Asteroid 2024 XS3, a small Apollo asteroid, safely passed Earth at a distance of 3.3 million kilometers on December 18, 2024. This close approach provided astronomers with a valuable opportunity to refine tracking techniques. While posing no threat, 2024 XS3's observation contributes to planetary defense efforts and our understanding of the early solar system.
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Pakistan beat South Africa by 81 runs in the second ODI. They clinched the series 2-0. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan scored 73 and 80 runs respectively. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah took key wickets. A heated exchange occurred between players. Heinrich Klaasen argued with Haris Rauf and Rizwan. Babar Azam intervened to calm things down.
Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the first two ODIs against England due to a back spasm, with Harshit Rana named as his replacement. Bumrah's participation in the Champions Trophy is still uncertain, and his fitness status will be confirmed in early February.
April 2025 Bank Holidays List: The RBI announces official bank holidays for April 2025 varying by state due to different national, regional, and religious festivals. Notable holidays include Mahavir Jayanti, Ambedkar Jayanti, Good Friday, and Akshaya Tritiya. Nationwide finalisation of annual accounts occurs on April 1.
A 17-year-old boy from Uttar Pradesh allegedly died by suicide on December 20 due to mutual differences, as reported by police. The victim's uncle claimed the boy was stripped, beaten, and urinated on at a birthday party, and their complaint was initially ignored by police. Continuing harassment led to the boy's tragic death.
Yograj Singh criticised retired Pakistani cricketers for prioritizing financial gains over nurturing young talent, contrasting them with Indian legends like Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman who actively support India's youth cricket. Singh expressed willingness to coach Pakistan if approved and praised India's current form, predicting an India-New Zealand Champions Trophy final.
Meta will end its third-party fact-checking program in the US, opting for a community notes model to align more with Trump's administration. Critics argue it's a political move that could increase disinformation, while supporters see it as a win for free speech. The shift highlights the tech industry's political influences.
American Airlines flight AA 292, New York to Delhi, was diverted to Rome after a bomb threat. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, escorted by Italian Air Force fighter jets, was cleared as the threat was determined non-credible. The flight is set to resume on Monday after an overnight stop for crew rest.
US President Donald Trump announced plans to sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to India during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's White House visit. Both leaders emphasized strong military and trade ties, with discussions also focusing on tariffs, immigration, and economic collaboration, including infrastructure investments. Notably, Trump confirmed US extradition of Mumbai attack suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana.
Former Australian cricket star praised Jasprit Bumrah, suggesting that legendary batter Don Bradman wouldn't have achieved his famed batting average if he faced Bumrah. Bumrah's performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy included 32 wickets, earning him top-wicket-taker status. His achievements in 2024 showcased his dominance, as he impressed both in international cricket and the IPL.
Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin has decided to send senior DMK leaders to meet with chief ministers and politicians from seven states to oppose the Centre's proposed population-based delimitation exercise. Stalin has also instructed DMK MPs to raise key issues including opposition to Hindi imposition and the National Education Policy during the Parliament session.