International
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
Sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024. The list preserves living traditions including rituals, craftsmanship, and performing arts globally.
Monetary Policy
India’s Economic Outlook 2025
RBI Governor projected a positive economic outlook for India in 2025, citing strong consumer and business confidence. Growth is expected to accelerate in the second half of the financial year.
Business & Economy
Women-Centric Health Insurance
ICICI Prudential Life partnered with RGA (Reinsurance Group of America) to launch health insurance covering critical illnesses specific to women, with payouts up to 100% upon diagnosis.
Climate
PM Surya Ghar Payment Security Fund
MNRE allocated ₹100 crore for the Payment Security Fund under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to ensure timely payments for rooftop solar projects and reduce investor risks.
Business & Economy
MSME Pharma Challenges
Revised GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) under Schedule M norms create financial strain for MSMEs due to high compliance costs, risking non-compliance and potential shutdowns.
Digital Governance
SWAR Platform in Gujarat
SWAR (Speech and Written Analysis Resource) launched in Gujarat to bridge language barriers and enhance citizen-government interaction through inclusive digital governance.
Technology
CR450 High-Speed Train
China’s CR450 prototype is designed to reach 450 km/h during tests, surpassing the CR400 Fuxing model’s 350 km/h benchmark in high-speed rail innovation.
Geopolitics
Dharavi Redevelopment Rebranding
Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Ltd was renamed Navbharat Mega Developers Pvt. Ltd to avoid confusion with the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority (DRA).
Sports
National Shooting Championship
Adarsh Singh won gold in the men’s 25-meter standard pistol event at the 67th National Shooting Championship held at Dr. Karni Singh Range, Tughlakabad, with a seven-point margin.
International
Global Family Day
Observed on January 1 annually, Global Family Day (also known as World Peace Day) promotes unity, peace, and global harmony across nations.