Podcast
Questions and Answers
Considering the evolving landscape of digital economies globally, what strategic imperative should guide policymakers in optimizing the impact of India's digital economy on its overall economic growth trajectory by 2030?
Considering the evolving landscape of digital economies globally, what strategic imperative should guide policymakers in optimizing the impact of India's digital economy on its overall economic growth trajectory by 2030?
- Adopting a holistic approach that balances technological advancements with skill development, cybersecurity, and inclusive access to digital resources. (correct)
- Implementing stringent regulatory frameworks to mitigate potential risks associated with the rapid expansion of the digital economy.
- Focusing exclusively on attracting foreign direct investment in the digital sector to boost economic output and create employment opportunities.
- Prioritizing investments solely in technological infrastructure to accelerate digital adoption across all sectors.
Given the objectives of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, what seminal policy interventions could further amplify its impact on gender equality and women's empowerment by 2047, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat?
Given the objectives of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, what seminal policy interventions could further amplify its impact on gender equality and women's empowerment by 2047, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat?
- Providing conditional cash transfers to families based solely on the academic performance of girl children.
- Establishing comprehensive support systems that address systemic barriers to girls' education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, while promoting gender-equitable social norms. (correct)
- Focusing exclusively on increasing the legal age of marriage for girls to prevent child marriages and promote delayed pregnancies.
- Implementing mandatory quotas for women in all sectors of employment to ensure their economic independence.
How can the observed increase in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls in secondary education under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme be translated into tangible improvements in women's labor force participation and economic empowerment?
How can the observed increase in the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls in secondary education under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme be translated into tangible improvements in women's labor force participation and economic empowerment?
- By providing financial incentives exclusively to girls who pursue higher education in STEM fields.
- By implementing policies that prioritize girls' enrollment in secondary education over boys' enrollment to address historical gender disparities.
- By ensuring that the increased GER translates into enhanced quality of education and relevant skills development that prepares girls for diverse career opportunities. (correct)
- By mandating that all girls who complete secondary education must enroll in vocational training programs.
Considering the advancements in vocational education and training in mechatronics through the collaboration between India and South Korea, what innovative pedagogical approaches can be integrated to enhance the practical skills and employability of Indian students in the global manufacturing sector by 2027?
Considering the advancements in vocational education and training in mechatronics through the collaboration between India and South Korea, what innovative pedagogical approaches can be integrated to enhance the practical skills and employability of Indian students in the global manufacturing sector by 2027?
How can India leverage its strides in renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind energy, to foster energy independence and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, while ensuring equitable access to affordable energy for all its citizens?
How can India leverage its strides in renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind energy, to foster energy independence and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, while ensuring equitable access to affordable energy for all its citizens?
Considering the emphasis on 'Aatmanirbharta' in defense manufacturing, what strategic pathways should India pursue to foster indigenous innovation and technological self-reliance in the production of advanced defense systems, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and global competitiveness?
Considering the emphasis on 'Aatmanirbharta' in defense manufacturing, what strategic pathways should India pursue to foster indigenous innovation and technological self-reliance in the production of advanced defense systems, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and global competitiveness?
How can the partnership between NITI Aayog and NASSCOM Foundation to promote digital skills be scaled up to address the multifaceted challenges of digital inclusion, such as bridging the gender gap, enhancing digital literacy among marginalized communities, and promoting responsible use of technology?
How can the partnership between NITI Aayog and NASSCOM Foundation to promote digital skills be scaled up to address the multifaceted challenges of digital inclusion, such as bridging the gender gap, enhancing digital literacy among marginalized communities, and promoting responsible use of technology?
Given the success of the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) in promoting financial security for girl children, what innovative financial instruments and policy initiatives can be introduced to empower women across all life stages, address gender-based wealth disparities, and foster their economic resilience?
