Monthly Current Affairs January 2025

In Current Affairs for Monthly January Current Affairs 2025, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.

Monthly January Daily Current Affairs

India, Pakistan

• India and Pakistan exchanged the list of nuclear installations and facilities covered under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between both countries.
• The list was exchanged through diplomatic channels simultaneously in New Delhi and Islamabad. The Agreement was signed on 31st December 1988 and entered into force on 27th January 1991.

•  It provides that India and Pakistan inform each other of the nuclear installations and facilities to be covered under the Agreement on the first of January of every year.
• India and Pakistan exchanged the lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each other’s custody through diplomatic channels. Under the provisions of the bilateral Agreement on Consular Access 2008, such lists are exchanged every year on 1st January and on 1st July.
• External Affairs Ministry said in a statement that India has shared names of 381 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen in its custody, who are Pakistani or are believed-to-be-Pakistani. Pakistan has shared names of 49 civilian prisoners and 217 fishermen in its custody, who are Indian or are believed-to-be-Indian. India has called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, fishermen along with their boats, and missing Indian defence personnel from Pakistan’s custody.
• Pakistan has been asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 183 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners, who have completed their sentence.
• Pakistan has been asked to provide immediate consular access to the 18 civilian prisoners and fishermen in its custody, who are believed-to-be-Indian and have not been provided consular access so far. Pakistan has been requested to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian and believed-to-be-Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen, pending their release and repatriation to India.

World’s Fastest High-Speed Train Prototype

• China has introduced the CR450, the world’s fastest high-speed train prototype, with test speeds reaching 450 km/h. Surpassing the current CR400 Fuxing trains (350 km/h), the CR450 marks a breakthrough in rail technology, combining speed with advancements in energy efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort.
• This innovation aligns with China’s ambitious plans to expand its high-speed rail network to 70,000 km by 2035, cementing its leadership in global rail systems.
• CR450 surpasses its predecessors with a maximum commercial operating speed of 400 km/h and test speeds of 450 km/h, achieved after rigorous testing spanning 200,000 km, 3,000 simulations, and 2,000 platform tests.

• Equipped with water-cooled permanent magnet traction systems and high-stability bogie systems, the CR450 reduces energy consumption by over 20% and ensures operational stability at unprecedented speeds.
• Featuring noise reduction technologies, expanded cabin spaces, and storage for items like bicycles and wheelchairs, the CR450 prioritizes passenger comfort and accessibility.
• China’s high-speed rail journey, which began in the early 2000s, has transitioned from following global trends to setting them. The CR450 follows iconic projects like the Shanghai Maglev (430 km/h) and international initiatives like the Laos-China Railway, which links Kunming to Vientiane.
• Future plans include extending high-speed networks through Southeast Asia, connecting Kunming to Singapore via Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia. With over 47,000 km of high-speed rail already operational, the CR450 prototype reinforces China’s ambition to redefine rail travel by cutting major travel times—such as reducing the Beijing-Shanghai route from 4.5 hours to just over 3 hours.
• Expected to debut commercially as early as 2025, this project showcases China’s pursuit of sustainable, efficient, and technologically advanced rail systems.

India Completes Over 9 Km Fencing Along Myanmar

• India has completed the fencing of over nine kilometres of its border with Myanmar and work on the road along the fence is in progress. The fencing has been done at Moreh in Manipur.
• The Union Home Ministry stated this in a report published recently. The construction of around 21 km of fence and road was awarded to Border Road Organisation in February last year for which the work is in progress.

• The country shares a 1,643 km long border with Myanmar which passes through Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram.
• The ministry added that out of the 1,643 km border, the demarcation of the 1,472 kilometres border has been completed. Construction work on two pilot projects of a Hybrid surveillance system in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur is in progress.

ISRO To Launch US Communications Satellite Bluebird

• ISRO is set to make history by launching an American communications satellite. This is the first time an American company is using an Indian rocket for such a large and advanced satellite.
• The mission is expected to occur in February or March 2025. AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based company, is expected to be the manufacturer of the satellite. The company has developed technology that allows users to make voice calls using standard smartphones.

• Unlike other satellite communication providers, AST SpaceMobile does not require users to purchase special handsets or terminals, making it more accessible to the general public.
• The satellite in question is the Bluebird satellite, which will be launched into low Earth orbit using ISRO’s Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). It will feature a large 64 square-meter antenna, approximately half the size of a football field.

