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Blue Origin Launches New Glenn on Maiden Flight

Blue Origin, the aerospace company founded by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its New Glenn rocket on its maiden test flight. Named after John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth, the rocket carried a prototype satellite into orbit. The launch marked a significant milestone for the company as it ventures further into competitive space exploration alongside SpaceX, NASA, and other aerospace giants.

Key Highlights

The Rocket and Mission Details

  • Rocket Name: New Glenn, honoring John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth.
  • Size: 320 feet (98 meters) tall, five times larger than Blue Origin’s smaller rockets.
  • Payload: A prototype satellite remained inside the second stage for the test flight.
  • Duration: Six-hour mission, ending with the second stage in a safe, high orbit to minimize space debris.

Launch and Landing

  • Launch Site: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, at the historic Complex 36.
  • Booster Landing: The first-stage booster aimed for a barge landing in the Atlantic for reuse.
  • Ice Delay: Originally scheduled for Monday but postponed due to ice buildup in the rocket’s critical systems.

Historical Context and Infrastructure

  • Historic Launch Pad: Complex 36 was rebuilt with over $1 billion investment by Blue Origin.
  • Legacy: Shares lineage with NASA’s Mariner and Pioneer spacecraft launches from the same pad.
  • Factory and Control Center: Located near the Kennedy Space Center, 9 miles from the pad.

Future of New Glenn

  • Planned Flights: Six to eight launches planned for 2025, with the next one slated for spring.
  • Applications: Designed to carry satellites, cargo, and eventually astronauts to orbit and the moon.

Blue Origin’ Competitive Edge

  • Funding: Heavily backed by Jeff Bezos, though exact personal investment remains undisclosed.
  • Notable Rival: SpaceX’s Starship, larger at 400 feet, has already conducted multiple test flights.
  • Bezos’ Vision: Advocates for industry collaboration to reduce space access costs.

Other Rockets in the Industry

  • New Glenn’s Peers,
  • United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan.
  • Europe’s Ariane 6.
  • NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS).
  • SpaceX’s Starship.

NASA Collaboration and Missions

  • Mars Mission Delay: New Glenn was initially planned to launch NASA’s Escapade mission to Mars in October 2024. The mission will now launch later in 2025.
  • Future Lunar Missions: Blue Origin’s lunar lander, Blue Moon, is scheduled to support NASA’s Artemis program for moon landings.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Blue Origin Launches New Glenn on Maiden Flight
Rocket Name New Glenn, named after John Glenn.
Size 320 feet (98 meters)
Payload Prototype satellite (test flight); future missions include satellites, cargo, and astronauts.
Launch Site Cape Canaveral, Complex 36 (historic pad rebuilt by Blue Origin).
Booster Recovery First-stage booster aimed for Atlantic barge landing.
Funding Heavily supported by Jeff Bezos with over $1 billion for infrastructure investment
Industry Competition Competes with SpaceX (Starship), ULA (Vulcan), and NASA (SLS)
Future Missions Six to eight launches in 2025, including lunar and Mars missions
Historical Context Shares heritage with NASA’s Mariner and Pioneer missions launched from the same pad
NASA Collaboration Delayed Escapade Mars mission; Blue Moon lander for Artemis moon program

Which is the Largest Book Fair in India?

Books have the power to inspire, educate and entertain people of all ages. Book fairs are special events that bring readers, authors and publishers together in one place, offering a chance to explore a wide variety of books and enjoy cultural activities. These fairs are not just about buying books but also but also about celebrating the love of reading and learning in a joyful atmosphere.

India’s Largest Book Fair

The International Kolkata Book Fair, also known as the Calcutta Book Fair, is the largest book fair in India. It is a grand celebration of literature and culture, attracting book lovers from across the world. Let us explore this unique and popular event through various aspects.

Unlike most book fairs, the International Kolkata Fair is not a trade fair meant for wholesale distributors. It is a fair designed especially for the general public. Readers, writers and publishers come together here, making it the largest non-trade book fair in the world and Asia’s biggest book fair.

Global Recognition

The Kolkata Book Fair is the third-largest annual gatherings of book globally, after the Frankfurt Book Fair and the London Book Fair. It is also the most attended book fair in the world, with over 2 million visitors each year.

