Category: Current Affairs

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We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 1st January current affairs 2025, curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs 1st January 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation

National news

ECI Publishes Detailed Data for Lok Sabha and Assembly Polls 2024

The Election Commission of India (ECI) released comprehensive data for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, including 42 statistical reports. Voter turnout increased, with 64.64 crore votes polled, a 7.43% rise in registered electors, and higher participation from women and third-gender voters. The number of polling stations increased to 10.53 lakh, and the number of nominations rose to 12,459. Women electors now comprise 48.62% of the electorate, and the number of female candidates contesting elections grew to 800. Inclusive elections saw significant increases in third-gender and PwD electors. National parties secured 63.35% of valid votes, while independent candidates performed modestly, with 7 elected out of 3,921 contestants.

Electors and Voters

Registered Electors:

• 2019: 91.19 crore
• 2024: 97.98 crore

Votes Polled: 2024: 64.64 crore (compared to 61.4 crore in 2019)

• Male: 32.94 crore
• Female: 31.28 crore
• Third Gender: 13,058
• Postal Ballots: 42.82 lakh

Turnout Highlights:

• Highest Turnout: Dhubri (Assam) – 92.3%
• Lowest Turnout: Srinagar (J&K) – 38.7% (up from 14.4% in 2019)
• NOTA Votes: 63.71 lakh (0.99%, down from 1.06% in 2019)
• Transgender Voter Turnout: 27.09% (up from 14.64% in 2019)

2. Polling Stations

Number of Polling Stations:

• 2019: 10.37 lakh
• 2024: 10.53 lakh (Increase of 14,816 stations)

Repolling: Only 40 stations (0.0038%) needed repolling, compared to 540 in 2019

• Electors per Polling Station: Average 931
• States with Most Polling Stations: Uttar Pradesh (1.62 lakh)
• States with Least Polling Stations: Lakshadweep (55)

3. Nominations and Contesting Candidates

Nominations Filed:

• 2019: 11,692
• 2024: 12,459

Contestants:

• 2019: 8,054
• 2024: 8,360 (after rejections and withdrawals)
• Highest Nominations in a PC: 114 (Malkajgiri, Telangana)
• Lowest Nominations in a PC: 3 (Dibrugarh, Assam)

4. Women Electors and Contesting Candidates

Women Registered Electors:

• 2019: 43.85 crore
• 2024: 47.63 crore

Female Electorate Share:

• 2019: 48.09%
• 2024: 48.62%

States with Highest Female Elector Percentage:

Puducherry: 53.03%

Kerala: 51.56%

Female Voter Turnout: 65.78% (slightly higher than male voter turnout of 65.55%)

Women Contesting Candidates:

• 2024: 800 (up from 726 in 2019)
• States with Most Female Contestants: Maharashtra (111), Uttar Pradesh (80), Tamil Nadu (77)
• PCs with No Female Contestants: 152 out of 543

5. Inclusive Elections

Third Gender Electors:

• 2024: 48,272 (up from 39,075 in 2019)
• State with Most Third Gender Electors: Tamil Nadu (8,467)
• Transgender Voter Turnout: 27.09% (up from 14.64% in 2019)

Persons with Disabilities (PwD) Electors: 2024: 90.29 lakh (up from 61.67 lakh in 2019)

Overseas Electors:

• 2019: 99,844
• 2024: 1.19 lakh (Male: 1.06 lakh; Female: 12,950; Third Gender: 13)

Election commission of India:

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India at both the national and state levels.

Establishment:

• The Election Commission of India was established on 25th January 1950.
• This date is now celebrated as National Voters’ Day.

Composition:

The Election Commission consists of:

• Chief Election Commissioner (CEC): The highest-ranking officer.
• Election Commissioners: Two additional members are appointed by the President of India.

Appointment:

The Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India.

• They hold the position for a term of 6 years or until they reach the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
• They can be removed only by a process of impeachment.

The number of members can vary, but traditionally, it consists of three members.

SAIL Earns Great Place to Work Recognition for Second Year

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a significant milestone by being re-certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the period January 2025 to January 2026. This recognition, awarded by the Great Place to Work Institute, India, highlights SAIL’s dedication to fostering a positive and empowering work environment. The re-certification marks SAIL’s second consecutive recognition, following its first certification for the period December 2023 to December 2024.

Key Highlights

• Certification Period: January 2025 to January 2026
• Awarded By: Great Place to Work Institute, India
• Consecutive Certification: SAIL was first recognized for the period December 2023 to December 2024.
• Recognition Criteria: The award is based on direct employee feedback, reflecting trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment within the organization.

Innovative HR Initiatives Contributing to Success

• SAIL’s success in securing this certification is attributed to several employee-focused initiatives that enhance the overall workplace culture:
• Work Other than Workplace (WoW): This scheme offers employees flexibility in work location, enabling a better work-life balance.
• Flexible Work Timings: City-based employees are given the flexibility to adjust their work hours, promoting a healthy work-life integration.
• Self-paced Learning: Access to platforms like LinkedIn Learning Hub and E-Pathshala helps employees upgrade their skills at their own pace.
• Digital Training: SAIL offers high-end IT training in collaboration with NASSCOM, empowering employees with cutting-edge technological skills.
• Leadership Development: The company partners with IIMs and ASCI to conduct leadership development programs, helping to nurture and grow future leaders.
• Employee Assistance Programs: These include e-counseling services to support the mental well-being of employees.
• Healthcare Enhancement: SAIL has made significant improvements to its healthcare services, ensuring better access to health facilities for employees.
• Leadership Coaching: Tailored coaching programs are offered to senior executives to enhance their leadership capabilities.

Statement from SAIL Chairman: Shri Amarendu Prakash, Chairman of SAIL, shared his thoughts on the certification:
“SAIL’s consecutive certification as a ‘Great Place to Work’ reaffirms SAIL’s ongoing dedication to foster an exceptional workplace culture and provide a positive employee experience built on trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment.”

SAIL:

• Headquarters: New Delhi
• CEO: Shri Prakash (31 May 2023–)
• Founded: 24 January 1973

116th Mann Ki Baat- Welcoming a Milestone Year

As 2025 approaches, India stands on the threshold of significant celebrations and achievements. The year marks the 75th anniversary of the Constitution of India, a testament to the vision and dedication of the nation’s founding fathers. The Prime Minister, through the 116th episode of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, shared insights and aspirations for the country’s progress and unity, covering diverse themes ranging from cultural heritage to health and sports.

75 Years of the Indian Constitution

• Significance: Marks the 75th anniversary on 26th January 2025.
• Initiatives: Launch of constitution75.com for citizens to engage with the Preamble and access the Constitution in multiple languages.
• Message: PM encourages youth to explore this milestone and connect with the legacy.

Maha Kumbh 2025

• Date & Venue: Starts 13th January 2025 in Prayagraj.
• Theme: “Maha Kumbh of Unity,” emphasizing inclusivity and diversity.
• Digital Features: AI-driven navigation, chatbots, and real-time updates.
• Campaign: Selfie initiative with #EktaKaMahakumbh to promote unity.

Krish, Trish, and Baltiboy – Bharat Hain Hum

• Content: Animated series highlighting freedom struggle heroes.
• Outreach: Available on Doordarshan and OTT platforms, broadcast in multiple languages.

WAVES Summit 2025

• Objective: Showcase India’s media and entertainment industry globally.
• Participants: Bollywood, regional cinema, gaming, and technology sectors.
• Impact: Boosts India’s vision of a $5 trillion economy.

Global Outreach of Indian Culture

• Art in Egypt: Painting competition involving 23,000 students.
• Ayurveda in Paraguay: Ayurveda consultations gaining popularity in South America.
• Tamil in Fiji: Tamil teaching program launched after 80 years.

Bastar Olympics

• Participation: Over 165,000 players from seven districts.
• Impact: Transforms lives through sports like archery and kabaddi.
• Symbolism: Represents resilience and cultural heritage.

Healthcare Achievements

Malaria:

• 80% reduction in cases (2015-2023).
• Awareness initiatives in Assam and Haryana played a pivotal role.

Cancer:

• Ayushman Bharat Yojana ensures timely treatment for 90% of patients.
• Agricultural Transformation in Kalahandi

Vegetable Revolution:

• Kisan Utpad Sangh FPO generates ₹1.5 crores in annual turnover.
• Empowering 200+ farmers, including 45 women, with modern techniques.
• These milestones reflect India’s diverse progress in culture, healthcare, sports, and economic empowerment as the nation steps into 2025.

Economy news

GDP to Grow at 6.6% in FY25: RBI

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% for FY25, emphasizing economic resilience amidst global and domestic challenges. The report highlights robust fundamentals, improved asset quality in banks, and stable financial indicators, although risks like urban demand moderation and global uncertainties persist.

Economic Insights

GDP Growth Projections

• FY25 Growth: Estimated at 6.6%,

driven by:

• Revival in rural consumption.
• Increased government spending.
• Strong services exports.

H1 FY25 Performance: Growth moderated to 6% from 8.2% in H1 FY24, reflecting global headwinds and softer industrial activity.

Inflation Trends

• Positive Drivers: A bumper kharif harvest and robust rabi prospects are expected to stabilize foodgrain prices.
• Potential Risks: Geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events could disrupt inflation dynamics.

Banking Sector Strengths

Decline in NPAs

• Gross NPAs: Reached a 12-year low of 2.6% (September 2024).
• Net NPAs: Reduced to 0.6%, showcasing improved asset quality.

Capital Adequacy

• CET1 Ratio: Strong at 14%, well above the regulatory minimum of 8%.
• Stress Resilience: Macro stress tests indicate that SCBs, mutual funds, and clearing corporations can withstand adverse conditions.

Banking news

RBI Introduces Name Lookup for NEFT and RTGS

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a name lookup facility for Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) systems, aiming to enhance accuracy, security, and user confidence in digital transactions. This feature aligns NEFT and RTGS with the functionality already available in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) platforms.

Key Highlights of the Facility

1. Current vs. Proposed System

• Current State: NEFT and RTGS transactions do not provide users with a pre-transaction name verification feature, increasing the chances of errors and fraudulent transfers.
• Proposed Feature: Users will now see the beneficiary’s name before completing a transfer, enabling verification and reducing risks.

2. Operational Framework

• The facility will function by cross-referencing the account number and IFSC code entered by the remitter.
• The receiving bank’s core banking system will fetch and display the beneficiary’s name for verification.
• Data privacy is prioritized—query-related data will be stored by the respective banks, with no storage by NPCI.

3. Implementation Timeline

• Banks are mandated to implement the system by April 1, 2025.
• The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will develop the infrastructure and facilitate onboarding.

4. Accessibility

The feature will be available via:

• Internet banking.
• Mobile banking apps.
• Physical bank branches.
• It will be a free service for all users.

RBI:

• Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Governor: Sanjay Malhotra

Appointment news

Vitul Kumar Appointed Officiating DG of CRPF

Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the officiating Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), succeeding Anish Dayal Singh, who retired on December 31, 2024. Kumar, currently serving as Special Director General, will oversee the CRPF during a critical phase marked by challenges in Chhattisgarh and Manipur, ensuring leadership continuity until a permanent DG is appointed.

CRPF:

• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Founded: 27 July 1939

Rajat Verma Appointed as CEO of DBS Bank India

Effective March 1, 2025, Rajat Verma will take over as the new CEO of DBS Bank India, succeeding Surojit Shome, who is retiring after a successful tenure. Verma’s appointment is subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and marks a significant leadership transition as DBS India continues to strengthen its position in the Indian market.

Key Highlights of Leadership Transition

Surojit Shome’s Legacy

• Tenure Highlights: Shome, who led DBS India since 2015, was instrumental in transforming the bank’s operations in India.
• Notable Achievements: Under his leadership, DBS India launched digibank, India’s first mobile-only bank in 2016, expanding its presence to over 350 locations across 19 states, making it one of the most prominent players in the Indian banking sector.

Rajat Verma’s Appointment

• Role and Experience: Verma, who joined DBS India in June 2023, has led the Institutional Banking Group and driven substantial growth in this sector.
• Awards and Recognition: He played a key role in DBS India winning the title of “Best Bank for Sustainable Finance – India” by Global Finance in 2024.
• Previous Experience: Verma has over 27 years of banking experience and previously spent 26 years at HSBC India, leading commercial banking operations.

DBS Bank:

• Headquarters: Singapore
• CEO: Piyush Gupta (9 Nov 2009–)
• Founder: Government of Singapore
• Founded: 16 July 1968, Singapore

Science and tech news

China Unveils World’s Fastest High-Speed Train Prototype

China has unveiled the CR450, the world’s fastest high-speed train prototype, designed to achieve a commercial speed of 400 km/h and test speeds of up to 450 km/h. Surpassing the current CR400 Fuxing trains (350 km/h), this innovation demonstrates significant advancements in speed, energy efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. The CR450 aligns with China’s ambitious goal of expanding its high-speed rail network to 70,000 km by 2035, further cementing its leadership in global rail technology.

Key Features of CR450

Unparalleled Speed and Performance

• Maximum test speed: 450 km/h.
• Developed after 200,000 km of tests, 3,000 simulations, and 2,000 platform evaluations.

Energy Efficiency and Stability

• Incorporates water-cooled permanent magnet traction systems and high-stability bogie systems.
• Reduces energy consumption by over 20% while maintaining exceptional stability.

Enhanced Passenger Experience: Features noise reduction technologies, larger cabins, and accessibility for bicycles and wheelchairs.

China:

• Capital: Beijing
• President: Xi Jinping

Defence news

India’s Defence Exports Cross Rs 21,000 Crore : Rajnath Singh

India’s defence exports have experienced unprecedented growth, reaching a record ₹21,000 crore in 2024 from ₹2,000 crore a decade ago. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a visit to the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow Cantonment, set a bold target of ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, reinforcing India’s status as a global defence production leader.

Key Highlights and Future Targets

Defence Export Milestones

• Growth from ₹2,000 crore (2014) to ₹21,000 crore (2024).
• Targeting ₹50,000 crore annually by 2029.

Technological Advancements

• Focus on mastering frontier technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and space warfare to address unconventional threats.
• Integration of AI-based systems, electromagnetic warfare, and information warfare into defence strategies.

Vision of Self-Reliance

• Emphasis on Aatmanirbhar Bharat to enhance indigenous defence manufacturing.
• Strengthened domestic production capacities to meet national and international defence demands.

Sports news

Hemanth Muddappa Secures 3 National Titles, Extends Record to 15

Hemanth Muddappa, renowned as the “Drag King” in Indian motorsport, made history by securing a triple crown victory in the final round of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship at the Madras International Circuit (MIC). This triumph marked his 15th National title, making him the most decorated motorsport athlete in India.

Despite enduring the challenge of a fractured right thumb from a previous crash, Muddappa showcased immense resilience, clinching titles across multiple categories with the support of his team, Mantra Racing.

Key Achievements:

• Total National Titles: 15, solidifying his legacy in Indian motorsport.
• Triple Crown Victory: Won three National titles in one event.
• Raced Despite Injury: Competed with a fractured thumb after obtaining medical clearance, relying on painkillers to manage the injury.

Event Details:

Venue: Madras International Circuit (MIC)

Team: Mantra Racing, who provided strong support through bike preparation and performance optimization.

Categories Won:

• Unrestricted Class: Muddappa completed the race in 7.837 seconds, clinching first place.
• 851cc – 1050cc (SS): Completed in 7.926 seconds, securing a win in this category.
• 361cc – 550cc (SS Indian): Muddappa tied with Mohammed Riyaz in the 551cc – 850cc (SS) category, both clocking identical times. However, his faster reaction time allowed him to take the victory.

Kerala Wins Senior National Men’s Handball Championship

Kerala has made history by winning its first-ever Senior National Men’s Handball Championship title, defeating Chandigarh 34-31 in a thrilling final. This marks a major achievement for Kerala, as it was the team’s first appearance in the final of this prestigious tournament. Kerala’s victory was a result of a cohesive team effort, with several standout individual performances contributing to their success.

Key Highlights

• Final Score: Kerala 34-31 Chandigarh
• Venue: Senior National Men’s Handball Championship, Kerala

Road to the Final

• Kerala defeated Services 23-21 in the semi-finals to reach the final.
• Chandigarh triumphed over Indian Railways 32-30 in their semi-final match.

Awards

• Best Player of the Championship: Devendar (Kerala) – for his outstanding attacking performance.
• Best Goalkeeper: Rahul (Kerala) – for his crucial saves in goal throughout the tournament.

Match Progression

• First Half: The match was closely contested, with Kerala maintaining a narrow lead going into the break.
• Second Half: Kerala extended their advantage in the second half and managed to hold off Chandigarh’s late rally to secure the victory.

Key Performances

• Devendar: Played a pivotal role in Kerala’s offensive strategies, contributing significantly to their score and earning the Best Player award.
• Rahul: Produced crucial saves in the final, ensuring Kerala maintained their lead and earning the Best Goalkeeper accolade.

Kerala:

• Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
• Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan

Haryana Steelers Clinch Maiden PKL Title

On 29th December 2024, the Haryana Steelers achieved a historic milestone by winning their first-ever Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) title, defeating the Patna Pirates 32-23 in a thrilling final at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune. The match was a showcase of excellent performances from both teams, but Haryana Steelers ultimately emerged victorious with solid strategies on both offense and defense.

Key Highlights of the Game

• Final Score: Haryana Steelers 32-23 Patna Pirates
• Venue: Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi, Pune

Haryana Steelers Performers

• Shivam Patare: 9 points (Outstanding performance in raiding)
• Mohammadreza Shadloui: 7 points (Crucial contributions in both offense and defense)
• Vinay: 6 points (Key role in the offensive strategies)
• Jaideep & Rahul Sethpal: Solid defensive play, crucial in preventing Patna Pirates’ comeback

Patna Pirates Top Performers

• Devank: 5 raid points (One of the key offensive players for Patna)
• Gurdeep: 6 tackle points (Strong defensive presence)
• Ayan & Sudhakar: Contributed significantly to the fightback but fell short in the final stretch

Match Progression

• Early Exchanges: Haryana Steelers started strong, taking an early lead with excellent raiding from Patare and Shadloui.
• Patna Pirates’ Response: Patna Pirates fought back through strong performances by Gurdeep and Sudhakar, leveling the game before the half-time break.
• Defensive Dominance: The second half saw Haryana’s defense, led by Jaideep and Sethpal, step up, making it difficult for Patna Pirates to score.
• Second Half: Key points from Shadloui and Jaideep kept the Steelers in control, and a decisive All-Out in the final minutes sealed the victory.

Haryana:

• Capital: Chandigarh
• Chief minister: Nayab Singh Saini
• Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 27th December current affairs 2024, curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs December 2024 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation

National news

UK Universities Set to Establish Campuses at GIFT City, Gujarat

Two UK universities, Queen’s University Belfast and Coventry University, have filed applications to set up international campuses at Gujarat’s GIFT City, continuing the trend initiated by Australian institutions. This marks a significant step as India opens its doors to foreign educational institutions through relaxed regulations.

Queen’s University Belfast:

• Approved by the International Financial Services Authority (IFSCA).
• Plans to start with postgraduate programs and expand to research and undergraduate courses.
• A prestigious institution with nearly 200 years of history and over 1,000 Indian students.

Coventry University:

• Expanding its global presence, already operating campuses in Egypt, Poland, Morocco, and Kazakhstan.
• Known for addressing global challenges and launched an “India Hub” in Delhi in 2024.

Regulatory Support: The IFSCA’s 2022 regulations encourage foreign campuses by allowing fund repatriation in foreign currency and relaxing infrastructure norms.

Existing Institutions in GIFT City: Australian universities offer programs in business analytics, cybercrime, and fintech, showcasing a growing international education ecosystem.

Gujarat:

• Capital: Gandhinagar
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel

Rajnath Singh and Yogi Adityanath Unveil Atal Ji’s Statue

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to ‘Bharat Ratna’ and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee by unveiling his statue at Kudiya Ghat along the Gomti River. The event was a grand homage to the leader’s legacy, emphasizing his contributions to the nation.

Dignitaries Present:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Key Highlights:

• Sculptor Honored: Amarpal Singh was recognized for crafting Vajpayee’s statue.
• ‘Atal Sankalp’ Pledge: Led by Rajnath Singh, reaffirming commitment to Vajpayee’s ideals and vision.

Legacy Celebration: The statue symbolizes Vajpayee’s enduring contributions to India’s progress and leadership.

‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ Initiative‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ Initiative

On Good Governance Day, Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ initiative, aiming to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and decentralize governance. This initiative is part of the broader ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur’ campaign, which seeks to enhance governance at the grassroots level by providing elected representatives and officials with modern tools and knowledge for effective decision-making and planning.

Launch and Objective:

• Launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh on Good Governance Day.
• Aims to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and enhance grassroots governance as part of the ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur’ campaign.

Key Features:

Technology-Driven Governance:

• Utilizes e-learning platforms, AI-powered chatbots, and mobile apps to bridge knowledge gaps.
• Focuses on effective decision-making and planning for public service delivery.

