Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

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 25 & 26. 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 25 & 26 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

1. What is the significance of January 25 in relation to National Voters’ Day (NVD) 2025?
A) It marks the day India achieved its highest voter turnout.
B) It coincides with the establishment of the Election Commission of India.
C) It is the day when India’s electoral rolls were first published.
D) It celebrates the conclusion of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
E) It commemorates the introduction of electronic voting machines in India.
Answer: B) It coincides with the establishment of the Election Commission of India.

Event and Location:

• Event: National Voters’ Day 2025
• Date: January 25, 2025
• Location: Nationwide, with the national function held in New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose: Highlight the importance of voting in a democracy and promote voter registration.
• Specific Goals:
  • Encourage youth to register as voters (especially those turning 18).
  • Foster inclusive voting across all demographics.
  • Emphasize participatory democracy and the transformative power of voting.

Key Highlights:

• Theme for 2025: “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure.”
• 2025 Milestones:
  • Celebrated after the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, the largest democratic exercise globally.
  • India’s electoral database stands at 99.1 crore voters, including 21.7 crore young electors aged 18-29.
  • Electoral Gender Ratio: Improved from 948 (2024) to 954 (2025).
• National Event Details:
  • Chief Guest: President Droupadi Murmu.
  • Guest of Honour: Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.
  • Awards for Best Electoral Practices were presented to officials for innovation, inclusivity, and technology use.
• Publications and Exhibitions:
  • India Votes 2024 Coffee Table Book and Belief in the Ballot stories were unveiled.
  • A voter awareness film, “My Vote My Duty” by Raj Kumar Hirani, was released.
  • Multimedia exhibitions showcased the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.

History:

• Established: 2011.
• Significance of Date: January 25 marks the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (1950).

Tabular Summary:

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2. When did Himachal Pradesh officially become the 18th state of the Indian Union?
A) 15th April 1948
B) 26th January 1950
C) 1st November 1956
D) 25th January 1971
E) 18th December 1970
Answer: D) 25th January 1971

Event and Location:

• Event: Himachal Pradesh Statehood Day 2025
• Date: 25th January 2025
• Location: Himachal Pradesh

Historical Background:

• British Rule:
  • After Queen Victoria’s Proclamation in 1858, the British Crown governed hill regions like Chamba, Mandi, and Bilaspur.
  • These regions contributed men and materials to the British during World War I.
• Post-Independence History:
  • 1948: Formed as a Chief Commissioner’s Province by amalgamating 30 princely states.
  • 1950: Became a Part C State under the Indian Constitution.
  • 1954: Bilaspur merged with Himachal Pradesh.
  • 1956: Became a Union Territory as per the State Reorganization Commission’s recommendations.
  • 1966: Punjab hill areas, including Kangra, merged with H.P.
  • 1971: Himachal Pradesh attained statehood on 25th January 1971, becoming the 18th state of India.

Natural and Cultural Richness:

• State Symbols:
  • Animal: Snow Leopard
  • Bird: Western Tragopan
  • Flower: Pink Rhododendron
  • Languages: Hindi and local dialects
• Rivers and Dams:
  • Sutlej River: Bhakra Dam, Gobind Sagar, Koldam Dam
  • Beas River: Pandoh Dam, Maharana Pratap Sagar
  • Ravi River: Chamera Dam
  • Parbati River: Known for hydropower projects
• Lakes: Renuka, Rewalsar, Khajjiar, Dal, Beas Kund, Prashar, Chandratal, Surajtal, Gobind Sagar
• National Parks: Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO site), Pin Valley, Khirganga, Inderkila, and Simbalbara

Significance of Himachal Pradesh Statehood Day:

• Economic Growth: Achieved development in tourism, education, and hydropower.
• Heritage Preservation: Continued efforts to preserve its rich cultural and natural diversity.
• Development Model: Recognized as a model state for sustainable growth.

