Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 on 1?December?2025 at Sunder Nursery in New Delhi. The festival, held from 1 to 9 December, 2025, showcases traditional cuisines and rural products from women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across India, promoting women’s entrepreneurship and cultural diversity.

Key Points:

• Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan officially inaugurated the Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 on 1?December?2025 at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi.
• The festival ran from 1?to?9?December?2025 and featured food, crafts, and products from rural women entrepreneurs across more than 25 Indian states.
• Organised by the Ministry of Rural Development, the event highlights traditional cuisines and handmade items, celebrating India’s cultural diversity and culinary heritage.
• Around 300 “Lakhpati Didis” — women from Self-Help Groups with significant income growth — participated, presenting regional delicacies and products.
• The festival offered a platform to strengthen rural livelihoods, empower women entrepreneurs, and connect them with wider markets.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Usha Janakiraman as its new Executive Director. The appointment strengthens the leadership of the central bank and entrusts her with key responsibilities in areas such as banking regulation, financial stability, and policy implementation.

Key Points:

• Usha Janakiraman has been appointed as Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• The Executive Director role involves overseeing important functions of the central bank, including banking regulation and financial stability measures.
• Her appointment is part of RBI’s ongoing efforts to ensure robust governance and effective policy implementation.
• Usha Janakiraman brings extensive experience in banking and finance to the central bank’s leadership team.
• The appointment reinforces RBI’s focus on strengthening institutional capacities and supporting India’s monetary and financial framework.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has appointed Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s renowned women’s cricket team captain, as its first-ever female brand ambassador. The move highlights PNB’s commitment to promoting women empowerment and connecting with younger audiences through influential personalities in sports.

Key Points:

• Harmanpreet Kaur has been named as Punjab National Bank’s first female brand ambassador.
• The appointment underscores PNB’s focus on women empowerment and promoting gender-inclusive initiatives.
• As brand ambassador, Harmanpreet Kaur will represent PNB in campaigns and public engagements, enhancing the bank’s visibility.
• The collaboration aims to inspire youth and sports enthusiasts by connecting with a popular sports figure.
• PNB’s initiative reflects a broader trend among Indian banks to leverage sports personalities for brand promotion and outreach.

India and Malaysia have commenced the 5th edition of the joint military exercise, Exercise Harimau Shakti 2025, in Rajasthan. The exercise aims to strengthen defence cooperation, enhance interoperability, and promote mutual understanding between the armed forces of both nations.

Key Points:

• The 5th edition of Exercise Harimau Shakti began in Rajasthan, marking continued military collaboration between India and Malaysia.
• The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations, tactical drills, and coordination between both armies in simulated operational environments.
• Participation includes officers and soldiers from infantry, mechanised units, and special operations forces.
• The exercise enhances mutual understanding, trust, and defence interoperability between India and Malaysia.
• Joint exercises like Harimau Shakti demonstrate the commitment of both countries to regional security and defence partnerships.

India continues to bolster its strategic nuclear capabilities through the INS Arihant, the country’s first indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. The vessel forms a critical component of India’s triad nuclear deterrent, enhancing credible second-strike capability and ensuring maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Points:

• INS Arihant is India’s first indigenously developed nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, forming the backbone of the country’s sea-based nuclear deterrent.
• The submarine enhances India’s second-strike capability, providing a secure retaliatory option in the event of a nuclear attack.
• INS Arihant is equipped with nuclear-capable ballistic missiles, ensuring credible deterrence and strategic stability in the region.
• The vessel strengthens India’s nuclear triad, complementing land-based missiles and air-delivered nuclear assets.
• The development of INS Arihant underscores India’s growing indigenous defence technology capabilities and commitment to safeguarding national security through advanced strategic platforms.

Indian Coast Guard Ship Vigraha is undertaking a three-day operational visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Indonesia. The visit focuses on enhancing joint operational readiness, interoperability, and mutual maritime security interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Points:

• Indian Coast Guard Ship Vigraha arrived in Jakarta, Indonesia, for a three-day operational visit to promote maritime cooperation.
• The visit aims to enhance interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Coast Guard and Indonesian maritime agencies.
• Engagements during the visit include professional exchanges, discussions on maritime security, and sharing best practices in coastal safety and disaster response.
• The deployment underscores India’s commitment to deepening bilateral maritime relations with Indonesia in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.
• Such operational visits boost collaborative efforts in areas like search and rescue, marine pollution response, and exclusive economic zone surveillance.

