Full List of Hamas & Hezbollah Leaders Killed By Israel

A few months back on October 17th, Israel announced that they killed Yahya Sinwar the main architect of the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, that triggered the Israel-Hamas war. So far, several Hezbollah and Hamas leaders have been killed along with other militants since the beginning of the current war. Below you can see the complete list of Hamas & Hezbollah Leaders Killed By Israel.

Full List of Hamas & Hezbollah Leaders Killed By Israel

Here’s a list of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders who have been killed in the ongoing war.

Leader Name	Group	Designation/Role	Date of Death	Details of Death
Yahya Sinwar	Hamas	Hamas Leader	October 17, 2024	Killed by Israeli forces in Gaza. Sinwar was a chief architect of Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Hassan Nasrallah	Hezbollah	Leader of Hezbollah	September 28, 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike. Led Hezbollah for decades, transforming it into a prominent military force with Iranian backing.
Fatah Sharif	Hamas	Leader in Lebanon	September 30, 2024	Eliminated in an Israeli strike targeting Hamas in Lebanon.
Ali Karaki	Hezbollah	Top Commander	September 28, 2024	Killed alongside Nasrallah in an airstrike targeting an underground bunker.
Nabil Kaouk	Hezbollah	Deputy Head of Central Council	September 28, 2024	Killed in an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon.
Mohammed Srur	Hezbollah	Head of Drone Unit	September 28, 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike. Directed Hezbollah’s drone operations, which breached Israeli defense systems.
Ibrahim Qubaisi	Hezbollah	Missile Unit Commander	September 28, 2024	Killed by Israel. Allegedly planned the 2000 kidnapping and killing of three Israeli soldiers.
Ibrahim Aqil	Hezbollah	Operations Commander	September 20, 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike. Had a $7 million bounty for his role in 1983 Beirut truck bombings that killed over 300 people.
Ahmed Mahmud Wahbi	Hezbollah	Military Commander (Radwan Special Forces)	September 20, 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike targeting top commanders in Beirut suburbs.
Fuad Shukr	Hezbollah	Top Commander	July 30, 2024	Killed in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon. A leading figure since Hezbollah’s inception in 1982.
Mohammed Nasser	Hezbollah	Senior Commander	July 3, 2024	Killed in an Israeli airstrike for allegedly firing from southwestern Lebanon at Israel.
Taleb Abdallah	Hezbollah	Senior Field Commander	June 12, 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike on a command and control center in southern Lebanon.
Mohammed Deif	Hamas	Hamas Military Commander	August 1, 2024	Killed in an Israeli airstrike. Listed on Israel’s kill list since the early 2000s.
Ismail Haniyeh	Hamas	Hamas Leader	July 31, 2024	Assassinated in Tehran by a short-range projectile. He was the Hamas leader since 2017.
Saleh Al-Arouri	Hamas	Deputy Chief and Founder of Qassam Brigades	January 2, 2024	Killed in an Israeli drone strike in Beirut’s southern suburbs.
Marwan Issa	Hamas	Deputy Military Commander	March 2024	Killed in an Israeli strike. On Israel’s most-wanted list alongside Sinwar and Deif.

List of 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India 2024 (Updated)

As of December 2024, there are 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India with the recent inclusion of “Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty from Assam. “The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala, the famed Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somananthpura in Karnataka have been added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list. This inclusion marks the 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site in India and comes just a day after Rabindranath Tagore’s Santiniketan also received this distinguished recognition. The decision to include Santiniketan in the prestigious list was made during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, held in Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its importance on the global stage.

Latest Nominations in 2024-25

Gingee fort – Villupuram, Tamil Nadu
Salher fort – Nashik district, Maharashtra
Charaideo Maidam – Bokopukhuri Habi, Assam
Panhala fort – Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Shivneri fort – Kusur, Maharashtra
Lohagad fort – Pune, Maharashtra
Khanderi fort – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Raigad fort – Raigad, Maharashtra
Pratapgad fort – Satara, Maharshtra
Suvarnadurg fort – Dapoli, Maharashtra
Panhala fort – Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Vijaydurg fort – Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Sindhudurg fort – Konkan region, Maharashtra

43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India

The UNESCO World Heritage Convention, which was established in 1972, recognizes and protects important cultural and natural sites around the world. India has recently added two more sites to the UNESCO World Heritage list, bringing the total number of Indian sites to 42. This makes India the sixth country in the world with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Of the 43 Indian sites, 35 are cultural, 7 are natural, and 1 is mixed (both cultural and natural).

In other words, UNESCO has recognized 43 places in India as being of outstanding universal value, worthy of protection for future generations. These sites include ancient temples, forts, palaces, caves, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. India’s rich cultural and natural heritage is on display in these sites, which are a must-see for any visitor to the country.

