List of Prime Ministers of Canada from 1867 to 2025, Know Their Names and Tenure

Canada has had many Prime Ministers since 1867, each playing an important role in shaping the country. The Prime Minister is the head of government, leading the nation and representing it internationally. They are chosen from the political party with the most seats in the House of Commons. Here is a complete list of Canada’s Prime Ministers, highlighting their terms and contributions.

Prime Ministers of Canada

Canada has had 23 prime ministers since 1867, starting with Sir John A. Macdonald, who helped unite the country. Each leader has played an important role in shaping Canada’s history. The current prime minister, Justin Trudeau, has been in office since 2015. These leaders represent different political parties and have guided the nation’s progress.

First Prime Minister of Canada

Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, served from 1867 to 1873. He played a key role in the Confederation, which united provinces to from Canada. A member of the Conservative Party, Macdonald’s leadership laid the foundation for the country’s future.

Current Prime Minister of Canada

Justin Trudeau has been Canada’s prime minister since 2015. He is the leader of the Liberal Party and the 23rd person to hold this position. Trudeau’s tenure focuses on issues like climate change, equality and economic growth.

List of Prime Ministers of Canada from 1867 to 2025

The list of Prime Ministers of Canada from 1867 to 2025 includes 23 leaders, starting with Sir John A. Macdonald. Each played a key role in shaping the nation’s history and progress.

Here is the list of Prime Ministers of Canada from 1867 to 2025:

Name  Political Party Tenure
From  To 
John A. Macdonald Liberal-Conservative 01st July 1867 05th November 1873
Alexander Mackenzie Liberal 07th November 1873 08th October 1878
John A. Macdonald Liberal-Conservative 17th October 1878 06th June 1891
John Abbott Liberal-Conservative 16th June 1891 24th November 1892
John Sparrow David Thompson Liberal-Conservative 05th December 1892 12th December 1894
Mackenzie Bowell Conservative 21st December 1894 27th April 1896
Charles Tupper Conservative 01st May 1896 08th July 1896
Wilfrid Laurier Liberal 11th July 1896 06th October 1911
Robert Borden Government (Unionist) 10th October 1911 10th July 1920
Arthur Meighen Conservative 10th July 1920 29th December 1921
William Lyon Mackenzie King Liberal 29th December 1921 28th June 1926
Arthur Meighen Conservative 29th June 1926 25th September 1926
William Lyon Mackenzie King Liberal 25th September 1926 07th August 1930
R.B. Bennett Conservative 07th August 1930 23rd October 1935
William Lyon Mackenzie King Liberal 23rd October 1935 15th November 1948
Louis St. Laurent Liberal 15th November 1948 21st June 1957
John Diefenbaker Progressive Conservative 21st June 1957 22nd April 1963
Lester B. Pearson Liberal 22nd April 1963 20th April 1968
Pierre Trudeau Liberal 20th April 1968 04th June 1979
Joe Clark Progressive Conservative 04th June 1979 03rd March 1980
Pierre Trudeau Liberal 03rd March 1980 30th June 1984
John Turner Liberal 30th June 1984 17th September 1984
Brian Mulroney Progressive Conservative 17th September 1984 25th June 1993
Kim Campbell Progressive Conservative 25th June 1993 04th November 1993
Jean Chretien Liberal 04th November 1993 12th December 2003
Paul Martin Liberal 12th December 2003 06th February 2006
Stephen Harper Conservative 06th February 2006 04th November 2015
Justin Trudeau Liberal 04th November 2015 Present

 

Indian Microfinance Sector: 2,100% Growth in 12 Years

Over the past 12 years, India’s microfinance sector has experienced an extraordinary expansion, with its business increasing from â‚ą17,264 crore in March 2012 to â‚ą3.93 lakh crore by November 2024—a growth of over 2,100%. This significant rise underscores the sector’s pivotal role in promoting financial inclusion and supporting economic development across the nation.

Indian Microfinance Sector: 2,100% Growth in 12 Years: Key Highlights

Nationwide Expansion: Microfinance institutions (MFIs) now operate in 723 districts, including 111 aspirational districts across 28 states and 8 Union Territories, serving nearly 8 crore borrowers.

Economic Impact: The sector contributes 2.03% to India’s gross value added (GVA) and supports approximately 1.3 crore jobs, highlighting its substantial role in the economy.

