National Youth Day January 12th

National Youth Day, also known as Rashtriya Yuva Diwas, is celebrated annually on January 12 to honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Recognized for his contributions to spiritual growth, national integration, and youth empowerment, Swamiji’s life and teachings remain an inspiration to India’s youth. The Government of India declared his birthday as National Youth Day in 1984 to encourage young people to follow his ideals and work towards a progressive, united, and self-reliant India.

History of National Youth Day

  • Declared by: Government of India in 1984.
  • First Celebrated: January 12, 1985.
  • Aim: To inspire India’s youth through Swamiji’s philosophies and teachings.
  • Focus: Encouraging youth to embrace values like fearlessness, unity, spiritual growth, and service to humanity.

Significance of the Day

  • Celebrated to unite Indian youth for nation-building.
  • Encourages holistic learning through workshops, cultural events, and seminars.
  • Promotes fearlessness, strength, unity, and religious harmony.
  • Helps spread awareness of youth rights and responsibilities.
  • Focuses on cleanliness drives, community service, and social awareness programs.

Celebrations and Activities

  • Celebrations held at Ramakrishna Mission centers, schools, colleges, and institutions and Activities include,
  • Parades
  • Devotional songs
  • Meditation sessions
  • Seminars and speeches on Swami Vivekananda’s life and ideals.
  • Essay-writing and quiz competitions.
  • Youth conventions and cultural programs.
  • Celebrations aim to motivate youth to contribute to nation-building.

Swami Vivekananda: A Brief Overview

  • Born as: Narendranath Datta on January 12, 1863.
  • Known For: Philosopher, spiritual leader, religious teacher, and reformer.
  • Chief Disciple of: Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
  • Legacy: Introduced Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world.
  • Iconic Moment: His Chicago Speech (1893) that introduced Hinduism to the global stage.
  • Founded: Ramakrishna Mission in 1897 at Belur Math, Kolkata.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? National Youth Day January 12th
Established 1984
First Celebrated 1985
Significance To honor Swami Vivekananda and inspire youth to follow his teachings
Activities Parades, speeches, seminars, essay-writing, meditation, youth conventions, cultural programs
Swami Vivekananda’s Contribution Introduced Vedanta and Yoga to the West, famous for his Chicago Speech (1893)
Organization Celebrated by schools, colleges, and Ramakrishna Mission centers
Main Values Promoted Fearlessness, strength, unity, religious harmony, spiritual growth, service to humanity

150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, is one of the oldest scientific institutions in India dedicated to weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. As it marks its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, the IMD continues to play a pivotal role in tracking weather patterns, issuing cyclone warnings, monitoring earthquakes, and studying atmospheric changes.

Evolution of Meteorology in India

  • Ancient Roots: Early texts like the Upanishads (circa 3000 B.C.) discuss weather phenomena, including cloud formation, rain cycles, and seasons.
  • Modern Meteorology: Scientific advancements began in the 17th century with the invention of the thermometer, barometer, and gas laws.
  • First Observatory: Established in 1785 in Kolkata (Calcutta) to conduct weather studies.

Foundation of IMD

  • Founded in 1875 by the British Government of India to centralize weather data collection.
  • The first Meteorological Reporter was Henry Francis Blanford.
  • IMD’s creation was accelerated after the 1864 Calcutta cyclone, which killed over 60,000 people, and the 1866 Orissa famine, caused by failed monsoons.

IMD’s Role in India’s Development

  • IMD has expanded to operate six Regional Meteorological Centres and state-level centres in all capitals.
  • These are located in Chennai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur and New Delhi.
  • It became a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1949 after India’s independence.
  • IMD provides weather forecasts, cyclone alerts, earthquake monitoring, and pollution tracking to help the country prepare for natural disasters.

IMD’s Infrastructure and Operations

  • Uses a complex communication network for data collection from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites.
  • Generates warnings for extreme weather events to safeguard lives and property.

Significance of IMD

  • The IMD’s accurate forecasting has been crucial in reducing disaster impacts over the years.
  • It continues to improve weather forecasting technologies to strengthen India’s climate resilience and disaster management capabilities.

