is not allowed to invest more than
20% of its Net Asset Value (NAV) in debt
instruments including money market
instruments as well as non-money market
instruments issued by a single issuer and are
not investment grade.
✓ For equity investments, the investment limit on
single-company exposure is set at 10% of the
total assets. But, the ownership limit for a
company has been increased to 15%.
✓ SIFs are allowed to allocate maximum 20% of
their assets to Real Estate Investment Max Life Insurance Rebrands to Axis Max
Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment
Life Insurance
Trusts (InvITs), but their investment should not
In December 2024, Max Life Insurance Company
exceed 10% in any single issuer.
Limited (MLICL) has officially rebranded as Axis Max
Life Insurance Company Limited (AMLICL) following
YES BANK Launches ‘YES corporate and regulatory approvals. The updated brand
Business’ Powered by IRIS Biz to Empower identity is represented by a new logo through the
MSMEs and Businesses inclusion of Axis’s ‘A’ and a burgundy colour.
In December 2024, India’s sixth-largest private sector ✓ Axis Max Life Insurance Limited is a joint
bank YES BANK Limited, has introduced ‘YES venture between Max Financial Services
Business’, a dedicated initiative to enhance its focus Limited (MFSL) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis
on the business segment and address their specific Bank’s board of directors approved the plan to
needs. The platform is designed to streamline banking buy more shares in Max Life, increasing its
and related services for Micro, Small, and Medium total stake in the company to 19.99% from
Enterprises (MSMEs), bringing them together under one 19.02%. As a result, MFSL’s stake in Max Life
unified solution. decreased from 87% to 81%.
✓ The launch of YES Business powered by IRIS
Biz application (app), the digital platform by Highlights of the 208th meeting of the SEBI
YES BANK combines core banking services Board
with additional tools to simplify business
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
operations and help entrepreneurs efficiently
Board conducted its 208th meeting
manage various aspects of their enterprise.
on 18th December 2024, in Mumbai to develop
significant measures to improve the business
SBI Life Insurance launches ‘Smart Platina environment in the capital markets.
Supreme’ plan ✓ SEBI has undertaken a comprehensive review
SBI Life Insurance, private life insurer, launched ‘SBI of the SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations,
Life – Smart Platina Supreme’ a non-linked, non- 1992.The amendments made are –
participating life insurance savings plan. The

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 o Category 1 -Net worth not less assessment of the finances of State
than Rs. 50 crores and allowed to governments for Financial Year 2024-25(FY25)
undertake all permitted activities against the backdrop of actual and
o Category 2 -Net worth not less revised/provisional accounts for FY23 and
than Rs. 10 crores and allowed to FY24, respectively.
undertake all permitted activities ✓ The report has appreciated the state
except managing equity issues on the governments for the progress made towards
Main Board. fiscal consolidation by containing their total
✓ The SEBI Board has approved amendments Gross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) within 3% of Gross
to the SEBI Issue of Capital and Disclosure Domestic Product (GDP) for 3 consecutive
Requirements (ICDR) Regulations, years (2021-22 to 2023-24), while limiting their
2018 and SEBI Listing Obligations and revenue deficit to 0.2% of GDP in Financial
Disclosure Requirements Year 2022-23 (FY23) and FY24.
(LODR) Regulations, 2015 in order to make
efficient public issues which include following- World Bank Approves USD 800 million loan
o An issuer shall make an Initial Public
for development of Amaravati
Offer (IPO), only with an operating
On December 20, 2024, the World Bank’s (WB) Board
profit (earnings before interest,
of Executive Directors approved a USD 800
depreciation and tax) of Rs. 1
million loan for the Amaravati Integrated Urban
crore from operations for any 2 out
Development Project (AIUDP), which aims to
of 3 previous financial years at the
build Amaravati as a greenfield capital city of Andhra
time of filing of its draft red herring
Pradesh(AP).
prospectus (DRHP).
✓ The loan amount has a final maturity of 29
✓ An issuer shall make an Initial Public Offer
years including a grace period of 6 years. India
(IPO), only with an operating profit (earnings
has chosen to take the loan in Japanese
before interest, depreciation and tax) of Rs. 1
Yen(JPY).
crore from operations for any 2 out
✓ The Bank’s financing will also attract
of 3 previous financial years at the time of filing
over USD 600 million in private investment,
of its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP).
helping the city become financially sustainable
✓ The SEBI board has increased the threshold for
and creating economic opportunities for its
identification of High Value Debt Listed
residents.
entities (HVDLEs) from Rs.500
crores to Rs. 1000 crores which is at par with
the large Corporates. RBI Approves Canara Bank’s Plan to Sell
Stake in Two Subsidiaries
RBI report: State’s Freebies Crowd out In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has
approved Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based Canara Bank
Resources Required for Development
Limited’s, a public sector bank (PSB), plan to sell part
In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of
of its shares in Canara Robeco Asset Management
India (RBI) released a report titled “State Finances: A
Company (CRAMC) Limited headquartered in Mumbai,
Study of Budgets of 2024-25”. The report has
Maharashtra and Canara HSBC Life Insurance
cautioned about sops like farm loan waiver, free
Company Limited, based in Gurgaon, Haryana.
electricity and transport, by state governments could
✓ The bank will reduce its stake by 13% in
possibly crowd out their resources for social and
CRAMC and 5% in Canara HSBC Life
economic infrastructure development.
Insurance through an Initial Public Offer (IPO).
✓ The theme of the report is “Fiscal Reforms by
States”. It provides a comprehensive

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SEBI Deferred ESG Disclosure Deadline analysts, was established in March 2024 as a Section
under BRSR Framework by 1 Year to FY26 25 company.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has
decided to postpone the Environmental, Social and RBI Lifts Business Restrictions on ECL
Governance (ESG) disclosure deadline for value chain Finance and Edelweiss ARC
partners of listed companies by 1 year. i.e. shifting from In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
the current requirement of Financial Year 2024-25 lifted the business restrictions imposed on 2
(FY25) to Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26).This decision Edelweiss Group entities – Mumbai(Maharashtra)
was taken during the 208th meeting of SEBI Board held based ECL Finance Limited and Mumbai based
in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Company(ARC)
✓ It has also decided that ESG disclosure for Limited. This move comes after both companies
“assessment or assurance” will be applicable successfully addressed the central bank’s concerns
from FY27 instead of the current requirement regarding their operations.
of FY26.

India and ADB signs USD 500 million loan to

RBI Imposed Rs.47.30 Lakh penalty support sustainable infrastructure projects
on IndusInd Bank and Manappuram Finance In December 2024, the Government of India (GoI) and
for Non-Compliance the Asian Development Bank(ADB) signed a USD 500
In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) million loan to support green and sustainable
imposed a monetary penalty of Rs. 47.30 lakh infrastructure projects aligned with India’s climate
on IndusInd Bank Limited and Manappuram Finance commitments.
Limited for non-compliance with certain provisions ✓ The ADB loan will be given to the India
issued by RBI directions. Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
✓ The penalty of Rs. 27.3 (IIFCL) with a sovereign guarantee.
lakh on IndusInd Bank was imposed under the ✓ The ADB and Vastu Housing Finance
provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Corporation Limited (Vastu) have entered into
Section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, a senior secured loan agreement of up to USD
1949, for non-compliance with specific 70 million to enhance access to affordable
provisions of the ‘RBI (Interest Rate on and sustainable housing loans in underserved
Deposits) Directions, 2016’. states of India.
✓ The penalty of Rs.
20 lakh on Manappuram Finance was Federal Bank Partners with Ecofy to Provide
imposed under clause (b) of sub-section (1) of
Solar Installations for MSMEs
Section 58G read with clause (aa) of sub-
Aluva(Kerala) basedFederal Bank Limited, the 6th
section (5) of Section 58B of the RBI Act, 1934,
largest private sector bank in India, has partnered
for non-compliance with certain provisions of
with Ecofy, India’s first green-focused Non-Banking
the “RBI (Know Your Customer, KYC)
Financial Company (NBFC) supported by Eversource
Direction, 2016.”
Capital Private Limited (ECPL), to provide innovative
financing options for Micro, Small, and Medium
SEBI unveils website for Association of Enterprises (MSME) investing in commercial rooftop
Registered Research Analysts of India solar installations.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
launched the website for the Association of Registered
Research Analysts of India (ARRAI)- http://arrai.org.in.
ARRAI, a trade body for SEBI-registered research

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ICICI Prudential Life Insurance launched ✓ The report showed that the combined net profit
ICICI Pru Wish for women specific illnesses of the non-life insurance sector was Rs 10,119
crore in FY24 as against a net loss of Rs 2,566
In December 2024, ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance launched ICICI Pru Wish, a critical illness crore in FY23.
✓ The report showed that the overall India’s
and surgery insurance product designed specifically for
insurance penetration (the ratio of annual
women. The product developed in partnership with the
premiums to Gross Domestic Product
Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) and provides a
(GDP))declined for the 2nd consecutive year
lump sum payout upon diagnosis of covered
i.e. to 3.7% during FY24 from 4% in FY23.
conditions.

