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National Current Affairs of India, Important for competitive Exams.

President’s Rule imposed in Manipur under Article 356 of the Constitution

On February 13, 2025, President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur under Article 356 of the Constitution, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on February 8. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification stating that the Governor’s report indicated the state government could no longer function as per the Constitution.

Under this proclamation, the President assumes all executive functions, while legislative powers shift to Parliament. Meanwhile, the BJP is engaged in discussions to select a new leader for the legislature party.

Manipur has been facing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities for the past two years, which contributed to the political crisis. The Opposition Congress had planned a no-confidence motion against the BJP government, but the Governor canceled the Assembly session after Biren Singh’s resignation.

President Trump Announces F-35 Stealth Fighter Deal with India

President Donald Trump announced a significant military deal with India on February 13, 2025, during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump revealed plans to increase military sales to India by billions of dollars, including the eventual provision of F-35 stealth fighter jets.

Key Points:

Enhanced Defence Ties: The deal marks a major step in strengthening the defence relationship between the United States and India.

F-35 Jets: The F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin, is one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, known for its stealth capabilities, advanced situational awareness, and networked combat capabilities.

Timeline Uncertain: While Trump’s announcement is a significant commitment, the timeline for delivering the F-35 jets remains unclear.

Strategic Partnership: The deal is part of a broader effort to bolster security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, with both nations aiming to counter security threats and ensure stability.

President Murmu takes holy dip at Triveni Sangam during Maha Kumbh

On February 10, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu visited Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, where she took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam. She was welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Before the holy dip, she fed migratory birds, emphasizing her reverence for nature. She then visited the Akshayavat tree, a sacred symbol in Hinduism, and offered prayers at the Bade Hanuman Temple.

President Murmu also explored the Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre, which provides a virtual experience of the Kumbh Mela. Her visit was historic, following the legacy of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, who had also taken a holy dip at a previous Kumbh.

After an eight-hour visit, she returned to New Delhi by 5:45 P.M., marking a significant moment in the spiritual and cultural history of the Maha Kumbh.

India Energy Week 2025 (IEW’25) from February 11 to 14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi

The India Energy Week 2025 (IEW’25) is set to take place from February 11 to 14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi. This flagship event, organized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, is one of the largest energy events globally, attracting over 700 exhibitors and 70,000 delegates.

IEW’25 will feature 10 country-specific pavilions and 8 thematic zones, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the energy sector. Key highlights include the participation of 20+ Foreign Energy Ministers, 90 CEOs from Fortune 500 energy companies, and 250 speakers from across the international energy value chain.

The event will focus on energy security, affordability, and sustainability, with special emphasis on green hydrogen technologies, solar innovations, and advanced exploration techniques. A dedicated Sustainable Mobility Pavilion will display 15 cutting-edge vehicle models from 10 manufacturers, promoting a “People-Centric Mobility Ecosystem”.

IEW’25 will also host a Clean Cooking Ministerial on the sidelines, aiming to accelerate the global adoption of clean cooking solutions. The event is expected to foster international collaboration, drive policy discussions, and facilitate technology sharing to ensure clean, affordable, and accessible cooking energy for households worldwide.

With its comprehensive agenda and unparalleled global participation, IEW’25 is poised to be a pivotal platform for shaping the future of the global energy landscape.

Aero India Show 2025: Aviation & Defence Exhibition in Bengaluru (Feb 10-14)

The Aero India Show 2025, a biennial air show and aviation exhibition, is being held in Bengaluru from February 10 to 14, 2025. Inaugurated by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the event highlights India’s defence capabilities, aerospace innovations, and global collaborations.

Key Highlights:

Theme: “Runway to a Billion Opportunities”, emphasizing Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Viksit Bharat 2047.

Exhibitors: 900 exhibitors spread across 42,000 square meters.

International Participation: Defence ministers from 30 countries, Air Chiefs and Defence Secretaries from 43 countries attending.

Aircraft Displays:

  • Foreign aircraft: Russian Su-57, American F-35 Lightning II.
  • Indigenous aircraft: Tejas (LCA), Prachand (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter, and C-295 transport aircraft.
  • New Prototype: ADA showcased a fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Defence Ministers’ Conclave: A strategic discussion platform for global defence cooperation.

Aerospace Startups & MSMEs: Opportunities for joint ventures and collaborations with international manufacturers.

The largest aerospace event in Asia, Aero India 2025, is a landmark platform for advancing India’s aerospace sector and strengthening global defence ties.

