IACE January 2025 Current Affairs PDF

 Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 t 1 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  C...

 Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 t 1 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 t 2 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 t According to the 3rd edition of the “QS  The USA with 239 institutions, has emerged as the most represented country on the list. World University Rankings: Sustainability  The UK has 26 universities featured in the 2025” released by the Quacquarelli world’s top 100 and more top 10 universities Symonds(QS), global higher education compared to any other country. experts, the Indian Institute of Technology-  7 universities from Africa region ranked in Delhi (IIT-D) in New Delhi has topped the top 500. The University of Cape Town in among all Indian universities featured on the South Africa (ranked at 45th spot), is the list and has secured 171st position globally highest ranked university in this region. with an overall score of 80.6. It has improved  A total of 6 universities from 4 Asian its ranking by 255 places compared to 426th countries ranked among the world’s top 100. spot in the last year.  The University of Tokyo (Japan) with an  IIT-D is followed by IIT Kharagpur (IIT- overall ranking of 44th, is the highest ranked KGP) in Kharagpur, West Bengal (WB) and university from Asia region. IIT Bombay (IIT-B) in Mumbai, Maharashtra  Total 114 universities from Mainland China ranked at 202nd and 234th position, ranked on the list, led by Fudan University respectively. (ranked at 133rd spot). No university from  The University of Toronto, Canada has Mainland China featured in the top 100. topped the list as the world’s most sustainable  All 8 universities from New Zealand have university, followed by the ETH Zurich in been featured in the top 500 (achieving the Zurich, Switzerland ranked at 2nd position. highest average score) and is led by The  Lund University in Sweden and University of University of Auckland (ranked at 17th). California, Berkeley (UCB), the United States  This year, a total 461 institutions have of America (USA), jointly ranked at 3rd spot improved their overall rankings, 350 new on the list. entrants, and 5 universities debuted into the top 20. 3 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 India-Specific t About QS World University Rankings on  This latest edition of the rankings has featured Sustainability 2025 78 Indian universities on the list, of which 34  It has covered over 1,740 universities have improved their rankings compared to last representing 107 countries and territories. year and 8 have maintained their previous  The universities are ranked based on their rankings. performance assessed across 3 main  Among the top 10 Indian institutions, 9 have categories: improved their overall ranking and 21 Indian  Environmental Impact (45%): It includes 3 institutions/universities debuted on the list. sub-indicators: Environmental Sustainability,  ii.The University of Delhi (DU) is the only Environmental Education and Environmental Indian varsity which has witnessed decline in Research. its ranking as it dropped from 220th (in 2023)  Social Impact (45%): It further includes 5 to 299th spot, but it still appeared 6th on the sub-indicators: equality, knowledge exchange, Indian list. impact of education, employability &  Top 3 Indian Universities/ Institutes on: outcomes, and health & well being Environmental Impact category: IIT-D (55th);  Governance (10%): It includes indicators Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh (UP))-based IIT-K related to good governance such as ethics, (87th) and IIT-B (101st). hiring practices, transparency and decision  Knowledge Exchange lens: DU (121st); making. Vellore (TN)-based Vellore Institute of Top 5 Universities in 2025 Technology (VIT) (161st); and IIT-KGP (197th).  Among the Indian institutions featured on the list, IIT-D topped in the category of Social Impact (ranked at 362nd spot) as well in two lenses i.e. Employability and Outcomes (116th) and Environment Research (256th).  Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, ranked at 32nd spot Top 5 Indian Universities/Institutes globally in the Environment Education lens. It is the only Indian institute to be featured among the world’s top 50 in this category.  Manipal (Karnataka)-based Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) or Manipal University, ranked at 390th spot globally, is the top ranked Indian university both in ‘Governance’ category and in the ‘Equality’ lens. 4 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 INTERNATIONAL AND BILATERAL t g Romania and Bulgaria Become Full  The song dates back to the 16th century, Members of Schengen Border-Free referred to as the ‘Balkan blues’ due to its Zones emotional depth and soulful melodies.  Romania and Bulgaria have officially  Sevdalinka, often referred to as the “Balkan become full members of the European Union Blues,” is a traditional form of South Slavic (EU) led Schengen free-travel zones. This music originating from Bosnia and announcement came following the approval Herzegovina. of EU ministers for full membership of both  Sevdalinka blends South Slavic oral poetry these countries in the meeting held on with the musical influences of the Ottoman December 12, 2024. Empire.  This will now expand the borderless area to USA declares ‘Bald eagle’ as 29 European countries whose residents can National Bird after 240 years travel without passport checks, ending a 13-  In December 2024, President of the United year long wait for the two eastern European States of America (USA), Joseph Robinette countries. Biden signed a bipartisan  Schengen Area is the world’s largest free bill that officially travel area that now includes 25 of the 27 EU designates the “Bald Eagle” member states, except Ireland and Cyprus, as the National bird of the and includes 4 members states of the USA. The significant European Free Trade Association (EFTA): recognition formalizes the bald eagle’s role Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and as a symbol of American strength and power, Switzerland. a position it has held informally for over 240 Sevdalinka: Bosnia’s ‘Balkan Blues’ years. Gains UNESCO Recognition  The bald eagle has been a symbol of the  In December 2024, Sevdalinka, a USA since 1782, when it was featured on the melancholic and ancient love song from Great Seal of the USA. The seal includes the Bosnia and Herzegovina, eagle, an olive branch, arrows, a shield, the was added to United motto “E Pluribus Unum (Out of Many, Nations Educational, One)” and a constellation of stars. Scientific and Cultural  The bald eagle is native to North America, Organization(UNESCO’s) Canada, the USA and appears on various National Inventory of national emblems, including the presidential Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). This flag, USA currency and military insignia. recognition ensures that the tradition is  Haliaeetus leucocephalus is the scientific safeguarded and celebrated as a vital cultural name of the bald eagle, known for its striking asset and contributes to its global appeal. white head and yellow beak atop its brown body. 5 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 China Approves t Construction of  Kuwait also joined as a member of World’s Largest Hydropower Dam International Solar Alliance (ISA) to adopt on Brahmaputra River solar energy and help to develop low-carbon  On December 25, 2024, China approved the growth economies. construction of the world’s  PM Modi was awarded the Wisam largest hydropower dam on Mubarak al-Kabeer, or the Order of Yarlung Zangbo River, the Mubarak the Great which is the highest 5th largest river of China in national award of Kuwait. Tibet (China),a region  PM Modi attended the opening ceremony of where the Brahmaputra river flows into India the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait on 21st and Bangladesh. December 2024 which was organized by  With an estimated investment of USD 137 Kuwait with participation from eight billion, the dam, situated near the India-Tibet countries, including Gulf Cooperation border, will be the largest infrastructure Council (GCC) nations, Iraq, and Yemen. project in the world.  