PM Modi Becomes First World Leader to Receive Ethiopia’s Highest Civilian Award
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, becoming the first global Head of State or Government to receive it. Awarded during his visit to Addis Ababa, this marks PM Modi’s 28th foreign State honour. The recognition highlights India’s rising global stature, strengthens India–Ethiopia strategic ties, and underscores India’s growing influence in Africa and the Global South.
Vijay Diwas 2025: Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 and the Formation of Bangladesh
Vijay Diwas 2025, observed on 16 December, marks 54 years of India’s historic victory in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh. The day honours the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers and the Mukti Bahini, whose joint efforts ended oppression in East Pakistan and reshaped South Asia’s geopolitical landscape.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Launches Sujalam Bharat App: A Digital Leap in Rural Water Governance
The Union Minister of Jal Shakti has launched the Sujalam Bharat App, a transformative digital initiative under the Jal Jeevan Mission to strengthen rural drinking water governance. By introducing the Sujal Gaon ID, the platform ensures transparency, accountability, and community participation in water supply systems. This technology-driven reform supports sustainable, reliable, and citizen-centric delivery of safe drinking water across rural India.
Western Tragopan (Jujurana) — The State Bird of Himachal Pradesh: Status, Habitat, Threats & Protection
The Western Tragopan, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the world’s rarest pheasants. While captive breeding efforts offer temporary relief, the species continues to face severe threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, and human disturbance. Long-term survival depends on stronger in-situ conservation and habitat restoration.
Deepavali Added to UNESCO Heritage List: Significance and Key Highlights
Deepavali, India’s iconic festival of lights, has been added to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2025, highlighting its cultural significance and vibrant traditions. UNESCO’s list recognises living practices such as rituals, festive events, crafts, and oral traditions that strengthen community identity and preserve global cultural diversity. With Deepavali’s inclusion, India adds another rich tradition to its heritage entries like Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, and Vedic chanting.
India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025: Theme, Significance, and Key Highlights
The 11th India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 began in Panchkula, Haryana, showcasing India’s scientific achievements. Organized by MoES and IITM Pune, the festival’s theme “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat” highlights science-led growth through 150+ sessions focused on innovation, biotechnology, traditional knowledge, and societal impact.