India-Egypt Joint Military Exercise ‘Cyclone 2025’ Begins in Rajasthan on 10 Feb 2025

The third edition of the India-Egypt joint military exercise “Cyclone 2025” commenced on 10 February 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan. The 14-day exercise aims to enhance defence cooperation, share professional skills, and improve special forces interoperability in desert environments.

Key Highlights:

  • Focus Areas: Counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, raids, sniping, combat free fall, surveillance, and target designation.
  • Indian Contingent: Personnel from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
  • Egyptian Contingent: Egyptian Commando Squadron and Egyptian Airborne Platoon.
  • Strengthened military cooperation between India and Egypt, emphasizing security collaboration.

India Surpasses 100 Giga Watt (GW) of Installed Solar Power Capacity

India has surpassed 100 Giga Watt (GW) of installed solar power capacity, marking a historic milestone and reinforcing its position as a global leader in renewable energy. This achievement aligns with the nation’s commitment to a cleaner future and the ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030, set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted India’s inspiring energy journey over the past decade, noting the transformative impact of solar panels, solar parks, and rooftop solar projects. India has also seen a significant increase in solar manufacturing capacity, growing from 2 GW in 2014 to 60 GW in 2024.

This progress emphasizes India’s strides toward self-reliance and leadership in green energy, setting an example for the world.

PM Modi takes holy dip at Treveni Sangam at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj

On 5 February 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a holy dip in Triveni Sangam at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj. He described the experience as a divine connection and prayed for peace, wisdom, and good health for all. UP CM Yogi Adityanath accompanied him on a boat ride to the site, where PM Modi performed Aarti and Puja.

The Mahakumbh 2025, which began on 13 January (Paush Purnima), is the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering and will continue until 26 February (Mahashivratri). So far, over 39 crore devotees have participated.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also took a holy dip and urged people to follow Mela guidelines, emphasizing that Mahakumbh happens once in 144 years and should remain above politics.

US Military Plane Carrying Deported Indians Lands in Amritsar

On February 5, 2025, a US military aircraft carrying 104 deported Indian nationals landed at the Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar. The C-17 aircraft departed from San Antonio, Texas, and arrived in Amritsar after a long journey. The deportees, primarily from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, were handed over to local authorities upon arrival.

The deportees included 25 women, 12 minors, and 79 men. Many of them had entered the US through illegal means and were subsequently caught and deported. The Punjab government has set up counters at the airport to assist the returnees and ensure their smooth transition back to their home state.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation and working alongside law enforcement agencies to determine the next steps. The state government has also announced plans to provide assistance to the deportees and help them reintegrate into society.


India-Maldives Joint Military Exercise ‘Ekuverin’ Begins in Maldives

The 13th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force began on February 2, 2025, in the Maldives.

This bilateral annual exercise, named ‘Ekuverin’ which means ‘Friends’ in the Dhivehi language, is conducted alternately in India and the Maldives. The 2023 edition took place in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, from June 11 to 24.

World Book Fair 2025 from February 1 to 9

The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 will begin on February 1 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The theme of this year’s fair is “We the People of India,” marking 75 years of the Republic of India.

The nine-day event will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. Yuvraj Malik, Director of the National Book Trust, mentioned that Russia is the focus country for this year’s fair, with participation from over 50 countries, including France, Argentina, Spain, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. The fair will feature nearly 2,000 publishers and 1,000 speakers.

Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk to mark the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations

The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29, 2025, marked the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. Held at sunset, the ceremony featured captivating performances by the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

The event was attended by dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The ceremony included a variety of patriotic tunes, ending with the ever-popular “Sare Jahan Se Acha”.

Unified Pension Scheme for Government Staff to Begin from 1st April 2025

The Centre has officially notified the implementation of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) under the National Pension System (NPS) for Central Government employees. The scheme, introduced in August 2024, will be effective from 1st April 2025.

The UPS will apply to Central Government employees covered under the NPS who choose this option. Both existing and future employees can either opt for UPS under the NPS or continue with the NPS without the UPS option.

The notification clarified that employees who choose the UPS option will not be entitled to claim any other policy concessions, policy changes, financial benefits, or parity with future retirees, including post-retirement benefits.

Defence Minister flags off Battlefield Surveillance System SANJAY

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025, flagged off the Battlefield Surveillance System SANJAY in New Delhi. This advanced system enhances battlefield transparency with state-of-the-art sensors and cutting-edge analytics. Its induction into the Indian Army will begin in three phases starting March 2025.

