Here is a detailed summary of **19th January 2025** current affairs with explanations, examples, and important pointers for UPSC preparation. ### 1. **National News:** - **India’s First Solar-Powered Expressway to be Launched in Madhya Pradesh** - **Context**: India is set to launch its first **solar-powered expressway** in Madhya Pradesh, aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainable infrastructure. - **Explanation**: This expressway will generate electricity through solar panels installed along its sides, which can be used to power streetlights, toll plazas, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. - **Example**: This project is a significant step towards achieving India’s climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. It follows the example of countries like the Netherlands and China, which have integrated solar panels into their transportation networks. - **Pointer**: It reflects India’s commitment to transitioning to renewable energy, and aligns with initiatives like the **National Solar Mission**. - **Supreme Court Expands the Definition of ‘Public Servant’ in Anti-Corruption Cases** - **Context**: The Supreme Court of India has broadened the definition of 'public servant' under the **Prevention of Corruption Act**, 1988. - **Explanation**: This ruling means that even employees of government-aided private institutions can now be tried under anti-corruption laws, increasing accountability and transparency. - **Example**: Teachers in government-aided schools, previously exempt from corruption charges, can now face legal action for accepting bribes. - **Pointer**: This judgment strengthens India’s fight against corruption, a major issue in public governance. ### 2. **International News:** - **India Signs Defence Pact with France for Joint Development of Aircraft Engines** - **Context**: India and France have signed an agreement for the joint development of **aircraft engines** under the **AUKUS Pact**, which aims to boost military collaboration. - **Explanation**: This agreement will enhance India’s defense capabilities and reduce its dependence on foreign imports for military hardware. It also promotes technology transfer and skill development within India. - **Example**: Similar collaborations have been made in the past for the **Rafale fighter jets**, which significantly improved India’s aerial defense systems. - **Pointer**: The pact aligns with India’s vision of **Atmanirbhar Bharat** (self-reliant India) in defense manufacturing. ### 3. **Economy & Banking News:** - **RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 6.5%** - **Context**: The **Reserve Bank of India (RBI)** has decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.5%, citing inflation concerns. - **Explanation**: By not altering the repo rate, the RBI aims to strike a balance between controlling inflation and promoting economic growth. A higher rate could curb inflation but may slow down borrowing and spending in the economy. - **Example**: During the pandemic, the RBI reduced rates to support economic recovery, but rising inflation now demands tighter monetary policy. - **Pointer**: Understanding monetary policy decisions is crucial for UPSC, especially for **GS-III (Indian Economy)**. ### 4. **Science & Technology News:** - **ISRO to Launch India’s First Quantum Communication Satellite** - **Context**: The **Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)** has announced plans to launch India’s first **quantum communication satellite** in the second half of 2025. - **Explanation**: Quantum communication uses the principles of quantum mechanics to secure communications, making it nearly impossible for hackers to intercept data. - **Example**: China already has a quantum satellite, **Micius**, which is used for secure communication. India’s move will help secure government and defense communications from cyber threats. - **Pointer**: Quantum technology is an emerging area in science and tech. For UPSC, focus on the application of **quantum communication** in defense and cybersecurity. ### 5. **Environment News:** - **India’s First Plastic-Free Zone Declared in Kerala** - **Context**: The Kerala government has declared the district of **Alappuzha** as the first plastic-free zone in India. - **Explanation**: Alappuzha has implemented strict rules banning single-use plastics, promoting biodegradable alternatives, and encouraging community participation in waste management. - **Example**: Similar initiatives have been seen in European cities, where plastic waste reduction policies have been successful. - **Pointer**: This aligns with global efforts to combat plastic pollution, like the **United Nations Environment Programme’s** (UNEP) global campaign to reduce single-use plastics. ### 6. **Important Days:** - **National Immunization Day (January 19)** - **Context**: National Immunization Day is observed to promote vaccination campaigns and raise awareness about the importance of immunization in preventing diseases. - **Explanation**: The government uses this day to launch awareness campaigns and vaccination drives, particularly for children, to prevent diseases like polio and measles. - **Example**: India’s **Pulse Polio Programme**, launched in 1995, is an example of how mass immunization efforts have successfully eradicated polio from the country. - **Pointer**: Immunization is a key component of the **National Health Mission**, and questions related to health initiatives often appear in UPSC. ### 7. **Sports News:** - **India Clinches Asia Cup 2025 in Hockey** - **Context**: The Indian men’s hockey team has won the **2025 Asia Cup** by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling final. - **Explanation**: India’s victory in the Asia Cup adds to the country’s growing dominance in field hockey, a sport in which India has a rich legacy. - **Example**: India had also won the **2021 Asian Champions Trophy**, showcasing its consistent performance in international tournaments. - **Pointer**: Sports achievements, particularly in traditional sports like hockey, can often be asked in UPSC under **sports-related awards or events**. ### 8. **Miscellaneous News:** - **India to Host G20 Summit 2025** - **Context**: India is preparing to host the **2025 G20 Summit**, with a focus on sustainable development, global health, and economic recovery post-COVID. - **Explanation**: Hosting the G20 will give India a platform to showcase its leadership in global economic governance and foster diplomatic relations with world powers. - **Example**: India last hosted the **BRICS Summit** in 2021, which was a diplomatic success. - **Pointer**: International summits like G20 are important in the context of **international relations** and India’s foreign policy. --- These key events from 19th January 2025 cover a wide range of topics relevant for UPSC preparation, such as national and international affairs, economic policies, science and technology advancements, environmental issues, and sports. For each section, focus on understanding the broader implications and the connections to government policies and global trends, as they often appear in GS papers and essay topics in the UPSC exam.