Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 27th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.According to the 18th edition of the India State of Forest Report (ISFR 2023), what is the increase in forest cover since 2021?
The total area of forest cover in India has increased by 1,445 sq km since the 2021 report. This marks a positive growth in the country’s forest cover, with a notable rise of 156 sq km in forest cover.
2.What does Ladakhi Losar replicate and celebrate in the Ladakh region?
Ladakhi Losar is the celebration of the Tibetan New Year, marking a significant festival in the Ladakh region. The festival is deeply rooted in the Tibetan culture and is celebrated with enthusiasm across Ladakh. It involves cultural performances, community bonding, and the preservation of traditional customs, coinciding with Christmas and New Year this year for a more inclusive festive atmosphere.
3. Which airport is the first to launch the Zero Waste Airport Project under IndiGo’s CSR initiative, IndiGoReach?
Indore Airport is the first airport where IndiGo’s CSR initiative, IndiGoReach, has launched the Zero Waste Airport Project in partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and AAS Foundation. This project focuses on creating a sustainable and eco-friendly airport by applying the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover, aiming to minimize the environmental impact of airport operations.
4.In December 2024, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve logistics education, research, and training. Which organization did GSV sign the MoU with?
Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), based in Vadodara, Gujarat, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Navy in December 2024. The aim of the partnership is to improve logistics education, research, and training for the Navy, with a focus on supply chain management, integrated transportation systems, and sustainable logistics practices. The collaboration also includes sharing expertise in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), predictive analytics, and blockchain technology to enhance logistics operations.
5.In December 2024, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $500 million loan agreement. What is the primary purpose of this loan?
The $500 million loan agreement signed between the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in December 2024 is aimed at supporting green infrastructure projects. These projects are aligned with India’s climate goals, focusing on sectors such as energy transition, urban development, education, and healthcare. The loan will be channeled through the India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL), which will manage the financing of these initiatives.
6.When was the Rashtriya Tansen Samman, India’s highest music award in the classical music field, established by the Madhya Pradesh Government?
The Rashtriya Tansen Samman, India’s highest music award in the classical music field, was established in 1980 by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to Indian classical music and includes a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh along with a citation plaque. It was one of the major highlights of the 100th edition of the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh held in 2024.
7.What was the theme for the 69th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar (AVRSP) 2024 ceremony?
The theme for the 69th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar (AVRSP) 2024 ceremony was “Mai Hoon Bhartiya Rail,” celebrating the pride, dedication, and achievements of Indian Railways. The ceremony, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, honored 101 Railway officials and 22 Railway Zones for their exceptional contributions
8.What historic achievement did the astronauts of China’s Shenzhou-19 mission accomplish in December 2024?
A)They conducted the longest space mission in history
B)They set a world record for the longest spacewalk
C)They became the first astronauts to land on the Moon
D)They launched the first Chinese space station module
E)They completed the longest space mission on the Tiangong Space Station
B)They set a world record for the longest spacewalk
Explanation:
In December 2024, astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong from China’s Shenzhou-19 mission set a new world record for the longest spacewalk, lasting 9 hours. This surpassed the previous record of 8 hours 56 minutes set by NASA astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms in 2001. The astronauts conducted their Extravehicular Activity (EVA) outside the Tiangong Space Station, completing important tasks like installing debris protection.
10.Who has been appointed as the Governor of Bihar and Kerala in the recent reshuffle announced by President Droupadi Murmu in December 2024?
A)Ajay Kumar Bhalla for Bihar and Arif Mohammed Khan for Kerala
B)Arif Mohammed Khan for Bihar and Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for Kerala
C)Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for Bihar and Hari Babu Kambhampati for Kerala
D)Arif Mohammed Khan for Bihar and Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for Kerala
E)Hari Babu Kambhampati for Bihar and Ajay Kumar Bhalla for Kerala
B)Arif Mohammed Khan for Bihar and Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for Kerala
Explanation:
In the reshuffle, Arif Mohammed Khan, the former Governor of Kerala, was transferred to Bihar, while Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, the former Governor of Bihar, was moved to Kerala. These changes are part of a larger strategy to strengthen leadership in regions with political and security challenges.
11.Which state launched the Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana to support Dalit students pursuing higher education abroad?
The Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana was launched by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This scheme aims to support Dalit students by covering their educational expenses, including tuition fees and travel costs, for studying abroad. The initiative ties into Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy of educational empowerment for marginalized communities.
12.Who was appointed as the new Prime Minister of Tonga after Siaosi Sovaleni’s resignation?
After the abrupt resignation of Siaosi Sovaleni, Aisake Valu Eke was elected as the new Prime Minister of Tonga. His appointment follows a period of political instability, economic challenges, and strained relations between the monarchy and the government.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 25th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.What is the main objective of the SVAMITVA Scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
A)Provide free land to rural areas
B)Offer loans to urban property owners
C)Provide rural property owners with proof of ownership
Provide rural property owners with proof of ownership
Explanation:
The SVAMITVA Scheme aims to provide rural property owners with a record of rights for their properties, serving as official proof of ownership. This helps in reducing disputes, enhancing economic empowerment, and enabling access to credit and loans.
2.Where did Prime Minister Narendra Modi lay the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa National River Linking Project?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa National River Linking Project in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. This project is India’s first multipurpose national river linking initiative and is part of efforts to improve water distribution across the country.
3. What is the purpose of the Veer Baal Diwas celebrated on December 26 every year?
A)To honor the military achievements of Indian soldiers
B)To celebrate the lives of the Sahibzades, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh
C)To recognize contributions of women in the freedom struggle
To celebrate the lives of the Sahibzades, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh
Explanation:
Veer Baal Diwas is dedicated to honoring the courage and sacrifice of the Sahibzades, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, who gave their lives for justice. The day, observed annually on December 26, was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022 and emphasizes celebrating children as the future of India.
4.What is the main objective of the Udaan Yatri Cafe initiative launched by the Indian government?
A)To provide free meals to air travelers
B)To offer affordable refreshments to passengers at airports
To offer affordable refreshments to passengers at airports
Explanation:
The Udaan Yatri Cafe initiative aims to address concerns about overpriced food and beverages at airports by offering affordable refreshments. The pilot project was launched at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, following concerns raised by Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha about high food prices at airports.
5.What is the theme for the Republic Day 2025 tableaux?
A)Atmanirbhar Bharat: Empowering India
B)Golden India: Heritage and Progress
C)Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas
D)New India: Vision 2047
E)Unity in Diversity: Celebrating India’s Strength
The theme for the Republic Day 2025 tableaux is “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development). The theme emphasizes showcasing the dynamic relationship between India’s rich cultural heritage and its ongoing development, highlighting both historical significance and modern progress. The tableaux will be displayed on Kartavya Path with exhibits from various states, Union Territories, and central ministries.
6.Which policy did the government of India abolish regarding students who fail their year-end exams?
The government of India abolished the ‘No-detention policy’ for students in classes 5 and 8 who fail their year-end exams. This policy change, which amends the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2010, mandates that students who fail will need to retake their exams within two months, and if they fail again, they will have to repeat the academic year. This revision is aimed at improving learning outcomes among students.
7.Which state in India has been recognized as one of the Wall Street Journal’s “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025”?
Arun Kapur, an esteemed Indian educationist, was conferred the prestigious Red Scarf and the title ‘Dasho’ by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel for his substantial contributions to education in India, Bhutan, and Oman.
The recognition took place during the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations at the Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, showcasing his impact on educational development across the region.
The Red Scarf and ‘Dasho’ title are highly prestigious honors in Bhutan, given to individuals for their distinguished services in various fields, and Kapur’s contribution to education across multiple countries earned him this honor.
8.Which stadium is going to host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships?
Madhya Pradesh earned global recognition as one of the Wall Street Journal’s “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025.” This acknowledgment highlights the state’s rich heritage, unique wildlife, and natural beauty. Madhya Pradesh is home to iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Khajuraho, Panna, and Bandhavgarh, along with vibrant cultural experiences, which make it a prominent tourism destination.
10.Who has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court?
Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. He was the senior-most puisne Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and his appointment was recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment comes after the retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakdher in October 2024.
11.Who has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)?
Justice V. Ramasubramanian, former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The appointment was confirmed by President Droupadi Murmu on December 23, 2024, following the completion of Justice Arun Kumar Mishra’s tenure, who served as the NHRC Chairperson from June 2021 to June 2024.
12.What is the position of Nirmala Sitharaman in the Forbes’ prestigious annual ranking of influential women for 2024?
Nirmala Sitharaman, the Finance Minister of India, earned the 28th position in the Forbes’ list of influential women in 2024. She is recognized for her significant contributions to business, finance, and philanthropy, particularly her role in managing India’s economy and advocating for women’s financial empowerment.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 24th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.What is the primary objective of the Credit Guarantee Scheme (CGS-NPF) launched by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi in December 2024?
A)To promote renewable energy adoption by farmers.
B)To provide credit for agricultural exports.
C)To support post-harvest financing for farmers in India.
D)To establish new warehouses for agricultural produce.
C)To support post-harvest financing for farmers in India.
Explanation: The scheme provides a Rs 1,000 crore corpus to assist farmers in accessing credit for post-harvest activities, enabling them to store their produce in accredited warehouses.
2.Who is the chairperson of the high-level committee constituted by the Indian Government to evaluate the IAF’s capability development in response to regional threats?
The high-level committee is chaired by Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Defence Secretary, tasked with assessing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) capability development with a focus on indigenous projects to address threats from China and Pakistan
3. Which rocket is planned to launch ISRO’s SpaDeX mission in December 2024?
The SpaDeX mission, aiming to demonstrate India’s space docking technology, is scheduled to launch aboard PSLV-C60. This will mark a significant step in India’s advancements in autonomous in-space docking technologies
4.Where did the launch campaign for ISRO’s Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3-G1) for the Gaganyaan-G1 uncrewed mission begin?
The integration of the S200 motor segments for the HLVM3-G1 mission began at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, marking the launch campaign’s start.
5.Who received the awards on behalf of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific)?
Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, the Director General of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), received the awards on behalf of the corporation at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The awards recognized ESIC’s achievements in mobile app innovation, occupational safety, sustainable investment, and system resilience.
6.Which prestigious award was conferred upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Kuwait?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, by the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. This recognition highlights his efforts in enhancing global partnerships and strengthening India’s presence on the international stage.
7.Which country did India defeat to win the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia Cup T20 title in December 2024?
India defeated Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final of the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia Cup T20 held at Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, on December 22, 2024. The win was powered by Gongadi Trisha’s stellar half-century and a strong bowling performance.
8.Who was appointed as the new Brand Ambassador of Eurogrip Tyres in December 2024?
In December 2024, M.S. Dhoni, known for his reliability and performance, was appointed as the new Brand Ambassador of Eurogrip Tyres. His passion for riding and alignment with Eurogrip’s vision of offering enhanced control and confidence on the road make him a perfect fit for the role.
10.Who was appointed as the Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC) in December 2024?
Justice Madan B Lokur, former Supreme Court Judge of India, was appointed as the Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC) by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. His term began on December 19, 2024, and will run until November 12, 2028.
11.Who won one gold and two silver medals at the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Doha, Qatar, in 2024?
Sairaj Pardeshi won one gold and two silver medals in snatch, clean and jerk, and total lift categories at the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Doha, Qatar. He also bettered his own youth national records and clinched the 81kg men’s title.
12.In December 2024, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem. Which ministry did DPIIT sign the MoUs with?
A)Ministry of Finance
B)Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
C)Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), which operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I), signed two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in December 2024 to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem. The agreements aim to provide strategic support for the growth of startups in India.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 21st December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.Who was the head of the High-level Committee on Simultaneous Elections that provided recommendations for the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) initiative?
The High-level Committee on Simultaneous Elections, which provided detailed recommendations for the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) initiative, was chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. The committee’s report, formed in September 2023, laid the groundwork for the approval of the two significant bills by the Union Cabinet in December 2024. These bills aim to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and local bodies across India in a phased manner, ensuring a more streamlined electoral process.
2.Where will the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 take place?
The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 is set to take place from January 17-22 across Delhi NCR. The event will highlight India’s growing role as a global hub for mobility, with over 1,500 exhibitors and an expected 500,000 visitors. Key automotive giants like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and BYD will showcase their latest models, focusing on electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid technologies, and alternative fuels.
3. Which country became the 12th member of the Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in December 2024?
In December 2024, the United Kingdom officially became the 12th member of the Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), making it the first non-founding European country to join this significant trade bloc in the Indo-Pacific region. The UK’s membership in the CPTPP highlights its growing trade ties with the Indo-Pacific and strengthens its presence in the global trade landscape.
