16th January 2025 current affaris

16th January 2025 current affaris

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We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 16th January 2025 current affairs accurated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 16th January 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation

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National news

Cabinet Nod for 8th Pay Commission Implementation

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the constitution of the 8th Central Pay Commission, which will evaluate and recommend revised salary structures and allowances for central government employees and pensioners. This early initiative ensures readiness for implementing the recommendations by January 1, 2026. The commission’s scope encompasses over one crore employees and pensioners, aiming to address compensation, pensions, and welfare enhancements.

Approval and Formation

  • The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the 8th Pay Commission.
  • A Chairman and two members will be appointed soon, with recommendations ready by January 1, 2026.

Scope and Expectations

  • Covers salary, allowance, pension revisions, and welfare enhancements for over one crore central government employees and pensioners.
  • Key focus: Dearness Allowance (DA), Dearness Relief (DR), and performance-linked pay.

Key Proposals

  • Salary Enhancements: Minimum basic pay may increase from ₹18,000 to ₹51,480.
  • Fitment Factor: Expected rise from 2.57 to 2.86 for significant pay hikes.
  • Allowance Revisions: Updates to DA, HRA, and TA in line with inflation.
  • Pension Reforms: Higher pensions and timely disbursement.
  • Performance-Based Pay: Likely introduction of productivity-linked incentives.
  • Health and Welfare: Expansion of insurance and welfare measures.

Historical Context

  • Pay Commissions review salaries every 10 years, with recommendations based on inflation and economic factors.
  • The 7th CPC (constituted in 2014) led to major salary reforms implemented in 2016.

7th CPC Summary

  • Revised Pay: Minimum pay increased to ₹18,000; maximum pay set at ₹2,50,000.
  • Pay Matrix: Simplified salary progression across 19 levels.
  • Allowances: Rationalized DA, HRA, and TA.
  • Pensions: Minimum pension raised to ₹9,000, with reforms aligned to the pay matrix.
  • Defense: Special provisions for defense personnel to address unique service conditions.

Government’s Proactive Approach: Early constitution of the commission ensures smooth implementation of reforms by 2026.

India-Spain Declare 2026 as ‘Dual Year’ for Culture, Tourism, and AI

In a significant diplomatic development, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that India and Spain will commemorate 2026 as a ‘dual year’ focusing on culture, tourism, and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote mutual understanding between the two nations.

Key Areas of Collaboration

Cultural Exchange

  • Events include art exhibitions, music and dance performances, literature festivals, and architectural collaborations.
  • Showcase of rich cultural heritages through exhibitions and programs.

Tourism Promotion

  • Reciprocal tourism campaigns and direct flight connections.
  • Highlighting key tourist attractions through joint marketing campaigns and tourism fairs.

AI Collaboration

  • Joint focus on AI research and development in sectors like healthcare, education, and industry.
  • Plans to establish AI research centers, host workshops, and organize seminars.
  • Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation
  • Current Trade Volume: USD 10 billion annually.
  • Major sectors: Railways, clean technology, drones, and space exploration.
  • The initiative is expected to further boost economic ties.

Role of the Indian Diaspora

  • Indian community in Spain contributes significantly to economic and societal integration.
  • Recognized as a key element in strengthening bilateral relations.

Preparations for 2026

Planning throughout 2025, involving:

  • Joint committees and funding arrangements.
  • Coordination with cultural and tourism departments.

Significance

  • Enhances mutual understanding and partnership in culture, technology, and tourism.
  • Positions both nations as forward-looking collaborators in AI and innovation.
  • Strengthens economic, social, and cultural bonds.

Economy news

India Set to Surpass Japan as World’s Fourth-Largest Economy by 2026

India is projected to overtake Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2026, according to the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI). This optimistic outlook is underpinned by robust GDP growth forecasts and strategic policy recommendations aimed at enhancing economic resilience and fostering sustainable development.

Economic Growth Projection

PHDCCI Outlook:

  • India’s GDP growth forecast: 6.8% in FY2024-25 and 7.7% in FY2025-26.
  • India is expected to surpass Japan to become the 4th-largest economy by 2026.

