Here are the **detailed current affairs for 20th January 2025** with explanations, examples, and important pointers for UPSC, covering national, international, economic, science and technology, environment, sports, and other key sectors. --- ### 1. **National News:** - **Government Launches New Health Insurance Scheme** - **Context**: The central government has introduced a new health insurance scheme under the **Ayushman Bharat 2.0** initiative, focusing on providing coverage to low-income families. - **Explanation**: This scheme aims to cover medical expenses for economically weaker sections, providing insurance for treatments up to ₹10 lakhs. It includes specialized coverage for critical illnesses like cancer, kidney failure, and heart disease. - **Example**: Ayushman Bharat has been a successful model for ensuring health coverage for underprivileged sections, especially in rural India, with over 50 crore beneficiaries. - **Pointer**: Relevant for **GS-II (Governance, Health Sector)**, this scheme highlights government efforts to improve healthcare accessibility. --- ### 2. **International News:** - **India-Japan Strengthen Maritime Cooperation** - **Context**: India and Japan have signed a **maritime security cooperation agreement** to enhance naval collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. - **Explanation**: This agreement focuses on joint naval exercises, exchange of information on maritime security, and coordinated efforts in anti-piracy missions. The growing military ties between India and Japan aim to counter the influence of China in the region. - **Example**: The **Malabar Naval Exercise**, involving India, Japan, and other Quad nations, is a significant example of ongoing military cooperation. - **Pointer**: This is important for **GS-II (International Relations)**, especially in the context of India’s Indo-Pacific strategy and its strategic partnerships. --- ### 3. **Economic News:** - **India’s GDP Growth Projected at 6.8% for 2024-2025** - **Context**: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected India’s GDP growth for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to be **6.8%**, driven by robust consumption and investments. - **Explanation**: Despite global economic uncertainties, India’s economic recovery remains strong due to increased domestic demand, higher public investments, and a rebound in the services sector. - **Example**: The government's capital expenditure on infrastructure, along with key reforms in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, has contributed to economic resilience. - **Pointer**: **GS-III (Economic Development)** and topics related to India’s economic performance, fiscal policies, and growth projections are vital for UPSC. --- ### 4. **Science and Technology News:** - **ISRO Successfully Tests Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)** - **Context**: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the flight test of its **Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)**, which aims to reduce the cost of space missions. - **Explanation**: RLV is a significant advancement in space technology that can be used multiple times for launching satellites, reducing overall mission costs. This technology also marks a step towards India's long-term space exploration goals. - **Example**: Similar to NASA's Space Shuttle, ISRO’s RLV will help in cost-effective satellite launches, with the potential to revolutionize India’s space industry. - **Pointer**: This is important for **GS-III (Science and Technology)**, focusing on space research, innovation, and ISRO’s achievements. --- ### 5. **Environmental News:** - **National Clean Energy Mission: New Target for Renewable Energy** - **Context**: The government has revised its **renewable energy target to 600 GW by 2030** under the **National Clean Energy Mission**. - **Explanation**: The plan includes boosting solar, wind, and hydropower capacity to meet climate commitments and reduce carbon emissions. This target aligns with India's **Net Zero Emissions** goal by 2070 and aims to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. - **Example**: India’s solar power capacity has grown significantly under initiatives like the **International Solar Alliance** (ISA), which has contributed to global solar energy expansion. - **Pointer**: Important for **GS-III (Environment)**, focusing on climate change, energy transitions, and sustainable development. --- ### 6. **Sports News:** - **India Wins the 2025 Hockey Asia Cup** - **Context**: The Indian men’s hockey team won the **2025 Asia Cup**, defeating South Korea in the final. - **Explanation**: This victory marks a significant achievement for Indian hockey, reinforcing India’s dominance in the sport in Asia. The tournament saw exceptional performances by captain Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh. - **Example**: India’s resurgence in hockey has been evident since its bronze medal win at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, followed by consistent performances in major tournaments. - **Pointer**: Relevant for **UPSC** topics on **sports and awards**, and India’s progress in international sports. --- ### 7. **Important Days:** - **Preparations for National Voters' Day (25th January)** - **Context**: Preparations are underway for the upcoming **National Voters' Day** on 25th January, an annual event promoting voter awareness and participation in the democratic process. - **Explanation**: The Election Commission of India observes this day to encourage young and first-time voters to participate in elections. The theme for this year is **"Empowering Every Voter"**, with campaigns focused on increasing voter registration. - **Example**: Initiatives like **e-Voter ID**, launched to provide digital identity to voters, have modernized the electoral process, ensuring transparency and ease of access. - **Pointer**: This is important under **GS-II (Polity and Governance)**, especially under topics like electoral reforms, voting rights, and the role of the Election Commission. --- ### 8. **Miscellaneous News:** - **India’s New Digital Infrastructure Bill Passed** - **Context**: The Parliament has passed the **Digital Infrastructure Bill, 2025**, which aims to regulate the management, ownership, and access of digital infrastructure in the country. - **Explanation**: This bill focuses on establishing a regulatory framework for digital assets, data centers, and cloud computing. It promotes public-private partnerships to enhance India’s digital ecosystem. - **Example**: Similar initiatives have been taken by countries like the US and UK to safeguard their critical digital infrastructure, especially in the wake of rising cyber threats. - **Pointer**: This topic is crucial for **GS-III (Economic Development and Technology)**, addressing cyber security, data protection, and the role of digital infrastructure in economic growth. --- These current affairs provide comprehensive coverage of various sectors, with each topic analyzed in detail for its relevance to UPSC exams. Understanding their broader implications and examples helps in forming well-rounded answers for mains and preparing for objective-type questions in prelims.