• The satellite is projected to weigh around 6,000 kg, showcasing its capability to handle substantial data transmission.  Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle is designed to place communication satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) using a cryogenic third stage for higher thrust.

‘Pujari Granthi Samman’ Scheme

• Delhi Government has initiated the ‘Pujari Granthi Samman’ scheme. This programme aims to provide financial assistance to Gurudwara priests in the region.
• The announcement was made by former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on December 30, with the registration process commencing on December 31. The ‘Pujari Granthi Samman’ scheme offers a monthly grant of Rs 18,000.

• This financial support is designated for every temple and Gurudwara priest in Delhi. The initiative seeks to ensure economic stability for religious leaders who serve their communities.
• The initiative aims to provide recognition and financial security to religious figures. It reflects a growing awareness of the needs of temple and Gurudwara priests. The scheme may also influence voter sentiments in the approaching elections.

India’s First Glass Sea Bridge

• Tamil Nadu inaugurated a groundbreaking glass bridge over the sea, enhancing connectivity between two landmarks. This development coincides with the silver jubilee celebrations of the Tiruvalluvar Statue, which has become a symbol of cultural pride.
• Chief Minister M.K. Stalin officially opened the bridge, linking the Tiruvalluvar Statue and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari.
• The event celebrated the statue’s 25th anniversary, marking its significance in Tamil culture.
• The glass bridge spans 77 metres and is 10 metres wide, constructed at a cost of ₹37 crore.

• Tiruvalluvar Statue : Unveiled on January 1, 2000, the statue stands at a height of 133 feet, representing the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural. The statue, installed on a rock in the sea, is an important identity for Tamil people and embodies the philosophy of social justice expressed in the Thirukural: “Pirapokkum ella uyirkkum” (Everyone is equal at birth).
• Designed by renowned sculptor V. Ganapathi Sthapathi, it weighs approximately 7,000 tonnes and has withstood natural disasters, including the 2004 tsunami. Recently, it was officially renamed as the Statue of Wisdom.
• Vivekananda Rock Memorial : The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is located on one of the two rocks, about 500 meters off the mainland of Vavathurai, at the southernmost tip of India in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. The rocks are surrounded by the Laccadive Sea, where the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea meet. The memorial was constructed in 1970 to honor Swami Vivekananda, who is believed to have attained enlightenment on the rock.
• Its main structures are Vivekananda Mandapam (A hall dedicated to Swami Vivekananda) and Shripada Mandapam (built to enshrine the footprint of Devi Kanyakumari) and Dhyana Mandapam (Meditation Hall).

Sevdalinka: Added To UNESCO Cultural Heritage List

• Sevdalinka is a traditional Bosnian love song that has recently gained recognition, and added to UNESCO’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
• The song, often referred to as the Balkan Blues, reflects a rich cultural history and emotional depth. Sevdalinka dates back to the 16th century. It originated in the South Slavic regions and combines elements of South Slavic poetry with music influenced by the Ottoman Empire.

• The genre has evolved over centuries, retaining its melancholic essence. Sevdalinka is typically performed as a cappella or accompanied by traditional instruments, such as the lute and the saz.
• The songs are characterized by their emotional lyrics and intricate melodies, often conveying themes of love and longing. The performance of Sevdalinka is cultural practice in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is commonly sung at family gatherings and community events, allowing for the transmission of cultural values and stories across generations.

Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 in New Delhi tomorrow. The Mahotsav aims to enhance rural infrastructure, create self-reliant economies, and foster innovation within rural communities.
• The theme of the six-day Mahotsav is Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047 & motto “गांव बढ़े, तो देश बढ़े”.

• The objective of this event includes promoting economic stability and financial security among rural populations, with a special focus on North-East India. A significant focus of the Mahotsav will be to empower rural women through entrepreneurship.
• This will bring together government officials, rural entrepreneurs, artisans, and stakeholders from diverse sectors to build a roadmap for collaborative and collective rural transformation. The Mahotsav will showcase India’s rich cultural heritage through vibrant performances and exhibitions.

