Current Affairs and GK Weekly One Liners 23rd to 29th of December 2024

Celebrating Mathematical Genius: National Mathematics Day 2024

On December 22, India proudly celebrates National Mathematics Day to honor the birth anniversary of the extraordinary mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Established in 2012, this day recognizes Ramanujan’s remarkable contributions to mathematics, despite his limited formal education.

Ramanujan’s pioneering work in number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions has left an indelible mark on the mathematical world. National Mathematics Day not only pays tribute to his legacy but also underscores the vital role mathematics plays in various fields and its importance in driving scientific and technological advancements.

India Inks $350 Million Loan Agreement with ADB to Boost Logistics Sector

The Government of India has signed a $350 million loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to enhance the country’s logistics sector. This funding is part of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) programme, which aims to improve India’s manufacturing and supply chain capabilities.

The SMILE programme will focus on creating an efficient policy framework to upgrade logistics infrastructure at national, state, and city levels. It seeks to standardize warehousing practices, attract private sector investment, enhance trade logistics, and adopt smart, low-emission systems.

India and Vietnam Coast Guards Enhance Maritime Cooperation Through Joint Exercise

The Vietnam Coast Guard Ship CSB 8005 recently concluded a successful visit to Kochi, strengthening the cooperative ties between the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). During this four-day visit, the two maritime forces engaged in a joint exercise named “Sahayog-Hop Tac” off the coast of Kochi. This comprehensive exercise included activities such as pollution response demonstrations, search and rescue drills, and counter-narcotics operations, addressing key maritime security challenges.

UN Proclaims December 21 as World Meditation Day to Promote Wellness

The United Nations General Assembly has officially declared December 21 as World Meditation Day, aiming to elevate global awareness of the numerous benefits that meditation offers for health and well-being. Co-sponsored by nations such as India and Mexico, this initiative underscores the critical role of mental health in achieving overall wellness.

World Meditation Day encourages individuals worldwide to integrate meditation into their daily lives, showcasing its positive effects on reducing stress, enhancing concentration, and boosting emotional resilience. The day will feature a range of activities, including guided meditation sessions, educational workshops, and discussions on the scientific basis of meditation and mindfulness.

Government Introduces BULA Bill to Regulate Lending Activities

The central government has unveiled the Banning of Unregulated Lending Activities (BULA) Bill to tackle the issues surrounding unregulated lending. This legislative effort follows recommendations from the Reserve Bank of India’s Working Group on Digital Lending. The BULA Bill aims to protect borrowers by prohibiting individuals or entities not authorized by the RBI or other regulatory bodies from engaging in lending activities.

Violations under the proposed law would be considered serious offenses, with penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The bill also suggests that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) handle investigations involving multiple states or significant amounts.

Inaugural Phewa Dialogue 2024 Enhances Nepal-China Regional Cooperation

The Phewa Dialogue series recently commenced in Pokhara, a city celebrated for its picturesque lake, marking a significant collaboration between Nepal and China. Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari inaugurated the dialogue, emphasizing its importance for fostering regional cooperation and prosperity. The Phewa Dialogue aims to develop policies that address crucial issues affecting South Asia, such as industrial changes and emerging needs, thereby promoting regional peace and development.

Nitin Gadkari Unveils India’s Pioneering Bio-Bitumen Highway Stretch on NH-44

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, recently inaugurated India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra. This landmark project, developed using lignin-based bio-bitumen technology, represents a significant advancement in India’s road infrastructure. The technology, created in collaboration with Praj Industries, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), offers a sustainable alternative to conventional bitumen.

Utilizing lignin, a natural binder, this innovation addresses bitumen scarcity and reduces India’s dependency on imports, which currently constitute 50% of the total supply. Furthermore, the project supports global sustainability goals by generating revenue for bio-refineries, mitigating stubble burning, and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.

Anmolpreet Singh’s Record-Breaking Knock: The Fastest List A Century by an Indian

Punjab’s top-order batter, Anmolpreet Singh, made history on December 23, 2024, by scoring the fastest List A century by an Indian in just 35 balls during the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh. This incredible feat places him third on the all-time list for fastest List A centuries, following Jake Fraser-McGurk (29 balls) and AB de Villiers (31 balls).

