Stay ahead in your competitive exam preparation with today’s key updates on national initiatives, international developments, scientific advancements, and more.
National Updates
Indian Railways Joins Mission Amrit Sarovar
Launched in April 2022 to address water scarcity and improve groundwater recharge.
Phase 1: Over 68,000 ponds rejuvenated by October 2024.
Phase 2: Focus on constructing new water bodies near railway lines, using excavated material for embankments.
Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025
Streamlines immigration laws by repealing four outdated acts.
Introduces stricter penalties (up to ₹5 lakh for unauthorized entry) and mandates transport operators to verify traveler documents.
Enhances tracking of foreign students, medical tourists, and long-term residents.
India’s First Exploration License Auction
Ministry of Mines to auction licenses in Goa for critical mineral exploration.
Aims to boost domestic mineral production and reduce import dependency.
International Developments
China’s 5,000 km Radar Near Myanmar Border
Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR) deployed in Yunnan province to monitor Indian missile tests and naval activities.
Raises strategic concerns for India’s defense and surveillance.
Chagos Archipelago Dispute
Mauritius and UK continue territorial negotiations over the Indian Ocean archipelago.
Economy & Governance
Index of Industrial Production (IIP): Quick estimates for January 2025 show growth in manufacturing and electricity sectors.
PM-YUVA 3.0: Education Ministry launches the third edition to promote youth entrepreneurship and skill development.
Environment & Health
Heatwave Impact: 733 heat-related deaths reported in 2024, with water scarcity projected to worsen under climate change.
Thalassemia Awareness: Government campaigns highlight genetic screening and treatment options.
Science & Technology
ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment: Successfully undocked two satellites, advancing India’s capabilities in orbital rendezvous technology.
NASA’s PUNCH Mission: To study solar winds and the Sun’s outer atmosphere, launching in late 2025.
Sports
World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025: India tops medal tally with 134 medals (47 gold, 42 silver, 45 bronze) in New Delhi.
State News
Himachal Pradesh Economic Survey 2024-25:
Per capita income rises to ₹2,57,212.
Primary sector contributes 15.2% to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
