Here are 20 current affairs updates relevant for UPSC aspirants as of January 29, 2025:
India and China to Resume Direct Flights and Journalist Exchanges
After nearly five years, India and China have agreed to resume direct air services and facilitate the exchange of journalists, signaling improved bilateral relations post the 2020 border clash.
Challenges in India’s Banking Sector
India’s banking sector faces rising bad debts and weak credit growth, with major private banks reporting increased loan defaults, especially in unsecured loans. The Reserve Bank of India maintains high interest rates amid high inflation and economic slowdown.
US Encourages India to Purchase More American Weapons
US President Donald Trump has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to buy more US-made weapons to balance trade relations, emphasizing India’s role as a strategic partner against China’s assertiveness.
India Shifts Focus from Privatization to Revitalizing State-Run Firms
The Indian government is moving away from extensive privatization plans, opting to invest billions to revive several state-run companies, including a significant investment in helicopter operator Pawan Hans.
India and Indonesia Enhance Cooperation in Defense and Trade
India and Indonesia have signed agreements to deepen cooperation in health, defense, digital technology, and maritime affairs, aiming to expand bilateral relations, particularly in defense production and maritime security.
2025 Prayag Kumbh Mela Commences
The Maha Kumbh Mela began on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with preparations to accommodate up to 400 million visitors, including dignitaries from various countries.
New NIELIT Campus in Assam to Focus on Semiconductor Manufacturing
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the development of a new NIELIT campus in Jagiroad, Assam, focusing on semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. An MoU was signed with Tata Electronics to enhance the semiconductor skill development ecosystem in India.
Launch of ‘BHARATPOL’ Portal to Revolutionize International Crime Investigations
Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the ‘BHARATPOL’ portal, developed by the CBI, to streamline the process for Indian law enforcement agencies to seek international assistance through INTERPOL in criminal matters.
Dr. V. Narayanan Appointed as Next ISRO Chairman
Renowned rocket propulsion expert Dr. V. Narayanan has been appointed as the next chairman of ISRO, succeeding S. Somanath. He is recognized for his contributions to Indian space missions and experience in cryogenic propulsion systems.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 Held in Bhubaneswar
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025, celebrating the contributions of overseas Indians to India’s progress. The theme was “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.”
PFC Secures $1.5 Billion Green Loan from JBIC
Power Finance Corporation (PFC) signed a $1.5 billion loan agreement with Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to fund renewable energy and energy-efficient projects in India, supporting the country’s net-zero carbon emissions goal.
World Bank Projects India’s GDP Growth at 6.7%
The World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects report projects India’s GDP to grow at 6.7% over the next two financial years, indicating a positive economic outlook.
Young Mountaineer Harini Karthikeyan Scales Mount Vinson Massif
Harini Karthikeyan and her father successfully climbed Mount Vinson Massif in Antarctica on December 24, 2024, achieving a significant mountaineering milestone.
India’s First Glass Bridge Inaugurated in Kanniyakumari
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated India’s first bowstring arch glass bridge, connecting the Thiruvalluvar Statue and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari, enhancing tourism infrastructure.
Andhra Pradesh to Establish Semiconductor Manufacturing Facility
Andhra Pradesh announced plans to establish a semiconductor manufacturing facility in the Orvakal Mega Industrial Hub, specializing in Silicon Carbide chips, crucial for energy-efficient technologies and electric vehicles.
India to Host 28th CSPOC in 2026
India is set to host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments of Commonwealth Countries in New Delhi in 2026, focusing on applying artificial intelligence and social media in parliamentary operations.
India’s Concerns Over China’s Hydropower Projects in Tibet
India has expressed concerns about China’s plans to construct the world’s largest dam in Tibet, which could impact water supply and security in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting tensions over water resources.
India’s Economic Growth Deceleration
Economist Arvind Subramanian notes that India’s recent economic growth has decelerated due to a lack of new ideas and declining investor confidence, emphasizing the need for policy reforms to drive export-led growth.
India’s Strategic Role in the Quad Alliance
India’s strategic importance in the Quad alliance is underscored by discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump to strengthen maritime security and counter China’s assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific region.(reuters.com)
India to Launch National Hydrogen Energy Mission
India is set to launch the National Hydrogen Energy Mission to promote green hydrogen production and establish itself as a global hub for hydrogen energy by 2030. (affairscloud.com)
