Current Affairs

PM Modi Honoured with Kuwait’s Highest Civilian Award, “The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honor, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, by Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait, during his state visit on 22nd December 2024.

Significance: The award symbolizes the enduring partnership between India and Kuwait.

Bilateral Talks: PM Modi held talks with the Amir, focusing on strengthening India-Kuwait relations, which have now been elevated to a Strategic Partnership.

Historical Context: This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.

India State of Forest Report 2023: Forest and Tree Cover at 25.17% of the Country’s Geographical Area

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, released the India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) on 21st December 2024 at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

Total Forest and Tree Cover: The total forest and tree cover in India is 827,357 square kilometers, representing 25.17% of the country’s geographical area.

Forest Cover: 715,343 square kilometers

Tree Cover: 112,014 square kilometers

Growth in Cover: The forest and tree cover has increased by 1,445 square kilometers since the 2021 assessment, with 156 square kilometers added to forest cover and 1,289 square kilometers to tree cover.

Technology in Forest Management: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) uses advanced technology for real-time fire alerts and forest fire services to improve forest management.

Assessment Method: The report is published biennially, using satellite data and field-based surveys for a comprehensive assessment of forest and tree resources in India.

Madhya Pradesh recognized as one of ‘Go-To Global Destinations for 2025’ by Wall Street Journal

Recognition: Madhya Pradesh has been named one of the “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025” by the Wall Street Journal.

Key Features: The accolade recognizes the state’s rich heritage, unparalleled wildlife, and exceptional natural beauty.

Tourism Official’s Statement: Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, stated that this recognition solidifies Madhya Pradesh’s status as a world-class travel destination, offering unique experiences with its UNESCO sites, Tiger Reserves, and vibrant culture.

Highlighted Sites: The recognition emphasizes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Khajuraho, Panna, and Bandhavgarh, known for their cultural significance, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

India Wins Under-19 ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024

India won the inaugural Under-19 ACC Women’s T20 Asia Cup on 22nd December 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs.

India’s Performance: Scored 117/7, with Gongadi Trisha top-scoring with 52 runs.

Bowling Highlights: Aayyushi Shukla took 3 wickets, while Parunika Sisodia and Sonam Yadav claimed 2 wickets each.

Bangladesh’s Performance: Bowled out for 76 runs in 18.3 overs; Farjana Easmin took 4 wickets for Bangladesh.

Tournament: Started on 15th December 2024, featuring 6 teams. India, led by Niki Prasad, remained unbeaten.

Madan Lokur Appointed as Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC)

Appointment: Former Supreme Court judge Madan B. Lokur has been appointed as the Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC).

Tenure: His term will last 4 years, ending on 12th November 2028.

UN Secretary-General’s Communication: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed pleasure in appointing Justice Lokur, effective immediately.

Purpose of IJC: The IJC was established by the UN General Assembly to ensure independence, professionalism, and accountability in the administration of the UN’s justice system.

Justice Lokur’s Background: He retired as a Supreme Court judge on 31st December 2018, after serving for more than 6 years.

India 39th among 119 nations in WEF tourism development index, improves ranking

India is now ranked 39th among 119 countries in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Improvement in Rank: India’s rank improved from 54th in 2021 to 39th in 2024. Due to a revision in the WEF’s methodology, India’s 2021 rank was adjusted to 38th place.

Government Schemes: The Ministry of Tourism, through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development, provides financial assistance for developing tourism infrastructure.

Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the Advantage Healthcare India portal, a one-stop portal for those seeking medical treatment in India from abroad.

Affordable Medical Tourism: President Droupadi Murmu highlighted that India is emerging as a major center for affordable medical tourism, with doctors playing a significant role.

Cultural Heritage: India boasts 5,000 years of civilizational history, 43 World Heritage Sites, 56 potential World Heritage Sites, and around 3,500 monuments of national importance, demonstrating its cultural strength.

Q.: What is India’s rank in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report?

a) 38th
b) 39th
c) 54th
d) 55th

Ans: b) 39th
India is now ranked 39th among 119 countries in the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 report by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

First-ever World Meditation Day on Dec 21, 2024

World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

UN Recognition: The United Nations General Assembly designated December 21st as World Meditation Day in 2024.

Purpose: The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for mental and physical health.

Global Event: The first World Meditation Day was celebrated with a global event at the UN Headquarters in New York, led by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Theme: The theme for the inaugural event was “Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony”.