History and Beginnings

The book fair started in 1976 on a small scale by the Kolkata Publishers and Booksellers Guild. It was created to meet the rising demand for books among the public. Over time, its success inspired similar book fairs in smaller cities of West Bengal, like Siliguri.

Cultural Significance

For many people in Kolkata, the book fair is an important tradition. Some even visit the fair every day during its duration. The event is not just about books; it also offers a lively fairground atmosphere with food stalls, cultural performances and music.

Venue and Challenges

The book fair was originally held at the Maidan, a large green park in the heart of Kolkata. However, due to environmental concerns, it was moved to Milan Mela near Science City on the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass in 2009. Although some people were initially unsure about the new location, it continues to attract millions of visitors.

Legacy and Global Impact

The popularity of the Kolkata Book Fair played a significant role in India being chosen as the Guest of Honor at the prestigious Frankfurt Book Fair in 2006. The fair is so well-loved that it has been celebrated in literature, songs and theatre in Kolkata.

Cabinet Approves ₹11,440 Crore Revival Package for Debt-Ridden RINL

The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a substantial ₹11,440 crore package to revitalize Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), commonly known as Vizag Steel, addressing its critical financial challenges.

Crux

This strategic intervention aims to infuse ₹10,300 crore as equity capital into RINL and convert ₹1,140 crore of its working capital loans into 7% non-cumulative preference share capital, redeemable after a decade. This initiative is expected to resolve many of RINL’s longstanding operational issues.

Key Details

Financial Health of RINL: As of March 31, 2024, RINL reported a net worth of ₹(-)4,538 crore, with current assets at ₹7,686.24 crore and current liabilities at ₹26,114.92 crore. The company had exhausted its sanctioned borrowing limits and defaulted on capital expenditure loan repayments and interest payments in June 2024.

Operational Plans: The revival plan outlines that RINL will commence full production with two blast furnaces in January 2025 and expand to three blast furnaces by August 2025. This phased approach is designed to stabilize the Indian steel market by augmenting steel production and safeguarding the livelihoods of employees and those dependent on the plant’s operations.

Strategic Measures: In addition to financial support, efforts will be made to secure raw materials and modernize the plant, ensuring its long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the steel industry.

Debt-Ridden RINL: Key Points

Financial Struggles: RINL (Vizag Steel) faces severe financial distress with a negative net worth of ₹4,538 crore as of March 2024.

Loan Defaults: The company has defaulted on capital expenditure loan repayments and interest payments, exhausting its borrowing limits.

Revival Plan: The government has approved a ₹11,440 crore package, including ₹10,300 crore equity capital infusion and conversion of ₹1,140 crore loans into preference shares.

Operational Recovery: RINL plans to ramp up production with two blast furnaces in early 2025, progressing to three by August 2025.

Strategic Measures: The revival includes securing raw materials, modernizing facilities, and stabilizing operations to meet industry demands.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Details
Cabinet approved ₹11,440 crore revival package for RINL (Vizag Steel) Package includes ₹10,300 crore equity infusion and ₹1,140 crore conversion of loans to preference shares.
Objective of the Revival Package Address financial distress of RINL, improve operations, and increase steel production.
Timeline for Operational Recovery Restart two blast furnaces by January 2025 and add a third by August 2025.
Financial Health of RINL Net worth of ₹(-)4,538 crore as of March 31, 2024, with liabilities of ₹26,114.92 crore.
Loan Conversion Details ₹1,140 crore of working capital loans will be converted into 7% non-cumulative preference shares.
Ministry/Authority Involved Ministry of Steel, Government of India.
Strategic Aim of the Revival Plan To stabilize RINL and enhance its competitiveness in the steel industry.
Long-term Goal Modernize the plant, secure raw materials, and ensure financial sustainability for RINL.

First Black-eyed Pea Sprouts in Space by ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in space agriculture by successfully germinating black-eyed pea (lobia) seeds aboard its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS). This breakthrough underscores the potential for cultivating sustainable food sources for long-duration space missions, essential for meeting the nutritional and psychological needs of astronauts during extended periods in space.

Key Highlights

ISRO’s CROPS Initiative

  • Objective: To explore plant growth in space and simulate Earth-like conditions, excluding gravity.
  • CROPS-1 Mission
  • Demonstrated germination and initial plant growth in a spacecraft’s controlled environment.
  • Designed as a mini greenhouse with soil-like media and Earth-like atmospheric conditions.