Key features of SANJAY:

  • Automated System: Integrates inputs from ground and aerial battlefield sensors to create a unified surveillance picture.
  • Enhanced Border Security: Aids in monitoring vast land borders, preventing intrusions, and providing accurate situation assessments.
  • Force Multiplier: Boosts Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance capabilities, enabling commanders to operate effectively in a Network-Centric Environment.

Development: SANJAY was indigenously developed by the Indian Army in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited at a cost of ₹2,402 crore.

Significance: The system represents a significant leap toward data and network-centricity in the Indian Army and will be a key highlight of the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path.

76th Republic Day Parade: 26 Tableaux Highlighting India’s Heritage and Progress

During the 76th Republic Day Parade, a total of 26 tableaux from various states, union territories, and Union Ministries will showcase India’s cultural diversity and inclusiveness. The overarching theme is “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas”. The parade will include:

  • 16 tableaux from states and union territories
  • 10 tableaux from ministries and departments

A notable highlight will be the Tri-Services tableau themed “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat”, emphasizing the integration and jointness of the Armed Forces for national security. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will also feature its first-ever Republic Day tableau, celebrating its 150-year legacy. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture’s tableau will reflect on India’s cultural diversity, inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s mantra “Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi”.

SVAMITVA Scheme: PM Modi Distributes 65 Lakh Property Cards

On January 18, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 65 lakh property cards under the SVAMITVA Scheme to beneficiaries across 50,000 villages in 10 states and 2 Union Territories, marking a significant milestone in rural empowerment and governance in India.

Objective: The scheme aimed to empower rural India by providing Record of Rights to property owners in village Abadi areas through drone technology for accurate surveying.

Benefits:

  • Economic transformation of rural India.
  • Monetization of property.
  • Access to institutional credit (bank loans).
  • Reduction in property disputes.
  • Better property assessments and tax collection.

Drone Surveys: Completed in over 3.17 lakh villages, covering 92% of the targeted areas. Over 2.25 crore property cards had been prepared for more than 1.5 lakh villages.

Full Saturation: The scheme had reached full saturation in Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tripura, Goa, Uttarakhand, and Haryana.

The SVAMITVA scheme, launched in 2020, contributed to the economic development of rural areas by enabling better governance and access to resources.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Be Chief Guest at 76th Republic Day Celebrations

President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, will be the Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations in 2025. Invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Subianto will visit India on January 25-26, marking his first visit since taking office in October 2024.

The visit will focus on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional and global issues of mutual interest. India and Indonesia share close relations, with Indonesia playing a key role in India’s Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific strategy as a Comprehensive Strategic Partner.

Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) Inaugurated at 7 Major Airports in India

Inauguration of Fast Track Immigration: Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the ‘Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)’ on 16 January 2025 at airports in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.

Objective: The programme aims to provide seamless and secure world-class immigration facilities for international travellers.

Registration Process:

Applicants must register online on ftittp.mha.gov.in, fill in their details, and upload required documents. Biometric data will be captured at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or while passing through the airport.

E-Gate Process:

Registered travellers will scan their airline boarding pass and passport at e-gates. Biometrics will be authenticated at both arrival and departure points, and upon successful authentication, the e-gate will open, granting immigration clearance.

Expansion Plan: FTI-TTP will be implemented at 21 major airports across India.

Programme Launch: The programme was initially launched by Amit Shah in June 2024 at Terminal-3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), New Delhi.

CISF Expansion: Two New Battalions Approved to Enhance Security and Create Over 2,000 Jobs

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the creation of two new battalions for the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to enhance its capacity and manage increasing security demands. Each battalion will consist of 1,025 personnel, bringing the total number of CISF battalions from 13 to 15 and creating over 2,000 new jobs.

The expansion will improve the CISF’s rapid-response capabilities, efficiently manage emergencies, and provide relief opportunities for current personnel. The new battalions will be led by senior commandant-level officers and also involve the recently approved Mahila Battalion.

With this expansion, the CISF’s total strength will rise to nearly 200,000 personnel, enhancing its ability to protect vital national infrastructure such as industrial sites, government buildings, nuclear and space establishments, airports, and historical monuments.

Established in 1969, the CISF has evolved into a key agency for safeguarding critical infrastructure and providing security consultancy services across both the public and private sectors. The new battalions will significantly bolster the force’s ability to fulfill its security mandate.

PM Modi inaugurates Sonamarg Tunnel in Kashmir’s Ganderbal district

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on January 13, 2025.