Challenges and Recommendations: Despite this growth, MFIs face challenges such as difficulties in raising low-cost long-term funds and portfolio quality concerns. Industry representatives have called for credit guarantee schemes tailored to MFIs, creation of special funds for those operating in the North East, and relaxation of qualifying asset norms to diversify risk.

Digital Transformation: Emphasis is placed on enhancing digital infrastructure, including digital loan disbursements and repayments, to improve efficiency and reach.

The Indian microfinance sector’s evolution from a modest â‚ą17,264 crore in 2012 to â‚ą3.93 lakh crore in 2024 reflects its critical role in financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Addressing current challenges and embracing digital advancements will be essential for sustaining this growth trajectory.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Indian Microfinance Sector Growth – Over 2,100% growth in the last 12 years (from â‚ą17,264 crore in 2012 to â‚ą3.93 lakh crore in 2024).
Contribution to GVA – Contributes 2.03% to India’s gross value added (GVA).
Borrowers & Geographic Reach – Serves approximately 8 crore borrowers across 723 districts, including 111 aspirational districts.
Job Support – Supports about 1.3 crore jobs.
Industry Challenges – Challenges include difficulties in raising low-cost long-term funds and portfolio quality concerns.
Sector Recommendations – Calls for credit guarantee schemes for MFIs and relaxation of qualifying asset norms.
Digital Transformation – Emphasis on digital loan disbursements and repayments to improve efficiency.

Richest Person in the World By January 2025, Check the List of Top-10

In a world driven by dreams and innovation, some people have reached incredible heights of success. These individuals have built fortunes that surpass the economies of many countries. Their wealth comes from industries like technology, retail, and finance, and their achievements continue to shape the global economy. This article highlights the top-10 richest people in the world as of 2025.

World’s Richest Man 2025

Elon Musk has secured his place as the richest person in the world as of 2025, with a net worth of $421.1 billion. Known for his groundbreaking innovations and ambitious ventures, Musk is the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter). His influence spans the electric vehicle industry, space exploration and social media platforms.

Net Worth of Elon Musk as of 2025

As of 2025, Elon Musk’s net worth is an astounding $421.2 billion, making him the richest person in the world. His wealth primarily comes from his leadership in Tesla, where he owns a 12.86% stake, and his ventures in SpaceX and X (formerly Twitter), reflecting his groundbreaking influence in multiple industries.

Major Sources of Elon Musk

  • Tesla: Tesla, the world-famous electric car company, is a significant contributor to Musk’s wealth. He owns a 12.86% stake in Tesla. The company’s market capitalization grew exponentially, particularly during 2020 and 2021.
  • SpaceX: SpaceX, Musk’s private space exploration company, is another key part of his empire. It has been at the forefront of reusable rockets and space missions.
  • X (formerly Twitter): In October 2022, Musk purchased Twitter for $44 billion and later renamed it X. This move positioned him as a major figure in the social media industry.

Top-10 Richest Person in the World as of 2025

Elon Musk of United States, with the net worth of $421.2 billion holds the title of the richest man of the world as of 2025, followed by Jeff Bezos, Larry Ellison and Mark Zuckerberg.

Here is the list of top-10 richest person in the world as of 2025:

Rank Name Net Worth (in $ billions) Source of Wealth Country
1. Elon Musk $421.4 Tesla, SpaceX United States
2. Jeff Bezos $233.5 Amazon, Blue Origin, The Washington Post, IMDB, Audible United States
3. Larry Ellison $209.7 Oracle Corporation United States
4. Mark Zuckerberg $202.5 Meta Platforms, Inc. United States
5. Bernard Arnault & Family $168.4 LVMH France
6. Larry Page $156.0 Alphabet Inc. United States
7. Sergey Brin $149 Alphabet Inc. United States
8. Warren Buffet $141.7 Berkshire Hathaway United States
9. Steve Ballmer $124.3 Microsoft United States
10. Jensen Huang $127.9 NVIDIA United States

 

Understanding Isolation Guidelines for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Protecting Yourself and Others

Introduction to HMPV

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory virus that primarily affects young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Known for causing a range of illnesses from mild respiratory infections to severe conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, HMPV has been under increased scrutiny following a rise in cases globally, including detections in Karnataka, India.

