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Korean Air Completes $1.3 Billion Acquisition of Asiana Airlines

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Korean Air has finalized its $1.3 billion acquisition of a 63.88% stake in Asiana Airlines, marking one of the largest aviation mergers in recent history. The landmark deal was completed on December 12, 2024, after Korean Air successfully secured regulatory approvals in 14 jurisdictions, including a comprehensive review by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ investigation focused on the impact of the merger on passenger and cargo routes between Asia and the United States. Following its review, the DOJ chose not to take any action, effectively greenlighting the acquisition. This merger is set to reshape the global aviation landscape, enhancing the competitiveness of Korea’s national aviation industry and fortifying Incheon Airport’s position as a major international hub for passenger and cargo traffic. Industry experts view the deal as a pivotal step in consolidating the strengths of both airlines to deliver enhanced services, streamline operations, and expand global reach. Korean Air’s strategic move is expected to bolster its market share and improve efficiency in a highly competitive industry. With this acquisition, Korean Air aims to leverage Asiana Airlines’ resources and expertise, creating synergies that will benefit travelers and the broader aviation ecosystem. As the integration process unfolds, the deal is anticipated to stimulate further innovation and growth within Korea’s aviation sector. This milestone solidifies Korean Air’s position as a global leader in the aviation industry, setting a precedent for strategic mergers and collaborations in the years ahead. Source: clearygottlieb Photo Credit: clearygottlieb

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Mpox Cases in Africa Near 70,000 Mark: Africa CDC Calls for Urgent Action

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The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has reported a significant rise in mpox cases across the continent, with the total number surpassing 69,000 this year and fatalities exceeding 1,260. These alarming statistics were shared by Ngashi Ngongo, Chief of Staff at Africa CDC, during an online media briefing on Thursday. According to Africa CDC data, as of this year, 69,211 cases have been reported, including 14,794 confirmed infections and 1,268 deaths. Last week alone saw 3,095 new cases, with 553 confirmed and 31 additional deaths, marking a 789% increase in confirmed cases compared to 2023. Fifteen African countries currently face active mpox transmission, while five nations—Gabon, South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—have recently transitioned to controlled stages of the outbreak. Ngongo emphasized the urgency of intensifying resource mobilization, expanding vaccination campaigns, and enhancing integrated response strategies. Other priorities highlighted by Africa CDC include improving data management systems and addressing co-infections, as 20 African nations remain affected by the outbreak. Ngongo called for collaboration among countries to share best practices and bolster efforts to contain the epidemic. The mpox outbreak was declared a public health emergency of continental security by Africa CDC in mid-August, shortly followed by the World Health Organization designating it a public health emergency of international concern. This marks only the second time in two years that WHO has issued its highest-level alert for the disease. First identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, mpox—formerly known as monkeypox—is a rare viral disease that spreads through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, posing severe risks to public health in Africa and beyond. Source: Nagalandpost Photo Credit: Nagalandpost

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Two-Day Extravaganza ‘Satluj Pride’ held at Satluj Public School

