here are the top news stories in India:December 28, 2024,

National News

Memorial for Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting space for a memorial dedicated to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away recently. Singh's cremation with full state honors is scheduled for today.
Delhi's Record December Rainfall: Delhi has experienced its highest December rainfall on record. An 'orange alert' has been issued, warning of potential snowfall in the region.
Surat Tragedy: In Surat, a man has tragically stabbed his wife and 4-year-old son to death and critically injured his parents. The incident has shocked the local community.

Energy Sector

Extension of Mandate for Imported Coal-Based Power Plants: The Indian government has extended its directive for imported coal-based power plants to operate at full capacity until February 28, 2025.This decision impacts major companies like Tata Power, Adani Power, and Vedanta, which collectively contribute nearly 16 gigawatts to the national grid.The extension aims to address the recent decline in coal-fired power output and a significant reduction in thermal coal imports.

Economy

India Leads Asian IPO Rankings: India has surpassed China to become Asia's leading market for initial public offerings (IPOs) in 2024.This surge is driven by companies like Swiggy and Hyundai Motor, positioning India as the world's second-largest equity fundraising market after the United States.The National Stock Exchange of India is set to lead in primary listings value, surpassing Nasdaq and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.This shift is attributed to China's stringent regulations leading to a decline in Chinese IPOs, while India's stock market rally has driven a high volume of IPOs, benefiting from increased domestic investment.
Economic Growth Projections: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) anticipates an acceleration in the country's economic growth during the October-March period of the 2024-25 fiscal year.This optimism is based on robust domestic private consumption and a sustained revival in rural demand.The RBI notes that strong festival sales and increased rural demand have contributed to a recovery from the previous slowdown. However, the central bank cautions that unchecked inflation could undermine real economy prospects, especially in industry and exports.

Technology and Innovation

Private Sector Participation in Satellite Development: In a significant move to reduce dependence on foreign data for critical applications, India's space regulator has received proposals from 30 companies to build and operate Earth observation satellite constellations.This initiative is part of a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing the country's capabilities in areas such as defense and infrastructure management.The project has attracted startups like Pixxel and SatSure, as well as major firms like Tata Advanced Systems. The government plans to provide financial support, with the private sector covering the remaining costs.

Sports

Boxing Day Test Match: In cricket, Australia has taken a commanding lead over India on day three of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.India, who appeared poised for a strong innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli developing a promising partnership, faltered after a late burst from Australian bowler Scott Boland and a critical run-out, ending day two at 5/164, trailing by 310 runs. On the morning of day three, India's experienced players, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, faced a formidable challenge but both were dismissed before the lunch break.India is now seven wickets down and trails by 230 runs.
Retirement Speculations in Indian Cricket: Speculations are rife regarding potential retirements among veteran Indian cricketers.Following Ravichandran Ashwin's recent retirement after the Brisbane Test, attention has turned to senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.Commentator Bharat Sundaresan has hinted that a major player might retire soon, with Sharma, who has been struggling with form and potentially battling injury, suggested as the most likely candidate.The performance of India's new batting partnership, Rahul and Jaiswal, is deemed crucial for the team's future.