State News

Fast Reactor Plant Inauguration in Tamil Nadu

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant (DFRP) at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
• Valued at Rs 400 crore, this unique facility, entirely designed by Indian scientists, can reprocess both carbide and oxide fuels from fast reactors, making it the only one of its kind globally.
• This marks a significant leap in India's nuclear capabilities, with a focus on reprocessing fuel from Prototype Fast Breeder Reactors (PFBR).
• Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), based in Kalpakkam, spearheads this initiative, showcasing India's prowess in nuclear technology.

Uttar Pradesh Leads in ICJS Implementation

• Uttar Pradesh has consistently demonstrated its commitment to leveraging technology in the administration of justice by achieving the highest entry rate on the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform for the third consecutive year.
• This revolutionary platform, initiated by the Supreme Court’s e-committee and implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs, facilitates seamless data exchange among key components of the criminal justice system, including police, jails, courts, and forensic science labs.
• Uttar Pradesh's dedication to efficiency through technology showcases its progressive approach in the legal domain.

International News

Denmark's Queen Margrethe II Abdication Announcement

• In a New Year’s speech, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark revealed her decision to abdicate the throne after an illustrious 52-year rule.
• This historic announcement, made on the anniversary of her own accession to the throne, opens a new chapter in Denmark’s royal history.
• Queen Margrethe II's legacy is one of resilience and adventure, and her decision paves the way for her son, Crown Prince Frederik, to assume the responsibilities of the monarchy.
• Denmark prepares for a transition that marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.

Oman to Host FIH Hockey5s World Cup Qualifiers

• Oman is set to showcase its sporting prowess with a state-of-the-art complex designed to host the FIH Hockey5s World Cup qualifiers just ahead of the Summer 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
• This promises to be a thrilling spectacle with eight international teams competing for three coveted tickets to the Olympics.
• The newly constructed stadium, built in adherence to International Hockey Federation standards, boasts a remarkable capacity, offering an unparalleled viewing experience for fans and players alike.
• Oman's commitment to hosting such prestigious events reflects its growing presence in the global sports arena.

Defence News

Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh Assumes Command in Western Naval Command

• In a ceremony at INS Shikra, Mumbai, Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh assumed command as the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Indian Navy’s Western Naval Command.
• This transition in leadership from Vice Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi signifies a strategic move within the naval hierarchy.
• Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, previously the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff in New Delhi, takes charge, while Vice Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi assumes the role of Vice Chief of Naval Staff at the Naval Headquarters.
• This change in command reflects the Indian Navy's commitment to effective leadership and strategic operations.

Economy News

Ind-Ra Raises India’s FY’24 Growth Forecast to 6.7%

• India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has revised its GDP growth estimate for the fiscal year 2023-24, increasing it to 6.7% from the previous projection of 6.2%.
• This upward revision is attributed to the resilience of the Indian economy, sustained government capex, a deleveraged corporate/banking sector balance sheet, and the potential for a new private corporate capex cycle.
• Despite the Reserve Bank of India anticipating a sequential slowdown in GDP growth in the last two quarters of FY24, the overall projection stands at 7%. India's economic trajectory appears promising amidst global uncertainties.

PMI Manufacturing Hits 18-Month Low Amid Festival Demand Slowdown

• The HSBC India Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for manufacturing witnessed a decline to an 18-month low of 54.9 in December, down from 56 in November.
• Despite this, the manufacturing sector remains in expansion mode, marking 30 consecutive months with the index above 50, indicative of growth.
• The slowdown is attributed to a weaker rise in new orders and output. The manufacturing sector continued to expand in December, albeit at a softer pace, maintaining growth momentum despite a decline.
• New business gains, favorable market conditions, fairs, and expositions contributed to a sharp increase in manufacturing during December.