4.What is the revised GDP projection for India for the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25) according to CareEdge Ratings?
In December 2024, CareEdge Ratings, a subsidiary of Care Ratings Limited, revised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projection for the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25) to 6.5%, down from the earlier estimate of 6.8%. Additionally, the agency projected a GDP growth of 6.7% for the following Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26). This adjustment reflects changes in economic conditions and outlooks for the country’s growth.
5.How much Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has India received since April 2000 as of December 2024?
In December 2024, India achieved a remarkable economic milestone, with gross Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows totaling USD 1 trillion since April 2000. This significant achievement highlights India’s growing attractiveness as an investment destination. In the first half of Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), FDI inflows increased by 26%, reaching USD 42.1 billion. Additionally, from April 2014 to September 2024, India received USD 709.84 billion in FDI, accounting for 68.69% of the total FDI inflows over the past 24 years.
6.Who was conferred the 2024 Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ)?
In December 2024, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the Chairperson of Biocon Group, was conferred the 2024 Jamsetji Tata Award by the Indian Society for Quality (ISQ) at its Annual Conference 2024 held in Bengaluru, Karnataka. She was honored for her pioneering contributions to the bioscience movement in India since 1978. As a first-generation entrepreneur, she established Biocon Limited and associated companies, making significant strides in serving customers both in India and globally. The award was presented to her by Janak Kumar Mehta, President of ISQ.
7.What is the purpose of the partnership between the Ministry of Culture and France Museums Dévelopment (FMD)?
A) To promote tourism between India and France
B) To develop the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum
Answer Key: B) To develop the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum
Explanation:
The Ministry of Culture, in partnership with France Museums Développement (FMD), launched an ambitious project to develop the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum as a global cultural landmark. The museum, which will span approximately 1,55,000 square meters across the North and South Blocks in New Delhi, is aimed at celebrating India’s civilizational history and becoming a significant part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. This collaboration focuses on the development of the museum as a key cultural institution.
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National news
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: ‘Faral Sakhi’ Initiative Launched in Mira Bhayandar
The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC), in collaboration with NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), has launched the ‘Faral Sakhi’ initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in traditional snack production.
1. Overview: The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC), in collaboration with NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), launched the ‘Faral Sakhi’ initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in traditional festive snack production.
2. Comprehensive Support: Women from self-help groups (SHGs) prepare snacks in a central kitchen established by MBMC.
The initiative provides sales spaces and municipal advertisement support.
During Diwali, over 3 tons of snacks were sold due to high quality and taste.
3. Training and Skill Development:
25 women from Mira Bhayandar are receiving technical training in business operations through the CEGP Foundation.
Training focuses on sustainable business practices and economic contribution.
4. WEP’s Role: Launched by NITI Aayog in 2018 and transitioned to a public-private partnership in 2022, WEP supports women entrepreneurs with access to finance, market linkages, training, mentoring, and legal assistance.
The 2023 ‘Award to Reward’ program promotes impactful initiatives, aiding women entrepreneurs in domestic and international markets.
5. Impact: This collaboration aims to create a thriving ecosystem for women-led businesses in Mira Bhayandar, with over 30,000 women entrepreneurs engaged under WEP’s framework.
PM Modi Flags Off Namo Bharat RRTS: 40-Min Delhi-Meerut Ride
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a 13-km section of the Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor on January 5, 2025. This section connects Sahibabad in Uttar Pradesh to New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and is part of the broader 82-km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor. The RRTS aims to revolutionize regional transit by significantly reducing travel time between Delhi and Meerut.
Inauguration Details:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a 13-km section of the Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor on January 5, 2025.
This section connects Sahibabad (Uttar Pradesh) to New Ashok Nagar (Delhi).
The inauguration marked the first operational use of the Namo Bharat trains in Delhi.
PM Modi also took a ride on the train, interacting with passengers, including children, on the journey.
Operational Details:
The total corridor length of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor is 82 km, running from Sarai Kale Khan (Delhi) to Modipuram (Meerut).
The newly opened section comprises 13 km, with a 6 km underground stretch.
Anand Vihar station serves as a crucial transit hub, linking the Delhi Metro’s Blue and Pink Lines, a railway station, and a bus terminal.
Passenger Services:
Passenger services commenced at 5 pm on the day of the inauguration.
Trains operate every 15 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times for passengers.
Fare Structure:
The fare for the stretch from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South is:
₹150 for standard coach.
₹225 for premium coach.
Corridor Features:
The corridor has 16 Namo Bharat stations and 9 Meerut Metro stations.
The key interchange is the New Ashok Nagar RRTS station, which connects with the Delhi Metro’s Blue Line.
The travel time from New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South is under 40 minutes, significantly reducing the journey time between the two cities.
Significant Milestones:
This follows the opening of a 17-km priority section (Sahibabad to Duhai Depot) on October 20, 2024.
The new section helps reduce the travel time between Delhi and Meerut by one-third.
International news
Hanoi Declared World’s Most Polluted City
On January 3, 2025, AirVisual reported that Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has the highest PM2.5 levels globally, reaching 266 micrograms per cubic meter. This level indicates severe air pollution, significantly impacting residents’ health.
Primary Sources of Pollution:
Heavy Traffic: The city’s dense traffic is a major contributor to high air pollution levels.
Trash Burning: Open burning of waste releases harmful pollutants into the air.
Industrial Activities: Emissions from factories and industrial sites exacerbate the deteriorating air quality.
Health Impacts on Residents:
Respiratory Issues: Elderly residents are reporting increased breathing difficulties due to poor air quality.
Reduced Visibility: Young people have noted decreased visibility and discomfort while breathing in the polluted air.
Vietnam:
Capital: Hanoi
Currency: Vietnamese dong
Official language: Vietnamese
Prime minister: Pham Minh Chinh
Banking news
HDFC Bank Secures RBI Approval to Acquire Stakes in Peer Banks
HDFC Bank has received the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval to acquire up to 9.5% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank, AU Small Finance Bank, and Capital Small Finance Bank.
Approval Validity: The approval is valid until January 2, 2026.
Aggregate Holding Limit: HDFC Bank’s group entities, including HDFC Mutual Fund, HDFC Life Insurance, HDFC ERGO General Insurance, and HDFC Pension Fund Management, must ensure that their combined stake in each of the target banks does not exceed 9.5%.
Purpose of Investment: These investments are part of HDFC Bank’s group entities’ regular course of business, aimed at diversifying their portfolios and strengthening strategic partnerships within the banking sector.
Context and Implications:
This development follows the merger of HDFC Bank with its parent company, HDFC, in July 2023, significantly expanding HDFC Bank’s loan portfolio.
Post-merger, HDFC Bank’s loan-to-deposit ratio increased to around 110%, highlighting the need for the bank to either boost deposits or moderate loan growth.
In the quarter ending December 31, 2024, HDFC Bank reported a 4.2% increase in deposits to ₹24.53 trillion, outpacing a 0.9% rise in gross advances to ₹25.43 trillion.
Launch of BAANKNET: Revamped E-Auction Portal for Public Sector Bank Assets
On January 3, 2025, Nagaraju Maddirala, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance (MOF), launched the BAANKNET portal in New Delhi, designed to facilitate the e-auction of properties from all Public Sector Banks (PSBs).
Key Features of BAANKNET:
One-Stop Platform: Serves as a hub for buyers and investors, providing easy access to a wide range of assets.
Diverse Asset Listings: Includes residential properties, commercial spaces, industrial lands, agricultural and non-agricultural land, vehicles, machinery, and more.
Support for PSBs: Assists PSBs in recovering dues, strengthening balance sheets, and enhancing credit availability for businesses and individuals.
Collaboration: Involves PSBs, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), and Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) for effective implementation.
Training Programs: DFS has conducted training for PSB executives and DRT recovery officers to ensure optimal use of the platform.
Current Status: Over 1,22,500 properties are already listed on the portal, ready for auction.
Agreement news
ICG and AIIMS Delhi Sign MoU to Enhance Medical Training for Coast Guard Officers
In December 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the medical training and capabilities of ICG’s medical officers.
Key Highlights:
MoU Signing: The agreement was signed by Surgeon Commodore Sanjay Dutta from ICG and Dr. Shailendra Kumar, CRTC AIIMS Coordinator, at an event held at AIIMS Delhi in New Delhi.
Primary Objective: The MoU focuses on providing specialized training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) based on Indian guidelines, ensuring ICG personnel are equipped with critical life-saving skills.
Advanced Training: AIIMS Delhi will offer structured and advanced training to ICG’s medical officers, enhancing their ability to manage medical emergencies, particularly in operationally challenging environments.
Appointment news
TATA AIG General Insurance Appoints Amit Ganorkar as MD & CEO
In January 2025, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, appointed Amit Ganorkar as its Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from January 1, 2025.
Key Highlights:
Successor: Amit Ganorkar succeeds Neelesh Garg, who resigned after leading the company for over nine years.
Previous Roles: Ganorkar previously served as the MD at Royal Sundaram General Insurance in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He also held the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at TATA AIG General Insurance.
Industry Expertise: With over 20 years of experience in the general insurance industry, Ganorkar brings specialized expertise in sales and distribution and product development.
About TATA AIG: TATA AIG General Insurance is a joint venture between the TATA Group and American International Group (AIG). The company began its operations in India on January 22, 2001.
Jyoti Sharma Appointed CEO of NASSCOM Foundation
On January, 2025, Jyoti Sharma was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) Foundation, with immediate effect.
Key Highlights:
Successor: Jyoti Sharma succeeds Nidhi Bhasin, who has been appointed as the CEO of Digital Green Trust.
Experience: Sharma brings over 20 years of experience in driving social impact. She has expertise in program development, resource mobilization, and stakeholder engagement.
Leadership Background: She has held leadership positions in prominent organizations, including:
Organic Cotton Accelerator
European Commission
World Resources Institute
Magic Bus India Foundation
Action Aid
Save the Children
Ranks and report news
Decline in Rural-to-Urban Migration in India
Recent reports highlight a significant decline in rural-to-urban migration in India, marking a reversal of long-standing urbanization trends. According to the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), domestic migration decreased by 53.7 million in 2023, an 11.8% drop from 2011 levels. The migration rate fell from 37.6% in 2011 to 28.9% in 2023, with economic migration also declining by 5 million, from 45 million in 2011 to 40 million in 2023.
Increased Dependence on Agriculture
A key factor contributing to this trend is the increased dependence on agriculture. In 2023-24, 46.1% of the workforce was engaged in agriculture, up from 42.5% in 2017-18.
The rise in agricultural dependence has led to higher food demand, reducing urban supplies and driving persistent food inflation.
There is also a rise in disguised unemployment in rural areas, coupled with stagnation in rural wages, particularly among women, whose real wages declined by 2.3% annually over the past five years.
Challenges to Rural Infrastructure Development
Despite claims that improved rural infrastructure would reduce migration, infrastructure growth has been slower than expected.
From FY14 to FY24, 25 million rural houses were added, falling significantly short of the 46.3 million houses that would have been added if earlier growth trends had continued.
Rural electrification and housing construction have also slowed in recent years, further stalling progress.
Implications for Economic Growth
The decline in migration and urbanization has reduced the potential for productivity gains typically seen in urban agglomerations. This could have long-term consequences for economic growth in India, which has traditionally been driven by urbanization.
The economic slowdown is also likely to result in fiscal trade-offs, forcing the government to consider options such as:
Increasing revenue spending
Cutting capital expenditures
Expanding GST coverage to compensate for slower tax revenue generation.
Policy Recommendations
To address these challenges, a dual focus on rural and urban policies is necessary:
Support Rural Incomes: Implement fiscal incentives and employment programs to improve rural livelihoods and reduce the growing income disparity.
Accelerate Urban Growth: Develop policies that encourage urban growth and create more economic opportunities in cities to reverse the rural-to-urban migration slowdown.
Science and tech news
India Welcomes Its First Generation Beta Baby
As the year 2025 brought upon the world the ‘Generation Beta’, India got its first baby of this gen on New Year’s day, January 1, in Mizoram’s Aizawl. The baby, named Frankie Remruatdika Zadeng, is recognized as India’s first child from the so-called Generation Beta. Born at 12:03 AM on January 1, 2025, at Synod Hospital in Durtlang, Aizawl, the healthy newborn weighed a little over 3.12 kilograms.
India’s First Generation Beta Baby:
Baby Name: Frankie Remruatdika Zadeng.
Birth Details: Born on January 1, 2025, at 12:03 AM, at Synod Hospital in Aizawl, Mizoram.
Parents: Ramzirmawii and ZD Remruatsanga, residents of Khatla East, Aizawl.
