Current Affairs - National

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has accepted India's invitation to be the chief guest at the Republic Day parade in 2025. This visit is a significant step towards strengthening the ties between India and Indonesia, reflecting India's Act East Policy. The visit will focus on enhancing strategic cooperation, defence ties, and economic engagement between the two countries. India and Indonesia share a long history of cultural and commercial ties, and this visit aims to further solidify their modern strategic relationship, especially in defence and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

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.

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.

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.

The 15th Aero India, Asia's largest aero show, will take place from February 10-14, 2025, at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The event, themed "The Runway to a Billion Opportunities," will include air displays, and static exhibitions, and promote India's Make-in-India initiative. It will host global CEOs, domestic PSUs, and private firms, fostering bilateral meetings to strengthen defence and aerospace partnerships. This platform underscores India's growing prominence in the global aerospace industry.