Business News

Vodafone Idea Director P Balaji's Transition to Air India

• P Balaji, the Director (Regulatory and Corporate Affairs) at Vodafone Idea, has recently resigned, concluding his nearly decade-long association with the telecom giant.
• This departure has drawn attention due to Balaji's crucial role in liaising with government officials, given Vodafone Idea's significant position as the largest shareholder in the company facing financial challenges.
• In a noteworthy move, Air India has recruited P Balaji for a newly created role as the Group Head for Governance, Regulatory, Compliance, and Corporate Affairs.
• Scheduled to commence his responsibilities on January 11, Balaji will report directly to Air India’s CEO and MD, Campbell Wilson.

Important Days News

Observing World Braille Day 2024

• World Braille Day, observed annually on January 4, pays homage to Louis Braille, the visionary mind behind the transformative braille system.
• Born in 1809 in France, Louis overcame the adversity of losing his sight in childhood, ultimately creating one of history’s most revolutionary systems.
• The day serves to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments, advocating for their rights and societal integration.
• It stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion towards those navigating a world without sight.

Appointments News

Adani Ports' Leadership Transition and Ashwani Gupta's Appointment

• Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) has witnessed a significant leadership transition, with CEO Karan Adani stepping into the role of Managing Director, succeeding Gautam Adani.
• Simultaneously, the company has welcomed Ashwani Gupta, former global Chief Operating Officer at Nissan Motors, as its new CEO, bolstering APSEZ’s global port sector leadership.
• Karan Adani's journey within APSEZ, starting in 2009 and progressing to the CEO role in 2016, marks a notable trajectory. With this transition, Gautam Adani takes on the title of 'Executive Chairman' at APSEZ.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna's Appointment as NALSA Executive Chairperson

• The President of India has appointed Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the Executive Chairperson of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
• As the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Khanna takes over from Justice S. K. Kaul, who retired on December 25.
• NALSA, established under the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987, plays a pivotal role in providing free legal services to the weaker sections of society and organizing Lok Adalats for the amicable settlement of disputes.

Awards News

Prof B R Kamboj Receives M S Swaminathan Award

• B.R. Kamboj, Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, has been honored with the prestigious M.S. Swaminathan Award.
• Recognized for his significant contributions as a scientist and extension specialist in agronomy, Prof. Kamboj, in his role as Vice Chancellor, demonstrates an in-depth understanding of farmers' common problems, needs, and socio-economic conditions.
• His agricultural recommendations, stemming from collaborative research and extension activities, consistently benefit farmers.

Books & Authors News

Book Launch by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad

• The Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammad, unveiled the book "Ram Mandir Rashtra Mandir Ak Sajhi Virast" at the Rang Bhawan Auditorium in Delhi.
• The launch event brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, symbolizing India's cultural and religious diversity.
• Governor Arif Mohammad emphasized the importance of preserving and understanding India’s rich heritage and cultural legacy.
• Authored by a distinguished writer, the book explores the intricate relationship between the Ram Mandir and the national heritage, delving into historical, cultural, and spiritual aspects.

Science & Technology News

ISRO's Collaboration with SpaceX for Satellite Launch

• NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has announced a collaboration with SpaceX to launch the communication satellite GSAT-20.
• This marks India’s first partnership with SpaceX, reflecting a significant stride in space exploration and satellite deployment.
• GSAT-20, now renamed GSAT-N2, is a high throughput Ka-band satellite designed to meet India's growing broadband communication needs.
• With a weight of 4,700 kg, GSAT-20 offers substantial HTS capacity, tailored for remote and unconnected regions in the country.

Sports News

Beatrice Chebet's Record-Breaking Performance in Barcelona

• Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet concluded her remarkable year by breaking the world record for the women’s 5 km marathon at the Cursa dels Nassos in Barcelona.
• With a remarkable time of 14:13, Chebet outpaced her competitors, surpassing the previous record by six seconds.
• The thrilling showdown between Chebet and Ejegayehu Taye, the former record holder, saw Chebet surge ahead in the last 500m, securing a victory with a clear lead, showcasing exceptional athletic prowess.