Highlights / News Headlines, December 17

Key Points
The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah.
Modi Honoured By Ethiopia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour, the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’, during his first bilateral visit to the country. The award was presented by Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed for his contribution to strengthening India-Ethiopia ties and his leadership as a global statesman.
PM Modi invites Ethiopian counterpart
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited his Ethiopian counterpart, Abiy Ahmed Ali, to attend the AI Impact Summit and the BRICS Summit, both scheduled to be hosted by India in 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs said.
AI-Based Highway Management
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament that the nationwide rollout of the multi‑lane free flow tolling system and AI‑powered highway management is expected to be completed by end‑2026, a move aimed at virtually eliminating waiting time for commuters at toll plazas.
India Summons Bangladesh Envoy
The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah to convey New Delhi's strong concerns over the deteriorating security environment in Bangladesh. India alerted Bangladesh about extremist threats near its mission and firmly rejected the false narrative circulating.
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✨Odisha Government Thanks Centre
Missing Odia youth Adarsh Behera rescued from conflict‑hit Sudan and brought home safely. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi thanks the Ministry of External Affairs for its coordinated efforts with the Odisha and central governments.
Smart Protein Facility in Odisha
In a landmark development for India’s sustainable feed industry, Odisha-based Elmentoz Research Pvt. Ltd., backed by investors from India and Norway, is set to build the country’s largest smart protein facility. The startup aims to transform animal nutrition through precision feed technology and insect‑based protein solutions.
Maritime Cooperation With Maldives
Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti called on Maldives Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Khaleel and National Security Advisor Ibrahim Latheef reiterating India's commitment to enhance maritime cooperation with Maldives for a safe and secure Indian Ocean Region.
Final Trio Delivered
In a major development that will further strengthen the Indian Army's warfare store, the US Embassy announced the delivery of the remaining three AH-64E Boeing Apache attack helicopters.
98th Academy Awards
The Indian movie ‘Homebound’, has been shortlisted for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. Homebound is now one of 15 films eligible for the final nominations in the Oscars 2026 International Feature Film category.
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