Key Events of 2025: Summits, Sports, and Space

The year 2025 is set to feature a range of significant events across various domains, including national and international summits, major sports tournaments, and notable space missions.

Key Global Events and Conferences in 2025

The year 2025 is poised to witness significant global events addressing urgent issues such as climate change, economic disparities, emerging technologies, and geopolitical tensions. These summits, conferences, and tournaments will set the stage for transformative decisions, reflecting on past commitments while shaping future priorities.

World Economic Forum, Davos (January 20–24)

The WEF will convene leaders from politics, business, and civil society to discuss geoeconomic shifts, technology’s role in fostering inclusivity, and the annual Global Risks Report. Key focus areas include sustainable economies, human capital development, and equitable global order.

G7 Summit, Canada (June)

The summit in Alberta will prioritize inclusive economies, climate action, and AI regulation. Building on 2024’s Italian commitments, topics may expand to Middle East stability and migration challenges under new leadership.

UN Ocean Conference, France (June 9–13)

The conference will address biodiversity loss and ocean sustainability, leveraging the 2022 High Seas Treaty. Panels will culminate in adopting the Nice Ocean Action Plan to combat rising sea levels and protect marine ecosystems.

NATO Summit, Netherlands (June 24–26)

Amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine, NATO leaders will review defense spending and refine transatlantic relations. Key topics include defense production, Middle East stability, and commitments to military readiness.

UN General Assembly, New York (September 9–23)

The 80th UNGA will assess progress on the SDGs and revisit commitments from the 2024 Pact of the Future. Displacement, hunger, and poverty will dominate discussions, alongside the U.S.’s evolving stance under Donald Trump’s leadership.

COP30, Brazil (November 10–21)

Held in the Amazon Rainforest, COP30 will push for ambitious emissions reduction goals, reflecting Brazil’s emphasis on sustainability. With tensions from COP29, developing nations will demand more robust financial commitments from richer countries.

G20 Summit, South Africa (November 22–23)

Marking the African Union’s first G20 presidency, the summit will focus on climate resilience, debt relief, and inclusive growth. Under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” it aims to reshape global economic priorities.

ASEAN and East Asia Summit, Malaysia (Date TBD)

ASEAN will launch a 20-year roadmap emphasizing climate action, digitalization, and gender equality. Concurrently, tensions in Myanmar and the South China Sea will challenge the bloc’s unity.

BRICS Summit, Brazil (Date TBD)

Brazil will host the summit with its expanded membership, focusing on alternative global governance models, Bretton Woods reforms, and Global South investments.

UN World Space Forum (December)

Addressing the lack of international frameworks for space governance, this forum will focus on sustainable space policies aligned with the Space2030 Agenda and SDGs.

A Year of Reflection and Action

These events reflect the global community’s attempts to confront pressing challenges while fulfilling past commitments. With new leadership and shifting priorities, 2025 will likely redefine international cooperation across economic, environmental, and geopolitical domains.

2025 Sports and Events Calendar

The year 2025 is set to be a thrilling one for sports and global events, featuring a wide array of tournaments, summits, and space launches. From iconic tennis majors to cricket championships and motor sports, the calendar is packed with action for fans across the globe. Here’s an organized overview of the key events in 2025, tied with their relevance to past trends and emerging global interests.

Tennis: Grand Slams and Global Competitions

  • January 12-26: Australian Open kicks off the Grand Slam season.
  • May 25 – June 7: French Open follows, continuing its legacy of clay-court battles.
  • June 30 – July 13: Wimbledon maintains its iconic charm on grass courts.
  • August 25 – September 7: The US Open concludes the Grand Slam series.

Cricket: High-Stakes Competitions

  • February 19 – March 9: ICC Champions Trophy makes a return after a gap, building on its historical significance.
  • March 14 – May 25: Indian Premier League (IPL) celebrates its growing fanbase.
  • August 15 – September 15: Women’s World Cup in India signifies the growing emphasis on women’s cricket.

Hockey: National and International Tournaments

  • December 28, 2024 – February 1, 2025: Men’s Hockey India League continues its competitive edge.
  • January 12-26: Women’s Hockey India League builds on its success.
  • Dates TBD: Men’s FIH Hockey Junior World Cup hosted in India marks a milestone for youth hockey development.

Football: From Club to National Glory

  • June 14 – July 13: FIFA Club World Cup expands its format, reflecting its increasing global appeal.
  • July 2-27: UEFA Women’s EURO, highlighting the rising interest in women’s football.
  • September 27 – October 19: FIFA U-20 World Cup showcases the next generation of talent.

