Year-Ender 2024: Top 10 News Stories from India
TFM Report
- India’s Chandrayaan-4 Lands on Lunar South Pole
India achieved another milestone in space exploration with the successful landing of Chandrayaan-4 on the lunar south pole in August 2024. The mission, led by ISRO, focused on studying water ice deposits and conducting experiments to understand lunar geology. The mission’s rover, Vikram II, performed detailed analysis, solidifying India’s position as a leading spacefaring nation.
The success of Chandrayaan-4 sparked global collaboration opportunities for India, with NASA and ESA expressing interest in joint lunar exploration programs. The mission inspired a new wave of scientific interest among Indian youth and bolstered ISRO’s reputation for cost-effective and innovative space technology.
- India Hosts Historic G20 Summit in Varanasi
In September 2024, India hosted the G20 Summit in the holy city of Varanasi, marking the culmination of its presidency. The summit emphasized inclusive growth, digital innovation, and climate finance, with significant agreements on renewable energy investments and global digital payment frameworks. The event showcased India’s cultural heritage, blending diplomacy with spirituality.
Leaders from across the globe lauded India’s efforts in bridging global divides and fostering cooperation among the Global South. The summit also highlighted India’s rising stature on the world stage, though critics pointed to challenges in ensuring the equitable implementation of its ambitious agenda.
- Cyclone Varsha Wreaks Havoc in Coastal States
Cyclone Varsha, the strongest storm in recent decades, battered India’s eastern coast in June 2024. States like Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh bore the brunt, with over 1,000 lives lost and millions displaced. The cyclone caused massive damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods, prompting a massive humanitarian response.
While India’s disaster response systems limited casualties, the scale of destruction highlighted the vulnerability of coastal regions to climate change. Experts emphasized the need for long-term investments in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such disasters in the future.
- Women’s Reservation Bill Passed in Parliament
A landmark moment for gender equality unfolded in 2024 as Parliament passed the long-awaited Women’s Reservation Bill, ensuring 33% representation for women in legislatures. The bill received bipartisan support and was hailed as a transformative step toward empowering women in politics.
Critics, however, raised concerns about effective implementation and the potential exclusion of marginalized groups. Despite the challenges, the legislation was celebrated as a victory for gender justice, inspiring women across the country to aspire for leadership roles.
- India’s Economy Surges to $4 Trillion GDP
India’s economy crossed the $4 trillion GDP mark in 2024, driven by robust growth in technology, manufacturing, and green energy sectors. Key government policies, including production-linked incentives and a focus on startups, played a pivotal role in sustaining the momentum.
However, economic inequality and unemployment continued to pose challenges. Economists stressed the importance of inclusive growth strategies to ensure that the benefits of India’s economic boom reach all sections of society.
- Supreme Court Rules on Same-Sex Marriage Rights
In a historic judgment, the Supreme Court of India recognized same-sex marriages, granting equal rights to LGBTQ+ couples. The ruling was celebrated as a milestone for human rights, reflecting India’s evolving societal norms and constitutional values.
Despite the progress, resistance from conservative groups and political factions highlighted the challenges of achieving widespread acceptance. The judgment sparked a broader conversation on equality and inclusion, paving the way for future reforms.
- India Wins Cricket World Cup 2024
Cricket fever gripped the nation as India clinched the ICC Cricket World Cup 2024 in a thrilling final against England in Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma’s leadership and star performances from emerging players sealed the historic win, bringing the trophy home after 13 years.
The victory united a cricket-crazy nation, with celebrations erupting across cities and villages. The team’s triumph not only cemented India’s dominance in world cricket but also underscored the sport’s enduring role in fostering national pride.
- Northeast India Emerges as New Growth Hub Amidst Manipur crisis
The Northeast region gained significant attention in 2024 with major infrastructure projects and policy initiatives boosting its economic potential. Projects like the Trans-Arunachal Highway and new railways connecting Northeast accelerated development and integration.
The government’s focus on the Northeast as a gateway to Southeast Asia through the Act East Policy brought foreign investments and enhanced trade opportunities. However, activists cautioned against neglecting environmental concerns and the need for inclusive growth that respects indigenous rights. While, there were critical appraisal of the developmental aspects, the violence in Manipur continues to grip national headlines. Despite, India’s global standing, Manipur crisis is yet to find a way out, bringing peace and tranquility between different ethnic communities in the state.
- New Delhi Battles Worst Air Pollution in History
New Delhi faced its worst-ever air pollution crisis in November 2024, with AQI levels surpassing hazardous limits for weeks. Stubble burning in neighboring states, industrial emissions, and vehicular pollution compounded the health emergency, leading to school closures and restricted outdoor activities.
The crisis reignited debates on environmental policy and accountability, with demands for stricter enforcement of anti-pollution measures. Experts called for sustainable urban planning and greater investment in green technologies to combat India’s recurring pollution problem.
- India Becomes World’s Largest Electric Vehicle Market
India emerged as the world’s largest market for electric vehicles (EVs) in 2024, driven by government incentives, rising fuel costs, and improved charging infrastructure. Major automakers launched affordable EV models, while startups innovated in battery technology and renewable energy integration.
The shift toward EVs significantly reduced carbon emissions in urban areas, though challenges like recycling battery waste and expanding rural infrastructure remain. India’s EV revolution positioned the country as a global leader in sustainable transportation, aligning with its ambitious climate goals.