Table of Contents
National News
India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market
India’s ascent from the 23rd position in global smartphone exports in 2019 to securing the 3rd spot in 2024 marks a monumental achievement in its manufacturing and export capabilities. With smartphone exports crossing ₹20,000 crore in November 2024, this growth highlights India’s success in leveraging government initiatives and a robust domestic production ecosystem.
Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam
India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). Conducted in Assam, this initiative marks a major advancement under Project Dolphin, led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The collaborative effort of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Assam Forest Department, and the organization Aaranyak, funded by the National CAMPA Authority, aims to deepen the understanding of the species’ ecological needs, migratory patterns, and habitat use.
Bhutan Confers Royal Honour on Indian Educationist Arun Kapur
Indian educationist Arun Kapur, known for his contributions to education in India, Bhutan, and Oman, has been honoured by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel. At the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations, held at the Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu, Kapur was conferred the prestigious Red Scarf and the title ‘Dasho’, a rare honour usually given to senior Bhutanese officials. This marks another milestone in his long-standing association with Bhutan’s educational development.
International News
Japan and India Collaborate to Address Space Debris
Japan and India have joined forces to tackle the growing challenge of space debris, marking a significant collaboration in the space sector. This partnership, centered around laser technology and space debris removal, also extends to lunar exploration, showcasing their commitment to joint space efforts.
State News
Uttarakhand to Implement Uniform Civil Code from January 2025
Uttarakhand will become the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025, fulfilling a key promise made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the 2022 assembly elections. The UCC aims to establish uniform personal laws on marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion or caste, while excluding tribal communities. With preparations reportedly complete, this move marks a significant legal reform in India post-independence.
Madhya Pradesh Welcomes 10th International Forest Fair
The 10th International Forest Fair, held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, commenced on December 17, 2024, and will run until December 23. This fair focuses on promoting sustainable forest practices, empowering local communities, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the forestry sector. The event provides a platform for government officials, traders, producers, scientists, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange.
Defence News
Indian Army Unveils AI Incubation Centre for Future Warfare
The Indian Army has launched the Indian Army AI Incubation Centre (IAAIIC) in Bengaluru, marking a significant leap towards modernizing its operations and enhancing its technological capabilities. In a virtual inauguration led by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi, the initiative aims to revolutionize the Army’s operational capabilities through Artificial Intelligence (AI).
With collaboration from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the centre will focus on developing AI-driven solutions to improve decision-making, operational efficiency, and readiness for AI-driven warfare.
Economy News
Net Direct Tax Collection Sees Robust 16.45% Growth to Rs 15.82 Lakh Crore
The net direct tax collections for the fiscal year 2023-24 have surged by 16.45% to Rs 15.82 lakh crore by December 17, driven primarily by a strong 21% rise in advance tax payments. This growth reflects the government’s improved tax collection mechanism and efforts to bridge the fiscal deficit gap. The increase includes various taxes such as corporate tax, personal income tax, and securities transaction tax (STT), along with other levies.
India’s FY26 Economic Outlook: Modest Growth Amid Tightening
India’s economy is projected to grow at 6.6% in FY26, a marginal increase from the current fiscal’s 6.4%, driven primarily by investments. However, India’s fiscal and external challenges continue, with a slight easing in monetary conditions expected. India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) sees growth in line with the best decadal growth period (FY11-20), despite global tightening pressures.
Banking News
Rama Mohan Rao Amara Appointed as SBI’s New Managing Director
The Indian government has appointed Rama Mohan Rao Amara as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a period of three years. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) and follows a recommendation by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB). Amara takes over the position previously held by CS Setty, who assumed charge as Chairman of SBI in August. With his extensive experience in various roles within SBI, Amara is set to lead the bank through crucial phases of growth and development.
HSBC Taj Credit Card: A Luxe Partnership for Discerning Travelers
HSBC India has partnered with the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) to launch the HSBC Taj Credit Card, a co-branded luxury card tailored for affluent Indians seeking high-end experiences. This collaboration, in association with Visa, aims to cater to the growing demand for exclusive services, wellness, and travel experiences among India’s elite. With its premium offerings, the HSBC Taj Credit Card promises bespoke luxury benefits and is designed to meet the aspirations of the country’s wealthy clientele.
Important Days News
Minorities Rights Day Celebrated Nationwide
Minorities Rights Day is observed every year on December 18, marking the adoption of the United Nations’ Statement on the Rights of Individuals belonging to Religious or Linguistic National or Ethnic Minorities in 1992. The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) in India celebrated this important day on December 18, 2024, to raise awareness about the rights of minorities and promote their freedom, equality, and inclusion in society. The event underscored the efforts of the Indian government and various stakeholders in ensuring the welfare and empowerment of minority communities.
Sports News
38th National Games Uttarakhand Unveils Mascot, Logo, Anthem, and Tagline
Uttarakhand marked a significant milestone in sports as it unveiled the mascot, logo, jersey, anthem, and tagline for the 38th National Games 2025 at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun. With the Games scheduled from January 28 to February 14, 2025, the event symbolizes a blend of tradition, athleticism, and the state’s rich heritage. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami led the unveiling ceremony, which also included announcements of traditional sports like yoga and mallakhamb being part of the competition.
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