Topic: Summits/Conferences/Meetings
UN General Assembly Committee Adopts Resolution on Crimes Against Humanity
1. The UN General Assembly committee has adopted a groundbreaking resolution to negotiate the first-ever treaty focused on preventing and punishing crimes against humanity. The resolution, approved by the assembly’s legal committee, sets a time-bound process for negotiations with preparatory sessions planned for 2026 and 2027. Final negotiations will take place in 2028 and 2029. This treaty aims to address crimes inflicted on civilians in regions like Ethiopia, Sudan, Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, and Myanmar. The International Criminal Court (ICC) defines crimes against humanity as large-scale attacks on civilians and has listed 15 forms of such crimes.
Topic: Corporates/Companies
2. COP 29 Sets Target to Raise $300 Billion Annually by 2035
At COP 29 in Baku, nations agreed to raise $300 billion annually by 2035 to assist developing countries in combating climate change. While India objected to the agreement, citing insufficient funds for developing nations, the deal aims to increase global public and private funding for poor countries to $1.5 trillion per year by 2035. The progress of the agreement will be regularly assessed, with a review in 2030. In the UK, the goal is to cut emissions by 81% from 1990 levels by 2035. The conference also concluded with an agreement on carbon markets, and COP 30 will take place in Belem, Brazil, in 2025.
Topic: Corporates/Companies
3. JSW Steel Replaced by Zomato in BSE Sensex from December 23
As part of the BSE index reconstitution, Zomato will replace JSW Steel in the BSE Sensex from December 23. The reconstitution also includes additions and replacements in BSE 100, BSE Sensex 50, and BSE Sensex Next 50 indices. Jio Financial Services, Suzlon Energy, and Adani Green Energy are among the new additions to BSE 100. Meanwhile, Zomato, Jio Financial Services, and Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) will join BSE Sensex 50, replacing HDFC Life, BPCL, and LTIMindtree.
Topic: Sports
4. Anders Antonsen Wins China Masters 2024
Denmark’s Anders Antonsen triumphed in the men’s singles at the China Masters 2024 in Shenzhen, defeating Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie in straight sets. South Korea’s Se Young An secured the women’s singles title by defeating China’s Fang Jie Gao. In the doubles categories, South Korean duo Yong Jin and Seung Jae Seo won the men's title, while China’s Yan Zhe Feng and Dong Ping Huang triumphed in mixed doubles.
Topic: Summits/Conferences/Meetings
5. Global Cooperative Conference Inaugurated by PM Modi in New Delhi
The International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) Global Cooperative Summit 2024 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The theme, “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All,” aligns with India’s vision of “Prosperity through Cooperation.” The conference, organized by IFFCO in collaboration with ICA, will run from November 25-30, 2024. PM Modi also launched the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025, focusing on building a better world through cooperative efforts.
Topic: Indian Polity
6. NDA Wins in Maharashtra, India Bloc Retains Victory in Jharkhand
In the Assembly elections held on November 23, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA alliance won a landslide victory in Maharashtra, securing 236 seats, with the BJP winning 132 seats in the 288-member House. Meanwhile, the India Bloc, led by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, retained power in Jharkhand by winning 56 seats in the 81-member Assembly. Additionally, the NDA won by-elections in Bihar and Assam, while Trinamool Congress dominated in West Bengal.
Topic: Government Schemes and Initiatives
7. Government Launches National Campaign "Ab Koi Bahana Nahi"
The government launched the “Ab Koi Bahana Nahi” campaign on November 25, 2024, to eradicate gender-based violence. This initiative, in partnership with UN Women, calls for accountability from individuals, governments, and stakeholders to prevent violence. Concurrently, the Nayi Chetna 3.0 campaign was launched to ensure broad dissemination of the campaign's message. The event coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Topic: Sports
8. North East United FC Wins 40th All India Governor's Gold Cup
The 40th All India Governor’s Gold Cup International Football Tournament concluded on November 24, 2024, with North East United FC emerging as the champions. In a dramatic penalty shootout, they defeated Gangtok Himalayan Sporting Club. The event, which took place at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, featured 16 teams, including international clubs from Nepal, Bhutan, Dubai, and Malaysia. The competition was organized after a five-year hiatus.