Tax Reforms Recommendations

Income Tax Adjustments:

  • Raise income tax exemption limit to ₹10 lakh.
  • Apply the 30% peak tax rate only for incomes above ₹40 lakh (currently ₹15 lakh).

Business Tax Reductions: Lower tax rates for proprietorships, partnerships, and LLPs from 33% to 25% to enhance business growth.

Monetary Policy Outlook

Inflation Control: CPI inflation expected to fall to 2.5%-4% in the coming quarters.

RBI Measures: Anticipated 25 basis points cut in the benchmark interest rate to reduce borrowing costs and spur economic activity.

  • Strategic Growth Sectors
  • High-potential sectors driving future growth include:
  • Agriculture and Food Processing
  • Fintech
  • Semiconductors
  • Renewable Energy
  • Healthcare and Insurance
  • Focus on Sustainable Development

Attracting global investments and ensuring long-term progress through environmentally and socially responsible growth strategies.

Significance: This transition highlights India’s economic resilience, policy efficiency, and emerging dominance in global markets.

Banking news

NPCI and Magnati Partner to Boost UPI Use in UAE

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), the international arm of India’s National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with UAE-based fintech firm Magnati to enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions for Indian travelers in the UAE. This collaboration aims to integrate UPI into the UAE’s payment ecosystem, allowing Indian visitors to use their preferred payment method seamlessly.

Partnership Overview

  • Entities Involved: NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and UAE-based Magnati.
  • Objective: Enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions for Indian travelers in the UAE.
  • Integration: QR-based UPI payments will be accepted through point-of-sale (POS) terminals.

Key Details

  • Initial Rollout: Launching at Dubai Duty Free, with plans to expand to sectors like retail, hospitality, transport, and supermarkets.
  • Target Audience: Caters to over 12 million Indian visitors annually, providing a seamless payment experience abroad.

UPI’s Global Reach:

  • UPI is currently accepted in seven countries, including Bhutan, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and France.
  • Over 16 billion transactions processed in December 2024 alone.

Future Plans:

  • Collaborations with countries like the UAE and Mauritius to develop card schemes similar to RuPay.
  • Magnati: A Leader in Payment Solutions

Core Expertise:

  • Specializes in direct acquiring, issuer processing, and acquiring processing.
  • Offers next-generation payment platforms to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

Global Presence:

  • Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Magnati leverages strong international networks to provide transformative payment solutions.
  • Known for setting new standards in payment innovation.

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL)

Foundation:

  • Established on April 3, 2020, as a subsidiary of NPCI.
  • Focuses on taking NPCI’s payment technologies global.

Key Innovations:

  • Unified Payments Interface (UPI): India’s real-time payment system.
  • RuPay Card Scheme: Expanding domestic card networks globally.

Mission: Deploy real-time payment systems and card schemes in countries seeking advanced payment infrastructure.

science and tech news

ISRO Successfully Docks Satellites, Enters Elite Club

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully docked two satellites in space, marking India as the fourth country to achieve this feat after the United States, Russia, and China. The docking process, part of the SpaDeX (Space Docking Exercise) mission, demonstrates ISRO’s capability to conduct autonomous satellite docking. This milestone is critical for future missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station.

Overview

  • Achievement: India becomes the 4th country to achieve satellite docking in space.
  • Mission Name: SpaDeX (Space Docking Exercise).
  • Launch Date: December 30, 2024.
  • Satellites: SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target).

Objective: Demonstrate autonomous satellite docking technology to enable advanced space missions.

India’s Hydrogen Train Engine Sets a Power Benchmark

India’s Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently shared a remarkable achievement in the field of green energy technology during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Indian Railways has developed the world’s most powerful hydrogen fuel-run train engine, setting a new benchmark in global railway innovation. The engine, built with indigenous technology, reflects India’s growing capabilities in green energy and sustainable development.

Key Features

Highest Horsepower:

Engine generates 1,200 horsepower, surpassing the 500-600 horsepower engines of other nations.

Trial Run:

  • Scheduled for the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.
  • Manufacturing is complete, with system integration underway.
  • Indigenous Technology and Self-Reliance
  • Developed entirely with Indian expertise, showcasing advancements in green energy and sustainable transport solutions.