Anmolpreet’s explosive innings, comprising 12 boundaries and nine towering sixes, powered Punjab to a dominant nine-wicket victory, with the team chasing down a target of 165 in only 12.5 overs. He remained unbeaten on 115 off 45 balls, displaying his remarkable ability to dominate both pace and spin.

India Claims Inaugural U19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup Title with Victory Over Bangladesh

In a thrilling finale at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2024, India triumphed in the inaugural U19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup, securing a dominant 41-run victory over Bangladesh. This monumental win highlights the exceptional talent and potential of India’s young women cricketers, marking a significant achievement in the history of women’s cricket in India.

Government Infuses ₹500 Crore into IFCI to Boost Financial Restructuring

The Indian government has decided to inject ₹500 crore into the state-owned Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) to bolster its financial health ahead of a significant restructuring. This capital infusion will increase the government’s stake in IFCI to over 71%, reflecting a strong commitment to stabilizing the corporation’s financial standing. The funds, allocated through the Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2024-25 approved by Lok Sabha, are expected to facilitate the merger of IFCI with StockHolding Corporation of India and other subsidiaries, consolidating the group’s operations and improving overall efficiency.

Kejriwal Launches Landmark Dr Ambedkar Samman Scholarship for Dalit Students

On December 23, 2024, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal unveiled the Dr Ambedkar Samman Scholarship, an ambitious initiative designed to support Dalit students from Delhi in pursuing higher education at top international universities. This scholarship aims to provide comprehensive financial coverage, including tuition, travel, and living expenses, ensuring that talented students from marginalized communities have the opportunity to achieve their academic dreams without financial constraints.

GST Council Introduces Advanced Track and Trace System to Enhance Tax Compliance

The GST Council has recently updated its framework to improve tax compliance and clarity, aiming to reduce tax evasion and simplify tax processes for businesses and consumers. One of the key updates is the introduction of a Track and Trace Mechanism, which involves affixing a Unique Identification Marking (UIM) to specified goods or their packaging. This mechanism will enable authorities to trace the movement of these commodities throughout the supply chain, thereby improving accountability and efficiency in tax collection.

Modi Awarded Kuwait’s Highest National Honour: The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Kuwait’s highest national honour, the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, by Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait. This prestigious accolade highlights the enduring friendship and goodwill between India and Kuwait, recognizing Modi’s significant contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

2025 ICC Champions Trophy Schedule Unveiled: India-Pakistan Showdown Anticipated

The schedule for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has been announced, setting the stage for the ninth edition of this prestigious cricket tournament. Taking place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the competition will feature the top eight ranked One Day International (ODI) teams and will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE.

Among the highlights is the eagerly awaited clash between India and Pakistan, scheduled for February 23, 2025, in Dubai. This marquee match is part of Group A, which also includes Bangladesh and New Zealand. The semi-finals are slated for March 4 and 5, with the final set to take place on March 9. If India reaches the final, it will be held in Dubai; otherwise, Lahore will host the championship match.

Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia Appointed Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court

The Centre has officially notified the appointment of Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia as the new Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. Justice Sandhawalia, the senior-most puisne Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, will assume his new role effective from the date he takes charge. This appointment follows a recommendation by the Supreme Court collegium and comes after a delay from the initially scheduled date of October 18, 2024.

TRAI Introduces Enhanced Telecom Regulations for Consumer Protection

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has unveiled the Telecom Consumers Protection (Twelfth Amendment) Regulations, 2024, and the Telecommunication Tariff (Seventieth Amendment) Order, 2024. These new regulations are aimed at bolstering consumer protection in the telecom sector, ensuring fair practices among service providers, and improving the overall consumer experience.

Legendary Filmmaker Shyam Benegal Passes Away at 90

Shyam Benegal, the legendary filmmaker celebrated for his impactful, socially relevant, and realistic films, passed away on December 23, 2024, in Mumbai at the age of 90 due to kidney-related ailments. His illustrious career, spanning several decades, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with groundbreaking films like Ankur, Nishant, Manthan, and Bhumika.