Challenges of Space Agriculture

  • Microgravity: Roots cannot grow downward; water clings to surfaces instead of reaching the roots.
  • Radiation: High levels can damage DNA and hinder plant growth.
  • Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme variations pose risks to plant development.
  • Light Conditions: Limited sunlight impacts photosynthesis, especially in deep-space missions.

Methods of Cultivation in Space

  • Hydroponics: Nutrient delivery via liquid solutions.
  • Aeroponics: Mist-based nutrient delivery, reducing water and fertilizer usage.
  • Soil-like Media: Mimics terrestrial soil for a familiar growth environment.

Technical Specifications of CROPS-1

  • Mini greenhouse setup with porous clay pellets as the soil medium.
  • Atmospheric Controls: Earth-like temperature (20-30°C) and light cycles (16-hour day/8-hour night).
  • Water Delivery: Electric valve for precise moisture regulation.

Germination Process

  • Initiation: Water was injected into the medium post-launch.
  • Growth Monitoring: Sensors tracked CO₂ and O₂ levels.
  • Results: Seeds sprouted on the 4th day; two leaves emerged by the 5th day.

Ideal Plants for Space Cultivation

  • Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach – quick-growing and nutrient-rich.
  • Legumes: Beans, peas – protein-rich and nitrogen-fixing.
  • Root Vegetables: Radishes, carrots – suitable for compact spaces.
  • Grains: Wheat, rice – essential for long-term sustenance.

Future Prospects

  • Focus on extending growth stages beyond the two-leaf phase.
  • Development of active control systems for sustainable growth.
  • Integration of space-grown plants into closed-loop life support systems.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? First Black-eyed Pea Sprouts in Space by ISRO
Mission Name CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies)
Objective Sustainable plant growth in space for long-term missions
Key Challenge Microgravity, radiation, temperature fluctuations, and limited sunlight
Cultivation Methods Hydroponics, Aeroponics, Soil-like Media
Technical Features Mini greenhouse, porous clay pellets, controlled atmosphere, and LEDs
Results Black-eyed pea seeds germinated; sprouting and leaf growth observed
Ideal Plants Lettuce, spinach, beans, peas, radishes, wheat, rice
Future Focus Longer growth cycles, integration into life support systems

Which District is Known as the Crown of Karnataka?

Karnataka is a state in southern India known for its rich culture, historical landmarks and natural beauty. It is home to ancient temples, vibrant temples and diverse traditions. The state boasts stunning landscapes, from lush green hills to beautiful beaches, making it a favorite destination for travelers. Karnataka also plays a significant role in India’s economy and heritage. In this article, we will know about the district of Karnataka which is known as the “Crown of Karnataka”?

An Overview of Karnataka

Karnataka is a state in southwestern India, formed as Mysore State on November 1, 1956, and renamed Karnataka in 1973. It is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the West, Goa, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. With a population of over 61 million, Karnataka has 31 districts. Bengaluru, its capital, is the largest city with over 15 million residents.

Number of Districts of Karnataka

Karnataka, a state in southern India, has 31 districts. These districts are organized into four revenue divisions for administrative purposes, ensuring efficient governance and management across the state.

Crown of Karnataka

Bidar, located in the northeastern part of Karnataka, is often called the “Crown of Karnataka.” Its location at the northernmost tip of the state gives it a crown-like position, and its rich history, culture and unique handicrafts add to its charm. Let us explore why Bidar holds this prestigious title.

Why is Bidar Known as the Crown of Karnataka?

Bidar is known as the “Crown of Karnataka” because it is the northernmost district of the state, resembling a crown in its location. It is famous for its rich history, beautiful monuments and unique handicraft called Bidriware. Bidar’s cultural importance and its role in the Sharana movement add to its prestige and charm.

Location of Bidar

Bidar is situated in the northernmost part of Karnataka. It shares its borders with the states of Telangana and Maharashtra. This location, resembling the crown of Karnataka, makes it a geographically significant district.

Famous Monuments in Bidar

Bidar is home to more than 60 beautiful monuments that reflect a mix of Hindu, Turkish and Persian architectural styles. Some of these monuments are:

  • Bidar Fort
  • Bahmani Tombs
  • Rangeen Mahal

These historic sites make Bidar a fascinating place to visit.