Motorsports: Grand Prix Circuits

With 24 thrilling races scheduled:

  • March 14-16: Australian Grand Prix starts the season in Melbourne.
  • May 23-25: Monaco Grand Prix continues its legacy as one of the most prestigious races.
  • November 20-22: Las Vegas Grand Prix promises glamour and speed.

Multi-Sport Events: Asian Winter Games to Deaflympics

  • February 7-14: Asian Winter Games gather attention with winter sports in Asia.
  • August 7-17: World Games focus on non-Olympic sports.
  • November 15-26: Summer Deaflympics underscores inclusivity in sports.

Space and Other Global Highlights

While the sports calendar dominates, global summits and space missions also shape the year. India’s space agency ISRO and international agencies like NASA are expected to announce significant launches and collaborations, reflecting the expanding frontier of space exploration.

2025: A Landmark Year for Space Exploration

2024 witnessed groundbreaking advancements in space exploration, setting the stage for an ambitious 2025. Key highlights included NASA’s Europa Clipper mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa, SpaceX’s Starship landing milestone, China’s Chang’e 6 lunar sample return, and the continuous activity aboard the International Space Station. Building on this foundation, space agencies globally are gearing up for transformative missions in 2025, expanding humanity’s understanding of the cosmos from the Moon and Mars to asteroids and beyond.

Lunar Exploration with CLPS

NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program will deliver cutting-edge scientific instruments to the Moon. Companies like Astrobotic, Intuitive Machines, and Firefly Aerospace will focus on lunar geology, environment studies, and testing new technologies for human missions.

SPHEREx: Mapping the Universe

Launching in February 2025, NASA’s SPHEREx will survey the sky in near-infrared light, mapping 450 million galaxies and 100 million stars. Its findings will address questions about galaxy formation, water distribution, and organic molecules in stellar nurseries.

Space Rider: ESA’s Reusable Spaceplane

The European Space Agency (ESA) will launch its reusable Space Rider in Q3 2025. It will conduct experiments in microgravity, test advanced telecommunication systems, and demonstrate robotic exploration tools.

Japan’s M2/Resilience Mission

Scheduled for January 2025, Japan’s mission will land a rover on the Moon to analyze lunar soil, test water-splitting for oxygen and hydrogen production, and showcase precision navigation and autonomous rover technologies.

Tianwen-2: China’s Asteroid and Comet Mission

China’s Tianwen-2 will launch in May 2025 to collect asteroid samples from 469219 Kamoʻoalewa and later study comet 311P/PANSTARRS. This dual-purpose mission aims to uncover insights about the early solar system and organic molecules.

Flybys for Planetary Science

BepiColombo: ESA and JAXA’s joint mission will conduct its 6th Mercury flyby in January 2025.

Europa Clipper: In March 2025, NASA’s spacecraft will perform a Mars flyby to accelerate its journey to Jupiter’s moon Europa.

Hera: ESA’s asteroid-deflection mission will perform a Mars flyby in March 2025, contributing to planetary defense.

Lucy: NASA’s mission will study inner-belt asteroid 52246 Donaldjohanson in April 2025, unveiling secrets of the early solar system.

JUICE: ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer will perform a Venus flyby in August 2025 to adjust its trajectory for Jupiter exploration.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in news Major global events and summits in 2025: COP30 in Brazil, G20 in South Africa, and NATO Summit in Netherlands. Key sports events include FIFA Club World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy, and Grand Slam tournaments. Space missions like NASA’s SPHEREx and China’s Tianwen-2 also in focus.
COP30 (Brazil) Venue: Amazon Rainforest. Focus: Emission reduction, sustainability. Dates: November 10–21, 2025.
G20 Summit (South Africa) First African Union-led G20 presidency. Themes: Climate resilience, debt relief. Dates: November 22–23, 2025.
NATO Summit (Netherlands) Focus: Defense spending, transatlantic relations, and military readiness. Dates: June 24–26, 2025.
UN Ocean Conference (France) Venue: Nice. Focus: Ocean sustainability, Nice Ocean Action Plan. Dates: June 9–13, 2025.
World Economic Forum Venue: Davos, Switzerland. Focus: Geoeconomic shifts, technology inclusivity. Dates: January 20–24, 2025.
ICC Champions Trophy Dates: February 19 – March 9, 2025. Location: TBD. Reintroduction after a gap.
Women’s Cricket World Cup Dates: August 15 – September 15, 2025. Host: India.
Australian Grand Prix Dates: March 14–16, 2025. Season opener for Formula 1.
NASA’s SPHEREx Mission Launch: February 2025. Focus: Mapping galaxies and stars in near-infrared light.
China’s Tianwen-2 Mission Launch: May 2025. Focus: Asteroid sample return and comet study.
UN General Assembly (UNGA) Session: 80th. Focus: SDG progress, global displacement, hunger. Dates: September 9–23, 2025.
Asian Winter Games Dates: February 7–14, 2025. Focus: Winter sports in Asia.
State: Brazil (COP30) Capital: Brasília. President: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
State: South Africa (G20) Capitals: Pretoria (executive), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial). President: Cyril Ramaphosa.
State: France (Ocean Conf.) Capital: Paris. President: Emmanuel Macron.
State: Netherlands (NATO) Capital: Amsterdam. PM: Dick Schoof.