Health Status: Born healthy, weighing over 3.12 kg.
Timeline: Includes children born between 2025 and 2039.
Significance of Frankie’s Birth:
Marks the symbolic start of a new generational chapter.
Represents the opportunities and challenges awaiting Generation Beta, such as:
Leveraging AI for education, work, and daily life.
Addressing climate change and ecological preservation.
Embracing a transformative approach to education with a focus on STEM and critical thinking skills.
India’s Space Tech: SwetchaSAT-VO and VYOM 2U
In December 2024, Andhra Pradesh (AP)-based startup N Space Tech India Private Limited successfully tested its indigenously developed Ultra-High-Frequency(UHF) communication system, SwetchaSAT-VO.
The test was conducted on the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle(PSLV) Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) platform at Sriharikota, AP.
SwetchaSAT-VO Communication System Test
In December 2024, N Space Tech India Private Limited, based in Andhra Pradesh (AP), successfully tested its Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) communication system called SwetchaSAT-VO.
Test Location: The test was conducted on ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) platform at Sriharikota, AP.
Purpose: The system is designed to test UHF waves for enhanced communication in remote areas, improving mobile phones, internet, and other communication services.
Data Receipt: On January 1, 2025, N Space Tech received the first data set from SwetchaSAT-VO at ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Manastu Space Technologies’ Green Propulsion System Test
On December 31, 2024, Manastu Space Technologies, a start-up founded by IIT Bombay (Maharashtra), successfully test-fired its green propulsion system, VYOM 2U.
Test Location: The test was conducted on the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-4 (POEM) platform, with the thruster successfully fired from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (UP).
Innovation: This self-developed green thruster marks a significant step in environmentally-friendly propulsion technology for space missions.
Key Achievements: N Space Tech India Pvt. Ltd. is known for its development of innovative space technologies, including the SwetchaSAT-VO communication system, tested successfully in December 2024. The company focuses on UHF communication systems for enhancing communication in remote areas.
Key Achievements:Manastu Space Technologies specializes in developing green propulsion systems for space missions. In December 2024, it successfully test-fired its VYOM 2Ugreen propulsion system, marking a significant milestone inenvironmentally-friendly space technology.
Sports news
Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025 Trophies and Mascots Revealed
The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) recently unveiled the trophies and mascots for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place from January 13-19. This global event will feature men’s and women’s teams from 24 countries, showcasing Kho Kho on a global stage. The tournament will be held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium and will be broadcast live, marking a historic milestone for this indigenous Indian sport.
Event Overview:
Dates: January 13-19, 2025
Location: Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi
Participants: 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries spanning six continents
Governing Body: Organized under the Sports Authority of India (SAI)
Trophies:
Men’s Trophy (Blue):
Symbolizes: Trust, determination, and universal appeal.
Design: Contemporary curves with golden figures.
Women’s Trophy (Green):
Symbolizes: Growth and vitality.
Design: Similar to the men’s trophy, featuring intricate crystal detailing for precision and excellence.
Mascots:
Tejas (Blue): Represents brilliance and energy.
Tara (Orange): Embodies guidance and aspiration.
Significance: Both gazelle mascots showcase traditional Indian motifs, reflecting Kho Kho’s cultural heritage and modern appeal.
Broadcasting and Streaming:
Platforms:
Free live streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.
Free broadcast on DD Sports.
Impact: Aims to promote Kho Kho globally by increasing its accessibility and popularity.
BCCI Will Have New Secretary and Treasurer
Devajit Saikia,a former Assam cricketer, is set to become the new secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), while Prabhtej Singh Bhatia from Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh (CSCS) will take over as the new treasurer. Both candidates filed their nominations as the lone applicants for their respective posts and are set to be elected unopposed at the BCCI’s Special General Meeting (SGM) on January 12, 2025, in Mumbai.
Key Appointments at BCCI:
Devajit Saikia:
Position: Secretary of BCCI.
Background:
Former Assam cricketer and wicketkeeper.
Advocate General of Assam since May 2021.
Held BCCI’s Joint Secretary position since October 2022.
Appointed interim secretary in December 2024 following Jay Shah’s departure.
Cricketing Career: Played first-class matches in the Col CK Nayudu Trophy and Ranji Trophy for Assam (1990-91). Represented the East Zone alongside Sourav Ganguly.
Prabhtej Singh Bhatia:
Position: Treasurer of BCCI.
Background:
Represents Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh (CSCS).
Former member of BCCI’s Apex Council and Disciplinary Committee.
Reason for Vacancies:
Jay Shah: Moved to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as Independent Chairman.
Ashish Shelar: Became a cabinet minister in the Maharashtra government.
Election Details:
Both Saikia and Bhatia filed nominations as lone candidates for their respective posts.
They will be elected unopposed during the BCCI Special General Meeting (SGM) on January 12, 2025, in Mumbai.
West Bengal Wins 33rd Santosh Trophy Title
The Santosh Trophy, India’s premier football competition for state teams, continues to showcase the nation’s football talent and historical rivalries. In the 2024 edition, West Bengal reaffirmed its dominance by securing a record-extending 33rd title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Kerala in the final. Held at Gachibowli Stadium, the match saw Robi Hansda score the winning goal in added time, cementing his position as the tournament’s top scorer.
Champion: West Bengal: Secured a record-extending 33rd title with a 1-0 victory over Kerala.
Runner-Up: Kerala: Narrowly missed out on the title.
Final Score: 1-0 in favor of West Bengal.
Goal Scorer: Robi Hansda: Scored the match-winning goal in added time of the second half, marking his 12th goal of the tournament, and emerging as the top scorer.
Match Venue: Gachibowli Stadium
Tournament Journey: Both West Bengal and Kerala won nine matches and drew one match each on their way to the final.
History of the Santosh Trophy:
Founded: 1941
Organizer: Initially managed by the Indian Football Association (IFA) and later by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Named After: Sir Manmatha Nath Roy Chowdhury, Maharaja of Santosh.
Trophies for 2nd and 3rd Places:
Kamla Gupta Trophy: Runner-up award.
Sampangi Cup: Third place award.
Historical Milestones:
The Santosh Trophy was introduced to provide a platform for state-level teams in India.
The inaugural edition in 1941-42 was won by West Bengal (then Bengal), defeating Delhi.
The tournament became a significant platform for showcasing regional football talent.
Notable Records:
Most Successful Team: West Bengal with 33 titles.
Second-Most Successful Team: Punjab with 8 titles.
Third-Most Successful Teams: Kerala and Services, each with 7 titles.
Longest Winning Streak: West Bengal won six consecutive titles from 1993 to 1999.
First Institutional Winner: Services in 1960-61.
Joint Winners: Only instance of joint winners occurred in 1982-83 when West Bengal and Goa shared the title.
First Overseas Final: The 2022-23 final was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Karnataka defeated Meghalaya.
The 38th National Games Torch ‘Tejaswini’
Uttarakhand will host the 38th National Games for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the state’s sports history. The event will take place from January 28 to February 14, 2025, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun.
Torch Rally:
The torch rally, named Tejaswini, was flagged off by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on December 26, 2024, in Haldwani.
The rally will cover an extensive distance of 3,823 kilometers, visiting 99 locations across 13 districts of Uttarakhand.
The torch’s journey aims to create excitement and raise awareness about the National Games as it travels through significant locations such as Nainital, Pithoragarh, Almora, and Bageshwar.
The journey will culminate in Dehradun on January 25, 2025, three days before the Games begin.
Purpose of the Rally:
The primary objective is to foster community engagement and raise awareness about the Games, with an emphasis on connecting people from different areas to the event.
The rally also aims to inspire youth and athletes, promoting sports culture and building excitement for the upcoming National Games.
The 38th National Games:
Event Dates: January 28 to February 14, 2025.
Main Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Dehradun, will host a variety of competitions across different sports disciplines.
Mascot, Anthem, and Logo:Unveiled by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the inauguration, these elements reflect Uttarakhand’s vibrant culture and commitment to sports excellence.
Obituary news
World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116 Years
Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person, passed away at the age of 116 in January 2025. Born in May 1908, she experienced an extraordinary life, living through major historical events, including both World Wars, technological advancements, and societal changes. Her legacy continues to inspire through her resilience and longevity.
Birth and Early Life:
Born: May 1908, six years before World War I.
Experienced early 20th-century milestones, including the launch of the Ford Model T in the same year.
World War II and Career:
Managed her husband’s textile factory office during World War II.
After her husband’s death in 1979, she lived alone in Nara, Japan.
Personal Life:
Marriage: Married at age 20.
Children: Had two daughters and two sons.
Survivors: One son, one daughter, and five grandchildren.
Longevity and Health:
World Record: Verified as the world’s oldest person by Guinness World Records in September 2024, following the passing of Maria Branyas Morera.
Enjoyed simple pleasures, such as eating bananas and drinking Calpis, a popular Japanese soft drink.
Recognition:
Received the official Guinness World Records (GWR) certificate in September 2024.
Honored during Respect for the Aged Day, a Japanese holiday dedicated to elderly citizens.
Agnes Keleti, World’s Oldest Olympic Champion
On January 2025, World’s Oldest Olympic Champion, Hungarian gymnast and a Holocaust survivor Agnes Keleti passed away at the age of 103 in Budapest, Hungary. She was born on January 9, 1921 in Budapest.
About Agnes Keleti:
Agnes Keleti, a Hungarian gymnast and Holocaust survivor, was the world’s oldest living Olympic gold medalist and the most decorated female Olympian in Hungarian history. She passed away in Budapest at the age of 103. Keleti’s remarkable Olympic career spanned multiple decades, earning her 10 Olympic medals: 5 golds, 3 silvers, and 2 bronzes.
Key Highlights of Her Career:
Early Start:Keleti joined the National Gymnastics Association in 1938 and won her first Hungarian championship in 1940.
Olympic Debut (1952):At the age of 31, she debuted at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, winning her first gold medal in floor exercise, along with 1 silver and 2 bronze medals.
1956 Melbourne Olympics: Keleti’s most successful Olympic performance came in Melbourne, where she won 4 gold medals and 2 silvers, making her the most successful athlete of the Games.
Life After Olympics:Post-1956, she settled in Israel, where she contributed significantly to the development of gymnastics as a coach and educator.
Retirement: Keleti retired from coaching at age 75 but continued mentoring athletes and remained a beloved figure in the gymnastics world.
Legacy: Agnes Keleti is remembered as one of the greatest gymnasts in history, and following her passing, French cyclist Charles Coste (100) became the oldest living Olympic champion.
Title: Down, but not out: On the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
A decade-long dominance wound to a close at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the second-biggest silverware in terms of stature after the Ashes in cricket, and the biggest on the basis of viewership, has been India’s preserve since 2015. Australia last won the title in the 2014-15 home series and after that India claimed the trophy on four occasions. This winning streak ended once the fifth Test concluded at Sydney with Pat Cummins and his men winning by six wickets and seizing the series at 3-1. The margin could hint at a vast gap in ability between the two squads. But it was anything but that and India had its moments and could have finished on the victor’s podium. This was a series where the batters played second fiddle to excellent speedsters. It is no surprise that when Jasprit Bumrah, the most dominant among them, got injured and could not bowl during the Australian second innings chase in the last Test, the host prospered. Bumrah began the series as captain, a position he returned to once the regular skipper, the out-of-form Rohit Sharma, opted out at the climax. And Bumrah, with 32 wickets, led the charts. Again with a resilient bat, he even helped India avoid the follow-on at Brisbane’s Gabba.
A transition is upon the Indian Test unit, especially after failing to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final. Having eased out Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane and now dealing with R. Ashwin’s retirement mid-series, the selectors and coach Gautam Gambhir need to look at the future of Virat Kohli, Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja. These players were India’s core in Tests, but a change is inevitable. Tours Down Under often force a flux. Dilip Vengsarkar retired after the 1991-92 tour, Rahul Dravid and V.V.S. Laxman followed suit after their 2011-12 visit. In the current sojourn, despite scoring a ton in the first Test at Perth, Kohli’s overall yield of 190 at 23.75 was poor. Rohit’s numbers are even worse as he scored 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s runs, K.L. Rahul’s initial consistency, newcomer Nitish Kumar Reddy’s hundred at Melbourne, and the odd lower-order resistance, bailed out India but that was not enough. India lost due to batting ineptitude, a frailty that affected Australia too before its middle-order found a second-wind through Steve Smith, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Mohammed Siraj toiled hard but beyond him, Bumrah did not have much support from the bowling ranks. This was a series on which Cummins, through 25 wickets and 159 runs, imposed his will. India will need to find younger heroes, especially batters who are adept at playing both spin and pace, at home and abroad, in Tests and limited overs.
