07th-08th January, 2025
PM Narendra Modi, railway projects, J&K, Telangana, Odisha, MHA, e-student visa, e-student-x visa, foreign students, Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Northeast Region States Meet 2025, Guwahati, Assam, FIU-IND, IRDAI, Enhanced Cooperation, Money Laundering, CSIR-NPL, 79th Foundation Day, Metrology, National Development, Indonesia, BRICS, 10th Full Member, Overview, 82nd Golden Globes Awards 2025, Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perez, awards, Renowned Kannada Novelist, Writer Na D’Souza, Odisha CM, Adivasi Mela 2025, Shahid Madho Singh Scheme, Telangana, Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary, Women Teacher’s Day, EPFO, Rollout, CPPS, Regional Offices, MoT, Deadlines, Compliance, Medical Textile QCO, April 1, 2025, RBI, Business Restrictions, Arohan Financial Services Limited, IRFC, REMCL, Finance, RE Projects, Indian Railways, NASA, Mars Design, Mars Chopper, Ingenuity Helicopter, Vandana Agarwal, FPVs, GSL YARD, Amulya, Akshay, ICG, KKFI, Trophies, Mascots, 1st ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025, World Day of War Orphans 2025, India, First Generation Beta Baby, Suzuki, Investment, NDDB, Bio-Gas Venture, Nadi Tarangini, India’s First Ayurvedic Diagnostic Device, CDSCO, First Photographic Evidence, Pallas’s Cat, Himachal Pradesh, Centre, India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster, Sikkim, India’s First Coastal and Wader Bird Census, Jamnagar, Gujarat, Aero India 2025, India’s Aerospace Innovations, Global Ties, Jammu, Indian Railways, 69th Division, Tamil Nadu CM, $1 Million Prize, Deciphering Indus Valley Script, India, Metro Rail Network, km, World’s Third Largest, Odisha Government, ₹15 Crore, Sponsorship, Indian Kho Kho, Lionel Messi, US Presidential Medal of Freedom, ‘Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0’, Empowering Women Leaders, Hanoi, World’s Most Polluted City, The 38th National Games Torch ‘Tejaswini’, Empowering Women Entrepreneurs, ‘Faral Sakhi’ Initiative, Mira Bhayandar, Jallikattu Season, Thatchankurichi, 2025’s First Event, PM Modi, Flags Off, Namo Bharat RRTS, 40-Min Delhi-Meerut Ride, HDFC Bank, RBI, Approval, Stakes, Peer Banks, National Bird Day 2025, Avian Diversity, Conservation, PM Modi, Inaugurates, Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025
- PM Narendra Modi inaugurates & lays foundation stone for railway projects in J&K, Telangana & Odisha
- MHA launches ‘e-student visa’ & ‘e-student-x visa’ for foreign students
- Union Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the “Northeast Region States Meet 2025” held in Guwahati, Assam
- FIU-IND Signs MoU with IRDAI for Enhanced Cooperation in Combating Money Laundering
- CSIR-NPL Celebrates 79th Foundation Day: Advancing Metrology for National Development
- Indonesia Joins BRICS as 10th Full Member
- Overview of 82nd Golden Globes Awards 2025: Jacques Audiard’s ‘Emilia Perez’ bagged 4 awards
- Renowned Kannada Novelist and Writer Na D’Souza Passed Away at 87
- Odisha CM Inaugurates Adivasi Mela 2025; Launches Shahid Madho Singh Scheme
- Telangana to celebrate Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary as ‘Women Teacher’s Day’
- EPFO Completes Rollout of CPPS in All Regional Offices
- MoT extended Deadlines for Compliance with Medical Textile QCO until April 1, 2025
- RBI Lifts Business Restrictions on Arohan Financial Services Limited
- IRFC Signs MoU with REMCL to Finance RE Projects for Indian Railways
- NASA Unveiled New Mars Design “Mars Chopper” Successor of Ingenuity Helicopter
- Vandana Agarwal Launches 2 FPVs GSL YARD – Amulya & Akshay for ICG
- KKFI Unveils Trophies and Mascots for the 1st ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025
- World Day of War Orphans 2025 – January 6
- India Welcomes Its First Generation Beta Baby
- Suzuki’s Investment in NDDB’s Bio-Gas Venture
- Nadi Tarangini – India’s First Ayurvedic Diagnostic Device Approved by CDSCO
- First Photographic Evidence of Pallas’s Cat in Himachal Pradesh
- Centre Launches India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster in Sikkim
- India’s First Coastal and Wader Bird Census in Jamnagar, Gujarat
- Aero India 2025: India’s Aerospace Innovations and Global Ties
- Jammu Becomes Indian Railways’ 69th Division
- Tamil Nadu CM Announces $1 Million Prize for Deciphering Indus Valley Script
- India’s Metro Rail Network Surpasses 1,000 km, Becoming World’s Third Largest
- Odisha Government’s ₹15 Crore Sponsorship Elevates Indian Kho Kho
- Lionel Messi Honoured with the US Presidential Medal of Freedom
- ‘Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0’: Empowering Women Leaders
- Hanoi Declared World’s Most Polluted City
- The 38th National Games Torch ‘Tejaswini’
- Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: ‘Faral Sakhi’ Initiative Launched in Mira Bhayandar
- Jallikattu Season Begins! Thatchankurichi Hosts 2025’s First Event
- PM Modi Flags Off Namo Bharat RRTS: 40-Min Delhi-Meerut Ride
- HDFC Bank Secures RBI Approval to Acquire Stakes in Peer Banks
- National Bird Day 2025- A Celebration of Avian Diversity and Conservation
- PM Modi Inaugurates Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025
Table of Content
National News
- India Introduces New Visa Categories for Students
- What:
- India has launched two new visa categories, the ‘e-student visa’ and the ‘e-student-x visa’, for international students.
- Why:
- The initiative aims to simplify the process for foreign students wishing to pursue higher education in Indian institutions.
- Tell me more:
- The e-student visa is available to eligible foreign students registered on the ‘Study in India’ portal.
- The e-student-x visa is specifically for dependents of e-student visa holders.
- Both visas require application through the Indian visa online platform and registration on the SII portal is mandatory.
- The e-student visa is valid for up to five years and can be extended.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The SII portal is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Education, designed to simplify the admission process for international students. o The platform connects students with over 600 partner institutions offering more than 8,000 courses in various disciplines, including engineering, management, sciences, arts, law, paramedical sciences, and niche fields like Buddhist Studies and Yoga. |
- India Advances Metro Infrastructure with New Projects
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundations for metro projects worth over ₹12,200 crore in Delhi.
- Why:
- The projects aim to enhance India’s metro network, making urban travel faster, safer, and more reliable while expanding connectivity.
- Tell me more:
- Key projects include the 13 km Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, a 2.8 km stretch of Delhi Metro Phase-IV, and a 26.5 km Rithala-Kundli section.
- India’s metro network now spans over 1,000 km across 11 states and 23 cities, serving over 1 crore passengers daily.
- Currently, India ranks third globally in operational metro network length. China and the United States have the largest operational metro networks in the world.
- India surpassed Japan in metro rail projects in 2022 and is on track to become the second-largest metro network globally.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The first metro line in India opened in Kolkata in 1984. o Major advancements include the first underwater metro tunnel inaugurated in Kolkata in 2024 and the launch of driverless trains on Delhi's Magenta Line in December 2020. o The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is involved in metro projects in Bangladesh and offers consultancy to other countries. |
- Inauguration of “Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0” Program
- What:
- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the “Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0” program, for over 500 women representatives from Panchayati Raj institutions.
- Why:
- The program aims to empower elected women representatives from Scheduled Tribes by enhancing their understanding of the Constitution and parliamentary procedures.
- Tell me more:
- The event commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda and includes workshops, guided tours of significant government buildings, and interactive sessions with experts.
- A total of 502 women representatives from 22 States and Union Territories will participate, promoting diversity and inclusiveness.
Source: TH
- What:
- Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation Launches ‘Faral Sakhi’ Initiative
- What:
- The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) launched the ‘Faral Sakhi’ initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in traditional snack production.
- Why:
- The program aims to provide training and support to help women scale their businesses sustainably and create permanent employment opportunities.
- Tell me more:
- ‘Faral Sakhi’ was launched in collaboration with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) of NITI Aayog and is part of the Award to Reward initiative.
- The initiative includes setting up a central kitchen for women from self-help groups (SHGs) to prepare snacks, as well as providing sales spaces and promotional support.
- Twenty-five women will receive technical training in business operations facilitated by the Centre for Education, Governance, and Public Policy (CEGP Foundation).
