11th-13th January 2025

1. DSP Asset Managers Launches India’s First BSE Sensex Next 30 Index Fund And ETF
2. SEBI Grants License to Strata for SM REIT
3. Groww Asset Management Launches India’s First Groww Nifty India Railways PSU ETF
4. RBI Lifts Restrictions on AMFL and DFPL
5. PhonePe and ICICI Lombard Unite for Maha Kumbh Mela Insurance
6. Kerala’s Kappad and Chal Beaches Earn ‘Blue Flag’ Certification
7. Brijendra Pratap Singh appointed as CMD of NALCO
8. Pixxel announced partnership with SIIS to supply Hyperspectral Satellite Data in Korea
9. Veteran Soldier Havaldar Baldev Singh Passed Away
10. ‘How India scaled Mt G20: The inside story of the G20 Presidency’ authored by Amitabh Kant
11. National Road Safety Week 2025 – January 11 to 17
12. Karnataka launches ‘Garudakshi’ portal for Forest Protection
13. Union MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled Indian Genomic Data Set & IBDC Portals
14. World Bank approves USD 35 million to enhance education in Meghalaya
15. TMB Joins Bajaj Broking to Roll Out 3-in-1 Account Facility
16. GSEDFPL Secures Rs 21.28 billion loan from IREDA for Smart Meter Project in UP
17. GHI and H2Carrier sign MoU to Advance Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Solutions
18. Anju Bobby George chaired Athletes Commission: Neeraj Chopra included among 9 athletes
19. MDL delivers 6th Scorpene Submarine ‘INS Vagsheer’ to IN
20. Renowned playback singer P Jayachandran passed away
21. AICTE declared 2025 as ‘Year of AI’ to shape India as global leader
22. India and Mongolia Forge Mining Partnership
23. BMCRI to Set Up South India’s First Infectious Disease Research Lab
24. E-Way Bills Surge in December, Second-Highest in Two Years
25. PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Boosting Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity
26. Centre Releases ₹1.73 Trillion to States to Boost Capital Spending
27. Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 Begins
28. India Targets $100B Food & Beverage Exports: Piyush Goyal
29. PM Modi to Attend AI Action Summit in France
30. Justice B.N. Srikrishna to Lead Advisory Board of Equal and OneMoney
31. Mo Farah to Lead 20th Mumbai Marathon as International Ambassador
32. Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket to Launch on
33. PhonePe, ICICI Lombard Launch Maha Kumbh Mela Insurance
34. Renowned Playback Singer P. Jayachandran Passes Away
35. UP Govt Teams Up with Google Cloud for AI Agri Network
36. PARTH Yojana: Preparing Youth for Recruitment in Security Services
37. Swiggy’s ‘Snacc’ App: 15-Minute Delivery Sparks Industry Debate
38. Pravasi Bharatiya Express: A Gift to Indian Diaspora
39. India’s Economic Growth Projections for FY2025-26: Bank of Baroda
40. 2024 Global Water Monitor Report

National News

1. AICTE Declares 2025 as Year of Artificial Intelligence
• What:
  • The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has declared 2025 as the “Year of Artificial Intelligence” to enhance India’s position in AI.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to empower over 14,000 AICTE-approved colleges and benefit 40 million students, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for India to become a global leader in AI and technology.
• Tell me more:
  • The initiative will integrate AI into higher education institutions, providing students with necessary skills for the AI-driven economy.
  • Key features include the AI Affirmation Pledge, interdisciplinary AI courses, AI labs in collaboration with industries, and a nationwide awareness campaign titled “AI for All: The Future Begins Here.”
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Prof. T.G. Sitharam is the Chairman of AICTE.
  • AICTE has partnered with leading technology companies like Adobe, CISCO, and IBM for real-world exposure through internships and projects.

Source: TOI

2. PM Modi Launches Pravasi Bharatiya Express Train
• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi remotely flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a tourist train for the Indian diaspora, during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar.
• Why:
  • The train aims to promote tourism among the Indian diaspora and commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915.
• Tell me more:
  • The train will travel for three weeks, visiting key tourist and religious sites across India, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Agra.
  • It departs from Nizamuddin Railway Station in New Delhi and has a capacity of 156 passengers.
  • The initiative covers all expenses for eligible participants from low-income backgrounds, including 90% of return airfare.
  • The Pravasi Bharatiya Express is part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana, a collaboration between the Ministry of External Affairs and IRCTC.
  • The train stops at significant locations such as Mahabalipuram, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kochi, Goa, and Ekta Nagar.