IMD’s Milestone

Year Milestone Details
1785 First Observatory Established in Kolkata (Calcutta)
1864 Calcutta Cyclone Killed 60,000 people, prompting IMD’s creation
1875 IMD Foundation Established by the British government
1944 Headquarters Shift Moved from Kolkata to New Delhi
1949 Member of WMO IMD joined the World Meteorological Organization
2025 150th Anniversary Celebrating 150 years of service

Key Functions of IMD

  • Weather Forecasting: Monitors monsoon, cyclones, and rainfall.
  • Disaster Warnings: Provides alerts for cyclones, storms, and extreme weather.
  • Earthquake Monitoring: Tracks seismic activities across the country.
  • Pollution Tracking: Monitors air quality and atmospheric pollution.
  • Climate Services: Supports agriculture, aviation, water management, and disaster preparedness.

Significance of IMD’s 150th Anniversary

  • The 150th anniversary of IMD marks a significant milestone in India’s progress in meteorology and disaster management.
  • IMD’s continuous upgrades in forecasting technology and data collection systems have made it a vital institution for ensuring the country’s climate resilience and public safety.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? 150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Established 1875 by the British Government of India
First Meteorological Reporter Henry Francis Blanford
Purpose Centralize weather data collection and improve forecasting
Significance One of the oldest government departments; crucial for weather forecasting and disaster preparedness
IMD’s 150th Anniversary January 15, 2025
Historical Trigger 1864 Calcutta cyclone and 1866 Orissa famine
Initial Headquarters Kolkata (then Calcutta)
Current Headquarters New Delhi (since 1944)
WMO Membership Joined the World Meteorological Organization in 1949
First Observatory Established in 1785 in Kolkata
Key Functions Weather forecasting, disaster warnings, earthquake monitoring, pollution tracking, climate services
Regional Centres 6 Regional Meteorological Centres and state-level centres in all capitals
Infrastructure Uses data from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites
Technological Advancements Continuously upgrading weather forecasting systems to improve accuracy
Significance  Today Crucial for disaster preparedness, agriculture, aviation, water management, and climate resilience
Historical Evolution Traces roots to ancient texts (Upanishads) discussing weather phenomena

Largest Vanilla Producing Country in the World, List of Top-10

Vanilla is a popular spice used in desserts, perfumes and even medicines. It comes from the pods of vanilla orchids and grows best in warm, tropical areas. Producing vanilla takes time and care, making it one of the most valuable spices. Several countries around the world cultivate vanilla, each offering unique flavor. Let’s explore the top-10 vanilla producing countries globally.

Global Vanilla Production

The global vanilla market was valued at USD 292 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a 4.7% annual rate from 2024 to 2032. The demand for natural vanilla is rising due to its use in banking, beverages and its health benefits, including antioxidant and antidepressant properties.

World’s Largest Vanilla Producer

Madagascar is the world’s largest producer of vanilla beans, contributing about 80% of the global supply each year. In the northeast SAVA region, around 70,000 farmers carefully grow, pollinate and harvest vanilla orchids. This dedication makes Madagascar a key player in the vanilla industry, supplying this prized spice worldwide.

Top-10 Largest Vanilla Producing Countries in the World 2025

Madagascar stands as the largest vanilla producing country with the annual vanilla production of 2,926 tons, followed by Indonesia, China, Mexico and Papua New Guinea.

Here is the list of top-10 largest vanilla producing countries in the world by 2025:

Rank  Country Vanilla Production (in tons)
1. Madagascar 2,926
2. Indonesia 2,304
3. China 885
4. Mexico 513
5. Papua New Guinea 502
6. Turkey 303
7. Uganda 211
8. Tonga 180
9. French Polynesia 24
10. Reunion 21

Richest Actor in the World 2025, Check the List of Top-10 Richest Actors

The entertainment industry has always captivated audiences, especially through the work of actors who have become cherished and respected public figures. These actors not only entertain on different platforms but also expand into profitable business ventures. This article delves into the richest actors globally, shedding light on their financial success, career highlights, and the various paths they’ve taken to amass their impressive fortunes.

Who is the Richest Actor in the World By 2025?

