Jan_Spotlight_lyst1739938695885

  • India to Host World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES):
    • India will host WAVES from February 5-9, 2025.
    • The summit aims to be a global platform for creative talents, fostering collaborations and showcasing India's content creation potential.
    • PM Modi emphasized the significance of WAVES, comparing it to global events like the World Economic Forum.
    • Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi were honored on their 100th birth anniversaries for their contributions to Indian cinema.
    • The summit reflects India's ambition to become a content creation hub as it moves towards a 5trillion5 trillion dollar economy.
  • India Introduces New Visa Categories for Students:
    • India has launched 'e-student visa' and 'e-student-x visa' for international students.
    • The initiative simplifies the process for foreign students seeking higher education in Indian institutions.
    • The e-student visa is available to eligible foreign students registered on the 'Study in India' (SII) portal.
    • The e-student-x visa is for dependents of e-student visa holders.
    • Application is through the Indian visa online platform, with mandatory registration on the SII portal.
    • The e-student visa is valid for up to five years and can be extended.
    • The SII portal, a Ministry of Education initiative, connects students with over 600 partner institutions offering more than 8,000 courses in engineering, management, sciences, arts, law, paramedical sciences, Buddhist Studies, and Yoga.
  • India Advances Metro Infrastructure with New Projects:
    • PM Modi inaugurated and laid foundations for metro projects worth over ₹12,200crore₹12,200 crore in Delhi.
    • The projects aim to enhance India's metro network for faster, safer, and more reliable urban travel while expanding connectivity.
    • Key projects include the 13 km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, a 2.8 km stretch of Delhi Metro Phase-IV, and a 26.5 km Rithala-Kundli section.
    • India's metro network spans over 1,000 km across 11 states and 23 cities, serving over 1crore1 crore passengers daily.
    • India ranks third globally in operational metro network length, behind China and the United States.
    • India surpassed Japan in metro rail projects in 2022 and is on track to become the second-largest metro network globally.
    • The first metro line in India opened in Kolkata in 1984.
    • Major advancements include the first underwater metro tunnel in Kolkata in 2024 and the launch of driverless trains on Delhi's Magenta Line in December 2020.
    • The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is involved in metro projects in Bangladesh and offers consultancy to other countries.
  • Inauguration of "Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0" Program:
    • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the program for over 500 women representatives from Panchayati Raj institutions.
    • The program aims to empower elected women representatives from Scheduled Tribes by enhancing their understanding of the Constitution and parliamentary procedures.
    • The event commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda and includes workshops, guided tours, and interactive sessions with experts.
    • A total of 502 women representatives from 22 States and Union Territories will participate.
  • Indonesian President's State Visit to India:
    • Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India from January 23-26, 2025, as the Chief Guest for India's 76th Republic Day celebrations.
    • The visit marked the 75th anniversary of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations and aimed to strengthen bilateral ties.
    • The visit included a high-level delegation and participation of 352 Indonesian Armed Forces personnel in the Republic Day Parade.
    • President Prabowo held talks with Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on defence, trade, health, and cultural cooperation.
    • Both nations emphasized the establishment of a Bilateral Maritime Dialogue and Cyber Security Dialogue.
    • New agreements were signed on health cooperation, traditional medicine quality assurance, and local currency settlement systems to facilitate trade.
    • The visit reaffirmed the 2018 "Shared Vision of India-Indonesia on Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific."
    • Indonesia is one of India's largest trading partners in ASEAN, with bilateral trade reaching USD 38.8billion38.8 billion in 2022-23.
    • Over 1,000 Indonesian professionals have received training in India since 2007 through various capacity-building programs.
  • PM Modi Inaugurates Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025:
    • PM Modi inaugurated the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
    • The event aims to enhance rural infrastructure, create self-reliant economies, and foster innovation in rural communities.
    • The Mahotsav is being held from January 4 to 9, with the theme 'Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047'.
