Tag: current affairs

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 26th and 27th January 2025 current affairs curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 26th and 27th January 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.

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National news

Nation celebrates 76th Republic Day at Kartavya Path

On 26th January 2026, President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day with a grand parade and cultural showcase at Kartavya Path (formerly Janpath) in New Delhi. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the Chief Guest for the 2025 Republic Day celebration.

• Republic Day has been celebrated annually on 26th January since 1950 to mark the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
• The President of India hoists the National Flag during the Republic Day Parade, while the Union Ministry of Defence organizes and oversees the Republic Day festivities.

Republic Day Celebration: Since 2022, Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi begin on 23rd January and continue until 30th January. 23rd January is commemorated as Parakram Diwas, honoring the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The first Parakram Diwas was celebrated in 2021.

The main Republic Day event on 26th January features an impressive parade and cultural performances along Kartavya Path.

Beating Retreat Ceremony: The Beating Retreat ceremony, marking the conclusion of Republic Day celebrations, is held on 29th January at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. This ceremony includes musical performances by the bands of the Indian Armed Forces, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), and the Delhi Police. The President presides over the ceremony, which signifies the end of the Republic Day festivities. The tradition of “Beating Retreat” originates from a centuries-old military custom when troops would cease fighting at sunset, sheath their arms, and return to their camps. During the ceremony, the Armed Forces seek the President’s permission to return to their barracks. The President serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces.

Martyrs’ Day: Martyrs’ Day, observed on 30th January, marks the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and officially concludes the Republic Day celebrations.

Highlights of the 2025 Republic Day Parade

• Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, the General Officer Commanding of the Delhi Area, served as the Commander of the 2025 Republic Day Parade.
• The parade featured a 152-member contingent from the Indonesian National Armed Forces and a 190-member Military Band from Indonesia’s Military Academy.
• The first foreign military contingent to participate in the Republic Day parade was the French Army Band in the 67th Republic Day parade of 2016.
• Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M. led a 148-member all-women marching contingent from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
• Deputy Commandant Manohar Singh Kheechee led the Border Security Force (BSF) Camel contingent.

Tableaux and Theme: Each year, India showcases its historical, cultural, and developmental diversity through tableaux. The theme for the 2025 Republic Day tableaux, selected by the Union Ministry of Defence, was “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas.” 15 States/Union Territories and 10 Ministries/Departments of the central government presented their tableaux.

Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam: A grand cultural performance, “Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam,” featured 5,000 artists from across the country. The performance, encompassing over 45 dances, spanned the entire length of Kartavya Path, ensuring a unified viewing experience for all attendees.

Bharat Parv: Organized by the Union Ministry of Tourism, the Bharat Parv festival takes place from 26th to 31st January 2025, coinciding with the Republic Day celebrations at the Red Fort in New Delhi. During the festival, the tableaux displayed on Kartavya Path will be showcased, along with cultural performances and static military band displays.

India Eyes 10,000 GI Tags by 2030, Goyal Announces

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, announced an ambitious target to achieve 10,000 Geographical Indication (GI) Tags by 2030. This announcement was made during the GI Samagam held in New Delhi, organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in collaboration with the India Today Group. The Minister emphasized a whole-of-government approach to achieve this target, including the formation of a dedicated committee to oversee its progress. Currently, India has 605 GI tags.

Shri Goyal highlighted the government’s initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to strengthen India’s Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ecosystem. These include initiatives like One District One Product (ODOP) and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Fund. He emphasized the dual focus of “Vikas bhi aur Virasat bhi” (Development along with Heritage), stressing the importance of promoting and protecting GI-tagged products for both economic and cultural benefits.

Key Highlights of the Announcement:

GI Tag Target:

• The government aims for 10,000 GI tags by 2030, up from the current 605.
• A dedicated committee will be established to oversee the implementation and progress of the GI tag target.
• The approach will involve whole-of-government coordination to meet the target.

Strengthening the IPR Ecosystem:

• The number of authorized GI tag users has grown significantly from 365 to 29,000 in the past decade.
• The number of patents granted has surged from 6,000 to 100,000 over the last 10 years.

Promoting Indian Heritage Products:

The government is focusing on promoting heritage products through initiatives like:

• One District One Product (ODOP): Aimed at showcasing and promoting unique products from each district.
• Anusandhan National Research Foundation Fund: Focused on promoting research and innovation, particularly in heritage and traditional sectors.

Banke Bihari Temple Secures FCRA License to Accept Foreign Donations

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has granted the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, a license under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), allowing the temple to receive foreign funds. This approval comes after the intervention of a court, which led to the establishment of a management committee to oversee the temple’s operations. The committee had applied for the FCRA license, highlighting the temple’s significant foreign currency receipts and its desire to accept international donations.

Background and Management Transition: Historically, the Banke Bihari Temple was managed privately by a family of priests. However, following legal proceedings, the court directed the formation of a management committee to handle the temple’s administration. This shift in management has enabled the temple to meet regulatory requirements, including the application for the FCRA license.

FCRA License Details: The FCRA license allows the Banke Bihari Temple to accept foreign contributions, which will be utilized to support the temple’s religious and cultural activities. The approval from the MHA came after a detailed application process, including the required court approvals.

Indore, Udaipur Join Global Wetland Cities Network

Indore and Udaipur have achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first two cities from India to be included in the global list of accredited Wetland Cities under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This recognition underscores India’s commitment to sustainable urban development and ecological conservation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated both cities, emphasizing the importance of balancing urban growth with environmental sustainability. The accreditation highlights the essential role of wetlands in providing ecological, social, and economic benefits, making them crucial for the sustainable development of urban areas.

Key Highlights

• Indore and Udaipur’s Recognition
• Indore and Udaipur are the first Indian cities to be recognized under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
• Both cities were nominated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

Wetlands in Indore and Udaipur

• Indore: Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, is significant for its role as a congregation area for water birds and is being developed as a bird sanctuary.
• Udaipur: The city is surrounded by five major wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai, which contribute to the city’s cultural identity, microclimate regulation, and overall ecological balance.

Significance of Wetlands

• Wetlands provide multiple benefits, including flood regulation, livelihood opportunities, and recreational values.
• They are essential for ecological conservation and play a critical role in mitigating extreme climate events, enhancing the resilience of cities to climate change.

‘Samman Sanjeevani’ App Unveiled on National Girl Child Day

On National Girl Child Day 2025, Haryana Cabinet Minister Shruti Choudhry launched the ‘Samman Sanjeevani’ app, aimed at improving the effectiveness of the ‘Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana’. The initiative focuses on providing essential services, particularly sanitary napkins, to BPL (Below Poverty Line) women and girls aged 10 to 45. This app is part of the Haryana Government’s continuous efforts to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of welfare benefits to its citizens. The event also commemorated the 10th anniversary of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme, a key initiative for women’s empowerment.

Launch of the ‘Samman Sanjeevani’ App

• The app helps track services provided under the ‘Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana’.
• It ensures that beneficiaries receive timely services, such as the distribution of sanitary napkins.
• The app also collects data on all beneficiaries, offering updates on monthly benefits.
• Services Under the ‘Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana’
• Sanitary napkins are provided to BPL women and girls between the ages of 10-45.
• These benefits are distributed through Anganwadi centers and schools.

Purpose of the App

• The app helps ensure the timely delivery of services to beneficiaries.
• It aims to streamline program administration, preventing any delays in service delivery.

10th Anniversary of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’

• The Women and Child Development Department is organizing various activities to mark the anniversary, including rallies, cultural events, recognition ceremonies, and campaigns focused on women’s empowerment.
• Schoolgirls, successful women, and community groups are involved in these events to raise awareness about the importance of daughters.

Minister’s Address: Minister Shruti Choudhry emphasized the importance of both the newly launched app and the ongoing ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme. She highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering women and raising awareness about women’s rights, with a particular focus on the welfare of daughters.

Summit news

First Technology Dialogue 2025 held in IISc Bengaluru

The inaugural edition of the Technology Dialogue took place at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on 24th January 2025. The event, held on 24th and 25th January 2025, was conducted in a hybrid format, with both virtual and in-person participation.

The Technology Dialogue aims to bring together senior policymakers, industry leaders, scientists, and scholars to discuss critical issues related to technology, including India’s international engagements in the tech domain.

The opening session was addressed virtually by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, and Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.

Organizers of the Technology Dialogue: The Technology Dialogue was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, in partnership with the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India and the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. The event took place at the IISc campus in Bengaluru on 24th and 25th January 2025.

Theme of the First Technology Dialogue: The theme of the event, “Exploring New Frontiers in Technology Diplomacy,” underscores the focus on technology policy and international partnerships.

Objectives of the Technology Dialogue

• The Technology Dialogue serves as a Track 1.5 Dialogue led by the Ministry of External Affairs. In diplomacy, Track 1.5 refers to dialogues where government officials participate unofficially, alongside non-governmental experts, to foster discussion and collaboration.
• Science and technology have increasingly become strategic tools in international relations, driving cooperation between nations. The Technology Dialogue seeks to leverage this trend and advance India’s interests in the Science and Technology sectors.

The dialogue focuses on key emerging technologies, including:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Quantum Technologies
• Space
• Semiconductors
• Bioeconomy

Ranks and report news

Odisha tops the First Fiscal Health Index of the NITI Aayog

Odisha has emerged as the top performer in the inaugural edition of the NITI Aayog’s Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025.

The report, compiled by NITI Aayog, was officially released on 24th January 2025 in New Delhi by Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, in the presence of Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, and BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog.

Overview of the NITI Aayog’s Fiscal Health Index 2025

• The report evaluates the fiscal health of 18 major states in India for the 2022-23 fiscal year, identifying areas for improvement and encouraging the adoption of best practices across these states.
• This Fiscal Health Index offers an objective assessment through a composite index, enabling the comparison and benchmarking of fiscal health practices across states.

Composition of the Fiscal Health Index

The Index covers 18 states that together account for approximately two-thirds of the country’s public expenditure and one-third of its total revenue. The assessment is based on the fiscal performance during the 2022-23 financial year.

The Fiscal Health Index consists of five major sub-indices:

• Quality of Expenditure
• Revenue Mobilisation
• Fiscal Prudence
• Debt Index
• Debt Sustainability

Additionally, the report includes nine minor sub-indices classified under:

• Deprivation Index
• Improvement Index
• States Segregated Based on Performance

Based on their performance in 2022-23, the 18 states have been divided into four categories:

Achiever States (Rank 1-5):

• Odisha
• Chhattisgarh
• Goa
• Jharkhand
• Gujarat

Frontrunner States (Rank 6-10):

• Maharashtra
• Uttar Pradesh
• Telangana
• Madhya Pradesh
• Karnataka

Performer States (Rank 11-14):

• Tamil Nadu
• Rajasthan
• Bihar
• Haryana

Aspirational States (Rank 15-18):

• Kerala
• West Bengal
• Andhra Pradesh
• Punjab

About NITI Aayog

The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog was established by the government of India through an executive order.

It officially came into existence on 1st January 2015, replacing the former Planning Commission.

Leadership:

• Chairman: The Prime Minister of India
• Vice Chairman: Suman Bery
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): BVR Subrahmanyam

NITI Aayog plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development, enhancing governance, and facilitating cooperative federalism in India. It works towards formulating strategies and policies that drive India’s economic and social progress.

Odisha:

• Chief minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
• Capital: Bhubaneswar
• Governor: Hari Babu Kambhampati

State news

Mohan Yadav Government in MP bans liquor sale in 17 religious towns

In a significant move, the Mohan Yadav-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Madhya Pradesh has announced a ban on the sale of liquor in 17 religious towns across the state. This decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in Maheshwar town (also known as the city of Devi Ahilyabai) in Khargone district on 24th January 2025. The meeting was held to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai.

Liquor Sale Ban Details

• In Madhya Pradesh, the sale of liquor is already prohibited within a five-kilometer radius on both sides of the Narmada river.
• The liquor sale ban in religious towns will be implemented in phases.

In the first phase, the sale of liquor will be banned in 17 religious towns, which include:

• One municipal corporation
• Six Nagar Palikas
• Six Nagar Parishads
• Six Gram Panchayats

Constitutional Provision Regarding Liquor Ban:

Article 47 of the Indian Constitution outlines the state’s responsibility to improve public health and raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living. It directs the state to work towards the prohibition of intoxicating drinks and drugs harmful to health, except for medicinal purposes. This provision empowers the government (central or state) to implement policies to either completely or partially ban the sale and consumption of liquor.

States/Union Territories with Liquor Bans:

Several states and union territories in India have implemented partial or complete liquor bans:

• Gujarat was the first state to impose a total ban on the sale of liquor, a decision influenced by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Currently, Gujarat, Bihar, Nagaland, and Mizoram have enforced a complete liquor ban.
• In the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, the sale of liquor is banned except in a few designated islands.

Madhya Pradesh:

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

Uniform Civil Code Rollout Begins in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has made history by becoming the first state in independent India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), effective from January 27, 2025. This landmark decision aligns with the BJP’s election promise and has been widely anticipated since the state’s 2022 assembly elections. The UCC seeks to establish uniformity in personal laws, ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens, irrespective of religion or community.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has emphasized that the law’s goal is not to target any individual or group but to foster fairness, equality, and social harmony.

Key Developments

• Consultations and Expert Committees: The implementation of the UCC followed extensive consultations and the formation of expert committees. Comprehensive rules were also drafted to ensure the smooth rollout of the law.
• The Desai Committee, led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, submitted a thorough UCC draft in February 2024.
• The Uttarakhand assembly passed the bill, and President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent in March 2024.

Key Points of Uttarakhand’s Uniform Civil Code

• Historical Context: Uttarakhand becomes the first state in India to implement the UCC.
• UCC’s Objective: It aims to standardize laws regarding marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships across all religions, ensuring equality.
• Chief Minister’s Statement: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that the UCC is a part of the BJP’s vision for a developed, harmonious nation and is not aimed at any specific community.

Key Provisions of the UCC

• Equal Marriageable Age: The age for marriage will be the same for both men and women.
• Uniform Divorce Laws: The grounds and procedures for divorce will be uniform for all religions.
• Ban on Polygamy and ‘Halala’: The law bans polygamy and the practice of ‘halala’.
• Mandatory Registration: All marriages and live-in relationships will have to be registered.
• Gender Parity: The UCC ensures gender equality in matters of marriage, divorce, and succession.
• Legitimacy of Children: Children born of void marriages will be considered legitimate.
• Uttarakhand’s implementation of the UCC is expected to bring significant societal change by promoting equality and uniformity across different communities in the state.

Uttarakhand:

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

Geo-Tagging Saves Kashmir’s Iconic Chinar Trees

Kashmir’s iconic chinar trees, long regarded as symbols of the region’s cultural and natural heritage, are now under threat due to urbanization and infrastructure development. In response, the Jammu & Kashmir Forest Research Institute (JKFRI) has launched the ‘Digital Tree Aadhar’ initiative, aiming to provide each chinar tree with a unique digital identity. This innovative project combines modern technology to protect these trees, conserve biodiversity, and preserve the region’s cultural heritage, while also raising awareness about the importance of the chinar trees.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

About the ‘Digital Tree Aadhar’ Initiative

• Purpose: The initiative aims to monitor, protect, and manage the health of every chinar tree in Kashmir.
• Concept: Modeled after India’s Aadhaar system, each chinar tree is assigned a unique digital ID.

Technology Used:

• Geo-tagging with Geographic Information System (GIS)
• QR codes for easy scanning by the public
• Metal cards with barcodes for added accessibility

Current Scope and Progress

• Trees Tagged: So far, around 10,000 trees have been tagged with metal cards.
• Chinar Census: A systematic survey started in 2021 has successfully geo-tagged 28,560 chinar trees to date.
• Future Expansion: The initiative will expand to include chinars in Jammu’s Chenab Valley and the Pir Panjal Valley.
• Top Trees: Notable chinars, including the world’s third-largest chinar (girth: 74 ft) in Ganderbal district, are also being documented.

Significance and Benefits

• Tourism: Visitors can scan QR codes to learn about the tree’s age, height, and historical significance.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Chinars are vital habitats for bird species like crows and kites.
• Carbon Sequestration: Chinar trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon and helping mitigate climate change.
• Cultural Heritage: These trees hold a deep connection with Kashmir’s folklore, literature, religious practices, and historical landmarks.

Historical and Cultural Importance of Chinars

• Origins: Chinar trees were introduced to Kashmir by Islamic preachers from Central Asia and Persia over 400 years ago.
• Oldest Tree: The oldest recorded chinar is a 700-year-old tree in Budgam district, planted by Sufi saint Syed Qasim Shah.
• Mughal Legacy: Chinars were extensively planted in Srinagar’s Mughal gardens such as Naseem Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Shalimar Garden in the 16th century.
• Religious Symbolism: Revered by both Hindus and Muslims, chinars form integral parts of shrines like Hazratbal and temples like Kheer Bhawani.
• Bollywood Appeal: These majestic trees have also featured in numerous iconic Bollywood films, symbolizing romance and nostalgia.

Banking news

PNB Pioneers Real-Time Cybercrime Response with Clari5 Integration

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has made a significant stride in fraud prevention and complaint management by becoming the first Indian bank to implement Clari5’s National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) Integration Solution. This advancement is the result of a collaboration with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). The system enables automated, real-time processing of cybercrime complaints across all retail banking channels, including Internet and Mobile Banking, ATMs, UPI, and NEFT/RTGS.

Key Features of the Integration

• Automated Lien Marking and Account Freezes: The system can automatically place holds on suspicious accounts and freeze them when necessary. This helps the bank prevent fraudulent transactions in a timely manner.
• Real-Time Processing Across Channels: The solution processes complaints in real-time across various banking platforms, ensuring rapid response to potential fraud across digital channels.
• Customizable Whitelisting: This feature allows the system to distinguish legitimate customer transactions from fraudulent ones, ensuring that valid transactions are not disrupted by fraud prevention measures.

Impact on the Indian Banking Sector: PNB’s adoption of Clari5’s NCRP Integration Solution sets a new benchmark for the Indian banking sector. It is expected to inspire other banks to implement similar technologies to enhance fraud prevention and ensure customer protection. This initiative supports the broader goal of creating a safer and more secure financial ecosystem in India.

Future Prospects: The successful implementation of this system at PNB lays a strong foundation for expanding this technology across other banks in India. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the integration of such advanced systems will be crucial in maintaining the integrity and security of India’s banking sector.

Punjab national bank:

• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Founder: Dyal Singh Majithia
• Founded: 19 May 1894, Lahore, Pakistan

32.81% Surge in Complaints to RBI Ombudsman

In 2024, the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Integrated Ombudsman Scheme saw a significant 32.81% increase in bank customer complaints, totaling 9.34 lakh complaints. This rise highlights a growing concern regarding customer grievances in the banking sector. The complaints primarily centered around delays in service, errors in transactions, and inadequate redressal by banks, underscoring the need for improvements in customer service and grievance handling mechanisms.

• Complaints Surge: Key Data
• Total Complaints: 9.34 lakh (a 32.81% increase from the previous year)
• Growth Rate: 32.81% surge in complaints received under the Ombudsman scheme

Root Causes of the Rise

• Transaction Delays & Errors: A large number of complaints stemmed from delays or mistakes in banking transactions.
• Bank’s Response: The lack of timely and satisfactory responses from banks to customer issues contributed significantly to the rise in complaints.

Past vs Present: The increase in complaints signals an urgent need for banks to improve their customer service strategies, especially in light of the growing prominence of digital banking services. Despite the RBI’s efforts, customer dissatisfaction remains a significant issue within the financial sector.

RBI’s Role in Improving the Redressal Mechanism: The RBI Ombudsman system plays a vital role in resolving disputes between customers and financial institutions.

