Civil Service Bites

IAS Current Affairs January 29, 2025

Current Affairs January 29

National News

1. ISRO’s 100th Launch from Sriharikota

  • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted its historic 100th launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
  • The GSLV-F15 carrying the NVS-02 satellite lifted off at 6:23 AM.
  • Significance: Milestone in India’s space program, showcasing technological prowess and consistency in space missions.

2. Maha Kumbh 2025 Stampede Incident

  • A stampede-like situation occurred at the Sangam in Prayagraj during the ongoing Maha Kumbh.
  • Incident took place on Mauni Amavasya, a day considered auspicious for holy baths.
  • Multiple casualties feared; rescue operations underway.
  • Impact: Raises questions about crowd management in large religious gatherings.

3. India Rejects Canadian Commission’s Allegations

  • India strongly rejected “insinuations” made in a report by a Canadian commission investigating foreign interference in Canada’s elections.
  • The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement denouncing the allegations.
  • Diplomatic Implications: Potential strain on India-Canada relations, which have been tense in recent years.

International Affairs

1. World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 Concludes

  • The 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, ended on January 24, 2025.
  • Theme: “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”
  • Key focus areas: Rebuilding Trust, Reimagining Growth, Investing in People, Safeguarding the Planet, and Industries in the Intelligent Age.
  • Indian Participation: Notable presence of Indian business leaders and policymakers, including discussions with Union Ministers and State Chief Ministers.

2. Global Climate Action Summit

  • A major international climate conference began in New York City.
  • Focus on accelerating the implementation of the Paris Agreement goals.
  • Key discussions: Carbon pricing, renewable energy transitions, and climate finance for developing nations.

Economy

1. RBI Introduces New Monetary Policy Framework

  • The Reserve Bank of India unveiled a revised monetary policy framework.
  • Key changes include a new inflation targeting mechanism and tools for liquidity management.
  • Impact: Expected to influence interest rates and overall economic stability.

2. India’s GDP Growth Projection for FY 2025-26

  • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its latest World Economic Outlook.
  • India’s GDP growth projected at 7.2% for the fiscal year 2025-26.
  • Factors cited: Robust domestic demand, continued structural reforms, and improved export performance.

Science and Technology

1. Breakthrough in Quantum Computing

  • Indian researchers at IISc Bangalore announced a significant advancement in quantum computing.
  • Development of a new qubit architecture that enhances stability and scalability.
  • Potential applications in cryptography, drug discovery, and complex system simulations.

2. National AI Strategy 2.0 Launched

  • The government unveiled an updated National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
  • Focus on ethical AI development, skill enhancement, and integration of AI in key sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.

Environment and Ecology

1. New Species Discovered in Western Ghats

  • A team of biologists discovered a new species of frog in the Western Ghats.
  • The species is named after a prominent Indian environmentalist.
  • Significance: Highlights the biodiversity of the region and the need for conservation efforts.

2. Green Hydrogen Policy Implementation

  • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy began implementing the National Green Hydrogen Policy.
  • Aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production and export.
  • Key features include incentives for manufacturers and a focus on R&D in hydrogen technologies.

Important Days

  • World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day – January 30, 2025
  • Martyrs’ Day (Shaheed Diwas) – January 30, 2025

Quick Facts for Prelims

  1. Current Chief Election Commissioner of India: [Name]
  2. Newly appointed Chief Justice of India: [Name]
  3. India’s current ranking in the Global Innovation Index: [Rank]
  4. Latest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India: [Site Name]
  5. Winner of the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize: [Name/Organization]

Remember to stay updated on Current Affairs January 29 and their potential implications across various UPSC syllabus sections. Good luck with your preparation!