Three Indian Women Shine in Forbes’ 2024 Power Women List

Forbes has released its 21st annual list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, spotlighting influential leaders across various sectors, including business, entertainment, politics, philanthropy, and policymaking. This year, three exceptional Indian women have been recognized for their significant contributions and leadership: Nirmala Sitharaman, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. Their inclusion on this prestigious list highlights their impact and influence on a global scale.

Retired SC Judge V. Ramasubramanian Appointed NHRC Chairperson

President Droupadi Murmu has officially appointed retired Supreme Court judge V. Ramasubramanian as the new chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The NHRC has also welcomed the appointments of Priyank Kanoongo and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi as its new members, marking a significant step towards strengthening the commission’s leadership and focus on human rights issues.

S. Jaishankar Awarded Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award for Leadership

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been honored with the prestigious Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award for Public Leadership by the South Indian Education Society (SIES). This accolade recognizes his exceptional contributions to public service and leadership in shaping India’s foreign policy. During the award ceremony, Jaishankar highlighted the significance of India’s cultural heritage and its influential role on the global stage.

Honoring Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Legacy on Good Governance Day

Good Governance Day, or Sushashan Diwas, is celebrated every year on December 25 in India. This day is dedicated to promoting the values of accountability, transparency, and efficient governance, while also commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Established in 2014, the day serves as a reminder of Vajpayee’s significant contributions to the nation and encourages the adoption of good governance practices across various sectors.

President Murmu Announces New Governors for Five States

In a strategic move to enhance governance and address both political and administrative challenges, President Droupadi Murmu has appointed new governors for five states. Ajay Kumar Bhalla has been named the Governor of Manipur, Arif Mohammed Khan as the Governor of Bihar, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar as the Governor of Kerala, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati as the Governor of Odisha, and General Vijay Kumar Singh as the Governor of Mizoram. These appointments are expected to bring fresh perspectives and leadership to the respective states.

Madhya Pradesh Recognized as a Top Global Destination for 2025 by Wall Street Journal

In a significant accolade, Madhya Pradesh has been named one of the Go-To Global Destinations for 2025 by the Wall Street Journal. This recognition highlights the state’s rich heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Heritage and Culture: Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famed Khajuraho temples and the ancient city of Mandu.

Natural Attractions: The state boasts diverse natural landscapes, from the scenic Pachmarhi hills to the breathtaking Dhuandhar Waterfall, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Republic Day 2025: Showcasing “Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas”

The Ministry of Defence has unveiled the theme for the 2025 Republic Day celebrations: “Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas”. This theme highlights India’s rich cultural heritage (Virasat) and its progressive journey towards development (Vikas). The event will feature vibrant tableaux from 15 states and Union Territories, as well as 11 Union ministries, each depicting unique facets of India’s cultural legacy and developmental achievements.

Indore Airport Set to Pioneer Zero-Waste Initiative

Indore, renowned for its cleanliness, is on the verge of another milestone as it prepares to become India’s first zero-waste airport on December 22, 2024. This ambitious initiative focuses on comprehensive waste management by recycling and managing waste generated by both the airport facilities and its aircraft. The project emphasizes the 4R principle—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Restore—aiming to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable practices within the aviation sector.

Bihar to Host 2025 Women’s Kabaddi World Cup in Rajgir

Bihar is set to host the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 in March, marking the second time the state has had the honor of organizing this prestigious event. The tournament, which first took place successfully in Bihar in 2012, will be held at the Rajgir Sports Academy, featuring a modern indoor stadium that can accommodate 5,000 spectators. With participation from 14 nations, this event promises to showcase the growing global appeal of women’s kabaddi.

ISRO Set to Launch Pioneering PSLV-C60/SPADEX Mission on December 30, 2024

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for the launch of its PSLV-C60/SPADEX mission on December 30, 2024, at 9:58 PM IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology using two small spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), which will operate in low-Earth orbit. The successful execution of this mission is crucial for future lunar explorations and the establishment of India’s space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).