Famous Handicrafts

Bidar is globally known for its unique handicraft called Bidriware. This art form involves intricate designs made by inlaying silver or gold on a base of copper and zinc. Bidriware is both elegant and durable, symbolizing the skill and creativity of Bidar’s artisans.

Govt Launches App to Boost Battlefield Tourism

In a significant initiative to connect civilians with the valorous history of India’s armed forces, the government has launched the “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan” app and website on January 15, 2025, coinciding with Army Day celebrations in Pune, Maharashtra. Developed jointly by the Ministries of Defence, Tourism, and the Indian Army, the app allows civilians to visit key battlefield locations, including those of the 1962, 1971, and 1999 wars, and significant conflict zones like Siachen base camp and Galwan valley. This effort aims to transform border regions into tourist hubs, offering citizens a closer connection to India’s military history and its soldiers’ sacrifices.

Key Highlights

Launch Details

  • Name of App: Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan.
  • Date of Launch: January 15, 2025, coinciding with Army Day.
  • Launched By: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
  • Collaborating Ministries: Defence and Tourism, with support from the Indian Army.

Tourist Locations

  • 1962 War Sites: Rezang-La (Ladakh) and Kibithoo and Bum-La (Arunachal Pradesh).
  • 1971 War Zones: Select locations yet to be detailed.
  • 1999 Kargil War: Key areas in Kargil, Batalik, and Drass to be accessible for trekkers.
  • Siachen Base Camp: The world’s highest battlefield.
  • Galwan Valley: Site of the 2020 clash.
  • Doklam: Scene of the 73-day standoff between India and China in 2017.

Objective and Features

  • Purpose: To promote holistic development of border areas through tourism while fostering national pride.
  • Operational Areas: Restricted for security and safety but designed to offer a real feel of the battle zones.
  • Website Features: A comprehensive guide for travelers to plan visits to historic battlegrounds.

Four Pillars

  • Infrastructure: Developing tourist-friendly facilities.
  • Communication: Ensuring seamless access and information flow.
  • Tourism: Opening key locations for visitors to experience India’s military heritage.
  • Education: Enhancing knowledge of the country’s military history and achievements.

Challenges

  • Accessibility: High-altitude locations like Siachen pose acclimatization difficulties.
  • Security: Forward operational areas remain off-limits for civilians.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Govt Launches App to Boost Battlefield Tourism
Initiative Name Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan
Launched By Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Key Locations Rezang-La, Kibithoo, Bum-La, Kargil, Batalik, Drass, Siachen Base Camp, Galwan, Doklam
Key Wars Highlighted 1962, 1971, 1999, Galwan clash of 2020, Doklam standoff
Pillars of Initiative Infrastructure, Communication, Tourism, Education
Restricted Areas Forward operational zones due to security and safety reasons
Tourism Objective Promote national pride, educate citizens, and develop border areas as tourist hubs

China launches Pakistan’s satellite into space

On January 17, 2025, China successfully launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite, PRSC-EO1, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The satellite, designed to collect Earth observation data using electro-optical sensors, was deployed into its planned orbit by a Long March-2D carrier rocket at 12:07 pm Beijing Time.

Key Details of the PRSC-EO1 Satellite

Purpose: To enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in monitoring and managing natural resources, disaster response, urban planning, and agricultural development.

Technology: Equipped with advanced electro-optical sensors for high-resolution Earth imaging.

Significance: Marks a significant advancement in Pakistan’s space technology, reflecting its commitment to leveraging space for national progress and sustainable development.

Historical Context of China-Pakistan Space Cooperation:

2018: China launched two satellites for Pakistan: PRSS-1, the country’s first optical remote sensing satellite, and PakTES-1A, a smaller observation satellite.

2024: China launched the PakSat MM1, a multi-functional communication satellite for Pakistan, enhancing its communication infrastructure.

2024: China delivered data from the ICUBE-Q CubeSat, co-developed by Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology and China’s Shanghai Jiao Tong University, marking a milestone in lunar exploration collaboration.

Implications for Regional Space Dynamics:

This launch underscores the strengthening of space cooperation between China and Pakistan, highlighting China’s role in supporting Pakistan’s space ambitions. The successful deployment of PRSC-EO1 is expected to bolster Pakistan’s technological capabilities and contribute to its strategic objectives in space exploration.

