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December 25th Current Affairs Challenge

Exams such as SSC, Banking, Railways, and state-level tests offer paths to prestigious positions in government sectors. These exams assess abilities in reasoning, quantitative aptitude, general knowledge, and current affairs. Staying updated on current affairs is essential as it improves a candidate’s general knowledge and helps in scoring well in the general awareness section, which is critical for clearing the cutoff.

Q1. Justice GS Sandhawalia has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Which High Court in 2024?

(a) Haryana

(b) Rajasthan

(c) Gujarat

(d) Himachal Pradesh

Q2. What is the theme for the 2025 Republic Day tableaux?

(a) Aatmanirbhar Bharat

(b) Unity in Diversity

(c) Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas

(d) India’s Journey to Progress

Q3. Who among the following Indian women is ranked 28th in Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women?

(a) Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

(b) Roshni Nadar Malhotra

(c) Nirmala Sitharaman

(d) Indra Nooyi

Q4. Which prestigious award was conferred upon External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for his contributions to India’s foreign policy and leadership on the global stage?

(a) Padma Bhushan

(b) Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award

(c) External Affairs Minister of The World

(d) Gandhi Peace Prize

Q5. What is the key change introduced in the government’s recent amendment to the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, 2010?

(a) Introduction of new grading systems

(b) Reduction in school hours for classes 5 and 8

(c) Introduction of online exams for students

(d) Abolition of the ‘No-detention policy’ for students in class 5 and 8

Q6. Which Russian tennis player has been handed a two-year suspension for doping violations?

(a) Daniil Medvedev

(b) Andrey Rublev

(c) Daniil Savelev

(d) Karen Khachanov

Q7.  Where was the pilot project for the Udaan Yatri Cafe launched?

(a) Delhi International Airport

(b) Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport

(c) Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

(d) Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport

Q8. Who was appointed as the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on December 23, 2024?

(a) V. Ramasubramanian

(b) Vijaya Bharathi Sayani

(c) Arun Kumar Mishra

(d) Droupadi Murmu

Q9. On which date is National Consumer Day celebrated annually in India?

(a) December 23

(b) December 24

(c) December 25

(d) December 26

Q10. On which National Highway (NH) was India’s first bio-bitumen-based highway stretch inaugurated?

(a) NH-48

(b) NH-27

(c) NH-16

(d) NH-44

S1. Ans. (d)

Sol. Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court.

Correct Answer: Himachal Pradesh

Key Points:

  • Appointed Position: Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court
  • Notification Date: Notified on a 23rd December 2024, following a delay of more than three months

S2. Ans. (c)

Sol. The theme for the 2025 Republic Day tableaux is “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development).

Correct Answer: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas

Key Points:

  • Event Location: Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi
  • Participating States & UTs: 15 (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal)
  • Participating Ministries: 11 Union Government ministries and departments
  • Selection Process: Fair, transparent, merit-based; evaluated by an Expert Committee (art, culture, music, architecture, choreography)
  • Selection Criteria: Originality, creativity, aesthetic composition, balance between heritage and development

S3. Ans. (c)

Sol. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Finance Minister of India, is ranked 28th in Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.

Correct Answer: Nirmala Sitharaman

Key Points:

  • Context: In the Forbes 2024 list of 100 most powerful women, only three Indian women have made it to the list.
  • Respected Ranks: Nirmala Sitharam (28th), Roshni Nadar Malhotra (81st) and Kiram Mazumdar Shaw (82nd).
  • Rank 1: Claudia Sheinbaum – President of Mexico is the highest ranking woman.

S4. Ans. (b)

Sol. S. Jaishankar was honored with the Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award for Public Leadership by the South Indian Education Society (SIES) for his outstanding contributions to India’s foreign policy and leadership on the global stage.