Source: DD

3. Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025
• What:
  • The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 has started at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, aiming to enhance youth participation in nation-building.
• Why:
  • The event seeks to provide a platform for young leaders to share innovative ideas and engage with policymakers for a developed India.
• Tell me more:
  • The three-day event hosts 3,000 participants selected through a merit-based process, including teams from state championships and recognized pathbreakers.
  • Key themes include “Tech for Viksit Bharat” and “Empowering Women,” along with cultural activities and excursions to significant landmarks.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Prime Minister Modi will participate on January 12 to unveil a Coffee Table Book and launch a Youth Anthem.

Source: PIB DD

4. India Aims for $100 Billion in Food Exports
• What:
  • India targets $100 billion in combined exports from the food & beverage, agriculture, and marine products sectors in the next five years.
• Why:
  • The goal is achievable with a growth rate of 14-15% in these industries, according to Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
• Tell me more:
  • The minister praised Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) for their roles in achieving $50 billion in exports last year.
  • The government has allowed 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the food and beverage sector and facilitates work permits for foreign businesses.

Source: NK

State News

1. Karnataka Launches Online FIR System for Wildlife
• What:
  • Karnataka’s forest department has launched an online system called Garudakshi to register FIRs related to wildlife and forests.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to streamline the registration process and improve tracking of wildlife-related cases in the state. The new system will digitize existing complaints and allow the public to register complaints via mobile phones or email.
• Tell me more:
  • Garudakshi will initially be implemented in Bengaluru Urban, Bhadravathi, Sirsi, and Male Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary divisions.
  • The system is modeled after the police’s online FIR system and will eventually be made compulsory for registering FIRs.
  • The software was developed by the forest department in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India and includes features like auto-generated report formats and a Legacy Case Registration Module.

Source: IE

2. World Bank Approves Project for Meghalaya Adolescents
• What:
  • The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a $35 million project in Meghalaya to support 500,000 adolescents in transitioning from school to work.
• Why:
  • The project aims to reduce school dropouts, improve learning outcomes, and provide guidance for accessing jobs and starting businesses among adolescents facing educational barriers.
• Tell me more:
  • The Meghalaya Multisectoral Project for Adolescent Wellbeing, Empowerment and Resilience (MPOWER) will strengthen learning outcomes for adolescents in grades 6-12.
  • It will focus on life skills, mental health awareness, and career guidance, particularly targeting student dropouts.
  • The project will partner with the Meghalaya State Skills Development Society to impart business skills to aspiring entrepreneurs and out-of-school youths.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • School dropout rates in Meghalaya are significantly higher than the national average, with 11% at the upper primary level and 22% at the secondary level.
  • The project design draws on successful experiences from similar initiatives in Jharkhand, Tanzania, and Bangladesh.
  • The loan from the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has a maturity period of 15 years, including a grace period of 5 years.

Source: WB

3. GMR Smart Electricity Distribution Secures Loan for Smart Meters
• What:
  • GMR Smart Electricity Distribution (GSEDPL) has received approval for a Rs 21.28 billion (~USD 247.66 million) loan from the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) to install 7.57 million smart meters in Uttar Pradesh.
• Why:
  • The project aims to enhance electricity distribution efficiency and modernize infrastructure across the state, addressing the needs of two state distribution companies.
• Tell me more:
  • The project was awarded to GSEDPL in July 2023 and will cover five zones: Varanasi, Azamgarh, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Agra, and Aligarh.
  • The total project cost is estimated at Rs 34.67 billion (~USD 403.75 million), with GSEDPL operating and maintaining the smart meters under a 10-year contract.
  • The initiative is part of the Ministry of Power’s directive to prioritize smart meter installations.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • GSEDPL is a subsidiary of GMR Power and Urban Infra (GPUIL).
  • The installation will include specific allocations for each zone, such as 2.6 million meters for Agra and Aligarh.
  • The project involves partnerships with Bosch Global Software Technologies for technical implementation.

Source: BW

4. BMCRI to Establish South India’s First Infectious Disease Lab
• What:
  • Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) has been chosen by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) to establish South India’s first Infectious Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (IRDL).
• Why:
  • The laboratory aims to enhance infectious disease research within Bengaluru, improving diagnostics and management of diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
• Tell me more:
  • The laboratory will focus on identifying bacterial pathogens, researching antibiotic resistance, diagnosing fungal infections, and studying tropical disease-causing parasites.
  • The IRDL is part of a larger initiative by the Union Government to establish specialized laboratories in medical colleges across India.