    • Includes discussions, workshops, and masterclasses focused on promoting economic stability and financial security among rural populations, particularly in North-East India.
    • A significant focus is on empowering rural women through entrepreneurship and leveraging technology to enhance rural livelihoods.
  • Indusfood 2025 Showcases India's Food Industry:
    • Shri Chirag Paswan, Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, inaugurated the 8th edition of Indusfood at the India Exposition Mart Ltd in Greater Noida.
    • The event aims to connect global businesses with India’s expanding food and beverage sector and promote sustainable food systems.
    • Features over 1,800 exhibitors from more than 20 countries and expects attendance from over 5,000 international buyers.
    • Concurrent events include Indusfood Manufacturing and Indusfood Agritech, focusing on food manufacturing solutions and agricultural innovations.
    • Indusfood began in 2017 to connect Indian F&B producers with international markets.
  • Indonesian President to Attend India's Republic Day Parade As Chief Guest:
    • Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has accepted the invitation to be the chief guest for India's Republic Day parade in 2025.
    • Highlights the importance of the bilateral relationship between India and Indonesia and aligns with India’s Act East policy.
    • India and Indonesia signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Jakarta in 2018.
    • Indonesia has become one of India's largest trade partners in the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade reaching US26.69billion26.69 billion in 2023-24.
    • Indonesia was the first country to send a Republic Day guest, with President Sukarno attending during Nehru's era.
    • India imports coal, crude palm oil, minerals, rubber, and more from Indonesia while exporting refined petroleum products and agricultural produce.
    • There are around 30 Indian joint ventures and investments currently in Indonesia.
  • New Initiatives to Reduce Road Fatalities in India:
    • Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the expansion of a cashless treatment initiative for crash survivors to all states by March 2025.
    • Aims to address the rising road fatalities in India, which saw 1.72lakh1.72 lakh deaths in 2023, marking a 4.2% increase from the previous year.
    • Cashless treatment will provide up to ₹1.5lakh₹1.5 lakh for seven days to crash survivors, benefiting 6,840 people so far.
    • New technology systems will be introduced for buses and trucks, including an audio warning system for drowsy drivers.
    • The ministry plans to open 1,250 new driving learning centers to address the shortage of skilled drivers.
    • The reward for good Samaritans helping crash victims will increase from ₹5,000₹5,000.
    • The government is working on Bharat Stage 7 (BS7) emission norms and standards for E-rickshaws.
  • Memorial for Former President Pranab Mukherjee Announced:
    • Government will set up a memorial for former President Pranab Mukherjee at the 'Rashtriya Smriti' area complex in New Delhi.
    • Honors Pranab Mukherjee's contributions to the nation following his passing on August 31, 2020.
    • The government has approved a designated site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex for the memorial.
    • There are plans for a similar memorial for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024.
    • Pranab Mukherjee served as the President of India from 2012 to 2017.
    • The Rashtriya Smriti area is part of the Rajghat precinct in New Delhi.
  • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 Celebrated in Bhubaneswar:
    • The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is being held from January 8-10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
    • PBD honors the contributions of the Indian diaspora and fosters connections between overseas Indians and their homeland.
    • The theme for this year is "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).
    • Day 1 features the Youth PBD, providing a platform for youth from Odisha to reconnect with their heritage.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention on Day 2 and launch the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a tourist train for the diaspora.
    • Four exhibitions will showcase various themes, including the Ramayana and the contributions of the Indian diaspora to technology.
    • PBD was first established in 2003 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
    • The event commemorates January 9, 1915, when Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa.
    • The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award recognizes exceptional contributions by NRIs and Persons of Indian Origin in various fields.
  • First India-Malaysia Security Dialogue Held:
    • The first India-Malaysia Security Dialogue was co-chaired by India's National Security Adviser and Malaysia's Director General of the National Security Council in New Delhi.
    • The dialogue aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in security, defense, and maritime fields, focusing on counter-terrorism, cyber security, and critical minerals.