Given the success of the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) in promoting financial security for girl children, what innovative financial instruments and policy initiatives can be introduced to empower women across all life stages, address gender-based wealth disparities, and foster their economic resilience?
Considering the launch of the 'SANJAY – The Battlefield Surveillance System', what advanced sensor technologies and data analytics capabilities can be integrated to enhance its effectiveness in detecting and neutralizing emerging threats in dynamic and complex operational environments?
Considering the launch of the 'SANJAY – The Battlefield Surveillance System', what advanced sensor technologies and data analytics capabilities can be integrated to enhance its effectiveness in detecting and neutralizing emerging threats in dynamic and complex operational environments?
How can India and the UK leverage their renewed partnership in health and life sciences to address the emerging challenges of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and digital health innovations, while ensuring equitable access to affordable and quality healthcare for all?
How can India and the UK leverage their renewed partnership in health and life sciences to address the emerging challenges of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and digital health innovations, while ensuring equitable access to affordable and quality healthcare for all?
Considering the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Energy Transition (CoEET) in Hyderabad, what innovative research and development initiatives can be undertaken to accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies, promote energy efficiency, and foster a sustainable energy transition in India?
Considering the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Energy Transition (CoEET) in Hyderabad, what innovative research and development initiatives can be undertaken to accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies, promote energy efficiency, and foster a sustainable energy transition in India?
Given the launch of 'VisionNxt', India's first fashion forecasting platform, how can it be strategically utilized to bolster the competitiveness of the Indian textile and retail industry by anticipating and meeting evolving consumer preferences?
Given the launch of 'VisionNxt', India's first fashion forecasting platform, how can it be strategically utilized to bolster the competitiveness of the Indian textile and retail industry by anticipating and meeting evolving consumer preferences?
Considering the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025, what targeted policy interventions are most crucial for states lagging in fiscal performance to achieve fiscal consolidation, enhance revenue mobilization, and ensure sustainable debt management?
Considering the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025, what targeted policy interventions are most crucial for states lagging in fiscal performance to achieve fiscal consolidation, enhance revenue mobilization, and ensure sustainable debt management?
Given Uttarakhand's implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), how can its impact be comprehensively assessed to ensure it upholds constitutional principles, protects the rights of vulnerable groups, and promotes social harmony, while respecting cultural diversity?
Given Uttarakhand's implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), how can its impact be comprehensively assessed to ensure it upholds constitutional principles, protects the rights of vulnerable groups, and promotes social harmony, while respecting cultural diversity?
Given the partnership between DGS and C-DAC to enhance maritime innovation, what disruptive technologies and collaborative frameworks can be developed to transform India's maritime sector, promote sustainable practices, and enhance its competitiveness in the global arena?
Given the partnership between DGS and C-DAC to enhance maritime innovation, what disruptive technologies and collaborative frameworks can be developed to transform India's maritime sector, promote sustainable practices, and enhance its competitiveness in the global arena?
Given the MoUs and cooperation agreements signed between India and Indonesia, what innovative strategies can be employed to strengthen bilateral ties, promote cultural exchange, and foster economic partnerships in emerging areas such as digital technology, renewable energy, and healthcare?
Given the MoUs and cooperation agreements signed between India and Indonesia, what innovative strategies can be employed to strengthen bilateral ties, promote cultural exchange, and foster economic partnerships in emerging areas such as digital technology, renewable energy, and healthcare?
In the context of the MoF notifying the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for central government employees, what actuarial and fiscal sustainability measures must be integrated to ensure the long-term viability of the scheme, while safeguarding the interests of retirees?
In the context of the MoF notifying the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for central government employees, what actuarial and fiscal sustainability measures must be integrated to ensure the long-term viability of the scheme, while safeguarding the interests of retirees?
Considering the theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,' what nuanced strategies can India adopt to synergize its rich cultural heritage with its developmental aspirations, fostering inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and global leadership?