PM Modi addressed a large gathering of the  The project, part of China’s 14th Five-Year Indian community in Kuwait in a special Plan (2021-2025), aims to generate 300 event ‘Hala Modi’ at the Sheikh Saad Al- billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex in Kuwait. more than three times the capacity of the India & China signed Six Point Pact ‘Three Gorges Dam’, currently the world’s to Resume Mansarovar Yatra, largest, in central China. Nathula Border Trade  The dam will be constructed at a dramatic  On December 18, 2024, India and China gorge where the Brahmaputra River makes a have signed a six-point agreement to resume sharp U-turn in the Himalayas. the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Nathula PM Modi visit to Kuwait from 21st border trade during the 23rd meeting of the to 22nd December 2024 Special Representatives (SRs) on the China-  Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi made India Boundary Question in Beijing, China. an official 2-day visit to Kuwait from 21st  The agreement also addresses key issues December to 22nd December 2024 at the such as cross-border river cooperation, invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al- representing a significant move toward Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of rebuilding trust between the two nations. Kuwait.  The signing ceremony was attended by Ajit  This was the first visit by an Indian PM to Doval, India’s National Security Advisor the Gulf nation in over four decades. (NSA), and Wang Yi, China’s Foreign  Indira Gandhi was the last Indian PM to visit Minister. Kuwait 43 years ago in 1981.  The Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra has been  During the Modi visit, India and Kuwait suspended since 2020 due to the Covid-19 signed four Memorandum of Understandings pandemic and the Chinese side’s failure to (MoUs) in the areas of defence, sports and renew the necessary arrangements. cultural cooperation. 6 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 Sri Lankan President t Anura Kumara  With this, the UK has become the 12th Dissanayake’s visit to India member of the CPTPP as well as the 1st non-  President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara founding member to join this trade bloc. Dissanayake visited India from December 15  This marks a significant milestone in the to 17,2024, marking his first bilateral trip to country’s effort to bolster its global trading India after Sri Lanka’s presidential and after its withdrawal from the European Union parliamentary elections. He was (EU) in 2020. accompanied by Foreign Minister of Sri  With the joining of the UK as CPTPP Lanka Vijitha Herath and Deputy Minister of member, the members of CPTPP together Finance Anil Jayantha Fernando. account 15% of the global Gross Domestic  During the visit, President Dissanayake held Product (GDP) and provide trade access to a discussions with Indian PM Narendra Modi market of over 500 million people. and President Droupadi Murmu on various  As per the agreement, the UK will be able to bilateral issues of mutual interest. trade with 8 member countries of CPTPP  He also participated in a business event in from December 15, 2024. New Delhi aimed at strengthening India and UAE Signed MoU to investment and commercial ties between Strengthen Polar and Ocean India and Sri Lanka and also visited Bodh Research Cooperation Gaya(Bihar).  In December 2024, India’s National Centre  India and Sri Lanka sign two agreements on for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and Double taxation, capacity building and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s Emirates training in the presence of Sri Lankan Polar Mission Steering Committee (EPMSC) President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and signed a PM Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Memorandum of  Anura Kumara Dissanayake along with PM Understanding Narendra Modi issued a joint statement (MoU) during the titled “Fostering Partnerships for a 15th India-UAE Shared Future” which outlined a wide range Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) held in of collaborative initiatives, from energy New Delhi, Delhi to strengthen collaboration partnerships to regional security cooperation. in polar and ocean research, academic UK Becomes the 1st European partnerships, operations, and capacity Country to Join CPTPP development.  In December 2024, the United Kingdom  The meeting was jointly chaired by Minister (UK) has officially became the 1st European S. Jaishankar, Ministry of External Affairs country to join the Comprehensive & (MEA) and Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Nahyan, UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister Partnership (CPTPP), an important trade bloc (DPM) and Foreign Minister (FM). in the Indo-Pacific region.  India and the UAE also held the 4th Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi. 7 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 16th UNCCD Conference t of the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Parties (COP16) in Riyadh Singh Visit to Russi  The 16th session of the Conference of the  Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Defence (MoD), Government of India (GoI) Convention to Combat Desertification was on an official 3-day visit to the Russian (UNCCD) was conducted Federation from December 08 to December from 2nd December to 10, 2024. 13th December 2024 in  His visit came ahead of the Russian President Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.The Vladmir Putin visit to India at the invitation conference was based on of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi in the theme – Our Land. early 2025. Our Future ,saw the participation of nearly  On December 09 2024, Indian Naval Ship 200 countries. (INS) Tushil (F70), the latest multi-role  The conference aimed to renew global stealth guided missile frigate was formally commitment to enhance investment and commissioned into the Indian Navy (IN) in action to restore land and boost drought the presence of Union Defence Minister resilience for the benefit of people and Rajnath Singh at the Yantar Shipyard in planet. Kaliningrad, Russia.  This was the first UNCCD COP being held  On December 10 2024, Union Minister in the Middle East and North Africa region Rajnath Singh, MoD, India and Andrey and the largest multilateral conference ever Belousov, Minister of Defence, Russia co- hosted by Saudi Arabia. chaired the 21st session of the India-Russia  The event also coincided with the UNCCD’s Inter-Governmental Commission on 30th anniversary. Military & Military Technical Cooperation  The UNCCD estimates that USD 2.6 trillion (IRIGC-M&MTC) held in Moscow, the in investments are needed by 2030 to restore capital city of Russia. over one billion hectares of degraded land India and Nicaragua Sign MoU for and enhance drought resilience. QIPs to Boost Local Development  India presented the Aravalli Green Wall  On December 11 2024, the Government of Project (AGWP). The Aravali project aims to India (GoI) and the Government of revive over 1.1 million hectares of the hills Nicaragua (GoN) signed a Memorandum of across Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Delhi Understanding (MoU) to implement Quick by 2027. Impact Projects (QIPs) aimed at enhancing  Union Minister for Environment, Forests, the socio-economic infrastructure of and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav Nicaragua. highlighted India’s efforts to address land  The primary aim of this partnership is to degradation and desertification, in strengthen bilateral relations between India accordance to the objectives of the UN and Nicaragua, which have been cooperative Convention to Combat Desertification since the establishment of diplomatic ties in (UNCCD). March 1983. 