Get Free Study Materials

Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Sworn in as Kerala Governor

On January 2, 2025, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar took the oath as the 23rd Governor of Kerala in a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. He succeeds Arif Mohammed Khan, who has been appointed as the Governor of Bihar. The oath was administered by the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar, in the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and various ministers.

Key Points

Oath Ceremony Details

  • Date: January 2, 2025
  • Location: Raj Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram
  • Administering Officer: Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar
  • Time of Oath: 10:30 am
  • Swearing-in: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar took the oath as Kerala’s 23rd Governor
  • Predecessor: Arif Mohammed Khan (transferred to Bihar)

Important Attendees

  • Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan
  • Kerala Chief Secretary Sharada Muraleedharan
  • Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar
  • Additional Chief Secretary K R Jyothilal
  • West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose
  • Kerala Assembly Speaker A N Shamseer
  • Various Kerala Ministers and MPs including K N Balagopal, P Rajeeve, Roshi Augustine, Shashi Tharoor, and A A Rahim.

Post Oath Activities

  • The ceremony included the reading of the President’s order appointing Arlekar as Governor.
  • Later, the Governor and his wife, Anagha Arlekar, visited the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram for prayers.
  • The temple authorities welcomed them with traditional offerings.

Governor’s Arrived In Kerala

  • Arlekar arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on the evening of January 1, 2025, and was welcomed at the airport by Chief Minister Vijayan, Speaker Shamseer, and Ministers K Rajan and Ramachandran Kadannappally.

Background of Arlekar

  • Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar previously served as the Governor of Bihar before his appointment to Kerala.
  • The swearing-in ceremony marks the beginning of his tenure as the 23rd Governor of Kerala.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Sworn in as Kerala Governor
Location of Ceremony Raj Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram
Administering Officer Chief Justice of Kerala High Court, Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar
Predecessor Arif Mohammed Khan (Transferred to Bihar)
New Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
Key Attendees Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar, Kerala Assembly Speaker A N Shamseer, Ministers, MPs
Governor’s Previous Position Former Governor of Bihar
Significance Marks the beginning of Rajendra Arlekar’s tenure as Kerala Governor

Government Considers Honorary Senior Ranks for Retiring Paramilitary Personnel

The Indian government is contemplating the introduction of honorary senior ranks for retiring Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel who have not been promoted due to organizational constraints. This initiative aims to enhance morale among retiring personnel and acknowledge their service.

Proposal Details

Former Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Anish Dayal Singh, proposed that personnel eligible for promotion but awaiting vacancies could be granted the insignia of their next higher rank during their final month of service. For instance, a Constable eligible for promotion to Head Constable would be permitted to wear the Head Constable’s insignia. This honorary rank would be reflected in their service records, and they would receive the corresponding pay. Home Minister Amit Shah has approved this proposal, which is expected to be implemented soon across all CAPFs.

Context and Background

This proposal addresses longstanding concerns regarding delays in promotions within the CAPFs. As of October 30, 2024, there were 100,204 vacant posts across all CAPFs, with 71,231 posts created between 2020 and 2024. Despite these vacancies, systemic issues in recruitment and internal advancement have led to significant delays in promotions. The honorary rank initiative offers a temporary solution while the government continues to address the underlying challenges.

Historical Perspective

The concept of granting honorary ranks is not new in India. In the Indian Army, exemplary soldiers nearing retirement have been awarded honorary ranks, such as junior commissioned officers, shortly before their retirement. This practice, known as ‘brevet,’ has been in place since the British colonial era. Additionally, the Indian Army has conferred honorary ranks on prominent citizens and foreign trainees as a gesture of goodwill and recognition.