 Tabular Summary:

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3. What is the theme of National Tourism Day 2025?
A) “Tourism for Sustainable Development”
B) “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”
C) “Heritage and Nature in Harmony”
D) “Tourism for Global Understanding”
E) “Promoting Accessible Travel”
Answer: B) “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”

Event and Location:

• Event: National Tourism Day 2025
• Date: January 25, 2025
• Location: Nationwide
• Theme: “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”
  • Economic Growth: Tourism as a contributor to GDP and job creation.
  • Inclusivity: Ensuring benefits reach all levels, from small businesses to large enterprises.
  • Sustainability: Encouraging eco-friendly and culturally sensitive travel practices.

History:

• Initiation in 1948:
  • India’s tourism department was established to promote cultural heritage and enhance travel experiences.
  • Overseen by the Ministry of Tourism, which collaborates with various public and central agencies.

Significance:

• Economic Impact: Contributes significantly to GDP and employment.
• Cultural Preservation: Promotes awareness and protection of India’s heritage.
• Sustainability: Encourages environmentally responsible travel.
• Cultural Exchange: Bridges understanding between diverse groups.

Key Government Initiatives in Tourism:

1. Travel for LiFE Program:
   • Promotes sustainable tourism practices and eco-friendly travel behavior.
2. Swadesh Darshan Scheme:
   • Focus on theme-based tourism circuits like Eco, Coastal, Buddhist, and Wildlife circuits.
3. PRASAD Scheme:
   • Rejuvenates pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Amritsar, and Puri, enhancing amenities and infrastructure.
4. Incredible India Campaign 2.0:
   • Positions India as a destination for adventure, wellness, and cultural tourism.
5. Assistance to Central Agencies:
   • Support for developing tourism infrastructure and preserving cultural heritage.

Top Indian States for Foreign Tourist Visits (2020):

Tabular Summary:

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4. What is the theme for Republic Day 2025?
A) “Unity in Diversity”
B) “Digital India: Towards a Brighter Tomorrow”
C) “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas”
D) “Green India, Clean India”
E) “Inclusive Growth for a Developed Nation”
Answer: C) “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas”

Event and Location:

• Event: Republic Day 2025
• Date: January 26, 2025
• Celebration: Marks 76th Republic Day since India became a republic on January 26, 1950.

Theme for 2025:

• “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development):
  • Focuses on preserving India’s rich cultural heritage (Virasat).
  • Highlights development and progress (Vikas), balancing tradition and modernization.

Key Highlights of Republic Day 2025:

• Historical Context:
  • Constitution Adoption:
    • Adopted on November 26, 1949, came into effect on January 26, 1950.
    • Replaced the Government of India Act, 1935, marking India’s transition to a sovereign democratic republic.
• Celebrations in New Delhi:
  • Military Parade:
    • Showcases the capabilities of Indian Armed Forces.
  • Tableaux Displays:
    • Represents the cultural diversity and achievements of Indian states and union ministries.
  • Cultural Performances:
    • Celebrates the rich traditions of various Indian regions through dance and music.
  • Flypast:
    • Spectacular aerial display by the Indian Air Force, culminating the parade.

Chief Guest for 2025:

• Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia.
  • His presence symbolizes the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Indonesia.

Significance of Republic Day:

• Constitution Celebration: Honors the adoption of the Indian Constitution and democratic governance.
• National Unity: Promotes pride, unity, and patriotism among citizens.
• Military Prowess: Demonstrates India’s defense capabilities.
• Cultural Diversity: Celebrates India’s heritage, traditions, and achievements.

Tabular Summary:

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Sports – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

5. Who did Madison Keys defeat to win her first Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open?
A) Iga Swiatek
B) Petra Kvitova
C) Aryna Sabalenka
D) Sloane Stephens
E) Li Na
Answer: C) Aryna Sabalenka

Event and Location:

• Event: Madison Keys Wins the 2025 Australian Open Women’s Singles Title
• Date: January 25, 2025
• Location: Melbourne, Australia

Key Highlights:

• Match Details:
  • Madison Keys defeated Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final with a scoreline of 6-3, 2-6, 7-5.
  • Sabalenka was the two-time defending champion, making Keys’ victory even more remarkable.
• Road to Victory:
  • Keys saved a match point in the semifinals against Iga Swiatek, showcasing her mental toughness.
  • Her resilience and determination culminated in her maiden Grand Slam title.
• Historical Context:
  • Keys became the second-oldest woman to win her maiden Australian Open title in the Open Era after Li Na, who won at age 31 in 2014.