As of 2025, Tyler Perry is the world’s richest actor, with a net worth of $1 billion. Known for his iconic character Madea, Perry is not only an actor but also a writer, producer and director. His success comes from his movies, TV shows, and owing his intellectual property. His journey from humble beginnings to immense wealth and influence makes him a role model in the entertainment industry.

Net Worth of Tyler Perry

As of 2024, Tyler Perry’s net worth is an impressive $1 billion. This wealth places him among the richest people in the entertainment world. He is recognized as one of the most successful African American entertainment moguls. Perry’s financial achievements come from his successful movies, TV shows, and his ownership of his intellectual property, allowing him to keep a large part of the profits.

Age and Citizenship of Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry was born on September 13, 1969, making him 54 years old in 2024. He hails from the United States and continues to inspire many with his work and philanthropy.

Tyler Perry’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming the richest actor in the world highlights his talent, hard work, and commitment to making a positive impact.

List of Top 10 Richest Actors in the World by 2025

Tyler Perry stands on the top position in the list of richest actor in the world 2025 with the net worth of $1 Billion, followed by Jerry Seinfeld, Dwayne Johnson and Shah Rukh Khan.

Here is the list of Top 10 Richest Actors in the World:

S. No. Name Net Worth (in U.S. Dollar) Nationality
1. Tyler Perry $1 Billion American
2. Jerry Seinfeld $950 Million American
3. Dwayne Johnson $800 Million American
4. Shah Rukh Khan $730 Million Indian
5. Tom Cruise $600 Million American
6. George Clooney $500 Million American
7. Robert De Niro $500 Million American
8. Arnold Schwarzenegger $450 Million Austria, United States
9. Kevin Hart $450 Million American
10. Adam Sandler $440 Million American

Second Richest Actor in the World: Jerry Seinfeld

Net Worth: $950 Million

Age: 69 years

Jerry Seinfeld, a well-known American actor, comedian and producer, gained fame through the hit sitcom “Seinfeld,” where he portrayed a fictionalized version of himself. This show remains highly profitable and Seinfeld boasts a net worth of $950 million, making him the world’s wealthiest doctor.

Third Richest Actor of the World: Dwayne Johnson

Net Worth: $800 Million

Age: 51 years

Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” is an American actor and ex-wrestler famous for “Jumanji, “Fast and Furious” and “Moana.” He is a thriving producer with his company, Seven Bucks Productions and boasts an $800 million net worth.

 

 

Smartphones to Laptops: India’s IT Revolution

In a landmark development for India’s electronics manufacturing sector, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated Syrma SGS Technology’s advanced laptop assembly line in Chennai. This new facility symbolizes India’s growing dominance in IT hardware production, expanding its success in mobile manufacturing to high-value electronics like laptops. With initiatives under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) 2.0 scheme, India is taking significant steps towards becoming a global IT hardware hub.

Key Highlights of Assembly Line

  • Location: Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), Chennai.
  • Production Capacity: Initially 100,000 laptops annually, scalable to 1 million within 1-2 years.
  • Global Collaboration: Partnership with Micro-Star International (MSI), a Taiwanese tech giant.
  • Employment Impact: Estimated creation of 150-200 specialized jobs by FY26.
  • Quality Standards: Laptops produced will meet global benchmarks for quality and innovation.

India’s Electronic Manufacturing Growth

  • Exponential Growth: Total electronics production surged from ₹2.4 lakh crore in 2014 to ₹9.8 lakh crore in 2024.
  • Mobile Manufacturing Success: Reached ₹4.4 lakh crore, with ₹1.5 lakh crore in exports in 2024.
  • Local Production: 98% of mobile phones used in India are domestically manufactured.

Tamil Nadu: A Leading Contributor

  • Major Hub: 47 manufacturing units supported by MeitY under various schemes.
  • PLI 2.0 Impact: Seven out of 27 approved units under PLI 2.0 are in Tamil Nadu.

Schemes Supporting Growth

  • SPECS (Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors) : ₹1,200 crore allocated for promoting electronic components.
  • M-SIPS (Modified Special Incentive Package Scheme): ₹15,000 crore investment potential, backed by ₹1,500 crore from MeitY.
  • EMC Cluster (Electronic Manufacturing Clusters): Located in Sriperumbudur, attracting ₹8,700 crore in investments and creating 36,300 jobs.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Manufactured in Tamil Nadu, showcasing India’s capabilities in high-end electronics.

