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CURRENT AFFAIRS: BANKING & FINANCE

Finvasia, YES Bank Introduce Jumpp Super App for Digital Finance

• Jumpp is a super app that combines banking, payments, savings, investing, and borrowinginto one platform.
• It allows users to consolidate their financial accounts through account aggregationand enables instant YES Bank savings account openings.

Key Highlights:

1. Target Audience:
   • Designed for online shoppers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
   • Focuses on financial inclusionwith multilingual AI-driven assistance (English and Hindi) and voice-based interactions for users with limited digital literacy.
2. User Growth and Expansion:
   • Aims to onboard 1 million users by January 2026.
   • Expands services beyond metro citiesand integrates with India’s Account Aggregator (AA) framework, which has recorded over 100 million consents for secure data sharing.
3. Security and AI Features:
   • Offers an AI-based chatbotfor personalized financial advice and fraud prevention.
   • Ensures data securityand complies with regulatory guidelines.
4. Market and Competition:
   • Enters a competitive market with AI-driven fintech solutions.
   • Aligns with the RBI’s push for fintech adoptionand regulatory compliance.
5. Success Factors:
   • Depends on user adoption, regulatory developments, and competition from existing digital banking solutions.

Recent News:

• In December 2024, YES Bank announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Manish Jain as the Executive Director (Whole-Time Director) for a three-year term, from December 11, 2024, to December 10, 2027.

About YES Bank:

• Founded: 2004
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Prashant Kumar
• Tagline : "Life Ko Banao Rich"

HDFC and Startup India Launch ‘Manufacturing Accelerator Program’ to Boost Innovation in the Sector

• HDFC, in collaboration with Startup India’s Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, has launched the Manufacturing Accelerator Programto foster innovation and drive growth in India’s manufacturing sector.
• The program supports startups addressing critical manufacturing challenges using cutting-edge solutions.
• Applications are open until 15 February.

Key Highlights:

1. Collaborative Effort:
   • A joint initiative by HDFC Bank, DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade), and riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar University.
   • Aims to build a thriving ecosystem for innovation, scalability, and global competitiveness in manufacturing.
2. Program Goals:
   • Aligns with India’s vision to become a global manufacturing hub.
   • Empowers startups to develop advanced manufacturing technologies, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable practices.
3. Eligibility and Industry Focus:
   • Open to Indian-domiciled companieswith validated products or solutions.
   • Supports startups in early traction and scaling stagesacross industries like:
     • Core Manufacturing: Automotive, Aerospace, Green Technology, Robotics, etc.
     • Technology & Innovation: AI, IoT, Nanotechnology, AR/VR, etc.
     • Industry Services: Enterprise Software, FinTech, IT Services, etc.
     • Sustainability & Social Impact: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Manufacturing, Agriculture, etc.

4. Key Challenges Addressed:
   • Enhancing manufacturing efficiencythrough real-time monitoring and upgraded machinery.
   • Promoting sustainable manufacturingby reducing carbon emissions and waste.
   • Empowering MSMEswith advanced technologies and resources.
   • Supporting skill developmentand addressing energy inefficiency.
5. Incentives for Startups:
   • Fiscal Incentives:
     • Grants of up to Rs 40 lakh.
     • Equity-based funding opportunities.
   • Non-Fiscal Incentives:
     • Workshops, mentorship, and market access support.
     • Use of riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar University’s facilities.
     • Media coverage and participation in showcase events.

6. Selection Process and Timeline:
   • Phase 1 – Preliminary Screening (February 2025): Initial evaluation of applications.
   • Phase 2 – Due Diligence (February 2025): In-depth assessment of business models.
   • Phase 3 – Final Assessment (March 2025): Expert panel evaluation.
   • Phase 4 – Winner Announcement (March 2025): Grants and incentives awarded to top startups.

Recent News:

• In January 2025, HDFC Bank received RBI approval to acquire up to a 9.5% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank, through its group entities.

About HDFC Bank:

• Founded: 1994
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan
• Tagline: "We understand your world"

Reserve Bank of India makes private placement of non-convertible debentures regulations for housing finance companies on par with non-banking financial companies

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that housing finance companies (HFCs) must now follow the same private placement regulations for non-convertible debentures (NCDs) as non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).
• The revised guidelines apply to all new private placements of NCDs with maturities exceeding one year by HFCs.
• Effective immediately, HFCs must comply with NBFC-style regulations for NCD issuances.