In light of these developments, all Indian states have been advised to enhance surveillance for Severe Acute Respiratory Illnesses (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI). The Union Ministry of Health has issued specific directives to bolster testing efforts and prevent the virus’s spread.

Enhanced Surveillance and Testing Initiatives

To monitor and contain the spread of HMPV, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), in collaboration with state health departments, has issued guidelines for testing and tracking cases. As per health officials:

Testing Protocols:

  • All SARI cases should now be tested for HMPV.
  • Specialized testing kits for HMPV are being dispatched to states.

Surveillance Focus:

  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities are instructed to enhance the monitoring of SARI and ILI cases, identifying any upward trends in respiratory infections.

Understanding the Contagious Nature of HMPV

When is HMPV Most Contagious? The most contagious phase of HMPV occurs during the early days of the infection, typically between 3 to 6 days after the onset of symptoms. According to experts:

  • Dr. Jha: “The virus is most contagious during the early stages when symptoms like fever, cough, and nasal congestion are most severe. During this time, the viral load in respiratory secretions is at its peak.”
  • Dr. Nangia: “Transmission is highest around the third or fourth day of illness, although early-stage transmission is also possible.”

HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets (from coughing or sneezing) and fomites (contaminated surfaces). Therefore, the risk of transmission is significantly higher during close contact with an infected person.

Precautions to Minimize the Spread of HMPV

Preventing the spread of HMPV requires adopting standard hygiene practices and maintaining physical distancing. Key steps include:

Maintain Physical Distancing:

  • Keep a safe distance from infected individuals, especially during the contagious phase.

Practice Hand Hygiene:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers if soap and water are unavailable.

Wear Masks:

  • Wearing an N95 mask reduces the risk of transmission, especially in close-contact settings.

Cough Etiquette:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  • Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash hands afterward.

Sanitise Surfaces:

  • Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, mobile phones, and tables, to eliminate fomites.

Avoid Handshakes:

  • Replacing physical greetings like handshakes with a Namaste can help prevent contact transmission.

Isolation Guidelines for HMPV

Isolation is crucial for containing the spread of HMPV. The following points outline key aspects of isolation:

Duration of Isolation

  • Individuals with HMPV symptoms should stay home for at least three to four days or until symptoms like fever and cough subside.
  • Isolation should continue if symptoms persist or worsen.

Ending Isolation

  • Dr. Jha: “The resolution of fever, cough, and cold symptoms without medication is a good indicator that the isolation period can end.”
  • Dr. Nangia: “Once the major symptoms settle and individuals feel better, it’s generally safe to end isolation.”

Recognizing Recovery and Safe Return

HMPV is not typically considered a severe threat, but vigilance is necessary to protect vulnerable populations. Recovery indicators include:

Absence of Fever:

  • Fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medication.

Reduction in Cough and Cold Symptoms:

  • Significant improvement or resolution of respiratory symptoms.

Improved Energy Levels:

  • Ability to resume daily activities without fatigue or breathlessness.

10 Years of NITI Aayog: Shaping India’s Future

NITI Aayog, established on January 1, 2015, emerged as a visionary reform in India’s governance structure, replacing the Planning Commission to better address the needs of a growing, market-driven economy. In his first Independence Day speech in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced NITI Aayog as an institution with a new design and structure, emphasizing a shift towards decentralization and competitive federalism. Over the past decade, NITI Aayog has evolved into a platform for policy innovation, addressing the country’s development challenges and promoting inclusive growth through collaborative governance. This article examines NITI Aayog’s evolution over the last 10 years, its key principles, major initiatives, and future challenges.

Key Insights and Achievements of NITI AAYOG’s First Decade

Decentralization and Competitive Federalism

  • The establishment of NITI Aayog marked a significant shift away from the centralization of power seen in the Planning Commission.
  • The focus has been on competitive and cooperative federalism, encouraging states to take initiative in their development.
  • NITI Aayog introduced data-driven comparative indicators to track state progress and encourage healthy competition, such as the SDG India Index and the Composite Water Management Index.

Principle of Limited union-Level Involvement

  • NITI Aayog’s role at the Union level is to promote new initiatives and provide strategic advice, but it does not directly manage financial allocations.
  • Union ministries remain responsible for implementing the programs, while NITI Aayog plays a coordinating and advisory role in cross-ministry issues.

