According to a year-end evaluation published on Wednesday, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of the Finance Ministry led effective efforts to improve India’s economic resilience and international integration in 2024. Notably, the revised Framework on Currency Swap Arrangements for SAARC Countries (2024–27) was agreed by the Union Cabinet, promoting regional integration and financial cooperation.

In order to encourage the internationalization of the Indian Rupee, this framework added an INR Swap Window valued at Rs 25,000 crore to the USD/Euro Swap Window.

These actions demonstrate India’s dedication to fostering closer relations with SAARC countries and ensuring regional financial stability.

While the India-Uzbekistan Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) focused on investor protection and dispute resolution procedures, the signing and implementation of the India-UAE BIT signaled a new chapter in promoting investor confidence and economic cooperation, further solidifying India’s international partnerships.

Deeper cooperation was also made possible by the establishment of the Joint Task Force on Investment between Qatar and India, and India’s initiative in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy demonstrated its leadership in tackling the region’s financial issues. These programs demonstrate India’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and international economic alliances.

To improve infrastructure and streamline investment procedures, the DEA implemented numerous Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) changes. By assessing and promoting infrastructure development across states and central ministries, the National Infrastructure Readiness Index (NIRI) was introduced, fostering cooperative and competitive federalism.

Concurrently, cross-border investments were made easier and procedures were streamlined by changes to foreign investment regulations, such as the Foreign Exchange Management Rules and the Overseas Direct Investment Regulation. Together, these programs improved India’s investment climate, allowing Indian businesses to expand internationally and increasing financial inclusion across the country.

Due to India’s tireless efforts as co-chair, the third IMF disbursement was approved, guaranteeing Sri Lanka’s return to a sustained economic recovery. By taking the initiative to help with debt resolution, India has demonstrated their continued commitment to the stabilization, recovery, and expansion of the Sri Lankan economy.

The National Infrastructure Readiness Index (NIRI), which was introduced in September 2024, aims to promote competitive and cooperative federalism. In order to improve their individual performance and further strengthen the climate for infrastructure development, this was done to promote competition among states/UTs and central infrastructure ministries/departments.

This paved the way for the development of infrastructure and the conditions that made it possible.

The famous economist and mastermind behind India’s economic reforms, former prime minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, died Thursday at the age of 92. After his condition deteriorated, he was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here.

Singh was born in Punjab on September 26, 1932, and graduated from Punjab University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in economics in 1952 and 1954, respectively. In 1957, Manmohan Singh graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in economics. In 1962, he earned a D.Phil. in Economics from Oxford University.

He was a member of the Rajya Sabha till the beginning of this year and was the UPA’s two-term prime minister from 2004 to 2014. Singh began his political career in 1991 and served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from 1998 to 2004.

Gursharan Kaur, his wife, and their three daughters survive him. The nation’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are anticipated to take part in honoring his memory when the funeral plans are announced. With Dr. Singh’s passing, a chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. Future generations will continue to be inspired by his leadership and legacy.

After serving five terms as an Assamese representative in the Upper House, he moved to Rajasthan in 2019. He opposed demonetisation in his most recent parliamentary intervention, calling it a “organised loot and legalised plunder.”

In a statement, the AIIMS acknowledged the news of Dr. Singh’s passing that “With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh aged 92. He was being treated for age related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the medical emergency at AIIMS. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9.51 p.m.”

As the nation’s prime minister from 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh was renowned for his pivotal role in guiding India’s economy through a period of substantial liberalization. When he served as finance minister in 1991, he is frequently credited with starting significant economic changes that modernized and integrated India’s economy with the world economy.

Dr. Singh was a well-respected individual in India and around the world for his intelligence and humility. India saw steady economic progress under his direction, which decreased poverty and improved the nation’s standing internationally. His administration was renowned for enacting important laws in fields including information, food security, and education.

In April this year, Manmohan Singh retired from Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praising his long parliamentary career. Manmohan Singh shot to prominence as the country’s Finance Minister in the government headed by PV Narasimha Rao during 1991-96, having brought in sweeping reforms that transformed the economy.

Taking to X, the President Droupadi Murmu wrote: “Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life and his utmost humility. His passing is a great loss to all of us. I pay my respectful homage to one of the greatest sons of Bharat and convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the death of former PM Manmohan Singh, who passed away here in the AIIMS at the age of 92.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote: “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.”

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, renowned economist and architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. He was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here following a deterioration in his health.

To commemorate National Consumers Day, the Department of Consumer Affairs will make available to the public the ‘Jago Grahak Jago App,’ ‘Jagriti App,’ and ‘Jagriti Dashboard“.

