Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump led tributes, celebrating Carter’s legacy as a man of principle, humility, and dedication to humanitarian work. Carter, who served as the 39th president of the U.S., is remembered for his role in brokering the Camp David Accords and his post-presidency efforts promoting global human rights. His death on Sunday, December 29, 2024, marks the loss of a revered leader who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his relentless work in diplomacy and peacebuilding.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) in India has announced stricter hand baggage rules for air travellers, effective next month. Passengers will be restricted to one cabin bag or handbag weighing up to 7 kg, with maximum dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm. Excess baggage fees will apply for exceeding these limits. Tickets purchased before May 2, 2024, will follow the older policy, but rescheduled or reissued tickets must adhere to the new rules. Indian airlines like IndiGo and Air India have already aligned with these guidelines, aimed at enhancing airport efficiency and improving security processes.

India ended Tea on Day 5 at 112/3, chasing 340 runs against Australia in the 4th Test at the MCG. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a resilient half-century, partnering with Rishabh Pant to stabilize the innings after India faced early setbacks. Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli fell cheaply, with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc dismantling the top order. Cummins dismissed Rohit and Rahul in the same over, while Starc claimed Kohli’s wicket with a tempting delivery. The required run rate has climbed to 5.50 per over, leaving India in a challenging position for the final session.

A case has been filed against Prashant Kishor, Jan Suraaj Party chief, and others for allegedly instigating protests by Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) aspirants in Patna. Thousands of candidates, demanding a re-examination over allegations of a question paper leak during the 70th BPSC exam, gathered at Gandhi Maidan despite the district administration’s rejection of their protest request. Over 19 individuals and 600 unidentified people are named in the FIR. Kishor criticized Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for ignoring youth issues, stating, “No exam in Bihar has happened without corruption.” Protesters continue demanding justice, calling for examination reforms.

Australian media targeted Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, branding him "Captain Cry Baby" after his outburst at Yashasvi Jaiswal during Day 4 of the fourth Test against Australia. Jaiswal dropped three catches, including crucial ones of Marnus Labuschagne and Pat Cummins. Rohit’s visible frustration drew criticism from commentators and former cricketers. Mike Hussey condemned Rohit’s reaction, stressing the importance of supporting young players under pressure. Alyssa Healy emphasized the need for team unity, while Darren Berry suggested Jaiswal requires encouragement, not berating. The incident overshadowed India’s gritty battle on the field as they prepared for a challenging chase.

Jimmy Carter, the 39th US President (1977-1981), has passed away at 100 in Georgia. Known for his humanitarian efforts, Carter won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for advancing democracy and brokering peace between Israel and Egypt through the Camp David Accords. Despite facing economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis during his presidency, Carter became a celebrated human rights advocate post-office. President Joe Biden hailed him as an "extraordinary leader and humanitarian." Carter's family expressed gratitude for the global recognition of his values of peace and unity. He was the longest-lived US President in history.

Two survivors, both flight attendants, have been found conscious after the tragic Jeju Air plane crash in South Korea on Sunday. Emergency workers rescued them, and officials confirmed they are not in life-threatening condition. The crash resulted in the deaths of 179 out of 181 passengers, with 65 victims identified so far. Among the deceased were 85 women and 84 men. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed shock and offered condolences to the victims, emphasizing his sympathy for the families and a wish for a swift recovery for the injured.

South Africa secured a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final with a thrilling two-wicket victory over Pakistan in Centurion. South Africa’s resilience, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, allowed them to overcome a challenging chase. With this win, South Africa tops the WTC points table at 66.67%. India now faces pressure in their ongoing series against Australia, with their qualification hopes dependent on winning the series and favorable outcomes in other matches. Australia and India are closely competing for the second spot, with two matches remaining in the ongoing series.

INS Tushil, India's newest stealth missile frigate, commissioned at Yantar Shipyard in Russia on December 9, will reach India’s western coast by mid-February 2025. The warship is set to join the Mumbai-based Western Fleet. After visiting Casablanca to strengthen bilateral naval ties with Morocco, INS Tushil will conduct anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Guinea. The upgraded Krivak III class frigate includes 26% indigenous content and advanced weaponry such as BrahMos missiles. It is part of a $2.5 billion deal with Russia for more advanced frigates, with the second, Tamal, expected by mid-2025.

Skywatchers will witness a rare black moon phenomenon on December 31, 2024, when the second new moon of the month occurs. This event, which is not officially recognized in astronomy, happens when the sun and moon align, making the moon invisible. The black moon will occur at 3:57 am IST in India, while it will be visible on December 30 in the U.S. Though the moon itself won't be visible, the event enhances the visibility of stars and planets. Jupiter, Venus, and constellations like Orion and Leo will be prominent in the night sky.