Daily Current Affairs January 03

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs January 03. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

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January 03 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs January 03

1. What special declaration has the Telangana government made to honor Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary?
A) Declared a public holiday in the state
B) Introduced a scholarship program for female students
C) Announced January 3 as Women Teacher’s Day
D) Launched a campaign for widow remarriage
E) Renamed government schools after Savitribai Phule
Answer: C) Announced January 3 as Women Teacher’s Day

Event and Location:

  • Event: Telangana Declares January 3 as Women Teacher’s Day to Honor Savitribai Phule
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: Telangana

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Savitribai Phule Jayanti:
    • Celebrated every year on January 3 to honor Savitribai Phule, India’s first female teacher and social reformer.
    • Recognizes her contributions to women’s education, gender equality, and social reform.
  • Telangana’s Initiative:
    • The Telangana government declared Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary as Women Teacher’s Day.
    • This day will be celebrated annually as a state function, as directed by Chief Secretary A. Santhi Kumari.
  • Significance of Savitribai Phule’s Contributions:
    • Pioneer in Women’s Education: Opened India’s first school for girls in 1848 in Pune with her husband Jyotirao Phule.
    • Social Reformer: Advocated for widow remarriage, fought child marriage, caste discrimination, and untouchability.
    • Poet and Writer: Used literature to highlight social issues, publishing works like Kavya Phule.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Women Teacher’s Day:
    • A day to honor the contributions of women educators and social reformers, inspired by Savitribai Phule’s legacy.
  • Savitribai Phule:
    • Born on January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, Maharashtra.
    • India’s first female teacher and a pioneer in promoting gender and caste equality.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Telangana:

  • Capital: Hyderabad
  • Chief Minister: Revanth Reddy
  • Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma

Savitribai Phule:

  • Born: January 3, 1831
  • Known For: India’s first female teacher, social reformer, and poet

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Occasion Savitribai Phule Jayanti 2025
Date January 3, 2025
Declared By Telangana Government
Special Declaration January 3 marked as Women Teacher’s Day
Significance Honors Savitribai Phule’s contributions to women’s education and social reform

 

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs January 03

2. What percentage reduction in India’s emission intensity of GDP was achieved between 2005 and 2020, as mentioned in India’s 4th Biennial Update Report?
A) 25%
B) 30%
C) 36%
D) 40%
E) 50%
Answer: C) 36%

Event and Location:

  • Event: Submission of India’s 4th Biennial Update Report to the UNFCCC
  • Date: December 30, 2024
  • Location: Submitted by India to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Purpose of BUR-4:
    • Updates the Third National Communication (TNC) and provides India’s National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory for 2020.
    • Includes details on national circumstances, mitigation actions, and analysis of gaps, constraints, and finance needs.
  • Key Highlights:
    • Reduction in Emission Intensity of GDP: Achieved a 36% reduction in emission intensity of GDP between 2005 and 2020.
    • Forest and Tree Cover Contribution:
      • Forest and tree cover sequestered 522 million tonnes of CO2, reducing 22% of total CO2 emissions in 2020.
      • Created an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 from 2005 to 2021.
    • Non-Fossil Sources in Energy:
      • As of October 2024, 46.52% of installed electricity generation capacity comes from non-fossil sources.
      • Cumulative renewable power capacity increased from 35 GW (2014) to 156.25 GW (2024).

Important Terms Explained:

  • Biennial Update Report (BUR):
    • A periodic report submitted to the UNFCCC detailing GHG emissions and climate mitigation actions.
  • UNFCCC:
    • United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, aimed at stabilizing GHG concentrations to prevent climate change.
  • Emission Intensity of GDP:
    • The amount of GHG emissions produced per unit of GDP, indicating decoupling of economic growth from emissions.
  • LULUCF (Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry):
    • Sector accounting for carbon sequestration from forests and tree cover.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC):

  • Established: 1992
  • Headquarters: Bonn, Germany
  • Executive Secretary: Simon Stiell

India’s NDC (Nationally Determined Contributions) Commitments:

  • Reduction of emission intensity: 33–35% by 2030 from 2005 levels.
  • Increase non-fossil fuel capacity: To 50% of the total electricity generation capacity by 2030.
  • Creation of carbon sink: 2.5–3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through afforestation by 2030.