NBFC Guidelines for Private Placement of NCDs

HFCs must now adhere to the following NBFC norms:

1. Board-Approved Policy for Resource Planning

• HFCs must establish a board-approved policy for resource planning.
• This policy must cover planning horizon and frequency of private placements.

2. Minimum Subscription Amount

• Each investor must subscribe to at least ₹20,000.

3. Segmentation of Private Placement of NCDs

Private placements will be categorized into two segments:

• NCDs with a maximum subscription of less than ₹1 crore per investor.
  • Limited to 200 subscribers per financial year.
  • Must be fully secured.
• NCDs with a minimum subscription of ₹1 crore and above per investor.

About RBI:

• Established: 1 April 1935
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Governor: Sanjay Malhotra

Reserve Bank of India Reports 465.33 Digital Payments Index for September 2024, Up from 445.5 in March 2024

• Digital payments across the country registered an 11.11% year-on-year rise as of September 2024, according to RBI's index measuring online transaction adoption.
• RBI's Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) for September 2024 stands at 465.33 as against 445.5 for March 2024, the Reserve Bank stated in a statement on January 29, 2025.
• Key Growth Drivers: The rise in RBI-DPI was driven by improvements in payment infrastructure and payment performance across the country.
• Index Background: RBI introduced the composite RBI-DPI in March 2018 to track the digitization of payments in India.
• Five Parameters of RBI-DPI:
• Payment Enablers – 25% weightage
• Payment Infrastructure (Demand-side factors) – 10%
• Payment Infrastructure (Supply-side factors) – 15%
• Payment Performance – 45%
• Consumer Centricity – 5%

What is DPI?

• DPI in banking stands for Digital Payments Index, which is a tool used by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to measure the extent of digital payments in India.
• The index is used to track trends in digital payments in the financial system.
• The RBI-DPI is a composite index that measures the extent of digital payments across India.
• The index is based on 5 broad parameters, including payment performance, payment infrastructure, and consumer centricity.
• The RBI-DPI is published semi-annually.

Recent News:

• In January 2025, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the establishment of the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation (NUCFDC) to support Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) in improving operational efficiency, technological adoption, and financial stability.

Government unveils new Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises growth

• The Government of India has approved the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME), fulfilling a key announcement from the Union Budget 2024-25.
• The scheme, facilitated by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC), provides 60% guarantee coverageto Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for credit facilities up to ₹100 crore sanctioned to eligible MSMEs.

Key Highlights:

1. Objective:
   • Facilitates credit availability for MSMEs to purchase Plant and Machinery/Equipment, boosting manufacturingand supporting the Make in India
2. Eligibility:
   • Borrower: MSMEs with a valid Udyam Registration Number.
   • Loan Amount: Guaranteed up to ₹100 crore(project costs can be higher).
   • Equipment Cost: Minimum 75% of the project cost.
3. Member Lending Institutions (MLIs):
   • Includes Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs)registered with NCGTC.
4. Repayment Terms:
   • For loans up to ₹50 crore:
     • Repayment period of up to 8 years.
     • Moratorium period of up to 2 yearson principal instalments.
   • For loans above ₹50 crore:
     • Higher repayment schedule and moratorium period can be considered.

5. Guarantee Fees:
   • Upfront Contribution: 5% of the loan amount at the time of application.
   • Annual Guarantee Fee:
     • Nilin the year of sanction.
     • 1.5% per annumfor the next 3 years (based on outstanding loan as of March 31 of the previous year).
     • 1% per annum

6. Scheme Duration:
   • Applicable to loans sanctioned under MCGS-MSME for 4 years from the date of operational guidelines or until a cumulative guarantee of ₹7 lakh crore is issued, whichever is earlier.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS

Cabinet Approves Rs 16,300 Crore National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM)

• The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) with a financial allocation of Rs 16,300 crore.
• This initiative is designed to meet the growing demand for minerals vital for advanced technologies and defence production.

