Current Affairs - January 7, 2025 Current Affairs

The eighth Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 22, was inducted at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on January 6, 2025. This event highlights the Indian Navy's efforts to enhance its operational capabilities. The barge was built by Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd., an MSME shipyard contributing to the Make in India initiative. The induction of LSAM 22 reflects the Navy’s commitment to modernizing its fleet while supporting local shipbuilding industries and bolstering India's defence manufacturing sector.

The CipAir app, launched by Cipla, is a specialized tool for asthma screening. It uses innovative exhalation tests to assess a user's likelihood of having asthma, categorizing the results into Red, Yellow, or Green zones to indicate varying levels of risk. This helps individuals take timely action by consulting healthcare professionals if necessary. The app is a significant step toward addressing the widespread issue of asthma underdiagnosis in India, where many cases go unnoticed. By facilitating early detection, CipAir contributes to improved asthma management, better patient outcomes, and a reduced burden on the healthcare system.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a $1 million prize for deciphering the ancient Indus Valley script, which has remained undeciphered for over a century. This announcement was made during the centenary celebration of the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization at an international conference in Chennai. The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of understanding this ancient script and reaffirmed the state's commitment to supporting archaeological and historical research. The Tamil Nadu government is also supporting further research through various initiatives, including the establishment of a dedicated research chair in the name of Iravatham Mahadevan.

The first-ever coastal and wader bird census in India took place in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from January 3 to 5, 2025. The census was conducted at the Marine National Park and Sanctuary, which is located in Jamnagar and is known for its rich marine biodiversity. The event involved over 100 bird watchers and experts and aimed to enhance understanding of bird populations along Gujarat’s coastline, which spans from Okha to Navlakhi. Jamnagar is home to a wide variety of bird species, including rare wader birds, making it an ideal location for this important conservation effort.

Kiran Jadhav of the Navy secured the gold medal in the 10m air rifle event at the 15th Lakshya Cup, scoring an impressive 251.7 points. This marked Jadhav's first victory after consistently reaching the finals since 2018, demonstrating his perseverance and skill in the sport. Gajanan Khandagale of Maharashtra claimed the silver medal with 250.9 points, while Mohit Gowda won the bronze with 229.3 points. Jadhav's achievement highlights his dedication and marks a significant milestone in his shooting career.

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched the Fast Patrol Vessels Amulya and Akshay, the third and fourth in a series of eight vessels built for the Indian Coast Guard. These 52-meter-long vessels, constructed with 60% indigenous content, are designed for fisheries protection, anti-piracy operations, search and rescue missions, and coastal patrols. The project, worth ₹473 crores, underscores India's push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and the critical role of GSL in enhancing maritime security through indigenous shipbuilding.

Dubai ranked eighth globally and secured the top spot in West Asia in the Global Power City Index 2024, marking its second consecutive year in the top 10. This prestigious ranking is based on six key dimensions: economy, research and development, cultural interaction, livability, environment, and accessibility. Conducted by Japan's Mori Memorial Foundation, the index evaluates the global influence of cities, and Dubai's consistent performance highlights its growing importance on the global stage, particularly in economic and cultural domains.

The Odisha government has signed a three-year, ₹15 crore sponsorship deal for the Indian national kho kho team, aiming to promote and enhance the visibility of the indigenous sport. Funded by the Odisha Mining Corporation, the initiative will focus on team development, infrastructure improvement, and global participation. With this strategic move, Odisha is demonstrating its commitment to supporting sports development, following the success of its previous sports initiatives, such as its partnership with Indian hockey. This sponsorship is expected to raise the profile of kho kho both nationally and internationally.

Sister Inah Canabarro, from Brazil, has been recognized as the world’s oldest living person at nearly 117 years old. Born on June 8, 1908, in southern Brazil, she is celebrated for her faith, vibrant personality, and love of soccer. Acknowledged by LongeviQuest and honoured by Pope Francis on her 110th birthday, Sister Canabarro is also the second-oldest nun ever recorded, following Lucile Randon. Her remarkable life stands as a testament to longevity and the enduring spirit of devotion and community.

