China announced sanctions on seven US companies, including Raytheon’s Canada and Australia subsidiaries, after Washington approved a $571.3 million military aid package to Taiwan. Beijing accused the US of infringing on its sovereignty and territory and froze the assets of the targeted firms in China, banning them from business activities with Chinese entities. The sanctions follow escalating tensions over Taiwan, with China conducting military drills and vowing to defend its territorial claims. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning warned the US against supporting Taiwan, stating such actions “will only burn itself.” Taiwan remains a contentious issue in US-China relations.

Eighteen ancient Shaiva and Buddhist sculptures, dating back to the 6th-7th century CE, have been discovered near Maninathpur village in Odisha’s Bhadrak district. The find includes intricately carved miniature temples and argha stupas, featuring deities like Shiva, Parvati, Buddha, and Padmapani. Discovered by local youth Bibekananda during a morning walk, the artefacts were identified by INTACH and researcher Biswambhar Raut. Archaeologist Sunil Pattnaik confirmed their significance, praising the artistic excellence of the Khondalite stone sculptures. These artefacts are now preserved at the Buddhist Vihara Museum, offering insights into Odisha’s blended Shaiva-Buddhist heritage.

In a historic move, Palitana, a city in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district, has become the world’s first to officially ban non-vegetarian food. The ban prohibits the sale and consumption of meat and eggs, rooted in the Jain community’s principles of non-violence and compassion. This decision follows a protest by over 200 Jain monks, leading to a law that closed around 250 butcher shops. Since its enforcement, the city has witnessed a surge in vegetarian restaurants and tourism, promoting a unique, ethical culinary culture.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92 at AIIMS Delhi on December 26, 2024, after a prolonged health battle. A key figure in India’s economic reforms, Singh served as PM from 2004 to 2014. Tributes have flooded in from national and global leaders, including PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi. The Union Government has declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast. Singh’s funeral, scheduled for Saturday, will be held with full state honours in New Delhi, allowing the public to pay their last respects.

Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, died on December 26, 2024, at the age of 93 after a prolonged illness. He served as the country’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and was instrumental in India's 1991 economic reforms. Singh’s leadership brought significant economic growth and global recognition for India. He also led key social initiatives like MGNREGA and the Right to Information Act. Known for his calm demeanor, Singh faced challenges like corruption scandals during his tenure. His contributions to India's economy and politics will remain a lasting legacy.

Simran Singh, a 25-year-old Instagram influencer and popular radio jockey, was found dead in her apartment in Gurugram on December 26, 2024. Police suspect suicide, and her body has been handed to her family. Singh, known as "Jammu Ki Dhadkan" by her fans, had over 700,000 followers on Instagram. Her death has sparked condolences from Jammu and Kashmir leaders, including Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. They praised her voice and charm, noting her impact on the region’s cultural scene. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of death.

Simran Singh, a 25-year-old radio jockey and Instagram influencer, was found dead in her Gurugram apartment. The police suspect suicide. Simran, known as RJ Simran, had nearly seven lakh Instagram followers and was loved as "Jammu Ki Dhadkan" (Heartbeat of Jammu). A friend staying with her informed the police about her death. Her last Instagram reel, posted on December 13, showed her smiling on a beach with the caption, "Just a girl with endless giggles and her gown." Her body has been handed over to her family. Investigations into the case are ongoing.

India Post abruptly ended its Book Post service on December 18, 2024, causing outrage among readers and publishers. The service, offering affordable nationwide delivery of books at ₹80 for 5 kg, was vital for promoting literacy and education. Without stakeholder consultation, the category was removed from postal software, leaving even postal staff uninformed. Critics argue the decision undermines India’s fragile reading culture, with higher shipping costs deterring purchases. Adding to the blow, a 5% import duty on sample books has drawn backlash. Publishers and literary enthusiasts demand reinstatement of the service to support education and intellectual growth.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy met with top Telugu film industry representatives in Hyderabad following the stampede during the screening of Pushpa 2: The Rule at Sandhya Theatre, which led to the death of a woman and critical injuries to her son. During the meeting, Reddy emphasized that actors must take responsibility for controlling their fans to maintain law and order. He assured the filmmakers and actors that the government supported them but condemned the actions following Allu Arjun’s arrest in the case. The government is also considering ticket price hikes for films with cultural significance.

Top Tollywood personalities, including Allu Arjun's father Allu Arvind and actor Nagarjuna, met Telangana CM Revanth Reddy following the Pushpa 2 premiere stampede controversy. The incident caused injuries and the tragic death of a woman, prompting scrutiny over benefit shows and ticket price hikes. Producers and actors pledged ₹2 crore to support the victim’s family. This marks Nagarjuna’s first meeting with the CM post the Konda Surekha controversy. BJP alleged political harassment by Congress, accusing it of targeting Telugu cinema. Discussions aimed to repair strained ties and ensure better safety measures for cinema events.