Implications

The introduction of honorary senior ranks for retiring CAPF personnel is expected to boost morale and provide symbolic recognition of their service. While it does not address the systemic issues causing promotion delays, it serves as a temporary measure to honor retiring personnel. The government continues to work on long-term solutions to improve promotion timelines and address vacancies within the CAPFs.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Government considers honorary senior ranks for retiring CAPF personnel due to promotion delays – Proposal for honorary senior ranks for retiring CAPF personnel who missed promotions.
– Personnel eligible for promotion but retiring soon will wear the insignia of the next higher rank.
– Example: A Constable eligible for promotion to Head Constable will wear Head Constable’s insignia.
– This rank will be reflected in service records with corresponding pay.
– Approved by Home Minister Amit Shah, to be implemented across all CAPFs.
– 100,204 vacancies across CAPFs as of October 2024.
Government Ministry Involved – Home Ministry
Statutory or Organizational Body Involved – Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)
Recent Approvals – Home Minister Amit Shah approved the proposal.
Service-Related Points – Vacant posts across CAPFs: 100,204
Previous Instances of Honorary Ranks – Similar practice followed in Indian Army, granting honorary ranks to soldiers near retirement.
Objective – Boost morale and recognize long service for retiring personnel.

Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Service in Gurgaon

Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa announced the launch of an instant ambulance service, where residents of Gurgaon can book an ambulance through the Blinkit app and have it arrive within 10 minutes. This initiative aims to address the critical need for quick emergency medical transport in urban areas. The service, which includes Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, marks a significant step toward providing fast and reliable medical aid.

Key Highlights of Blinkit Ambulance Service

Service Overview

  • Launch Location: Gurgaon (Gurugram)
  • Ambulance Arrival Time: Within 10 minutes
  • Platform: Blinkit App
  • Type of Ambulances: Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances

Ambulance Equipment And Staff

  • Essential Equipment
  • Oxygen cylinders
  • Defibrillators
  • Stretcher
  • Monitors
  • Emergency medicines and injections
  • Staff on Board
  • Trained paramedic
  • Assistant
  • Driver

Cost and Profit Model

  • Affordable Pricing: The service will be offered at an affordable rate.
  • Non-Profit Initiative: CEO Dhindsa emphasized that profit is not a goal for this service.
  • Long-Term Vision: Blinkit plans to expand to all major cities over the next two years.

How to Book

  • The Blinkit app will feature an option to book a BLS ambulance for emergencies.
  • The service will be scaled carefully to ensure quality and reliability.

CEO’s Statement

  • Albinder Dhindsa shared that the initiative is aimed at solving the critical problem of emergency medical transportation in cities.
  • The service starts with five ambulances in Gurgaon and will be expanded gradually.
  • Profit is not a priority, as the focus is on providing life-saving support to customers.

Additional Blinkit Services Launched This Week

  • Large Order Fleet: Blinkit recently launched electric vehicles designed to handle large orders (electronics, party supplies) in Delhi and Gurgaon.
  • The large order service will soon expand to other cities.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Service in Gurgaon
Service Name Blinkit 10-Minute Ambulance Service
Ambulance Type Basic Life Support (BLS) Ambulances
Key Equipment Oxygen cylinders, defibrillators, stretcher, monitor, emergency medicines
Staff on Board Paramedic, Assistant, Driver
Cost Affordable, profit is not a goal
Expansion Plan Major cities in the next 2 years
CEO Statement Focused on solving critical medical transport issues
Other Service Launched Large Order Fleet (Electric Vehicles)

Savitribai Phule Jayanti 2025, Know Date, History and Significance

Savitribai Phule Jayanti is celebrated every year on January 3rd to honor the birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule. She was a remarkable educator, social reformer, and poet who played a significant role in promoting education and fighting for social justice in India. In 2025, this special day falls on a Friday. serving as a reminder of her extraordinary contributions to society.

Who was Savitribai Phule?

Savitribai Phule was born on January 03, 1831, in Naigaon village, Maharashtra. She became India’s first female teacher and alongside her husband Jyotirao Phule, co-founded the first school for girls in Pune in 1848. Her life was dedicated to challenging social injustices, advocating for women’s rights and promoting education for all, regardless of caste or gender.

History of Savitribai Phule Jayanti

The celebration of Savitribai Phule Jayanti started in 1858 when her husband, Jyotirao Phule, organized the first event to honor her contributions Over the years, this day became more significant, especially in Maharashtra, where it was officially recognized as a state holiday in the early 2000s.