Key Objectives of the National Critical Mineral Mission:

1. Explore Critical Minerals – Focus on both onshore and offshore
2. Streamline Regulatory Processes – Establish fast-track approval systems for mining projects.
3. Encourage Financial Incentives – Provide financial support for exploration activities.
4. Boost Mining Capabilities – Support the acquisition of critical mineral assets abroad.
5. Promote National Stockpile – Build a reserve of critical minerals for long-term resource security.
6. Enhance Self-reliance – Reduce India’s import dependence by fostering local mining activities.
7. Public and Private Sector Collaboration – Encourage cooperation between government and industry players in mineral extraction and processing.

Industry Participation & Mineral Auctions:

• Public & Private Sector Participation – The government is encouraging PSUs and private companies to invest in critical mineral extraction.
• Auction of 48 Critical Mineral Blocks – So far, 24 have been successfully allotted, with further auctions ongoing.

Understanding Critical Minerals:

Definition: Critical minerals are those essential for economic development and national security. Their scarcity or regional concentration can cause supply chain vulnerabilities.

Global Critical Mineral Lists:

• United States – 50 critical minerals
• Japan – 31 critical minerals
• United Kingdom – 18 critical minerals
• European Union – 34 critical minerals
• Canada – 31 critical minerals

Recent News

• In January 2025, The Union Cabinet sanctioned a substantial ₹11,440 crore package to revitalize Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), commonly known as Vizag Steel, addressing its critical financial challenges.

Republic Day Parade 2025: Winners of Marching Contingents & Tableaux

• The Republic Day Parade 2025 at Kartavya Path, Delhi showcased India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and historical legacy.
• Expert panels announced results via an online public poll on MyGov. Here are the winners in various categories:

Marching Contingent Winners

Judges’ Choice:

• Best Marching Contingent (Services): Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Contingent
• Best Marching Contingent (CAPFs/Other Auxiliary Forces): Delhi Police Marching Contingent

Popular Choice (MyGov Poll):

• Best Marching Contingent (Services): Signals Contingent
• Best Marching Contingent (CAPFs/Other Auxiliary Forces): CRPF Marching Contingent

The Jammu & Kashmir Rifles and Delhi Police impressed with their discipline and synchronization, while Signals and CRPF earned the highest public votes.

Best Tableaux Winners

Judges’ Choice for States/UTs:

• Uttar Pradesh: Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas
• Tripura: Eternal Reverence – Worship of 14 Deities in Kharchi Puja
• Andhra Pradesh: Etikoppaka Bommalu – Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys

Best Tableaux from Central Ministries/Departments:

• Ministry of Tribal Affairs: Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh

Special Prizes:

• Central Public Works Department: 75 Years of the Constitution of India
• ‘Jayati Jai Mamah Bharatam’ Dance Group: Recognized for its energetic and patriotic performance.

Popular Choice for Tableaux (MyGov Poll)

• Gujarat: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas
• Uttar Pradesh: Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas
• Uttarakhand: Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports

Best Tableaux from Central Ministries/Departments (Popular Choice):

• Ministry of Women & Child Development: Multifaceted Journey of Women and Children

About UP:

• Capital: Lucknow
• Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel

Joint Committee of Parliament (JCP) Panel Adopts Report on Waqf (Amendment) Bill with 15-11 Vote

• The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) chairperson Jagdambika Pal stated that the panel adopted the Waqf (Amendment) Bill draft report and the amended version of the proposed law with a majority vote.
• Pal stated that 16 members voted in favour, while 11 opposed it.

Key Highlights of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

1. Adoption of Draft Report:
   • The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)adopted the draft report of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill with a majority vote (16 in favor, 11 opposed).
   • JPC Chairperson Jagdambika Palconfirmed the amended version of the proposed law.
2. Dissent from Opposition Members:
   • Opposition members criticized the process, calling it "undemocratic"and alleging insufficient time to review the final report.
   • Dissent Notes:
     • Submitted by Trinamool Congress MPsKalyan Banerjee and Nadimul Haque, DMK MP A Raja, AAP leader Sanjay Singh, and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant.
     • Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawantstated that all opposition members would submit dissent notes.