Key Initiatives and Their Impact

Aspirational District Program – 2018

  • Focused on improving conditions in 112 underdeveloped districts across India in areas like health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
  • Monthly performance tracking and rewards for high-performing districts created healthy competition and encouraged local governance reforms.

Aspirational Block Program – 2013

  • Expanded to 500 underdeveloped blocks, empowering local officials and ensuring 100% coverage of key government schemes at the block level.

Atal Innovation Mission

  • Launched in 2016 to promote innovation and entrepreneurship through Atal Tinkering Labs and Atal Incubation Centres.
  • AIM 2.0 aims to expand innovation ecosystems, especially in tribal and hilly regions like Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast.

Production Linked Initiative

  • Aimed at boosting manufacturing and job creation, it encourages domestic production in key sectors such as electronics, textiles, and automobiles.

Partnership with States and Local Governance

  • NITI Aayog works as a neutral, politically independent body, fostering a partnership with states and union territories to create a shared vision for development.
  • Annual meetings with Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries provide an opportunity for collaboration and discussion on development priorities.
  • The “Team India” concept emphasizes a unified approach to address the country’s challenges and ensures that development transcends political differences.

Focus on Data Driven Decision-Making

  • NITI Aayog has developed data-driven management systems to track national performance and ensure transparency in governance.
  • The SDG India Index tracks states’ progress toward Sustainable Development Goals, while other indices, such as the Composite Water Management Index, have been vital in tackling pressing issues like water scarcity.

Technological Innovation for Youth Employment

  • PM Modi has highlighted the importance of technology in creating employment opportunities for India’s youth. NITI Aayog’s initiatives, like AIM and PLI schemes, aim to harness technological advancements for job creation and labor productivity.

Challenges and Future Directions

  • Cross-Departmental Coordination: NITI Aayog’s success hinges on its ability to work across departmental silos at the central level and with state governments to ensure coherence between short-term imperatives and long-term development goals.
  • Sustainability and Climate Goals: NITI Aayog’s role in aligning India’s development agenda with global challenges, particularly climate change, will be crucial in the coming years.
  • Youth Employment and Skill Development: As India’s workforce continues to grow, NITI Aayog must focus on increasing employment opportunities and skill development, leveraging technology to meet the demands of the future workforce.

Goals for 2030

  • Energy Transition: Achieving 50% of energy needs from renewable sources, with 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity and reducing carbon emissions by one billion tonnes.
  • Public Health Enhancement: Strengthening public health surveillance to cover non-communicable diseases and environmental conditions.
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning national policies with SDGs, focusing on poverty reduction, education, and gender equality.

Vision for 2035

  • Economic Growth: Focusing on long-term economic growth while ensuring social equity and environmental sustainability, leveraging technology and innovation.
  • Energy Security: Ensuring energy access, affordability, and security to meet both present and future energy demands.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration: Utilizing AI in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and urban infrastructure to improve efficiency and service delivery.

About NITI AAYOG

  • Established: 2015, replacing the Planning Commission.
  • Aim: Focus on contemporary challenges like sustainable development, policy innovation, and governance reforms.

Composition

  • Chairperson: Prime Minister of India.
  • Vice-Chairperson and CEO: Lead the executive functions.
  • Governing Council: Includes Chief Ministers of states and Union Territories, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories (except Delhi and Puducherry), Vice Chairman, and full-time members.

Roles of NITI-AAYOG

  • Policy Formulation & Strategic Advice: Provides advice to central and state governments.
  • Promote Cooperative Federalism: Encourages collaboration between state and central governments.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation: Monitors the implementation of policies and programs.
  • Innovation & Research: Promotes innovation and research in key sectors.
  • Promotion of SDGs: Aligns development programs with global Sustainable Development Goals.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? 10 Years of NITI Aayog: Shaping India’s Future
Established January 1, 2015, replacing the Planning Commission
Chairperson Prime Minister of India
Vice-Chairperson & CEO Leads executive functions
Governing Council Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, Vice Chairperson, and full-time members
Key Principles Decentralization, Competitive Federalism, Data-Driven Governance
Major Initiatives Aspirational District Program, Atal Innovation Mission, Production Linked Incentive Scheme
Aspirational District Program (2018) Focuses on improving 112 underdeveloped districts in areas like health, education, and infrastructure
Aspirational Block Program (2023) Expanded to 500 blocks to ensure 100% coverage of government schemes
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) Launched in 2016 to promote innovation through Tinkering Labs and Incubation Centres
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Encourages domestic manufacturing and job creation in key sectors like electronics and textiles
Partnership with States Promotes cooperative federalism through collaboration with states and local governments
Key Indices Developed SDG India Index, Composite Water Management Index
Technological Focus AI integration, youth employment, and technological innovations for job creation
Challenges Cross-department coordination, climate goals, youth employment, and skill development
Goals for 2030 – 50% energy needs from renewable sources
– 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity
– Public health enhancement
Vision for 2035 – Long-term economic growth
– Energy security
– AI integration in key sectors
Roles of NITI Aayog Policy Formulation, Cooperative Federalism, Monitoring & Evaluation, Innovation & Research, SDG Promotion