Significance of Savitribai Phule Jayanti 2025

Savitribai Phule Jayanti 2025 honors the birth anniversary of India’s first female teacher and social reformer. This day celebrates her contributions to women’s education, gender equality and social justice. It inspires people to challenge discrimination, promote education for all, and uphold values of equality. Her legacy reminds us of the power of courage and dedication in creating a fairer society.

How is Savitribai Phule Jayanti Celebrated?

  • Educational Programs: Schools and colleges organize lectures and events to teach students about her life.
  • Seminars and Workshops: Social organizations conduct discussions on gender equality and education.
  • Cultural Performances: Plays and poetry readings celebrate her contributions.
  • Public Tributes: Communities hold rallies and pay homage to her status.

Key Contributions of Savitribai Phule

  • Promoting Education for Women: Savitribai Phule is best remembered for her efforts in educating women. She opened the first Indian school for girls, breaking societal barriers and inspiring a movement for women’s education.
  • Fighting Caste Discrimination: She and Jyotirao Phule worked to open school for children of lower castes, challenging the oppressive caste system.
  • Advocating Social Reforms: Savitribai actively fought against child marriage, untouchability, and the stigma faced by widows. She supposed widow remarriage and helped create a society where women had greater freedom and rights.
  • Writing for Change: Savitribai Phule wrote poetry to highlight social issues. Her work, Kavya Phule, remains one of the first collections in Marathi literature addressing equality and justice.

Legacy of Savitribai Phule

Savitribai Phule’s legacy is timeless. She is celebrated as a symbol of courage and progress. Her efforts laid the foundation for women’s education in India, and her contributions to social reform continue to inspire movements for equality and justice.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Outbreak in China

China is currently experiencing a significant increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, leading to concerns about a potential health crisis reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports indicate that hospitals are becoming overcrowded, with suggestions of multiple viruses, including HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, contributing to the situation. Despite some claims of a state of emergency, there has been no official confirmation from Chinese authorities.

Understanding HMPV

HMPV is a respiratory virus responsible for both upper and lower respiratory infections. Identified in 2001, it affects individuals across all age groups, with young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems being particularly vulnerable.

Symptoms of HMPV

The virus presents symptoms similar to the flu and other respiratory infections, including:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Nasal congestion
  • Shortness of breath

In severe cases, HMPV can lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period typically ranges from three to six days, with symptom duration varying based on infection severity.

Transmission of HMPV

HMPV spreads through mechanisms common to other respiratory viruses:

  • Respiratory secretions from coughing and sneezing
  • Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
  • Contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes

High-Risk Groups

Certain populations are at increased risk for severe HMPV infection, including:

  • Young children
  • Older adults
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems

When to Seek Medical Attention

Medical advice should be sought if:

  • Symptoms persist or worsen after a few days
  • A fever lasts more than three days without improvement
  • There is a pre-existing condition that could increase the risk of complications

Preventive Measures

Preventing HMPV involves practices similar to those used for other respiratory illnesses:

  • Regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands
  • Maintaining distance from individuals exhibiting signs of illness
  • Cleaning frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and toys

Current Situation in China

The surge in HMPV cases in China has led to increased hospitalizations, particularly among children under 14 in northern provinces. Health authorities have implemented guidelines to curb the virus’s spread, including mask-wearing, social distancing, and frequent handwashing.

Comparison with Past Outbreaks

The current HMPV outbreak has drawn comparisons to previous health crises, notably the COVID-19 pandemic. Both viruses cause respiratory issues and spread through respiratory droplets. However, unlike COVID-19, HMPV typically peaks during winter and spring. Studies suggest that HMPV cases have tripled in some regions following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, possibly due to decreased exposure to viruses during lockdowns, leading to weakened immunity.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, particularly in northern provinces, overwhelming hospitals.
What is HMPV A respiratory virus causing upper and lower respiratory infections, identified in 2001.
Symptoms Cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath; severe cases lead to pneumonia.
Incubation Period Typically 3-6 days before symptoms appear.
Transmission Spreads via respiratory droplets, close contact, and contaminated surfaces.
High-Risk Groups Young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Preventive Measures Handwashing, mask-wearing, avoiding close contact, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Current Situation Increased HMPV cases alongside flu and Mycoplasma pneumoniae; no official emergency declared.
Static Point – China Capital: Beijing, President: Xi Jinping, Currency: Renminbi (Yuan).

