Defence
Honorary Ranks for CAPF Personnel
A proposal to grant honorary senior ranks to retiring CAPF personnel aims to recognize dedicated service and boost morale. The recognition is symbolic, targeting personnel who couldn’t receive promotions due to organizational limitations.
International
China’s HMPV Outbreak
China is experiencing a surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, causing hospital overcrowding. HMPV is a respiratory virus affecting individuals across all age groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
Defence
DRDO Laboratory Network
DRDO operates 52 laboratories under the Ministry of Defence, up from just 10 labs in 1958. Additionally, it has 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) focusing on advanced defence technologies.
Geopolitics
Kerala’s New Governor
Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar took oath as Kerala’s 23rd Governor, replacing Arif Mohammad Khan. The oath was administered by Kerala High Court Chief Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar.
Monetary Policy
₹2,000 Note Withdrawal
RBI reported that 98.12% of ₹2,000 notes have returned to the banking system. As of December 31, 2024, ₹6,691 crore worth of notes remain with the public.
Technology
Blinkit’s Emergency Service
Blinkit launched a 10-minute Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance service in Gurgaon, bookable through the app. BLS ambulances provide primary emergency medical care before hospital admission.
Education
One Nation One Subscription (ONOS)
ONOS scheme provides government higher education institutions and central R&D centers with unified access to international research journals, strengthening India’s research ecosystem.
Sports
Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award
Filmmaker Sai Paranjpye will receive the Padmapani Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival for her contributions to India’s parallel cinema movement, including films like Sparsh and Chashme Buddoor.
Technology
Project VISTAAR
Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources) aims to digitally transform agricultural extension systems, improving farmers’ access to advisory services and technologies.
Geopolitics
J&K-Ladakh Historical Documentation
Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched “Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through the Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkages”, highlighting the geo-cultural unity and historical connections of the region.