Current Affairs and GK Weekly One Liners 06th January to 12th January 2025

Government Unveils ‘Baanknet’ E-Auction Portal

The Government of India has launched the new ‘Baanknet’ e-auction portal. Designed as a centralized platform, it aggregates properties auctioned by public sector banks (PSBs), facilitating a seamless experience for buyers and investors. The portal aims to streamline the auction process by enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accessibility. It features a diverse range of properties, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural assets. Key benefits include automated payment systems and secure transactions, making property purchases more straightforward and promoting fair bidding practices.

Dozer Push Mining Method: Revolutionizing India’s Mining Industry

The CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) has marked a significant milestone by successfully conducting the first trial blast of the Dozer Push Mining Method in India. This innovative approach, developed over two years, integrates advanced digital technologies to enhance mining safety and efficiency.

Key Features:

• Unmanned Operations: Utilizes automated drill machines and dozers, reducing the risk associated with manual labor.
• Efficiency: Achieves faster coal recovery and minimizes delays due to adverse weather conditions.
• Cost-Effective: Expected to cut operational costs by 7-10% compared to traditional methods.
• Environmental Benefits: Controlled detonation and material handling decrease vibrations and flyrock, minimizing environmental impact.

The trial was conducted at the PEKB Coal Mine in Chhattisgarh, in collaboration with Adani Natural Resources. This method is set to transform mining operations, making them safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Project VISTAAR: Digitally Transforming Agricultural Extension

IIT Madras and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare have launched Project VISTAAR to revolutionize the agricultural extension system through digitalization.

Key Components:

• VISTAAR Platform: The Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources (VISTAAR) serves as the foundation for the pilot project, enhancing extension services with digital tools.
• Agri-Startup Network: The platform connects farmers with innovative solutions from over 12,000 agri-startups, offering access to cutting-edge technologies.
• Advisory Services: Farmers receive timely and relevant advice on crop production, marketing, supply chain management, and government schemes.
• Collaborative Impact: By integrating technologies and resources, the initiative aims to promote sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural practices.

India’s Education Spending: A Call for Increased Investment

India’s education system faces challenges, as highlighted by a recent study from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The ‘Comparative Study of School Education Systems’ compares India’s educational investments with those of seven other countries. The findings reveal that India’s spending has stagnated at approximately 2.7% to 2.9% of GDP over the past six years. In contrast, countries like the USA, UK, China, Sweden, Australia, Indonesia, and Thailand allocate significantly higher portions of their GDP to education. The CII advocates for increasing India’s education budget to 6% of GDP to match global standards and enhance education quality.

Supreme Court Reaffirms Property Rights in India

The Supreme Court of India, on January 4, 2025, highlighted the importance of property rights within the constitutional framework. The court clarified that although the right to property is no longer considered a fundamental right, it remains a constitutional right under Article 300-A. This decision came from a case where individuals sought overdue compensation for land acquired for the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor Project. The justices emphasized that compensation must be adequate and backed by legal authority before property deprivation occurs, ensuring the protection of property rights in India.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs through ‘Faral Sakhi’

The ‘Faral Sakhi’ initiative, spearheaded by the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) and NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), focuses on supporting women entrepreneurs in producing traditional festive snacks called ‘Faral’. The program includes training by the Centre for Education, Governance, and Public Policy (CEGP Foundation) and provides a central kitchen for professional snack preparation. It promotes these products through municipal advertisements and dedicated sales spaces. The initiative’s success was highlighted during Diwali, with over 3 tons of snacks sold. This collaborative effort aims to create sustainable employment opportunities and boost local economies.

Comparing Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and COVID-19

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), discovered in 2001, is a respiratory virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family. It causes upper and lower respiratory infections, similar to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Both HMPV and COVID-19 (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) affect the respiratory system and spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces. They share symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and shortness of breath.

Key differences include the severity and transmissibility of the viruses. HMPV usually leads to mild to moderate illness, especially in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. COVID-19, however, can cause severe respiratory illness and has a higher mortality rate, affecting a broader range of the population. Additionally, COVID-19 has shown higher transmissibility and more significant global impact compared to HMPV.

82nd Golden Globe Awards: A Night of Celebrating Film and TV Excellence

The 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards were held on January 5, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. The prestigious event celebrated outstanding achievements in the film and television industries over the past year. Hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, the evening featured remarkable moments and heartfelt speeches.

Major Winners:

• Best Motion Picture – Drama: “The Brutalist”
• Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy: “Emilia Pérez”
• Best Drama Series: “Shōgun”
• Best Musical or Comedy Series: “Hacks”
• Best Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television: “Baby Reindeer”

President Biden Honors 19 with Presidential Medal of Freedom

On January 5, 2025, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals at the White House. This prestigious ceremony celebrated remarkable contributions across diverse fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports. Notable honorees included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist Melinda Gates, musician Bono, football legend Lionel Messi, actor Michael J. Fox, and primatologist Jane Goodall. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor, recognizing extraordinary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors.