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Report Name 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4)
Submitted To United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Submission Date December 30, 2024
Emission Reduction 36% reduction in GDP emission intensity from 2005 to 2020
Forest and Tree Cover 25.17% of total geographical area, sequestered 522 million tonnes of CO2
Non-Fossil Fuel Share 46.52% of electricity generation capacity by October 2024

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs January 03

3. What is the key feature of SBI’s new TAB-based onboarding process for NRIs?
A) Manual document submission
B) Integration with e-KYC services for identity verification
C) Only available at international branches
D) Longer account setup time due to documentation
E) Restricted to resident Indian customers
Answer: B) Integration with e-KYC services for identity verification

Event and Location:

  • Event: SBI Launches TAB-Based Digital Onboarding Process for NRIs
  • Date: January 2, 2025
  • Location: Available across all SBI branches in India and select international offices

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Objective:
    • To digitize the onboarding process for Non-Resident External (NRE) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) accounts, ensuring a paperless, seamless, and efficient experience for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
  • Key Features:
    • Digital Document Verification: Eliminates physical paperwork by verifying documents digitally.
    • Integration with e-KYC: Leverages Aadhaar-based e-KYC services for identity and address verification via UIDAI.
    • Real-Time Application Tracking: Customers can monitor their application status online, enhancing transparency.
    • Accessibility: Service available across SBI branches in India and select foreign offices.
  • Historical Context:
    • Builds upon SBI’s earlier Tab Banking service (2013) for resident Indian customers, which introduced digital tools for account setup.

Important Terms Explained:

  • NRE Account (Non-Resident External Account):
    • For managing income earned outside India. Allows repatriation of funds back to the home country.
  • NRO Account (Non-Resident Ordinary Account):
    • For managing income earned in India, such as rent or dividends.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

State Bank of India (SBI):

  • Founded: July 1, 1955
  • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Chairman: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
  • Tagline: “The Banker to Every Indian”

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Service Name TAB-Based Digital Onboarding Process
Launched By State Bank of India (SBI)
Launch Date January 2, 2025
Target Group Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
Key Features Digital document verification, e-KYC, real-time tracking
Account Types NRE (External) and NRO (Ordinary) Accounts

 

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs January 01

4. What is the primary focus of the semiconductor plant being established in Assam by Tata Electronics?
A) Manufacture chips for consumer electronics
B) Produce chips for automobile and telecom industries
C) Export chips exclusively to Asian markets
D) Develop AI-based chip technologies
E) Manufacture solar panels
Answer: B) Produce chips for automobile and telecom industries

Event and Location:

  • Event: Tata’s Semiconductor Plant in Assam to Begin Chip Production in 2026
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: Jagiroad, Morigaon District, Assam

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Plant Overview:
    • Tata Electronics is constructing a semiconductor plant in Jagiroad, Assam, with production slated to begin in 2026.
    • Chips produced will cater to automobile and telecom industries in countries like Japan, the United States, and Germany.
  • Timeline:
    • Construction of the plant to be completed by 2025.
  • Significance:
    • Marks a significant step in India’s journey toward becoming a global hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
    • Aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India through self-reliance in critical technologies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Semiconductors:
    • Materials used in electronic devices to control electrical current.
    • Essential for chips used in industries such as telecom, automobiles, and consumer electronics.
  • Tata Electronics:
    • A subsidiary of the Tata Group, focused on electronics manufacturing and technology.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Assam:

  • Capital: Dispur
  • Chief Minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
  • Governor: Lakshman Acharya

Tata Group:

  • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Founded: 1868
  • Chairman: Natarajan Chandrasekaran

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Plant Name Tata Semiconductor Plant
Production Start 2026
Location Jagiroad, Morigaon District, Assam
Industries Catered Automobile and Telecom
Export Destinations Japan, United States, Germany
Construction Completion 2025

 

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 03

5. What initiative did Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasize during the seventh meeting of the Island Development Agency (IDA) on January 3, 2025?
A) Enhancing tourism infrastructure
B) Implementing the ‘PM Surya Ghar’ scheme
C) Setting up new ports in the islands
D) Introducing electric vehicles in the region
E) Launching new fisheries programs
Answer: B) Implementing the ‘PM Surya Ghar’ scheme