The 14th edition of the India-Maldives bilateral military exercise EKUVERIN was conducted in Kerala to strengthen defence cooperation and interoperability between the two nations. The exercise focuses on enhancing mutual understanding, coordination, and operational readiness in various security scenarios.

Key Points:

• The 14th edition of Exercise EKUVERIN was conducted in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, from 2?to?15?December?2025, marking a strong defence engagement between India and Maldives.
• The exercise is aimed at improving interoperability, tactical coordination, and mutual understanding between the armed forces of both nations.
• It includes training in counter-terrorism operations, coastal security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
• The bilateral exercise highlights the long-standing defence relationship and strategic partnership between India and Maldives.
• Regular conduct of EKUVERIN strengthens regional security and contributes to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu has assumed the role of Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition, a key position responsible for overseeing India’s naval shipbuilding projects. His appointment strengthens the Indian Navy’s ongoing modernization efforts and enhances indigenous warship production capabilities.

Key Points:

• Vice Admiral Sanjay Sadhu has officially taken charge as the Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition.
• He will oversee major naval shipbuilding programs, including construction, acquisition, and modernization of warships.
• His leadership comes at a crucial time as India accelerates indigenous defence manufacturing under “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
• The role involves coordination with shipyards, defence agencies, and international partners to ensure timely delivery of naval assets.
• His extensive experience in naval operations and project management is expected to contribute significantly to strengthening the Indian Navy's maritime capabilities.

The Government of India has announced a plan to set up 50,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in schools across the country to promote innovation, creativity, and scientific learning among students. This initiative aims to expand the reach of hands-on learning environments and nurture future innovators and entrepreneurs from an early age.

Key Points:

• The Government of India will establish 50,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs in schools across the nation to enhance innovation and experimentation among students.
• The expansion of ATLs will significantly increase access to advanced learning facilities such as makerspace tools, robotics kits, and design equipment for schoolchildren.
• The initiative is part of a broader push to strengthen 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and technological literacy among young learners.
• Atal Tinkering Labs are a key component of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), which focuses on fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in India’s education system.
• The move is expected to deepen student engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects and support India’s long-term goals in building an innovation-driven economy.

India delivered an impressive performance at the WorldSkills Asia Competition 2025, securing the 8th position in its debut appearance. The achievement reflects the nation’s growing skill development ecosystem and the rising global competitiveness of Indian youth across diverse technical and vocational fields.

Key Points:

• India secured the 8th rank at the WorldSkills Asia 2025 Competition, marking a strong debut on the international skills stage.
• This was India’s first-ever participation in the event, making the achievement particularly significant.
• Participants showcased talent across various skill categories, including technology, construction, creative arts, and service sectors.
• India’s strong performance highlights the effectiveness of national skill development programs aimed at enhancing youth employability and global competitiveness.
• The result is expected to boost India’s presence in future international skill competitions and inspire greater participation from young learners across the country.

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in India witnessed a significant increase of 32% in November 2025 compared to the same month last year. The growth reflects the continued adoption of digital payments and the strengthening of India’s cashless economy.

Key Points:

• UPI transactions in India grew by 32% in November 2025, showing a steady rise in digital payment adoption.
• The total transaction volume and value indicated robust usage across sectors including retail, e-commerce, and peer-to-peer payments.
• The increase is attributed to greater consumer trust in digital payments, ease of use, and government initiatives promoting a cashless economy.
• Major UPI players, including banks and fintech apps, contributed to this growth by improving accessibility and transaction speed.
• The trend highlights India’s ongoing transition towards a digital economy and the expanding role of UPI in daily financial transactions.

International Cheetah Day 2025 highlights India’s remarkable efforts in reintroducing cheetahs to the wild, signaling a significant step in global wildlife conservation. The initiative showcases how focused conservation strategies can revive species once declared extinct in a region.

Key Points:

• India celebrates International Cheetah Day on December 4, raising awareness about cheetah conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.
• The reintroduction program in India has successfully relocated cheetahs from Africa to suitable habitats, marking a historic comeback after decades of local extinction.
• Conservationists emphasize the role of habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement in ensuring the survival of cheetahs in India.
• India’s cheetah reintroduction serves as a model for other nations aiming to restore wildlife populations and maintain ecological balance.
• The global recognition of India’s efforts on International Cheetah Day encourages international cooperation in wildlife conservation initiatives.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 upward to 7.3%, reflecting confidence in the country’s economic resilience. The upgrade is supported by strong domestic demand, stable macroeconomic conditions, and sustained investment activity.