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation is the governing body of the city of Mira-Bhayandar in the Indian state of Maharashtra. |
- PM Modi Inaugurates Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
- Why:
- The event aims to enhance rural infrastructure, create self-reliant economies, and foster innovation in rural communities.
- Tell me more:
- The Mahotsav is being held from January 4 to 9, with the theme ‘Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047’.
- It includes discussions, workshops, and masterclasses focused on promoting economic stability and financial security among rural populations, particularly in North-East India.
- A significant focus is on empowering rural women through entrepreneurship and leveraging technology to enhance rural livelihoods.
Source: TOI
- What:
State News
- New Railway Projects Inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for several railway projects to enhance regional connectivity in Telangana, Odisha, and Jammu & Kashmir.
- Tell me more:
- The Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana was developed with an investment of approximately Rs 413 crore.
- The foundation stone for the Rayagada Railway Division Building was also laid to improve connectivity in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Recently, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Jammu Railway Division. The Jammu Railway Division will manage key rail routes covering a total of 742.1 kilometers. o The first railway service in Jammu and Kashmir began in 1972. o With this move, Indian Railways now operates 17 zones and 69 divisions across the country, continuing its mission to enhance rail connectivity and support regional development. o The Udhampur railway station has been renamed Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station in honor of a soldier. |
- Northeast Region States Meet 2025 on Fisheries Development
- What:
- The Department of Fisheries organized the ‘Northeast Region States Meet 2025’ in Guwahati, Assam, chaired by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh.
- Why:
- To achieve 20-25% growth in fish production and bridge the production-consumption gap.
- Tell me more:
- Projects worth Rs. 50 crore were inaugurated to create 4,530 jobs in the fisheries sector under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
- A first-of-its-kind organic fisheries cluster was announced for Sikkim’s Soreng District.
- Assam contributed 4.75 lakh MT of fish production and exported 20,000 MT.
- Over ₹2,000 crores, including ₹1,700 crores under PMMSY, have been allocated for the Northeast.
Source: pib
- What:
- Odisha Chief Minister Launches Adivasi Mela and Scheme
- What:
- Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Adivasi Mela and launched the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme.
- Why:
- The scheme aims to provide annual assistance of Rs 5000 to 2 lakh tribal students to improve tribal welfare.
- What:
- Tell me more:
- The Adivasi Mela is an 11-day event showcasing tribal culture, music, and products.
- The scheme has a budget allocation of Rs 156 crore.
- CM Majhi interacted with tribal residents and inaugurated stalls displaying Adivasi products.
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Adivasi Mela provides a platform for cultural representation in Odisha. o The event coincides with Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas being held in Odisha. o The photo exhibition featured Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal freedom fighters. |
- Telangana Celebrates Savitribai Phule’s Birth Anniversary as ‘Women Teacher’s Day’
- The Telangana government will celebrate Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary on January 3 as ‘Women Teacher’s Day’ every year.
- Savitribai Phule is known as one of the first female teachers in India and a pioneer in women’s education.
Source: HT
- Gujarat Conducts First Census of Coastal and Wader Birds
- What:
- The Gujarat government and Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat (BCSG) will conduct the first-ever census of coastal and wader birds at the Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary in Jamnagar from January 3 to 5.
- Why:
- The census aims to count wader and coastal bird species, enhancing bird conservation efforts and raising public awareness about avian science.
- Tell me more:
- The three-day program will include expert talks on the first day, bird counting activities on the second day, and knowledge-sharing sessions followed by a closing ceremony on the final day.
- Jamnagar district is home to over 300 species of local and migratory birds, including more than 50 species of wader birds.
Source: IE
- What:
- Tamil Nadu Offers $1 Million to Decode Indus Valley Script
- What:
- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a $1 million reward for anyone who can convincingly decipher the Indus Valley script.
- Why:
- The initiative aims to encourage archaeologists, linguists, and computer experts to unlock the mysteries of the Indus script, which has remained undeciphered for nearly a century.
- Tell me more:
- The announcement was made during a three-day international conference celebrating the centenary of the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- The conference highlighted similarities between Indus culture and Tamil culture, including burial practices and pottery styles.