S.No	Name of Sites	Year	Location
1	Ajanta Caves	1983	Maharashtra
2	Ellora Caves	1983	Maharashtra
3	Agra Fort	1983	Agra
4	Taj Mahal	1983	Agra
5	Sun Temple	1984	Orissa
6	Mahabalipuram Monuments	1984	Tamil Nadu
7	Kaziranga National Park	1985	Assam
8	Keoladeo National Park	1985	Rajasthan
9	Manas Wildlife Sanctuary	1985	Assam
10	Churches and Convents of Goa	1986	Goa
11	Monuments of Khajuraho	1986	Madhya Pradesh
12	Monuments of Hampi	1986	Karnataka
13	Fatehpur Sikri	1986	Agra
14	Elephanta Caves	1987	Maharashtra
15	Great Living Chola Temples	1987	Tamil Nadu
16	Pattadakal Monuments	1987	Karnataka
17	Sundarbans National Park	1987	West Bengal
18	Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Park	1988	Uttarakhand
19	Monuments of Buddha	1989	Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
20	Humayun’s Tomb	1993	Delhi
21	Qutub Minar and its Monuments	1993	Delhi
22	Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Kalka Shimla & Nilgiri	1999	Darjeeling
23	Mahabodhi Temple	2002	Bihar
24	Bhimbetka Rock Shelters	2003	Madhya Pradesh
25	Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus	2004	Maharashtra
26	ChampanerPavagadh Archaeological Park	2004	Gujarat
27	Red Fort	2007	Delhi
28	Jantar Mantar	2010	Delhi
29	Western Ghats	2012	Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra
30	Hill Forts	2013	Rajasthan
31	Rani Ki Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell)	2014	Gujarat
32	Great Himalayan National Park	2014	Himachal Pradesh
33	Nalanda	2016	Bihar
34	Khangchendzonga National Park	2016	Sikkim
35	Architectural Work of Le Corbusier (Capitol Complex)	2016	Chandigarh
36	The Historic City	2017	Ahmedabad
37	Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles	2018	Mumbai
38	The Pink City	2019	Jaipur
39	Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple	2021	Telangana
40	Dholavira	2021	Gujarat
41	Santiniketan	2023	West Bengal
42	Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid and Somananthpura	2023	Karnataka
43	Modiams	2024	Assam

What is UNESCO World Heritage Site?

UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that is recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This is exemplified by the Convention regarding the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, accepted by UNESCO in 1972.

Criteria for UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

1. Human creative genius.
2. Interchange of values.
3. Testimony to cultural tradition.
4. Significance in human history.
5. Traditional human settlement.
6. Heritage associated with events of universal significance.
7. Natural phenomena or beauty.
8. Major stages of Earth’s history.
9. Significant ecological and biological processes.
10. The significant natural habitat for biodiversity.

List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India:

Key points about UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India:

1. Ajanta Caves

Famous for Buddhist Rock-cut Cave Monuments. It is richly decorated with Paintings and Frescoes like Sigiriya Paintings.

2. Ellora Caves

Jain and Hindu Temples and Monasteries. These caves were excavated out of Hills, and it is a rock-cut Architecture.

3. Agra Fort

This is one of the most prominent monumental structures by the Mughal empire.

4. Taj Mahal

This is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. King Shahjahan had built this structure in the memory of his third wife Begum Mumtaz Mahal.

5. Sun Temple

This temple is famous for the traditional style of Kalinga Architecture.

6. Mahabalipuram Monuments

This monument is famous for the Mahabalipuram Largest. Open Air Rock Relief, Mandapas, Chariot Temples, It is a Pallava Dynasty Architecture.

7. Kaziranga National Park

Famous for Worlds 2/3rd population of Great One-Horned Rhinoceroses. It has the highest density of Tigers in the World, Wild Water Buffalo, Elephants, Swamp Deer, and the park is also recognized as the Important Bird Area.

8. Keoladeo National Park

This National Park is popular for Man-Made Wetland Bird Sanctuary, Hotspot for Ornithologists, and Siberian Cranes.

9. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is famous for Project Tiger Reserve, Biosphere Reserve and Elephant Reserve

10. Churches and Convents of Goa

It is famous for Rome of the Orient, First Manueline, Mannerist and Baroque Art Forms in Asia, First Latin Rite Mass in Asia.

11. Monuments of Khajuraho

This monument is popular for a group of Jain and Hindu Temples. It is situated 175 km southeast of Jhansi. Well known for their Nagara style symbolism and erotic Figures and sculptures.

12. Monuments of Hampi

Prosperous kingdom of Vijayanagar. The ruins at Hampi depict the fine Dravidian style of art and architecture. The most important heritage monument in this site is the Virupaksha Temple.