HSBC India and IHCL launched India’s RBI Constituted 8-Member Committee to
1st first co-branded hospitality credit Develop Framework on Ethical Use of AI in
card ‘HSBC Taj Credit Card’ Financial Sector
In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of
On December 17 2024, Mumbai(Maharashtra) based
the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking India (RBI) announced that it has constituted
an 8 member committee to develop a framework for
Corporation(HSBC) India and Mumbai based Indian
responsible and ethical enablement of artificial
Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) have partnered to
introduce the HSBC Taj Credit Card, India’s 1st co- intelligence (FREE-AI) in the financial sector.
✓ The committee will be chaired
branded hospitality credit card designed for luxury
by Pushpak Bhattacharya, Professor from the
aiming to deliver bespoke experiences and exceptional
Department of Computer Science and
services for discerning customers.
Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology
Bombay (IIT-B), Mumbai (Maharashtra).
IRDAI Report: Claims Ratio of Non-Life
Insurers Declines to 82.5% in FY24;
IFSCA Released Revised Framework for
Insurance penetration at 3.7%
ITFS Platforms in GIFT City
According to the Annual Report 2023-24 of the
In December 2024, the International Financial Services
Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of
Centres Authority (IFSCA) has released the revised
India (IRDAI), claims ratio(the net incurred claims to
framework for the setting up and operating of
net earned premium) of non-life insurance industry
International Trade Financing Services (ITFS) platforms
declined to 82.52% for the Financial Year 2023-
in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City- International
24(FY24), compared to 82.95% in FY23.
Financial Services Centre (GIFT-
✓ The report showed that the non-life insurance
IFSC), Gandhinagar (Gujarat).
sector underwrote a total direct premium of Rs
✓ This move of allowing ITFS to operate in IFSC
2.90 lakh crore in India during FY24,
will help in bridging the financing gap for
registering a growth of 12.76% from preceding
exporters and importers both in India and
year. This growth is mainly attributed by
globally.
increased health and motor insurance
✓ The new framework has rationalized the net
premiums from individuals.
worth requirements and allowed the overseas
✓ India’s insurance penetration was 3.7% in
companies to factor the receivables.
FY24 compared to 4% in 2022-23.
✓ The report highlighted that the contribution of
public sector general insurers have increased Central Bank of Sri Lanka Imposed Penalty
by 8.88%, from Rs 82,891 crore in FY23 to Rs on Indian Bank for Non-Compliance
90,252 crore in FY24. In December 2024, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
of Central Bank of Sri Lanka has imposed monetary

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penalty of Rs 5.85 Lakhs (2 million Sri Lankan ✓ The bond was issued by NDR Infrastructure
rupees(LKR)) on Chennai (Tamil Nadu (TN))-based Investment Trust (InvIT), headquartered in
Public Sector Bank (PSB), Indian Bank Limited for not Mumbai, Maharashtra, and sponsored by NDR
complying with the provisions of Sri Lanka’s Financial Warehousing Private Limited.
Transactions Reporting Act No.6 of 2006 (FTRA). ✓ This marks the first time a warehousing InvIT
in India has issued an SLB.
ICICI Bank and Times Internet launched
‘Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card’ TPREL Partners with Canara Bank for
Mumbai(Maharashtra) based ICICI Bank Rooftop Solar Solutions
Limited and Times Internet, the digital arm of the In December 2024, Tata Power Renewable Energy
Times of India (TOI) Group, jointly launched the “Times Limited (TPREL), headquartered in Mumbai,
Black ICICI Bank Credit Card,” a super-premium co- Maharashtra, collaborated with Canara Bank Limited,
branded metal card offering high-net-worth individuals a public sector bank (PSB), headquartered in
exclusive travel benefits, luxury lifestyle services, and Bengaluru, Karnataka, to promote the adoption of
curated privileges for exceptional experiences. rooftop solar systems under the Pradhan Mantri
✓ Powered by Visa Inc., the Credit Card stands (PM) – Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
out with its inaugural edition crafted from
metal infused with historic printing plates of SEBI approves Enlighten Angel Fund to
the TOI, symbolizing a seamless blend of
operate as AIF
legacy and innovation.
In December 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board
of India (SEBI) approved the Enlighten Angel Fund, a
PNB and FCAOI Sign MoU to Enhance platform supporting early-stage startups in India, to
Agricultural Infrastructure operate as an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
Public sector lender Punjab National Bank (PNB), New ✓ It has introduced Rs. 200 crore Micro Venture
Delhi(Delhi) and Federation of Cold Storage Capital (VC) fund, with a Rs. 100
Associations of India (FCAOI) signed Memorandum of crore greenshoe option to enhance its support
Understanding (MoU) to enhance agricultural for India’s emerging entrepreneurs.
infrastructure and cold chain development across ✓ It allows underwriters to sell up to 15% more
India. shares than the original amount offered.
✓ The MoU was signed in the presence of Atul
Kumar Goel, Managing Director (MD) & Chief Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Launched
Executive Officer (CEO) of
Two Motor Insurance Add-ons
PNB; Kalyan Kumar, Executive Director (ED)
Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Limited, a leading
of PNB; senior officials from PNB and Mukesh
private general insurer in India launched two new
Aggarwal, President of the FCAOI in New
motor insurance add-on covers ‘Eco Assure – Repair
Delhi, Delhi.
Protection’ and ‘Named Driver Cover’, offering
personalised coverage, enhanced convenience and
IFC Invests Rs.630 crore in NDR InvIT’s promoting sustainability.
SLBs ✓ The unique offerings are the first of their kind in
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the insurance industry, launched as motor
headquartered in Washington, DC, United States of insurance continues to be one of the fastest-
America (USA), and a member of the World Bank (WB) growing segments in India’s general insurance
Group, has invested USD 75 million (approximately Rs market.
630 crore) in India’s first sustainability-linked bond
(SLB) issued in Indian rupees (INR).

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M2P Fintech partners with SBI to Shriram Finance Launches new vertical
Revolutionize Prepaid Payment Systems ‘Green Finance’ for Rs 5,000 Crore AUM
Chennai(Tamil Nadu, TN) based M2P Fintech has Chennai(Tamil Nadu,TN) based Shriram Finance
partnered with Mumbai(Maharashtra) based State Limited, the flagship company of the Shriram Group,
Bank of India(SBI) to enhance the prepaid payment has launched a dedicated business
ecosystem in India. This strategic collaboration aims to unit, ‘Shriram Green Finance’, to consolidate its green
leverage M2P Fintech’s advanced technology platform financing efforts. Based in Bengaluru (Karnataka), this
and SBI’s extensive network to create a seamless and new vertical is focused on providing funding solutions
secure payment experience. for sustainable businesses across India.
✓ The primary goal of Shriram Green Finance is
to achieve an Asset Under
Management (AUM) of Rs 5,000 crore within
the next three to four years.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

Nasscom and DIFC Signed MoU to Enhance World Bank: India Emerged Topmost
Cross-Border Tech Innovation Recipient of Remittances among LMICs,
Noida(Uttar Pradesh) based National Association of with USD 129 billion Inflows in 2024
Software and Service According to the World Bank (WB)’s latest
Companies (NASSCOM) and Dubai International data, India has emerged as the topmost recipient
Financial Centre (DIFC) signed a Memorandum of of remittances among Low and Middle-Income
Understanding (MoU) to enhance cross-border Countries (LMICs) in 2024, with an estimated inflow
collaboration in fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and of USD 129 billion, witnessed an increase
innovation. of 3.2% compared to USD 125 billion in 2023.
✓ The agreement was signed in the presence of ✓ India is followed by Mexico (USD 68
Rajesh Nambiar, President of NASSCOM, and billion), China (USD 48 billion), the
Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Philippines (USD 40 billion),
DIFC Authority. and Pakistan (USD 33 billion). This surge is
mainly attributed to a recovery in the job
TCS Inks Deal with Bank of Bhutan to markets in High-Income Countries (HICs)
Modernize Digital Core within the Organisation for Economic Co-
operation and Development (OECD).
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) made a strategic
✓ As per the data, remittance inflows globally
partnership with the Bank of Bhutan, the largest
increased by 5.8% in 2024 compared to
commercial bank in Bhutan, to modernize the bank’s
modest growth of 1.2% registered in 2023.
digital core for enhanced customer service. TCS will
implement its TCS BaNCS Global Banking
Platform to help the bank optimize operations and Premier Explosives & Global Munition signs
provide various public services within the digital MoU to establish JV for Defence and
ecosystem of the country. Aerospace
In December 2024, Secunderabad(Telangana) based
Premier Explosives Limited(PEL) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Pune(Maharashtra) based Global Munition India
Limited(MIL), a unit of NIBE Ordnance and Maritime

