Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025: India’s Automotive Milestone

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 will take place from January 17-22 across Delhi NCR, marking India’s growing role as a global hub for mobility. With over 1,500 exhibitors and an expected 500,000 visitors, the event is set to become the world’s second-largest auto show. Key automotive giants such as Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and BYD will showcase new models, with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid technologies, and alternative fuels. In its second edition, the expo promises to build on the success of the inaugural 2024 event, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable mobility and engineering excellence.

Expo Overview: A Global Showcase

The expo will span three venuesBharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, and India Expo Centre & Mart—with over 150,000 square meters dedicated to the latest mobility technologies and advancements. Key segments of the expo include the Auto Expo Motor Show, Auto Expo Components Show, and the Construction Equipment Expo. Global leaders from over 13 countries, including Germany, Japan, and the USA, will present cutting-edge solutions in the automotive value chain.

Focus on Electric and Sustainable Mobility

The event will spotlight electric mobility, with Ather Energy, Ola Electric, and Vayve Mobility leading the charge in the EV revolution. It will also address EV infrastructure, hydrogen fuel solutions, and biofuel-powered vehicles, aiming to facilitate a transition to cleaner technologies. Over 20 global conferences will bring together industry experts, discussing the future of the mobility sector.

Strategic Importance: A Boost for India’s Global Mobility Vision

Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the expo’s role in aligning with India’s vision of becoming a global leader in mobility technologies. The expo will provide a platform for international collaboration and investment opportunities, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in the automotive and mobility landscape. With the theme “Beyond Boundaries: Co-Creating the Future of the Automotive Value Chain,” the event aims to unite the entire sector under one roof, accelerating the nation’s electric vehicle transition and driving global trade and investment.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 scheduled from January 17-22, 2025 in Delhi NCR. Over 1,500 exhibitors showcasing electric vehicles, hybrid, CNG, and biofuel-powered cars.
The Expo is expected to attract 500,000 visitors. Over 200,000 square meters will be dedicated to the event across three venues: Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, India Expo Centre & Mart.
It will focus on electric vehicles, sustainable mobility, and alternative fuels. Key exhibitors include Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Kia, and BYD.
The expo will feature 20+ global conferences on mobility technologies. Major vehicle manufacturers like Ather Energy, Ola Electric, Vayve Mobility, and Vinfast will lead the electric revolution.
Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, spoke at the curtain-raiser event. Theme of the Expo: “Beyond Boundaries: Co-Creating the Future of the Automotive Value Chain“.
India’s role as a global mobility hub is highlighted at the event. Countries participating: Germany, USA, South Korea, Japan, Italy, China, Russia, Turkey, Singapore, UAE, Spain, and Belgium.
The Expo will feature the Auto Expo Motor Show 2025 and Auto Expo Components Show 2025. – The Construction Equipment Expo will be held at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida.
Expected participation of 5,000+ global buyers in the event. – The India International Tyre Show, Bharat Battery Show, Indian Steel Pavilion, and Nasscom Mobility Tech Platform will also be featured at Bharat Mandapam.
Electric vehicles will be showcased, focusing on EV infrastructure and alternative fuels. Dates: January 17-22, 2025
The event will highlight India’s engineering excellence and sustainable mobility. Expected number of visitors: 500,000

Former Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala Passes Away at 89

Om Prakash Chautala, the veteran politician and former Chief Minister of Haryana, passed away at the age of 89 on December 20, 2024, in Gurugram after suffering a cardiac arrest. A stalwart of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and a key figure in Haryana’s political history, his death marks the end of an era. Chautala was known for his leadership, serving as Haryana’s CM for four terms, with his first tenure beginning in 1989 and his final term running from 1999 to 2005.

Political Journey and Legacy

Chautala, son of the influential former Deputy Prime Minister Chaudhary Devi Lal, began his political career in the 1980s, with a strong influence in Haryana’s political scene. He founded the Haryana Lok Dal (National) post the 1996 elections, which later became the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) after aligning with the BSP. Chautala led the state in shaping its future, securing a significant political foothold in Haryana for decades.

