1 Indian men’s hockey team rises to fifth spot in latest FIH rankings for 2025
The Indian men’s hockey team has secured the fifth position in the latest FIH World Rankings after their historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics . This is a significant achievement for Indian hockey, which has a rich history of success in the sport. The Netherlands remain at the top spot with 3,267 points , continuing their dominance after winning gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the FIH Hockey Pro League and the Euro Hockey Championship in 2023. England (3139) and Belgium (3124) are ranked second and third respectively, while India (2955) and Australia (2814) are fourth and fifth.
2 Prime Minister Modi reached Kuwait, the first visit of an Indian PM in 43 years
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait . He became the first Indian PM to visit this Gulf country in 43 years . He was given a grand welcome on his arrival in Kuwait. PM Modi has arrived here on his historic two-day visit at the invitation of the Emir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah . It is expected that this visit will take India’s close relations with the Gulf countries to a new level. He will also attend the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup as a special guest of the Emir of Kuwait .
3 Bhutan confers royal honour on Indian academician Arun Kapoor
Indian educationist Arun Kapur, known for his contributions to education in India, Bhutan and Oman, has been honoured by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyal . At the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations held at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimpu, Kapur was conferred the prestigious Red Scarf and the title of ‘Dasho’ , a rare honour usually given to senior Bhutanese officials. This is another milestone in his long-term association with Bhutan’s educational development.
4 Japan and India will cooperate to deal with space debris
India and Japan are collaborating to tackle space debris using laser-equipped satellites . Japan’s Orbital Laser and India’s Inspaceity have partnered to explore commercial opportunities in debris removal leveraging advanced laser technology. The initiative aims to use laser-equipped satellites to manage and reduce space clutter by vaporising debris, making it easier for spacecraft to reach and service the inactive objects. The technology is expected to be tested after 2027.
5 Indian Army unveils AI incubation centre for future warfare
The Indian Army has launched the Indian Army AI Incubation Centre (IAAIIC) in Bengaluru , a significant step towards modernising 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 revolutionise the Army’s operational capabilities through Artificial Intelligence (AI) . In collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) , the centre will focus on developing AI-powered solutions to improve decision-making, operational efficiency and readiness for AI-driven warfare. The move builds on the Army’s ongoing efforts for technological advancement and aligns with India’s self-reliance goals under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” campaign.
6 Argentine President given Italian citizenship
Italy recently granted citizenship to Argentine President Javier Milelli based on his Italian ancestry , sparking a storm of criticism in Argentina. The decision highlights an ongoing debate over Italy ‘s citizenship laws, particularly for those who are descendants of Italian immigrants. Critics say the policy is unfair to children who are born in Italy and are often denied citizenship. The move also raises prospects for further political and economic cooperation between Italy and Argentina.
7 US built Dark Eagle anti-missile system
The US has successfully tested its Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) , also known as “ Dark Eagle ”, bringing it closer to being deployed as a key weapon in modern warfare. The test, conducted at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, showed the missile’s ability to travel at speeds of up to 3,800 miles per hour and hit remote and strongly defended targets. The achievement is a significant milestone in the development of hypersonic technology for the US military, and is planned to be operational by 2025.
8 Jimpy-Jimpy: The World’s Most Poisonous Plant
Gympie-gympie , scientifically known as Dendrocnide moroides, is considered the world’s most poisonous plant . It is mainly found in the rainforests of Australia, Indonesia and the Moluccas . Although it has a simple appearance and heart-shaped leaves, the plant is covered with tiny hair-like trichomes that contain powerful neurotoxins. Contact with the plant causes excruciating pain, described as “like being burned by hot acid and electrocuted at the same time “, and the effects can last for weeks or months.
9 ICICI Bank, Times Internet launch premium metal credit cards
ICICI Bank and Times Internet have launched the ‘Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card ‘, a super-premium co-branded card for India’s high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) . The card comes with exclusive benefits, luxury services and a unique design, taking a step towards redefining luxury for India’s affluent customer base. It is powered by Visa and offers a host of features keeping in mind the sophisticated lifestyle of professionals and affluent individuals.
10 First World Meditation Day
To raise awareness about meditation and its benefits , the General Assembly declared 21 December as World Meditation Day, reminding of the right of everyone to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. The United Nations has declared 21 December as World Meditation Day. India had played a leading role in co-sponsoring the draft resolution of the UN General Assembly in this regard. The theme of World Meditation Day this year is “ Meditation for Global Peace and Harmony ” emphasizing the role of meditation in promoting global peace and unity.
11 World Basketball Day 2024
World Basketball Day is celebrated every year on 21 December to honour the evolution of the sport and its global inspiration. Basketball transcends borders, cultures and languages and promotes values such as athleticism, joy, friendship and peace. The day highlights the importance of basketball, which encourages cooperation, physical activity and interdependence, and inspires players and fans to see each other as human beings first. Basketball was invented on 21 December 1891 by Dr. James Naismith . He was a physical education teacher at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA. He invented the sport to keep students active during the winter.
12 International Human Solidarity Day 2024
International Human Solidarity Day , observed every year on December 20 , highlights the collective responsibility of individuals and governments in promoting a just and equitable world. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 , the day emphasizes unity in the face of global challenges.