- Stalin also announced the establishment of a chair in the name of Iravatham Mahadevan at the Indus Research Centre with a funding of ₹2 crore for further research.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Indus Valley Civilization was discovered by John Marshall in 1924. o The Tamil Nadu government is investing in research to explore connections between Dravidian civilization and the Indus civilization. |
- First Jallikattu Event of 2025 Launched
- What:
- The first Jallikattu event of 2025 was launched at Thachankurichi village in Pudukkottai district, featuring over 600 bulls from various districts.
- Why:
- Jallikattu is celebrated as part of Pongal festivities and marks the beginning of the bull-taming festival season in Tamil Nadu.
- Tell me more:
- The event took place on January 4, 2025, with more than 350 bull-taming participants who underwent medical examinations and received identity cards.
- The name “Jallikattu” comes from the words “Jalli” (silver and gold coins) and “Kattu” (tied).
- The Tamil Nadu government has issued the necessary permissions for this traditional event.
Source: TH
- What:
- PM Modi Inaugurates Delhi-Meerut RRTS
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) between Delhi and Meerut, allowing travel to Meerut in just 40 minutes.
- The RRTS aims to improve connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, significantly reducing travel times and enhancing regional infrastructure.
Source: TOI
International News
- Indonesia Joins BRICS Group as 10th Member
- What:
- Indonesia has officially joined the BRICS group, which includes emerging economies like Russia and China.
- Tell me more:
- Brazil announced Indonesia’s membership, noting its approval during a summit in Johannesburg in 2023.
- BRICS is seen as a counterweight to Western influence and aims for the “de-dollarisation” of international trade.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o BRICS was formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining in 2010. o The group expanded last year to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. o Indonesia's inclusion reflects its growing role in global issues and commitment to multilateral cooperation. |
- NASA Unveils New Mars Chopper Design
- What:
- NASA has revealed the design of a new helicopter called the “Mars Chopper,” which will succeed the Ingenuity helicopter that operated on Mars for over three years.
- Why:
- The new design aims to enhance Mars exploration by allowing scientists to study areas that are difficult for rovers to reach.
- Tell me more:
- The Mars Chopper is larger than Ingenuity, with six rotors and a payload capacity of up to 5 kg for scientific instruments.
- It is expected to fly longer distances, up to three kilometers, and is designed to gather detailed aerial views of the Martian terrain.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Ingenuity was initially designed for five test flights but completed 72 flights and traveled much farther than planned. o The thin atmosphere of Mars poses challenges for flying, making the development of advanced helicopters essential for future missions. |
- Hanoi Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis
- What:
- Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is experiencing thick smog and has the highest levels of air pollution in the world, with PM2.5 levels reaching 266 micrograms per cubic meter.
- Why:
- The government aims to reduce pollution by promoting electric vehicles (EVs) to alleviate the air quality crisis caused by heavy traffic, trash burning, and industrial activities.
- Tell me more:
- This pollution issue has persisted for years in major cities like Hanoi, affecting both elderly residents and young people who report respiratory problems and reduced visibility.
- Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has called for an accelerated transition to EVs, targeting at least 50% of buses and 100% of taxis to be electric by 2030.
Source: DD
- What:
Banking and Economy
- EPFO Launches Centralized Pension Payments System
- What:
- EPFO completed the full-scale rollout of the Centralized Pension Payments System (CPPS) in December 2024, disbursing approximately Rs. 1570 Crore to over 68 Lakh pensioners.
- Why:
- The initiative aims to enhance pension services by allowing pensioners to access their pensions seamlessly from any bank across the country, eliminating physical verification visits.
- Tell me more:
- The first pilot of CPPS was conducted in October 2024 in Karnal, Jammu and Srinagar Regional Offices, successfully disbursing about Rs. 11 Crore to over 49,000 pensioners.
- A second pilot in November 2024 involved 24 Regional Offices, distributing around Rs. 213 Crore to more than 9.3 lakh pensioners.
- Starting January 2025, CPPS will facilitate pension disbursement without needing to transfer Pension Payment Orders (PPO) when pensioners change locations or banks.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The CPPS represents a shift from a decentralized system where each EPFO office had limited banking agreements. o Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the system's role in modernizing EPFO services and improving transparency and efficiency for pensioners. o EPFO continues to focus on service improvements for EPS pensioners with this major reform. |
- RBI Lifts Restrictions on Arohan Financial Services
- What:
- The Reserve Bank lifted restrictions on Arohan Financial Services Limited, effective immediately.