Leadership and Controversies

Chautala’s tenure was marked by both achievements and controversies. He was instrumental in the growth of his party and had a deep impact on Haryana’s political and social fabric. However, his career was also tainted by a recruitment scam that led to his imprisonment, reflecting the complex nature of his political journey.

Condolences and Mournings

His passing has sent shockwaves through Haryana’s political circles, with leaders from all sides offering their condolences. His death marks a significant moment in the state’s history, as it bids farewell to a figure who played a pivotal role in shaping its political landscape over decades. Chautala’s contributions to the state’s development are remembered as his family and supporters prepare for his final rites.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Om Prakash Chautala, former Haryana CM, passes away at 89 – Passed away on December 20, 2024, due to cardiac arrest.
– Served as CM of Haryana for five terms (1989-2005).
– Was the son of Chaudhary Devi Lal, former Deputy PM of India.
– Leader of Indian National Lok Dal (INLD).
– Born in Dabwali, Sirsa district, Haryana in January 1935.
Static Information State: Haryana
Capital: Chandigarh
Previous CM Tenure: 1989, 1991, 1996, 2000-2005

India Ranks 39th in Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024

India has significantly improved its position in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024, ranking 39th among 119 countries. This marks a sharp rise from its 54th place in the previous 2021 index, which was later adjusted to 38th after a revision in WEF’s methodology. The boost in India’s ranking reflects a strong recovery in global tourism, following the pandemic, and the country’s growing role as a hub for medical and cultural tourism.

Key Factors Behind India’s Growth in TTDI

Medical Tourism Boost: India is emerging as a global leader in affordable medical tourism. The Ministry of Health has launched the Advantage Healthcare India portal to facilitate international patients seeking medical treatment in India.

Government Schemes for Tourism Development: The Ministry of Tourism has supported infrastructure development through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies, providing financial aid for tourism projects across the country.

Cultural Heritage and Infrastructure: India’s rich cultural heritage, with over 43 World Heritage Sites and 56 potential sites, strengthens its tourism appeal. The country has also invested in 500 new air routes, 150 new airports, and high-speed trains like Vande Bharat, enhancing accessibility for tourists.

India’s Position and Progress

India’s 39th place reflects a steady rise in global tourism activities, positioning it as the leader in South Asia and one of the top destinations for medical tourism. This ranking, aided by infrastructure improvements and favorable government policies, is a significant achievement and showcases India’s growing influence in the global tourism industry.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India ranks 39th in Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 – India ranked 39th out of 119 countries in TTDI 2024, up from 54th in 2021.
– The Ministry of Tourism supports tourism infrastructure through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Assistance to Central Agencies.
– India is emerging as a global center for medical tourism with the launch of the Advantage Healthcare India portal.
– The country has improved infrastructure including 500 new air routes, 150 new airports, and high-speed trains like Vande Bharat.
Ministry of Tourism – Led by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture.
Key Schemes Swadesh Darshan: Promotes integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits.
PRASHAD: National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation.
Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development.
Medical Tourism Advantage Healthcare India portal launched for international patients seeking medical treatment in India.
Cultural Heritage – India has 43 World Heritage Sites and 56 potential World Heritage Sites.
– Over 3,500 monuments of national importance.
Infrastructure Development 1,50,000 km road network.
– Construction of 150 new airports.
– Introduction of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat.
President’s Statement President Droupadi Murmu highlighted India as a major center for affordable medical tourism.

China Sets New Spacewalk Record: A Milestone in Space Exploration

China has achieved a major milestone in space exploration with two astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station completing a nine-hour spacewalk, setting a new global record. This significant achievement underscores China’s growing presence in space and highlights its ambitions for future lunar exploration.

Historic Spacewalk

  • Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong set a new global record with a 9-hour extravehicular activity (EVA) outside the Tiangong space station.
  • The spacewalk was confirmed by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) as a “full success.”