Madison Keys’ Career Highlights:

• Early Life: Born on February 17, 1995, in Rock Island, Illinois.
• Professional Debut: Turned pro in 2009 at the age of 14.
• First Grand Slam Final: Reached the 2017 US Open final, losing to Sloane Stephens.
• Other Major Achievements:
  • Won the 2019 Cincinnati Open by defeating Svetlana Kuznetsova.
  • Consistently performed well at the Australian Open, reaching the semifinals in 2015 and 2022 before her victory in 2025.

Tabular Summary:

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6. Who was named the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2024?
A) Usman Najeeb
B) Wanindu Hasaranga
C) Arshdeep Singh
D) Junaid Siddique
E) Ehsan Khan
Answer: C) Arshdeep Singh

Event and Location:

• Event: Arshdeep Singh named ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2024
• Date: Recognized for his performances in 2024
• Achievements in 2024:
  • Leading Wicket-Taker for India:
    • 36 wickets in 18 matches
    • Bowling Metrics:
      • Average: 15.31
      • Economy Rate: 7.49
      • Strike Rate: 10.80
  • Global Context:
    • Among the top 5 wicket-takers in T20Is globally in 2024.
    • Competed with players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Ehsan Khan, who played more matches.

Key Contributions:

• T20 World Cup 2024 (Caribbean):
  • Helped India win their second consecutive ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title.
  • Standout Group Stage Performance: 4/9 against the USA in New York.
  • Heroics in the Final: Figures of 2/20 against South Africa in Barbados.
    • Notable Highlights:
    • Early dismissal of Aiden Markram.
    • Crucial wicket of Quinton de Kock during middle overs.
    • Economical penultimate over, conceding just 4 runs.

Arshdeep’s Bowling Excellence:

• Powerplay Dominance: Swing and control to strike early in matches.
• Middle-Overs Impact: Key breakthroughs in pivotal moments.
• Death Overs Mastery: Exceptional accuracy with yorkers and slower balls under pressure.

Tabular Summary:

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Ranking – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

7. Which state ranked first in the Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025 released by NITI Aayog?
A) Chhattisgarh
B) Goa
C) Odisha
D) Karnataka
E) Jharkhand
Answer: C) Odisha

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025
• Date: January 24, 2025
• Location: New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Introduced by NITI Aayog to assess the fiscal performance of 18 major Indian states.
• Aims to guide policy reforms for sustainable and balanced regional economic growth.
  Rankings and Highlights:
• Top States:
  • Odisha (Score: 67.8) – Performed well in revenue mobilization, expenditure management, and debt sustainability.
  • Chhattisgarh (55.2).
  • Goa (53.6).
• States with Challenges:
  • Karnataka faced challenges in expenditure quality and debt management.

Key Statements by Officials:

• Dr. Arvind Panagariya (Chairman, 16th Finance Commission): Emphasized fiscal discipline for regional development and long-term sustainability.
• Shri Suman Bery (Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog): Highlighted that the FHI is a tool to assess fiscal health and encourage improvements.
• Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam (CEO, NITI Aayog): Stated that the FHI report provides actionable insights for strengthening fiscal resilience.

Significance:

• Aligns with India’s “Viksit Bharat @2047” vision, focusing on fiscal discipline for sustainable development.
• Encourages healthy competition among states to improve fiscal strategies.

Tabular Summary:

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8. Which country has emerged as the second-largest smartphone manufacturer globally due to significant growth in mobile phone production?
A) China
B) Vietnam
C) India
D) South Korea
E) United States
Answer: C) India

Event and Location:

• Event: India has emerged as the second-largest smartphone manufacturer globally, with over 200 manufacturing facilities, driven by the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, Make in India initiative, and rising domestic and global demand.