Correct Answer: Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award

Key Points: 

  • Awards Institution: Instituted by the South Indian Education Society in 1998 in memory of the late Seer of Kanchi, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati.
  • Award Categories: Public Leadership, Community Leadership, Science and Technology and Social Thinkers
  • Eligibility: Awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in the above fields.
  • Award Details: Cash Prize worth Rs. 2.5 lakh, Citation, Ornamental Lamp and Scroll

S5. Ans. (d)

Sol. The amendment abolished the ‘No-detention policy’ for students in class 5 and 8 who fail their year-end exams, requiring them to retake the exams or repeat the academic year.

Correct Answer: Abolition of the ‘No-detention policy’ for students in class 5 and 8

Key Points:

  • Policy Amendment: Abolished the no-detention policy for Classes 5 and 8; students failing year-end exams must retake them.
  • Retake and Repetition: Students failing retake exams within two months will repeat the academic year.
  • Applicability: It applies to over 3,000 centrally run schools (Kendriya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, Navodaya Vidyalayas).

S6. Ans. (c)

Sol. Daniil Savelev has been handed a two-year suspension for violating doping regulations.

Correct Answer: Daniil Savelev

Key Points:

  • Violation: Tested positive for meldonium, a prohibited substance.
  • Suspension Duration: 2 years (August 2024 – August 2026).
  • Reason for Suspension: Confused family medication for supplements of a similar appearance.
  • ITIA (The International Tennis Integrity Agency) Statement: Acknowledged unintentional doping but cited failure to mitigate the violation.

S7. Ans. (c)

Sol. The pilot project was launched at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Correct Answer: Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

Key Points:

  • Initiative Name: UDAAN Yatri Cafe
  • Purpose: Offer affordable food and beverages at airports to ease financial burden on travelers.
  • Pilot Project: Launch at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.
  • Expansion: Rollout to other AAI-operated airports based on pilot success.
  • Offerings: Water, tea, coffee, and snacks at reasonable prices.

S8. Ans. (a)

Sol. Former Supreme Court judge V. Ramasubramanian was appointed as the Chairperson of NHRC.

Correct Answer: V. Ramasubramanian

Key Points:

  • Post Vacancy: The NHRC chairperson position was vacant since June 2024, after Justice (retd) Arun Kumar Mishra completed his tenure.
  • Tenure of Arun Kumar Mishra: Earlier Mishra served as the NHRC Chairperson from June 2021 to June 2024, Now V. Ramasubramanian will take the charge. 
  • Appointment Process: A high-powered committee led by PM Modi selected the new NHRC Chairperson.

S9. Ans. (b)

Sol. National Consumer Day is observed annually on December 24 in India.

Correct Answer: December 24

Key Points:

  • Background: Every year, 24th December marks National Consumer Day in India. For 2024, the theme is “Virtual Hearings & Digital Access to Consumer Justice”.
  • Key Initiatives for 2024: Launch of Jago Grahak Jago App, Jagriti App, and Jagriti Dashboard by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to enhance consumer awareness and digital access.
  • Historical Significance: First celebrated in 2000 to commemorate the Consumer Protection Act of 1986. The Consumer Protection Act of 2019 added provisions for e-commerce and mediation.

S10. Ans. (d)

Sol. India’s first bio-bitumen-based highway stretch was inaugurated on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Correct Answer: NH-44

Key Points:

  • Context: India’s First Bio-Bitumen Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari
  • Location: Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, on NH-44
  • Key Technology: Lignin-based bio-bitumen developed by Praj Industries in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI.
  • Environmental Benefits: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
  • Economic Impact: Reduces India’s import dependency on bitumen (currently 50%).

What is the Old Name of Mysore?

Mysore, a city in the southern state of Karnataka, India, is famous for its rich culture, history and beautiful architecture. It is often called the “Cultural Capital of Karnataka.” But did you know that Mysore once had a different name? Let’s explore the history of its old name.