Champions Trophy 2025 India Squad Announcement

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.

Champions Trophy 2025 India Squad Announcement

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.

Champions Trophy 2025 Teams list

The Champions Trophy 2025 will feature the following teams: Pakistan, New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, South Africa, Australia, and England. These teams will compete in the prestigious ICC tournament.

  • Pakistan
  • New Zealand
  • India
  • Bangladesh
  • Afghanistan
  • South Africa
  • Australia
  • England

Union Budget 2025, Check Date and Time

The Union Budget is a key event in India that impacts the country’s economy. In 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to present the budget on February 1, a Saturday at 11 AM. However, this is yet to be officially confirmed. Here is a quick look at what the budget presentation means and its key aspects.

Expected Date for Union Budget 2025

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will likely present the Union Budget on February 1, 2025 at 11 AM. This budget will be the second full one under the Modi 3.0 government and the eighth consecutive budget by Sitharaman. While the date is expected, an official confirmation from the government is still awaited.

Significance of Budget Timing

The Union Budget is usually presented on the first day of February. However, if this day falls on a weekend or a public holiday, the date may shift to a Saturday or another working day. In 2017, the government moved the budget presentation to February 1, instead of the traditional last working of February, to align with the new financial year, which starts on April 1.

Why Saturday Presentations?

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, the Union Budget is typically presented on Saturdays. This practice started in 2015 to allow Parliament more time for discussion and reduce delays in the process. For example, the 2015-16 budget was presented on February 28, and the 2016-17 budget was presented on February 27.

Stock Market and the Budget

On the days of the Union Budget presentation, the stock market will remain open. This allows investors to react immediately to any announcements made in the budget. The market will follow its regular trading hours to ensure smooth operation.

The Economic Survey

Before the Union Budget is presented, an Economic Survey is published. This document reviews the country’s economic performance over the past year and highlights key challenges. It also gives suggestions for future economies policies. The Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. V Anantha Nageswaran, is responsible for preparing the Economic Survey.

India-U.S. Collaboration on Sonobuoy Production for Indian Navy

India and the U.S. have entered into a significant partnership for co-producing U.S. sonobuoys to enhance undersea domain awareness (UDA) for the Indian Navy. This move is part of a broader collaboration aimed at improving naval capabilities and tracking submarines in the deep seas, in response to the growing Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Ultra Marine (UM), a U.S.-based leader in undersea warfare technology, and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) will jointly manufacture sonobuoys, ensuring interoperability between the U.S. and Indian navies, as well as allied nations like Australia and Japan.

Key Developments

Co-Production of Sonobuoys

  • Partners: Ultra Marine (UM), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
  • Goal: To co-produce sonobuoys for the Indian Navy, following U.S. Navy standards.
  • Production: Split between the U.S. and India, in alignment with ‘Make in India’ principles.

Technology for Undersea Domain Awareness

  • Purpose: Sonobuoys play a crucial role in detecting submarines in the ocean, aiding in maritime security.
  • Enhanced Capabilities: Sonobuoys optimized for acoustic performance in the unique environment of the Indian Ocean.

Interoperability and Standardization

  • Key Focus: Ensuring that the sonobuoys are interchangeable and compatible with U.S., Indian, and allied naval platforms like P-8, MH-60R, and MQ-9B Sea Guardian.
  • Strategic Importance: Improves collaboration and operational coordination among Quad countries.

