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Two New Mpox Cases Detected in Kerala Among UAE Returnees
- On December 18, 2024, Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced two new Mpox cases in the state, both in men recently returned from the UAE.
- One case was identified in Wayanad district, while the second was later confirmed in Kannur, highlighting the importance of monitoring international travelers.
- The Kerala Health Department has instructed contacts of the infected individuals to monitor for symptoms and report any concerns promptly.
- These cases follow previous Mpox incidents reported in Kerala in September 2024, indicating an ongoing need for vigilance against the disease.
- Since 2022, India has recorded 33 confirmed Mpox cases, with 17 in Kerala and 16 in Delhi, as per recent government data.
Indian Army Gifts Retired Military Dogs to Schools for Special Children and Benevolent Citizens
- December 22, 2024: The Indian Army gifted twelve retired military dogs to Asha Schools for special children and benevolent citizens on the occasion of the 246th Remount Veterinary Corps Day.
- These K-9 heroes, with unique training and calm temperament, have served in various roles including explosive detection, avalanche rescues, search and rescue missions, tracking, and guarding.
- The dogs are expected to benefit children with special needs by helping them improve their social, emotional, and cognitive skills through their presence and companionship.
- The adoption initiative reflects the Indian Army's commitment to honouring its brave soldiers, both human and animal, ensuring they receive a loving home and well-deserved retirement.
- After their service, the canine warriors are cared for at the Canine Geriatric Centre at the Remount Veterinary Corps Centre and College in Meerut Cantt, where they receive excellent care and live comfortably in their retirement.
PM Narendra Modi Honored with Kuwait's Highest Civilian Award, Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer
- December 22, 2024: PM Narendra Modi received Kuwait's highest civilian honor, the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, during his two-day visit to Kuwait.
- This award is the 20th international honor given to PM Modi by a country and is conferred on heads of state, foreign sovereigns, and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship.
- The award was presented by the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, at a ceremony where PM Modi was also given a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace.
- PM Modi's visit to Kuwait is the first by an Indian prime minister in 43 years and includes meetings with the Kuwaiti Crown Prince and the signing of several agreements.
- The Indian community in Kuwait expressed significant enthusiasm and excitement ahead of PM Modi's address at the 'Hala Modi' community event at Shaikh Saad Al Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex.
Epigamia Co-Founder Rohan Mirchandani Dies at 42, Leaving Legacy in Indian FMCG Industry
- On December 21, 2024, Rohan Mirchandani, co-founder of Epigamia, passed away at 42 due to sudden cardiac arrest, shocking the Indian startup ecosystem.
- Mirchandani, an alumnus of NYU Stern and Wharton, founded Drums Food International in 2013, which later became Epigamia, a leading Greek yogurt brand in India.
- Under Mirchandani's leadership, Epigamia expanded to over 20,000 retail points across 30 cities, with plans for Middle East expansion by 2025-26.
- Epigamia's operations will continue under COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker, with support from the board and investors like Verlinvest and DSG Consumer Partners.
- Mirchandani's untimely death follows recent losses in India's startup ecosystem, raising concerns about stress-related health issues among young entrepreneurs.
Mohali Building Collapse: Two Dead, Rescue Operations Ongoing as Video Emerges
- On December 21, 2024, a four-storey building collapsed in Mohali, Punjab, with a video capturing the moments before the incident.
- Two victims identified: Drishti Verma from Theog and Abhishek from Ambala. Rescue operations by Army and NDRF continue after 17 hours.
- Unauthorized excavation in an adjacent plot is suspected as the cause. Building owners Parwinder Singh and Gagandeep Singh face charges of culpable homicide.
- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is monitoring the situation, promising action against culprits and appealing for public cooperation in rescue efforts.
- The collapsed building housed a gym, coaching institute, PG accommodation, and shops. Residents fear 10-15 people may still be trapped under debris.
Bengaluru Highway Tragedy: Six Lives Lost as Container Crushes Volvo XC90, Sparking Road Safety Debate
- On December 21, 2024, a container truck jumped the divider on the Nelmangala-Tumkuru highway near Bengaluru, crushing a Volvo XC90 SUV and killing all six occupants.
- The victims included Chandram Yegapagol, CEO of IAST Software Solutions, his family members, and sister-in-law. They were en route to Sangli, Maharashtra.
- The truck driver, Arif, claims he swerved to avoid a car that suddenly braked, causing the container to jump the divider and topple onto the Volvo.
- The incident has ignited discussions about road safety, emphasizing that even the safest vehicles cannot protect against all hazards without safer roads and drivers.
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently admitted in Lok Sabha that road accident numbers have increased, highlighting the urgent need for societal change and respect for traffic laws.