Key attendees included Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Dr. Jitendra Singh, J&K Lt. Gov. Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, other senior officials, and Tunnel Project Officials.

The Sonamarg Tunnel significantly reduces travel time to 20-25 minutes between Gagangeer and Sonamarg.
The tunnel is equipped with cutting-edge technologies for real-time updates and seamless connectivity.
Work on the Tunnel project began in May 2015 and was completed last year.
The tunnel enhances year-round road accessibility in the Ladakh region.
It is expected to boost trade, tourism, and socio-economic development in regions including Kargil and Leh.
Provides all-weather connectivity and links towards the under-construction Zojila tunnel.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Delivers Sixth Scorpene Submarine, Vaghsheer, to Indian Navy

Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited handed over the sixth Scorpene submarine, Vaghsheer, of Project P-75 to the Indian Navy on January 10, 2025. This advanced submarine boasts superior stealth features and the capability to launch precise attacks with guided weapons, including torpedoes and tube-launched anti-ship missiles, whether submerged or on the surface. Vaghsheer is versatile, capable of performing various missions such as Anti-Surface Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Intelligence Gathering, and Area Surveillance.

The submarine features a high level of automation with a sophisticated Integrated Platform Management System and Combat Management System, integrating diverse equipment, systems, and sensors. It stands out from its predecessors with indigenously developed Air Conditioning and Internal Communication & Broadcast Systems.

Chairman and Managing Director Sanjeev Singhal highlighted that the delivery of the six submarines — Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, Vagir, and Vaghsheer — reaffirms India’s position in the exclusive group of submarine-building nations.

10,000 special guests to witness Republic Day Parade in New Delhi

The Ministry of Defence announced that around 10,000 special guests will witness the 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on January 26. These guests, known as the “architects of Swarnim Bharat,” are recognized for their contributions to various government schemes. They include sarpanches, disaster relief workers, water warriors, handloom and handicraft artisans, SHG members, and ASHA workers.

For the first time, individuals from disaster relief, environmental conservation, renewable energy, and wildlife preservation are being honored. Notable sports achievers, including Paralympic athletes, international sports medalists, patent holders, and top start-up founders, will also attend. Excelling school children from national competitions like the All India School Band and Veer Gatha will be present as special guests.

Besides the parade, these guests will visit key landmarks in Delhi such as the National War Memorial and PM Sangrahalay, and interact with government ministers.

Indusfood 2025: from January 8 to 10 at India Expo Centre in Greater Noida

Indusfood 2025, held from January 8 to 10 at the India Expo Centre in Greater Noida, is Asia’s premier Food and Beverage Trade Show. Organized by the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), this event featured 1,800 exhibitors from 30 countries.

Union Minister Chirag Paswan inaugurated the event, highlighting the importance of the processed food industry for India’s economic growth.

Key events included the Indusfood Innovation Awards, the Sustainable Food Manufacturing Summit, the Global Food Security Conclave, and the World Chefs – Asia President’s Forum.

The show aimed to foster international market linkages, promote cross-border partnerships, and support India’s vision of becoming a developed nation.

18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was celebrated from January 8 to 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This flagship event, organized by the Government of India, recognizes the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the nation’s development. The theme for this year was “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the event on January 9, 2025, and launched the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the Indian diaspora. The event saw participation from over 6,000 non-resident Indians (NRIs) from 75 countries, including business leaders, academics, and professionals.

India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge: The Anji Khad Bridge Completed

The Indian Railways has completed the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, as part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project.

Location: The bridge is situated in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, connecting Katra and Reasi.

Key Features:

Length: 725.5 meters,
Height: 331 meters above the riverbed, with the main pylon rising 193 meters from its foundation.
Design: Asymmetrical with 96 cables ranging from 82 to 295 meters in length.
Divided into four sections, including a 473.25-meter cable-stayed span and a 120-meter viaduct.

Capabilities:

Designed to handle wind speeds up to 213 km/h and train speeds of 100 km/h.
Includes a single railway line, a 3.75-meter-wide service road, and 1.5-meter-wide footpaths on both sides.

Construction Techniques:

Used advanced equipment like the DOKA jump form shuttering system and a 40-tonne tower crane from Spain, reducing construction time by 30%.
Combines Indian codes with Eurocodes and was proof-checked by international firms COWI (UK) and ITALFERR (Italy).
Monitoring System: Integrated with sensors to monitor the bridge’s structural health throughout its service life.