Benefits: Meditation is known to reduce stress, improve focus, enhance emotional balance, and promote overall well-being.

Historical Roots: Meditation has ancient roots in religious, yogic, and secular traditions across various cultures.

Modern Practice: Today, meditation is practiced worldwide and is recognized as a tool for personal well-being and mental health.

WHO Support: The World Health Organization acknowledges the significant benefits of meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation.

Collective Well-being: Beyond individual benefits, meditation fosters empathy, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose.

Q. When is World Meditation Day observed?

a) January 1st
b) June 21st
c) December 21st
d) October 10th

Ans: b) June 21st
World Meditation Day is observed on December 21st each year.

Russian President Putin ready to compromise on Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to compromise over Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump to end the war.

No Conditions for Talks: Putin has no conditions for talks with Ukrainian authorities and is willing to negotiate with anyone, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Legitimate Authorities: Any deal must be signed by Ukraine’s legitimate authorities, recognized by the Kremlin as the Ukrainian parliament.

Russia’s Position: Putin dismissed claims that Russia is in a weak position and asserted that the country has grown stronger since the 2022 conflict.

Rejection of Temporary Truce: Putin rejected the idea of a temporary truce with Kyiv, stating that only a lasting peace deal would be acceptable.

Open to Talks with Trump: Putin is open to meeting with Trump but noted that he has not spoken to him for years.

Trump’s Promise: Trump has promised to end the conflict swiftly but has not outlined his approach.

Q. What is President Vladimir Putin ready to do regarding Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump?

a) Withdraw Russian troops
b) Compromise to end the war
c) Impose stricter sanctions
d) Form a military alliance

Answer: b) Compromise to end the war
Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to compromise over Ukraine in possible talks with US President-elect Donald Trump to end the war.

India to face Bangladesh in U-19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup final 2024

India’s Victory: India entered the final of the inaugural U-19 Women’s Asia Cup by defeating Sri Lanka in the Super 4 match held on 20 December 2024.

Match Details: India, led by Niki Prasad, chased down the target of 99 runs in 14.5 overs, winning by 4 wickets. G. Trisha was the top scorer with 32 runs.

Sri Lanka’s Innings: Sri Lanka scored 98 runs for the loss of nine wickets in the stipulated 20 overs. For India, Aayushi took four wickets and Parunika took two.

Upcoming Final: India will face Bangladesh in the final on 22 December 2024.

Bangladesh’s Performance: Bangladesh defeated Nepal by nine wickets in another Super 4 match. In a rain-affected 11-over match, Bangladesh restricted Nepal to 54 for 8 and chased down the target in 9.5 overs, scoring 58 runs for the loss of one wicket.

Q.: Which team will India face in the final of the U-19 Women’s Asia Cup 2024?

a) Nepal
b) Pakistan
c) Bangladesh
d) Sri Lanka

Ans: c) Bangladesh
India will face Bangladesh in the final on 22 December 2024.

New Delhi to host 2025 World Para Athletics Championships from September 26 to October 5, 2025

New Delhi will host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from September 26 to October 5, 2025.

  • First Time in India: This will be the first time the championships are held in India.
  • Edition: New Delhi 2025 will be the 12th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships.
  • Previous Asia Hosts: This will be the fourth time the event is hosted in Asia, following Doha 2015, Dubai 2019, and Kobe 2024.
  • World Para Athletics Grand Prix: New Delhi will also host a World Para Athletics Grand Prix for the first time from March 11 to 13, 2025, at the same venue.

Q.: Where will the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships be held from September 26 to October 5, 2025?

a) Indira Gandhi Stadium
b) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium
d) Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium

Answer: b) Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
New Delhi will host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from September 26 to October 5, 2025.

Easterine Kire Wins Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for ‘Spirit Nights’ in English Category

Easterine Kire: Noted author from Nagaland, Easterine Kire, has been selected for the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in the English language category.

Award for Spirit Nights: Kire’s novel, Spirit Nights, published by Simon and Schuster India, won the award in the English language category. The novel is inspired by a story from the Chang Naga tribe of Nagaland.

Annual Sahitya Akademi Awards: The awards were announced in 21 languages on 18 December 2024.