‘BAANKNET’ For e-auction Of Properties

• Government launched the revamped portal ‘BAANKNET’ for the e-auction of properties. The platform consolidates information on e-auction properties from all public sector banks and offers a one-stop destination for buyers and investors to discover a wide range of assets.
• Launching the portal, the secretary of the Department of Financial Services, M. Nagaraju, emphasised that the introduction of the platform will aid the recovery process of PSBs, improve the balance sheets of banks, and enhance credit availability to businesses and individuals.
• The listings in the portal include residential properties such as flats, independent houses, and open plots, as well as commercial properties, industrial land and buildings, shops, vehicles, plant and machinery, and agricultural and non-agricultural land.

India’s 1st ‘Coastline-Waders Bird Census’

• Country’s first-ever ‘Coastline-Waders Bird Census’ will begin at Marine National Park and Sanctuary in Jamnagar.
• The three-day census which has been jointly organized by the Department of Forest and the Bird Conservation Society will also host significant events focusing on counting wader and coastal bird species.

•  A wading bird is a long-legged bird, such as a crane, heron, or stork,that frequents shallow water, especially in search of food. Also called wader.

Project VISTAAR

• Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to launch Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources).
• This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of India’s agricultural extension system through digitalization, providing farmers with improved access to innovative technologies and advisory services. Project VISTAAR seeks to empower farmers by integrating innovative technologies and solutions into the agricultural sector. By digitalizing the extension system, the project aims to provide high-quality advisory services on crop production, marketing, value addition, and supply chain management.

• Additionally, it will offer comprehensive information about government schemes related to agriculture, rural development, and allied sectors, ensuring farmers can fully benefit from these initiatives.
• Start-ups play a critical role in addressing challenges in agriculture by providing solutions that improve productivity, supply chain management, and market access.
• The Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing at IIT Madras, along with its incubated start-up YNOS Venture Engine, has developed an extensive database of over 12,000 agriculture-focused start-ups.

• This database will be integrated into the VISTAAR platform, enabling farmers and other stakeholders to explore innovative solutions, adopt new technologies, and improve agricultural practices.
• Through this collaboration, farmers will gain access to high-quality advisory services, including insights on crop production, supply chain management, and market intelligence.
• The digitalization of the existing agricultural extension system will significantly expand its reach, allowing every farmer—regardless of their location—to access timely, contextual, and accurate information. This includes updates on best farming practices, weather forecasts, pest control methods, and sustainable agriculture techniques.
• The partnership between IIT Madras and the Ministry of Agriculture marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards a resilient, digitally empowered, and sustainable agricultural sector.
• By creating a seamless connection between start-ups and farmers, Project VISTAAR aims to reduce information gaps, improve decision-making, and enhance overall productivity.
• Additionally, the project will focus on training and capacity-building initiatives to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to adopt these innovative solutions effectively, ensuring the long-term sustainability and scalability of digital agricultural extension services.

Ramesh Chand Committee

• Government of India has established a committee to update the base year for the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), aiming to enhance the accuracy of factory-gate inflation measures.
• This initiative reflects structural changes in the economy since the last update in 2011-12. The 18-member panel, led by Ramesh Chand of NITI Aayog, is tasked with advising on transitioning the base year to 2022-23. This move is expected to improve the estimation of economic output adjusted for inflation.

• The primary goal of updating the WPI is to provide a more precise measure of inflation at the producer level. The current WPI only accounts for goods, neglecting the service sector, which constitutes over half of India’s economic output. By shifting to a more comprehensive Producer Price Index (PPI), the government aims to capture a broader spectrum of economic activity.
• The committee comprises 18 experts from various sectors, including economics and finance. Notable members include Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Dharmakirti Joshi, and Indranil Sengupta. The diverse expertise within the panel is expected to facilitate a thorough review of the existing price collection system and propose necessary improvements.
•  The WPI has undergone revisions in the past, with the last update occurring in 2015 when the base year was changed from 2004-05 to 2011-12. This new update aims to reflect the current economic landscape and improve the accuracy of national income calculations. The previous base year has become outdated, necessitating this review.

Indigenous Technology To Produce Paracetamol

• Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-CSIR has developed an indigenous technology to produce Paracetamol, a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer drug.
• Addressing the Foundation Day of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research in New Delhi, he said that this innovation aims to make India self-reliant in paracetamol manufacturing and reducing dependence on imported ingredients to make this drug.

• Dr Singh also highlighted that there has been a series of indigenous developments like India’s 1st Indigenously developed Antibiotic-Nafithromycin to treat both atypical and typical drug-resistant bacteria.

