Current Affairs - International

In Hindi Diwas 2025, Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Indian High Commission and the Open University of Sri Lanka, launched its first Hindi Certificate Course via open and distance learning. This initiative, inaugurated in Colombo, symbolizes the strengthening of cultural and linguistic ties between India and Sri Lanka. The Bharat-Sri Lanka Hindi Sammelan, attended by over 400 participants, further celebrated this collaboration on World Hindi Day, January 10, 2025.

The Sonamarg Tunnel, located in Jammu & Kashmir, is a 12-km-long project built at a cost of over Rs 2,700 crore. It bypasses landslide-prone areas, enhances winter tourism, and supports adventure sports in Sonamarg. Along with the Zojila Tunnel, it will improve NH-1 connectivity, significantly reducing travel time and boosting defence logistics in the region. The Prime Minister's visit on January 13 underscores its importance for regional development.

India extended humanitarian aid to Cuba following the devastating impact of Hurricane Rafael, which was the strongest November tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico. Cuba, an island nation in North America, is situated where the northern Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean converge. The aid highlights India’s commitment to supporting nations in times of natural disasters, fostering international solidarity. The capital of Cuba is Havana.

India’s National Highway network has achieved a remarkable 60% growth over the past decade, expanding from 91,287 km in 2014 to 146,195 km in 2024. This makes it the second-largest highway network globally. Additionally, initiatives like Bharatmala Pariyojana and enhanced port connectivity projects further highlight India’s commitment to developing infrastructure and boosting trade, while road safety measures are being implemented to address accident-prone areas.

Los Angeles declared an emergency after wildfires rapidly spread across 3,000 acres, forcing the evacuation of 1 lakh residents and endangering more than 13,000 structures. Iconic landmarks such as NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab were also at risk. Despite the efforts of over 1,400 firefighters, strong winds intensified the fire's spread, making containment challenging, especially near high-profile areas like Malibu and Santa Monica.