8 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 UNESCO Recognizes t Traditional South Korea Parliament Impeaches Japanese Sake-Making as Acting President Han Duck-soo Intangible Cultural Heritage  South Korea’s political crisis deepened on  On December 4 2024, the United Nations December 27, 2024, when parliament voted Educational, Scientific and Cultural to impeach Acting President Han Duck-soo. Organization (UNESCO) has officially This follows the impeachment of President recognized the traditional Japanese Sake- Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, 2024, Making process as an Intangible Cultural which was triggered by his brief imposition Heritage (ICH) of Humanity, honoring a of martial law on December 3. brewing practice that spans over a thousand  Han had been serving as acting president years. since Yoon’s suspension, but his refusal to The decision was made at a UNESCO meeting in appoint three judges to the Constitutional Luque, Paraguay, where the organization also Court led to growing opposition calls for his recognized 45 other cultural practices and impeachment. This marks a significant products from around the world, such as moment in South Korea’s political history, as Brazilian white cheese, Caribbean cassava bread, it would be the first time an acting president and Palestinian olive oil soap. is impeached. Sri Lanka to offer visa-free travel to India and France Collaborate to Indian nationals from Jan 2025 Establish World’s Largest Museum  From January 2025, Indians will be among  The Ministry of Culture, in partnership with nationals from 39 countries eligible for free France Museums Développement (FMD), visas to travel to Sri Lanka, as announced by has launched an ambitious project to develop Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum during an interaction organized by the India as a global cultural landmark. Spanning Foundation in New Delhi. A parliamentary approximately 1,55,000 square meters across gazette notification will formalize this policy the North and South Blocks in New Delhi. in January. The minister expressed hope that Moldova Joins International Solar India would reciprocate by offering free visas Alliance to Sri Lankan nationals.  Moldova has officially joined the Azerbaijan Airline Crash in International Solar Alliance (ISA), signaling Kazakhstan its commitment to renewable energy and  On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan sustainability. The ISA Framework Airlines flight, J2-8243, crashed near Aktau, Agreement was signed in New Delhi by Kazakhstan, resulting in the tragic loss of 38 India’s External Affairs Minister S. lives and leaving 29 survivors. The Embraer Jaishankar and Moldovan Deputy Prime 190 aircraft was en route from Baku, Minister Mihai Popșoi. Moldova’s inclusion Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, when it comes after Armenia became the 104th full encountered severe turbulence and loud member last month, marking the continued bangs, leading to a catastrophic crash. global expansion of the ISA. 9 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 NATIONAL t Union Cabinet approved the  Apart from this,The Union Cabinet, has also continuation of PMFBY till 2025-26 approved to extend the One-time Special  The Union Cabinet chaired by the PM Modi Package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) has approved to beyond the Nutrient Based Subsidy(NBS) continue the Pradhan subsidy at Rs 3,500 per metric ton (MT) for Mantri Fasal Bima the period from 1st January 2025 till further Yojana(PMFBY) and orders to provide DAP to farmers at Restructured Weather affordable prices. Based Crop Insurance Scheme(RWBCIS) till  It would be allotted a tentative budget of 2025-26 with an overall outlay of approximately up to Rs. 3,850 cr. Rs.69,515.71 Crore from 2021-22 to 2025- Union Cabinet approves setting up 26. of the FIAT  The continuation of the schemes will provide  The Union Cabinet has approved creation of the risk coverage of crops from unavoidable Fund for Innovation and Technology(FIAT) natural disasters for farmers till 2025-26. with an outlay of Rs.824.77 crore for  The PMFBY scheme was launched in 2016 integration of advanced technologies in with an aim to provide affordable risk insurance schemes. coverage for the crops to the farmers in case  The fund will be used to make technological of crop failure. improvements in schemes like, YES-TECH,  It is monitored by the Department of WINDS, etc as well as Research and Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Development studies. Welfare(DAC&FW), Ministry of Agriculture  Yield Estimation System using Technology & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) and the (YES-TECH) uses Remote Sensing concerned State in co-ordination with various Technology for estimating yields which have other agencies. minimum 30% weightage to Technology  Objective: ‘One Nation, One Crop, One based yield estimates. Premium’  Madhya Pradesh(MP) has adopted 100%  Risks covered: Cover yields losses from non- technology based yield estimation.Andhra preventable risks, such as natural fire and Pradesh(AP), Assam, Haryana, Uttar lightning storms, hailstorms, cyclones, Pradesh(UP), MP, Maharashtra, Odisha, typhoons, tempest, hurricanes, tornados, etc. Tamil Nadu(TN) and Karnataka are currently  Insurance is provided upto a maximum implementing it. period of 14 days from harvesting for those  Weather Information and Network Data crops which are kept in “cut & spread” Systems (WINDS) involves setting up of condition to dry in the field after harvesting. Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) at block  Claims upto a maximum of 25% of the sum level and Automatic Rain Gauges (ARGs) at insured. panchayat level. 10 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 MoE Launches of t ONOS Scheme to  The working group is tasked with submitting Enhance Access to Scholarly its final report to the Office of the Economic Resources for Government Adviser, MoC&I by June 30, 2026. Institutions  WPI measures the average change in the  The Ministry of Education (MoE) launched selling prices of goods sold in bulk by first phase of the One Nation, One wholesalers to businesses.It focuses on the Subscription (ONOS), a Central Sector prices of goods at the wholesale or producer Scheme (CSS), aims to provide access to level and is used to gauge inflation in the world-class scholarly articles and journals for early stages of production. government-run higher education institutions TN CM Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin (HEIs) and central government (CG) research unveils India’s 1st glass bridge at and development (R&D) centers across Kanniyakumari India.  On December 30, 2024, the Chief Minister of  The scheme was approved by Government of Tamil Nadu, Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin, India on November 25, 2024, with a budget inaugurated India’s 1st bowstring arch glass of Rs 6,000 crore allocated for its bridge which connects the 133-foot implementation over three years, from 1st Thiruvalluvar Statue and the Vivekananda January 2025 to 31st December 2027. Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari, TN.  The scheme is coordinated by INFLIBNET  The bridge was inaugurated as part of the (Information and Library Network), an Inter- Silver Jubilee (25th year) celebration of the University Centre based in Ahmedabad, Thiruvalluvar Statue’s installation. Gujarat under the University Grants  He further declared that the Thiruvalluvar Commission (UGC), operating under the Statue will now be referred to as the ‘Statue MoE. of Wisdom’.It was designed by the renowned Govt Forms Expert Panel headed by sculptor V. Ganapati Sthapati. Ramesh Chand to Revise WPI Base Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Year 2022-23 Inaugurated India’s First Bio-  The Government of India (GoI) formed an Bitumen National Highway expert panel to review and  India’s first sustainable road using lignin- revise the Wholesale Price based bio bitumen was inaugurated by Index (WPI) base year Union Minister Nitin from 2011-12 to 2022-23 Gadkari,Ministry of and develop a new Producer Price Index Road Transport and (PPI). Highways(MoRTH)  It was notified by the Department for at the Nagpur-Mansar Bypass on NH Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (National Highway)-44.The project has been (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry launched by the Pune (Maharashtra) based (MoC&I). Praj Industries, a leading company in industrial biotechnology. 