• Digital banking concerns: A large portion of complaints in the previous year stemmed from digital banking services, reflecting the growing concerns about online banking as it continues to expand.
• Addressing the Surge: Immediate Measures Needed

Financial institutions are urged to enhance their internal grievance redressal systems to prevent further escalation of complaints. The surge in complaints emphasizes the need for stronger consumer protection and greater accountability within the banking sector.

RBI:

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

Appointment news

Jitender Pal Singh Appointed as India’s New Ambassador to Israel

On January 24, 2025, the Government of India announced the appointment of Jitender Pal Singh as the next Ambassador to Israel. An Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer from the 2002 batch, Singh is currently serving in the office of the External Affairs Minister and has previously led the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division within the Ministry of External Affairs since 2020.

Predecessor’s Transition

• Singh succeeds Sanjeev Kumar Singla, who served as India’s Ambassador to Israel from 2019 until his recent appointment as Ambassador to France in October 2024.
• Singla’s tenure in Israel was marked by significant diplomatic engagements, including high-level visits and the strengthening of bilateral relations.

Israel:

• Capital: Jerusalem
• President: Isaac Herzog
• Prime minister: Benjamin Netanyahu
• Official language: Hebrew

SSB Chief Amrit Mohan Gets Additional Charge as BCAS DG

The Central Government has appointed Amrit Mohan Prasad, the Director General (DG) of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), to hold the additional charge as the Director General (DG) of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). This decision, which has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, highlights the government’s trust in Prasad’s leadership abilities. The appointment is set for six months, starting from November 1, 2024, or until the regular incumbent joins, whichever comes first. This is a significant move considering the strategic importance of civil aviation security in India.

P. Suriaraj Appointed Executive Director of Dhanlaxmi Bank

P. Suriaraj has assumed the role of Executive Director at Dhanlaxmi Bank, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his tenure at Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd. His appointment is expected to bolster the bank’s strategic initiatives and operational efficiency.

Award news

Padma Awards 2025- Get the Complete Winners List

On the eve of the 76th Republic Day, in line with tradition, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs announced the names of the 2025 Padma awardees. The Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are the highest civilian honors bestowed by the government of India to both Indian and foreign citizens, recognizing their distinguished contributions in areas where public service is involved.

The award ceremony, where these prestigious honors are conferred, will be held in March/April 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi, with the President of India presiding over the function.

2025 Padma Awards

In 2025, a total of 139 Padma Awards will be presented, including a duo case, where the award is counted as one. These include:

• 7 Padma Vibhushan
• 19 Padma Bhushan
• 113 Padma Shri

Out of these awardees, 23 are women, 10 are Foreigners/Non-Resident Indians/Persons of Indian Origin/Overseas Citizens of India, and 13 are posthumous awardees.

Though typically no more than 120 Padma Awards are conferred each year, exceptions are sometimes made.

Civilian Awards Overview

The Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards were instituted by the government of India in 1954. Initially, the Padma Award was called the Padma Vibhushan Award and was divided into three categories: Pahla Varg, Dusra Varg, and Tisra Varg. On 8th January 1955, the government renamed them as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.

• The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award in India, followed by the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
• The Bharat Ratna and Padma awards are conferred annually, but they were suspended in 1978-79 and from 1993-1997.

Who Decides the Award?

The President of India receives the recommendation for the Bharat Ratna from the Prime Minister. Typically, no more than three people are awarded the Bharat Ratna each year.

• For Padma Awards, the recommendations are made by the Padma Awards Committee, which is formed by the Prime Minister each year. The Cabinet Secretary heads the committee, which submits its recommendations to the Prime Minister and the President of India.
• A person may receive a higher category Padma award only after at least five years have passed since their previous Padma award, although the Committee may relax this rule in exceptional cases.

Categories of Padma Award

The Padma Awards are divided into three categories based on hierarchy:

• Padma Vibhushan (highest) – for exceptional and distinguished service.
• Padma Bhushan – for distinguished service of a high order.
• Padma Shri – for distinguished service.

Is the Award a Title?

• There has been controversy over whether the Bharat Ratna or Padma Award constitutes a title, as per Article 18 of the Indian Constitution. According to Clause 1 of Article 18, “No title, not being a military or academic distinction, shall be conferred by the State.”
• In the Balaji Raghavan/S.P. Anand vs Union of India (1995) case, a 5-judge bench of the Supreme Court held that the Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are not titles as per Article 18 and can be conferred by the government. However, the government has stated that these awards cannot be used as a suffix or prefix to the awardees’ names.

What Does the Awardee Receive?

Awardees are presented with a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion. They are also given a small replica of the medallion, which can be worn during ceremonial or state functions. The names of the awardees are officially published in the Gazette of India on the day of the presentation ceremony.

Here is the list of 2025 Padma Awardees categorized by their respective awards:

Padma Bhushan Awardees (7)

• Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy – Medicine (Telangana)
• Justice (Retd.) Shri Jagdish Singh Khehar – Public Affairs (Chandigarh)
• Mrs. Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia – Art (Gujarat)
• Lakshminarayana Subramaniam – Art (Karnataka)
• M. T. Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous) – Literature and Education (Kerala)
• Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous) – Trade and Industry (Founder of Maruti Suzuki, Japan)
• Sharda Sinha (Posthumous) – Art (Bihar Kokila) (Bihar)

Padma Bhushan Awardees (19)

• A Surya Prakash – Literature and Education (Journalism, Karnataka)
• Anant Nag – Art (Karnataka)
• Bibek Debroy (Posthumous) – Literature and Education (Former Chairman, Prime Minister Economic Advisory Council, NCT Delhi)
• Jatin Goswami – Art (Assam)
• Jose Chacko Periappuram – Medicine (Kerala)
• Kailash Nath Dikshit – Others (Archaeology, NCT Delhi)
• Manohar Joshi (Posthumous) – Public Affairs (Maharashtra)
• Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti – Trade and Industry (Tamil Nadu)
• Nandamuri Balakrishna – Art (Telugu film actor, Andhra Pradesh)
• P R Sreejesh – Sports (Ex Goalkeeper of Indian hockey team, Kerala)
• Pankaj Patel – Trade and Industry (Gujarat)
• Pankaj Udhas (Posthumous) – Art (Ghazal Singer, Maharashtra)
• Rambahadur Rai – Literature and Education (Journalism, Uttar Pradesh)
• Sadhvi Ritambhara – Social Work (Uttar Pradesh)
• S Ajith Kumar – Art (Tamil Nadu)
• Shekhar Kapur – Art (Film Director, Maharashtra)
• Shobana Chandrakumar – Art (Tamil Nadu)
• Sushil Kumar Modi (Posthumous) – Public Affairs (Bihar)
• Vinod Dham – Science and Engineering (Father of Pentium Chip, United States of America)

Padma Shri Awardees (113)

• Adwaita Charan Gadanayak – Art (Odisha)
• Achyut Ramchandra Palav – Art (Maharashtra)
• Ajay V Bhatt – Science and Engineering (United States of America)
• Anil Kumar Boro – Literature and Education (Assam)
• Arijit Singh – Art (Hindi film singer, West Bengal)
• Mrs. Arundhati Bhattacharya – Trade and Industry (Maharashtra)
• Arunoday Saha – Literature and Education (Tripura)
• Arvind Sharma – Literature and Education (Canada)
• Ashok Kumar Mahapatra – Medicine (Odisha)
• Ashok Laxman Saraf – Art (Maharashtra)

Sports news

Omarzai Crowned ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year

Azmatullah Omarzai, Afghanistan’s dynamic all-rounder, had an outstanding 2024 season in One Day International (ODI) cricket, showcasing his exceptional skills with both bat and ball. His performances not only bolstered Afghanistan’s cricketing presence but also helped elevate the team’s status on the international stage.

Key Highlights of Omarzai’s 2024 Season:

ODI Performance:

• Matches Played: 14
• Runs Scored: 417
• Wickets Taken: 17
• Batting Average: 52.12
• Bowling Average: 20.47

Smriti Mandhana Named ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024

Smriti Mandhana had an exceptional year in 2024 in One Day International (ODI) cricket, solidifying her position as one of the leading players in the women’s game. Known for her stylish left-handed batting and ability to perform under pressure, Mandhana played a key role in India’s success across several series. She was not only the leading run-scorer in WODIs for the year but also broke multiple personal and team records.

Key Highlights of Smriti Mandhana’s Remarkable 2024:

Overview/Stats:

• Runs Scored: 747 runs in 13 matches, making her the leading run-scorer in WODIs for the year.
• Batting Average: 57.86, demonstrating her consistency and dominance in the 50-over format.
• Strike Rate: 95.15, reflecting her aggressive yet calculated approach at the crease.
• Centuries Scored: Four centuries in the year, setting a new record in women’s ODIs.
• Boundary Count: 95 fours and 6 sixes, showcasing her ability to find the boundary consistently.

Bumrah Crowned ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year

Jasprit Bumrah had an extraordinary year in 2024, cementing his position as one of the most dominant bowlers in Test cricket. After making a stellar comeback from a back injury in late 2023, Bumrah’s exceptional performances were crucial to India’s success in both home and away series. His consistency, wicket-taking ability, and record-breaking feats helped keep India in the running for the ICC World Test Championship and earned him the prestigious ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award for 2024.

Key Highlights of Jasprit Bumrah’s 2024:

Overall Performance:

• Wickets Taken: 71 wickets in 13 matches, showcasing his vital role in India’s bowling attack.
• Average: 14.92 (the lowest among bowlers with 70+ wickets in a calendar year), underlining his dominance and consistency.
• Strike Rate: 30.1, demonstrating his ability to take wickets at regular intervals.
• Economy Rate: 2.96, reflecting his tight and controlled bowling in the Test format.
• Overs Bowled: 357 overs, showing his workhorse mentality and endurance.

Jannik Sinner &Madison Keys wins 2025 Australian Open Singles Titles

The 2025 Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the tennis season, concluded with remarkable performances from Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys, both claiming their maiden and defending titles respectively. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the event:

Winners of the 2025 Australian Open:

Men’s Singles:

• Winner: Jannik Sinner (Italy)
• Runner-Up: Alexander Zverev (Germany)
• Score: Sinner defeated Zverev 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3.

Significance: Jannik Sinner became the first Italian man to win 3 Grand Slam singles titles. This victory marked his second consecutive Australian Open title, successfully defending his 2024 championship.

It was Sinner’s third Grand Slam title, having previously won the 2024 US Open as well.

Historical Note: He became the first man to defend a maiden Grand Slam title since Rafael Nadal at the 2006 French Open.

Women’s Singles:

• Winner: Madison Keys (USA)
• Runner-Up: Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus)
• Score: Keys defeated Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5.
• Significance: This victory marked Madison Keys’ first Grand Slam title, having previously lost in the 2017 US Open final to Sloane Stephens.
• It was a hard-fought match, and Keys became the first American woman to win the Australian Open singles title since 2015.

Men’s Doubles:

• Winners: Harri Heliovaara (Finland) and Henry Patten (Britain)
• Runners-Up: Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori (Both Italy)

Women’s Doubles:

• Winners: Katerina Siniakova (Czech Republic) and Taylor Townsend (USA)
• Runners-Up: Su-Wei Hsieh (Taiwan) and Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia)

Mixed Doubles:

• Winners: Olivia Gadecki and John Peers (Both from Australia)
• Runners-Up: Kimberly Birrell and John Patrick Smith (Both from Australia)

Important days

International Day of Clean Energy 2025 Observed on 26th January

The International Day of Clean Energy on 26th January was declared by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness and drive action towards a just and inclusive transition to clean energy for the benefit of both people and the planet. This day highlights the dual challenge humanity faces: ensuring no one is left behind while also protecting the planet for future generations. Clean energy plays a vital role in addressing these challenges by reducing socio-economic inequalities and mitigating the harmful effects of climate change.

The Role of Clean Energy in Tackling Global Issues

• Energy Poverty: A Barrier to Socio-Economic Development
• Despite technological advancements, 685 million people worldwide still lack access to electricity, with over 80% of them living in Sub-Saharan Africa. This lack of reliable energy affects critical areas of life, such as:
• Education: Without electricity for lighting, computers, and communication, schools struggle to operate efficiently, limiting educational opportunities.
• Healthcare: Clinics without electricity cannot store vaccines or perform vital surgeries, jeopardizing public health.
• Economic Opportunities: Small businesses and industries, which rely on energy to operate and grow, face significant challenges in creating jobs and promoting economic development.

International Customs Day 2025- Theme, History, Significance and Key Facts

International Customs Day (ICD) is celebrated annually on January 26 to honor the crucial role played by customs officials and agencies in ensuring the smooth and secure flow of goods across international borders. This day highlights the importance of customs authorities in trade management, revenue generation, supply chain security, and in combating illegal trade. The observance is led by members of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), who actively participate in organizing events and showcasing their work to promote the objectives of efficient customs management.

Theme for International Customs Day 2025:

• The theme for International Customs Day 2025 is: “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”
• This theme emphasizes the commitment of customs authorities to enhance the efficiency of global trade operations, ensure security, and contribute to economic prosperity. The WCO encourages its members to adopt this theme as they demonstrate their efforts in creating robust and efficient customs processes that benefit international trade and global security.

History of International Customs Day

Foundation of WCO:

• The origins of International Customs Day trace back to the establishment of the Customs Cooperation Council (CCC), which is now known as the World Customs Organisation (WCO). The CCC was formed in 1952 as an intergovernmental body aimed at improving the efficiency of customs administrations globally.
• The inaugural session of the CCC took place on January 26, 1953, in Brussels, Belgium, with representatives from 17 founding member nations. This event marked the beginning of a global initiative to streamline customs processes and enhance the management of international trade.
• Today, the WCO has grown to include 183 member states, collectively overseeing nearly 98% of the world’s trade. To commemorate the foundation of the WCO, January 26 was designated as International Customs Day.

Significance of International Customs Day

International Customs Day serves as a reminder of the essential role that customs agencies play in:

• Facilitating global trade while ensuring the security of goods.
• Preventing illegal trade and smuggling activities.
• Contributing to national and global economic prosperity.
• Ensuring supply chain integrity through effective customs management practices.

National Geographic Day 2025- History, Significance and Celebrations

National Geographic Day is celebrated every year on January 27 to honor the foundation of the National Geographic Society. The day not only celebrates the organization’s significant contributions to science, exploration, and environmental conservation, but also reminds us of the ongoing importance of preserving the natural world. Let’s explore more about the history and achievements of the National Geographic Society:

History and Background of National Geographic Society

Foundation of the National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society was founded on January 27, 1888, in Washington, D.C., USA, by a group of 33 visionaries, including Gardiner Greene Hubbard.

The mission of the organization was:

• To promote the study of geography, science, and humanity.
• To raise awareness about Earth’s natural beauty and resources.
• To encourage exploration and discovery to uncover the mysteries of the world.

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 24th January 2025 current affairs curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 24th January 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.

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National news

Union Minister Piyush Goyal sets target of 10,000 GI tags by 2030

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has set an ambitious target to achieve 10,000 Geographical Indication (GI) Tags by 2030. Speaking at the GI Samagam event in New Delhi, Mr. Goyal outlined the government’s strategy to meet this goal through a whole-of-government approach, including the formation of a committee to oversee the implementation.

Key Highlights

Current Status: Number of GI Tags Issued to Date: 605 tags have been granted so far.

Intellectual Property Ecosystem Growth:

• GI Tags: Increase in authorized users of GI tags from 365 to 29,000.
• Patents Granted: The number of patents granted has risen from 6,000 to 1 lakh in the past 10 years.

Government’s Efforts Under Prime Minister Modi: The government has made concerted efforts to promote the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ecosystem, supporting the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vikas bhi aur Virasat bhi’ (Development and Heritage).

Collaboration for Branding and Quality: Emphasis on improving branding for GI products, including collaboration with FSSAI and BIS to ensure better quality standards.

India Inaugurates CSIR Mega Innovation Complex in Mumbai

On January , 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first-of-its-kind CSIR Mega Innovation Complex in Mumbai, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s innovation landscape. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to bolster start-ups, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and industry stakeholders by providing high-end scientific infrastructure and expertise.

Key Features of the Innovation Complex

Infrastructure and Facilities:

• Nine Floors of cutting-edge infrastructure.
• 24 Incubation Labs equipped for specialized research.
• Office Spaces and Networking Zones to encourage collaboration and innovation.
• Tailored to support the growth of start-ups and MSMEs.

Support for Regulatory Compliance:

Bridges the gap between research and industry.

Focus on regulatory studies, technology transfer, and addressing sector-specific challenges in areas like:

• Healthcare
• Chemicals
• Energy
• Materials Science

Collaboration and Partnerships:

• Fosters collaboration among start-ups, MSMEs, and CSIR’s network of researchers.
• Supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

Strategic Collaborations and Achievements

Memoranda of Association:

• Six MoUs signed between CSIR and institutes like IIT Bombay, iCreate, and NRDC.
• These MoUs aim to strengthen industry-academic collaborations and boost innovation.

Technology Transfers:

• Fifty technology transfers from CSIR institutes to start-ups, MSMEs, and other institutions.
• This promotes commercialization of research and enhances entrepreneurship.

Centre Hikes MSP on Jute, Promises 66.8% Returns for farmers

The Centre has made a significant decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for raw jute by Rs 315, setting it at Rs 5,650 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season. This move, approved by the Union Cabinet, aims to provide farmers with a return of 66.8 per cent over the all-India weighted average cost of production, thus encouraging farmers to invest in jute cultivation.

Increase in MSP for Raw Jute (2025-26)

• New MSP: ₹5,650 per quintal, up by ₹315 from the 2024-25 rate of ₹5,335.
• Return to Farmers: 66.8% over the all-India weighted average cost of production.
• Historical Growth: MSP for raw jute has increased 2.35 times since 2014-15.
• Impact: Expected to boost jute production and provide better financial incentives for farmers.

2. Extension of the National Health Mission (NHM)

Duration: Extended for an additional five years.

Achievements:

• Added 1.2 million healthcare workers between 2021 and 2022.
• Played a critical role during the Covid-19 pandemic, supporting vaccination drives and public health campaigns.
• Enhanced healthcare access in rural and underserved areas.
• These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening healthcare infrastructure in India.

India Launches Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to Boost Diamond Sector Exports

In January 2025, the Department of Commerce (DOC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) introduced the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme, effective from April 1, 2025. The scheme aims to enhance the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector by encouraging value addition and increasing exports.

Key Features of the DIA Scheme

• Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free importation of Natural Cut and Polished Diamonds weighing less than 4 carats (25 cents), promoting value addition.
• Export Requirement: Exports under the scheme must have at least 10% value added.
• Eligibility: Diamond exporters with USD 15 million in annual exports and Two Star Export House status or higher are eligible for the benefits.

Diamond Imprest License (DIL):

• Validity: 1 year for import and 18 months for export.
• Value: 5% of the average of the past 3 years’ exports, with a maximum value of USD 15 million per exporter annually.

Import and Export Conditions:

• Diamonds imported under the Actual User Condition.
• Import/Export will be restricted to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (Maharashtra).

Focus on MSME Competitiveness: Aimed at Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), providing a level playing field to compete against larger exporters.

India Launches First-ever Survey on Edible Oil Consumption Patterns

On January 9, 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MOA&FW) launched the first-ever survey on the “My Gov” portal to assess edible oil consumption patterns across India. This initiative is crucial for supporting the effective implementation of the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) and addressing the absence of recent data on edible oil consumption in the country.

Key Details

Objective:

• To gather data on edible oil consumption patterns, aiding the formulation of policies for the NMEO-Oilseeds.
• India is the world’s largest consumer and importer of edible oils, and accurate data is essential for managing supply and demand effectively.

Survey Duration: The questionnaire-based survey runs from January 9 to February 23, 2025, for a period of 45 days.

Industry Insight: Reports indicate that India’s per capita annual consumption (PCAC) of edible oils has surpassed 20 kg, significantly higher than the recommended limits of 12 kg by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and 13 kg by the World Health Organization (WHO).