Farmers’ Protests: Supreme Court Committee Update

The ongoing farmers’ protests at the Punjab-Haryana border have intensified. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Political) has declined to engage with the Supreme Court’s high-powered committee, which was set up to address their demands. However, the Punjab government has successfully persuaded a group of protesting farmers to meet with the committee, led by Justice (Retired) Nawab Singh, on January 6, 2025. This committee aims to address key issues, including the demand for a statutory guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 10, 2025, allowing time for these critical discussions to take place.

Government Reintroduces Detention Policy for Classes 5 and 8

In December 2024, the Union government amended the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, allowing schools to detain students in Classes 5 and 8 if they fail year-end exams. The no-detention policy, aimed at reducing student stress, led to significant learning gaps and declining academic standards. For example, only 42.8% of Class 5 students could read a Class 2-level text in 2022. The amendment aims to improve accountability and learning outcomes, providing an opportunity for re-examination after two months of additional teaching to help students meet required standards.

Uncovering the Past: Discovery of Saint Narahari Tīrtha’s Idol

In an exciting development for historians and archaeologists alike, Saikumar K. from the Team of Research on Culture and Heritage (TORCH) has uncovered a three-foot idol of the 13th Century saint, Narahari Tīrtha, at the Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam. This significant discovery adds depth to the historical narrative of Narahari Tīrtha, an influential figure from Chikakolu (modern-day Srikakulam) who played a crucial role in the Gajapati empire. His contributions included administrative reforms, intellectual commentaries, and devotional music, enriching the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.

India Emerges as Major Target for Cyberattacks in 2024

According to CloudSEK’s ThreatLandscape Report 2024, India ranked as the second most targeted nation globally for cyberattacks in 2024, with 95 entities falling victim to data theft. The United States held the top position with 140 targeted entities, while Israel came in third with 57 entities affected. India’s rapid digitization has increased its susceptibility to cyber threats, particularly impacting the financial and banking sectors.

India Celebrates Birth of Its First Generation Beta Baby

As the world steps into 2025 and welcomes Generation Beta, India celebrates the birth of its first Generation Beta baby on New Year’s Day, January 1, in Aizawl, Mizoram. Named Frankie Remruatdika Zadeng, the baby was born at 12:03 am at Durtlang’s Synod Hospital, weighing 3.12 kg.

Generation Beta, spanning from 2025 to 2039, is set to grow up in a world of advanced technology and global connectivity. This generation will experience seamless integration of digital and physical realities, with AI-driven automation shaping education, workplaces, healthcare, and entertainment.

Transformative Changes: Amendments to the Forest Conservation Act 2025

The passage of the Bill to amend the Forest (Conservation) Act signals a transformative shift in India’s forest regulation. Introduced more than four decades after the original Act of 1980, these amendments aim to update and align the legislation with contemporary ecological, strategic, and economic needs. The original Act, brief at only four pages, has often led to complex interpretations and applications.

Strengthening Global Bonds: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025

The 18th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is set to take place in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025. This event aims to fortify the bonds between India and its global diaspora. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention, with President Christine Carla Kangaloo of Trinidad and Tobago addressing the gathering virtually as the chief guest. The celebration will highlight the contributions of overseas Indians to India’s development, centered around the theme “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”.

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Tibet and Nepal

A powerful earthquake struck the Tibetan Plateau and neighboring regions on January 5, 2025. The 7.1 magnitude earthquake, with its epicenter near Tingri County in Tibet, shook the area, reaching as far as northern India, including Bihar and parts of West Bengal.

Tragically, the quake resulted in at least 95 deaths and over 100 injuries in Tibet, with additional injuries reported in Nepal. The region experienced extensive building damage, prompting immediate rescue efforts to assist those affected.

Bharatpol Portal Revolutionizes Crime Fighting in India

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the Bharatpol portal, marking a significant advancement in India’s law enforcement capabilities. Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), this innovative platform facilitates real-time information sharing among state police and central agencies. The initiative aims to streamline international cooperation for investigating transnational crimes, such as cyber-crime, financial crimes, online radicalization, organized crimes, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.

Odisha Launches Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme to Promote Tribal Education

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme at the Adivasi Mela. The initiative focuses on reducing the dropout rate among Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in Odisha by offering a one-time financial incentive of ₹5,000 to students enrolling in Class IX and XI. This monetary support aims to encourage tribal students to continue their secondary and higher secondary education, ultimately improving enrollment and completion rates.

