“IMPORTANT DAYS”

Goa Liberation Day 2025

Goa Liberation Day 2025 is observed on 19 December across the state of Goa with pride and patriotic fervour. This day commemorates the historic liberation of Goa from over 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule in 1961. It honors the bravery of the Indian armed forces, the sacrifices of freedom fighters, and the long struggle of Goans for self-rule. Though India became independent in 1947 Goa’s freedom came later, making this day a crucial chapter in India’s post-independence history.

“AWARDS”

PM Modi Receives Oman’s Highest Honour, 29th International Award

Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred Oman’s highest national honour which is The First Class of the Order of Oman, marking yet another milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach. With this recognition, PM Modi has now received 29 top foreign state honours, reflecting India’s rising stature and his personal global influence. The award was presented during PM Modi’s visit to Muscat, the final leg of his three-nation foreign tour.

“DEFENCE”

Exercise Desert Cyclone II Begins: India–U.A.E. Joint Military Exercise

India and the United Arab Emirates continue to strengthen their defence partnership with the conduct of Exercise Desert Cyclone II. The second edition of their joint military exercise. The Indian Army contingent has departed for Abu Dhabi, where the exercise will be held from 18 to 30 December 2025. Announced by the Ministry of Defense. This exercise reflects the growing strategic trust, operational synergy, and military diplomacy between the two countries.

“APPOITMENTS”

Sairam Appointed as New Chairman and Managing Director of Coal India

State-owned miner Coal India appointed Sairam as its new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), succeeding Sanoj Kumar Jha, who was holding interim charge after P.M. Prasad’s superannuation. Prior to this role, B. Sairam served as CMD of Northern Coalfields Limited and earlier as Director (Technical) at Coal India’s subsidiary Central Coalfields Limited.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONA NEWS”

Brazil Hands Over BRICS Presidency to India

Brazil officially transferred the BRICS presidency to India on December 12, 2025, during the concluding session of the 4th BRICS Sherpas Meeting. The ceremonial handover marked a leadership transition within the bloc as India prepares to steer BRICS discussions and initiatives in 2026. BRICS is a grouping of major emerging economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aimed at promoting cooperation among Global South countries in areas such as development, trade, finance, and global governance reform.

Lionel Messi Virtually Unveiled 70-Foot Statue in Kolkata during GOAT India Tour 2025

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi virtually unveiled a towering 70-foot statue of himself in Lake Town, Kolkata, as part of the kickoff to his GOAT India Tour 2025, marking a grand tribute to his iconic career. The statue, depicting Messi and celebrating his achievements, including the FIFA World Cup, was commissioned at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club and revealed remotely by the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ahead of his arrival in the city.

Jyotiraditya Scindia Unveils 25-Foot Statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Belagavi, Karnataka

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled a 25-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Athani in Karnataka’s Belagavi district, calling it a historic moment that celebrates India’s spirit of courage, self-respect, and national duty.

The unveiling symbolizes a resolve to carry forward the ideals of Hindavi Swaraj, inspiring future generations with Shivaji Maharaj’s values of fearlessness, strategic brilliance, and visionary leadership.

University of Patanjali Declared India’s First Yoga and Ayurveda-Based Cluster Centre under Gyan Bharatam Mission

The University of Patanjali has been designated as India’s first Yoga and Ayurveda-based Cluster Centre under the Gyan Bharatam Mission of the Ministry of Culture, aimed at preserving and promoting ancient Indian knowledge systems. As a Cluster Centre, the university will mentor 20 institutions nationwide and lead efforts in research, education, digitisation, and dissemination of manuscripts related to Yoga, Ayurveda, and allied traditions.