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Personalized PDF material just for Nayra!!!
Revision Current Affairs PDF for Dec. 28,
2024
Topics Covered:
• National News
• Schemes
• Banking and Economy
• Reports and Indices
• Agriculture News
• Appointments and Resignation
• Science and Technology
• Awards and Recognition
• Persons in News
• Defence News
• Organizations and MoU
• Sports News
• Important Days
• Miscellaneous
Curated for: Nayra Kadian
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Revision Current Affairs News for Dec. 28,
2024
National News
1. Theme of the 21st Annual Health Summit
The 21st Annual Health Summit, hosted by CII in New Delhi, focused on
Transforming Healthcare for Viksit Bharat 2047. The summit featured an exhibition
on medical innovations and included important policy announcements like the National
Medical Device Policy. The government allocated substantial funds of Rs 400 crore and
Rs 500 crore to boost MedTech and export initiatives. The sector, valued at USD 14
billion, is projected to grow to USD 30 billion by 2030, positioning India as a key player
in the global medical device market.
2. Introduction of the Pan-India Sanraksha Mobile Application
In November 2024, Indian Railways introduced the Pan-India Sanraksha mobile
application to enhance passenger safety through improved training for frontline
safety personnel. The app utilizes data analytics and AI for smart learning and real-
time feedback. Launched by Ravinder Goyal and designed by Dilip Singh, it initially
succeeded in the Nagpur division and will be rolled out over 16 divisions. It offers
instant assessments and reinforces the Railways' commitment to building a safety-
conscious workforce.
Schemes
1. Rooftop Solar Installations in India
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) released data showing that
Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh lead in rooftop solar installations under the
PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY). As of December 2024, over 6.79
lakh installations have been completed, aiming for 1 crore households by March 2027
with Rs 75,021 crore allocated. The scheme expects to save the government Rs 75,000
crore annually and reduce CO2 emissions by 720 million tonnes.
2. Overview of the PM-KUSUM Scheme
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)
Scheme was initiated by the Government of India in March 2019 to bolster farmers'
income and reduce diesel use in agriculture. In December 2024, Rs. 4388 crore was
sanctioned for the scheme. The goals include adding 34,800 MW of solar power by
March 2026 and ensuring energy security while supporting diverse participants such as
farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The scheme consists of three
components focusing on renewable energy power plants, standalone solar pumps, and
grid-connected pump solarization.
3. Overview of the Banglar Bari Scheme in West Bengal
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In December 2024, Mamata Banerjee, CM of West Bengal, launched the Banglar
Bari scheme to provide housing for the rural poor. With a budget of Rs. 14,773 crore,
families will receive Rs. 1.20 lakh for house construction, increasing to Rs. 1.30 lakh in
certain areas. The money will be provided in two phases, with over 28 lakh beneficiaries
identified. An additional 16 lakh are expected to receive allowances before the 2026
Assembly elections. Banerjee also announced the Gangasagar Sethu bridge project at
a cost of Rs. 1,500 crore.
Banking and Economy
1. Introduction of Specialised Investment Fund (SIF) by SEBI
In December 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced
the Specialised Investment Fund (SIF), aimed at bridging the gap between Portfolio
Management Services (PMS) and Mutual Funds (MFs). This new asset class allows a
minimum investment of Rs 10 lakh, exempting accredited investors from this
requirement. The SIF mandates fund managers to possess NISM certification, sets
investment limits—20% for debt from a single issuer, 10% for equity per company—and
allocates a maximum of 20% to REITs and InvITs.
2. Introducing YES Business: A New Initiative by YES BANK Limited
In December 2024, YES BANK Limited launched the YES Business initiative to enhance
services for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative includes
the IRIS Biz application, which provides over 100 features aimed at simplifying
business banking operations. Key offerings include digital onboarding, integrated
account management, and quick access to funds of up to Rs.25 lakhs. YES BANK Limited
is led by Prashant Kumar and headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
3. Overview of SBI Life Smart Platina Supreme Plan
SBI Life Insurance has launched the Smart Platina Supreme, a non-linked and non-
participating life insurance savings plan. The policy is available for ages 3 to 60 and
lasts from 8 to 15 years. Upon maturity, it offers guaranteed income benefits and
payouts can be made over 15 to 30 years. The returns are fixed and not subject to
market risks, and policyholders do not receive any profits or bonuses.