Surpassing a Two-Decade-Old Record

  • The record surpasses the previous 8 hours and 56 minutes held by U.S. astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms on March 12, 2001.
  • This marked the longest EVA since that mission aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery.

Astronaut Milestones

  • Cai Xuzhe: Mission commander Cai Xuzhe completed his second spacewalk, following a 5.5-hour EVA in November 2022.
  • Song Lingdong: This was Song Lingdong’s first EVA, making him the first Chinese astronaut born in the 1990s to perform an extravehicular activity.

Support and Coordination

  • The astronauts were tethered by safety cables during the EVA, with robotic arms assisting their work. Wang Haozhe, stationed inside Tiangong, provided coordination and support throughout the activity.

Upcoming Spacewalks and Missions

  • More spacewalks and scientific experiments are planned for the ongoing mission, with the Shenzhou-19 crew returning to Earth in 2025.
  • The spacewalk also set a new Chinese record, surpassing the 8-hour, 23-minute spacewalk by astronauts Ye Guangfu and Li Guangsu in 2022.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? China Sets New Spacewalk Record: A Milestone in Space Exploration
Record-Breaking Spacewalk 9-hour extravehicular activity (EVA) by Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong.
Previous Record Surpassed the 8 hours 56 minutes by U.S. astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms (March 12, 2001).
Mission Success Confirmed as a “full success” by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
Astronauts Involved Cai Xuzhe (mission commander, 2nd spacewalk) and Song Lingdong (1st spacewalk).
Support and Coordination Work assisted by robotic arms, safety cables, and coordination by Wang Haozhe inside the station.
Previous Chinese Record Surpassed Chinese astronauts Ye Guangfu and Li Guangsu’s 8-hour 23-minute EVA in 2022.
Future Missions More spacewalks and scientific experiments are planned, with the Shenzhou-19 crew returning in 2025.

India Men’s Hockey Team Moves to 5th in Latest FIH Rankings for 2025

The Indian men’s hockey team has clinched the fifth spot in the latest FIH world rankings, following a stellar performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they secured back-to-back Olympic medals for the first time since 1972. This marks a significant achievement in Indian hockey, which has a rich history of success in the sport.

FIH World Rankings Overview

The Netherlands retains the top position with 3,267 points, continuing their dominance after winning the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the FIH Hockey Pro League, and EuroHockey Championship in 2023. England (3139) and Belgium (3124) follow in second and third, respectively, while India (2955) and Australia (2814) occupy the fourth and fifth spots.

A Historic Moment for India

The Indian team has witnessed a significant rise in recent years, making impressive strides since the new Elo-based ranking system was introduced in 2020. Although India has never held the No. 1 spot, their consistent performances have helped them reach the top 5. Their rise through the rankings reflects the team’s growing strength and competitiveness in international tournaments.

Key Historical Milestones

India’s hockey journey has been a rollercoaster, with fluctuating rankings over the years. From being ranked 6th when the ranking system was introduced in 2003, India experienced a dip in form during the 2000s, even dropping out of the top 10 in 2008. However, steady improvements, including winning the 2023 Asian Games and qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics, propelled them to their current position. Their recent Olympic success marks a new chapter for Indian hockey, with the team now ranked 5th.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 season set to begin in February 2025, India will be aiming to climb further up the rankings as they compete in Bhubaneswar. The team’s future looks promising, with the aim to continue their ascent in the global standings and bring more glory to Indian hockey.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Indian men’s hockey team ranks 5th in FIH standings Indian men’s hockey team secured 5th place in FIH rankings after historic Paris 2024 Olympics performance, winning back-to-back medals for the first time since 1972.
FIH Rankings for Men’s Hockey Netherlands ranked 1st (3,267 points), followed by England (2nd, 3,139 points), Belgium (3rd, 3,124 points), and Germany (4th, 3,066 points).
India’s Performance in Men’s Hockey India ranked 5th with 2,955 points, showcasing consistent improvement.
Pro League 2024-25 India and Australia to start their Pro League seasons in February 2025 (India in Bhubaneswar, Australia in Sydney).
FIH Ranking System The FIH rankings are based on the Elo rating system, taking match results, opponent rankings, and match importance into account.
Olympic Performance 2024 Netherlands won Olympic gold in Paris 2024, further solidifying their 1st rank in FIH standings.
Biggest Rank Gainers (2024) Namibia ranked 64th in men’s and 48th in women’s, showing the largest rank improvements. China’s women’s team ranked 6th (up from 10th).
FIH Ranking Methodology Rankings based on match results and the Elo rating system, with points exchanged between teams based on rankings.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Raising Day and Amit Shah To Attend Event