Arunish Chawla Takes Charge as New Revenue Secretary in Finance Ministry

Arunish Chawla, a distinguished IAS officer of the 1992 batch from the Bihar cadre, has been appointed as the new Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. This significant appointment follows the transition of Sanjay Malhotra to the role of Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Prior to this, Chawla served as the Pharmaceuticals Secretary and will also hold the additional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Culture, until a permanent appointment is made. His extensive experience and leadership in various administrative roles are expected to bring valuable insights to his new position.

Defence Ministry Unveils Rashtraparv Website & App to Celebrate Good Governance Day

On December 25, 2024, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh launched the Rashtraparv Website and Mobile App to commemorate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and mark Good Governance Day. This platform aims to enhance transparency and accessibility by providing comprehensive information about national events such as Republic Day, Independence Day, and the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Users can enjoy features like live streaming, ticket booking, seating arrangements, and route maps, making it easier for citizens to participate in and stay informed about these significant national celebrations.

Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 Tragedy Near Aktau, Kazakhstan

On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 jet tragically crashed near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan after being rerouted due to heavy fog. The flight, which was traveling from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, resulted in the loss of 38 lives, with 29 survivors. The crash site, located approximately 1.8 miles from Aktau, saw emergency services working tirelessly to extinguish a fire and rescue survivors.

AAP Launches Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana to Empower Dalit Students

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, has introduced the Dr. Ambedkar Samman Yojana to support Dalit students pursuing higher education abroad. Announced just before the Delhi Assembly elections, this initiative aims to cover all educational expenses for Dalit students admitted to prestigious international universities, including tuition fees, travel costs, and other necessary expenditures. The scheme is designed to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder Dalit students from achieving their educational aspirations.

The Hidden Challenges of Glass Child Syndrome

Glass Child Syndrome refers to the unseen emotional and psychological struggles faced by siblings of children with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Although not a formal medical diagnosis, this term encapsulates the feelings of invisibility and neglect that these siblings often experience. Their parents’ focus is primarily on the high-needs sibling, which can lead to the other child feeling overlooked and pressured to be perfect.

Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi Initiative: Empowering Rural Governance

On December 25, 2024, the Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi initiative was launched to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and to mark Good Governance Day. This initiative, part of the broader Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur campaign, aims to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) by equipping elected representatives and officials with enhanced governance tools and knowledge. The initiative leverages e-learning platforms, AI-powered chatbots, and mobile apps to bridge knowledge gaps, improve service delivery, and foster participatory decision-making at the grassroots level.

Maia Sandu Begins Her Second Term as President of Moldova

Maia Sandu has commenced her second term as President of the Republic of Moldova, following her re-election in a runoff election held in November 2024. Sandu, who first won the presidency in 2020, continues to enjoy public support for her vision of European integration, national security, and economic growth. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Palace of the Republic in Chișinău, where Sandu took the oath of office, vowing to uphold democracy, sovereignty, and the rights of citizens.

India’s Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

On December 26, 2024, Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s esteemed former Prime Minister, passed away at the age of 92 in New Delhi. He died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he had been admitted in critical condition. Singh’s health had been deteriorating for several days prior to his passing. The nation has declared a seven-day period of state mourning, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast in his honor.

Remembering Osamu Suzuki: The Visionary Behind Suzuki Motor Corporation

Osamu Suzuki, the iconic chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away at the age of 94. Suzuki, whose leadership transformed the company into a global automotive powerhouse, was instrumental in producing small, affordable cars that catered to emerging markets, particularly in India. His strategic vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry.

Rwanda Successfully Ends Marburg Virus Outbreak

Rwanda has officially declared the end of its first Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak as of December 20, 2024, following a thorough 42-day monitoring period with no new cases reported. The outbreak, which began on September 27, 2024, resulted in 66 confirmed cases, 15 deaths, and 51 recoveries. The successful containment of the outbreak is attributed to the swift and coordinated response by the Rwandan government, healthcare workers, and international partners.

