National News

Inauguration of Swarved Mahamandir in Varanasi by PM Modi

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a historic milestone by unveiling the Swarved Mahamandir in Umaraha, Varanasi.
• This spiritual haven, named after the Swarved—a profound spiritual text by Sadguru Shri Sadafal Deoji Maharaj, boasts a remarkable seven floors, accommodating up to 20,000 devotees simultaneously for meditation.
• The Swarved Mahamandir seamlessly blends traditional and modern design elements, featuring intricate marble carvings and lotus-shaped domes that reflect Varanasi's cultural richness.
• This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the city's spiritual legacy while embracing contemporary aesthetics.

Inauguration of Surat Diamond Bourse by PM Modi

• Another significant moment unfolded as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Surat Diamond Exchange, surpassing the Pentagon to become the world's largest office complex.
• This sprawling 6.7 million square feet complex, part of the Diamond Research and Mercantile (DREAM) City, now houses nearly 4,500 diamond trading offices.
• With a cost of ₹32 billion, it symbolizes a new era for the diamond industry, surpassing the iconic Pentagon in both size and significance.

Launch of Second Edition of Kashi Time Sangamam by PM Modi

• In a vibrant celebration in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam.
• This cultural extravaganza, scheduled from December 17 to 30, 2023, is a key component of the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Yuva Sangam' program.
• Focused on fostering cultural ties between Varanasi and Tamil Nadu, the event aims to revive historical connections between these centers of learning and culture.
• As a symbolic gesture, PM Modi flagged off the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express, enhancing connectivity and symbolizing the unity in diversity that defines India.

International News

TIWB Launches Program in Saint Lucia with India as Administration Partner

• Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB), a joint initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), launched a significant program in Saint Lucia.
• India, known for its tax expertise, has been chosen as the Partner Administration, showcasing its commitment to international cooperation in tax administration.
• The program, spanning 12-18 months, aims to empower Saint Lucia in enhancing its tax administration through collaboration with India and the TIWB Secretariat.

State News

Genrobotics Ranks Top 3 in Global AI Summit

• Kerala-based startup Genrobotics has secured a spot among the top three AI startups in India at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit 2023.
• Recognized for its groundbreaking G-gaiter Robotic Technology, Genrobotics received the 'AI Game Changers' award for its innovative healthcare solution.
• The G Gaiter, an advanced AI-powered robotic gait trainer, is tailored for individuals facing mobility challenges due to conditions like stroke, spinal injury, accidents, Parkinson's disease, etc.
• This revolutionary technology facilitates quicker recovery, minimizing the need for external assistance in the rehabilitation process.

Defence News

Successful Test Firing of SAMAR Air Defense Missile System by IAF

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) achieved a significant milestone with the successful test firing of its Surface to Air Missile for Assured Retaliation (SAMAR) air defense missile system.
• This accomplishment, conducted during the AstraShakti-2023 exercise at Air Force Station Suryalanka, exemplifies the IAF's commitment to strategic self-reliance.
• The SAMAR system, a quick reaction surface-to-air missile developed by the IAF’s 7 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 11 BRD in collaboration with Simran Flowtech Industries and Yamazuki Denki, showcased its capabilities in real-world scenarios.
• An innovative approach was employed in repurposing old Russian-origin Vympel R-73 and R-27 air-to-air missiles, demonstrating the IAF's ingenuity in maximizing existing resources.

Economy News

S&P Global Ratings: Positive Outlook for Asia-Pacific Economies

• S&P Global Ratings has expressed confidence in the credit strength of Asian emerging and developing economies, foreseeing a positive impact on the credit ratings of governments in the Asia-Pacific (APAC)
• Despite global challenges, the agency anticipates that these economies will contribute to maintaining stable credit ratings for most APAC nations in the coming one to two years.
• S&P emphasizes the growth of Asian emerging and developing economies as a credit strength for many governments in the region, providing a stable foundation for economic development and resilience.