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Panchkula, December 20, 2024: The two-day annual event, Satluj Pride, was held at Satluj Public School, Sector 4, Panchkula. This year marked the 48th edition of the program, celebrating the theme, “New India: Forging Futures, Celebrating Culture.” On the inaugural day there were scintillating performances by students of classes 8-12, while on the second day students of classes 5 to 7 enthralled the audience. The Chief Guest for the first day event was Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Minister of School Education, Parliamentary Affairs, and Higher Education Archives, Government of Haryana. Special guests included Sh. Gian Chand Gupta, Former Speaker and MLA Panchkula; Banto Kataria; and Sh. Deepak Sharma (BJP District President, Panchkula), among others. The cultural performances by students were the main highlight of the event. Class 8 students delivered an inspiring presentation on the theme “World Peace: Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” Class 9 students presented on “Sustainability and a Greener Tomorrow,” emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. Class 11 and 12 students brought alive the spirit of New India through their performance titled “Panegyric.” These performances left the audience energized and filled with fresh ideas. The event concluded with a rendition of the National Anthem by Class 12 students, instilling a sense of patriotism and pride in everyone present. The second and the final day of the event witnessed the presence of the Chief Guest, Mr. Alok Kumar Roy, IPS, Director General of Police (DGP), Railways and Commando, and the Guest of Honour, Ms. Anjum Moudgil, an Olympian, Arjuna Awardee, former World No. 1, and the first Indian woman shooter to win medals at the World Championships and Commonwealth Games. The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a Saraswati Vandana, followed by a series of inspirational performances by the students. Class 5 students presented “The World Is Our Stage” while Class 6 showcased “Legends and Leaders.” Another notable performance focused on “Innovators of Tomorrow: A Celebration of Creativity, Technology, and Innovation.” Joining them on this occasion were Mr. Krit Serai, Co-Chair/ Director-Principal, Mr. Reekrit Serai, Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, Co-Principal Ms. Madhurima Serai and Mrs. Radhika Panickar Serai, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Mr. Reekrit Serai, Managing Director of Satluj Group of Schools, expressed his gratitude to students, teachers, and everyone who contributed to making the event a success. He remarked that such events not only encourage students’ creativity and performance but also help them recognize their cultural heritage and individual talents. Programs like these provide students with opportunities to hone their skills, preparing them for success in various fields of life. The event concluded with the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and school management presenting awards to students for their outstanding performances. The event also celebrated the achievements of Class 10 and 12 students, with awards presented to the CBSE toppers of 2023-24.

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IIM-B Director, Senior Faculty Face Charges of Caste-Based Discrimination Following Government Inquiry

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Bengaluru police have registered a case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against senior officials of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B), including Director Rishikesha T. Krishnan and Dean Dinesh Kumar, based on allegations of caste-based discrimination by Associate Professor Gopal Das. The case follows a November inquiry by Karnataka’s Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE), which found prima facie evidence of discrimination against Das. Key findings in the DCRE report, submitted to the state’s social welfare department, include the public disclosure of Das’s caste, denial of equal workplace opportunities, and the absence of grievance redress mechanisms for marginalized groups. Das, who joined IIM-B in 2018, had earlier raised the issue during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to the institute. The President’s office directed state authorities to investigate. On December 9, the Bengaluru police were instructed to act based on the findings. In its defense, IIM-B issued a statement asserting that Das’s allegations emerged only after his promotion was delayed due to complaints of harassment against him by doctoral students. The institute claimed these complaints were validated by an independent inquiry. This incident is not isolated. IIM-B has faced similar accusations in the past. In October, the institute drew criticism for disciplinary action against faculty member Deepak Malghan, who had highlighted alleged systemic biases in Indian academic institutions. A stay order has been issued by the Karnataka High Court on action against the accused, pending further legal proceedings. The case underscores ongoing debates about caste representation and equality in India’s premier institutions. Source: The Print Photo Credit: The Print

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CBSE Cracks Down on Dummy Students, Plans Legal Action Against Violating Schools

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has conducted surprise inspections across 29 schools in cities including Delhi, Bengaluru, Varanasi, Bihar, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh to identify and address the issue of ‘dummy’ student enrollments. CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta revealed that the inspections, carried out by teams comprising CBSE officials and principals from affiliated schools, uncovered widespread violations. Many schools had enrolled students who did not attend classes, violating the Board’s Affiliation Bye-Laws. These schools were also found to be flouting infrastructural norms. “CBSE has taken these violations seriously and will issue show-cause notices to the defaulting schools,” Gupta said. He added that the Board is also considering legal action against institutions that breached regulations. The inspections revealed that 18 of the offending schools are located in Delhi, with others spread across Varanasi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Patna, Bilaspur, and Chhattisgarh. The crackdown comes as a response to the growing trend of students enrolling in dummy schools to focus on engineering and medical entrance exams. These students skip regular classes and appear only for board exams. Dummy schools are often selected by aspirants to benefit from state-specific quotas in medical and engineering colleges. For instance, students completing their Classes 11 and 12 in Delhi are eligible for admission under the Delhi State Quota in medical colleges. CBSE’s efforts aim to uphold the integrity of its academic system, ensuring that schools adhere to regulations and maintain transparency in their enrollment processes. The Board is committed to eradicating the practice of dummy enrollments, which compromises the education system and its objectives. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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Over Half of Indians Rely on Social Media for News: Reuters Institute Report

