US President Joe Biden granted clemency to 1,539 people, pardoning 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes and reducing 1,500 prison sentences. The pardons include veterans and community leaders who showed rehabilitation, while the commuted sentences involved those under home confinement during the pandemic. Biden called it a step toward giving people "second chances" and promised more actions soon. This move follows his controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, sparking debates. Biden has previously issued pardons for marijuana offenses and crimes related to sexual orientation, focusing on fairness and justice reforms.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified India’s stance, stating that Sheikh Hasina’s statement criticizing the Yunus-led interim government was made through "private communication devices" and not endorsed by India. Addressing a parliamentary standing committee, Misri emphasized India's non-interference policy in the internal matters of other nations. He also highlighted India's commitment to fostering constructive ties with Bangladesh’s citizens, regardless of political affiliations. Misri's recent visit to Dhaka included discussions on protecting minority rights and addressing attacks on cultural and religious sites. His remarks are seen as a subtle shift in India’s diplomatic approach toward Bangladesh.  

India's D Gukesh, 18, made history as the youngest World Chess Champion, defeating Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in a dramatic Game 14. Former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik criticized the match, calling it the "end of chess" and describing Ding's decisive blunder as "childish." Kramnik lamented the overall quality, stating, "Both players were making mistake after mistake... it’s a very disappointing level." Gukesh’s win surpasses Garry Kasparov’s record as the youngest champion. Despite Kramnik’s critiques, Gukesh’s achievement marks a groundbreaking moment for Indian chess on the global stage.

At least six people died after a massive fire broke out at a private hospital in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, early on Thursday morning. Local authorities confirmed that 29 patients were transferred to Dindigul Government Hospital. Rescue operations are ongoing as firefighters work to control the blaze. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities are assessing the situation. Senior officials, including the district collector, visited the site to oversee relief operations. The hospital is cooperating with emergency responders, and further details are awaited. The incident has sparked fears of more casualties.

Time Magazine has named Donald Trump its Person of the Year for the second time, crediting him for "marshalling a comeback of historic proportions." Trump, who previously won in 2016 after his presidential election victory, was honored for reshaping the American presidency and global influence. Time highlighted his 2024 electoral win, marking his first popular vote victory and his status as the oldest U.S. president-elect. Despite ongoing legal challenges, including a fraud conviction, Trump remains a significant political figure. The magazine also considered Vice President Kamala Harris and others for the honor.

The Defence Ministry has signed a ₹13,500-crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for 12 Su-30 fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The new aircraft will have 62.6% indigenous content, boosting India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. HAL's Nashik division will manufacture the aircraft, enhancing IAF's operational capabilities. The deal also highlights the country’s focus on modernising its military, with previous contracts signed for K9 Vajra-T guns and Su-30 engines. The defence ministry’s efforts aim to strengthen India’s preparedness and support the local defence industry’s growth.

A Bangladesh delegation is expected to attend the Vijay Diwas celebrations in Kolkata on December 16, 2024. The event commemorates India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war and the formation of Bangladesh. The delegation might include muktijoddhas, Bangladesh’s freedom fighters from the 1971 struggle. This follows recent high-level talks between Indian and Bangladeshi officials. The celebrations at Eastern Command headquarters will feature a wreath-laying ceremony, military tattoo, and interactions with 1971 war veterans. Last year, a similar delegation participated in the event, marking a historic military collaboration between the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated D Gukesh on his historic achievement, saying, "Historic and exemplary! Congratulations to Gukesh D on his remarkable accomplishment." Gukesh, 18, became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion after defeating Ding Liren of China 7.5-6.5 in the decisive 14th game of the Championship on December 12, 2024, in Singapore. Modi highlighted Gukesh’s "unparalleled talent, hard work and unwavering determination" while emphasizing that the win would inspire millions. Gukesh, visibly emotional, said, "I had been dreaming of this moment for the past 10 years. I’m so happy to have turned that dream into reality."

Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA Men's World Cup, announced during FIFA’s Extraordinary Congress meeting. The decision comes alongside Spain, Portugal, and Morocco being chosen as joint hosts for the 2030 tournament, with centenary matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. While the English FA expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia's capabilities, organizations like Amnesty International criticized the decision, highlighting concerns over human rights abuses. The Danish Football Union and Norway’s FA also raised concerns about the bidding process. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated, “We trust our hosts to address all open issues responsibly.”

Social services and schools failed to protect 10-year-old Sara Sharif, who suffered fatal abuse at her Woking, Surrey home. Her father, Urfan Sharif, admitted to beating her to death with a cricket bat and metal pole during his trial. WhatsApp messages from Sara’s stepmother, Beinash Batool, revealed a history of relentless violence, including beatings, burns, and severe punishments. Batool once messaged, "Poor girl can’t walk… he made her do sit-ups all night." Neighbors and teachers ignored or overlooked signs of abuse. Sara was described as "spirited and bold," a quality silenced by brutality.