11 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025  Praj Industries developed t this project in exams. It will be applicable to over 3,000 collaboration with Council of Scientific and central schools, including Kendriya Industrial Research – Central Road Research Vidyalayas(KVs), Jawahar Navodaya Institute (CSIR-CRRI) , the National Vidyalayas(JNVs), Sainik Schools(under the Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and Ministry of Defence,MoD) and Eklavya Oriental Structural Engineers(OSE). Model Residential Schools(EMRS)(under the  Bio-bitumen saves India Rs.4,000–Rs.4,500 Ministry of Tribal Affairs, MoTA). crore annually in foreign exchange on  As per new policy Students failing in Classes imported bitumen and promotes sustainable 5 and 8 will have a chance to retake exams road development. within two months. If students fail the re- PM Modi Inaugurated Various exam, they will be held back. Projects in Madhya Pradesh Union Civil Aviation Minister  Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Launched ‘UDAN Yatri Cafe’ and Madhya Pradesh (MP) on 25th December special centenary tributes at 2024 on the occasion of Kolkata Airport Celebrations the 100th birth anniversary  In December 2024, Union Minister of former PM Atal Bihari Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Ministry of Vajpayee and laid Civil Aviation (MoCA) launched ‘UDAN foundation stone of various projects. Yatri Cafe’ and ‘Centenary Postal Special  Modi laid the foundation stone of Ken-Betwa Cover’ during the inauguration ceremony of River Link Project (KLBP), in Khajuraho, the Centenary celebrations of Netaji Subhas Madhya Pradesh on 25th December Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport 2024.The Union Cabinet had approved Rs in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB). 44,605 crore for the KBLP project in  The “UDAN Yatri Cafe” is a unique pilot December 2021. project led by MoCA and AAI. It is designed  Modi inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating to cater specifically to the needs of Solar Project established at Omkareshwar in passengers traveling under the Ude Desh Ka the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh. Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme.  Modi laid the foundation stone of 1153 Atal  The cafe will offer a curated menu at Gram Sushasan buildings. affordable prices, ensuring that passengers  PM Modi also released Rs.100 have access to quality food at a cost-effective commemorative coin and stamp to honor and rate, improving their travel experience. celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of AIM and UNDP Launch 7th Edition former PM Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. of Youth Co:Lab National Innovation GoI abolishes ‘No-Detention Policy’ Challenge 2024-2025 for Classes 5 and 8  In December 2024, the Atal Innovation  In December 2024, the Government of Mission (AIM) under the National institution India(GoI) has abolished the ‘no-detention for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and policy’ for Classes 5 and 8, allowing schools the United Nations Development Programme to fail students who do not clear year-end 12 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 (UNDP) in partnership t with Citi Foundation better irrigation options, and cut down on the have virtually launched the seventh edition of use of diesel in agriculture. the ‘Youth Co:Lab National Innovation  It aims to add around 34,800 Mega Watt Challenge for 2024-2025’. (MW) of solar power by March 2026, with a  The 2024-2025 edition will be implemented total central financial support of Rs 34,422 in collaboration with Bengaluru(Karnataka) crore. based AssisTech Foundation(ATF) Union Minister Pralhad Joshi  This year’s challenge invites young Launched Credit Guarantee Scheme entrepreneurs, including those with for e-NWR Based Financing in New disabilities, to develop innovative solutions Delhi that “Enhance access to opportunities and  On December 16 2024, Union Minister well-being for Persons with Pralhad Joshi, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Disabilities(PwDs)”. Food and Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy Inaugurates GSI Geoscience (MoN&RE), launched the Credit Guarantee Museum in Gwalior Scheme(CGS) for electronic-Negotiable  In December 2024, the Vice President (VP) Warehouse Receipts (e-NWR) based Pledge of India Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the Financing (CGS-NPF) in New Delhi, Delhi. state-of-the-art Geological Survey of India  The scheme aims to provide Rs 1,000 crore (GSI) Geoscience Museum at the Victoria corpus to support post-harvest financing for Market Building in Gwalior, Madhya farmers. Pradesh (MP). PM Modi Inaugurated and Laid  The museum was developed in coordination Foundation of 24 Projects worth Rs with the Gwalior Municipal 46,300 Crore in Rajasthan Corporation(GMC) and the National Council  PM Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the of Science Museums (NCSM). foundation stone for 24 projects across Govt Sanctioned Rs. 4388 Crore various sectors such as: energy, roads, Under PM-KUSUM Scheme to railways and water worth Rs 46,300 crores in Solarize Agriculture Jaipur, Rajasthan.  In December 2024, the Government of  Some of the important projects India(GoI) sanctioned Rs. 4388 crore under inaugurated during the event: Navnera the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Barrage, Smart Electricity Transmission evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Network and Assessment Management Scheme to solarize agriculture for states System projects, Railway electrification of across India. Bhildi-Samdari-Luni-Jodhpur-Merta Road-  The Nodal Ministry for the scheme is the Degana-Ratangarh section and Package 12 of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Delhi-Vadodara Green Field Alignment (MNRE). (NH-148 N) (major bridge over Mej river up  The GoI launched PM-KUSUM in March to junction with SH-37A), among others. 2019 to boost farmers’ income, provide 13 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 Union Cabinett Approved “One PM Narendra Modi addresses Nation, One Election” Bill Hindustan Times Leadership  In December 2024, the Union Cabinet Summit 2024 in New Delhi chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra  On November 16 2024, Narendra Modi, the Modi approved two key bills regarding One Prime Minister (PM) of India, addressed the Nation, One Election (ONOE), which aimed 22nd Hindustan Times Leadership Summit to conduct simultaneous Lok Sabha elections (HTLS 2024) in New Delhi, Delhi. The with state legislative assemblies and local summit was held from November 14 to 16, bodies across the country in a phased 2024. manner.  During the event, PM Modi released a  The 1st bill named the Constitution (129th commemorative postage stamp of Amendment) Bill, 2024 will enable the terms denomination Rs 5 to celebrate 100 years of of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies to be Hindustan Times(HT) which was founded by synchronized. Mahatma Gandhi in 1924.  The Second bill named The Union Territories  The PM articulated a roadmap focusing on Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to align “Development with Dignity,” aiming to elections in the Union Territories (UTs) of ensure that progress benefits all citizens. Puducherry, Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir  He outlined his vision for transforming India (J&K) with Lok Sabha elections. into a developed nation by 2047.  Both these bills are based on the key Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal recommendations of the High-level Unveils ‘Jalvahak’ Scheme to Boost Committee on Simultaneous Elections, Cargo Movement on Inland which was constituted under the Waterways chairmanship of former President of India  In December 2024, Union Minister Ram Nath Kovind in September 2023. Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, 1st Sagarmanthan – The Great Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), launched Oceans Dialogue held in New Delhi the ‘Jalvahak‘ scheme to induce the cargo  The 1st edition of ‘Sagarmanthan – The movement via inland waterways. Great Oceans Dialogue’, the South Asia’s  He also flagged off Cargo ships “MV Aai, largest Maritime Thought Leadership summit MV Homi Bhaba along with MV Trishul was held from November 18-19, 2024 at ITC with 2 dumb barges Ajay and Dikhu” from Maurya in New Delhi, Delhi the GR Jetty in Kolkata,West Bengal (WB).  It is organized by the Ministry of Ports, This marks the commencement of a fixed Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), scheduled service of cargo vessel ships from Government of India(GoI) in partnership Haldia,WB for national waterways 1 and 2 with New Delhi based global think tank, (NW-1 and NW-2). Observer Research Foundation (ORF) to  This scheme is jointly implemented by the foster Global Maritime Cooperation. Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Inland & Coastal Shipping Limited 14 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 (ICSL), a subsidiary t of the Shipping  It was developed by the Prayagraj Mela Corporation of India Limited (SCIL). Authority and Uttar Pradesh Development  The scheme offers up to 35% reimbursement Systems Corporation Limited(UPDESCO). of operating expenses for transporting cargo President Droupadi Murmu granted over 300 kilometers (kms) on NW1, NW2, assent to Bharatiya Vayuyan and NW16. Vidheyak 2024 to replace Aircraft MoPSW Organised Inaugural India Act 1934 Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 in  In December 2024, the President of India, New Delhi Droupadi Murmu granted assent to the  The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak (BVV) 2024, Waterways (MoPSW) organised the 1st India which replaced the colonial-era (90-year-old) Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024) Aircraft Act of 1934. from December 11 to December 12, 2024 at  The notification was issued by the Ministry Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi, Delhi. of Law and Justice (MoL&J) following the The conclave was inaugurated by Vice bill’s passage in both Houses of Parliament, President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok  Theme of IMHC 2024: “Towards Sabha(House of the People). Understanding India’s Position in Global  The BVV 2024, introduced in July 2024 and Maritime History”. passed in August 2024 by Lok Sabha, aims  The conclave celebrated India’s extensive to modernize India’s aviation regulatory maritime legacy and its significant framework, eliminate redundancies and contributions to global trade, culture, and enhance ease of doing business in the sector. innovation. Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy  The Conclave witnessed the participation of Unveiled India’s Green Steel global experts and academicians from 11 Taxonomy countries which highlighted the global  On December 12 2024, Union Minister H.D. significance of the event. Kumaraswamy, Ministry of Steel (MoS) and PM Modi launches “Sah’AI’yak” Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public chatbot Enterprises (MoHI&PE) unveiled the  PM Modi launched the ‘Kumbh Sah’AI’yak‘ ‘Taxonomy of Green Steel for India’ during AI powered chatbot, part of the “Digital an event held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Mahakumbh” initiative aimed to assist Delhi, Delhi. With this, India becomes the pilgrims and visitors at the Maha Kumbh 1st country in the world to launch a Mela 2025. taxonomy for green steel.  Available 24/7, it provides real time, MoHFW Announces Snake Bite a multilingual support in 11 Indian Languages Notifiable Disease (Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi,  In November 2024, the Ministry of Health Malayalam, Urdu, Gujarati, Punjabi, and Family Welfare (MoHFW) announced Kannada and Bengali). snakebite cases as a “Notifiable Disease” in 15 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 India. It mandates t all the government and Panchkula, Haryana. The campaign will public health facilities to report such cases culminate on March 24, 2025. and deaths.  During the launch, Union Minister Jagat  This aligns with the National Action Plan for Prakash Nadda also introduced national Prevention and Control of Snakebite guidelines for the new drug-resistant TB Envenoming (NAPSE), launched by the regimen called BPaLM. These guidelines MoHFW in March 2024. The plan aims to aim to streamline and standardize treatment. reduce snakebite fatalities by 50% by 2030. India Assumes 1st Time  A notifiable disease is any disease that must Chairmanship of 68th UN CND be reported to public health authorities by  On December 6 2024, India assumed the law. This reporting helps public health Chairmanship for the first time of 68th officials monitor the disease, track outbreaks, session of the United Nations (UN) and provide timely actions to prevent and Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). The control them. announcement was made by the Indian  Some of the notifiable diseases in India are Embassy of Austria marking a significant Leprosy, Tuberculosis (TB), Acquired milestone in the country’s global leadership. Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS),  Ambassador Shambhu S Kumaran, India’s Cholera, Hepatitis, etc. Permanent Representative to the UN in PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Vienna( Austria) assumed the Chairmanship Rajasthan and Haryana of the CND.  Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited  The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) Rajasthan and Haryana on 9th December is a functional commission of the United 2024. Nations Economic and Social Council  During the visit, he inaugurated the Rising (ECOSOC) and serves as the Governing Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 Body of the United Nations Office on Drugs in Jaipur, Rajasthan. and Crime (UNODC) headquartered in  He also launched Life Insurance Corporation Vienna. It is composed of 53 Member States of India (LIC’s) Bima Sakhi Yojana and laid elected by ECOSOC for a period of four the foundation stone of the Main campus of years. Maharana Pratap Horticultural University in Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Haryana. launched ‘Anna Chakra’ & ‘SCAN’ Union Minister JP Nadda Launches Portal for revolutionizing PDS Intensified 100-Day TB Elimination  On December 5 2024, Union Minister Campaign in Haryana Pralhad Joshi, Ministry of Consumer Affairs,  Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, Food and Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of New and Renewable (MoH&FW), launched the intensified 100- Energy(MNRE), launched 2 pivotal day Tuberculosis (TB) elimination campaign initiatives ‘Anna Chakra’, a Public to accelerate the fight against TB in Distribution System (PDS) supply chain optimization tool and the ‘SCAN (Subsidy 16 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 Claim Application t for National Food Tripura—collectively known as Security Act (NFSA) portal’ in New Ashtalakshmi. Delhi(Delhi).  The Mahotsav aims to boost economic  These initiatives, led by the Department of development in the North East, creating Food Public Distribution(DFPD) under the opportunities for artisans, weavers, and MoCAF&PD, are set to modernize the PDS entrepreneurs. and streamline subsidy claims, marking a India’s First Diabetes Biobank significant milestone in India’s food security Established in Chennai framework.  