Old Name of Mysore

The old name of Mysore was Mahishapura. This name comes from the demon Mahishasura, a mythical figure in Hindu stories. The name later changed to Mahisuru, and over time, it became Mysore, an anglicized version of the original Kannada word.

The Legend of Mahishasura

According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura was a powerful demon who ruled the ancient parts of the Mysore Kingdom, then called Mahisaka.

  • He could transform into both a human and a buffalo.
  • His reign ended when Goddess Chamundeshwari, a form of Goddess Durga, killed him on the Chamondi Hills near Mysore.

The city’s name was inspired by this legend and even today, Chamundi Hills is a popular landmark.

Historical Names of Mysore

Initially, the city was called Mahishapura, which means “the city of Mahishasura.” Later, the name evolved into Mahisuru in Kannada. When the British came to India, they anglicized the name to Mysore for easier pronunciation.

In 2014, the city was officially renamed Mysuru to honor its Kannada origins. Interestingly, the royal family of Mysore still uses the name Mahisuru.

India Squad For Champions Trophy 2025

The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 marks the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy, featuring eight teams competing in a round-robin format. Hosted by Pakistan, often referred to as the “cornered tigers,” the tournament is scheduled to run from 19 February to 9 March, with 10 March reserved as a contingency day for the final. Following their triumph in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, India is set to face Pakistan in this championship. As per the latest updates from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the match fixtures have been confirmed, with India scheduled to play at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on 1 March 2025.

India Squad For Champions Trophy 2025

The official announcement of Team India’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy is still awaited, and their participation in the tournament has not yet been confirmed. However, the anticipated player list features names expected to potentially face Pakistan in the competition.

Player Name Role
Rohit Sharma (Captain) Batsman
Yashasvi Jaiswal Batsman
Shubman Gill Batsman
Sanju Samson Wicketkeeper/Batsman
Virat Kohli Batsman
Shreyas Iyer Batsman
Rishabh Pant Wicketkeeper/Batsman
KL Rahul Wicketkeeper/Batsman
Hardik Pandya (Vice-Captain) All-rounder
Suryakumar Yadav Batsman
Ravindra Jadeja All-rounder
Axar Patel All-rounder
Yuzvendra Chahal Bowler
Jasprit Bumrah Bowler
Mohd. Shami Bowler
Mohd. Siraj Bowler
Kuldeep Yadav Bowler

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Dates Announced

Date Match Venue Notes
19 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. New Zealand National Stadium, Karachi
20 Feb 2025 Bangladesh vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
21 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. South Africa National Stadium, Karachi
22 Feb 2025 Australia vs. England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
23 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
24 Feb 2025 Bangladesh vs. New Zealand Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
25 Feb 2025 Australia vs. South Africa Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
26 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
27 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. Bangladesh Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
28 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. Australia Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
1 Mar 2025 South Africa vs. England National Stadium, Karachi
2 Mar 2025 New Zealand vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
4 Mar 2025 Semi-Final 1 Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai India will play if they qualify
5 Mar 2025 Semi-Final 2 Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Pakistan will play if they qualify
9 Mar 2025 Final Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore*** If India qualifies, the final will be held in Dubai.

ICC Champions Trophy Schedule 2025 Announced- India vs Pakistan

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set to mark the ninth edition of this prestigious cricket tournament, featuring the top eight ranked One Day International (ODI) teams. Returning after a hiatus since 2017, this tournament will once again captivate cricket fans around the world with its action-packed matches and high-stakes encounters.

ICC Champions Trophy Match Schedule

All matches start at 14:00 Pakistan Standard Time.