Source: IE

5. PM Modi to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel in J&K
• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel on the Srinagar-Sonamarg road in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Why:
  • The tunnel aims to ensure year-round road connectivity to the Ladakh region, enhancing transportation and strategic access.
• Tell me more:
  • The Z-Morh Tunnel spans 6.5 kilometers and was constructed at a cost of ₹2,400 crore.
  • It will significantly improve road access to Ladakh and has been under construction since May 2015, with completion in 2024.
  • The tunnel is strategically important for national defense and will ease travel between Gagangir and Sonamarg.
  • The project includes advanced technologies for real-time updates and enhanced travel experiences.
  • The Z-Morh Tunnel is part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, which aims to provide uninterrupted connectivity for civilian and military traffic.

Source: HT

6. UP Government Partners with Google Cloud for Agriculture
• What:
  • The Uttar Pradesh government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google Cloud to launch the Uttar Pradesh Open Network for Agriculture.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to empower millions of farmers with real-time information on microclimates and market prices.
• Tell me more:
  • The network will integrate weather stations and provide farmers with advisory services, credit, mechanization, and market connectivity.
  • It is designed as a digital public infrastructure and is India’s first state-level initiative using AI for agriculture.
  • The open network allows participation from various service providers, including input suppliers and financial institutions.
  • The MoU was signed by UP chief secretary Manoj Kumar Singh and Google Cloud (India) vice-president Anil Bhansali.

Source: HT

7. Madhya Pradesh Launches PARTH Yojana for Youth
• What:
  • Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced the launch of “PARTH Yojana” to train youth aspiring to join the Army and police.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to empower youth and contribute to the nation’s development by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence.
• Tell me more:
  • The training will be self-financed and conducted at 10 locations, with a nominal fee for participants.
  • The CM also introduced the “Yuva Prerak Abhiyan (MPYP)” to connect youth with skill development and employment opportunities.
  • Selected youths from the festival will present ideas for a developed India to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 11 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • The festival included performances such as a dance-drama by ‘Yuva Utsav’ winners and various presentations from different divisions.

Source: TOI

International News

1. Blue Origin Prepares for First Orbital Launch
• What:
  • Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, is set for its first orbital launch with the New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
• Why:
  • The mission aims to compete with SpaceX and shake up the commercial space race dominated by Elon Musk’s company.
• Tell me more:
  • New Glenn stands 320 feet tall and is designed for heavier payloads, capable of carrying the equivalent of 20 moving trucks.
  • The rocket will attempt to land its first-stage booster on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean after launch.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • This launch marks Blue Origin’s entry into the orbital launch market after years of development.
  • Blue Origin has secured a NASA contract to launch two Mars probes using New Glenn.
  • The rocket’s upper stage will reach an altitude of approximately 12,000 miles during the test flight.

Source: TOI

2. AI Action Summit in France in February 2025
• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit in France on February 10 and 11.
• Why:
  • The summit aims to facilitate international discussions on artificial intelligence and its implications.
• Tell me more:
  • President Emmanuel Macron announced the summit, stating it will include discussions with major nations like the US, China, and India.
  • India has been recognized as a key player in AI, with 90 countries invited to participate.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • The summit will focus on themes such as public interest in AI, the future of work, innovation and culture, trust in AI, and global AI governance.
  • This event follows previous AI summits hosted by the UK and South Korea.

Source: LM

Banking and Economy

1. DSP Mutual Fund Launches New Investment Opportunities

• What:
  • DSP Mutual Fund has launched the DSP BSE Sensex Next 30 Index Fund and DSP BSE Sensex Next 30 ETF, which are open-ended equity schemes tracking the BSE Sensex Next 30 Index.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to provide investors with exposure to the next 30 large-cap companies beyond the BSE Sensex, representing emerging market leaders.
• Tell me more:
  • The BSE Sensex Next 30 Index includes companies with significant market potential not part of the BSE Sensex, focusing on a segment that has been historically underrepresented in traditional indices.
  • The index ensures sectoral diversification with allocations across various sectors such as Financial Services (19%), Consumer Discretionary (18%), and Healthcare (10%).
  • Over the past decade, the index has delivered annualized returns of 14.4% and outperformed the BSE Sensex in 7 of the last 10 years.
  • The New Fund Offer (NFO) for both funds will be available from January 10 to January 24, 2025, allowing for lump-sum investments or systematic investment plans (SIPs).
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Anil Ghelani is the Head of Passive Investments and Products at DSP Mutual Fund.
  • Ashutosh Singh is the CEO of Asia Index, a subsidiary of BSE.
  • Historically, 20 companies from this index have transitioned into the BSE Sensex in the last decade.

