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Our comprehensive Current Affairs 1st 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
National news
ECI Publishes Detailed Data for Lok Sabha and Assembly Polls 2024
The Election Commission of India (ECI) released comprehensive data for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, including 42 statistical reports. Voter turnout increased, with 64.64 crore votes polled, a 7.43% rise in registered electors, and higher participation from women and third-gender voters. The number of polling stations increased to 10.53 lakh, and the number of nominations rose to 12,459. Women electors now comprise 48.62% of the electorate, and the number of female candidates contesting elections grew to 800. Inclusive elections saw significant increases in third-gender and PwD electors. National parties secured 63.35% of valid votes, while independent candidates performed modestly, with 7 elected out of 3,921 contestants.
Electors and Voters
Registered Electors:
- 2019: 91.19 crore
- 2024: 97.98 crore
Votes Polled: 2024: 64.64 crore (compared to 61.4 crore in 2019)
- Male: 32.94 crore
- Female: 31.28 crore
- Third Gender: 13,058
- Postal Ballots: 42.82 lakh
Turnout Highlights:
- Highest Turnout: Dhubri (Assam) – 92.3%
- Lowest Turnout: Srinagar (J&K) – 38.7% (up from 14.4% in 2019)
- NOTA Votes: 63.71 lakh (0.99%, down from 1.06% in 2019)
- Transgender Voter Turnout: 27.09% (up from 14.64% in 2019)
2. Polling Stations
Number of Polling Stations:
- 2019: 10.37 lakh
- 2024: 10.53 lakh (Increase of 14,816 stations)
Repolling: Only 40 stations (0.0038%) needed repolling, compared to 540 in 2019
- Electors per Polling Station: Average 931
- States with Most Polling Stations: Uttar Pradesh (1.62 lakh)
- States with Least Polling Stations: Lakshadweep (55)
3. Nominations and Contesting Candidates
Nominations Filed:
- 2019: 11,692
- 2024: 12,459
Contestants:
- 2019: 8,054
- 2024: 8,360 (after rejections and withdrawals)
- Highest Nominations in a PC: 114 (Malkajgiri, Telangana)
- Lowest Nominations in a PC: 3 (Dibrugarh, Assam)
4. Women Electors and Contesting Candidates
Women Registered Electors:
- 2019: 43.85 crore
- 2024: 47.63 crore
Female Electorate Share:
- 2019: 48.09%
- 2024: 48.62%
States with Highest Female Elector Percentage:
Puducherry: 53.03%
Kerala: 51.56%
Female Voter Turnout: 65.78% (slightly higher than male voter turnout of 65.55%)
Women Contesting Candidates:
- 2024: 800 (up from 726 in 2019)
- States with Most Female Contestants: Maharashtra (111), Uttar Pradesh (80), Tamil Nadu (77)
- PCs with No Female Contestants: 152 out of 543
5. Inclusive Elections
Third Gender Electors:
- 2024: 48,272 (up from 39,075 in 2019)
- State with Most Third Gender Electors: Tamil Nadu (8,467)
- Transgender Voter Turnout: 27.09% (up from 14.64% in 2019)
Persons with Disabilities (PwD) Electors: 2024: 90.29 lakh (up from 61.67 lakh in 2019)
Overseas Electors:
- 2019: 99,844
- 2024: 1.19 lakh (Male: 1.06 lakh; Female: 12,950; Third Gender: 13)
Election commission of India:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India at both the national and state levels.
Establishment:
- The Election Commission of India was established on 25th January 1950.
- This date is now celebrated as National Voters’ Day.
Composition:
The Election Commission consists of:
- Chief Election Commissioner (CEC): The highest-ranking officer.
- Election Commissioners: Two additional members are appointed by the President of India.
Appointment:
The Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India.
- They hold the position for a term of 6 years or until they reach the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
- They can be removed only by a process of impeachment.
The number of members can vary, but traditionally, it consists of three members.
SAIL Earns Great Place to Work Recognition for Second Year
Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a significant milestone by being re-certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the period January 2025 to January 2026. This recognition, awarded by the Great Place to Work Institute, India, highlights SAIL’s dedication to fostering a positive and empowering work environment. The re-certification marks SAIL’s second consecutive recognition, following its first certification for the period December 2023 to December 2024.
Key Highlights
- Certification Period: January 2025 to January 2026
- Awarded By: Great Place to Work Institute, India
- Consecutive Certification: SAIL was first recognized for the period December 2023 to December 2024.
- Recognition Criteria: The award is based on direct employee feedback, reflecting trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment within the organization.
Innovative HR Initiatives Contributing to Success
- SAIL’s success in securing this certification is attributed to several employee-focused initiatives that enhance the overall workplace culture:
- Work Other than Workplace (WoW): This scheme offers employees flexibility in work location, enabling a better work-life balance.