Considering the theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,' what nuanced strategies can India adopt to synergize its rich cultural heritage with its developmental aspirations, fostering inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and global leadership?
Given the launch of various initiatives such as WAVES Bazaar, 3 Create in India Challenges, and WAVES Awards, what multi-pronged strategies can the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting, Tourism, and Culture employ to promote India's soft power, foster creative industries, and enhance its global image?
Given the launch of various initiatives such as WAVES Bazaar, 3 Create in India Challenges, and WAVES Awards, what multi-pronged strategies can the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting, Tourism, and Culture employ to promote India's soft power, foster creative industries, and enhance its global image?
Given the DGFT's launch of the enhanced 'eCoO 2.0 System', what comprehensive trade facilitation measures can be implemented to reduce transaction costs, enhance transparency, and promote seamless integration of Indian exporters into global value chains?
Given the DGFT's launch of the enhanced 'eCoO 2.0 System', what comprehensive trade facilitation measures can be implemented to reduce transaction costs, enhance transparency, and promote seamless integration of Indian exporters into global value chains?
Considering Tripura's MoU with Bhashini for multi-lingual governance, how can other states effectively leverage technology to promote linguistic diversity, enhance citizen engagement, and ensure equitable access to public services for all linguistic groups?
Considering Tripura's MoU with Bhashini for multi-lingual governance, how can other states effectively leverage technology to promote linguistic diversity, enhance citizen engagement, and ensure equitable access to public services for all linguistic groups?
Considering the cabinet's approval of the 'National Critical Mineral Mission' (NCMM), what holistic strategies can India adopt to ensure stable and secure access to critical mineral resources, promote domestic beneficiation, and foster sustainable mining practices, while mitigating environmental and social impacts?
Considering the cabinet's approval of the 'National Critical Mineral Mission' (NCMM), what holistic strategies can India adopt to ensure stable and secure access to critical mineral resources, promote domestic beneficiation, and foster sustainable mining practices, while mitigating environmental and social impacts?
Given the ASER Report 2024's findings on learning recovery and enrolment trends, what transformative educational reforms can be implemented to address learning gaps, improve the quality of government schools, and ensure equitable access to inclusive and relevant education for all children in India?
Given the ASER Report 2024's findings on learning recovery and enrolment trends, what transformative educational reforms can be implemented to address learning gaps, improve the quality of government schools, and ensure equitable access to inclusive and relevant education for all children in India?
Considering the direct funding for forest protection under CFR plans approved by MoTA, what comprehensive community-based conservation strategies can be implemented to empower local communities, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable forest management, while respecting traditional rights and knowledge systems?
Considering the direct funding for forest protection under CFR plans approved by MoTA, what comprehensive community-based conservation strategies can be implemented to empower local communities, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable forest management, while respecting traditional rights and knowledge systems?
How can India strategically leverage the 'World University Rankings by Subject 2025' to enhance the global competitiveness of its higher education institutions, foster research and innovation, and attract top talent, while ensuring equitable access and social inclusion?
How can India strategically leverage the 'World University Rankings by Subject 2025' to enhance the global competitiveness of its higher education institutions, foster research and innovation, and attract top talent, while ensuring equitable access and social inclusion?
Flashcards
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)
A GoI initiative to protect, educate, and empower the girl child in India.
India's Digital Economy Report
India's Digital Economy Report
A report prepared by ICRIER quantifying the digital sector's impact on India's economy.
209.44 GW
209.44 GW
India's total installed capacity of energy from renewable source by December 2024.