Key Highlights:

• India’s Smartphone Manufacturing Growth:
  • Production Growth:
    • In FY24, mobile phone production in India reached ₹4.1 lakh crore (~$49.27 billion), up from $3 billion in FY15.
    • India now meets 97% of its domestic smartphone demand and has transitioned to being a net exporter.
  • Exports Growth:
    • Smartphone exports grew by 42% in FY24, reaching $15.6 billion, up from $11.1 billion in FY23.
    • The China+1 trend has favored India as countries diversify their supply chains away from China.
  • PLI Scheme Impact:
    • Provides incentives to manufacturers upon meeting production targets.
    • Major beneficiaries: Apple, Samsung, and contract manufacturers like Foxconn and Dixon Technologies.

Key Data Points:

Drivers of India’s Growth:

1. Government Policies:
   • PLI Scheme: Encourages investment and local production.
   • Make in India: Boosts domestic manufacturing capacity.
   • Tariff Adjustments: Reduced duties on smartphone components to 15%.
2. China+1 Strategy:
   • Countries diversify manufacturing to India due to geopolitical tensions and supply-chain disruptions.
   • India gained $4.5 billion in mobile phone exports in 2023-24, partially offsetting declines in China and Vietnam.
3. Growing Domestic Demand:
   • Domestic demand surged from $12 billion in FY14 to $36 billion in FY24, growing at a CAGR of 13%.
4. Cost Efficiency:
   • India offers cost-effective labor, attracting global giants like Apple and Samsung.

Challenges:

• India faces competition from established leaders like China and Vietnam, where electronics account for 27% and 40% of total exports, compared to India’s 4.7%.
• Building a robust Global Value Chain (GVC) requires skill development and technological advancements.

Future Outlook:

• Government Target: Achieve $300 billion in electronics production by 2025-26, with mobile phones contributing 40% of this output.
• Export Growth: Sustained momentum in mobile phone exports expected due to PLI incentives and rising demand.

Tabular Summary:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

9. What new development has been introduced for business correspondents (BCs) following the January 21, 2025, meeting chaired by the Department of Financial Services (DFS)?
A) An immediate hike in remuneration for BCs.
B) A new engagement model for corporate BCs based on size and region.
C) Complete abolition of penalties for BCs.
D) Mandate for BCs to sell additional financial products like mutual funds.
E) Direct funding for BC kiosks from the RBI.
Answer: B) A new engagement model for corporate BCs based on size and region.

Event and Location:

• Event: Revamp of Business Correspondents (BCs)
• Date: January 21, 2025
• Key Developments: The first review of BC terms in 12 years was initiated to enhance the remuneration structure, rationalize penalties, and support viability, particularly in the Northeastern states and difficult areas.

Key Highlights from the Meeting:

• Engagement Model Updates:
  • New commission payout structure proposed to account for the variance among corporate BCs, which range from small firms to large entities managing thousands of kiosks.
• Regional Incentives:
  • Special incentive packages for women BCs and those operating in the Northeastern states and challenging locations.
• Penalties Review:
  • Banks admitted not enforcing penalties despite clauses in agreements.
• Infrastructure Concerns:
  • High security deposits (₹50 lakh to ₹1.8 crore per 1,000 kiosks) were flagged as an issue.

Significance of Changes:

• Enhances the viability of BCs, a critical part of India’s financial inclusion drive.
• Focuses on equity and inclusivity, particularly in underserved regions like the Northeast.
• Ensures BC channels remain sustainable for both small-scale operators and large corporate BCs.

Tabular Summary:

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10. What key regulatory measure is mandated under the pre-transaction phase of the draft guidelines for e-commerce platforms by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)?
A) Detailed product listings and seller contact details.
B) Implementation of two-factor authentication for payments.
C) Mandating uniform cancellation and refund policies.
D) Conducting Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for third-party sellers.
E) Displaying environmental impact scores of products.
Answer: D) Conducting Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for third-party sellers.

Event and Location:

• Event: Draft E-Commerce Guidelines Introduced
• Title: Ecommerce-Principles and Guidelines for Self-Governance.
• Issued By: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Food and Consumer Affairs Ministry.
• Objective: Protect consumers from fraudulent practices amid the rapid expansion of the digital shopping ecosystem.
• Comment Submission Deadline: February 15, 2025.