Date Match Venue Notes
19 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. New Zealand National Stadium, Karachi
20 Feb 2025 Bangladesh vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
21 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. South Africa National Stadium, Karachi
22 Feb 2025 Australia vs. England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
23 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
24 Feb 2025 Bangladesh vs. New Zealand Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
25 Feb 2025 Australia vs. South Africa Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
26 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
27 Feb 2025 Pakistan vs. Bangladesh Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
28 Feb 2025 Afghanistan vs. Australia Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
1 Mar 2025 South Africa vs. England National Stadium, Karachi
2 Mar 2025 New Zealand vs. India Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
4 Mar 2025 Semi-Final 1 Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai India will play if they qualify
5 Mar 2025 Semi-Final 2 Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Pakistan will play if they qualify
9 Mar 2025 Final Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore*** If India qualifies, the final will be held in Dubai.

ICC Champions Trophy Details

Dates and Host Country

  • Dates: February 19 – March 9, 2025
  • Host Country: Pakistan

The tournament will span three weeks, offering thrilling matches across three iconic cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.

Participating Teams

The top eight ODI teams participating in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 include:

  • Group A: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh
  • Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England, South Africa

ICC Champions Trophy Venues

The tournament will be played across three major cities in Pakistan:

  1. Karachi – National Stadium (Capacity: 34,238)
  2. Lahore – Gaddafi Stadium (Capacity: 27,000)
  3. Rawalpindi – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (Capacity: 15,000)

India’s matches, however, will be hosted at a neutral venue due to diplomatic reasons. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been proposed as the preferred neutral location, with matches likely to take place in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025- Format

Group Stage

  • The tournament will follow a round-robin format in the group stage.
  • Each group consists of four teams, and the top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage.

Knockout Rounds

  • The semifinals will feature the top two teams from each group, culminating in a grand final scheduled for March 9, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
  • A reserve day has been scheduled for March 10, 2025, in case of any disruptions.

ICC Champions Trophy Historical Context

The ICC Champions Trophy was last held in 2017, where Pakistan emerged as the defending champion, defeating India in a memorable final. After its discontinuation, the tournament is now reinstated for the 2025 and 2029 editions, given its immense popularity and demand among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

ICC Champions Trophy Key Highlights

Neutral Venue for India’s Matches

  • The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India’s matches will be held in the UAE as a neutral venue.
  • High-profile venues like Dubai International Stadium, Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium are being considered for hosting India’s matches.

High-Stakes Match: India vs Pakistan

  • The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match is scheduled for February 23, 2025, at a neutral venue (likely Dubai or Colombo). This clash continues to be the marquee event of any cricket tournament, drawing global attention.

Groupings for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy

Group A

  1. India
  2. Pakistan
  3. New Zealand
  4. Bangladesh

Group B

  1. Afghanistan
  2. Australia
  3. England
  4. South Africa

Who is Known as the Father of Indian Nuclear Program?

India’s nuclear program focuses on using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, like producing electricity and advancing science. It began with Dr. Homi Bhabha’s vision to make Indian self-reliant in nuclear technology, leading to significant progress in research, power generation and national security.

Father of Indian Nuclear Program

Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, known as the Father of Indian Nuclear Program, was a brilliant scientist who played a key role in shaping India’s journey in nuclear science. Hi vision of a self-reliant and powerful India in this field has inspired generations of scientists and innovators.

Early Life of Dr. Homi Bhabha

Dr. Bhabha was born on October 30, 1909, in Bombay (now Mumbai), into a well-known Parsi family. His interest in science and mathematics started at a young age, and he later became one of the most respected physicists in the world.

Contributions to Science

Dr. Bhabha initially worked on theories related to positrons and cosmic rays. While pursing his Ph.D. at Cambridge, he contributed to groundbreaking research, including:

  • Bhabha Scattering: He explained the concept of relativistic exchange scattering.
  • Bhabha-Heitler: Theory: He developed a theory about how electron and positron showers are produced in cosmic rays.
  • Meson Decay: He predicted time dilation effects in meson decay.

After returning to India, he established the Cosmic Ray Research Unit and played a key role in founding the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai. In 1944, he began researching nuclear weapons and later established the Atomic Energy Commission of India.

