(C) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated the 31st National Children’s Science Congress in Bhopal, India. Over 700 child scientists, teachers, and mentors from India and Gulf countries will participate. The theme is “Understanding Ecosystems for Health and Well-being.” Events include the Chandrayaan Mission, Robotics, Hydroponics, Water Rocketry, Environment-based Exhibitions, and Folk Songs. The Congress, started in 1993, is operated by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

(C) A new virus HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), similar to the Coronavirus, is spreading in China, causing symptoms similar to Covid-19. Infected individuals show symptoms like cold and Covid-19, with the maximum impact on small children below 2 years old. The HMPV virus, first identified in 2001, is characterized by cough, fever, blocked nose, and wheezing. HMPV is a respiratory virus that has gained attention due to its prevalence and impact.

(A) Russia has introduced a new tourist tax, replacing the old resort fee, effective January 1, 2025. The tax, which will initially charge 1% of accommodation costs, will increase to 3% by 2027. This tax applies to hotels and other accommodations, with regional authorities imposing it as a local tax, aiming to improve Russia’s tourism sector.

(A) South Korea’s political crisis escalated on December 27, 2024, when parliament voted to impeach Acting President Han Duk-soo, following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol on December 14, 2024. Han had been acting since Yoon’s suspension, but the opposition demanded his impeachment due to his refusal to appoint three Constitutional Court judges. This marks the first time an Acting President has faced impeachment.

(C) Malayalam writer and senior journalist S. Jayachandran Nair passed away on 2 January. His autobiography, Ente Pradhakshina Vazhikal, received the prestigious ‘Sahitya Akademi Award’ in the year 2012. His best works include ‘Rosadalangal’, ‘Azhakalatha Aakasham’, and ‘Umadaththinte Suryakantika’.