13. Fatehpur Sikri

It structure constitutes of four main Monuments. The Jama Masjid, The Buland Darwaza,
Panch Mahal or Jada Baai ka Mahal, Diwane-Khas, and Diwan-eaam.

14. Elephanta Caves

It is popular for Buddhist and Hindu caves. It is situated on Island in the Arabian Sea. And has Basal Rock Caves, and Shiva Temples.

15. Great Living Chola Temples

This temple is popular for Chola Architecture, Sculpture, Painting, and Bronze Casting.

16. Pattadakal Monuments

It is popular for its Chalukya style of architecture that originated in Aihole and blended with the Nagara and Dravidian styles of architecture.

17. Sundarbans National Park

This National Park is popular as Biosphere Reserve, Largest Estuarine Mangrove Forest, Bengal Tiger, and Salt-Water Crocodile.

18. Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Park

It is famous for Snow Leopard, Asiatic Black Bear, Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Monal, World Network of Biosphere

19. Monuments of Buddha

It is popular for Monolithic Pillars, Palaces, Monasteries, Temples Mauryan Architecture, Ye Dharma Hetu Inscriptions.

20. Humayun’s Tomb

It is popular for the Precursors to the Taj Mahal and Mughal Architecture. It constitutes a Tomb, a Pavilion, any Water Channels, and A Bath

21. Qutub Minar and its Monuments

Includes Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Qubbat-ul-Islam Mosque, Tomb of Iltumish, and Iron Pillar.

22. Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Kalka Shimla & Nilgiri

The mountain railways of India comprise of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri
Mountain Railway, and the Kalka-Shimla.

23. Mahabodhi Temple

An important religious center for the Buddhists as this was the place where Mahatma Buddha attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya is considered as the holiest pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists.

24. Bhimbetka

It is famous for Rock Paintings within Natural Rock Shelters, Stone Age Inscriptions, Sitting Place of Bhima (Mahabharata).

25. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

It is popular for central Railways Headquarters, Terror Attacks on Mumbai in 2008, Gothic Style Architecture.

26. ChampanerPavagadhArchaeological Park

This place is the only complete and unchanged Islamic pre-Mughal city. The park also houses some of the ancient Chalcolithic Indian Sites, from the Stone Age era.

27. Red Fort

It is popular for Shahjahanabad, Persian, Timuri and Indian Architectural Styles, Red Sandstone Architecture, Moti Masjid.

28. Jantar Mantar

Famous for Architectural Astronomical Instruments, Maharaja Jai Singh II, Largest of its kind Observatory.

29. The Western Ghats

Famous for Among World’s Ten “Hottest Biodiversity Hotspots”. Includes many National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Reserve Forests.

30. Hill Forts

This place is famous for its unique Rajput Military Defense Architecture. It includes six majestic forts in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore Fort, Gagron Fort, Amber Fort, and Jaisalmer Fort.

31. Rani Ki Vav

It is an explicit example of fine Ancient Indian architecture which is constructed during
the time of the Solanki dynasty.

32. Great Himalayan National Park

It is home to about 375 fauna species and several floral species, including some very rare
species of plants and animals such as blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown
bear, Himalayan Tahr, musk deer spruces, horse chestnuts, and huge alpine meadows.
It is a part of the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspots.

33. Nalanda

A centre of learning and a Buddhist monastery from the 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE.

34. Khangchendzonga National Park

The national park is famous for its fauna and flora, with snow leopard being occasionally sighted.

35. Architectural Work of Le Corbusier (Capitol Complex)

Recognized as a World Heritage Site as part of an outstanding contribution to the Modern Movement.

36. The Historic City

A walled city on the banks of Sabarmati where communities following Hinduism, Islam, and Jainism have co-existed for centuries.

37. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles

It is a collection of 94 buildings of great cultural importance, located in the Fort Area of Mumbai.

38. The Pink City

Jaipur is home to many magnificent forts, palaces, temples, and museums and also filled to the brim with local handicrafts and trinkets.

39. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

The Ramappa Temple is situated in Palampet Village, Telangana. The temple is estimated to be at least 800 to 900 years old. The temple is especially known for lightweight porous bricks which are known as floating bricks

40. Dholavira

Dholavira is an architectural site situated in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is one of the most prominent Indus Valley Civilisation sites.

41. Santiniketan

Santiniketan, the cultural and educational hub founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, has earned a coveted spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This recognition marks a significant milestone for India and celebrates the enduring legacy of this unique institution located in Bengal’s Birbhum district.

42. Hoysala Temples

The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala, the famed Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid and Somananthpura in Karnataka have been added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list. This inclusion marks the 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site in India and comes just a day after Rabindranath Tagore’s Santiniketan also received this distinguished recognition.