DRDO’s 67th Foundation Day

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 67th Foundation Day on January 2, 2025. Established in 1958, DRDO has grown from a small entity with 10 laboratories to a vast network of around 52 laboratories and 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) across India. These laboratories are dedicated to developing advanced defence technologies in various fields, including missiles, aircraft, combat vehicles, naval systems, electronics, and life sciences.

The event was marked by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s visit to DRDO Headquarters, where he interacted with senior scientists and officials. He appreciated DRDO’s achievements and called for increased collaboration with the private sector and start-ups to promote indigenous defence capabilities. Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat also participated in the event.

Key Highlights and Achievements

1. DRDO’s Mission: Empowering India’s Defense

  • DRDO’s mission is to equip India’s armed forces with cutting-edge defence technologies.
  • Focus on achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies and reducing dependency on foreign imports.

2. DRDO’s Achievements: Safeguarding The Nation

  • Some of the significant contributions made by DRDO include,
  • Agni and Prithvi missile series: Capable of delivering nuclear warheads.
  • Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas: India’s first indigenous fighter jet.
  • Arjun Main Battle Tank: India’s advanced battle tank.
  • INS Arihant: India’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
  • Advanced radars and electronic warfare systems.
  • Critical medical technologies and remote sensing technologies.

3. DRDO’s Future Endeavours

  • DRDO is working on several new initiatives to stay ahead in defence technology, including,
  • Hypersonic missiles.
  • Directed energy weapons.
  • Artificial intelligence.
  • 5G network for the Indian military.
  • Quantum computing.

4. Key Highlights of 67th Foundation Day Celebrations

  • Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited DRDO Headquarters in New Delhi.
  • He commended DRDO for developing indigenous defence capabilities and urged it to stay ahead of evolving technologies.
  • Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized that 2025 is declared the ‘Year of Reforms’, and DRDO will play a crucial role in achieving the set objectives.
  • He urged each DRDO lab to complete 2-3 critical projects by 2025 and have 100 such projects completed by the next foundation day.

5. Key Announcement By Raksha Mantri

  • Collaboration with the Private Sector
  • Increase technology transfer to private companies.
  • 256 Licensing Agreements were signed in 2024 with Indian industries.
  • Support for Start-ups
  • Explore inclusion of start-ups in R&D efforts.
  • Promote open days for interaction with the industry twice a month.
  • Awareness and Youth Engagement
  • Raise awareness among youth to contribute to nation-building.
  • Encourage academia and industry collaborations to foster innovation.

6.DRDO’s Industry and Start-Up Initiatives

  • Transfer of Technologies (ToTs)
  • 1,950 ToTs handed over to Indian industries.
  • 19 Development-cum-Production Partners chosen for mission-mode projects.
  • Opening of Test Facilities
  • DRDO test facilities were opened to private industries and DPSUs.
  • Over 18,000 tests were carried out in the last three years, with 5,000 tests conducted in 2024.

7. Recognition of Achievements

  • Shri Rajnath Singh felicitated the design team of the Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile on this occasion.

8. DRDO’s Vision For Future

  • DRDO aims to become one of the world’s strongest R&D organisations by developing niche technologies.
  • The focus is on creating a new ecosystem that promotes dual-use technologies for civilian applications.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? DRDO’s 67th Foundation Day
Established 1958
Number of Laboratories 52 DRDO labs + 5 Young Scientist Labs (DYSLs)
Mission Empower India’s defence with cutting-edge technologies
Major Achievements Agni & Prithvi missiles, LCA Tejas, Arjun Tank, INS Arihant, Radars, Medical tech
Future Initiatives Hypersonic missiles, Directed energy weapons, AI, 5G, Quantum computing
Key Speaker Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh
Key Announcements – Collaboration with private sector and start-ups
– 2025 declared as ‘Year of Reforms’
– Labs to complete 100 critical projects by next foundation day
Technology Transfers 1,950 ToTs handed over to Indian industries
Tests Conducted 18,000 tests in 3 years; 5,000 tests in 2024
Recognition Felicitation of Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile design team
Vision Make DRDO a world-leading R&D organisation by focusing on niche technologies

