Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic visit to Kuwait, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years, attending the Arabian Gulf Cup opening ceremony. Addressing the Indian diaspora, Modi lauded their contributions, describing Kuwait as a “mini-Hindustan” reflecting India’s diverse talent. He emphasized India’s potential as a global skill capital.
Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing the North Eastern Council, emphasized PM Modi’s vision for the Northeast’s development. He highlighted the significant infrastructure improvements, a 71% drop in violence, and the signing of peace treaties leading to over 10,000 armed youths joining mainstream society.
A landslide blocked the vital Tawaghat-Lipulekh road in Uttarakhand’s Dharchula, stranding vehicles and cutting off access to three valleys. The BRO swiftly cleared the debris, restoring access late Saturday. The slide, likely caused by road widening, occurred near Tawaghat. Luckily, the reduced winter traffic prevented any casualties or property damage on this treacherous route to Kailash Mansarovar.
The UN celebrated the first World Meditation Day on December 21st, highlighting meditation’s power for global peace. Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasized meditation’s universal accessibility and benefits, transcending religious and geographical boundaries. Millions participated in a record-breaking guided meditation livestream.
India’s Satcom Industry Association (SIA-India) and Ghana’s Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) have partnered to boost collaboration in satellite communications and space technology. This agreement aims to enhance space-based technologies, aligning with growing India-Africa trade relations. Ghana will benefit from India’s space expertise, including satellite development and applications, furthering its own space agenda.
A Mumbai court sentenced a 37-year-old man to life imprisonment for raping and assaulting his partner’s 11-year-old physically challenged daughter. The judge prioritized the victim’s testimony, stating that her evidence holds greater weight. The victim recounted the assault, which occurred while her mother was at work. The accused threatened her into silence.
Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the Northeast’s economic potential, highlighting its role as India’s export gateway via the Chittagong port. He urged banking institutions to tailor financial guidelines to the region’s unique context, fostering growth in infrastructure, agriculture, and MSMEs.
The Shimla municipal commissioner extended the Sanjauli mosque’s demolition deadline to March 15. The mosque committee, facing financial constraints, had demolished 50% of the top three floors deemed illegally constructed. The court will address the legal status of the remaining two floors on the new deadline.
An explosion rocked an abandoned police post in Gurdaspur, Punjab, late Friday night, marking the second such incident in 48 hours and the eighth in the state since November 24. While authorities found no immediate signs of damage or explosives, locals reported hearing a powerful blast.
A parcel exploded at the Gujarat high court lawyer’s clerk’s residence in Sabarmati, injuring three. Police suspect a personal dispute, arresting the delivery man. The clerk, Baldev Sukhadia, stated the sender was unknown, and he became suspicious upon seeing smoke. Sukhadia believes the prime suspect, Rupen Barot, targeted him due to suspected involvement with Barot’s wife.
Indian artists witnessed a surge in global demand in 2024, with modern masters like M.F. Husain and S.H. Raza leading the way. A 32% increase in inquiries propelled India to the top of the list, alongside rising contemporary artists like Raghav Babbar and Tanya Goel, whose international presence continues to grow.