Current Affairs - December 21, 2024 Current Affairs

China set a new global spacewalk record with two astronauts, Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong, completing a nine-hour extravehicular activity (EVA) outside the Tiangong space station. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 8 hours and 56 minutes held by U.S. astronauts since 2001. The record-setting spacewalk highlights China’s growing presence in space exploration and its ambitious plans for future lunar missions, marking a significant milestone in its space program.

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has been named the brand ambassador for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, 2025. The event will feature teams from 24 countries and aims to elevate Kho Kho's global profile. Salman Khan expressed his personal connection with the sport and its cultural importance in India, highlighting that the tournament would not only be a competitive event but also a tribute to the country's strength and spirit.

India has ranked 39th in the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, marking a significant improvement from 54th place in 2021. This leap reflects the recovery in global tourism, as well as India's expanding role in medical and cultural tourism. Key factors contributing to the growth include the boost in medical tourism, government infrastructure schemes, and the country’s rich cultural heritage, making India a top destination for international travellers.

Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old Indian-American born in Chennai, was crowned Miss India USA 2024 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey. Currently a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, Caitlin is passionate about women's empowerment and literacy. She aspires to make a positive impact in her community while pursuing a career in web design, modelling, and acting. Her win highlights her commitment to both social causes and personal growth, reflecting her vision for the future.

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) will celebrate its 61st Raising Day on December 20, 2024, in Ranidanga, Siliguri. The event will highlight the achievements, cultural heritage, and contributions of the force to border security. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is invited to attend this significant event, which will include a grand parade, cultural performances, and displays of traditional Indian arts and sports. The event will reflect the rich diversity of the region, with a special focus on local tribal communities' traditions.

International Human Solidarity Day is observed annually on December 20th, highlighting the collective responsibility of individuals and governments to foster a just and equitable world. Established by the UN General Assembly in 2005, the day emphasizes the importance of global solidarity in tackling challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change, urging nations and people to work together for peace, social justice, and sustainable development. The observance serves as a reminder of the importance of unity in addressing global challenges.

The Central government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $42 million loan agreement aimed at strengthening coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. This initiative is designed to enhance the resilience of coastal communities against coastal erosion, flooding, and climate change. The project includes hybrid approaches like offshore reefs, rock protection works, and nature-based solutions such as beach and dune nourishment. It also focuses on boosting local sectors such as tourism and fisheries, vital for the state's economy, and incorporates advanced technologies for better shoreline management.

World Basketball Day is observed every year on December 21 to celebrate the development and significance of basketball as a sport. It honours the legacy of Dr. James Naismith, who invented the game on this day in 1891. The celebration highlights basketball’s role in promoting values such as athleticism, joy, and companionship, and its ability to bring people together globally. Additionally, it emphasizes basketball's role in fostering physical activity and collaboration across cultures and communities worldwide.

India is collaborating with France Museums Développement (FMD) to establish the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum, set to become the world’s largest cultural institution. This museum will be located in New Delhi and span 1,55,000 square meters. The collaboration draws on France's extensive expertise in museum development, inspired by renowned projects like the Louvre. The museum will not only celebrate India's civilizational history but also reflect a significant partnership between India and France in cultural heritage preservation and development.

Goa Liberation Day is celebrated annually on December 19 to mark the end of 451 years of Portuguese colonial rule in 1961. This day honours the freedom fighters' sacrifices and celebrates Goa’s integration into India. The event also highlights the struggles and cultural significance of the region, commemorating the bravery of those involved in Goa's liberation and the role of the Indian army in ending Portuguese rule. The occasion is celebrated with various cultural programs, school activities, and public pride.

Masali, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, is India’s first border solar village. Situated just 40 kilometres from the Pakistan border, the village has achieved the remarkable feat of generating 100% of its electricity through solar power. The project involved installing solar panels on 199 rooftops, making it a key part of India’s renewable energy and rural electrification efforts. The initiative is aligned with the larger Border Development Project, which aims to provide sustainable energy to multiple border villages across the country.