Achievements of Dr. Homi Bhabha

Dr. Bhabha’s work in nuclear energy earned him global recognition:

  • He served as the President of the United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy in 1955.
  • From 1960 to 1963, he was the President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics.
  • He received many honors, including the Adams Prize (1942), Padma Bhushan (1954) and was named a Fellow of the Royal Society, London.

Lesser Known Facts About Dr. Homi Bhabh

  • Dr. Bhabha worked with Niels Bohr, a Noble Prize-winning scientist, on quantum theory.
  • He was passionate about art, painting, classical music, opera and even botany.
  • He was the founding director of the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (AEET), now named the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
  • He remained a bachelor, dedicating his life to science and innovation.

Tragic Death of Dr. Bhabha

Dr. Bhabha died on January 24, 1966, in a mysterious air crash near Mount Blanc. Some theories suggest he was targeted by the CIA to halt India’s nuclear program, but the truth remains unclear.

What is the Other Name of Sambhal District of Uttar Pradesh?

Uttar Pradesh, located in northern India, is the country’s most populous state. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity and heritage, it is home to famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Varanasi. The state plays a vital role in India’s politics, economy and tourism. In this article, we will know about the other alternative name of Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a northern Indian state with over 241 million people, making it India’s most populous state. It covers 243,286 square kilometers and shares borders with Nepal and several Indian states. Lucknow is the capital, and Prayagraj is the judicial capital. Uttar Pradesh accounts for 16.5% of India’s population and has 18 divisions and 75 districts.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, has 75 districts and 1 temporary district. These districts, mostly with population above 12 lakhs, are grouped into 18 administrative divisions.

Alternative Name of Sambhal District

The Sambhal district was originally named Bhimnagar, in honor of Bhimrao Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer and leader. This name was given when Sambhal district was created in 2011.

Announcement of Sambhal District

The Uttar Pradesh state government officially announced the creation of Sambhal district on September 28, 2011, separating it from the Moradabad division.

Name Change to Sambhal

Initially called Bhimnagar, the district’s name was changed back to Sambhal on July 23, 2012, following protests from the local population. Sambhal has been historically known by this name for over 500 years and was a significant medieval town.

Location of Sambhal

Sambhal district lies in the Moradabad division of Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 158.6 kilometers from New Delhi and 355 kilometers from Lucknow. The district headquarters is in Bahjoi town.

Historical Significance of Sambhal

Sambhal holds historical importance as the site where the first Babri Masjid was built by the Mughal ruler Babar. This adds to its cultural and historical identity.

Republic Day 2025: 15 States, 11 Ministries to Present Tableaux

The Ministry of Defence announced the theme for the Republic Day 2025 tableaux as “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development). This year’s tableaux will showcase the dynamic relationship between India’s rich heritage and its ongoing development. The display will take place on Kartavya Path and feature creative exhibits from various states, Union Territories, and central ministries. Aimed at highlighting India’s diversity, the Republic Day tableaux will offer a glimpse of the country’s cultural roots and modern progress.

Key Facts About Republic Day Parade Tableaux

  • Theme: “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development).
  • Event: Annual Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path.

Participants

  • States and Union Territories (15): Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
  • Union Ministries and Departments (11): Tableaux from the Union government will also be featured.
  • Alternative for Unselected States/UTs: States and UTs not selected for Kartavya Path can showcase their tableaux at the Bharat Parv held at Red Fort from January 26 to 31, 2025.