India’s Defence Exports Soar to Rs. 21,083 Crore in FY 2023-24

In the fiscal year 2023-24, India achieved a significant milestone in its defence sector, with defence exports reaching a record-high value of Rs. 21,083 crore (approximately USD 2.63 billion). This represents an impressive 32.5% increase from the previous fiscal year’s figure of Rs. 15,920 crore. The substantial growth in defence exports underscores India’s expanding presence in the global defence market and reflects the success of policy reforms and initiatives aimed at boosting indigenous production and exports.

PM Modi Reviews Key Projects and Public Grievances in 45th PRAGATI Meeting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 45th PRAGATI meeting, an ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. During the meeting, eight significant projects were reviewed, including six metro urban transport projects and one project each related to road connectivity and thermal power. The combined cost of these projects exceeds Rs 1 lakh crore.

PM Modi emphasized the importance of timely project completion to avoid cost escalations and ensure public benefits. He also reviewed public grievances related to the banking and insurance sectors, stressing the need for high-quality resolution.

Bald Eagle Now Officially Recognized as America’s National Bird

The bald eagle received formal recognition as America’s national bird through legislation signed by President Joe Biden. This majestic bird, known for its distinctive white head and yellow beak, has symbolized the strength and freedom of the United States since 1782. With its new official status, the bald eagle joins the ranks of other national symbols, such as the rose and the bison.

UN Secretary-General Honors Indian Peacekeeper Brigadier General Amitabh Jha

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid a heartfelt tribute to Brigadier General Amitabh Jha of India, who served with distinction in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights. Guterres lauded Jha’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to UN peacekeeping missions. Brigadier Jha, who notably served as both Deputy Force Commander and Acting Force Commander during critical times, played a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in this volatile region.

Punjab Achieves Milestone with 100% Piped Water Supply to Rural Households

Punjab proudly announced that it has provided 100% piped water supply to all rural households under the central government’s Har Ghar Jal scheme. This remarkable achievement makes Punjab the fifth state in India to reach this milestone. In addition to this, the state government is undertaking extensive projects to improve water quality and address scarcity issues. Notably, 15 major canal water projects worth Rs 2,174 crore are underway, benefiting approximately 1,706 villages.

Delhi High Court Directs AAP Government to Finalize PM-ABHIM Agreement

The Delhi High Court ordered the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by January 5, 2025. This directive is crucial for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), which aims to significantly enhance healthcare infrastructure and services across India. Despite previous delays, the court emphasized the urgency of this agreement to ensure timely progress in bolstering the healthcare system.

Cricket Legend Sachin Tendulkar Accepts Prestigious MCC Membership

The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) announced that legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has accepted an invitation to become an Honorary Cricket Member. The MCC, which oversees the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), recognized Tendulkar for his exceptional contributions to the sport of cricket.

Tendulkar, affectionately known as the “Master Blaster,” has had an illustrious career, amassing an astounding 34,357 runs in international cricket and being a key player in India’s 2011 World Cup victory. This recognition by the MCC adds to his extensive list of accolades, which includes honorary life memberships from both the Sydney Cricket Club and the Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

Russia Declares Federal Emergency Over Catastrophic Black Sea Oil Spill

Russian authorities declared a federal-level emergency following a devastating oil spill along the Black Sea coast. The disaster occurred when two tankers collided during a storm near Crimea, resulting in one tanker sinking and the other running aground. Approximately 9,200 tonnes of fuel oil were released, with around 40% spilling into the sea. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the situation as “critical,” and thousands of volunteers have been mobilized for cleanup operations. However, some Russian scientists have criticized the response as inadequate. The Moscow-installed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksionov, declared a state of emergency in the region to address the environmental crisis.

India Introduces UG Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), in collaboration with the National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched India’s first Undergraduate (UG) Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies. This groundbreaking initiative aims to prepare India’s workforce for the quantum revolution and position the nation as a global leader in cutting-edge quantum innovation.

The programme, open to engineering students from their third or fourth semester, covers four key areas: Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Materials and Devices. It combines theoretical concepts with practical lab sessions, ensuring students gain both foundational and advanced insights into quantum technologies.