NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Meghalaya Mandates Khasi and Garo in Early Education
to Strengthen Cultural Roots: Meghalaya has made Khasi and Garo
mandatory in the curriculum up to Class-1 to simplify learning
and strengthen cultural identity from the foundational years.New textbooks will
be optional in the coming academic year and will become compulsory from the next
session, considering schools have already finalised syllabi.Approval was given
for a ₹25-crore Mission Mode HIV/AIDS project, mandatory green building
certification for large constructions, new cooperative financing society, and
arrangements for hosting the 39th National Games.
2. Jammu & Kashmir Inaugurates First Gen Z Post
Office at AIIMS Vijaypur: Jammu
and Kashmir inaugurated its first Gen Z Post Office at the AIIMS
Vijaypur campus, marking a major step in modernising postal
services.Launched under the Department of Posts’ modernisation initiative, the
facility offers a contemporary ambience, digital payments, and simplified
service delivery tailored for Generation Z.The post office provides postal,
banking, and insurance services together, enhancing convenience for students
and staff on campus.
3. President Assents to Viksit Bharat (Gramin) Act: The President has given assent to the
Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act,
2025, replacing MGNREGA, 2005 and aligning rural employment policy with
the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.The Act increases the statutory wage
employment guarantee to at least 125 days per rural household per financial
year, strengthening livelihood security, income stability, and the right to demand
employment.States may notify up to 60 days of aggregated pause during peak
agricultural seasons while retaining the full 125-day guarantee; weekly or
within 15 days wage payments are mandated, with compensation for delays.Wage
employment is integrated with the creation of durable rural assets across
priority areas like water security, core rural infrastructure, livelihoods, and
climate resilience, using bottom-up planning via Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans
and national convergence platforms.
4. PM Modi Lays Foundation for ₹10,601-Crore Fertiliser
Plant in Assam: PM
Narendra Modi inaugurated the ₹10,601-crore brownfield ammonia-urea
plant in Dibrugarh, Assam, set to be commissioned by 2030.The new
Assam Valley Fertiliser and Chemical Company Ltd (AVFCCL) plant will have an
annual urea production of 12.7 lakh metric tonnes, enhancing the region’s
fertiliser output.AVFCCL is a joint venture among the Assam Government, Oil
India, National Fertilisers Ltd (NFL), Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd
(HURL), and BVFCL, combining public and state expertise.The plant will be the
first in India to use associated natural gas as a primary raw material for
producing nitrogenous fertiliser, leveraging sustainable and efficient
resources.
5. IIFL Finance Appoints Former RBI Deputy Governor B P
Kanungo as Non-Executive Chairman: India Infoline Finance Limited (IIFL) has
appointed P. Kanungo, a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of
India, as non-executive chairman of its board, bringing extensive regulatory
and central banking expertise.Kanungo has over four decades of experience in
monetary policy, financial regulation, and central banking, having served as
Deputy Governor of the RBI (2017–2021) and as a member of the Monetary Policy
Committee.As chairman, he will lead the board in strategic direction, enhance
governance standards, and ensure the protection of interests of shareholders,
customers, regulators, and other stakeholders.
6. 23 December -Kisan Diwas: 23rd December is observed as Kisan Diwas
(Farmer’s Day) in India to honour the contributions of farmers to the
nation.The day marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the 5th
Prime Minister of India, known for his work towards farmers’ welfare.Kisan
Diwas highlights the vital role of farmers in food security, rural economy, and
sustainable agriculture in India.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. PM Modi Releases Commemorative Ashwagandha Postal
Stamp at WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine: At the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional
Medicine in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released
a commemorative postal stamp on Ashwagandha, symbolising India’s
commitment to promoting traditional medicine globally.The stamp highlights the
scientific and cultural value of Ashwagandha, a key medicinal herb in Ayurveda
known for stress reduction, immunity enhancement, and overall well-being, and
reinforces India’s efforts to promote AYUSH systems internationally.The release
serves as a symbolic and educational initiative, acting as a cultural
ambassador to spread awareness of India’s traditional medicinal heritage and
its vision of integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems.