    • Both sides discussed the global and regional security environment and agreed to hold annual meetings to institutionalize the dialogue.
    • This event follows the elevation of India-Malaysia ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the Malaysian Prime Minister's visit to India in August 2024.
  • GEAPP Launches Key Initiatives for Clean Energy in India:
    • The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) launched three key initiatives in New Delhi to support India's clean energy transition.
    • Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF): Partnering with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), this fund aims to mobilize 100million100 million for solar energy projects.
    • DUET (Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition): Focused on grid digitalization, DUET integrates real-time data, smart sensors, and advanced technology for reducing losses, aiding Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) integration.
    • ENTICE 2.0 (Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge): A platform to scale innovative energy solutions by offering funding, market access, and mentorship, ENTICE 2.0 will launch in January 2025.
    • The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) is an alliance of philanthropy, governments, technology, policy, and financing partners.
    • GEAPP aims to reduce future carbon emissions by 4 gigatons, expand clean energy access to 1 billion people, and create 150 million new jobs.
    • The ISA was founded in 2015 by India and France and works with 120 countries to promote solar energy.
    • Dr. Ajay Mathur is the Director General of ISA, and Woochong Um is the CEO of GEAPP.
  • India Focuses on Skill Development for Semiconductor Sector:
    • The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) is enhancing training activities to support the growth of India's semiconductor sector.
    • Aims to address the shortage of skilled talent necessary for semiconductor manufacturing in India.
    • MeitY is collaborating with institutions like IITs and private colleges to provide relevant skills.
    • The government has approved five semiconductor units with a total investment of ₹76,000crore₹76,000 crore to boost domestic manufacturing.
    • The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) was launched in 2021 with an outlay of ₹76,000crore₹76,000 crore.
    • The Indian semiconductor market is projected to reach 109billion109 billion by 2030.
    • Major companies involved include Micron Technology, Tata Electronics, and Renesas Electronics Corporation.
  • AICTE Declares 2025 as Year of Artificial Intelligence:
    • The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has declared 2025 as the "Year of Artificial Intelligence" to enhance India's position in AI.
    • Aims to empower over 14,000 AICTE-approved colleges and benefit 40 million students, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision for India to become a global leader in AI and technology.
    • The initiative will integrate AI into higher education institutions, providing students with necessary skills for the AI-driven economy.
    • Key features include the AI Affirmation Pledge, interdisciplinary AI courses, AI labs in collaboration with industries, and a nationwide awareness campaign titled "AI for All: The Future Begins Here."
    • Prof. T.G. Sitharam is the Chairman of AICTE.
    • AICTE has partnered with leading technology companies like Adobe, CISCO, and IBM for real-world exposure through internships and projects.
  • PM Modi Launches Pravasi Bharatiya Express Train:
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi remotely flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a tourist train for the Indian diaspora, during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar.
    • The train aims to promote tourism among the Indian diaspora and commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915.
    • The train will travel for three weeks, visiting key tourist and religious sites across India, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Agra.
    • It departs from Nizamuddin Railway Station in New Delhi and has a capacity of 156 passengers.
    • All expenses are covered for eligible participants from low-income backgrounds, including 90% of return airfare.
    • Part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, a collaboration between the Ministry of External Affairs and IRCTC.
    • The train stops at significant locations such as Mahabalipuram, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kochi, Goa, and Ekta Nagar.
  • Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025:
    • The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 has started at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, aiming to enhance youth participation in nation-building.
    • The event seeks to provide a platform for young leaders to share innovative ideas and engage with policymakers for a developed India.
    • The three-day event hosts 3,000 participants selected through a merit-based process, including teams from state championships and recognized pathbreakers.
    • Key themes include “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Women,” along with cultural activities and excursions to significant landmarks.
    • Prime Minister Modi will participate on January 12 to unveil a Coffee Table Book and launch a Youth Anthem.
  • India Aims for $100 Billion in Food Exports:
    • India targets 100billion100 billion in combined exports from the food & beverage, agriculture, and marine products sectors in the next five years.
