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National news
Piyush Goyal Inaugurates National Turmeric Board for ‘Golden Spices’

On 14 January 2025, the National Turmeric Board was formally inaugurated by Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, through a video conference in New Delhi. The headquarters of the National Turmeric Board is located in Nizamabad, Telangana, a major contributor to India’s turmeric production, accounting for around 30% of the country’s turmeric exports.
Key Details:
Ministry: The National Turmeric Board operates under the Department of Commerce, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Chairperson and Composition:
Chairperson: The first chairperson of the board is Palle Ganga Reddy, appointed by the government of India.
The Board will consist of members from various ministries, including:
- Union Ministry of AYUSH
- Department of Pharmaceuticals
- Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
- Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry
The board will also include:
- Representatives from three major turmeric-growing states (on a rotating basis).
- National and state institutions involved in turmeric research.
- Turmeric farmers and exporters.
- The Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce.
Functions of the National Turmeric Board:
- Promote Research and Development (R&D): Focus on boosting yields and production of turmeric.
- Boost Exports: Promote R&D in new turmeric products and value addition, ensuring smooth logistics and a robust supply chain for international markets.
- Raise Awareness: Highlight the essential and medical properties of turmeric.
- Ensure Quality Standards: Maintain the quality and safety of turmeric production and exports to reinforce India’s position as the world’s leading exporter of high-quality turmeric.
- Farmer Development: Focus on capacity building and skill development for turmeric farmers.
India’s Role in Turmeric Production and Exports:
- India is the world’s largest producer, exporter, and consumer of turmeric.
- In 2023-24, India exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric, worth ₹1,875.86 crore or $226.5 million.
- The top buyers of Indian turmeric include Bangladesh, followed by UAE, Malaysia, and USA.
- Target for 2030: The government aims for ₹8,000 crore in turmeric exports by 2030.
Govt Approves 56 Watershed Projects Worth ₹700 Crore

The Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned 56 new Watershed Development Projects under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) with a total investment of ₹700 crore. These projects span 10 high-performing states: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
Scope and Coverage:
- Each project covers approximately 5,000 hectares, with smaller areas in hill states.
- A total of 280,000 hectares will benefit from these projects.
Activities Undertaken:
- Ridge area treatment and drainage line treatment.
- Soil and moisture conservation, rainwater harvesting, and pasture development.
- Livelihood support for asset-less individuals.
Objectives and Outcomes:
- Agricultural Productivity: Enhanced soil health and water availability to improve crop yields and farmers’ incomes.
- Land Degradation: Rehabilitation of degraded lands and promotion of sustainable practices.
- Climate Resilience: Strengthened water conservation and soil fertility to combat climate change impacts.
Historical Context:
- Builds on the success of PMKSY 1.0, which improved groundwater, surface water availability, and agricultural productivity.
- The current phase, PMKSY-WDC 2.0, aims to continue sustainable rural development with these newly approved projects.
C-DOT & IIT Mandi to Develop Wideband Spectrum Sensor Chip