NCERT's Technical Cooperation Project
NCERT's Technical Cooperation Project
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MoD and Heavy Vehicles Factory Deal
MoD and Heavy Vehicles Factory Deal
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Digital Empowerment Partnership
Digital Empowerment Partnership
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Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
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SANJAY
SANJAY
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India & UK Health Partnership
India & UK Health Partnership
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BEE & TERI Establish CoEET
BEE & TERI Establish CoEET
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'VisionNxt'
'VisionNxt'
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FHI 2025
FHI 2025
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Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand
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DGS & C-DAC Partnership
DGS & C-DAC Partnership
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IIA Organizes Conference
IIA Organizes Conference
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Indonesian President Visit
Indonesian President Visit
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UPS
UPS
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18.5%
18.5%
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MoTA
MoTA
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Handloom Conclave – Manthan
Handloom Conclave – Manthan
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Kartavya Path
Kartavya Path
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Study Notes
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme
- The Government of India's BBBP scheme, created to protect, educate, and empower the girl child, has been successfully implemented for 10 years.
- Launched on January 22, 2015, by PM Narendra Modi in Panipat, Haryana.
- Scheme completion aligns with India's Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, shifting from Women's Development to Women-led Development.
- The national Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) improved from 918 (2014-15) to 930 (2023-24).
- Rajasthan saw the maximum SRB increase at 54 points, followed by Haryana (38), Himachal Pradesh (33), and Gujarat (29).
- The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for girls in secondary education increased from 75.51% (2014-15) to 78% (2023-24), indicating a positive influence of BBBP's educational interventions.
- BBBP also improved healthcare access, raising institutional deliveries from 61% (2014-15) to over 97.3% (2023-24).
- Union Ministers Jagat Prakash Nadda (MoH&FW) and Annpurna Devi (MoWCD) jointly inaugurated the 10-year anniversary celebration on January 22, 2025, in New Delhi.
India's Digital Economy Report
- A comprehensive report, 'Estimation and Measurement of India's Digital Economy', was released by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in January 2025 and was prepared by ICRIER.
- The report projects India's digital economy to grow nearly twice as fast as the overall economy.
- The digital economy is expected to contribute almost one-fifth of the national income by 2029-30.
- India's digital economy accounted for 11.74% of the nation’s income in 2022-23, contributing Rs. 28.94 lakh crore (approximately USD 368 billion) in Gross Value Added (GVA) and Rs. 31.64 lakh crore (approximately USD 402 billion) in Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
- This share is projected to rise to 13.42% by 2024-25.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
- India's total RE installed capacity reached 209.44 Gigawatt (GW) as of December 2024, a 15.84% increase compared to 180.80 GW in December 2023.
- Solar energy capacity increased by 24.5 GW, which made the cumulative capacity reach 97.86 GW in 2024, up from 73.32 GW in 2023.
- India added 3.4 GW of wind capacity in 2024, a 21% increase from 2023.
- Bioenergy installed capacity rose by 4.70% from 10.84 GW in December 2023 to 11.35 GW in December 2024.
Technical Cooperation Project
- India and South Korea exchanged notes in January 2025 for a technical cooperation project, entitled 'Strengthening Vocational Education and Training in Mechatronics in India', in New Delhi.
- The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) of the Government of Republic of Korea will collaborate.
- South Korea will invest USD 2 million (approximately 2.9 billion KRW) by 2027 to enhance India's vocational and technical education capabilities.
FIEO and Credlix Memorandum of Understanding
- The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and Singapore-based Credlix signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in January 2025.
- Credlix is a global leader in supply chain financing solutions.
- The aim is to boost the growth of Indian exporters and strengthen their international presence.
- Aims to streamline global trade by providing exporters with innovative financial solutions, logistical support, and other critical resources.
Ministry of Defence (MoD)
- The MoD signed a Rs 1,561-crore deal with Chennai(Tamil Nadu, TN) based Heavy Vehicles Factory(HVF), a unit of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited(AVNL), in January 2025.
- This acquisition is for 47 Tank (T)-72 Bridge Laying Tanks (BLTs) for the Indian Army(IA).
- The contract was signed by senior officials of the MoD and HVF, AVNL, in the presence of Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of the MoD.
- The T-72 BLTs are manufactured by HVF under the license from Russia.