Summary of the news

Key Points for Exam Preparation Details
Why in News China launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (PRSC-EO1) on January 17, 2025, using the Long March-2D rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
Purpose of PRSC-EO1 Enhances Pakistan’s capabilities in resource management, disaster response, urban planning, and agricultural monitoring.
Launch Vehicle Long March-2D
Launch Site Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, China
China-Pakistan Space Cooperation (Past Highlights) – PRSS-1 (Optical remote sensing satellite, launched in 2018)
– PakSat-MM1 (Communication satellite, launched in 2024)
Pakistan: Static Details – Capital: Islamabad
– Prime Minister: Shehbaz Sharif
– President: Arif Alvi
China: Static Details – Capital: Beijing
– President: Xi Jinping
– Launch Vehicle Manufacturer: China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC)

Lokpal of India Commemorates First Foundation Day

On January 16, 2025, the Lokpal of India celebrated its inaugural Foundation Day at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, marking 11 years since its establishment on January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was graced by Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who served as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included:

  • Justice N. Santosh Hegde, former Supreme Court Judge and ex-Lokayukta of Karnataka
  • Padma Bhushan awardee Anna Hazare (participated virtually)
  • Attorney General of India, R. Venkataramani
  • Judges from the Supreme Court and various High Courts
  • Lokayuktas from different states
  • Representatives from the Bar Council of India and other legal associations
  • Officials from organizations such as the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

Chairperson’s Address

Justice A.M. Khanwilkar, Chairperson of the Lokpal, highlighted the institution’s origin from a transformative civil society movement advocating for an ombudsman to combat corruption. He emphasized the evolving nature of corruption and the necessity for the Lokpal to adapt accordingly. Justice Khanwilkar outlined strategies to enhance the Lokpal’s effectiveness, including:

  • Simplifying the complaint registration process
  • Integrating advanced technologies and artificial intelligence for efficient data management
  • Recruiting experts in forensic accounting and cyber investigations
  • Collaborating with agencies like the CBI, CVC, and the judiciary to form a united front against corruption

Chief Justice’s Remarks

Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna underscored the Lokpal’s role in upholding democratic principles by ensuring governmental accountability and transparency. He stressed that public trust is fundamental to democracy and that institutions like the Lokpal serve as antidotes to the pervasive issue of corruption. The Chief Justice also highlighted the importance of the Lokpal’s independence, objectivity, and performance in maintaining public confidence.

Looking Ahead

The Foundation Day celebration not only reflected on the Lokpal’s journey over the past decade but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a corruption-free India. By adopting multifaceted strategies and embracing technological advancements, the Lokpal aims to strengthen its processes and enhance public trust in its mission

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News Lokpal of India celebrated its 1st Foundation Day on January 16, 2025, marking 11 years since its establishment.
Established January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
Chairperson Justice A.M. Khanwilkar
Key Dignitaries Chief Justice of India Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice N. Santosh Hegde (former Lokayukta), Anna Hazare (virtual)
Purpose Anti-corruption ombudsman to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Strategies Highlighted Simplify complaints, adopt technology (AI, forensic tools), collaborate with CBI, CVC, and judiciary.
Key Agencies Involved CBI, CVC, Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

Justice Arun Mishra: New Ombudsman of BCCI

Justice Arun Mishra, a former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The announcement was made and marking another significant milestone in his illustrious career. Justice Mishra’s extensive legal expertise and leadership experience make him well-suited for the dual responsibilities of ensuring ethical practices and addressing disputes within the BCCI.

Key Highlights

Appointment Details

  • Justice Arun Mishra was appointed as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of BCCI.
  • This role involves addressing ethical issues and disputes in Indian cricket.

Career Achievements

  • Elected to the Bar Council of Madhya Pradesh with record votes in 1989 and 1995.
  • Became the youngest Chairman of the Bar Council of India in 1998-99.
  • Appointed Judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on October 25, 1999.
  • Elevated as Chief Justice of Rajasthan High Court on November 26, 2010.
  • Appointed as Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court on December 14, 2012.