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), in collaboration with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu, has signed an agreement to develop a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC-Chip. This project aims to enhance spectrum utilization efficiency and expand broadband access, especially in rural India, under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme.
Project Goals:
- Development of a chip to improve spectrum efficiency.
- Focus on hardware-friendly algorithms for wideband spectrum sensing.
- Target spectrum beyond 2 GHz bandwidth to exploit unused bands or white spaces.
- Support rural broadband expansion by leveraging underutilized spectrum.
Technological Innovations: Spectrum sensing enables Cognitive Radio to adapt dynamically without interfering with primary networks.
Efficient hardware architectures for:
- Short sensing time
- High data throughput
- Improved hardware efficiency
- Initial designs emulated in FPGA; subsequent development of ASIC chips.
- Demonstration of a cognitive radio module for the 6 GHz satellite band (5.925–7.125 GHz).
Key Benefits:
- Increases cognitive radio network throughput.
- Enhances spectrum utilization for communication systems.
- Develops intellectual property for dynamic spectrum access technology.
- Aligns with the India Semiconductor Mission.
Supporting Vision and Schemes:
- Funded under TTDF, Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
- Supports Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
- Bridges India’s digital divide by enhancing rural connectivity.
Key Attendees and Remarks:
- Dr. Raj Kumar Upadhyay (CEO, C-DOT): Stressed the significance of indigenous spectrum sensing technologies.
- Dr. Rahul Shrestha (IIT Mandi) & Dr. Rohit B. Chaurasiya (IIT Jammu): Emphasized commitment to research in dynamic spectrum access technology.
- Other notable attendees: Dr. Pankaj Kumar Dalela and Ms. Shikha Srivastava, Directors at C-DOT.
This initiative underscores India’s technological advancements in telecommunications, fostering innovation and self-reliance.
Kappad and Chal Beaches Receive Prestigious Blue Flag Certification

Kerala’s Kappad beach (Kozhikode) and Chal beach (Kannur) have received the prestigious Blue Flag certification, a globally recognized eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark. This recognition highlights their commitment to environmental protection, safety, and sustainability, boosting Kerala’s reputation as a hub for sustainable tourism.
Key Highlights:
Blue Flag Certification: Awarded by the FEE, established in 1985 to promote sustainable coastal development.
Recognizes adherence to 33 stringent criteria in four categories:
- Environmental Education and Information
- Bathing Water Quality
- Environmental Management
- Conservation and Safety Services
Significance for Kerala:
- Global Recognition: Enhances the state’s international appeal as a sustainable tourism destination.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Both beaches maintain high hygiene, safety, and eco-conscious standards.
- Tourism Impact: Attracts environmentally conscious travelers, aligning with Kerala’s Responsible Tourism (RT) initiatives.
Tourism Minister’s Statement:
P.A. Mohamed Riyas: Highlighted the achievement as a milestone for Kerala’s sustainable tourism.
India’s Blue Flag Beaches: With Kappad and Chal, India now boasts 13 Blue Flag beaches, reflecting its dedication to eco-friendly tourism.
About Blue Flag Certification:
- Authority: Awarded by FEE and validated by an international jury comprising representatives from:
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Global Reach: Over 4,000 beaches worldwide hold this certification, with Spain leading at 729 beaches.
The Blue Flag certification recognizes beaches that adhere to stringent environmental, safety, and sustainability standards. As of 2025, India has 13 certified beaches:
- Shivrajpur Beach, Dwarka, Gujarat (Certified in 2020)
- Golden Beach, Puri, Odisha (Certified in 2020)
- Ghoghla Beach, Diu, Gujarat (Certified in 2020)
- Kasarkod Beach, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka (Certified in 2020)
- Padubidri Beach, Udupi, Karnataka (Certified in 2020)
- Rushikonda Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (Certified in 2020)
- Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Certified in 2020)
- Kovalam Beach, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Certified in 2020)
- Eden Beach, Puducherry (Certified in 2020)
- Minicoy Thundi Beach, Lakshadweep (Certified in 2022)
- Kadmat Beach, Lakshadweep (Certified in 2022)
- Kappad Beach, Kozhikode, Kerala (Certified in 2025)
- Chal Beach, Kannur, Kerala (Certified in 2025)
International news
India-U.S. Sonobuoy Production Line Set for 2027