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Ltd.(NIBEOM), to establish a joint venture (JV) focused
on the manufacturing of defence and aerospace ASUSE Results for 2023-24: Job Creation
products.
Slowed in Unincorporated non-
✓ The joint venture will be structured with
a 51:49 equity split, where Global Munition agricultural Sector
Ltd., will hold the majority stake. The move is In December 2024, the National Statistical
expected to bolster Premier Explosives’ Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme
position in the market. Implementation (MoSPI) released the results of
‘Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector
Enterprises (ASUSE) for 2023-24’. The report has
Nvidia Partners with Vietnam to Establish AI
covered the time period from October 2023 to
R&D and Data Centers September 2024.
In December 2024, California (the United States of ✓ As per the report, fresh new employment
America, USA)-based Nvidia Corporation, signed an creation in the unincorporated non-agricultural
agreement with the Government of Vietnam to jointly sector slowed in October 2023 to September
set up an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research and 2024 period, with additional job generation
Development (R&D) center and an AI data center in declining to 10.97 million compared to 11.74
Vietnam. million in October 2022- September 2023.

HPCL Signed Agreement with MoF Report: Indian Economy Likely to

NLDS to Integrate its API with ULIP Grow at 6.5% in FY25
In December 2024, Mumbai(Maharashtra) based In December 2024, Department of Economic
Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited(HPCL) has Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance (MoF) released
signed an agreement with New Delhi(Delhi) based its Monthly Economic Review for November 2024. As
National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation per the report, the Indian economy is likely to grow
Limited (NICDC) Logistics Data Services at 6.5% in Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25) compared to
Limited(NLDS) to integrate its Application its previous projection of 6.5% to 7%, due to
Programming Interface (API) with Unified Logistics challenges posed by global uncertainties and triggers.
Interface Platform (ULIP). ✓ This projection came following India’s Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) fell to 5.4% in the
Ind-Ra Projected Indian Economy to Grow at 2nd Quarter (Q2: July to September) of FY25.
6.6% in FY26
In December 2024, India Ratings and Research (Ind- Aditya Birla Capital becomes the first BFSI
Ra) released its ‘FY2026 Macro Economic Outlook’. It company to offer all financial services on
projected the Indian economy to grow at 6.6% in the ONDC Network
Financial Year 2025-26(FY26) from 6.4% in FY24.
Mumbai(Maharashtra) based Aditya Birla Capital
✓ Retail inflation is projected to average 4.4% in
Limited(ABCL) has become the first Banking, Financial
FY26, down from the anticipated 4.9% in Services, and Insurance(BFSI) company to offer all
FY25. Ind-Ra forecasts a merchandise trade
three core financial services lending, insurance, and
deficit of USD 308 billion(Rs. 26,15,536 crore)
Mutual Fund(MF) investments on the Open Network for
in FY26, compared to USD 277.4 billion (Rs.
Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform.
23,55,681 crore) in FY25 and USD 244.9 billion
(Rs. 20,79,691 crore) in FY24.

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 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

ESIC Bagged Four Awards at RSSF Asia- Noted Hindi Writer Suryabala wins 34th
Pacific in Saudi Arabia Vyas Samman
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Hindi writer Suryabala has been chosen for the 34th
statutory social security body under the Ministry of Vyas Samman 2024 in recognition of her
Labour and Employment, Government of India, has novel “Kaun Des Ko Vasi: Venu Ki Diary” which was
bagged four awards at the Regional Social Security published in 2018. This Hindi novel explores how
Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) in Indian youth see America as a land of opportunity, the
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The RSSF Asia-Pacific was challenges they face when moving there, the
organized by the International Social Security temptations they encounter, and the cultural conflicts
Association (ISSA). they experience.
✓ Note: Pushpa Bharathi was honored with the
The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 : 33rd Vyas Samman for the book
“Yaadein Yaadein Aur Yaadein”
Vinicius Junior and Aitana Bonmatí won The
Best Men’s and Women’s player Award
The Best FIFA(Fédération Internationale de Football
Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas
Association) Football Awards ceremony 2024 was Honored with Knighthood and Damehood
held in Doha, Qatar, on 17 December 2024. In December 2024, Oscar award winning
Vinicius Junior (Brazil) won the Best FIFA Men’s Player filmmaker Christopher Nolan and his wife, Emma
2024 Award, while Aitana Bonmati (Spain) won the Thomas were honored with royal
Best FIFA Women’s Player 2024 Award for the second honors ‘knighthood’ and ‘damehood’,
consecutive year. respectively, by King Charles III for their remarkable
Winners of The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024: contributions to the film industry in a ceremony held at
Buckingham Palace in London, the United Kingdom
Category Winner (UK).

The Best Vinicius Junior (Brazil)-Real Ram Temple in Ayodhya Won ‘Sword of
Men’s Player Madrid Club de Fútbol (CF)
Honour’ Award for Safety Excellence
The Best The Ram Temple project in Ayodhya(Uttar Pradesh,
Aitana Bonmati(Spain)-Futbol UP), has recently been honoured with the ‘Sword of
Women’s
Club (FC) Barcelona Honour‘ award by the British Safety Council (BSC).
Player
This project is being designed and constructed by
The Best Larsen and Toubro Limited(L&T).
Emiliano Martinez(Argentina)- ✓ The Sword of Honour is awarded only to
Men’s
Aston Villa Football Club (FC) projects with a five-star safety rating, setting
Goalkeeper
a standard for excellence in safety
Alyssa Michele management within the construction industry.
The Best
Naeher(United States of
Women’s
America, USA)- Chicago Red IWAI’s Kalughat IMT gets recognition for
Goalkeeper
Stars FC
sustainable infrastructure project
The Intermodal Terminal (IMT) at Kalughat in Bihar,
developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of
India (IWAI), has been awarded a five-
star SVAGRIHA (Simple Versatile Affordable GRIHA)

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rating by the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat awards recognize their contributions to Indian
Assessment (GRIHA) Council for maintaining classical music and cultural preservation. The
environmental sustainability through the use of award comprises a cash prize
recyclable materials during the construction of the of Rs.5 lakh along with a citation plaque.
terminal.
✓ The terminal is made under World Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conferred
Bank funded Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) for
‘69th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar 2024’t
capacity expansion of National Waterway
1 (NW-1) – River Ganga. o 101 Railway officials
In December 2024, Union
Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of
Maharashtra’s ‘Government at Your
Railways(MoR), Ministry of Information and
Doorstep’ Initiative Wins SKOCH Award Broadcasting(MoI&B) and Ministry of Electronics and
Maharashtra government’s initiative ‘Shasan Aplya Information Technology(MeitY), conferred “69th
Dari’ (‘Government at Your Doorstep) has won Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar (AVRSP 2024) to 101
the SKOCH Award for its excellence in citizen- Railway officials and 22 shields to the best-
focused governance and commitment to deliver performing Railway Zones in Bharat Mandapam, New
efficient public services. Delhi (Delhi)
✓ The theme for this year’s ceremony
REC Ltd. wins Golden Peacock Award 2024 was “Mai Hoon Bhartiya Rail,” symbolizing
for Excellence in Corporate Governance pride and dedication to the Indian Railways.
REC Limited (Rural Electrification Corporation
Limited), a Maharatna Central Public Sector Dr. Ravi Pillai Honored with Bahrain’s
Undertaking (CPSU) under the Ministry of Power and a ‘Medal of Efficiency’ for Outstanding
leading non-banking financial company (NBFC), has Contributions
been awarded with the prestigious Golden Peacock
In December 2024, Dr.Ravi Pillai, a prominent Indian
Award 2024 for Excellence in Corporate
businessman, founder and the chairman of Dubai
Governance for maintaining transparency,
based RP Groups of Company, was awarded Bahrain’s
accountability, and ethical business practices.
‘Medal of Efficiency’(First Class) by the King of
Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at a ceremony held in
Tansen Samaroh 2024: Pt. Swapan Dubai,United Arab Emirates (UAE). He was the 1st
Chaudhuri honoured Rashtriya Tansen foreign national to receive this distinguished honor.
Samman; Sanand
Nyas with Mansingh Tomar Award Indian Educationist Arun Kapur
The 100th edition of the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh, one honored with Royal Honor by Bhutan
of India’s most celebrated classical music festivals, In December 2024, Renowned Indian
was held from December 15 to 19, 2024 in Gwalior, educationist Arun Kapur, known for establishing
Madhya Pradesh (MP). The Department of Culture, MP schools across India, Bhutan and Oman has been
organizes the music festival, with Dharmendra Singh, honored with the ‘Bura Marp’ (red scarf)
the Culture Minister of MP, serving as the chief guest at and ‘Patang’ (ceremonial sword) by
the award function. Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel at the 117th
✓ The event honored tabla player Padma Bhutanese National Day celebrations at
Shri Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri with the Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan.
‘Rashtriya Tansen Samman 2023’ and
Indore’s Sanand Nyas Institution with the
‘Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman 2023’. The