3. Submission of Revised Bill:
   • Jagdambika Palis expected to submit the revised bill to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on January 30.
4. Background of the Bill:
   • The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on August 8, 2024.
   • It aims to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, to address challenges in regulating and managing Waqf properties.
5. Key Amendments Approved:
   • Increased Non-Muslim Members: Two non-Muslim members can now be part of the panel.
   • Role of State Government Officials: State government officials, along with district magistrates, can be appointed for certain roles.
   • Waqf Tribunals: The number of tribunal members increased from two to three.
6. Clause-by-Clause Discussion:
   • The Parliament panel adopted all amendments proposed by BJP-led NDA membersand rejected those suggested by opposition members.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Millions around the world celebrate Lunar New Year and ring in the Year of the Snake

• The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, marks the beginning of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
• It starts with the first new moon that appears between January 21 and February 20.
• The festival is filled with customs and traditions aimed at bringing good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

Key Highlights:

• Red Decorations – The color red symbolizes joy and fortune, seen in lanterns, banners, and door decorations.
• Lion Dances & Fireworks – Public celebrations include lion and dragon dances, fireworks, and temple prayers.
• Lantern Festival – On the 15th day, the festival ends with lantern displays and light shows.
• Although primarily a Chinese tradition, it is also widely celebrated in Vietnam, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore, among others.

Chinese Zodiac Animals:

• The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, each year represented by an animal: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
• 2024: Year of the Dragon– Symbolizes power, strength, and wisdom.
• 2025: Year of the Snake– Past Snake years include 2013, 2001, and 1989.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: BUSINESS NEWS

Tata Steel Develops Hydrogen-Compliant Pipes for Clean Energy

• Tata Steel has become the first Indian company to develop hydrogen-compliant pipes, marking a significant advancement in India’s clean energy efforts.
• These API X65 pipes are designed specifically for transporting hydrogen and are part of Tata Steel's commitment to supporting the country’s energy transition.

Key Highlights:

• Hydrogen-Compliant API X65 Pipes:
  • The pipes were processed at Tata Steel’s Khopoli plant using steel produced at the Kalinganagar facility.
  • These pipes meet all critical requirements for hydrogen transportation.
• In-House Development:
  • Tata Steel managed the entire process, from designing and manufacturing the hot-rolled steel to producing the pipes, showcasing its capacity to build critical energy infrastructure.
• Tested for Hydrogen Transportation:
  • The pipes can transport 100% pure gaseous hydrogen under high pressure (100 bar).
  • The qualification tests for the pipes were conducted at RINA-CSM S.p.A in Italy, a recognized agency for hydrogen-related testing and certification.

Support for India’s National Hydrogen Mission:

• Contribution to Clean Energy:
  • Tata Steel’s achievement aligns with India’s National Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce at least 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of Green Hydrogen annually by 2030. The mission is a crucial part of India’s clean energy transition.
• Growing Demand for Hydrogen-Compliant Steel:
  • The demand for hydrogen-compliant steel is expected to rise from 2026-27, with a projected total requirement of 350,000 tonnes of steel over the next five to seven years.
• Hydrogen Transportation Infrastructure:
  • Steel pipelines are considered one of the most cost-effective solutions for large-scale hydrogen distribution. The development of these pipes will support the transportation infrastructure needed for India’s hydrogen economy.

About Tata Steel:

• CEO: T. V. Narendran
• Founder: Jamshedji Tata
• Founded: 26 August 1907
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra

CURRENT AFFAIRS: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Vedanta Resources appoints Deshnee Naidoo as Chief Executive Officer

• Vedanta Resources, the parent company of Mumbai-based Vedanta Ltd, has appointed Deshnee Naidooas Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective from 20 January 2025.

About Deshnee Naidoo:

• Previous Role: Naidoo was the CEO of Vale Base Metals, a leading nickel and copper producer.
• Past Association with Vedanta:
  • She was associated with Vedanta from 2014 to 2020, holding senior leadership roles, including CEO of Africa Base Metalsand CEO of Vedanta Zinc International.
• Experience: Brings 27 years of experiencein the resources business across diverse geographies and metals/minerals sectors.

Vedanta’s Transformation:

• Vedanta Resources is undergoing a fast-paced transformationto position itself as a key driver of growth in India and globally.
• Its Indian subsidiary, Vedanta Ltd, is demerging its businesses to unlock significant valuefor stakeholders.
• The company is also acquiring key mineral blocksto strengthen its portfolio.