Key Points:

• RBI increased its FY26 GDP growth projection to 7.3%, signalling optimism about India’s medium-term economic outlook.
• Robust private consumption and improving rural demand have been identified as key drivers of economic growth.
• Continued government capital expenditure and infrastructure development are expected to support investment momentum.
• The central bank highlighted financial sector stability and healthy credit growth as additional growth enablers.
• The revised forecast positions India among the fastest-growing major economies despite global economic uncertainties.

The Government of India has announced that the base year for national accounts will be updated to 2022–23. This revision reflects changes in the economy’s structure, incorporates new data sources, and aims to provide more accurate and current measures of economic performance. The update aligns India’s statistical framework with evolving economic realities and enhances policy planning.

Key Points:

• The Government of India will update the base year for national accounts from 2011–12 to 2022–23 to better reflect recent economic developments.
• Changing the base year ensures that GDP and related indicators are calculated using more current price structures and economic activity patterns.
• The revision incorporates new data sources and methodologies, improving the accuracy and relevance of economic statistics.
• An updated base year helps policymakers, researchers, and investors make better-informed decisions based on a more realistic measure of economic growth.
• The move aligns India’s statistical practices with global norms, where periodic updates to base years are standard to capture structural changes in the economy.

Crisil has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 7%, reflecting improved economic momentum driven by strong domestic demand, infrastructure investment, and resilient services. The updated projection signals continued economic stability and positive growth outlook for the coming fiscal year.

Key Points:

• Crisil has updated its GDP growth forecast for India for FY26 to 7%, indicating stronger-than-expected economic performance.
• The revision is supported by robust domestic demand, higher government capital expenditure, and sustained private sector investment.
• Strong growth in services, manufacturing recovery, and improved rural consumption have contributed to the positive outlook.
• Crisil also highlighted moderating inflation and stable monetary conditions as factors supporting economic expansion.
• The revised forecast reflects confidence in India’s medium-term growth potential, backed by policy reforms, infrastructure push, and rising investor confidence.

The Lok Sabha has passed the Health & National Security Cess Bill, marking a key legislative move to introduce a dedicated cess aimed at strengthening public health systems and enhancing national security preparedness. The bill seeks to mobilise additional resources to support critical government priorities.

Key Points:

• The Health & National Security Cess Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha to create a new cess focused on funding health and national security initiatives.
• The cess is proposed on select goods and services, with details to be notified by the government to ensure targeted revenue collection.
• Funds raised through the cess will be earmarked for improving healthcare infrastructure and supporting national security requirements.
• The bill aligns with the government’s broader strategy of using dedicated cesses to finance priority sectors without widening the fiscal deficit.
• After passage in the Lok Sabha, the bill is expected to be taken up by the Rajya Sabha for further consideration.

The Parliament has passed the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing higher excise duties on tobacco products. The amendment aims to curb tobacco consumption, strengthen public health measures, and increase government revenue.

Key Points:

• The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed by Parliament to revise excise duties on tobacco.
• The amendment proposes higher duties on cigarettes, bidis, and other tobacco-based products.
• The government aims to reduce tobacco consumption by making these products less affordable.
• Increased excise collections will support public health programs and anti-tobacco initiatives.
• The bill aligns with India’s long-term strategy to curb lifestyle diseases and promote healthier living.

The Lok Sabha has passed the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, marking a significant legislative step to revise excise duty provisions, particularly on tobacco and related products. The amendment aims to enhance revenue mobilisation while supporting public health objectives through higher taxation.

Key Points:

• The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed by the Lok Sabha to amend provisions of the Central Excise Act relating to excise duties.
• The bill primarily seeks to increase excise duties on tobacco and tobacco-related products to discourage consumption and improve public health outcomes.
• The amendment is expected to strengthen the government’s revenue base by widening and updating excise duty structures.
• The legislation aligns with India’s broader health and fiscal policies, including commitments to reduce tobacco use through higher taxation.
• Following passage in the Lok Sabha, the bill will move to the Rajya Sabha for consideration and approval.

Chief Election Commissioner of India, Gyanesh Kumar, has assumed the Chairship of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) Council for 2026. This appointment recognizes India’s contributions to global democratic practices and election management and provides a platform for guiding international electoral reforms.

Key Points:

• CEC Gyanesh Kumar will lead the International IDEA Council as Chairperson for the year 2026.
• International IDEA is an inter-governmental organisation that supports democracy, electoral processes, and good governance worldwide.
• India is the first country to chair the Council, highlighting global recognition of its robust electoral system.
• The Chairship involves guiding the Council’s priorities, including electoral reforms, capacity building, and promoting inclusive democratic practices.
• The appointment underscores India’s role in shaping global democratic standards and sharing best practices in election management.