Capacity Building:

• Targets Panchayats in Odisha, Assam, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Provides tools to enhance governance capabilities and foster sustainable rural development.

Decentralization: Aligns with the government’s vision for participatory governance and decentralized decision-making.

Complementary Initiatives:

iGOT Karmayogi Dashboard:

• Improves monitoring and decision-making for ministries and state governments.
• Focus on capacity building.

CPGRAMS Annual Report 2024: Highlights the resolution of 25 lakh grievances annually, showcasing commitment to transparent governance.

Simplified Pension Application:

• Introduces a single digital form for retiring officials.
• Ensures faster, cost-effective disbursement with an enhanced user experience.

Significance:

• Empowers rural governance by enabling citizen-centric, scalable models.
• Strengthens the foundation for inclusive and sustainable development across India.
• Reinforces the government’s commitment to modernizing governance systems at all levels.

UNICEF Partners with West Bengal Government to Tackle Childhood NCDs

In December 2024, UNICEF collaborated with the West Bengal (WB) Government to enhance the treatment of childhood Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including juvenile diabetes.

The initiative aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and ensure equitable access to treatment for affected children.

Collaboration Details:

Primary Health Care (PHC) Model:

• Joint effort with West Bengal’s Department of Health and Family Welfare (DHFW), IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Kolkata.
• Focus on improving community healthcare and primary health services for NCD prevention and management.

Statewide Treatment Expansion: Partnered with the West Bengal Academy of Paediatrics to provide treatment across all districts.

Training Healthcare Workers: Training for doctors, nurses, ANMs, ASHA workers, and community health officers to identify and refer affected children to NCD clinics.

About Juvenile Diabetes:

• Type: Chronic disease, also known as Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes.
• Cause: The pancreas produces little or no insulin due to immune system destruction of insulin-producing cells.
• Symptoms: Extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, blurry vision, and fatigue.
• Prevalence: Data from India’s Young Diabetic Registry (YDR) indicates that 5 out of 100,000 children are affected by juvenile diabetes.

About UNICEF:

• Executive Director: Catherine Russell
• Headquarters: New York, USA
• Established: 1946

International news

India and China Sign Six-Point Agreement to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

On December 18, 2024, India and China have signed a six-point agreement to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Nathula border trade during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives (SRS) on the China-India Boundary Question in Beijing, China.

The agreement also addresses key issues such as cross-border river cooperation, representing a significant move toward rebuilding trust between the two nations.

significance of the Agreement:

• Cross-Border Cooperation: Focuses on enhancing cross-border river cooperation to foster trust between the two nations.
• Historical Context: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has been suspended since 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lack of renewal of arrangements by China.

Participants:

• Ajit Doval, India’s National Security Advisor (NSA)
• Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister

About Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

Sacred Pilgrimage:

• Mount Kailash: Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism; also significant in Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
• Lake Mansarovar: A revered spiritual site for devotees.

Geography:

• Located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
• Indian routes to Mount Kailash include Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

Travel Routes:

• Pilgrims also access the site through Kathmandu (Nepal), Simikot (Nepal), and Lhasa (Tibet).
• This agreement marks a positive development in India-China relations and reinforces cultural and religious connectivity for Indian pilgrims.

China:

• Capital: Beijing
• President: Xi Jinping
• Official language: Mandarin

US Declare Bald Eagle As National Bird After 250 Years

• President Joe Biden signed a law on December 24, 2024 (Christmas Eve) officially recognizing the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States.
• Although symbolic since 1782, this is its first formal recognition.

Historical Context:

• The bald eagle has been featured on the Great Seal of the US since 1782, symbolizing strength, courage, and freedom.
• Founding Father Benjamin Franklin criticized the bald eagle, calling it a “bird of bad moral character.”

Conservation Status:

• Protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940, prohibiting its hunting or sale.
• The species has made a remarkable recovery from near extinction, with populations increasing since 2009.

Symbolism:

• Represents strength, courage, freedom, and immortality.
• Indigenous exclusively to North America, enhancing its symbolic uniqueness.

Legislation Highlights:

• Spearheaded by lawmakers from Minnesota, a state with a significant bald eagle population.
• Signed alongside 50 other laws, including a federal anti-hazing law

China Approves $137-Billion Mega Dam on Brahmaputra Near Indian Border

China has approved the construction of the world’s largest dam on the Yarlung Zangbo (Brahmaputra) in Tibet, close to the Indian border. Estimated at $137 billion, this project raises strategic and environmental concerns for India and Bangladesh. The massive hydropower dam, located at a tectonic boundary prone to earthquakes, has been touted as safe by Chinese authorities, who emphasize ecological protection and advanced engineering techniques.

Strategic and Diplomatic Implications:

• India’s Concerns: Potential Chinese control over water flow and risk of floods during hostilities.
• India’s Response: Construction of a counter dam on the Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Data Sharing: India and China collaborate under the Expert Level Mechanism (ELM) since 2006, reaffirmed during the 2024 meeting between India’s NSA Ajit Doval and China’s Wang Yi.

Engineering and Environmental Challenges:

• Tectonic Risks: Located in the seismically active Tibetan Plateau.
• Ecological Claims: China emphasizes ecological protection and advanced technologies to ensure safety.

Geopolitical Context:

• Regional Impacts: Could affect downstream countries like Bangladesh, which depend on the Brahmaputra for water resources.
• Strategic Importance: Highlights geopolitical tensions in the region due to shared river systems.

Economy news

India’s Economic Growth Forecast for FY25: 6.5%

India’s economic growth is expected to reach 6.5% in FY25 despite facing a subdued first half, as outlined in the Finance Ministry’s Monthly Economic Review. The report attributes the slowdown primarily to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) restrictive monetary policy stance and weaker demand. While global uncertainties weigh on the economy, domestic factors like agricultural activity and industrial gains are expected to drive growth in the second half of the fiscal year.

Projected Growth:

• India’s GDP growth for FY25 is expected to reach 6.5%, despite a subdued first half.
• Aligned with RBI’s forecast of 6.6% growth.

H1 FY25 Slowdown: GDP Growth Decline: Fell to 5.4% (July-September) from 6.7% in the previous quarter.

Key Factors:

• Weaker expansion in manufacturing and consumption.
• RBI’s restrictive monetary policy aimed at inflation control.

RBI’s Monetary Policy Impact:

• 11 consecutive meetings with unchanged key interest rates.
• Recent reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) expected to boost credit growth.

Outlook for H2 FY25:

Agricultural Activity:

Strong rural demand driven by favorable rabi crop season factors:

• Increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• High reservoir levels and fertilizer availability.

Urban Demand Recovery:

• Passenger vehicle sales grew 13.4% year-on-year.
• Air passenger traffic shows significant growth.

Banking news

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Launches ICICI Pru Wish for Women-Specific Illnesses

In December 2024, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance introduced ICICI Pru Wish, a unique health insurance product tailored for women. Developed in collaboration with the Reinsurance Group of America (RGA), it offers a lump sum payout upon the diagnosis of specific conditions, making it a pioneering product in the life insurance sector.

Key Features:

Women-Specific Coverage:

• Focuses on illnesses such as breast, cervical, and uterine cancers, as well as heart conditions.
• Includes coverage for maternity-related complications and genetic disorders in newborns.

Instant Payout: Provides up to 100% of the health cover amount upon diagnosis of covered conditions.

Premium Guarantee: Offers a 30-year premium guarantee, ensuring stable premiums over the policy term.

Financial Flexibility: Features a 12-month premium vacation, allowing policyholders to pause premium payments during unexpected situations.

RBI Sets Up Panel for Ethical AI Framework in Financial Sector

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formed an eight-member committee to develop a Framework for Responsible and Ethical Enablement of Artificial Intelligence (FREE-AI).

Focus: Adoption of ethical AI technologies in banks, NBFCs, FinTechs, and payment operators.

Objectives:

• AI Adoption: Assess AI integration globally and in India.
• Regulatory Review: Analyze global supervisory approaches to AI for Indian adaptation.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify AI-related risks and propose compliance mechanisms.
• Governance: Create guidelines for ethical and responsible AI deployment.

Committee Members:

Chairperson: Pushpak Bhattacharyya (Professor, IIT Bombay).

Members:

• Debjani Ghosh (Independent Director, RBI Innovation Hub).
• Balaraman Ravindran (Professor, IIT Madras).
• Abhishek Singh (Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and IT).
• Rahul Matthan (Partner, Trilegal).
• Anjani Rathor (Group Head, HDFC Bank).
• Sree Hari Nagaralu (Head of Security AI Research, Microsoft India).
• Suvendu Pati (CGM, FinTech Department, RBI).

Timeline: Final report due within six months of the committee’s first meeting.

Significance:

• Strengthens AI governance and ethics in India’s financial sector.
• Enhances risk management and promotes responsible innovation.
• Aligns India’s financial industry with global AI practices.

Appointment news

Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir Appointed as Iceland’s Youngest Prime Minister

In December 2024, Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir, leader of the Social Democratic Alliance (SDA), was appointed as the Prime Minister of Iceland by President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, succeeding Bjarni Benediktsson. At 36 years old, she is the youngest Prime Minister in Iceland’s history.

Key Points:

Parliamentary Election Victory:

• Secured 20.8% of votes in the 2024 Icelandic Parliamentary Election.
• Won 15 seats in the Althing (National Parliament).

Notable Achievements:

• Represents a shift in leadership and a progressive vision under the Social Democratic Alliance.
• Her appointment marks a milestone in Icelandic political history with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.

About Iceland:

• President: Guðni Th. Jóhannesson
• Prime Minister: Kristrun Mjoll Frostadottir
• Capital: Reykjavík
• Currency: Icelandic króna (ISK)

Amitava Chatterjee Appointed as MD & CEO of J&K Bank

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Bank’s share price soared by 7.4% on December 26, 2024, following the announcement of Amitava Chatterjee’s appointment as the new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This significant development comes after the bank’s board appointed Chatterjee for a three-year term starting December 30, 2024. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved his appointment, with Chatterjee set to take over from Baldev Prakash, who retires on December 27, 2024.

Key Event:

• Appointment: Amitava Chatterjee named MD & CEO of J&K Bank for a three-year term starting December 30, 2024.
• Approval: Appointment approved by RBI under Section 35B of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Impact on Stock:

Market Response: J&K Bank’s share price rose by 7.4% on December 26, 2024.

Compensation:

• Fixed Pay: INR 1.40 crore annually, including perquisites.
• Variable Pay: Target of INR 1.40 crore.

Transition Plan: J&K Bank advised to propose an interim arrangement to RBI if Chatterjee’s assumption of office is delayed.

Profile of Amitava Chatterjee:

• Experience: Over 33 years in banking, currently Deputy MD at SBI; past roles include MD & CEO of SBICAPS.
• Education: MBA from ICFAI University and CAIIB qualification.
• Interests: Enthusiastic about tennis, football, and cricket.

State news

Uttar Pradesh Signs MoU with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture to Strengthen Economic and Cultural Ties

In December 2024, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, to enhance economic and cultural cooperation. The signing ceremony took place in Lucknow, with the Japanese delegation led by Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki.

Key Points:

Economic Relations:

• Yogi Adityanath highlighted the strong economic ties between Japan and India, emphasizing collaboration with Japanese companies in various sectors.
• Both nations, being large economies, seek to strengthen their bilateral economic ties.

Historical and Cultural Connections:

• The Japan-India relationship is rooted in a “Special Strategic and Global Partnership”, built over centuries of cultural and spiritual exchanges.
• A key historical event dates back to 752 AD, when Indian monk Bodhisena consecrated a Buddha statue at the Todaiji Temple in Nara, Japan, marking a significant moment in the two countries’ shared history.

Indian Community in Japan:

• The growing Indian diaspora in Japan, especially in fields like IT and engineering, has further strengthened bilateral ties.
• The Nishikasai area in Tokyo, known as “mini-India”, is home to over 40,000 Indians, reflecting the increasing influence and integration of the Indian community in Japan.

Uttarpradesh:

• Capital: Lucknow (Executive Branch)
• Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel

Award news

RINL Wins Gold at AP State Energy Conservation Awards 2024

Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), has won the prestigious Gold Award at the Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Award 2024. The award, presented by the State Energy Conservation Mission of Andhra Pradesh, recognizes RINL’s impactful initiatives in energy conservation in the iron and steel sector. This achievement highlights the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in harnessing waste energy over the past three years.

Award Ceremony:

• Uttam Brahma (GM, Energy, Environment & Utilities) and VVVS Pulla Reddy (DGM, Energy Management Department) accepted the award.
• The award was presented by K. Vijayanand, IAS, Special Chief Secretary (Energy) of Andhra Pradesh, during the Energy Conservation Week celebrations in Vijayawada.

Key Highlights of RINL’s Efforts:

Sustained Energy Efficiency:

• Continuous implementation of energy-saving measures over the past three years.
• Focus on innovative utilization of waste energy to enhance operational efficiency.

Leadership in Sustainability:

• Positioned as a leader in energy conservation within the iron and steel industry.
• Commitment to adopting innovative and sustainable practices.

Leadership Acknowledgement:

• A.K. Saxena, CMD (additional charge) of RINL, congratulated the Energy Management team and supporting departments for their dedication.
• Emphasized the importance of energy conservation in ensuring sustainable growth and reinforcing RINL’s role in India’s industrial landscape.
• This award underscores RINL’s focus on innovation and sustainability, setting a benchmark in the industrial sector for environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

RINL:

• Headquarters: Visakhapatnam
• Subsidiary: Eastern Investments Ltd.
• Founded: 18 February 1982
• Owner: Ministry of Steel, Government of India

Dr. Ravi Pillai Honored with Bahrain’s ‘Medal of Efficiency’

In December 2024, Dr. Ravi Pillai, a renowned Indian entrepreneur and founder of the RP Group of Companies, became the first foreign national to receive Bahrain’s ‘Medal of Efficiency (First Class)’. The award was presented by Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, in a ceremony held in Dubai, UAE.

Key Achievements:

Recognition for Contributions:

• Honored for his exceptional work in refinery operations, community development, and enhancing Bahrain’s global standing.
• Acknowledged as a significant contributor to Bahrain’s progress and development.

Bahrain’s Highest Honor: The Medal of Efficiency is Bahrain’s top national award, celebrating individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation.

Past Honors:

• 2008: Received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) from the Government of India.
• 2010: Conferred with Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.
• 2015: Ranked as the 4th most powerful Indian in the Middle East by Arabian Business.

Defence news

India’s Defence Exports Reach Rs. 21,083 Crore In 2023-24

In the fiscal year 2023-24, India achieved a significant milestone in its defence sector. The country’s defence exports reached a record-high value of Rs 21,083 crore (around USD 2.63 billion), marking a 32.5% growth over the previous year. This growth is part of a broader trend in India’s defence sector, reflecting both enhanced domestic production and export capabilities. In parallel, India’s indigenous defence production also set a record, with a value of Rs 1,26,887 crore, representing a 16.7% increase compared to the previous fiscal year. The combined efforts of the private sector and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) have been crucial in this success, contributing to a strengthened and self-reliant defence ecosystem.

Key Highlights Includes

Defence Exports: Reached Rs 21,083 crore, a 32.5% growth from Rs 15,920 crore in FY 2022-23.

Defence Export Growth Over 10 Years: Increased by 31 times since FY 2013-14.

• Contribution by Sectors: Private sector contributed 60% and DPSUs contributed 40% to defence exports.
• Defence Minister’s Target: Rajnath Singh set a target of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
• Indigenous Defence Production: A record Rs 1,26,887 crore in production value, up 16.7% from the previous year.
• Positive Indigenisation Lists (PIL): Government issued five new PILs to boost domestic production and minimize reliance on imports.

The efforts to enhance Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence include steps like the creation of the Positive Indigenisation Lists, which focus on increasing the production of complex systems, sensors, and weapons.

These efforts are aligned with the government’s vision to reduce dependence on defence imports and to make India a hub for defence exports.

Key Figures

• Defence Exports: Rs 21,083 crore (USD 2.63 billion)
• Growth in Defence Exports: 32.5% increase from Rs 15,920 crore
• Defence Production Value: Rs 1,26,887 crore
• Growth in Defence Production: 16.7% increase from Rs 1,08,684 crore

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National news

India to host World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit – WAVES for first time in 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme that India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) for the first time in 2025.

Objective: WAVES aims to showcase India’s creative talent to a global audience, emphasizing its vibrant and diverse audiovisual entertainment industry.

Role of Youth:

• The PM highlighted the pivotal role of young creators in the preparation for WAVES.
• He appreciated the enthusiasm and innovation of the youth, showcasing India’s dynamic creator economy.

Significance for Economy: WAVES aligns with India’s vision to become a $5 trillion economy, leveraging the growth of the media, entertainment, and creator economy sectors.

Cultural Tribute to Iconic Figures of Indian Cinema

Prime Minister Modi paid homage to the 100th birth anniversaries of legendary figures of Indian cinema in 2024:

• Raj Kapoor: Known as the “Showman of Indian Cinema.”
• Mohammed Rafi: Renowned playback singer whose melodious voice transcended generations.
• Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR): A stalwart of Telugu cinema, often referred to as “Natasamrat” (King of Acting).

First Commercial Aircraft Lands Successfully at Navi Mumbai International Airport

The first commercial aircraft successfully landed today on the runway of Navi Mumbai International Airport. The IndiGo A320, which took off from Mumbai Airport, made a direct landing at Navi Mumbai International Airport. Following the successful landing, the aircraft was given an air salute. The certification test also included a technical evaluation of landing and take-off manoeuvres. Senior officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Authority of India (AAI), and other key agencies, including senior officials from CIDCO, were present for the event.

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA):

• Located in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
• Developed by CIDCO in collaboration with private partners.
• Expected to become a major aviation hub, easing the burden on Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
• Designed to handle 60 million passengers annually once fully operational.

Economy news

Monthly Per Capita Expenditure increases by 9% in rural areas & around 8% in urban areas in 2023-24

The Monthly Per Capita Expenditure (MPCE) has increased by nine percent in rural areas and around eight percent in urban areas in 2023-24 from the level of 2022-23. According to the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2023-24 released by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, the average MPCE in rural India has been estimated to be 4 thousand 122 rupees. The average MPCE in urban India has been estimated to be six thousand 996 rupees.

Monthly Per Capita Expenditure (MPCE):

Overall Increase:

• Rural Areas: 9% increase in MPCE from 2022-23 to 2023-24.
• Urban Areas: 8% increase in MPCE during the same period.

Average MPCE:

• Rural India: Estimated at ₹4,122 per month.
• Urban India: Estimated at ₹6,996 per month.

Survey Coverage:

• The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2023-24 was conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation.
• It covered over 2.6 lakh households nationwide, providing a comprehensive analysis of consumption patterns.

Urban vs Rural Consumption: Faster Growth in Rural Consumption: Data indicates that rural consumption is growing faster than urban consumption.

Declining Urban-Rural Consumption Gap:

• The urban-rural consumption gap in MPCE has narrowed significantly.
• The gap decreased from 84% in 2011-12 to 71% in 2022-23.

Expenditure Breakdown:

Non-Food Items:

• In both rural and urban areas, non-food items constitute the major part of the average household expenditure.
• Rural Areas: 53% of MPCE is spent on non-food items.
• Urban Areas: 60% of MPCE is spent on non-food items.

Food Items:

• Beverages, refreshments, and processed foods continue to be major contributors to food expenditure in both rural and urban households.
• These items form a significant part of the food basket, indicating changing dietary patterns in both sectors.

Sports news

Konery Humpy crowned 2024 FIDE Women’s World Rapid Champion for record second time

Golden Era For Indian Chess”: Koneru Humpy After Scripting HistoryGrandmaster Koneru Humpy capped off a wonderful year for Indian chess. “Golden Era For Indian Chess”: Koneru Humpy After Scripting History

Grandmaster Koneru Humpy capped off a wonderful year for Indian chess, defeating Irene Sukandar of Indonesia to emerge the FIDE Women’s World Rapid Chess champion in New York Humpy had won the event back in 2019 at Georgia and the Indian No. 1 is only the second player after China’s Ju Wenjun to clinch the title more than once.

D Gukesh’s Achievement:

• Defeated China’s Ding Liren to become the World Classical Chess Champion.
• Event held in Singapore, marking a historic milestone for India.

Chess Olympiad Success:

• India won gold medals in both the Open and Women’s categories in the 2024 Chess Olympiad held in Budapest.
• First-ever gold medals in these categories for India.

Golden Era of Indian Chess:

• The year 2024 witnessed remarkable achievements, including individual and team victories.
• India’s dominance in chess highlights the strength and depth of its players.

17-year-old from Mumbai becomes the youngest female in world to scale highest peaks on each of 7 continents

Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old student from Navy Children School in Mumbai, has made history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Demonstrating an extraordinary feat of mountaineering prowess, the 17-year-old adventurer has conquered Africa’s Mt Kilimanjaro, Europe’s Mt Elbrus, Australia’s Mt Kosciuszko, South America’s Mt Aconcagua, North America’s Mt Denali, Asia’s Mt Everest and culminating the current climb in Antarctica.