India and the United States have announced a co-production initiative to enhance the Indian Navy’s undersea domain awareness through the assembly of U.S.-specification sonobuoys in India. This collaboration aims to provide India with advanced technology for submarine detection and undersea warfare capabilities, strengthening India’s defense readiness and regional security.
Key Details:
Co-Production Agreement:
- The co-production agreement focuses on assembling U.S. sonobuoys in India to bolster the Indian Navy’s capabilities for detecting submarines.
- The operational production line for these sonobuoys is expected to be fully functional by 2027.
Collaboration Partners: Ultra Maritime, a leading U.S. defense company, has partnered with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), an Indian defense public sector undertaking, for the final assembly of the sonobuoys in India.
Technology Transfer: As part of the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies, this collaboration includes technology transfer, enabling the development of new sonobuoy systems customized for the Indian Ocean environment.
Operational Compatibility:
- The sonobuoys will be designed to be compatible with various military platforms, including:
- U.S. and Indian platforms such as the P-8 aircraft and MH-60R helicopters.
- Allied military platforms for broader interoperability in joint operations.
Geopolitical Significance:
- The partnership strengthens India-U.S. defense ties, particularly as China’s naval presence expands in the Indian Ocean.
- This development is also aligned with **India’s role in the Quad and its increasing focus on regional security and undersea warfare.
Future Outlook: The initiative opens up opportunities for Indian suppliers to integrate into the global supply chain for undersea warfare technologies, promoting self-reliance and fostering defense industrial growth within India.
India to Host the 28th CSPOC in 2026

India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in New Delhi in 2026, as announced by Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, on January 10, 2025 during the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting held in Guernsey.
Focus of the 28th CSPOC:
- The conference will focus on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media in parliamentary operations.
- The aim is to enhance cooperation among Commonwealth member countries using these technologies.
- It will also highlight regional language translations for Members of Parliament (MPs) and provide access to parliamentary papers in various languages.
India’s Role in Global Economy:
- India, now the 5th-largest economy in the world and the 3rd-largest startup ecosystem, is rapidly growing in sectors like agriculture, fintech, AI, and research and innovation.
- The hosting of the CSPOC further solidifies India’s leadership in global discussions on technology and parliamentary reforms.
Cultural Significance: India’s selection as the host for this prestigious event reflects its rich cultural heritage, rooted in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “the whole world is one family.”
India’s Previous Hosting of CSPOC: India has previously hosted the CSPOC in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010, showcasing its longstanding commitment to fostering international dialogue and cooperation.
Banking news
IBBI Mandates Use of eBKray Platform for Asset Auctions in Liquidation

On January 10, 2025, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) announced that starting April 1, 2025, all asset auctions under the liquidation process must be conducted using the eBKray platform, now rebranded as the Bank Asset Auction Network (BAANKET). This initiative aims to enhance transparency, improve auction efficiency, and increase recovery rates in liquidation cases.
Key Points:
Mandatory Use of eBKray Platform:
- IBBI has instructed Insolvency Professionals (IPs) to list unsold assets from ongoing liquidation cases on the eBKray platform by March 31, 2025.
- This move is intended to streamline the auction process, improve buyer access, and foster greater accountability in the liquidation process.
Addressing Auction Issues: The initiative aims to address the challenges with manual and fragmented auctions, creating a more efficient and uniform process.
About the eBKray Platform:
- Launched in 2019, the eBKray (now BAANKET) is an advanced property listing and e-auction platform.
- It is designed to help banks and lending institutions recover non-performing assets (NPAs) by facilitating the digital auction of distressed assets.
IBBI Extends Deadline for E-Forms Submission:
IBBI has also extended the deadline for electronic form submissions related to liquidation and voluntary liquidation processes to March 31, 2025 due to technical issues raised by insolvency professionals and agencies.
About IBBI:
- Formation: Established in 2016 under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
- Chairperson: Ravi Mital.
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India.
IDBI Launches ‘Chiranjeevi-Super Senior Citizen Fixed Deposit’ Scheme