Who Celebrates New Year First and Who Rings It in the Last? Check the Country-Wise List

New Year 2025 will be celebrated at different times around the world because of time zones. As midnight arrives in each region, the celebrations begin with fireworks, parties and joy. The first places to welcome the New Year are near the International Date Line, while the last ones are on the opposite side of the line. Let’s learn more about this global celebration!

Why is New Year Celebrated at Different Times?

The Earth is divided into 24 time zones, based on longitudes. Each time zone has its own standard time, so countries celebrate New Year at different times. India uses Indian Standard Time (IST), which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Universal Time (UTC + 5:30). Many countries are east of India, so they celebrate the New Year before India does.

New Year Celebrations: First and Last Country-Wise Timeline

The New Year is celebrated worldwide at different times due to time zones. From Christmas Island to Baker Island, here is a complete timeline of who welcomes 2025 first and last.

Order Location Celebration Time Time (IST)
1. Christmas Island (Kiritimati), Kiribati 5 AM EST 3:30 PM IST
2. Chatham Islands, New Zealand 5:15 AM EST 3:45 PM IST
3. Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand 6 AM EST 4:30 PM IST
4. Tonga, Samoa, Fiji Shortly after New Zealand 5 PM IST
5. Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra (Australia) 7:30 PM IST 7:30 PM IST
6. Adelaide, Broken Hill, Ceduna (Australia) Shortly after Sydney 7:45 PM IST
7. Queensland, Northern Australia 8 PM IST 8 PM IST
8. Japan, South Korea, North Korea 10 AM EST 8:30 PM IST
9. Western Australia (Perth) 10:15 AM EST 8:45 PM IST
10. China, Philippines, Singapore Midnight local time 9:30 PM IST
11. Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar Shortly after East Asia 10 PM IST
12. India, Sri Lanka 1:30 PM EST 11 PM IST
13. Pakistan, Afghanistan After India 11:30 PM IST
14. Baker and Howland Islands (Hawaii) 5:30 PM IST, January 1 5:30 PM IST, January 1

First Place to Welcome the New Year

The very first place to enter 2025 is Christmas Island (Kiritimati) in the Republic of Kiribati. This small island in the Pacific Ocean celebrates at 5 AM EST (3:30 PM IST). Shortly after, the Chatham Islands in New Zealand follow at 5:15 AM EST (3:45 PM IST)

Major New Zealand cities like Auckland and Wellington mark the occasion at 6 AM EST (4:30 PM IST).

Celebrations Across the Pacific

Countries like Tonga, Samoa and Fiji celebrates the New Year just after New Zealand. These nations are known for vibrant festivities and colorful fireworks.

Australia joins in with cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, celebrating next at 7:30 PM IST. Smaller cities such as Adelaide, Broken Hill and Ceduna follow, with Queensland and Northern Australia welcoming 2025 slightly later at 8 PM IST.

Japan, Korea and China

The new year reaches Japan, South Korea and North Korea at 10 AM EST (8:30 PM IST). Around the same time, Western Australia, including Perth, celebrates at 8:45 PM IST.

Next in line are China, the Philippines and Singapore, which experience the turn of the year with grand displays of fireworks and lively festivities.

South Asia and Southeast Asia’s Celebrations

Countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar join the New Year revelry after East Asia. In South Asia, India and Sri Lanka celebrate at 1:30 PM EST (11 PM IST). Afterward, Pakistan and Afghanistan prepare to welcome 2025.

Final Celebrations

The last places on Earth to celebrate the new year are the uninhabited Baker and Howland Islands, located near Hawaii. These islands mark the end of the global New Year celebrations at 5:30 PM IST on January 01.