Topic: Indian Polity
9. Winter Session of the Parliament Begins
The Winter Session of Parliament started on November 25, with the government listing 15 bills, including the Merchant Shipping Bill and the Coastal Shipping Bill, among others. Over 26 days, the session will feature 19 sittings, with key bills such as the Railways (Amendment) Bill and the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill also expected to be tabled.
Topic: Sports
10. Rishabh Pant Becomes Most Expensive IPL Player
Rishabh Pant was bought by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore in the ongoing IPL auction, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Other notable signings include Shreyas Iyer to Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore and Ravichandran Ashwin returning to Chennai Super Kings for ₹9.75 crore.
Topic: International Appointment
11. Abdoulaye Maiga Appointed Prime Minister of Mali
On November 21, Mali’s ruling junta appointed Abdoulaye Maiga as Prime Minister, replacing Choguel Maiga. This change comes after growing frustration and division within Mali’s political class, particularly following the junta’s failure to hold elections as promised. The military junta, which took power in 2020 and 2021, has indefinitely postponed the elections, citing technical issues.
Topic: Banking System
12. UPI 123Pay Transaction Limit Raised by RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the transaction limit for UPI 123Pay from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000. This change benefits feature phone users with limited internet access, allowing them to perform digital payments without internet connectivity. UPI 123Pay offers various methods like IVR and missed calls to complete transactions. The updated limit, effective immediately, will be fully compliant by January 1, 2025.
Topic: India and its Neighbours
13. India and Maldives Sign Pact for Local Currency Transactions
India and the Maldives have signed an MoU to facilitate cross-border transactions in local currencies. This agreement aims to optimize costs and reduce settlement time for transactions in the Indian Rupee (INR) and Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). It is expected to benefit exporters and importers by enabling them to invoice and settle in their domestic currencies.
Topic: MoUs/Agreements
14. UN Sustainable Tourism Declaration Signed by Over 50 Countries
More than 50 countries have signed the UN Sustainable Tourism Declaration, which aims to make global tourism more climate-friendly. This initiative comes as the tourism industry contributes significantly to global GDP and greenhouse gas emissions. The declaration encourages nations to consider tourism in their climate plans, promoting sustainability in the sector and reducing environmental impact.
Topic: Environmental Initiatives
15. New Global Agreement on Plastic Waste Reduction Signed
A new international treaty to curb plastic pollution was signed by over 175 countries at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) in Nairobi. The treaty aims to reduce the production of single-use plastics and improve global recycling efforts. Under this new agreement, nations are expected to introduce policies to significantly reduce plastic waste by 2030. Governments and industries are set to develop global standards for plastic recycling and waste management.
Topic: Technology and Innovation
16. Google Launches AI-Driven Healthcare Solutions
Google has announced the launch of new AI-driven healthcare solutions aimed at revolutionizing diagnostics and patient care. The company’s AI technology will now help in early detection of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions by analyzing medical imaging. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has also partnered with major healthcare providers to integrate these AI solutions into medical practices worldwide.
Topic: International Relations
17. China and Russia Sign Agreement to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
China and Russia have signed a major bilateral agreement aimed at deepening their political and economic ties. The agreement focuses on strengthening trade relations, increasing joint infrastructure projects, and enhancing military cooperation. It also includes provisions for joint energy development, including natural gas and oil projects, aimed at boosting both countries' economies. The agreement is seen as a counterbalance to Western influence in global geopolitics.
Topic: Science and Space Exploration
18. NASA's Artemis II Crew Successfully Launches
NASA's Artemis II mission successfully launched its crew to the Moon in a historic test flight. The spacecraft, Orion, carried four astronauts on a mission to orbit the Moon before returning to Earth. This mission is part of NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and eventually send astronauts to Mars. The crew is scheduled to spend a week in space, and the mission marks a major milestone in lunar exploration.
