Current Affairs Quiz - January, 2025

Notes:
The Indian Armed Forces conducted Exercise Devil Strike from January 16 to 19. It involved elite airborne soldiers from the Army and Air Force. The exercise was held in training areas and firing ranges. The focus was on refining logistics and sustaining troops in tough conditions. Advanced technologies ensured precise delivery of forces to remote locations. The exercise aimed to enhance operational readiness and adaptability. It emphasized the commitment to maintaining military excellence and preparing for future challenges.

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The ISRO mission that successfully germinated lobia seeds (also known as cowpea seeds) in space is called the “CROPS” experiment, which stands for “Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies”. The seeds sprouted on the fourth day, with leaves visible by the fifth day, marking a major milestone in space research. The experiment aims to develop sustainable food sources for long-term space missions and test plant growth in microgravity and controlled environments. Success supports astronauts by enabling food growth, oxygen generation, and CO₂ recycling in space. It highlights India’s capability in managing complex life-support systems and contributes to global space farming initiatives.

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Indichip Semiconductors and Japan’s Yitoa Micro Technology will establish India’s first private semiconductor manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The investment exceeds ₹14,000 crore and focuses on producing silicon carbide (SiC) chips. The facility will start with a capacity of 10,000 wafers/month, scaling up to 50,000 wafers/month in 2–3 years. The project aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, supporting electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions. Andhra Pradesh’s semiconductor policy aims to make the state a global manufacturing hub. The initiative will create thousands of jobs, spur innovation, and boost India’s semiconductor footprint.

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The world’s first 52-foot Mahamrityunjaya Yantra has been installed at Tapovan Ashram, Jhunsi Havelis, Prayagraj, a sacred Maha Kumbh site. The Yantra is a spiritual marvel believed to connect devotees with the higher consciousness of Lord Shiva. It symbolizes “Victory over Death,” helping individuals overcome fears of death, disease, and danger. The Yantra enhances courage, positivity, and spiritual energy among devotees. This monumental installation holds immense significance for spiritual seekers and devotees of Lord Shiva.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi oversees the e-distribution of SVAMITVA Property Cards on 18th January 2025. The SVAMITVA Scheme, launched on 24th April 2020, is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. It aims to provide legal ownership records to rural property owners via Property Cards, improving rural governance and financial inclusion. The scheme ensures accurate land demarcation using drone technology and GIS tools, reducing land disputes. It grants Record of Rights (RoR) to property owners in rural areas, offering legal recognition to their properties.

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The Union Ministry of Culture and the Gujarat Government inaugurated a state-of-the-art museum and archaeological interpretation center in Vadnagar. Vadnagar, a 2,500-year-old town, was a hub on ancient trade routes, boasting rich heritage sites like Kirti Toran, Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Sharmistha Lake. The museum complex spans 12,500 sq. m., features nine galleries, a 4,000 sq. m. excavation site, and highlights 5,000 artifacts. The ₹298 crore project integrates sustainability and includes five years of operations and maintenance.

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Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India discovered two goby fish species, Hemigobius hoevenii and Mugilogobius tigrinus, in the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh. Goby fish are typically found in estuarine and mangrove areas, playing a vital role in the ecosystem by occupying multiple levels in the food chain and serving as environmental health indicators.

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The World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects Report highlights the rising influence of Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs), led by China, India, and Brazil. EMDEs have significantly increased their global economic share from 2000 to 2025, with India maintaining leadership as the fastest-growing economy. India’s growth rate is projected at 6.7% annually for FY26–FY27, driven by robust services and manufacturing sectors. Services expansion and increased exports are enhancing South Asia’s trade integration, while manufacturing benefits from improved logistics and tax reforms. Private consumption is rising due to a strong labor market, better credit access, and declining inflation.

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Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu inaugurated the three-day Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF). The event celebrates heritage through folk songs, sports, and historic site expeditions. It offers a platform for local artisans, traders, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talent. The festival aims to foster economic growth and self-reliance. The festival is held annually in Nampong, Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh.

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Former US President Joe Biden highlighted the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) post the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. IMEC, announced at the 2023 G20 meeting, aims to boost trade between India, the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean, and Europe. Countries involved include India, the EU, the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, and Italy. It features two corridors: eastern (India to Arabian Gulf) and northern (Gulf to Europe). A shipping route links Mumbai and Mundra to the UAE, and a rail network connects the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Haifa. Haifa connects by sea to Piraeus Port, Greece, linking to Europe.