43. Moidams

In a significant cultural milestone for India, the “Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty” from Assam has been officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Announced on 26th July 2024 during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, this recognition makes it the 43rd UNESCO World Heritage site from India.

Universal Health Coverage Day 2024: Ensuring Health for All

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day is observed annually on December 12, serving as a rallying point for the global movement advocating for health for all. Initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO), UHC aims to provide access to quality health services for everyone without causing financial hardship. This day marks a critical opportunity to reflect on progress and mobilize action toward achieving this essential goal.

History and Significance of UHC Day 2024

On December 12, 2012, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution urging nations to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage. Five years later, on December 12, 2017, the UN officially declared December 12 as International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC Day) through resolution 72/138.

Significance of Financial Protection

Despite significant efforts over the past two decades, financial protection has worsened:

2 billion people face financial hardship due to healthcare costs.
1.3 billion people are driven into poverty by health expenditures.

These statistics underscore a pressing need for systemic change. When financial barriers exist, vulnerable groups, such as mothers and individuals with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), often miss out on timely medical interventions, exacerbating health inequities.

Access to Essential Health Services

Universal health coverage is not just a health priority but a cornerstone for sustainable development. Healthy populations contribute to communities that are:

Resilient
Productive
Peaceful
Prosperous

Despite numerous political commitments, over half the global population lacks access to basic health services. Without adequate investment in healthcare, achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 remains unattainable.

Call to Action

WHO emphasizes the urgent need for governments to:

Increase public health investments.
Implement financial protection measures to shield the vulnerable from impoverishing healthcare costs.

WHO’s Observations on UHC

By adopting the Sustainable Development Agenda in 2015, global leaders committed to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. Subsequent High-Level Meetings on UHC in 2019 and 2023 reaffirmed these commitments. However, significant challenges persist:

4.5 billion people still lack access to essential health services.
Financial hardship from healthcare costs has increased dramatically in the last two decades.

WHO’s rallying cry for UHC Day 2024 is clear: “Governments must invest in health for all and protect vulnerable populations from impoverishing health spending.”

India’s Commitment to UHC

India is firmly committed to achieving UHC by 2030, aligning with the global SDG targets. To this end, the Government of India has implemented several transformative measures:

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

The flagship AB PM-JAY scheme provides hospital-level care to over 100 million poor families in both public and private hospitals. Key highlights include:

Free health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family.
Special provisions for senior citizens aged 70 and above.

Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs)

India’s HWCs initiative aims to bolster primary healthcare infrastructure by establishing 150,000 centers. These centers are designed to:

Improve accessibility to healthcare services.
Promote preventive healthcare measures.

Increased Public Investment

India’s approach to achieving UHC emphasizes substantial public health investments to reduce out-of-pocket expenditures and ensure equitable healthcare access.

The Path Forward

UHC Day 2024 serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address financial barriers and ensure health equity. The global community, including nations like India, must prioritize investments in healthcare systems that protect the most vulnerable populations. By doing so, we can move closer to realizing the vision of health for all and achieving the SDGs by 2030.

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day 2024 – Summary

Aspect	Details
Why in News	UHC Day is observed annually on December 12 to advocate for universal access to quality health services without financial hardship.
History	– December 12, 2012: UN adopted a resolution urging nations to accelerate UHC progress. – December 12, 2017: UN officially declared December 12 as International UHC Day through resolution 72/138.
Key Challenges	– Financial Protection: – 2 billion people face financial hardship due to healthcare costs. – 1.3 billion people are pushed into poverty by health expenditures. – Access to Health Services: – Over half the global population lacks basic health services. – 4.5 billion people lack essential health services.
Significance of UHC	– Cornerstone for sustainable development. – Contributes to resilient, productive, peaceful, and prosperous communities.
WHO’s Call to Action	– Increase public health investments. – Implement financial protection for vulnerable populations. – Focus on achieving SDG targets for health by 2030.
India’s Commitment	– Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY): – ₹5 lakh free health insurance per family. – Special provisions for senior citizens aged 70+. – Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): – 150,000 centers for primary healthcare services and preventive care. – Increased Public Investment: – Emphasis on reducing out-of-pocket expenditures and equitable access to healthcare.
Path Forward	– Prioritize investments in healthcare systems. – Address financial barriers to healthcare. – Ensure health equity to achieve SDGs by 2030.

Difference Between Delhi and New Delhi

Delhi and New Delhi are closely linked yet distinct entities. While Delhi refers to the larger metropolitan area, New Delhi is a specific district within Delhi that serves as India’s capital. Their differences lies in history, geography and governance, often cause confusion. This article explores the distinctions between Delhi and New Delhi.