2. CERT-In
Warns of GhostPairing Threat Targeting WhatsApp Users : The Indian Computer Emergency Response
Team has issued a high-severity advisory warning of an active cyber threat
campaign targeting WhatsApp users across India. The attack, known as
GhostPairing, enables cybercriminals to hijack WhatsApp accounts without
passwords or SIM swaps, raising fresh concerns over messaging platform security
amid rising digital fraud. According to Indian Computer Emergency Response
Team, GhostPairing exploits WhatsApp’s multi-device feature. The attack tricks
users into entering a legitimate-looking pairing code, unknowingly granting an
attacker’s browser access as a hidden, trusted device. Once linked, the
attacker gains full control of the victim’s WhatsApp Web session without
triggering alerts on the primary phone. The campaign typically begins with a
message appearing to come from a trusted contact, often saying “Hi, check this
photo.” The message contains a link with a Facebook-style preview that
redirects users to a fake viewer page. Victims are then prompted to “verify” by
entering their phone number and a code. CERT-In noted that this seemingly harmless
process results in complete account takeover, without any SIM compromise.
3. Australia
Invites Israeli President After Bondi Beach Shooting: Australia has announced plans to
invite Israel’s president for an official visit
following a deadly antisemitic attack in Sydney that targeted the Jewish
community. The move comes amid national mourning and renewed political focus on
combating rising antisemitism and ensuring community safety
across the country. Anthony Albanese said his government would formally invite
Isaac Herzog to Australia as soon as possible, following
established diplomatic protocol. In a public statement, Albanese said he felt a
deep sense of responsibility in the wake of the attack and reaffirmed the
government’s commitment to protecting Australia’s multicultural fabric. The
invitation will be issued by the Governor-General on the advice of the
Australian government. The announcement followed a mass shooting at Bondi Beach
in Sydney, where gunmen killed 15 people during a Hanukkah event on December 14. Australian
authorities have described the incident as an antisemitic terrorist attack. The
assault has shaken the nation and prompted urgent discussions on hate crimes,
domestic security, and gun control measures.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. Centre to set up statutory Bureau of Port Security to
strengthen maritime security framework: Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened
a high-level meeting to initiate the creation of a dedicated Bureau of
Port Security (BoPS) aimed at strengthening the security of ships and port
infrastructure across India.The Bureau of Port Security will
be set up as a statutory body under Section 13 of the Merchant
Shipping Act, 2025, functioning under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways, with responsibilities for regulatory oversight and coordination of
port security.The proposed security framework will follow a graded and
risk-based approach, factoring in vulnerabilities, trade potential,
geographical location, and emerging threats, including cyber security, with a
dedicated division to protect port IT systems.CISF has been designated as a
Recognised Security Organisation for ports, responsible for security
assessments, preparation of security plans, and training and certification of
private security agencies, while the BoPS will be headed by a Director General
of IPS rank, modeled on BCAS.
2. India–Russia Conduct Joint Air Exercise AviaIndra to
Strengthen Defence and Aerospace Cooperation: The Indian Air Force is hosting Exercise
AviaIndra with the Russian Federation Aerospace Force (RFASF), continuing
the bilateral air exercise series that began in 2014.Personnel from both
countries are conducting joint flying operations on platforms such as Su-30
MKI, Tejas, IL-78 aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters, focusing on operational
coordination.The exercise aims to enhance bilateral defence cooperation,
promote mutual understanding, and strengthen aerospace synergy by sharing best
practices and lessons learned
3. Indian Coast Guard Commissions ICGS Amulya: The Indian Coast Guard commissioned ICGS
Amulya, the third vessel of the new-generation Adamya-class Fast Patrol
Vessels, at Goa, with the ceremony attended by senior officials from the
Ministry of Defence and Goa Shipyard Limited.Built by Goa Shipyard Limited, the
51-metre vessel has over 60% indigenous content, reflecting India’s Atmanirbhar
Bharat and Make in India initiatives; Amulya means “priceless”.Powered by two
3000 kW diesel engines, ICGS Amulya can achieve a top speed of 27 knots with an
operational endurance of 1,500 nautical miles, and is equipped with advanced
integrated navigation, machinery, and power management systems.Based at
Paradip, Odisha, the vessel will strengthen maritime security along the eastern
seaboard by undertaking missions such as surveillance, search and rescue,
anti-smuggling, interdiction, and pollution response.
