National

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 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.

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”.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

The French Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, Charles De Gaulle, arrived in Goa on January 4, 2025, to participate in the 42nd annual bilateral naval exercise Varuna with the Indian Navy.

The French Carrier Strike Group, including Rafale Marine fighter aircraft, received a ceremonial welcome at Goa’s Mormugao port.

The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen Indo-French naval ties.

France and India regularly collaborate to ensure maritime safety in the Indian Ocean.

Since 2008, France has been a member of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a forum initiated by India to address issues like illegal trafficking, fishing violations, sea rescue, and pollution.

Indo-French Strategic Partnership

India and France have been strategic partners since 1998, with robust military cooperation reflected in bilateral exercises: Shakti (land), Varuna (sea), and Garuda (air).

Since 2022, French Navy vessels have made 16 port calls to India, showcasing operational collaboration.

Border Fencing with Myanmar:

• Over 9 km of fencing has been completed at Moreh in Manipur as of January 2025.
• The Border Road Organisation (BRO) is working on constructing 21 km of fence and road, a project awarded in February 2024.

India-Myanmar Border Details:

• Total border length: 1,643 km.
• States along the border: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram.
• Border demarcation completed for 1,472 km out of 1,643 km.

Hybrid Surveillance Projects:

• Two pilot projects of Hybrid surveillance systems are under construction in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.

Union Home Ministry Report: The fencing and surveillance initiatives were highlighted in a report published by the ministry recently.

India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 from February 5th to 9th at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking its first-ever hosting of this global event. The summit aims to position India as a global hub for content creation and foster collaborations in the media and entertainment industry.

Key focus areas include AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), technological advancements, sustainable production, and global market strategies, attracting industry leaders and innovators worldwide.

India’s first glass bridge over the sea was inaugurated in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, on 30 December 2024 by Chief Minister MK Stalin.

The 77-meter-long bridge, built at a cost of ₹37 crores, connects the 133 ft tall Saint Tiruvalluvar statue (renamed as the “Statue of Wisdom”) with the Vivekananda Rock Memorial.

Part of the silver jubilee celebrations of the Tiruvalluvar statue, the bridge offers tourists a breezy walk with a clear view of the sea below.