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A recent Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2024 reveals that over 50% of Indians rely on social media platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp for news. The report highlights a global decline in trust toward mainstream news brands and an increase in news avoidance and feelings of being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content. The survey, conducted across six continents and 47 markets, notes that while platforms like YouTube (54%) and WhatsApp (48%) are increasingly preferred for news in India, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) are losing popularity. The report also underscores a worldwide decline in Facebook’s news consumption, dropping by 4% in the past year. The study identifies a global shift in news consumption habits, with younger audiences favoring short video formats. Platforms such as TikTok and YouTube are emerging as key sources, while traditional publishers face challenges in monetization and audience engagement. Two-thirds of respondents globally expressed a preference for short news videos over long formats. The report also sheds light on the growing role of influencers, commentators, and independent creators as trusted sources of information, particularly on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. However, traditional journalists still retain credibility on networks such as Facebook and X. A major concern revealed in the report is the rise in misinformation. Globally, 59% of respondents expressed concerns about distinguishing real from fake news online, with platforms like TikTok and X being flagged for hosting misinformation, including “deep fake” content. Globally, trust in news is alarmingly low, with only 40% of respondents saying they trust the news they consume. In contrast, Finland leads with a 69% trust rate, while Greece and Hungary lag at just 23%. The report also highlights financial challenges for journalism, as fewer people are willing to pay for news. Only 17% of respondents in richer nations reported paying for an online news subscription, with significant discounts influencing those who do. Adding to the pressure on sustainable journalism are technological disruptions, including the growing influence of AI. The report warns that AI tools may flood the media landscape with low-quality, synthetic content, further eroding trust and interest in news. The findings point to a critical juncture for global journalism, with calls for innovation and trust-building amid the shifting dynamics of news consumption. Source: The Wire Photo Credit: The Wire

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Guardian Confirms Sale of The Observer to Tortoise Media, Ending 30-Year Ownership

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The owner of The Guardian newspaper, the Scott Trust, confirmed on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, that it has sold The Observer, the world’s oldest Sunday newspaper, to Tortoise Media for an undisclosed amount. The deal marks a significant shift in the British media landscape, as The Observer, founded in 1791 and a part of the Guardian Media Group (GMG) since 1993, moves into new hands. Tortoise Media, founded in 2019 by former The Times editor James Harding and ex-U.S. ambassador to London Matthew Barzun, acquired The Observer through a combination of cash and shares. As part of the deal, Tortoise Media has committed to a five-year commercial agreement with GMG, covering print, distribution, and marketing services, with the Scott Trust also taking a 9% stake in the company. The Trust will invest 5 million pounds into Tortoise Media as part of a 25 million-pound investment. “This deal secures fresh investment and ideas for The Observer, ensuring its relevance for new audiences and reinforcing its commitment to liberal journalism,” said Ole Jacob Sunde, chair of the Scott Trust. Additionally, Lucy Rock has been appointed the first female print editor of The Observer in 100 years. Rock, who will oversee the newspaper’s print version alongside a digital editor, will report to Harding, who will serve as the paper’s editor-in-chief. This leadership shift comes as The Observer looks to build a stronger online presence and expand its digital brand. The sale has faced opposition within the Guardian Media Group, culminating in a 48-hour strike earlier this month by journalists protesting the move. Source: The Hindu Photo Credit: The Hindu

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Yogi Adityanath Hails Atal Bihari Vajpayee as Icon of Good Governance on 100th Birth Anniversary