Meaning of the word:
Word
Meaning
Synonyms
Antonyms
Preserve
To protect something from decay, damage, or destruction.
Maintain Protect Safeguard Conserve
Destroy Neglect Abandon Harm
Inevitable
The term “inevitable” means unavoidable or certain to happen. It refers to something that cannot be prevented or escaped.
Unavoidable Certain Inescapable Fated
Avoidable Uncertain Preventable Doubtful
Ineptitude
The term “ineptitude” refers to a lack of skill, ability, or competence in doing something.
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National news
Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Service in Gurgaon
Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa announced the launch of an instant ambulance service, where residents of Gurgaon can book an ambulance through the Blinkit app and have it arrive within 10 minutes. This initiative aims to address the critical need for quick emergency medical transport in urban areas. The service, which includes Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, marks a significant step toward providing fast and reliable medical aid.
Service Overview:
Location: Gurgaon (Gurugram)
Ambulance Arrival Time: Within 10 minutes
Platform: Blinkit App
Type of Ambulances: Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances
Affordable Pricing: The service is offered at an affordable rate.
Non-Profit Initiative: Profit is not the primary goal; the focus is on providing fast emergency medical support.
Expansion Plans: The service will gradually scale, with Blinkit planning to extend the service to major cities over the next two years.
Project VISTAAR: A Digital Revolution in Indian Agriculture
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has joined forces with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to launch Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources). This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of India’s agricultural extension services by leveraging digital technology, thereby offering farmers better access to innovative technologies and advisory support.
Enhancing Agricultural Extension via Digitalization
Project VISTAAR focuses on empowering farmers through the integration of advanced technologies into the agricultural sector. By digitizing the extension system, it will provide high-quality guidance on crop production, marketing, value addition, and supply chain management. Additionally, it will inform farmers about relevant government schemes in agriculture, rural development, and allied sectors, enabling them to fully capitalize on these opportunities.
Harnessing Start-up Innovations
Start-ups play a pivotal role in tackling agricultural challenges by enhancing productivity, improving supply chains, and facilitating market access.
IIT Madras, through its Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing, in collaboration with its incubated start-up YNOS Venture Engine, has developed an extensive database of over 12,000 agriculture-focused start-ups.
This database will be incorporated into the VISTAAR platform, enabling farmers and stakeholders to discover innovative solutions, adopt new technologies, and improve agricultural practices.
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare: minister: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Chhattisgarh’s Green GDP Initiative
Chhattisgarh has become the first Indian state to adopt the Green Gross Domestic Product (Green GDP) model, which integrates the ecological services of its forests into its economic planning. This initiative is designed to link environmental contributions—such as clean air, water conservation, and biodiversity—with the state’s economic development. The goal is to ensure sustainable growth while preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Understanding Green GDP
Green GDP is an alternative measure to traditional GDP, which typically omits environmental costs. While GDP measures economic output, Green GDP takes into account the ecological degradation caused by economic activities. This includes factors like resource depletion and pollution, providing a broader perspective on both economic health and environmental well-being.
Objectives of the Green GDP Initiative
Chhattisgarh’s Green GDP initiative focuses on several key objectives:
Enhancing Budget Planning: By recognizing the economic value of ecosystem services, the state aims to improve financial planning and resource allocation.
Policy Formulation: It supports the creation of policies that foster economic growth while ensuring ecological sustainability.
Recognizing the Economic Value of Forests: The initiative acknowledges the critical role forests play in the state’s economy, formalizing the value of forest ecosystem services.
Chattishgarh’s:
Capital: Raipur (Executive Branch)
Governor: Ramen Deka
CM: Shri Vishnu Deo
Government Considers Honorary Senior Ranks for Retiring Paramilitary Personnel
The Indian government is considering the introduction of honorary senior ranks for retiring Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel who have not been promoted due to organizational constraints. The aim of this initiative is to boost morale and acknowledge the service of retiring personnel, especially those who were eligible for promotion but could not be promoted due to vacancies or delays within the system.
Proposal Details
Proposal Origin: Former Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Anish Dayal Singh, suggested that CAPF personnel who are eligible for promotion but are awaiting a vacancy could be granted the insignia of their next higher rank during their final month of service.
Example: For instance, a Constable eligible for promotion to Head Constable could wear the Head Constable’s insignia during their last month of service. They would also receive the corresponding pay for that rank.
Implementation: This proposal has been approved by Home Minister Amit Shah and is expected to be implemented across all CAPFs soon.
Context and Background: This proposal arises in response to delays in promotions within the CAPFs, which have been a long-standing concern. As of October 30, 2024, there were 100,204 vacant posts across all CAPFs, with 71,231 posts created between 2020 and 2024. Despite the creation of new posts, systemic issues in recruitment and internal promotion processes have led to delays in promotion timelines. The honorary rank initiative serves as a temporary solution while the government works on addressing these systemic challenges.
Historical Perspective
The concept of honorary ranks is not new to India:
In the Indian Army, soldiers who have rendered exemplary service and are nearing retirement have been awarded honorary ranks such as junior commissioned officers shortly before their retirement. This practice, known as ‘brevet,’ has been followed since the British colonial era.
The Indian Army has also conferred honorary ranks on prominent citizens and foreign trainees as a gesture of goodwill and recognition.
Implications of the Proposal
The introduction of honorary senior ranks for retiring CAPF personnel is expected to:
Boost morale: It provides symbolic recognition for those who have not been promoted due to organizational constraints.
Offer temporary relief: While the honorary ranks do not resolve the underlying systemic issues causing delays in promotions, they offer a temporary acknowledgment of service.
Focus on long-term reforms: The government is working on addressing vacancies and improving promotion timelines within CAPFs, which will likely involve a long-term strategy to ensure quicker advancement for personnel.
Jammu is to be the 69th Railway Division of the Indian Railway
The Union Ministry of Railways has announced plans to establish the 69th railway division at Jammu, which will come under the Northern Railway Zone. This was communicated to the Northern Railway Zone in an official notification issued on 1st January 2025.
Currently, India has 68 railway divisions, and Jammu will be the next addition to this network. This initiative highlights the government’s focus on enhancing rail infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, further expanding India’s vast railway network.
About the Proposed Jammu Division
Under Northern Railway Zone: Jammu will be the new division under the Northern Railway Zone, which is the largest zone of Indian Railways.
Network Coverage: The division will manage a 742.1 km rail network, which will be formed by reorganizing the existing Firozpur Division.
This division will contribute significantly to enhancing rail services and connectivity in the region, benefiting both passengers and freight transport.
Current Railway System in India
India has the fourth largest rail network in the world, following the United States, China, and Russia.
Indian Railways is the largest railway system under a single management, with around 1.25 million employees.
Railway Zones and Divisions in India
India’s railway operations are divided into 17 Zones and 68 Divisions. The key details of the 17 Railway Zones are as follows:
Central Railway: Mumbai Divisions: Mumbai, Bhusawal, Nagpur, Solapur, Pune
North Western Railway: Jaipur Divisions: Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur
Southern Railway: Chennai Divisions: Chennai, Madurai, Palghat, Trichy, Trivandrum, Salem
South Central Railway: Secunderabad Divisions: Guntakal, Guntur, Hyderabad, Nanded, Secunderabad, Vijayawada
South Eastern Railway: Kolkata Divisions: Adra, Chakradharpur, Kharagpur, Ranchi
South East Central Railway: Bilaspur Divisions: Bilaspur, Nagpur, Raipur
South Western Railway: Hubli Divisions: Bangalore, Hubli, Mysore
Western Railway: Mumbai Divisions: Mumbai, Vadodara, Ratlam, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Bhavnagar
West Central Railway: Jabalpur Divisions: Bhopal, Jabalpur, Kota
Metro Railway: Kolkata Divisions: Not applicable
Status of Other Railway Zones
Konkan Railway: Operates a 741 km line connecting Mumbai to Mangalore but is managed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and is not considered an operational zone of Indian Railways.
South Coast Railway Zone: Announced in 2019, this zone will be headquartered in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. However, the official notification for its establishment has not been issued yet.
Significance of Jammu Division: The establishment of the Jammu Division is expected to improve rail connectivity and infrastructure in the Jammu and Kashmir region, which has seen significant demand for better transport services. This move is also in line with India’s broader efforts to enhance transportation networks in border areas, promoting economic growth and regional development.
The proposal for this new division reflects the government’s focus on decentralizing railway operations to streamline management and address growing regional transportation needs.
Summit news
PM Modi inaugurates Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav being organised in New Delhi on 4 January 2025. During the inaugural ceremony the Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, and Union Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary were also present.
The Grameen Bharat Mahostav is being held in New Delhi from 4-9 January 2025.
The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav brings together the leaders from the government, rural economy, and industry to discuss ways and strategies to build a prosperous and self-reliant rural India.
Organiser of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav: The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav has been organised by the Department of Financial Services, the Union Ministry of Finance, and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
Theme and Motto of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav
The theme of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsavis “Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2024”.
The motto of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav “If villages grow, the country grows”
Objectives of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav: The following are the main objectives of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav.
Explore strategies for the implementation of rural development programs
The Mahotsav will provide a platform for the stakeholders to explore and build strategies to implement four key pillars of rural development; Self-reliance for farmers and artisans; rural women empowerment; skill development for the rural youth; financial inclusion for marginalised rural communities.
International news
India provides $5 Lakh aid to earthquake-hit Vanuatu
The Government of India has announced an aid of $5 lakh to the Pacific Ocean island nation of Vanuatu, which has been severely impacted by two successive earthquakes in December 2024. This aid will support relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in the country.
Details of the Earthquakes
First Earthquake (17 December 2024): A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, resulting in 14 fatalities and over 200 injuries. The government of Vanuatu imposed a dawn-to-dusk curfew to deal with the aftermath of the destruction.
Second Earthquake (22 December 2024): A second earthquake of 6.1 magnitude caused widespread panic and further damage to infrastructure, including commercial and residential buildings, embassies, and a hospital.
India-Vanuatu Relations
Diplomatic Relations: India established diplomatic relations with Vanuatu in 1986, although India does not have an embassy in the country. The Indian High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand, is responsible for handling Vanuatu-related matters.
Membership in FIPIC: Vanuatu is a member of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), which includes 13 other countries from the Pacific region.
Historical Assistance:
2015: India provided $2.5 lakh to Vanuatu after the devastation caused by Cyclone Pam.
2018: India gave a $2 lakh grant for humanitarian assistance to help in the resettlement of Ambae island residents following a volcanic eruption.
Since 2006: India has contributed US$ 669,093 for various community development projects in Vanuatu.
About Vanuatu
Geography: Vanuatu is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, about 800 km west of Fiji and 1,770 km east of Australia. It consists of 13 main islands and many smaller ones.
Capital: Port Vila
Prime Minister: Charlot Salwai
Currency: Vatu
Independence: Vanuatu gained independence in 1980.
Ethnic Composition: The population is primarily Melanesian.
MoU between India & Indonesia on Non-Basmati White Rice Trade
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Union Ministry of Cooperation and the Ministry of Trade of Indonesia. This MoU focuses on the supply of Non-Basmati White Rice from India to Indonesia. The agreement is expected to improve bilateral trade relations and help Indonesia address its domestic rice demand.
Key Terms of the MoU:
Quantity: India will supply one million metric tonnes of Non-Basmati White Rice to Indonesia annually, at the prevailing international market price.
Duration: The MoU will last for four years, with an automatic extension for another four years, ensuring a long-term supply chain agreement.
Supply Mechanism:
The rice will be supplied by National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), a newly established cooperative body.
The rice will be sourced exclusively from cooperative societies across India.
Impact on Trade Balance: The export of rice is expected to improve India’s trade balance, which has been significantly in favor of Indonesia in recent years. In 2023-24, India’s exports to Indonesia stood at USD 5.99 billion, while imports from Indonesia were USD 23.4 billion.
Bilateral Trade Relations:
India and Indonesia are significant trading partners. Indonesia is India’s 8th-largest trading partner, and India is the second-largest buyer of Indonesian coal and crude palm oil.
In 2023-24, the bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to USD 29.4 billion, underscoring the importance of this agreement in enhancing economic ties.
Indian Rice Exports:
India is the largest exporter of rice globally, with Non-Basmati White Rice being a major export variety.
In 2023-24, the total export of Non-Basmati Rice was INR 37,804.48 crore (approximately USD 4.57 billion), with key export markets including Benin, Guinea, Togo, Cote D’Ivoire, and Vietnam.
India also exports Basmati Rice, a premium variety, with major destinations including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, UAE, USA, and Yemen.