Background on BCCI Elctions

  • Former first-class cricketer Devajit Saikia was elected as the new secretary of BCCI, replacing Jay Shah, who became ICC Chairman.
  • Prabhtej Singh Bhatia was elected as the Treasurer of BCCI.
  • Saikia has previous experience as BCCI joint secretary and Assam Cricket Association secretary.

BCCI Updates

  • The appointments come ahead of India’s home series against England, which includes five T20Is and three ODIs.
  • These changes signify an administrative refresh in Indian cricket governance.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Justice Arun Mishra: New Ombudsman of BCCI
New Ombudsman and Ethics Officer Justice Arun Mishra appointed to ensure ethical governance in BCCI.
Career Highlights Youngest Chairman of Bar Council of India, Chief Justice of Rajasthan and Calcutta High Courts.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia replaced Jay Shah, who became ICC Chairman.
BCCI Treasurer Prabhtej Singh Bhatia elected as Treasurer.

Quick Quiz 18th January’s Current Affairs

Keeping up with current events is crucial for competitive exam success. Daily Current Affairs Quizzes allow aspirants to assess their knowledge of important national and international developments. Frequent participation helps improve understanding of critical subjects like governance, economy, technology, and global affairs, which are vital for exams like SSC, Banking, and other government exams.

Q1. According to the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), by which year is India projected to surpass Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy?

(a) 2024

(b) 2025

(c) 2026

(d) 2027

Q2. Which organizations have signed an agreement for the development of an Optical Transceiver Chipset for 6G wireless links?

(a) ISRO and IIT Bombay

(b) C-DOT and IIT Bombay

(c) DRDO and IIT Delhi

(d) TRAI and IIT Kanpur

Q3. What is the PRABHAAV Factbook?

(a) A financial report for startups

(b) A guide to India’s startup ecosystem achievements (2016-2024)

(c) A mentorship program for women entrepreneurs

(d) A regulatory guide for startup compliance

Q4. What is the Bharat Startup Challenge?

(a) A program promoting agriculture startups exclusively

(b) A collaboration with international venture capitalists

(c) A networking event for Tier I city startups

(d) A competition offering 75 challenges across diverse sectors

Q5. Where is Heimtextil 2025 being held?

(a) London, UK

(b) Frankfurt, Germany

(c) Paris, France

(d) Milan, Italy

Q6. What is the current (As Per 17th January 2025) judicial strength of the Supreme Court of India after Justice Chandran’s appointment?

(a) 30

(b) 32

(c) 33

(d) 34

Q7. Which sectors have witnessed significant growth under the Startup India initiative?

(a) Agriculture, defense, and tourism

(b) Fintech, edtech, health-tech, and e-commerce

(c) Manufacturing, mining, and real estate

(d) Automobiles, aviation, and textiles

Q8. Who has recently assumed the position of Secretary of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education?

(a) Ravi Mohan

(b) Dammu Ravi

(c) Vineet Joshi

(d) Amit Khare

Q9. Where will the third launchpad for ISRO’s Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) be established?

(a) Kulasekarapattinam Spaceport

(b) Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota

(c) Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station

(d) Chandipur Test Range

Q10. Which Ministry of Government of India is responsible for the Kalagram for Mahakumbh 2025?

(a) Ministry of Culture, Government of India

(b) Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

(c) Indian Council for Cultural Relations

(d) Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India

S1. Ans. (c)

Sol. As per the projections by PHDCCI, India is anticipated to surpass Japan and become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2026 due to sustained GDP growth and strategic policy measures.

Correct Answer: 2026

Key Points:

  • India is projected to surpass Japan and become the 4th largest economy by 2026, with an anticipated GDP growth rate of 7.7% in FY2025-26, per PHDCCI.
  • GDP Growth Projections: 6.8% in FY2024-25; 7.7% in FY2025-26.
  • Current Global Rank of India’s Economy: 5th largest economy (2023).
  • Global Rank in 2026 (Projected): 4th largest economy, surpassing Japan.

S2. Ans. (b)

Sol. The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) have collaborated to develop an Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links.

