Here are the **21st January 2025** current affairs in detail with explanations, examples, and pointers for UPSC: ### 1. **National Affairs:** - **India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Based Train Flagged Off** - **Context**: India launched its first hydrogen fuel cell-based train on the Mumbai-Delhi route, making it the first of its kind in South Asia. - **Explanation**: Hydrogen fuel cell technology uses hydrogen to produce electricity, with water as the only by-product. This initiative aligns with India’s National Hydrogen Mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070. - **Example**: Similar technology is being used by countries like Germany and Japan in their trains, marking a global shift towards cleaner energy. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Relates to **GS-III (Science and Technology and Environmental Conservation)**. - Important for topics on **renewable energy and sustainability**. --- ### 2. **International Affairs:** - **India and Egypt Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement** - **Context**: India and Egypt signed a landmark strategic partnership agreement to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on defense, cybersecurity, and trade. - **Explanation**: This partnership marks a step forward in enhancing India’s role in Africa and the Middle East, with Egypt being a crucial player in the region. Both countries aim to collaborate on counter-terrorism measures and defense cooperation. - **Example**: Egypt’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa and Europe gives India access to crucial trade routes, particularly the Suez Canal. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Relevant to **GS-II (International Relations)**. - Focus on **India’s foreign policy and geopolitics** in the Middle East and Africa. --- ### 3. **Economy & Banking:** - **RBI Revises Repo Rate to 6.75%** - **Context**: The Reserve Bank of India increased the repo rate by 25 basis points to control inflation while ensuring sufficient liquidity in the market. - **Explanation**: Repo rate is the rate at which the RBI lends to commercial banks. The rise in the rate is aimed at curbing inflation, which has been on the higher side due to rising food and fuel prices. - **Example**: Higher repo rates lead to costlier loans for consumers, reducing demand and thereby controlling inflation. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Connect with **GS-III (Indian Economy)**. - Important for questions related to **monetary policy and inflation control**. --- ### 4. **Science & Technology:** - **India Successfully Tests Indigenous Quantum Encryption System** - **Context**: DRDO successfully tested an indigenous quantum encryption system, boosting India’s cybersecurity capabilities. - **Explanation**: Quantum encryption uses the principles of quantum mechanics to secure data and prevent hacking attempts. This technology is crucial for national security, especially in the defense and financial sectors. - **Example**: Countries like China and the USA are already developing quantum technologies for secure communications, placing India on the global technology map. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Relevant to **GS-III (Science and Technology)**. - Quantum encryption can be asked under **national security, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies**. --- ### 5. **Environment & Ecology:** - **India Launches National Reforestation Mission** - **Context**: The government launched the National Reforestation Mission with the goal of planting 500 million trees by 2030 to combat deforestation and improve biodiversity. - **Explanation**: This mission is part of India’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing forest cover. The focus is on degraded landscapes and areas affected by urbanization. - **Example**: Similar large-scale reforestation programs have been implemented in countries like Brazil and China, with significant improvements in environmental conditions. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Connect with **GS-III (Environment and Climate Change)**. - Important for topics on **afforestation, biodiversity, and sustainable development**. --- ### 6. **Important Days:** - **International Day of Education** - **Context**: January 21 is celebrated as the International Day of Education, emphasizing the role of education in peace and development. - **Explanation**: This year’s theme focuses on digital education and ensuring access to education for all, especially in conflict zones and underserved regions. - **Example**: UNESCO reports that 258 million children are still out of school worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for global efforts in educational access. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Relevant for **GS-I (Society and Social Justice)**. - Important for essay topics on **education, inclusivity, and digital learning**. --- ### 7. **Sports:** - **India Wins ICC U19 World Cup 2025** - **Context**: India’s Under-19 cricket team clinched the 2025 ICC U19 World Cup, defeating England in the final match. - **Explanation**: This victory further cements India’s position as a powerhouse in cricket at all levels. The tournament also showcased emerging talents who are likely to be future stars in international cricket. - **Example**: Previous U19 tournaments have produced prominent players like Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal, indicating the importance of this platform. - **Pointers for UPSC**: - Can be linked to **GS-I (Sports and Youth Development)**. - Important for promoting **sports diplomacy** and **India’s global sporting image**. --- **Pointers for Revision:** - **National Affairs**: Hydrogen fuel cell-based train and the National Hydrogen Mission. - **International Relations**: Strategic partnership agreement between India and Egypt. - **Economy**: RBI repo rate revision and its impact on inflation. - **Science & Tech**: Quantum encryption and cybersecurity. - **Environment**: National Reforestation Mission and Paris Agreement goals. - **Sports**: India’s U19 cricket victory in the World Cup. These events cover key areas for **UPSC prelims** and **mains** under topics such as governance, economy, international relations, science and technology, and environmental conservation.