Source: BW

2. Strata Receives License for SM-REIT Launch

• What:
  • Strata has received an official license from Sebi to launch its Small and Medium Real Estate Investment Trust (SM-REIT) named Strata SM REIT.
• Why:
  • The aim is to enable retail and institutional investors to invest in high-quality commercial assets located in major cities.
• Tell me more:
  • Strata plans to initially launch up to six SM REIT schemes in 2025-26 and intends to increase this to one scheme every month thereafter.
  • Strata Capital will serve as the Investment Manager for the SM REIT.
  • The company previously operated as a tech-enabled platform for fractional ownership of pre-leased, Grade-A commercial properties and currently manages over Rs 2,000 crore in assets under management (AUM).
  • The SM REIT will focus on high-quality commercial properties like office spaces, warehouses, and industrial assets.
  • The initiative is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi).

Source: ET

3. Groww Mutual Fund Launches New Railway Funds

• What:
  • Groww Mutual Fund has launched two passive funds, the Groww Nifty India Railways PSU Index Fund and Groww Nifty India Railways PSU ETF.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to provide investors with opportunities to invest in equity and equity-related instruments of the Nifty India Railways PSU Index for long-term capital appreciation.
• Tell me more:
  • The New Fund Offer (NFO) will be open for subscription from January 16 to January 30, with continuous sale and repurchase starting on February 13.
  • The schemes will allocate 95-100% to equity securities of companies in the Nifty India Railways PSU Index and 0-5% to debt and money market instruments.
  • An exit load of 1% applies if redeemed within 30 days; after that, it will be nil for the Index Fund, while the ETF has no exit load.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Abhishek Jain will manage both schemes.
  • The minimum amount for a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is Rs 100 for the Index Fund, while the minimum investment for the ETF is Rs 500.
  • The investment strategy focuses on minimizing tracking error through regular portfolio rebalancing.

Source: ET

4. PhonePe and ICICI Lombard Launched Insurance for Maha Kumbh Mela

• What:
  • PhonePe has launched insurance coverage for travelers attending the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
  • The insurance is launched in partnership with ICICI Lombard General Insurance.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to address the unique challenges faced by millions of devotees attending this large spiritual gathering and provide them with peace of mind and financial security.
• Tell me more:
  • The insurance plan is available in two variants: Rs 59 for travelers by train or bus and Rs 99 for those traveling by domestic flights.
  • Coverage includes hospitalization, outpatient treatment, personal accident cover, loss of checked-in baggage, trip cancellation cover, and repatriation of remains.
  • Users can purchase this insurance on the PhonePe app until February 25, 2025.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Vishal Gupta is the CEO at PhonePe Insurance Broking Services.
  • Anand Singhi is the Chief of Retail and Government at ICICI Lombard General Insurance.

Source: TOI

5. E-Way Bills Reach Second-Highest Level in December 2024

• What:
  • E-way bills generated for transporting goods reached 112 million in December 2024, marking a 17.6% year-on-year increase.
• Why:
  • This increase indicates higher movement of goods and is seen as a positive sign for economic activity, reflecting demand and supply trends.
• Tell me more:
  • The number of e-way bills rose from November’s five-month low of 101.8 million.
  • The rise in e-way bills is expected to reflect in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection data for January 2025.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • E-way bills peaked at 117.2 million in October due to the festive season.
  • An e-way bill is a document required for transporting goods worth over ₹50,000. It is generated on the GST portal by registered persons or transporters before starting the movement of goods, as per GST laws.
  • E-way bills serve as early indicators of economic conditions.

Source: BS GST

6. Centre Releases ₹1.73 Lakh Crore for States

• What:
  • The Centre has released ₹1.73 lakh crore to state governments to boost capital expenditure and welfare activities.
• Why:
  • The increased tax devolution aims to accelerate capital spending and support development and welfare-related expenditures in the states.
• Tell me more:
  • This month’s devolution is significantly higher than the ₹89,086 crore released in December 2024.
  • Currently, 41% of the taxes collected by the Centre are devolved among states during a fiscal year.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Tax devolution is the process of sharing tax revenues between the central and state governments.
  • Tax devolution is the process through which tax revenues are shared between the central and state governments.
  • Under Article 280(3)(a) of the Indian Constitution, the Finance Commission is entrusted with the duty of recommending how the net tax revenues should be divided between the Union and the states.

Source: BS

GDP Forecasts

1. Bank of Baroda: Indian Economy Projected to Grow by 6.8% in FY26

• What:
  • The Indian economy is projected to grow by 6.8% in the financial year 2025-26, according to a report by Bank of Baroda.
• Why:
  • This growth is supported by strong high-frequency indicators, including air passenger traffic and increased GST collections.
• Tell me more:
  • The report anticipates nominal GDP growth at around 10.5% for the same period.
  • Key factors for growth include higher rabi crop sowing and resilience shown by festive demand and economic activity.
  • The report highlights potential risks from global trade issues, particularly a possible tariff war under the incoming US administration.
  • It expects the Reserve Bank of India to cut rates in its February 2025 meeting to support economic growth.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. Mazagon Dock Delivers Sixth Scorpene Submarine Named ‘INS VAGHSHEER’

• What:
  • Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders has delivered the sixth Scorpene submarine, named ‘VAGHSHEER’, to the Indian Navy on January 9, 2025.
• Tell me more:
  • VAGHSHEER was launched on April 20, 2022, and has undergone extensive testing to ensure it is fully combat-ready.
  • The submarine is part of Project P-75, which includes six submarines: Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, Vagir, and now VAGHSHEER.
  • The project reinforces India’s membership in the exclusive group of submarine-building nations.

Source: BS

Awards

1. Kerala’s Beaches Earn Blue Flag Certification

• What:
  • Kappad Beach in Kozhikode and Chal Beach in Kannur, Kerala, have received the Blue Flag certification for meeting high environmental and safety standards.
• Why:
  • The Blue Flag status improves the global appeal of these beaches and reflects Kerala’s commitment to accessible tourism.
• Tell me more:
  • Kappad Beach is historically significant as the landing site of Vasco da Gama in 1498 and is crucial for Olive Ridley turtle nesting.
  • Chal Beach features a safe swimming zone, a Butterfly Park, and a Turtle Hatchery, promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainability education.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • The Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) based on 33 criteria related to environmental management and safety.
  • The certification process involves an international jury including representatives from UNEP, UNWTO, and IUCN.
  • India has its own eco-label, BEAMS, to promote sustainable beach management.

Source: OT

Important Days

1. National Road Safety Week 2025 – January 11 to 17

• Theme: ‘Be a Road Safety Hero’

Source: N18

Memorandum of Understanding

1. Pixxel Partners with SIIS for Hyperspectral Data

• What:
  • Bengaluru-based startup Pixxel has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with SIIS Co to supply hyperspectral satellite data in Korea.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to provide high-resolution hyperspectral imaging to various industries and institutions in Korea, enhancing their capabilities in earth observation.
• Tell me more:
  • The agreement was finalized during the Satellite Utilisation Conference in Seoul and will help SIIS strengthen its Earth observation business.
  • Pixxel is preparing to launch its Fireflies constellation of six commercial-grade hyperspectral satellites in early 2025, which will deliver detailed imaging for applications like agriculture and climate monitoring.
  • SIIS plans to launch its ultra-high-resolution satellite, SpaceEye-T, in March 2025, which will be Korea’s first private Earth observation satellite.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Awais Ahmed is the Founder and CEO of Pixxel.
  • Pixxel recently closed a $60 million Series B investment from notable investors including Google and Lightspeed.
  • The startup has raised a total of $95 million to date and aims to provide up to 50 times richer detail in earth observation data.

Source: HBL

2. Greenstat Hydrogen Partners with H2Carrier for Projects

• What:
  • Greenstat Hydrogen India (GHI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Norway-based H2Carrier to advance green hydrogen and ammonia projects in India and Sri Lanka.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to promote innovative floating production technologies for green hydrogen and ammonia, addressing the growing demand for clean energy.
• Tell me more:
  • The collaboration will involve identifying suitable project locations and conducting feasibility studies for each project.
  • The P2XFloater technology, developed by H2Carrier, is the world’s first floating green ammonia production facility, utilizing renewable energy sources.
  • The initiative seeks to support industrial decarbonisation efforts by providing green ammonia as a clean fuel and energy carrier.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Sturle Harald Pedersen is the Chairman and CEO of GHI.
  • Marten Lunde is the CEO of H2Carrier.