Correct Answer: C-DOT and IIT Bombay

Key Points:

  • C-DOT and IIT Bombay Unite for Indigenous 6G Optical Chipset
  • Project Title: Optical Transceiver Chipset for High-Bandwidth 6G Wireless Links
  • Collaborating Organizations: C-DOT and IIT Bombay
  • Funding Mechanism: Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) 6G Call for Proposal
  • Objective: Develop high-bandwidth optical transceivers for 6G wireless links
  • Applications: Last-mile rural connectivity, satellite-based communication for remote areas

S3. Ans. (b)

Sol. The PRABHAAV Factbook is a comprehensive guide showcasing India’s startup ecosystem achievements from 2016 to 2024, including regional contributions.

Correct Answer: A guide to India’s startup ecosystem achievements (2016-2024)

Key Points:

  • PRABHAAV Factbook 
  • A comprehensive guide to India’s startup ecosystem achievements (2016-2024).
  • Highlights regional contributions and the growth trajectory of startups.
  • Startup Ecosystem Growth: 3rd largest globally, 1,59,157 startups, 76 IPOs in 2024, ₹13 trillion funding

S4. Ans. (d)

Sol. The Bharat Startup Challenge features 75 challenges in sectors like renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, and semiconductors, offering cash prizes, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Correct Answer: A competition offering 75 challenges across diverse sectors

Key Points: 

  • Bharat Startup Challenge 
  • Features 75 challenges across diverse sectors like renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, and semiconductors.
  • Offers procurement opportunities, cash prizes, mentorship, and networking.

S5. Ans. (b)

Sol. Heimtextil 2025, a prestigious global home textiles fair, is being held in Frankfurt, Germany.

Correct Answer: Frankfurt, Germany

Key Points:

  • Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh inaugurates India Pavilion at Heimtextil 2025 in Frankfurt, Germany.
  • Event: Heimtextil 2025 (January 15, 2025)
  • Minister: Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Textiles
  • Location: Frankfurt, Germany
  • Focus: Promoting India’s textile industry, showcasing innovations, and attracting global investment
  • India Pavilion: Largest participation by India at the global textile trade fair
  • Investment Appeal: Giriraj Singh invited global investors to explore opportunities in India’s growing textile sector
  • Event Highlight: Collaboration with machinery manufacturers to strengthen India’s textile infrastructure

S6. Ans. (c)

Sol. The Supreme Court’s judicial strength has risen to 33, just one short of its full sanctioned capacity of 34.

Correct Answer: 33

Key Points:

  • Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran was sworn in as a Supreme Court judge on January 16, 2025.
  • Administered By: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna
  • Judicial Strength: The Supreme Court now has 33 judges, one short of its sanctioned strength of 34.
  • Collegium Recommendation Date: January 7, 2025
  • Reason for Recommendation: Absence of representation from Kerala High Court in the Supreme Court.

S7. Ans. (b)

Sol. The initiative has fostered growth in fintech, edtech, health-tech, and e-commerce, among other sectors.

Correct Answer: Fintech, edtech, health-tech, and e-commerce  

Key Points:

  • Nine Years of Startup India: A Journey of Innovation
  • Launch Year: 2016
  • National Startup Day: January 16, 2025
  • Total DPIIT-Recognized Startups: 1.59 lakh (as of January 15, 2025)
  • Jobs Created by Startups: Over 16.6 lakh direct jobs

S8. Ans. (c)

Sol. Shri Vineet Joshi has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education.

Correct Answer: Vineet Joshi

Key Points:

    • Position: Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education
    • Location: Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi
  • Date of Assumption: January 17, 2025
  • Previous Role: Chief Secretary, Manipur

S9. Ans. (b)

Sol. The third launchpad will be established at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. 

Correct Answer: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota

Key Points:

  • New Launchpad of ISRO Coming Up at Sriharikota
  • Project Cost: ₹3,985 crore
  • Location: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
  • Purpose: To support Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLVs) and human spaceflight missions
  • Payload Capacity: Up to 30,000 tonnes to LEO (scalable to 70 tonnes for NGLVs)
  • Industry Participation: Significant, leveraging ISRO’s expertise and infrastructure
  • Completion Timeline: 4 years

S10. Ans. (a)

Sol. Kalagram was created by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Correct Answer:  Ministry of Culture, Government of India

Key Points:

  • Kalagram, nestled in the sacred city of Prayagraj during Mahakumbh 2025, is a cultural haven that celebrates India’s rich heritage. 
  • Created by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
  • Kalagram is designed to offer a sensory journey into the traditions of Bharat. 

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

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