On January 13, 2025, the Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI) launched the ‘IDBI Chiranjeevi-Super Senior Citizen Fixed Deposit (FD)’ scheme in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This special fixed deposit scheme is designed for individuals aged 80 years and above, offering them higher interest rates to meet their unique financial needs.
Key Features of the Scheme:
Target Group:
- Exclusively for super senior citizens (aged 80 years and above).
- Provides a safe and secure investment option with guaranteed returns.
Special FD Buckets & Interest Rates:
- 375 Days: 7.90% p.a.
- 444 Days: 8.00% p.a.
- 555 Days: 8.05% p.a.
- 700 Days: 7.85% p.a.
Eligibility and Terms:
- Not applicable to Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) or Non-Resident External (NRE) term deposits.
- Premature withdrawal and closure are allowed but will incur a penalty of 1% on the applicable rate.
- All other terms and conditions of the FD remain unchanged.
Validity of Rates:
The special interest rates will remain valid only for the duration of the respective Utsav FD buckets (300 days, 375 days, 444 days, and 555 days).
Other IDBI FD Schemes:
Utsav Callable FD Scheme:
- Offers varied interest rates based on the tenure.
- A recent addition is the 555-day tenure, which offers 7.40% for general citizens and 7.90% for senior citizens, available until March 31, 2025.
About IDBI Bank:
- Managing Director & CEO: Rakesh Sharma
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Established: July 1, 1964
Taglines:
- “Banking for all, Aao Sochein Bada”
- “Bank Aisa Dost Jaisa”
PNB Launches 1st ‘Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024-25’ to Combat Malware Threats

On January 2025, Punjab National Bank (PNB), headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, launched its 1st-ever ‘Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024-25’ with the theme “Code Against Malware”. The hackathon aims to tackle the increasing threat of malware in the banking sector by inviting innovators, researchers, and academicians from across India to develop cutting-edge solutions.
Key Points:
Objective:
- The primary goal is to strengthen India’s cybersecurity defenses in the banking sector, particularly in the fight against malware attacks.
- It encourages the development of innovative solutions to detect, mitigate, and prevent malware threats effectively.
Government Support:
- This initiative is being held under the Ministry of Finance (MOF), following the directive from the Department of Financial Services (DFS), which mandates Public Sector Banks (PSBs) to host annual hackathons.
- The directive was issued on December 9, 2024, encouraging PSBs to promote cybersecurity through innovation.
Focus Areas:
- Intelligence-powered malware detection and removal
- Real-time threat monitoring and mitigation
- Ransomware resilience solutions
- Next-generation antivirus tools and attack surface management
Significance of the Hackathon:
- The hackathon will serve as a platform for collaboration and innovation in the cybersecurity field, focusing on improving the resilience of India’s banking sector against evolving cyber threats.
- By involving academia and industry experts, the initiative aims to generate high-quality, actionable solutions to enhance the security framework of the banking ecosystem.
- This cybersecurity hackathon underscores PNB’s commitment to advancing digital security and protecting the financial infrastructure of India from emerging cyber threats.
Ranking and report news
India Ranks 3rd Globally in Fintech Funding Despite Decline in 2024

According to the Annual India Fintech Report 2024 by Tracxn Technologies Limited, India ranked 3rd globally in terms of funding received in the fintech sector, despite a 33% decline year-over-year (YoY). The country garnered USD 1.9 billion in fintech funding in 2024, down from USD 2.8 billion in 2023.
Key Points:
Global Fintech Funding Rankings:
- USA topped the global fintech funding rankings.
- The UK secured the 2nd position, while India came in 3rd despite the decline.
Factors Behind the Decline:
- The 33% YoY decline in India’s fintech funding is mainly attributed to:
- Wider slowdown in demand in the global market.
- Geopolitical headwinds affecting the sector.
Top Investing Companies in Fintech (2024):
- Peak XV Partners (based in Karnataka)
- LetsVenture Technologies Private Limited (Bengaluru, Karnataka)
- Y Combinator, LLC (California, USA)
Top Indian Cities for Fintech Funding: Bengaluru (Karnataka) emerged as the leading hub for fintech funding, followed by Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Delhi (Delhi).
About Tracxn Technologies Limited:
- Managing Director & Chairperson: Neha Singh
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Overview: Tracxn Technologies is a global market intelligence platform that tracks funding and investment trends in various sectors, including fintech.
Appointment news
Venezuela’s Maduro Sworn in Amid Electoral Controversy

Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela (46th President), was sworn in for a third six-year term following a contentious election. His opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, claimed voter fraud and declared himself the rightful winner of the July elections. Despite international pressure and sanctions, particularly from the United States, Maduro’s inauguration took place amid widespread controversy and public protests.
Anju Bobby George Named Chairperson of AFI Athletes Commission
Anju Bobby George, a legendary long jumper and 2003 World Championships bronze medalist, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Athletes Commission. The nine-member commission is notable for its emphasis on gender parity, with six women members.
Anju Bobby George’s Role:
- Appointed as Chairperson of the AFI Athletes Commission.
- Tasked with advocating for athletes and ensuring greater representation in AFI.
- She is also a Senior Vice-President of the AFI.
Composition of the Commission:
Includes prominent retired athletes like:
- Jyotirmoyee Sikdar (runner)
- Krishna Poonia (discus thrower)
- Sudha Singh (steeplechaser)
Notable male members:
- Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist (javelin thrower).
- Avinash Sable, 3000m steeplechaser.
- Bahadur Singh Sagoo, AFI president and 2002 Asian Games shot put gold medalist.
Economy news
India’s Retail Inflation Drops to 5.22% in December

India’s retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), fell to 5.22% in December 2024, down from 5.48% in November, reaching its lowest point in four months. This decline is largely driven by a slowdown in food price increases, particularly in vegetables, cereals, and pulses.
Food Inflation: The Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded an 8.39% year-on-year increase in December, down from 9% in November.
Significant decreases observed in:
- Vegetables: Inflation reduced to 26.6% from 29%.
- Pulses: Inflation at 3.8%.
- Cereals: Inflation at 6.51%.
Increases were noted in:
- Meat: 5.3%.
- Eggs: 6.85%.
- Edible Oils: 14.6%.
- Fruits: 8.5%.
Core Inflation:
Excluding volatile food and fuel prices, core inflation moderated to 3.5% in December, reflecting reduced domestic demand pressures.
Regional Variations:
- Rural Inflation: Higher at 5.76%.
- Urban Inflation: Lower at 4.58%.
Implications for Monetary Policy:
The decline in inflation raises expectations that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may consider reducing interest rates in its upcoming February policy review.
However, risks such as:
- A depreciating rupee.
- Global trade uncertainties.
- may influence future inflation trends and the RBI’s decisions.
This moderation in inflation provides a positive outlook for consumers but requires cautious monitoring of external and domestic economic factors.
State news
Odisha Integrates with Ayushman Bharat

On January 13, 2025, Odisha became the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), marking a transformative step in the state’s healthcare sector. The integration was formalized through an MoU between the National Health Authority (NHA) and Odisha’s Department of Health and Family Welfare.
Key Highlights:
Convergence with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY):
- AB PM-JAY merges with Odisha’s GJAY to provide comprehensive health coverage.
- Benefits: ₹5 lakh per family annually, with an additional ₹5 lakh for women.
- Coverage:
- 1.03 crore families to benefit.
- 67.8 lakh families supported by the Union Government.
Enhanced Healthcare Access in Odisha:
- Residents previously accessed around 900 empaneled hospitals.
- Post-integration, cashless treatment is available in over 29,000 government and private hospitals nationwide.
- Benefits expected to reach 86% of Odisha’s population, significantly improving healthcare accessibility.
National Impact of AB PM-JAY: Launched in 2018, PM-JAY is the world’s largest health coverage scheme.
Achievements:
- 8.19 crore hospital admissions since inception.
- ₹1.13 lakh crore spent on healthcare for marginalized communities.
- Covers 2,000 medical procedures across 27 specialties, including major surgeries like bypasses and knee replacements.
Leadership Remarks:
- Union Health Minister JP Nadda: Highlighted the scheme’s scale and rapid implementation.
- Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi: Emphasized the scheme’s potential to transform the health status of the state’s residents.
About Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY:
- Objective: Provide financial protection for healthcare to economically vulnerable families.
- Coverage: ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care.
- Beneficiaries: 10.74 crore families (approximately 50 crore people).
- Access: Cashless and paperless treatment in 29,000+ hospitals nationwide.
- Focus: Inclusion of marginalized communities in quality healthcare services.
Science and tech news
Indichip Semiconductors and Yitoa Micro Technology to Establish India’s First Private Semiconductor Manufacturing Facility