An Introduction to Delhi

Delhi, located in northern India, is surrounded by Uttar Pradesh to the east, Haryana to the west, Uttarakhand to the northeast and Rajasthan to the south. This city has a rich history, dating back to ancient times, with evidence of people settling here as early as 1000 BC in Indraprastha.

Delhi is the capital of India, but it is also a larges Union Territory. It is not much older and larger than New Delhi, consisting of many areas, including Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad), built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Today, Delhi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, known for its culture, commerce and political importance.

An Introduction to New Delhi

New Delhi is a district within Delhi and is part of the National Capital Territory (NCT). It became the capital city of India in 1911, when the British decided to move their capital from Calcutta. The name “New Delhi” was given to distinguish it from Old Delhi.

New Delhi is modern and planned, built near the historical site of Indraprastha, the ancient capital of the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era. While many people think of Delhi is the capital of India, it is specially New Delhi that holds this official status. However, both Delhi and New Delhi are closely connected and form one of the most important regions of the country.

Difference Between Delhi and New Delhi

Here is the difference between Delhi and New Delhi:

Basis	Delhi	New Delhi
History	Delhi’s history goes back to the 6th century BCE. It has been the capital of many empires, like the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times.	New Delhi was planned and built in the 20th century. The foundation stone was laid in 1911, and it was inaugurated in 1931.
Geography	Delhi is a Union Territory. It shares its borders with Haryana on three sides and Uttar Pradesh to the East.	New Delhi is one of the 9 districts of Delhi and is also the National Capital of India.
Architecture	Many buildings in Delhi show Mughal architecture, like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid.	New Delhi’s architecture is inspired by Western designs. It was planned by British architects.
Famous Sites	Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple	Rashtrapati Bhawan, India Gate, Parliament of India, Akshardham Temple, Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar.
Area	Delhi covers an area of 46,208 square kilometers.	New Delhi covers a much smaller area of 42.7 square kilometers.

National Vegetable of India, Know Its Name and Key Facts

India has a rich cultural and agricultural heritage, with various plants and vegetables playing a significant role in its traditions and daily life. Among these, some vegetables stand out for their important, both in terms of nutrition and cultural significance, making them a key part of Indian cuisine.

National Vegetable of India

The Indian Pumpkin, called “Kaddu” in Hindi, is known as the national vegetable of India. This hardy and adaptable vegetable is widely grown and loved across the country because it is easy to grow and full of nutrients.

Know About the Indian Pumpkin, India’s National Vegetable

The Indian Pumpkin is a widely grown vegetable known for its mild sweetness and adaptability. It thrives in various soil conditions and climates across India. The pumpkin’s growth pattern can be either as a climbing plant or a spreading vine, showcasing its versatility.

Characteristics of Indian Pumpkin

Appearance: It has a thick shell that encloses seeds and pulp.
Varieties: Commonly referred to as Cucurbita pepo, though Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata are also similar.

Family and Genus of Indian Pumpkin

Understanding the botanical classification helps in recognizing the pumpkin’s place in the plant kingdom.

Family: Cucurbitaceae
Genus: Cucurbita

The Cucurbitaceae family includes a variety of plants known for their trailing vines and edible fruits. Within this family, the Cucurbita genus includes pumpkins, squashes, and other similar vegetables, characterized by their large, round fruits filled with seeds and pulp.

Why Pumpkin is the National Vegetable of India?

Indian pumpkin’s status as the national vegetable is not by chance. Here are a few reasons behind this distinction:

Versatility in Cooking: Indian Pumpkin can be easily cooked and pairs well with various flavors. Its adaptability in the kitchen makes it a go-to ingredient for a multitude of dishes.
Sweet and Savory: The pumpkin’s sweet taste complements not only other vegetables but also lentils and spices, making it a delightful addition to diverse recipes.
Tropical Delight: Thriving in the tropical regions of India, Indian pumpkin stands strong even during the hottest days of the year.
Year-Round Friend: Its ability to grow in the hottest months ensures a steady supply of this vegetable for Indian households.

Conclusion

In the realm of Indian cuisine, the Indian pumpkin has achieved a unifying status by being declared the national vegetable. Its ability to grow with ease, adapt to various dishes and enhance flavors adds to its significance. From simple home kitchens to complex recipes, the Indian pumpkin plays a vital role, uniting taste buds and embodying the essence of Indian culinary culture.

First Female Train Driver in India, Know her Name and Career

India’s first female train driver made history by breaking barriers in a male-dominated profession. Her journey of determination and hard work paved the way for women in the railways, challenging traditional norms and inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams. This remarkable achievement remains a symbol of progress and gender equality in the country.