NITI Aayog & NASSCOM Foundation Partnership
- National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) and the NASSCOM Foundation partnered in January 2025.
- The goal is to provide digital skills to one lakh individuals to reduce the digital divide.
- Partnership falls under the Aspirational Blocks Programme(ABP) and aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan (PMGDISHA).
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
- The Government of India's SSY completed 10 years of successful implementation on January 22 2025.
- The goal is to secure the financial future of girl children in India.
- Launched on January 22, 2015, by PM Narendra Modi as part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign in Panipat(Haryana).
- The Department of Economic Affairs(DEA) under the Ministry of Finance is responsible for the SSY.
- The current required minimum deposit to open SSY is Rs 250.
- Subsequent deposits can be made in multiples of Rs 50, however at least Rs 250 is required to be deposited in a Financial Year (FY).
- The maximum deposit that can be maintained in the account under the SSY is Rs 1.5 lakh per FY.
Battlefield Surveillance System
- Union Minister Rajnath Singh (Ministry of Defence (MoD)) flagged off "SANJAY" on January 24th 2025.
- "SANJAY" is the Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) from South Block, New Delhi, Delhi.
- The system was developed indigenously and jointly by the Indian Army (IA) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru (Karnataka).
India & UK Health Partnership Renewal
- India and the United Kingdom (UK) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 23, 2025 to renew their health and life sciences partnership.
- The shared focus of the renewed partnership is a shared vision for Universal Health Coverage.
- The partnership aims to tackle global health challenges such as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), digital health innovations, and advancements in pharmaceuticals.
CoEET Establishment
- The Bureau of Energy Efficiency(BEE), Ministry of Power(MoP) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in January 24 2025.
- A Centre of Excellence for Energy Transition (CoEET) will be launched at TERI’s Institute of Energy Transition (IoET) in Hyderabad, Telangana.
- The estimated project cost is Rs.25 crore.
- BEE will provide a financial support of Rs.5 crore annually for 5 years to assist in the establishment and functioning of the Centre.
- TERI will provide its existing infrastructure at its Hyderabad campus and monitor the operational activities of the Centre.
NIFT Hyderabad's Fashion Forecasting Platform
- The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Hyderabad(Telangana) introduced 'VisionNxt' in January 2025, which is India's first fashion forecasting platform.
- It combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) and was unveiled during NIFT's 40th Foundation Day celebrations in Hyderabad.
- Under the Ministry of Textiles ( MoT), the platform is designed to offer trend insights specifically for India’s fashion and retail industry.
NITI Aayog's Inaugural FHI 2025
- Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of 16th Finance Commission (FC) launched the inaugural issue of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog’s report titled ‘Fiscal Heath Index (FHI) 2025 for the Financial Year 2022-23 (FY23)’ in New Delhi, Delhi in January 2025.
- As per the report, Odisha has outperformed all other states with a cumulative score of 67.8 out of 100, followed by Chhattisgarh (55.2) and Goa (53.6).
- States in Achiever category: Odisha (rank 1st ), Chhattisgarh (2nd), Goa (3rd), Jharkhand(rank 4th with overall score of 51.6) and Gujarat (rank 5th overall score of 50.5).
- States in Front-runner category: Maharashtra (50.3); Uttar Pradesh (UP) (45.9); Telangana (43.6); Madhya Pradesh (MP) (42.2); and Karnataka (40.8)
- States in Performer category: Tamil Nadu (TN) (29.2); Rajasthan (28.6); Bihar (27.8) and Haryana (27.4)
- States in Aspirational category: Kerala (25.4), West Bengal (WB)(21.8), Andhra Pradesh (AP) (20.9) and Punjab (10.7)
Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand
- Uttarakhand became the 1st state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code(UCC), effective on 27 January 2025.
- Uttarakhand Chief Minister(CM) Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the UCC portal and issued a notification marking the adoption of the civil code at an event in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
- The Uttarakhand government introduced the Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Act, 2024, which provides a clear process for creating and canceling wills and related documents called codicils under the rules of inheritance.