    • The goal is achievable with a growth rate of 14-15% in these industries, according to Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
    • The minister praised Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) for their roles in achieving 50billion50 billion in exports last year.
    • The government has allowed 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the food and beverage sector and facilitates work permits for foreign businesses.
  • India Meteorological Department Celebrates 150 Years:
    • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will celebrate its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025.
    • The IMD was established to provide systematic weather observations, regular reporting, and scientific forecasting in India.
    • The IMD was founded in 1875 and has evolved significantly since its inception.
    • It was formed in response to the devastating 1864 Calcutta cyclone and the subsequent Orissa famine.
    • Initially headquartered in Calcutta, it moved to New Delhi in 1944 and became a member of the World Meteorological Organization in 1949.
    • The IMD operates six Regional Meteorological Centres and various other meteorological services across India.
    • The first meteorological observatory in India was established in Kolkata in 1785.
    • Historical texts like the Upanishads discussed meteorological phenomena as early as 3000 B.C.
    • The IMD plays a crucial role in tracking rainfall, cyclones, earthquakes, and atmospheric pollution.
  • ISRO’s ‘Bharatiya Docking System’ Milestone:
    • India has successfully performed space docking using its indigenously developed ‘Bharatiya Docking System’ during ISRO’s SpaDeX mission.
    • This achievement marks India as the fourth nation to master space docking technology, enhancing its capabilities in space exploration.
    • The SpaDeX mission aims to dock two satellites in space and is crucial for future missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and the Gaganyaan manned mission.
    • The mission involved the successful launch of PSLV-C60, placing two SpaDeX satellites into a 475-kilometer orbit.
    • ISRO Chairman S. Somanath highlighted the importance of docking for the success of Chandrayaan-4, which will involve multiple modules.
    • The first docking is expected around January 7, 2025, as part of the Chandrayaan-4 mission.
    • ISRO is preparing for its 100th launch early next year after achieving its 99th launch milestone.
    • The NVS-02 satellite is scheduled to be launched in January 2025, further advancing India's navigation capabilities.
  • ICMR Proposes Revised National Essential Diagnostics List:
    • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has proposed a revised version of the National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL) to include nine essential diagnostic tests at village-level health facilities.
    • The revision aims to ensure that critical diagnostic tests are accessible at various healthcare levels, improving healthcare delivery across the country.
    • The proposed tests include those for diabetes, malaria, tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and syphilis.
    • Ayushman Arogya Mandirs should also provide facilities for Hepatitis B testing.
    • The draft incorporates feedback from stakeholders and aims to streamline diagnostic services across all healthcare levels, including primary health centers and district hospitals.
    • The first NEDL was released by ICMR in 2019 to establish essential diagnostics in the healthcare system.
    • The revised draft is available for public feedback and aims to enhance the efficiency of healthcare services.
  • Government Reconstitutes Atomic Energy Commission:
    • The government has re-constituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to include new members, including T V Somanathan and Manoj Govil.
    • Aims to strengthen the commission's capacity to formulate policies for the Department of Atomic Energy.
    • The AEC is now chaired by Ajit Kumar Mohanty, with members including National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
    • The commission includes former chairpersons M R Srinivasan and Anil Kakodkar, among others.
    • The AEC is responsible for overseeing the development and regulation of atomic energy in India.
  • New Appointment Process for Chief Election Commissioner:
    • The government has restructured the appointment process for the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners under the new Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.
    • Aims to widen the selection pool for the CEC, allowing consideration of candidates beyond the current senior-most Election Commissioner.
    • The current CEC, Rajiv Kumar, will retire on February 18, and the Ministry of Law will form a Search Committee to create a panel of five candidates.
    • The Selection Committee includes the Prime Minister, a Cabinet minister, and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
    • This new process follows Supreme Court interventions aimed at reducing executive control over appointments.
  • India to Host 28th Commonwealth Speakers Conference:
    • India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries (CSPOC) in 2026.
