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The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conducted a joint anti-terrorism exercise to combat the use of the internet for terrorist, separatist, and extremist purposes. The exercise, hosted by India in New Delhi, aimed to improve the cooperation between SCO member states in identifying and suppressing the misuse of the internet for illicit activities. The exercise focused on exchanging positive experiences in collecting digital evidence, countering the financing of terrorist activities through digital assets, and enhancing the response to cyber-attacks on critical information infrastructure. The exercise was seen as an important step towards strengthening the SCO’s anti-terrorist capabilities.
Prior to the exercise, the National Security Council Secretariat of India organized a seminar on countering the misuse of the internet for terrorists, separatists, and extremists. The seminar, the fourth edition under the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), aimed to discuss various challenges related to internet misuse, including AI, dark web, cryptocurrency, and social media platforms. The member states expressed their interest in deepening cooperation to combat internet misuse and address cybersecurity issues.

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Professor Savita Ladage from Mumbai’s Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, has been awarded the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry’s Nyholm Prize for Education in recognition of her outstanding contributions to chemistry education. Professor Ladage’s tireless advocacy for the significance of chemical education and her role in mentoring educators and spearheading impactful programs have significantly enhanced chemistry education in India. The Nyholm Prize places her among past winners who have later received Nobel Prizes, highlighting the esteemed nature of this accolade. In addition to the honor, Professor Ladage will receive £5,000, a medal, and a certificate as part of the prize. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and vowed to continue her work with greater zeal and enthusiasm. The Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry emphasized the importance of educators like Professor Ladage in shaping the future and preparing young minds for the challenges and opportunities in society. The Nyholm Prize is part of the RSC’s celebration of educational excellence, acknowledging individuals working across various levels of education.

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Vijay Diwas, celebrated on December 16th every year, commemorates the victory of the Indian armed forces over Pakistan during the 1971 war. It marks the creation of Bangladesh from erstwhile East Pakistan. On this day, India pays homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives to defend the nation. The war resulted in the biggest-ever military surrender since World War II, with General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, the head of Pakistan’s armed forces, surrendering to the combined forces of the Indian Army and the Mukti Bahini of Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, December 16th is celebrated as Victory Day. Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, the Chief of the Army Staff during the 1971 war, is regarded as the architect of India’s victory. The day holds significant historical and national importance, symbolizing India’s emergence as a celebrated nation. It also altered the relationship between the US and the South Asian region. Five inspirational quotes by Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw were shared, highlighting his leadership and wisdom.

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Odisha’s Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, prioritized temple redevelopment across the state to preserve its cultural identity. The flagship project, the Puri heritage corridor, aims to enhance the overall experience for devotees visiting the 12th century Jagannath Temple in Puri. Additionally, various places of worship, both small and large, are undergoing renovation with a budget of over Rs 4,000 crore. The government has completed the renovation of the 500-year-old Tara Tarini shrine in Ganjam district and launched the Lingaraj Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monuments Revival Action (EKAMRA) project in Bhubaneswar.

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Javier Milei is the recently elected libertarian President of Argentina who has announced emergency economic measures like 50% devaluation of the Argentine peso. This is being done to tackle 143% annual inflation and other economic crises facing the country. However, his drastic steps have also drawn criticism from opponents.