Seven Summits Conquered:

• Africa: Mt Kilimanjaro
• Europe: Mt Elbrus
• Australia: Mt Kosciuszko
• South America: Mt Aconcagua
• North America: Mt Denali
• Asia: Mt Everest (scaled at the age of 16)
• Antarctica: Mt Vincent (summited on December 24, 2024, at 17:20 hrs Chilean Standard Time)

The Climb to Mt Vincent (Antarctica): Kaamya reached the summit of Mt Vincent along with her father, Commander S. Karthikeyan, marking the completion of the Seven Summits Challenge.

Significance of the Achievement:

This incredible accomplishment places Kaamya in the record books as the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, a rare and prestigious mountaineering feat.

She was just 7 years old when she embarked on her first trek in Uttarakhand, marking the beginning of her passion for mountaineering.

Awards and Recognition:

• In 2021, Kaamya was awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar, India’s highest national honor for young achievers.
• She has also received accolades from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Mann-ki-Baat for her remarkable achievements.

Banking news

RBI Constitutes 8-Member Committee for Ethical AI in Financial Sector (FREE-AI)

In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced the formation of an 8-member committee to develop a framework for the responsible and ethical enablement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the financial sector. The committee is named FREE-AI (Framework for Responsible and Ethical Enablement of AI).

Committee Leadership: The committee will be chaired by Pushpak Bhattacharya, a Professor from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B), Mumbai.

Timeline: The committee is expected to submit its report within 6 months from the date of its first meeting.

Key Functions and Mandates:

• Examine AI Adoption: The committee will assess the current level of AI adoption in the financial services sector, both globally and in India.
• Review Regulatory Approaches: It will review existing regulatory and supervisory frameworks on AI in the financial sector across the world, with a particular focus on how these approaches can be adapted to India.
• Identify Risks and Mitigation: The committee will identify potential risks related to AI and recommend a framework for evaluation, mitigation, and monitoring of AI-related risks in financial institutions (FIs) such as banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and FinTechs.
• Recommend Ethical AI Governance: It will propose a framework that includes governance mechanisms for the responsible and ethical adoption of AI models in India’s financial sector.
• Secretarial Support: The RBI’s FinTech Department will provide secretarial support to the committee.

RBI:

• Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
• Incumbent: Sanjay Malhotra
• Headquarters: Mumbai

ICICI Bank and Times Internet Launch ‘Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card’

In December 2024, ICICI Bank and Times Internet, the digital arm of Times of India (TOI) Group, launched the “Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card”, a super-premium co-branded metal card aimed at offering exclusive benefits to high-net-worth individuals.

Key Features of the Card:

Reward Points: Cardholders can earn 2.5% reward points on international spends and 2% reward points on domestic purchases.

Exclusive Access: The card provides exclusive access to premium events organized by The Times Group, ensuring privileged experiences for its holders.

Luxury Travel Benefits:

• The card offers a wide array of luxury travel services, including:
• Visa services at home for a hassle-free experience.
• Unlimited access to lounges at over 1,300 international airports.
• Stay at luxurious hotels and resorts.
• Airport transfers for added convenience.
• Exclusive access to ‘The Quorum Club’, a premium business and lifestyle club.
• Lifestyle management services by CribLife, a luxury concierge service.

Design and Symbolism: The inaugural edition of the card is crafted from metal infused with historic printing plates of The Times of India, symbolizing a blend of legacy and innovation.

Powered by Visa: The Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card is powered by Visa Inc., ensuring seamless transactions and global acceptance.

ICIC bank:

• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Founded: January 1994 in Vadodara
• Head: Sandeep Bakhshi

PNB and FCAOI Sign MoU to Enhance Agricultural Infrastructure

In December 2024, Punjab National Bank (PNB) and the Federation of Cold Storage Associations of India (FCAOI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote agricultural infrastructure and develop the cold chain network across India. The MoU was signed in the presence of key officials from both organizations, including:

• Atul Kumar Goel, Managing Director (MD) & CEO of PNB
• Kalyan Kumar, Executive Director (ED) of PNB
• Mukesh Aggarwal, President of FCAOI

Key Points:

Objective:

• The MoU aims to promote innovation and upgrade agricultural infrastructure, particularly focusing on storage and cold chain solutions that benefit farmers and agribusinesses.
• The initiative will help reduce post-harvest losses by improving cold storage facilities, which is expected to lead to better prices for farmers and enhance economic growth in rural areas.

Impact on Farmers: The modern storage infrastructure will help farmers by reducing spoilage and waste, ensuring that produce can be stored and transported efficiently. This will result in better profits for farmers and a more sustainable agricultural supply chain.

Economic Growth in Rural Areas: The upgrade in cold storage and agricultural infrastructure is expected to boost the agricultural economy, creating opportunities for rural development and job creation in the sector.

Defence news

18th India -Nepal Military exercise Surya Kiran to commence in Nepal

• The 18th edition of the Surya Kiran military exercise is set to take place in Saljhandi, Nepal from 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025.
• The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 334 personnel, has already departed for the event. The exercise is hosted alternately by the Indian Army and Nepali Army each year.
• The 17th edition of Surya Kiran was held in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand from 24th November to 7th December 2023.

Participants: The Indian contingent for the 18th edition includes members from the 11th Gorkha Rifles Regiment, which is historically significant as the first regiment of the Indian Army raised after India’s independence.

The Nepali Army will be represented by the Srijung Battalion.

Objectives and Key Features: The primary aim of Surya Kiran is to foster closer bilateral military relations between India and Nepal, enhancing mutual trust, and sharpening professional skills.

Key Focus Areas of the exercise:

• Joint operations in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism operations.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, in line with the UN Charter.
• The exercise will provide both armies with an opportunity to enhance their combat skills and operational capabilities, especially in challenging environments.

India-Nepal Defence Relations:

• Strong Defence Ties: India and Nepal share strong military connections, with Nepali Gorkhas being recruited into the Indian Army.
• Honorary Ranks: Both countries traditionally confer honorary ranks on each other’s military heads. Recently, General Upendra Dwivedi (Indian COAS) was awarded the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by the Nepali President, and General Ashok Raj Sigdel (Nepali COAS) was honored with the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army by Indian President Droupadi Murmu in December 2024.

Nepal:

• Capital: Kathmandu
• Currency: Nepalese Rupee
• Official language: Nepali

Appointment news

‘Dr. Sandip Shah’ Appointed new Chairperson of NABL-QCI

Government of India has appointed Dr Sandip Shah as the Chairperson of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). Dr Shah succeeds  Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan who conceptualised and launched India’s first Drive-through COVID testing facility.

The NABL is a constituent of the Quality Council of India (QCI) that works to improve the quality of testing and calibration services, ensuring trust in the products and services used by consumers, businesses, and regulators.

About Quality Council of India

• The Quality Council of India was set up in 1996 under the Union Ministry of  Commerce.
• It is a joint venture of the government of India and the three premier Industry bodies-Indian Industry represented by the three premier industry associations- FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry);  ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India); and CII (Confederation of Indian Industry).
• It is registered as a non profit organsiation under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
• The nodal agency of the QCI is the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Salman Khan and Tiger Shroff as Brand Ambassadors for Kho Kho World Cup 2025

In December 2024, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) announced Salman Khan and Tiger Shroff as the brand ambassadors for the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The inaugural edition of this event will take place from 13th to 19th January 2025 in New Delhi and Noida, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium and Noida Indoor Stadium.

Key Highlights:

Announcement Event:

The announcement was made during an event at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, which was attended by KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal, KKFI General Secretary MS Tyagi, and members of the Indian men’s and women’s Kho Kho teams.

Tournament Details: The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 will feature 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries.

Official Logo and Tagline: The official logo and tagline for the World Cup, #TheWorldGoesKho, were unveiled by KKFI in October 2024.

State news

Government of Andhra Pradesh Declares ‘Ratha Saptami’ as a State Festival

In December 2024, the Andhra Pradesh (AP) government announced the declaration of ‘Ratha Saptami’ as a State festival. The festival will be celebrated for three days at the Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli, Srikakulam, AP.

Key Highlights:

Festival Dates for 2025: Ratha Saptami will be celebrated from February 4 to February 6, 2025.

Significance:

• The festival marks the birthday of Lord Surya (Sun God), also known as Surya Jayanti.
• It emphasizes Andhra Pradesh’s cultural and spiritual heritage, boosts the local economy, and enhances religious tourism in the state.

Cultural Importance: Ratha Saptami is symbolic of the transition from winter to spring, marking the harvesting season’s commencement.

About Ratha Saptami:

Religious Observance:

• Celebrated in the Hindu month of Magha (February/March), the festival is dedicated to Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy.
• Devotees worship the Sun God as a symbol of energy and prosperity.

Venue: The main festivities occur at the Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli, a renowned pilgrimage site in Srikakulam Town, Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh:

• Capital: Amaravati
• Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
• Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer

Punjab Achieves 100% Piped Water Supply Under Jal Jeevan Mission

In December 2024, Punjab became the fifth state in India to achieve 100% piped water supply to rural households under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) – Har Ghar Jal (HGJ) Scheme. This achievement was announced by Hardeep Singh Mundian, the Ministry for Water Supply and Sanitation of Punjab, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Key Highlights:

• 100% Piped Water Supply: Punjab is the fifth state to provide 100% piped water supply, benefiting rural households with clean drinking water.
• Milestone: As of December 2024, 11 states and Union Territories (UTs) have achieved 100% coverage, and all states/UTs have over 50% coverage in rural tap water connections.

Punjab’s Ongoing Development Projects:

Water Quality and Scarcity Solutions: 15 major canal water projects with an investment of Rs. 2,174 crore are being implemented across 1,706 villages to benefit around 25 lakh people.

Open Defecation Free (ODF) Status: All villages in Punjab have achieved ODF status under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), with the construction of 5.64 lakh individual toilets and 1,340 community toilets.

Waste Management:

• Waste management facilities have been established in 3,366 villages for solid waste and 9,909 villages for grey water management.
• 23 plastic waste management units have been set up at the block level in rural areas.

Biogas Plants: 20 biogas plants have been set up to manage cow dung in shelters in partnership with Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA).

About Har Ghar Jal Scheme:

Launched by: Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS), Government of India in 2019.

Objective: To provide 55 liters of tap water per person per day to every rural household.

States and UTs with 100% Tap Water Supply:

• Goa, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.
• Conclusion: Punjab’s achievement in providing piped water to rural households reflects the state’s commitment to improving water supply, sanitation, and overall rural development.

Punjab:

• Capital: Chandigarh
• Chief minister: Bhagwant Mann
• Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria

India’s First Sports Management Mobile App Launched in Andhra Pradesh

On December , 2024, the Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) launched the ‘Kreeda App’, India’s first mobile app dedicated to enhancing sports management. The app was launched by Mandipalli Ramprasadh Reddy, Minister for Youth and Sports of Andhra Pradesh, at an event in Vijayawada.

Key Features of the Kreeda App:

One-Stop Solution for Athletes: Athletes can update profiles, track performance, and access achievement certificates via DigiLocker.

Enhanced Sports Management: Features for tracking coaches’ performance, real-time inventory management, addressing grievances, and asset management.

Central Sports Calendar: A comprehensive calendar to help players apply for tournaments efficiently.

Transparency and Efficiency:

• Prevents misuse of sports quota certificates.
• Facilitates player registration, performance tracking, tournament applications, and equipment management.

Significance:

Digital Achievement Certificates: Currently, only Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu issue digital certificates for sports achievements or participation.

Impact:

• The app aims to streamline sports administration, making it easier for athletes and officials to manage sports activities while promoting transparency and efficiency.
• This innovative step by Andhra Pradesh demonstrates a significant stride toward leveraging technology to support sports development and administration in India.

Andhra Pradesh:

• Capital: Amaravati
• Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
• Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer

Science and tech news

ISRO to Launch SpaDeX Mission

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its Space Docking Experiment, SpaDeX, on Monday. In an interview, Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that ISRO’s year-end mission will be a historic one as it will seek the rare feat of docking or merging two satellites in space.

Significance:

• Marks India’s entry into the elite group of nations mastering space docking technology.
• Demonstrates India’s indigenous capability in advanced space technologies.

Technology:

• PSLV Rocket: Launch vehicle for SpaDeX.
• Bhartiya Docking System: Indigenous system used for docking.

Minister’s Remarks:

• Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the mission as a historic milestone for India’s space program.
• Highlights ISRO’s capability to execute complex space maneuvers.
• This mission will position India at the forefront of space exploration and technology.

ISRO:

• Founded: 15 August 1969
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
• Head: Sreedhara Panicker Somanath

Ranks and report news

Country records highest-ever coal production in the year 2023-24.

India has witnessed the highest ever coal production in 2023-24 year. The all-India coal production in the year 2023-24 was 997.826 Million Tonne (MT) in comparison to 893.191 Million Tonne in the year 2022-23 with a growth of about 11.71 percent. The Ministry of coal in statement said that the country has supplied about 963.11 MT of coal till 15th of this Month.

Coal Production Figures:

• Total coal production in 2023-24: 997.826 Million Tonnes (MT).
• Comparison with 2022-23: Increased from 893.191 MT, showing a growth of 11.71%.
• Coal supply till 15th December 2023: 963.11 MT.

Coking Coal Production:

• Domestic raw coking coal production: 66.821 MT in 2023-24.
• Future projections: Under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, domestic coking coal production is expected to reach 140 MT in the next five years.

Significance:

• India achieved its highest-ever coal production, reflecting the success of government initiatives and increased domestic supply.
• Focus on increasing self-reliance in coal production, reducing dependence on imports.

IRDAI Annual Report 2023-24: Key Highlights of Non-Life Insurance Industry

According to the Annual Report 2023-24 of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), claims ratio(the net incurred claims to net earned premium) of non-life insurance industry declined to 82.52% for the Financial Year 2023-24(FY24), compared to 82.95% in FY23.

Total Premium Underwritten:

• The non-life insurance sector in India underwrote a total direct premium of Rs 2.90 lakh crore in FY24, showing a growth of 12.76% from the previous year.
• The growth was mainly driven by increased premiums in health and motor insurance.

Insurance Penetration: Insurance penetration in India stood at 3.7% for FY24, a decrease from 4% in FY23.

Public vs Private Sector Performance: Public sector general insurers saw an increase in their contribution by 8.88%, rising from Rs 82,891 crore in FY23 to Rs 90,252 crore in FY24.

Private sector insurers, including standalone health insurers, underwrote Rs 1.88 trillion in FY24, up from Rs 1.58 trillion in FY23.

Life Insurance Benefits: The life insurance sector paid total benefits of Rs 5.77 lakh crore in FY24, accounting for 70.22% of the net premium.

About IRDAI:

• Constitution and Establishment: IRDAI was constituted in 1999 and became a statutory body in April 2000.
• Chairperson: Debasish Panda
• Headquarters: Hyderabad, Telangana

Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) for 2023-24

In December 2024, the National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI), released the results of the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) for the period October 2023 to September 2024. The report highlights key developments in the unincorporated non-agricultural sector:

Key Highlights:

Employment Creation: Fresh employment generation slowed during the period, with an increase of 10.97 million jobs, down from 11.74 million in the previous year (October 2022-September 2023).

Growth in Establishments: The number of new establishments in the unincorporated sector grew significantly, from 5.34 million in 2022-23 to 8.35 million in 2023-24.

Total Number of Establishments: The total number of unincorporated establishments increased from 65 million in 2022-23 to 73.4 million in 2023-24, showing a growth of 12.48%.

Employment in the Sector: The number of workers employed in the sector rose from 109.6 million (October 2022-September 2023) to 120.6 million (October 2023-September 2024).

Conclusion: The ASUSE report reflects continued growth in the unincorporated non-agricultural sector, with a notable increase in the number of establishments and workers employed. However, the growth in fresh job creation showed a slight decline compared to the previous year.

About MoSPI: Minister of State (MOS) (Independent Charge): Rao Inderjit Singh (Constituency: Gurugram, Haryana)

Obituary news

Architect of the Car Revolution in India Osamu Suzuki passes away

Osamu Suzuki, founder and former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away at the age of 94. He was suffering from lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

Legacy and Contributions:

• Leadership at Suzuki: Osamu Suzuki was at the helm of Suzuki Motor Corporation for over 40 years, during which he transformed the company into a global automobile powerhouse. He played a crucial role in establishing Maruti Suzuki India Limited, which revolutionized the Indian car industry with the Maruti 800 — a small, affordable car that became a symbol of personal mobility for millions in India.
• Suzuki’s Entry into India: Despite initial resistance from both the Japanese embassy in India and the general reluctance of foreign companies to invest in India at the time, Suzuki took a bold step to establish operations in the country. This decision, driven by Suzuki’s vision, led to the creation of Maruti Udyog Limited in 1981, which later became Maruti Suzuki India Limited. His investment laid the foundation for Suzuki’s success in India, making it a key player in the global automobile market.

Business Expansion:

Partnerships: Under Suzuki’s leadership, Suzuki forged strategic ties with General Motors and Volkswagen, expanding the company’s footprint in North America and Europe.

Global Expansion: Suzuki became a significant player in small cars and motorcycles, with a focus on affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles.

Maruti Suzuki’s Impact in India:

Maruti 800: Launched in 1983, the Maruti 800 changed the landscape of India’s passenger car industry, providing affordable cars for the masses.

• Production Milestones: Maruti Suzuki India now produces over 20 lakh vehicles per year. India has become a key hub for small cars, and Suzuki’s cumulative production in India reached 3 crore vehicles by March 2024, making India the second country after Japan to achieve this milestone.
• Recognition: In 2007, the Government of India conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, on Osamu Suzuki for his monumental contribution to the Indian automobile sector and for strengthening the India-Japan relationship.

Renowned Malayalam Writer and Filmmaker MT Vasudevan Nair Passes Away at 91

MT Vasudevan Nair, renowned Malayalam writer, filmmaker, and recipient of the Padma Bhushan, passed away at the age of 91 in Kozhikode, Kerala. Born in 1933 in Kudallur, Kerala, MT Vasudevan Nair, popularly known as MT, was a towering figure in Malayalam literature and cinema.

About MT Vasudevan Nair:

Career in Journalism:

• Began his career as a sub-editor at the Malayalam weekly ‘Mathrubhumi’ in 1956.
• Became the editor of ‘Mathrubhumi’ in 1968.

Literary Contributions:

Authored 9 novels, 19 collections of short stories, and numerous essays and memoirs over his 70-year career.

Notable works include:

• Naalukettu
• Randamoozham
• Manju
• Kaalam
• Asuravithu
• Iruttinte Athmavu

Contributions to Cinema:

• Directed 6 films, including the critically acclaimed Nirmalyam.
• Directed two documentaries.

Wrote approximately 54 screenplays, earning:

• 4 National Awards
• 11 Kerala State Awards

Awards and Honors: Conferred the Padma Bhushan in 2005, India’s third-highest civilian honor.

Books and author news

Deepa Malik’s Memoir ‘Bring It On: The Incredible Story of My Life’ to be Released by HarperCollins India

In December 2024, HarperCollins Publishers India Private Limited, headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana, announced the release of “Bring It On: The Incredible Story of My Life”, a memoir by Deepa Malik, India’s first female Paralympic medalist.

Highlights of the Memoir:

Inspiring Journey:

• The book narrates Deepa Malik’s incredible journey of resilience and determination.
• She overcame challenges such as surviving three spinal tumors, societal biases, patriarchy, and political struggles.
• Her story exemplifies her fight to excel as a wheelchair-liberated athlete.

Achievements and Accolades:

• Deepa Malik is a leading para-athlete with 23 international medals to her name.
• She created history by becoming India’s first female Paralympic medalist, winning a silver medal at the Rio Paralympics 2016.

Recognized with numerous honors, including:

Padma Shri: Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (now Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna)

Arjuna Award: Four Limca Book of Records (LBR) entries.

Leadership Roles:

• Served as the first female president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).
• Currently represents South Asia on the board of the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC).
• Holds three honorary doctorates and the Asian Order for her contributions.

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 27th December current affairs 2024, curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs December 2024 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation

National news

India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023:

The 18th edition of the India State of Forest Report (ISFR 2023) was released on December 21, 2024, by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav at the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Forest & Tree Cover Statistics:

Total forest and tree cover in India stands at 827,357 sq km (25.17% of the country’s geographical area).

• Forest cover: 715,343 sq km (21.76% of India’s area).
• Tree cover: 112,014 sq km (3.41% of India’s area).

The total area of forest cover has increased by 1,445 sq km since 2021, with a notable rise of 156 sq km in forest cover.

Top States with Largest Forest Cover:

• Madhya Pradesh (MP) has the highest forest cover at 77,073 sq km.
• Arunachal Pradesh (AR) follows with 65,882 sq km.
• Chhattisgarh ranks third with 55,812 sq km.

About Forest Survey of India (FSI): FSI was established in 1981, evolving from the Pre-Investment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR), a project initiated in 1965 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Government of India (GoI).

The ISFR is published biennially, and it provides valuable insights into the state of forest resources in India.