4. Rebranding of Max Life Insurance Company
In December 2024, Max Life Insurance Company rebranded to Axis Max Life
Insurance Company after obtaining necessary approvals. The new brand, represented by
a new logo and burgundy color, also involved Axis Bank increasing its share from
19.02% to 19.99% while MFSL's stake dropped from 87% to 81%. The brand campaign,
featuring Rohit Sharma, is designed to enhance trust and support strategic expansion
beyond metro areas.
Reports and Indices
1. 2024 Remittance Trends in Low and Middle-Income Countries
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According to the World Bank's data for 2024, India is the top recipient of remittances
among Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), receiving USD 129 billion. This
marks a 3.2% increase from the previous year. Overall, global remittance inflows rose
by 5.8%. Significant GDP contributions from remittances are seen in smaller economies,
while South Asia is expected to experience the most considerable increase of 11.8% in
remittances.
Agriculture News
1. Introduction of India's Kisan Kavach Bodysuit
Kisan Kavach, the first anti-pesticide bodysuit in India, was launched by Dr. Jitendra
Singh, aimed at protecting farmers from toxic pesticide exposure. It was collaboratively
developed by the Department of Biotechnology's BRIC-inStem and Sepio Health Pvt.
Ltd. in Bangalore. The complete protective ensemble, priced at Rs 4,000, includes a full-
body suit, mask, headshield, and gloves. This initiative highlights ongoing concerns about
pesticide poisoning, such as the 1958 methyl parathion incident in Kerala, and the
regulatory measures initiated through the Insecticides Act in 1968.
Appointments and Resignation
1. New Leadership Appointment at IFPMA
On January 1, 2025, Dr. Thomas Schinecker will become the new President of the
IFPMA, succeeding Dr. Albert Bourla. Prior to this role, Dr. Schinecker served as the
Vice-President of IFPMA for two years. Rob Davis, CEO of MSD, has been appointed as
the new Vice-President. Notably, in 2024, Pfizer Inc. leads in the global
pharmaceutical industry, followed by Johnson & Johnson and AbbVie.
Science and Technology
1. Support for Agnikul Cosmos in Launch Vehicle Development
The Ministry of Science & Technology supported Agnikul Cosmos Pvt. Ltd in
developing the Agnibaan, a customisable two-stage launch vehicle for payloads up
to 300 kg at 700 km altitude. The Technology Development Board (TDB) provided
financial assistance for the Modular Configurable Launch Vehicle. The company
marked a milestone with the first launch of AgnibaanSOrTeD, the world's first rocket
using a single-piece 3D-printed engine.
Awards and Recognition
1. Suryabala Receives 34th Vyas Samman
Suryabala, a renowned Hindi writer, was chosen for the 34th Vyas Samman for her
novel Kaun Des Ko Vasi: Venu Ki Diary, published in 2018. This book addresses the
Indian youth's view of America as an opportunity, highlighting challenges,
temptations, and cultural conflicts. Suryabala has a rich literary career with over 50
works and has received multiple awards, including the Bharat Bharti Award and
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Priyadarshini Award. The Vyas Samman, initiated in 1991, recognizes exceptional Hindi
literature.
2. Royal Honors for Nolan and Thomas
In December 2024, filmmaker Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas were honored by
King Charles III with knighthood and damehood for their contributions to the film
industry. They have collaborated on successful films like Oppenheimer, which won 7
Academy Awards and grossed over USD 976 million. Christopher made history by
winning his first Oscar for Best Director for Oppenheimer, and Emma became the first
British female producer to win an Oscar for Best Picture.
Persons in News
1. Tulsi Gowda: Environmental Legacy
In December 2024, Tulsi Gowda, an esteemed environmentalist from Honnali,
Karnataka, passed away at age 86. Dubbed the Encyclopedia of Forest, she was
awarded the Padma Shri Award in 2021 for her extensive contributions to
environmental conservation, including the planting of over 100,000 trees. Recognized
as Vruksha Maate (Mother of Trees), she was pivotal in enhancing numerous
conservation areas and wildlife sanctuaries. Her accolades include a doctorate from
UASD and multiple awards for her dedication to tree planting.