India’s industrial production growth slowed sharply to 0.4% in October 2025, down from 4.6% in September. The decline reflects moderating manufacturing output, electricity generation, and mining activities, highlighting challenges in sustaining high industrial growth momentum.

Key Points:

• India’s industrial production growth dropped to 0.4% in October 2025, compared with 4.6% in September 2025.
• The slowdown was driven by lower manufacturing output, electricity generation, and mining sector performance.
• Analysts attribute the decline to seasonal factors, global demand fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions affecting industrial activity.
• Despite the slowdown, some sectors, such as capital goods and consumer durables, showed resilience, indicating uneven growth across industries.
• The sharp decline signals the need for policy measures to stimulate industrial production and sustain India’s economic growth trajectory.

India and the United States jointly condemned all forms of terrorism during the 21st meeting of the India–US Counter Terrorism Joint Working Group (JWG). The meeting reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation against global and regional terrorist threats.

Key Points:

• The 21st India–US Counter Terrorism Joint Working Group meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
• Both sides reiterated their zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism and stressed the need to dismantle terrorist networks, financing channels, and safe havens.
• Discussions covered regional and global security challenges, including threats posed by extremist groups and emerging forms of terrorism.
• India and the US emphasised intelligence sharing, capacity building, and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to combat terror effectively.
• The meeting highlighted the shared commitment of both countries to international efforts aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and security.

The Health Ministers of India and Russia held discussions to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the health sector. The meeting focused on expanding collaboration in medical research, pharmaceuticals, healthcare innovation, and public health initiatives.

Key Points:

• The Health Ministers of both nations met to review existing health-sector partnerships and explore new areas of cooperation.
• Discussions included collaboration in medical research, vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare technologies.
• Both countries emphasized the importance of joint efforts in disease prevention and public health capacity-building.
• India and Russia aim to enhance exchange programs for medical professionals and researchers.
• The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to deepening health cooperation for mutual benefit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on 4 December 2025 for a two-day state visit to attend the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit. The visit aims to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two nations in areas such as defence, energy, trade, and regional security. 

Key Points:

• President Vladimir Putin reached New Delhi on the evening of 4 December 2025 to participate in the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
• The summit’s discussions will focus on defence cooperation, energy partnerships, economic ties, and geopolitical issues of mutual interest.
• Both leaders are expected to review progress on existing agreements and explore new areas of bilateral collaboration.
• The visit underscores the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Russia.
• High-level delegation talks and bilateral meetings form a key part of the two-day engagement. 

Sudan has approved a defence cooperation agreement allowing Russia to establish a naval base on its territory, marking a significant development in Russia’s military presence in Africa. The pact underscores deepening strategic ties between the two countries and reflects shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Key Points:

• Sudan’s government has ratified a defence agreement permitting Russia to set up a naval base in [Location], the first of its kind on African soil.
• The naval base is expected to enhance Russian maritime reach and support logistics in the Red Sea / African region.
• Officials from Sudan and Russia highlighted the deal as strengthening bilateral cooperation in security and defence.
• Regional reactions to the agreement vary, with some countries viewing it as a potential shift in the geostrategic balance.
• The base could serve purposes such as logistics, repairs, and joint exercises, deepening military ties between Russia and African partners.

Swaraj Kaushal, former Governor of Mizoram and a noted senior advocate, has passed away at the age of 73. He was widely respected for his contributions to public service, law, and his significant role in negotiations during the Mizo Peace Accord.

Key Points:

• Swaraj Kaushal, a distinguished lawyer and former Mizoram Governor, passed away at 73.
• He served as Governor of Mizoram from 1990 to 1993 and played an important role in peace-building efforts in the region.
• Kaushal was a senior advocate in the Supreme Court and known for his expertise in constitutional and criminal law.
• He contributed to major national initiatives, including advising on the historic Mizo Peace Accord.
• He is remembered for his public service, legal acumen, and leadership, leaving behind a strong legacy in Indian governance and law.

Manali Kshirsagar has been appointed as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Nagpur University, marking a historic milestone in the institution’s 100-year history. Her appointment reflects growing gender representation in academic leadership and is seen as an important step toward empowering women in higher education governance.