According to an official statement issued on Sunday, the Department’s activities aim to create a transparent and fair digital economy in which customers may make informed decisions without being misled or pressured. Consumers will also learn about their rights.

“The Apps would considerably enhance the capability of the CCPA in taking suo motu action to protect consumers against dark patterns,” according to the release.

The ‘Jago Grahak Jago App’ delivers critical e-commerce information about all URLs seen during a consumer’s online activity, informing them if any URL is potentially hazardous and should be avoided. Meanwhile, the ‘Jagriti App’ allows users to report URLs that they believe include one or more prohibited dark patterns. These reports are then filed as complaints with the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for possible redress and further action.

Furthermore, the CCPA is being enhanced with the ‘Jagriti Dashboard’, which generates real-time information on e-commerce URLs for the existence of black patterns, improving the ability to efficiently monitor and control online consumer interactions.

The ‘Jago Grahak Jago App’ delivers critical e-commerce information about all URLs seen during a consumer’s online activity, informing them if any URL is potentially hazardous and should be avoided. Meanwhile, the ‘Jagriti App’ allows users to report URLs that they believe include one or more prohibited dark patterns. These reports are then filed as complaints with the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for possible redress and further action.

Furthermore, the CCPA is being enhanced with the ‘Jagriti Dashboard’, which generates real-time information on e-commerce URLs for the existence of black patterns, improving the ability to efficiently monitor and control online consumer interactions.

The three apps are part of an intelligent cyber-physical system that runs in real time on the Airawat AI Supercomputer, which is part of the National Supercomputing Mission for AI and Data Analysis. According to the statement, this unique approach analyzes existing text and design elements on e-commerce platforms to see if they are being utilized to impact customer psychology.

CCPA had previously issued notices to IndiGo Airlines and BookMyShow under the Consumer Protection Act of 2019 for alleged misleading advertisements/unfair trade practices in the form of deceptive design patterns. Following the CCPA intervention, both companies implemented corrective procedures to ensure that consumers were treated fairly.

Filmmaker Anil Sharma’s new film “Vanvaas” released on 20th December this year, and its star, Nana Patekar, stated that the film talks to the spirit.

Nana stated, “Vanvaas is more than just a story; it is a representation of the feelings we frequently suppress deep within ourselves. Playing this role was like peeling back the layers of my own concept of family, honor, and belonging. It’s a film that appeals to the spirit, and I believe spectators will recognize aspects of their own journey in it.”

“Vanvaas” is an emotional rollercoaster that dives into the complexity of interpersonal relationships. The film redefines the concept of family, emphasizing that meaningful relationships are often formed through love and acceptance rather than blood. The film also features Utkarsh Sharma and Simrat Kaur. The nearly three-minute clip provides a glimpse into a story packed with vulnerability, perseverance, and the desire for belonging.

Anil, who has made films like “Apne,” “Gadar: Ek Prem Katha,” and “Gadar 2,” stated that the film is “deeply personal” to him.

He went on to say that it “explores themes of love, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a family.” Nana Patekar, Utkarsh, Simrat, Rajpal Yadav, and others have contributed unparalleled depth and realism to their portrayals. I can’t wait for audiences to see their adventure on the big screen.

The makers of the touching song “Bandhan” wrote, “A harmony of hearts, a connection through music. #Bandhan SONG OUT NOW!” The soulful music is a heartfelt melody that highlights the lead actors’ connection. Utkarsh Sharma and Simrat Kaur have delicate love moments, and Nana Patekar adds old-school charm as he romances his on-screen wife.

The song is performed by Vishal Mishra, Palak Muchhal, and Mithoon. Mithoon composed the song, and Sayeed Quadri wrote the lyrics.

A video of legendary playback singer Sonu Nigam singing his song ‘Yaadon Ke Jharokhon Se‘ for the film ‘Vanvaas’ has leaked on social media. The video shows the singer performing with the composer and other artists in the studio. The video depicts Nigam’s emotional performance in the recording studio, where his deep voice flawlessly compliments the song’s nostalgic tone.

The ‘Vanvaas’ film team organized a special screening for Indian businessman Vijaypat Singhania in downtown Mumbai’s Nariman Point. The film struck a strong chord with the businessman, who was evicted from his Mumbai house by his son Gautam Singhania.

Vijaypat Singhania transferred his whole 37% ownership in Raymond Group to his younger son, Raymond’s chairman at the time, in 2015. This was the beginning of a publicly publicized and long-running quarrel within Singhania’s family over a variety of issues arising from the transfer. Vijaypat Singhania (84), a former top business magnate at one of India’s largest and most iconic textile firms, rarely attends events. Anil Sharma, who previously directed ‘Gadar 2’, directs ‘Vanvaas’.