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Union Minister S. Jaishankar Honoured with Indian Education Society (SIES), one of India’s oldest
Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National educational societies, headquartered in Mumbai,
Maharashtra.
Eminence Award
✓ The award is named
In December 2024, Union
after Mahaswami Sri Chandrasekarendra Sar
Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Ministry of
aswathi, also known as Maha Periyavar, a
External Affairs (MEA), was awarded
revered spiritual leader and the “Sage of
the Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National
Kancheepuram.”
Eminence Award for Public Leadership from the South

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Eurogrip Tyres announces M S Dhoni as the Roche Group, as its new President,
Brand Ambassador to Empower Riders effective January 1, 2025.
✓ He will succeed the current President Dr.
In December 2024, Eurogrip Tyres, India’s leading
Albert Bourla and the Chairman and CEO of
brand for 2, 3-wheeler and off-highway tyres
Pfizer who completes his term.
announced legendary
cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni as its new Brand
Ambassador. Preeti Lobana Appointed as Google India’s
New Country Manager & VP
Pat Gelsinger Retired as CEO of Intel In December 2024, Google, Alphabet Inc’s largest
Corporation subsidiary , appointed Preeti Lobana as the new
Pat Gelsinger, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Country Manager and Vice President (VP) for India. She
replaced interim head Roma Datta Chobey and
Intel Corporation (INTC), headquartered in California,
succeeded Sanjay Gupta, who has moved to the role
United States of America (USA), retired after a
of President of Google for the Asia-Pacific region.
distinguished tenure spanning over four decades. His
retirement became effective on December 1, 2024, as
he stepped down from both his executive role and the Former SC Judge Madan Lokur Appointed
board of directors. as Chairperson of UN IJC
✓ He was replaced by David Zinsner, Executive The Former Supreme Court (SC)
Vice President (VP) and Chief Financial Officer Judge of India Justice Madan
(CFO), and Michelle Johnston (MJ) Holthaus, B Lokur has been appointed as
head of the newly created Intel Products the chairperson of the United
group, as interim Co-Chief Executive Officers Nations (UN) Internal Justice
(CEOs). Council (IJC) from 19th
✓ Additionally, Frank D. Yeary, the independent December 2024 to 12th November 2028 by the UN
chair of Intel’s board, will serve as interim Secretary-General António Guterres.
executive chair.

President Droupadi Murmu Appointed New

Dr. Thomas Schinecker appointed as Governors in 5 States: Kerala, Odisha, Bihar,
President of IFPMA Mizoram and Manipur
Geneva, Switzerland-based International Federation of On December 25 2024, President of
Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and
India, Droupadi Murmu, appointed new Governors
Associations (IFPMA) has appointed Dr.
for 5 states Kerala, Odisha, Bihar, Mizoram and
Thomas Schinecker, Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Manipur at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, Delhi.

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All the appointments will be effective from the dates, Minister (PM) of Tonga. He
the Governors assume charge of their respective replaced former PM
offices. Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni,
✓ President Droupadi Murmu has accepted who resigned on December 9
the resignation of Raghubar Das as Governor 2024. He won the secret ballot of
of Odisha and Parliament by 16- 8 votes by
appointed Hari Babu Kambhampati as the defeating the only other candidate, Viliame Latu (Trade
new Governor of Odisha. Minister).
New Governors of the 5 States:
Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir appointed as new
Stat Previous
New Governor PM of Iceland
e Governor
In December 2024, Halla Tómasdóttir, President of
Iceland, appointed Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir, the
Kera Rajendra Vishwa Arif Mohammed
Leader of the Social Democratic Alliance (SDA) as the
la nath Arlekar Khan
new Prime Minister (PM) of Iceland. She officially
Hari assumed office by replacing former
Odis PM Bjarni Benediktsson.
Babu Kambham Raghubar Das
ha ✓ Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir(36) became the
pati
youngest PM in Icelandic history.
Biha Arif Mohammed Rajendra Vishwa ✓ Note: For the first time, in
r Khan nath Arlekar Iceland that the leaders of all the
governing parties will be women,
General (Dr) Hari and the first time that the country
Mizo
Vijay Kumar Babu Kambham will have a femalePM and a
ram
Singh (Retired) pati female president.

Mani Ajay Kumar Lakshman

pur Bhalla Prasad Acharya Kissht Partners with Sachin Tendulkar to
enhance Digital Financial Growth
In December 2024, Kissht, India’s leading digital
J&K Bank Appoints Amitava Chatterjee as lending platform operated by OnEMI Technology
MD & CEO Solutions Private Limited, has announced a long-term
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) collaboration with Cricket legend Sachin
Bank Limited has Tendulkar as a strategic Investor and Brand
appointed Amitava Ambassador. This partnership aims to accelerate
Chatterjee as its new Managing Kissht’s growth and strengthen its offerings in speedy
Director (MD) and Chief and hassle-free credit financing services.
Executive Officer (CEO) for a
period of three years effective Salman Khan and Tiger Shroff named as
from 30th December 2024. He will replace Baldev
brand ambassador for Kho Kho World Cup
Prakash, whose term comes to an end on
29th December 2024. 2025
The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has announced
Indian actors Salman Khan and Tiger Shroff as the
Aisake Valu Eke Elected as PM of Tonga brand ambassadors for the inaugural edition of
In December 2024, Aisake Valu Eke, former Secretary the Kho Kho World Cup, which will be held from 13th
of the Ministry of Finance, was elected as the Prime to 19th January 2025 in New Delhi, Delhi at the Indira

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Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi and the Noida National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for a
Indoor Stadium. three-year term ending in December 2027.
✓ The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 features 21 ✓ Justice Ramasubramanian succeeds Justice
men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 (Retired) Arun Kumar Mishra, whose tenure
different countries. concluded on June 1, 2024. Since then, the
NHRC had been functioning under Acting
Former Justice V. Ramasubramanian Chairperson Vijaya Bharati Sayani.
✓ The President also appointed child rights
Appointed as NHRC Chairperson
activist Priyank Kanoongo and retired
In December 2024, President of India, Droupadi Murmu
Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi as NHRC
appointed former Supreme Court (SC) Justice
members.
V. Ramasubramanian as the 9th Chairperson of the

ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

CCI Approved Proposal of Temasek’s CCI Approved UltraTech Cement Limited’s

Ramon to Buy Stake in Speed JVco. Acquisition of the India Cements Limited
In December 2024, the Competition Commission of In December 2024, CCI has approved the proposal of
Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based UltraTech Cement
India (CCI) has approved the proposal of Ramon
Limited, a flagship company of Aditya Birla Group to
Investments Private Limited, an indirect wholly
acquire majority stake of Chennai (Tamil Nadu, TN)-
owned subsidiary of Singapore based investment
based India Cements Limited (ICL), a public listed
company Temasek Holdings Private
company in India and operates both core and non-core
Limited (Temasek), to buy a certain stake
businesses.
of Speed JVco S.à r.l.
✓ CCI has also approved the proposal of
UltraTech to acquire another 26% of the paid-
up equity share capital of ICL from its
stakeholders through an open offer worth Rs
3,142.35 crore.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

ISRO Commences HLVM3-G1 Launch ✓ The launch campaign of the HLVM3-G1 also
Campaign for Gaganyaan- coincides with the 10th anniversary of the
Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-
G1 Uncrewed Mission
X/CARE) which took place on December 18,
On December 18 2024, Indian Space Research
2014.
Organisation (ISRO) commenced the launch campaign
✓ The Orbital Module (OM) level integration and
of Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3-
tests will take place subsequently at U R Rao
G1)/Orbital Module (OM-1) for the Gaganyaan-G1
Satellite Centre (URSC), formerly known as
uncrewed mission at the Satish Dhawan Space
ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Bengaluru,
Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra
Karnataka.
Pradesh (AP). The mission aims to achieve the
country’s 1st crewed spaceflight and the launch
began with the integration of the S200 motor
segments.

