Nigeria Becomes BRICS Partner
Nigeria has officially joined the BRICS bloc, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as a partner country. This significant move acknowledges Nigeria’s growing economic influence as Africa’s largest economy and its sixth-largest population globally. BRICS, which was established in 2009 to promote South-South cooperation and reform global governance, will benefit from Nigeria’s participation. The partnership is expected to enhance collaboration in trade, infrastructure, technology, and energy, aligning with the bloc’s goals of fostering inclusivity and reducing Western dominance.
Kalaripayattu Controversy Mars 38th National Games
As the 38th National Games near, Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s ancient martial art, faces controversy. The Indian Kalaripayattu Federation is upset by the Indian Olympics Association’s (IOA) decision to demote it to a demonstration event. This has disappointed athletes and led to debates about the sport’s competitive status. The Delhi High Court intervened, ordering a review of Kalaripayattu’s position in the Games. The IOA is now reconsidering its decision based on this ruling.
Sanjiv Ranjan to Lead Indian Ocean Rim Association
Shri Sanjiv Ranjan has been appointed as the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), effective January 1, 2025. Announced on December 30, 2024, by the Ministry of External Affairs, Ranjan, an experienced diplomat from the 1993 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, has previously served in key positions such as Deputy High Commissioner to Mauritius and Ambassador to Argentina and Colombia. His appointment highlights India’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation among Indian Ocean Rim countries.
New Leadership at Zurich Kotak General Insurance
Alok Kumar Agarwal has been named the new Managing Director and CEO of Zurich Kotak General Insurance, starting January 1, 2025. Succeeding Suresh Agarwal, Alok brings over 20 years of experience from ICICI Lombard General Insurance. This appointment follows Zurich Insurance Group’s strategic acquisition of a majority stake in Kotak Mahindra General Insurance in June 2024, marking a significant entry into India’s booming insurance sector.
India’s Breakthrough in Anti-Drone Technology: ‘Bhargavastra’ Micro-Missile
India successfully tested the Bhargavastra micro-missile system, its first indigenous defense against drone swarms. Developed to enhance the nation’s security capabilities, Bhargavastra detects small drones at over 6 km and neutralizes them with precision-guided micro-munitions. The system can launch more than 64 micro missiles simultaneously and is deployable on mobile platforms. Tests at Gopalpur Seaward Firing Ranges showcased its effectiveness, hitting targets beyond 2.5 km. This milestone marks a significant advancement in India’s defense technology.
Panama Canal: A Nexus of History and Controversy
The Panama Canal, a vital link in global trade, has seen its share of disputes since its inception. Initially constructed by the French and later completed by the U.S. in 1914, the canal remained under U.S. control until 1999. Ownership transitioned to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, leading to its current management by the Panama Canal Authority. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the handover, while Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino defended the canal’s administration. This strategic waterway continues to be a contentious yet indispensable asset in international commerce.