Tabu has been cast in the streaming series ‘Dune: Prophecy’. She plays a recurring part in the series that acts as a prequel to filmmaker Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune’, which will be released in 2021. According to ‘Variety’, the series was commissioned in 2019 under the title ‘Dune: The Sisterhood’.

It was inspired by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson’s novel ‘Sisterhood of Dune’. The official description is this: “Set within the expansive universe of ‘Dune’, created by acclaimed author Frank Herbert, and 10,000 years before the ascension of Paul Atreides, ‘Dune: Prophecy’ follows two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces that threaten the future of humankind, and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit.”

The series has had a long journey to the screen, with many showrunner changes and a creative reset in 2023. Alison Schapker serves as showrunner and executive producer. The actress stated that working on “Dune: Prophecy,” which is inspired by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson’s “Sisterhood of Dune” and is set 10,000 years before the events of “Dune,” provided many firsts, including working with people she had never met before.

“I just got an email one day from my agents and my managers telling me that Alison and Anna were the showrunners and the directors on the show wanted to cast me for this particular role,” Tab,whose international credits include Mira Nair’s “The Namesake”, “A Suitable Boy” and Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi”, said.

The actress first reviewed two scenes from the script and then got to a Zoom meeting the following day where the creative team detailed her character’s involvement in the final two episodes. “I just loved the character and the potential of this character. I knew that this is my world, and this I would enjoy doing.”

Tabu discussed the project’s many firsts, which were shot in Budapest, saying: “I think it’s the first time ever in my career, or at least in the past 20 years or so, that I was working with people I’d never met before, who I’d never worked with before, (in) a place I’d never been to before.”

“I was bringing Indian food on set to feed Josh and everyone else. I had a restaurant in Budapest that would send me lunch, dinner, and everything to set up. “And we’d eat outside our trailers,” Tabu explained. “And aside from that… I have myself, and when I arrive, India, my home, and my job in India accompany me.”

“I was aware of the world that Francesca belongs to. I wanted her to feel like she belonged in the world of the Bene Gesserit, but because she has such a strong personality and tale of her own that is unrelated to the others and the other characters, it was intriguing to straddle both,” Tabu said.

The actress stated that she enjoyed playing every scene in which she appeared. “I had some lovely lines to say. Tabu remarked, “My interaction with the Emperor, as well as with Constantine, my son, was something I will cherish.”

“It’s a really strong basis for me to base a character on, but the interesting thing was that I was supposed to have a love relationship with the Emperor. It gave this figure its own area and the ability to roam.” “Also, wearing that outfit, wearing that veil, simply being different and appearing different than I have before – I have never had this. “It’s such a distinct look,” she said.

The Atal Bhujal Yojana is installing QR codes in the villages to raise awareness of the declining groundwater level in Gurugram. Information about the village’s population, Sarpanch, groundwater level, and other details will be displayed upon scanning the QR code.

Government schools, Panchayat Bhawans, and Anganwadi centers in 153 of the district’s villages are getting QR codes placed. The Haryana Irrigation Department is in charge of the Atal Bhujal scheme. This campaign was launched by the central government on December 25, 2019. Rainwater collection, groundwater level raising, and water conservation are the goals of this initiative.

In the chosen villages, a number of actions are being conducted in this regard. This comprises, among other things, pond rehabilitation and canal connection, as well as groundwater monitoring. in order to improve the water level and lessen groundwater exploitation. People are also being reminded to conserve water at the same time.

The Farrukhnagar block has a groundwater level of 74.54 feet, Pataudi has a level of 110.82 feet, and Sohna has a level of 66.84 feet.

It should be mentioned that the city was designated as a dark zone by the Central Ground Water Board in 2013. A groundwater report states that the city’s average groundwater level was 6.64 meters in 1974, 19.85 meters in 2006, and 26.3 meters in 2014. In 2021, it went down to 36.99 meters.

The district name, block name, village population, Gram Panchayat area, cultivable land, irrigable land, Sarpanch and Bhujal Saheli names, water availability, and other details are among the information that QR codes will convey.

“Water conservation in villages is emphasized under the Atal Bhujal Yojana. Groundwater, tube wells, rainwater collection, pond upkeep, and other projects are being carried out for this. In many areas, QR codes are being put to provide information about the groundwater level. “On a mobile device, people can obtain comprehensive information, including groundwater,” stated Manish Chitkara, Executive Engineer, Haryana’s Irrigation Department.