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EU Unveils Euro 10 Billion IRIS² Satellite 3261 b using the NASA’s space telescope Transiting
Network Exoplanet Survey Satellite(TESS).
✓ TOI-3261 b is a Neptune-like exoplanet
On December 19 2024, the European Union(EU)
introduced the Euro 10 billion (USD 11 orbiting a K-type star. With a mass of 30.3
Earths, it completes one orbit of its star in
billion) ‘Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity
just 0.9 days and is
and Security by Satellite(IRIS²) space
located 0.01714 Astronomical Unit (AU) away
program’ initiative, aimed at deploying a network
from the star.
of 290 satellites in low and medium Earth orbits. The
project was developed with the collaboration of Space
Consortium for a Resilient, Interconnected and Secure HSL Partners with Kongsberg Maritime for
Europe (SpaceRISE). Advanced RAS Equipment for FSS
✓ Under the agreement with SpaceRISE, the In December 2024, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL),
project will receive euro 6.5 billion in public headquartered in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
funding, which covers nearly 60% of the total (AP), entered into a strategic maritime partnership
costs. with Kongsberg Maritime, a leading provider of marine
✓ IRIS² represents the EU’s third major systems and solutions headquartered in Kongsberg,
satellite initiative, following Galileo and Norway, to supply advanced Replenishment-at-Sea
Copernicus. The program will not only bolster (RAS) equipment for the Indian Navy (IN)’s fleet of five
Europe’s security but will also serve as a Fleet Support Ships (FSS), enhancing operational
critical tool in the EU’s long-term strategy for capabilities and logistical efficiency.
digital autonomy.

TDB-DST Supports Agnikul Cosmos to

US Successfully Tested Long-Range Boost India’s Space Ecosystem
Hypersonic Weapon ‘Dark Eagle’ Ministry of Science & Technology extended its support
In December 2024, the United States (US) Army, in to the Chennai-based M/s Agnikul Cosmos Pvt. Ltd to
collaboration with the US Navy, successfully test-fired develop and commercialise “Agnibaan”, a
its Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), also customisable two-stage launch vehicle capable of
known as ‘Dark Eagle’ at Cape Canaveral Space Force delivering payloads of upto 300 kg to orbits at 700 km
Station in Florida, United States of America (USA). The altitude.
launch was the 2nd successful end-to-end flight of the
weapon’s All Up Round (AUR) in 2024 using the
MDL Delivers two advanced Warships
LRHW’s trailer based launcher system.
✓ The Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) ‘Nilgiri’ and ‘Surat’ to IN
is a cutting-edge hypersonic missile developed On December 20 2024, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
by Lockheed Martin Limited (MDL) delivered 2 advanced
Corporation and Northrop warships ‘Nilgiri(YARD 12651)’ and ‘Surat(YARD
Grumman Corporation. 12707)’ to the Indian Navy (IN) in Mumbai,
Maharashtra. The two warships were designed by the
IN’s Warship Design Bureau, constructed by MDL and
NASA Discovers Exoplanet TOI-3261 b
overseen by the Warship Overseeing Team in Mumbai.
Using TESS ✓ Nilgiri is the 1st stealth frigate of the Project
A team of scientists at the National Aeronautics and 17A class ship and Surat is the 4th
Space Administration (NASA), headquartered in stealth destroyer and final ship of the Project
Washington, D.C., the United States of America (USA), 15B class guided missile destroyer.
has discovered an intriguing exoplanet named TOI-

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ISRO & ESA signed agreement for Human vessel of the Series of Six 3800 TDW General Cargo
Space Exploration and Research Activities Vessels being built for M/s Wilson ASA, Norway.
In December 2024, the Indian Space Research
Organisation(ISRO) and the European Space INCOIS Unveils New SARAT Version for
Agency(ESA) signed an agreement to collaborate on Improved Sea Rescue Operations
activities related to astronaut training, mission In December 2024, the Indian National Centre for
implementation, and research experiments in space. Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), under the
✓ Both organisations are working together to Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) developed a newer
implement experiments shortlisted by Indian version of its own Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT)
Principal Investigators on ISS for the to assist search and rescue operations in the seas to
next Axiom-4 mission, which will locate persons or vessels.
include ISRO’s Gaganyatri and ✓ Earth System Science Organization – Indian
ESA’s astronaut as crew members. National Center for Ocean Information
Services (ESSO-INCOIS) developed the
Two Chinese Astronauts Set New World Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) in 2016,
Record of Longest Spacewalk, Break USA based on the LEEWAY model, to support
Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the
Record
Indian Ocean region.
According to China Manned Space
✓ SARAT enhances rescue efforts and is
Agency (CMSA), two Chinese astronauts of Shenzhou-
accessible online at SARAT Portal.
19 mission aboard the Tiangong Space
Station (TSS) have successfully completed the 1st
Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) of their mission in 9 BluJ Aerospace Signs MoU with Blade India
hours, setting a new world record for the longest for 60 VTOL Aircraft
duration of spacewalk. In December 2024, BluJ Aerospace Private Limited,
✓ Mission Hyderabad(Telangana) based advanced air mobility
Commander Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong, c (AAM) startup, signed Memorandum of Understanding
arried out the historic spacewalk outside TSS (MoU) with Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Blade India,
in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). a joint venture (JV) of Blade Air Mobility Inc. and Hunch
✓ The duration of the spacewalk exceeded the Ventures, to deliver 60 Vertical Take-Off and Landing
previous record of 8 hours (hrs) and 56 (VTOL) aircraft, including 50 BluJ REACH cargo aircraft
minutes (min) set by National Aeronautics and and 10 BluJ HOP passenger aircraft.
Space Administration (NASA) astronauts ✓ The BluJ REACH, an unmanned Hydrogen-
James Voss and Susan Helms in 2001. Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing
✓ Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong, wore second- (H2eVTOL) aircraft designed for mid-mile
generation “Feitian” spacesuits and had logistics, offers a target range of up to 300
successfully completed an array of tasks kilometers (km), a payload capacity of 100
including installing debris protection on the kilograms (kg), and an uptime of 12-16 hours,
station’s exterior. enabling efficient same-day deliveries,
particularly in underserved region.
Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited launches
inaugural vessel of six 3800 TDW General Google unveils 2 AI models “Gemini-Exp-
Cargo Vessels built for Wilson ASA 1206 and Gemini 2.0 Flash”
Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), a subsidiary of Google has introduced 2 experimental upgrades to its
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), launched the inaugural Gemini Artificial Intelligence (AI) suite “Gemini-Exp-
1206 and Gemini 2.0 Flash”. These models were

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designed to support and improve performance tasks Communications and Information Technology
such as coding challenges, mathematical problem- (MCIT) for its project titled “Development of ‘India
solving and creating detailed business plans. 5G Stack’ with the Next-Gen 3GPP Release 16/17
✓ The new Gemini-Exp-1206 model enhances Compliant ‘Made in India 5G SA Core’ for Public and
AI’s ability to handle complex queries, Enterprise Deployment.”
providing precise and actionable responses. ✓ TTDF Scheme is managed by the Universal
✓ The Gemini 2.0 Flash model further upgrades Service Obligation Fund (USOF) (recently
the user experience by unlocking advanced renamed as “Digital Bharat Nidhi”).
generative AI capabilities.
China Launches World’s
SIA-India signs MoU with Ghana’s GSSTI to Largest Amphibious Assault Ship ‘Sichuan’
Boost Space Sector Collaboration for Fighter Jets
In December 2024, the Satcom Industry Association In December 2024, China launched the World’s
India (SIA-India), New Delhi(Delhi) signed a Largest amphibious assault ship “Sichuan” at a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghana shipyard in Shanghai, China. It is equipped with an
Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) to electromagnetic catapult for fighter jets to enhance
enhance cooperation in satellite communications and naval combat capabilities in distant seas.
the broader space industry. ✓ The Sichuan, the first ship of the Type
✓ This collaboration aims to leverage India’s 076 class with a displacement of 40,000 tons,
expertise in space technology and enable is designed to deploy ground troops in landing
Ghana to advance its space capabilities. crafts and offer them air support.
✓ India’s support through programs such as the ✓ China also launched its first icebreaker ship
Pan African eNetwork Project, the Indian ‘Tan Suo San Hao’ for scientific and
Technical and Economic archaeological research.
Cooperation (ITEC) Programme and the India-
Africa Partnership Fund serves as a foundation
South Korea Launches Third Spy Satellite
for this initiative.
into Orbit
In December 2024, South Korea successfully launched
Amantya Technologies Awarded Funding
its third surveillance satellite, equipped with
under TTDF Scheme for India 5G Stack Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, into space
On December 24, 2024, Bengaluru (Karnataka) using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The launch took
based Amantya Technologies was awarded funding place at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in
under the Telecom Technology Development Fund California, the United States of America (USA).
(TTDF) scheme by the Department of
Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of