Recap 2024: Top-10 Richest People in the World as of December 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, the list of world’s richest individuals highlights the success of technology, business and innovation. These people have built massive fortunes by leading groundbreaking companies and creating global impact. From electric cars and social media to luxury goods and investments, their achievements show how determination and vision can change industries and shape the global economy. Let’s explore the top richest people this year.

Richest Person in the World by December 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, Bloomberg has released its global list of billionaires. It is no surprise that the richest people in the world include tech leaders, business tycoons, and strategic investors. These individuals have amassed immense wealth through innovations, entrepreneurship and smart investments. Leading the list is Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who holds the title of the world’s richest person. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos ranks second on the list.

List of Top-10 Richest Person in the World as of December 2024

Elon Musk of United States, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, stands as the richest people in the world as of December 2024 with an impressive net worth of $474 billion, followed by Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg and Larry Ellison.

Here is the list of top-10 richest person in the world by December 2024:

Rank  Name Country  Source of Income Net Worth (in billions)
1. Elon Musk United States CEO of Tesla and SpaceX $474B
2. Jeff Bezos United States Founder of Amazon $251B
3. Mark Zuckerberg United States Founder of Meta Platforms $221B
4. Larry Ellison United States Founder of Oracle $194B
5. Bernard Arnault United States CEO of LVMH $178B
6. Larry Page United States CEO of Google $175B
7. Bill Gates United States Co-founder of Microsoft $165B
8. Sergey Brin United States Co-founder of Google $164B
9. Steve Ballmer United States Former CEO of Microsoft, owner of an NBA Team $156B
10. Warren Buffett United States Investor and CEO Berkshire Hathaway $143B

Mukesh Ambani’s Position on World’ Richest Man List of December 2024

Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, is India’s richest person with a net worth of $96.3 billion. Reliance’s businesses include petrochemicals, telecommunications and retail. However, Ambani’s net worth has declined in recent years due to slower growth in these sectors. Currently, Ambani is ranked 17th on Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index.

Gautam Adani’s Position on Bloomberg Billionaire Index

Gautam Adani, known for his ventures in ports, energy and infrastructure, has also faced challenges. His net worth has fallen significantly after controversies and legal issues. The Adani Group came under scrutiny following a report by Hindenburg Research in 2023. Additionally, accusations of bribery to secure solar energy contracts have further impacted Adani’s wealth.

What is Bloomberg Billionaires Index?

The Bloomberg Billionaires Index started in March 2012. It is a daily list of the 500 richest people in the world, ranked by their total wealth. Each billionaires has a profile on the list, and there is a tool to compare the wealth of different billionaires. The list is updated every day after the New York stock market closes.

Recap 2024: Richest Chief Minister of India in the Year 2024

In 2024, the financial declarations of India’s chief ministers highlighted significant differences in their wealth. While some leaders reported substantial assets, others revealed modest financial standings. This overview sheds light on the economic diversity among the nation’s top political figures, offering insights into their declared net worths and financial backgrounds.

Richest CM of India in the Year 2024

The wealth of chief ministers (CMs) in India often reflects their backgrounds and financial declarations. In 2024, Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu topped the list of the wealthiest CMs, while West Bengal’s Mamata Banerjee was among the least wealthy. Below is the list of richest and poorest chief ministers of India in 2024 based on a report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

Richest Chief Ministers of India

  • Chandrababu Naidu: Chandrababu Naidu, the chief of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, leads the list with a declared net worth of Rs.931 crore.
  • Pema Khandu: Pema Khandu, the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh, follows with a declared net worth of Rs.332 crore.
  • Siddharamaiah: Karnataka’s chief minister Siddharamaiah holds the third spot with a declared wealth of Rs.51 crore.

Chief Ministers with Least Wealth in 2024

  • Mamta Banerjee: West Bengal’s chief minister has declared assets worth Rs.15 lakh, making her the chief minister with the least wealth.
  • Omar Abdullah: The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, has declared assets worth Rs.55 lakh.
  • Pinarayi Vijayan: Kerala’s chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has a declared net worth of Rs.1 crore.

Wealth Gap Between Richest and Poorest Chief Minister

The gap between the richest chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu and the poorest chief minister, Mamta Banerjee is a staggering Rs.930 crore.

Average Wealth of Chief Ministers

 According to the ADR report:

  • Total wealth of all 31 Chief Ministers: Rs.1,630 crore
  • Average wealth per Chief Minister: Rs.52.59 crore
  • Average annual income of a chief minister: Rs.13,64,310

Recap 2024: Top-10 Global Crisis World Saw in Year 2024

In 2024, the world experienced several major crises that impacted countries and communities globally. From natural disasters caused by climate change to economic struggles and political unrest, these challenges affected millions of people. This article highlights the top-10 global crises that defined the year, showing how interconnected and fragile our world has become.