AI-enabled talent evaluation and hiring platform HireMee on Wednesday unveiled a new tool to help students make well-informed decisions about their academic and professional futures as India prepares to produce a workforce prepared for the future in different occupations and emerging technology.

A scientifically developed tool called the Career Navigation Assessment was introduced by the Bengaluru-based organization to help students in Classes X, XI, and XII (14–18 years old) map their individual personality traits, aptitudes, and interests to possible career choices.

Venkatraman Umakanth, SVP and Head of HireMee, said, “This innovative psychometric assessment meets the growing need for individualized career guidance, offering students a dependable, engaging, and actionable solution to navigate this formative phase of their lives.”

According to the organization, students can take the online test whenever it is convenient for them at home, and they will receive a complete result via email shortly after. In order to engage students and lessen social desirability bias, the evaluation employs realistic, immersive scenarios that promote candid and deliberate answers.

These situations guarantee accurate insights into students’ innate inclinations and skills while encouraging critical thinking. These components work together to create customized career recommendations that are in line with each student’s motivations, goals, and strengths.

Chocko Valliappa, Vice Chairman of the Sona Group of Institutions and CEO of Vee Technologies, stated, “The panel was selected to ensure diversity in expertise, capturing varied perspectives on content relevance and cultural appropriateness, guided by the principle that Indian youth deserve to follow a career aligned with their aspirations.”

More than 700,000 students have benefited from the free self-assessment provided by the HireMee platform since its launch in 2017, and more than 270,000 students have had the chance to interview with different businesses.

The “Draft Guidelines for Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Higher Education,” published last week by the University Grants Commission (UGC), will grant access to higher education and make it possible for people who have gained competencies through informal and non-formal learning methods to enroll in higher education programs.

According to the UGC, the recommendations establish flexible and varied pathways that enable people with different learning experiences and educational backgrounds to pursue higher education in accordance with their proven competencies.

In the Women’s Junior Asia Cup final held here on Sunday, the Indian hockey team defeated China 3-2 in a penalty shootout to win the championship for the second consecutive year. China pushed the reigning champions to the edge, thus India’s second straight tournament victory was not an easy one.

Following a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the defending champion emerged victorious in a shootout to win the title. On this occasion, Hockey India (HI) revealed the team’s monetary incentive.

“Team India secured an epic victory over China in the Junior Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Final, winning a thrilling penalty shootout. As a reward for their outstanding performance, Hockey India announces a cash prize of Rs2 lakhs for each player and Rs1 lakh for the support staff,” the HI wrote on X.

China’s first goal was scored by Jinzhuang Tan (30′), but India’s equalizer, Kanika Siwach (41′), forced a penalty shootout in the third quarter. In the penalty shootout, India’s goalie Nidhi made three vital saves to help her team win the championship.

In the first quarter, both teams were vying for the same goal, stride for stride. Both teams created fantastic opportunities and shared possession, but they were unable to break the impasse. India was given two penalty corners, but the Chinese successfully defended them to preserve the score tied.

India dominated play to start the second quarter, but they were unable to generate a good scoring opportunity in the shooting circle. China exerted pressure on the Indian backline as the second quarter came to a close. China was presented with a fantastic opportunity in the form of a penalty stroke with just 14 seconds remaining. China had a small advantage going into the second half when Jinzhuang Tan took the penalty kick and scored past the Indian goalkeeper.

India dominated the game and launched an aggressive attack in the third quarter. Deepika secured a penalty corner for her team after breaking through the Chinese defense with a strong dribble. Deepika tried a drag flick at goal, but the Chinese goalie made a series of saves. In the 41st minute, Kanika Siwach scored a stunning field goal to tie the score after Sunelita Toppo and Deepika advanced the ball with some shrewd passes and found her within the shooting circle. Both teams went into the fourth quarter with a 1-1 record.

The last fifteen minutes of the game were crucial as both teams fought tooth and nail to score a victory. With 10 minutes remaining in the game, India was awarded a penalty corner, but Deepika’s attempt sailed just wide. In the penalty shootout, India’s goals came from Sakshi Rana, Ishika, and Sunelita Toppo. India successfully defended its title thanks to three outstanding saves from goalie Nidhi against Lihang Wang, Jingyi Li, and Dandan Zuo.

After the junior India women’s hockey team won the Asia Cup in Muscat, Oman, for the second consecutive year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been a strong supporter of Indian sports during his reign, took the time to thank them. The match ended evenly at 1-1 after ordinary time, but India won 3-2 in the penalty shootout.

