Current Affairs - December 24, 2025 Current Affairs

Japan has moved forward with the final approval required to restart the world’s largest nuclear power plant, marking a significant development in its energy policy. This decision comes nearly 15 years after the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, which had a profound impact on nuclear operations across the country. The plant in question, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, is located in Niigata Prefecture and will be operated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO). The restart reflects Japan’s cautious but determined approach toward reviving nuclear energy while addressing safety concerns rooted in past experiences.

Shubham Awasthi, an advocate by profession, has been honoured with the prestigious 40 Under 40 Lawyer Award 2025. This award is regarded as one of the most respected recognitions within the Indian legal community. It celebrates not only professional excellence in the field of law but also acknowledges commitment to public service and humanitarian values. The award was presented during the 6th BW Legal World 40 Under 40 Lawyers and Legal Influencers Awards 2025, held in New Delhi, bringing together distinguished legal professionals from across the country.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the user evaluation trials of the Next Generation Akash missile system, also known as Akash-NG. These trials demonstrated the missile’s ability to intercept aerial targets at varying ranges and altitudes, highlighting its effectiveness in modern air defence scenarios. Designed to counter multiple aerial threats, the Akash-NG system incorporates advanced technologies such as an indigenous Radio Frequency seeker for improved target accuracy. Powered by a solid rocket motor, the missile reflects India’s growing capabilities in developing advanced, self-reliant defence systems.

Kiran Ankush Jadhav, a Navy shooter, emerged victorious in the 10 metre Air Rifle Men final at the 68th National Shooting Championship. The prestigious event took place at the MP State Shooting Academy in Bhopal and featured top shooting talent from across the country. Jadhav’s performance stood out in the senior men’s category, earning him the gold medal. Alongside his achievement, other categories also witnessed strong performances, with Mohammed Murtaza Vania winning the junior men’s gold and Onkar Vikas Waghamare claiming the youth men’s title, highlighting the depth of shooting talent in India.

India announced a substantial relief package worth $450 million to support Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. The assistance includes a $100 million grant along with $350 million in credit, aimed at supporting key sectors such as infrastructure, housing, health, education, and agriculture. The aid is being delivered under Operation Sagar Bandhu, reflecting India’s commitment to regional cooperation and humanitarian support. This initiative aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and plays a significant role in strengthening diplomatic ties and long-term cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.

National Consumer Day is observed annually in India on December 24 to commemorate the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, which came into force on the same date in 1986. The day highlights the importance of consumer rights and awareness, encouraging fair trade practices and accountability among businesses. In 2025, the theme focuses on efficient and speedy disposal of consumer grievances through digital justice. The observance also reflects the evolution of consumer protection laws, including the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the establishment of the Central Consumer Protection Authority in July 2020.

Odisha has announced the organisation of special Gram Sabhas across all areas governed under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, to commemorate the National PESA Mahotsav. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and highlights the state’s focus on strengthening grassroots democracy in Scheduled Areas. The initiative is jointly organised by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. PESA, which came into force on December 24, 1996, aims to empower tribal communities by granting them greater self-governance through Gram Sabhas.

The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is strategically located on the Subansiri River along the Arunachal Pradesh–Assam border. This large-scale renewable energy project has a total installed capacity of 2,000 MW, consisting of eight units of 250 MW each, with Unit-2 recently commissioned. Developed by NHPC, it is the largest hydropower project in India and features the biggest dam in North-East India. Beyond power generation, the project plays a vital role in flood moderation and contributes significantly to sustainable energy development in the region.

Hansi has been officially declared a new district in the state of Haryana following a government decision to reorganise the existing Hisar district. With this administrative change, Hansi becomes the 23rd district of Haryana, marking an important step in improving governance and administrative efficiency in the region. The newly formed district comprises the Hansi and Narnaund subdivisions. The notification for this change was issued under the provisions of the Haryana Land Revenue Act, 1887, and the Registration Act, 1908, ensuring the legal framework for the district’s formation.

The Rashtra Prerna Sthal is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the city of Lucknow. The inauguration coincides with the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, adding historical significance to the event. Developed at a cost of around ₹230 crore, the project features 65-foot-high bronze statues of prominent national leaders including Syama Prasad Mukherjee, Deendayal Upadhyaya, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The site also houses a modern, lotus-shaped museum spread across 98,000 square feet, designed to showcase India’s political and cultural legacy.