Sony Appoints Hiroki Totoki as Chief Executive Officer To Drive Entertainment Expansion

• Big changes are happening at Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) as leadership undergoes a significant shift for the first time since former CEO Jim Ryan retired in 2023.
• Ryan had led SIE and the PlayStation division, with his role being jointly filled by Hideaki Nishino and Herman Hulst in 2024.
• Now, Sony is making further changes to its leadership structure.
• Herman Hulst will remain in charge of Sony’s PlayStation division.
• Hideaki Nishino will become the CEO and president of Sony Interactive Entertainment as a whole.
• Since June 2024, Sony Interactive Entertainment had been operating under a dual-CEO structure.
• Nishino, a former CFO of Sony, and Hulst, previously the managing director of Guerrilla Games, co-led SIE.

Maruti Suzuki Board approves re-appointment of Hisashi Takeuchi as Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer until 2028

• Maruti Suzuki’s Board of Directors approved Hisashi Takeuchi's re-appointment as Managing Director and CEO for another 3
• The decision was made during the board meeting held on January 29, 2025.
• His renewed tenure will begin on April 1, 2025, and end on March 31, 2028.
• The Board has also recommended the re-appointment of Maheswar Sahu as an Independent Director for an additional five-year term.
• The new term will extend from May 14, 2025, to May 13, 2030.
• This proposal is subject to approval by the company’s members.

About Hisashi Takeuchi:

• Hisashi Takeuchi has been associated with Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) since 1986.
• He was first appointed as MD & CEO of Maruti Suzuki on April 1, 2022, after Kenichi Ayukawa’s tenure.
• He has served on the company’s Board since July 2019 and was promoted to Joint Managing Director (Commercial) in April 2021.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: DEFENCE  NEWS

Indian Navy’s 7^th Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) Project Progresses with Keel Laying of ‘Machilipatnam’

• The Keel Laying of the 7th ship (BY 529, Machilipatnam) under the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) project was conducted on 29 Jan 25 in the presence of RAdm Upal Kundu, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command.
• Senior officials from the Indian Navy and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) also attended the ceremony.
• With almost all major and auxiliary equipment sourced from indigenous manufacturers, these ships exemplify the Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• This milestone follows the Keel Laying of the sixth ship in Dec 24 and the Launching of the fourth and fifth ships in Sep 24, showcasing the dedication of Indian Shipyards in fulfilling the Indian Navy’s operational requirements.

Key Highlights:

• The Ministry of Defence awarded a contract on 30 Apr 19 to CSL for building eight ASW SWC ships, known as the ‘Mahe’ class.
• These ships will feature indigenously developed, state-of-the-art underwater sensors and will conduct anti-submarine operations, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and Mine Laying Operations.
• The first ship of the project is scheduled for delivery in early 2025, significantly boosting the Indian Navy’s Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities.
• Additionally, the high indigenous content in these ships is fostering large-scale employment and strengthening the capabilities of Indian Manufacturing Units.

Recent News:

• In January 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh flagged off ‘SANJAY – The Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS)’ from the South Block, New Delhi.

About Ministry of Defence:

• Cabinet Minister: Rajnath Singh
• Minister of State (MoS): Ajay Bhatt

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Cochin College Forge Industry-Academia Partnership

• The Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) and Cochin College have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote industry-academia collaboration, aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience.
• The partnership seeks to enhance students' educational outcomes and employability.

Key Highlights:

• MoU Signing:
  • The agreement was signed by Akshay Agarwal, President of ICCI, and Mridhula Menon V, Principal of Cochin College.
• Focus Areas of Collaboration:
  • Internships and Training Programs: Providing students with practical industry exposure.
  • Research & Development (R&D): Encouraging collaboration on research projects between students and industry experts.
  • Industry Visits: Offering students opportunities to visit industry hubs and gain real-world insights.
  • Guest Lectures & Seminars: Bringing industry professionals to share knowledge and experiences with students.
  • Placement Support: Enhancing students' chances of securing employment through industry connections and training.
• Objective:
  • This collaboration aims to equip students with hands-on experience, ensuring they are industry-ready upon graduation.
• Future Impact:
  • The ICCI-Cochin College partnership is expected to serve as a model for future industry-academia collaborations, setting a benchmark for similar initiatives across India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Logo and Mascot Unveiled for 23rd National Para Athletics Championship 2025

• The official logo and mascot for the 23rd National Para Athletics Championship 2025 were unveiled.
• Set to be held in Tamil Nadu, this event continues India’s commitment to promoting para sports and fostering inclusivity.