DGS & C-DAC Partnership
- The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways(MoPSW) and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 25 2025.
- Aims to enhance innovation in technology and excellence in India’s maritime sector through advancing maritime administration by latest technologies.
International Conference in Bengaluru
- The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) organized an international conference in January 2025.
- The conference theme was 'Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections' in order to to mark the 125th anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO).
- It was held from January 20-25, 2025 in Bengaluru(Karnataka).
Indonesian President's Visit to India
- President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo, visited India from January 23 to 26, 2025 to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of India-Indonesia Diplomatic Relations.
- The visit resulted in the signing and renewal of five Memorandums of Understandings (MoUs) covering diverse areas such as health, traditional medicine, and maritime security.
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), India and the Ministry of Health, Indonesia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Health Cooperation.
- A renewal of the MoU on Maritime Safety and Security Cooperation has been established between the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) and Badan Keamanan Laut Republik (BAKAMLA) (the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency), Indonesia.
- The Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homeopathy (PCIM&H), Ministry of AYUSH(Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy), India and the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority have signed an MoU in the field of Traditional Medicine Quality Assurance (QA).
- An MoU on Cooperation in the Fields of Digital Development has been signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology(MeitY), India and the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, Indonesia.
- A Cultural Exchange Program between the Ministry of Culture, MoC (India) and the Ministry of Culture(Indonesia), was also signed for the time period 2025-2028.
Unified Pension Scheme
- The Ministry of Finance (MoF) notified the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) in January 2025, as an option for central government employees already under the National Pension System (NPS).
- The scheme aims to offer financial security and dignity post-retirement to retirees by guaranteeing a pension.
- As per MoF, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) will monitor UPS regulations and provide operational guidelines. The scheme will come into effect from April 01, 2025.
- Central government contribution was increased from 14% to 18.5%.
76th Republic Day
- India celebrated its 76th Republic Day (R-day) on 26 January 2025 and commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India, which came into effect on 26 January 1950.
- The 76th Republic Day celebrations, themed ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,’ (Golden India: Heritage and Development) highlighted India’s military strength, cultural heritage, and development.
- A total of 942 personnel from the Police, Fire, Home Guard & Civil Defence (HG&CD), and Correctional Services were awarded Gallantry and Service Medals.
- 28 of the 95 Gallantry Medals were given to personnel from Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, 28 from Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), 3 from the North-East, and 36 from other regions for their acts of courage.
- 49 individuals were approved for President of India's Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards - 2024.
- There were 31 Tableaux and First-Ever Tri-Services Tableau at Kartavya Path on Republic Day
WAVES Initiatives
- In Delhi, Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Ministry of Tourism (MoT) and Ministry of Culture (MoC), jointly launched initiatives such as: WAVES Bazaar; 3 Create in India Challenges; WAVES Awards,.
- The launch of 3 new challenges i.e. “Wah Ustad", "Make The World Wear Khadi" and "Resonate: The EDM Challenge”, under CIC was the main highlight of the event.
Enhanced 'eCoO 2.0 System'
- Launched by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in January 2025.
- DGFT falls under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I).
- Aims to simplify the certification process for exporters and improve trade efficiency, with features like multi-user access under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC).
- Electronic filing of Non-Preferential CoO is mandatory through the eCoO 2.0 platform beginning 1st January 2025.
Tripura Signs MoU with Bhashini for Multi-Lingual Governance
- The Governement of Tripura signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in January 2025 with Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
- The MoU was signed during the "Bhashini Rajyam" state-level workshop in Agartala, Tripura.
- Tripura became the 1st North-Eastern(NE) state, as well as 8th Indian state to sign a MoU with Bhasha Interface for India(Bhashini).
Cabinet Approvals
- The Union Cabinet approved in January 29 2025, chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, the launch of the ‘National Critical Mineral Mission’ (NCMM).