India has established its first diabetes Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan biobank in Chennai on December 17, 2024. Completed 9 Years of Advancing  The biobank is a joint effort between the Accessibility for Persons with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Disabilities and the Madras Diabetes Research  On December 3 2024, Sugamya Bharat Foundation (MDRF). Abhiyan, also known as the Accessible India  The biobank aims to collect, store, and share Campaign (AIC), a flagship initiative of biological samples to support advanced Government of India (GoI) for persons with scientific research on diabetes. disabilities (PwDs), has completed 9 years of  It will facilitate research into the causes, successful implementation. variations, and complications of diabetes,  The primary objective of the campaign is to particularly in the Indian population. ensure universal accessibility for PwDs  The biobank is expected to contribute to across 3 main domains: built infrastructure, better prevention, diagnosis, and transport systems, and the Information and management strategies for diabetes. Communication Technology (ICT) World Ayurveda Congress Kicks Off ecosystem. in Dehradun  It was launched by Prime Minister (PM)  The 10th World Ayurveda Congress (WAC Narendra Modi on 3rd December, 2015, on 2024) and Arogya Expo were inaugurated in the occasion of the International Day of Dehradun, marking a historic milestone in Persons with Disabilities. the global promotion of Ayurveda. The event PM Modi inaugurated Ashtalakshmi witnessed the presence of eminent Mahotsav in New Delhi personalities, including Union Minister of  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will State (Independent Charge), Ministry of inaugurate the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav; Uttarakhand Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 6 Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, December 2024. etc. With a focus on the theme “Digital  The three-day festival celebrates the culture, Health: An Ayurveda Perspective,” the event crafts, and tourism of the eight North Eastern aims to explore the integration of Ayurveda states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, with modern technological innovations to Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and redefine global healthcare delivery. 17 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 STATES t Gujarat approves creation of Vav- enthusiasm. The festival, observed on the Tharad as the 34th district 28th and 29th days of the 10th month in the  On January 1, 2025, the Gujarat cabinet, led Tibetan calendar (December), honours the by Chief Minister(CM) Bhupendra Patel, eight Tantrik deities, known as Kagyad. approved the decision to divide Banaskantha  Kagyed Dance, also known as Chaam, is a district into two, creating a new district unique Buddhist festival in Sikkim. called ‘Vav-Tharad’. This will bring the total Punjab becomes 5th state to number of districts in Gujarat to 34. provide 100% piped water supply to  The headquarters of the new Vav-Tharad rural household district will be located in Tharad town, while  In December 2024, Hardeep Singh Mundian, Palanpur will continue to serve as the Minister for Water Supply and Sanitation, headquarters of Banaskantha district. Punjab, announced that Punjab has become Gujarat Launches ‘Atlas to Protect the fifth state in India to provide 100% piped Indian Wolf Habitats water supply to rural households under the  In December 2024, Gujarat launched the “Jal Jeevan Mission(JJM) – Har Ghar “Atlas of Indian Wolf Habitats” to protect Jal(HGJ)” Scheme. biodiversity and conserve the Indian Wolf.  As of December 2024, all states and Union Led by Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat territories (UTs) have more than 50% Bhupendra Patel, the initiative focuses on coverage of tap water connections in rural identifying suitable habitats for wolves households with 11 states and UTs having across 13 districts of Gujarat. 100% coverage.  The atlas was jointly prepared by the Forest  100% tap water supply reported states and Department of Gujarat in collaboration with UTs: Telangana, Mizoram, Himachal Gujarat Ecological Education and Research Pradesh (HP), Gujarat Foundation(GEER Foundation).  100% tap water supply certified states and  The Atlas provides detailed information on UTs: Goa; Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) wolf habitats, including maps highlighting Islands; Puducherry; Dadra & Nagar Haveli wolf presence and habitat distribution across (D&NH) and Daman and Diu (D&D); 13 districts of the state. Arunachal Pradesh (AR); Haryana and  According to the data from the 2023 Wolf Punjab. Census, a total of 222 wolves were recorded Gujarat’s Masali becomes First in an area of 2,217 square kilometers (sq Border Solar Village in India km).  Masali village in Banaskantha district, Sikkim Celebrates Annual Kagyad Gujarat, has become India’s first border solar Dance Festival at Gangtok village,contributing to the India’s solar  Sikkim celebrated the annual Kagyad Dance energy program aimed at achieving self- festival at Tsuklakhang Palace in reliance in the energy sector and to fulfil the Gangtok,city of Sikkim with great traditional 18 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 goal of a sustainable t future by using implementation of government schemes and renewable energy. programs, administered by the RDPR.  Masali is one of 17 villages of Banaskantha Govt of AP declares ‘Ratha Saptami’ district under the Border Area Development as State festival Programme (BADP) ,Centrally Sponsored  In December 2024, the government of Scheme (CSS). Andhra Pradesh(AP) declared ‘Ratha Indore’s Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Saptami(also known as Sun God festival)’ as Airport Becomes India’s 1st Zero- a State festival for 3 days at the Sri Waste Airport Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli,  Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, AP. The festival is celebrated every year to Madhya Pradesh(MP),became India’s 1st mark the birth day of Sun God. zero-waste airport with the inauguration of  Ratha Saptami 2025 will be celebrated from 3,000 square feet (sq.ft) Material Recovery February 4 -6, 2025. Facility(MRF) at the airport by Union  The festival also highlights the rich cultural Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, and spiritual heritage of the region, Ministry of Civil Aviation(MoCA). contributing to the local economy and  The airport’s zero-waste achievement is enhancing religious tourism. based on the 4R strategy: Reduce, Reuse,  Ratha Saptami or Magha Saptami is an Recycle, and Restore. important festival dedicated to Lord Sri  The Zero-Waste Airport Project is a joint Suryanarayana Swamy, celebrated at the Sri initiative between IndiGo’s corporate social Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli, responsibility arm, IndiGoReach, the located in Srikakulam Town, AP, India. Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the India’s First Sports Management AAS Foundation (a non-governmental Mobile App Launched In AP organization focused on sustainable  On December 19, 2024, the Sports Authority development). of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) launched a Karnataka Gov declared December ‘Kreeda App’, a first-of-its-kind mobile app 26 as Computer Operators’ Day to improve sports management across the  The Karnataka government issued an order to state. celebrate Computer Operators’ Day every  The ‘Kreeda App’ is designed to be a one- year on December 26 to mark the birth stop solution for sports-related matters. It anniversary of English mathematician and allows them to update their profiles, track Inventor of Digital Computer Charles their performance, and access achievement Babbage. It was observed by the Rural certificates through DigiLocker. Development & Panchayat Raj Department  The app aims to prevent misuse of sports (RDPR), Karnataka. quota certificates and offers a transparent  First-Ever Computer Operators’ Day was system for player registration, performance observed on December 26 2024. tracking, tournament applications, and  The day ensures the Computer operators who managing sports equipment. play a vital role in facilitating the successful 19 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025  Only Andhra Pradesh t (AP) and Tamil Nadu ‘Banglar Bari’ scheme to provide houses for (TN) are currently issuing digital certificates the rural poor across WB. The launch was for sports achievements or participation. held at the state secretariat in Nabanna, WB. UP signs MoU with Japan for  The scheme is completely financed by the Economic and Cultural Cooperation state government, with a budget of Rs.  