First Female Train Driver in India

Surekha Shankar Yadav is India’s first female train driver. She started her career in 1988 with Indian Railways, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Known for driving the first “Ladies Special” train in 2000 and the iconic Deccan Queen in 2011, she continues to inspire women with her achievements and education.

Early Life and Education

Birth date: 2^nd September 1965

Birthplace: Satara, Maharashtra

Surekha Yadav pursued her initial schooling at Saint Paul Convent High School. After completing her school education, she undertook vocational training and earned a Diploma in Electrical Engineering from the Government Polytechnic at Karad, Maharashtra. Her aspirations for higher education shifted when she joined the Indian Railways.

Early Career of First Female Loco Pilot

Surekha Yadav began his journey when she was selected by the Railway Recruitment Board, Mumbai, in 1987. She joined the Central Railway as a trainee assistant driver in 1986, undergoing rigorous training at the Kalyan Training School for six months. Her dedication earned her the role of a regular assistant driver in 1989.

Key Achievements of Surekha Yadav

India’s First “Ladies Special” Train Driver: In April 2000, Surekha drove the first “Ladies Special” local train for Central Railways, introduced under the leadership of Railway Minister Mamta Banerjee. This was a significant milestone in her career.
Asia’s First Woman to Drive the Deccan Queen: On International Women’s Day in 2011, she made history by becoming Asia’s first woman to drive the iconic Deccan Queen from Pune to Mumbai, navigating the challenging terrain of the Western Ghats.
Vande Bharat Express Pilot: In March 2023, Surekha became the first woman to drive India’s semi-high speed Vande Bharat Express. She piloted the train from Solapur to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal (CSMT), covering 455 kilometers. This achievement was recognized and praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Mann Ki Baat program.

Legacy of leadership

Surekha Yadav’s influence extended beyond her professional achievements. As a role model and advocate of gender equality, she demonstrated the potential for women in male-dominated sectors.

List of Awards/ Honors Presented to India’s First Lady Train Driver

Here is the list of awards/ honors presented to India’s first lady train driver, Surekha Yadav.

S. No.	Awards	Year
1.	Jijau Puraskar	1998
2.	Women Achievers Award	2001
3.	Rashtriya Mahila Aayog	2001
4.	S.B.I. Platinum Jubilee Year celebrations	2003-2004
5.	Sahyadri Hirkani Award	2004
6.	Prerna Puraskar	2005
7.	G.M. Award	2011
8.	Women Achievers Award	2011
9.	RWCC Best Woman Award 2013	2013

Elon Musk Reaches $400 Billion Milestone and Created History

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has recently made history by becoming the first individual to surpass a net worth of $400 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This remarkable achievement reflects his growing influence and success across multiple ventures, including SpaceX, Tesla, and his AI project, xAI. Musk’s wealth trajectory has been fueled by a combination of insider share sales, stock market performance, and strategic political connections, making him the richest person in the world.

Key Points

Surpassing $400 Billion Net Worth

Elon Musk has become the first person to exceed a $400 billion net worth, approximately ₹33,938 crores.
This milestone was achieved after a significant insider share sale at SpaceX.

SpaceX Insider Share Sale

SpaceX conducted an insider share sale of up to $1.25 billion, purchasing shares from employees and insiders.
The sale boosted SpaceX’s valuation to $350 billion.
Musk owns 42% of SpaceX, which is now the most valuable private startup in the world.

Tesla’s Contribution to Wealth

Tesla’s stock price surged by approximately 65% since the election of President-elect Donald Trump, reaching an all-time high of $415.
Musk’s wealth was further boosted by positive market sentiment regarding self-driving car regulations.

Political Influence and the DOGE Role

Musk has been appointed as co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an advisory body for federal spending and operations under President-elect Donald Trump.

Rise of Musk’s Other Ventures (xAI)

Musk’s AI venture, xAI, has seen its valuation more than double to around $50 billion.
The growth of SpaceX, Tesla, and xAI has significantly contributed to Musk’s wealth.

Musk’s Wealth Growth

Since November 5, 2024, Musk’s wealth has increased by around $136 billion.
As of December 10, 2024, Musk’s net worth is $140 billion ahead of second-ranked Jeff Bezos.
Volatility and Forbes’ Net Worth Estimate
Musk’s position as the richest person has been volatile, mainly due to fluctuations in Tesla’s stock price.
As of December 2024, Bloomberg estimates Musk’s wealth at $439.2 billion, while Forbes places it at $369 billion.

