Table of Contents
National News
SECL Introduces Post-Retirement Benefit Cell
In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing the welfare of its retired employees, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a Chhattisgarh-based subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has launched a Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB) Cell. The cell, designed to provide a single-window solution for retired employees, reflects SECL’s commitment to improving the post-retirement experience of its former workforce.The new PRB Cell consolidates various post-retirement services under one roof, ensuring that retirees no longer need to navigate between multiple departments. The initiative also complements ‘Mission Sambandh’, an ongoing SECL program aimed at fostering better communication and engagement with stakeholders.
International News
Venezuela’s Maduro Sworn in Amid Electoral Controversy
Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela (46th President), was sworn in for a third six-year term following a contentious election. His opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, claimed voter fraud and declared himself the rightful winner of the July elections. Despite international pressure and sanctions, particularly from the United States, Maduro’s inauguration took place amid widespread controversy and public protests.
6.9 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Japan, Tsunami Advisory Issued
On January 13, 2025, at 9:19 PM local time, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck southwestern Japan, with its epicenter located in the Hyuga-Nada Sea off Miyazaki Prefecture. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a tsunami advisory for Miyazaki and nearby Kochi Prefectures, warning of potential waves up to one meter in height. The advisory was later lifted, and no significant damage or injuries have been reported.
Defence News
India-U.S. Sonobuoy Production Line Set for 2027
India and the U.S. are set to collaborate on the co-production of sonobuoys, a crucial technology for undersea domain awareness, aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s ability to detect submarines. This initiative will involve the final assembly of U.S.-specification sonobuoys in India, with the operational production line expected to be ready by 2027. The collaboration involves Ultra Maritime, a leading U.S. defense company, and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), an Indian defense public sector undertaking. The sonobuoys will be used for tracking submarines, providing the Indian Navy with advanced undersea warfare capabilities.
State News
Uttar Pradesh’s Strategic Move to Privatize Power Distribution Firms
Uttar Pradesh is considering the privatization of two of its four power distribution companies—Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam and Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam. This initiative, as indicated by a state government tender dated January 12, 2025, aims to address challenges such as power losses and inadequate transmission infrastructure.
Odisha Integrates with Ayushman Bharat
Odisha became the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), marking a significant advancement in the state’s healthcare landscape. This integration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Health Authority (NHA) of the Union Ministry of Health and Odisha’s Department of Health and Family Welfare.
Avaniyapuram Jallikattu 2025 Begins
The Avaniyapuram Jallikattu, a cornerstone of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage, commenced on January 14, 2025, in Madurai. This annual bull-taming event, celebrated during the Pongal festival, showcases the valor and skill of participants and the deep-rooted traditions of the region.
Economy News
India’s Direct Tax Collection Sees Significant Growth in FY25
India’s net direct tax collection has experienced a significant year-on-year growth, reaching approximately ₹16.90 lakh crore by January 12, 2025. This marks a 15.88% increase compared to the same period last fiscal year. The government’s target for direct tax revenue in the current fiscal year is ₹22.07 lakh crore.
India’s Retail Inflation Drops to 5.22% in December
India’s retail inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), decreased to 5.22% in December 2024 from 5.48% in November, marking a four-month low. This decline is primarily attributed to a slowdown in food price increases, particularly in vegetables, cereals, and pulses.
Govt Approves 56 Watershed Projects Worth ₹700 Crore
The Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned 56 new Watershed Development Projects under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) at a total cost of ₹700 crore. These projects aim to enhance agricultural productivity, address land degradation, and bolster climate resilience across ten high-performing states: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
Agreements News
C-DOT & IIT Mandi to Develop Wideband Spectrum Sensor Chip
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), in collaboration with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu, has taken a significant step in developing state-of-the-art telecommunications technology by signing an agreement for the development of a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC-Chip. This project is aimed at enhancing spectrum utilization, ensuring efficient broadband services, particularly in rural India. It falls under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme, supporting India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India.
Awards News
Kappad and Chal Beaches Receive Prestigious 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. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to preserve its natural beauty while promoting responsible tourism.
Science and Technology News
ISRO’s SpaDeX Mission Achieves Satellite Docking Milestone
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made a significant leap in space docking technology with its SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission. The mission involves two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), designed to test and demonstrate spacecraft rendezvous, docking, and undocking technologies. On January 12, 2025, ISRO successfully moved the satellites within three metres of each other and then moved them back to a safe distance for further analysis. This milestone places India on the path to becoming the fourth country after the USA, Russia, and China to achieve this complex space maneuver.
California’s Wildfire Defense: The Use of Pink Fire Retardant
As wildfires continue to rage across Southern California, authorities are using planes to drop bright pink fire retardant to control the spread of the flames. This long-standing method of firefighting is becoming increasingly scrutinized for its environmental impact. While pink fire retardant has been in use for decades, growing concerns over its effectiveness and harmful effects on the environment have sparked a debate. Below is an overview of what pink fire retardant is, how it works, and the environmental concerns associated with its widespread use.
Sports News
Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Kicks Off with Spectacular Opening Ceremony
The inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup kicked off with great enthusiasm on January 13, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. This marked a significant moment in the history of indigenous sports, bringing together 23 nations for a celebration of Kho Kho, a traditional game originating from India. The opening ceremony was a vibrant spectacle featuring cultural performances and the unveiling of the World Cup trophy. The event has attracted dignitaries and players from around the world, highlighting the sport’s growing international presence.
Anju Bobby George Named Chairperson of AFI’s Athletes Commission
Anju Bobby George, the legendary long-jumper and a 2003 World Championships bronze medalist, was named the Chairperson of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) Athletes Commission. The new commission comprises a mix of prominent retired athletes, with Neeraj Chopra, the two-time Olympic medalist, being the most notable male member. The commission marks a significant step towards gender parity in the AFI setup, with six women out of nine members.
Important Days News
Makar Sankranti 2025
Makar Sankranti is a vibrant and ancient Hindu festival that celebrates the Sun’s movement from the Sagittarius zodiac sign to Capricorn. This event marks the end of the long winter nights and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. In 2025, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 14.
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