India's newsmakers of 2024: Defining moments and landmark achievements

The year 2024 has been marked by major events, where individuals and groups have made waves across various sectors. From remarkable achievements in sports and politics to life-saving efforts and impactful leadership, these newsmakers have shaped the national conversation. Their stories reflect resilience, innovation and the drive to create lasting change. Here's a look at the key figures and their defining moments that captured the spotlight this year.

Gukesh D achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by clinching the World Chess Championship title, defeating the reigning champion Ding Liren. His triumph not only marked him as the youngest-ever champion, but also solidified his meteoric rise in the world of chess. With remarkable performances against top-ranked players and significant milestones in the FIDE rankings, Gukesh has emerged as a beacon of India's new generation of chess prodigies, inspiring fans worldwide.

The skilled rat-hole miners from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh

The heroic efforts of the rescuers during the Silkyara tunnel collapse in Uttarkashi have etched their names as newsmakers of the year. These skilled rat-hole miners from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, tirelessly worked alongside the Army and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to free 41 workers trapped for 17 grueling days since Diwali morning on November 12. Risking their lives, the miners manually cleared 55 meters of debris under treacherous conditions, displaying extraordinary courage and resilience. Their precise coordination and relentless digging brought about a jubilant breakthrough on November 28, when all 41 workers emerged safely. The rescuers’ unwavering determination, supported by the prayers of millions and the leadership of officials, turned this perilous mission into a remarkable success story, highlighting their pivotal role in one of India’s most challenging rescue operations.

Dhruv Rathee | Photo: Instagram/@dhruvrathee

As a prominent content creator, Dhruv Rathee played an active role in shaping public opinion during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Rathee's data-driven critiques of the BJP's policies, including demonetisation, GST implementation, unemployment rates and social issues, offered alternative perspectives to the mainstream narrative. His emphasis on critical analysis of party manifestos and his questioning of hyper-nationalistic rhetoric resonated with many voters seeking transparency and accountability.

4. Justice D Y Chandrachud
 

D.Y. Chandrachud | PTI

Former Chief Justice of India, Justice D Y Chandrachud, upheld the ideals of constitutional morality and personal liberty throughout 2024. Known for his progressive judgments and readiness to diverge from majority views, he reinforced the judiciary's role as a guardian of democracy. However, his tenure was not without controversy. He allowed a survey of the Gyanvapi mosque premises, a move criticised by some as encroaching on religious sensitivities. Also, his decision to invite the Prime Minister to his residence for Ganapati Puja shortly before retiring raised questions about the judiciary's independence. Despite these contentious moments, Justice Chandrachud’s legacy remains one of balancing democratic principles with judicial pragmatism.

In 2024, Mahua Moitra, the firebrand Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, grabbed national attention with a dramatic political turn. After being removed from her position as a Member of Parliament (MP) due to allegations of misconduct, Moitra’s political career seemed to face a tough challenge. However, in a remarkable comeback, she contested the subsequent election and emerged victorious, reclaiming her seat in the Lok Sabha. Her return not only signaled her resilience but also underscored her unwavering support from her constituency, Krishnanagar. Moitra’s strong advocacy for democratic values, along with her sharp criticism of government policies, made her a key figure in Indian politics, ensuring that her return would continue to stir debates and influence the political landscape.

Arvind Kejriwal | File Photo: PTI

Arvind Kejriwal, former Chief Minister of Delhi and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), faced a tumultuous 2024 that tested his political resilience. His arrest earlier in the year on corruption charges sent shockwaves through Indian politics. However, it also galvanized his support base, with AAP leveraging the controversy to portray him as a victim of political vendetta. Kejriwal's tenure and governance model—focused on education, healthcare and public welfare—continued to draw national attention and became a rallying point for his party. As he now gears up to contest from New Delhi seat in the upcoming Assembly elections, Kejriwal aims to consolidate AAP’s position in the capital and reignite the momentum for its expansion into other states, reaffirming his stature as a formidable force in Indian politics.

7. Rahul Gandhi

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi speaks during a public meeting for Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections, at Surankote, in Poonch district, J&K, on Monday. | Photo: PTI

Rahul Gandhi solidified his position as a central figure in Opposition politics in 2024, emerging as a key voice for unity and socio-economic justice. After reclaiming his Wayanad seat in the Lok Sabha elections, Rahul made the symbolic decision to represent Rae Bareli, marking a return to the family's traditional stronghold. As a prominent leader of the INDIA bloc, he played a crucial role in fostering collaboration among opposition parties to counter the ruling BJP-led coalition. His relentless focus on governance issues and his efforts to counter divisive narratives were complemented by his Bharat Jodo Yatra, which continued to resonate as a call for harmony and inclusivity. Gandhi’s leadership and messaging reinforced his stature as a unifying force in Indian politics.

N Biren Singh l File Photo: ANI

N. Biren Singh, the Chief Minister of Manipur, has been at the center of controversy due to his handling of the ethnic violence and communal clashes that erupted in the state earlier this year. The unrest, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki communities, has resulted in widespread displacement, destruction, and loss of lives. Despite mounting pressure from various quarters, including opposition parties and civil society groups, Biren Singh has refused to step down from his position, citing his commitment to restoring peace and stability in the state. Critics, however, accuse him of failing to take effective measures to prevent the escalation of violence and address the grievances of the affected communities.

Manu Bhaker | Photo: ANI

In 2024, Manu Bhaker made headlines with her remarkable achievements at the Paris Olympics, winning two bronze medals. She secured a bronze in the women’s 10-metre air pistol event and another in the mixed 10-metre air pistol team event with partner Sarabjot Singh. These victories made her the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals in a single Games, marking a historic moment for Indian shooting. Bhaker's success has inspired a new wave of athletes and raised the profile of shooting sports in India.

Eknath Shinde, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, remained a key figure in Maharashtra politics in 2024. Having ascended to the Chief Minister's post by orchestrating a split in the Shiv Sena, Shinde cemented his political clout by leading his faction to victory in the recently concluded Assembly elections. Though he now holds the position of Deputy Chief Minister in the Mahayuti government, his tenure has begun with challenges. Persistent tensions with the BJP, the principal ally in the coalition, over policy decisions and power-sharing dynamics are testing the alliance. Shinde’s leadership style, characterised by pragmatism and resilience, continues to influence Maharashtra’s political and administrative discourse amidst these complexities.

In January 2024, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged land scam, leading to his resignation from office. After spending five months in judicial custody, he was granted bail by the Jharkhand High Court in July. Upon his release, Soren resumed his political activities, vigorously campaigning for the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) in the state assembly elections. His efforts culminated in a significant victory for the JMM-led INDIA bloc, which secured 56 seats in the 81-member assembly, enabling Soren to reclaim the position of Chief Minister. This sequence of events underscores Soren's resilience and enduring influence in Jharkhand's political landscape.