- NCMM's goal is to build a resilient ‘Value Chain’ for critical mineral resources essential for Green Technologies totalling Rs. 34,300 crore over 7 years.
- The NCMM aims to attract an investment of Rs.18,000 crore (USD 2.08 billion) from Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and other entities.
- It also approved revised mechanism for procurement of ethanol by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme – Price Adjustment for Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25.
- The revision fixes the administered ex-mill price of ethanol from C Heavy Molasses (CHM) at Rs. 57.97 per litre (l), an increase from Rs. 56.58 per l.
ASER Report 2024
- The Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Pratham Foundation released the “Annual Status of Education Report(Rural) 2024 (ASER 2024)” in January 2025.
- ASER 2024 is a nationwide household survey that covers the status of children’s enrolment and learning outcomes in rural India annually.
- ASER 2025 has covered almost covered 649,491 children aged 3-16, in 17,997 villages across 605 districts of 29 States/Union Territories (UTs) of India.
- Enrolment in pre-primary institutions among 3-year olds has increased from 68.1% (in 2018) to 75.8% (in 2022) to 77.4% (in 2024).
- Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha and Telangana have achieved near-universal enrolment for this age group.
- Over 75% of children are enrolled in Anganwadi centres in both these age groups in states including: West Bengal (WB), Gujarat, and Karnataka.
'Handloom Conclave – Manthan' & e-pehchaan Portal
- Union Minister Giriraj Singh(Ministry of Textiles (MoT)) inaugurated in January 2025, the 'Handloom Conclave - Manthan' at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, Delhi.
- The conclave aligned with Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's 5F
Odisha Villages to Receive Funds
- In January 2025 funds were approved by the Project Appraisal Committee (PAC) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA)
- The funds will be used to implement Community Forest Resource (CFR) plans for 100 villages in phase-I under the Forest Right (FRA) Act, 2006
- The state government will receive Rs 16 crore for development and execution of CFR management plans of 100 villages.
Global Firepower Index (GFP)
- India has secured 4th place as most powerful military in the world. The United States of America (USA) leads the ranking, followed by Russia and China.
World University Rankings 2025
- The Times Higher Education (THE) released the 'World University Rankings by Subject 2025' in January 2025.
- For Computer science (CS), IISc Bengaluru is the Indian institution in the top 100, securing the 96th position.
UNCTAD Global Investment Trends Monitor 2024
- Reported by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in January 2025.
- Global foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 11%, reaching an estimated USD 1.4 trillion in 2024.
- FDI declined by 8% when excluding flows through European conduit economies.
- FDI in India grew by 13%.
- FDI to developing Asia declined by 7%, with China’s inflows dropping 29% for the second consecutive year.
- Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) FDI rose 2% to a record USD 235 billion.
Indore & Udaipur as Ramsar Wetland Cities
- In January 2025, the Ramsar Convention's Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) advisory committee added Indore (Madhya Pradesh, MP) and Udaipur (Rajasthan) to the list.
- Indore and Udaipur were named India's first two internationally accredited 'Wetland Cities'.
- The total number of accredited Wetland Cities has reached 74.
World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025
- The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF 2025): WEF25 was held from January 20-24, 2025 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.
- The 55th annual meeting at WEF is "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age"
- 13 new industrial clusters from Australia, Brazil, Colombia, India(5), the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Thailand, and the United Kingdom (UK) have joined the WEF’s Transitioning Industrial Clusters initiative.
- The total number of industrial clusters involved is 33 across 16 countries and 5 continents.
- The 25th edition of the Edelman Trust Barometer was launched during the WEF
The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) India
- C4IR is the liaison office of WEF in India and launched its 6-year Impact journey report during the WEF Annual meeting 2025.
Blueprint to Close the Women's Health Gap
- The World Economic Forum collaborated with McKinsey Health Institute(MHI) to release a report in 2025 on the global health condition of women.