Setbacks and Legal Issues

Musk faced a setback when a Delaware court rejected his Tesla pay package, valued at over $100 billion, for a second time.
Despite this, Musk remains well-positioned to retain his wealth.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Elon Musk hits ‘historic first’, $400 billion net worth
Net Worth Milestone	Surpassed $400 billion (Approx. ₹33,938 crores), making Musk the first individual to achieve this feat.
SpaceX Share Sale	Insider sales of up to $1.25 billion increased SpaceX’s valuation to $350 billion. Musk owns 42% of SpaceX.
Tesla’s Role	Tesla’s stock price surged by 65% after Trump’s election, with shares reaching $415, adding to Musk’s wealth.
Political Influence	Musk was appointed co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Donald Trump, influencing federal operations and spending.
xAI Venture	Musk’s AI company, xAI, saw its valuation more than double to $50 billion.
Wealth Growth	Musk added $136 billion to his wealth since November 2024.
Wealth Comparison	Musk’s net worth is $140 billion ahead of Jeff Bezos as of December 10, 2024.
Net Worth Volatility	Musk’s wealth has fluctuated due to Tesla stock price changes, with estimates ranging from $369 billion (Forbes) to $439.2 billion (Bloomberg).
Legal Setbacks	A Delaware court rejected Musk’s $100 billion Tesla pay package, but his wealth remains largely unaffected.

Trump Named Time’s Person of the Year

Time magazine has named Donald Trump as its Person of the Year for 2024, marking the second time he has received this prestigious recognition. The decision highlights Trump’s substantial political influence, his historic comeback following his victory in the November 5 election over Vice President Kamala Harris, and his role in reshaping the American presidency. Time’s recognition of Trump underscores the significant impact he has had on American politics and the world stage.

Key Highlights

Historic Comeback

Donald Trump secured a remarkable election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris on November 5, 2024.
Time recognized this as a “comeback of historic proportions” given the challenges he faced.

Political Realignment

Trump is credited with driving a “once-in-a-generation political realignment” that reshaped the American political landscape.
His influence is seen in the way American politics has been reordered, significantly affecting both domestic and international policies.

Redefining the American Presidency

Time noted that Trump’s leadership has had a transformative effect on the American presidency.
His tenure is associated with significant changes in American governance and global diplomacy.

Global Impact

Trump’s presidency has altered the role of the United States on the world stage, particularly in areas like foreign relations, military strategies, and international trade policies.

Cover Feature

Trump appears on the cover of Time, sporting his distinctive red tie and posing thoughtfully, symbolizing his ongoing influence in American politics.

Editorial Statement

Time’s editor-in-chief, Sam Jacobs, stated that Trump had the most influence on the news in 2024, a sentiment echoed by his reshaping of American politics and global influence.

Trump’s Reflections

In an interview with Time, Trump referred to his comeback as “72 Days of Fury,” acknowledging the anger and frustration of the country that helped fuel his victory.

Previous Recognition

Trump was also named Person of the Year in 2016, following his first election to the White House.

Finalists for 2024

Other notable finalists included Kamala Harris, Elon Musk, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Kate, the Princess of Wales.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Time magazine has named Donald Trump as its Person of the Year for 2024
Previous Recognition	Person of the Year in 2016
Title	Time’s Person of the Year 2024
Election Victory	Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris on November 5, 2024
Political Impact	Historic comeback, reshaping American politics and a political realignment
Global Impact	Redefined America’s role in world affairs and diplomacy
Time’s Editorial Statement	Trump’s influence in 2024 was unparalleled, reshaping the presidency
Finalists	Kamala Harris, Elon Musk, Benjamin Netanyahu, Kate, Princess of Wales

ICC Champions Trophy Winners List (1998 to 2025)

ICC Champions Trophy Winners List (1998 to 2023)

The ICC Champions Trophy, often nicknamed the “Mini World Cup,” was introduced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) back in 1998. At first, it was known as the ICC Knockout Tournament and was played every four years. The main goal was to generate funds for cricket in countries that didn’t have Test status. The first two editions were held in Kenya and Bangladesh. However, due to its commercial success, the tournament later took place in major cricketing nations like England and India.

Starting from the 2009 edition, the format was changed to include only the top 8 teams in the ICC ODI rankings. The rankings cutoff was set six months before the trophy started. After the 2017 edition, the Champions Trophy was discontinued to focus on having just one global tournament for each of the three cricket formats.

But, in 2021, the ICC surprised everyone by announcing the return of the Champions Trophy, set to be held in 2025 in Pakistan and 2029 in India. If India does not play in Pakistan, then they will not also cross the border for the ICC events.