- Flexible Work Timings: City-based employees are given the flexibility to adjust their work hours, promoting a healthy work-life integration.
- Self-paced Learning: Access to platforms like LinkedIn Learning Hub and E-Pathshala helps employees upgrade their skills at their own pace.
- Digital Training: SAIL offers high-end IT training in collaboration with NASSCOM, empowering employees with cutting-edge technological skills.
- Leadership Development: The company partners with IIMs and ASCI to conduct leadership development programs, helping to nurture and grow future leaders.
- Employee Assistance Programs: These include e-counseling services to support the mental well-being of employees.
- Healthcare Enhancement: SAIL has made significant improvements to its healthcare services, ensuring better access to health facilities for employees.
- Leadership Coaching: Tailored coaching programs are offered to senior executives to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Statement from SAIL Chairman: Shri Amarendu Prakash, Chairman of SAIL, shared his thoughts on the certification:
“SAIL’s consecutive certification as a ‘Great Place to Work’ reaffirms SAIL’s ongoing dedication to foster an exceptional workplace culture and provide a positive employee experience built on trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment.”
SAIL:
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- CEO: Shri Prakash (31 May 2023–)
- Founded: 24 January 1973
116th Mann Ki Baat- Welcoming a Milestone Year
As 2025 approaches, India stands on the threshold of significant celebrations and achievements. The year marks the 75th anniversary of the Constitution of India, a testament to the vision and dedication of the nation’s founding fathers. The Prime Minister, through the 116th episode of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, shared insights and aspirations for the country’s progress and unity, covering diverse themes ranging from cultural heritage to health and sports.
75 Years of the Indian Constitution
- Significance: Marks the 75th anniversary on 26th January 2025.
- Initiatives: Launch of constitution75.com for citizens to engage with the Preamble and access the Constitution in multiple languages.
- Message: PM encourages youth to explore this milestone and connect with the legacy.
Maha Kumbh 2025
- Date & Venue: Starts 13th January 2025 in Prayagraj.
- Theme: “Maha Kumbh of Unity,” emphasizing inclusivity and diversity.
- Digital Features: AI-driven navigation, chatbots, and real-time updates.
- Campaign: Selfie initiative with #EktaKaMahakumbh to promote unity.
Krish, Trish, and Baltiboy – Bharat Hain Hum
- Content: Animated series highlighting freedom struggle heroes.
- Outreach: Available on Doordarshan and OTT platforms, broadcast in multiple languages.
WAVES Summit 2025
- Objective: Showcase India’s media and entertainment industry globally.
- Participants: Bollywood, regional cinema, gaming, and technology sectors.
- Impact: Boosts India’s vision of a $5 trillion economy.
Global Outreach of Indian Culture
- Art in Egypt: Painting competition involving 23,000 students.
- Ayurveda in Paraguay: Ayurveda consultations gaining popularity in South America.
- Tamil in Fiji: Tamil teaching program launched after 80 years.
Bastar Olympics
- Participation: Over 165,000 players from seven districts.
- Impact: Transforms lives through sports like archery and kabaddi.
- Symbolism: Represents resilience and cultural heritage.
Healthcare Achievements
Malaria:
- 80% reduction in cases (2015-2023).
- Awareness initiatives in Assam and Haryana played a pivotal role.
Cancer:
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana ensures timely treatment for 90% of patients.
- Agricultural Transformation in Kalahandi
Vegetable Revolution:
- Kisan Utpad Sangh FPO generates ₹1.5 crores in annual turnover.
- Empowering 200+ farmers, including 45 women, with modern techniques.
- These milestones reflect India’s diverse progress in culture, healthcare, sports, and economic empowerment as the nation steps into 2025.
Economy news
GDP to Grow at 6.6% in FY25: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% for FY25, emphasizing economic resilience amidst global and domestic challenges. The report highlights robust fundamentals, improved asset quality in banks, and stable financial indicators, although risks like urban demand moderation and global uncertainties persist.
Economic Insights
GDP Growth Projections
- FY25 Growth: Estimated at 6.6%,
driven by:
- Revival in rural consumption.
- Increased government spending.
- Strong services exports.
H1 FY25 Performance: Growth moderated to 6% from 8.2% in H1 FY24, reflecting global headwinds and softer industrial activity.
Inflation Trends
- Positive Drivers: A bumper kharif harvest and robust rabi prospects are expected to stabilize foodgrain prices.
- Potential Risks: Geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events could disrupt inflation dynamics.
Banking Sector Strengths
Decline in NPAs
- Gross NPAs: Reached a 12-year low of 2.6% (September 2024).
- Net NPAs: Reduced to 0.6%, showcasing improved asset quality.
Capital Adequacy
- CET1 Ratio: Strong at 14%, well above the regulatory minimum of 8%.