Severe Earthquake Devastates Tibetan Region

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocked the Tibetan region near the Nepal border. The quake’s epicenter was approximately 80 km north of Mount Everest, occurring 10 km below the surface. By evening, reports confirmed at least 95 fatalities and over 130 injuries in China, with tremors felt as far away as Kathmandu and Kolkata. The disaster has caused extensive infrastructure damage, flattening hundreds of houses. This tragic event highlights the seismic activity in the Himalayan region, where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. My thoughts are with the affected communities during this difficult time.

Empowering Women: Jharkhand’s Maiya Samman Yojana

Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren launched the Maiya Samman Yojana, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering women through direct financial support. Women aged 18-50 receive ₹2,500 monthly, with an increased installment beginning in December 2024. Over 56 lakh women beneficiaries received ₹5,000 for December 2024 and January 2025. This initiative, part of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s agenda, aims to boost women’s financial independence and improve their living standards. The program highlights the government’s commitment to gender equality and socioeconomic development in Jharkhand.

Indonesia Joins BRICS Alliance

Indonesia officially became a full member of the BRICS group, as announced by Brazil. This inclusion marks a significant step for Indonesia, enhancing its role in global economic and political affairs. The Indonesian foreign ministry emphasized the importance of this membership in strengthening ties with other developing nations and fostering collaboration on global issues. The BRICS group, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, now welcomes Indonesia to its ranks, aiming to promote economic growth, cooperation, and reform in global governance.

Microsoft Enhances AI Collaboration in India

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced strategic partnerships with the Indian government and leading businesses to boost AI adoption across sectors like healthcare, education, finance, and agriculture. Microsoft is set to invest $3 billion over two years to enhance AI infrastructure and train 10 million Indians by 2030. The initiative includes establishing AI Centers of Excellence, productivity labs, and supporting AI startups through the Founders Hub program. This partnership underscores Microsoft’s commitment to driving India’s AI-first vision and fostering innovation.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Spiritual Odyssey

From January 13 to February 26, 2025, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, will host the Maha Kumbh Mela—a spectacular Hindu festival held every 144 years. Millions of devotees will gather at the sacred Triveni Sangam to bathe in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, seeking spiritual purification and moksha. The festival’s roots lie in Hindu mythology’s Samudra Manthan, where drops of the nectar of immortality fell at four sacred sites. The Maha Kumbh Mela is a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and unity, drawing people from all corners of the globe.

Banded Royal Butterfly Discovered in Tripura

Tripura celebrates a remarkable addition to its biodiversity with the discovery of the Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra). This rare species was spotted for the first time in the state, highlighting its unique ecological significance. The butterfly features a distinctive white underside with a broad chocolate-colored band and green scales on the hindwings. Documenting this species enriches the region’s natural heritage and underscores the importance of conserving its diverse wildlife. The discovery emphasizes the need for continued research and protection efforts to preserve such unique species.

Champions Trophy 2025: India’s Squad Announcement

With Pakistan hosting the ninth ICC Champions Trophy, the tournament will kick off on February 19, 2025, featuring eight teams in a round-robin format. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to reveal the Indian squad by January 12, 2025. Ajit Agarkar, head of the selection committee, will finalize the 15-member team, with Rohit Sharma expected to lead. Fans are eagerly anticipating the announcement following India’s recent performances and preparations for upcoming white-ball matches.

Anji Khad Rail Bridge: India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge

Spanning the scenic Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Anji Khad Rail Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge and a key part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project. With a length of 725.5 meters and a 331-meter-high pylon, it is supported by 48 cables, ensuring stability and strength. Equipped with advanced monitoring systems and seismic resilience features, the bridge aims to enhance connectivity, foster economic growth, and boost tourism in the Kashmir Valley. A successful tower wagon trial run marked a significant milestone towards its operational readiness.

India-U.S. Partnership for Sonobuoy Production

India and the U.S. announced a partnership to co-produce sonobuoys, enhancing the Indian Navy’s Undersea Domain Awareness (UDA). Ultra Maritime and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) will produce these sonobuoys in both countries, adhering to U.S. Navy standards while supporting India’s “Make in India” initiative. The sonobuoys are designed for the unique acoustic environment of the Indian Ocean and will integrate seamlessly with U.S. and Indian naval aircraft. This collaboration strengthens anti-submarine warfare capabilities and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

Key Appointments in Ministry of Finance

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved significant leadership changes in the Ministry of Finance. Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been appointed as the new Revenue Secretary, bringing his expertise to oversee India’s revenue policies. Arunish Chawla has been named the Secretary of the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), tasked with managing public assets and investments. These strategic appointments come at a pivotal time as the ministry prepares for the upcoming Union Budget 2025, highlighting the government’s focus on robust economic management and reform.