Ban on Non-Basmati Rice Exports:
In July 2023, India imposed a ban on the export of Non-Basmati White Rice to control domestic rice prices.
However, the ban was lifted in September 2024, with the introduction of a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 490 per tonne to ensure the price stability in the domestic market.
National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL):
NCEL was established in 2023 as a Multi-State Cooperative Society under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.
The organization aims to serve as an umbrella body for the cooperative sector’s exports in India.
It was promoted jointly by leading cooperatives such as GCMMF, IFFCO, NAFED, KRIBHCO, and NCDC.
Headquarters: New Delhi
Managing Director: Unupom Kausik
State news
Telangana’s Rythu Bharosa Scheme Expansion
The Rythu Bharosa scheme in Telangana has been expanded to provide financial assistanceto all farmers cultivating crops, with the aim of enhancing agricultural support across the state.
Key Details of the Expansion
Financial Assistance: Each eligible farmer will receive ₹7,500 per acre per crop season. This assistance will benefit around 70 lakh farmers in Telangana.
Implementation Timeline: The government plans to launch the scheme around the Sankranti festival. Gram Sabhas will be conducted from January 5 to 7 to collect applications from eligible farmers.
Financial Implications: The Telangana government intends to raise ₹30,000 crore in market borrowings during the last quarter of the 2024-25 financial year to fund the scheme.
Background and Evolution: Replacement of Rythu Bandhu: The Rythu Bharosa scheme replaces the earlier Rythu Bandhu scheme, which provided ₹5,000 per acre. The Congress party had raised concerns over the misuse of funds under the previous scheme, where ineligible beneficiaries received excess payments. The new scheme focuses only on lands that are actively cultivated to avoid such issues.
Implementation Strategy: A Cabinet sub-committee, led by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, has finalized a report to ensure that only genuine farmers receive benefits, thus preventing leakages and misuse of funds.
Financial Management
The government plans to raise ₹30,000 crore in market borrowings during the final quarter of 2024-25, which will be raised in three tranches of ₹10,000 crore each.
The Reserve Bank of India will conduct securities auctions every Tuesday during this period.
Government Borrowing Restrictions
The Union Finance Ministry has placed limits on state borrowings due to financial management concerns. Although the Telangana government initially projected borrowings exceeding ₹61,000 crore, this figure was revised to ₹49,255 crore. By the end of November 2024, the state had borrowed ₹37,850 crore, with additional borrowings planned for December.
The final approval for exceeding the borrowing ceiling lies with the Government of India, and the finance department has not disclosed whether such approval has been granted.
Telangana:
Capital: Hyderabad
Chief minister: Revanth Reddy
Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma
Assam’s Elephant Population Sees 7-Year Rise
Assam’s Elephant Population Estimate for 2024 reveals a positive growth, with an estimated 5,828 elephants, marking an increase of 109 elephants from the previous count of 5,719 in 2017. This estimate, conducted through a synchronized survey, underscores the stability of Assam’s elephant population despite challenges such as habitat fragmentation and human-elephant conflicts.
Key Findings:
Total Elephant Population: Estimated at 5,828, showing a rise of 109 elephants from 2017 (5,719).
Estimation Process:
The survey was conducted from February 20-27, 2024.
It involved 5,743 personnel across 1,536 survey blocks in 43 forest divisions.
Population Distribution:
82% (4,777 elephants) are found in five Elephant Reserves.
68% of the population resides in protected areas.
30.4% are in managed forests.
1.6% are located in revenue areas.
Elephant Density:
Chirang-Ripu Reserve recorded the highest density with 79 elephants per 100 sq. km.
Dhansiri-Lungding Reserve recorded the lowest density at 6 elephants per 100 sq. km.
Reproduction and Gender Ratios:
Female to Calf Ratio: There are 49 calves per 100 adult females, indicating healthy reproduction rates.
Tusker-to-Makhna Ratio: Improved from 1:2.63 (2017) to 1:1.97 (2024).
Conservation Challenges:
Habitat Degradation and Fragmentation: Particularly in reserves like Dhansiri-Lungding, where habitat is degrading.
Human-Elephant Conflicts: Increased interaction with urban and agricultural areas is contributing to growing conflicts.
Recommendations for Conservation: Strengthen anti-poaching efforts: Enhance measures to protect elephants from illegal activities.
Undertake habitat restoration: Focus on low-density regions for better forest management.
Secure elephant corridors: Notify and protect corridors to ensure safe movement.
Advanced monitoring: Implement techniques like radio-telemetry to study elephant movements.
Adaptive management strategies: Adopt flexible and long-term conservation strategies.
The findings underline the importance of strengthening conservation efforts to address the challenges elephants face while ensuring sustainable coexistence with human populations.
Assam:
Capital: Dispur
Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Governor: Lakshman Acharya
Economy news
Nomura Lowers India’s FY25 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.7%
Nomura has revised its GDP growth forecast for India in fiscal year 2025 to 6.7%, down from its earlier estimate of 6.9%. This adjustment follows a slower-than-expected growth of 6.7% in the April-June quarter of 2024, down from the 7.8% growth in the previous quarter.
Key Factors for the Downgrade:
Government Spending: Reduced expenditure during the national elections contributed to the slowdown.
Consumer Demand: Weak urban consumption due to high interest rates and moderating wage growth.
Industrial Activity: Slower industrial growth, reflected in declines in passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle sales.
Comparative Outlook: Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan have maintained their forecast for India’s FY25 GDP growth at 6.5%, showing a more optimistic view compared to Nomura.
Implications and Future Outlook:
Nomura expects easing inflation and increased government spending to help support growth in the near future.
However, concerns over lower corporate profit growth and moderated credit growth may continue to pose challenges to the economy.
In summary, while there are some supportive factors, the overall economic outlook for India has been adjusted downwards, with Nomura taking a more cautious stance.
India Revises GDP Base Year to 2022-23
In a significant move to improve the accuracy of economic assessments, the Government of India has announced plans to update the base year for calculating Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 2011-12 to 2022-23. This revision, the first in over a decade, is intended to better reflect the current economic landscape and structural changes.
Key Developments:
Advisory Committee Formation: A 26-member Advisory Committee on National Accounts Statistics (ACNAS), chaired by Biswanath Goldar, has been established. The committee includes representatives from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), central and state governments, academia, and researchers. It will focus on identifying new data sources and refining the methodology for compiling the National Accounts Statistics under the revised series.
Implementation Timeline: The revised GDP series, based on the 2022-23 base year, is expected to be implemented by early 2026. This timeline allows for thorough data collection and analysis to ensure the accuracy of the updated series.
Rationale for Revision: Updating the base year is critical to reflect structural changes in the economy, such as shifts in consumption patterns, sectoral contributions, and the emergence of new sectors. Aligning with the economic realities of 2022-23 will enhance the precision of the GDP framework, providing a more accurate basis for policy formulation and economic analysis.
Additional Initiatives: Alongside the base year revision, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will introduce monthly estimates of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) starting from January 2025. This will improve data-driven decision-making and the quality of labor market statistics.
Implications:
The revision of the base year and the introduction of monthly PLFS estimates are expected to provide policymakers, researchers, and analysts with more relevant and timely data, enhancing economic planning and decision-making.
Banking news
SBI Introduces ‘Har Ghar Lakhpati’ and ‘SBI Patrons’ Deposit Schemes
The State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced two innovative deposit schemes, ‘Har Ghar Lakhpati’ and ‘SBI Patrons,’ designed to enhance financial inclusion and cater to diverse customer needs.
1. Har Ghar Lakhpati: Pre-Calculated Recurring Deposit Scheme
Objective: The scheme is designed to help customers accumulate ₹1 lakh or multiples thereof, simplifying the process of achieving financial goals.
Key Features:
Available to minors, promoting early financial planning.
Helps customers save consistently and meet their financial aspirations with pre-calculated deposits.
Interest rates: Aligned with the rates offered for fixed deposits.
2. SBI Patrons: Specialized Fixed Deposit for Senior Citizens
Objective: Tailored for senior citizens aged 80 years and above, this scheme offers enhanced interest rates, reflecting SBI’s commitment to rewarding long-standing relationships with its customers.
Key Features:
Eligibility: Available to both existing and new term deposit customers.
Interest Rates: Senior citizens receive an additional 10 basis points (bps) over the regular rates.
Above 1 year: 6.80%
Above 2 years: 7%
Above 3 years to less than 5 years: 6.75%
For 5-10 years: 6.5%
Strategic Objectives of SBI’s Deposit Schemes:
Enhance Financial Inclusion: Offering products that cater to specific customer segments such as minors and senior citizens.
Strengthen Market Leadership: Reinforcing SBI’s position as a leading provider of deposit products.
SBI’s Vision: SBI’s Chairman CS Setty highlighted the bank’s commitment to innovation and technology, emphasizing that these deposit schemes are part of SBI’s broader efforts to empower customers and contribute to India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
RBI Approves Merger of National and Cosmos Co-operative Banks
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the merger of National Co-operative Bank (Bangalore) with Cosmos Co-operative Bank (Maharashtra), effective January 6, 2025. This merger is a significant move as part of ongoing efforts to consolidate the banking sector in India, particularly within the co-operative banking space.
Key Points of the Merger:
RBI Approval: The merger has been sanctioned by the RBI under the powers conferred by Sub-Section (4) of Section 44A and Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Effective Date: The merger will take effect from January 6, 2025.
Branch Operations Post-Merger:
All 13 branches of National Co-operative Bank in Karnataka will continue to operate but will now function as branches of Cosmos Co-operative Bank.
Previous Mergers: In FY24, Maratha Sahakari Bank and Sahebrao Deshmukh Sahakari Bank were also merged with Cosmos Co-operative Bank.
RBI Restrictions on National Co-operative Bank: In July 2023, the RBI imposed restrictions on National Co-operative Bank due to its weak financial performance, including a limit on deposit withdrawals to ₹50,000 per account. These restrictions were extended up to January 24, 2025.
Merger Rationale: The merger aims to strengthen the financial health and operational reach of both banks. It is part of broader efforts to streamline and improve the efficiency of the co-operative banking sector in India, ensuring better services and sustainability.
This merger is seen as a step forward in India’s ongoing banking sector consolidation, enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of co-operative banks.
SBI Enhances NRI Account Opening with TAB-Based Digital Onboarding
The State Bank of India (SBI) has launched a TAB-based end-to-end digital onboarding process for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to streamline the opening of Non-Resident External (NRE) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts. This initiative, introduced on January 2, 2025, eliminates the need for physical paperwork and aims to speed up the account opening process through digital document verification.
Key Features of the New Digital Onboarding Process:
Digital Document Verification: The process allows for the digital verification of documents, reducing paperwork and increasing operational efficiency.
Availability Across Branches: This service is available at SBI branches across India and select foreign offices, providing more access points for NRIs.
Enhanced Customer Convenience: The bank leverages technology to offer a seamless, efficient account-opening experience, making it easier for NRIs to manage their finances.
Real-Time Application Tracking: Customers can track the status of their applications in real time, ensuring transparency throughout the process.
Integration with e-KYC Services: The onboarding process integrates e-KYC services to verify identity and address details via UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). This increases security and accuracy in customer verification.
SBI’s Commitment to Digital Banking: This initiative reflects SBI’s commitment to using advanced technology in its banking services, aiming to set new standards for global banking efficiency and accessibility. By eliminating physical paperwork, the bank continues to modernize and enhance its customer service.
Historical Context and Evolution: SBI’s adoption of digital solutions for onboarding started in 2013 with the launch of Tab Banking for resident Indian customers, enabling representatives to visit customers and complete account formalities using tablets. This new initiative for NRIs marks a further evolution of SBI’s digital banking services.
RBI Reports 98.12% of ₹2,000 Notes Returned
As of December 31, 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that 98.12% of the ₹2,000 denomination banknotes have been returned to the banking system, with a remaining ₹6,691 crore still held by the public.
Background: On May 19, 2023, the RBI announced the withdrawal of ₹2,000 banknotes from circulation. At that time, the total value of these notes in circulation was ₹3.56 lakh crore.
By the end of 2024, this amount had significantly dropped to ₹6,691 crore, indicating a strong return of currency to the banking system.
Public Exchange Facilities:
The RBI allowed deposit and exchange of ₹2,000 notes at all bank branches until October 7, 2023.
After October 7, 2023, exchange facilities were available only at the 19 issue offices of the RBI, located across major cities in India. These offices also began accepting ₹2,000 notes for deposit from individuals and entities starting October 9, 2023.
The public could also send ₹2,000 notes through India Post from any post office to any RBI issue office for credit to their bank accounts.