PLI 2.0 for IT Hardware

  • Launch Date: May 29, 2023.
  • Incentives: Offers a 5% incentive to eligible companies.
  • Covered Products: Laptops, tablets, servers, all-in-one PCs, and ultra-small form factor devices.

Projected Outcomes

  • Investment: ₹3,000 crore.
  • Production: ₹3.5 lakh crore.
  • Jobs: 47,000 across India.

Achievements as of December 2024

  • Investments: ₹520 crore.
  • Production: ₹10,000 crore.
  • Jobs Created: 3,900.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Smartphones to Laptops: India’s IT Revolution
Facility Syrma SGS Technology’s laptop assembly line in Chennai
Initial Production Capacity 100,000 laptops annually, scalable to 1 million units
Partnership With Micro-Star International (MSI), a leading Taiwanese tech firm
Employment Impact 150-200 specialized jobs by FY26
Electronics Growth ₹9.8 lakh crore production in 2024; mobile exports worth ₹1.5 lakh crore
Tamil Nadu’s Contribution 30% of India’s electronics exports; iPhone 16 Pro manufactured locally
PLI 2.0 Goals ₹3.5 lakh crore production, 47,000 jobs, ₹3,000 crore investment
Achievements (Dec 2024) ₹520 crore investments, ₹10,000 crore production, 3,900 jobs created

List of All RTO Codes in Uttar Pradesh, Check the List

Every vehicle has a unique registration number issued by the RTO (Regional Transport Office). These numbers begin with “UP,” followed by a two-digit code that shows the district where the vehicle is registered. Understanding these districts codes helps in identifying a vehicle’s origin, managing transport rules and ensuring proper administration. Let’s explore the RTO district codes in UP.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a northern Indian state with over 241 million people, making it the most populous in India and globally. Covering 243,286 square kilometers, it is the fourth-largest state by area, contributing 7.3% of India’s total land. Lucknow is its capital and Prayagraj serves as the judicial capital. Uttar Pradesh has 18 divisions and districts.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts, organized into 18 divisions for efficient administration. Additionally, the state includes one temporary district, making it a well-structured administrative region.

What is an RTO Code?

An RTO Code is a unique number assigned to vehicles in a specific district for identification. In Uttar Pradesh, RTO codes start from 11 and go up to 96, assigned for administrative purposes.

List of All RTO Codes in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a unique RTO code for each district, starting from UP-11 to UP-96. These codes help identify vehicles based on their registration district for administration purposes.

Here is the list of RTO codes in Uttar Pradesh:

Saharanpur UP-11
Muzaffarpur UP-12
Bulandshahr UP-13
Ghaziabad UP-14
Meerut UP-15
Noida UP-16
Baghpat UP-17
Greater Noida UP-18
Shamli UP-19
Bijnor UP-20
Moradabad UP-21
Rampur UP-22
Jyotiba Phule Nagar UP-23
Badaun UP-24
Bareilly UP-25
Pilibhit UP-26
Shahjahanpur UP-27
Ayodhya UP-28
Yusufur UP-29
Hardoi UP-30
Lakhimpur Kheri UP-31
Lucknow UP-32
Rae Bareli UP-33
Sitapur UP-34
Unnao UP-35
Azamgarh UP-36
Hapur UP-37
Sambhal UP-38
Bahraich UP-40
Barabanki UP-41
Faizabad UP-42
Gonda UP-43
Sultanpur UP-44
Ambedkar Nagar UP-45
Shravasti UP-46
Balrampur UP-47
Azamgarh UP-50
Basti UP-51
Deoria UP-52
Gorakhpur UP-53
Mau UP-54
Siddharthnagar UP-55
Maharajganj UP-56
Padrauna UP-57
Sant Kabir Nagar UP-58
Ballia UP-60
Ghazipur UP-61
Jaunpur UP-62
Mirzapur UP-63
Sonbhadra UP-64
Varanasi UP-65
Bhadohi UP-66
Chandauli UP-67
Prayagraj UP-70
Fatehpur UP-71
Pratapnagar UP-72
Kaushambi UP-73
Kannauj UP-74
Etawah UP-75
Farrukhabad UP-76
Kanpur Dehat UP-77
Kanpur Nagar UP-78
Auraiya UP-79
Agra UP-80
Aligarh UP-81
Etah UP-82
Firozabad UP-83
Mainpuri UP-84
Mathura UP-85
Mahamaya Nagar UP-86
Kanshiram Nagar UP-87
Banda UP-90
Hamirpur UP-91
Jalaun UP-92
Jhansi UP-93
Lalitpur UP-94
Mahoba UP-95
Chitrakoot Dham, Karwi UP-96