Top-10 Global Crises the World Faced in 2024

The year 2024 was marked by multiple global brises that bought immense suffering and challenges to millions. Conflicts, economic problems, climate disasters and food shortages all played a role in shaping the difficult reality of this year.

Here is the list of top-10 global crises that the world faced in 2024:

  • The War in Ukraine
  • Hamas-Israel Conflict
  • The Syrian Crisis
  • Climate Disasters
  • Global Food Shortage
  • Afghanistan’s Humanitarian Crisis
  • Conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia
  • Military Crackdown in Myanmar
  • Starvation and Repression in North Korea
  • Global Economic Recession

The War in Ukraine

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has caused massive destruction and loss of life. Millions of people were forced to flee their homes, leading to a prolonged humanitarian crisis. The war has also disrupted regional stability and become a significant global geopolitical issue.

Hamas-Israel Conflict

The conflict between Hamas and Israel escalated into a full-scale war in 2024. This war caused heavy casualties and created widespread fear and instability in the Middle East and beyond. Its impact is being felt far and wide as it disrupts peace in the region.

The Syrian Crisis

The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, remains unresolved. In 2024, Syria continues to suffer from political instability, mass displacement and a lack of humanitarian aid. Millions of people remain affected by the prolonged conflict and dire living conditions.

Climate Disasters

Natural disasters, including floods, hurricanes and wildfires, have become more frequent and severe due to climate change. These disasters caused displacement, economic loss and environmental damage, impacting countries worldwide and highlighting the urgency of climate action.

Global Food Shortage

Food shortages worsened in 2024 due to climate change, wars and economic instability. Millions of people around the world faced hunger as the global food supply chain struggled to meet demand, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.

Afghanistan’s Humanitarian Crisis

Afghanistan continued to experience extreme poverty, food scarcity and a lack of basic health services. The Taliban’s strict rule and the collapse of the country’s economy further deteriorated the living conditions of its people.

Conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia

Despite a ceasefire agreement in late 2023, tensions in Tigray persisted in 2024. The conflict has led to the displacement of thousands and significant loss of life, leaving northern Ethiopia in a state of crisis.

Military Crackdown in Myanmar

Myanmar faced violent crackdowns by its military junta on protestors and opposition groups. This led to severe human rights abuses, suppression of freedoms, and worsening conditions for its citizens.

Starvation and Repression in North Korea

North Korea faced severe starvation in 2024 due to poor economic policies, natural disasters and international sanctions. The regime continued to suppress dissent brutally, worsening the plight of its citizens.

Global Economic Recession

The global economy fell into a recession in 2024, marked by rising unemployment, inflation and widespread economic instability. Many countries faced increased poverty and inequality as a result, affecting millions of lives worldwide.

ECI Publishes Detailed Data for Lok Sabha and Assembly Polls 2024

The Election Commission of India (ECI) released comprehensive data for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, including 42 statistical reports. Voter turnout increased, with 64.64 crore votes polled, a 7.43% rise in registered electors, and higher participation from women and third-gender voters. The number of polling stations increased to 10.53 lakh, and the number of nominations rose to 12,459. Women electors now comprise 48.62% of the electorate, and the number of female candidates contesting elections grew to 800. Inclusive elections saw significant increases in third-gender and PwD electors. National parties secured 63.35% of valid votes, while independent candidates performed modestly, with 7 elected out of 3,921 contestants.

Below is a Detailed Breakdown of The Findings

1. Electors and Voters

Electors and Voters
Registered Electors
Year Total Voters
2019 91,19,50,734
2024 97,97,51,847
Votes Polled
Total 64.64 crore in 2024 compared to 61.4 crore in 2019.
EVM + Postal Votes 64,64,20,869
EVM Votes 64,21,39,275
Male 32,93,61,948
Female 31,27,64,269
Third Gender 13,058
Postal Ballots 42,81,594
Turnout Highlights
Highest Turnout Dhubri (Assam) – 92.3%
Lowest Turnout Srinagar (J&K) – 38.7% (up from 14.4% in 2019)
Parliamentary Constituencies (PCs) with voting percentages below 50% 11
NOTA Votes 63,71,839 (0.99%), down from 1.06% in 2019.
Transgender Voter Turnout 27.09%, almost double from 14.64% in 2019.