Current Status:
As of December 31, 2024, ₹6,691 croreworth of ₹2,000 banknotes remained with the public.
The RBI continues to accept these notes at its 19 issue offices across Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Belapur, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jammu, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Patna, and Thiruvananthapuram.
This marks a significant phase in the currency withdrawal process, with a large percentage of ₹2,000 notes already returned to the banking system.
Award news
Odia Poet Prativa Satpathy to Receive Gangadhar National Award
The prestigious Gangadhar National Award for Poetry 2023 will be presented to Prativa Satpathy, a renowned Odia poet, by Sambalpur University on its 58th foundation day on January 5, 2025. The award, instituted in 1989, honors exceptional contributions to the field of poetry and is named after the eminent Odia poet Gangadhar Meher.
Key Points:
Recipient:Prativa Satpathy, a distinguished Odia poet and winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award, will be recognized for her significant contribution to poetry.
Award Ceremony: The award will be presented during Sambalpur University’s 58th foundation day celebrations on January 5, 2025.
Award History:
Establishment: The Gangadhar National Award was created in 1989 and was first presented in 1991. It is awarded annually during the foundation day celebrations of Sambalpur University.
Award Details: The award includes a citation, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹1,00,000.
Previous Recipients: Notable poets who have received the award include Gulzar, Kedar Nath Singh, and Ayyapa Panikar.
About Prativa Satpathy:
Literary Career: Prativa Satpathy gained prominence in the 1960s with her poem ‘Sesha Janha’.
Translations: Her works have been translated into various Indian and foreign languages.
Recognition: In addition to the Gangadhar National Award, she is the recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award for her contribution to literature.
Award Criteria:
The Gangadhar National Award is conferred for excellence in poetry through a thorough selection process. It recognizes poets who have made significant contributions to the literary world, particularly in the field of poetry.
The award is a prestigious recognition of the literary achievements of poets like Prativa Satpathy, who have enriched the cultural and literary landscape.
Sai Paranjpye to Receive Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award
Sai Paranjpye, the legendary director and writer in Indian cinema, will be honored with the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF) 2025. Known for her influential films like Sparsh, Chashme Buddoor, Katha, and Saaz, Paranjpye is considered a key figure in India’s parallel cinema movement, which flourished in the 1970s and 1980s. The award celebrates her remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and Marathi literature.
Key Points:
Award and Event: Sai Paranjpye will receive the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award during the 10th edition of the AIFF.
Event Dates and Location: The festival will be held from January 15 to 19, 2025, in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The award will be presented at the opening ceremony on January 15 at the Rukmini Auditorium, MGM University Campus.
Contribution to Cinema:
Paranjpye is known for her slice-of-life films, with a legacy of exploring real, relatable stories through films such as Sparsh, Chashme Buddoor, Katha, and Saaz.
She was a prominent figure in the parallel cinema movement, working alongside Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, and Mani Kaul.
Apart from films, she has also contributed significantly to Marathi literature through her plays, including Jaswandi, Sakkhe Shejari, and Albel.
Career Highlights:
Paranjpye, now 86 years old, has won four National Awards in recognition of her cinematic achievements.
She served as the Chairperson of the Children’s Film Society of India (CFSI) twice.
In 2006, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan for her contributions to Indian cinema.
Paranjpye is also a graduate of Delhi’s National School of Drama.
Award Details:
The Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award will include a Padmapani memento, a letter of honour, and a monetary reward of ₹2 lakh.
The Padmapani Award Selection Committee includes prominent figures such as Latika Padgaonkar (chairperson), Ashutosh Gowariker, and Sunil Sukthankar.
Ranks and report news
Decline in Student Enrolment: UDISE+ Report 2023-24
The Ministry of Education’s Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) report for 2023-24 reveals a significant decline in student enrolment, marking a shift from the stable trends of previous years.
What is UDISE+?
The Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) is an online data collection system introduced in 2018-19 by the Department of School Education & Literacy. It replaced the manual, paper-based data collection process, improving data capture, mapping, and verification.
Key Findings:
Overall Enrolment Decline:
The total student enrolment has decreased to 24.8 crore in 2023-24, a drop of over one crore compared to previous years.
This represents a 6% decline from 26.02 crore recorded in 2018-19.
Gender-wise Enrolment Trends:
Boys: Enrolment fell from 13.53 crore in 2018-19 to 12.87 crore in 2023-24, marking a 4.87% decline.
Girls: Enrolment decreased from 12.49 crore in 2018-19 to 11.93 crore in 2023-24, a 4.48% decline.
Regional Variations:
Bihar: Enrolment dropped from over 2.49 crore in 2018-19 to over 2.13 crore in 2023-24, a decrease of 35.65 lakh students.
Uttar Pradesh: Enrolment fell from 4.44 crore in 2018-19 to 4.16 crore in 2023-24, a reduction of 28.26 lakh students.
Maharashtra: Enrolment decreased from over 2.32 crore in 2018-19 to 2.13 crore in 2023-24, a decline of 18.55 lakh students.
School Infrastructure:
90%+ of schools have basic amenities like electricity and gender-specific toilets.
57.2% of schools have functional computers.
53.9% of schools have internet access.
52.3% of schools are equipped with ramps.
Implications:
The substantial drop in enrolment raises concerns regarding the effectiveness of current educational policies and the need for targeted interventions. The data collected through UDISE+ will be vital in guiding future strategies aimed at improving student enrolment and retention rates across various states and demographics, and addressing regional disparities and infrastructure challenges.
Science and tech news
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Outbreak in China
China is currently experiencing a significant increase in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), sparking concerns about a potential health crisis. Hospitals are becoming overcrowded, and experts suggest that a combination of multiple viruses, including HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, may be contributing to the situation. Although some reports suggest a state of emergency, there has been no official confirmation from Chinese authorities.
Understanding HMPV
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus responsible for both upper and lower respiratory infections. It was first identified in 2001 and affects people of all ages. However, young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe infections.
Symptoms of HMPV
The symptoms of HMPV resemble those of other respiratory infections, such as the flu:
Cough
Fever
Nasal congestion
Shortness of breath
In severe cases, HMPV can lead to complications such as:
Bronchitis
Pneumonia
The incubation period typically lasts between three to six days, with symptom duration varying based on the severity of the infection.
Transmission of HMPV
HMPV spreads in similar ways to other respiratory viruses:
Through respiratory secretions from coughing and sneezing.
Close personal contact, such as handshaking or touching.
Contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, toys) followed by touching the face (mouth, nose, or eyes).
High-Risk Groups
Certain populations are more likely to develop severe infections:
Young children
Older adults
Individuals with compromised immune systems (e.g., cancer patients, organ transplant recipients).
When to Seek Medical Attention
Important days
DRDO’s 67th Foundation Day
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 67th Foundation Dayon January 2, 2025. Since its establishment in 1958, DRDO has expanded from a small organization with just 10 laboratories to a vast network of around 52 laboratories and 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) across India. These laboratories work on advanced defence technologies in areas such as missiles, aircraft, combat vehicles, naval systems, electronics, and life sciences.
Key Highlights of the Event:
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited the DRDO Headquarters in New Delhi, where he interacted with senior scientists and officials.
Shri Rajnath Singh praised DRDO for its achievements and called for increased collaboration with the private sector and start-ups to boost indigenous defence capabilities.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat were also present during the celebrations.
Key Achievements of DRDO:
Mission: Empowering India’s Defense
DRDO’s core mission is to provide India’s armed forces with cutting-edge defence technologies and ensure self-reliance in critical defence systems.
Focus on reducing reliance on foreign imports.
Significant Contributions:
Agni and Prithvi missile series: Capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas: India’s first indigenous fighter jet.
Arjun Main Battle Tank: Advanced tank designed and developed by DRDO.
INS Arihant: India’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
Advanced radars and electronic warfare systems.
Development of critical medical technologies and remote sensing technologies.
Future Endeavours: DRDO is working on cutting-edge technologies to ensure that India remains at the forefront of defence advancements, including:
Hypersonic missiles.
Directed energy weapons.
Artificial intelligence.
5G networks for the Indian military.
Quantum computing.
Vision for the Future:
Shri Rajnath Singh declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’, underscoring DRDO’s pivotal role in meeting the country’s defence needs.
He emphasized the importance of completing 2-3 critical projects by 2025, with the goal of 100 projects completed by the next Foundation Day.
World Braille Day: Celebrating Inclusivity and Accessibility
World Braille Day, observed annually on January 4, marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille system. Recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2018, the day highlights the importance of Braille in promoting literacy, independence, and inclusivity for visually impaired individuals.
Key Points:
Background and History:
Date: January 4 (Louis Braille’s birth anniversary).
First Observed: January 4, 2019.
UN Recognition: Declared by the UNGA in November 2018.
Purpose: To raise awareness about the importance of Braille as a communication tool and a means to ensure human rights for blind and visually impaired individuals.
Who Was Louis Braille?
Born: 1809 in Coupvray, France.
Invention: Braille lost his eyesight due to an accident at a young age and, at 15, developed the Braille system.
Inspiration: The system was inspired by a military night-writing code.
Impact: His six-dot tactile system has become the universal medium for visually impaired people to read and write effectively.
Significance of Braille:
Empowerment: Braille represents independence, literacy, and equality for visually impaired individuals.
Access to Opportunities: It provides access to education, information, and employment, enabling people to lead dignified lives.
Inclusivity: Literacy through Braille helps bridge the gap towards a more inclusive society.
Challenges in Braille Access:
Lack of Resources: Many visually impaired individuals around the world face difficulties in accessing Braille materials.
Developing Nations: Countries with fewer resources struggle with limited availability of Braille books, learning materials, and assistive technologies.
Awareness and Funding: Insufficient funding and low awareness hinder the widespread adoption and accessibility of Braille.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 20th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.Which village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district has become India’s first fully solar-powered border village?
Masali is the first fully solar-powered border village in India, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. This village, situated just 40 kilometers from the Pakistan border, has transformed into a 100% solar-powered community.
Key Features:
Population and Location: Masali has a population of 800 people, and it is located in the Vav taluka of Banaskantha, near the Indo-Pak border.
Solar Energy Implementation: Under the PM Suryaghar Yojana, solar rooftops have been installed on 119 houses in the village. These installations generate a total of 225 kilowatts (KW) of electricity, making the village self-sufficient in energy.
2.Which state in India will be the first to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025?
Uttarakhand will be the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025. This significant step follows through on a promise made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the 2022 assembly elections.
What is the UCC?
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is designed to establish uniform personal laws across all citizens of India in matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion or caste. However, tribal communities are excluded from this law.
3. What is the main purpose of the 10th International Forest Fair held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh?
A)To promote wildlife conservation
B)To empower local communities through sustainable forest practices
C)To highlight the importance of forest tourism
D)To showcase forest products for international trade
E)To promote forest-related research and development
To empower local communities through sustainable forest practices
Detailed Explanation:
The 10th International Forest Fair in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, held from December 17 to December 23, 2024, aims to promote sustainable forest practices and empower local communities. The fair is focused on improving livelihoods through better management of Minor Forest Produce (MFP), which is especially relevant for women empowerment in forested areas.
Key Purpose:
The fair’s theme is “Women Empowerment through Minor Forest Produce.” This highlights the significant role that women play in the collection, processing, and sale of MFPs, which are a vital source of income and sustenance in rural and forest-dependent communities. The fair aims to empower women and enhance their role in the economic and social development of their communities.
4.What is the primary purpose of the $42 million loan agreement signed between the Central Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in December 2024?
A)To enhance the capacity of India’s maritime defense
B)To improve infrastructure in Maharashtra’s urban centers
C)To support coastal protection and strengthen community resilience in Maharashtra
D)To boost agricultural production in coastal areas
E)To promote tourism along the Maharashtra coastline
C)To support coastal protection and strengthen community resilience in Maharashtra
Detailed Explanation:
The $42 million loan agreement between the Central Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), signed in December 2024, focuses on coastal protection and strengthening the resilience of coastal communities in Maharashtra. This initiative is a direct response to the increasing vulnerability of the coastline to erosion and the impacts of climate change.
Objectives of the Loan:
The main aim of this project is to strengthen coastal protection in Maharashtra, which will enhance the resilience of local communities and safeguard their livelihoods.
The project will focus on restoring and stabilizing the coastline, which has been facing threats from erosion and climate change. This will be achieved through various coastal management techniques.
Stakeholder Involvement:
The Maharashtra Maritime Board will be a key stakeholder, receiving support for shore management planning.
A new Coastal Infrastructure Management Unit will be set up under the project to improve the management and implementation of coastal protection activities.
5.Who has been appointed as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a tenure of three years in December 2024?
