Current Affairs - January 14, 2025 Current Affairs

The field trials of the indigenously developed NAG MK 2 Anti-Tank Guided Missile were conducted at the Pokhran Field Range in Rajasthan. During the trials, the missile demonstrated remarkable precision by successfully destroying all targets. These evaluations also validated the performance of the Nag Missile Carrier version 2, marking a significant milestone in India's defence capabilities and indigenous weapon development. The choice of Rajasthan for these trials underscores its strategic importance for defence testing.

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has partnered with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu to develop a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC Chip. This initiative aims to enhance spectrum utilization and improve broadband access, particularly in rural areas. The project is part of the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India programs. It focuses on designing hardware-friendly algorithms for efficient spectrum sensing, targeting underutilized bands beyond 2 GHz, and developing a cognitive radio module for the 6 GHz satellite band, thereby advancing India’s telecommunications technology.

Telangana inaugurated the three-day International Kite and Sweet Festival at Parade Grounds as part of the Sankranti celebrations. The event attracted 57 international kite flyers from 19 countries and 58 national participants from 22 states. This festival not only highlights Telangana’s cultural heritage and culinary diversity but also offers interactive activities, making it a vibrant celebration of the state's traditions and a platform for global cultural exchange.

The Lokpal Act, aimed at addressing corruption through the establishment of an ombudsman, was enacted in 2014. This legislation was significantly influenced by the efforts of social activist Anna Hazare, whose movement garnered widespread public and political attention. The act's implementation marked a major step in institutionalizing mechanisms for transparency and accountability in governance. Celebrating Lokpal Foundation Day on January 16 acknowledges the contributions of individuals like Hazare, who played a pivotal role in its creation.

Nawaf Salam, a former presiding judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has been appointed as Lebanon's new Prime Minister. Receiving nominations from two-thirds of Lebanon’s 128-member parliament, he takes over from caretaker PM Najib Mikati, who garnered only 9 votes. Nawaf Salam, known for his distinguished judicial career, joined the ICJ in 2018 and was elected its president for a three-year term in February. His appointment signifies a pivotal change in Lebanon’s political leadership amidst ongoing challenges.

Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a third term as President of Venezuela on January 13, 2025, despite a disputed election in July 2024. His opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, accused the government of voter fraud and declared himself the rightful winner. Maduro’s inauguration was marked by significant opposition, including protests led by political figures like Maria Corina Machado. Despite facing international sanctions and pressure, Maduro’s government remains entrenched, and he has pledged to lead Venezuela towards peace, prosperity, and democracy, even amid ongoing controversies and protests.

Kappad beach in Kozhikode and Chal beach in Kannur have been awarded the Blue Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This recognition is given to beaches that meet stringent criteria in environmental sustainability, safety, and hygiene practices. The certification enhances Kerala’s reputation as a sustainable tourism destination and highlights the state’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism initiatives. By achieving this global standard, these beaches serve as a model for responsible tourism and attract environmentally conscious travellers, contributing to the state’s efforts to preserve its natural beauty.

The 85th All India Presiding Officers Conference (AIPOC) is scheduled to be held in Patna, Bihar, on January 20-21, 2025, marking its return to the city after 43 years. The conference, chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, will focus on the 75-year journey of the Indian Constitution and its enduring values. Co-hosted by the Bihar Legislature, the event will see participation from 54 presiding officers, 31 state legislature secretaries, and officials from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, making it a significant gathering of parliamentary leadership in India.

Odisha has become the state to 34th implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), aligning it with the state's own Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana. This scheme provides ₹5 lakh annual health coverage per family, with an additional ₹5 lakh for women. Covering 45% of India's population, AB PM-JAY offers 2,000 medical procedures in over 29,000 empanelled hospitals, making it one of the largest health initiatives globally and a significant step in ensuring healthcare accessibility for Odisha's citizens.

Uttar Pradesh is planning to privatize two of its power distribution companies, Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam and Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam, in an effort to improve efficiency and reduce power losses. The state government has issued a tender to appoint consultants for the privatization process. This move is part of a broader strategy to address power sector challenges in the state, although it has sparked political debate, particularly regarding potential increases in electricity tariffs and concerns over job losses.

The India-U.S. collaboration on the co-production of sonobuoys is aimed at strengthening the Indian Navy’s submarine detection capabilities. The final assembly of U.S.-specification sonobuoys will take place in India, and the operational production line is expected to be ready by 2027. This initiative involves the partnership between U.S.-based Ultra Maritime and India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), marking a significant development in undersea warfare technology. The sonobuoys will provide advanced capabilities for detecting submarines, enhancing India’s defence and undersea domain awareness.