About the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MOA&FW)

• Union Minister: Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Constituency: Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh)
• Minister of State (MOS): Ram Nath Thakur (Rajya Sabha, Bihar)

Significance: The survey will provide essential insights into edible oil consumption in India, enabling the government to design targeted interventions to balance consumption and promote healthier alternatives, while also supporting domestic oilseed production under the NMEO-Oilseeds mission.

International news

India and France Strengthen Maritime Security Cooperation

In January 2025, India and France further bolstered their maritime security cooperation during the 7th India-France Maritime Cooperation Dialogue held in New Delhi. This dialogue focused on ensuring peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), a vital area for global maritime trade.

Key Points

Co-Chairs:

• Pavan Kapoor, Deputy National Security Adviser (NSA), Government of India.
• Alice Rufo, Director General for International Relations and Strategy, Ministry for the Armed Forces, France.

Maritime Security Focus:

Both countries agreed to analyze threats to maritime security in the IOR, aiming to combat issues such as:

• Piracy and armed robbery
• Maritime terrorism
• Contraband smuggling
• Unreported and excessive fishing

Ensuring Secure Sea Lanes: India and France committed to ensuring free and secure access to sea lanes of communication by enhancing their collaboration through maritime assets and organizations.

Maritime Organizations Involved:

• Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram, India.
• Regional Coordination Operations Centre (RCOC) in Seychelles.
• Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre (RMIFC) in Madagascar.

Additional Context India’s Role: India assumes the chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in 2025 for the next two years, strengthening its leadership in regional maritime security.

Significance: The India-France cooperation on maritime security enhances both nations’ capabilities to address regional challenges in the IOR and contributes to maintaining peace, security, and stability in this strategically important region.

India Joins the Eurodrone Programme as Observer State

In January 2025, India officially joined the Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS) or Eurodrone programme as an Observer State. This makes India the second Asia-Pacific country, after Japan, to obtain this status. The move allows India access to technical data and the opportunity to place orders for the Eurodrone aircraft.

Key Details

Approval: The Letter of Approval (LOA) was handed over by Joachim Sucker, Executive Administration Director of the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), to Ajit Gupte, India’s Ambassador to Germany, in Berlin, Germany.

Access and Participation:

• India is granted access to technical data and can place orders for the Eurodrone aircraft.
• However, India will not participate in decision-making related to the platform’s design, development, or distribution of workshare among participating countries.

About OCCAR

• Full Name: Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement (OCCAR).
• Role: An intergovernmental organization that manages and facilitates collaborative armament programs.
• Director: Joachim Sucker.
• Headquarters: Bonn, Germany.
• Established: 1996.

Banking news

RBI’s Strategic Liquidity Infusion to Stabilize Money Markets

To address liquidity constraints in the Indian banking system, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has infused ₹76,000 crore into the financial system through Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auctions. This measure aims to stabilize short-term interest rates, particularly the call money rates, which had been trading above the RBI’s repo rate of 6.5%.

Crux of the Matter

The RBI’s intervention aims to inject liquidity into the banking system, which will:

• Lower the Weighted Average Call Rate (WACR).
• Align overnight borrowing costs with the repo rate.
• Stabilize short-term interest rates, preventing them from rising sharply above the current repo rate.

Key Details

Auction Details (January 20, 2025):

• Bids accepted: ₹75,772 crore.
• Cut-off rate: 6.51%.
• The liquidity injected is scheduled to be reversed on January 21, 2025.

Liquidity Deficit:

• As of January 19, 2025, the banking system’s liquidity deficit stood at ₹1.93 lakh crore.
• The average deficit in January was ₹1.61 lakh crore.

Market Impact: On January 20, 2025, the WACR closed at 6.60%, indicating overnight borrowing costs were slightly above the repo rate due to the liquidity deficit.

Expert Insights

• Alok Singh, Group Head of Treasury at CSB Bank, noted that while daily VRR auctions help reduce volatility in overnight rates, they may not fully address the higher liquidity deficit in the long term.
• These measures are seen as short-term interventions to stabilize the market but may require additional steps for durable liquidity.

Historical Context: This intervention follows previous actions, including the March 2024 infusion of ₹1.16 lakh crore through three VRR auctions amidst tight liquidity conditions.

Variable Rate Repo (VRR) – Key Points

• Definition: A liquidity adjustment tool used by the RBI to inject short-term funds into the banking system.
• Interest Rate: Determined through an auction, unlike the fixed-rate repo.
• Purpose: To manage liquidity deficits and stabilize short-term interest rates like the call money rate.
• Tenure: Typically short-term, often overnight or up to 14 days.
• Mechanism: Banks bid for funds at varying interest rates, with the RBI accepting the lowest rates first.
• Frequency: Conducted as needed, depending on market liquidity conditions.
• Significance: Ensures market rates align with the RBI’s policy repo rate.

Ranks and report news

19th Global 500 2025 Report by Brand Finance

According to the 19th Global 500 2025 report published by Brand Finance, Apple has retained its position as the world’s most valuable brand, with a brand value of USD 574.5 billion (bn). Tata Group (USD 28.6 bn) is the most valuable Indian brand for the 15th consecutive holding 60th spot in the list.

Top Global Brands

• Apple has retained its position as the world’s most valuable brand with a brand value of USD 574.5 billion.
• Microsoft is ranked 2nd with a value of USD 461.1 billion.
• Google holds the 3rd spot with a brand value of USD 413 billion.

Strongest Brands in the World

• WeChat is the strongest brand for the 2nd consecutive year, with a score of 95.2.
• Nike follows in 2nd place with a score of 94.7.
• Google ranks 3rd with a score of 94.3.

Brand Distribution by Country

• United States has the greatest number of brands, with 193 brands in the list.
• China follows with 69 brands, and Germany ranks 3rd with 27 brands.
• India is ranked 8th, with 15 brands making the list.

Top Indian Brands

• Tata Group remains the most valuable Indian brand for the 15th consecutive year, valued at USD 28.6 billion, ranked 60th globally.
• Infosys is one of the top-performing IT brands globally, with the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.2% over the past 5 years.
• HDFC Group, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), and Reliance Group round out the top five Indian brands.

Noteworthy Growth

• HCL Technologies (HCLTech) has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing IT services brand in 2025.
• e&, a telecommunications brand, is the fastest-growing brand in the world with an eight-fold increase in brand value, now valued at USD 15.3 billion.

State news

Mizoram Pioneers Property Card Distribution in Northeast

Mizoram has become the first state in Northeast India to distribute property cards under the Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) scheme. On January 18, 2025, Governor Gen (Dr) VK Singh virtually participated in the distribution event from Raj Bhavan, Aizawl. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also attended, distributing over 65 lakh property cards to beneficiaries across 10 states and two Union Territories. Among these, 1,754 property cardholders from 18 villages in Mizoram received their cards.

Participants:

• Governor Gen (Dr) VK Singh participated virtually from Raj Bhavan, Aizawl.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 65 lakh property cards to beneficiaries across 10 states and 2 UTs, including 1,754 cards to 18 villages in Mizoram.

SVAMITVA Scheme Overview

• Launch Date: April 24, 2020.
• Objective: To provide legal documentation of property ownership in rural areas using drone and GIS technology.

Significance:

• Property cards serve as legal proof of ownership.
• Usable as collateral for loans and other financial purposes.
• Mizoram’s Implementation Journey

MoU with Survey of India: Signed on July 8, 2021.

Drone Surveys:

• Began on December 9, 2021.
• Completed by December 2, 2024, covering 319 villages across 9 districts.

Property Card Distribution: Started on April 24, 2023.

As of January 18, 2025: 2,909 cards distributed.

Future goal: Provide 35,000 property cards.

The Pangsau Pass International Festival 2025- Celebrating History, Culture, and Heritage in Arunachal Pradesh

The Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) 2025, held in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, is a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and its historical significance during World War II. This year’s festival is particularly special as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion. Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized plans to bolster tourism by restoring World War II remnants in the region, underscoring the festival’s role in promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and historical remembrance.

Occasion: Celebrates the region’s cultural heritage and marks the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion.

Significance:

• Promotes tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
• Highlights the historical importance of Pangsau Pass and the Stilwell Road.
• Historical and Geographical Significance of Pangsau Pass

Geographical Facts

Location:

• Situated on the India-Myanmar border, at an altitude of 3,727 feet (1,136 meters).
• Forms a part of the Patkai Hills.

Nearby Areas:

• Pangsau Village (Myanmar) is located 2 km east of the border.
• Close to Chaukan Pass, India’s easternmost point, in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.

Accessibility: One of the most accessible routes from the Assam plains into Myanmar.

Historical Context

• 13th Century: Used by the Ahoms, a Shan tribe, to enter Assam.
• British Era: Surveyed for possible railway and road connections between India and Burma (Myanmar).

No railway was constructed.

World War II:

• Played a key role in constructing the Stilwell Road (Ledo Road).
• Known as “Hell Pass” due to the challenging terrain faced during the road’s construction.
• Used to connect British India to Nationalist China, serving as a vital supply route for Allied forces against Japanese troops.

Science and tech news

Kerala Launches KaWaCHAM: India’s First Fully Integrated Disaster Warning System

On January 21, 2025, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Kerala Warnings, Crisis, and Hazard Management (KaWaCHAM) System, India’s first fully integrated disaster warning system. The system was inaugurated at the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram.

Key Features of KaWaCHAM

Objective:

• To enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
• Issues alerts for extreme weather events such as cyclones and heavy rainfall.

Development:

• Designed by KSDMA with support from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the World Bank (WB).
• Part of the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP).

Symbolism: “KaWaCHAM” means shield in Malayalam, representing protection.

System Infrastructure

Sirens and Emergency Operations:

• A network of 126 siren-strobe light units and 93 emergency operation centers linked through a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and data center.
• 91 sirens installed in Phase 1, with the rest to follow in subsequent phases.

Geographical Deployment:

• Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam have the highest number of sirens (13 each).
• Kottayam, Idukki, and Wayanad have the fewest (5 each).

Significance

• Disaster Management: Improves the state’s ability to mitigate risks from cyclones and other extreme weather events.
• Technological Advancement: Establishes Kerala as a leader in using advanced systems for disaster preparedness.

India Launches World’s First Commercial Satellite for Space Situational Awareness (SSA)

In January 2025, Digantara, a Bengaluru-based aerospace company, launched the Space Camera for Object Tracking (SCOT) satellite, marking a significant milestone as the world’s first commercial satellite dedicated to Space Situational Awareness (SSA). The project is backed by the Aditya Birla Group and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Key Details

Launch Details:

• The SCOT satellite was launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.
• XDLINX Space Labs, another Indian space-tech startup, also launched its high-tech satellites aimed at monitoring both Earth and space objects.

Purpose of SCOT:

• Space Situational Awareness (SSA): As Earth’s orbits become increasingly crowded with satellites and space debris, SSA is critical to preventing collisions and ensuring the safety of spacecraft.
• SCOT offers precise and reliable tracking capabilities, significantly improving safety in space by monitoring and tracking space objects.

Significance

• Space Safety: SCOT is a significant step toward enhancing global space safety. By providing critical data on space debris and satellite movements, the satellite plays a vital role in preventing potential collisions and ensuring secure operations in space.
• Indian Space-Tech Growth: The successful launch of SCOT marks a key achievement for India’s space-tech sector, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in Space Situational Awareness and satellite technology.

About Digantara:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)- Anirudh Sharma
• Headquarters- Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Established-2018

India to deploy 1st human-operated underwater submersible

India is preparing to deploy its first human-operated underwater submersible as part of the Deep Ocean Mission, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at exploring and harnessing underwater resources while advancing India’s blue economy. The submersible, capable of reaching depths of up to 500 meters, is expected to be launched this year, with plans to extend its operational depth to 6,000 meters by the next year.

Key Objectives of the Deep Ocean Mission

• Exploration of Underwater Resources: Focus on discovering critical minerals, rare metals, and marine biodiversity that have both economic and environmental significance.
• Advancement of the Blue Economy: Promotes the sustainable use of ocean resources, benefiting India’s scientific community and economy.
• Contributions to Fisheries and Conservation: Supports the sustainable fisheries sector and contributes to biodiversity conservation.
• Environmental and Economic Benefits: The mission will help identify and harness underwater resources, providing long-term advantages for India’s economy and environmental protection.

Significance of the Mission

• Human-Operated Submersible: Marks a major step in underwater exploration and deep-sea research.
• Alignment with Space Program: The Deep Ocean Mission runs parallel to the Gaganyaan space program, showcasing India’s advancements in both marine and space technologies.

Sarla Aviation Unveils India’s First eVTOL Air Taxi ‘Shunya’

Sarla Aviation, a Bengaluru-based aerospace startup, has unveiled ‘Shunya,’ India’s first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi prototype. This marks a significant advancement in urban air mobility, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion and pollution in Indian cities.

Key Features of ‘Shunya’

Design and Capacity:

• Designed for short trips (20–30 km).
• Accommodates up to 6 passengers with a maximum payload of 680 kg—the highest in its category.

Speed and Efficiency: Maximum speed of 250 km/h, providing a fast alternative to traditional transport.

Environmental Impact: Fully electric, promoting cleaner and sustainable urban transportation.

Sports news

India to Host FIDE Chess World Cup 2025

India is set to host the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025, marking a historic milestone for the country as it takes on the prestigious role of hosting its first major international chess tournament since the 2022 Chennai Chess Olympiad. This event is poised to further solidify India’s growing influence in the global chess arena.

Details of the Tournament

• Dates: The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 will take place from October 31 to November 27, 2025.
• Format: The tournament follows a knockout format and will feature over 200 players from around the world.

Qualification Importance:

• The event serves as a crucial gateway to the Candidates Tournament, with three qualification spots available for the winners.
• The Candidates Tournament ultimately determines who will challenge the reigning World Chess Champion.

Reaffirmed Hosting Rights: Although there was initial uncertainty due to a retraction in the official announcement by FIDE, sources within the All India Chess Federation (AICF) confirmed that India has indeed secured the hosting rights, reaffirming the country’s commitment to hosting this prestigious event.

Historical Context of India’s Chess Achievements

R. Praggnanandhaa’s Remarkable Performance (2023):

• In the 2023 FIDE Chess World Cup, India’s R. Praggnanandhaa made history by securing the silver medal after a narrow loss to Magnus Carlsen in the final.
• His remarkable performance captivated chess enthusiasts globally and underscored India’s rising prominence in the world of chess.

Viswanathan Anand’s Legacy:

• Viswanathan Anand, one of India’s most iconic chess players, remains the only Indian to have won the FIDE World Cup, securing back-to-back titles in 2000 and 2002.
• Anand’s victories helped elevate India’s reputation in the global chess community and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest chess players of all time.

Significance of India’s Hosting

• Hosting the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 not only reinforces India’s growing stature in the chess world but also strengthens its role as a leader in global chess development.
• The tournament will bring international attention to India’s chess culture, fostering growth at both the grassroots and professional levels.

Award news

Indian Short Film Anuja Nominated for the Oscars 2025

Anuja, an Indian short film directed by Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai, has earned a nomination for Best Short Film (Live Action) at the Oscars 2025. The film tells the compelling story of a nine-year-old girl, Anuja, and her sister Palak, as they navigate a life-changing opportunity that tests their bond, reflecting the universal struggles faced by girls around the world.

Key Details

• Directors: Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai.
• Backing: The film is produced by Guneet Monga, a two-time Academy Award winner, with support from actors Priyanka Chopra and Mindy Kaling.
• Plot: Follows Anuja and Palak’s journey, offering a poignant look at the challenges young girls face globally.

Other Nominated Films:

• A Lien
• The Last Ranger
• I’m Not a Robot
• The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent

Oscars 2025 Nominations: The nominations were announced by Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott after being postponed twice earlier in the month due to wildfires in Los Angeles.

Significance: Anuja’s nomination marks a significant achievement for Indian cinema, highlighting the growing global influence of Indian films and the importance of supporting narratives that amplify universal stories.

INCOIS Honored with Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in Hyderabad has been selected for the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 in the Institutional Category, recognizing its exceptional contributions to disaster management.

INCOIS’s Contributions

• Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC): Provides tsunami alerts within 10 minutes for India and 28 Indian Ocean countries.
• High-Wave, Cyclone, and Storm Surge Forecasts: Protects coastal areas and maritime operations.
• Cyclone Assistance: Facilitated evacuations during 2013 Phailin and 2014 Hudhud cyclones.
• Search and Rescue Aided Tool (SARAT): Assists Coast Guard and Navy in locating lost individuals/objects at sea.
• SynOPS Visualization Platform: Integrates real-time data for better coordination during extreme events.

Recognition and Awards

• Geospatial World Excellence in Maritime Services Award (2024)
• Disaster Risk Reduction Excellence Award (2021)

Conclusion: INCOIS, founded in 1999, plays a critical role in India’s disaster management by providing early warnings for ocean-related hazards and assisting in emergency response operations. The Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 recognizes its significant impact in this field.

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 22nd January 2025 current affairs curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 22nd 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.

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

National news

GOI Launches ‘Entity Locker’ For Efficient Business Document Management

Entity Locker is a secure, cloud-based digital platform developed by the National eGovernance Division (NeGD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It streamlines the management and verification of business documents, ensuring efficient and secure digital governance.

Key Features:

Integration with Government Systems:

Seamlessly connected to MCA, GSTN, and DGFT for instant document access and reduced delays.

• Consent-Based Sharing: Secure and transparent sharing of information with stakeholders through a consent mechanism.
• Role-Based Access: Aadhaar-authenticated access ensures only authorized personnel can view documents.
• Digital Signatures: Legally valid digital signatures ensure compliance and authenticity of documents.
• Secure Cloud Storag: Provides 10 GB encrypted storage to protect sensitive information.
• Alignment with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Part of India’s DPI initiative, aligned with the Union Budget 2024-25 goals of digital governance and ease of doing business.

Flamingo Festival 2025 Concludes in Andhra Pradesh

The Flamingo Festival 2025 in Andhra Pradesh concluded on January 20, 2025, marking a successful revival of the event after a period of dormancy. The festival, held across key locations like Pulicat Lake and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, attracted numerous visitors, particularly bird watchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Key Highlights of Flamingo Festival 2025:

Event Overview:

Duration: Three days.

Key Locations:

• Pulicat Lake: A significant stopover for migratory birds, including flamingos.
• Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary: Known for its rich birdlife, including flamingo populations.
• Target Audience: Local tourists from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, as well as nature lovers and bird watchers from across India.

Objectives of the Festival:

• Celebrate Flamingo Biodiversity: Focus on the avian species, particularly flamingos, that flock to the region.
• Raise Environmental Awareness: Highlight the ecological importance of Pulicat Lake and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary.
• Discuss the environmental challenges faced by these ecosystems, such as pollution and habitat degradation.

Government Support:

Ministers’ Participation: Anam Ramanarayana Reddy and Anagani Satya Prasad expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for reviving the festival, emphasizing the importance of preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.

Conclusion: The Flamingo Festival 2025 was hailed as a major success, drawing attention to the vital need for conservation efforts in these unique ecosystems. It underscored the region’s significance as a sanctuary for migratory birds, especially flamingos, and helped further the cause of environmental protection through public engagement and awareness.

Economy news

Indian Economy Projected to Grow at 7% in FY25: Moody’s Revises Forecast

Moody’s has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to 7%, a decrease from the 8.2% growth recorded in the previous fiscal year. This downgrade reflects a combination of domestic and global economic factors, including a slowdown in key sectors and external challenges.

Key Points of Moody’s Economic Growth Forecast:

Revised Growth Outlook:

• New Forecast: 7% growth for FY 2024-2025.
• Previous Year: 8.2% growth in FY 2023-2024.

The downgrade is attributed to a mix of factors, including:

• Global economic slowdown.
• Domestic challenges in key sectors.
• Geopolitical tensions affecting trade and investment.
• Inflationary pressures impacting both production and consumption.