Rama Mohan Rao Amara has been appointed as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI). His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) following a recommendation from the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB). He will serve a tenure of three years.
Amara takes over from CS Setty, who was promoted to the position of Chairman of SBI in August 2024.
6.Which author won the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in the English language category for the novel Spirit Nights?
Kire won the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in the English language category for her novel Spirit Nights.
Spirit Nights is inspired by the folklore of the Chang Naga tribe from Nagaland and presents a tale filled with darkness and mystery from the narratives of the tribe. The novel captures the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Chang Naga people, bringing their stories to a wider audience.
The Sahitya Akademi Award is one of India’s most prestigious literary awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to literature in multiple languages. This year, Kire’s work was honored in the English category for its unique blend of folklore and storytelling.
7.Who was honored with the prestigious Red Scarf and the title ‘Dasho’ by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel for significant contributions to education?
Arun Kapur, an esteemed Indian educationist, was conferred the prestigious Red Scarf and the title ‘Dasho’ by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel for his substantial contributions to education in India, Bhutan, and Oman.
The recognition took place during the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations at the Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, showcasing his impact on educational development across the region.
The Red Scarf and ‘Dasho’ title are highly prestigious honors in Bhutan, given to individuals for their distinguished services in various fields, and Kapur’s contribution to education across multiple countries earned him this honor.
8.Which stadium is going to host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships?
The 2025 World Para Athletics Championships will be hosted at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, making it the first time India will host this prestigious event. The championships are scheduled to take place from September 26 to October 5, 2025.
10.Which college is going to receive the prestigious President’s Colours for its contributions to military education and training?
The College of Defence Management (CDM) in Secunderabad is set to be awarded the prestigious President’s Colours in recognition of its outstanding contributions to military education and training. Founded in 1970, CDM has evolved into one of India’s most respected institutions, specializing in strategic planning, resource management, and leadership training for military officers. The award will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremonial event at CDM.
11.Who was the recipient of the National Tansen Award 2023?
Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a distinguished tabla player from Kolkata, was honoured with the National Tansen Award for 2023 at the Tansen Festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. This prestigious award is one of the highest recognitions in the field of Indian classical music. Pt. Choudhary received an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal as part of the award.
12.What significant achievement has India made in wildlife conservation related to the Ganges River Dolphin?
A) First-ever breeding of Ganges River Dolphin in captivity
B) First-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin
C) Discovery of a new species of Ganges River Dolphin
D) First-ever sanctuary for the Ganges River Dolphin
E) First-ever successful relocation of a Ganges River Dolphin
B) First-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin
Explanation:
India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges RiverDolphin (Platanista gangetica). This initiative is part of Project Dolphin, led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), and was conducted in Assam. This marks a global first for the species and is a major step in the protection of India’s National Aquatic Animal.
13.From which position did India rise to the 3rd spot in global smartphone exports?
India’s rise in global smartphone exports is remarkable, as the country moved from the 23rd position in 2019 to the 3rd spot in 2024. This achievement, with smartphone exports crossing ₹20,000 crore in November 2024, highlights the success of government initiatives and the strengthening of India’s domestic manufacturing and export ecosystem.
14.Who won both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in Slovenia?
Pranav Venkatesh, the top-seeded Grandmaster from Chennai, made history by winning both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in Slovenia. He clinched the gold medal in the Rapid category with an impressive score of 9.5 points. His victory in both categories highlights his exceptional skill and composure on the international chess stage.
15.What remarkable achievement did Kiran Ankush Jadhav accomplish at the 67th National Shooting Championship?
A) He won the men’s 10m air rifle title
B) He claimed the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) title
C) He broke the National Shooting Championship record
D) He secured a silver medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions
Answer Key: B) He claimed the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) title
Explanation:
Kiran Ankush Jadhav made a remarkable performance at the 67th National Shooting Championship in Bhopal, claiming the gold medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) event. Despite being in third place until the 40th shot, Jadhav made a strong comeback in the final stages, scoring a series of high marks to finish with 465.8 points, surpassing Olympian Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Paris Olympic bronze medalist Swapnil Kusale.
16.What is the mascot of the 38th National Games 2025 in Uttarakhand?
The mascot for the 38th National Games 2025 in Uttarakhand is “Mauli,” inspired by the Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. The mascot symbolizes the region’s uniqueness and aims to motivate young athletes to aim high. The unveiling of Mauli, along with the logo, jersey, anthem, and tagline, was a significant part of the event marking the launch of the Games.
17.On which day is Minorities Rights Day observed every year?
Minorities Rights Day is observed every year on December 18 to commemorate the adoption of the United Nations’ Statement on the Rights of Individuals belonging to Religious or Linguistic National or Ethnic Minorities in 1992. The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) in India celebrated this day on December 18, 2024, to raise awareness about the rights of minorities and promote their freedom, equality, and inclusion in society.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 19th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.In which city did Uber launch the ‘Moto Women’ pilot program to enhance safety and inclusivity in urban mobility?
Uber launched a pilot program called ‘Moto Women’ in Bengaluru in December 2024. The program is specifically designed to address the safety concerns of female riders and drivers in the bike taxi sector. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the inclusivity and safety of urban mobility, especially in a fast-growing market like Bengaluru.
Purpose of the Program:
The ‘Moto Women’ program is an exclusive bike taxi service for female riders and female drivers, designed to empower women while simultaneously addressing concerns regarding safety and operational challenges in the bike taxi industry, especially in Karnataka.
Why Bengaluru:
Bengaluru, known as the tech capital of India, is one of the major urban centers with high demand for urban mobility solutions. The city has a vibrant tech ecosystem and a growing number of women entering the workforce, making it a suitable location for such a pilot aimed at improving women’s safety in public transport.
2.Which of the following countries is hosting an AYUSH Chair as part of the Ministry of AYUSH’s initiative to promote international cooperation?
The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy) has launched a scheme to promote international cooperation in the AYUSH sector. This initiative aims to spread awareness, develop recognition, and enhance research collaboration in AYUSH practices globally.
Key Objective:
One of the key components of the initiative is the establishment of AYUSH Chairs in various foreign universities. These AYUSH Chairs will promote academic exchange, research collaboration, and recognition of AYUSH systems worldwide.
Countries Hosting AYUSH Chairs:
According to the Ministry of AYUSH’s initiative, the following countries have established AYUSH Chairs:
Mauritius
Bangladesh
Australia
Latvia
Malaysia
3. Which country has officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its newest member?
Moldova has officially become a member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), highlighting its commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. The ISA Framework Agreement was signed in New Delhi by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi.
ISA’s Purpose:
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a coalition of solar-rich countries that work together to overcome challenges related to solar energy financing, technology, and scalability. It aims to mobilize over USD 1,000 billion in investments by 2030 to promote the growth of solar energy globally.
Recent Expansions:
Moldova’s inclusion follows the addition of Armenia as the 104th full member of the ISA, marking continued expansion in the number of countries participating in the alliance.
4.What is the revised GDP growth forecast for India for Fiscal Year 2024-25 (FY25), as per Fitch Ratings Inc.?
In December 2024, Fitch Ratings Inc., a leading USA-based credit rating agency, revised its GDP growth forecast for India for Fiscal Year 2024-25 (FY25). The forecast was lowered by 60 basis points (bps), reducing the previous estimate from 7.0% to 6.4%. This adjustment reflects challenges and considerations such as global economic factors, domestic economic conditions, and inflation pressures that could impact India’s economic growth in FY25.
Significance of the Revision:
The downward revision indicates that Fitch Ratings is cautious about the economic outlook, likely due to factors such as global economic slowdown, inflation, and policy uncertainties that may affect India’s growth. Despite the reduction, the 6.4% growth rate is still considered relatively strong for a developing economy.
5.What is the primary purpose of the Prakrutik Krushi Portal launched by the Chief Minister of Gujarat in December 2024?
The Prakrutik Krushi Portal (Natural Agriculture Portal) was launched by Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, in December 2024. The primary goal of this portal is to promote organic farming in Gujarat. It aims to provide a platform for farmers to access resources, information, and support related to organic farming practices. By fostering the adoption of natural and sustainable farming methods, the portal seeks to enhance the environmental sustainability of agriculture in the state.
Significance of Organic Farming:
Organic farming is a key component of sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the use of natural resources without relying on synthetic chemicals or fertilizers. The portal is part of a broader push to encourage eco-friendly agricultural practices, improve soil health, and promote sustainable livelihoods for farmers in Gujarat.
6.Who was appointed as the new Prime Minister of France in December 2024?
In December 2024, Francois Bayrou, the leader of the centrist political party MoDem (Mouvement Démocrate), was appointed as the Prime Minister of France by President Emmanuel Macron. This appointment followed the overthrow of Michel Barnier, the previous Prime Minister, by the French Parliament. Bayrou is a prominent political figure in France and has been a significant leader of the centrist political movement. His appointment represents a shift towards reinforcing centrist governance under Macron’s leadership.
7.Who developed India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit, Kisan Kavach?
A)Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd.
B)Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
C)BRIC-inStem, Bangalore
D)Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
E)Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
India’s first indigenous anti-pesticide bodysuit, Kisan Kavach, was developed by BRIC-inStem, Bangalore, in collaboration with Sepio Health Pvt. Ltd. The suit is designed to protect farmers from the health risks associated with pesticide exposure, which has been a growing concern in India’s agricultural sector. This bodysuit aims to provide a shield to farmers and reduce the adverse health effects from prolonged pesticide contact.
Significance of the Development:
The launch of Kisan Kavach is a significant step in improving the safety and wellbeing of farmers, who are often exposed to harmful pesticides during their daily work in the fields. By offering a protective suit, this innovation aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of using science and technology to empower India’s agricultural community, ensuring both productivity and health are prioritized.
8.Which player became India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket on Australian soil, surpassing Kapil Dev’s record of 51 wickets?
Jasprit Bumrah made history by becoming India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket on Australian soil. On December 18, 2024, during the fifth day of the ongoing third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, Bumrah surpassed Kapil Dev’s record of 51 Test wickets in Australia. With 52 wickets now to his name, Bumrah has etched his name in history as India’s top wicket-taker in Tests in Australia.
10.Which Indian cricketer announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane on December 18, 2024?
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s premier spinners, announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane on December 18, 2024. This marked the conclusion of his remarkable 14-year international career.
Why is Ashwin’s retirement significant?
Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of a stellar career in which he became one of India’s greatest match-winners. He is renowned for his tactical brilliance, versatility, and ability to adapt to various conditions. His achievements include being the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket, cementing his place as one of the finest spinners in world cricket.
11.In December 2024, India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with which organization during the 15th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) in New Delhi?
The Ram temple project in Ayodhya was awarded the ‘Sword of Honour‘ by the British Safety Council in recognition of the exceptional safety measures implemented during the temple’s construction. The announcement was made by Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Construction Committee of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, highlighting the importance of safety in large-scale construction projects.
What is the ‘Sword of Honour’?
The ‘Sword of Honour’ is one of the highest recognitions for safety management in the world. To receive this prestigious award, a project must achieve a five-star safety rating in a comprehensive audit conducted by the British Safety Council. This is followed by rigorous on-site evaluations to assess the safety practices implemented throughout the construction phase. It is a symbol of meticulous planning, execution, and adherence to global safety standards
12.Who has been awarded the 34th Vyas Samman 2024 for her novel Kaun Des Ko Vasi: Venu Ki Diary?
Suryabala, a renowned Hindi writer, has been awarded the 34th Vyas Samman 2024 for her novel Kaun Des Ko Vasi: Venu Ki Diary. This prestigious literary award is conferred annually by the KK Birla Foundation to honor exceptional Hindi literary works from the last decade.
About the Novel:
Kaun Des Ko Vasi: Venu Ki Diary was published in 2018 and revolves around the experiences of Indian youth in America. The novel touches on critical themes such as cultural conflicts, identity crises, and alienation that Indian diaspora youth often face when they relocate abroad for better opportunities. The book presents a nuanced portrayal of the internal struggles faced by individuals torn between their heritage and the desire to adapt to a new cultural environment.
12.Who won The Best FIFA Men’s Player award at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024?
The Best FIFA Men’s Player award for 2024 was given to Vinicius Jr, the Brazilian winger for Real Madrid. His exceptional performances throughout the year, both for his club and the national team, earned him this prestigious recognition. His skill, speed, and ability to score crucial goals made him a standout player in the football world.
Why Vinicius Jr?
Vinicius Jr has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s successes in domestic and international competitions. His exceptional dribbling skills, ability to create chances, and goal-scoring prowess were key to his team’s victories during the year. His performances in the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and international competitions with Brazil helped cement his place as the world’s best male footballer in 2024.