Jammu Is To Be The 69th Railway Division

• Railway Ministry will set up a new division with headquarters at Jammu under the Northern Railway Zone by reorganising the Firozpur division.
• The proposed Jammu division will include five sections: Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur (now martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan), Srinagar-Baramulla, Bhogpur Sirwal-Pathankot, Batala (excluding)-Pathankot, and Pathankot-Joginder Nagar.
• Currently, the Indian Railways has 68 divisions and when the notification is issued by the Indian Railways, Jammu will be the 69th division of the Indian Railways.

• India has the fourth largest rail network in the world after the United States of America, China, and Russia. However, the Indian railways is the world’s largest railway system under single management and the largest employer with around 1.25 million employees.
• To manage the vast network the Indian Railway has divided its operation into 17 Zones and within the Zones the network is divided into divisions.
• Northern Zone is the largest zone of the Indian railways. The Jammu Division will be under the Northern Railway Zone. It will be formed by reorganising the existing Firzorpur division and it will manage the 742.1 km network.

38th National Games Torch ‘Tejaswini’

• 38th National Games will be hosted by Uttarakhand for the first time, marking a significant event in the state’s sports history. The torch, named ‘Tejaswini,’ has begun its journey across the state, spreading excitement and awareness about the games.

• Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the torch rally from Haldwani, and it is expected to cover 3,823 km, visiting 99 locations in 13 districts before reaching the capital, Dehradun.
• The National Games will take place from January 28 to February 14, 2025, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun. The torch rally was officially inaugurated by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on December 26, 2024, in Haldwani, which marked the beginning of the journey.
• The torch, named Tejaswini, travels across 13 districts of Uttarakhand, visiting 99 locations in total.

• The journey covers an extensive distance of 3,823 kilometers and is set to culminate in Dehradun on January 25, 2025.
• Mascot “Mauli”  : Inspired by the Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. Symbolizes the region’s uniqueness and encourages young athletes to aim high.
•  Logo : Reflects the beauty and biodiversity of Uttarakhand, incorporating the Monal’s vibrant imagery.
•  Tagline  : “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak” (From Resolve to Zenith), representing determination and ambition.

Hanoi Declared World’s Most Polluted City

• Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, has recently been identified as the world’s most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels reaching 266 micrograms per cubic meter. This alarming air quality has raised significant health concerns among residents and prompted government action.
• AirVisual reported that Hanoi’s PM2.5 levels were the highest globally, indicating severe air pollution. 

• Sources of Pollution Heavy Traffic: The city’s dense traffic contributes significantly to air pollution.
•  Trash Burning: Open burning of waste releases harmful pollutants into the air.
• Industrial Activities: Emissions from factories and industrial sites add to the deteriorating air quality.

• Health Impacts on Residents : Respiratory Issues: Elderly residents report increased breathing difficulties due to poor air quality.
• Reduced Visibility: Young people have noted decreased visibility and discomfort while breathing.
• Government Initiatives : Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs): Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has called for an accelerated transition to EVs to reduce pollution. EV Adoption Targets: Hanoi aims for at least 50% of buses and 100% of taxis to be electric by 2030.

BHARATPOL Portal

• Home Minister Amit Shah will launch BHARATPOL portal developed by Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi. The BHARATPOL portal will streamline the processing of all requests for international assistance through INTERPOL, including the issuance of Red Notices and other colour-coded INTERPOL notices.
• Home Ministry said in a statement that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central government has taken several important initiatives to strengthen the country’s law enforcement agencies.

• BHARATPOL portal will significantly facilitate Indian law enforcement agencies enabling real-time information sharing for faster access to international police assistance.

• The growing footprint of transnational crimes including cyber-crime, financial crimes, online radicalization, organized crimes, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, necessitates rapid and real-time international assistance in criminal investigations.
• To address this challenge, CBI has developed BHARATPOL Portal, which will bring all the stakeholders on a common platform. By facilitating easier and faster access to international assistance, it will strengthen India’s efforts in combating transnational crimes.

V Narayanan Appointed As New ISRO Chief

• Centre has appointed V Narayanan as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space. Mr Narayanan will assume office on January 14.

• He will succeed the current ISRO chairman, S Somanath. Mr Narayanan currently serves as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) of the ISRO in Valiamala, Kerala.
• He is a distinguished scientist with nearly four decades of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion. He is a rocket and spacecraft propulsion expert, joined ISRO in 1984, and functioned in various capacities before becoming director of LPSC.