Key Regulatory Measures Across Three Phases:

1. Pre-Transaction Phase:
   • Mandatory KYC Verification: Platforms must conduct thorough KYC checks for business partners, especially third-party sellers, ensuring their authenticity and accountability.
   • Comprehensive Product Listings:
     • Inclusion of the product title, seller contact details, and identification numbers.
     • Supporting media for better consumer assessment.
   • Transparency for Imported Goods: Importer, packer, and seller details must be prominently displayed.
2. Contract Formation Phase:
   • Consumer Consent: Recording explicit consent before transactions.
   • Cancellation and Refund Policies: Maintaining clear, consumer-friendly policies.
3. Post-Transaction Phase:
   • Platforms must provide accessible transaction records in compliance with applicable laws.
   • Diverse Payment Options: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and e-wallets must be supported with complete fee transparency.

Significance of the Guidelines:

• Aims to establish trust and consumer protection in the e-commerce ecosystem.
• Ensures transparency for both imported and domestic goods.
• Encourages secure payment systems with measures like encryption and two-factor authentication.

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

11. What percentage of India’s national income was contributed by the digital economy in 2022-23, as per the report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)?
A) 10%
B) 11.74%
C) 14.67%
D) 15.5%
E) 7.83%
Answer: B) 11.74%

Event and Location:

• Event: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released a report titled ‘Estimation and Measurement of India’s Digital Economy’, highlighting the contribution of the digital economy to India’s GDP and its growth prospects.

Key Highlights:

• India’s Digital Economy in 2022-23:
  • Contribution to GDP: The digital economy contributed 11.74% of India’s national income, equivalent to ₹31.64 lakh crore (~$402 billion).
  • Employment Impact: The digital economy accounted for 14.67 million workers, representing 2.55% of the workforce.

Sectoral Contributions:

1. Digital-Enabling Industry:
   • Includes ICT services, telecommunications, and electronic manufacturing.
   • Largest contributor: 7.83% of Gross Value Added (GVA).
2. New Digital Industries:
   • Includes Big Tech, digital platforms, and intermediary-dependent firms.
   • Contributed nearly 2% of GVA.
3. Digital Contributions in Traditional Sectors:
   • Banking, Financial Services, Insurance (BFSI), trade, and education contributed 2% of GVA.

Projections for 2030:

• Growth Rate: The digital economy is projected to grow twice as fast as the overall economy.
• Future Contribution: Expected to contribute nearly 20% of national income by 2030.
  Drivers of Growth:
• Expansion of digital intermediaries and platforms.
• Higher digital diffusion in traditional sectors.
• Increased adoption of digital technologies across industries.

Challenges Highlighted in the Report:

• Lack of data on smaller digital platforms.
• Underrepresentation of digitalization in the informal sector.
• Exclusion of sectors like health and logistics from current estimates.

Significance of the Report:

• Policymaker Insight: Provides a framework for effective decision-making to foster digital growth.
• Business Strategy: Helps businesses identify areas for innovation and competitiveness.
• Global Benchmarking: Aligns India with international frameworks like the OECD for digital economy measurement.

Tabular Summary:

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

12. Who was reappointed as the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland on January 23, 2025?
A) Leo Varadkar
B) Donald Trump
C) Michael Lowry
D) Micheál Martin
E) Enda Kenny
Answer: D) Micheál Martin

Event and Location:

• Event: Micheál Martin reappointed as Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland
• Date: January 23, 2025
• Location: Ireland

Key Highlights:

• Reappointment: Micheál Martin secured 95 votes in favor and 76 against in the parliamentary vote.
• Coalition Government: Formed with Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and independent lawmakers, continuing the center-right partnership.
• Previous Term: Micheál Martin previously served as Taoiseach from 2020 to 2022.

Political Landscape and Challenges:

• Cabinet Composition:
  • The 15-member cabinet includes only 3 women, drawing criticism over gender representation.
  • Michael Lowry’s inclusion, despite past corruption allegations, sparked backlash from opposition parties.
• Economic Strategies:
  • Utilize tax surpluses from U.S. multinationals for public projects, tax reduction, and a sovereign wealth fund.
  • Prepare for potential economic impacts of U.S. corporate tax reforms under President Donald Trump.
• Opposition Criticism:
  • Accusations of reviving corrupt practices and concerns over inadequate gender representation in politics.