    • The conference aims to discuss the role of artificial intelligence and social media in parliamentary processes and enhance cooperation among member countries.
    • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the event at the CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Guernsey.
    • The CSPOC platform facilitates cooperation and exchange of parliamentary practices among Commonwealth nations.
    • This will be the fourth time India hosts the conference, having previously held it in 1970-71, 1986, and 2010.
  • India-Nepal IGC Meeting Strengthens Trade Ties:
    • The India-Nepal Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) on Trade, Transit, and Cooperation met in Kathmandu.
    • Aims to review and strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations between India and Nepal.
    • The Indian delegation was led by Secretary of the Department of Commerce, Shri Sunil Barthwal, while the Nepali side was headed by Secretary Mr. Gobinda Bahadur Karkee.
    • India agreed to supply 200,000 MT of wheat to Nepal and included several plant products in its quarantine order.
    • The meeting also addressed the electrification of the Raxaul-Birgunj rail line and the establishment of new Integrated Check Posts.
    • A Joint Working Group will be formed to discuss online certificates of origin and SAFTA.
    • The Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) organized the 2nd Joint Business Forum on January 11, 2025, to facilitate business discussions.
  • NTA Integrates APAAR ID with NEET Registration:
    • APAAR, which stands for Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry, is a specialized identification system designed for all students in India.
    • Aims to to ensure accountability and transparency in education by tracking student progress and streamlining academic records.
    • The NTA released a notification to integrate the APAAR ID into the NEET (UG)-2025 registration process to enhance candidate experience.
    • It will promote the use of APAAR ID alongside Aadhaar-based authentication during application and examination phases.
  • MoE IMD@2047: India Aims for 100% Severe Weather Detection by 2047:
    • India aims to achieve 100% detection of severe weather events at the village and household levels by 2047, as outlined in the IMD's Vision-2047 document.
    • Seeks to reduce loss of life from severe weather events to zero and enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts.
    • The IMD targets forecast accuracy of 100% for up to three days, 90% for five days, and 70% for ten days.
    • The plan includes enhancing observational systems using remote-sensing technologies like satellites and radars.
    • The Vision-2047 document was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the eve of IMD’s 150th anniversary.
    • Modi also launched "Mission Mausam" to improve weather understanding and forecasting using advanced technologies like AI and machine learning.
    • A commemorative ₹150 coin and a postal stamp were released during the celebrations.
  • India and Spain to Celebrate Dual Year in 2026:
    • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that 2026 will be a ‘dual year’ for India and Spain to celebrate culture, tourism, and advancements in artificial intelligence.
    • Aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote collaboration between the two nations.
    • Jaishankar highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora in enhancing India's image in Spain and their contributions to the economy.
    • Annual trade between India and Spain is currently worth USD 10billion10 billion, covering sectors like railways, clean technology, drones, and space exploration.
    • Jaishankar's visit marks his first trip to Spain as Foreign Minister.
    • Plans for 2026 include working towards cultural and technological collaborations throughout 2025.
    • Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares praised the contributions of the Indian community in Spain.
  • Indian Railways Develops World's Most Powerful Hydrogen Train Engine:
    • Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Indian Railways has developed the world's most powerful hydrogen fuel-run train engine, producing 1,200horsepower1,200 horsepower.
    • Aims to enhance sustainable transportation and demonstrate India's technological advancements in the railway sector.
    • Only four countries manufacture such engines, which typically produce between 500 to 600 horsepower.
    • The first trial run of this train is expected soon on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.
    • The technology developed can also be adapted for other vehicles like trucks and tugboats.
  • India’s Sixth and First Astronomical Observatory of Eastern India Inaugurated:
    • The first astronomical observatory in Eastern India has been inaugurated in Garpanchkot Hills, Purulia district by the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in West Bengal.
    • The observatory aims to enhance research capabilities in astronomy and astrophysics in the region.