India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster In Sikkim

• Union Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the country’s first-ever organic fisheries cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim. This initiative aims to revolutionize the aquaculture industry by promoting ecologically sustainable and chemical-free fish farming practices.
• The cluster will focus on providing organic, antibiotic-free, and pesticide-free fish, catering to eco-conscious markets globally. This development aligns with Sikkim’s reputation for sustainable agricultural practices, as the state has already embraced organic farming.

• The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to boost farmers’ incomes and promote sustainability in aquaculture.
• Sikkim, known for its commitment to organic farming, is aligning its vision to include organic fisheries as a key sector. The organic fisheries cluster emphasizes ecologically healthy practices by avoiding the use of chemicals, antibiotics, and pesticides in fish farming. This focus on sustainability will ensure minimal environmental pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems.
• Minister Singh inaugurated 50 projects under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which is set to enhance aquaculture across northeastern states (except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram). These projects have a combined value of ₹50 crore and aim to promote sustainable fish production practices in the region.

India Ranked Second For Cyberattacks

• In 2024, India became the second most targeted nation globally for cyberattacks, with 95 entities falling victim to data theft, according to CloudSEK’s ThreatLandscape Report 2024.
• The United States topped the list with 140 attacks, while Israel ranked third with 57 attacks.

• Finance and banking sectors were the most affected, with 20 victims. Other impacted sectors included government (13 victims), telecommunications (12), healthcare and pharma (10), and education (9).
• Significant breaches included the leak of 850 million records of Indian citizen data from Hi-Tek Group, customer data from Star Health and Allied Insurance, and 2TB of data from Telecommunications Consultants India.
• Ransomware Incidents: The report identified 108 ransomware incidents in India, with Lockbit being the most active group, responsible for over 20 incidents. Other notable groups included Killsec and Ransomhub.
• India has faced significant cyber threats in the past. In 2018, it ranked second globally for data breaches, with over 690 million internet subscribers and a growing number of breaches in both private and public sectors.

Genome India Project

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted that the world is looking towards India today for solutions to various global problems. In a video message at the Genomics Data Conclave in Delhi, Mr. Modi said the Genome India Project marks a defining moment in the country’s biotechnology landscape.
• The Prime Minister noted that the combination of biotechnology and biomass in the 21st century forms a crucial foundation for a developed India as a Bio Economy.

• He highlighted that in the past 10 years, the bio-economy has jumped from 10 billion dollars to 150 billion dollars today. The Prime Minister also lauded the release of the Genome India Data, hailing it as a historical step for research and healthcare in the nation.
• Mr. Modi mentioned that genome sequences of 10 thousand Indians from various groups have been analysed, and its data is now available at the Indian Biological Data Center.

• This data can be used by researchers, scientists, and scholars across India. Mr. Modi highlighted that there is a significant diversity in the genetic makeup of Indians; thus, understanding the genetic identity of the population is essential to determine effective treatments for particular groups.
• He emphasized that this information will greatly assist in policy-making and planning for the country. Mr. Modi highlighted that in the past ten years, special attention has been given to research and innovation in the country. He added that India has created a special identity as a pharma hub in the world.
• Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh released the Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols and launched the IBDC Data Access Portal. Dr. Singh said that the last decade has been a game-changer for biotechnology in India.

• He noted that the country is aiming for a one-million genome program, including specific disease cohorts.
• Genome: The genome represents the entirety of an organism’s hereditary information, serving as a biological instruction manual inherited from parents.
• Composed of four nucleotide bases: adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T), the genome contains approximately 3 billion base pairs in humans.

Republic Day Guests

• Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has formally accepted New Delhi’s invitation to be the chief guest for the 2025 Republic Day parade. The choice of Subianto as the first guest of third term of Prime Minister Modi signals the importance India attaches to the bilateral relationship with Indonesia and its Act East policy.

• The visit is expected to see both sides stepping up their strategic cooperation and defence ties. India’s first Republic Day guest was from Indonesia, President Sukarno, a key ally of country’s Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during the golden years of the non-aligned movement.