- Why:
- The restrictions were initially imposed due to concerns over usurious pricing and other supervisory issues, but Arohan took corrective actions and complied with the regulatory guidelines.
- Tell me more:
- In October 2024, the RBI ordered Arohan and three other NBFCs to stop sanctioning and disbursing loans.
- Arohan’s remedial actions included adopting new processes and systems to ensure fair loan pricing.
- The lifting of restrictions allows Arohan to resume its lending activities across the country.
Source: ET
- What:
- Suzuki Acquires Stake in NDDB’s Bio-Gas Venture
- What:
- Suzuki Motor Corporation has decided to acquire a 26% stake in NDDB Mirda Ltd, a bio-gas venture of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
- Why:
- The acquisition aims to utilize Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) for improving vehicle longevity and performance, focusing on sustainability.
- Tell me more:
- Suzuki can gradually increase its stake to 49% in the future.
- The initial investment will be ₹34 crore, starting with ₹8.84 crore from Suzuki.
- Four dung-based CBG plants are being set up in Gujarat to support this initiative.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The partnership involves Banas Dairy and aims to tap into NDDB’s rural network for CBG production. o The Government of India has proposed mandatory blending of CNG with CBG starting from FY 2025-26. |
- RBI Approves HDFC Bank’s Stake in AU Small Finance Bank
- What:
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved HDFC Bank to acquire up to 9.50% stake in AU Small Finance Bank within one year.
- Why:
- This approval is part of HDFC Bank’s strategy to expand its investments in the banking sector and enhance its portfolio.
- Tell me more:
- HDFC Bank also received approval to acquire up to 9.5% in Kotak Mahindra Bank and Capital Small Finance Bank, valid until January 2, 2026.
- The aggregate holding by HDFC Bank and its group entities must not exceed 9.50% in these banks at all times.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The concept of "aggregate holding" includes shares held by the bank, its affiliates, mutual funds, trustees, and promoter group entities. o HDFC Bank applied for this approval due to concerns that its group's aggregate holding might exceed the 5% limit set by RBI Directions 2023. |
Source: CNBC
Defence News
- Launch of New Fast Patrol Vessels for Coast Guard
- What:
- Two fast patrol vessels named Amulya and Akshay were launched for the Coast Guard by Goa Shipyard Ltd.
- Why:
- The vessels were built under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative to enhance indigenous defense production and meet the Coast Guard’s operational needs.
- Tell me more:
- The vessels are 52 meters long, 8 meters wide, and have a displacement of 320 tonnes, designed for protecting offshore assets and conducting surveillance.
- The launch ceremony was attended by key officials from the defense and maritime sectors.
Source: IN
- What:
- Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru
- What:
- Aero India 2025 will take place from February 10-14 at Yelahanka Air Force Station, featuring a defence ministers’ conclave, CEOs’ round-table, and the ‘Manthan’ start-up event.
- Theme: “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities”
- Why:
- The event aims to strengthen India’s position in the global aerospace sector and foster international partnerships under the theme “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities.”
- Tell me more:
- The defence ministers’ conclave will focus on building strategic partnerships; theme is ‘BRIDGE — Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement’.
- The CEOs’ round-table will connect global industry leaders with Indian defence manufacturers.
Source: TOI
- What:
Science and Technology
- Nadi Tarangini Becomes India’s First Ayurvedic Medical Device
- What:
- Nadi Tarangini, an AI-powered pulse diagnostic tool, has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) as India’s first ayurvedic medical device.
- Why:
- The device aims to enhance Ayurvedic practices by providing accurate pulse diagnostics using modern technology.
- Tell me more:
- Developed by Prof. J.B. Joshi and Dr. Aniruddha Joshi, it took over six years of research at IIT Bombay.
- The device costs ₹55,000 and can generate a detailed report on 22 Ayurvedic parameters in 10 Indian languages.
- Currently, it is used in over 1,250 Ayurvedic clinics across India and has tested more than 500,000 individuals.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Nadi Tarangini has received patents in the US, Europe, Indonesia, and India. o The device's accuracy is about 85%. o It was mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 'Mann Ki Baat' program. |
- Discovery of Pallas’s Cat in Himachal Pradesh
- What:
- The first photographic evidence of the Pallas’s cat has been found in Himachal Pradesh, India, during a snow leopard population survey.