Broader Strategic Context

  • Quad Cooperation: The U.S., India, Australia, and Japan are strengthening maritime security cooperation, with an emphasis on UDA and interoperability.
  • Increasing Focus on UDA: In light of rising maritime threats, especially from China, UDA has become a critical area for the Indian Navy and Quad nations.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India-U.S. Collaboration on Sonobuoy Production for Indian Navy
Partners  Ultra Marine (UM), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
Objective Co-production of sonobuoys for the Indian Navy to enhance undersea domain awareness (UDA)
Production Split U.S. and India, in line with ‘Make in India’ principles
Technology Focus Sonobuoys for detecting submarines, optimized for the Indian Ocean’s unique environment
Interoperability Sonobuoys compatible with U.S., Indian, Australian, and Japanese naval platforms (P-8, MH-60R, MQ-9B Sea Guardian)
Strategic Importance Enhances cooperation within the Quad and strengthens maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
Related Developments Co-production of Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV) systems for UDA, continued focus on strengthening defense ties

T. Pandey Revenue Secretary and A. Chawla Secretary DIPAM Appointed

On January 8, 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved significant changes in top positions within the Ministry of Finance, ahead of the Union Budget 2025. These strategic appointments include the reassignment of Tuhin Kanta Pandey and Arunish Chawla to key roles. These reshuffles are seen as pivotal as the government prepares for the budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025. The changes reflect a continued focus on strengthening the finance ministry’s leadership for critical policy decisions and financial management.

Key Changes

Tuhin Kanta Pandey

  • New Role: Secretary, Department of Revenue
  • Continued Role: Finance Secretary

Background

  • IAS Officer, 1987 batch (Odisha cadre)
  • Played a crucial role in the privatization of Air India and the public listing of LIC
  • Holds a master’s degree in economics and an MBA from the UK
  • Known for effective financial and administrative reforms

Arunish Chawla

  • New Role: Secretary, Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)
  • Additional Charge: Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) and Ministry of Culture

Background

  • IAS Officer, 1992 batch (Bihar cadre)
  • Former Secretary, Pharma in the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers
  • Recently appointed as the new Revenue Secretary on December 25, 2024
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? T. Pandey Revenue Secretary and A. Chawla Secretary DIPAM Appointed
Tuhin Kanta Pandey New Position: Secretary, Department of Revenue

Continued Role: Finance Secretary

Previous Role: Secretary, DIPAM

Arunish Chawla New Position: Secretary, Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)

Continued Role: Additional Charge: Secretary

Previous Role: DPE & Ministry of Culture Revenue Secretary, Ministry of Finance

Top-5 Fenugreek Producing States of India, Know the Names

Fenugreek, also known as methi, is an important herb and spice in India, loved for its flavor and health benefits. It is used in cooking and traditional medicine. India is a major producer of fenugreek, with certain states leading in cultivation. These states have favorable climates and soils for growing this crop, making them top contributors to the country’s fenugreek production.

Fenugreek Production in India

India is the world’s top producer of fenugreek, with production reaching approximately 226,000 metric tons in the fiscal year 2023. The country’s favorable climate and soil make it a major source of this valuable herb used in cooking and medicine.

Top-5 Fenugreek Producing States in India

India is the largest producer of fenugreek, and several states contribute significantly to its production. Here are the names of top-5 fenugreek producing states of India:

  • Rajasthan
  • Madhya Pradesh
  • Gujarat
  • Haryana
  • Maharashtra

India’s Largest Fenugreek Producing State, Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the largest producer of fenugreek in India. In recent year, the state produced around 118.87 metric tons, accounting for nearly 44% of the total production. The state’s favorable climate and soil conditions make it ideal for cultivating this important herb.

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh ranks second, with a production of 101.46 metric tons, making up 40.26% of India’s total fenugreek production. The state’s agricultural resources and climate are well-suited for growing fenugreek.

Gujarat

Gujarat stands third in fenugreek production, contributing 16.70 metric tons, which is 6.63% of the country’s total production. Its fertile land and irrigation support the growth of high-quality fenugreek.

Haryana

Haryana produced 7.51 metric tons of fenugreek, which accounts for 2.98% of the total production. The state’s rich soil and favorable farming conditions make it a good place for fenugreek cultivation.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra produced 5.42 metric tons, contributing 2.15% to the country’s total fenugreek production. The state’s agricultural practices and climate are conducive to growing this valuable herb.