4. INSV
Kaundinya to Begin Maiden Overseas Voyage: INSV Kaundinya, the Indian Navy’s unique stitched
sailing vessel that revives India’s ancient shipbuilding and maritime
traditions, will undertake her maiden overseas voyage on December 29, 2025. The
historic journey marks a symbolic return to India’s long-standing seafaring
legacy and its deep civilisational links across the Indian Ocean. The vessel will be flagged off from
Porbandar in Gujarat and will sail to Muscat in Oman, retracing historic maritime routes
that once connected the Indian subcontinent with West Asia and beyond. The
voyage reflects India’s enduring maritime engagement with the Indian Ocean region, which facilitated trade,
cultural exchange and diplomatic ties for centuries. INSV
Kaundinya has been constructed
entirely using the traditional stitched-plank technique, a method once widely
practised along India’s coastline. Unlike modern ships, the wooden planks of
the vessel are stitched together using coconut coir rope and sealed with
natural resins. This technology, devoid of metal fastenings, enabled ancient
Indian mariners to undertake long-distance oceanic voyages to Africa, Southeast
Asia and West Asia well before the advent of modern navigation tools.
SPORTS
1. NASA
Loses Contact with MAVEN Mars Orbiter: NASA has lost contact with its Mars Atmosphere and Volatile
Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft, a long-serving Mars orbiter that has been
studying how the Red Planet’s atmosphere is escaping into space. The spacecraft
went silent in early December, and engineers are continuing efforts to
re-establish communication and assess its status. Launched by NASA in November
2013, MAVEN entered Mars orbit in September 2014 and was designed to study the
planet’s upper atmosphere and ionosphere. Its instruments measure gases, ions, solar wind and magnetic interactions, helping scientists understand how Mars
transitioned from a warmer, wetter planet to the cold and arid world seen
today. Though planned as a two-year mission, MAVEN has operated for more than a
decade on extended duty. Beyond science, MAVEN plays a crucial operational role
by relaying data between Earth and surface missions such as Curiosity and
Perseverance. With MAVEN currently silent, NASA has shifted relay duties to
other orbiters, including the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and Mars Odyssey,
while also coordinating with European Mars orbiters to ensure continuity.
2. MYAS
Launches Comprehensive Internship Policy for Sports Ecosystem: The Ministry
of Youth Affairs and Sports has
launched a Comprehensive Internship Policy to create a structured, large-scale
platform for nurturing young talent and strengthening India’s sports ecosystem.
The initiative aims to provide meaningful exposure to sports governance,
administration and allied professional domains, while building a future-ready
talent pipeline aligned with India’s long-term sporting ambitions. Under the
new policy, 452 internships will be offered annually across the Ministry
of Youth Affairs and Sports and
its autonomous bodies. These include the Sports Authority of India, the
National Anti-Doping Agency and the National Dope Testing Laboratory. The
programme targets college and university students, offering first-hand
experience in sports administration, governance, sports science, anti-doping,
event management and athlete support services. Union Minister of Youth Affairs
and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya said the initiative would empower young minds to contribute
meaningfully to India’s sporting journey. He emphasised that the transformation
of the sports ecosystem requires skilled professionals and institutional
support, and the internship programme opens avenues for youth to gain hands-on
experience and participate in nation-building through sports.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. Subansiri
Lower Project Unit-2 Commissioned, Boosting Clean Power: Union Minister of Power,
Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal on Monday inaugurated the commercial
operation of Unit–2 (250 MW) of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric
Project through virtual mode. The commissioning marks a major milestone in India’s
largest hydropower project and reinforces the country’s commitment to clean,
sustainable energy, particularly for the North-East region. Speaking at the
event, Manohar Lal described the commissioning as more than a technical
achievement, calling it a result of years of dedication and teamwork. He said
the Subansiri project symbolises India’s resolve to expand renewable energy,
strengthen the national grid and advance long-term Net Zero goals, while
accelerating development in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and the wider North-East. With
Unit-2 now operational, the project is moving towards commissioning three more
units of 250 MW each in the near term. The remaining four units are scheduled
for phased commissioning during 2026–27. Once fully commissioned, the Subansiri
Lower Project will generate 7,422 million units of renewable electricity
annually, significantly enhancing India’s green energy capacity and grid
resilience.