Reflects India’s capability in driving innovation for self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat).

Broader Applications

The hydrogen-powered engine technology can be adapted for use in other transport sectors, such as:

  • Trucks.
  • Tugboats.

Vision for the Future

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Aspiration: India aims to manufacture fully indigenous trains, enhancing national pride and economic growth.

State news

Odisha Government Announces ₹20,000 Pension for Emergency Detainees

The Odisha state government has announced a significant welfare measure for individuals who were jailed during the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977. As of January 1, 2025, all surviving detainees from Odisha will receive a monthly pension of ₹20,000, along with medical coverage and other benefits. This move is part of the government’s effort to honor and support those who were imprisoned under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Key Provisions

Monthly Pension: ₹20,000 per month for surviving individuals jailed during the 1975-1977 Emergency under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA).

Medical Benefits: Free medical treatment under the state’s health welfare schemes.

Eligibility:

  • Individuals jailed during the Emergency and alive as of January 1, 2025.
  • Required to provide documentation, including an affidavit and co-detainee details.

Application Process:

  • Beneficiaries must apply through the Collector and District Magistrate.
  • Selection by state and district-level committees.
  • Background of the Emergency
  • Declared on June 25, 1975, by then PM Indira Gandhi.
  • Involved widespread arrests of political opponents without trial under MISA.

Significance

  • Recognizes and honors the sacrifices of individuals who opposed the Emergency.
  • Provides financial assistance and medical support, acknowledging their role in preserving India’s democracy.

Impact

  • A step towards addressing historical injustices.
  • Offers practical support to those who endured imprisonment and hardships during a pivotal moment in India’s history.

Award news

Singapore Confers Honorary Citizenship on Tarun Das

Singapore has awarded its highest honor for non-citizens, the Honorary Citizen Award, to Tarun Das, former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in recognition of his significant contributions to strengthening Singapore-India relations.

Overview

  • Awarded to: Tarun Das, former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
  • Honor: Singapore’s Honorary Citizen Award, its highest accolade for non-citizens.
  • Date and Location: Presented by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in New Delhi, January 15, 2025.

Contributions to Bilateral Ties

Economic and Strategic Relations:

  • Key role in strengthening India-Singapore relations over decades.
  • Instrumental in initiating India’s “Look East” policy with a delegation of Indian industrialists to Singapore in 1993.

Dialogue Platforms:

  • Founder of the India-Singapore Strategic Dialogue, promoting collaboration between business leaders, policymakers, and academics.
  • The dialogue’s 15th edition was held in August 2024, highlighting its lasting importance.

People-to-People Connections:

  • Director of the Singapore-India Partnership Foundation, fostering youth and academic exchanges.
  • Launched the Students Immersion Programme in 2023, involving students from the Singapore University of Social Sciences.

Recognition of Achievements

  • Previous Honor: Received the Singapore Public Service Medal in 2004.
  • Significance of Award: Reflects his pivotal role in advancing economic, strategic, and cultural partnerships between the two nations.

Personal Reflection: Das expressed deep gratitude, emphasizing his 31-year journey with Singapore and the evolution of a multi-faceted partnership, which he referred to as the “Singapore-India Fever.”

Impact

  • Strengthened bilateral trade, policy alignment, and cultural understanding.
  • Cemented India’s position as a strategic partner for Singapore in Southeast Asia.

Sports news

Smriti Mandhana Smashes India’s Fastest Women’s ODI Century!

Indian opener Smriti Mandhana broke multiple records in the 3rd ODI against Ireland Women at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot. Leading the team in the absence of Harmanpreet Kaur, Mandhana scored the fastest century by an Indian in women’s ODIs, showcasing her dominance. Her record-breaking performance and partnership with Pratika Rawal contributed to India’s strong showing in the series.

Key Records by Smriti Mandhana

  • Fastest Century by an Indian in Women’s ODIs: Scored 100 off just 70 balls, surpassing Harmanpreet Kaur’s 87-ball record.
  • First Indian Woman with 10 ODI Centuries: Joins Tammy Beaumont (Australia) in third place on the all-time list.
  • Most ODI Hundreds: Fourth position overall, tied with Suzie Bates (10 centuries).