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday hailed former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an icon of good governance, emphasizing his pro-poor policies aimed at empowering marginalized communities. Yogi’s remarks were made during the inauguration of “Good Governance Week” at the Sangeet Natak Academy in Lucknow, a week-long event running until December 25 to commemorate Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary. The CM praised Vajpayee’s transformative leadership, which turned political instability into governance stability. He highlighted key policies such as the Antyodaya scheme, which sought to uplift the poor, deprived, and backward sections of society, and initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana and the Golden Quadrilateral that revolutionized India’s infrastructure. “This year marks the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayeeji, a great son of India. His vision of good governance continues to inspire the nation, including Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Yogi said. He also noted Vajpayee’s strong connection to Uttar Pradesh, with the late leader representing Balrampur and Lucknow in Parliament. The CM emphasized that Vajpayee’s unblemished career spanned six decades in public service as a poet, journalist, and politician. The event also included exhibitions celebrating Vajpayee’s life, and various activities like essay writing, speeches, painting contests, and seminars in rural areas will take place during the week. Winners will be honored on December 25, followed by a poetry session inspired by Vajpayee’s works across districts, schools, and colleges. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

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Over 50% Rise in Indians Studying Abroad, U.S. Tops the List

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The number of Indians pursuing higher education abroad has surged by 52.2% over the past five years, climbing from 5,86,337 in 2019 to 8,92,989 in 2023, according to data shared by the Ministry of Education in the Rajya Sabha. Among these, the United States hosts the largest group, with 2,34,473 Indian students, closely followed by Canada at 2,33,532, and the United Kingdom with 1,36,921. Canada witnessed a remarkable 76% rise in Indian student enrolment during this period, despite diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Key Highlights: Impact of Diplomatic Tensions on Canada: Canada’s popularity as a study destination remains robust, with enrolment increasing from 1,32,620 in 2019 to 2,33,532 in 2023. This growth persists despite escalating tensions, including the expulsion of diplomats and strained relations over the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2024. Canada’s work visa policies, allowing international graduates to work for up to three years post-study, continue to attract Indian students. United States and U.K. Drive Growth: Indian student numbers in the United States surged by 91% during the same period, fueled by the appeal of prestigious universities such as MIT, Harvard, and Stanford. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom recorded a staggering 273.9% rise, aided by the introduction of the Graduate Route Visa in 2021, which allows students to stay and work for two to three years after graduation. Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic caused a 55.7% dip in 2020, with numbers falling to 2,59,655 due to travel restrictions and a shift to online education. The sector has since rebounded strongly, showcasing the enduring appeal of international education for Indian students. Government’s Perspective: Responding to concerns about potential brain drain, Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, highlighted the value of the Indian diaspora. “Higher studies abroad are a matter of individual will and choice. A prosperous and influential diaspora is an asset for India, contributing through knowledge sharing and expertise,” Majumdar stated. While the data reflects a rising trend of Indian students seeking global opportunities, it also underscores the need to leverage the potential of this growing diaspora to benefit the nation’s economy and international stature. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

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First Severe U.S. Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu Reported in Louisiana

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The United States has recorded its first severe human case of H5N1 bird flu, with a Louisiana resident hospitalized after exposure to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks. This case, confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), marks the first U.S. human infection linked to backyard poultry. Key Highlights: Case Details: The Louisiana patient was exposed to infected birds but symptoms remain undisclosed. This case is part of a broader trend, with over 60 bird flu infections reported in 2023, more than half in California. Undetermined Cases in Other States: Health officials are investigating two additional cases—a Missouri adult and a California child—where the source of infection remains unclear. No Person-to-Person Transmission: Officials have emphasized that bird flu remains primarily an animal health issue. Importantly, there is no documented spread of H5N1 from person to person, keeping the risk to the general public low. Prevention Measures: To reduce the risk of H5 bird flu infection: Avoid exposure to sick or dead birds. Be cautious around backyard poultry flocks. Practice good hygiene if handling birds or their byproducts. Infected birds can shed the virus through saliva, mucous, and feces, while other animals may spread the virus through respiratory secretions. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, reaffirming that the risk to the public is minimal but urging caution in handling potentially infected birds. Source: India Today Photo Credit: India Today

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