Key Factors Behind the Downgrade:

Global Economic Conditions:

• Slower global demand.
• Continued uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions.

Domestic Economic Performance: Weaker-than-expected performance in critical sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture.

Positive Indicators: Despite the overall downgrade, Moody’s highlighted the improvement in India’s GDP per capita:

GDP per capita at purchasing power parity (PPP): Increased by 11% year-on-year.

FY 2023 GDP per capita (PPP): $10,233.

This growth in per capita income signifies a positive improvement in the standard of living.

International news

Donald Trump Sworn in as 47th President of the United States

Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, marking his return to office after a four-year hiatus. This event solidifies his place in history as one of the most notable political comebacks, making him the second president after Grover Cleveland (1893) to serve non-consecutive terms. At 78 years old, Trump replaces Joe Biden as the oldest U.S. president at inauguration.

Inauguration Ceremony:

• Held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to extreme cold, marking the coldest inauguration day in 40 years.
• Mirrored Ronald Reagan’s 1985 indoor inauguration caused by similar weather conditions.

Significance of the Event:

• Trump’s team hailed his return as the beginning of the “Golden Age of America.”
• His deputy, JD Vance, was also sworn in during the ceremony.

China Unveils World’s Longest Tunnel, Enhances BRI Connectivity

China has completed the construction of the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel, the world’s longest expressway tunnel, marking a significant advancement in infrastructure development and enhancing connectivity within the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Key Highlights

Tunnel Specifications:

• Length: 22.13 kilometers, the longest expressway tunnel globally.
• Route: Integral to the Urumqi-Yuli Expressway, linking Urumqi in northern Xinjiang to Yuli County in the south.
• Impact: Reduces travel through the Tianshan Mountains from three hours to 20 minutes.

Construction Challenges:

• Terrain: High altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters with complex geological conditions.
• Innovation: First-time use of tunnel boring machines in China’s road projects to overcome challenges and expedite work.
• Environmental Sensitivity: Located near the Tianshan No. 1 Glacier and Urumqi’s water source protection area, necessitating ecological safeguards.

Banking news

RBI Constitutes New Advisory Committee for Bank Licensing

On January 20, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) established a new Standing External Advisory Committee (SEAC) to evaluate applications for Universal Banks and Small Finance Banks (SFBs). The committee, chaired by M. K. Jain, former Deputy Governor of the RBI, is set to play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and transparency of India’s banking sector.

Committee Composition and Tenure:

The SEAC is comprised of the following five members:

• M. K. Jain – Chairperson and former Deputy Governor, RBI.
• Revathy Iyer – Director, Central Board, RBI.
• Parvathy V. Sundaram – Former Executive Director, RBI.
• Hemant G. Contractor – Former Managing Director, State Bank of India and former Chairman, Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority.
• N. S. Kannan – Former Managing Director and CEO, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance.

Tenure: The committee’s tenure is three years, with secretarial support provided by the RBI’s Department of Regulation.

Background and Evolution: The creation of this committee follows the precedent set in March 2021, when a similar committee was led by Shyamala Gopinath, former RBI Deputy Governor. The SEAC’s primary function is to evaluate applications for Universal Banks and SFBs, ensuring that applicants meet regulatory criteria.

Noteworthy Exemption: Existing SFBs seeking Universal Bank licenses may bypass this vetting process, as their credentials were previously assessed during their initial licensing.

Current Applications Under Review:

The RBI is currently reviewing the following applications:

• Annapurna Finance: Seeking a Universal Bank license.
• AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB): Applied for a Universal Bank license.
• Fino Payments Bank: Applied for an SFB license.
• VFS Capital: Applied for an SFB license.

RBI Directs Banks to Use ‘1600xx’ Number Series for Transactional Calls

In a move to combat financial fraud, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated that banks and other regulated entities (REs) utilize the ‘1600xx’ numbering series exclusively for transactional calls to customers. For promotional communications, the ‘140xx’ series should be employed. This directive aims to enhance the security of digital transactions and protect customers from fraudulent activities.

Key Directives from the RBI:

Utilization of Specific Number Series:

• Transactional Calls: Banks and REs must use the ‘1600xx’ series exclusively for transactional calls to customers.
• Promotional Calls: The ‘140xx’ series must be used for promotional communications.
• Purpose: This differentiation helps distinguish between legitimate transactional communications and promotional messages, reducing the risk of fraud.

Monitoring and Cleaning Customer Databases:

Financial institutions must actively monitor and update their customer databases to ensure the accuracy of contact details.

Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL): Institutions must use the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), to identify and remove invalid or revoked numbers from their databases.

Development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs):

• Banks are encouraged to develop SOPs for updating registered mobile numbers after proper verification.
• Institutions should also enhance the monitoring of accounts linked to revoked numbers to prevent misuse.

Compliance Deadline:

• Deadline for Compliance: All regulated entities must adhere to these directives by March 31, 2025.
• Urgency: The timeline emphasizes the need for swift implementation to protect customers from financial fraud.

Contextual Background:

• Rising Fraud Risks: With the increasing use of digital transactions, there has been a rise in financial fraud, with scammers using mobile numbers for unauthorized activities.
• RBI’s Objective: The measures aim to strengthen the security of digital financial services, ensuring better protection against emerging fraud risks and safeguarding consumer interests.

RBI Releases 2024-25 List of Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) in Upper Layer (UL) under Scale Based Regulation (SBR)

In January 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its 2024-25 list of Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) in the Upper Layer (UL) segment under the Scale Based Regulation (SBR) framework. The list includes 15 companies and reflects ongoing regulatory adjustments within the financial sector.

Key Highlights:

Tata Sons Private Limited: Despite Tata Sons’ request to de-register as an NBFC, RBI has retained it in the Upper Layer segment, and the matter is currently under examination.

List of Included Companies:

The updated list comprises prominent companies such as:

• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) Housing Finance Limited (HFL)
• Bajaj Finance Limited (BFL)
• Shriram Finance Limited (SFL)

Muthoot Finance Limited (MFIN): Muthoot Finance, a key player in the gold loan segment, has been retained in the UL list for the third consecutive year, marking its continued prominence in the sector.

Piramal Enterprise Limited (PEL): PEL was included in the UL list based on its scoring but has been eliminated for 2024-25 due to ongoing reorganization within the business group.

Conclusion: The RBI’s Upper Layer list for 2024-25 highlights the ongoing adjustments and growth within the NBFC sector. The inclusion and exclusion of companies, particularly the retention of Muthoot Finance and the elimination of Piramal Enterprise, underscore the evolving regulatory landscape that seeks to strengthen and streamline the financial system.

RBI:

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

IDFC FIRST Bank Launches ‘FIRST EARN RuPay Credit Card’ in Partnership with NPCI

On January 20, 2025, IDFC FIRST Bank Limited, in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), launched the ‘FIRST EARN RuPay Credit Card’. This card is integrated with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and aims to offer a seamless and rewarding payment experience for users, backed by an innovative partnership with RuPay, India’s global card payment network.

About the FIRST EARN RuPay Credit Card:

Key Features:

Fixed Deposit Backing:

• The card is backed by a Fixed Deposit (FD), making it instantly available online to everyone.
• Cashback on UPI Payments is available as an added benefit.

Credit Access and Rewards: Users can access credit on UPI and earn rewards, while simultaneously enjoying attractive interest on FD.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be an Indian citizen.
• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Have a minimum FD of Rs. 5,000 with IDFC FIRST Bank.

Features & Benefits:

• Seamless UPI Integration: Use the card for UPI transactions at over 60 million QR code locations.
• Instant Card Issuance: Virtual credit card available instantly with seamless UPI integration for immediate use.
• Cashback Offer: 100% cashback on the first UPI transaction (up to Rs. 500) within the first 15 days, effectively refunding the first year’s fees.

Rewards Program:

• Up to 1% cashback on UPI transactions via the IDFC FIRST Bank app.
• 0.5% cashback on transactions via other UPI apps, as well as on insurance, utility bill payments, and e-commerce purchases.

Interest on Fixed Deposit: Earn 7.25% p.a. interest on a 1-year, 1-day FD.

Comprehensive Protection:

• Complimentary roadside assistance valued at Rs. 1,399.
• Lost card liability coverage up to Rs. 25,000.
• Personal accident coverage up to Rs. 2,00,000.

IDFC:

• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Founded: October 2015
• CEO: V. Vaidyanathan (19 Dec 2018–)

Ranks and report news

India’s Coffee Journey: From Roots to Global Reach; World’s 7th Largest Coffee Producer

India has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the seventh-largest coffee producer globally, with exports reaching $1.29 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, nearly doubling from $719.42 million in 2020-21. This growth reflects India’s increasing presence and influence in the global coffee market.

Historical Roots and Evolution:

Introduction of Coffee to India: Coffee was introduced to India in the 1600s by Sufi saint Baba Budan, who brought seven Mocha seeds to the hills of Karnataka. This act marked the beginning of coffee cultivation in India, which has since evolved into a vital agricultural industry.

Current Production and Export Landscape:

Production Volume: India primarily produces Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, with about three-fourths of the total production consisting of these two varieties.

Export Trends:

• In the first half of January 2025, India exported over 9,300 tonnes of coffee. Key buyers include Italy, Belgium, and Russia.
• Export Growth: The export value surged due to growing global demand for India’s distinctive coffee flavors, contributing to its enhanced global market share.

Regional Production Insights:

Coffee Cultivation Areas: India’s coffee is mainly grown in the ecologically rich Western and Eastern Ghats, regions known for their biodiversity and shaded coffee plantations.

Top Producing States:

• Karnataka leads in production, contributing 248,020 metric tonnes in 2022-23.
• Kerala and Tamil Nadu follow, both contributing significantly to India’s coffee output.

These regions not only support coffee farming but also contribute to environmental preservation, maintaining the ecological balance of these biodiversity hotspots.

World’s Largest Coffee Producers (Ranked):

• Brazil – Leading the global coffee market, contributing 37% of global coffee supply.
• Vietnam – Known primarily for its Robusta coffee.
• Colombia – A major producer of Arabica coffee.
• Indonesia – Specializes in Robusta and specialty coffees.
• Honduras – A leading coffee producer in Central America.
• Mexico – A significant exporter of Arabica coffee.
• India – Growing both Arabica and Robusta beans, now ranked seventh globally.

GlobalData Report: Top 25 Global Banks by Market Capitalization in Q4 2024

In January 2025, GlobalData Plc, a London-based data analytics and research company, released its report on the Top 25 Global Banks by Market Capitalization (MCap) for the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024. According to the report, JPMorgan Chase & Co, based in New York, USA, remains the world’s largest bank by market capitalization, recording a significant 37.2% increase in its market value, which reached USD 674.9 billion by the end of Q4 2024, up from USD 492.2 billion in Q4 2023.

Key Highlights from the Report:

JPMorgan Chase & Co (USA):

• Market Cap (Q4 2024): USD 674.9 billion
• Growth: +37.2% increase from Q4 2023, maintaining its position as the world’s largest bank by market capitalization.

Bank of America Corporation (USA): Ranked 2nd with a market cap of USD 337.2 billion.

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) (China): Ranked 3rd with a market cap of USD 328.2 billion.

India’s Banks Performance:

• HDFC Bank: Dropped from 7th to 13th position compared to Q4 2023.
• ICICI Bank: Moved up from 20th to 19th position.

State Bank of India (SBI): Retained its 24th position.

About GlobalData Plc:

• CEO: Mike Danson
• Headquarters: London, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded: 1999

Appointment news

Sanjiv Ranjan Appointed as Secretary General of Indian Ocean Rim Association

the Ministry of External Affairs announced the appointment of Shri Sanjiv Ranjan as the next Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). Shri Ranjan, a seasoned diplomat from the 1993 batch of the Indian Foreign Service, will soon assume his new role.

About the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA):

IORA Membership: IORA is a regional organization consisting of 23 member states that border the Indian Ocean, including key countries like India, Australia, Indonesia, and South Africa.

Primary Objectives:

The association’s focus is to promote:

• Economic Cooperation
• Sustainable Development
• Regional Security among Indian Ocean Rim countries.

Dialogue Partners:

IORA also has 12 dialogue partners, which include global players such as:

• China
• European Union
• United States

Global Recognition: In 2015, IORA was granted observer status at both the United Nations General Assembly and the African Union, marking its growing influence in regional and international affairs.

Defence news

INS Mumbai Joins La Perouse 2025

The Indian Navy’s guided-missile destroyer, INS Mumbai, is taking part in the fourth edition of Exercise La Perouse, a multinational naval exercise that began on January 16, 2025. The exercise is held in the strategically significant Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok straits, critical corridors for global trade.

Key Objectives and Participants

Objectives of La Perouse 2025:

• Enhance maritime situational awareness.
• Promote interoperability and cooperation among navies.

Focus on activities such as:

• Maritime surveillance.
• Interdiction operations.
• Air operations.

Participating Nations:

• India (INS Mumbai)
• Australia (Royal Australian Navy)
• France (French Navy)
• United Kingdom (Royal Navy)
• United States (United States Navy)
• Indonesia (Indonesian Navy)
• Malaysia (Royal Malaysian Navy)
• Singapore (Republic of Singapore Navy)
• Canada (Royal Canadian Navy)

INS Mumbai’s Role and Strategic Significance

INS Mumbai:

• An indigenously designed and built guided-missile destroyer.
• Participates in surface warfare, anti-air warfare, air defense, and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations.

Strategic Importance:

• Showcases India’s commitment to a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
• Aligns with India’s SAGAR initiative (Security and Growth for All in the Region), emphasizing regional maritime security and cooperation.

Historical Context of La Perouse

• La Perouse Exercise: Biennial event since 2021.
• Previous editions have fostered stronger naval ties and showcased the importance of multilateral exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting the growing need for maritime collaboration in this critical area.

Sports news

Jannik Sinner and Iga Świątek Named ITF World Champions 2024

On January 21, 2025, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) announced Jannik Sinner (Italy) as the Men’s ITF World Champion 2024 and Iga Natalia Świątek (Poland) as the Women’s ITF World Champion 2024. Both players were recognized for their outstanding performances in major tournaments, including Grand Slams, the Davis Cup, the Billie Jean King Cup, the Olympic Games, and other premier events.

Key Highlights:

Jannik Sinner (Italy):

• Men’s ITF World Champion 2024
• Historic Achievement: Becomes the first Italian player to receive this prestigious award.

Iga Natalia Świątek (Poland):

• Women’s ITF World Champion 2024
• Awarded for the second time, after previously winning the honor in 2022.

Men’s Doubles Champions: Marcelo Arévalo González (El Salvador) & Mate Pavic (Croatia).

Women’s Doubles Champions: Sara Errani & Jasmine Paolini (Italy).

About the International Tennis Federation (ITF):

• President & CEO: David Haggerty
• Headquarters: London, United Kingdom (UK)
• Established: 1913

India Wins Both Titles at the Kho Kho World Cup 2025

The Indian men’s and women’s teams won the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 titles in their respective finals of the 1st edition of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 held from January 13 to 19, 2025 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, Delhi.

• The Indian men’s Kho Kho team beat Nepal by 54-36 while the women’s team defeated the Nepalese team by 78-40 in the finals.
• The Indian men’s team was captained by Pratik Waikar while the Women’s team was captained by Priyanka Ingle.

Final Match Results:

• Men’s Final: India defeated Nepal by 54-36.
• Women’s Final: India won against Nepal by 78-40.

Both Indian teams were captained by:

• Men’s team captain: Pratik Waikar
• Women’s team captain: Priyanka Ingle

Key Highlights:

Indian Men’s Team:

• Unbeaten throughout the tournament.
• Topped Group A with four wins.
• Defeated Sri Lanka in the quarter-finals and South Africa in the semi-finals.

Indian Women’s Team:

• Unbeaten throughout the tournament.
• Won all three Group A matches.
• Defeated Bangladesh in the quarter-finals and South Africa in the semi-finals.

About Kho Kho World Cup 2025:

Organizers:

• Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI)
• International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF)
• Support: Backed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

Participating Teams:

• Men’s teams: 20 teams
• Women’s teams: 19 teams

Tournament Format: Round-robin format in the group stage, with top teams advancing to knockout rounds and finals.

Groupings:

• Men’s Group A: India, Nepal, Peru, Brazil, Bhutan
• Women’s Group A: India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Malaysia, Republic of Korea
• Upcoming Tournament: The second edition will take place in Birmingham, England in 2026-27.

About Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI):

• President: Sudhansu Mittal
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
• Established: 1955

Important days

Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura Celebrate Statehood Day 2025

Statehood Day, observed annually on January 21, marks the historic milestone when Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura attained full statehood under the North Eastern Region (Reorganization) Act of 1971. This day celebrates their cultural richness, historical significance, and contributions to India’s identity.

The Northeastern Region: A Land of Diversity

The Seven Sisters—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura—are known for their:

• Natural Beauty: Lush hills, plains, dense forests, and biodiversity.
• Cultural Richness: Unique traditions, languages, and ethnic diversity.
• Heritage Contribution: Integral to India’s cultural and national identity.

Historical Journey to Statehood

1. Manipur: The Jewel of India

• Historical Background: A princely state under Maharaja Bodhachandra Singh.
• Merged with India in 1949 via the Instrument of Accession and Merger Agreement.
• Transitioned to full statehood on January 21, 1972.

2. Meghalaya: The Abode of Clouds

• Path to Statehood: Formed as an autonomous state within Assam in 1970.
• Achieved statehood on January 21, 1972, recognizing its distinct cultural identity.
• Key Features: Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities play a vital role in preserving Meghalaya’s unique cultural and linguistic heritage.

3. Tripura: A Blend of Tribal and Non-Tribal Cultures

• Historical Integration: Former princely state merged with India in 1949 under Queen Kanchan Prabha’s regency.
• Became a full-fledged state on January 21, 1972.
• Cultural Fusion: Celebrates a harmonious blend of tribal and non-tribal traditions.

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 21st January 2025 current affairs curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 21st 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.

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

National news

Launch of 9th Edition of Swachh Survekshan (SS) 2025

In January 2025, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA) launched the toolkit for 9th edition of Swachh Survekshan (SS), the world’s largest urban cleanliness survey, in its new version- simpler, sharper, systematic and all- inclusive.

Key Highlights

Introduction of Super Swachh League (SSL):

A special category for 2024, recognizing cities excelling in cleanliness.

Population-Based Classification:

Cities are divided into five categories:

• Very Small
• Small
• Medium
• Big
• Medium-Plus

Evaluation based on population and customized parameters.

Timeline

Field Assessment Phase:

• Starts on February 15, 2025.
• Ends by March 2025.

About MoHUA

• Union Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar (Constituency: Karnal, Haryana).
• Minister of State (MoS): Tokhan Sahu (Constituency: Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh).
• Swachh Survekshan 2025 underscores India’s commitment to urban cleanliness through innovation, inclusivity, and citizen engagement.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) Advances Semiconductor Manufacturing

In January 2025, the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), Mumbai(Maharashtra) based CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited (also known as Crompton Greaves Limited), and Ahmedabad, (Gujarat) based CG Semi Private Limited (CSPL) signed a Fiscal Support Agreement (FSA) to advance India’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

The agreement supports CG Power’s Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility, which was approved under the Modified Programme for Development of Semiconductor and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem.

Fiscal Support Agreement (FSA)

Signed by:

• India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).
• CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited (Mumbai).
• CG Semi Private Limited (Ahmedabad).

Purpose: To strengthen India’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem under the Modified Programme for Development of Semiconductor and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem.

Key Project Details

• Location: Sanand, Gujarat.
• Facility: Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) unit.
• Partners: Renesas Electronics America Inc. and Stars Microelectronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited.
• Investment: ₹7,600 crore.
• Fiscal Support: ISM will provide 50% fiscal support for eligible CAPEX.

 Contribution to Electronics Production: CG Power’s efforts align with India’s target of achieving USD 500 billion worth of electronics production by 2030.