Source: ET

Appointments

1. Brijendra Pratap Singh Appointed CMD of NALCO

• What:
  • Brijendra Pratap Singh has been appointed as the Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of National Aluminium Company (NALCO) in Bhubaneswar.
• Tell me more:
  • Prior to joining NALCO, Singh was the Director-In-Charge for Burnpur and Durgapur Steel Plant and served on the Board of SAIL.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) was founded on January 7, 1981, with its registered office in Bhubaneswar.
  • It is a ‘Navratna’ company under the Schedule ‘A’ category of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). It is one of India’s largest producers of bauxite, alumina, aluminium, and power.
  • The Indian government currently owns 51.28% of NALCO’s equity capital.
  • NALCO has regional sales offices in Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and seven stockyards across India.

Source: BS NALCO

2. Neeraj Chopra Joins Athletics Federation’s Athletes Commission

• What:
  • Neeraj Chopra, a two-time Olympic medallist, has been appointed to the Athletics Federation of India’s newly formed Athletes Commission.
• Tell me more:
  • The Athletes Commission consists of nine members, including three male athletes, with Anju Bobby George serving as the chairperson.
  • Responsibilities include advocating for athlete rights and providing input on competition regulations.
  • The commission has a tenure of four years, covering the 2025-29 cycle.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Other male members include newly-elected AFI president Bahadur Singh Sagoo and steeplechaser Avinash Sable.
  • The commission includes six female athletes, promoting gender parity within its structure.
  • Notable female members are Jyotirmoyee Sikdar, Krishna Poonia, MD Valsamma, Sudha Singh, and Sunita Rani.

Source: OC

3. Justice Srikrishna to Lead Equal’s Advisory Board

• What:
  • Retired Supreme Court justice B. N. Srikrishna will chair the newly formed Advisory Board of Equal, which provides identity authentication services to large firms.
• Why:
  • This appointment aligns with the government’s efforts to finalize the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, under the DPDP Act, 2023.
• Tell me more:
  • Justice Srikrishna previously chaired the first committee for data protection law formulation in India, and has held significant roles in finance-related commissions.
  • The advisory board will also support OneMoney, an account aggregator that offers a consolidated view of financial data for consumers.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Justice Srikrishna’s committee report from 2018 was not implemented.
  • Other advisory board members include former Deputy Governors of RBI, former CEOs of UIDAI (J. Satyanarayana and Ajay Prakash Sawhney) and P.H. Ravikumar, the founding CEO of the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX).
  • OneMoney focuses on consent management and secure data-sharing services within the open banking ecosystem.

Source: TH

4. Mo Farah Named Ambassador for Mumbai Marathon 2025

• What:
  • Mo Farah, a four-time Olympic champion, has been appointed as the international event ambassador for the Mumbai Marathon 2025, set for January 19.
• Why:
  • The appointment aims to promote the marathon, which has been a significant running event in India for 20 years.
• Tell me more:
  • This will be the 20th edition of the Mumbai Marathon, recognized as a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race.
  • The marathon will start at the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, with around 60,000 runners expected to participate in various races.
• Knowledge Nuggets:
  • Mo Farah (British) is known for his historic wins in both the 5000m and 10000m events at the Olympics and World Championships.
  • He has an impressive record of winning 10 global finals consecutively.

Source: OC

Miscellaneous

1. War Veteran Havaldar Baldev Singh Passes Away

• What:
  • Havaldar Baldev Singh (retd), a war veteran who fought in three wars with Pakistan and the 1962 war with China, passed away at the age of 93 in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir.
• Tell me more:
  • He volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force at the age of 16 during the 1947-48 conflict when Pakistani forces attacked J&K.
  • Baldev Singh was recognized for his bravery by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and received various honors throughout his career.
  • He was recalled during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, serving in the 11 JAT Battalion.

Source: IE

2. New Book Authored by Amitabh Kant

• ‘How India scaled Mt G20: The inside story of the G20 Presidency’ is authored by Amitabh Kant (Former CEO of the NITI Aayog).

Source: N18

3. Legendary Singer P. Jayachandran Passes Away

• What:
  • Legendary playback singer P. Jayachandran passed away at the age of 80.
• Tell me more:
  • His death has left a significant impact on the Malayalam music industry and music lovers worldwide, marking the loss of a revered artist.
  • Jayachandran was known as the ‘Bhava Gayakan’ for his ability to evoke deep emotions through his voice and had a career spanning over six decades.

Source: ET

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