On January 6, 2025, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Jammu Railway Division, making Jammu the 69th division under the Northern Railway Zone. This new division spans 742.1 route kilometres and includes crucial projects such as the Chenab Rail Bridge and USBRL. The establishment of this division is aimed at improving rail connectivity in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, fostering regional development by boosting tourism, creating jobs, and enhancing socio-economic conditions in these northernmost regions of India.

The Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra) was first discovered in Tripura, specifically within the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary. This butterfly species, found across parts of South and Southeast Asia, is protected under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Its sighting in May 2021 was documented in the journal Munis Entomology & Zoology. This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Tripura and underscores the importance of wildlife sanctuaries in conserving unique species.

The first photographic evidence of Pallas’s cat in India was captured in Himachal Pradesh, specifically during a snow leopard survey in the Kinnaur area. This discovery marks a significant contribution to the understanding of the distribution of this rare and elusive feline species. Pallas's cats are native to Central Asia and are typically found in high-altitude, rocky habitats. The images captured in Himachal Pradesh extend their known range, emphasizing the importance of the region's rich biodiversity and the need for conservation efforts to protect these species and their habitats.

Air Commodore Debakinandan Sahu took charge of the Base Repair Depot at Tughlakabad on January 6, 2025. Known for his expertise in aviation and missile systems, he is an alumnus of prestigious institutions such as AFTC, DSSC, and the College of Air Warfare. Awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2023 for his distinguished service, he has held several key engineering and staff positions within the Indian Air Force, showcasing his leadership and technical acumen in advancing the operational readiness of the force.

Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party after nearly a decade in power. His decision came amid internal party conflicts and a decline in public support, particularly with growing support for opposition leader Pierre Poilievre. Trudeau will remain as caretaker prime minister until a new leader is elected. His resignation follows concerns over party unity and declining support in national polls, with the Conservative Party gaining favour among voters.

On January 7, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the BHARATPOL portal at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), BHARATPOL aims to facilitate real-time international police assistance and strengthen India's efforts in combating transnational crimes such as cybercrime, financial crimes, and human trafficking. The portal replaces traditional communication modes, streamlining the exchange of information between Indian law enforcement agencies and INTERPOL. It plays a critical role in enhancing cooperation and improving the efficiency of law enforcement operations.

Suzuki Motor Corporation has acquired a 26% stake in NDDB Mirda Ltd, a bio-gas venture developed by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). This strategic investment aligns with Suzuki's goals to utilize Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) for improving the performance and longevity of vehicles. The partnership also reflects Suzuki’s commitment to sustainability by investing in alternative fuel sources. Furthermore, Suzuki has the provision to gradually increase its stake to 49%, showcasing its long-term dedication to this environmentally friendly initiative.

The World Day of War Orphans is observed every year on January 6 to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children who have lost their parents due to war and violence. This day emphasizes the struggles of these children, who often experience displacement, poverty, and the devastating consequences of conflict. It calls for collective global action to support their welfare by providing them with care, education, and protection, ensuring a better future for these vulnerable young survivors of war and violence.

Azimul Haque, an IAS officer, has been appointed as the CEO of the Delhi Waqf Board, with approval from Lieutenant Governor (L-G) V.K. Saxena. This appointment came after a delay of over a month, during which the position had been vacant since November 28, 2024. The vacancy caused disruptions, including delays in salary disbursements for imams and Board employees. L-G Saxena criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for its negligence and failure to follow proper legal procedures in addressing the matter.

India's first organic fisheries cluster was launched in Soreng District, Sikkim, by Union Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh. This initiative is aimed at promoting sustainable, chemical-free, and antibiotic-free fish farming. It aligns with Sikkim’s broader commitment to organic practices, as the state is already known for its organic farming. The cluster will supply eco-friendly fish to global markets, reinforcing the state’s dedication to ecological sustainability and further boosting farmers' incomes through this innovative approach in the aquaculture sector.