In January 2025, Indichip Semiconductors Limited (Noida, Uttar Pradesh) and its Joint Venture partner Yitoa Micro Technology Limited (YMTL) (Japan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) to establish India’s first private semiconductor manufacturing facility at the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The project, with an investment of over Rs 14,000 crores, marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
Key Details:
MoU Signatories:
- Piyush Bichhoriya, Managing Director (MD) of Indichip Semiconductors.
- Saikanth Varma, CEO of the AP Economic Development Board (APEDB).
Alignment with AP’s Semiconductor Policy:
- The project is in line with Andhra Pradesh’s Semiconductor Policy, launched in November 2024, which aims to position AP as a hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.
- It supports India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, reducing reliance on semiconductor imports.
Investment and Infrastructure:
- The AP government will allocate land in the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub for the facility.
- The state will provide necessary infrastructure and support to ensure the project’s success.
Specialization in Silicon Carbide (SiC) Chips:
The facility will specialize in manufacturing Silicon Carbide (SiC) chips, crucial for energy-efficient technologies, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and Renewable Energy (RE) systems.
The initial production capacity will be 10,000 wafers per month, with plans to scale to 50,000 wafers per month in the next 2-3 years.
Economic Impact: The development is expected to create significant local employment opportunities, drive technological advancements, and contribute to India’s self-reliance in the semiconductor industry.
Key Facts:
- Gujarat Semiconductor Policy (2022-2027): Launched in November 2024, Gujarat also aims to establish India’s first semiconductor manufacturing hub in Sanand district, Gujarat.
- AI-Enabled Semiconductor Plant: India’s first AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication plant has begun construction in Dholera, Gujarat.
About Andhra Pradesh (AP):
- Chief Minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
- Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer
- Capital: Amaravati
- National Parks: Sri Venkateswara NP, Papikonda NP
Pixxel launches India’s 1st private satellite constellation with SpaceX

On 14 January 2025 (15 January in India), Pixxel, an Indian space start-up backed by Google, became the first private Indian company to launch a commercial satellite constellation named Firefly. The satellites were launched alongside another satellite by Digantara for space object surveillance on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission.
Launch Details:
- Rocket: SpaceX Falcon 9.
- Mission: Transporter-12 rideshare mission.
- Launch Site: Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.
Firefly Constellation Details:
About the Constellation:
- Developed by Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based company.
- World’s highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation, capturing data at 5-meter resolution (most hyperspectral satellites have 30-meter resolution).
- Captures data across 150+ spectral bands, allowing detailed analysis of Earth’s chemical compositions, vegetation health, water quality, and atmospheric conditions.
Deployment Plan:
- First Phase: Three satellites launched on 14 January 2025.
- Second Phase: Three more satellites to be launched in Q2 of 2025.
- Future Plans: Addition of 18 satellites to complete the constellation.
- Orbit: Satellites placed in sun-synchronous orbit at 550 km altitude.
Significance: First private Indian company to offer hyperspectral imaging services, a domain previously exclusive to ISRO.
Hyperspectral Imaging Satellites:
- Use technology to capture highly detailed Earth data across hundreds of light bands.
- Enable detection of subtle changes in:
- Chemical compositions.
- Vegetation health.
- Water quality.
- Atmospheric conditions.
Customers and Applications:
The Firefly constellation is poised to benefit sectors like:
- Agriculture: Improve crop yields and monitor vegetation health.
- Mining: Track and assess resource extraction sites.
- Environmental Monitoring: Monitor oil spills, water quality, and geographic boundaries.
- Defence: Offer precise surveillance and data for strategic planning.
1st astronomical observatory of Eastern India inaugurated in Bengal