Renowned Botanist K.S. Manilal Passes Away at 86

Eminent botanist and Padma Shri awardee Kattungal Subrahmanyan Manilal, aged 86, passed away on January 1, 2025, in Thrissur due to age-related ailments. He was renowned for translating the 17th-century Latin botanical treatise “Hortus Malabaricus” into English and Malayalam, significantly contributing to the documentation of India’s rich botanical heritage.

Academic Contributions

Manilal served as the head of the Department of Botany at the University of Calicut. His scholarly work includes authoring several books and over 200 research papers. He also introduced numerous new plant species, enhancing the understanding of India’s flora.

Recognition and Awards

In recognition of his contributions to science and engineering, Manilal was honored with the Padma Shri in 2020. His translation of “Hortus Malabaricus” made the work accessible to a broader audience, preserving valuable botanical knowledge.

Legacy and Tributes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, stating that Manilal’s work in botany would continue to inspire future generations. Modi also acknowledged his passion for Kerala’s history and culture.

Summary of the news

Topic Details
Why in News Renowned botanist K.S. Manilal, known for translating Hortus Malabaricus into English and Malayalam, passed away at 86. He was a Padma Shri awardee in 2020 and contributed significantly to the field of botany.
Full Name Kattungal Subrahmanyan Manilal
Award Padma Shri in 2020 for contributions to science and engineering
Major Contribution Translated the 17th-century Latin botanical treatise Hortus Malabaricus into English and Malayalam
Academic Position Head of the Department of Botany, University of Calicut
Publications Authored over 200 research papers and several books
Field of Expertise Botany and Plant Taxonomy
Key Work Documented Kerala’s flora and introduced new plant species
Birthplace Kerala, India
Place of Demise Thrissur, Kerala, India
Hortus Malabaricus A 17th-century botanical treatise documenting the flora of the Malabar region (Kerala), originally written in Latin

Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through The Ages’ Book Launched by Amit Shah

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, released the book ‘Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through the Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkages‘ in New Delhi. The event, attended by dignitaries including Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) Chairman Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar, highlighted the book’s role in documenting the geo-cultural unity of India. Shri Amit Shah emphasized the historical and cultural significance of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, dispelling misconceptions and underscoring their inseparable connection with India.

Significance of The Book

  • Publications: National Book Trust
  • Documents India’s geo-cultural unity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
  • Counters myths of India’s disunity, establishing historical truths.
  • Highlights Kashmir’s integral role in India’s history for over 8,000 years.

Relationship Between Kashmir, Ladakh, Buddhism, Shaivism

  • The book and exhibition document the rich heritage of Kashmir and Ladakh, covering scripts, knowledge systems, spirituality, culture, and languages.
  • Kashmir was a crucial link in the journey of Buddhism from Nepal to Bihar and onward to Afghanistan.
  • The region played a pivotal role in shaping modern Buddhism after Lord Buddha’s teachings.
  • Sculptures from Drass and Ladakh, stupas, and temple ruins destroyed by invaders are featured in the book.
  • Sanskrit references from the historical text Rajatarangini are also included.

Historical Significance of Kashmir

  • The book covers the 8,000-year-old history of Kashmir, likened to encapsulating the sacred Ganga within a vessel.
  • Shri Shah emphasized that Kashmir has always been a land of inclusivity, nurturing faiths like Buddhism, Sufism, and Shaivism.
  • He pointed out that Kashmir is referred to as the “Land of Kashyap,” highlighting its historical and spiritual importance.

Linguistic and Cultural Diversity in Kashmir

  • Shri Shah highlighted India’s linguistic diversity as a core strength, especially evident in Kashmir.
  • PM Modi’s government has ensured the survival and growth of regional languages like Kashmiri, Balti, Dogri, Ladakhi, and Zanskari by making them official languages in the Union Territories.
  • The government’s efforts reflect a commitment to preserving India’s cultural and linguistic heritage.