Aggressive Batting:

Hit 7 sixes and 12 fours, equaling the record for most sixes in a Women’s ODI innings.

Partnership Milestone

  • 233-run opening stand with Pratika Rawal:
  • India’s third-highest partnership in Women’s ODIs.

Historical Comparisons

Most Hundreds in Women’s ODIs:

  • 15: Meg Lanning.
  • 13: Suzie Bates.
  • 10: Tammy Beaumont, Smriti Mandhana.

Highest Partnerships for India-W in ODIs:

  • 320: Punam Raut & Deepti Sharma vs Ireland (2017).
  • 258:* Mithali Raj & Reshma Gandhi vs Ireland (1999).
  • 233: Smriti Mandhana & Pratika Rawal vs Ireland (2025).

Significance

  • Smriti Mandhana’s performance underscores her status as one of the world’s finest batters in women’s cricket.
  • Her leadership and aggressive batting style set a benchmark for future Indian cricketers.
  • The Mandhana-Rawal partnership further solidifies India’s dominance in women’s ODI cricket.
Arjun Erigaisi Stuns Chess World with Wins Against Carlsen, Caruana

Indian grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi achieved a remarkable feat in the online chess community by defeating World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and World No. 2 Fabiano Caruana in the Titled Tuesday weekly blitz competition conducted by Chess.com. This competition, held in the early hours of Tuesday, was fiercely contested, and Erigaisi’s performance stood out as he finished with 10 points out of 11 rounds, marking his dominance in the event.

Key Highlights

Remarkable Wins:

  • Round 10: Victory against Magnus Carlsen.
  • Round 11: Victory against Fabiano Caruana.

Performance Summary:

  • Final Points: Tied at 10 points with Hikaru Nakamura but secured the top spot on tiebreaks.
  • Only Loss: Against Hikaru Nakamura in round 7.
  • Participation: Over 900 players, including top grandmasters, participated.

Nakamura’s Praise:

Described the event as “the world’s strongest tournament.”

Arjun’s Achievements in 2024

  • Chess Olympiad: Played a crucial role in India’s Chess Olympiad victory.
  • WR Chess Masters Cup: Won the prestigious title in London.
  • Elo Rating: Became the second Indian (after Viswanathan Anand) to surpass the 2800 Elo rating mark.
  • FIDE Rapid Championship: Finished fifth in the championship but missed qualifying for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

Significance

  • Global Recognition: Arjun’s victory in a highly competitive blitz event showcases his growing dominance in the global chess community.
  • Consistency: His performances in both rapid and classical formats highlight his all-round ability.
  • Indian Chess Legacy: Continues to strengthen India’s presence on the global chess stage, following in the footsteps of Anand.

Defence news

Indian Army Conducts Exercise ‘Devil Strike’

The Indian Armed Forces are set to conduct a major military exercise, Exercise Devil Strike, from January 16 to 19, 2025. The exercise, which is being organized under the leadership of the Indian Army, aims to enhance the combat readiness of the forces by simulating high-intensity combat operations. This exercise is expected to feature advanced strategies and innovative combat techniques to strengthen national security and ensure effective defense against external threats. It also serves as a test of the synchronization between various branches of the Indian military, ensuring a well-coordinated response to potential challenges.

Objectives

  • Operational Enhancement: Strengthen combat readiness, particularly in high-altitude terrains.
  • Joint Force Coordination: Involves Army, Air Force, and Special Forces for synchronized operations.
  • Advanced Tactics: Focus on real-time simulations, technological integration, and response to complex warfare scenarios.

Significance

  • Strategic Relevance: Crucial in addressing security challenges in northern and western sectors, especially amid rising geopolitical tensions.
  • Modernization: Highlights India’s push towards integrating high-tech equipment and advanced warfare techniques.

Building on Past Exercises

  • Previous Efforts: Exercises like Shakti and Vajra Prahar emphasized joint force collaboration and counter-terrorism.
  • New Dimension: Devil Strike focuses on advanced battlefield strategies and high-intensity combat simulations, tailored for evolving defense scenarios.

14th and 15th Current Affairs

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