ENVIRONMENT
-----

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 SPORTS

U-19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024: India Riya Shirish Thatte clinches Gold medal in
defeated Bangladesh in the finals Women’s 25m Pistol at 67th National
India defeated Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final to Shooting Championship Competitions
win the 1st edition of Asian Cricket Council In December 2024, Riya Shirish Thatte from
(ACC) Under (U)-19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup Aurangabad clinched the gold medal in her first senior
2024 being held at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala national title in the women’s 25m pistol event at the
Lumpur, Malaysia on 22nd December 2024. 67th National Shooting Championship Competitions
✓ The Indian team won the tournament title (NSCC) at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New
followed by Bangladesh on the 2nd spot Delhi, Delhi.
and Nepal on the 3rd position.

Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2024:

Pranav Venkatesh wins FIDE World U-18 India won the trophy by defeating China
Youth Rapid & Blitz Chess titles India won the 2024 Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup
Indian grandmaster Pranav Venkatesh won gold (8th edition) by defeating China in a penalty shootout
medals on 17th December 2024 in the International in the final, securing the title for the second
Chess Federation (FIDE) World Youth Under (U)-18 consecutive time. The event was held from 7 to 15
Open Rapid and Blitz events held at December 2024 and the finals held at the Hockey
the Terme Catez Hotel in Brezice, Slovenia. Oman Stadium in Muscat, Oman.
✓ In the Rapid Category, he secured a total of 9.5
points to win a gold Rank Team
medal. Russia’s Alexander
Khripachenko won silver with 9 points, while 1 India (Winner)
Ukraine’s Roman Pyrih earned the bronze with
7.5 points. 2 China (Runner Up)

3 South Korea
DD Partners with HIL for Live broadcast;
Launch of Women’s Hockey India League 4 Japan
In December 2024, Doordarshan (DD), India’s national
television broadcaster, has partnered with the Hockey 5 Malaysia
India League (HIL) to provide live coverage of the 2024-
25 hockey season across the nation.
India to host first-ever World Athletics
✓ The tournament, starting on December 28,
2024, will feature eight men’s teams Continental Tour event in August 2025
and four women’s teams, with matches with The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed that
matches taking place at the India is set to host its first-ever World Athletics
Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Continental Tour, a bronze level global meet on
Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand, and the Birsa August 10, 2025 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, Odisha. World Athletics Championships 2025, to be held
from September 13 to 21,2025 in Tokyo, Japan.

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India to Host World Boxing Cup Final ✓ The upcoming edition, will be the 11th Junior
and World Boxing Congress in 2025 Shooting World Cup, and India will host the
competition for the first time.
In December 2024, the Boxing Federation of
India (BFI) headquartered in New Delhi, Delhi has
announced that India will host the World Boxing Cup Bihar to Host Women’s Kabaddi World Cup
Final 2025 and the 3rd edition of World Boxing 2025
Congress in November 2025 in New Delhi. The Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 will take place
✓ The 2025 World Boxing Cup series in March 2025 at the Rajgir Sports Academy in Bihar,
will begin in Brazil in March 2025, followed by India. The international event will be hosted for the 2nd
events in Germany and Kazakhstan, time in Bihar, after the state successfully organized
culminating with the finale in New Delhi, India. the inaugural edition in 2012 at the Patliputra Sports
Complex in Patna (Bihar).
India to host ISSF Junior World Cup 2025 ✓ The Women’s Kabaddi World Cup is an
India will host the International Shooting Sport international competition for women’s kabaddi
Federation (ISSF) Junior World Cup 2025, with the teams, organized by the International Kabaddi
National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which Federation (IKF).
regulates sports shooting in India, organizing the event. ✓ The 2025 edition will feature 14 countries,
✓ The ISSF Junior World Cup 2025 will feature including India, China, Japan, South Korea,
competitions in the rifle, pistol, and shotgun Nepal, Pakistan, Iran, Indonesia, Sri Lanka,
categories. Junior World Cup competitions Thailand, Poland, Argentina, South Africa and
include both Olympic and non-Olympic events. South America.

OBITUARY

Renowned Folk Artist and Padma Shri ✓ K.V. Raman, was a distinguished archaeologist
awardee Darshanam Mogilaiah Passed known for his exceptional contributions to the
study of ancient Indian history,
Away
particularly Pandya history.
In December 2024, Renowned folk artist and Padma
✓ Awards: His scholarly work earned him
Shri awardee Darshanam Mogilaiah passed away at
numerous accolades, including the
the age of 73 in Warangal, Telangana. He was born in
prestigious United Nations Educational,
1951 in Ausalikunta, Andhra Pradesh,AP(now in
Scientific and Cultural
Telangana).
Organization (UNESCO) Regional
✓ He was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s
Educational Award and recognition as a
fourth-highest civilian award, in 2022 for his
Senior Fellow of the Association of
contributions to traditional folk music.
Commonwealth Universities (ACU) in the
United Kingdom (U.K).
Eminent Archaeologist K.V. Raman
Passes Away at 90 Former World Snooker Champion Terry
In November 2024, renowned archaeologist and
Griffiths Passes Away
scholar K.V. Raman, known for his invaluable
In December 2024, Terry Griffiths, the British player
contributions to ancient history, archaeology, and
and former World Snooker Champion, passed away at
temple architecture, passed away at the age of 90 in
the age of 77 in Wales, the United Kingdom(UK). He
Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN). He was born in Chingleput,
was born in 1947 in Wales, the UK. He made history in
TN in 1934.
1979 by winning the Crucible World Championship

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(WC). He went on to achieve the “triple crown” in ✓ He has received the ‘Padma Vibhushan’ and
snooker, winning the Masters in 1981 and the UK ‘Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament
Championship in 1982. and Development’ award for his exceptional
contribution in the Indian Economy Reforms.
Environmentalist and Padma Shri Awardee ✓ He served as the 15th Governor of
the Reserve Bank of India(RBI) from 1982 to
Tulsi Gowda Passed Away
1985 and also served as the Union Minister of
In December 2024, an
Finance during the PV Narasimha Rao
environmentalist Tulsi Gowda also known
government in 1991 and played a crucial role in
as ‘Encyclopedia of Forest’, passed away at the age of
shaping India’s economic policy.
86 in Honnali, Karnataka. She was born in 1938 in
✓ Initiation of NSE: The National Stock
Honnali. In 2021, she was awarded the Padma Shri
Exchange (NSE), which was formally launched
Award, India’s fourth highest civilian honour, for her
in 1992, saw significant reforms and expansion
contribution to environmental conservation.
during his tenure as the Finance Minister of
India.
Former Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala ✓ NREGA 2005: National Rural Employment
passed away Guarantee Act 2005 (NREGA), later renamed
In December 2024, Om Prakash Chautala,a five-time the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Chief Minister (CM) of Haryana, passed away at the age Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), was
of 89 in Gurugram,Haryana. He was born on January 1, launched during his time as PM.
1935, in Sirsa, Haryana. Om Prakash Chautala began Awards and Honors:
his political career by winning his first election to the ✓ Padma Vibhushan (1987): India’s second-
Haryana Legislative Assembly as a member of the highest civilian award, given for his exceptional
Janata Dal (People’s Party). and distinguished service in the field of public
affairs, particularly his contributions to India’s
economic reforms.
Economic historian Amiya Kumar Bagchi
✓ Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament
passes away
and Development (2009): Received
Former professor, an economic historian and founder
the award for his leadership and economic
director of Institute of Development Studies
policies that transformed India into one of the
Kolkata (IDSK) Amiya Kumar Bagchi passed away in
world’s fastest-growing economies.
Kolkata(West Bengal, WB). He was born in 1936 in
✓ Best Parliamentarian Award (2002):
Jadupur, WB. He was awarded Padma Shri in 2005 for
Awarded by the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament)
his work in literature and education.
for his role as a distinguished parliamentarian.
✓ Asia’s Most Influential 100 (2010):He was
Former Indian PM & Padma Vibhushan included in this list by Time magazine, which
Awardee Dr Manmohan Singh passed away recognized his influence in shaping global
On December 26, 2024, Dr Manmohan Singh, former economic policies. He was named as ‘Finance
Indian Prime Minister(PM) and a key architect of India’s Minister of the Year’ by Asia Money in 1993
economic reforms passed away at the age of 92 in New and 1994.
Delhi (Delhi). He was born on 16 September 1932 in
Gah, West Punjab(British India). Renowned Indian film-maker & Padma
✓ Manmohan Singh served as India’s Awardee Shyam Benegal passed away
13th PM from 2004 to 2014 (2 consecutive
In December 2024, Renowned Indian film-maker &
terms), becoming India’s 4th longest-serving
Padma Awardee Shyam Benegal passed away at
PM.
the age of 90 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was born on