2. Polling Stations

Polling Stations
Number of Polling Stations
2019 10,37,848
2024 10,52,664
Increase Percentage 14,816 stations
Repolling Only 40 polling stations (0.0038%), compared to 540 in 2019.
Electors per Polling Station 931 (on average).
States with the Most/Least Polling Stations Highest: Uttar Pradesh (1,62,069 PS)

Lowest: Lakshadweep (55 PS)

PCs (Parliamentary Constituency) With  Fewer than 1,000 PS (Polling Stations): 11 PCs

More than 3,000 PS: 3 PCs

States with Highest Increase in Polling Stations Bihar: 4,739 new PS

West Bengal: 1,731 new PS

3. Nominations and Contesting Candidates

Nominations and Contesting Details
Nominations Filed
2019 11,692
2024 12,459
Highest Nominations in a PC 114 in Malkajgiri (Telangana)
Lowest Nominations in a PC 3 in Dibrugarh (Assam)
Contesting Candidates
2019 8,054 candidates
2024 8,360 candidates (after rejection and withdrawal)

4. Women Electors and Contesting Candidates

Women Electors and Contesting Candidates
Women Registered Electors
2019 43,85,37,911
2024 47,63,11,240
Female Electorate Share
2019 48.09%
2024 48.62%
States with Highest Female Elector Percentage Puducherry: 53.03%

Kerala: 51.56%

Female Electors per 1,000 Male Electors 946 in 2024, up from 926 in 2019
Voting Patterns
Female Voter Turnout Rate (VTR) 65.78% (excluding Surat)
Male Voter Turnout 65.55%
PCs with Highest Female VTR Dhubri (Assam): 92.17%

Tamluk (West Bengal): 87.57%

Women Contesting Candidates
2024 800 (up from 726 in 2019)
States with Most Female Contesting Candidates Maharashtra: 111

Uttar Pradesh: 80

Tamil Nadu: 77

PCs with No Female Contesting Candidates 152 out of 543 PCs

5. Inclusive Elections

Inclusive Elections
Third Gender Electors
2024 48,272 (up from 39,075 in 2019)
State with Highest Third Gender Electors Tamil Nadu (8,467)
Transgender Voter Turnout 27.09% (up from 14.64% in 2019)
Persons with Disabilities (PwD) Electors
2024 90,28,696 (up from 61,67,482 in 2019)
Overseas Electors
2019 99,844
2024 1,19,374 (Male: 1,06,411; Female: 12,950; Third Gender: 13)

6. Election Results

Election Results
National Parties 6 participated, securing 63.35% of total valid votes.
Independent Candidates 3,921 contested; only 7 elected in 2024
Vote share of Independents 2.79% of total valid votes
Deposits Forfeited Total: 7,190 candidates forfeited, up from 6,923 in 2019
Uncontested PC Surat (Gujarat)
Independent Female Candidates 279

Key Points of ECI Data

Reports Overview

  • Lok Sabha Elections: 42 detailed statistical reports.
  • State Assembly Elections: 14 reports for Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim.

Objective

  • Enhance public trust in India’s electoral system.
  • Ensure maximum disclosure and greater transparency in election-related data.
  • Facilitate accessibility of detailed election data for various stakeholders.

Data Coverage

  • Elector Details: PC/AC/State-wise electors.
  • Polling Stations: Number and distribution of polling stations.
  • Voter Turnout: State/PC-wise voter turnout statistics.

Party Performance

  • Party-wise vote share.
  • Performance of national and state parties.
  • Analysis of Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs).

Gender Insights

  • Gender-based voting behavior.
  • Participation of women electors across states.
  • Regional and Constituency Insights
  • Regional variations.
  • Constituency-wise data summaries and detailed results.
  • Winning candidates’ analysis.

Target Audience

  • Researchers and analysts can perform in-depth studies of electoral trends.
  • Policymakers can derive actionable insights.
  • Journalists and the general public can better understand electoral processes and outcomes.

Significance

  • Reinforces the ECI’s mission to uphold integrity and trust in the electoral process.
  • Strengthens India’s democracy by fostering informed discussions and decisions.
  • Promotes data-driven analyses in election studies.

Justice V Ramasubramanian Appointed NHRC Chairperson

Justice V Ramasubramanian, former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) as announced on December 23, 2024. The position had been vacant since Justice (Retd.) Arun Kumar Mishra’s tenure ended on June 1, 2024. Justice Mishra was the first non-CJI to hold the NHRC chairperson post since the Protection of Human Rights Act was amended in 2019. Interim leadership was provided by NHRC member Vijaya Bharathi Sayani until Ramasubramanian’s appointment.