Selection Process

  • The Ministry of Defence emphasized that the selection of states and ministries was conducted in a fair, transparent, and merit-based manner. The process involved several steps to ensure high-quality representation,
  • Proposals Invited: States, Union Territories, and Union ministries were invited to submit their proposals for the tableaux.
  • Expert Committee: A panel of experts, including professionals in art, culture, music, architecture, and choreography, evaluated the submissions.
  • Selection Criteria: The main criteria for selection included:
  • Originality: The uniqueness of the tableau concept.
  • Creativity: Innovative presentation of ideas.
  • Aesthetic Composition: Visual appeal and balance in design.
  • Heritage and Development: A clear representation of India’s cultural heritage and progress.
  • Incorporation of Feedback: Based on recommendations from a senior-level meeting held in April 2024, the selection process was enhanced to ensure better quality and diversity in the tableaux.
  • Exclusion of Repetitive Ideas: Proposals that showcased similar ideas were excluded to ensure variety and uniqueness.

Key Highlights

  • The theme aims to portray India’s journey from rich cultural roots to modern achievements, balancing both heritage and development.
  • The selected states, UTs, and ministries will represent India’s diversity, including historical, cultural, and technological advancements.
  • The initiative is designed to present India’s progress and heritage to a global audience, showcasing the country’s unity in diversity.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Republic Day 2025: 15 States, 11 Ministries to Present Tableaux
Theme For 2025 Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas (Golden India: Heritage and Development)
Event Location Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi
Participating States 15 (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal)
Participating Ministries 11 Union Government ministries and departments
Selection Process Fair, transparent, merit-based; evaluated by an Expert Committee (art, culture, music, architecture, choreography)
Selection Criteria Originality, creativity, aesthetic composition, balance between heritage and development
Key Feedback  Enhancements based on suggestions from a senior-level meeting in April 2024
Exclusion Repetitive id

Shyam Benegal, Renowned Filmmaker, Dies At 90

Shyam Benegal, the celebrated filmmaker renowned for his socially relevant and realistic films, passed away on December 23, 2024, in Mumbai at the age of 90 due to kidney-related ailments. A master storyteller, Benegal’s work bridged the gap between commercial and art-house cinema, earning him a place among India’s greatest filmmakers. His career spanned several decades, during which he directed films that introduced audiences to a rich blend of social themes, poignant narratives, and exceptional performances. The news of his death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

  • Born: December 14, 1934, in Hyderabad.
  • Family: Benegal was the cousin of iconic filmmaker Guru Dutt.
  • Film Debut: His first film, Ankur (1974), was a breakthrough success.
  • Critically Acclaimed: Nishant (1975) earned international recognition, including a Palme d’Or nomination at Cannes.

Career Milestone

  • Socially Conscious Films: Benegal’s films dealt with pressing social issues, such as class struggles, gender dynamics, and colonial history.
  • Notable Works:
  • Manthan (1976)
  • Bhumika (1977)
  • Junoon (1978)
  • Zubeidaa (2001)
  • The Making of the Mahatma (1996)
  • Sardari Begum (1996)
  • Key Collaborations: Worked with renowned actors like Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, and Girish Karnad.

Awards and Recognition

  • Padma Shri (1976): Awarded for his contribution to Indian cinema.
  • Padma Bhushan (1991): For his distinguished work in the arts.
  • Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2005): The highest recognition in Indian cinema.

Legacy

  • Impact on Cinema: Benegal’s films have had a lasting impact on Indian cinema, combining art-house sensibilities with mass appeal. His work continues to inspire filmmakers and actors alike.
  • End of an Era: Benegal’s passing signifies the loss of a cinematic giant who profoundly influenced the Indian film industry.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Shyam Benegal, Renowned Filmmaker, Dies At 90
Notable Works – Ankur (1974)
– Nishant (1975)
– Manthan (1976)
– Bhumika (1977)
– Zubeidaa (2001)
Key Collaborators Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, Girish Karnad

Cinematic Style Realistic, socially relevant themes bridging mainstream and art-house cinema
Awards – Padma Shri (1976)
– Padma Bhushan (1991)
– Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2005)
Legacy  A pioneer in Indian cinema known for shaping both commercial and art cinema

Which District of Gujarat is Known as the Paris of Saurashtra?