2. National
Consumer Day 2025 Highlights Digital Justice Push: National Consumer Day is
observed across India on December 24 every year to underline the importance of
consumer rights and effective consumer protection. The day marks the
anniversary of the President’s assent to the Consumer Protection Act, 1986,
which laid the foundation for a structured consumer rights regime in the
country. Over the years, the observance has evolved into a platform to assess
reforms, promote awareness and strengthen grievance redressal mechanisms. In
2025, National Consumer Day is guided by the theme “Efficient and Speedy
Disposal through Digital Justice”. The theme reflects India’s growing emphasis
on technology-enabled consumer grievance redressal systems that ensure
accessibility, transparency and faster outcomes. The observance highlights
responsible consumer behaviour while encouraging institutions to adopt modern,
citizen-centric practices.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. Piramal Finance to Sell 14.72% Stake in Shriram Life
Insurance to Sanlam for ₹600 Crore: Piramal Finance has signed a share purchase
agreement to sell its entire 14.72% equity stake in Shriram Life Insurance
Company Ltd (SLIC) to Sanlam Emerging Markets (Mauritius) Ltd for ₹600
crore.The deal is expected to be completed by the quarter ending March 31,
2026, subject to necessary regulatory approvals, including clearance from
IRDAI.SLIC contributed ₹12.68 crore to Piramal Finance’s FY25 revenue,
accounting for just 0.12% of its total revenue, mainly through dividend income.
2. MUFG Bank to Acquire 20% Stake in Shriram Finance for
₹39,618 Crore in India’s Largest Financial Services FDI: Shriram Finance has entered
into definitive agreements with Japan’s MUFG Bank for a ₹39,618 crore
($4.4 billion) investment to acquire a 20% stake via a preferential share
issue, marking India’s largest FDI in a financial services company.MUFG will be
allotted over 471 million shares at ₹840.93 per share and will have the right
to appoint two nominee directors to Shriram Finance’s board.The transaction may
lead to a credit rating upgrade for Shriram Finance and provides MUFG a clear
pathway to gradually acquire a controlling stake, subject to RBI approvals,
including a $200 million non-compete fee signalling long-term strategic intent.
3. Airtel Payments Bank Enables EV Wallet Recharges via
Bharat Connect on Airtel Thanks App: Airtel Payments Bank, in partnership with NPCI
Bharat BillPay, has enabled electric vehicle (EV) wallet recharges on the
Airtel Thanks app through the Bharat Connect (BBPS) platform.The facility
allows users to instantly top up EV charging point operator (CPO) wallets
linked with Bharat Connect, eliminating the need to use multiple
operator-specific apps and ensuring secure, interoperable payments.Customers
can recharge EV wallets by selecting the “Recharge EV” option in the Airtel
Thanks app, entering their registered mobile number and amount, with instant
credit to the EV wallet across India.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. Chennai Team Wins Global Honour at NASA’s 2025 Space Apps Challenge with Satellite Internet Innovation: An Indian team’s satellite internet concept emerged as a global winner of NASA’s 2025 International Space Apps Challenge. The Chennai-based team, Photonics Odyssey, proposed a sovereign, phased-array satellite internet infrastructure to expand broadband access across remote regions and won the Most Inspirational Award.The project aims to reduce ground dependency and help connect more than 700 million people in India who currently lack access to broadband connectivity. The winning team members, according to NASA Space Apps, are Manish D., M. K., Prasanth G., Rajalingam N., Rashi M., and Sakthi R.The 2025 edition of its flagship global hackathon brought together more than 1 lakh 14 thousand participants across 5 hundred and 51 local events in 1 hundred and 67 countries and territories.
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