Table of Contents
National News
116th Mann Ki Baat- Welcoming a Milestone Year
As 2025 approaches, India stands on the threshold of significant celebrations and achievements. The year marks the 75th anniversary of the Constitution of India, a testament to the vision and dedication of the nation’s founding fathers. The Prime Minister, through the 116th episode of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, shared insights and aspirations for the country’s progress and unity, covering diverse themes ranging from cultural heritage to health and sports.
International News
China Unveils 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.
Defence News
Vitul Kumar Appointed Officiating DG of CRPF
Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the officiating Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) following the retirement of Anish Dayal Singh on December 31, 2024. Kumar, who is currently serving as the Special Director General of the CRPF, will oversee the force during a crucial period, especially with the ongoing challenges in regions like Chhattisgarh and Manipur. His appointment ensures continuity in leadership until a permanent successor is named.
India’s Defence Exports Cross Rs 21,000 Crore : Rajnath Singh
India’s defence exports have witnessed a remarkable surge, reaching a record Rs 21,000 crore from a mere Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago. During a visit to the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow Cantonment, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh set an ambitious target of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.
Economy News
GDP to Grow at 6.6% in FY25: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its December 2024 Financial Stability Report (FSR), projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% for FY25, driven by a revival in rural consumption, increased government spending, and strong services exports. Despite a moderation in GDP growth to 6% in H1 FY25 from 8.2% in H1 FY24, the RBI highlighted India’s economic resilience, supported by sound macroeconomic fundamentals, improved asset quality in banks, and robust financial system indicators. Risks such as moderation in urban demand, global uncertainties, and protective trade policies were noted.
Banking News
RBI Introduces Name Lookup for NEFT and RTGS
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a name lookup facility for Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) systems, aiming to reduce fraud and errors. This feature, similar to what Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) offer, will allow remitters to verify the beneficiary’s name before initiating transactions. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) will develop the system, and banks must implement it by April 1, 2025. The facility will be free for users and accessible via internet banking, mobile banking, and bank branches.
Rajat Verma Appointed CEO of DBS Bank India
Rajat Verma, the current head of the Institutional Banking Group at DBS Bank India, has been appointed as the new CEO of DBS Bank India, effective March 1, 2025. This announcement comes after the retirement of Surojit Shome, who has been at the helm since 2015. Verma’s appointment, subject to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approval, marks a new phase for DBS India as it continues its growth trajectory in India, one of the bank’s key markets. Verma, with over 27 years of banking experience, joins after significant contributions to DBS’ India operations, including leading substantial growth in the institutional banking sector.
Summits and Conferences News
India To Host First Waves Summit in February 2025
India will host the first-ever World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) from February 5-9, 2024. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address, this global event will position India as a hub for world-class content creation and creative collaboration. Inspired by international events like the World Economic Forum in Davos, WAVES is expected to bring leaders from media, entertainment, and creative industries worldwide to New Delhi.
Ranks & Reports News
ECI Publishes Detailed Data for Lok Sabha and Assembly Polls 2024
The Election Commission of India (ECI) released comprehensive data for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, including 42 statistical reports. Voter turnout increased, with 64.64 crore votes polled, a 7.43% rise in registered electors, and higher participation from women and third-gender voters. The number of polling stations increased to 10.53 lakh, and the number of nominations rose to 12,459. Women electors now comprise 48.62% of the electorate, and the number of female candidates contesting elections grew to 800. Inclusive elections saw significant increases in third-gender and PwD electors. National parties secured 63.35% of valid votes, while independent candidates performed modestly, with 7 elected out of 3,921 contestants.
Appointments News
Justice V Ramasubramanian Appointed NHRC Chairperson
Justice V Ramasubramanian, former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) as announced on December 23, 2024. The position had been vacant since Justice (Retd.) Arun Kumar Mishra’s tenure ended on June 1, 2024. Justice Mishra was the first non-CJI to hold the NHRC chairperson post since the Protection of Human Rights Act was amended in 2019. Interim leadership was provided by NHRC member Vijaya Bharathi Sayani until Ramasubramanian’s appointment.
Awards News
SAIL Earns Great Place to Work Recognition for Second Year
Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a significant milestone by being re-certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the period January 2025 to January 2026. This prestigious recognition from the Great Place to Work Institute, India, marks SAIL’s second consecutive certification, as it was first awarded this distinction for the period December 2023 to December 2024. The certification underscores SAIL’s commitment to creating a positive work environment, fostering trust, and empowering its employees through innovative HR practices.
Science and Technology News
ISRO Launches Historic SpaDeX Mission for Space Docking
India’s space journey takes a giant leap as ISRO successfully launched the SpaDeX mission to demonstrate space docking capabilities, marking a key milestone in space exploration. Launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC SHAR) on December 30, 2024, the PSLV-C60 rocket carried two small spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), to low-Earth orbit. This mission sets the stage for autonomous docking and undocking technologies, positioning ISRO as the fourth global player in this field after Russia, the US, and China.
Sports News
Hemanth Muddappa Secures 3 National Titles, Extends Record to 15
Hemanth Muddappa, known as the “Drag King” in Indian motorsport, achieved an extraordinary feat by winning a triple crown in the final round of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship at the Madras International Circuit (MIC). With this victory, Muddappa took his total number of National titles to an impressive 15, solidifying his position as the most decorated motorsport athlete in India. Despite racing with a fractured thumb from a recent crash, Muddappa demonstrated resilience and skill, clinching titles in multiple categories.
Kerala Wins Senior National Men’s Handball Championship
Kerala achieved a historic milestone by winning their first-ever Senior National Men’s Handball Championship title. They triumphed over Chandigarh with a 34-31 victory in a thrilling final. Kerala, who had reached the final for the first time, delivered an impressive performance throughout the match. The team’s success was built on a strong collective effort, with standout performances from key players. Devendar was named the ‘Best Player of the Championship,’ while Rahul received the ‘Best Goalkeeper’ award for his exceptional performances between the posts.
Haryana Steelers Clinch Maiden PKL Title
On 29th December, 2024 the Haryana Steelers achieved a historic milestone by clinching their first-ever Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) title. The Steelers defeated the Patna Pirates in a thrilling final at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, with a commanding 32-23 victory. The match showcased stellar performances, particularly from their key players, who played a crucial role in the triumph. The final proved to be a test of both offensive and defensive strategy, with the Haryana Steelers maintaining control throughout the game, supported by solid performances from their raiders and defenders.
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