“Congratulations to the Indian junior women’s hockey team for winning the Asia Cup title. The team showed immense grit and determination. This success also shows the increasing passion towards Hockey, especially among the youth. My best wishes to the team for their future endeavours,” Prime Minister wrote on X.

In recognition of everyone’s hard work and championship victory, Hockey India offered an award of Rs 2 lakh for each player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff member.

The coveted World Boxing Cup Final 2025 and the World Boxing Congress 2025, which are set for November 2025, will be hosted in India, according to a statement released by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). This historic accomplishment confirms India’s ability to hold top-tier athletic events and highlights its rising stature on the international boxing scene.

Three World Boxing Cups earlier in the year culminate in the highly anticipated ranking tournament known as the World Boxing Cup Final 2025. The greatest boxers in the world will gather for this prestigious tournament to fight for the top honors, establishing their global rankings and making a lasting impression on the sport.

At the same time, representatives, dignitaries, and stakeholders from the international boxing community will be present at the World Boxing Congress 2025. The Congress will provide a forum for talking about important advancements, tactics, and the sport’s future course.

“World Boxing’s recognition of India for organizing such esteemed tournaments is a great moment. This chance not only demonstrates India’s organizational prowess but also our steadfast dedication to making sure boxing continues to play a significant role in the Olympic movement. In 2025, we hope to welcome the international boxing community to India, and we feel privileged to be a part of the sport’s history.”

It is anticipated that staging these competitions will motivate ambitious sportsmen, draw attention to Indian boxing internationally, and solidify India’s standing as a major force in the world of boxing.

For athletes, officials, and spectators throughout the world, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) is totally dedicated to providing an unforgettable and influential experience. Plans are in motion to guarantee that the 2025 World Boxing Congress and World Boxing Cup Final establish new standards for excellence in the nation’s hosting of international athletic events.

With Ustad Zakir Hussain’s passing, the music industry lost a treasure. The famous tabla player died in San Francisco, California, at the age of 73 from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. By spreading the tradition and humility associated with our music throughout the world, the late musician gave Indian music new dimensions.

The eldest son of tabla player Alla Rakha, Zakir Hussain was born in Mumbai on March 9, 1951, and is regarded as one of the best tabla players of all time. In addition to being a superb musician, the Ustaad was renowned for his demeanor, stage presence, and regard for the arts and other musicians.

He is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola; his brothers, Taufiq and Fazal Qureshi; his sister, Khurshid Aulia; and his children, Isabella Qureshi and Anisa Qureshi (her husband, Taylor Phillips, and their baby, Zara). He leaves behind a remarkable legacy that is treasured by innumerable music enthusiasts worldwide, and his impact will last for many years.

Due to his remarkable abilities, charisma, and versatility, he was able to connect with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Any child of the 1990s has a vivid memory of watching him perform on the tabla for a tea company.

Zakir gave the Indian television commercial industry the necessary power when it was still shakily standing thanks to his amazing on-screen persona, unparalleled tabla skill, and his delivery of the phrase “Waah Taj.”

His influence was genuinely worldwide since he not only brought Indian music to new heights but also worked with a number of foreign musicians, such as John Handy on the album “Hard Work” and George Harrison of the legendary band The Beatles on the 1973 album “Living in the Material World.” Additionally, he contributed to Van Morrison’s 1979 albums “Earth” and “Into the Music.”

Numerous honors were bestowed upon him in recognition of his remarkable body of work, including four Grammy Awards, the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award from the Government of India, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship, Ratna Sadsya, and the National Heritage Fellowship from the United States National Endowment for the Arts, which is the highest honor bestowed upon traditional musicians and artists.

Shakti (which he created with John McLaughlin and L. Shankar), Remember Shakti, Making Music, The Diga Rhythm Band, Planet Drum and Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart, Tabla Beat Science, and Sangam with Charles Lloyd and Eric Harland are just a few of the notable partnerships he was a part of.

George Harrison, Yo-Yo Ma, Joe Henderson, Van Morrison, Airto Moreira, Pharoah Sanders, Billy Cobham, Alonzo King, Mark Morris, Rennie Harris, and the Kodo drummers are just a few of the diverse musicians he has collaborated with on his records and concerts.

Four highly acclaimed, sold-out performances at Carnegie Hall’s Artist Perspective series in April 2009 honored his remarkable contributions to the music industry.

For his “unparalleled contribution to the world of music,” he received SFJazz’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.

For his “enduring contributions to the musical heritage of humanity, peerless musical mastery, and sustained social impact,” he received the Aga Khan Award in 2022.

India’s music and cultural legacy are still greatly influenced by Zakir Hussain.