Losar Festivities Illuminate Ladakh with Culture and Unity

Ladakhi Losar, marking the New Year in the Tibetan calendar, is a vibrant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across Ladakh. Deeply rooted in the region’s culture and heritage, Losar is more than a festive occasion; it is a time for reflection, community bonding, and the preservation of Ladakhi traditions. This year’s celebrations are particularly notable as they coincide with Christmas and New Year, creating a grand and inclusive festive atmosphere.

Overview:

• Ladakhi Losar marks the New Year in the Tibetan calendar, celebrated with enthusiasm across Ladakh.
• Organized by LAHDC Leh with the Culture Academy, Leh.
• Festivities (Dec 20-31) included cultural performances, choirs, and market promotions in Leh.

Purpose & Vision:

• Bring traditions closer to urban areas and inspire villagers to preserve customs.
• Offer tourists a glimpse into Ladakhi heritage.

Culture & Heritage:

• Focus on preserving traditions while adapting to modern times.
• Promoted eco-friendly practices like cleaning homes, lighting butter lamps, and fostering harmony.
• Featured traditional dishes and community feasts.

Adapting Traditions:

• Emphasis on systematic adaptation to balance heritage and change.
• Gradual development respecting Ladakhi societal values.

Cultural Documentation: LAHDC’s initiative documents the culture of 133 villages in Leh through audio, video, and written formats for preservation.

Significance:

• Promotes unity, wisdom, and harmony.
• Highlights Ladakhi culture globally with messages of love, kindness, and peace.

Ladakh:

• Capitals: Leh, Kargil
• Lieutenant Governor: B. D. Mishra

Indore Airport Launches Waste Processing Unit In Green Initiative

IndiGo’s CSR initiative, IndiGoReach, has launched the Zero Waste Airport Project at Indore Airport, in partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and AAS Foundation, Indore. This project aims to create a sustainable and eco-friendly airport by utilizing the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover. By reducing the environmental impact of airport operations, the initiative sets a new benchmark for waste management in aviation, focusing on behavioral change, stakeholder engagement, and training.

Key Features:

Material Recovery Facility (MRF):

• Inaugurated by Shri Rammohan Naidu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation.
• Sorts dry waste into 10 categories for recycling.
• Offers guided tours to showcase waste segregation processes.

Wet Waste Processing Unit:

• Converts organic waste into nutrient-rich compost.
• Compost used for airport landscaping.

Delhi Waste Management Plant: Processes 750 kg of daily waste on-site, reducing landfill dependency.

Self-Sustaining Model: Income from compost and recycled materials will fund green workers’ salaries from the third year onward.

Public Awareness and Engagement: Campaigns and waste segregation practices encourage responsible waste disposal by passengers and staff.

Madhya Pradesh:

• Capital: Bhopal (Executive Branch)
• Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel
• CM: Dr. Mohan Yadav

Agreement news

GSV and Indian Navy Sign MoU to Enhance Logistics Education and Research

In December 2024, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) based in Vadodara, Gujarat, and the Indian Navy (IN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve logistics education, research, and training for the Navy.

Key Details:

• Signatories: The MoU was signed by Vice Admiral Deepak Kapoor, Controller of Logistics of the Indian Navy, and Professor Manoj Choudhary, Vice-Chancellor of GSV.
• Objective: The partnership aims to strengthen the Indian Navy’s logistics capabilities by focusing on supply chain management, integrated transportation systems, and sustainable logistics practices.
• Technology Integration: The MoU also promotes the sharing of expertise and case studies on Artificial Intelligence (AI), predictive analytics, and blockchain technology to improve logistics operations.
• National Initiatives: The collaboration aligns with and supports significant national projects like the Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti National Master Plan (PMGS-NMP) 2021 and the National Logistics Policy (NLP) 2022.

About GSV: Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) was established in 2022 as a central university under the Ministry of Railways (MOR), aiming to advance education in logistics and related fields.

Gujarat:

• Capital: Gandhinagar
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel

Banking news

ADB to Lend USD $500 Million to India for Sustainable Infrastructure

On December, 2024, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $500 million loan agreement.

The loan, with a sovereign guarantee, will support green infrastructure projects aligned with India’s climate goals.

The funds will be channeled through India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) to finance projects in energy transition, urban development, education, and healthcare.

Key Objectives:

• Empower IIFCL: Focus on integrating green practices in infrastructure development.
• Sustainable Projects: Ensure that infrastructure projects in sectors like energy, connectivity, and healthcare are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.
• Minimizing Carbon Footprint: Projects will be designed to reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to India’s net-zero emissions target.

Enhancing IIFCL’s Capacity:

• Sustainability Unit: The loan agreement includes establishing a dedicated sustainability unit within IIFCL.
• Environmental Framework: The unit will develop and enforce a sustainability framework, creating a scoring system to assess the green credentials of infrastructure projects.
• Building Institutional Capacity: Strengthening IIFCL’s ability to handle the growing demand for climate-aligned infrastructure in India.

Asian development bank:

• Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Philippines
• Founded: 19 December 1966
• President: Masatsugu Asakawa (until February 23, 2025), Masato Kanda

Award news

100th Edition of Tansen Sangeet Samaroh Celebrated in Gwalior

The 100th edition of the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh, one of India’s most iconic classical music festivals, took place from December 15 to 19, 2024, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (MP). This prestigious festival was organized by the Department of Culture, MP, with Dharmendra Singh, the Culture Minister of MP, as the chief guest at the award ceremony.

Highlights of the Event:

Honoring Music Legends: Renowned tabla player Padma Shri Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri was conferred with the ‘Rashtriya Tansen Samman 2023’, recognizing his contributions to Indian classical music.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman: The ‘Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman 2023’ was awarded to Sanand Nyas Institution of Indore for its role in preserving and promoting classical music and cultural heritage. The award was accepted by Jayant Madhav Bhise, President, and Sanjeev Babikar, Secretary of Sanand Nyas.

About the Awards:

• Rashtriya Tansen Samman: Established in 1980 by the MP Government, this is India’s highest music award in the classical music field. It includes a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh and a citation plaque.
• Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman: This award recognizes outstanding contributions to Indian classical music, drama, and cultural events, with a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh and a citation plaque.
• Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri: Born in 1945 in Kolkata, West Bengal, Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri is a renowned tabla virtuoso.

He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Sangeet Natak Academy Award (1996) and the Padma Shri (2019) in the field of Art-Music-Tabla.

Pandit Chaudhuri has also earned the American Academy of Artists Award and was nominated for the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame.

Gwalior as UNESCO City of Music: Gwalior, a city known for its rich musical heritage, is recognized by UNESCO as a City of Music, reflecting its historical significance in the cultural and classical music landscape.

69th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar (AVRSP 2024) Conferred to Railway Officials

In December 2024, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, representing the Ministry of Railways (MOR), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B), and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), presented the prestigious 69th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar (AVRSP 2024) to 101 Railway officials and 22 Railway Zones at a ceremony held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

The theme for this year’s ceremony was “Mai Hoon Bhartiya Rail,” celebrating the pride and dedication of Indian Railways.

Key Highlights of the Ceremony:

Dignitaries Present: The event was attended by Satish Kumar, Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board, Union Minister of State (MOS) V Somanna (MoR and Ministry of Jal Shakti), Union MoS Ravneet Singh (MoR and Ministry of Food Processing Industries), along with members of the Railway Board and General Managers (GMs) from various Railway Zones and Production Units.

About the Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar: The AVRSP is awarded to railway employees for exceptional performance in various fields.

The awards are presented in two categories:

• Individual Awards: Recognizing personal achievements in different aspects of railway services.
• Shields to Best-Performing Railway Zones: Awarded to the top-performing zones for their excellence.

Key Areas of Recognition:

Innovation and Productivity Enhancement: 15 employees and officers were honored for driving innovation and improving productivity, focusing on reducing import dependency and promoting indigenous technology.

Bravery and Selflessness in Safeguarding Lives: 16 employees were recognized for their exceptional bravery and selfless acts in ensuring the safety of passengers and staff, particularly in safeguarding railway property and preventing accidents.

About Indian Railways (IR):

• Chairman & CEO: Satish Kumar
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
• Established: 1853

Science and tech news

Shenzhou-19 Astronauts Set World Record for Longest Spacewalk

In December 2024, two astronauts from China’s Shenzhou-19 mission aboard the Tiangong Space Station (TSS) successfully completed their first Extravehicular Activity (EVA), setting a new world record for the longest spacewalk, lasting 9 hours. This historic achievement surpassed the previous record of 8 hours 56 minutes, set by NASA astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms in 2001.

Key Details:

• Mission Commander Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong conducted the spacewalk outside the Tiangong Space Station in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
• The astronauts wore second-generation “Feitian” spacesuits, which marked a significant advancement over the first-generation suits used in China’s first spacewalk in 2008.
• During the spacewalk, they completed tasks such as installing debris protection on the exterior of the space station.

History of Spacewalks:

• 1965: The Soviet Union became the first country to conduct a spacewalk, lasting about 12 minutes.
• 2008: China’s first spacewalk was performed by Zhai Zhigang during the Shenzhou-7 mission, lasting nearly 19 minutes.
• May 2024: Shenzhou-18 astronauts Ye Guangfu and Li Guangsu set China’s previous EVA record of 8.5 hours working outside the TSS.

About Shenzhou-19 Mission:

Launch Date: October 2024

• The Shenzhou-19 spaceship was launched with Mission Commander Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze onboard. The mission will last 6 months, and its purpose is to continue operations at the Tiangong Space Station.
• The spacecraft was launched atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China.

About China:

• President: Xi Jinping
• Capital: Beijing
• Currency: Renminbi (CNY)

State news

Governance Reshuffle: President Droupadi Murmu’s New Appointments and Transfers

In a significant move to address political, administrative, and security challenges, President Droupadi Murmu announced the appointment of two new governors and reassigned three others across five states. This reshuffle is part of a strategic approach to strengthen leadership in regions facing unrest, administrative issues, and security concerns. The states involved are Kerala, Bihar, Odisha, Manipur, and Mizoram.

• Ajay Kumar Bhalla Appointed as Governor of Manipur Replaces: Anusuiya Uikey
• Arif Mohammed Khan Transferred to governor Bihar Previous Role: Governor of Kerala
• Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Transferred to governor Kerala Previous Role: Governor of Bihar
• Hari Babu Kambhampati Transferred to governor Odisha Previous Role: Governor of Mizoram
• General Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh Appointed as Governor of Mizoram Replaces: Hari Babu Kambhampati

Political and Administrative Implications

Addressing Regional Challenges: Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s appointment to Manipur is vital due to the state’s ongoing ethnic violence and security concerns. His leadership is expected to bring stability and effective governance.

Balancing Political Dynamics: The exchange of governors between Kerala and Bihar reflects efforts to ease political tensions and ensure smoother governance in both states.

Strategic Appointments:

• General V.K. Singh’s military experience brings a strategic perspective to Mizoram, enhancing its security framework.
• Hari Babu Kambhampati’s transfer to Odisha ensures continuity in leadership and administration.

Administrative Expertise:

• All appointments highlight the emphasis on appointing experienced and capable leaders to address the complex challenges facing these states.
• This reshuffle aims to strengthen governance and resolve key issues in these states, ensuring more effective leadership in the face of growing political, administrative, and security concerns.

Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, has introduced the Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana, aiming to support Dalit students pursuing higher education abroad. The announcement, made just before the Delhi Assembly elections, is seen as a strategic move to win over Dalit voters, linking the initiative with the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision of educational empowerment for marginalized communities.

Purpose of the Scheme

Objective: To support Dalit students pursuing higher education abroad.

Coverage: The scheme will cover all educational expenses, including:

• Tuition fees
• Travel costs

Other essential expenditures

Goal: To remove financial barriers, ensuring Dalit students can pursue their educational aspirations without monetary constraints.

Political Context and Criticism

• Announcement Timing: Just before the Delhi Assembly elections, AAP introduced the scheme to appeal to Dalit voters by linking it to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy.
• Opposition: The BJP has criticized the initiative, accusing AAP of rebranding unfulfilled promises from previous years and questioning its transparency and funding.
• AAP’s Defense: AAP’s Chief Minister, Atishi, emphasized the government’s consistent commitment to education, pointing out that 25% of the Delhi government’s budget has been allocated to education in the last decade. The new scholarship program is presented as part of the effort to realize Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of educational empowerment for marginalized communities.

Appointment news

Tonga Elects Aisake Valu Eke as New Prime Minister

Tonga’s parliament has elected veteran politician Aisake Valu Eke as its new Prime Minister after Siaosi Sovaleni’s abrupt resignation. The political transition comes at a time of significant challenges, including strained monarchy-government relations, economic hardships, and the aftermath of natural disasters.

Maia Sandu Sworn in as President of Moldova for 2nd Term

Ms Maia Sandu was sworn in as the President of the European country of Moldova for her second term of four years on 24 December 2024.

• Ms Maia Sandu first became the President of Moldova in 2020. She is the first woman to become the President of the country after it gained Independence in 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
• According to the constitution of Moldova, a person can be the President of the country for two terms of four years each.
• During her rule, the country moved away from Russia and sought closer ties with the European Union. In 2022, Moldova applied for membership in the 27-nation European Union.

About Moldova  It is a landlocked country in Europe.

• Capital: Chișinău
• Currency: Moldovan leu
• President : Maia Sandu

Sports news

33 medals for India at Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting C’ship 2024

The young Indian weightlifters finished their campaign at the Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships 2024 with a credible 33 medals – seven gold,16 silver, and 10 bronze medals. Jyoshna Sabar of Uttar Pradesh stood out with three gold medals and a new Asian record.

In the 2023 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships held in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, the Indian weightlifting contingent finished with a total of 42 medals.

Organiser &Host of the 2024 Championships: The  Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships 2024 was organized by the Asian Weightlifting Federation in Doha, Qatar from 19-25 December 2024.

Notable Performers:

• Jyoshna Sabar (Uttar Pradesh) led with 3 Gold Medals and set a new Asian record in the women’s youth 40kg category (Total Lift: 135kg).
• Payal won 2 Gold and 3 Bronze medals.
• Sanjana won 5 Silver medals.

Details of Medal Winners:

Asian Junior Weightlifting Championships 2024:

Silver Medalists:

• Sanjana – Women’s 76kg (Clean and Jerk, Total)
• Nilam Devi – Women’s Junior 55kg (Snatch, Clean and Jerk, Total)
• Maibam Martina Devi – Women’s Junior +87kg (Total, Clean and Jerk)
• Valluri Ajaya Babu – Men’s Junior 81kg (Snatch)

Bronze Medalists:

• Payal – Women’s Junior 45kg (Total, Clean and Jerk)
• Shankar Lapung – Men’s Junior 61kg (Total)
• Maibam Martina Devi – Women’s Junior +87kg (Snatch)

Asian Youth Weightlifting Championships 2024:

Gold Medalists:

• Jyoshna Sabar – Women’s Youth 40kg (Total, Snatch, Clean and Jerk)
• Payal – Women’s Youth 45kg (Total, Snatch)
• Koyel Bar – Women’s Youth 55kg (Clean and Jerk)
• Sairaj Pardeshi – Men’s Youth 81kg (Total)

Silver Medalists:

• Preetismita Bhoi – Women’s 45kg (Clean and Jerk)
• Koyel Bar – Women’s 55kg (Total)
• Sanjana – Women’s 76kg (Snatch, Clean and Jerk, Total)
• Sairaj Pardeshi – Men’s 81kg (Snatch, Clean and Jerk)
• K Oviya – Women’s 81kg (Clean and Jerk)

Bronze Medalists:

• Payal – Women’s 45kg (Clean and Jerk)
• Babulal Hembrom – Men’s 49kg
• Asmita Dhone – Women’s 49kg (Clean and Jerk)
• Koyel Bar – Women’s 55kg (Snatch)
• Parv Chaudhary – Men’s 96kg (Clean and Jerk, Total)

M Raghu & Devika Sihag crowned 2024 Sr National Badminton Champion

Important days

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, observed annually on December 27, serves as a global reminder of the critical importance of investing in public health systems to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2020, this observance aims to raise awareness, educate the public, and strengthen partnerships for epidemic preparedness. Born out of the experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, the day highlights the urgent need for resilient healthcare systems and collaborative international efforts to address health threats effectively.

Global Insights:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes building resilient health systems.
• Epidemic preparedness includes raising awareness, sharing scientific knowledge, and implementing education and advocacy programs.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgency for strong public health systems.

Obituary news

Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh passes away at 92

Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away in New Delhi last night. He was 92. Dr Singh breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi. He was admitted to the Emergency ward of AIIMS around 8 PM in a critical condition.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India, served from 2004 to 2014. Here are some key points about his tenure as Prime Minister:

• Tenure: Dr. Manmohan Singh served as India’s 14th Prime Minister for two consecutive terms, from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014.
• Economic Reforms: He is widely credited with being the architect of India’s economic liberalization in the early 1990s as the Finance Minister. As Prime Minister, he continued to implement key economic reforms, including measures aimed at boosting India’s global trade, improving infrastructure, and increasing foreign investment.
• Strengthening Foreign Relations: Dr. Singh played a significant role in strengthening India’s foreign relations, particularly with countries like the United States, Russia, China, and the neighboring South Asian nations. The Indo-US nuclear deal in 2008 was one of the most significant foreign policy achievements of his tenure.
• Leadership During Global Financial Crisis: His leadership during the 2008 global financial crisis was praised for steering India’s economy through turbulent times while maintaining growth rates. His government also introduced several fiscal stimulus measures to counter the global downturn.
• Focus on Social Welfare: Dr. Singh’s government focused on inclusive growth, with a strong emphasis on social welfare programs such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act (RTI), which aimed to improve transparency and reduce corruption in governance.

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National news

PM Modi to Distribute Over 58 Lakh Property Cards Under SVAMITVA Scheme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute over 58 lakh property cards under the SVAMITVA Scheme in a nationwide event on Friday. During the program, he will also interact with beneficiaries of the scheme, which aims to provide rural property owners with proof of ownership for their properties in Village Abadi or inhabited areas.

Key Features of the SVAMITVA Scheme:

• Property Ownership: The scheme provides property owners with a record of rights for their properties, serving as official proof of ownership.
• Economic Empowerment: These ownership documents can be used for monetisation, allowing landowners to secure credit and loans.
• Dispute Resolution: It helps reduce property-related disputes in rural areas.
• Planning and Tax Collection: The scheme will improve comprehensive village-level planning and assist in boosting property tax collection.

Progress Under the Scheme:

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj reports that:

• Around 3.17 lakh villages have been surveyed using drone technology.
• Over 1.37 crore square meters of residential land has been mapped.
• Nearly 2 crore property cards have been created, marking significant progress in the implementation of the scheme.

Significance:

• Economic Growth: By enabling property owners to access financial resources, the scheme fosters economic growth in rural areas.
• Strengthened Governance: The SVAMITVA scheme supports better management and planning at the village level.
• National Rollout: The event will see participation from various Union Ministers and Chief Ministers, joining online from different parts of the country.

Panchayati Raj Secretary’s Remarks: Speaking to the media, Vivek Bhardwaj, Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, highlighted the transformative potential of the scheme. He emphasized the milestone of creating 2 crore property cards and its impact on reducing disputes and enhancing planning in rural India.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities, streamlining property rights, and fostering sustainable development.

About that scheme:

About the SVAMITVA Scheme

• Full Form: SVAMITVA stands for Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.
• Launch Date: The scheme was launched on 24th April 2020, on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day.
• Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

Objective:

• To provide property ownership rights to rural household owners in abadi areas (inhabited lands).
• Facilitate the creation of accurate land records for rural planning.
• Minimise disputes related to property.
• Enhance financial inclusion by enabling property owners to use their land as a financial asset for loans.

PM Modi Lays Foundation for India’s 1st Ken-Betwa River Linking Project in Madhya Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa National River Linking Project in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, marking the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The project is India’s first ambitious multipurpose national river linking initiative.

In addition to launching the river linking project, PM Modi inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project and performed the Bhoomi Pujan of 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan Bhawans. He also released a stamp and coin in memory of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Key Highlights:

Ken-Betwa National River Linking Project:

• The project is worth Rs 44,605 crore, with 90% of the funding provided by the Central Government and 10% by the respective State Governments.
• It will irrigate over 8 lakh hectares of land and benefit more than 7 lakh farmer families in 2,000 villages across 10 districts of Madhya Pradesh.
• The project will also provide drinking water to a population of 44 lakh in Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh in Uttar Pradesh.
• It will generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power, supporting both energy and irrigation needs.
• It aims to address water disputes and improve water levels in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region, while promoting industrialization, tourism, and providing employment opportunities.

Madhya Pradesh:

• Capital: Bhopal (Executive Branch)
• Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel
• CM: Mohan Yadav

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in Veer Baal Diwas celebrations at Bharat Mandapam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in Veer Baal Diwas today, a national celebration dedicated to honoring the courage and sacrifice of the Sahibzades, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, who gave their lives for justice. The event will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, where the Prime Minister will address the gathering. The day, observed annually on December 26, was first announced by Modi in 2022, with a focus on celebrating children as the future of India.

Key Highlights of the Event:

• Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan Launch: The Prime Minister will launch this initiative aimed at improving nutritional outcomes and overall well-being, strengthening the implementation of nutrition-related services, and ensuring community participation.
• Event Attendance: Around 3,500 children, including the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awardees, along with dignitaries, will attend the event.

Engagement Activities:

• Nationwide Initiatives: The celebration will include online competitions, quizzes, and activities through platforms like MyGov and MyBharat.
• Creative and Educational Activities: Schools, Child Care Institutions, and Anganwadi centres will engage in storytelling, creative writing, poster-making, and other interactive events.

UDAAN Yatri Cafe: A Solution To Expensive Airport Food

To address growing concerns about overpriced food and beverages at airports, the Indian government has launched the ‘Udaan Yatri Cafe’ initiative. This project aims to offer affordable refreshments to passengers, starting with a pilot at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The initiative was proposed after Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha raised the issue in Parliament, emphasizing the need to reduce the financial burden on air travelers.

Role of Raghav Chadha:

• Advocacy in Parliament: Highlighted overpriced food and beverages at airports.
• Examples: Water bottles priced at ₹100; tea at ₹200-250.
• Additional Concerns: Raised issues of overcrowding and mismanagement, comparing airports to bus stands.
• Public Impact: Praised widely for addressing concerns of ordinary citizens.

Public Support:

• Citizens and social media users welcomed the initiative.
• Ladakh Connection: Konchok Stanzin highlighted the relief for remote regions like Ladakh.

Republic Day 2025: 15 States, 11 Ministries to Present Tableaux

The Ministry of Defence announced the theme for the Republic Day 2025 tableaux as “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development). This year’s tableaux will showcase the dynamic relationship between India’s rich heritage and its ongoing development. The display will take place on Kartavya Path and feature creative exhibits from various states, Union Territories, and central ministries. Aimed at highlighting India’s diversity, the Republic Day tableaux will offer a glimpse of the country’s cultural roots and modern progress.

Theme for 2025 Tableaux

• Title: “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development).
• Objective: To depict the harmonious relationship between India’s rich cultural heritage and its strides in development.

Event Overview

• Occasion: Annual Republic Day Parade.
• Location: Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath), New Delhi.

Participants:

• States and Union Territories (15): Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
• Union Ministries and Departments (11): Various central ministries and departments will also showcase their creative exhibits.

Key Features

Focus:

• India’s cultural diversity and modern development.
• Balance between tradition (Virasat) and progress (Vikas).

Alternative Showcase:

Bharat Parv: States and UTs not selected for the parade can display their tableaux at the Bharat Parv held at the Red Fort from January 26 to 31, 2025.

Selection Process

Submission of Proposals: States, UTs, and Union Ministries invited to present proposals.

Evaluation by Expert Committee: The committee included professionals from art, culture, music, architecture, and choreography.

Selection Criteria:

• Originality: Unique and fresh concepts.
• Creativity: Innovative and artistic presentation.
• Aesthetic Composition: Visually appealing designs.
• Representation of Heritage and Development: Effective portrayal of India’s rich traditions and developmental achievements.

Feedback and Enhancements: Recommendations from a senior-level meeting in April 2024 were incorporated to improve the quality and diversity of tableaux.

Avoidance of Repetition: Proposals with repetitive or redundant ideas were excluded to maintain variety.

Centre Ends No Detention Rules In Schools

The government of India abolished the ‘No-detention policy’ for students in class 5 and 8 who fail their year end exams. This significant amendment to the Right of children to free and compulsory education rules, 2010 is aimed at improving learning outcomes among students. The revised policy mandates that students who failed their annual exams will be required to retake within two months, failing which they will have to repeat the academic year.

Policy Amendment: The ‘No-Detention Policy’ ensured automatic promotion for students up to Class 8, regardless of their academic performance.

Abolition for Classes 5 and 8:

• Students failing their year-end exams must retake the exams within two months.
• If they fail the retake, they will repeat the academic year.

Objective:

• To improve learning outcomes among students.
• Encourage accountability in education by ensuring academic standards are met.

Applicability

Centrally Run Schools:

Over 3,000 schools under the central government are impacted, including:

• Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs).
• Sainik Schools.
• Navodaya Vidyalayas.

State-Specific Decisions: Education as a State Subject: Individual states retain the autonomy to implement or modify the policy.

Implementation Status:

• Implemented: 16 states and 2 Union Territories (UTs), including Delhi, have adopted the revised rule.
• Pending Decisions: Haryana and Puducherry are yet to finalize their stance.

State news

Madhya Pradesh Named “Go-To Global Destination for 2025” by WSJ

Madhya Pradesh has earned global recognition as one of the Wall Street Journal’s “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025,” showcasing its rich heritage, unique wildlife, and natural beauty. This prestigious acknowledgment builds upon the state’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as a premier travel destination. With iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Khajuraho, Panna, and Bandhavgarh, as well as an array of vibrant cultural experiences, Madhya Pradesh is solidifying its position on the global tourism map.

International Recognition:

• Madhya Pradesh has earned a spot on the Wall Street Journal’s “Go-To Global Destinations for 2025” list.
• This recognition highlights the state’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination for history, culture, and nature enthusiasts.

Cultural and Natural Heritage:

The state is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including:

• Khajuraho: Famous for its intricately carved temples and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• Panna: Known for its rich biodiversity and the Panna Tiger Reserve.
• Bandhavgarh: A popular wildlife destination, home to one of India’s richest tiger reserves.

Tourism Opportunities:

• Vibrant Cultural Experiences: Madhya Pradesh is celebrated for its traditional festivals, architecture, and cultural richness.
• Wildlife and Adventure: The state boasts nine Tiger Reserves and is home to diverse wildlife, attracting eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Stunning Landscapes: The state’s natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and mountain ranges, provides a variety of tourism experiences.

Significance of the Recognition

• International Appeal: Being named as a “Go-To Destination” enhances Madhya Pradesh’s visibility on the global tourism map, particularly among travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.
• Cultural Pride: This acknowledgment reflects the state’s rich history and cultural significance, helping foster pride among residents and stakeholders.
• Economic Impact: Increased international tourism will contribute to the local economy, benefiting hospitality, transport, and local artisans.

Appointment news

Justice GS Sandhawalia as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court

The Centre has officially notified the appointment of Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia as the new Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. Justice Sandhawalia, the senior-most puisne Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, has been appointed following a recommendation by the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment comes after a delay of more than three months and after the retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakdher in October 2024.

Appointment Notification:

• Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia has been officially appointed as the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court.
• This appointment follows the recommendation by the Supreme Court Collegium and is effective from the date he assumes office.
• His appointment comes after a delay of over three months, following the retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakdher in October 2024.

Legal Background of Justice Sandhawalia:

Educational Qualifications:

• He graduated in BA (Hons) from DAV College, Chandigarh.
• He earned his law degree from Panjab University, Chandigarh.

Professional Experience: Justice Sandhawalia was enrolled as an advocate in August 1989 and began practicing at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Himachal Pradesh:

• Capitals: Shimla (Summer), Dharamshala (Winter)
• Chief minister: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
• Governor: Shiv Pratap Shukla

V. Ramasubramanian Appointed NHRC Chairperson

The post of Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) remained vacant since Justice (retd) Arun Kumar Mishra completed his tenure on June 1, 2024. The appointment of former Supreme Court judge, V. Ramasubramanian, was confirmed by President Droupadi Murmu on December 23. Ramasubramanian’s appointment marks a new chapter in the NHRC, following Mishra’s tenure from June 2021 to June 2024.

Interim Leadership:

• After Justice Mishra’s tenure ended, the NHRC was led by acting Chairperson Vijaya Bharathi Sayani.
• A high-powered committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, convened on December 18, 2024, to select the new Chairperson.

Judicial Career of Justice V. Ramasubramanian: Supreme Court Appointment: Justice Ramasubramanian was appointed to the Supreme Court of India in 2019.

Career Milestones:

• He served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court before his appointment to the Supreme Court.
• Over his judicial career, he authored 102 judgments, including landmark rulings on issues like demonetization and the application of circumstantial evidence in bribery cases.
• His vast legal expertise and experience will be instrumental in guiding the NHRC to ensure the protection of human rights across India.

Significance of the Appointment

• Guiding the NHRC: Justice Ramasubramanian’s experience will enhance the NHRC’s efforts in safeguarding human rights and upholding justice for all citizens.
• NHRC’s Mandate: His leadership will play a crucial role in steering the commission as it continues to address human rights violations and promote awareness about human rights protection.

About NHRC:

Key Facts About the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

Establishment: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India was established on 12th October 1993 under the provisions of the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.

Purpose:

To protect and promote human rights (the rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity guaranteed under the Indian Constitution and international human rights covenants).

Headquarters: New Delhi, India.

Composition:

Chairperson: A former Chief Justice of India (CJI).

Members:

• One serving or retired judge of the Supreme Court.
• One serving or retired Chief Justice of a High Court.
• Two members having knowledge of, or practical experience in, human rights.

Ex-officio Members: Chairpersons of four national commissions:

• National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC)
• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)
• National Commission for Women (NCW)
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).

Appointment:

Members are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendation of a six-member committee consisting of:

• Prime Minister (Chairperson)
• Speaker of the Lok Sabha
• Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
• Union Home Minister
• Leaders of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Tenure: The Chairperson and members serve for a term of 3 years or until they reach the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.

Rank and report news

3 Indians in Forbes’ 2024 Power Women List

Forbes’ prestigious annual ranking highlights influential women who have made significant strides across various sectors. This year, three Indian women earned their place in the top 100 for their remarkable achievements in business, finance, and philanthropy.

Key Achievements of Indian Women in the List 2024

Nirmala Sitharaman (Rank 28)

Position: Finance Minister of India

Achievements:

• Nirmala Sitharaman became the first woman to hold the role of Finance Minister in May 2019, a pivotal position in the Indian government.
• She has played a crucial role in managing India’s $4 trillion economy, with projections to make India the third-largest economy by 2027.
• Sitharaman is a staunch advocate for women’s financial empowerment, focusing on supporting entrepreneurship and enhancing financial literacy.
• Her previous roles include serving at the BBC World Service and as a member of the National Commission for Women.

Roshni Nadar Malhotra (Rank 81)

Position: Chairperson of HCL Technologies and CEO of HCL Corporation

Achievements:

• As the chairperson of HCL Technologies, a $12 billion global IT services company, Roshni Nadar Malhotra has overseen key strategic decisions since taking charge.
• She is the trustee of the Shiv Nadar Foundation, which focuses on transformative education and building a strong foundation for future generations.
• Roshni is also the founder of The Habitats Trust, an organization dedicated to conserving natural habitats and endangered species.
• She holds a background in journalism and an MBA from Kellogg School of Management.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Rank 82)

Position: Founder and Chairperson of Biocon

Achievements:

• Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw transformed Biocon, India’s leading biopharmaceutical company, into a global powerhouse.
• Under her leadership, Biocon expanded internationally, including establishing one of Asia’s largest insulin manufacturing facilities in Malaysia.
• In 2022, she led Biocon Biologics to acquire Viatris’ biosimilars business for $3.3 billion.
• In 2024, she raised $362 million through Bicara Therapeutics’ IPO, a company backed by Biocon.
• Kiran is a notable philanthropist, having donated $7.5 million for cancer research in 2019.

Significance of the Recognition

• These three women’s inclusion on Forbes’ list of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the world emphasizes their influence and leadership across a range of sectors.
• Their achievements in business, finance, and philanthropy are a testament to their commitment to not only shaping industries but also driving positive change within their communities.

India Ranks 49th in Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024

India has made significant strides in the 2024 Network Readiness Index (NRI), rising 11 places from 60th in 2023 to 49th in 2024. The country’s NRI score has also improved, reaching 53.63 in 2024, up from 49.93 in 2023. This achievement reflects India’s growing commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and technology adoption, positioning it as a global leader in technological advancements.

Ranking Improvement and Score Growth

• India’s Rank: 49th (up from 60th in 2023).
• India’s NRI Score: Increased from 49.93 in 2023 to 53.63 in 2024.
• This surge in rank and score signifies substantial progress in enhancing India’s digital landscape, reflecting effective governance, innovation, and technology adoption across various sectors.

Key Areas of Technological Advancement

Artificial Intelligence (AI):

• India has made notable advancements in AI research and development, applying AI technologies to improve the quality of life for its citizens and contributing to global AI research.
• AI has been leveraged for various purposes, including healthcare, agriculture, and education, improving efficiency and accessibility.

Mobile Networks & Broadband Connectivity:

• Mobile network infrastructure and broadband connectivity have seen substantial improvements, thanks to government efforts to enhance connectivity across the country.
• The focus on expanding broadband networks and improving mobile services has played a pivotal role in boosting India’s digital readiness and supporting technological growth, particularly in rural areas.

Government Initiatives and Digital Transformation

India’s improvement in the NRI rankings is largely attributed to government initiatives aimed at enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure. Key actions include:

• Promoting research and development (R&D) in emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and 5G.
• Supporting innovation ecosystems that drive growth and provide better services to citizens.
• Expanding the Digital India initiative, which aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
• Focusing on improving e-governance and citizen engagement through digital platforms, enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of public services.

AIM & UNDP Launch Youth Co:Lab 2025 to Empower Disability-Inclusive Innovation

The 7th edition of the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge for 2024-2025 has been launched by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with Citi Foundation. This initiative, which began globally in 2017 and was introduced in India in 2019, has already empowered over 2,600 youth-led social innovation teams and impacted more than 19,000 participants.

The primary goal for this year’s challenge is to foster social entrepreneurship and create opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), aiming to contribute to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Focus Areas and Objectives

• The 2024-2025 edition is specifically focused on inclusive innovation for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), under the theme: “Enhance Access to Opportunities and Well-Being for Persons with Disabilities”

The challenge invites startups and social innovation solutions in three key categories:

• Inclusive and Accessible Assistive Technology (AT) Solutions focused on making assistive technologies more inclusive and accessible for PwDs.
• Inclusive Educational Technology and Skilling Solutions
• Innovations aimed at improving access to education and skill development opportunities for PwDs.

Accessible and Inclusive Care Models

Creating solutions for accessible healthcare services and care models that cater to the needs of PwDs.

Springboard Program

This year, the Springboard Program will support 30-35 early-stage startups that focus on solutions for PwDs. Selected startups will benefit from:

• Mentorship from industry experts.
• Networking opportunities with key stakeholders.
• Seed grants to scale impactful ideas and innovations.

The program will be implemented in collaboration with AssisTech Foundation (ATF), a prominent organization dedicated to accelerating assistive technology innovations for PwDs.

Appointment news

Various IAS officer appointed

Here are the recent key appointments in the Indian administrative services:

• Arunish Chawla – Appointed as Revenue Secretary, Ministry of Finance. Chawla, a 1992 batch Bihar cadre IAS officer, was previously serving as the Secretary of Pharmaceuticals in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Amit Agrawal – Appointed as the new Secretary of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Agrawal is currently the CEO of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
• Vineet Joshi – Appointed as Secretary of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. Joshi was previously serving as the Chief Secretary of Manipur.
• Neerja Sekhar – Appointed as Director General of the National Productivity Council. Sekhar was serving as the Special Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• Rachna Shah – Appointed as Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). Shah was serving as the Secretary of Textiles.
• Neelam Shammi Rao – Appointed as the new Secretary of Textiles, Ministry of Textiles. Rao was previously the Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities.
• Sanjay Sethi – Appointed as the new Secretary of the National Commission for Minorities.

Award news

President Droupadi Murmu to confer ‘Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar’ on 17 children for their exceptional achievements

President Droupadi Murmu will confer the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on 17 children today in New Delhi for their exceptional achievements across seven categories. These children, hailing from 14 States and Union Territories, will be recognized for their remarkable contributions in the following fields:

• Art and Culture
• Bravery
• Innovation
• Science and Technology
• Social Service
• Sports
• Environment

Each of the awardees will receive a medal, certificate, and a citation booklet as part of the recognition for their outstanding accomplishments. This award acknowledges the talent, resilience, and contributions of young individuals in various fields, inspiring others to follow suit.

Jaishankar Receives Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Award for Leadership

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar was conferred with the Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award for Public Leadership by the South Indian Education Society (SIES). The award was presented to Jaishankar in recognition of his exceptional contributions to India’s foreign policy and global leadership.

In his acceptance speech, Jaishankar reflected on India’s rising global assertiveness and stressed the significance of confidence in the nation’s capabilities. Drawing inspiration from Maha Periyavar’s teachings, Jaishankar reinforced India’s commitment to global cooperation while emphasizing that India’s independence should never be mistaken for neutrality.

Key Highlights from Jaishankar’s Address:

• Influence of Maha Periyavar: Jaishankar shared how Maha Periyavar’s teachings, particularly his musical composition Maithreem Bhajatham, which advocates for universal brotherhood and compassion, continue to inspire India’s approach to international relations. He also reflected on Periyavar’s global connections, which shaped India’s vision of universal cooperation and peace in diplomacy.
• India’s Global Significance: Jaishankar highlighted the rise of India as an independent global power, asserting that India’s leadership is now more confident in pursuing the global good, especially focusing on the well-being of the Global South. He also underscored India’s firm stance on important international issues, including its efforts to combat terrorism and its role in supporting the African Union during G20 discussions.
• India’s Independence vs Neutrality: Jaishankar clarified that India’s growing assertiveness does not mean that it is neutral. He reiterated that India would always act in its national interests while contributing to global good, refusing to conform to any external pressures. His comments underscored India’s commitment to diplomacy, dialogue, and global cooperation, while ensuring its sovereign rights are upheld.

Sports news

Martina Devi Wins Silver in Asian Junior Weightlifting Championship in Doha

Martina Devi from Manipur made India proud by winning multiple medals at the Asian Junior Weightlifting Championships held in Doha. The 18-year-old athlete competed in the women’s junior +87kg category and delivered an impressive performance.

Achievements:

• Silver Medal: Secured for her total lift of 225 kg.
• Silver in Clean-and-Jerk: Highlighting her strength in this lift.
• Bronze in Snatch: A commendable effort in this category.

Key Points:

Medals in weightlifting are awarded separately for:

• Snatch
• Clean and Jerk
• Total Lift

These distinctions apply in continental competitions, World Cups, and World Championships.

Book and author news

“The Unyielding Judge: A Tribute to Justice A.N. Grover’s Legacy”

At the launch of the book ‘The Unyielding Judge: The Life and Legacy of Justice A.N. Grover’, Attorney General R. Venkataramani underscored the critical importance of judicial integrity in maintaining the credibility of the legal system. Reflecting on Justice Grover’s contributions, particularly in the Kesavananda Bharti case of 1973, Venkataramani highlighted how a judge’s resistance to external pressures and temptations is key to upholding constitutional values and national liberty. This case, in which Justice Grover played a pivotal role, upheld the basic structure doctrine of the Indian Constitution, safeguarding its fundamental principles.

Judicial Integrity and Legacy

Venkataramani praised Justice A.N. Grover for his unyielding commitment to the law, noting that his ability to resist temptations places him among the highest ranks of humanity’s values. The Attorney General emphasized that this unwavering integrity is vital in protecting constitutional principles and ensuring the liberty of the nation. Venkataramani’s comments marked the first time he publicly spoke about a judge who significantly shaped India’s constitutional history.

Reflections on Justice Grover’s Contributions

The launch event also featured valuable insights from former cabinet minister Salman Khurshid and retired Justice S.K. Katriar, who discussed Justice Grover’s monumental contributions to constitutional law. Their reflections celebrated his legal legacy and his role in strengthening the democratic foundations of India.

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National news

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Launches Rs 1,000 Crore Credit Guarantee Scheme for e-NWR Based Pledge Financing to Support Farmers

On December, 2024, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who holds the portfolios of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD) and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MON&RE), launched the Credit Guarantee Scheme (CGS) for electronic-Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-NWR) based Pledge Financing (CGS-NPF) in New Delhi. The initiative is aimed at providing a Rs 1,000 crore corpus to support post-harvest financing for farmers in India.

Key Features of the Scheme: e-NWR Based Financing: The scheme enables farmers to access credit by depositing their agricultural produce in Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) accredited warehouses, with the produce backed by e-NWRs.

Loan Amounts:

• Rs 75 lakh for agricultural purposes.
• Rs 2 crore (Rs 200 lakh) for non-agricultural purposes.

Guarantee Fees:

• 0.4% per annum for farmers.
• 1% per annum for non-farmers.
• About Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD):
• Union Minister: Pralhad Joshi (Constituency: Dharwad, Karnataka).

Ministers of State (MOS):

• Banwari Lal (BL) Verma (Rajya Sabha, Uttar Pradesh).
• Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya (Constituency: Bhavnagar, Gujarat).

India’s Mineral and Non-Ferrous Metal Production Shows Strong Growth in FY 2024-25: Key Data from Ministry of Mines

As per the Ministry of Mines (MoM) data released at the end of 2024, India’s key mineral production, including Mineral Conservation and Development Rules (MCDR) and Non-Ferrous Metal Production, saw significant growth in the first seven months of FY 2024-25 (April-October), continuing the strong performance from FY 2023-24.

Key MCDR Mineral Production (FY 2024-25):

Iron Ore:

• Contribution: 69% of the total MCDR mineral production by value in FY 2023-24.
• Production: 274 million metric tonnes (MMT) in FY 2023-24.

Growth in FY 2024-25: Increased by 4.1% to 158.4 MMT during April-October FY 2024-25, compared to 152.1 MMT in the same period of FY 2023-24.

• Manganese Ore: Production Growth: Increased by 11.1% to 2.0 MMT in April-October FY 2024-25, compared to 1.8 MMT during the same period of FY 2023-24.
• Bauxite: Production Growth: Increased by 11.3% to 13.8 MMT during April-October FY 2024-25, compared to 12.4 MMT in FY 2023-24 (April-October).

Key Non-Ferrous Metal Production (FY 2024-25):

Aluminium: Growth: Increased by 1.2% to 24.46 lakh tonnes (LT) in April-October FY 2024-25, up from 24.17 LT in the same period of FY 2023-24.

Refined Copper: Growth: Increased by 6.0%, rising from 2.83 LT to 3.00 LT in April-October FY 2024-25.

India’s Global Position Among Top Producers:

• Aluminium: India is the second-largest producer globally, after China.
• Refined Copper: India ranks 4th among the top producers, following Chile and Peru.
• Iron Ore: India is the 4th largest producer, behind Australia, Brazil, and China.

HM Amit Shah chairs 72nd Plenary meeting of NEC at Agartala

The 72nd plenary session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) was chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on 21 December 2024, in Agartala, Tripura.

Key Highlights:

• Previous Plenary in Agartala: The last NEC plenary in Agartala was held in 2008.
• Meeting Frequency: As per the North Eastern Council Act, 1971 (amended in 2002), the Council meets at least twice a year.
• Pre-Plenary Technical Session: Held on 20 December 2024, where central ministries presented their developmental agendas for the northeastern region.
• Plenary Discussions: Focused on regional development agendas proposed in the pre-plenary session.

Attendees:

The session included:

Union Ministers:

• Amit Shah (Chairman)
• Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)
• Sukanta Majumder, Union Minister of State for DoNER

Governors and Chief Ministers of all eight northeastern states:

• Manik Saha (Tripura)
• Himanta Biswa Sarma (Assam)
• Pema Khandu (Arunachal Pradesh)
• N. Biren Singh (Manipur)
• Lalduhoma (Mizoram)
• Neiphiu Rio (Nagaland)
• Prem Singh Tamang (Sikkim)

About the North Eastern Council (NEC)

Establishment and Composition:

• Inception: Set up under the North Eastern Council Act, 1971, and inaugurated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on 7 November 1972 in Shillong, Meghalaya.
• Original Members: Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
• Amendment (2002): Sikkim became the eighth member.

Composition: Governors and Chief Ministers of the eight northeastern states.

Three members nominated by the President of India.

Chairman: Union Home Minister (nominated by the President).

Functions of the NEC: Advisory Role: Provides recommendations that are not binding on the central or state governments.

Regional Planning:

• Develops regional plans benefiting at least two northeastern states.
• Reviews and recommends measures to enhance inter-state coordination for efficient implementation of development plans.
• The 72nd plenary session reaffirms the central government’s commitment to fostering regional development and cooperative governance in the northeastern states of India.

Tirupura:

• Capital: Agartala
• Chief minister: Manik Saha
• Governor: N. Indrasena Reddy

International news

24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM)

India participated in the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM), hosted virtually by Thailand on December 20, 2024. Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), represented India during this important session. The meeting reviewed the progress made by BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) since the last SOM in March 2023 and discussed key areas of regional cooperation. Various documents and new mechanisms of cooperation were finalized, and preparations for the upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit were also discussed.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

1. Review of Progress

• The officials assessed progress since the previous SOM held in March 2023.
• Focus on regional initiatives and cooperation mechanisms.

2. Priority Areas Discussed

• Sustainable Development
• Regional Connectivity
• Security
• People-to-People Exchanges

3. Finalization of Documents

• Action Plans for regional cooperation.
• Mechanisms for collaboration with external partners.

4. Upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit

• Preparations for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit were deliberated.
• India’s Role and Vision

Reiteration of Commitment: Emphasis on a vibrant and prosperous BIMSTEC region.

Alignment with Policies:

Neighbourhood First Policy

• Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)
• Act East Policy
• Future Cooperation:
• Maritime and digital connectivity.
• Health, food security, and energy.
• Trade, investment, and skill development.
• People-to-people ties and development of BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence.

Regional Significance

• Chair: Thailand’s Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Paisan Rupanichkij.
• Nepal’s Representation: Acting Foreign Secretary Amrit Rai.

Reinforced BIMSTEC’s role as a platform for regional development and collaboration among Bay of Bengal nations.

Banking news

RBI Grants Full Authorisation to ISG Limited as Payment Aggregator to Enhance Digital Payment Solutions

In December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted full authorisation to In-Solutions Global (ISG) Limited as a Payment Aggregator (PA). This Mumbai-based fintech company, supported by JP Morgan Chase & Co., can now enhance digital payment services for merchants across various sectors.

Key Highlights of the RBI’s Authorisation to ISG:

• Empowerment: ISG can now offer secure, efficient, and reliable digital payment solutions, benefiting businesses and promoting financial inclusion.
• Pre-existing Capabilities: In addition to the new authorisation, ISG already holds a Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) license, expanding its scope of services.
• Comprehensive Payment Services: ISG can now facilitate online transactions, retail payments, transit systems, and more, providing a wide array of payment solutions for its clients.

What is a Payment Aggregator (PA)?

A Payment Aggregator (PA) is a third-party service provider that connects businesses, customers, and financial institutions to enable online payments. It helps businesses accept payments from customers while ensuring seamless, secure transactions.

• This authorisation will significantly strengthen ISG’s ability to contribute to India’s growing digital payments ecosystem.
• World Bank Approves USD 325.10 Million Loan for Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening Project

RBI:

• Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
• Governor: Incumbent Sanjay Malhotra

Tata Power and Canara Bank Partner for Rooftop Solar Loans

Tata Power Renewable Energy, in partnership with Canara Bank, has launched a financing initiative under the PM Surya Ghar Scheme to promote affordable rooftop solar installations in India. The collaboration aligns with the government’s renewable energy targets and aims to simplify access to clean energy for residential customers.

Key Features of the Partnership

Loan Offers

For Solar Systems Up to 3 kW

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹2 lakh
• Interest Rate: 7% per annum
• Margin: 10%
• Repayment Period: 10 years
• Collateral: Not required

For Solar Systems Between 3 kW and 10 kW

• Loan Amount: Up to ₹6 lakh
• Interest Rate: 10% per annum
• Margin: 20%
• Repayment Period: 10 years
• Collateral: Not required

Government Subsidy

• Up to 60% Subsidy: For systems with capacities up to 2 kW
• 40% Subsidy: For systems between 2 kW and 3 kW (subsidy capped at 3 kW)

Benefits of the Collaboration

• Affordable Solar Installations: Eliminates high upfront costs through accessible financing.
• Supports Renewable Energy Goals: Aligns with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of installed renewable capacity by 2030.
• Encourages Residential Adoption: Helps households transition to clean energy.
• Tata Power Renewable Energy: Capacity Snapshot
• Total Renewable Capacity: 10.9 GW
• Under Development: 5.5 GW
• Operational: 5.4 GW (4.4 GW solar, 1 GW wind)

India’s Renewable Energy Vision

• Focus on solar power as a key driver of renewable energy growth.
• Initiatives like the PM Surya Ghar Scheme encourage decentralized solar adoption, helping India transition toward a sustainable energy future.
• This collaboration underscores the commitment of both Tata Power and Canara Bank to advancing clean energy solutions, fostering economic and environmental sustainability.

Canara bank:

• Founder: Ammembal Subba Rao Pai
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
• CEO: K. Satyanarayana Raju (7 Feb 2023–)
• Founded: 1 July 1906

RBI Fines Manappuram Finance and IndusInd Bank for Non-Compliance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties on IndusInd Bank and Manappuram Finance for failing to comply with regulatory norms. The penalties followed statutory inspections reviewing their financial positions as of March 31, 2023.

Key Details

Penalty on IndusInd Bank

• Amount: ₹27.3 lakh
• Violation: Opening savings deposit accounts for ineligible entities.
• Reason: Deficiencies in regulatory compliance, uncovered during inspections.
• Note: The penalty does not invalidate transactions or agreements between the bank and its customers.

Penalty on Manappuram Finance

Amount: ₹20 lakh

Violations:

• Failure to verify customers’ PAN during customer onboarding.
• Assigning multiple Identification Codes to some customers instead of adhering to the Unique Customer Identification Code (UCIC) requirement.

Significance

• The penalties reflect the RBI’s focus on maintaining strict compliance with regulatory norms to ensure customer protection and system integrity.
• Both institutions are expected to address the identified lapses to avoid further non-compliance.
• This enforcement action emphasizes the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks in the banking and non-banking financial sectors.

Indusland bank:

• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Founder: S. P. Hinduja
• CEO: Sumant Kathpalia (24 Mar 2020–)
• Founded: April 1994, Mumbai

ICICI Bank and Times Internet Launch ‘Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card’

ICICI Bank, in collaboration with Times Internet, has launched the ‘Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card,’ a super-premium co-branded credit card targeting high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) in India. The card aims to offer an exclusive, luxury experience, combining unique design elements and a host of premium benefits for the affluent customer segment. Powered by Visa, it provides a range of perks designed for sophisticated lifestyles.

Key Features and Benefits

Target Audience: High-net-worth individuals (HNIs), professionals, and affluent customers.

Card Design: Unique metallic design featuring historic printing plates from The Times of India, symbolizing a fusion of tradition and innovation.

Exclusive Benefits

• Unlimited access to over 1,300 global airport lounges.
• Visa services at home for added convenience.
• Access to ‘The Quorum Club’, an exclusive space for premium members.

Rewards Program

• International Transactions: 2.5% reward points on international purchases.
• Domestic Transactions: 2% reward points on domestic purchases.

Milestone Rewards

• Helicopter rides, airport transfers, and complimentary stays at luxury resorts.
• ₹10,000 e-commerce gift card.

Collaboration Highlights

• ICICI Bank: Rakesh Jha, Executive Director, emphasized the bank’s customer-centric approach in launching this premium product.
• Times Internet: Satyan Gajwani highlighted that the card aims to redefine luxury for India’s affluent customers.
• Visa: Sandeep Ghosh emphasized that the card leverages global payments expertise, targeting India’s influential customer base.

ICIC bank:

• Founded: 1994, Vadodara
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• CEO: Sandeep Bakhshi (15 Oct 2018–)

Appointment news

Suman Berry Appointed Chairman of Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, Succeeds Late Bibek Debroy

On December 2024, Suman Berry, the Vice Chairman (VC) of the National Institute for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), was appointed as the Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) with additional charge. He succeeded Bibek Debroy, who passed away on November 1, 2024. Debroy was a prominent economic adviser to the Prime Minister and made significant contributions to economic theory, income inequality, and infrastructure financing.

About the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM):

EAC-PM is an independent body established to provide advice on economic and related matters to the Government of India, particularly to the Prime Minister.

Current Members (2024):

• Chairman: Suman Berry
• Members: Sanjeev Sanyal, Shamika Ravi
• Part-Time Members: Rakesh Mohan, Dr. Sajjid Chinoy, Dr. Neelkanth Mishra, Nilesh Shah, Professor T.T. Ram Mohan, Dr. Poonam Gupta

About NITI Aayog:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): B.V.R. Subramanyam
• Chairman: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
• Established: 2015

Justice Manmohan Sworn in as Supreme Court Judge, Appointed by President Under Article 124(2)

Justice Manmohan was sworn in as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India on December 2024. He was appointed under Article 124(2) of the Constitution of India. Justice Manmohan, born on December 17, 1962, in Delhi, brings extensive legal experience to the Supreme Court.

Key Details:

• The Supreme Court now has 33 working judges, with a sanctioned strength of 34.
• Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna administered the oath of office.
• Justice Manmohan was appointed following the recommendation of the Collegium, a group of senior judges led by the CJI.

About Justice Manmohan:

• Permanent Judge of the Delhi High Court since December 17, 2009.
• Served as Acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court from November 9, 2023.
• Became the full-time Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court from September 29, 2024.

Supreme Court Judge Appointment Process: Supreme Court Judges are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendation of the Collegium. The Collegium consists of the Chief Justice of India and other senior judges from the Supreme Court.

Ranks and reports news

Radhakishan Damani Tops Hurun India’s 2024 List of Top 200 Self-Made Entrepreneurs, with 44% Growth

On December , 2024, Hurun India, in partnership with IDFC First Bank Limited, released the 2nd edition of ‘India’s Top 200 Self-made Entrepreneurs of the Millennia 2024’. According to the report, Radhakishan Shivkishan Damani, the founder of Avenue Supermarkets Limited (DMart), has topped the list for the second consecutive year, with a valuation of Rs 3.4 lakh crore, reflecting a growth of 44%.

Key Highlights:

• Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato Media Private Limited, ranks second, moving up from third place in 2023. His net worth has surged by 190%, reaching over Rs 2.5 lakh crore.
• Sriharsha Majety and Nandan Reddy, founders of Swiggy Private Limited, hold the third position, with a combined net worth of Rs 1.01 lakh crore.
• The combined value of all companies on the list has risen to Rs 36 lakh crore (US$431 billion), marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year.

About Hurun Report Inc.:

Hurun Report is a renowned research, luxury publishing, and events group, founded in 1998 in London. Hurun India was established in 2012.

• CEO: Rupert Hoogewerf
• MD and Chief Researcher (Hurun India): Anas Rahman Junaid
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Defence news

Indian Army Receives Second Batch of Nagastra-1 Loitering Munitions Under Rs 2.12 Billion Contract

In December 2024, the Indian Army (IA) received the second batch of 360 loitering munitions, named ‘Nagastra-1’, from Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Limited (SLIN), based in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The contract, signed in April 2023, was valued at Rs 2.12 billion (approximately USD 25 million).

Key Features of Nagastra-1:

• Type: It is a lightweight, UAV-based, man-portable weapon designed for precision strikes, particularly in counter-insurgency and urban warfare.
• Guidance System: It has a GPS-guided system with a strike accuracy of just 2 meters (ideal for surgical strikes).
• Weight: The munition weighs 30 kg.
• Warhead: Equipped with a 1-kg high-explosive fragmentation warhead for neutralizing soft targets.

Range and Endurance:

• 15 km during remote control operations.
• 30 km during autonomous flight.
• Endurance of 60 minutes.
• Reconnaissance: It features a day/night camera for surveillance and a parachute recovery system for safe recovery if the flight is aborted.

Indigenous Development:

• Over 75% of the Nagastra-1’s components are indigenous.
• The system underwent rigorous testing and inspection before being delivered to the Indian Army.

Other Key Developments:

SLIN’s Future Plans: Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones are under development, aimed at fulfilling the Indian Army’s surveillance needs at a lower cost.

The Indian Army is planning to acquire 97 MALE drones.

Export Orders: SLIN has secured export orders worth Rs 2,039 crore for advanced defense products, expected to be delivered over the next four years.

About Solar Industries India Limited (SLIN):

• Chairman: Satyanarayan Nuwal
• Headquarters: Nagpur, Maharashtra
• Established: 1995

MoD Sign Rs 7628.70 crore Deal to Buy K9 VAJRA Artillery Guns from L&T

The Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) for the procurement of 100 K9 Vajra-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for the Indian Army at a cost of ₹7,628.70 crore.

Key Highlights

• Second Deal: This is the second contract for K9 Vajra-T artillery guns with L&T. The first deal was signed in 2017 for ₹4,366 crore to procure 100 guns.
• Cabinet Approval: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the purchase of these additional guns during its meeting on 12 December 2024.
• Indigenization: The deal aligns with the Indian government’s focus on boosting the indigenous defence ecosystem under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

About the K9 Vajra-T Artillery Guns

Development and Production

• Origin: The K9 Vajra-T is an indigenous version of the South Korean K9 Thunder Mobile Howitzer, developed by Samsung Techwin (now known as Hanwha Defence).
• Modification: It has been modified to meet the specific operational requirements of the Indian Army.

Manufacturing:

• The guns are co-produced by Larsen and Toubro Heavy Engineering and Hanwha Defence.
• Production is carried out at L&T’s plant in Talegaon, Pune, Maharashtra.

Historical Significance: The K9 Vajra-T is the first artillery gun produced by an Indian private company for the Indian Army.

Note: Union Minister of Defence Mr. Rajnath Singh

State news

UP & Manipur sign MoU for implementation of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Manipur have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) programme as paired states.

Key Details of the MoU

Signing Location: The agreement was signed in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in December 2024.

Duration:

• The MoU is valid for three years from the date of signing.
• It can be extended for another three years with the mutual consent of both states.

Previous Pairings:

• Uttar Pradesh: Manipur is the third state to sign an MoU with UP under the EBSB programme. Earlier partnerships included Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya.
• Manipur: This is Manipur’s second partnership under EBSB, the first being with Madhya Pradesh.

About the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Programme

Announcement and Vision

• Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31st October 2015 to commemorate the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
• Objective: To promote unity in diversity and foster cultural exchange among states, enhancing national integration.

Programme Features

Pairing of States/Union Territories (UTs): States/UTs are paired for a specific duration, fostering engagement through:

• Cultural events and festivals
• Language and literature
• Cuisine and tourism
• Customs and traditions

Activities: Structured events aim to create mutual understanding and celebrate shared heritage.

Objectives of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

• Celebrate Unity in Diversity and strengthen emotional bonds.
• Promote national integration through sustained and structured engagements.
• Showcase the rich heritage and culture of the paired states, fostering a shared identity.
• Enable learning and sharing of best practices among states.

Nodal Ministry

The Union Ministry of Education is the nodal ministry responsible for coordinating the EBSB programme.

State/UT	Paired States/UTs
Bihar	Tripura and Mizoram
Uttar Pradesh	Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh
Uttarakhand	Karnataka
Gujarat	Chhattisgarh
Tamil Nadu	Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh
Madhya Pradesh	Manipur and Nagaland
Himachal Pradesh	Kerala
Maharashtra	Odisha
Punjab	Andhra Pradesh
Goa	Jharkhand
Lakshadweep	Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Haryana	Telangana
Rajasthan	Assam
Delhi	Sikkim
Chandigarh and Puducherry	Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

Uttar Pradesh:

• Capital: Lucknow (Executive Branch)
• Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel

World Bank ADB approve loans for the Amravati Project of Andhra Pradesh

The Amaravati Inclusive and Sustainable Capital City Development Program aims to transform Amaravati into a smart, green city with world-class infrastructure. The initiative is supported by financial loans from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and Japan, which also offers technical assistance.

Loans Approved for Amaravati Development

World Bank Loan

• Amount: $800 million
• Currency: Japanese Yen
• Approval Date: December 19, 2024
• Duration: 29 years (including a 6-year grace period)

Approved by the World Bank Executive Board in Washington, D.C., USA.

ADB Loan

• Amount: $788.8 million (equivalent to 121.97 billion Japanese Yen)
• Approved to support the first phase of Amaravati’s development.

Role of Japan

• Financial Assistance: Japan contributes through the loans denominated in Japanese Yen.
• Technical Assistance: Provides expertise in modern infrastructure and smart city development.

About Amaravati

Background: After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in 2014, Hyderabad was designated as the joint capital for 10 years (until 2024).

Amaravati, located near Vijayawada, was selected as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Development Framework: The Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority Act, 2014, was enacted to oversee the capital’s planning and development.

The Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) is responsible for implementing the development program.

Scope of the Project

Total Area: 217 sq. km

Focus: Establish a sustainable, modern city emphasizing inclusivity and eco-friendliness.

Significance of the Project

• Economic Growth: Establishes Amaravati as a hub for investment and innovation.
• Sustainability: Focus on green infrastructure and smart city technologies.
• Collaboration: Highlights international partnerships in infrastructure development.

Sports news

India to host 12th World Para Athletics Championships in 2025

India will host the World Para Athletics Championships for the first time in 2025, making it a significant milestone for the country in international para-sports.

Event Details

• Venue: Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi
• Dates: 26 September – 5 October 2025

Significance:

• Marks India’s capability to host major international sporting events.
• Strengthens India’s aspirations to bid for the 2036 Summer and Paralympics Games.
• Other Sporting Events in New Delhi (2025)

World Para Athletics Grand Prix:

• Venue: Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium
• Dates: 11–13 March 2025

2025 Boxing Cup Final & 3rd World Boxing Congress:

Also scheduled to be hosted in New Delhi, emphasizing the city’s emergence as a global sports destination.

New Delhi: Fourth Asian City to Host the Championships

New Delhi becomes the fourth Asian city to host the World Para Athletics Championships, following:

• Doha, Qatar (2015)
• Dubai, UAE (2019)
• Kobe, Japan (2024)

Improved Performance of Indian Para-Athletes

Indian para-athletes have shown remarkable improvement in recent years:

• Doha 2015: Two silver medals.
• Kobe 2024: 17 medals, including 6 gold, finishing sixth in the medal tally.
• Top Performer at Kobe 2024: China with 87 medals, including 33 gold.

