Extreme weather events ravaged the world in 2023, claiming countless lives and breaking temperature records. Scientists reveal the past 12 months as the hottest in 125,000 years. Storms, floods, and wildfires wreaked havoc from the US to Australia, with unprecedented heatwaves scorching Europe. The devastating toll includes Cyclone Freddy's deadly dance, Mediterranean Storm Daniel's catastrophic flooding, and record-breaking heatwaves in the Amazon. The year ended with floods in Tanzania, supercell thunderstorms in the UK, and Spain experiencing historic December heat. Climate change's impact intensifies, emphasizing the urgent need for global action.            

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister, Farooq Abdullah, expressed his congratulations on the completion of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, emphasizing the universal significance of Lord Ram. In a statement to ANI, Abdullah said, "I would like to congratulate everyone who made the effort for the temple. It's ready now." He stressed, "Lord Ram doesn't only belong to Hindus; he belongs to everyone in the world. It's written in the books." Abdullah highlighted Lord Ram's message of brotherhood, love, and unity, urging the nation to revive diminishing brotherhood. The consecration ceremony on January 22 is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.    

Thousands of Eurostar and Southeastern train passengers face travel misery due to major flooding in two tunnels beneath the River Thames. The disruption began outside Ebbsfleet International station in Kent on Friday, impacting crucial international links and high-speed services. Eurostar has been forced to cancel 29 services, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting holiday plans. Newlyweds from New York express frustration as their New Year's Eve at Disneyland Paris is jeopardized. Social media outcry highlights inadequate communication from operators. Shuttle services are implemented, but uncertainties persist. Eurostar apologizes, citing ongoing efforts to address the situation as passengers navigate delays and seek compensation.

In a groundbreaking move, California launches a comprehensive healthcare plan, offering free coverage to over 700,000 undocumented immigrants starting Monday, a significant stride towards universal healthcare. However, the ambitious initiative is shadowed by concerns over the state's massive $68 billion budget deficit. Governor Gavin Newsom's 2022 commitment faces scrutiny as the program unfolds, emphasizing economic challenges. Advocates argue the expansion will bridge healthcare gaps, ultimately saving costs. With the potential to reshape healthcare access, California's Monday initiative sparks debates on financial feasibility and its impact on an already strained system. The move positions California as a pioneer in expansive healthcare reform, echoing broader discussions on nationwide healthcare changes.

Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia calls on the Sports Ministry to restart wrestling activities ahead of the Paris Games, expressing concern over the lack of seriousness in preparations. Wrestling faced disruptions due to internal issues, stemming from protests against former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Despite a new committee, normalcy eludes the Wrestling Federation of India. Punia emphasizes the urgency, stating the upcoming Olympics require immediate attention. The plea comes amidst protests within the wrestling community, with Sakshi Malik retiring and Vinesh Phogat returning awards. Punia urges swift action to safeguard the future of players and uphold India's strong Olympic wrestling tradition. 

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern over the escalating threat of infectious diseases in the Gaza Strip. With over 21,000 casualties since the onset of the conflict, displaced families face multiple relocations, leading to overcrowded health facilities. Tedros highlighted the risk of diseases amidst such conditions, citing cases of respiratory infections, diarrhoea, lice, scabies, chickenpox, and skin rashes. WHO and partners are actively supporting health authorities to enhance disease surveillance, provide medicines and testing kits, and improve access to essential services. The situation remains critical as the conflict persists.

India gears up for a groundbreaking year in science, planning human spaceflight tests and delving into deep ocean exploration. After a successful moon mission, ISRO sets sights on sending aquanauts aboard "Samudrayaan" and launching XPoSat to study X-rays and black holes. The upcoming Gaganyaan missions aim for human spaceflight by 2025. Private space sector milestones include Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos eyeing commercial launches in 2024. Pixxel plans a satellite constellation, while major projects like LIGO and National Quantum Mission get government approval. Exciting developments include Antarctic research station plans and a winter expedition to the Arctic.

Climate scientists express cautious optimism as 2023 is considered a pivotal year for climate action. Experts believe that global carbon emissions from energy use may have peaked, marking a crucial milestone in the fight against climate change. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts a decline in fossil fuel consumption, citing a plateau in power sector emissions and a rise in renewable energy sources. While some remain skeptical, pointing to conflicting projections from major oil producers, there is a growing consensus that 2023 could be the beginning of the end for the fossil fuel era.

During the inauguration of Maharshi Valmiki Airport in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a heartfelt appeal to devotees, saying, "This is my request with folded hands, don't decide to come to Ram Temple on January 22." He emphasized logistical challenges, adding, "You can come any time after January 23." Modi suggested celebrating January 22 as Diwali across India by stating, "Instead, light a diya at home on January 22. That day should be Diwali across India." The Prime Minister also announced an 8-day cleanliness drive starting January 14, stating, "Lord Ram belongs to the entire country, and now that he is coming, no temple, no matter how small or big, should remain dirty." Ayodhya residents were urged to make the city the cleanest in the country to accommodate future visitors.            

Israeli forces intensify their campaign in Gaza, striking Khan Younis with tank fire and aerial bombings. Preparing for a further advance into the main southern city, they target key locations. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant notes progress in reaching Hamas command centers. The military destroys a tunnel complex in the house of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The ongoing conflict, triggered by Hamas militants' actions 12 weeks ago, has devastated much of the Gaza Strip, with a toll of nearly 200 in the last 24 hours. Concerns rise over the densely populated area's humanitarian impact and international calls for de-escalation persist.