About India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

• Launch Year: 2021.
• Financial Outlay: ₹76,000 crore.
• Under: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• Objective: To provide financial incentives for semiconductor, display manufacturing, and design ecosystems.

 ISM Schemes

• Modified Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs.
• Modified Scheme for Display Fabs.
• Modified Scheme for Compound Semiconductors, Sensors, and ATMP/OSAT Facilities.
• Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme.

Musi River’s Historic Buildings on 2025 World Monuments Watch

The Musi River Historic Buildings in Hyderabad have been included on the prestigious 2025 World Monuments Watch list, an initiative by the New York-based World Monuments Fund (WMF). The selection of these buildings highlights the urgent need for their preservation amidst ongoing environmental challenges, including the degradation of the Musi River and rapid urban development in the city. This recognition comes at a critical juncture when the Telangana government is actively working to rejuvenate the river and its heritage structures, combining efforts for both heritage conservation and environmental sustainability. Below are key details about this initiative.

Recognition:

• Historic buildings along Hyderabad’s Musi River were included in the 2025 World Monuments Watch list by the New York-based World Monuments Fund (WMF) on January 15, 2025.
• The site is among 25 globally selected locations, emphasizing preservation amidst environmental and human-made challenges.

Heritage Structures:

Notable buildings include:

• Telangana High Court
• State Central Library
• Osmania General Hospital

British Residency (part of Koti Women’s College).

• Environmental Challenges: The Musi River faces pollution and ecological degradation, threatening historic landmarks and the surrounding environment.
• Government Initiatives: The Telangana government is rejuvenating the river through the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL).

Restoration projects have begun for the State Central Library and British Residency.

WMF Advocacy:

• The WMF is promoting site preservation, focusing on environmental conservation, climate adaptation, and heritage reactivation.
• They allocated $2 million for preservation efforts in partnership with local stakeholders.

Community Engagement: Plans to involve private sector firms aim to boost tourism and enable adaptive reuse of historic structures.

Future Strategies: Over the next two years, WMF will help develop preservation strategies, advocacy plans, and fundraising efforts to protect these landmarks.

Musi River Details:

• Source: Anantagiri Hills near Vicarabad, Telangana.
• Tributary: Krishna River.
• Dams: Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar.
• Impact on Hyderabad: Divides the city into old and new parts.

First ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2025 by PM Modi

The first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2025 was conducted by the Prime Minister on January 20, a week earlier than usual, to accommodate the Republic Day celebrations on January 26. This special broadcast marked the 75th anniversary of the Indian Republic and included discussions on the Constitution, democracy, cultural traditions, advancements in space technology, and human-animal harmony.

Key Takeaways From Mann Ki Baat:

Special Date for the Broadcast

• Aired on January 20, 2025, a week earlier to accommodate Republic Day celebrations.
• Focused on India’s democratic journey and cultural heritage.

75th Republic Day Observance

Celebrated 75 years since the Indian Constitution came into effect.

Excerpts from speeches by visionaries like:

• B.R. Ambedkar: Unity and cooperation amidst diversity.
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad: Emphasis on peace, truth, and non-violence.
• Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee: Advocated equality and inclusivity.

3. National Voters’ Day – January 25

• Acknowledged the Election Commission of India’s establishment in 1950.
• Highlighted modernized electoral processes and encouraged voter participation.

4. Strength of Indian Democracy

• Reflected on skepticism during the 1951-52 elections and India’s success as the “Mother of Democracy.”
• Praised democratic principles for strengthening governance.

5. Call to Action

• Urged citizens to honor the Constitution makers by contributing to India’s development.
• Encouraged maximum voter turnout in elections.

6. Kumbh Mela and Indian Traditions

• Maha Kumbh commenced in Prayagraj, showcasing unity in diversity.
• Promoted equality and harmony through rituals and cultural traditions.

Highlighted the global recognition of Indian festivals.

7. Ganga Sagar Mela

• Celebrated on Makar Sankranti, drawing lakhs of devotees.
• Emphasized festivals’ roles in promoting social harmony and spiritual empowerment.

8. Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha Anniversary

• Marked the first anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha.
• Stressed preserving cultural heritage while advancing development.
• This broadcast celebrated India’s Constitution, democratic achievements, and rich cultural heritage while calling for active citizen participation in nation-building.

PM Distributes 6.5 Million SVAMITVA Property Cards

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a virtual event on Saturday, highlighted the importance of providing property ownership records to rural populations. The distribution of over 6.5 million property cards under the SVAMITVA scheme is a key step in ensuring legal ownership for families in rural areas. Modi emphasized that addressing property documentation issues is crucial for empowering villagers, boosting their economic activities, and unlocking substantial capital. The scheme uses advanced drone technology to survey rural areas and provide legal property documents, benefiting millions of families.

• Government Commitment PM Modi emphasized the importance of providing property ownership records to rural populations to address poverty, boost economic activities, and empower villagers.
• SVAMITVA Scheme Overview: Launched in 2020, the scheme uses drone-based surveys to issue property cards as legal documents, improving property rights in villages.
• Milestone Achievement: 6.5 million property cards distributed to beneficiaries across 12 states and Union territories. Benefited over 65 lakh families (approx. 2.25 crore individuals).
• Impact on Rural Communities: Property cards enable villagers to access bank loans for starting small businesses. Significant benefits observed among Dalit, backward, and tribal families, reducing encroachments and disputes.
• Economic Growth Potential: PM Modi estimated that full implementation of the scheme could unlock over ₹100 lakh crore in economic activities, boosting India’s economy.
• Global Relevance: Modi referenced a UN study linking the lack of property documents to poverty, highlighting the scheme’s role in integrating rural economies with India’s national economy.
• Technological Innovation: Utilizes advanced drone technology for mapping residential land, addressing challenges like climate change and resource management.

International news

Nigeria Joins BRICS as 9th Partner Country

In January 2025, the government of Brazil, which holds the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) bloc presidency in 2025, announced that Nigeria, the world’s 6th largest population and Africa’s largest country, has officially joined BRICS as the 9th Partner Country,

Other Partner countries of BRICS bloc are: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.

Current BRICS Partner Countries

Existing Partner Countries:

• Belarus
• Bolivia
• Cuba
• Kazakhstan
• Malaysia
• Thailand
• Uganda
• Uzbekistan

About BRICS

Origin:

• Initiated as BRIC in 2006 with Russia, India, and China in St. Petersburg, Russia.
• Formalized at the 1st BRIC Foreign Ministers Meeting at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in 2006.

Expansion:

• South Africa joined in 2010, renaming BRIC to BRICS.
• New members in 2024: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE.
• Indonesia joined in January 2025 as the 1st Southeast Asian country.

Major Events: 1st BRIC Summit: Held in Yekaterinburg, Russia (2009).

16th BRICS Summit (2024):

• Hosted by Russia in Kazan.
• Theme: “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security.”

About Nigeria

• Capital: Abuja
• President: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu
• Currency: Nigerian Naira (NGN)

USA Removes Three Indian Nuclear Entities from Restrictive Entity List

In January 2025, the United States of America (USA)’s Bureau of Industry & Security (BIS) has removed 3 prominent Indian nuclear entities from its restrictive Entity List. This move aims to strengthen bilateral ties between India and USA and also focus on promoting advanced energy cooperation.

The entities removed from the USA entity list are: Trombay, Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC), Department of Atomic Energy(DAE); Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based IREL (India) Limited (formerly Indian Rare Earths Ltd); and Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu, TN)-based Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR). The updated listing also includes modifications to one existing entry of India.

Key Announcement

In January 2025, the Bureau of Industry & Security (BIS) of the USA removed three Indian nuclear entities from its restrictive Entity List.

Purpose: To strengthen India-USA bilateral ties and promote advanced energy cooperation.

Entities Removed from the List

• Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC): Trombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• IREL (India) Limited: Formerly Indian Rare Earths Ltd, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR): Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.

 Background of the Restrictions

• Restrictions were imposed on over 200 Indian entities after India’s 1998 nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
• The Entity List subjects individuals and organizations to strict licensing requirements for exporting and transferring specific items.

About the US Entity List

• Prepared by: Bureau of Industry & Security (BIS), USA.
• Purpose: Lists foreign persons or organizations suspected of activities contrary to US national security or foreign policy interests.

Impact of Inclusion:

• Imposes stringent licensing requirements.
• Complicates international business dealings.

About United States of America (USA)

• President: Donald John Trump.
• Capital: Washington, D.C.
• Currency: United States Dollar (USD).

This move marks a significant step towards fostering stronger India-USA relations and facilitating technological and energy collaboration.

Agreement news

FIU-IND and NHB Sign MoU for AML/CFT Collaboration

In January 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) under the Department of Revenue (DOR), Ministry of Finance (MOF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with New Delhi (Delhi) based National Housing Bank (NHB), under MoF to collaborate on a range of critical areas, including intelligence sharing, capacity building and risk assessment.

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

Date: January 2025.

Signatories:

• FIU-IND: Vivek Aggarwal, Director.
• NHB: Sanjay Shukla, Managing Director.
• Objective: Strengthen the implementation of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and enhance Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) measures.

Key Areas of Collaboration

Nodal Officers: Both parties will appoint nodal and alternate nodal officers for coordination.

Intelligence Sharing: Exchange relevant information from their databases.

AML/CFT Risk Assessment:

• Assess risks and vulnerabilities in Housing Finance Companies (HFCs).
• Identify red flag indicators for Suspicious Transaction Reports in HFCs.

Training and Capacity Building: Provide outreach and training for supervised/reporting entities.

Compliance Monitoring: Ensure entities comply with PMLA, PML Rules, and RBI/NHB guidelines.

Quarterly Meetings: Review typologies/trends in AML/CFT crimes and discuss cases with sanctions.

About Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND)

• Established: 2004.
• Function: Analyze and disseminate financial transaction data related to money laundering and terrorism financing.
• Director: Vivek Aggarwal.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.

About National Housing Bank (NHB)

• Established: 1988.
• Function: Regulate and promote Housing Finance Companies in India.
• Managing Director: Sanjay Shukla.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.

Economy news

CII Projects 7% GDP Growth for 2025-26 Amid Rising Investments

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) anticipates India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow by 7% in the fiscal year 2025-26, driven by an uptick in private investments and employment generation.

GDP Growth Projection: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) estimates a 7% GDP growth for FY 2025-26, supported by increased private investments and employment generation.

2. Rise in Private Investments

• 75% of respondents in a CII survey view the current economic climate as favorable for private investments.
• 70% of surveyed firms plan to invest in FY 2025-26, signaling strong private sector participation.

3. Employment Generation Trends

• 97% of firms expect workforce expansion in 2024-25 and 2025-26.
• 42%-46% of firms anticipate a 10%-20% rise in employment.
• 31%-36% of firms foresee up to a 10% increase in jobs.
• Over the past three years, 79% of respondents added employees, indicating consistent hiring growth.

4. Comparative Growth Projections

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI): Estimates 7% GDP growth for FY 2025-26, with potential for an 8% growth trend in subsequent years (per RBI Deputy Governor Michael Patra).
• Government’s Estimates: Pegs FY 2024-25 GDP growth at 6.4%, down from 8.2% in 2023-24, with agriculture and allied sectors rebounding to 3.8% growth from 1.4%.

Appointment news

Government Extends Tenure of Robert Jerard Ravi as CMD of BSNL and MTNL

In January 2025, the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), Ministry of Communications (MOC) has extended the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of BSNL and MTNL assigned to Robert Jerard Ravi for another three months with effect from January 15, 2025, till April 14, 2025, or until further orders, whichever is earlier, subject to approval by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).

Gyanendra Pratap Singh Appointed as CRPF Director General

On January 18, 2025, the Indian government appointed Gyanendra Pratap Singh, a 1991-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, as the Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Singh, who was serving as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Assam, will assume his new role immediately, with his tenure extending until his superannuation on November 30, 2027, or until further orders.

Ranks and report news

India Ranks 25th in QS World Future Skills Index 2025, Secures 2nd in ‘Future of Work’ Category

In January 2025, London (the United Kingdom, UK-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) released its first ‘World Future Skills Index 2025’. India secured 25th position globally earning a score of 76.6, which classifies it as a “future skills contender.”

India secured the 2nd position globally, behind the United States of America (USA) in the ‘Future of Work’ category indicating its strong readiness for technology-driven roles and industries of the future, especially in digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI), and green technologies.

Global Leaders

Top 5 Countries (Future Skills Pioneers):

• USA: Score 97.6.
• UK: Score 97.1.
• Germany: Score 94.6.
• Australia: Score 93.3.
• Canada: Score 91.0.

World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2025′ Report

On January 18 2025, the International Labour Organization (ILO) released its flagship report titled ‘World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2025(WESO Trends 2025), highlighting the current state of global labour markets and the social outlook. The report provides an in- depth analysis of global employment trends, challenges, and prospects for the near future.

Report Overview

• Released by: International Labour Organization (ILO).
• Date: January 18, 2025.
• Focus: Global labour market trends, challenges, and prospects.
• Key Highlight: Global unemployment rate slowed to 5% in 2024 and is projected to decrease to 4.9% by 2026.

Key Findings

• Youth Unemployment: High at 12.6% in 2024.
• Job Deficit: 402.4 million jobs were missing globally in 2024.
• Global Growth: Stable at 3.2% for 2024 and 2025.
• Inflation Rates: Declined from 6.7% in 2023 to 5.9% in 2024; projected to decrease further in 2025.

Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): Stood at 61% in 2024.

India-Specific Insights

Unemployment Rate:

• 2024: 6.2%.
• 2025: Projected to improve to 5.8%.

About International Labour Organization (ILO)

• Director-General: Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo.
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
• Established: 1919.

Award news

Urbasi Sinha Wins Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025

Professor Urbasi Sinha, a distinguished faculty member in the Light and Matter Physics theme at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), has been awarded the prestigious Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation at Cambridge, UK.

Prestigious Recognition

Professor Urbasi Sinha of the Raman Research Institute (RRI) was awarded the Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for her groundbreaking contributions to quantum science.

Advancements in Quantum Science

• Leads the Quantum Information and Computing (QuIC) lab at RRI, making significant advancements in quantum communication, computing, and optics.
• Her lab pioneered the development of heralded and entangled photon sources in India, enhancing the nation’s quantum research capabilities.

Role in National Quantum Mission: Plays a key leadership role in India’s National Quantum Mission, driving innovation and aligning national quantum research with global technological advancements.

International Achievements

• Awarded the Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Photonic Quantum Science and Technologies at the University of Calgary.
• Instrumental in establishing the Open Quantum Institute (OQI) at CERN in 2024, fostering global collaboration in quantum technologies.

Vision for Quantum Computing: Recognized for her visionary work in utilizing quantum computing to address critical global challenges, embodying the principle of science in service of humanity.

Axelsen and An Se-young Triumph at India Open 2025

Viktor Axelsen and An Se-young clinched the men’s and women’s singles titles, respectively, at the India Open Super 750 badminton tournament in New Delhi. Axelsen secured his third India Open title by defeating Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu in straight games, 21-16, 21-8, in just 41 minutes. An Se-young showcased her dominance by overcoming Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong 21-12, 21-9. In the doubles events, Malaysia’s Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin, Japan’s Arisa Igarashi and Ayako Sakuramoto, and China’s Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin emerged victorious.

Singles Champions

Men’s Singles: Viktor Axelsen (Denmark)

• Defeated Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu in straight games (21-16, 21-8) in 41 minutes.
• Secured his third India Open title (previous wins in 2017 and 2019).

Women’s Singles: An Se-young (South Korea)

• Overcame Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong with a dominant performance (21-12, 21-9).
• Solidified her position as a rising star in international badminton.

Doubles Winners

• Men’s Doubles: Malaysia’s Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin.
• Women’s Doubles: Japan’s Arisa Igarashi and Ayako Sakuramoto.
• Mixed Doubles: China’s Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin.

Key Highlights

• Viktor Axelsen demonstrated exceptional skill and athleticism, showcasing his return to peak form after injury challenges.
• An Se-young’s consistent performance reinforced her status as a dominant force in women’s badminton.
• The tournament, held in New Delhi, celebrated outstanding performances from top international

Books and author news

VP Jagdeep Dhankhar Launches Book on Parliament’s Powers and Functions

VP Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the book “Parliament: Powers, Functions & Privileges; A Comparative Constitutional Perspective”

In January 2025, the Vice-President (VP) of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar launched the book “Parliament: Powers, Functions & Privileges; A Comparative Constitutional Perspective” in New Delhi (Delhi). The book was authored by Dr. KS Chauhan, Senior Advocate, at VP’s Enclave, New Delhi(Delhi).

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 19th & 20th January 2025 current affairs curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 19th & 20th January 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.

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National news

DPIIT Partners with ITC to Strengthen India’s Startup Ecosystem

In January 2025, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I), established a strategic partnership with ITC Limited, a Kolkata-based conglomerate. The collaboration aims to enhance technological progress and create new market opportunities for startups across India.

Key Highlights

Partnership Goals:

Leverage ITC’s market network and DPIIT’s support initiatives to bolster India’s startup ecosystem.

Focus on fostering innovation and creating opportunities in key sectors like renewable energy, digital platforms, and manufacturing excellence.

ITC’s Focus Areas:

• Energy Storage Systems: Implementing advanced storage solutions to optimize energy usage.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Utilizing renewable energy sources for ITC’s manufacturing locations to promote sustainability.
• Digital Platforms for MES: Enhancing Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) through digital tools to improve operational excellence.

Sustainability and Innovation:

• The collaboration emphasizes digital innovation to improve manufacturing readiness and operational efficiency.
• ITC will also focus on renewable energy initiatives to align with its sustainability goals.

PFC Signs Loan Agreement with JBIC for Renewable Energy Projects

In January 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC) under the Ministry of Power (MOP) signed an agreement with Tokyo (Japan) based Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) for 120 billion Japanese Yen (JPY) or Rs.6600 crore loan to support Renewable Energy(RE) projects in India.

Under the agreement, JBIC will contribute JPY 72 billion (Rs 40.04 billion), while the remaining amount will be provided by commercial banks.

Key Highlights

Agreement Details:

Parties Involved:

• Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC), India.
• Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Japan.

Loan Amount:

• Total: 120 billion Japanese Yen (JPY) or Rs 6,600 crore.
• JBIC Contribution: JPY 72 billion (Rs 4,004 crore).
• Remaining funds will be provided by commercial banks.

Objective: To support renewable energy (RE) projects in India, aligning with the country’s net-zero carbon emissions target and transition to clean energy sources.

Loan Tenure: Up to 20 years under JBIC’s ‘Global Action for Reconciling Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation’ (GREEN) initiative.

Represents JBIC’s largest green financing deal with an Indian company.

Key Uses of Funds:

• Development of renewable energy projects in India.
• Investment in next-generation energy supply systems.
• Enhancing energy-efficient power generation and heat supply infrastructure.
• Contributing to India’s goal of achieving 50% cumulative electric power generation from non-fossil-fuel sources by 2030.

Recent Collaboration: In August 2024, PFC received a 25.5 billion yen (approximately Rs. 147 crore) loan from JBIC to fund a wind energy project in Karnataka.

Key People:

• Parminder Chopra, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), PFC.
• Ogawa Kazunori, Senior Managing Director (MD), JBIC.

About Power Finance Corporation (PFC):

• Type: Maharatna Public Sector Company.
• Sector: One of India’s leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) under the Ministry of Power (MOP).
• Chairman & Managing Director (CMD): Parminder Chopra.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India.

Conclusion

This landmark agreement between PFC and JBIC underscores the importance of international cooperation in promoting renewable energy and environmental sustainability. By securing long-term funding under JBIC’s GREEN initiative, PFC continues to play a critical role in driving India’s transition to a clean energy future.

