December 21, 2024:
1. China Sets New Spacewalk Record: Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong completed a 9-hour spacewalk outside the Tiangong space station, surpassing the previous record held by NASA astronauts.
2. India's Renewable Energy Investment Surges: In 2023, India's renewable energy sector attracted a record investment of ₹30,255 crore ($3.66 billion), with Gujarat leading in investments.
3. Barack Obama Recognizes Indian Film: Former U.S. President Barack Obama included the Indian film 'All We Imagine As Light' in his list of top movies for 2024.
4. Mexico City Prepares for 2026 FIFA World Cup: The city plans to enhance mobility and security, increasing its mobility budget to nearly 7 billion pesos, in anticipation of the upcoming World Cup.
5. WhatsApp Wins Legal Case Against Spyware Maker: WhatsApp secured a legal victory against NSO Group, the maker of Pegasus spyware, marking a significant step in combating unlawful surveillance.
6. U.S. Senate Confirms 235th Judge Under Biden: The Senate approved the 235th judicial nominee of President Biden's term, surpassing the number confirmed during the Trump administration.
7. Over 2 Million People in Gaza Facing Dire Conditions: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that more than 2 million individuals remain trapped in severe conditions in Gaza, exacerbated by worsening weather.
8. Easterine Kire Wins Sahitya Akademi Award: Nagaland author Easterine Kire received the 2024 Sahitya Akademi Award in English for her novel 'Spirit Nights'.
9. ADB Approves Loan for Coastal Protection in Maharashtra: The Asian Development Bank sanctioned a $42 million loan to enhance coastal protection measures in Maharashtra, aiming to bolster resilience against environmental challenges.
10. New Delhi to Host 2025 Para Athletics World Championship: For the first time, India will host the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, scheduled from September 26 to October 5, 2025.