Tabular Summary:

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

13. Who among the following was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2025?
A) Shri M.T. Vasudevan Nair
B) Shri Osamu Suzuki
C) Smt. Sharda Sinha
D) Both A and B
E) Both A and C
Answer: D) Both A and B

Event and Location:

• Event: Padma Awards 2025 Announced
• Date: January 25, 2025
• Significance: Recognizes distinguished contributions in various fields across three categories:
  1. Padma Vibhushan – Exceptional and distinguished service
  2. Padma Bhushan – Distinguished service of a higher order
  3. Padma Shri – Distinguished service

Key Recipients in 2025:

Padma Vibhushan (7 Awardees):

• Posthumous Recipients:
  • Shri M.T. Vasudevan Nair (Literature and Education, Kerala)
  • Shri Osamu Suzuki (Trade and Industry, Japan)
• Other Recipients:
  • Shri Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy (Medicine, Telangana)
  • Justice (Retd.) Shri Jagdish Singh Khehar (Public Affairs, Chandigarh)
  • Smt. Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia (Art, Gujarat)
  • Shri Lakshminarayana Subramaniam (Art, Karnataka)
  • Smt. Sharda Sinha (Art, Bihar)

Padma Bhushan (19 Awardees):

• Notable Recipients:
  • Shri A Surya Prakash (Literature and Education – Journalism, Karnataka)
  • Shri Anant Nag (Art, Karnataka)
  • Shri P.R. Sreejesh (Sports, Kerala)
• Posthumous Recipients:
  • Shri Bibek Debroy (Literature and Education, NCT Delhi)
  • Shri Manohar Joshi (Public Affairs, Maharashtra)
  • Shri Pankaj Udhas (Art, Maharashtra)

Padma Shri (113 Awardees):

• Notable Recipients:
  • Shri Arijit Singh (Art, West Bengal)
  • Smt. Arundhati Bhattacharya (Trade and Industry, Maharashtra)
  • Shri R Ashwin (Sports, Tamil Nadu)
  • Shri Ajay V Bhatt (Science and Engineering, USA)
• Posthumous Recipients:
  • Shri Chandrakant Sheth (Literature and Education, Gujarat)
  • Shri Miriyala Apparao (Art, Andhra Pradesh)

Tabular Summary:

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14. Which gallantry award was conferred posthumously to Naik Dilwar Khan during the Gallantry Awards 2025?
A) Shaurya Chakra
B) Sena Medal
C) Kirti Chakra
D) Nao Sena Medal
E) Vayu Sena Medal
Answer: C) Kirti Chakra

Event and Location:

• Event: Gallantry Awards 2025 Announced
• Date: January 25, 2025 (Eve of Republic Day)
• Recognitions: Honors extraordinary bravery and selfless service by 93 personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces.

Kirti Chakra:

• Awardee: Naik Dilwar Khan (Posthumous).
• Unit/Regiment: ARTY, 28 RR (Army).
• The Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, recognizing acts of exceptional valor.

Other Key Awards:

• Shaurya Chakra: 14 recipients, including Captain Deepak Singh (Posthumous).
• Sena Medal (Gallantry): 66 recipients, awarded for acts of bravery by Army personnel.
• Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry): 2 recipients from the Navy.
• Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry): 8 recipients from the Air Force.

Tabular Summary:

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

15. What was the primary focus of the international conference held in Bengaluru in January 2025?
A) Advancements in planetary exploration
B) 125 years of solar physics research at Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
C) Development of space-based telescopes for astronomical research
D) Innovations in satellite communication technology
E) 50 years of ISRO’s contributions to space research
Answer: B) 125 years of solar physics research at Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Event and Location:

• Event: International Conference Marks 125 Years of Solar Physics Research in India
• Date: January 20–24, 2025
• Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
• Organizer: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)

Key Highlights:

• Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO): Established in 1899, it has significantly advanced solar astrophysics in India with its repository of historic solar data.
• Focus Areas:
  • Solar Magnetism: Exploring sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.
  • Space Weather: Understanding the Sun’s impact on Earth’s environment.
  • Solar-Stellar Connections: Insights into stellar phenomena influenced by solar activity.

Contributions and Initiatives:

• Historic Record Digitization: Prof. Abhay Karandikar emphasized the digitization of KSO’s sunspot data.
• Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s first solar mission with IIA’s contribution of the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC).
• Proposed Project: A National Large Solar Telescope in Ladakh.

International Participation:

• Over 200 scientists from India and abroad participated, including eminent solar physicist Prof. John Leibacher from the National Solar Observatory, USA.

Tabular Summary:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

16. What is the primary purpose of the SANJAY – Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS)?
A) Enhancing air defense systems of the Indian Air Force
B) Integrating battlefield data to create a Common Surveillance Picture
C) Developing an automated naval combat system
D) Monitoring cyberattacks in real-time
E) Enhancing medical facilities for soldiers
Answer: B) Integrating battlefield data to create a Common Surveillance Picture

Event and Location:

• Event: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh flags off SANJAY – The Battlefield Surveillance System
• Date: January 24, 2025
• Location: South Block, New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Primary Aim: Strengthen the Indian Army’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
• Key Objectives:
  • Enhance battlefield transparency with real-time situational awareness.
  • Provide a Common Surveillance Picture (CSP) by integrating ground and aerial sensor data.
  • Support commanders in decision-making with accurate and validated data.

Key Features of SANJAY BSS:

• Automated system processes sensor inputs, ensures data accuracy, and prevents duplication.
• Operates in both conventional and sub-conventional military operations.
• Integrated with the Army Data Network and Satellite Communication Network for real-time updates.
• Includes a Centralized Web Application for strategic inputs and decision support.

Indigenous Development:

• Jointly developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
• Promotes Aatmanirbharta (Self-Reliance) and aligns with the ‘Make in India’ vision.
• Developed with an investment of Rs 2,402 crore, showcasing India’s defense technology capabilities.

Deployment and Rollout Plan:

• Deployment in three phases from March 2025 to October 2025.
• To be implemented across all operational Brigades, Divisions, and Corps of the Indian Army.

Key Stakeholders:

• Raksha Mantri: Shri Rajnath Singh
• Chief of Defence Staff (CDS): General Anil Chauhan
• Chief of the Army Staff: General Upendra Dwivedi
• Chairman of BEL: Shri Manoj Jain

Tabular Summary:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs January 25 & 26

17. What is the primary objective of Coal India Limited’s (CIL) Digi Vidya initiative?
A) Enhancing healthcare facilities in mining areas
B) Upgrading government schools with smart classrooms
C) Providing scholarships for higher education
D) Supporting skill development programs for youth
E) Establishing new schools in urban areas
Answer: B) Upgrading government schools with smart classrooms

Event and Location:

• Event: Coal Secretary Inaugurates Smart Classrooms under CIL’s CSR Initiative
• Date: January 24, 2025
• Location: Jharkhand (virtual inauguration by Coal Secretary Shri Vikram Dev Dutt)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Digi Vidya Initiative: A Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program by Coal India Limited (CIL) aimed at improving education in mining areas by upgrading government schools with digital classrooms.
• Goal: Provide equitable and quality education to students in remote and underserved areas.

Key Highlights:

• Implementation:
  • BCCL: Introduced smart classrooms in 79 schools in Dhanbad, benefiting over 100,000 students and 400 teachers with an investment of ₹10.69 crore.
  • CCL: Rolled out smart classrooms in 193 schools across Chatra, Bokaro, Ranchi, and other districts.
• Expansion: Initial rollout covered 272 schools; subsequent phases will expand coverage.

Additional CSR Initiatives by CIL Subsidiaries:

• CMPDI: Sponsored students for a two-year Ophthalmic Assistant Diploma program.
• MCL: Launched Project Sambalpur Sikshotthan, providing 20,617 dual desk benches for elementary schools in Sambalpur district.
• NCL: Renovated school infrastructure in three schools in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh, with a ₹1.46 crore investment.
• WCL: Introduced the Happy School Project in Nagpur, redesigning schools using the Building as Learning Aid (BaLA) concept.

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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