Agreement news

IREDA and Partners Sign JV Agreement for Nepal’s Upper Karnali Hydro-electric Project

On 17th January 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) entered into a Joint Venture (JV) Agreement with Shimla, Himachal Pradesh(HP) based SJVN Limited (formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam), GMR Energy Limited, and Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) for the development of the 900 megawatt (MW) Upper Karnali Hydro-electric Project over River Karnali, the largest hydro-electric power project in Nepal.

Key Highlights

Agreement Details:

Parties Involved:

• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA).
• SJVN Limited (formerly Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam).
• GMR Energy Limited.
• Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).

Purpose: Development of the 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydro-electric Project over the Karnali River, Nepal’s largest hydropower project.

Location: Signed in New Delhi on January 17, 2025.

Funding: Partly funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Project Overview:

• Model: Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT).
• Cost: Estimated at USD 1.5 billion.

Operation Timeline:

• Project will operate for 25 years post-Commercial Operation Date (COD).
• Expected to complete within 5 years of construction commencement.

Power Distribution:

• Nepal will utilize 108 MW for domestic consumption.
• The remaining 792 MW will be exported to India and Bangladesh.

Significance

Cross-Border Cooperation: The project exemplifies regional collaboration in renewable energy, fostering environmental and economic benefits.

Strategic Goals: Promotes renewable energy sources.

Enhances regional energy security by leveraging Nepal’s hydropower potential.

Investment Details:

• IREDA will invest Rs 174.22 crore for a 5% stake.
• SJVN will invest a similar amount to acquire a 10% joint stake in GMR Upper Karnali Hydro Power Ltd and Karnali Transmission Co Pvt Ltd.
• Both projects are being executed by GMR Nepal in partnership with SJVN.

About Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA)

• Chairman & Managing Director (CMD): Pradip Kumar Das.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi.
• Founded: 1987.

Role: A Maharatna company promoting renewable energy projects in India and abroad.

State news

Uttarakhand Partners with Iceland’s Verkis for Geothermal Energy Development

Uttarakhand Signs MoU with Iceland’s Verkis for Geothermal Energy Development The Government of Uttarakhand has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Icelandic company Verkis Consulting Engineers (Verkis) for geothermal exploration and development in Uttarakhand.

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU):

Parties Involved:

• Government of Uttarakhand.
• Verkis Consulting Engineers, Iceland.

Objective:

• Evaluate and promote geothermal energy across identified sites in Uttarakhand.
• Event: Signed in the virtual presence of CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and Icelandic Ambassador Dr. Benedict Hoskulsson.

Feasibility Studies: Funded by the Government of Iceland to assess the potential of geothermal energy projects.

Approvals: Received from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Geothermal Energy in Uttarakhand

• Potential Hotspots: Geological Survey of India (GSI) and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) have identified 40 geothermal hotspots in Uttarakhand.
• Significance: Geothermal energy is a clean, renewable resource, ideal for Uttarakhand’s mountainous terrain and commitment to sustainable development.

International news

Singapore President Shanmugaratnam’s visit to India

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore was on a five day official visit to India from 14-18 January 2025.This is the first official visit of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to India. During his visit to India he visited New Delhi and Odisha.

During his visit to Odisha on 17 & 18 January 2025,eight memorandum of understanding (MoU ) were signed between Singapore and the state of Odisha.

60th anniversary of India Singapore diplomatic relation  The Singapore President’s visit to India coincided with the 60th year of the establishment of the diplomatic relation between the two countries.

Key Events and Meetings

Commemorating 60 Years of Diplomatic Relations:

India-Singapore Relations:

• India was among the first nations to recognize Singapore’s independence in 1965.
• A logo commemorating the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties was jointly unveiled by President Droupadi Murmu and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Meetings in New Delhi:

President Shanmugaratnam met with:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
• Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
• Minister of Health and Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda.
• Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman.

Visit to Odisha (January 17-18, 2025)

Cultural and Infrastructure Visits:

• Visited the Sun Temple, Konark.
• Toured the Bharat Biotech vaccine manufacturing center near Bhubaneswar.

Collaboration at the World Skill Centre:

• The World Skill Centre in Bhubaneswar, established in collaboration with Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education and Education Services (ITEES), was a focal point of the visit.
• The center is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and aims to enhance skill development in Odisha.

MoUs Signed: Eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between Singapore and Odisha to strengthen ties and foster collaboration.

About Singapore

• President: Tharman Shanmugaratnam
• Prime Minister: Lawrence Wong
• Capital: Singapore
• Currency: Singapore Dollar

India was one the first countries in the world to recognize Singapore in 1965.

Defence news

Indian Navy Participates in the 5th Edition of La Perouse 25 Multinational Naval Exercise

On January 16, 2025, the Indian Navy (IN), along with eight Indo-Pacific nations, is participating in the 5th edition of the La Perouse 25 multinational naval exercise.

• The exercise is being conducted in the strategic maritime straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok, which serve as crucial routes for global maritime trade between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
• This eight-day exercise, organized by the French Carrier Strike Group (CSG), began on January 16, 2025, and will continue until January 24, 2025.

Key Highlights

Exercise Overview:

• Name: La Perouse 25
• Duration: January 16–24, 2025 (8 days).
• Location: Strategic maritime straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok—critical routes for global trade between the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean.
• Organizer: French Carrier Strike Group (CSG).

Objective: To prepare navies for real-world challenges by enhancing their collective response capabilities.

Participants: Naval forces from 9 nations: India, Australia, Canada, USA, France, Indonesia, Malaysia, UK, and Singapore.

Indian Navy Representation:

• The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Mumbai, a guided-missile destroyer, participated in the exercise.
• Other nations deployed advanced vessels for joint training.

Key Features of La Perouse 25

Use of IORIS System:

IORIS (Indian Ocean Regional Information Sharing):

• A system designed for communication and coordination among participating navies.
• Facilitates the exchange of information and documents for managing maritime crises.

All navies trained in the effective use of IORIS during the exercise.

Focus Areas:

• Interoperability Training: Exercises in ship inspections to detect and prevent illicit activities.
• Trade Route Protection: Emphasis on securing key maritime trade routes from accidents, illegal activities, and natural disasters.

Appointment news

Nripendra Mishra reappointed Chairperson of PM Museum & Library Society

The Government of India has reconstituted the Executive Council of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society and reappointed Nripendra Mishra as the Chairperson of the Executive Council of the Society.  The Executive Council is the highest decision-making body of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society.

• The Prime Minister is the ex-officio President of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society and the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is currently the Vice-Chairman.
• The Prime Minister Museum and Library Society was set up by the government of India on 1st April 1966 to manage the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library which is now known as the Prime Minister Museum and Library.

Reconstituted Executive Council of the Society

• According to the notification of the Union Ministry of Culture, the former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Nripendra Mishra has been re-appointed as the Chairperson of the Executive Council for a term of 5 years.
• Former Union Minister Smriti Irani, noted filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, former NITI Aayog Vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar, Sanjeev Sanyal, member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, retired Army officer Syed Ata Hasnain, and Sanskar Bharati’s Vasudev Kamath have also been appointed to the Executive Council.

The term of the newly appointed member of the Executive Council will be five years.

About the  Prime Minister Museum and Library

• The Prime Minister Museum and Library was earlier called the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library.
• It is located in the historic Teen Murti Campus, New Delhi.
• It was the residence of the Commander in Chief of India.
• In August 1948 it became the official residence of the first Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and remained so till his death.
• After his death in 1964, the government of India decided to convert the place into a museum dedicated to Jawahar Lal Nehru.
• In November 1964 President Dr Radhakrishnan inaugurated the Nehru Memorial Museum in the Teen Murti.

Change into Prime Minister Museum and Library

• In 2016 Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed converting the Nehru Museum and Library into a national museum dedicated to all the Prime Ministers of India.
• The proposal was approved by the Executive Council in a meeting in November 2016 and a decision was taken to construct the Museum of all Prime Ministers in the Teen Murti Estate.
• The  Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya dedicated to the 15 Prime Ministers of India, was opened to the public on 21st April 2022.
• A special meeting of the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library Society was held in June 2023. The meeting was chaired by the Vice-President of the Prime Minister Museum and Library Society, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
• It approved the change in the name of the Nehru Memorial to the Prime Minister Museum and Library.

Under  Which Ministry is the  Prime Minister Museum and Library

• The Prime Minister Museum and Library is funded by the Union Ministry of Culture.
• The ministry is mandated to preserve, promote, and disseminate all forms of art and culture in the country.

Science and tech news

Cabinet Approves 3rd Launchpad for ISRO’s New Generation Rockets

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the construction of the third launch pad of the Indian Space Research organisation (ISRO) which will be equipped to launch the future human space flight of ISRO and its next generation rockets.

Key Details

Approval and Location:

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of the third launch pad for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• It will be built at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, which already houses two operational launch pads.

Budget and Timeline:

Budget: Rs 3,984.86 crore.

Completion Timeline: 48 months (4 years).

Purpose:

• To support future human space flights and the launch of next-generation rockets.
• Essential for India’s ambitious space targets, including the Bharatiya Antriksh Station by 2035 and a manned Moon mission by 2040.
• Existing Launch Pads at SDSC

First Launch Pad:

• Operational Since: September 20, 1993.
• Capabilities: Launching Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

Second Launch Pad:

Operational Since: 2005.

Capabilities:

• Launching Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and LVM3 (GSLV Mk III), both powered by cryogenic engines.
• Acts as a standby for PSLV launches.
• Notable Mission: Chandrayaan-3 was launched from this pad.
• Requirement for a Third Launch Pad

New Generation Rockets:

• ISRO is developing heavier rockets with advanced propulsion systems to meet the demands of future missions.
• Existing launch pads are inadequate for launching these advanced rockets.

India’s Space Ambitions:

• Operational space station by 2035.
• Manned mission to the Moon by 2040.
• Historical Context of ISRO’s Launch Pads

Initial Launches:

• The Indian space programme began with sounding rocket launches from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, in 1963.
• The first rocket launched from SDSC in 1971 was RH-125, a sounding rocket.

Development of SDSC: SDSC became the focal point for ISRO’s expanding capabilities, housing India’s first two launch pads and now preparing for a third to support future advancements.

Blue Origin Successfully Launches New Glenn Rocket on First Test Flight

In January 2025, Blue Origin Enterprises, L.P., the American space technology company headquartered in Washington, the United States of America (USA), founded by Amazon’s Executive Chairman Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its reusable ‘New Glenn (NG) rocket’ on a first test flight, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the USA. The rocket was named after John Glenn who was the first American to orbit Earth.

Key Highlights

Launch Details:

• Date: January 2025.
• Rocket: New Glenn (NG), named after John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth.
• Mission Name: NG-1.
• Launch Site: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, USA.
• Objective: To test the rocket’s capabilities, including delivering a prototype satellite to orbit and recovering the first-stage booster.

Mission Outcome:

Payload: Successfully launched the Blue Ring Pathfinder test satellite into orbit.

First-Stage Booster:

• Attempted to land on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean but did not succeed.
• Emphasis remained on the mission’s primary goal of successful satellite deployment.

Second Stage: Planned to stay in orbit for six hours before being placed into a safe orbit to prevent space debris, adhering to NASA guidelines.

About New Glenn Rocket

Specifications:

• Height: 320 feet (98 meters).
• Purpose: Designed to carry spacecraft and astronauts to orbit and eventually to the Moon.

China Launches Pakistan’s First Remote Sensing Satellite, PRSC-E01

On January 17 2025, China successfully launched Pakistan’s first Remote Sensing Satellite – Earth Observing 1 (PRSC-E01) aboard the Long March-Dimensional (LM-2D) rocket for Pakistan from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center (JSLC), China. The rocket also carried 2 other satellites, Tianlu-1 and Lantan-1.

Satellite Overview:

PRSC-E01:

• Developed by Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).
• Equipped with a high-resolution electro-optical sensor.
• Part of a series of three optical remote sensing satellites for Pakistan.
• Joins existing satellites PRSS-1 and PakTES-1A in orbit.

Purpose:

• Land mapping and urban/rural planning.
• Agricultural classification and environmental monitoring.
• Natural disaster management and resource protection.

Capabilities:

Deploy satellites into correct orbits.

Reusability: Aims to land and reuse its first-stage booster.

Significance

• Space Exploration: A milestone for Blue Origin in advancing its capability to compete with other commercial space companies.
• Environmental Responsibility: Demonstrates commitment to minimizing space debris by ensuring second stages are safely managed.

About Blue Origin Enterprises, L.P.

• Founded: 2000.
• Founder: Jeff Bezos, Executive Chairman of Amazon.
• CEO: Dave Limp.
• Headquarters: Washington, USA.
• Mission: To develop reusable rocket technology and advance human access to space.

About China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation(CASC):

• Chairman- Chen Mingbo
• Headquarters- Beijing, China
• Established 1999

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National news

Piyush Goyal Launches PRABHAAV Factbook and Startup Challenge

The 9th Foundation Day of Startup India, celebrated in New Delhi, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, launched key initiatives, including the PRABHAAV Factbook and the Bharat Startup Challenge, while emphasizing the transformative role of startups in shaping India’s economic and social landscape. The event highlighted India’s achievements in fostering a thriving startup ecosystem, empowering women entrepreneurs, and supporting Tier II and Tier III city startups.

Key Initiatives

PRABHAAV Factbook:

• Comprehensive documentation of India’s startup ecosystem (2016-2024).
• Highlights regional contributions and growth trajectories.

Bharat Startup Challenge:

• Features 75 challenges in sectors like renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, and semiconductors.
• Offers procurement opportunities, cash prizes, mentorship, and networking.

Startup Ecosystem Achievements

• India became the world’s 3rd largest startup ecosystem with 1,59,157 startups (as of January 2025) from just 500 in 2016.
• 76 IPOs launched in 2024.
• Generated 17.2 lakh direct jobs.
• Role of Funding Instruments
• Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), administered by SIDBI, mobilized private capital in Tier II and III cities.
• Total startup funding of ₹13 trillion from the government.

Private Equity and Venture Capital

• Partnerships with PE/VC firms accelerated startups’ growth and provided global networks.
• Focus on Women Entrepreneurs
• 43% of India’s STEM graduates are women.
• Women Entrepreneurship Platform supports women-led startups.

Upcoming Events

Startup Mahakumbh (April 2025):

• Features 2,500 startups.
• Showcases India’s entrepreneurial talent globally.

Broader Contribution: Startups are addressing sustainability, healthcare, renewable energy, and digital transformation challenges.

Future Vision: Entering Amrit Kaal, startups are key to a self-reliant, inclusive, and globally competitive India.

PM Modi Inaugurates Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

On January 17, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at 10:30 AM at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. This event, recognized as India’s largest mobility expo, aims to consolidate the entire mobility value chain under one umbrella.

Event Features

Global Participation: Over 1,500 exhibitors and 500,000 visitors expected.

Exhibitions:

• Prominent vehicle manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, and Mahindra & Mahindra showcasing new models and innovations.
• Focus on sustainable mobility solutions such as electric, hybrid, CNG, and biofuel-powered vehicles.
• Participation from leading EV manufacturers, including Ather Energy, Ola Electric, Vayve Mobility, and Vietnam’s Vinfast.

Conferences and Pavilions:

• Over 20 conferences to discuss mobility advancements.
• Dedicated pavilions for state policies and initiatives, encouraging collaboration with local governments.

Historical Context and Growth

• Expanded significantly from its inaugural edition in 2024.
• Aims to position India as a global hub for mobility innovation, reflecting the nation’s commitment to sustainable development.
• Aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a connected and integrated world through collaboration and engineering excellence.

Maha Kumbh 2025: World’s First Mahamrityunjaya Yantra Installed in Prayagraj

The world’s first Mahamrityunjaya Yantra, measuring 52 feet in length, width, and height, has been installed at Tapovan Ashram in Jhunsi Havelis, Prayagraj—known as the sacred land of Maha Kumbh. This monumental Yantra is a spiritual marvel, believed to connect devotees to the higher consciousness of Lord Shiva.

Spiritual Significance

• Known as the “Victory over Death” Yantra, it helps overcome:
• Fear of death, disease, and danger.
• Stress, depression, and negativity.

Acts as a divine connector to Lord Shiva’s higher energy, fostering courage and positivity.

Creation and Cost

• Built over 52 days at a cost of ₹4 crore.
• Represents a perfect square design, reflecting balance and cosmic harmony.

Mantra Chanting and Rudraksha Consecration

151 Acharyas chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra since Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2025).

• Objective: Consecration of 11,11,111 Panchmukhi Rudrakshas for free distribution to devotees.
• Devotees can register at the ashram to receive a consecrated Rudraksha.
• Symbolism and Scientific Connection

52 Letters in the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra:

• Represent 52 energy centers in the body and the country.
• Align with 52 Hindi alphabets and sounds, emphasizing the core of Sanatan Dharma.

Scientific Structure of the Yantra:

• Mimics the spinal column, symbolizing energy flow and cosmic connectivity.
• Awakens divine powers through mantra chanting and meditation.
• Creates a positive energy field, benefiting everyone in its vicinity.

Visionary Leadership

• Swami Sahajanand Maharaj, the initiator, highlighted its scientific design and transformative potential.
• Aims to blend spirituality and science for holistic well-being and environmental harmony.

Uttar Pradesh:

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

Archaeological Experiential Museum Launched in Vadnagar

On a historic day, the Union Ministry of Culture and the Gujarat State Government unveiled a state-of-the-art Archaeological Experiential Museum in Vadnagar. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, along with other senior officials. This landmark project showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of Vadnagar, a town with a history spanning over 2,500 years.

• Inaugurated by: Union Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
• Location: Vadnagar, Gujarat, a historically significant town with a 2,500-year-old heritage.
• Purpose: To preserve and showcase Vadnagar’s cultural and historical richness.

Museum Overview

Design and Scale:

• A state-of-the-art facility covering 12,500 sq. m. with nine thematic galleries.
• Features a 4,000 sq. m. excavation site with visible archaeological remains up to 16-18 meters deep.
• Investment: ₹298 crore, including five years of operational maintenance.

Museum Structures

• Main Museum Building: Houses artifacts and interactive exhibits.
• 50-meter Connecting Bridge: Links the museum to the excavation site for easy visitor access.
• Permanent Structure over Excavation Site: Protects the excavation area and ensures visitor safety while offering informative views.

Exhibits and Collections

• Over 5,000 artifacts, showcasing Vadnagar’s historical evolution, including:
• Ceramic assemblages, coins, ornaments, weapons, tools, and sculptures.
• Organic materials like food grains, DNA samples, and skeletal remains.

Technology Integration: Combines physical exhibits with immersive digital experiences for an engaging visitor journey.

Significance of Vadnagar

• Historical Importance: Known for its role as a strategic hub on ancient trade routes.
• Cultural Diversity: Reflects centuries of religious and architectural diversity through its artifacts and structures.

Gujarat:

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

International news

NPCI International Expands UPI Acceptance in UAE

NPCI International partners with Magnati to Expand UPI Acceptance in UAE NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with Magnati, a leading payment solutions provider in the Middle East, to provide the feature of QR (Quick Response) based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) merchant payments via Magnati’s Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Key Highlights

• Partnership: NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the global arm of NPCI, partnered with Magnati, a leading payment solutions provider in the Middle East.
• Objective: To enable QR-based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments via Magnati’s Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals in the UAE, enhancing payment convenience for Indian travelers.

Target Audience: Over 12 million Indians visiting Dubai and the UAE annually.

Implementation

• Initial Rollout: UPI acceptance will begin at Dubai Duty-Free, streamlining the shopping experience for Indian tourists.
• Expansion: The service will extend to merchants in retail, hospitality, transport, supermarkets, and other key categories.

Global Reach: UPI payments are now accepted in seven countries: Bhutan, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, France, and the UAE.