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) is to celebrate its 61st Raising Day on December 20, 2024, in Ranidanga, Siliguri. This milestone event will showcase the force’s achievements, cultural heritage, and contributions to border security. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been invited to attend the celebrations. The event will feature a blend of cultural programs, sports demonstrations, and traditional performances, reflecting the vibrant diversity of the region.

Date and Venue

  • Event Date: December 20, 2024
  • Location: Ranidanga, Siliguri

Official Attendees

  • Union Home Minister: Amit Shah (invited)

Event Features

  • Grand Parade: The main event will include a grand parade on December 20, preceded by a dress rehearsal on December 18.
  • Cultural Programs: A vibrant lineup of cultural activities will be showcased, including performances by local groups from Sikkim and North Bengal.
  • Traditional Arts: Presentations of traditional Indian acrobatic art ‘Mallakhamb’, martial arts displays, sports demonstrations, and physical exercises will highlight the force’s versatility and training.
  • Toto Tribal Participation: The Toto tribal community will present their unique cultural traditions, reflecting the region’s rich heritage.

Focus of the Event

  • The celebrations will emphasize the achievements and cultural efforts of SSB, with a focus on showcasing the team’s commitment to strengthening India’s borders, national integration, and community engagement in border areas.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Raising Day and Amit Shah To Attend Event
Date December 20, 2024 (Main Event), December 18, 2024 (Dress Rehearsal)
Guest of Honor Union Home Minister Amit Shah 
Key Activities Grand parade, cultural performances, martial arts, Mallakhamb, sports demos, physical exercises
Cultural Participation Cultural groups from Sikkim, North Bengal, and Toto tribal community
Main Focus Showcasing SSB’s achievements, cultural heritage, and contributions to border security
Significance Celebrates the 61st anniversary of SSB’s establishment and its role in strengthening India’s borders

Salman Khan Named Brand Ambassador for Kho Kho World Cup

The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has officially appointed Bollywood superstar Salman Khan as the brand ambassador for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, which will be held in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, 2025. This event will see the participation of teams from 24 countries and is set to boost the global profile of Kho Kho. The tournament aims to showcase the sport’s widespread appeal, with an exciting lineup of men’s and women’s teams competing for the first time on the world stage.

Event Dates & Location

  • The Kho Kho World Cup will be hosted in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, 2025.

Salman Khan’s Role

  • Salman Khan has been appointed as the brand ambassador for this historic event.
  • He expressed his enthusiasm for Kho Kho, reminiscing about his personal connection with the sport and its significance in Indian culture.
  • Khan highlighted that the tournament is not only a sports competition but also a tribute to India’s strength and spirit.

Tournament Features

  • The event will feature 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams, representing 24 countries.
  • A demonstration match was organized featuring star players such as Pratik Waiker, Aditya Ganpule, Ramji Kashyap, and Priyanka Ingle.

Importance of the Event

  • The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 is a major milestone in bringing international attention to Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport.
  • The tournament is expected to draw a global audience, with star power and media coverage adding to its significance.

Support from Key Organizations

  • Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has partnered with KKFI to provide full support for the event.
  • KKFI President, Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, expressed gratitude towards Salman Khan for supporting the sport and helping increase its visibility.

Equal Opportunity

  • The event will ensure equal participation from both men’s and women’s teams, with KKFI committed to making the tournament accessible and inclusive.

Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI)

  • KKFI is the national governing body for Kho Kho in India, organizing national championships and managing the development of the sport.
  • The Federation collaborates with Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK), a league that promotes the sport at the national level.

Global Impact

  • The World Cup will serve as a platform for Kho Kho to reach an international audience, showcasing the sport’s traditional roots and modern appeal.
  • The involvement of a high-profile celebrity like Salman Khan is expected to draw attention and enhance the event’s prestige.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Salman Khan Named Brand Ambassador for Kho Kho World Cup
Event Dates & Location January 13-19, 2025, in New Delhi
Brand Ambassador Salman Khan
Salman Khan’s Statement Proud to be associated with Kho Kho, emphasizing the sport’s tribute to India’s strength and spirit.
Tournament Features 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries.
Importance of the Event Boosts global visibility for Kho Kho, marking a significant step for the sport.
Support from IOA Indian Olympic Association (IOA) offers full support for the event.
Equal Participation Both men’s and women’s teams will compete, ensuring gender equality.
Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) Governs Kho Kho in India and organizes national championships, collaborating with Ultimate Kho Kho.
Global Impact The event aims to elevate Kho Kho’s international appeal and showcase its rich Indian heritage.

Masali: India’s First Border Solar Village

Masali, a village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has become India’s first ‘solar village’ located near the border, marking a significant achievement in the country’s renewable energy initiatives. Situated 40 kilometers from the Pakistan border, this milestone follows India’s broader efforts to make border areas more energy-efficient and self-sustaining. The project, with an investment of ₹1.16 crore, involves the installation of solar panels on 199 rooftops, ensuring 100% solar power generation for the village. The development highlights India’s commitment to renewable energy and rural electrification.

Project Overview

  • Location: Masali, Suigam Taluka, Banaskantha
  • Population: 800
  • Cost: ₹1.16 crore
  • Energy Capacity: 225.5 kilowatts

Collaborative Effort

The project was completed through the collaboration of the Revenue Department, Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Limited (UGVCL), banks, and solar companies. Additionally, it received significant financial support, including ₹59.81 lakh from the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana subsidy, ₹20.52 lakh from public contributions, and ₹35.67 lakh from corporate social responsibility (CSR).

The Larger Vision

Masali’s achievement is part of the Border Development Project aimed at making 17 border villages (11 in Vav Taluka and 6 in Suigam Taluka) solar-powered. This initiative will ensure round-the-clock electricity in these remote areas. Banaskantha District Collector Mihir Patel, who led the project, emphasized that Masali is not just the first border solar village but also the second solar village in Gujarat after Modhera.

Impact on Rural Electrification

Solar power has effectively eliminated the electricity problem in Masali, providing sustainable energy for all homes. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, under which this project was launched, is the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar initiative, aimed at installing solar panels in over one crore households by March 2027.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Masali becomes India’s first border solar village – Located in Banaskantha, Gujarat, 40 km from the Pakistan border.
– Population: 800.
– Solar project cost: ₹1.16 crore.
– Total electricity generated: 225.5 kilowatts.
– Solar panels installed on 199 rooftops.
Project Funding and Collaboration – ₹59.81 lakh subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
– ₹20.52 lakh from public contribution.
– ₹35.67 lakh CSR funding.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana – World’s largest domestic rooftop solar initiative.
– Aimed at providing solar-powered energy to over one crore households by March 2027.
Border Development Project – Aimed to make 17 villages (11 in Vav Taluka and 6 in Suigam Taluka) solar-powered.
– Ensures round-the-clock electricity for remote border areas.
Gujarat – CM: Bhupendra Patel.
– Capital: Gandhinagar.

Reappointment of Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma as Nepal’s Ambassador to India

Nepal’s President, Ram Chandra Paudel, has officially reappointed Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma as the Resident Ambassador of Nepal to India. Along with Sharma, the President also appointed Netra Prasad Timilsina as the Resident Ambassador of Nepal to Malaysia. These high-profile diplomatic appointments, made under Article 282 (1) of Nepal’s Constitution, follow recommendations from the Council of Ministers.