Professional Journey of Justice V Ramasubramanian

Born on June 30, 1958, Justice V Ramasubramanian began his legal career in 1983 and practiced law for over two decades in the Madras High Court. He was appointed as an additional judge of the Madras High Court in 2006 and became a permanent judge in 2009. Following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, he was transferred to the High Court of Judicature at Hyderabad for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. In 2019, he served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and later became a Supreme Court judge in September of the same year.

Other Key Appointments

Alongside Ramasubramanian, Priyank Kanoongo, former Chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) have been appointed as NHRC members. Kanoongo emphasized his commitment to child protection laws during his NCPCR tenure and pledged to continue upholding human rights in his new role.

Significance of Leadership Transition

Justice Ramasubramanian assumes office at a critical juncture, emphasizing that human rights are deeply rooted in India’s cultural ethos and require collaboration among stakeholders for effective promotion and protection. His vast experience and judicial legacy are expected to strengthen NHRC’s role in safeguarding human rights across the nation.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in news Justice V Ramasubramanian appointed as the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on December 23, 2024, succeeding Justice Arun Kumar Mishra.
Vacancy Period The NHRC chairperson’s position was vacant since June 1, 2024, after Justice Arun Kumar Mishra completed his tenure.
Interim Leadership Vijaya Bharathi Sayani served as acting chairperson from June 2, 2024, until Justice Ramasubramanian’s appointment.
New NHRC Members Priyank Kanoongo (former NCPCR chairperson) and Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) were also appointed as NHRC members.
Justice Ramasubramanian Born on June 30, 1958; enrolled in the Bar on February 16, 1983; served as a High Court judge (2006), Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh HC (2019), and SC judge (2019).
Static Point – NHRC Established: 1993; Headquarters: New Delhi; Purpose: Protect and promote human rights in India.
Static Point – NCPCR Established: 2007; Purpose: Protect and promote child rights under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005.

GDP to Grow at 6.6% in FY25: RBI

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its December 2024 Financial Stability Report (FSR), projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% for FY25, driven by a revival in rural consumption, increased government spending, and strong services exports. Despite a moderation in GDP growth to 6% in H1 FY25 from 8.2% in H1 FY24, the RBI highlighted India’s economic resilience, supported by sound macroeconomic fundamentals, improved asset quality in banks, and robust financial system indicators. Risks such as moderation in urban demand, global uncertainties, and protective trade policies were noted.

Key Economic Highlights

GDP Growth and Drivers: Real GDP growth is forecasted at 6.6% for FY25, aided by government investment, rural demand recovery, and a boost in services exports. Challenges include softness in industrial activity and global spillovers.
Inflation Trends: A bumper kharif harvest and strong rabi prospects are expected to ease foodgrain prices. However, extreme weather events and geopolitical tensions could disrupt inflation dynamics.

Banking Sector Insights

Decline in NPAs: The gross non-performing assets (GNPA) ratio of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) hit a 12-year low of 2.6% in September 2024, while net NPAs dropped to 0.6%, showcasing improved asset quality.
Capital Strength: SCBs maintained strong capital buffers, with the CET1 ratio at 14%, exceeding the regulatory minimum of 8%.
Resilience Under Stress: Macro stress tests confirmed that SCBs, mutual funds, and clearing corporations possess adequate capital buffers to withstand adverse conditions.

Global and Domestic Stability

Trade and Financial System Resilience: Despite global economic challenges, India’s financial system remains stable. The ratio of international assets to liabilities improved to 76.2% in September 2024, indicating strengthened external accounts.
Geopolitical Risks: Protective trade policies and global fragmentation pose risks to India’s economic outlook, requiring cautious management of external and internal vulnerabilities.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in news? RBI projects India’s GDP growth at 6.6% for FY25, citing rural consumption recovery, govt spending, and strong service exports. GNPA ratio of banks fell to 2.6% (12-year low), and inflation dynamics are influenced by a strong Kharif harvest.
GDP Growth Projection (FY25) 6.6%
H1 FY25 GDP Growth 6.0% (decline from 8.2% in H1 FY24)
GNPA Ratio (Sept 2024) 2.6% (12-year low)
Net NPA Ratio (Sept 2024) 0.6%
CET1 Ratio (Sept 2024) 14% (above the 8% regulatory requirement)
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra
Key Economic Drivers Rural consumption recovery, increased government investment, and strong services exports
Risks Highlighted Moderation in urban demand, softness in manufacturing, protective trade policies, and global spillovers
Inflation Dynamics Eased by a strong Kharif harvest but threatened by extreme weather events and geopolitical tensions
Banking Stability Improved soundness, strong capital buffers, and reduced non-performing assets
International Investment Position (Sept 2024) Net claims of non-residents declined by $19.8 billion; reserve assets rose by $53.8 billion.
GDP Growth in FY24 H1: 8.2%, H2: 8.1%

Top-10 Largest Supermarket Chains in the World, Check the List

Supermarkets play a big role in our daily lives by offering groceries, household items and more. Some chains are so large that they operate in many countries, serving millions of customers every day. Here is a look at the top-10 largest supermarket chains in the world, known for their size popularity and wide variety of products.