ICC Champions Trophy Winners List (1998 to 2024)

Year	Host Nation(S)	Winner	Runner-Up
1998	Bangladesh	South Africa	West Indies
2000	Kenya	New Zealand	India
2002	Sri Lanka	Sri Lanka and India	None
2004	England	West Indies	England
2006	India	Australia	West Indies
2009	South Africa	Australia	New Zealand
2013	England and Wales	India	England
2017	England and Wales	Pakistan	India
2025	Pakistan	Not Decided	Not Decided

Teams Qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025

After the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup league stage, the following teams have secured their spots in the 2025 Champions Trophy: India, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand earned qualification by reaching the semifinals. Host nation Pakistan and sixth-placed Afghanistan also made the cut. India, among the first to secure a berth, will be joined by top cricketing nations for the much-anticipated return of the Champions Trophy after seven years.

ICC Champions Trophy History

The ICC Champions Trophy, initially called the ICC KnockOut Tournament, kicked off in 1998 and changed its name to the Champions Trophy in 2002. Let’s break down its journey in simple terms. The ICC came up with the idea for the Champions Trophy to raise money for cricket development in non-test playing countries. The first tournaments were in Bangladesh and Kenya, but due to its success, it became a money-spinner for the ICC.

ICC Champions Trophy Evolution:

Originally known as the mini-World Cup involving all ICC full members, it started as a knockout tournament. In 2002, it switched to a round-robin format but stayed short – lasting about two weeks. Over the years, the number of teams changed, but since 2009, only the top eight teams in the ICC ODI Rankings participated. The Champions Trophy has been hosted in seven countries, with England hosting it three times. Initially held every two years, it shifted to a four-year cycle from 2009, aligning with the World Cup schedule.

Ratapani Declared India’s 57th Tiger Reserve

Ratapani Declared India’s 58th Tiger Reserve

India has expanded its tiger conservation footprint with the declaration of Madhya Pradesh’s Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary as its 57th tiger reserve. The creation of these reserves highlights India’s commitment to protecting its tiger population, which constitutes over 70% of the global wild tiger population.

Understanding Tiger Reserves

Tiger reserves are specially designated areas established under the Project Tiger initiative of 1973 to conserve tigers and their habitats. Each reserve comprises:

Core Areas: Legally designated as national parks or sanctuaries, where human activity is minimal.
Buffer Zones: A mix of forest and non-forest land maintained as a transition zone for both wildlife and human activities.

As of now, India’s 57 tiger reserves cover 82,000 sq. km, about 2.3% of its geographical area. These areas serve as crucial habitats for biodiversity conservation.

How Are Tiger Reserves Declared?

State-Level Identification: Areas with viable tiger populations and suitable habitats are selected based on ecological assessments.

Proposal Submission: The state submits a detailed proposal to the NTCA, which reviews and forwards it to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Legal Notification: After public objections are addressed, the state issues a final notification under Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, formally declaring the reserve.

Management Plans: Detailed strategies focusing on habitat improvement, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement are developed, with central funding and support provided under Project Tiger.

The Importance of Tiger Reserves

Ecological Benefits: As apex predators, tigers regulate ecosystems, ensuring forest health and biodiversity.

Umbrella Effect: Protecting tigers benefits co-existing species and ecosystems.

Climate Benefits: A 2023 study in Nature highlighted that tiger reserves prevented the loss of 5,800 hectares of forest between 2007 and 2020, mitigating 1 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The tiger population in India faced sharp declines due to hunting and habitat loss post-independence. In 1973, Project Tiger began with nine reserves, including Corbett (Uttarakhand) and Kanha (Madhya Pradesh). Today, initiatives like these have helped India host 3,167 wild tigers as per the 2022 NTCA estimation. The addition of Ratapani reflects the ongoing commitment to conservation, ensuring ecological balance and combating climate change impacts.

Summary of the news

Key Points	Details
Why in News?	Madhya Pradesh’s Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary was declared India’s 57th tiger reserve.
State	Madhya Pradesh
Tiger Reserve Declaration	Declared under Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Total Tiger Reserves	58 tiger reserves across India spanning approximately 82,000 sq. km, covering 2.3% of the country’s geographical area.
Project Tiger	Launched on April 1, 1973, at Corbett Tiger Reserve to conserve tigers and their habitats.
Initial Tiger Reserves	Nine reserves, including Corbett (Uttarakhand), Kanha (Madhya Pradesh), Ranthambhore (Rajasthan), and Sundarbans (West Bengal).
India’s Tiger Population	As per NTCA’s 2022 report, India has 3,167 tigers, which is 70% of the global wild tiger population.
Ratapani Sanctuary	Located in Madhya Pradesh, now part of the Project Tiger initiative.
Notification Process	Initiated by the state, with final notification issued under Section 38V, ensuring legal protection and central funding for conservation activities.
NTCA Role	Monitors tiger populations through the All India Tiger Estimation, conducted every four years.
Environmental Impact	Between 2007-2020, tiger reserves prevented the loss of 5,800 hectares of forest, averting 1 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions.