India Wins Zero-Duty Access on 100% Goods Exports to New Zealand After FTA
India secured zero-duty access for all goods exports to New Zealand following the successful completion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The pact is designed to deepen trade and investment, with New Zealand committing to facilitating significant Indian investments. The agreement aims to double bilateral trade within five years and marks India’s third major trade deal in 2025. New Zealand has pledged to invest about $20 billion in India over the next 15 years. While most Indian goods will enjoy duty-free access, some sensitive sectors may be excluded or bound by quotas and safeguards. The FTA is expected to stimulate services, investment, and technology ties between the two nations.
India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement concluded; zero-duty access for all Indian exports.
NZ to invest approximately $20 billion in India over 15 years.
Bilateral trade expected to double within five years.
Some sensitive Indian sectors may be restricted or quota-bound.
Third major India trade deal in 2025; emphasis on services and investment.
Ambuja Cements Board Approves ACC and Orient Cement Amalgamation
The board of Ambuja Cements, a member of the Adani group, approved the amalgamation of its subsidiaries ACC Ltd and Orient Cement with the parent company to create a pan-India cement powerhouse. The merger is intended to unlock operational efficiencies by standardising manufacturing and logistics, and by enabling efficient capital deployment across the enlarged network. The consolidation aims to simplify the network, branding, and sales-promotion spends, leading to cost rationalisation. Management expects margin enhancement of at least Rs 100 per metric tonne as a result of the integration, along with elimination of structural duplication and faster, more agile decision-making. Regulatory clearances and detailed integration planning will follow the board’s approval.
Ambuja Cements to amalgamate ACC Ltd and Orient Cement with itself.
Objective: pan-India cement powerhouse with improved logistics and manufacturing efficiency.
Cost rationalisation through branding and promotions optimization.
Projected margin uplift of at least Rs 100 per metric tonne.
Reduction of duplicated structures and faster decision-making expected.
Oman Launches First Polymer One-Rial Banknote
Oman has introduced its first polymer one-rial banknote, signaling a shift in currency design and security standards. Issued by the Central Bank of Oman, the polymer note will enter circulation from 11 January 2026 and will circulate alongside existing paper-based notes as legal tender. The move underscores a push toward more durable currency and enhanced security features, reducing wear and counterfeiting risk. The transition will be managed to ensure a smooth exchange of old and new notes, with both notes remaining valid until a full phase-out, if any, is announced by monetary authorities.
Central Bank of Oman issues first polymer one-rial note.
Circulation begins January 11, 2026; coexists with paper notes.
Polymer design enhances durability and security.
India Sees Rs 492 Billion Debt Sale by States and PSUs in a Single Day
Indian markets faced a heavy debt supply on Tuesday as states and state-owned entities planned to raise 492 billion rupees in a single-day debt sale. The issue targets include 332 billion rupees from states, 60 billion from Power Finance Corporation, and 100 billion from Bank of India through infrastructure bonds. Market participants cited a demand-supply mismatch as fixed-income yields rose following an RBI rate cut earlier in December. Analysts warned about the challenge of absorbing such a large float amid ongoing investor caution and rising redemptions in the next financial year. The move signals a higher-than-usual debt supply cycle as the government seeks funding for infrastructure and development programs.
States and PSUs plan 492 billion rupees in one-day debt sale.
Major contributors: 332b (states), 60b (Power Finance Corp), 100b (Bank of India).
Yields have risen due to supply surge; RBI policy stance weighs in.
Indicates elevated funding needs for infrastructure.
Japan Takes Final Step to Restart World’s Largest Nuclear Power Plant
Japan moved toward restarting the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest, after a regional vote. This marks a key moment in Japan’s post-Fukushima energy strategy, aiming to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. Kashiwazaki-Kariwa had been among reactors shut down since 2011, with 14 of 33 reactors now back in operation nationwide. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) will operate the plant, which is intended to bolster domestic energy security and provide a lower-emission power source for Japan’s grid amid ongoing energy transition and climate goals.
Kashiwazaki-Kariwa restart moves forward after regional vote.
Aims to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels; lower emissions.
Smriti Mandhana Becomes First Indian Woman to Cross 4,000 T20I Runs
Indian women’s cricket star Smriti Mandhana achieved a historic milestone by surpassing 4,000 runs in Twenty20 International cricket, during the first WT20I against Sri Lanka in Visakhapatnam. Mandhana, a stylish left-handed batter, joined New Zealand great Suzie Bates in the elite 4,000-run club. The achievement underscores her consistency and longevity across formats, contributing to India’s competitive standing in women’s cricket. As one of India’s leading batters, Mandhana’s form provides a benchmark for young players and amplifies visibility for the women’s game on domestic and international stages.
Mandhana crosses 4,000 WT20I runs; first Indian woman to do so.
Achieved in the WT20I against Sri Lanka in Visakhapatnam.
Joins Suzie Bates as the 4,000-run club member.
Highlights Mandhana’s consistency and impact on India’s batting lineup.
East Bengal FC Clinches SAFF Women’s Club Title in Kathmandu
East Bengal FC claimed the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship title with a 3–0 victory over Nepal’s APF in the final at Dasarath Stadium, Kathmandu. The triumph makes East Bengal the first Indian women’s club side to win an international competition, marking a landmark moment in South Asian women’s football. The SAFF Women’s Club Championship, newly introduced by the South Asian Football Federation, aims to elevate regional women’s club football and provide high-level exposure for participant clubs. East Bengal’s performance showcased tactical discipline and attacking efficiency on a difficult stage.
East Bengal FC wins inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship.
Final score: East Bengal 3–0 APF (Nepal).
First Indian women’s club to win an international title.
Pro Wrestling League Unveils New Logo Ahead of 2026 Season
The Pro Wrestling League (PWL), backed by the Wrestling Federation of India, unveiled a new official logo ahead of its 2026 season. The refreshed emblem signals a revival after a seven-year hiatus and coincides with a broader restructuring under new ownership. The league plans to resume in January 2026, featuring top Indian and international wrestlers. The updated branding reflects a modern, dynamic identity inspired by traditional wrestling elements, aiming to attract sponsors, fans, and broadcasters while aligning with contemporary sports marketing standards.
PWL unveils new logo ahead of 2026 season.
League set to resume in January 2026 after hiatus.
Indian Posts & Telecommunications Accounts & Finance Service Celebrates its 51st Foundation Day
The Indian Posts & Telecommunications Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS), a Central Civil Service recruited through the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), celebrated its 51st Foundation Year as Sanchar Vitta Lekha Diwas, and organised the Communication Finance Summit 2025.
Addressing the gathering, the Controller General of Communication Accounts (CGCA), Ms. Vandana Gupta, highlighted the 51-year institutional journey of IP&TAFS and its pivotal role in strengthening financial governance in India's telecommunications and postal sectors. She reflected on the transformative impact of economic reforms, liberalisation, and rapid technological advancements that reshaped the roles of the Department of Telecommunications and the Department of Posts.
Suspended TMC Leader Launches New Party
The former TMC leader Humayun Kabir launched the new party named 'Janata Unnayan Party' following his suspension from the Trinamool Congress over remarks in which he claimed that he would inaugurate a Babri Masjid in West Bengal's Murshidabad district.
Addressing a public meeting in Beldanga, Kabir named eight candidates whom his party will field in the 2026 Assembly elections in the state. He said he would himself contest from two seats, Rejinagar and Beldanga in Murshidabad district, and would soon release the names of other candidates.
GRSE Delivers Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft Anjadip to Indian Navy
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) delivered its fifth warship of the year to the Indian Navy. The Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) Anjadip is the third of eight platforms being built at GRSE. The vessel was handed over at the Chennai Port Trust and represents the 115th warship built by GRSE and the 77th delivered to the Navy. Rear Admiral Gautam Marwaha, VSM, CSO (Tech), Eastern Naval Command, accepted the warship. Anjadip strengthens the Navy’s ASW and littoral warfare capabilities, aligning with India’s maritime security priorities and GRSE’s production capacity growth.
GRSE delivered ASW SWC Anjadip to Indian Navy.
Fifth GRSE warship delivered in the year; third of eight ASW SWCs.
Anjadip is the 115th GRSE-built warship; 77th delivered to Navy.
Acceptance by Rear Admiral Gautam Marwaha, VSM, ECSO(T).
Trump Unveils ‘Trump-Class’ Battleships for US Navy
U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to build a new class of heavily armed battleships that would bear his name. The programme envisions the construction of two Trump-class vessels, with potential for future expansion. Officials described the ships as among the most lethal surface warfare platforms and the largest battleships in American history. The plan signals a bold push to modernise the U.S. Navy and expand strategic capabilities amid evolving global security dynamics. Details on ship specifications, funding, deployment timelines, and political approvals are expected in forthcoming defence and appropriations discussions.
Trump announces plan for two Trump-class battleships.
Vessels described as highly lethal surface warfare ships.
DRDO and Rashtriya Raksha University Sign MoU for Defence and Internal Security
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) have signed an agreement to foster collaboration in the areas of research, education, training, and technology support for defence and internal security. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked by Distinguished Scientist and Director General (Production Coordination and Services Interaction), Dr. Chandrika Kaushik, and Vice Chancellor, RRU, Professor Dr. Bimal N. Patel, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.
The MoU aims to strengthen country's self-reliance in defence and internal security technologies, in line with the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the whole-of-nation approach during Amrit Kaal.
Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi, a prominent Assamese actress from the 1960s and 1970s, died in Dibrugarh at the age of 80. She acted in notable films including Dr Bezbarua (1969), Kokadeuta Nati aru Hati (1983), and Maniram Dewan (1964). A dancer skilled in Bharatnatyam, Bordoloi helped shape Assam’s cultural landscape and worked with directors such as Bhupen Hazarika. She co-founded the theatre group Mancharupa in 1957 and participated in radio plays for All India Radio. Her contributions to cinema and culture were recognized with state honours, including the Bishnu Rabha Award.
Ranjana Sharma Bordoloi passed away in Dibrugarh at 80.
Prominent Assamese actress of 1960s–70s era.
Notable films: Dr Bezbarua, Kokadeuta Nati aru Hati, Maniram Dewan.
Dancer trained in Bharatnatyam; co-founded Mancharupa theatre group (1957).
Recipient of Bishnu Rabha Award; contributed to radio plays.
National Farmers Day Observed on December 23, 2025
National Farmers Day, or Kisan Diwas, is observed annually on December 23 to honour farmers’ contributions to India’s economy and food security. The 2025 observance highlights the role of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in globalising Indian agriculture under the theme Vikasit Bharat 2047 – The Role of FPOs in Globalising Indian Agriculture. The day underscores policy focus on agricultural development, rural prosperity, and sustainable farming. Since its formal inception in 2001, Farmers Day encompasses workshops, exhibitions, and announcements aimed at strengthening the farm sector’s productivity, resilience, and market integration across states.
National Farmers Day observed on December 23, 2025.
Theme emphasizes FPOs and globalisation of Indian agriculture.
Commemoration includes policy and agricultural development activities.
Advocate Shubham Awasthi Receives 40 Under 40 Lawyer Award
Advocate Shubham Awasthi, a Supreme Court practitioner, was honoured with the 40 Under 40 Lawyer Award 2025 at the BW Legal World event in New Delhi. The award recognises young legal professionals for professional excellence and humanitarian contributions. Awasthi’s work across constitutional law and public interest matters has positioned him among India’s rising legal voices. The event, now in its sixth edition, drew participation from senior advocates, policymakers, and former judges, highlighting the evolving landscape of India’s legal profession and opportunities for young lawyers to influence policy and practice.
Advocate Shubham Awasthi receives 40 Under 40 Lawyer Award 2025.
Award presented at BW Legal World 40 Under 40 awards in New Delhi.
Recognises legal excellence and humanitarian work.
Malayalam Publisher Ravi Deecee Receives French Chevalier Honour
Ravi Deecee, publisher and managing director of DC Books, was awarded France’s Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for contributions to literature and cross-cultural exchange. The honour recognises his efforts in promoting Malayalam publishing and world literature among Indian readers. The award, conferred by the French government, acknowledges Deecee’s long-standing role in building literary interfaces between India and Europe. The recognition underscores India’s rich regional publishing ecosystems and international cultural ties, with DC Books continuing to publish works across languages and genres.
Ravi Deecee awarded Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Recognises contributions to Malayalam publishing and cross-cultural exchange.
France honors Deecee for literary promotion in India.
Viksit Bharat-G RAM G Bill Gets President’s Assent
President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, following passage in Parliament in December. The Act replaces the MGNREGA framework and raises rural employment guarantees to 125 days per financial year. It aims to strengthen rural livelihoods through enhanced planning, funding, and delivery mechanisms under the Rural Development Ministry. The Government emphasises empowerment, inclusive growth, and convergence of development initiatives. This policy shift seeks to sustain rural employment and improve targeted outcomes, aligning with the broader Viksit Bharat 2047 agenda and a move toward longer-term, outcome-based rural development strategies.
President assent to VB-G RAM G Act, 2025; replaces MGNREGA.
Rural employment guarantee increased to 125 days per financial year.
New funding, planning, and delivery mechanisms introduced.
Aims for empowerment, inclusive growth, and convergence of initiatives.
Auroville Foundation Recommended for Institution National Importance Status
A Parliamentary panel has recommended recognising the Auroville Foundation in Pondicherry as an Institution of National Importance (INI). The report suggests amending the Auroville Foundation Act, 1988, noting UNESCO resolutions since 1966 supporting Auroville’s mission of international understanding and peace. INI status would place Auroville among premier Indian higher education and research bodies, with implications for funding, governance, and visa procedures. The panel also highlighted that the foundation receives central grants but should become financially self-sustaining, while retaining five-year visas for residents. The recommendation is a significant policy development in India’s cultural and educational landscape.
Parliamentary panel recommends INI status for Auroville Foundation.
Suggests amending Auroville Foundation Act, 1988.
UNESCO resolutions cited in support of Auroville’s international role.
Recommendation includes funding reform and visa considerations.
Telangana and West Bengal Account for 70% of Zero-Enrolment Government Schools
A government education data release shows that over 65,000 government schools across India reported fewer than 10 students in 2024–25, with 5,149 institutions having zero enrolment. Telangana and West Bengal together accounted for about 70% of zero-enrolment schools, highlighting regional disparities in attendance. The report notes a 24% rise in institutions with very low or no enrolment between 2022–23 and 2024–25, now constituting 6.42% of all government schools. This data signals challenges in infrastructure, enrolment retention, and equitable access to education across states, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and policy reforms.
Over 65,000 government schools have fewer than 10 students; 5,149 with zero enrolment.
Telangana and West Bengal account for ~70% of zero-enrolment schools.
Total institutions with very low/no enrolment up 24% since 2022–23.
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Hosts 5-day Cultural Gathering
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur is hosting the Inter-IIT Cultural Meet 8.0 (IICM 8.0) from December 23 to 27, 2025, bringing together students from across the Indian Institutes of Technology for one of the country's largest inter-institute cultural gatherings.
The five-day cultural conclave will witness participation from 23 IITs nationwide, fostering a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, creative collaboration, and artistic excellence. Recognised as the premier cultural event of the IIT fraternity, IICM celebrates creativity alongside academic brilliance, strengthening inter-IIT bonds through shared artistic experiences.
The eighth edition of the meet features 13 Cultural Cups, encompassing over 50 competitive events across a wide range of disciplines, including music, dance, theatre, literary arts, fine arts, fashion, filmmaking, digital arts, comedy, speaking arts, quizzes, and culinary arts. All events will be evaluated by renowned professionals and experts from their respective cultural domains, ensuring high standards of performance and fair assessment.
IICM 8.0 aims to showcase India's rich cultural diversity by bringing together classical, folk, and contemporary art forms from across the country.
HarperCollins India Publishes Mohar Basu’s Salman Khan Biography
HarperCollins India announced the publication of Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood, a biography by award-winning journalist Mohar Basu, slated for December 2025. The book surveys Khan’s career, iconic screen personas, memorable dialogues, and chart-topping songs, intertwining industry insights with archival photographs. Basu’s work aims to provide readers with a nuanced portrayal of a leading Bollywood figure whose influence spans multiple genres and eras. The title adds to India’s growing catalog of high-profile celebrity biographies from major publishing houses.
Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood by Mohar Basu published by HarperCollins India.
Biographical work covers Khan’s career, roles, and cultural impact.
Reinforces India’s popular biography publishing trend.