• Around ten thousand Special Guests have been invited to witness the Republic Day Parade this year. These special guests include Sarpanches, Disaster Relief Workers, Best Performing Water Warriors, Handloom and Handicraft Artisans, Mann Ki Baat Participants, My Bharat Volunteers, Guests from North Eastern States, and Best Start-Ups.
• The Defence Ministry said some of the invited guests are carrying out exemplary work to ensure income and employment generation through Self-Help Groups. Members of the Para-Olympic contingent, Chess Olympiad medalists, Bridge World Games Silver medalists, and Snooker World Championship Gold medalists have also been invited as special guests. The Ministry said these guests will visit the National War Memorial, PM Sangrahalay, and other prominent places in Delhi.

US: Fire Spreading Hollywood Hills

• Out-of-control wildfires are ripping across parts of Los Angeles, leading to at least five deaths, burning down hundreds of buildings, and prompting evacuation orders for nearly 180,000 residents across the county.
• Despite the efforts of firefighters, the biggest blazes remain totally uncontained – with weather conditions and the underlying impact of climate change expected to continue fanning the flames for days to come.

• In Los Angeles County, some 179,000 residents are under evacuation orders – many of them leaving their homes simply carrying whatever belongings they can. Another 200,000 residents are under evacuation warning, meaning they could be required to leave their homes soon.
• Hurricane-force Winds Sent The Fires, Which Started Earlier This Week On The Outer Fringes Of Los Angeles, Leaping Across Suburbs And Neighbourhoods, Finally Reaching The Hollywood Hills By The Time The Winds Slowed.

IREDA Achieves ‘Excellent’ Rating

• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) has achieved ‘Excellent’ rating for the performance MoU signed with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) for the financial year 2023-24, with a score of 98.24.

• This marks the fourth consecutive year that IREDA has received ‘Excellent’ rating, showcasing its unwavering commitment to operational excellence and highest standards of corporate governance.
• In the previous three years, IREDA consistently delivered exceptional results, achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating with scores of 93.50 in FY 2022-23, 96.54 in FY 2021-22 and 96.93 in FY 2020-21.

Startup India Initiative

• The government’s flagship initiative Startup India has completed nine years 16 January . The scheme is intended to catalyse startup culture and build a strong and inclusive ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
• India has bloomed into the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, which raised more than $158 Bn+ funding between 2014 and 2024. As per government estimates, India is home to more than 1.59 Lakh Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)-recognised startups that have created 17 Lakh+ jobs in the country.

•  These startups encompass more than 56 sectors, including IT services, healthcare and life sciences, education, agriculture, construction, among others.  However, what is fascinating is that the startup fever has not remained within the walls of India’s biggest cities but has percolated to smaller towns as well.
• As per DPIIT data, more than half (51%) of the DPIIT-registered startups in India are from non-metro cities . “More and more startups coming from non-metro cities is a promising sign of India’s entrepreneurial potential. Cities like Jaipur, Indore, Coimbatore, Vadodara, and Surat offer cost-effective talent and opportunities for startups to grow.
• Meanwhile, government-led incubator  programs like T-Hub in Telangana provide significant support to startups, unlocking trillions of dollars in value and reshaping India’s entrepreneurial landscape,” said Murali Bukkapatnam, chair of non-profit TiE’s global 2025 board of trustees.  India is also third in the world in terms of the number of unicorns.
• As per the DPIIT, the number of billion-dollar valuation companies in India have soared 13X in the past decade to 118 in 2024 from a mere eight in 2015.  These unicorns are cumulatively valued north of $354 Bn, showing the might of the new-age tech ventures that have emerged from India in the past decade.

National Turmeric Board

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the establishment of the National Turmeric Board. In a social media post, the Prime Minister called the establishment of the board a matter of immense joy, particularly for the country’s hard-working turmeric farmers.

• Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi, appointing Shri Palle Ganga Reddy as its first Chairperson. The Board’s headquarters is established in Nizamabad, Telangana, a prominent turmeric-producing region.He underscored that this board will ensure better opportunities for innovation, global promotion, and value addition in turmeric production.
• The Prime Minister added that it will strengthen the supply chains, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.
• India stands as the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, accounting for over 70% of global production. In the 2023-24 period, the country cultivated turmeric over 3.05 lakh hectares, yielding 10.74 lakh tonnes. With more than 30 varieties grown, India’s share in world turmeric trade exceeds 62%, exporting 1.62 lakh tonnes valued at $226.5 million during 2023-24.