Reappointment of Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma

  • Dr. Sharma’s return to the position of Nepal’s Ambassador to India emphasizes his proven diplomatic expertise and experience.
  • His earlier tenure as Ambassador to India spanned from March 2022 to July 2024.
  • He returned to the post after receiving Agrément from India on December 13, 2024.
  • The Agrément was granted two and a half months after Nepal proposed Sharma’s reappointment.

Appointment of Dr. Netra Prasad Timilsina

  • Dr. Timilsina has been designated as Nepal’s Resident Ambassador to Malaysia.
  • His appointment reflects Nepal’s focus on bolstering relations with Malaysia, especially given the significant Nepali diaspora residing there.

Profile of Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma

Professional Background

  • Dr. Sharma is a renowned economist and seasoned diplomat.
  • Served as Nepal’s Ambassador to the United States (2009-2014).
  • Held the position of Vice-Chairman of the National Planning Commission from 2002 to 2006.

Contributions as Ambassador to India

  • Played a pivotal role in enhancing Nepal-India relations during his earlier tenure from March 2022 to July 2024.
  • Focused on areas such as trade, cultural exchange, and infrastructure development.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Reappointment of Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma as Nepal’s Ambassador to India
Aspect Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma
Previous Tenure Ambassador to India (March 2022 – July 2024)
Reason for Reappointment Proven diplomatic expertise and experience
Significance Strengthens Nepal-India strategic partnership
Constitutional Basis Article 282 (1) of Nepal’s Constitution

Centre, ADB Sign $42 Million Loan for Coastal Protection in Maharashtra

The Central government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $42 million loan agreement to bolster coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems by employing hybrid approaches, such as offshore reefs, rock protection works, and nature-based solutions like beach and dune nourishment. Advanced technologies, including remote sensing and climate change impact predictions, will improve shoreline management while addressing issues in tourism and fisheries sectors.

Key Objectives

Combating Coastal Erosion: The project will integrate hybrid approaches to stabilize Maharashtra’s coastline, such as offshore reefs and beach nourishment.

Enhanced Resilience: Tourism and fishery sectors, crucial for local livelihoods, will benefit from measures addressing erosion and flooding.

Community Inclusion: Increased participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups will strengthen disaster preparedness and response.

Capacity Building

Institutional Strengthening: A coastal infrastructure management unit will be established under the Maharashtra Maritime Board to ensure effective shore management planning.

Stakeholder Training: ADB will train stakeholders on gender equality, coastal management, and livelihood development to ensure sustainable outcomes.

Linked Initiatives

This project builds on ADB’s earlier investments and aligns with broader efforts, such as the Nagpur Metro Rail Phase II, where ADB committed $200 million. Maharashtra’s developmental projects continue to integrate climate resilience and sustainable growth strategies for long-term benefits.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Government of India and ADB signed a $42 million loan agreement for Maharashtra coastal protection project – Loan amount: $42 million
– Focus: Coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra
– Aim: Enhance resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems
– Incorporates hybrid approaches like offshore reefs and beach nourishment
– Uses advanced technology to predict climate change impacts
State Involved Maharashtra
Project Name Maharashtra Sustainable Climate-Resilient Coastal Protection and Management Project
Key Strategies – Offshore reefs
– Rock protection works
– Beach and dune nourishment (nature-based solutions)
– Remote sensing satellite imagery for improved shoreline management
Beneficiaries – Coastal communities
– Tourism and fishery sectors
– Vulnerable groups (women, youth)
Institutional Support Maharashtra Maritime Board (Coastal infrastructure management unit)
Loan Agreement Signatories – Juhi Mukherjee (Govt. of India)
– Mio Oka (ADB)
Additional Project Details – Focus on climate change, sea-level rise, and extreme weather predictions
ADB’s Previous Investment Builds on earlier ADB investments in Maharashtra’s coastal resilience efforts