- Why:
- The discovery will help raise awareness about lesser-known species and their conservation needs.
- Tell me more:
- The Pallas’s cat, also known as manul, is adapted to cold climates and primarily hunts small mammals.
- It inhabits elevations between 3,900 and 4,100 meters in rocky habitats.
- The species is classified as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Discovered near Lake Baikal (Russia) in 1776 by Peter Simon Pallas, it is found across Central Asia, including the Caucasus, Iranian Plateau, Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, and Siberian Mountains. o It lives in rocky grasslands and shrublands with shallow snow cover and shelters in rock crevices or burrows. It mainly hunts small mammals. |
Source: TOI
Awards
- 82nd Golden Globe Awards Held
- What:
- The 82nd Golden Globe Awards was an annual awards ceremony recognizing excellence in film and American television productions of 2024.
- Tell me more:
- Comedian Nikki Glaser hosted the event, making history as the first solo female host of the Golden Globes.
- What:
Category of Award | Name of the Winner |
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Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture | Zoe Saldaña |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy | Jean Smart |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture | Kieran Culkin |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama | Hiroyuki Sanada |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Television Series | Jessica Gunning |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Television Series | Tadanobu Asano |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy | Jeremy Allen White |
Best Screenplay — Motion Picture | Peter Straughan |
Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television | Ali Wong |
Best Motion Picture — Non-English Language | "Emilia Pérez" |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television | Colin Farrell |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television | Jodie Foster |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy | Demi Moore |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy | Sebastian Stan |
Best Motion Picture — Animated | "Flow" |
Best Director — Motion Picture | Brady Corbet |
Best Original Score — Motion Picture | Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross |
Best Original Song — Motion Picture | "El Mal," by Clément Ducol, Camille |
Cinematic and Box Office Achievement | "Wicked" |
Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television | "Baby Reindeer" |
Best Television Series — Comedy Or Musical | "Hacks" |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Drama | Anna Sawai |
Best Television Series — Drama | "Shōgun" |
Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Drama | Fernanda Torres |
Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama | Adrien Brody |
Best Motion Picture — Drama | "The Brutalist" |
Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy | "Emilia Pérez" |
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Golden Globe Awards are presented annually by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. o The awards serve as a precursor to the Academy Awards, influencing Oscar nominations. |
Important Days
- CSIR-NPL Celebrates 79th Foundation Day on January 4
- What:
- CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) celebrated its 79th Foundation Day on January 4, 2025, marking its establishment in 1947.
- Tell me more:
- The event featured a lecture by Prof. Veezhinathan Kamakoti from IIT Madras, discussing metrology’s importance for India’s VIKSIT BHARAT mission.
- CSIR-NPL signed MoUs with IIT Madras for academic collaboration and with CSIR-CIMAP for producing certified reference materials.
- New certified reference materials were released, including Lanthanum Hexaboride Powder and White Portland Cement Standard.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The foundation stone of CSIR-NPL was laid by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. o CSIR-NPL is the National Metrology Institute of India, responsible for developing national standards. o The institute aims to contribute to national development through advanced measurement standards and technologies. |
- World Day of War Orphans – January 6
- January 6 marks the World Day of War Orphans, a day to recognize the challenges faced by children who lose their parents due to war.
- Founded by the French organization SOS Enfants en Détresses, the day focuses on improving the future of children impacted by war.
Source: N18
- National Bird Day Celebrated on January 5
- What:
- National Bird Day is celebrated on January 5 each year to raise awareness about the importance of birds and their conservation.
- Tell me more:
- National Bird Day was established in 2002 by the Avian Welfare Coalition to promote the welfare of birds in the wild and captivity.
- The day commemorates the work of conservationists protecting endangered species, such as the Bald Eagle and California Condor.
- Birds play vital roles in ecosystems as pollinators, seed dispersers, and indicators of environmental health.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The celebration coincides with the birth of the wild bird preservation movement in the early 20th century. o Many bird species face threats from human activities, including deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. |
Source: IN
Sports
- Kho Kho World Cup and Ice Hockey League Announced
- What:
- The Kho Kho Federation of India unveiled the trophies and mascots for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place from January 13-19, 2025.
- Tell me more:
- The event will feature 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.
- It will include two trophies: a blue trophy for men and a green trophy for women, along with official mascots named ‘Tejas’ and ‘Tara.’