Cultural and Historical Insights

  • Chronicles Kashmir’s contribution to Buddhism, Shaivism, and Sufism.
  • Features sculptures, stupas, and temple ruins from Ladakh and Drass.
  • Discusses the use of Sanskrit in J&K, referencing ancient texts like Rajatarangini.

Abrogation of Article 370

  • Shri Shah credited PM Modi for the historic abrogation on August 5, 2019.
  • Declared Article 370 as a root cause of separatism and terrorism in the Valley.
  • Highlighted the reduction of terrorist incidents by 70% post-abrogation.

Key Statements from Shah

  • “Kashmir has always been and will remain an inseparable part of India.”
  • “Article 370 was a facilitator of terrorism; its abrogation ended a tainted chapter.”
  • “Kashmir’s cultural and linguistic heritage is now secure under PM Modi’s leadership.”
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news?  Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through The Ages’ Book Launched by Amit Shah
Event Release of the book ‘Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through the Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkages
Released By Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah
Key Dignitaries Present Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, ICHR Chairman Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar
Publisher National Book Trust
Book Focus Documents India’s geo-cultural unity, counters myths of disunity, and highlights Kashmir’s 8,000-year history
Main Themes – Historical and cultural significance of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh
– Kashmir’s historical role for over 8,000 years
Heritage and Documentation – Describes sculptures, stupas, and temple ruins from Ladakh and Drass
– Sanskrit references from Rajatarangini
Kashmir’s Cultural Role Nurtured Buddhism, Sufism, Shaivism, and various faiths over centuries
Abrogation of Article 370 – Credit to PM Modi for abrogation on August 5, 2019
– Article 370 viewed as the root cause of separatism and terrorism
Key Statements from Shri Amit Shah – “Kashmir is an inseparable part of India.”
– “Article 370 was a facilitator of terrorism.”
– “Cultural and linguistic heritage now secure under PM Modi’s leadership.”

Project VISTAAR: A Digital Revolution in Indian Agriculture

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to launch Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources). This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of India’s agricultural extension system through digitalization, providing farmers with improved access to innovative technologies and advisory services.

Enhancing Agricultural Extension through Digitalization

Project VISTAAR seeks to empower farmers by integrating innovative technologies and solutions into the agricultural sector. By digitalizing the extension system, the project aims to provide high-quality advisory services on crop production, marketing, value addition, and supply chain management. Additionally, it will offer comprehensive information about government schemes related to agriculture, rural development, and allied sectors, ensuring farmers can fully benefit from these initiatives.

Leveraging Start-up Innovations

Start-ups play a critical role in addressing challenges in agriculture by providing solutions that improve productivity, supply chain management, and market access. The Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing at IIT Madras, along with its incubated start-up YNOS Venture Engine, has developed an extensive database of over 12,000 agriculture-focused start-ups. This database will be integrated into the VISTAAR platform, enabling farmers and other stakeholders to explore innovative solutions, adopt new technologies, and improve agricultural practices.

Strengthening Farmer Access to Technology

Through this collaboration, farmers will gain access to high-quality advisory services, including insights on crop production, supply chain management, and market intelligence. The digitalization of the existing agricultural extension system will significantly expand its reach, allowing every farmer—regardless of their location—to access timely, contextual, and accurate information. This includes updates on best farming practices, weather forecasts, pest control methods, and sustainable agriculture techniques.

Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Agriculture

The partnership between IIT Madras and the Ministry of Agriculture marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards a resilient, digitally empowered, and sustainable agricultural sector. By creating a seamless connection between start-ups and farmers, Project VISTAAR aims to reduce information gaps, improve decision-making, and enhance overall productivity. Additionally, the project will focus on training and capacity-building initiatives to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to adopt these innovative solutions effectively, ensuring the long-term sustainability and scalability of digital agricultural extension services.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News IIT Madras and Ministry of Agriculture launched Project VISTAAR to digitalize agricultural extension, integrating 12,000 agri-start-ups to provide farmers access to technology, advisory, and government schemes.
Project Name VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources)
Objective Modernizing agricultural extension through digitalization, offering tech-driven solutions to farmers.
Key Collaboration IIT Madras and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Start-up Database Over 12,000 agriculture-focused start-ups integrated into the project
Focus Areas Crop advisory, supply chain management, marketing, value addition, and scheme dissemination
Technology Partner IIT Madras’ YNOS Venture Engine for start-up integration
India’s Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan
IIT Madras Location Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Static Data Tamil Nadu – CM: M.K. Stalin; Governor: R.N. Ravi; Capital: Chennai

India’s 4th Biennial Report to UNFCCC Submitted

India submitted its 4th Biennial Update Report (BUR-4) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on 30th December, 2024. This report builds upon the Third National Communication (TNC) and provides a comprehensive update on India’s National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory for the year 2020. It also includes critical information on national circumstances, mitigation actions, and the associated finance, technology, and capacity-building needs.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, highlighted India’s leadership in sustainablea growth, emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to balancing economic progress with meaningful climate action.

Key Highlights of BUR-4 Report

1. GHG Inventory for 2020

  • Total GHG emissions in 2020,
  • Without LULUCF (Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry): 2,959 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e).
  • With LULUCF: 2,437 million tonnes of CO₂e.
  • Reduction In Emissions: A 7.93% decrease in total GHG emissions compared to 2019.

2. Sectoral Contributions to Emissions

  • Energy sector: 75.66% of total emissions.
  • Agriculture: 13.72%.
  • Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU): 8.06%.
  • Waste: 2.56%.

3. Forest and Tree Cover Contributions

  • Forests and tree cover sequestered 522 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2020, reducing 22% of total CO₂ emissions.
  • India’s forest and tree cover stands at 25.17% of the total geographical area.

Achievements in NDC’s Targets

1. Decoupling Economic Growth Emissions

  • Between 2005 and 2020, India’s emission intensity of GDP reduced by 36%, exceeding its target of 33-35%.

2. Renewable Energy Progress

  • By October 2024, the share of non-fossil sources in installed electricity generation capacity reached 46.52%.
  • Renewable power capacity (excluding large hydro): 156.25 GW (4.5 times increase from 35 GW in March 2014).
  • Total installed renewable capacity (including large hydro): 203.22 GW.

3. Additional Carbon Sink

  • Between 2005 and 2021, India created an additional carbon sink of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through increased forest and tree cover.

Commitment to Climate Action

  • Despite contributing minimally to historical and current global emissions, India remains proactive in combating climate change, aligning with the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), as stated in the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s 4th Biennial Report to UNFCCC Submitted
GHG Emissions (2020) 2,959 Mt CO₂e (without LULUCF), 2,437 Mt CO₂e (with LULUCF)
Emission Reduction 7.93% decrease compared to 2019
Major Contributors Energy (75.66%), Agriculture (13.72%), IPPU (8.06%), Waste (2.56%)
Forest CO₂ Sequestration 522 Mt CO₂, reducing 22% of total CO₂ emissions
NDC Target Achievements – 36% reduction in GDP emission intensity (2005-2020)
– Non-fossil sources: 46.52% of installed capacity (Oct 2024)
– Renewable power capacity: 156.25 GW (4.5x increase since 2014)
Forest and Tree Cover 25.17% of India’s total geographical area
Additional Carbon Sink 2.29 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (2005-2021)
India’s Commitment Proactive climate actions under CBDR-RC principles

Trending News

Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Sworn in as Kerala Governor_13.1

Monthly Current Affairs

Recent Posts

Test Prime

IMPORTANT EXAMS

Our Other Websites

Welcome to the Current Affairs Section of Adda247. If you are preparing for Government Job Exams, then it is very important for you to read the Daily Current Affairs. All the important updates based on current affairs are included in this Daily Current Affairs 2024 article.

Download Adda247 App

google store

Follow us on

  • youtube
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • telegram
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
© 2025 Adda247. All rights reserved.