AB InBev Investment
- Union Minister for Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Chirag Paswan, is working with Belgium based AB InBev to provide India with an investment of USD 250 million .
- The investment is for developing its beverage sector over the next two to three years.
PNB MetLife & Truhome Partnership
- PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited (PNB MetLife) partnered with Chennai based Truhome Finance in January 2025.
- To offer Group Credit Life insurance to home loan customers of Truhome Finance.
TATA AIG Launches ‘CyberEdge'
- TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited (TATA AIG) launched 'CyberEdge' in January 2025.
- It is an innovative cyber insurance solution.
- the Indian cyber insurance market was valued at Rs.850 crore in 2024 and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 25% from 2025 to 2030.
RBI Cancels Registration of X10 Financial Services
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) of Mumbai(Maharashtra)-based X10 Financial Services Limited in January 2025.
- RBI did this over irregularities in its digital lending operations.
‘Shubh Muhurat'
- Tata AIA Life Insurance launched introduced in January 2025, designed to help families prepare financially for weddings by combining disciplined savings, asset growth, and financial security.
JK Tyre
- The International Finance Corporation (IFC) in January 2025, gave a USD 100 million Sustainability-Linked Loan (SLL) to New Delhi based JK Tyre.
- 30 million USD towards JK Tyre & Industries Limited
- up to 70 million USD towards Cavendish Industries Limited (CIL), a subsidiary of JK Tyre
HDFC Life Tie-Up with CARS24
- HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited entered into a corporate agency partnership with CARS24 Financial Services Private Limited in January 2025.
DFS Capital Infusion into IFCI
- Department of Financial Services (DFS) released Rs 500 crore to IFCI in January 2025.
CheQ Wisor
- CheQ Digital Private Limited introduced 'Cheq Wisor' in January 2025, India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered credit card expert.
Steps to Inject Money into the Banking System
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a series of steps in January 2025 to inject about Rs 1.5 lakh crore into the banking system.
- RBI will do this through Purchasing Government Securities (G-secs) and Open Market Operations each worth approximately Rs 60,000 crore.
- Announced a 56-day Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction for a notified amount of Rs 50,000 crore.
iSPIRT Launches PSLAI
- Indian Software Product Industry Round Table (iSPIRT) has launched launched the Priority Sector Lender's Association of India (PSLAI).
- The association was formed December 1972.
HSBC to Launch 'HSBC TravelOne Credit Card'
- Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited will launch 'HSBC TravelOne Credit Card for frequent travelers in January 2025.
Frictionless Finance Accelerator Programme
- YES Bank will launch the programme, in partnership with the Reserve Bank (RBIH) and the S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR).
RBI penalizes banks
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed penalties on J&K Bank(3.31 crore), BoI(1 crore) and Canara Bank(1.63 crore).
BIMTECH launches Blockchain-Based Digital Currency
- Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) launched 'BIMCOIN' in January 2025.
Mobikwik becomes India’s 1st Fintech Company to Roll out CBDC
- With collaboration from Yes Bank the roll out is expected for January 2025
RBL Bank & Piramal Finance Partner to offer Co-Lending Business(January 2025)
PNB to launch 1st-ever cyber crime solution
- Punjab National Bank (PNB) Limited became the 1st Indian bank to unveil real time Clari5’s national cybercrime solution in January 2025.
iSPOT- reporting portal
- SEBI is set to launch a web-based portal named the 'Integrated SEBI Portal for Technical Glitches
- The portal will be operational from 3rd February, 2025.
Jio Financial Services entering the Stock Broking Sector(January 2025).
NTPC is also expected to Partner with Sri Lanka for Solar Plant.
India’s AIonOS signs MoU with Indosat for Al growth.
Government’s signing of scheme.
###HDFC Securities signs partnership to enhance NPS .
Indian short film ‘Anuja’ nominated for 97th Academy Awards 2025
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