- What:

Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League (REIHL) will also return to Ladakh for its second season from January 4 to January 13, featuring local talent and a total of 30 matches. o The men's tournament will consist of two groups with five teams each, while the women's tournament will have two groups with three and two teams. o The Government of Odisha announced a three-year sponsorship deal for the Indian National Kho Kho team, investing ₹5 crore annually from January 2025 to December 2027. o The total sponsorship package amounts to ₹15 crore, reflecting Odisha's commitment to sports development, similar to its previous support for Indian hockey. |
- Messi Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
- What:
- Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden but could not attend the ceremony due to a scheduling conflict.
- Why:
- The award recognizes Messi’s exemplary contributions to soccer and his philanthropic efforts through the Leo Messi Foundation.
- Tell me more:
- Messi is the first Argentine and the first male soccer player to receive this honor.
- He currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and was named Most Valuable Player in the 2024 season.
- The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
- What:
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o Messi's representatives stated he was deeply honored by the recognition and hopes to meet with President Biden in the future. o Previous recipients of this medal include Megan Rapinoe, who received it in 2022. |
- Torch Relay for 38th National Games Begins
- What:
- The torch ‘Tejaswini’ for the 38th National Games reached Bageshwar, welcomed by local sports officials and enthusiasts.
- Why:
- The torch relay aims to connect more people with the National Games, which Uttarakhand is hosting for the first time.
- Tell me more:
- The torch was flagged off by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami from Haldwani on December 26 and will travel to Dehradun by January 25 after visiting 99 locations in 13 districts.
- The National Games will take place from January 28 to February 14 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun.
- What:
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o The event's mascot, anthem, logo, tagline, and jersey were unveiled by the Chief Minister. o The official mascot, named Mauli, draws inspiration from the Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. |
Source: TP
Memorandum of Understanding
- MoU Signed Between FIU-IND and IRDAI
- What:
- The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in anti-money laundering efforts.
- Tell me more:
- FIU-IND was established in 2004 by the Government of India to combat money laundering.
- IRDAI was formed under the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999, for supervising the insurance sector.
- Key objectives of IRDAI include protecting policyholder interests and ensuring transparency in financial markets.
Source: ANI
- What:
- Indian Railway Finance Corporation Partners for Renewable Energy
- What:
- Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with REMCL to collaborate on financing renewable energy projects for Indian Railways.
- Why:
- The partnership aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help Indian Railways achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
- Tell me more:
- The MoU includes exploring financing options for thermal, nuclear, and renewable power projects under a captive model.
- REMCL will assist in procuring economical power and managing the bidding process for renewable energy projects.
- What:
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o REMCL is a joint venture between the Ministry of Railways and RITES. o This collaboration reflects Indian Railways' commitment to harnessing renewable energy sources. |
Source: BS
Miscellaneous
- Acclaimed Kannada Writer Na D’Souza Passes Away
- Renowned Kannada novelist Na D’Souza passed away at the age of 87 due to kidney failure.
- He authored over 200 works, including novels, plays, and children’s literature, with notable adaptations into films.
- His stories often addressed themes of displacement and environmental issues, particularly in relation to development projects in Karnataka.
- He received various awards including the Pampa award and the Kannada Rajyotsava Prashasti.
Source: TOI
- India Welcomes Its First Generation Beta Baby
- What:
- India celebrated the birth of its first Generation Beta baby, Frankie Remruatdika Zadeng, on January 1, 2025, at Synod Hospital in Aizawl, Mizoram.
- Why:
- The birth marks the beginning of a new generational era defined by futurist Mark McCrindle, focusing on children born between 2025 and 2039.
- Tell me more:
- His family includes parents Ramzirmawii and ZD Remruatsanga and an older sister.
- Generation Beta is expected to represent 16% of the global population by 2035 and will grow up with advanced technology integrated into daily life.
- What:
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o Generation Beta follows Generation Alpha (2010–2024) and will benefit from a blend of digital and physical experiences. o Many individuals from this generation are anticipated to live into the 22nd century due to advancements in healthcare and technology. o Division of generations, according to social analyst Mark McCrindle: |


About Anuj Jindal
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Anuj Jindal, the founder, is an ex-manager from SBI, with an M.Com from Delhi School of Economics. He also has a JRF in Commerce & Management and NET in HRM, along with more than 5 years of experience in the field of Education.
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