- Stress Resilience: Macro stress tests indicate that SCBs, mutual funds, and clearing corporations can withstand adverse conditions.
Banking news
RBI Introduces Name Lookup for NEFT and RTGS
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a name lookup facility for Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) systems, aiming to enhance accuracy, security, and user confidence in digital transactions. This feature aligns NEFT and RTGS with the functionality already available in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) platforms.
Key Highlights of the Facility
1. Current vs. Proposed System
- Current State: NEFT and RTGS transactions do not provide users with a pre-transaction name verification feature, increasing the chances of errors and fraudulent transfers.
- Proposed Feature: Users will now see the beneficiary’s name before completing a transfer, enabling verification and reducing risks.
2. Operational Framework
- The facility will function by cross-referencing the account number and IFSC code entered by the remitter.
- The receiving bank’s core banking system will fetch and display the beneficiary’s name for verification.
- Data privacy is prioritized—query-related data will be stored by the respective banks, with no storage by NPCI.
3. Implementation Timeline
- Banks are mandated to implement the system by April 1, 2025.
- The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will develop the infrastructure and facilitate onboarding.
4. Accessibility
The feature will be available via:
- Internet banking.
- Mobile banking apps.
- Physical bank branches.
- It will be a free service for all users.
RBI:
- Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
- Headquarters: Mumbai
- Governor: Sanjay Malhotra
Appointment news
Vitul Kumar Appointed Officiating DG of CRPF
Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the officiating Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), succeeding Anish Dayal Singh, who retired on December 31, 2024. Kumar, currently serving as Special Director General, will oversee the CRPF during a critical phase marked by challenges in Chhattisgarh and Manipur, ensuring leadership continuity until a permanent DG is appointed.
CRPF:
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Founded: 27 July 1939
Rajat Verma Appointed as CEO of DBS Bank India
Effective March 1, 2025, Rajat Verma will take over as the new CEO of DBS Bank India, succeeding Surojit Shome, who is retiring after a successful tenure. Verma’s appointment is subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and marks a significant leadership transition as DBS India continues to strengthen its position in the Indian market.
Key Highlights of Leadership Transition
Surojit Shome’s Legacy
- Tenure Highlights: Shome, who led DBS India since 2015, was instrumental in transforming the bank’s operations in India.
- Notable Achievements: Under his leadership, DBS India launched digibank, India’s first mobile-only bank in 2016, expanding its presence to over 350 locations across 19 states, making it one of the most prominent players in the Indian banking sector.
Rajat Verma’s Appointment
- Role and Experience: Verma, who joined DBS India in June 2023, has led the Institutional Banking Group and driven substantial growth in this sector.
- Awards and Recognition: He played a key role in DBS India winning the title of “Best Bank for Sustainable Finance – India” by Global Finance in 2024.
- Previous Experience: Verma has over 27 years of banking experience and previously spent 26 years at HSBC India, leading commercial banking operations.
DBS Bank:
- Headquarters: Singapore
- CEO: Piyush Gupta (9 Nov 2009–)
- Founder: Government of Singapore
- Founded: 16 July 1968, Singapore
Science and tech news
China Unveils World’s Fastest High-Speed Train Prototype
China has unveiled the CR450, the world’s fastest high-speed train prototype, designed to achieve a commercial speed of 400 km/h and test speeds of up to 450 km/h. Surpassing the current CR400 Fuxing trains (350 km/h), this innovation demonstrates significant advancements in speed, energy efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. The CR450 aligns with China’s ambitious goal of expanding its high-speed rail network to 70,000 km by 2035, further cementing its leadership in global rail technology.
Key Features of CR450
Unparalleled Speed and Performance
- Maximum test speed: 450 km/h.
- Developed after 200,000 km of tests, 3,000 simulations, and 2,000 platform evaluations.
Energy Efficiency and Stability
- Incorporates water-cooled permanent magnet traction systems and high-stability bogie systems.
- Reduces energy consumption by over 20% while maintaining exceptional stability.
Enhanced Passenger Experience: Features noise reduction technologies, larger cabins, and accessibility for bicycles and wheelchairs.
China:
- Capital: Beijing
- President: Xi Jinping
Defence news
India’s Defence Exports Cross Rs 21,000 Crore : Rajnath Singh
India’s defence exports have experienced unprecedented growth, reaching a record ₹21,000 crore in 2024 from ₹2,000 crore a decade ago. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a visit to the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow Cantonment, set a bold target of ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, reinforcing India’s status as a global defence production leader.
Key Highlights and Future Targets
Defence Export Milestones
- Growth from ₹2,000 crore (2014) to ₹21,000 crore (2024).
- Targeting ₹50,000 crore annually by 2029.