About the World Para Athletics Championships

Organised by World Para Athletics, part of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

• First Edition: Held in Berlin, Germany, in 1994.
• Frequency: Initially every four years, now every two years since 2011.

Key Facts about World Para Athletics

• Headquarters: Bonn, Germany
• Head: Paul Fitzgerald
• Parent Body: International Paralympic Committee (IPC)

Books and author news

A Book Titled ‘BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life’ By Dr. Deepa Malik

HarperCollins India has proudly announced the upcoming publication of ‘BRING IT ON: The Incredible Story of My Life’, a memoir by India’s most celebrated para-athlete, Dr. Deepa Malik. This remarkable autobiography promises to provide readers with an unfiltered view of her extraordinary life, her relentless pursuit of success, and her unyielding determination to overcome challenges.

• Publisher: HarperCollins India
• Author: Dr. Deepa Malik

About the Book:

• Offers an unfiltered account of Dr. Malik’s extraordinary journey.
• Chronicles her relentless pursuit of excellence and ability to overcome life’s challenges.
• A source of inspiration, highlighting the triumphs and struggles of one of India’s most celebrated para-athletes.

About Dr. Deepa Malik

• India’s First Female Paralympic Medalist
• Won a silver medal in the shot put at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
• Decorated with 23 international medals, showcasing her exceptional talent and perseverance.

Honors and Awards:

• Padma Shri – One of India’s highest civilian honors.
• Khel Ratna Award – India’s highest sporting honor.
• Arjuna Award – Recognizing her outstanding achievements in sports

Important days

World Basketball Day 2024: Date, Significance and History

World Basketball Day is celebrated annually on December 21 to honor the development and universal appeal of basketball, a sport that transcends borders and fosters values like athleticism, joy, and companionship.

Origins of Basketball: Dr. James Naismith’s Vision

Invention

• Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian physical education teacher, invented basketball on December 21, 1891, at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA.
• The aim was to create an engaging indoor game to keep students active during winter.

Evolution

• Early basketball was played with a soccer ball and fruit baskets as goals, with referees retrieving the ball after every basket.
• In 1900, innovations such as backboards and string baskets were introduced, improving gameplay and preventing spectator interference.
• Global Recognition of Basketball
• The sport’s significance was officially acknowledged by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on August 25, 2023, through resolution A/RES/77/324.
• Declared December 21 as World Basketball Day.

Highlighted basketball’s ability to unite people and promote peace.

Key Objectives of the Resolution

• Showcase basketball’s role in fostering peace and development.
• Ensure global events like the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 leave a lasting legacy.
• Encourage communities to recognize the sport’s positive societal impact.

Obituary news

Padma Shri Awardee Baiga Tribal Artist Jodhaiya Bai Passes Away at 86

In December 2024, renowned Baiga Tribal Artist Jodhaiya Bai passed away at the age of 86 in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh (MP). She was born in 1938 in Madhya Pradesh.

Key Highlights:

• Padma Shri Award: In 2023, Jodhaiya Bai was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, for her outstanding contributions to the field of arts.
• Global Recognition: She played a significant role in bringing Baiga tribal art to global recognition, helping preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Baiga tribe.
• Nari Shakti Puraskar: In 2022, she received the Nari Shakti Puraskar, awarded by the Ministry of Women and Child Development for her exceptional achievements.

About the Baiga Tribe:

• The Baiga are primarily found in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.
• The name “Baiga” translates to ‘Sorcerer-medicine man’.
• Historically, the Baiga led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, practicing slash-and-burn farming. They rely heavily on minor forest products for their livelihood, with bamboo being a key resource.
• Tattooing holds significant cultural value within the Baiga community.

National news

India’s First Bio-Bitumen Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra. Developed using lignin-based bio-bitumen technology, the initiative aligns with India’s sustainability and self-reliance goals.

Key Highlights

Bio-Bitumen Technology

• Developed by Praj Industries in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI, NHAI, and Oriental.
• Uses lignin, a by-product of plant biomass, as a sustainable binder for flexible pavement construction.

Sustainability Impact

• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
• Addresses bitumen scarcity and cuts down on import dependency (India imports 50% of bitumen).
• Utilizes lignocellulosic biomass, generating revenue for bio-refineries and mitigating stubble burning.

Economic and Agricultural Benefits

• Converts agricultural waste like rice straw (parali) into bio-bitumen, reducing pollution in states like Punjab and Haryana.
• Adds value to farmers’ roles as bitumendata (bio-bitumen producers), annadata (food producers), and urjadata (energy producers).

Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat

• Supports domestic production of bio-bitumen, promoting industrial sustainability.
• Advances self-reliance by reducing dependency on imports.

CNG from Biomass

• 400 projects in India aim to produce CNG from biomass, using 60 lakh tonnes of parali.
• Cheaper, cleaner alternative to petrol, reducing pollution and benefiting farmers.

Govt Forms Committee to Assess IAF’s Capability Development Amid Rising Threats

The Indian Government has constituted a high-level committee, chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, to evaluate the IAF’s capability development in response to regional threats from China and Pakistan. The committee will focus on indigenous design, development, and acquisition projects and submit its report within two to three months.

Key Details

Committee Composition:

• Chairperson: Rajesh Kumar Singh (Defence Secretary).
• Members: Sanjeev Kumar (Secretary, Defence Production), Dr. Samir V. Kamat (DRDO Chief), and Air Marshal T. Singh (Member Secretary).

Role:

• Assess IAF’s fighter aircraft and missile capability gaps.
• Recommend solutions emphasizing indigenous projects and self-reliance.

Key Issues Under Review

Fighter Aircraft Shortages:

• Current fleet includes 36 Rafale jets; plans for 110+ 4.5-generation fighters are pending.
• Indigenous production (e.g., LCA Mark 1A) will be prioritized despite delays.

Weaponry Gaps: Addressing deficits in air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles to counter China’s advanced arsenal.

Indigenous Development: Plans for 114 fighter aircraft to be domestically manufactured in collaboration with foreign partners.

Strategic Importance

• Regional Threats: Growing air power of China and its support for Pakistan necessitate urgent upgrades to IAF’s defense capabilities.
• Future Readiness: The committee’s recommendations will be critical for strengthening IAF’s operational readiness and ensuring self-reliance in defense.

Science and tech news

SpaDeX Mission: ISRO’s Leap Towards Space Docking Technology

ISRO plans to launch the SpaDeX mission in December 2024 aboard PSLV-C60, aiming to make India the fourth country to achieve space docking technology. The mission involves two spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), demonstrating autonomous in-space docking.

Key Objectives

Primary Objective: Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking technologies in low-Earth orbit.

Secondary Objectives:

• Power transfer between docked spacecraft.
• Control of composite spacecraft.
• Payload operations post-undocking for up to two years.

Technological Innovations

Indigenous Mechanisms:

• Docking systems and autonomous rendezvous algorithms.
• Power transfer technologies.

Advanced Sensors:

• Laser Range Finder and Proximity Sensors.
• GNSS-based Relative Orbit Determination and Propagation (RODP).

Software and Testing: Algorithms validated using multiple test beds for precision docking.

ISRO Commences Launch Campaign for Gaganyaan-G1 Uncrewed Mission

On December , 2024, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) began the launch campaign for the Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3-G1) and Orbital Module (OM-1) for the Gaganyaan-G1 uncrewed mission. This mission marks a significant step towards India’s first crewed spaceflight. The campaign started with the integration of the S200 motor segments at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Key Details:

• The HLVM3 is a modified version of the LVM3 launch vehicle, designed with enhanced reliability and safety features for human spaceflight.
• The integration of critical systems such as control systems, avionics, and the Crew Escape System will take place at SDSC and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Orbital Module (OM) integration and testing will occur at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) in Bengaluru.
• The mission’s launch coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-X/CARE), which took place on December 18, 2014.

About the Gaganyaan Mission:

The name Gaganyaan is derived from the Sanskrit words for ‘sky’ and ‘vehicle’.

Primary Objective: The mission aims to launch a team of astronauts into space to a 400 km altitude in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for a three-day expedition, after which they will return by landing in the Indian Ocean.

The Gaganyaan program includes three uncrewed missions and one crewed mission:

• The first uncrewed mission is scheduled for 2024-25.
• The first crewed mission is slated for 2025-27.
• The uncrewed flights will provide critical data on crew safety, vehicle performance, and system integration.
• The Gaganyaan mission is also aimed at enhancing India’s self-reliance in launching heavier payloads and supports the ambitious Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).

About ISRO:

Chairman: Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath

Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka

Established: August 15, 1969

ISRO is one of the six largest space agencies in the world, driving India’s advancements in space exploration.

Award news

ESIC Wins Four Awards at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) 2024

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment of the Government of India, received four awards at the Regional Social Security Forum for Asia and Pacific (RSSF Asia-Pacific) held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Key Highlights:

Organizer: The event was organized by the International Social Security Association (ISSA).

Awards: ESIC received the following recognition:

• Certificate of Merit with Special Mention for its mobile app, Ask An Appointment (AAA+).
• Three Certificates of Merit in the categories of Occupational Accident and Disease, Sustainable Investment, and System Resilience.
• App Details: The Ask An Appointment (AAA+) app, available on both Android and iOS, provides services for insured individuals, beneficiaries, staff, and ESI pensioners. It supports 8 languages, including English, Hindi, and six regional languages.
• Award Presentation: The awards were received by Shri Ashok Kumar Singh, Director General of ESIC, on behalf of the corporation.

About ESIC:

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is one of India’s two major statutory social security bodies, with the other being the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). ESIC plays a pivotal role in providing social security and health benefits to employees in India.

About Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)

The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is one of India’s two main statutory social security bodies under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, with the other being the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

Key Facts:

• Establishment: ESIC was set up under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, which was India’s first major social security legislation for workers, passed by the Indian Parliament.
• Objective: The primary goal of ESIC is to provide social security and health insurance benefits to workers in India, covering sickness, maternity, disability, and death.
• Fund Management: The fund is managed by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), in accordance with the rules and regulations defined in the ESI Act of 1948.
• Launch: The ESIC scheme was officially launched on 24th February 1952, by Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This date is now celebrated as ESIC Day.

About the International Social Security Association (ISSA)

The International Social Security Association (ISSA) is an international organization dedicated to promoting social security worldwide. It was founded under the auspices of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Key Facts:

• Founded: The ISSA was established in 1927.
• Secretary General: Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano.
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
• Mission: ISSA aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of social security systems across the globe through knowledge exchange, research, and collaboration.

PM Modi Honoured with Kuwait’s Top Civilian Award

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, by Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. This prestigious accolade marks the 20th international honour received by PM Modi, symbolizing his contributions to fostering global partnerships and India’s growing influence on the world stage.

Award Details

• Award: Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer – Kuwait’s highest civilian honour.
• Recipient: Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Conferred By: Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah.
• Eligibility: Given to Heads of State, foreign sovereigns, and royal family members as a gesture of goodwill.
• Previous Recipients: Includes leaders like Bill Clinton, Prince Charles, and George Bush.

Significance of the Honour

• Diplomatic Relations: Reflects the strong ties between India and Kuwait.
• PM Modi’s Dedication: He dedicated the award to the people of India and the India-Kuwait friendship.

Recent International Honors for PM Modi

• Order of Excellence – Guyana.
• Dominica Award of Honour – Dominica.

Kuwait:

• Capital: Kuwait City
• Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar

Sports news

India Clinches Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup title

India clinched the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia cup T20 title by defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final held at the Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2024. The victory was powered by a stellar half century from Gongadi Trisha and an impressive bowling performance, highlighting India’s dominance in the tournament.

• Date: December 22, 2024
• Venue: Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur
• Result: India defeated Bangladesh by 41 runs to win the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia Cup T20 title.

India’s Innings

• Total Score: 117/7 in 20 overs.
• Star Performer: Gongadi Trisha – 52 runs off 47 balls (5 fours, 2 sixes).

Other Contributions: Mithila Vinod – 17 runs off 12 balls.

Bangladesh’s Bowling

• Farjana Easmin – 4/31 in 4 overs (4 wickets).
• Nishita Akter Nishi – 2 key wickets.

Bangladesh:

• Capital: Dhaka
• Currency: Bangladeshi Taka
• Official language: Bengali
• President: Mohammed Shahabuddin

Appointment news

Eurogrip Tyres Appoints MS Dhoni as Brand Ambassador to Empower Riders

In December 2024, Eurogrip Tyres, a leading brand for 2-wheeler, 3-wheeler, and off-highway tyres in India, appointed Mahendra Singh Dhoni (M.S. Dhoni) as its new Brand Ambassador.

Key Highlights:

• M.S. Dhoni, renowned for his reliability, performance, and passion for riding, aligns perfectly with Eurogrip’s vision of offering riders enhanced control and confidence on every journey.
• The partnership aims to boost the brand’s presence and attract more motorcycle enthusiasts.
• TVS Srichakra Limited (TSL), a part of the TVS Mobility Group, manufactures Eurogrip, TVS Eurogrip, and TVS Tyres.
• TVS Srichakra Limited was established in 1982 and is headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Justice Madan Lokur Appointed Chairperson of UN Internal Justice Council

Justice Madan B Lokur, former Supreme Court Judge of India, has been appointed Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC) by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. His term runs from December 19, 2024, to November 12, 2028.

Key Details

Role and Council Composition:

• Justice Lokur leads the five-member IJC, an advisory body ensuring fairness, professionalism, and independence in the UN’s internal justice system.
• Other members: Carmen Artigas (Uruguay), Rosalie Balkin (Australia), Stefan Brezina (Austria), and Jay Pozenal (USA).

Significance:

• Reflects Justice Lokur’s judicial expertise and global recognition.
• Enhances India’s representation in international governance and legal frameworks.

Justice Lokur’s Contributions

• Known for rulings on social justice, human rights, and environmental issues in India.
• His transition to the UN underscores India’s growing influence in global legal and governance systems.

Sports news

Sairaj Pardeshi bags one Gold and two Silver medals at Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Doha

In Weightlifting, India’s Sairaj Pardeshi bagged 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 bettered his own youth national records to clinch the 81kg men’s title.

Sanjana’s Performance

Category: 76kg Women’s

Medals: 5 Silver Medals

3 Silver (Youth Category)

2 Silver (Junior Category)

Lifts:

• Total lift: 210kg
• Snatch: 90kg
• Clean and Jerk: 120kg

Shahu Tushar Mane bags Gold medal at Senior National Shooting Championship in Bhopal

In Shooting, Shahu Tushar Mane clinched the gold medal to claim his first senior national title in the men’s 10m Air Rifle competition at the 67th National Shooting Championship, in Bhopal yesterday. He edged out Dhanush Srikanth who bagged the silver medal. Yash Vardhan took the bronze, finishing ahead of Rudrankksh Patil.

Men’s 10m Air Rifle Senior National Final

• Gold Medalist: Shahu Tushar Mane – Claimed his first senior national title.
• Silver Medalist: Dhanush Srikanth
• Bronze Medalist: Yash Vardhan
• Notable Finish: Rudrankksh Patil finished outside the medal positions.

Men’s 10m Air Rifle Junior National Final

• Gold Medalist: Rudrankksh Patil (Maharashtra), a former world champion.
• Silver Medalist: Abishek Sekhar (Karnataka)
• Bronze Medalist: Himanshu (Haryana)

Men’s 10m Air Rifle Youth Event

• Gold Medalist: Himanshu – Scored 253.0.
• Silver Medalist: Yash Pandey (Madhya Pradesh)
• Bronze Medalist: Abhinav Shaw (West Bengal)

Agreement news

December 2024: DPIIT Strengthens India’s Startup Ecosystem with Key MoUs and Initiatives

In December 2024, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I), entered into two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.

Key Developments:

Partnership with HDFC Bank:

• Objective: To provide world-class banking and financial services to startups.
• Focus: Strengthening the startup ecosystem through mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building programs.
• HDFC Bank, India’s largest private sector bank by assets, will play a key role in fostering innovation and growth among startups.

MoU with Tally Solutions:

• Objective: To digitally empower startups in the manufacturing sector.
• Tally Solutions, a software company based in Bengaluru, will assist in improving the digital capabilities of manufacturing startups.

About DPIIT:

Role: The DPIIT works to promote and facilitate industry and trade in India, with a focus on boosting the startup ecosystem.

Upcoming Initiative: The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative is set to launch under the Startup India program. This will provide valuable resources and strengthen India’s startup ecosystem.

• Secretary: Amardeep Sing Bhatia
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Established: 1995

These partnerships and initiatives are aimed at driving innovation, improving the digital infrastructure, and creating opportunities for growth within the startup ecosystem in India.

NASSCOM and DIFC Sign MoU to Boost Cross-Border Collaboration in Fintech, AI, and Innovation

In December 2024, the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), based in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cross-border collaboration in areas such as fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and innovation.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

• Signatories: The MoU was signed by Rajesh Nambiar, President of NASSCOM, and Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority.
• Access to DIFC’s Innovation Ecosystem: Over 3000 NASSCOM member companies will get unique access to DIFC’s Innovation Hub, Dubai AI Campus, and its extensive network of leading companies in the financial industry.
• Planned Activities: The partnership includes organizing webinars, roundtables, roadshows, and networking events to foster knowledge exchange, business growth, and collaboration on innovative projects.

About DIFC:

• DIFC serves as the international financial hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, covering 77 countries.
• It is home to 6150 active registered companies and drives innovation in the financial sector.

Ranks and report news

NITI Aayog Releases Report on Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth: A Step Towards Enhancing India’s Industrial Productivity

On December , 2024, the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, released a report titled “Site Adjacent Factory Employee (SAFE) Accommodation: Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth.” The report emphasizes the need for secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient housing solutions for industrial workers to support the growth of India’s manufacturing sector.

Key Points of the Report:

• Objective: To address the housing challenges faced by workers in industrial zones across India, thereby supporting the growth and productivity of the manufacturing sector.
• Union Budget 2024-25 Initiative: The report was launched as part of the Union Budget 2024-25, aimed at improving worker accommodation facilities.
• Implementation Model: The housing initiative will be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support. This will be complemented by contributions from anchor industries.

Expected Outcomes:

• Enhanced productivity in manufacturing industries.
• Reduced worker attrition.
• Increased investment in the manufacturing sector due to better living conditions.

About NITI Aayog:

• Chairperson: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
• Established: January 1, 2015

Role: NITI Aayog is responsible for formulating and implementing strategic policies and initiatives for India’s development, including supporting sectors like manufacturing and worker welfare.

This initiative aims to create a more conducive environment for industrial growth by addressing workers’ housing needs, which will help in attracting investments and improving overall industry performance.

India Tops Global Mobile Malware Attacks in Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Report

According to the “Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, IoT, and OT Threat Report” by Zscaler Inc., headquartered in the United States, India has now topped the global list for mobile malware attacks, accounting for 28% of worldwide attacks. This is a significant rise from its 3rd place ranking in 2023, surpassing the United States (27.3%) and Canada (15.9%).

Key Findings from the Report:

• Mobile Malware Attacks: India leads the world in mobile malware attacks, contributing to 28% of the global attacks.
• Data Set: The report analyzes over 20 billion threat-related mobile transactions and associated cyber threats from June 2023 to May 2024.

Internet of Things (IoT) Attacks:

• Top Target for IoT Attacks: The United States remains the most targeted country for IoT attacks, with 81% of the total attacks.
• Other Targeted Countries: Singapore, the UK, Germany, and Canada follow as significant targets for IoT attacks.

IoT Attacks by Industry:

Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector accounted for the highest volume of IoT attacks, making up 36% of all IoT malware blocks.

Other Sectors:

• Transportation: 14% of IoT malware blocks.
• Food, Beverage, and Tobacco: 11% of IoT malware blocks.

Important day

National Consumer Day 2024: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to launch key initiatives to boost consumer protection

National Consumer Day is celebrated on December 24 every year to highlight the importance of consumer protection in India.

• The day marks the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, which received presidential assent on this date.
• Theme for 2024: “Virtual Hearings and Digital Access to Consumer Justice”.

Key Initiatives Launched by Minister Pralhad Joshi:

Jago Grahak Jago App: Empowering consumers with information to make informed choices.

Jagriti App and Jagriti Dashboard:

• Aimed at identifying dark patterns on e-commerce platforms.
• Enhances consumer awareness and rights on digital platforms.

e-Mapp Portal:

• Streamlines licensing, verification, and registration processes for businesses.
• Reduces compliance burdens and promotes transparency.

National Consumer Helpline Portal (Revamped):

• Features enhanced functionality and improved navigation.
• Faster grievance resolution to aid consumers.

Safety Pledge by E-commerce Platforms:

• 13 major e-commerce platforms will sign a voluntary safety pledge.
• Platforms will commit to detecting and preventing the sale of unsafe, spurious, and substandard products.

Inauguration of State-of-the-Art Facilities: National Test House facilities in Guwahati and Mumbai to support product testing and consumer safety.