NPCI:

• Founded: 19 December 2008
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Founders: Reserve Bank of India, Indian Banks’ Association
• Head: Dilip Asbe

Economy news

FICCI Revises India’s Economic Projections for FY 2024-25

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has adjusted its economic forecasts for India, projecting a GDP growth rate of 6.4% and a Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation rate of 4.8% for the fiscal year 2024-25. This revision reflects a cautious outlook amid global uncertainties and domestic challenges.
GDP Growth Projection

Revised Forecast: GDP growth downgraded to 6.4% from 7.0% (September 2024 projection).

Comparison:

• FY 2023-24: 8.2% growth.
• FY 2024-25: Moderation due to global uncertainties and domestic challenges.

Sectoral Growth Expectations:

• Agriculture: Growth at 3.6%, expected to boost rural consumption in H1 FY 2024-25.
• Industry: Projected growth of 6.3%, with improvement in H2 driven by public capital expenditure and festive demand.
• Services: Growth forecasted at 7.3%, benefiting from normalization post-monsoon.

Inflation Outlook

CPI-Based Inflation:

• Projected at 4.8%, in line with RBI’s expectations.
• Easing inflation is expected to alleviate household strain, especially on food prices.

Investment and Consumption Dynamics

• Government Investment: Infrastructure, housing, and logistics sectors expected to drive growth.
• Private Capital Expenditure: Anticipated to remain subdued due to geopolitical and domestic demand uncertainties.

Consumer Spending:

• Likely to gain momentum, supported by:
• Improved agricultural sector performance.
• Potential monetary easing by RBI, reducing interest rates.

FICCI:

• Founded: 1927
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Head: Harsha Vardhan Agarwal

Banking news

RBI Reshuffles Portfolios: M Rajeshwar Rao to Head Monetary Policy Department

RBI Assigns Deputy Governor M Rajeshwar Rao to head monetary policy The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has redesigned portfolios of its deputy governors as the 5- year term with two one-year extended tenure of Dr. Michael Debabrata Patra ended on 14th January 2025. The central bank has reshuffled its 33 departments among the three deputy governors Rajeshwar Rao, T Rabi Sankar and Swaminathan Janakiraman.

Portfolio Assignments

M Rajeshwar Rao:

Handles 11 portfolios, including:

• Monetary Policy Department.
• Department of Regulation.
• Enforcement Department.
• Department of Economic and Policy Research.
• Risk Monitoring Department.

T Rabi Sankar:

Oversees 13 departments, such as:

• Currency Management.
• Financial Markets Operations.
• Information Technology.
• Financial Markets Regulation.

Swaminathan Janakiraman:

Responsible for 9 departments, including:

• Supervision.
• Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).

About Dr. Michael Debabrata Patra

• Served as RBI Deputy Governor since 2020, with his term extended twice in 2023 and 2024.
• Played a key role as a member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) since its inception in 2016.

RBI Deputy Governors

RBI has four deputy governors, including:

• An economist to oversee monetary policy.
• A commercial banker.
• Two from within RBI ranks.

Shriram Housing Finance Rebrands as Truhome Finance

In a significant development, Shriram Housing Finance has rebranded itself as Truhome Finance, marking a pivotal shift in its corporate identity and strategic direction. This transformation follows the acquisition by Warburg Pincus and co-investors, including Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, QIA. The rebranding aligns with the company’s vision to enhance accessibility to affordable home loans across diverse socio-economic segments.

Rebranding and Acquisition

• Rebranding: Shriram Housing Finance has been rebranded as Truhome Finance, signaling a new strategic direction.
• Acquisition: Warburg Pincus and Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) acquired a substantial stake, investing ₹1,225 crore, increasing the company’s net worth to over ₹3,300 crore.

Strategic Vision and Goals

• Focus on expanding presence in Tier 2 to Tier 4 cities, aiming to drive 55–60% of business from non-metro regions.
• Targeting a 25–30% annual growth in Assets Under Management (AUM) and a 10% increase in disbursements.
• Aspires to become India’s number one affordable housing finance company within three years, with a projected loan book size of ₹35,000–40,000 crore by FY28.

Financial Implications

Cost of Funds:

Post-acquisition, borrowing costs are expected to decrease, with:

• 25 basis points reduction in exit cost.
• 40 basis points reduction in incremental borrowing costs.

Improvement attributed to Warburg Pincus’s strong network and credibility.

Capital Infusion: The ₹1,225 crore investment will support the company’s growth, expanding its lending portfolio and operational capabilities.

Leadership Perspective: Ravi Subramanian, Managing Director and CEO, emphasized that the rebranding reflects a continued focus on customer-centricity, transparency, and trust while maintaining operational continuity.

Future Outlook

• Strengthening its leadership in the affordable housing finance sector.
• Commitment to portfolio quality, yield, and margin preservation.
• Enhancing accessibility to affordable home loans, supporting socio-economic inclusivity.

PNB MetLife Joins Hands with Saraswat Bank for Financial Inclusion

• On January 15, 2025, PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Ltd. partnered with Saraswat Co-Operative Bank Ltd., India’s largest urban co-operative bank.
• Objective: To provide comprehensive life insurance solutions—savings, protection, retirement, and group plans—to Saraswat Bank’s 30 lakh customers across 302 branches.

Strategic Vision

• Address India’s insurance protection gap by combining Saraswat Bank’s extensive customer base and legacy with PNB MetLife’s insurance expertise.
• Cater to customers’ financial needs across life stages, offering essential financial protection and wealth-building opportunities.

Statements from Leadership

Sameer Bansal, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife:

• Emphasized the role of wide-reaching distribution channels in making insurance accessible.
• Highlighted the partnership as a step toward bridging the insurance gap in India.

Arti Patil, MD & CEO, Saraswat Bank: Stated the collaboration aligns with Saraswat Bank’s commitment to delivering comprehensive financial services to customers.

About PNB MetLife

Combines the financial strength of MetLife, Inc. with Punjab National Bank (PNB).

• Offers a diverse product portfolio, including child education, family protection, savings, and retirement plans.
• As of November 30, 2024:
• Operates 155 branches.
• Serves customers in over 19,000 locations via bank partnerships.

About Saraswat Bank

• Founded: Over 100 years ago, it is India’s largest urban co-operative bank.
• Presence: Operates in six states—Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi—with over 300 branches and ATMs.
• Business: Total business of over ₹82,000 crore as of March 31, 2024.

Offers a wide range of personal and business banking solutions, tailored to diverse customer needs.

PNB meta life:

• CEO: Ashish Kumar Srivastava (1 Oct 2017–)
• Date founded: 2001
• Headquarters: Mumbai

Appointment news

Punjab National Bank and Indian Bank Appoint New MDs and CEOs

On January 16, 2025, the Indian government appointed new Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers for two major public sector banks: Ashok Chandra at Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Binod Kumar at Indian Bank.

Punjab National Bank (PNB)

New Appointment: Ashok Chandra appointed as Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Tenure:

• Three-year term.
• Age: 57.

Indian Bank New Appointment:

Binod Kumar appointed as MD and CEO.

Tenure:

• Three-year term, with eligibility for an extension of up to two years based on performance review.
• Age: 55.

Vineet Joshi Takes Charge as Secretary of Higher Education

Shri Vineet Joshi has assumed the role of Secretary of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, effective  at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. Prior to this appointment, Shri Joshi had a distinguished career in various key positions within the Indian educational sector. His vast experience in managing education-related initiatives is expected to bring significant improvements to India’s higher education landscape.

Professional Background

• Chief Secretary of Manipur: Managed key administrative functions in the state.
• Director-General of the National Testing Agency (NTA): Oversaw the operational and strategic direction of educational testing.
• Chairman of CBSE: Guided reforms in school education and examination systems.

Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Education: Contributed to national education policies and initiatives.

Other Key Contributions

• Oversaw Institutes of Eminence (IoE) to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian universities.
• Managed the Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA) to provide financial support for infrastructure development in higher education.

PV Sindhu Partners with PUMA India

PV Sindhu, the two-time Olympic medallist and a global badminton icon, has forged a multi-year partnership with PUMA India, marking the sportswear giant’s official entry into the badminton domain. This strategic collaboration signifies a landmark moment for badminton in India and aims to capitalize on the sport’s burgeoning popularity, which currently boasts a fan base of 57 million across the country. With this partnership, PUMA aims to deepen its footprint in India’s rapidly expanding sports market, while Sindhu continues to inspire millions with her remarkable achievements.

Overview of the Partnership

• Collaboration: PV Sindhu, two-time Olympic medallist, has entered a multi-year partnership with PUMA India.
• Significance: Marks PUMA’s official entry into badminton in India, a rapidly growing sport with a fan base of 57 million.
• Launch: Partnership begins at the India Open 2025 in New Delhi.

Impact on Indian Badminton

Promoting the Sport:

• Highlights PUMA’s commitment to nurturing young badminton talent.
• Aims to increase the sport’s popularity through strategic initiatives.

Sindhu’s Role:

• As the most-followed badminton athlete globally, Sindhu serves as a brand ambassador, leveraging her legacy of achievements, including Olympic medals and a World Championship title.
• Her association elevates PUMA’s presence in India’s sports market.

Science and tech news

C-DOT and IIT Bombay Unite for Indigenous 6G Optical Chipset

India is making significant strides in next-generation telecommunications technology, with the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) signing an agreement for the development of an “Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links.” This initiative, under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) 6G Call for Proposals by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), aims to strengthen India’s leadership in 6G innovation and deployment by 2030, with a focus on affordability, sustainability, and ubiquity.

Overview of the Agreement

• Partnership: The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and IIT Bombay signed an agreement to develop an Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links.
• Initiative: Part of the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) 6G Call for Proposals by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Goal: Strengthen India’s leadership in 6G innovation and deployment by 2030, focusing on affordability, sustainability, and ubiquity.

Key Objectives and Applications

Purpose:

• Enable high-speed communication for rural and challenging terrains.
• Ensure uninterrupted connectivity in remote areas via satellite technology.

Applications:

• Develop free-space coherent optical links for 6G technology.
• Provide high-speed internet in underserved regions.
• Deliver robust connectivity in terrains unsuitable for laying optical fibers.

Stakeholders

C-DOT:

• Premier R&D center under DoT.
• Focused on indigenous development of telecom hardware for 6G.

IIT Bombay:

• Collaborating to enhance R&D capabilities.
• Led by Prof. Shalabh Gupta, the Principal Investigator for the project.

Funding and Leadership: Conducted under the TTDF 6G Call for Proposals, supporting R&D in the 6G ecosystem.

Leadership Comments:

• Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay (CEO, C-DOT): Highlighted the importance of indigenously developed telecom solutions to align with Atmanirbhar Bharat and the Bharat 6G initiative.
• Prof. Shalabh Gupta (IIT Bombay): Acknowledged the project’s role in advancing cutting-edge telecommunications infrastructure.

Broader Vision and Goals

Research Goals:

• Develop advanced chipsets for seamless 6G connectivity.
• Position India as a global leader in the 6G technology race.

National Development:

• Enhance digital inclusion by addressing connectivity gaps in underserved regions.
• Drive technological self-reliance in telecommunications, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat.

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

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

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

National news

Cabinet Nod for 8th Pay Commission Implementation

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

Approval and Formation

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

Scope and Expectations

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

Key Proposals

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

Historical Context

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

7th CPC Summary

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

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

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

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

Key Areas of Collaboration

Cultural Exchange

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

Tourism Promotion

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

AI Collaboration

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

Role of the Indian Diaspora

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

Preparations for 2026

Planning throughout 2025, involving:

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

Significance

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

Economy news

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

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

Economic Growth Projection

PHDCCI Outlook:

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

Tax Reforms Recommendations

Income Tax Adjustments:

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

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

Monetary Policy Outlook

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

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

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

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

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

Banking news

NPCI and Magnati Partner to Boost UPI Use in UAE

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

Partnership Overview

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

Key Details

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

UPI’s Global Reach:

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

Future Plans:

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

Core Expertise:

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

Global Presence:

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

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL)

Foundation:

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

Key Innovations:

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

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

science and tech news

ISRO Successfully Docks Satellites, Enters Elite Club

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

Overview

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

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

India’s Hydrogen Train Engine Sets a Power Benchmark

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

Key Features

Highest Horsepower:

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

Trial Run:

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

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

Broader Applications

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

• Trucks.
• Tugboats.

Vision for the Future

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

State news

Odisha Government Announces ₹20,000 Pension for Emergency Detainees

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

Key Provisions

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

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

Eligibility:

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

Application Process:

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

Significance

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

Impact

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

Award news

Singapore Confers Honorary Citizenship on Tarun Das

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

Overview

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

Contributions to Bilateral Ties

Economic and Strategic Relations:

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

Dialogue Platforms:

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

People-to-People Connections:

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

Recognition of Achievements

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

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

Impact

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

Sports news

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

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

Key Records by Smriti Mandhana

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

Aggressive Batting:

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

Partnership Milestone

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

Historical Comparisons

Most Hundreds in Women’s ODIs:

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

Highest Partnerships for India-W in ODIs:

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

Significance

• Smriti Mandhana’s performance underscores her status as one of the world’s finest batters in women’s cricket.
• Her leadership and aggressive batting style set a benchmark for future Indian cricketers.
• The Mandhana-Rawal partnership further solidifies India’s dominance in women’s ODI cricket.

Arjun Erigaisi Stuns Chess World with Wins Against Carlsen, Caruana

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

Key Highlights

Remarkable Wins:

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

Performance Summary:

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

Nakamura’s Praise:

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

Arjun’s Achievements in 2024

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

Significance

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

Defence news

Indian Army Conducts Exercise ‘Devil Strike’

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

Objectives

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

Significance

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

Building on Past Exercises

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

14th and 15th Current Affairs

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National news

Piyush Goyal Inaugurates National Turmeric Board for ‘Golden Spices’

On 14 January 2025, the National Turmeric Board was formally inaugurated by Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, through a video conference in New Delhi. The headquarters of the National Turmeric Board is located in Nizamabad, Telangana, a major contributor to India’s turmeric production, accounting for around 30% of the country’s turmeric exports.

Key Details:

Ministry: The National Turmeric Board operates under the Department of Commerce, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Chairperson and Composition:

Chairperson: The first chairperson of the board is Palle Ganga Reddy, appointed by the government of India.

The Board will consist of members from various ministries, including:

• Union Ministry of AYUSH
• Department of Pharmaceuticals
• Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
• Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry

The board will also include:

• Representatives from three major turmeric-growing states (on a rotating basis).
• National and state institutions involved in turmeric research.
• Turmeric farmers and exporters.
• The Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce.

Functions of the National Turmeric Board:

• Promote Research and Development (R&D): Focus on boosting yields and production of turmeric.
• Boost Exports: Promote R&D in new turmeric products and value addition, ensuring smooth logistics and a robust supply chain for international markets.
• Raise Awareness: Highlight the essential and medical properties of turmeric.
• Ensure Quality Standards: Maintain the quality and safety of turmeric production and exports to reinforce India’s position as the world’s leading exporter of high-quality turmeric.
• Farmer Development: Focus on capacity building and skill development for turmeric farmers.

India’s Role in Turmeric Production and Exports:

• India is the world’s largest producer, exporter, and consumer of turmeric.
• In 2023-24, India exported 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric, worth ₹1,875.86 crore or $226.5 million.
• The top buyers of Indian turmeric include Bangladesh, followed by UAE, Malaysia, and USA.
• Target for 2030: The government aims for ₹8,000 crore in turmeric exports by 2030.

Govt Approves 56 Watershed Projects Worth ₹700 Crore

The Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned 56 new Watershed Development Projects under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) with a total investment of ₹700 crore. These projects span 10 high-performing states: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.

Scope and Coverage:

• Each project covers approximately 5,000 hectares, with smaller areas in hill states.
• A total of 280,000 hectares will benefit from these projects.

Activities Undertaken:

• Ridge area treatment and drainage line treatment.
• Soil and moisture conservation, rainwater harvesting, and pasture development.
• Livelihood support for asset-less individuals.

Objectives and Outcomes:

• Agricultural Productivity: Enhanced soil health and water availability to improve crop yields and farmers’ incomes.
• Land Degradation: Rehabilitation of degraded lands and promotion of sustainable practices.
• Climate Resilience: Strengthened water conservation and soil fertility to combat climate change impacts.

Historical Context:

• Builds on the success of PMKSY 1.0, which improved groundwater, surface water availability, and agricultural productivity.
• The current phase, PMKSY-WDC 2.0, aims to continue sustainable rural development with these newly approved projects.

C-DOT & IIT Mandi to Develop Wideband Spectrum Sensor Chip

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), in collaboration with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu, has signed an agreement to develop a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC-Chip. This project aims to enhance spectrum utilization efficiency and expand broadband access, especially in rural India, under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme.

Project Goals:

• Development of a chip to improve spectrum efficiency.
• Focus on hardware-friendly algorithms for wideband spectrum sensing.
• Target spectrum beyond 2 GHz bandwidth to exploit unused bands or white spaces.
• Support rural broadband expansion by leveraging underutilized spectrum.

Technological Innovations: Spectrum sensing enables Cognitive Radio to adapt dynamically without interfering with primary networks.

Efficient hardware architectures for:

• Short sensing time
• High data throughput
• Improved hardware efficiency
• Initial designs emulated in FPGA; subsequent development of ASIC chips.
• Demonstration of a cognitive radio module for the 6 GHz satellite band (5.925–7.125 GHz).

Key Benefits:

• Increases cognitive radio network throughput.
• Enhances spectrum utilization for communication systems.
• Develops intellectual property for dynamic spectrum access technology.
• Aligns with the India Semiconductor Mission.

Supporting Vision and Schemes:

• Funded under TTDF, Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
• Supports Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
• Bridges India’s digital divide by enhancing rural connectivity.

Key Attendees and Remarks:

• Dr. Raj Kumar Upadhyay (CEO, C-DOT): Stressed the significance of indigenous spectrum sensing technologies.
• Dr. Rahul Shrestha (IIT Mandi) & Dr. Rohit B. Chaurasiya (IIT Jammu): Emphasized commitment to research in dynamic spectrum access technology.
• Other notable attendees: Dr. Pankaj Kumar Dalela and Ms. Shikha Srivastava, Directors at C-DOT.

This initiative underscores India’s technological advancements in telecommunications, fostering innovation and self-reliance.

Kappad and Chal Beaches Receive Prestigious Blue Flag Certification

Kerala’s Kappad beach (Kozhikode) and Chal beach (Kannur) have received the prestigious Blue Flag certification, a globally recognized eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark. This recognition highlights their commitment to environmental protection, safety, and sustainability, boosting Kerala’s reputation as a hub for sustainable tourism.

Key Highlights:

Blue Flag Certification: Awarded by the FEE, established in 1985 to promote sustainable coastal development.

Recognizes adherence to 33 stringent criteria in four categories:

• Environmental Education and Information
• Bathing Water Quality
• Environmental Management
• Conservation and Safety Services

Significance for Kerala:

• Global Recognition: Enhances the state’s international appeal as a sustainable tourism destination.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Both beaches maintain high hygiene, safety, and eco-conscious standards.
• Tourism Impact: Attracts environmentally conscious travelers, aligning with Kerala’s Responsible Tourism (RT) initiatives.

Tourism Minister’s Statement:

P.A. Mohamed Riyas: Highlighted the achievement as a milestone for Kerala’s sustainable tourism.

India’s Blue Flag Beaches: With Kappad and Chal, India now boasts 13 Blue Flag beaches, reflecting its dedication to eco-friendly tourism.

About Blue Flag Certification:

• Authority: Awarded by FEE and validated by an international jury comprising representatives from:
• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

Global Reach: Over 4,000 beaches worldwide hold this certification, with Spain leading at 729 beaches.