In December 2024, Uttar Pradesh Chief 14,773 crore. Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath signed a  Under the scheme, each family will receive a Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) total of Rs.1.20 lakh for house construction, with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture in with Rs. 60,000 provided in the first Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (UP). The Japanese instalment. delegation was led by Yamanashi Governor Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Kotaro Nagasaki. launches ‘Prakrutik Krushi Portal’  The MoUs aim to improve economic and to promote organic farming cultural cooperation between UP and  In December 2024, Bhupendra Patel, the Yamanashi, representing a growing Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat, launched the partnership between the two nations. ‘Prakrutik Krushi Portal(Natural Agriculture World Bank Approves USD 800 Portal)’ to promote organic farming. This million loan for development of initiative was introduced to mark the Amaravati occasion of “Seva, Sushasan Ane Samarpan  On December 20, 2024, the World Bank’s Na 2 Varsh” (Two Years of Exceptional (WB) Board of Executive Directors approved Service and Dedication) his role as the CM a USD 800 million loan for the Amaravati of Gujarat Integrated Urban Development Project  The portal aims to further Gujarat’s (AIUDP), which aims to build Amaravati as commitment to sustainable agricultural a greenfield capital city of Andhra practices and support the transition towards Pradesh(AP). organic farming across the state.  The loan amount has a final maturity of 29 PM Modi inaugurated Rajasthan years including a grace period of 6 years. Global Investment Summit India has chosen to take the loan in Japanese  Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Yen(JPY). the 3 days Rising Rajasthan Global  The Bank’s financing will also attract over Investment Summit 2024 (RRGIS 2024) and USD 600 million in private investment, the Rajasthan Global Business Expo on 9th helping the city become financially December 2024 at the Jaipur Exhibition and sustainable and creating economic Convention Centre (JECC) in Rajasthan. opportunities for its residents.  The summit was conducted for three days West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee from 9th December to 11th December 2024. Launched ‘Banglar Bari’ Housing  The Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Scheme Summit 2024, is based on the theme-  In December 2024, the Chief Minister of ‘Replete, Responsible, Ready’. West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, launched the 20 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025  Rajasthan Government t has signed a ongoing Prime Minister (PM) Poshan Yojana memorandum of understanding (MoU) of (midday meal scheme). over Rs 35 lakh crores during the Rising  The scheme aimed at fulfilling PM Narendra Rajasthan Global Summit 2024. Modi’s vision of ‘Padhai Bhi, Poshan Bhi‘  The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will provide students with nutritious has approved the development of 2GW breakfasts daily before the start of school (GigaWatt) or 2000 MW(MegaWatt)Solar ensuring that no child enters the classroom Park project of Rajasthan Solar Development on an empty stomach. Corporation in Rajasthan. Uttarakhand Unveils India’s First  Tata Power has announced an investment of Yoga Policy to Become Global Yoga Rs 1.2 lakh crore in Rajasthan in various Hub renewable energy related projects.  Uttarakhand, famously known as Uttar Pradesh becomes first state “Devbhoomi,” is set to become the first to fully adopt GeM Indian state to implement a dedicated Yoga  In December 2024, Uttar Pradesh (UP) has Policy, aimed at transforming the state into a become the first Indian state to fully adopt global yoga destination. With Rishikesh the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) already recognized as the “Yoga Capital of platform with an aim to achieve transparency the World,” this initiative builds on the and eliminate unethical practices in public state’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy while procurement. aligning with the AYUSH policy’s success.  As per an official estimate, the state The policy, envisioned by Chief Minister government is expected to save over Rs Pushkar Singh Dhami, integrates yoga, 2,000 crore annually through GeM-based Ayurveda, and wellness into a procurement of goods and services. comprehensive development strategy for Gujarat Launches ‘Mukhyamantri tourism, health, and employment. Paushtik Alpahar Yojana’ scheme to Arunachal CM Launches New Logo Serve Nutritious Breakfast to for Eaglenest Bird Festival Students  The 4th edition of the Eaglenest Bird  On December 2 2024, the Chief Minister Festival, a celebrated event in Arunachal (CM) of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel launched Pradesh, is set to be held from January 17 to “Mukhyamantri Paushtik Alpahar 19, 2025, at Khellong and Thongre village in Yojana(Chief Minister Nutritious Snack West Kameng District. Arunachal Pradesh Scheme)” , aiming to improve students’ Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, unveiled the health, nutrition and educational outcomes new logo for the festival, marking its aligning with Gujarat’s goal of fostering a prominence on the state’s calendar of events. healthy, educated future generation. The The festival celebrates the region’s unique scheme will officially begin on December 11, biodiversity, and it also plays an essential 2024. role in promoting sustainable eco-tourism  The initiative was launched under the and community-driven conservation efforts Suposhit Gujarat Mission, complements the 21 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 ECONOMY AND BANKING t MoF Kept Interest Rate on Small Public Provident 7.1% Savings Schemes Unchanged for Fund (PPF) Q4FY25 Sukanya Samriddhi  In December 2024, the Department of 8.2% Yojana Economic Affairs (DEA-Budget Division), National Savings Ministry of Finance (MoF) has kept the Certificate 7.7% interest rate on Small Savings Schemes (SSS) unchanged for its 4th Quarter of Senior Citizens’ 8.2% Savings Scheme(SCSS) Financial Year 2024-25( Q4 FY25) i.e. from 1st January 2025 to 31st March 2025 from Post Office Monthly those notified for Q3FY25. Income Scheme (PO- 7.4% MIS)  This is for the straight 4th consecutive quarter of FY25 that interest rate on SSS Mahila Samman remains unchanged. Savings Certificate 7.5% (MSSC) Interest Rates on Small Savings Schemes for Q4FY25: NPCI extends market cap deadline for UPI apps till 2026 Rate of Interest  In December 2024, Mumbai, Maharashtra- from 1st January, Instruments based National Payments Corporation of 2025 to 31st March, 2025 India (NPCI) announced an extension of the deadline for implementing a 30% market Savings Deposit 4.0% share cap for Unified Payments Interface 1-Year Post Office (UPI) providers by another two years to 6.9% Time Deposits (POTD) December 31, 2026.  This marks the third time the NPCI has 2-Year Post Office 7.0% extended the deadline for enforcing the Time Deposits (POTD) market share cap. 3-Year Post Office 7.1%  The NPCI proposed a 30% market share cap Time Deposits (POTD) in November 2020, giving providers two 5-Year Post years to comply. Due to industry opposition, Office Time Deposits 7.5% the deadline was moved to 2022, and it was (POTD) extended to December 31, 2024. 5-Year Post Office SAIL Earns ‘Great Place to Work’ Recurring 6.7% Deposits (PORD) Certification for 2025-2026  In December 2024, New Delhi(Delhi) based 7.5% (will Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has Kisan Vikas Patra ( mature in 115 KVP) months) been awarded the ‘Great Place to Work’ certification for the period January 2025 to 22 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 January 2026, byt the Great Place to Work challenges posed by global uncertainties and Institute, India. triggers.  