Other Awardees from the North East:

  • Sameer Tanti: Awarded for Pharingbore Bator Katha Jane in the Assamese language.
  • Haobam Satyabati Devi: Awarded for Mainu Bora Nungshi Sheirol in the Manipuri language under the Poetry category.
  • Aron Raja: Awarded for Swrni Thakhai in the Bodo language under the Novel category.

Award Ceremony: The awardees will receive a casket containing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of one lakh rupees. The ceremony will be held on 8th March 2025 in Delhi.

Q.: Who won the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for the English language category?

a) Arundhati Roy
b) Jhumpa Lahiri
c) Easterine Kire
d) Chetan Bhagat

Answer: c) Easterine Kire

Pt. Swapan Choudhary Receives National Tansen Award 2023

The National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were given on 18 December 2024 during the Tansen Festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

National Tansen Award:

  • Recipient: Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.
  • Prize: The award includes an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal.
  • Significance: This award is the highest national music award in the field of Indian classical music, established by the Madhya Pradesh government.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Award:

  • Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.
  • Institution’s Contribution: Sanand Nyas has been active in the fields of classical music, drama, and cultural festivals in Indore for the last 35 years.

MCQs on National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Awards

Q.: Who was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023?

a) Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia
b) Ustad Zakir Hussain
c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
d) Amjad Ali Khan

Ans: c) Pt. Swapan Choudhary
Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a renowned tabla player from Kolkata, was honored with the National Tansen Samman for the year 2023.

Q.: Which institution was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023?

a) Raga Nyas
b) Sanand Nyas
c) Saptak Nyas
d) Surana Nyas

Ans: b) Sanand Nyas
Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution from Indore, was honored with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for the year 2023.

Goa Liberation Day – 19 December 2024: Marking 63 Years of Liberation

Goa celebrated its 63rd Liberation Day on 19 December 2024, marking independence from Portuguese rule in 1961 after 451 years of colonial occupation.

Ceremony Honoring Martyrs:

  • Chief Minister Pramod Sawant led a ceremony to honor the families of freedom fighters.
  • Sawant emphasized remembering sacrifices and the harshness of nearly 450 years of Portuguese rule.

‘Operation Vijay’:

Goa’s liberation was achieved through Operation Vijay, a 36-hour military campaign by the Indian Armed Forces in December 1961, ending Portuguese control and integrating Goa into the Indian Union.

Historical Context:

  • While India gained independence in 1947, Goa remained under Portuguese rule until 1961.
  • Inspired by India’s freedom movement, many Goans, including women, joined the fight against colonial rule.

Mohan Ranade’s Contributions:

  • Mohan Ranade, a prominent freedom fighter, led armed revolts, was imprisoned in 1955, and spent 14 years in prison (6 in solitary confinement).
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2001 for his role in Goa’s freedom struggle.

Goa’s Unique Identity:

Liberation allowed Goa to reclaim its place in the Indian Union, while its Portuguese-influenced cultural and religious heritage continues to shape its identity.

MCQs on Goa Liberation Day

Q.: When does Goa celebrate its Liberation Day?
a) 15 August
b) 26 January
c) 19 December
d) 2 October

Answer: c) 19 December
Goa celebrated its 63rd Liberation Day on 19 December 2024

Q. How many years of Portuguese rule ended with Goa’s liberation in 1961?
a) 350 years
b) 451 years
c) 200 years
d) 500 years

Answer: b) 451 years
Goa liberate from Portuguese rule in 1961 after 451 years of colonial occupation.

Q. Which military operation led to Goa’s liberation?
a) Operation Blue Star
b) Operation Vijay
c) Operation Meghdoot
d) Operation Trident

Answer: b) Operation Vijay
Goa’s liberation was achieved through Operation Vijay, a 36-hour military campaign by the Indian Armed Forces in December 1961, ending Portuguese control and integrating Goa into the Indian Union.

India’s First Diabetes Biobank Established in Chennai

First diabetes biobank in Chennai: India has established its first diabetes biobank in Chennai on December 17, 2024.

Collaboration: The biobank is a joint effort between the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF).

Purpose: The biobank aims to collect, store, and share biological samples to support advanced scientific research on diabetes.

Research Focus: It will facilitate research into the causes, variations, and complications of diabetes, particularly in the Indian population.

Significance: The biobank is expected to contribute to better prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies for diabetes.