Important Days News

Observing International Migrants Day 2023

• International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18, serves as a global platform to recognize and appreciate the significant contributions of migrants while shedding light on the challenges they face.
• The theme for International Migrants Day 2023, "Promoting Safe Migration," emphasizes the need for nations to affirm their dedication to upholding the human rights of all migrants, irrespective of their legal standing.
• This day serves as a reminder to reflect on and celebrate the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants worldwide, recognizing their role as dynamic agents for development in both their countries of origin and destination.

Ranks Reports News

Aster Medcity: India Leading Emerging Hospital

• Aster Medcity, located in Kochi, Kerala, and a unit of Aster DM Healthcare, has claimed the No.1 spot in the 'Best Multi-specialty Hospital Emerging' category by The Week-Hansa Research 2023.
• This recognition underscores Aster Medcity’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare services, positioning it as a preferred destination for patients within India and globally.
• The hospital's Cardiology department previously secured the 49th position in the prestigious Top 100 Cardiology Hospitals in Asia Pacific, as recognized by the internationally reputed Newsweek magazine.

Logistics Performance Index 2023: Recognizing States and UTs Achievements

• The Commerce and Industry Ministry recently released the fifth LEADS (Logistics Ease Across Different States) 2023 report, highlighting the logistics performance of various states and Union Territories in India.
• Among the 13 states and Union Territories recognized as "achievers" in the logistics index chart for 2023 are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, and Gujarat.
• Notably, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand transitioned to "aspirers" and "fast movers,"
• Sikkim and Tripura showcased commendable progress, moving from the "fast movers" category in 2022 to the coveted "achievers" category this year.

Hyderabad Tops Nation in Food Adulteration Cases: NCRB

• According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Hyderabad has emerged as the leader in food adulteration cases in 2022, a concerning revelation for the city and its surrounding areas.
• The data reported by NCRB highlighted that out of 291 cases of adulterated food reported across 19 major Indian cities, a staggering 246 cases were from Hyderabad alone.
• This alarming trend underscores a critical issue in the city's food safety measures, demanding urgent attention and remedial actions to safeguard the well-being of its residents.

Agreements News

Kotak Mahindra Bank Collaborates with IITK to Establish Kotak School of Sustainability

• In a strategic partnership, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL) and the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT) have come together to inaugurate the Kotak School of Sustainability.
• Positioned as India’s first fully integrated institution dedicated to sustainability education, the collaboration is a significant step towards nurturing future leaders committed to sustainable development.
• Funded by Kotak Mahindra Bank through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, the school aims to offer comprehensive academic and skill-building programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• This initiative aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainability and equips students to address complex challenges in this domain.

Appointments News

Reuven Azar Appointed as Israel's Ambassador to India with an Expanded Diplomatic Role

• The Israeli government has approved the appointment of Reuven Azar as the new Ambassador to India, extending his diplomatic role as the non-resident Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Bhutan.
• With graduate and post-graduate degrees in International Relations from the Hebrew University, Azar brings a solid academic foundation to his extensive diplomatic experience.
• Currently serving as the Ambassador of Israel to Romania, Azar has played diverse roles, including heading the Israel-US-China internal task force at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and serving as the Deputy National Security Advisor for Foreign Policy.
• His appointment reflects Israel's commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties with India and neighboring nations.

Science & Technology News

Bhashini AI Translates PM Modi’s Speech in Indian Languages

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi employed the government-developed AI-powered Indian language translation tool, 'Bhashini,' during a recent speech in Uttar Pradesh.
• This innovative tool facilitates real-time translation, promoting effective communication across diverse linguistic communities in the country.
• 'Bhashini' operates as an AI-driven language translation system, enabling individuals to communicate in their native languages and breaking down language barriers.
• This technological advancement aligns with the government's efforts to promote inclusivity and linguistic diversity.

Obituaries News

Passing of Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawab AI-Ahmad AI-Jaber AI-Sabah at 86

• India observes a one-day state mourning following the passing of Kuwait's Emir, Sheikh Nawab AI-Ahmad AI-Jaber AI-Sabah, at the age of 86 on December 16, 2023.
• The Union Home Ministry has communicated protocols to be observed during this period, including the suspension of all official entertainment as a mark of respect.
• This collective expression of grief and solidarity reflects India's deep condolences to Kuwait and its people. The Emir's legacy and contributions are remembered with reverence during this somber occasion.