 

DRDO’s HIMKAVACH: Advancing Cold Weather Military Apparel

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has unveiled the HIMKAVACH multi-layer clothing system, engineered to enhance the operational efficiency of military personnel in extreme cold conditions. This innovative apparel has successfully completed user trials, demonstrating its effectiveness in temperatures ranging from +20°C to -60°C.

Design and Features

HIMKAVACH is a multi-layered clothing system meticulously crafted to provide optimal insulation, breathability, and protection against moisture. The outer layer is designed to repel water and wind while maintaining breathability. The inner layers trap heat close to the body, ensuring warmth even in frigid conditions.

User Trials and Performance

The clothing system underwent rigorous user trials under actual operational conditions. Soldiers tested the garment in various scenarios, simulating real-life military operations. Feedback from users indicated high satisfaction with the system’s performance. The trials confirmed that the clothing met all necessary standards for functionality and comfort.

Strategic Importance

The introduction of HIMKAVACH is timely, addressing the challenges faced by military personnel operating in the Himalayan region, where temperatures can plummet drastically. This clothing system is crucial for operations in the Himalayan region, where soldiers face extreme weather challenges.

Future Prospects

The success of HIMKAVACH may lead to further innovations in military clothing technology. DRDO plans to explore additional features, such as enhanced camouflage and integrated communication systems. Future developments may also focus on sustainability and the use of advanced materials. These innovations aim to improve the overall effectiveness of military personnel in various operational environments.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
DRDO’s HIMKAVACH Clothing System DRDO developed HIMKAVACH, a multi-layer cold weather clothing system.
Temperature Range Designed for protection in temperatures between +20°C to -60°C.
User Trials Successfully completed user trials, meeting required standards.
Protection Features Provides insulation, breathability, and moisture protection.
Strategic Importance Crucial for soldiers operating in high-altitude regions, like the Himalayas.
Future Prospects Possible enhancements for camouflage, communication integration, and advanced materials.
DRDO Full Form: Defence Research and Development Organisation.
Key Role of DRDO Focuses on military technology advancements including clothing, weaponry, and defense systems.

Centennial Recognition for Srinagar Meteorology Centre

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of a Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu during a landmark event commemorating the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The announcement signifies a major step toward improving weather forecasting, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience in the Jammu & Kashmir region.

The event also highlighted IMD’s remarkable journey from its establishment in 1875 to becoming a global leader in meteorological services, providing critical weather data for sectors like agriculture, aviation, defense, and disaster management. Dr. Singh emphasized India’s growing leadership in climate action, driven by advancements in meteorological infrastructure under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key Highlights of the Announcements

Establishment of Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu

  • Announced by Dr. Jitendra Singh at IMD’s 150th anniversary event in Jammu.
  • Aims to cater to the unique geographical and climatic challenges of the Jammu region.
  • Will enhance disaster preparedness and improve weather forecasting services across Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Expected to replicate the success of the Srinagar Meteorology Centre, now recognized as a Centennial Centre by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

IMD’s Journey and Contribution

  • Established in 1875, IMD has grown into a globally recognized institution.
  • Provides critical weather data for various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, defense, and disaster management.
  • Technological advancements since 2014 have improved forecast accuracy by over 40%.
  • Credibility and accuracy of IMD forecasts have led to increased trust among citizens.

Technological Advancements in Meteorological Infrastructure

  • Under PM Modi’s leadership, IMD’s infrastructure has expanded significantly.
  • Jammu & Kashmir now has double the number of Automated Weather Stations (AWS) compared to a decade ago.
  • X-band Radars have been installed in Jammu, Srinagar, Manihal, and Leh, improving weather predictions for critical events like the Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi pilgrimage.