Q. Where was India’s first diabetes biobank established?

a) Bengaluru
b) Mumbai
c) Chennai
d) Delhi

Ans: c) Chennai
India has established its first diabetes biobank in Chennai on December 17, 2024.

Pranav Venkatesh wins FIDE World U-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz Chess titles

Pranav Venkatesh, an Indian Grandmaster, won both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in Slovenia on 17 December 2024.

  • In the Rapid category, Pranav scored 9.5 points to win the gold medal.
  • Silver in the Rapid category went to Russia’s Alexander Khripachenko with 9 points, and bronze to Ukraine’s Roman Pyrih with 7.5 points.
  • In the Blitz category, Pranav scored 19.5 points and finished with a round to spare.
  • Silver in the Blitz category was won by Russia’s Dmitry Mochalov with 15.5 points, and bronze went to Alexander Khripachenko.
  • Pranav was the only Grandmaster competing in the event, which included six categories across both Rapid and Blitz formats.

Q.: Who won both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in 2024?

a) Alexander Khripachenko
b) Dmitry Mochalov
c) Roman Pyrih
d) Pranav Venkatesh

Ans: d) Pranav Venkatesh
Pranav Venkatesh, an Indian Grandmaster, won both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in Slovenia on 17 December 2024.

R Ashwin announces retirement from international cricket

Retirement Announcement: Indian off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024.

Age: Ashwin is 38 years old.

Recent Match: He played one match in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, taking 1/53 in Adelaide.

Test Career Highlights:

  • Second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests (537 wickets in 106 matches). Anil Kumble, with 619 wickets is highest wicket taker.
  • Only Anil Kumble has more Test wickets (619).
  • Scored six centuries and 14 fifties in Tests.

Debut: Made his Test debut against West Indies in Delhi on November 6, 2011.

Limited-Overs Career:

  • 116 ODIs: 156 wickets.
  • 65 T20Is: 72 wickets.

Future Plans: Will continue playing in T20 tournaments and represent Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.

Q.: Who is the only Indian bowler with more Test wickets than Ravichandran Ashwin?
a) Kapil Dev
b) Harbhajan Singh
c) Anil Kumble
d) Zaheer Khan

Answer: c) Anil Kumble
Indian off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024. He took 537 wickets in 106 Tests. Only Anil Kumble, with 619 wickets, has dismissed more batters for India.

FIFA Best Awards 2024: Vinicius Jr. and Aitana Bonmati Crowned Players of the Year

Men’s Player of the Year: In Football Vinicius Jr. (Brazil and Real Madrid) won the FIFA Best Award 2024.

Previous Winner (Men): Lionel Messi held the title for the past two years.

Ballon d’Or 2024: Vinicius Jr. lost to Rodrigo Hernández Cascante (Manchester City and Spain).

Women’s Player of the Year: Aitana Bonmati (Spain and Barcelona) won for the second consecutive year.

Sri Lanka to offer visa-free travel to Indian nationals from Jan 2025

From January 2025, Indians will be among nationals from 39 countries eligible for free visas to travel to Sri Lanka, as announced by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath during an interaction organized by the India Foundation in New Delhi. A parliamentary gazette notification will formalize this policy in January. The minister expressed hope that India would reciprocate by offering free visas to Sri Lankan nationals.

Highlighting the strong bilateral ties, he noted that India is the largest source of tourists to Sri Lanka. The announcement came during a three-day state visit (15-17 December) by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and his delegation.

India becomes 3rd largest exporter of smartphones globally

India has become the 3rd largest exporter of smartphones globally, climbing from the 23rd rank in 2019. In November 2024, the country’s smartphone exports surpassed ₹20,000 crore in a single month, representing a 92% increase compared to November 2023 (₹10,634 crore).

This milestone exceeds the expectations set under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which aimed to export 70-75% of production value in FY 2024-25. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw celebrated this achievement, calling it a “Making Bharat Story.”

National Testing Agency (NTA) to Focus Exclusively on Entrance Exams for Higher Education Institutions from 2025

Starting in 2025, the National Testing Agency (NTA) will exclusively conduct entrance exams for higher education institutions and will no longer hold recruitment exams, as announced by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on December 17, 2024. This decision is part of a broader restructuring effort to improve the NTA’s efficiency, credibility, and ability to conduct error-free, technology-driven exams.

