Current Affairs - December 18, 2023 Current Affairs

Reuven Azar has been appointed as Israel's Ambassador to India and will concurrently serve as the non-resident Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Bhutan, expanding his diplomatic role.

India's Akash missile system achieved a global first during the 'Astrashakti' military exercise by engaging four aerial targets simultaneously at a range of 25 kilometres, showcasing India's technological prowess and unique capabilities.

The Swarved Mahamandir, a seven-story marvel blending ancient and modern technology, was inaugurated in Varanasi, serving as the world's largest meditation centre and accommodating 20,000 seekers for inner peace.

Bhashini AI, a government-developed tool, was utilized for real-time translation during a speech in Uttar Pradesh, enhancing communication across diverse linguistic communities within the country.

Aster Medcity, situated in Kochi, Kerala, and a unit of Aster DM Healthcare, achieved the No.1 ranking in the 'Best Multi-specialty Hospital Emerging' category by The Week-Hansa Research 2023, reaffirming its dedication to providing quality healthcare services.

International Migrants Day is observed annually on December 18, providing a global platform to recognize and appreciate the substantial contributions of migrants while addressing the challenges they encounter.

Genrobotics, a prominent Kerala-based startup, was recognized at the GPAI Summit 2023, securing a top-three spot among Indian AI startups and receiving the prestigious 'AI Game Changers' award for its contributions to societal impact through Artificial Intelligence.

The Kotak School of Sustainability, India's first fully integrated school of sustainability, was established through a collaboration between Kotak Mahindra Bank and IIT Kanpur. The initiative was inaugurated by Shri. Dharmendra Pradhan, the Hon’ble Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India.

The TIWB program, initiated by the UNDP and OECD, was launched in Saint Lucia, with India as the Administration Partner, aiming to empower and enhance the country's tax administration for economic development and stability.

Haryana clinched the 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy title with a 30-run victory over Rajasthan at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, marking a historic achievement for the state in Indian domestic cricket.

The NCRB data highlights Hyderabad as the top city for food adulteration cases in 2022, emphasizing the severity of the issue in the region and its surrounding areas.

The Surface Air Missile for Assured Retaliation (SAMAR) air defence missile system, successfully tested by the Indian Air Force at Air Force Station Suryalanka in Andhra Pradesh, is designed as a 'Surface to Air Missile,' marking a significant achievement in the IAF's strategic self-reliance efforts.

The 'Indus Solitaire Program' by IndusInd Bank is tailored to meet the distinct needs of the diamond industry, offering exclusive benefits and features such as 24/7 locker access, family account add-ons, and zero cross-currency markup fees. This initiative underscores the bank's commitment to serving the diamond community.

The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawab Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, passed away at the age of 86, prompting a one-day state mourning in India on December 17, 2023.