IMD’s 150th Foundation Day

• On January 14, 2025, during the 150th Foundation Day celebrations of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the ‘IMD Vision-2047’ document.
• This strategic roadmap outlines ambitious goals to enhance India’s meteorological capabilities by 2047, coinciding with the nation’s centenary of independence.

• Zero Disaster Deaths: The vision document sets a target of eliminating fatalities due to severe weather events by 2047. This objective emphasizes the importance of accurate and timely weather forecasts to enable effective disaster management and early public warnings.
• Enhanced Forecast Accuracy: IMD aims to achieve zero-error weather forecasting for up to three days and 90% accuracy for five-day forecasts by 2047. For severe weather predictions extending up to seven days, the target is 80% accuracy, and 70% accuracy for forecasts up to ten days.
• Comprehensive Weather Detection: The department plans to attain 100% detection of all types of severe weather events down to the village and household levels. This will involve augmenting meteorological observational systems nationwide, supported by advanced remote-sensing technologies, including improved radars and satellites.

• Launch of ‘Mission Mausam’ In conjunction with the Vision-2047 document, Prime Minister Modi introduced ‘Mission Mausam,’ an initiative aimed at transforming India into a ‘Weather-ready and Climate-smart‘ nation. The mission focuses on developing cutting-edge weather surveillance technologies, implementing high-resolution atmospheric observations, deploying next-generation radars and satellites, and enhancing high-performance computing systems.

• Established in 1875, IMD has played a pivotal role in advancing meteorological science in India. Over the years, the department has significantly improved its forecasting capabilities, contributing to a substantial reduction in casualties from natural disasters. For instance, accurate cyclone warnings have led to a decrease in deaths from approximately 10,000 in 1999 to zero in recent years.
• The department has also expanded its technological infrastructure, increasing the number of Doppler Weather Radars from 15 in 2014 to 39 in 2023, thereby enhancing land area coverage by about 35%. Additionally, the overall forecast accuracy has improved by 40% between 2014 and 2023.

Blue Flag Certification

• Kerala’s renowned Kappad beach in Kozhikode and Chal beach in Kannur have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
• This certification recognizes beaches that meet high standards in environmental protection, safety, and sustainability. The Blue Flag status enhances Kerala’s appeal as a sustainable tourism destination and serves as a global benchmark for eco-friendly tourism practices.

• Both beaches have implemented eco-friendly initiatives and maintain hygienic, safe environments for tourists, setting a model for responsible tourism (RT).
• Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating operators as a mark of their environmental excellence. Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), based in Denmark.
• Established in 1985 to promote sustainable coastal development globally. 33 stringent criteria are evaluated, grouped into four categories, Environmental Education and Information, Bathing Water Quality, Environmental Management, Conservation and Safety Services.

• Decision to grant Blue Flag status is made by an international jury that includes representatives from, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). India has 13 Blue Flag beaches, including Kappad and Chal, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable tourism.