Gujarat, a state in western India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture and economic progress. Famous for its heritage sites, delicious cuisine and traditional crafts, Gujarat attracts visitors from around the world. It is also a hub for industries and trade, making it one of India’s most prosperous and dynamic states. In this article, we will know about the district of Gujarat which is known as the “Paris of Saurashtra.”

An Overview of Gujarat

Gujarat is a state on the western coast of India, with the country’s longest coastline of about 1,600 km, mostly on the Kathiawar peninsula. It is the fifth-largest state by area and the ninth-most populous, with 60.4 million people. Gujarat shares borders with Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Pakistan. Its capital is Gandhinagar, and Ahmedabad is its largets city. The official language is Gujarati.

Number of Districts of Gujarat

Gujarat, a state in western India, originally had 17 districts when it was formed in 1960. Over time, it was divided into 33 districts for better administration.

Paris of Saurashtra

Jamnagar, located in Gujarat, India, is famously called the “Paris of Saurashtra.” This title reflects its charm, which combines modern and traditional architecture, broad streets and well-planned squares and circles. Here is a closer look at what makes Jamnagar a unique city.

History of Jamnagar

Jamnagar was founded in 1540 by Jam Rawal, a leader from the Jadeja Rajput dynasty. The city was originally named Nawanagar, which means “the new town.” Its rich historical roots make it a place of cultural and historical importance.

Cultural Heritage of Jamnagar

Jamnagar boasts a vibrant cultural scene with ancient monuments, grand temples, and the iconic Pratap Vilas Palace. The palace showcases exquisite architectural design and is a symbol of the city’s glorious past.

Center for Ayurveda

Jamnagar is home to the world’s only Ayurvedic University and an Ayurvedic Research Centre. It plays a vital role in promoting traditional Indian medicine and draws scholars and practitioners from around the world.

Famous Handicrafts

The city is celebrated for its beautiful handicrafts. These includes:

  • Bandhani fabrics: Traditional tie-dye textiles known for their vibrant patterns.
  • Silk and gold embroidery: Intricate designs crafted with precision.
  • Silverware: Unique handcrafted silver items admired for their elegance.

Scenic Lakes of Jamnagar

Jamnagar has picturesque lakes, such as:

  • Ranmal Talav: A historic lake built by Jam Saheb to help the city during famine.
  • Lakhota Lake: A serene spot surrounded by greenery and popular among locals and visitors.

Justice GS Sandhawalia as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court

The Centre has officially notified the appointment of Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia as the new Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. Justice Sandhawalia, the senior-most puisne Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, has been appointed following a recommendation by the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment comes after a delay of more than three months and after the retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakdher in October 2024.

Key Points

Appointment Notification

  • Justice GS Sandhawalia has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court, effective from the date he assumes office.

Legal Background

  • Justice Sandhawalia graduated in BA (Hons) from DAV College, Chandigarh, and obtained a law degree from Panjab University, Chandigarh.
  • He was enrolled as an advocate in August 1989 and practised at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Judicial Career

  • He was appointed as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on September 30, 2011, and became a permanent judge on January 24, 2014.
  • Supreme Court Collegium’s Recommendation: The Collegium recommended Justice Sandhawalia’s appointment to the Himachal Pradesh High Court after superseding an earlier recommendation for Madhya Pradesh.

Father’s Legacy

  • His father, Justice Surjit Singh Sandhawalia, was the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Patna High Court.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Justice GS Sandhawalia as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court
Appointment Position Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court
Notification Date Notified on a 23rd December, following a delay of more than three months
Previous Position Senior-most Puisne Judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court
Legal Background Graduated in BA (Hons) from DAV College and a law degree from Panjab University, Chandigarh
Judicial Career Elevated to the bench on September 30, 2011, and became a permanent judge on January 24, 2014
Supreme Court Collegium’s Recommendation Initially recommended for Madhya Pradesh High Court, but later shifted to Himachal Pradesh High Court

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