This marks the 2nd consecutive year SAIL  This projection came following India’s Gross has earned this recognition, having Domestic Product (GDP) fell to 5.4% in the previously received it for December 2023 to 2nd Quarter (Q2: July to September) of December 2024. FY25.  The certification is awarded after a thorough  The report has cited the Reserve Bank of evaluation of an organization’s workplace India (RBI)’s tight monetary policy among culture, including extensive employee the reasons for the slowdown in the 1st Half feedback. (H1: April to September) of FY25. MoSPI: Monthly Per Capita Ind-Ra Projected Indian Economy to Expenditure Increased by 9% in Grow at 6.6% in FY26 rural areas and around 8% in urban  In December 2024, India Ratings and areas in 2023-24 Research (Ind-Ra) released its ‘FY2026  In December 2024, the Ministry of Statistics Macro Economic Outlook’. It projected the and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) Indian economy to grow at 6.6% in the released the results of Household Financial Year 2025-26(FY26) from 6.4% in Consumption Expenditure Survey: 2023-24 FY24. (HCES: 2023-24). As per the latest survey,  After a slowdown in the last three quarters, the average Monthly Per Capita the economy is expected to recover in 3rd Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) in rural Quarter (Q3) of FY25, with growth impacted and urban India has been estimated to be Rs by the lasting effects of COVID-19 and a 4,122 and Rs 6,996, respectively in 2023-24, strong base effect until FY24. without considering the values of items Highlights of the 55th GST Council received free of cost by the households Meeting through various social welfare programmes.  The 55th Goods and Services Tax (GST)  While, the average MPCE (without Council meeting chaired by Union Minister imputation) in nominal terms has increased Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance by about 8% and 9% in urban and rural areas (MoF) and Ministry of Corporate Affairs of the country, respectively in 2023-24 from (MoCA) was held on December 21, 2024 the level of 2022-23. held in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. MoF Report: Indian Economy Likely  Among several recommendations by the to Grow at 6.5% in FY25 GST Council, the most notable was the  In December 2024, Department of Economic reduction of GST rate on Fortified Rice Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance (MoF) Kernels (FRK) to 5%. released its Monthly Economic Review for  It has decided to exempt gene therapy November 2024. As per the report, the Indian completely from GST. This move aims to economy is likely to grow at 6.5% in make advanced medical treatments more Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25) compared to accessible for people. its previous projection of 6.5% to 7%, due to 23 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025  The Council has decided t to reduce the rate of  India is followed by Mexico (USD 68 compensation cess on supplies to merchant billion), China (USD 48 billion), the exporters to 0.1%. Philippines (USD 40 billion), and Pakistan  The GST Council has decided to exempt (USD 33 billion). This surge is mainly GST on the contributions made by general attributed by a recovery in the job markets in insurance companies from the 3rd-party High-Income Countries (HICs) within the motor vehicle premiums to the Motor Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA Fund). Development (OECD). SEBI Notified New Asset Class DPIIT & HDFC Bank Sign MoU to “SIF” with Minimum Investment of Strengthen India’s Startup Rs 10 Lakh Ecosystem  In December 2024, the Securities and  In December 2024, the Department for Exchange Board of India (SEBI) notified a Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade new asset class “Specialised Investment (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce Fund (SIF)” between Portfolio Management and Industry (MoC&I) entered into a Services (PMS) and Mutual Funds (MFs). As Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with per the SEBI directions, the new asset class Mumbai(Maharashtra) based HDFC Bank will accept investments of Rs 10 lakh or Limited, India’s largest private sector bank above across all investment strategies. by assets, to provide startups with world- However, accredited investors are exempted class banking and financial services. from the requirement of minimum  The partnership aims to strengthen the investment amount. startup ecosystem by providing mentorship,  The primary objective of introducing this knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building new asset class is to bridge the gap between programs to encourage innovation and MFs and PMS, while ensuring robust risk growth. management and investor protection.  The DPIIT also signed an MoU with Tally  The notification came following the Solutions Private Limited, a software amendment made to the SEBI (Mutual company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, to Funds) Regulations, 1996. digitally empower startups in the World Bank: India Emerged manufacturing sector. Topmost Recipient of Remittances India and ADB signs USD 350 among LMICs, with USD 129 billion million loan agreement to expand Inflows in 2024 manufacturing sector  According to the World Bank (WB)’s latest  In December 2024, the Government of India data, India has emerged as the topmost (GoI) and the Asian Development Bank recipient of remittances among Low and (ADB) signed a USD 350 million policy- Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) in 2024, based loan agreement under the second with an estimated inflow of USD 129 billion, subprogramme of Strengthening Multimodal witnessed an increase of 3.2% compared to and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) USD 125 billion in 2023. 24 IACE (Indian Academy of Competitive Exams) www.iace.co.in Toll Free: 1800-270-9975, Ph: 9533200400  Current Affairs Telegram: https://t.me/IACE4GovtJobs YouTube: https://rb.gy/zhm0ll January 2025 programme to timprove and modernize  The International Bank for Reconstruction India’s logistics sector. and Development (IBRD) provided the USD  The loan agreement was formalised with the 325.10 million loan with a 33.5-year maturity involvement of the Department of Economic and a 6-year grace period. Affairs (DEA),Ministry of Finance (MoF);  The project also seeks to attract USD 15 Department for Promotion of Industry and million in private finance to support this Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of initiative. Commerce and Industry(MoC&I) and the  The loan was approved by the World Bank’s ADB. Board of Executive Directors during a  SMILE program is a Programmatic policy- meeting in Washington, D.C., United States Based Loan (PBL), which comprises two of America (USA). subprograms and aims to expand India’s India’s Foreign Direct Investment manufacturing sector and improve the inflows hit USD 1 Trillion resilience of its supply chains.  As per data released by Department for Maharashtra and ADB signed MoU Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade of Rs 1,527 crore for Nagpur Metro (DPIIT) in December 2024 ,India reached a Rail Project Phase-II significant economic milestone with gross  The Maharashtra government signed a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with totaling USD 1 trillion since April 2000. the ADB for financial assistance of Rs 1,527  In the first half of the current Financial Year crore(USD 200 million) for Phase II of the 2024-25 (FY25), FDI increased by about Nagpur Metro project. 26% to USD 42.1 billion.  Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director (MD)  FDI inflows totaled USD 709.84 billion over of Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation the last ten years (April 2014 to September Limited (MAHA-METRO) and Mio Oka, 2024), which represents 68.69% of all FDI country director of the ADB signed the MoU inflows over the past 24 years. in the presence of Maharashtra Chief  The government’s flagship initiative, “Make Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis in the in India,” along with liberalized sectoral cabinet hall of the Vidhan Bhavan, Nagpur, policies and the Goods and Services Tax Maharashtra. (GST) has strengthened investme