    • This is the sixth such astronomical observatory centre in the country and has been named after Satyendra Nath Bose.
    • An automatic weather forecast center has also been established to monitor local weather conditions.
    • The best observation period is from November to April due to clearer skies.
    • The observatory is situated at an elevation of 600 meters above sea level, chosen for its low pollution levels.
    • Other notable observatories include those in Ladakh, Nainital, Mount Abu, Pune, and Tamil Nadu.
    • The observatory is equipped with a 14-inch diameter telescope, with plans for a larger, one-meter telescope.
    • An MoU has been signed between the S.N. Bose Centre and SKB University for operational collaboration.
  • Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam Visits India:
    • H.E. Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore, is on a State Visit to India from January 14 to 18, 2025.
    • Aims to strengthen bilateral ties and commemorate the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic relations.
    • President Tharman was welcomed by Indian President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
    • He paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and held discussions with Indian leaders on enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
    • The visit includes a trip to Odisha on January 17-18, 2025.
    • This is President Tharman's first State Visit to India.
    • Singapore is a key partner in India's 'Act East' Policy and plays a significant role in the Indo-Pacific vision.
  • PMML Society Reconstituted with New Members:
    • The Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library (PMML) society has been reconstituted, with Nripendra Mishra continuing as chairperson for another five years.
    • Aims to enhance the governance and functioning of the PMML, ensuring it meets its objectives effectively.
    • The society now includes notable members such as Smriti Irani, Rajiv Kumar, and filmmaker Shekhar Kapur.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi serves as the president, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is the vice-president of the decision-making body.
    • The new council has expanded to 34 members from the previous 29.
    • The term for the reconstituted society is five years or until further orders.
    • The PMML was formerly known as the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library (NMML) before being renamed in 2023.
    • The PMML was inaugurated in 2022 and is located at the former residence of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
  • First Foundation Day of Lokpal Celebrated:
    • The first Foundation Day of the Lokpal of India was celebrated on January 16 at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, attended by Chief Justice of India, Shri Justice Sanjiv Khanna.
    • This event marks the establishment of the Lokpal under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which came into force on January 16, 2014.
    • Justice A.M. Khanwilkar, Chairperson of Lokpal, emphasized the need for vigilance against corruption and outlined measures to enhance Lokpal's effectiveness.
  • India Pavilion Inaugurated at Heimtextil 2025:
    • The Hon'ble Minister of Textiles inaugurated the India Pavilion at Heimtextil 2025 in Messe Frankfurt, Germany, showcasing India's textile industry.
    • This event highlights India's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global partnerships in the textile sector.
    • India had the largest participation at this global home textiles fair, with a focus on collaboration for sustainable growth.
    • The Minister invited global investors to explore opportunities in India's textile ecosystem and emphasized the success of the 'Make in India' initiative.
  • Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025:
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
    • The expo aims to boost India's mobility sector, innovation, and sustainability while attracting global investments.
    • It is the world’s second-largest automotive expo and is expected to become the biggest next year.
    • Covers 200,000+ sq. meters, with 1,500+ exhibitors, 500,000+ visitors, nine concurrent shows, and 20+ conferences.
    • Aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047 and supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
    • Engineering Export Promotion Council, India (EEPC) is coordinating the event with support from SIAM, ACMA, ICEMA, ATMA, IESA, ISA, NASSCOM, MRAI, ITPO, Invest India, IBEF, CII, Yashobhoomi, and IEML.
    • EEPC India, established in 1955, supports MSMEs and engineering exports, aiming for 300billion300 billion in exports by 2030.
    • India is the largest manufacturer of three-wheelers and tractors and leads in the two- wheeler market.
  • Pangsau Pass International Festival Returns to India-Myanmar Border:
    • Pangsau Pass International Festival will take place in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, from January 20 to 22, marking its return after a four-year break.
    • Aims to strengthen cross-border ties between India and Myanmar and celebrate the cultural heritage of the region.
    • Visitors from both countries can enter up to 16 km into each other's territory without visas under the free movement regime.