The Satyendra Nath Bose Astronomical Observatory, the first astronomical observatory of Eastern India, was inaugurated atop Panchet Hill in the Garpanchkot area of Purulia district, West Bengal. This observatory is the sixth in India and is a significant addition to the nation’s growing network of space research facilities.
Key Details:
Location & Importance:
The observatory is located at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level in a non-polluted area, away from city lights.
Positioned at approximately 86° East longitude, it fills a gap along this longitude that stretches from the Arctic Ocean to Antarctica.
History & Development:
- The project commenced in 2012 and was developed on 4.9 acres of land.
- The observatory is named after Satyendra Nath Bose, a renowned Indian scientist, and is managed by the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences.
- An MoU has been signed with Sidhu Kanu Birsa University, Purulia for managing the observatory and sharing resources.
Equipment & Facilities:
- The observatory currently houses a 14-inch diameter telescope, with plans to install a 1-metre diameter telescope soon.
- It includes an automatic weather forecast centre to measure rainfall and other atmospheric conditions, supporting research in Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Atmospheric Sciences.
Significance for Scientific Research:
- The observatory will facilitate basic research in space sciences, offering opportunities for students and scientists to conduct advanced studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
- It will also contribute to the study of weather patterns and the atmosphere.
Part of India’s Expanding Astronomical Network: This observatory is the sixth in India, joining others in Ladakh, Nainital (Uttarakhand), Mount Abu (Rajasthan), Girbani Hills (Pune), and Kavalur (Tamil Nadu).
About the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences:
- Established in 1986 by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India in Kolkata, West Bengal.
- It is a leading institution in scientific research in the field of Basic Sciences.
Defence news
India tests micro missile system Bhargavastra to counter Swarm drone

India has successfully tested the indigenously developed Bhargavastra micro missile system on 12th and 13th January 2025 at the Gopalpur Seaward Firing Range in Odisha. The tests were conducted in the presence of senior Indian Army officers, marking a significant step toward enhancing India’s defense capabilities against modern threats like swarm drone attacks.
Key Details about Bhargavastra:
Purpose: Developed to counter swarm drone attacks, which involve multiple drones coordinated to overwhelm enemy defenses.
Developer:
- Designed and developed by Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), a subsidiary of the Nagpur-based Solar Group.
- Fully indigenized, providing a low-cost solution for drone defense.
Current Status:
- Yet to be inducted into the Indian Army, as further testing and approval processes are pending.
- The Indian government will decide on induction after the Army’s approval.
Understanding Swarm Drone Attacks:
What is a Swarm Drone Attack?
- A tactic involving multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) controlled by a single operator to launch a coordinated attack.
- Highly effective in confusing enemy radars due to the large number of simultaneous aerial targets.
Global Usage:
- United States: First used drones for precision strikes in Afghanistan.
- Iran: Successfully breached Israel’s Iron Dome system using swarm drones.
- Ukraine and Russia: Frequently deploy swarm drones with loiter munitions in ongoing conflicts.
Advantages of Swarm Drones:
- Cost-effective: Drones are cheaper than traditional missile systems.
- Overwhelming capability: Confuses enemy radars and overwhelms defense systems.
Challenges in Countering Swarm Drones:
- Existing defense systems like missiles are expensive and may not efficiently counter the large number of drones.
- Nations worldwide are searching for cost-effective anti-drone solutions.