Obituary news

Renowned Folk Artist Darshanam Mogilaiah Passes Away at 73

In December 2024, Darshanam Mogilaiah, the celebrated folk artist and Padma Shri awardee, passed away at the age of 73 in Warangal, Telangana. Born in 1951 in Ausalikunta, Andhra Pradesh (now part of Telangana), Mogilaiah was renowned for his immense contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional folk music.

Key Points about Darshanam Mogilaiah:

• Padma Shri Awardee: Mogilaiah received Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2022 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to traditional folk music.
• Legacy of the Kinnera: Born into a family of Kinnera players, he became famously known as ‘Kinnera Mogulaiah’. The Kinnera, a stringed instrument originating in the 4th century CE, was a vital part of his musical heritage.
• Innovation of the 12-Stair Kinnera: Mogilaiah was credited with the innovation of the 12-stair Kinnera, which distinguished him from other artists and helped preserve the musical traditions of Telangana’s folk music.
• Cultural Influence: His work gained nationwide recognition, particularly for his role in the Tollywood movie ‘Balagam’, where he not only acted but also performed the emotional song ‘Thoduga Maa Thodundi’, which resonated deeply with fans of folk music.
• A Dying Art: As one of the last artists skilled in playing the Kinnera, Mogilaiah’s efforts were crucial in maintaining this rare musical tradition, ensuring its survival for future generations.

Mogilaiah’s passing represents the end of an era for Telangana’s folk music, and his legacy remains a testament to his dedication to preserving and promoting traditional music.

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National news

Masali Village in Gujarat Becomes India’s First Solar Border Village

Masali, a small village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has become India’s first fully solar-powered border village. Located just 40 kilometers from the Pakistan border, Masali has transformed into a 100% solar-powered community, demonstrating sustainable development in a remote region.

Key Features

Population and Location:

• Masali has a total population of 800 people.
• It is situated in the Vav taluka of Banaskantha district, a region 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 collectively generate over 225 kilowatts (KW) of electricity, making the village self-sufficient in energy.

Administration’s Role:

• Banaskantha Collector Mihir Patel played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this initiative.
• The project aligns with the Border Development Project, which focuses on enhancing infrastructure and resources in border areas.

Expansion Plans: Inspired by Masali, the administration has targeted making 11 villages in Vav taluka and 6 villages in Suigam taluka fully solar-powered in the near future

PM Suryaghar Yojana: Key Facts for GK

The PM Suryaghar Yojana is an initiative by the Government of India to promote the adoption of solar energy, particularly in rural and remote areas, by providing financial and infrastructural support. This scheme is part of India’s broader renewable energy mission to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources and achieve sustainability goals.

• Launch Year: The PM Suryaghar Yojana was launched in 2023 as part of India’s ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy and achieve sustainable development goals.
• Ministry: The scheme comes under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), which is responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies related to renewable energy in India

Gujarat:

• Capital: Gandhinagar
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel

State news

Uttarakhand to Implement Uniform Civil Code from January 2025

Uttarakhand will make history as the first Indian state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) starting January 2025, fulfilling a key promise made by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami during the 2022 assembly elections. The UCC aims to establish uniform personal laws across marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion or caste, while excluding tribal communities.

Formation of UCC: Past and Present

• Genesis in 2022: Following the BJP’s victory in the 2022 Uttarakhand assembly elections, the first cabinet meeting of the new government approved the formation of a five-member expert committee led by retired Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai to draft the UCC.
• Legislative Milestone: The Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand 2024 Bill was passed in the state assembly on February 7, 2024, and received presidential assent on March 12, 2024.

Implementation Roadmap

• Final Preparations: A nine-member sub-committee, led by former chief secretary Shatrughna Singh, drafted the rules after 43 meetings. The training of officials and infrastructure setup are in the final stages.
• Digital Initiatives: A portal and mobile app have been developed to facilitate online registration, appeals, and other UCC-related services for public convenience.
• Execution Framework: Three sub-committees framed the implementation rules under Singh’s guidance, ensuring adequate training and resources for personnel.

Significance of the UCC in Uttarakhand

The Uniform Civil Code seeks to make Uttarakhand legally just and equitable by eliminating disparities in personal laws. CM Dhami emphasized that this initiative is a transformational move, aimed at achieving uniformity in personal laws, with an exception for the tribal communities, who are excluded from the Act.

Uttarakhand:

• Capitals: Dehradun (Winter), Bhararisen (Summer)
• Founded: 9 November 2000
• Chief minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami
• Governor: Gurmit Singh

Madhya Pradesh Welcomes 10th International Forest Fair

The 10th International Forest Fair in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh commenced on December 17, 2024, and will run until December 23, 2024. The fair aims to promote sustainable forest practices, empower local communities, and foster collaboration across the forestry sector.

Key Highlights:

Event Duration: The fair will be held from December 17 to December 23, 2024 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

Theme: “Women Empowerment through Minor Forest Produce”.

The fair focuses on empowering women in the forestry sector, where 50% of the workforce is engaged in managing minor forest produce.

Key Attendees:

• Governor Mangubhai Patel
• Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav
• Representatives from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Australia participate, enriching the fair’s international outreach.

Madhya Pradesh:

• Capital: Bhopal (Executive Branch)
• Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel
• Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav

Banking news

India Signs $42 Million Loan Agreement with ADB to Strengthen Coastal Resilience in Maharashtra

On December, 2024, the Central Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a loan agreement worth $42 million to support coastal protection efforts in Maharashtra. This initiative aims to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities and safeguard their livelihoods.

Objective of the Loan:

• The loan will focus on strengthening coastal protection to boost the community resilience in Maharashtra.
• It will help restore and stabilize the coastline, which has been vulnerable to erosion and climate change impacts.

Stakeholder Involvement:

• The project will primarily involve the Maharashtra Maritime Board, which will receive support in terms of shore management planning.
• A new Coastal Infrastructure Management Unit will be established under the project to improve management and implementation.

Capacity Building Focus:

• The loan agreement includes provisions for capacity building for various stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and institutions.
• Gender equality and social inclusion will be prioritized in coastal management and livelihood activities, ensuring equal access and opportunities for all members of coastal communities.

Maharashtra:

• Chief minister: Devendra Fadnavis
• Governor: C. P. Radhakrishnan
• Capital: Mumbai

Appointment news

Rama Mohan Rao Amara Appointed as SBI’s New Managing Director

The Indian government has appointed Rama Mohan Rao Amara as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI) for a tenure of three years. His appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), follows a recommendation by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB). Amara takes over from CS Setty, who became the Chairman of SBI in August 2024.

Selection Process and Recommendation: The FSIB reviewed nine candidates for the MD position, ultimately selecting Amara based on his performance in interviews, qualifications, and extensive experience within the banking sector.

SBI:

• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Founded: 1 July 1955
• Key people: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty (Chairman)

Defence news

Indian Army Unveils AI Incubation Centre for Future Warfare

The Indian Army AI Incubation Centre (IAAIIC) has been launched in Bengaluru, marking a major step in modernizing its operational capabilities and advancing its technological prowess. The virtual inauguration was led by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi. This initiative aims to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the Army’s capabilities, aligning with India’s vision for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

Key Objectives and Features:

AI Innovation Hub:

The IAAIIC will function as a collaborative platform, bringing together academia, startups, and industry experts to develop AI-driven solutions tailored to the needs of the Indian Army.

Focus Areas in Research and Development:

The centre will concentrate on developing solutions in critical areas such as:

• Predictive maintenance for military equipment.
• Advanced surveillance technologies.
• Decision support systems to enhance operational efficiency.
• Development of autonomous platforms for combat and logistical purposes.

Building Indigenous Talent: One of the key goals of the IAAIIC is to foster local AI expertise, reducing dependence on foreign technologies and creating a skilled workforce in the domain of defence technology.

Technological Support: The centre will be equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and supported by a supercomputer from the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), facilitating AI training and development.

Award news

Easterine Kire Wins Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for ‘Spirit Nights’ in English Category

The Sahitya Akademi Awards for 2024 have been announced, recognizing literary excellence in 21 languages. These prestigious awards are given annually to honor outstanding works of literature across various genres, including poetry and novels. This year, several authors from the North East have been recognized for their contributions to literature.

Key Awardees and Their Works

English Language Category:

• Kire’s novel, Spirit Nights, published by Simon and Schuster India, won the award in the English language category.
• Spirit Nights is inspired by the folklore of the Chang Naga tribe of Nagaland, weaving a tale of darkness and mystery from their narratives.

Assamese Language Category (Poetry): Sameer Tanti won the award for his work Pharingbore Bator Katha Jane in the Poetry category.

Manipuri Language Category (Poetry): Haobam Satyabati Devi was awarded for her poetry collection Mainu Bora Nungshi Sheirol.

Bodo Language Category (Novel): Aron Raja was recognized for his novel Swrni Thakhai, which won the award in the Novel category for the Bodo language.

Bhutan Confers Royal Honour on Indian Educationist Arun Kapur

Indian educationist Arun Kapur has been honoured by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel for his significant contributions to education in India, Bhutan, and Oman. This recognition took place during the 117th Bhutanese National Day celebrations at the Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu, where Kapur was conferred the prestigious Red Scarf and the title ‘Dasho’.

Key Recognition: Red Scarf and ‘Dasho’ Title

• Award Conferred: Bhutan’s King presented Arun Kapur with the ‘Bura Marp’ (red scarf) and ‘Patang’ (ceremonial sword) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to education.
• Dasho Title: The title ‘Dasho’ is a rare honour traditionally reserved for senior Bhutanese officials, and it is usually not granted to non-residents, making this recognition especially significant.

Past Contributions and Achievements

• Previous Honour: In 2019, Arun Kapur was awarded the ‘Druk Thuksey’ for his pivotal role in establishing The Royal Academy school and developing the Bhutan Baccalaureate educational system.
• Leadership at Vasant Valley School: Kapur served as the head of Vasant Valley School in Delhi for 29 years, where he made substantial contributions to shaping the educational landscape before retiring in April 2020.

Arun Kapur’s work in the field of education has had a lasting impact, particularly in Bhutan, where his initiatives in educational development have been widely recognized and celebrated.

Bhutan:

• Capital: Thimphu
• Currencies: Bhutanese Ngultrum, Indian Rupee
• Official language: Dzongkha
• King: Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

Sports news

New Delhi to host 2025 World Para Athletics C’ships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium

In a significant development for sports in India, New Delhi is set to host the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This will be the first time that India will host this prestigious event. The championships are scheduled to take place from September 26 to October 5, 2025.

Event Overview:

• The 2025 World Para Athletics Championships will be the 12th edition of the event.
• This will also be the fourth time the championships are being held in Asia, following previous editions in Doha (2015), Dubai (2019), and Kobe (2024).

Significance:

• Hosting the World Para Athletics Championships is a major milestone for India’s sporting landscape, highlighting the nation’s commitment to promoting inclusive sports.
• The event will bring together elite para-athletes from around the world, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for adaptive sports.

Additional Event:

• In addition to the championships, New Delhi will also host a World Para Athletics Grand Prix for the first time.
• The Grand Prix will take place from March 11 to 13, 2025, also at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi – one of the most prominent stadiums in India, known for hosting significant national and international events.

Award news

President Murmu to award President’s Colours to College of Defence Management

The College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad, will be awarded the prestigious President’s Colours today, recognizing its outstanding contributions to military education and training. The award will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremonial event held at the CDM.

Key Highlights

Establishment and Evolution: Founded in 1970, the CDM initially focused on administrative training for military officers. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most respected institutions in India, offering advanced training in strategic planning, resource management, and leadership.

Training Programs:

• The CDM conducts a range of training programs, including the Higher Defence Management Course and the Senior Defence Management Course.
• These programs attract military personnel not only from India but also from across the world, emphasizing the college’s international recognition.

Emphasis on Multi-Domain Warfare:

• With a growing focus on multi-domain warfare, the CDM has adapted its curriculum to address the evolving challenges faced by modern military forces.
• The college now stands at the forefront of professional military education, equipping officers with the necessary skills to manage complex and dynamic defence environments.

Role of CDM in Professional Military Education: CDM plays a crucial role in shaping the future of military leadership in India and beyond, contributing to the nation’s defence preparedness and strategic capabilities.

Renowned Tabla Maestro Pt. Swapan Choudhary Awarded 2023 National Tansen Samman

The prestigious National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were conferred at the Tansen Festival held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, the renowned music capital of India.

• National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award Presented at Tansen Festival in Gwalior
• The prestigious National Tansen Award and Raja Mansingh Tomar Award were conferred at the Tansen Festival held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, the renowned music capital of India.

National Tansen Award 2023:

• Recipient: Pt. Swapan Choudhary, a distinguished tabla player from Kolkata.
• Award Details: Pt. Choudhary was honoured with the National Tansen Samman for 2023, one of the highest recognitions in the field of Indian classical music.
• The award included an honorarium of five lakh rupees, a citation plaque, and a shawl-shriphal.

About the Award: The National Tansen Samman, established by the Madhya Pradesh government, is named after the legendary Tansen, one of the greatest musicians of the Mughal era. It recognizes exceptional contributions to Indian classical music.

Pt. Swapan Choudhary’s Reaction: He expressed his gratitude and honor in receiving the award, highlighting the significance of this recognition in his long-standing career as a tabla maestro.

Raja Mansingh Tomar Award 2023:

• Recipient: Sanand Nyas, an institution based in Indore.
• About the Institution: Sanand Nyas has been actively promoting classical music, drama, and cultural festivals in Indore for over 35 years.
• Award Details: Sanand Nyas was conferred with the Raja Mansingh Tomar Samman for its significant contributions to the cultural and artistic landscape of Madhya Pradesh.

Tansen Festival: The Tansen Festival in Gwalior is a celebration of Indian classical music and has been an important cultural event for years. The awards presented during the festival recognize outstanding contributions to the Indian classical music tradition, further elevating the importance of Gwalior as a historic center for classical music and culture.

Science and tech news

Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam

India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica), a key initiative under Project Dolphin led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). This project, conducted in Assam, marks a global first for the species and serves as a major step in protecting India’s National Aquatic Animal.

Key Highlights of the Ganges River Dolphin Tagging Initiative

First-Ever Tagging of the Species

• Global First: This is the first-ever satellite tagging of the Ganges River Dolphin, not just in India but globally.
• The tagging was performed on a healthy male dolphin in Assam, which was carefully released back into the river under veterinary supervision.

Collaborative Effort

• The initiative was conducted by MoEFCC in partnership with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Assam Forest Department, and Aaranyak.
• It is funded by the National CAMPA Authority as part of the larger Project Dolphin.

Objectives of the Tagging

• The primary goals of tagging include gathering critical data about the dolphin’s habitat needs, seasonal migratory patterns, and range.
• This effort addresses gaps in knowledge regarding the conservation strategies for this elusive aquatic mammal.

Advanced Technology in Tagging

Satellite Tags: Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems were used, designed to function efficiently despite the dolphin’s limited surfacing time (5-30 seconds).

Ecological Importance of Ganges River Dolphins

National Aquatic Animal: The Ganges River Dolphin is declared as India’s National Aquatic Animal.

As apex predators, they play a crucial role in the health of river ecosystems and act as umbrella species for the environment.

The dolphins are nearly blind, relying on echolocation for navigation and feeding in murky river waters.

Challenges in Conservation

• Population Decline: The species faces significant threats due to habitat fragmentation, pollution, and human activities in their river ecosystems.
• Behavioral Challenges: Dolphins surface briefly, making tracking and observation difficult, and complicating conservation efforts.

Statements from Key Leaders

• Union Minister Bhupender Yadav described this initiative as a “historic achievement”, highlighting its importance for the conservation of India’s National Aquatic Animal.
• Project investigator Dr. Vishnupriya Kolipakam pointed out the broader ecological benefits of protecting river dolphins, which contributes to aquatic biodiversity and supports human livelihoods.

Assam:

• Capital: Dispur
• Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
• Governor: Lakshman Acharya

Ranks and report news

India Emerges as 3rd Largest Exporter in Smartphone Market

India’s remarkable rise in global smartphone exports, from the 23rd position in 2019 to the 3rd spot in 2024, is a testament to the country’s growing prowess in manufacturing and export sectors. This achievement, marked by smartphone exports crossing ₹20,000 crore in November 2024, underscores the positive impact of government initiatives and the strengthening of the domestic production ecosystem.

Key Highlights

Growth in Smartphone Exports

• 92% Growth: India’s smartphone exports grew by 92% in November 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year.
• Exports in November 2024: The export value reached ₹20,395 crore, a significant increase from ₹10,634 crore in November 2023, showcasing the country’s growing presence in global markets.

Government Initiatives Driving Growth

• Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The scheme was designed to boost local manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports, fostering self-sufficiency in the sector.
• Export Targets for 2024-25: India aims to export 70-75% of the total production value, a clear indication of the government’s commitment to making India a global manufacturing hub.

The scheme supports both domestic and international companies in establishing manufacturing units within India, thereby fostering a conducive ecosystem for growth.

Sports news

Pranav Venkatesh wins FIDE World U-18 Youth Rapid & Blitz Chess titles

India’s Pranav Venkatesh has made history by winning both the FIDE World Under-18 Youth Rapid and Blitz titles in Slovenia, marking an outstanding achievement in the chess world. Pranav, the top-seeded Grandmaster from Chennai, triumphed in both categories, showcasing exceptional skill and composure.

Rapid Category (Gold Medal)

• Pranav Venkatesh clinched the gold medal in the Rapid category with a stellar score of 9.5 points.
• Alexander Khripachenko from Russia secured the silver medal with 9 points.
• Roman Pyrih from Ukraine took the bronze with 7.5 points.

Blitz Category (Gold Medal)

• In the Blitz category, Pranav scored an impressive 19.5 points, finishing with a round to spare, ensuring his victory.
• Dmitry Mochalov from Russia claimed silver with 15.5 points.
• Alexander Khripachenko, who also competed in the Blitz, earned the bronze.

Significance of the Achievement: Pranav Venkatesh was the only Grandmaster competing in the event, which had six categories across both Rapid and Blitz formats. This highlights his exceptional performance, as he triumphed over a highly competitive field.

His success in both formats—Rapid and Blitz—adds to his growing reputation as one of India’s top young chess talents.

Kiran Ankush Jadhav clinches Men’s 50m Rifle 3P title at 67th National Shooting Championship

Indian Navy’s Kiran Ankush Jadhav made a remarkable performance at the 67th National Shooting Championship in Bhopal, claiming the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) title. He triumphed over Paris Olympic bronze medalist Swapnil Kusale and Olympian Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, securing the gold medal with a score of 465.8 in the final.

Key Highlights of the Event:

Kiran Ankush Jadhav’s Victory:

• Jadhav was in third place until the 40th shot of the final but made a strong comeback in the closing stages, shooting a series of 10.6, 10.4, 10.6, 10.0, and 10.8 to clinch the gold.
• His final score of 465.8 was enough to outpace Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, who finished second with 463.1 points.

Competition Overview: Swapnil Kusale, the Olympic bronze medalist, led the final till the 40th shot but finished in third place with 451.8 points after struggling in the final stages.

Venue: The event took place at the M.P. State Academy Shooting Range in Bhopal, where the shooters competed in a 45-shot final.

38th National Games Uttarakhand Unveils Mascot, Logo, Anthem, and Tagline

Uttarakhand unveiled the mascot, logo, jersey, anthem, and tagline for the 38th National Games 2025 in a ceremony held at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun. Scheduled from January 28 to February 14, 2025, the event reflects a mix of tradition, athleticism, and Uttarakhand’s rich heritage. The unveiling was led by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, marking a significant step for the state’s sports community.

Key Highlights of the 38th National Games 2025 Launch:

• Mascot “Mauli”:
• Inspired by Monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird.
• Symbolizes the region’s uniqueness and motivates young athletes to aim high.

Logo: Reflects the state’s beauty and biodiversity, incorporating vibrant imagery of the Monal.

Tagline: “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak” (From Resolve to Zenith) — representing determination and ambition.

Event Details:

• Dates: January 28 to February 14, 2025.
• Participants: Over 10,000 athletes, officials, and coaches from across India, including teams from institutions like the Services.
• Sports: Competitions will take place in 38 sports, including traditional sports like yoga and mallakhamb.

Ceremonial Torch: The National Games torch was lit during the ceremony.

The torch will travel across Uttarakhand to promote sports culture and inspire youth sportsmanship.

Important days

Minorities Rights Day Celebrated Nationwide

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 significant day on December 18, 2024, to raise awareness about the rights of minorities and promote their freedom, equality, and inclusion in society.

Key Highlights of the Minorities Rights Day 2024 Celebrations:

Date of Celebration: December 18, 2024

Significance of the Day:

• Commemorates the adoption of the UN Statement on the Rights of Minorities (1992).
• Focuses on promoting freedom, equality, and opportunities for minorities in India.
• Highlights efforts to create awareness about the rights of minorities and the welfare and empowerment of minority communities in India.
• The observance of this day underlines the importance of upholding the rights of minorities and ensuring their equal participation in the socio-economic and cultural fabric of society.