    • The festival will feature activities like expeditions on the historic Stillwell Road and tours to significant historical sites, including the Lake of No Return.
    • Cultural performances will include over 30 troupes from Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar.
    • Prominent artists like Albo Naga and Guru Rewben Mashangva will perform at the festival.
    • Originally launched in 2007, the festival was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability in Myanmar.
  • India Joins OCCAR as Observer State in Eurodrone Programme:
    • The Government of India has become the newest Observer State in the OCCAR- managed MALE RPAS (Eurodrone) program.
    • Indicates a desire to explore collaborative opportunities with Europe.
    • The OCCAR-EA Director, Joachim Sucker, presented the Letter of Approval to India's Ambassador to Germany, Ajit Gupte, in Berlin.
    • Japan was the first country to receive this status in November 2023.
    • The Eurodrone is designed for long endurance Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions.
    • OCCAR is based in Bonn, Germany.
    • The Eurodrone programme is led by Airbus Defence and Space along with partners like Leonardo Spa and Dassault Aviation.
    • The Chairmanship of the OCCAR Board of Supervisors rotates annually among six member states.
  • India's Space Economy Projected to Reach $44 Billion:
    • India's space economy has grown to 8billion8 billion and is expected to reach 44billion44 billion in the next decade, according to the Ministry of Science & Technology.
    • The growth is attributed to reforms that opened the space sector to private investment, credited to Prime Minister Modi.
    • Key milestones include the indigenous Gaganyaan Mission, Chandrayaan-4 planned for 2027, Shukrayaan for 2028, and the Indian Space Station by 2030.
    • The information was shared during a discussion between Union Minister Jitendra Singh and Rajya Sabha member Vijay Tankha on Sansad TV.
  • India Celebrates 76th Republic Day:
    • India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, at Kartavya Path, with President Droupadi Murmu leading the event and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the special guest.
    • The celebrations aimed to emphasize military strength, development, and cultural diversity under the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’, marking 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution.
    • Notable tableaux highlighted significant figures like Birsa Munda and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
    • Uttar Pradesh – Focused on the Kumbh Mela, depicting sadhus and the mythological Samudra Manthan.
    • Madhya Pradesh – Highlighted cheetahs, representing the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary and India's cheetah reintroduction project.
    • Andhra Pradesh – Showcased Etikoppaka Bommalu, eco-friendly wooden toys traditional to the state.
    • Tri-Services Tableau – Presented the first-ever Tri-Services Tableau with the theme "Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat" (Strong and Secure India).
    • Featured : Arjun Main Battle Tank, INS Visakhapatnam (Destroyer), Tejas MKII Fighter Aircraft, Remotely Piloted Aircraft, Advanced Light Helicopter.
    • This year marked the return of the traditional buggy for the arrival of the Presidents after a gap of 40 years.
    • The parade featured 18 marching contingents, 15 bands and 31 tableaux from different states, union territories, ministries and the armed forces.
    • President Smt Droupadi Murmu has approved Gallantry awards to 93 Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces personnel, including 12 posthumous.
    • The President also approved 305 defence decorations to Armed Forces and other personnel.
    • Padma Awards announced annually on Republic Day.
  • International Conference on Solar Physics Held in Bengaluru:
    • An international conference on ‘Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections’ took place in Bengaluru, organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Commemorates the 125th anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, highlighting its contributions to solar astrophysics and the importance of ongoing research.
    • The conference features diverse themes including solar magnetism and space weather, with significant participation from students and international experts.
    • The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory was established in 1899 and has been pivotal in solar research.
    • Prof. Abhay Karandikar discussed initiatives like digitizing historic records and the proposed National Large Solar Telescope in Ladakh.
    • A public talk on solar phenomena by Prof. Nat Gopalswamy from NASA is scheduled at CHRIST University during the conference.
  • History of India's first Union Budget:
    • India's first Union Budget was presented on April 7, 1