Current Affairs: Stay updated with the latest developments in India’s defense, space, and international relations with our January 2nd Week Current Affairs roundup. This week, we cover major news including the appointment of Dr. V. Narayanan as ISRO’s new chairman, the upcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar, and the launch of the Bharatpol portal aimed at enhancing law enforcement capabilities.
Additionally, Sweden’s military contribution to NATO and advancements in military clothing technology by DRDO are highlighted. Read on for key insights into these important updates shaping India and the world.
JANUARY 2ND WEEK CURRENT AFFAIRS NDA
Context: Renowned Indian rocket propulsion expert and aerospace engineer Dr. V. Narayanan has been appointed the next chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Narayanan holds experience in cryogenic propulsion systems and is mostly recognised for his noteworthy contributions to Indian space missions. He will be succeeding the current ISRO Chairman S. Somanath. This change in leadership comes at an important time as ISRO continues to ramp up its efforts in satellite technology development, advanced space exploration missions, and global collaborations. In January 2018, he was appointed Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC). He helped create the Solid Propulsion Systems for the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) and the Rohini Sounding Rockets early in his ISRO career. Additionally, Dr. Narayanan was the Project Director for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III) C25 Cryogenic Project. He oversaw the group that created the C25 Cryogenic Stage, which uses liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen to power a 20-ton thrust engine. The GSLV Mk III vehicle was successfully launched on this stage for the first time.
The 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025. Key Highlights this event aims to strengthen ties between India and its diaspora. Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the convention, with President Christine Carla Kangaloo of Trinidad and Tobago as the chief guest addressing the gathering virtually. The event celebrates the contributions of overseas Indians to India’s progress. This year’s theme is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” The convention will see participation from over 50 countries, including prominent businessmen, entrepreneurs, and economists. The event aims to encourage dialogue between the Government of India and its diaspora. Discussions will focus on visa regulations, investment opportunities, and community welfare.
The Bharatpol portal, launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, marks advancement in India’s law enforcement capabilities. Key Highlights this innovative platform, developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), facilitates real-time information sharing among state police and central agencies. The initiative aims to enhance international police cooperation through Interpol, particularly in addressing transnational crimes such as cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. The Bharatpol portal is designed to streamline requests for international assistance in criminal investigations. It allows police forces across states and Union Territories to send requests for information on fugitives and other criminal matters.
Sweden has announced military contribution to NATO in response to escalating tensions in the Baltic Sea. This marks Sweden’s first deployment of armed forces as a NATO ally since joining the alliance in March 2024.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made advancements in military clothing technology. The HIMKAVACH multi-layer clothing system has successfully passed user trials, demonstrating its effectiveness in extreme cold weather conditions.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has achieved milestone by successfully commissioning two units of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-II) in Bhutan. This project, which involves a total capacity of 6×170 MW, was executed.
FAQ – January 2nd Week Current Affairs
- Who is Dr. V. Narayanan, and what is his role in ISRO?
Dr. V. Narayanan is a renowned rocket propulsion expert and aerospace engineer. He has been appointed the new Chairman of ISRO, succeeding S. Somanath. Narayanan is known for his work in cryogenic propulsion systems and his significant contributions to Indian space missions, including the development of the GSLV Mk III C25 Cryogenic Project. - What is the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) and when is it being held?
The 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas will be held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025. The event focuses on strengthening ties between India and its diaspora, celebrating the contributions of overseas Indians to India’s progress. This year’s theme is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” - What is the Bharatpol portal, and how does it help law enforcement?
The Bharatpol portal, launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is an innovative platform developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). It facilitates real-time information sharing among state police and central agencies, aiming to enhance international police cooperation and streamline criminal investigations, especially concerning transnational crimes like cybercrime, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. - Why is Sweden contributing military forces to NATO?
In response to escalating tensions in the Baltic Sea, Sweden has announced its first military contribution to NATO since joining the alliance in March 2024. This move highlights Sweden’s commitment to NATO and its role in regional security. - What is the HIMKAVACH clothing system developed by DRDO?
The HIMKAVACH multi-layer clothing system is a military clothing technology developed by DRDO. It has successfully passed user trials, demonstrating its effectiveness in extreme cold weather conditions. This innovation aims to enhance the comfort and safety of soldiers operating in harsh climates. - What is the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, and what role did BHEL play?
The Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project (PHEP-II) is a hydroelectric power project in Bhutan, and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has successfully commissioned two units of the project. The total capacity of the project is 6×170 MW, marking a significant milestone for BHEL in the renewable energy sector.