The restructuring was guided by a high-level committee led by former ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Radhakrishnan. Formed after the NEET-UG paper leak scandal in June 2024, the committee proposed 101 recommendations to enhance exam fairness and security, including establishing a Grievance Reporting and Redressal Cell (GRRC), strengthening cybersecurity, and using dynamic solutions to secure question papers.

Key reforms include conducting entrance exams like JEE and NEET earlier in the academic year (January/February instead of July), simplifying the admission process under CUET, addressing the commercialization of coaching centers, and focusing on students’ mental health and timely result declarations. The NTA will also leverage public testing infrastructure and integrate psychometric research for continuous improvement.

The committee’s recommendations come after incidents like the NEET paper leak, which prompted a CBI investigation and widespread criticism of the examination system. To oversee the reforms, Dr. Radhakrishnan will lead a high-power steering committee. These changes aim to create a robust, student-friendly, and secure exam process.

‘One Nation, One Election’ bills refers to Joint Parliamentary Committee for wider consultations

On December 17, 2024, the government referred the One Nation One Election (ONOE) bills to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for wider consultations. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in the Lok Sabha that Prime Minister Narendra Modi recommended detailed discussions at every level before proceeding with the bills. This followed the introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Law (Amendment) Bill, 2024 by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, which aim to enable simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. Opposition leaders objected to the bills, but Meghwal described the opposition as political and reiterated the government’s readiness to involve the JPC.

The JPC is a temporary parliamentary committee comprising members from both Houses and political parties. It examines specific bills or issues in detail, gathers evidence from experts, and consults stakeholders. Its recommendations are advisory, and the government is not obligated to implement them. The JPC is dissolved after completing its examination.

Nepal’s Chief of the Army Staff (CoAS), General Ashok Raj Sigdel honored with the rank of Honorary General of the Indian Army

Nepal’s Chief of the Army Staff (CoAS), General Ashok Raj Sigdel was honored with the rank of Honorary General of the Indian Army by India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, on December 16, 2024.

General Sigdel served as the Reviewing Officer at the Indian Military Academy’s passing out parade in Dehradun, where Nepali Army Officer Cadet Prabin Pandey was awarded the “Best Foreign Officer Cadet Award”. Addressing the newly commissioned officers, General Sigdel encouraged them to uphold the Army’s values and be exemplary leaders. He also laid a wreath at the IMA War Memorial in honor of fallen soldiers.

During the visit, General Sigdel held courtesy meetings with key Indian leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, among others. The visit was at the invitation of General Upendra Dwivedi.

Gadhimai Mahotsav: World’s Largest Animal Sacrifice Festival

The Gadhimai Mahotsav, held every five years at the Gadhimai Temple in Nepal’s Madhesh Province, is the world’s largest animal sacrifice festival. Gadhimai Mahotsav, started on December 2 and concluded on December 15, 2024. Despite decades of criticism from animal rights activists and court bans in India and Nepal, the 2023-24 festival saw a record footfall of 2.5 crore people. The festival’s central rituals involve sacrificing animals like buffaloes, goats, and birds, preceded by a shamanic offering of five forest animals. Devotees believe the sacrifices fulfill wishes, often related to patriarchal traditions, such as blessings for male offspring.

Efforts to curb the practice have included court rulings restricting animal transport and banning public sacrifices, but enforcement is weak, and sacrifices now occur behind closed doors. Meat from sacrificed animals is auctioned and often exported, adding economic value. The festival generates significant revenue through tourism and local commerce, creating a financial incentive for its continuation. Political reluctance to intervene stems from the fear of offending religious sentiments, leaving NGOs and civil society groups struggling to balance opposition with respect for cultural traditions.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Loses Vote of Confidence: Understanding Germany’s Federal Election System

On December 16, 2024, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a vote of confidence, triggering a snap election set for February 23, 2025. Germany’s new hybrid electoral system combines single-member constituencies with proportional representation, fixing the Bundestag at 630 seats (down from 735). If a party wins more constituency seats than its proportional vote share, some seats will remain vacant, starting with the narrowest-margin victories.

The system retains the 5% national vote threshold for parliamentary entry, with a rule allowing parties to bypass this if they win at least three constituency seats. This mechanism has helped smaller parties like the Left in the past. Current polls predict a highly unpredictable election, with major parties like CDU/CSU leading (34%) but facing competition from the far-right AfD (17%), and smaller parties like the Free Democrats and Left struggling to meet thresholds.