The Blue Flag certification recognizes beaches that adhere to stringent environmental, safety, and sustainability standards. As of 2025, India has 13 certified beaches:

• Shivrajpur Beach, Dwarka, Gujarat (Certified in 2020)
• Golden Beach, Puri, Odisha (Certified in 2020)
• Ghoghla Beach, Diu, Gujarat (Certified in 2020)
• Kasarkod Beach, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka (Certified in 2020)
• Padubidri Beach, Udupi, Karnataka (Certified in 2020)
• Rushikonda Beach, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (Certified in 2020)
• Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Certified in 2020)
• Kovalam Beach, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Certified in 2020)
• Eden Beach, Puducherry (Certified in 2020)
• Minicoy Thundi Beach, Lakshadweep (Certified in 2022)
• Kadmat Beach, Lakshadweep (Certified in 2022)
• Kappad Beach, Kozhikode, Kerala (Certified in 2025)
• Chal Beach, Kannur, Kerala (Certified in 2025)

International news

India-U.S. Sonobuoy Production Line Set for 2027

India and the United States have announced a co-production initiative to enhance the Indian Navy’s undersea domain awareness through the assembly of U.S.-specification sonobuoys in India. This collaboration aims to provide India with advanced technology for submarine detection and undersea warfare capabilities, strengthening India’s defense readiness and regional security.

Key Details:

Co-Production Agreement:

• The co-production agreement focuses on assembling U.S. sonobuoys in India to bolster the Indian Navy’s capabilities for detecting submarines.
• The operational production line for these sonobuoys is expected to be fully functional by 2027.

Collaboration Partners: Ultra Maritime, a leading U.S. defense company, has partnered with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), an Indian defense public sector undertaking, for the final assembly of the sonobuoys in India.

Technology Transfer: As part of the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies, this collaboration includes technology transfer, enabling the development of new sonobuoy systems customized for the Indian Ocean environment.

Operational Compatibility:

• The sonobuoys will be designed to be compatible with various military platforms, including:
• U.S. and Indian platforms such as the P-8 aircraft and MH-60R helicopters.
• Allied military platforms for broader interoperability in joint operations.

Geopolitical Significance:

• The partnership strengthens India-U.S. defense ties, particularly as China’s naval presence expands in the Indian Ocean.
• This development is also aligned with **India’s role in the Quad and its increasing focus on regional security and undersea warfare.

Future Outlook: The initiative opens up opportunities for Indian suppliers to integrate into the global supply chain for undersea warfare technologies, promoting self-reliance and fostering defense industrial growth within India.

India to Host the 28th CSPOC in 2026

India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in New Delhi in 2026, as announced by Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, on January 10, 2025 during the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting held in Guernsey.

Focus of the 28th CSPOC:

• The conference will focus on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media in parliamentary operations.
• The aim is to enhance cooperation among Commonwealth member countries using these technologies.
• It will also highlight regional language translations for Members of Parliament (MPs) and provide access to parliamentary papers in various languages.

India’s Role in Global Economy:

• India, now the 5th-largest economy in the world and the 3rd-largest startup ecosystem, is rapidly growing in sectors like agriculture, fintech, AI, and research and innovation.
• The hosting of the CSPOC further solidifies India’s leadership in global discussions on technology and parliamentary reforms.

Cultural Significance: India’s selection as the host for this prestigious event reflects its rich cultural heritage, rooted in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “the whole world is one family.”

India’s Previous Hosting of CSPOC: India has previously hosted the CSPOC in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010, showcasing its longstanding commitment to fostering international dialogue and cooperation.

Banking news

IBBI Mandates Use of eBKray Platform for Asset Auctions in Liquidation

On January 10, 2025, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) announced that starting April 1, 2025, all asset auctions under the liquidation process must be conducted using the eBKray platform, now rebranded as the Bank Asset Auction Network (BAANKET). This initiative aims to enhance transparency, improve auction efficiency, and increase recovery rates in liquidation cases.

Key Points:

Mandatory Use of eBKray Platform:

• IBBI has instructed Insolvency Professionals (IPs) to list unsold assets from ongoing liquidation cases on the eBKray platform by March 31, 2025.
• This move is intended to streamline the auction process, improve buyer access, and foster greater accountability in the liquidation process.

Addressing Auction Issues: The initiative aims to address the challenges with manual and fragmented auctions, creating a more efficient and uniform process.

About the eBKray Platform:

• Launched in 2019, the eBKray (now BAANKET) is an advanced property listing and e-auction platform.
• It is designed to help banks and lending institutions recover non-performing assets (NPAs) by facilitating the digital auction of distressed assets.

IBBI Extends Deadline for E-Forms Submission:

IBBI has also extended the deadline for electronic form submissions related to liquidation and voluntary liquidation processes to March 31, 2025 due to technical issues raised by insolvency professionals and agencies.

About IBBI:

• Formation: Established in 2016 under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
• Chairperson: Ravi Mital.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India.

IDBI Launches ‘Chiranjeevi-Super Senior Citizen Fixed Deposit’ Scheme

On January 13, 2025, the Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI) launched the ‘IDBI Chiranjeevi-Super Senior Citizen Fixed Deposit (FD)’ scheme in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This special fixed deposit scheme is designed for individuals aged 80 years and above, offering them higher interest rates to meet their unique financial needs.

Key Features of the Scheme:

Target Group:

• Exclusively for super senior citizens (aged 80 years and above).
• Provides a safe and secure investment option with guaranteed returns.

Special FD Buckets & Interest Rates:

• 375 Days: 7.90% p.a.
• 444 Days: 8.00% p.a.
• 555 Days: 8.05% p.a.
• 700 Days: 7.85% p.a.

Eligibility and Terms:

• Not applicable to Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) or Non-Resident External (NRE) term deposits.
• Premature withdrawal and closure are allowed but will incur a penalty of 1% on the applicable rate.
• All other terms and conditions of the FD remain unchanged.

Validity of Rates:

The special interest rates will remain valid only for the duration of the respective Utsav FD buckets (300 days, 375 days, 444 days, and 555 days).

Other IDBI FD Schemes:

Utsav Callable FD Scheme:

• Offers varied interest rates based on the tenure.
• A recent addition is the 555-day tenure, which offers 7.40% for general citizens and 7.90% for senior citizens, available until March 31, 2025.

About IDBI Bank:

• Managing Director & CEO: Rakesh Sharma
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Established: July 1, 1964

Taglines:

• “Banking for all, Aao Sochein Bada”
• “Bank Aisa Dost Jaisa”

PNB Launches 1st ‘Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024-25’ to Combat Malware Threats

On January 2025, Punjab National Bank (PNB), headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, launched its 1st-ever ‘Cybersecurity Hackathon 2024-25’ with the theme “Code Against Malware”. The hackathon aims to tackle the increasing threat of malware in the banking sector by inviting innovators, researchers, and academicians from across India to develop cutting-edge solutions.

Key Points:

Objective:

• The primary goal is to strengthen India’s cybersecurity defenses in the banking sector, particularly in the fight against malware attacks.
• It encourages the development of innovative solutions to detect, mitigate, and prevent malware threats effectively.

Government Support:

• This initiative is being held under the Ministry of Finance (MOF), following the directive from the Department of Financial Services (DFS), which mandates Public Sector Banks (PSBs) to host annual hackathons.
• The directive was issued on December 9, 2024, encouraging PSBs to promote cybersecurity through innovation.

Focus Areas:

• Intelligence-powered malware detection and removal
• Real-time threat monitoring and mitigation
• Ransomware resilience solutions
• Next-generation antivirus tools and attack surface management

Significance of the Hackathon:

• The hackathon will serve as a platform for collaboration and innovation in the cybersecurity field, focusing on improving the resilience of India’s banking sector against evolving cyber threats.
• By involving academia and industry experts, the initiative aims to generate high-quality, actionable solutions to enhance the security framework of the banking ecosystem.
• This cybersecurity hackathon underscores PNB’s commitment to advancing digital security and protecting the financial infrastructure of India from emerging cyber threats.

Ranking and report news

India Ranks 3rd Globally in Fintech Funding Despite Decline in 2024

According to the Annual India Fintech Report 2024 by Tracxn Technologies Limited, India ranked 3rd globally in terms of funding received in the fintech sector, despite a 33% decline year-over-year (YoY). The country garnered USD 1.9 billion in fintech funding in 2024, down from USD 2.8 billion in 2023.

Key Points:

Global Fintech Funding Rankings:

• USA topped the global fintech funding rankings.
• The UK secured the 2nd position, while India came in 3rd despite the decline.

Factors Behind the Decline:

• The 33% YoY decline in India’s fintech funding is mainly attributed to:
• Wider slowdown in demand in the global market.
• Geopolitical headwinds affecting the sector.

Top Investing Companies in Fintech (2024):

• Peak XV Partners (based in Karnataka)
• LetsVenture Technologies Private Limited (Bengaluru, Karnataka)
• Y Combinator, LLC (California, USA)

Top Indian Cities for Fintech Funding: Bengaluru (Karnataka) emerged as the leading hub for fintech funding, followed by Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Delhi (Delhi).

About Tracxn Technologies Limited:

• Managing Director & Chairperson: Neha Singh
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Overview: Tracxn Technologies is a global market intelligence platform that tracks funding and investment trends in various sectors, including fintech.

  Appointment news

Venezuela’s Maduro Sworn in Amid Electoral Controversy

Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela (46th President), was sworn in for a third six-year term following a contentious election. His opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, claimed voter fraud and declared himself the rightful winner of the July elections. Despite international pressure and sanctions, particularly from the United States, Maduro’s inauguration took place amid widespread controversy and public protests.

Anju Bobby George Named Chairperson of AFI Athletes Commission

Anju Bobby George, a legendary long jumper and 2003 World Championships bronze medalist, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Athletes Commission. The nine-member commission is notable for its emphasis on gender parity, with six women members.

Anju Bobby George’s Role:

• Appointed as Chairperson of the AFI Athletes Commission.
• Tasked with advocating for athletes and ensuring greater representation in AFI.
• She is also a Senior Vice-President of the AFI.

Composition of the Commission:

Includes prominent retired athletes like:

• Jyotirmoyee Sikdar (runner)
• Krishna Poonia (discus thrower)
• Sudha Singh (steeplechaser)

Notable male members:

• Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist (javelin thrower).
• Avinash Sable, 3000m steeplechaser.
• Bahadur Singh Sagoo, AFI president and 2002 Asian Games shot put gold medalist.

Economy news

India’s Retail Inflation Drops to 5.22% in December

India’s retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), fell to 5.22% in December 2024, down from 5.48% in November, reaching its lowest point in four months. This decline is largely driven by a slowdown in food price increases, particularly in vegetables, cereals, and pulses.

Food Inflation: The Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded an 8.39% year-on-year increase in December, down from 9% in November.

Significant decreases observed in:

• Vegetables: Inflation reduced to 26.6% from 29%.
• Pulses: Inflation at 3.8%.
• Cereals: Inflation at 6.51%.

Increases were noted in:

• Meat: 5.3%.
• Eggs: 6.85%.
• Edible Oils: 14.6%.
• Fruits: 8.5%.

Core Inflation:

Excluding volatile food and fuel prices, core inflation moderated to 3.5% in December, reflecting reduced domestic demand pressures.

Regional Variations:

• Rural Inflation: Higher at 5.76%.
• Urban Inflation: Lower at 4.58%.

Implications for Monetary Policy:

The decline in inflation raises expectations that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may consider reducing interest rates in its upcoming February policy review.

However, risks such as:

• A depreciating rupee.
• Global trade uncertainties.
• may influence future inflation trends and the RBI’s decisions.

This moderation in inflation provides a positive outlook for consumers but requires cautious monitoring of external and domestic economic factors.

State news

Odisha Integrates with Ayushman Bharat

On January 13, 2025, Odisha became the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), marking a transformative step in the state’s healthcare sector. The integration was formalized through an MoU between the National Health Authority (NHA) and Odisha’s Department of Health and Family Welfare.

Key Highlights:

Convergence with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY):

• AB PM-JAY merges with Odisha’s GJAY to provide comprehensive health coverage.
• Benefits: ₹5 lakh per family annually, with an additional ₹5 lakh for women.
• Coverage:
• 1.03 crore families to benefit.
• 67.8 lakh families supported by the Union Government.

Enhanced Healthcare Access in Odisha:

• Residents previously accessed around 900 empaneled hospitals.
• Post-integration, cashless treatment is available in over 29,000 government and private hospitals nationwide.
• Benefits expected to reach 86% of Odisha’s population, significantly improving healthcare accessibility.

National Impact of AB PM-JAY: Launched in 2018, PM-JAY is the world’s largest health coverage scheme.

Achievements:

• 8.19 crore hospital admissions since inception.
• ₹1.13 lakh crore spent on healthcare for marginalized communities.
• Covers 2,000 medical procedures across 27 specialties, including major surgeries like bypasses and knee replacements.

Leadership Remarks:

• Union Health Minister JP Nadda: Highlighted the scheme’s scale and rapid implementation.
• Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi: Emphasized the scheme’s potential to transform the health status of the state’s residents.

About Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY:

• Objective: Provide financial protection for healthcare to economically vulnerable families.
• Coverage: ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care.
• Beneficiaries: 10.74 crore families (approximately 50 crore people).
• Access: Cashless and paperless treatment in 29,000+ hospitals nationwide.
• Focus: Inclusion of marginalized communities in quality healthcare services.

Science and tech news

Indichip Semiconductors and Yitoa Micro Technology to Establish India’s First Private Semiconductor Manufacturing Facility

In January 2025, Indichip Semiconductors Limited (Noida, Uttar Pradesh) and its Joint Venture partner Yitoa Micro Technology Limited (YMTL) (Japan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) to establish India’s first private semiconductor manufacturing facility at the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The project, with an investment of over Rs 14,000 crores, marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.

Key Details:

MoU Signatories:

• Piyush Bichhoriya, Managing Director (MD) of Indichip Semiconductors.
• Saikanth Varma, CEO of the AP Economic Development Board (APEDB).

Alignment with AP’s Semiconductor Policy:

• The project is in line with Andhra Pradesh’s Semiconductor Policy, launched in November 2024, which aims to position AP as a hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.
• It supports India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, reducing reliance on semiconductor imports.

Investment and Infrastructure:

• The AP government will allocate land in the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub for the facility.
• The state will provide necessary infrastructure and support to ensure the project’s success.

Specialization in Silicon Carbide (SiC) Chips:

The facility will specialize in manufacturing Silicon Carbide (SiC) chips, crucial for energy-efficient technologies, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and Renewable Energy (RE) systems.

The initial production capacity will be 10,000 wafers per month, with plans to scale to 50,000 wafers per month in the next 2-3 years.

Economic Impact: The development is expected to create significant local employment opportunities, drive technological advancements, and contribute to India’s self-reliance in the semiconductor industry.

Key Facts:

• Gujarat Semiconductor Policy (2022-2027): Launched in November 2024, Gujarat also aims to establish India’s first semiconductor manufacturing hub in Sanand district, Gujarat.
• AI-Enabled Semiconductor Plant: India’s first AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication plant has begun construction in Dholera, Gujarat.

About Andhra Pradesh (AP):

• Chief Minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu
• Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer
• Capital: Amaravati
• National Parks: Sri Venkateswara NP, Papikonda NP

Pixxel launches India’s 1st private satellite constellation with SpaceX

On 14 January 2025 (15 January in India), Pixxel, an Indian space start-up backed by Google, became the first private Indian company to launch a commercial satellite constellation named Firefly. The satellites were launched alongside another satellite by Digantara for space object surveillance on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission.

Launch Details:

• Rocket: SpaceX Falcon 9.
• Mission: Transporter-12 rideshare mission.
• Launch Site: Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, USA.

Firefly Constellation Details:

About the Constellation:

• Developed by Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based company.
• World’s highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation, capturing data at 5-meter resolution (most hyperspectral satellites have 30-meter resolution).
• Captures data across 150+ spectral bands, allowing detailed analysis of Earth’s chemical compositions, vegetation health, water quality, and atmospheric conditions.

Deployment Plan:

• First Phase: Three satellites launched on 14 January 2025.
• Second Phase: Three more satellites to be launched in Q2 of 2025.
• Future Plans: Addition of 18 satellites to complete the constellation.
• Orbit: Satellites placed in sun-synchronous orbit at 550 km altitude.

Significance: First private Indian company to offer hyperspectral imaging services, a domain previously exclusive to ISRO.

Hyperspectral Imaging Satellites:

• Use technology to capture highly detailed Earth data across hundreds of light bands.
• Enable detection of subtle changes in:
• Chemical compositions.
• Vegetation health.
• Water quality.
• Atmospheric conditions.

Customers and Applications:

The Firefly constellation is poised to benefit sectors like:

• Agriculture: Improve crop yields and monitor vegetation health.
• Mining: Track and assess resource extraction sites.
• Environmental Monitoring: Monitor oil spills, water quality, and geographic boundaries.
• Defence: Offer precise surveillance and data for strategic planning.

1st astronomical observatory of Eastern India inaugurated in Bengal

The Satyendra Nath Bose Astronomical Observatory, the first astronomical observatory of Eastern India, was inaugurated atop Panchet Hill in the Garpanchkot area of Purulia district, West Bengal. This observatory is the sixth in India and is a significant addition to the nation’s growing network of space research facilities.

Key Details:

Location & Importance:

The observatory is located at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level in a non-polluted area, away from city lights.

Positioned at approximately 86° East longitude, it fills a gap along this longitude that stretches from the Arctic Ocean to Antarctica.

History & Development:

• The project commenced in 2012 and was developed on 4.9 acres of land.
• The observatory is named after Satyendra Nath Bose, a renowned Indian scientist, and is managed by the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences.
• An MoU has been signed with Sidhu Kanu Birsa University, Purulia for managing the observatory and sharing resources.

Equipment & Facilities:

• The observatory currently houses a 14-inch diameter telescope, with plans to install a 1-metre diameter telescope soon.
• It includes an automatic weather forecast centre to measure rainfall and other atmospheric conditions, supporting research in Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Significance for Scientific Research:

• The observatory will facilitate basic research in space sciences, offering opportunities for students and scientists to conduct advanced studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
• It will also contribute to the study of weather patterns and the atmosphere.

Part of India’s Expanding Astronomical Network: This observatory is the sixth in India, joining others in Ladakh, Nainital (Uttarakhand), Mount Abu (Rajasthan), Girbani Hills (Pune), and Kavalur (Tamil Nadu).

About the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences:

• Established in 1986 by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India in Kolkata, West Bengal.
• It is a leading institution in scientific research in the field of Basic Sciences.

Defence news

India tests micro missile system Bhargavastra to counter Swarm drone

India has successfully tested the indigenously developed Bhargavastra micro missile system on 12th and 13th January 2025 at the Gopalpur Seaward Firing Range in Odisha. The tests were conducted in the presence of senior Indian Army officers, marking a significant step toward enhancing India’s defense capabilities against modern threats like swarm drone attacks.

Key Details about Bhargavastra:

Purpose: Developed to counter swarm drone attacks, which involve multiple drones coordinated to overwhelm enemy defenses.

Developer:

• Designed and developed by Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), a subsidiary of the Nagpur-based Solar Group.
• Fully indigenized, providing a low-cost solution for drone defense.

Current Status:

• Yet to be inducted into the Indian Army, as further testing and approval processes are pending.
• The Indian government will decide on induction after the Army’s approval.

Understanding Swarm Drone Attacks:

What is a Swarm Drone Attack?

• A tactic involving multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) controlled by a single operator to launch a coordinated attack.
• Highly effective in confusing enemy radars due to the large number of simultaneous aerial targets.

Global Usage:

• United States: First used drones for precision strikes in Afghanistan.
• Iran: Successfully breached Israel’s Iron Dome system using swarm drones.
• Ukraine and Russia: Frequently deploy swarm drones with loiter munitions in ongoing conflicts.

Advantages of Swarm Drones:

• Cost-effective: Drones are cheaper than traditional missile systems.
• Overwhelming capability: Confuses enemy radars and overwhelms defense systems.

Challenges in Countering Swarm Drones:

• Existing defense systems like missiles are expensive and may not efficiently counter the large number of drones.
• Nations worldwide are searching for cost-effective anti-drone solutions.