Topic: Human Rights and Advocacy
19. UN Declares 2024 as Year for Global Education Reform
The United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Education Reform, calling for action from governments and educational institutions to address inequalities in access to quality education worldwide. The declaration comes as a response to the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with millions of children still lacking access to schooling, especially in conflict zones. The UN is pushing for investments in education infrastructure and more inclusive curricula that cater to marginalized communities.
Topic: Health and Public Policy
20. Global Malaria Eradication Effort Receives $10 Billion Funding
A global initiative to eradicate malaria by 2030 has received a boost with a $10 billion funding commitment from global governments and private donors. This funding will support vaccination programs, the distribution of bed nets, and the development of new treatments for malaria. The initiative focuses on regions in sub-Saharan Africa, where malaria remains a leading cause of death among children under five.
Topic: Regional Affairs
21. India and Nepal Strengthen Border Security Cooperation
India and Nepal have signed a new agreement to enhance cross-border security cooperation. The pact, which includes joint patrols and intelligence sharing, aims to combat cross-border terrorism and human trafficking in the region. The agreement also focuses on the smooth movement of people and goods across the borders while ensuring security. Both nations have emphasized their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability.
Topic: Financial Policies
22. World Bank Approves $500 Million for South Asian Infrastructure Projects
The World Bank has approved a $500 million funding package for infrastructure development projects across South Asia. The projects will focus on improving transportation, water supply, and sanitation systems, with a particular emphasis on green technologies. The funding is expected to support sustainable development in rural areas and contribute to the economic growth of the region by enhancing connectivity and access to basic services.
Topic: Education and Skills Development
23. UNESCO Launches Global Skills Development Initiative for Youth
UNESCO has launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing skills development for youth, especially in developing countries. The initiative focuses on providing training in digital literacy, vocational skills, and sustainable development practices. It is expected to help bridge the skill gap in the job market, providing young people with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy. The program is backed by contributions from governments, NGOs, and the private sector.
Topic: Government Schemes and Initiatives
24. PMGDISHA Scheme Extended to Rural Areas
The government has extended the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) to rural areas to promote digital literacy among rural households. This initiative aims to train 6 crore rural citizens in basic digital literacy. The extension is expected to empower individuals to use smartphones and digital tools for various daily activities, increasing their participation in India’s growing digital economy.
26. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
The government has approved the National Clean Air Programme for tackling air pollution across India. This program focuses on reducing particulate matter levels in the air, with targeted action in over 100 non-attainment cities. The NCAP will encourage state and local governments to take proactive steps in reducing pollution levels through monitoring, research, and public awareness campaigns.
Topic: International Relations and Agreements
27. India and UAE Sign Comprehensive Trade Agreement
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to boost bilateral trade and investment between the two countries. The agreement is expected to increase India's exports to the UAE and provide greater access to UAE’s oil and energy markets. The CEPA will also include provisions for labor mobility and stronger cooperation in technology and education.
28. India and Australia Sign Defense and Strategic Partnership
India and Australia have signed a defense and strategic partnership agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation in defense, cybersecurity, and regional security issues. This will involve joint military exercises, the exchange of technology, and collaborative efforts in addressing Indo-Pacific security challenges, particularly with respect to China’s growing influence in the region.
Topic: Science and Technology
29. India’s Gaganyaan Mission Launches Astronaut Training Program
India’s Gaganyaan mission has begun astronaut training for its first crew of Indian astronauts, aimed at launching India’s first manned space mission. The program, which will be conducted in collaboration with Russia’s space agency, will train astronauts in various aspects of spaceflight, including spacewalking, life support systems, and communication procedures.
30. Artificial Intelligence to Be Used in Traffic Management
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has initiated a project to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into India’s traffic management systems. The AI systems will help monitor and control traffic flow, reduce accidents, and improve the efficiency of public transport. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce congestion in major cities, contributing to urban mobility solutions.