Friedrich Merz of the CDU is a frontrunner to become chancellor, likely needing a coalition due to the fragmented political landscape. The far-right AfD is unlikely to form part of any coalition, as mainstream parties view it as undemocratic.

Britain Joins the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)

On December 15, 2024, Britain officially became the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), becoming the 12th member of this significant trade bloc. This move marks a major milestone in Britain’s post-Brexit trade strategy, aiming to strengthen its global trade links and deepen ties with the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Points

  • Strategic Expansion: By joining the CPTPP, Britain aims to expand its trade horizons and diversify its economic partnerships.
  • Economic Benefits: The UK government estimates that the pact could boost the economy by £2 billion ($2.5 billion) annually in the long run.
  • Trade Opportunities: Membership provides British businesses with lower tariffs and fewer barriers when trading with CPTPP member countries, including Japan, Australia, Canada, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.
  • Influence and Growth: Britain’s accession allows it to influence the future development of the CPTPP, including decisions on potential new members like China and Taiwan.

NHAI to introduce advanced Route Patrolling Vehicles (RPVs) “Rajmarg Saathi” to improve highway safety

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to introduce advanced Route Patrolling Vehicles (RPVs) named Rajmarg Saathi to improve highway safety. These RPVs will inspect National Highway stretches and respond to emergencies.

The vehicles will feature AI-enabled dashboard cameras and closed cabinets for efficient emergency response. They are equipped with advanced communication and safety tools to minimize traffic disruptions, enhance road safety, and improve the overall experience for highway users.

Vijay Diwas: December 16th, Commemorating India’s Victory in the 1971 War

Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on December 16th, marks a significant day in Indian history, commemorating the victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. This day is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces who played a pivotal role in the liberation of East Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.

Historical Context

The Indo-Pak war of 1971 was a result of escalating tensions and humanitarian crises in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). The conflict culminated in a decisive victory for India, with the Pakistani military surrendering on December 16, 1971. This historic event saw the largest military surrender since World War II, with over 93,000 Pakistani troops laying down their arms.

Significance

  • End of Atrocities: The victory brought an end to widespread atrocities committed in East Pakistan.
  • Creation of Bangladesh: The war resulted in the birth of a new nation, Bangladesh, bringing freedom to millions of people.
  • Strengthening National Pride: Vijay Diwas is a day of national pride, celebrating the valour and determination of the Indian Armed Forces.

Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States

Legendary tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 in the United States on 15 December 2024 due to blood-pressure-related complications. Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, he was the eldest son of tabla legend Allah Rakha.

With a career spanning six decades, Zakir Hussain won five Grammy Awards, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards in 2024. He acted in films such as ‘Saaz’ and ‘Heat and Dust’, with his latest film ‘Monkey Man’ released in 2024. His groundbreaking 1973 collaboration with John McLaughlin, L Shankar, and T.H. ‘Vikku’ Vinayakram fused Indian classical music with jazz, creating a new genre.

Zakir Hussain received numerous prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023.

Mumbai wins Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, defeating Madhya Pradesh by five wickets

Mumbai won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, defeating Madhya Pradesh by five wickets in the final on 15 December 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

After opting to bowl first, Mumbai restricted Madhya Pradesh to 174/8 in 20 overs and chased down the target in 17.5 overs. Suryakumar Yadav scored a crucial 48 runs off 35 balls for Mumbai, while Rajat Patidar was the top-scorer for Madhya Pradesh with 81 runs.

Suryansh Shedge was awarded the Player of the Match, and Ajinkya Rahane was named the Man of the Series. This marked Mumbai’s second title, having won their maiden trophy in 2022 against Himachal Pradesh.

India wins the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 Hockey Championship

India won the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 Hockey Championship in Muscat, Oman on 15 December 2024, defeating China 3-2 in a penalty shootout to defend their title.

Indian goalkeeper Nidhi made three crucial saves, while Sakshi Rana, Ishika, and Sunelita Toppo scored in the shootout. Earlier, Jinzhuang Tan scored for China, with Kanika Siwach equalizing for India, leading to a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Hockey India announced rewards of ₹2 lakh for each player and ₹1 lakh for each support staff. Deepika Sehrawat, with 12 goals, was the tournament’s top scorer. India had won their maiden title last year by defeating the Republic of Korea.

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