Notes:
International Mountain Day is observed on 11 December. The day aims to raise awareness about conserving the mountains. A report says that 15% of the world’s population lives in the mountains. It is necessary to conserve the mountains. Mountain conservation is a crucial factor for sustainable development Goal 15 (SDG-15).  The theme of the 2019 International Mountain Day is Mountains Matter for Youth.

Notes:
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has identified 138 monuments as ‘Must See Monuments’. This information has been made available on ‘Must See’ portal of ASI. There are 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, which includes 30 cultural sites, 7 natural sites and 1 mixed-criteria site. India has the 6th largest number of sites in the world. Out of 38, the 22 cultural sites including monuments, buildings and caves are under the protection of ASI. Therefore, the ‘Must See’ list features outstanding Indian monuments and archaeological sites, under the protection of ASI, including those that feature on World Heritage List of UNESCO.

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National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), India’s anti-doping body has selected Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty as its brand ambassador. NADA hopes that his celebrity status would help its efforts to clean up sports in the country from the menace.

Notes:
India has ranked 9th in the high category of 2019 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) presented on 10 December at the COP25 climate summit in Madrid, Spain. This is the first time India has ranked among the top 10 among the list. The current levels of per capita emissions and energy used in India are still comparatively low for the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy use categories. The report suggest the Indian government to develop a roadmap for the phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies that would consequently reduce the country’s high dependence on coal.

Notes:
‘Iron Union 12’, a joint military exercise between ground forces of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States, commenced on 10 December 2019 in presence of UAE Commander of Land Forces Major General Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Amiri and Commander of US Army Central (USARCENT) Lieutenant General Terry Ferrell. It is aimed at enhancing combat efficiency and tactical expertise between two countries.