Mission Mausam – 2000 Crore Initiative

  • Mission Mausam was launched during Modi government’s third term (Modi 3.0).
  • Budget of ₹2,000 crore for the mission, running from 2024 to 2026.
  • Focuses on making India “weather-ready and climate-smart” by enhancing forecasting tools and outreach programs.
  • Aims to position India as a global hub for meteorological services and disaster preparedness by 2047.

Collaborations with Educational Institutions

  • Dr. Singh announced upcoming MoUs between the Srinagar Meteorology Centre and institutions like,
  • University of Jammu
  • Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST)
  • Islamic University of Science and Technology, Avantipura
  • These collaborations will promote research and innovation in meteorological sciences, fostering a new generation of weather experts.

Growing Relevance of IMD’s Services

  • IMD’s services have become indispensable for citizens in daily life.
  • Provides agricultural advisories to farmers and weather updates for aviation and defense personnel in challenging terrains.
  • Real-time alerts are disseminated via SMS and WhatsApp, reaching millions of people.
  • IMD forecasts are trusted for planning significant life events, such as weddings.

India’s Leadership in Climate Action

  • India leads the world in achieving its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted in 2015 under the Paris Agreement.
  • India has already achieved 200 GW of clean energy capacity and is on track to meet the 500 GW target by 2030.
  • IMD’s advancements in space, land, and sea technologies have contributed to mitigating natural disasters like cyclones, flash floods, and avalanches.

Upcoming 150th Anniversary Celebrations in Delhi

  • The event will culminate on January 15, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chief guest.
  • The grand event will honor IMD’s legacy and unveil its strategic roadmap for the future.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Centennial Recognition for Srinagar Meteorology Centre
Key Announcement Establishment of Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu
Announced By Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister
Purpose of the Centre Enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness in Jammu & Kashmir
Recognition of Srinagar Centre Designated as Centennial Centre by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Technological Advancements Double the number of AWS and installation of X-band Radars in key locations
Mission Mausam ₹2,000 crore initiative to make India weather-ready and climate-smart
MoUs with Institutions Collaborations with University of Jammu, SKUAST, and Islamic University
IMD Services
Real-time alerts via SMS/WhatsApp, agricultural advisories, and aviation updates
India’s Climate Goals
On track to achieve 500 GW of clean energy by 2030

Mount Ibu Erupts in North Maluku, Indonesia

Mount Ibu, situated in North Maluku, Indonesia, erupted on January 11, 2025, sending ash clouds up to 4,000 meters high and ejecting glowing lava up to two kilometers from its crater. This event has prompted authorities to issue warnings and implement safety measures for the public.

Eruption Details

Date and Time: January 11, 2025, at 7:35 PM local time.

Eruption Characteristics

  • Ash plume reaching 4,000 meters above the summit.
  • Glowing lava ejected up to two kilometers from the crater.

Duration: Approximately three minutes and five seconds.

Safety Measures and Warnings

Exclusion Zones

  • A four-kilometer radius around the volcano.
  • A 5.5-kilometer sector to the north of the active crater.

Public Advisory

  • Residents and visitors are advised to wear masks and protective eyewear to guard against ash inhalation and eye irritation.
  • Coordination with the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) is recommended for risk mitigation.

Historical Context

Recent Activity: Mount Ibu has exhibited fluctuating volcanic activity since June 2024, with some days experiencing as many as 70 eruptions.

Volcanic Alert Level: The volcano remains at level III, or “Alert,” indicating ongoing volcanic activity.

Geological Significance

Location: Mount Ibu is located on Halmahera Island in North Maluku, Indonesia.

Volcanic Activity: Indonesia is situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” making it one of the most volcanically active regions globally. Mount Ibu is among the 127 active volcanoes in the country.

Implications for Aviation

Aviation Advisory: The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has issued an orange-level Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA), signaling heightened caution for air travel. This advisory is crucial for flight safety, as volcanic ash can pose significant risks to aircraft.

Public Safety Recommendations

Avoidance of Danger Zones: It is imperative to adhere to the exclusion zones and avoid areas within the specified radius to ensure safety.

Health Precautions: Wearing masks and protective eyewear is essential to prevent health issues related to ash inhalation and eye irritation.