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14 December 1934 in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh ✓ He played a key role in transforming the
(AP) (now Telangana). Japanese mini-vehicle manufacturer into a
✓ Shyam Benegal won 18 National Awards and globally competitive company.
received the ‘Padma Shri’ and ✓ In 2007, Osamu Suzuki was honoured with the
‘Padma Bhushan’ awards for his contribution ‘Padma Bhushan’, India’s third-highest civilian
in the Indian film industry. award in field of 'Trade and Industry', for his
✓ In 1976, he received the ‘Padma Shri’, India’s contribution to the country’s economic
4th highest civilian award, and development through the automobile industry.
‘Padma Bhushan’, India’s 3rd highest civilian
award, in 1991 for his distinguished service in Former USA President & Nobel Laureate
the field of arts.
James Earl Carter Jr. passed away
✓ In 2007, he received
On December 29 2024, James Earl Carter Jr.(also
the ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Award’ , ‘Lifetime
known as Jimmy Carter), former President of the
Achievement Award’ in 2015 from the All
United States of America (USA) and the Nobel
Lights India International Film Festival
Laureate passed away at the age of 100 in Georgia, the
and ‘Shantaram Lifetime Achievement
USA. He was born on October 1, 1924 in Georgia.
Award’ in 2018.
✓ He served as the 39th President from 1977 to
1981 where he successfully negotiated the
Renowned Malayalam writer and Padma ‘Camp David Accords’ in 1978, leading to a
Bhushan Awardee MT Vasudevan Nair peace treaty between Egypt and Israel in
passed away Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Renowned Malayalam writer,filmmaker and Padma Awards and Recognition:
Bhushan Awardee MT Vasudevan Nair(known as ✓ Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament,
MT), passed away at the age of 91 in Kozhikode, Kerala. and Development (1997): He received the
He was born in 1933 at Kudallur, Kerala. award for his post-presidential humanitarian
✓ In 2005, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, work, including efforts in global health, human
India’s third-highest civilian honour for rights and conflict resolution.
literature and education. ✓ United Nations (UNs) Human Rights Award
✓ His novel Naalukettu (Ancestral Home- (1998): He was presented with this award in
translated to English as The Legacy) won the recognition of his work to advance the cause of
Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958. He human rights worldwide.
received the Jnanpith Award, India’s highest ✓ Presidential Medal of Freedom (1999): He
literary honour in 1995 for his overall was honored with the highest civilian award of
contribution to Malayalam literature. the USA for his meritorious contribution to the
security and world peace of the USA.
✓ Nobel Peace Prize (2002): He was awarded
Former Suzuki Motor Chairman and CEO
for recognizing his decades of work in
Osamu Suzuki Passed Away advocating for peace, democracy and human
In December 2024, the former President, Chairman rights.
and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Japan based ✓ Grammy Award (2016) & (2019): He won the
Suzuki Motor awards for his spoken word album, further
Corporation (SMC), Osamu Suzuki passed away at demonstrating the breadth of his contributions
the age of 94 in Shizuoka, Japan. He was born in Gifu, in his audiobooks beyond politics.
Japan in 1930.

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 BOOKS & AUTHORS

HarperCollins India to Release Deepa Nobel Prize laureate Abhijit Banerjee’s

Malik’s ‘Bring It On: The Incredible Story of launched his new book “Chhaunk on Food,
My Life Economics, and Society”
In December 2024, HarperCollins Publishers India The book titled “Chhaunk On Food, Economics and
Private Limited, headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana, a Society” was launched during the curtain raiser of
subsidiary of HarperCollins Publishers Limited (United Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival (AKLF), India’s only
Kingdom, UK), has announced the release of Bring It literary festival organised by a bookstore, at the Oxford
On: The Incredible Story of My Life, a memoir Bookstore in Kolkata, West Bengal(WB). The book was
by Deepa Malik, India’s first female Paralympic authored by Nobel Prize
medalist. laureate Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee and co-authored
✓ Deepa Malik is India’s leading para athlete, by Cheyenne Olivier. It was published by Juggernaut
having won 23 international medals. She made Publication.
history as India’s first female Paralympic ✓ Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee is an Indian-American
medalist with a silver at the Rio Paralympics economist who was awarded the ‘Nobel
2016. She has received the Padma Shri, Khel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences’ in
Ratna, Arjuna Award, and holds four 2019, alongside his co-recipients Esther Duflo
Limca Book of Records (LBR). and Michael Kremer for their experimental
approach to poverty alleviation and economic
development.

IMPORTANT DAYS

First-Ever UN World Meditation Day Iceland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Monaco,

– December 21 2024 Mongolia, Morocco, Portugal and Slovenia.
The United Nations(UN) observed the first
ever ‘World Meditation Day’ on December 21 2024 to UN World Basketball Day: 21 December
emphasize the profound mental, physical, and social 2024
benefits of meditation, while fostering peace and The 2nd Edition of United Nations (UN) World
unity worldwide. World Meditation Day is a powerful Basketball Day was observed annually on 21
reminder of the transformative potential of meditation December 2024 across the globe to celebrate the
in navigating the complexities of contemporary life. global significance of basketball recognized by the UN,
✓ On November 29 2024, the United Nations acknowledging basketball’s role in promoting gender
General equality, empowering women and girls, and fostering
Assembly (UNGA) declared December 21 as human rights.
‘World Meditation Day’ following the
unanimous adoption of a resolution co-
National Mathematics Day 2024 –
sponsored by 6 countries comprising India, Sri
Lanka, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Mexico and December 22
Nepal. National Mathematics Day(NMD), celebrated
✓ The resolution, introduced by Liechtenstein, annually on December 22 to mark the birth anniversary
was also cosponsored by Bangladesh, of the Indian mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan. 22
Bulgaria, Burundi, the Dominican Republic, December 2024 marks the 137th birth anniversary of
Srinivasa Ramanujan.