Topic: Economy and Finance
31. India’s GDP Growth Forecast Revised to 7.2%
India’s GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2024 has been revised upward to 7.2% by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other economic think tanks. This revision follows strong performance in manufacturing, exports, and digital services. Analysts attribute the growth to effective government policies, recovery in global trade, and rising consumer demand.
32. Rupee-USD Exchange Rate Stabilizes Post-Forex Reserve Boost
The Indian Rupee has stabilized against the US Dollar after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) injected liquidity into the market by increasing its foreign exchange reserves. This measure aims to support the rupee in the face of rising global inflation and economic slowdowns. The RBI’s intervention has helped restore investor confidence and maintain economic stability.
Topic: Health and Public Policy
33. India Launches National Health ID for Citizens
The government has launched the National Health ID as part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. This ID will link all health records of individuals across the country to ensure better healthcare service delivery. It will facilitate access to public and private health services and improve the country’s healthcare infrastructure by integrating data and tracking health outcomes.
34. National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) Expands to Rural Areas
The National Digital Health Mission has been expanded to rural areas to ensure that health services are available to underserved populations. This expansion will provide telemedicine consultations, remote health monitoring, and better access to essential medicines, improving overall healthcare delivery in rural regions.
Topic: Sports and Achievements
35. India Hosts the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup
India has been selected as the host for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The event will be held across multiple cities in India, showcasing the country’s growing infrastructure in sports. The tournament is expected to bring significant tourism revenue and increase the visibility of India as a sporting powerhouse.
36. Neeraj Chopra Breaks Javelin Throw Record in the 2024 Olympics
Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra broke the Olympic javelin throw record at the Tokyo 2024 Olympics, securing a gold medal. His throw of 90.8 meters was not only a new personal best but also the longest throw ever recorded in Olympic history. This achievement has made him one of India’s most celebrated athletes.
37. Topic: Indian Polity and Elections
President of India Signs Landmark Citizenship Amendment Bill into Law
The Citizenship Amendment Bill has been signed into law by the President of India, granting fast-track citizenship to persecuted minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. This controversial law has sparked debates over its implications for religious minorities within India but is seen as a step to safeguard the rights of minority communities from neighboring countries.
38. Election Commission Announces Dates for 2024 General Elections
The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for the 2024 General Elections, which will take place in multiple phases across the country. With a record 900 million eligible voters, this election is set to be one of the largest democratic processes in the world. Key issues such as economic growth, national security, and agriculture reforms are expected to dominate the electoral discourse.
Topic: International Affairs and Human Rights
39. United Nations Launches Global Human Rights Initiative for 2024
The United Nations has launched a global initiative aimed at addressing human rights violations in conflict zones. The initiative will focus on providing humanitarian assistance, ensuring the protection of civilians, and supporting war crimes investigations in countries such as Syria, Yemen, and Ukraine. The UN hopes to create a more coordinated global approach to protecting human rights.
40. Global Initiative to Combat Child Labor Gains Momentum
A new international coalition has formed to tackle child labor globally, with an emphasis on Africa and Asia. The coalition, supported by major international NGOs and governments, will work to enforce stricter laws, improve education systems, and create better economic opportunities for families to combat the root causes of child labor.
Topic: Environmental Policies and Sustainability
41. India Commits to Carbon Neutrality by 2050
India has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2050, aligning with global efforts to tackle climate change. The commitment was made during the COP 29 summit and includes a comprehensive plan to transition to renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, and implement sustainable agricultural practices. India’s move to carbon neutrality will have significant global implications, especially for emerging economies.
42. Global Initiative to Reduce Deforestation Secures $3 Billion
A new international initiative aimed at reducing deforestation has secured over $3 billion in funding from world leaders, environmental NGOs, and private companies. The funds will be used to support reforestation projects and implement policies to protect the world’s forests, especially in Brazil, Indonesia, and the Congo Basin, where deforestation rates have been the highest.