Key Points:

• Manali Kshirsagar was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Nagpur University, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the university’s 100-year history.
• Her appointment represents a significant achievement for gender representation in academic leadership roles.
• Nagpur University, one of India’s oldest universities, has now set a precedent by breaking a century-long tradition of male leadership.
• Kshirsagar brings extensive experience in academia and university administration to her new role.
• Her leadership is expected to inspire greater participation of women in higher education governance and institutional decision-making.

Vivek Chaturvedi has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). This leadership change at India’s top indirect tax authority comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen tax administration and enforcement. Chaturvedi succeeds the outgoing chairperson and brings extensive experience in revenue and customs operations to the role.

Key Points:

• Vivek Chaturvedi has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
• The appointment places him at the helm of India’s principal indirect tax policy and administration body, overseeing GST, customs, and excise matters.
• Chaturvedi succeeds the previous CBIC chairman, taking charge of strategic initiatives and operational oversight of indirect tax enforcement.
• His role will involve strengthening tax compliance, administration efficiency, and revenue measures across the country.
• The appointment reflects the government’s focus on enhancing indirect tax governance and bolstering economic policy implementation.

Paschal Donohoe has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer (CKO) of the World Bank Group, marking a significant leadership addition to the global financial institution. His new role is expected to strengthen the World Bank’s focus on knowledge sharing, development strategies, and global economic policymaking.

Key Points:

• Paschal Donohoe, a prominent European leader and former Irish Minister for Finance, has been appointed as the World Bank Group’s Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer.
• In his new position, he will guide knowledge initiatives, policy research, and strategic development programs across member countries.
• His appointment aligns with the World Bank’s mission to enhance global economic stability and support countries in reducing poverty and promoting sustainable growth.
• Donohoe brings extensive experience from his leadership roles in the Eurogroup, where he contributed to shaping economic policies across the European Union.
• The World Bank expects his expertise to strengthen partnerships, improve data-driven decision-making, and enhance knowledge-sharing frameworks worldwide.

Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi has become the first airport in India to achieve “water-positive” status, meaning it replenishes more water than it consumes. The milestone highlights the airport’s commitment to sustainable practices, water conservation, and environmental responsibility.

Key Points:

• IGI Airport in Delhi has become the first airport in India to achieve “water-positive” certification.
• Being water-positive means the airport replenishes more water into the environment than it consumes, through rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment, and other water-saving measures.
• This achievement aligns with the airport’s broader sustainability and environmental conservation initiatives, including energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction.
• IGI Airport’s water-positive status sets a benchmark for other airports and large infrastructure projects in India to adopt sustainable water management practices.
• The initiative reflects the airport’s commitment to responsible growth, demonstrating that large-scale infrastructure can operate in harmony with environmental priorities.

According to recent government data, 34% of children aged under five years in India are stunted (low height for age), and 15% are underweight (low weight for age), reflecting ongoing challenges in child nutrition. These indicators highlight persistent issues in early childhood growth and the need for strengthened interventions to improve health and nutrition outcomes.

Key Points:

• Government statistics indicate that 34% of children under five in India are stunted, meaning they have low height for their age, which reflects chronic undernutrition.
• Additionally, 15% of children under five are underweight, indicating insufficient weight relative to age, a key marker of child malnutrition.
• Stunting and underweight are influenced by factors such as poor maternal nutrition, inadequate infant feeding practices, infections, and limited access to health and sanitation services.
• These nutrition challenges can have long-term effects on physical growth, cognitive development, and future health if not addressed early.
• Government and public health programmes aim to reduce stunting and underweight through improved maternal and child nutrition interventions, immunisation, and enhanced health service delivery.

India’s retail Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) has surpassed 120 million transactions with a cumulative value of Rs.28,000 crore, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The milestone underscores the growing adoption of digital currency as a secure and efficient payment option in the country.

Key Points:

• India’s retail CBDC has recorded over 120 million transactions, highlighting its increasing usage among individuals and businesses.
• The total value of transactions through retail CBDC has reached ?28,000 crore, reflecting significant trust in the digital currency system.
• Retail CBDC offers a secure, instant, and cost-effective alternative to cash, promoting financial inclusion and digital payments.
• The RBI continues to expand the CBDC ecosystem by onboarding more banks, merchants, and digital payment platforms.
• The milestone demonstrates India’s proactive approach to integrating digital currencies into the mainstream financial system while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has joined the AI company Perplexity as both an investor and global brand ambassador, marking a high-profile crossover between sports and technology. The partnership includes the launch of a dedicated “Ronaldo Hub,” an interactive AI experience for fans to explore his career and engage with content powered by Perplexity’s AI platform.