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 ✓ The 2024 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize was ✓ The theme of National Consumer Day
awarded to Dr. Alexander Dunn of the 2024 was “Virtual Hearings & Digital Access
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia to Consumer Justice”.
Tech), the United States of America(USA). It ✓ The Department of Consumer Affairs, MOCAF
has been awarded annually since 2005. & PD launched a Safety Pledge, a voluntary
✓ Ruochuan Liu of Peking University, China, was commitment to enhance consumer safety in e-
awarded the 2024 DST-ICTP-IMU Ramanujan commerce. This initiative was aligned with
Prize “for his fundamental contributions to p- global best practices which was signed by top
adic Hodge theory. executives from 13 major e-commerce
platforms, including Reliance Retail, Tata
National Farmer’s Day 2024 – December 23 Sons, Zomato, Ola, and Swiggy.
✓ The Jago Grahak Jago App provides
National Farmer’s Day, also known as Kisan Diwas,
is annually observed across India on 23rd consumers with crucial information about e-
commerce Uniform Resource Locators (URLs),
December to honor the farmers’ contribution to the
alerting them to potential unsafe links and
overall social and economic development of India and
advising caution.
commemorate the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna
✓ The Jagriti App enables users to report URLs
Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th Prime Minister(PM)
suspected of containing illegal dark patterns.
of India.
These complaints are submitted to the Central
✓ The theme for National Farmers’ Day 2024 is
Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for
“Empowering ‘Annadatas’ for a Prosperous
investigation and action.
Nation. 23rd December 2024 marks
✓ The e-Mapp portal, a unified digital
the 122nd birth anniversary of Chaudhary
Charan Singh. platform to integrate State Legal Metrology
portals into a single national system.
✓ Chaudhary Charan Singh was posthumously
✓ The another initiative of Specific, Measurable,
honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s
highest civilian award, in 2024. Achievable, Relevant and Time-
bound (SMART) Standards from 2025 aims to
✓ The 1st edition of Chaudhary Charan Singh
simplify traditional standards, which are
Awards, instituted by the Kisan Trust, were
presented in New Delhi, Delhi honoring Bharat typically created as PDFs for humans but
difficult for computers to process.
Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh’s dedication to
rural development, farmers’ welfare, and
inclusive growth. Good Governance Day 2024- December 25
Good Governance Day, also known as
National Consumer Rights Day 2024 – 24 ‘Sushasan Diwas’ in Hindi, is annually observed across
India on 25th December to mark the birth anniversary
December
of the former (10th) Prime Minister (PM) Late Atal
National Consumer Rights Day, also known
Bihari Vajpayee. The day also aims to create
as Bharatiya Grahak Diwas or National Consumer
awareness of accountability and administration of
Day, is annually observed across India on 24
government among the people.
December to raise awareness of consumer rights and
✓ 25th December 2024 marks the 11th Good
responsibilities.
Governance Day and 100th birth
✓ The day also aims to educate people about
anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
their rights as consumers to avoid exploitation
✓ He received Bharat Ratna (Highest Civilian
like freedom of choice, access to information
Honour in India) in 2015, and Padma
and protection against dangerous products.
Vibhushan (2nd highest civilian award) in 1992
for his contributions to Public Affairs.

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 ✓ The Good Governance Week 2024 celebration the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ initiative.Thi
was inaugurated in New Delhi (Delhi) by Union s initiative aims to empower Panchayati Raj
Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Institutions (PRIs) by enhancing the capacity
Charge), Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science of elected representatives and officials through
and Technology(MOST), MoS in the PM’s effective governance and participatory
Office (PMO), Ministry of Personnel, Public planning.
Grievances & Pensions (MoPPG&P),
Department of Atomic Energy (DEA) and Veer Bal Diwas 2024 – December 26
Department of Space(DOS).
Veer Bal Diwas is annually observed across India
✓ The DARPG conducted the 4th on 26th December to mark the martyrdom of the
Sushasan Saptah (Good Governance Week)
Sahibzadas- Sri Guru Gobind Singh’s 4 sons of the 10th
from December 19-25, 2024, alongside the
Sikh guru- Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who sacrificed their
“Prashasan Gaon ki Ore Campaign”, India’s lives in the 17th century. 2024 marks the 3rd
largest people-centric campaign for citizen-
observance of Veer Bal Diwas
centric governance. The initiative aimed at
✓ The Government of India(GoI) confers
improving public grievance redressal,
the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal
enhancing service delivery and documenting
Puraskar (PMRBP) to children for outstanding
good governance practices.
achievements in seven areas include Art &
✓ Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar
Culture, Bravery, Innovation, Science &
Singh launched the “Rashtraparv Website”
Technology, Social Service, Sports, and
and its “Mobile App” (application) which aims
Environment.
to provide public access to important
information about national events like Republic
Day, Independence Day, and the Beating International Day of Epidemic Preparedness
Retreat Ceremony. The platform was 2024 – December 27
developed by the Ministry of The United Nations (UN)’s marks the International Day
Defence (MoD) and was created after of Epidemic Preparedness on December 27th each
consultation with States and public feedback. year to stress the importance of preventing and
✓ Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for preparing for epidemics. It highlights the need for global
Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, cooperation and working together to protect
PMO, Atomic Energy, and Space, launched communities from health crises.

STATE NEWS

UP Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna West Bengal CM Mamata

Presented 2nd Supplementary Budget of Rs Banerjee Launched ‘Banglar Bari’ Housing
17,865.72 crore for FY25 Scheme
In December 2024, the Finance Minister of Uttar In December 2024, the Chief Minister (CM) of West
Pradesh (UP) Suresh Kumar Khanna presented a Bengal (WB), Mamata Banerjee, launched the
second supplementary budget of Rs ‘Banglar Bari’ scheme to provide houses for the rural
17,865.72 crore for the Financial Year 2024- poor across WB. The launch was held at the state
25 (FY25) in the winter session of the state legislative secretariat in Nabanna, WB. The scheme is completely
assembly in Lucknow, UP. This budget amount financed by the state government, with a budget of Rs.
is 2.42% of the original budget (Rs 7.36 lakh crore) 14,773 crore.
presented in February 2024.

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UP & Manipur Sign MoU for ‘Ek of English mathematician and Inventor of Digital
Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ Program Computer Charles Babbage. It was observed by the
Rural Development & Panchayat Raj Department
In December 2024, Uttar Pradesh (UP)
and Manipur governments signed a Memorandum of (RDPR), Karnataka.
✓ First-Ever Computer Operators’ Day was
Understanding (MoU) to implement the ‘Ek Bharat
observed on December 26 2024.
Shreshtha Bharat’ program in Lucknow, UP.
✓ Charles Babbage was born on December 26,
✓ The Uttar Pradesh Department of Tourism and
1791, in London, United Kingdom (UK). He is
Culture organized the signing ceremony in
often called the “father of the computer” for
Lucknow. Manipur artists
performed Thougal Jagoi, a traditional Meitei his conceptual designs of a mechanical
computing device of modern computing.
folk dance, and Thang Ta, a traditional martial
art, during the event.
Govt of AP declares ‘Ratha Saptami’ as
UP signs MoU with Japan for Economic and State festival
Cultural Cooperation In December 2024, the government of Andhra
Pradesh(AP) declared ‘Ratha Saptami(also known as
In December 2024, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister
Sun God festival)’ as a State festival for 3 days at the
(CM) Yogi Adityanath signed a Memorandums of
Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli, AP.
Understanding (MoU) with Japan’s Yamanashi
The festival is celebrated every year to mark the birth
Prefecture in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (UP). The
Japanese delegation was led by Yamanashi day of Sun God. Ratha Saptami 2025 will be celebrated
from February 4 -6, 2025.
Governor Kotaro Nagasaki.
✓ The MoUs aim to improve economic and
cultural cooperation between UP and Mizoram signs MoA with Partner Banks for
Yamanashi, representing a growing partnership Bana Kaih Scheme
between the two nations. In December 2024, the Mizoram government entered
into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with its
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Launches AI partner banks – State Bank of India (SBI), Mizoram
Task Force to promote Technological Rural Bank (MRB), and Mizoram Co-operative Apex
Bank Limited (MCAB) for the disbursement of loans
Growth
under the Bana Kaih(handholding) Scheme. The
In December 2024, Gujarat Chief
agreement was signed at the Chief Minister’s
Minister(CM) Bhupendra Patel announced the
Conference Hall in Aizawl, Mizoram.
formation of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task
Force to position the state as a leader in technology-
driven governance and socio-economic growth during India’s First Sports Management Mobile App
the 11th Chintan Shibir in Somnath(Gujarat). Launched In AP
✓ The AI Task Force, is set for a 1-year term with On December 19, 2024, the Sports Authority of Andhra
annual progress reviews, was led by the Pradesh (SAAP) launched a ‘Kreeda App’, a first-of-
Principal Secretary of the Department of its-kind mobile app to improve sports management
Science and Technology, Gujarat. across the state. The app was officially launched by
Mandipalli Ramprasadh Reddy, Minister for Youth and
Karnataka Gov declared December 26 as Sports of Andhra Pradesh, at an event in Vijayawada,
AP.
Computer Operators’ Day
✓ The ‘Kreeda App’ is designed to be a one-stop
The Karnataka government issued an order to
solution for sports-related matters. It allows
celebrate Computer Operators’ Day every year
them to update their profiles, track their
on December 26 to mark the birth anniversary

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 performance, and access achievement judicial appointments based on recommendations
certificates through DigiLocker. from the Supreme Court (SC) Collegium.
✓ Justice Gurmeet Singh (G.S.) Sandhawalia h
President Droupadi Murmu Appointed CJs as been appointed as the Chief Justice (CJ) of
the Himachal Pradesh (HP) High Court
for Himachal, Uttarakhand High Courts
(HC). Justice Guhanathan Narendar has been
In December 2024, President of
appointed as the CJ of the Uttarakhand HC.
India, Droupadi Murmu approved several significant

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