Significance of the Logo and Mascot

• The mascot represents determination and resilience, reflecting the spirit of para-athletes who push boundaries despite challenges.
• The logo incorporates elements that symbolize the dynamic nature of para-athletics and the championship's values of empowerment and equality.

Looking Ahead: Milestones for Para Athletics in India

• Para Athletics World Championships: Scheduled for September 26 to October 5, 2025, in New Delhi, this will be the first time India hosts the prestigious event.
• The World Championships will provide a global platform for Indian para-athletes to showcase their talents, elevating the profile of para athletics in India.

Recent news

• In January 2025, In a significant announcement marking the centenary of the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilisation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has pledged a $1 million prize for experts or organizations that succeed in deciphering the mysterious Indus Valley script.

Dinesh Karthik Becomes India's Top Wicket-Keeper Run-Scorer in T20s

• In a remarkable feat for Indian cricket, Dinesh Karthik has surpassed MS Dhoni to become the highest run-scorer among Indian wicket-keepers in T20 cricket.
• This achievement came after Karthik scored a crucial 21-run knock, bringing his total T20 runs to 7,451 runs in 361 innings (409 matches).

Breaking Dhoni’s Record

• Karthik's 21-run innings pushed his tally to 7,451 runs, overtaking MS Dhoni’s record of 7,432 runs (in 342 innings).
• Dhoni, a legendary figure in Indian cricket, had held the record for the most runs by an Indian wicket-keeper in T20s for a long time.
• Karthik’s accomplishment is a testament to his longevity, adaptability, and consistency in T20 cricket.

Karthik’s T20 Career in Numbers

• Total Runs: 7,451 runs
• Innings Played: 361 innings
• Matches Played: 409 matches
• Average: 26.99
• Strike Rate: 136.84

Most Runs by Indian Wicket-Keeper Batters in T20 Cricket

Here’s the updated list of the top Indian wicket-keeper batters in T20 cricket:

1. Dinesh Karthik – 7,451 runs (361 innings)
2. MS Dhoni – 7,432 runs (342 innings)
3. Sanju Samson – 7,327 runs (280 innings)

Karthik’s Legacy in T20 Cricket

• At the age of 40, Karthik continues to excel, proving that age is just a number.
• His consistent performances with both the bat and behind the stumps, along with his ability to adapt to the fast-paced demands of T20 cricket, solidify his place as one of the most impactful wicket-keeper batters in the game.
• Karthik's legacy is built on his resilience, match-winning contributions, and ability to reinvent himself for the evolving nature of T20 cricket.

Steve Smith Achieves Monumental Milestone: 10,000 Runs in Test Cricket

• Australian batter Steve Smith reached a significant milestone during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
• Smith became the 15th player in history and the fourth Australian to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
• This achievement secures his position among the all-time greats of the game.

The Road to 10,000 Runs

• Smith’s journey to 10,000 Test runs had its dramatic moments. In his previous Test match against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), he fell just short, dismissed on 9,999 runs.
• In Galle, Smith crossed the landmark, becoming the third-fastest player to reach 10,000 runs in terms of innings played. He achieved this feat in his 205th innings, following Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar, and Kumar Sangakkara.

Players Who Have Scored 10,000+ Runs in Test Cricket

1. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 15,921 runs
2. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 13,378 runs
3. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 13,289 runs
4. Rahul Dravid (India) – 13,288 runs
5. Alastair Cook (England) – 12,472 runs
6. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 12,400 runs
7. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 11,953 runs
8. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies) – 11,867 runs
9. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 11,814 runs
10. Allan Border (Australia) – 11,174 runs
11. Steve Waugh (Australia) – 10,927 runs
12. Sunil Gavaskar (India) – 10,122 runs
13. Younis Khan (Pakistan) – 10,099 runs
14. Joe Root (England) – 12,972 runs (active player)
15. Steve Smith (Australia) – 10,000+ runs (active player)

Key Notes:

• Steve Smith is the 15th player to join the 10,000+ runs
• Among active players, Joe Root is the only one with more Test runs than Smith.
• Kumar Sangakkara holds the highest average (57.40) among those with 10,000+ Test runs.
• Smith is the sixth player to reach this milestone while captaining his team.