Goa Launches ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ to Empower Women

Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant introduced the ‘Bima Sakhi Yojana’ as part of the Swayampurna Goa 2.0 initiative. This innovative program aims to empower women by training them as insurance agents. It provides financial support and promotes insurance literacy among women. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the scheme seeks to ensure “insurance for all” and create self-employment opportunities for women, contributing to the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Explosive Growth in Indian Microfinance Sector: 2,100% Increase in 12 Years

India’s microfinance sector has seen astonishing growth over the past 12 years, expanding from ₹17,264 crore in March 2012 to a staggering ₹3.93 lakh crore by November 2024. This 2,100% surge underscores the sector’s vital role in promoting financial inclusion and supporting rural economies. Despite facing challenges like funding constraints and maintaining portfolio quality, the sector has significantly contributed to the GDP and job creation. This growth reflects the increasing demand for microfinance services and their impact on the lives of millions across the country.

Uttar Pradesh Eases Financial Burden for ‘Har Ghar Nal’ Scheme

The Uttar Pradesh government waived the 10% community contribution under the ‘Har Ghar Nal’ scheme, part of the Jal Jeevan Mission. This decision allows the state to cover these costs, benefiting approximately 2.33 crore families. Villagers will now only need to pay a nominal maintenance fee of ₹50. This initiative aims to provide clean drinking water to rural populations without financial burden, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving public welfare and ensuring access to essential resources.

Launch of India’s First Green Hydrogen Hub in Andhra Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first Green Hydrogen Hub (GHH) in Pudimadaka, Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This state-of-the-art facility aims to produce 1,500 tonnes of green hydrogen daily and 7,500 tonnes of derivatives like green methanol and sustainable aviation fuel. Developed by NTPC Green Energy Limited and Andhra Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation, the ₹1.85 lakh crore project is expected to generate 57,000 jobs and significantly enhance India’s renewable energy capacity.

Goa Launches Bima Sakhi Yojana to Empower Women

Goa has launched the Bima Sakhi Yojana, an initiative aimed at providing insurance access to all citizens, with a special focus on empowering women. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision, this scheme targets women aged 18 to 70 who have completed at least Class X education. Participants will receive specialized training and a stipend for the first three years, eventually becoming LIC agents. This program aims to promote financial literacy and insurance awareness at the grassroots level, encouraging women to become active agents in their communities and enhance economic security.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: EmpowHER Biz Launched

NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) has introduced EmpowHER Biz – Sapno Ki Udaan in partnership with New Shop, a 24/7 retail chain. This initiative aims to uplift women entrepreneurs by offering comprehensive training in retail management, digital tools, financial literacy, and business development. Participants will also receive mentorship from industry experts. Notably, the top 20 participants will get a 100% waiver on New Shop franchise fees, making it easier for women to start their own businesses. The program is designed to create a nurturing environment for women entrepreneurs to flourish.

India’s Major Investment in Inland Water Transport

The Indian government has announced a significant investment of ₹50,000 crore over the next five years to enhance the country’s inland water transport infrastructure. The initiative includes developing national waterways, green shipping projects, and water metro systems. A new Riverine Community Development Scheme aims to improve the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities through trade, tourism, and skill development. Additionally, 1,000 green vessels will be introduced, and ship repair facilities will be established across national waterways, making it a comprehensive plan for boosting India’s maritime sector.

Earth Breaches 1.5°C Global Warming Limit in 2024

In an alarming climate milestone, 2024 saw the global mean temperature exceed the crucial 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time in recorded history. This unprecedented event, reported by leading climate organizations, underscores the urgency of tackling climate change. The breach of this threshold, established by the Paris Agreement to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of global warming, highlights the critical need for immediate, decisive actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate environmental damage. This development signals the urgent demand for sustainable solutions and global cooperation to combat climate change.

GEAPP and ISA Join Forces for $100 Million Solar Fund

The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has signed a Multi-Donor Trust Fund with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), aiming to mobilize $100 million for impactful solar energy projects in India. This fund will support high-impact projects, bridge financing gaps, and enhance institutional capacity to accelerate the clean energy transition. Additionally, GEAPP and ISA have launched initiatives like the Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition (DUET) and the Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge (ENTICE 2.0) to modernize grid systems and drive innovation in the solar energy sector.

PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Enhancing Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2025, creating a year-round strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh. Located in the Ganderbal district, this 6.5-kilometer tunnel bypasses avalanche-prone areas, ensuring safer, more reliable travel. It will enhance connectivity to Sonamarg and facilitate travel to Ladakh, boosting tourism and economic activities. This infrastructure project is crucial for improving military logistics and fostering regional development, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the connectivity and growth prospects of these regions.