Impact:

Enhances connectivity between Katra and the Kashmir Valley.
Expected to boost tourism and economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.

Eighth Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 22 (Yard 132), inducted in Indian Navy

The eighth Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 22 (Yard 132), was inducted in Indian Navy on 06 Jan 2025 at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. The Chief Guest was Cmde Vinay Venkataram, Officer-in-Charge, Fleet Maintenance Unit (Mumbai).

The contract for 11 ACTCM Barges was awarded to M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd., Thane, on 05 Mar 2021. Seven barges have been delivered so far. The shipyard has also received a contract to build four Sullage Barges for the Indian Navy, showcasing the Navy’s support for MSMEs.

The barges were designed indigenously in collaboration with an Indian Ship Designing firm and tested at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam. The induction of these barges will enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities by facilitating the transport and handling of ammunition and articles.

Aero India 2025: 10th to 14th February 2025 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru

The 15th edition of Aero India 2025, Asia’s largest aero show, will be held at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, from 10th to 14th February 2025. Themed “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities”, the event aims to foster partnerships between Indian and foreign firms, accelerate indigenisation, and showcase advanced aerospace technologies.

Schedule:

  • 10th-12th February: Business days.
  • 13th-14th February: Public days featuring air displays and exhibitions.

Key Highlights:

  • Participation from global CEOs, domestic PSU CMDs, and private defence manufacturers.
  • India Pavilion: Showcasing the Make-in-India initiative and indigenous defence capabilities.
  • Aerobatic displays, live demonstrations, and bilateral meetings to strengthen defence ties.

Previous Edition Achievements:

  • Attracted 7 lakh visitors, dignitaries from 98 countries, and 809 exhibitors.
  • Recognised globally as a leading aerospace exhibition since its inception in 1996.

Bharatpol: CBI’s Portal for Streamlined Global Criminal Investigations

The Bharatpol portal is a new initiative developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in India. It was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on January 7, 2025. The portal aims to streamline international cooperation in criminal investigations by enabling real-time information sharing among Indian law enforcement agencies and their international counterparts through Interpol.

Key features of the Bharatpol portal

Real-time information sharing: Facilitates faster access to international police assistance.
Streamlined requests: Simplifies the process of requesting international assistance, including the issuance of Red Notices and other color-coded notices.
Enhanced efficiency: Helps field-level police officers deal with crimes and security challenges more effectively.
Common platform: Brings all stakeholders on a single platform for better coordination.

The development of Bharatpol was necessitated by the growing footprint of transnational crimes, such as cyber-crime, financial crimes, online radicalization, organized crimes, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. The portal is expected to significantly enhance India’s efforts in combating these crimes by providing easier and faster access to international assistance.

India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster in Sikkim

Launch Date and Location: India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster announced on January 6, 2025, in the Soreng district of Sikkim. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh announced the launch at the Northeastern Region States Meet 2025 in Guwahati.

Initiative: Part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aiming for sustainable and eco-friendly aquaculture.

Organic Focus: Utilizes ecologically healthy fish farming methods, avoiding harmful chemicals, antibiotics, and pesticides.

Economic and Environmental Benefits: Expected to boost farmer incomes, support eco-friendly food production, and minimize environmental pollution.

Market Potential: Targets lucrative domestic and international markets for organic products.

Financial Support: NABARD will provide financial and technical assistance, supporting fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and fishers’ cooperatives.

India’s 1000 Km Metro Network: The 3rd Largest in the World

India’s metro systems have revolutionized urban travel, expanding to cover over 1,000 km across 11 states and 23 cities, making India the third-largest metro network globally after China and the United States. This milestone was achieved with the launch of several metro development projects by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 5, 2025.

Key Projects Launched:

Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor: 13 km section enhancing connectivity between Delhi and Meerut.
Rithala-Kundli Section: 26.5 km section strengthening links between Delhi and Haryana.

These projects are expected to serve over 1 crore daily passengers, reflecting the significant impact of metro expansion on urban mobility.

Historical Development:

1984: Metro development in India began with Kolkata’s first metro line.
1995: Establishment of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
2002: DMRC opened its first metro corridor.
2011-2020: Development of metro systems in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi.

Recent Advancements:

Under-Water Metro: Inaugurated by PM Modi in 2024, featuring the first under-water metro tunnel in Kolkata.
Driverless Metro: Launched in 2020 on Delhi Metro’s Magenta Line.
Kochi Water Metro: Launched in 2021, connecting islands around Kochi using electric hybrid boats.

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