Stay Informed: Regularly consult updates from local authorities and the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) for the latest information and advisories.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Mount Ibu eruption in North Maluku, Indonesia, on January 11, 2025 Eruption sent ash clouds up to 4,000 meters high; lava ejected up to two kilometers from the crater.
Exclusion Zone Authorities set a 4-kilometer exclusion zone around the volcano for safety.
Additional Safety Measures 5.5-kilometer danger zone to the north of the crater; residents advised to wear masks and protective eyewear.
Volcanic Alert Level Mount Ibu remains at Alert Level III (Active).
Location Mount Ibu is located on Halmahera Island, North Maluku, Indonesia.
Aviation Advisory Orange-level Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) issued, warning of potential aviation hazards due to ash.
Recent Volcanic Activity The volcano has shown fluctuating activity since June 2024, with over 70 eruptions on certain days.
Geological Context Indonesia has 127 active volcanoes, located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”

INROAD Project: Enhancing Natural Rubber Quality in India’s North-East

The INROAD (Indian Natural Rubber Operations for Assisted Development) project, launched with a financial backing of ₹100 crore, aims to enhance the quality of natural rubber produced in India’s North-East. This initiative focuses on skill development for rubber growers and the establishment of model infrastructure, with support from key players in the tyre industry, demonstrating a unique collaboration between agriculture and manufacturing.

Project Overview

INROAD is a pioneering initiative in the global tyre industry, focusing on improving the quality of natural rubber through direct involvement from tyre manufacturers. The project is financially supported by four major companies – Apollo, Ceat, JK, and MRF. The Rubber Board of India oversees its implementation.

Achievements to Date

In its first four years, the project has successfully established 1,25,272 hectares of new natural rubber plantations. These plantations span across 94 districts in the North East and parts of West Bengal, marking a significant step towards enhancing local rubber production.

Skill Development Initiatives

A core component of the INROAD project is skill development. The initiative provides training to rubber growers through digital platforms, aiming to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills for effective rubber tapping and processing. The focus is on areas critical for improving the quality of rubber.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development is equally important in the INROAD project. Model Smoke Houses and Processing and Grading Centres are being established to support rubber growers. These facilities are designed specifically for the region’s needs, with smokehouses playing a crucial role in producing high-quality rubber sheets by drying and curing latex.

Economic Empowerment of Women

The project also emphasizes the economic empowerment of women in rubber cultivation. A model smokehouse has been inaugurated for the Bhaishkhuli Pragatishil Mohila Samittee, a cooperative of 65 female rubber growers in Goalpara, Assam. This facility will not only enhance the quality of rubber produced but also serve as a training and demonstration centre.

Future Directions

The INROAD project aims to continue its efforts in capacity building and infrastructure development, focusing on enhancing the quality of natural rubber and empowering local farmers. By encouraging collaboration between the tyre industry and rubber growers, the project seeks to create a sustainable model for rubber cultivation in India.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
INROAD (Indian Natural Rubber Operations for Assisted Development) project secured ₹100 crore for improving natural rubber quality in North-East India. Project Focus: Enhances quality of natural rubber in North-East India.
Funding: ₹100 crore investment.
Tyre Manufacturers: Apollo, Ceat, JK, MRF involved.
The project aims to establish model infrastructure and provide skill development for rubber farmers. Infrastructure: Smokehouses and processing centres established for rubber quality improvement.
Skill Development: Digital platforms for training rubber growers.
Over 1,25,000 hectares of new rubber plantations set up across 94 districts in North-East India and parts of West Bengal. Area Covered: 1,25,272 hectares of rubber plantations.
Regions: North-East India and parts of West Bengal.
A model smokehouse was inaugurated for a cooperative of 65 female rubber growers in Goalpara, Assam, as part of empowering women in rubber cultivation. Empowerment: Focus on women’s economic empowerment through rubber cultivation.
Women’s Cooperative: Bhaishkhuli Pragatishil Mohila Samittee, Assam.
The Rubber Board of India oversees the INROAD project. Oversight: Rubber Board of India.
The project also helps in improving rubber tapping and processing methods for better quality. Focus Areas: Rubber tapping and processing quality improvement.