Event and Location:

  • Event: Installation of Solar Panels in Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Reviewed ongoing development initiatives in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
  • Directed the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to implement the ‘PM Surya Ghar’ scheme, aimed at achieving 100% renewable energy generation.
  • Focused on promoting solar and wind energy projects in the regions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Island Development Agency (IDA):
    • Established to promote the sustainable development of India’s island territories.
    • Functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • PM Surya Ghar Scheme:
    • Promotes household solar installations to enhance energy independence and renewable energy adoption.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

  • Capital: Port Blair
  • Lieutenant Governor: Admiral DK Joshi (Retd.)

Lakshadweep:

  • Capital: Kavaratti
  • Administrator: Praful Khoda Patel

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Meeting 7th meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA)
Date January 3, 2025
Location New Delhi
Key Initiative Implementation of ‘PM Surya Ghar’ scheme
Significance Focus on 100% renewable energy generation for Andaman, Nicobar, Lakshadweep

6. What is the main purpose of the newly constructed Cherlapalli Railway Terminal in Hyderabad?
A) To promote tourism in Hyderabad
B) To serve as a freight terminal
C) To decongest major railway terminals in Hyderabad
D) To introduce luxury train services
E) To increase local train frequency
Answer: C) To decongest major railway terminals in Hyderabad

Event and Location:

  • Event: PM Modi to Virtually Inaugurate ₹413-Crore Cherlapalli Railway Terminal
  • Date: January 6, 2025
  • Location: Hyderabad (Virtual inauguration from New Delhi)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • The Cherlapalli Railway Terminal is aimed at reducing congestion at the main railway stations in Hyderabad, including Secunderabad, Nampally, and Kacheguda.
  • Built at a cost of ₹413 crore, the terminal is equipped with nine platforms and modern facilities to accommodate 20 long-distance trains.
  • Strategically located on the eastern side of Hyderabad near the Outer Ring Road (ORR), it will cater to rapidly developing areas like LB Nagar, Uppal, and Malkajgiri.

Key Features of the Terminal:

  • Infrastructure:
    • Nine high-level platforms, two-foot-over bridges, five escalators, and five lifts.
    • Modern amenities like executive lounges, sleeping pods, EV charging stations, cafeterias, and waiting areas.
  • Connectivity:
    • Improved approach roads by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).
    • Seamless bus connectivity through Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC).
  • Facilities:
    • Airport-quality amenities, ensuring a superior travel experience for passengers.

Important Terms Explained:

  • South Central Railway (SCR):
    • One of the 18 railway zones in India, headquartered in Secunderabad.
    • Responsible for the railway infrastructure and operations in the southern part of India.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Telangana:

  • Capital: Hyderabad
  • Chief Minister: Revanth Reddy
  • Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Purpose Decongest major railway stations in Hyderabad
Inauguration Date January 6, 2025
Location Hyderabad (virtual inauguration from New Delhi)
Cost of Project ₹413 crore
Key Features Nine platforms, modern amenities, connectivity improvements
Significance Facilitates growing passenger demand and enhances infrastructure

7. What is the primary objective of the ‘Vergalai Thedi’ scheme initiated by the Tamil Nadu government?
A) To provide financial assistance to non-resident Tamils
B) To reconnect non-resident Tamil youths with their cultural roots
C) To promote tourism in Tamil Nadu
D) To offer employment opportunities to non-resident Tamils
E) To facilitate business investments in Tamil Nadu
Answer: B) To reconnect non-resident Tamil youths with their cultural roots

Event and Location:

  • Event: Non-Resident Tamil Youths Visit Ramanathapuram District Under ‘Vergalai Thedi’ Scheme
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu

Mandates and Objectives:

  • ‘Vergalai Thedi’ Scheme:
    • Launched by the Tamil Nadu government to reconnect non-resident Tamil youths with their cultural heritage.
    • Annually selects 200 children of non-resident Tamils from various countries for a cultural tour across Tamil Nadu.
  • Recent Visit:
    • On January 3, 2025, a group of 38 non-resident Tamil youths visited Ramanathapuram district.
    • The tour included visits to temples, historical monuments, and significant cultural sites in the district.
  • Objective:
    • To provide participants with an immersive experience of Tamil Nadu’s rich culture and heritage.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Non-Resident Tamils (NRTs):
    • Individuals of Tamil origin residing outside Tamil Nadu, either in other states of India or abroad.
  • ‘Vergalai Thedi’ Scheme:
    • Translates to ‘In Search of Roots’.
    • A cultural exchange program aimed at strengthening the bond between the Tamil diaspora and their ancestral homeland.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Tamil Nadu:

  • Capital: Chennai
  • Chief Minister: Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin
  • Governor: R. N. Ravi

Ramanathapuram District:

  • Known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
  • Home to the famous Rameswaram Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Scheme Name ‘Vergalai Thedi’ (In Search of Roots)
Participants 38 non-resident Tamil youths
Activities Visits to temples, historical monuments, and cultural sites in Ramanathapuram
Objective Reconnecting non-resident Tamil youths with Tamil Nadu’s culture and heritage
Annual Participation 200 children of non-resident Tamils selected each year

8. What is the main objective of the Yuva Nidhi scheme in Karnataka?
A) Provide skill training for youth
B) Offer financial support to unemployed youth
C) Establish new educational institutions
D) Encourage entrepreneurship among youth
E) Promote rural development
Answer: B) Offer financial support to unemployed youth

Event and Location:

  • Event: ₹4.12 Crore Released to 2,478 Yuva Nidhi Beneficiaries in Gadag District
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: Gadag, Karnataka

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Yuva Nidhi Scheme:
    • Launched to provide financial assistance to unemployed youth in Karnataka.
    • Aims to empower the youth by supporting them financially during their job search.
  • Implementation:
    • ₹4.12 crore disbursed to 2,478 beneficiaries in Gadag district during 2023-24 via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
    • Beneficiaries were registered under the scheme, and funds were credited directly to their bank accounts.
  • Event Highlights:
    • Posters of the Yuva Nidhi scheme were released by H.K. Patil, Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Yuva Nidhi Scheme:
    • A welfare initiative by the Karnataka government to support unemployed youth.
    • Offers monthly financial aid to eligible beneficiaries until they secure employment.
  • DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer):
    • A mechanism to transfer subsidies or benefits directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries to reduce leakages and ensure transparency.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Karnataka:

  • Capital: Bengaluru
  • Chief Minister: Siddaramaiah
  • Governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Scheme Name Yuva Nidhi Scheme
Beneficiaries 2,478 unemployed youth
Amount Disbursed ₹4.12 crore
Disbursement Method Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Location Gadag district, Karnataka

9. What is the key advantage of the Dozer Push Mining Method introduced by CSIR-CIMFR?
A) Use of manual labor to reduce costs
B) Reduction in environmental impact from mining activities
C) Enhanced safety through unmanned automated operations
D) Exclusive focus on deep-sea mining
E) Increased dependency on traditional mining techniques
Answer: C) Enhanced safety through unmanned automated operations

Event and Location:

  • Event: CSIR-CIMFR Conducts First Trial Blast of Dozer Push Mining Method in India
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: PEKB (Parsa East and Kanta Basan) Coal Mine, Udaipur Block, Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Dozer Push Mining Method:
    • An innovative technique developed by CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR).
    • Integrates advanced digital technologies and unmanned automated machinery.
    • Aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in mining operations.
  • Key Advantages:
    • Reduces operational costs by 7–10% compared to traditional methods like truck-shovel and dragline techniques.
    • Improves productivity by ensuring faster coal recovery and reducing delays during adverse weather.
    • Enhances safety by minimizing risks associated with manual labor through automated drilling and blasting.
  • Trial Details:
    • Conducted by CSIR-CIMFR in collaboration with Adani Enterprises Limited.
    • 108 holes drilled using unmanned machinery and 60 tons of bulk emulsion explosives used for blasting.
    • Material moved to decoaled areas using large, automated dozers.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CSIR-CIMFR:
    • Abbreviation: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research.
    • Focus: Scientific research and technological advancements in mining and fuel industries.
    • Headquarters: Dhanbad, Jharkhand.
  • Dozer Push Mining Method:
    • A cutting-edge mining technique utilizing unmanned automated equipment for drilling, blasting, and material movement.
    • Offers higher safety, cost savings, and efficiency compared to traditional mining methods.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Chhattisgarh:

  • Capital: Raipur
  • Chief Minister: Vishnu Deo Sai
  • Governor: Ramen Deka

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Project Name Dozer Push Mining Method Trial
Location PEKB Coal Mine, Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh
Developer CSIR-CIMFR
Collaborator Adani Enterprises Limited
Key Advantages Enhanced safety, cost-effectiveness, and faster coal recovery
Technology Used Automated drilling and blasting machinery

10. What is the primary objective of the In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project under which Swabhiman Apartments were constructed?
A) To promote luxury housing in metropolitan cities
B) To rehabilitate slum dwellers by providing permanent housing
C) To increase urban employment opportunities
D) To construct commercial complexes in urban areas
E) To develop new industrial zones
Answer: B) To rehabilitate slum dwellers by providing permanent housing

Event and Location:

  • Event: Prime Minister Interacts with Beneficiaries of Swabhiman Apartments
  • Date: January 3, 2025
  • Location: Swabhiman Apartments, Ashok Vihar, Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

  • In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project:
    • A key initiative under the government’s ‘Housing for All’ mission, aimed at providing permanent homes to slum dwellers by rehabilitating them within the same area.
    • Swabhiman Apartments, constructed in Ashok Vihar, Delhi, are part of this project to improve living conditions for families previously residing in Jhuggi Jhopri (JJ) clusters.
  • Interaction Highlights:
    • PM Modi interacted with beneficiaries, hearing their experiences of moving from slums to permanent homes.
    • Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, describing the initiative as a life-changing transformation.
    • PM emphasized the importance of unity and progress and reassured beneficiaries that all eligible families would receive permanent housing.
  • Inspirational Outcomes:
    • Beneficiaries shared aspirations, such as pursuing education, careers in teaching, or joining the armed forces.
    • PM encouraged them to dream big and contribute to nation-building.

Important Terms Explained:

  • In-Situ Rehabilitation:
    • A method of improving living conditions by constructing housing in the same area where the original slums existed, minimizing displacement and preserving community ties.
  • Housing for All Mission (PMAY):
    • Launched in 2015, it aims to provide affordable housing to all urban and rural poor by 2022 (extended to 2024).

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Delhi:

  • Capital: New Delhi
  • Chief Minister: Atishi Marlena
  • Lieutenant Governor: Vinai Kumar Saxena

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):

  • Launched: 2015
  • Objective: Housing for All by constructing affordable housing units for urban and rural poor.

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Project Name In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project
Location Swabhiman Apartments, Ashok Vihar, Delhi
Key Objective Permanent housing for slum dwellers
Beneficiaries Families previously residing in Jhuggi Jhopri clusters
Prime Minister’s Focus Ensuring housing for all and inspiring unity and progress

11. What is the primary feature of Blinkit’s newly launched 10-minute ambulance service?
A) Operates only during specific hours
B) Provides paramedic assistance and emergency medical equipment
C) Offers transportation to multiple hospitals in one trip
D) Requires prior appointment booking
E) Focuses only on non-emergency cases
Answer: B) Provides paramedic assistance and emergency medical equipment

Event and Location:

  • Event: Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Service in Gurugram
  • Date: January 2, 2025
  • Location: Gurugram, Haryana

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Service Overview:
    • Blinkit, a quick-commerce company, launched a 10-minute ambulance service to provide immediate medical assistance.
    • The service will initially operate in Gurugram with plans to expand to all major Indian cities within two years.
  • Ambulance Features:
    • Equipped with emergency medical equipment: oxygen cylinders, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), stretchers, suction machines, and emergency medicines.
    • Staffed with a paramedic, assistant, and trained driver for professional care.
  • Company Vision:
    • Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa emphasized the goal of scaling the service across India to address emergency medical needs effectively.
    • Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal congratulated Blinkit for this innovative initiative.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Automated External Defibrillator (AED):
    • A portable medical device used to deliver electric shocks to restore normal heart rhythms during cardiac arrest.
  • Quick Commerce:
    • A business model focused on delivering goods or services rapidly, often within minutes of the request.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Blinkit (formerly Grofers):

  • Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana
  • CEO: Albinder Dhindsa
  • Parent Company: Zomato

Haryana:

  • Capital: Chandigarh
  • Chief Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar
  • Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Service Name 10-Minute Ambulance Service
Launched By Blinkit (Quick-Commerce Company)
Location Gurugram, Haryana
Key Features Emergency medical equipment, paramedic staff, quick response
Future Plans Expand to all major cities in India within two years

12. What is the primary objective of Project VISTAAR launched by IIT Madras and the Ministry of Agriculture?
A) Promote organic farming exclusively
B) Digitalize agricultural extension systems for enhanced farmer access
C) Train only agricultural start-ups in advanced techniques
D) Provide subsidies for farm equipment purchase
E) Replace traditional farming practices entirely
Answer: B) Digitalize agricultural extension systems for enhanced farmer access

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Project VISTAAR to Modernize Agricultural Extension Systems
  • Date: January 2, 2025
  • Location: Collaboration between IIT Madras, Chennai, and the Ministry of Agriculture

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Project VISTAAR:
    • Full Form: Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources.
    • Aims to digitalize the agricultural extension system to improve efficiency and expand its outreach.
  • Focus Areas:
    • High-quality crop advisory on production, marketing, supply chain, and value addition.
    • Information on government schemes related to agriculture, rural development, and allied sectors.
    • Integration of a database with over 12,000 agri-focused start-ups to provide innovative solutions.
  • Collaborative Efforts:
    • IIT Madras developed a comprehensive start-up information platform in collaboration with YNOS Venture Engine.
    • Provides farmers easy access to innovative technologies and start-up offerings.
  • Digital Transformation:
    • Enables farmers to access timely, contextual, and accurate information remotely.
    • Promotes sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture practices.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Agricultural Extension System:
    • A mechanism to disseminate agricultural knowledge, technologies, and innovations to farmers for improving productivity and sustainability.
  • YNOS Venture Engine:
    • A start-up incubated at IIT Madras that compiles and shares data on start-ups, particularly in the agriculture sector.
  • Sustainable Agriculture:
    • Farming practices designed to meet current food needs while preserving resources for future generations.

Static GK Information:

Titbits

Tamil Nadu:

  • Capital: Chennai
  • Chief Minister: M.K. Stalin
  • Governor: R.N. Ravi

IIT Madras:

  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Founded: 1959
  • Director: V. Kamakoti

Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare:

  • Agriculture Minister: Shri Narendra Singh Tomar

Tabular Summary:

Event Details
Project Name VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources)
Launched By IIT Madras and Ministry of Agriculture
Launch Date January 2, 2025
Focus Areas Digital crop advisory, marketing, supply chain, and value addition
Key Feature Integration of 12,000 agri-focused start-ups for innovation access
Objective Modernizing agricultural extension and enabling access to digital resources


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Telangana declares January 3 as Women Teacher’s Day to honor Savitribai Phule.

Ranking 

  • India’s GHG emissions reduced by 7.93% in 2020 compared to 2019, as per BUR-4.

Banking and Finance 

  • SBI launches TAB-based digital onboarding for NRIs to open NRE and NRO accounts.

Science and Technology

  • Tata’s semiconductor plant in Assam to start chip production for automobiles and telecom in 2026.

National Affairs

  • Amit Shah emphasized implementing ‘PM Surya Ghar’ scheme to achieve 100% renewable energy in islands.
  • PM Modi to virtually inaugurate ₹413-crore Cherlapalli Railway Terminal on January 6, 2025.
  • ‘Vergalai Thedi’ scheme reconnects non-resident Tamil youths with their cultural roots.
    ₹4.12 crore credited to 2,478 Yuva Nidhi beneficiaries in Gadag district under DBT.
  • CSIR-CIMFR conducts India’s first trial blast of Dozer Push Mining Method in Chhattisgarh.
  • PM Modi interacts with beneficiaries of Swabhiman Apartments under the In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project.
  • Blinkit launches 10-minute ambulance service in Gurugram to ensure rapid medical response.
  • Project VISTAAR launched to digitalize agricultural extension systems and integrate start-up innovations.

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