Key Points:

• Cristiano Ronaldo has become an investor in and brand ambassador for Perplexity AI, a San Francisco-based AI answer engine known for delivering real-time sourced responses.
• He announced the partnership on his social media platform X in early December 2025, saying he was “proud to announce my investment in Perplexity” and highlighting curiosity as key to greatness.
• As part of the collaboration, Perplexity launched the Ronaldo Hub, a custom AI assistant where fans can explore unseen photos, career highlights, curated questions, and interactive features tied to Ronaldo’s legacy.
• Perplexity’s CEO Aravind Srinivas described the partnership as a way to expand the platform’s reach globally, leveraging Ronaldo’s massive social media following to drive wider AI adoption.
• The move reflects a growing trend of celebrities entering the tech sector, blending global brand influence with emerging AI innovation to attract mainstream attention.

Belgium emerged victorious over India to clinch their first Sultan Azlan Shah Cup title at the 2025 tournament held in Malaysia. In a high-intensity final, Belgium outplayed India to lift the prestigious invitational men’s field hockey trophy, marking a historic achievement for the European side.

Key Points:

• Belgium defeated India in the final to win the 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, claiming the title for the first time.
• The tournament was hosted in Malaysia and featured top international hockey teams.
• India reached the final with strong performances but could not overcome Belgium in the title clash.
• The win highlights Belgium’s continued rise as a leading force in global men’s hockey.
• The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup serves as a key preparatory event for teams ahead of major international competitions.

Virat Kohli has created cricketing history by scoring his 52nd ODI century, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record. This milestone reinforces Kohli’s status as one of the greatest modern-day batsmen and marks a defining moment in international cricket.

Key Points:

• Virat Kohli has achieved his 52nd ODI century, overtaking Sachin Tendulkar’s iconic record for the most centuries in One Day Internationals.
• The landmark century reflects Kohli’s unmatched consistency, skill, and longevity in the limited-overs format.
• His record-breaking feat has been celebrated globally, with fans and cricket experts praising his relentless pursuit of excellence.
• Kohli’s achievement adds to his already stellar career, which includes numerous records across formats and crucial performances in major tournaments.
• This milestone strengthens his legacy and further cements his place among the greatest players in the history of world cricket.

Nagaland Statehood Day is observed every year on 1 December to commemorate the formation of Nagaland as the 16th state of India in 1963. The day highlights the state’s rich tribal heritage, cultural diversity, and its significant journey towards becoming an integral part of the Indian Union. Nagaland Statehood Day 2025 celebrates the state’s legacy, traditions, and continued progress.

Key Points:

• Nagaland became the 16th state of India on 1 December 1963 after years of negotiations and peaceful agreements between Naga leaders and the Government of India.
• The state is known for its vibrant tribal culture, comprising 16 major tribes, each with unique customs, attire, festivals, and languages.
• The Hornbill Festival, which begins on the same day every year, showcases the cultural richness of Nagaland through performances, crafts, cuisines, and traditional games.
• Nagaland Statehood Day also honors the contributions of leaders who worked towards peace, identity preservation, and political recognition for the people of the state.
• In 2025, the celebrations highlight the state’s progress in tourism, handicrafts, music, infrastructure, and its growing role in promoting eco-cultural heritage in the North East.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the EARTH Summit 2025 in Gandhinagar, highlighting India’s commitment to sustainability, environmental resilience, and climate-focused innovation. The summit brings together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to discuss solutions for environmental challenges and sustainable development.

Key Points:

• The EARTH Summit 2025 was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• The summit focuses on themes such as environmental sustainability, climate action, green technologies, and resilient development models.
• It provides a platform for dialogue among government representatives, industry leaders, researchers, and civil society organisations.
• Discussions aim to promote innovative solutions and policy frameworks for addressing climate change and ecological conservation.
• The event reflects India’s broader commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility and sustainable development goals.

The 7th India International Seaweed Expo & Summit is scheduled to take place in Kochi in January 2026, bringing together industry experts, researchers, and stakeholders. The event will focus on strengthening India’s seaweed sector through innovation, investment, and global collaboration.

Key Points:

• The 7th India International Seaweed Expo & Summit will be hosted in Kochi in January 2026.
• The event aims to promote advancements and opportunities in India’s emerging seaweed industry.
• It will bring together global researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.
• Discussions will include sustainable cultivation, processing technologies, and market expansion.
• The expo is expected to boost India’s vision of becoming a major player in the global seaweed economy.