Defence News
1. Collaboration for Indigenous Military Applications
The DIA-GARIMA event led to the signing of 10 agreements between DRDO, IIT Delhi,
and industry partners to enhance collaboration in military applications. Key agreements
include the transfer of technology for lightweight bullet-resistant jackets,
development of indigenous ballistic materials, and production of extreme weather
clothing. The DIA-CoE, established in 2017, facilitates military research and has
supported approximately 50 projects with a funding of Rs 375 crore, focusing on soldier-
centric innovations.
2. Strategic Maritime Partnership for the Indian Navy
In December 2024, Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam partnered with
Kongsberg Maritime to supply advanced Replenishment-at-Sea (RAS) equipment
for the Indian Navy's fleet of five Fleet Support Ships (FSS). The partnership aims to
enhance operational capabilities and logistical efficiency in supporting naval missions. The
Indian Navy aims to enhance local production in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat, sourcing
over 50% of the FSS content locally. These ships will play crucial roles in military
operations and humanitarian efforts.
Organizations and MoU
1. MoU Signed to Enhance Skill Development in India
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The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and All India Council for Technical
Education (AICTE) signed a MoU to advance skill development in AICTE-approved
institutions during the 11th CII Global Summit on Skill Development 2024 in New
Delhi. The MoU focuses on industry-based training programmes to meet industry
needs. The summit's theme was Building a Resilient Skilled Talent Pool: Driving
Industry Growth. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana launched in
2015 aims to enhance employability through skill training.
Sports News
1. The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024
The Best FIFA Football Awards for 2024 took place on December 17 in Doha, Qatar.
Vinicius Junior (Brazil) won the Best Men's Player, and Aitana Bonmati (Spain) was
awarded Best Women's Player for the second consecutive year. A new award named
after Marta Vieira da Silva was introduced for women's football. Other notable winners
included Emiliano Martinez (Best Men's Goalkeeper) and Emma Hayes (Best Women's
Coach). FIFA continued its tradition of recognizing outstanding achievement in football.
2. India Wins 1st ACC Under-19 Women's T20 Asia Cup 2024
India won the 1st edition of the ACC Under-19 Women's T20 Asia Cup 2024 by
defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs. Held from December 15 to December 22, 2024, in
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the tournament featured 6 teams. Gongadi Trisha was the
standout performer, earning the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards
as she scored 159 runs during the tournament.
3. Pranav Venkatesh's Chess Achievements
Indian grandmaster Pranav Venkatesh won gold medals in both the Rapid and Blitz
formats at the FIDE World Youth U-18 Championship held in December 2024 in
Slovenia. He scored 9.5 points in the Rapid event and 19.5 points in the Blitz. Pranav
was the only Grandmaster in a tournament with 340 players from 35 countries.
Additionally, Doordarshan partnered with the Hockey India League to broadcast the
2024-25 hockey season, emphasizing gender inclusivity.
Important Days
1. National Mathematics Day (NMD) Overview
National Mathematics Day (NMD) is celebrated annually on December 22 to honor
the contributions of Srinivasa Ramanujan, marking his birth anniversary. Introduced by
Manmohan Singh in 2011, the day raises awareness about the importance of
mathematics. Ramanujan, a pivotal figure in fields like number theory and complex
analysis, published numerous influential works before his untimely death at 32. Awards
named after him, like the SASTRA and DST-ICTP-IMU Ramanujan Prize, celebrate
contributions to mathematics, reflecting Ramanujan's legacy.
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Miscellaneous
1. Centenary Celebrations of NSCBI Airport
Union Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu unveiled the centenary logo of Netaji
Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI Airport) in Kolkata, WB,
marking its 100 years of service. A special commemorative stamp and coin were
released, along with an art book reflecting India's cultural heritage through airport
architecture. The 100th anniversary is on December 21, 2024, and a UDAN Yatri
Cafe will enhance the passenger experience.
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