Manush Shah and Diya Chitale Crowned National Table Tennis Champions

• The 2025 Senior National Table Tennis Championships concluded, at the Pandit Dindayal Upadhyay Indoor Stadium in Surat.
• The competition saw intense action, with Manush Shah and Diya Chitale claiming the men’s and women’s singles titles, respectively.

Key Highlights:

Men’s Singles Final:

• Manush Shah defeated Payas Jain with a 4-1 scoreline: 10-12, 11-6, 11-6, 12-10, 11-8.
  • Despite a first-game loss, Shah bounced back to win four consecutive games.
  • His consistent attacking strategy proved decisive, securing the national title.

Women’s Singles Final:

• Diya Chitale defeated two-time national champion Sreeja Akula in a thrilling 4-3 battle: 10-12, 8-11, 13-11, 12-10, 11-8, 9-11, 11-9.
  • After being down 0-2, Chitale made a strong comeback, winning three consecutive games.
  • Despite Sreeja equalizing at 3-3, Diya held her nerve in the decider to clinch the title.

Women’s Doubles Victory:

• Diya Chitale & Sreeja Akula won the women’s doubles title on January 25.
  • They defeated Suhana Saini & Prithoki Chakraborty 3-2 in a closely contested match.
  • Diya completed a rare double win, claiming both singles and doubles titles.

Other Doubles Champions:

• Men’s Doubles: Abhinandh & S. Preyesh Raj clinched the title.
• Mixed Doubles: Akash Pal & Poymantee Baisya emerged victorious.

Daily CA One- Liner: January 31

• The Union Cabinet has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) with a financial allocation of Rs 16,300 crore
• The Republic Day Parade 2025 at Kartavya Path, Delhi showcased India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and historical legacy.
• The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) chairperson Jagdambika Pal stated that the panel adopted Waqf (Amendment) Bill draft report and the amended version of the proposed law with a majority vote
• Tata Steel has become the first Indian company to develop hydrogen-compliant pipes, marking a significant advancement in India’s clean energy efforts
• The Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) and Cochin College have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote industry-academia collaboration, aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience.
• The official logo and mascot for the 23rd National Para Athletics Championship 2025 were unveiled
• In a remarkable feat for Indian cricket, Dinesh Karthik has surpassed MS Dhoni to become the highest run-scorer among Indian wicket-keepers in T20 cricket
• Australian batter Steve Smith reached a significant milestone during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle
• The 2025 Senior National Table Tennis Championships concluded, at the Pandit Dindayal Upadhyay Indoor Stadium in
• Jumpp is a super app that combines banking, payments, savings, investing, and borrowinginto one platform. It allows users to consolidate their financial accounts through account aggregation and enables instant YES Bank savings account openings.
• HDFC, in collaboration with Startup India’s Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, has launched the Manufacturing Accelerator Programto foster innovation and drive growth in India’s manufacturing sector.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that housing finance companies (HFCs) must now follow the same private placement regulations for non-convertible debentures (NCDs) as non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).
• RBI's Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) for September 2024 stands at 465.33 as against 445.5 for March 2024, the Reserve Bank stated in a statement on January 29, 2025.
• The Government of India has approved the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS-MSME), fulfilling a key announcement from the Union Budget 2024-25.
• The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, marks the beginning of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
• Vedanta Resources, the parent company of Mumbai-based Vedanta Ltd, has appointed Deshnee Naidooas Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective from 20 January 2025.
• Hideaki Nishino will become the CEO and president of Sony Interactive Entertainment as a whole.
• Maruti Suzuki’s Board of Directors approved Hisashi Takeuchi's re-appointment as Managing Director and CEO for another 3
• The Keel Laying of the 7th ship (BY 529, Machilipatnam) under the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) project was conducted on 29 Jan 25 in the presence of RAdm Upal Kundu, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command.