Monthly Current Affairs January 2025 Question

1. What Record Does Kaamya Karthikeyan Achieve
   A. First Indian to climb Mount Vinson
   B. Youngest female to scale the Seven Summits
   C. Fastest ascent of the Seven Summits
   D. Youngest female to climb Mount Everest
   ANSWER: B
2. Where Was The Statue Of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Unveiled By The Indian
   Army In December 2024
   A. Siachen Glacier
   B. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
   C. Kargil
   D. Pangong Tso, Ladakh
   ANSWER: D
3. Which Government Department Partnered With Boat To Support Startups
   A. Ministry of Electronics and IT
   B. Department of Science and Technology
   C. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
   D. NITI Aayog
   ANSWER: C
4. Sevdalinka Seen In News Falls In Category Of
   A. Theatre
   B. Song
   C. Dance
   D. Literature
   ANSWER: B
5. Which Country Launched CR450 Prototype, World’s Fastest High-speed Train
   A. France
   B. China
   C. Russia
   D. India
   ANSWER: B
6. Which Institute Developed Needle Free Shock Syringes For Painless Injections
   A. IIT Hyderabad
   B. IIT Delhi
   C. IIT Bombay
   D. IIT Madras
   ANSWER: C
7. Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme Is Associated With Which Sector
   A. Agriculture
   B. Taxation
   C. Science and Technology
   D. Education
   ANSWER: B
8. Project VISTAAR Is Launched By
   A. IIT DELHI
   B. IIT BOMBAY
   C. IIT MADRAS
   D. IIT ROPAR
   ANSWER: C
9. Ramesh Chand Committee Set Up For
   A. Tax Reforms
   B. WPI Reforms
   C. CPI Reforms
   D. Health Reforms
   ANSWER: B
10. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Is Located In Which State
    A. Kerala
    B. Tamil Nadu
    C. Maharashtra
    D. Karnataka
    ANSWER: A
11. Which Union Ministry Is Associated With The Nutrient-based Subsidy Scheme
    A. Ministry of Science and Technology
    B. Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
    C. Ministry of Agriculture
    D. Ministry of Rural Development
    ANSWER: B
12. Which State Is The Host Of National SARAS Mela 2025
    A. Karnataka
    B. Kerala
    C. Maharashtra
    D. Gujarat
    ANSWER: B
13. India’s First Coastline-waders Bird Census Has Conducted At Which Place
    A. Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh
    B. Marine National Park, Jamnagar
    C. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh
    D. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh
    ANSWER: B
14. Which City Is The Venue Of The 31st National Children’s Science Congress
    A. Bhopal
    B. Hyderabad
    C. Jaipur
    D. Lucknow
    ANSWER: A
15. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee Functions Under Which Ministry
    A. Ministry of Science and Technology
    B. Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change
    C. Ministry of Agriculture
    D. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
    ANSWER: B
16. How Many Railways Division India Have ?
    A. 67
    B. 68
    C. 69
    D. 70
    ANSWER: C
17. Panchayat Se Parliament Programme Focus On
    A. Women Entrepreneurs
    B. Women Representatives In PRI’s
    C. Women SHG’s
    D. Women Teachers
    ANSWER: B
18. ‘ Faral Sakhi’ Initiative is Started In
    A. Kerala
    B. Gujarat
    C. Maharashtra
    D. Chattisgarh
    ANSWER: C
19. Which Indian State Has Become The First To Incorporate The Green GDP
    Model Into Its Economic Framework
    A. Kerala
    B. Madhya Pradesh
    C. Chhattisgarh
    D. Himachal Pradesh
    ANSWER: C
20. India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster Is Made In
    A. Odisha
    B. Sikkim
    C. Kerala
    D. Gujarat
    ANSWER: B
21. Mount Ibu Seen In News Situated In
    A. Japan
    B. Indonesia
    C. UK
    D. Vietnam
    ANSWER: B
22. Delhi-Meerut Regional RRTS Corridor. What Is The Full Form Of RRTS
    A. Rapid Rail Transit System
    B. Railway Regional Transport Service
    C. Regional Rapid Transit System
    D. Rapid Regional Transit System
    ANSWER: C
23. What Is The Motto Of The Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025
    A. “Growing Together, Thriving Together”
    B. “ग ांव बढ़े, तो द़ेश बढ़े” (“If villages grow, the country grows”)
    C. “Empower the Villages, Empower the Nation”
    D. “Unity in Diversity”
    ANSWER: B
24. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) was established in
    A. 1976
    B. 1977
    C. 1986
    D. 1987
    ANSWER: D
25. Who Has Been Appointed As The New Secretary Of The Department Of Space
    And Chairman Of ISRO
    A. Dr. Ajay Sood
    B. Dr. Pawan Kumar
    C. Dr. V. Narayanan
    D. Dr. M. S. Ananth
    ANSWER: C
26. Who Has Been Elected As New President Of The Athletics Federation Of India
    A. Adille Sumariwalla
    B. Bahadur Singh Sagoo
    C. P.T. Usha
    D. Vinesh Phogat
    ANSWER: B
27. e- Shram Portal Upgraded To Support How Many Scheduled Languages
    A. 12
    B. 18
    C. 15
    D. 22
    ANSWER: D
28. First Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Celebrated In __.
    A. 2001
    B. 2000
    C. 2003
    D. 2005
    ANSWER: C
29. Which State Government Has Signed An Mou With Google Cloud (India) To
    Launch The Open Network For Agriculture
    A. Madhya Pradesh
    B. Uttar Pradesh
    C. Maharashtra
    D. Gujarat
    ANSWER: B
30. Who Has Been Elected As The New President Of Lebanon In January, 2025
    A. Michel Aoun
    B. Najib Mikati
    C. Joseph Aoun
    D. Saad Hariri
    ANSWER: C