13.In December 2024, NLC India Limited (NLCIL) partnered with which company to commence commercial operations of its first supercritical power plant, the 1980 Mega Watt Ghatampur Thermal Power Plant (GTPP)?
NLC India Limited (NLCIL), a public sector enterprise based in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu, partnered with Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) for the successful commencement of the commercial operations of its first supercritical power plant, the Ghatampur Thermal Power Plant (GTPP) in Uttar Pradesh. This power plant has a capacity of 1980 Mega Watt (MW), marking a significant achievement in the energy sector.
Why This Partnership is Important:
The partnership between NLCIL and UPRVUNL will play a crucial role in the development of clean and efficient energy generation in Uttar Pradesh. Supercritical power plants are more efficient than conventional ones and have a lower environmental footprint, contributing to the overall energy sustainability goals of India.
14.Which day is observed annually on December 18 to honor the contributions of migrants and highlight the challenges they face?
A)International Workers’ Day
B)World Refugee Day
C)International Migrants Day
D)World Human Rights Day
E)International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
International Migrants Day is observed every year on December 18 to recognize and honor the contributions of migrants across the world. This day also draws attention to the challenges they face, such as their rights, integration into societies, and the risk of exploitation. It emphasizes the importance of creating fair and inclusive migration policies that respect the dignity and rights of migrants.
Theme for 2024:
The theme for International Migrants Day 2024 is “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights.” This theme underlines the significance of migrant contributions to societies globally, while advocating for the protection of their rights and addressing challenges related to migration.
15.Tulsi Gowda, a celebrated environmentalist from Karnataka, is affectionately known as:
Tulsi Gowda was affectionately known as “The Tree Goddess” due to her remarkable work in afforestation and environmental conservation. She was recognized for her tireless efforts in planting and nurturing over 1 lakh trees, helping preserve the natural ecosystem, especially in Karnataka’s forests. Her contribution to the environment earned her the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2021.
Significance of Her Work:
Gowda’s passion for ecological preservation led her to become a symbol of environmental stewardship. Her work focused on nurturing and planting indigenous species, contributing to the protection and expansion of forests in her region. She is often seen as an icon of dedication to the environment, overcoming significant personal and financial hardships to achieve her goals.
Test your knowledge with the latest quiz on current affairs from 18th December 2024! Stay updated and challenge yourself with key events and happenings around the world.
1.In which city has the GSI Geoscience Museum, a state-of-the-art facility housed in the historic Victoria Market Building, been inaugurated by Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar to serve as a hub of geological knowledge and showcase the contributions of the Geological Survey of India (GSI)?
The GSI Geoscience Museum was inaugurated in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in the historic Victoria Market Building. This facility combines tradition and innovation to highlight the geological wonders of Earth and the significant role of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in exploring and utilizing the nation’s geological resources. The inauguration was led by Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with other dignitaries, celebrating the museum as a center of knowledge and a tribute to India’s geological heritage
2.What significant framework was unveiled by India in December 2024, making it the first country globally to introduce a regulatory approach for sustainable manufacturing in the steel industry?
In December 2024, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy from the Ministry of Steel (MoS) and the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises (MoHI&PE) unveiled the ‘Taxonomy of Green Steel’. This groundbreaking framework is the first of its kind globally and aims to define and regulate green steel production based on emission intensity, promoting sustainable manufacturing in the steel industry. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering innovation in environmentally responsible steel production.
3. When is the initiative for visa-free travel to Russia for Indian nationals expected to begin, according to the discussions between India and Russia?
The initiative for visa-free travel between India and Russia is expected to commence in spring 2025. This follows bilateral discussions held in June 2024, which aimed to ease visa restrictions and promote group tourist exchanges. Currently, Indian nationals require visas to visit Russia, but the anticipated agreement is set to streamline travel, enhance tourism, and strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
4.By how much did food price inflation in India decrease from October 2024 to November 2024?
In October 2024, food price inflation was recorded at 11.6%.
In November 2024, it moderated to 8.9%.
The difference is calculated as:
11.6% – 8.9% = 3.5%
This 3.5% reduction marks a significant deceleration in food price inflation. It was primarily driven by a sharp slowdown in vegetable price increases, from 63% in October to 28.6% in November, despite the continued sharp rise in potato prices, which increased by 82.8% in November.
5.What was the net profit reported by Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in the first half of FY 2024-25?
BharatPe, a leading financial technology company, introduced the “Shield” plan in December 2024.
The initiative is aimed at protecting users from fraudulent Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions and enhancing digital transaction security.
Key Features of “Shield”:
Complimentary fraud protection for the first 30 days covering up to ₹5,000.
Affordable subscription plan at ₹19 per month after the free period.
Comprehensive coverage for risks like phishing attacks, computer fraud, and unauthorized transactions, including a pre-reporting period of up to 10 days.
24/7 support for reporting fraud and filing claims.
Additional Facts About BharatPe:
Founded in 2018, BharatPe is known for pioneering innovations in the financial sector.
It introduced India’s first UPI-compatible QR code and zero MDR (Merchant Discount Rate) payment service.
In August 2024, BharatPe expanded into consumer payments by rebranding its Postpe app and launching its UPI Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) services.
This question tests knowledge about a significant initiative in the financial technology sector while reinforcing awareness of BharatPe’s contributions to digital payments in India.
7.What is the primary purpose of INS Nirdeshak, the new survey ship commissioned by the Indian Navy in December 2024?
Primary Purpose: INS Nirdeshak is designed for hydrographic surveys and charting. This involves mapping the seabed, identifying navigational hazards, and contributing to safe maritime navigation.
Significance: These surveys play a crucial role in supporting the Indian Navy’s operations and enhancing India’s maritime presence, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region.
Construction: Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, INS Nirdeshak is part of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project. It is the second vessel in this series, demonstrating India’s growing focus on indigenous shipbuilding.
Legacy: The ship carries forward the legacy of the original INS Nirdeshak, which served the Indian Navy for 32 years before its decommissioning in 2014.
8.In which year was the Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX) first initiated?
Origin of SLINEX: The Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX) was first initiated in 2005 to enhance maritime cooperation and interoperability between the navies of India and Sri Lanka.
Purpose: The exercise aims to strengthen mutual understanding, improve operational capabilities, and ensure maritime security in the region.
2024 Edition: The 2024 edition is scheduled to take place from December 17 to December 20, 2024, at Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command.
Structure of the Exercise: It consists of two phases:
Harbour Phase: Includes pre-sea briefings, professional exchanges, and planning.
Sea Phase: Involves tactical exercises, maneuvers, and joint operations.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
2000: SLINEX was not initiated this early; bilateral naval cooperation gained momentum in 2005.
2010: By 2010, SLINEX was already established and conducted regularly.
2015: SLINEX had been ongoing for a decade by this year.
2020: SLINEX was well underway before this year, with significant progress in its scope and importance.
This question highlights the historical significance of SLINEX and its role in fostering bilateral ties and regional maritime security.
10.Which temple from India won the “Award of Distinction” in the 2024 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation?
Award of Distinction: The Abathsahayeshwarar Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, was recognized with the prestigious “Award of Distinction” for its exceptional conservation efforts. This recognition highlights its significant contribution to preserving India’s cultural and historical heritage.
Other Recognized Indian Project: The Sir Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Parsee Charitable Institution (BJPCI) in Maharashtra received the “Award of Merit.”
Context of the Awards: The 2024 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation honored a total of 8 projects across 5 countries, with India receiving awards for 2 projects.
11.Which of Air India’s in-flight products won the Good Design Award Australia 2024?
Answer Key: Air India’s Vista Verve in-flight product
Detailed Explanation:
Good Design Award Australia 2024: The Vista Verve in-flight product received the prestigious Good Design Award Australia 2024. This award recognized the excellence in innovation and design of Air India’s in-flight offering, which includes luxurious elements such as exclusive tableware, Slovakian lead-free glassware, premium linens, and mattress toppers, focusing on both sustainability and comfort for passengers.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
Air India’s Executive Lounge: This lounge has not been awarded the Good Design Award Australia 2024.
Air India’s Maharaja Experience: Although well-known, this service experience wasn’t recognized with this award in 2024.
Air India’s Premium Class Amenities: This category was not specifically awarded the Good Design Award 2024.
Air India’s Business Class Cabin: The Business Class Cabin was not the focus of this particular award.
11.What is the primary purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and the Indian Navy?
A)To promote collaboration in maritime defense strategy
B)To enhance education, research, and training in logistics for the Navy
C)To develop new naval technology and innovations
D)To establish a new naval base for the Indian Navy
E)To enhance the fleet’s capacity for international missions
To enhance education, research, and training in logistics for the Navy
Detailed Explanation:
Purpose of the MoU: The MoU signed between Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and the Indian Navy focuses on improving education, research, and training in logisticsto enhance the Navy’s logistical capabilities. This partnership aligns with India’s broader initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and National Logistics Policy, aiming to modernize and streamline the logistics sector, especially in defense.
12.By winning the Women’s Junior Asia Cup, India qualified for which upcoming event?
Answer Key: 2025 FIH Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup
Detailed Explanation:
India’s Qualification: By winning the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Muscat, Oman, the Indian women’s junior hockey team secured their qualification for the 2025 FIH Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup to be held in Chile.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
The Summer Olympics is a different event, and winning the Junior Asia Cup does not directly qualify teams for the Olympics.
The ICC Women’s World Cup is a cricket event, not related to hockey.
The FIH Hockey World Cup is for senior teams, whereas this qualification is for the Junior Hockey World Cup.
The AFC Women’s Football Championship is unrelated to hockey, as it is a football (soccer) competition.
This win highlights the growing strength of India’s women’s junior hockey team and their path to further success on the global stage.
13.In November 2024, which cases were declared as “Notifiable Diseases” by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India?
The Declaration: In November 2024, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) declared snakebite cases as a Notifiable Disease in India. This means that all government and public health facilities are now required to report snakebite cases and related deaths, ensuring better monitoring and response.
14.On December 12, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed a sea-level hot test of which type of engine?
The Test Conducted: On November 29, 2024, ISRO completed a sea-level hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test is a critical step in the development of cryogenic technology for India’s future space missions, particularly for missions requiring higher payloads and advanced propulsion systems.
Why Cryogenic Engine is the Correct Answer:
The CE20 cryogenic engine is designed to use cryogenic fuels (liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen) and is pivotal for India’s space exploration, as it enables higher thrust and efficiency, especially for heavy payload launches into higher orbits.
15.On December 12, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completed a sea-level hot test of which type of engine?
The Test Conducted: On November 29, 2024, ISRO completed a sea-level hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test is a critical step in the development of cryogenic technology for India’s future space missions, particularly for missions requiring higher payloads and advanced propulsion systems.
16.Which space technology company successfully delivered the iBooster Green Propulsion System to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in December 2024?
Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited, a deep-technology startup based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, successfully delivered the iBooster Green Propulsion System to DRDO in December 2024. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the field of green propulsion technology, which is essential for reducing the environmental impact of space missions.
17.Who is the author of the book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024”?
The book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024” was launched by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in December 2024 at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The book focuses on the developmental initiatives and schemes introduced during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2019 to 2024, showcasing his vision for India’s progress and growth.
18.Who is the author of the book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024”?
The book titled “New Bharat – Modi’s Vision and Development 2019-2024” was launched by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in December 2024 at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The book focuses on the developmental initiatives and schemes introduced during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2019 to 2024, showcasing his vision for India’s progress and growth.
Author:
The author of this book is Ravi Prashar, a notable writer who has penned the work focusing on India’s development trajectory under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
Publisher:
The book was published by Hindustan Times, a prominent media house, further lending credibility to its content.
19.Who led the legal battle for pensioners’ rights in India, which resulted in the 1982 Supreme Court judgment?
Pensioners Day is observed on 17th December every year in India to honor D.S. Nakara, a retired government official who became a symbol of the fight for pensioners’ rights. This day commemorates the 1982 Supreme Court judgment, which ensured equality and justice for pensioners by guaranteeing them the same pension benefits, irrespective of their retirement date.
The Legal Battle:
The battle was led by D.S. Nakara, who had retired from the Department of Defense and fought for the rights of pensioners. He challenged the government’s policy of granting different pension benefits to retirees based on their retirement date, arguing that it was discriminatory and violated the principles of equality enshrined in the Constitution.
1982 Supreme Court Judgment:
The Supreme Court of India ruled in favor of D.S. Nakara and other pensioners, declaring that the pension system should not differentiate between pensioners based on their retirement dates. The judgment ensured that all pensioners would receive the same pension benefits, upholding justice and equality for them.
