Explosive Drone Attack Targets High-Rises in Kazan Amid Ukraine-Russia Conflict
On December 21, 2024, several explosive-laden drones, believed to be part of Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, targeted residential high-rises in Kazan, the capital of Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan. The coordinated attack resulted in significant damage to multiple buildings. Local authorities have reported no casualties so far, but the incident has heightened tensions and led to increased security measures in the region.
India Engages in Key Discussions at 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting, Hosted by Thailand
India actively participated in the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM), held virtually by Thailand on December 20, 2024. Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), represented India. The meeting reviewed the progress made since their last session in March 2023, covering various priority areas such as sustainable development, connectivity, security, and people-to-people exchanges. The officials also outlined future plans to strengthen regional cooperation and enhance mutual understanding among BIMSTEC member states.
Delhi to Host Historic 2025 Para Athletics World Championships
India is gearing up to host the 2025 Para Athletics World Championships, marking a historic first for the country. Scheduled from September 26 to October 5, 2025, the event will take place at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. This will be the 12th edition of the championships and the fourth time it is held in Asia.
The championships are expected to draw over 1,000 athletes from more than 100 nations, serving as a significant event in the lead-up to the Los Angeles Paralympic Games 2028. This occasion is set to elevate India’s status on the global sports stage and play a crucial role in advancing the Paralympic movement within the country.
NTPC Unveils Plans for Nuclear Power Project in Bihar
NTPC, one of India’s leading power giants, has announced ambitious plans to establish a nuclear power project in Bihar as part of its strategy to diversify its energy portfolio. Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Gurdeep Singh revealed this initiative during the Bihar Business Connect 2024 summit. NTPC is seeking a suitable land parcel from the state government to proceed with the nuclear power project, which aligns with their broader goal of increasing non-fossil energy capacity. This project is part of NTPC’s extensive investments in renewable energy sources, including rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar, floating solar, pumped storage, and battery energy storage solutions.
Dr. Deepa Malik’s Memoir ‘BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life’ to be Published by HarperCollins India
HarperCollins India is set to release ‘BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life’, a compelling memoir by Dr. Deepa Malik, one of India’s most celebrated para-athletes. This book delves into Dr. Malik’s extraordinary journey, chronicling her battles against spinal tumors and societal prejudices, as well as her triumphs in the world of sports. With 23 international medals to her name, including a silver at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Dr. Malik’s story is a testament to her resilience, determination, and indomitable spirit.
Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat: MoD Contracts L&T for K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Guns
In a significant move to enhance the firepower of the Indian Army and further the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a Rs 7,628.70 crore contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the procurement of additional K9 VAJRA-T self-propelled tracked artillery guns. This falls under the “Buy (Indian)” category, emphasizing India’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The K9 VAJRA-T guns, known for their mobility and precision, are designed to operate efficiently in harsh conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and high altitudes. This procurement is expected to generate employment for over nine lakh man-days over the next four years, involving active participation from various Indian industries, including MSMEs. This project will significantly bolster India’s defense capabilities and support the local industry.