World’s Largest Supermarket Chain

Walmart is the world’s largest supermarket chain, with a revenue of about $573 billion. Headquartered in Bentonville, USA, it operates over 11,500 stores worldwide. Known for offering low prices and a wide range of products, Walmart provides everything from groceries to general merchandise, making it a favorite choice for millions of shoppers globally.

List of Top-10 Largest Supermarket Chains in the World

Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville, USA, is the world’s largest supermarket chain with a revenue of about $573 billion, followed by Amazon.com, Schwarz Gruppe (Lidl) and Aldi.

Here is the list of top-10 largest supermarket chains in the world:

Rank  Retailer  Headquarter Revenue (in billions) Store Count (Worldwide)
1. Walmart Bentonville $573 11,500
2. Amazon.com Seattle, USA $502 589
3. Schwarz Gruppe (Lidl) Neckarsulm, Germany $159.8 13,759
4. Aldi Essen, Germany $130.4 13,325
5. Costco Issaquah, USA $219.2 842
6. Kroger Cincinnati, USA $150.4 2,750
7. Carrefour Massy, France $108.4 14,474
8. Ahold Delhaize Zaandam, Netherlands $94.5 7,793
9. Tesco Welwyn Garden City, UK $94.6 3,400
10. Seven & Holdings Tokyo, Japan $94.6 40,325

What are Supermarket Chains?

A supermarket chain is a big store that sells food and household items and is part of a group of similar stores. These supermarkets get their supplies from their parent company’s distribution centers, which helps them buy products from manufacturers at cheaper rates. This allows supermarkets to sell goods to customers at lower prices compared to smaller shops.

SAIL Earns Great Place to Work Recognition for Second Year

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has achieved a significant milestone by being re-certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the period January 2025 to January 2026. This prestigious recognition from the Great Place to Work Institute, India, marks SAIL’s second consecutive certification, as it was first awarded this distinction for the period December 2023 to December 2024. The certification underscores SAIL’s commitment to creating a positive work environment, fostering trust, and empowering its employees through innovative HR practices.

Key Highlights

  • Certification Period: January 2025 to January 2026
  • Awarded By: Great Place to Work Institute, India
  • Consecutive Certification: First received certification for December 2023 to December 2024
  • Recognition Criteria: Award based on direct feedback from employees, reflecting trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment.

Innovative HR Initiative Contributions to Success

  • Work Other than Workplace (WoW): A scheme that offers flexibility in work location.
  • Flexible Work Timings: For city-based employees, promoting work-life balance.
  • Self-paced Learning: Through platforms like LinkedIn Learning Hub and E-Pathshala.
  • Digital Training: High-end IT training programs in collaboration with NASSCOM.
  • Leadership Development: Programs conducted in partnership with IIMs and ASCI.
  • Employee Assistance Programs: Including e-counseling services to support mental well-being.
  • Healthcare Enhancement: Improvements in employee healthcare services.
  • Leadership Coaching: Tailored coaching programs for senior executives to enhance leadership skills.

Statement From SAIL Chairman

  • Shri Amarendu Prakash, Chairman of SAIL, emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, “SAIL’s consecutive certification as a ‘Great Place to Work’ reaffirms SAIL’s ongoing dedication to foster an exceptional workplace culture and provide a positive employee experience built on trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment.”
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? SAIL Earns Great Place to Work Recognition for Second Year
Certification Great Place to Work (January 2025 – January 2026)
Awarding Organization Great Place to Work Institute, India
Consecutive Certifications First certified for December 2023 to December 2024 and re-certified for 2025-2026.
Key HR Initiatives WoW scheme, flexible timings, self-paced learning, leadership programs, e-counseling, healthcare services
Chairman’s Statement Emphasized trust, collaboration, and employee empowerment as key pillars of SAIL’s work culture.
Key Events of 2025: Summits, Sports, and Space_13.1

Monthly Current Affairs

Test Prime