Technological Advancements
- Focus on mastering frontier technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and space warfare to address unconventional threats.
- Integration of AI-based systems, electromagnetic warfare, and information warfare into defence strategies.
Vision of Self-Reliance
- Emphasis on Aatmanirbhar Bharat to enhance indigenous defence manufacturing.
- Strengthened domestic production capacities to meet national and international defence demands.
Sports news
Hemanth Muddappa Secures 3 National Titles, Extends Record to 15
Hemanth Muddappa, renowned as the “Drag King” in Indian motorsport, made history by securing a triple crown victory in the final round of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship at the Madras International Circuit (MIC). This triumph marked his 15th National title, making him the most decorated motorsport athlete in India.
Despite enduring the challenge of a fractured right thumb from a previous crash, Muddappa showcased immense resilience, clinching titles across multiple categories with the support of his team, Mantra Racing.
Key Achievements:
- Total National Titles: 15, solidifying his legacy in Indian motorsport.
- Triple Crown Victory: Won three National titles in one event.
- Raced Despite Injury: Competed with a fractured thumb after obtaining medical clearance, relying on painkillers to manage the injury.
Event Details:
Venue: Madras International Circuit (MIC)
Team: Mantra Racing, who provided strong support through bike preparation and performance optimization.
Categories Won:
- Unrestricted Class: Muddappa completed the race in 7.837 seconds, clinching first place.
- 851cc – 1050cc (SS): Completed in 7.926 seconds, securing a win in this category.
- 361cc – 550cc (SS Indian): Muddappa tied with Mohammed Riyaz in the 551cc – 850cc (SS) category, both clocking identical times. However, his faster reaction time allowed him to take the victory.
Kerala Wins Senior National Men’s Handball Championship
Kerala has made history by winning its first-ever Senior National Men’s Handball Championship title, defeating Chandigarh 34-31 in a thrilling final. This marks a major achievement for Kerala, as it was the team’s first appearance in the final of this prestigious tournament. Kerala’s victory was a result of a cohesive team effort, with several standout individual performances contributing to their success.
Key Highlights
- Final Score: Kerala 34-31 Chandigarh
- Venue: Senior National Men’s Handball Championship, Kerala
Road to the Final
- Kerala defeated Services 23-21 in the semi-finals to reach the final.
- Chandigarh triumphed over Indian Railways 32-30 in their semi-final match.
Awards
- Best Player of the Championship: Devendar (Kerala) – for his outstanding attacking performance.
- Best Goalkeeper: Rahul (Kerala) – for his crucial saves in goal throughout the tournament.
Match Progression
- First Half: The match was closely contested, with Kerala maintaining a narrow lead going into the break.
- Second Half: Kerala extended their advantage in the second half and managed to hold off Chandigarh’s late rally to secure the victory.
Key Performances
- Devendar: Played a pivotal role in Kerala’s offensive strategies, contributing significantly to their score and earning the Best Player award.
- Rahul: Produced crucial saves in the final, ensuring Kerala maintained their lead and earning the Best Goalkeeper accolade.
Kerala:
- Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
- Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
Haryana Steelers Clinch Maiden PKL Title
On 29th December 2024, the Haryana Steelers achieved a historic milestone by winning their first-ever Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) title, defeating the Patna Pirates 32-23 in a thrilling final at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune. The match was a showcase of excellent performances from both teams, but Haryana Steelers ultimately emerged victorious with solid strategies on both offense and defense.
Key Highlights of the Game
- Final Score: Haryana Steelers 32-23 Patna Pirates
- Venue: Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi, Pune
Haryana Steelers Performers
- Shivam Patare: 9 points (Outstanding performance in raiding)
- Mohammadreza Shadloui: 7 points (Crucial contributions in both offense and defense)
- Vinay: 6 points (Key role in the offensive strategies)
- Jaideep & Rahul Sethpal: Solid defensive play, crucial in preventing Patna Pirates’ comeback
Patna Pirates Top Performers
- Devank: 5 raid points (One of the key offensive players for Patna)
- Gurdeep: 6 tackle points (Strong defensive presence)
- Ayan & Sudhakar: Contributed significantly to the fightback but fell short in the final stretch
Match Progression
- Early Exchanges: Haryana Steelers started strong, taking an early lead with excellent raiding from Patare and Shadloui.
- Patna Pirates’ Response: Patna Pirates fought back through strong performances by Gurdeep and Sudhakar, leveling the game before the half-time break.
- Defensive Dominance: The second half saw Haryana’s defense, led by Jaideep and Sethpal, step up, making it difficult for Patna Pirates to score.
- Second Half: Key points from Shadloui and Jaideep kept the Steelers in control, and a decisive All-Out in the final minutes sealed the victory.
Haryana:
- Capital: Chandigarh
- Chief minister: Nayab Singh Saini
- Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya
