1.            BRICS Chairmanship by Putin : Putin started Russia’s 2024 BRICS Chairmanship, emphasizing multilateral development efforts among Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

2.            Pakistan IMF Tranche : Pakistan is set to receive a $700 million bailout tranche from the IMF in January, aimed at supporting its struggling economy.

3.            India Developments : India witnessed significant events such as the appointment of a new Secretary for the Commission, reduction in the age limit for old-age  pensions in        Jharkhand, and a surge in UPI transactions.

4.            Nationwide Strike and Regional Initiatives: A nationwide strike by truckers and operators, while various states like Uttar Pradesh and Assam inaugurated innovative projects like a floating restaurant and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

5.            Economic Indicators : India Inc.’s investment saw a decline in the first nine months of FY24, while household financial savings decreased, and liability increased, according to      RBI’s Financial Stability Report.

6.            Business Developments : Flipkart’s co-founder launched a new startup, Ola Electric secured government incentives, and TCS launched a simplified system for importing medical devices in India.

7.            Appointments and International News : Key appointments in various Indian companies and the appointment of Chad’s transitional Prime Minister Succes Masra. Additionally, international collaborations between France, Germany, and India for urban infrastructure were highlighted.

8.            Miscellaneous News : Professor Ved Prakash Nanda’s passing, Francoise Bettencourt           Meyers’ historic fortune, Jammu and Kashmir’s implementation  of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and airport punctuality rankings in Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

9.            Special Days and Schemes : International Mind-Body Wellness Day observed  on January 3, and Rajasthan’s effort to integrate its Chiranjeevi scheme with Ayushman Bharat were mentioned.