Daily Current Affairs: 15th & 16th January 2025

Daily Current Affairs: 15th & 16th January 2025

Read the most important Daily Current Affairs: 15th January and 16th January 2025 related to  Resignations, Ranking and Reports, International topics, Obituaries, Appointments, News, Banking, State topics, Science and Technology, Important Places and Persons, Awards and Honours, National topics, Books and Authors, Defence and other, Stay updated with the most important Daily Current Affairs: 15th January and 16th January 2025, For all competitive exams Stay updated with the most important Daily Current Affairs are integral part

Cabinet approved formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) for central government employees

The Indian Cabinet has approved the establishment of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) to review and revise the pay scales and allowances of central government employees. The CPC is tasked with addressing the evolving needs of employees while considering inflation, market trends, and economic conditions.

India-Spain Declare 2026 as Dual Year for Culture, Tourism, and AI

India and Spain have declared 2026 as the Dual Year for fostering partnerships in culture, tourism, and artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative aims to deepen cultural exchange and technological collaboration between the two nations. Joint programs, exhibitions, and AI-focused projects are expected to take place, promoting mutual understanding and innovation.

Bumrah and Sutherland named ICC Men’s Player of the Month for December 2024

Jasprit Bumrah and Annabel Sutherland have been honored as ICC Players of the Month for December 2024. Bumrah’s remarkable bowling performances and Sutherland’s all-round achievements in international cricket earned them the accolades.

India, Saudi Arabia sign Hajj agreement 2025, quota set at 1.75 lakh pilgrims

India and Saudi Arabia have signed the Hajj agreement for 2025, allotting a quota of 1.75 lakh pilgrims. This agreement ensures a smooth and efficient pilgrimage experience, highlighting the close ties between the two nations.

IDBI Bank unveils Chiranjeevi Super Senior Citizen FD, offers 8.5% interest

IDBI Bank has launched the Chiranjeevi Super Senior Citizen Fixed Deposit scheme, offering a lucrative interest rate of 8.5% for senior citizens. This initiative is designed to provide secure and attractive investment options for retirees.

10th Ajanta Verul International Film Festival started in Maharashtra

The 10th edition of the Ajanta Verul International Film Festival has commenced in Maharashtra, celebrating the art of filmmaking and storytelling. This prestigious event has brought together filmmakers, artists, and cinema enthusiasts from across the globe to showcase their creative works. The festival, named after the iconic Ajanta and Ellora caves, emphasizes cultural heritage and artistic expression.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal launched the National Turmeric Board

Union Minister Piyush Goyal officially inaugurated the National Turmeric Board to boost India’s turmeric industry, which is known for its culinary and medicinal significance. The board aims to streamline the cultivation, processing, and export of turmeric, enhancing its global competitiveness. It will facilitate research and development to improve yield, quality, and sustainability in turmeric farming. Additionally, the board plans to promote branding initiatives and support farmers with training and financial assistance.

Faiz Ahmed Kidwai appointed as Chief of DGCA

Faiz Ahmed Kidwai has been appointed as the new Chief of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). With a strong background in aviation and administration, Kidwai is set to lead the DGCA in ensuring safety, compliance, and growth in India’s aviation sector.

WBFJA Awards: Aparna Sen Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

Renowned filmmaker and actress Aparna Sen has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious West Bengal Film Journalists’ Association (WBFJA) Awards. This accolade recognizes her remarkable contributions to Indian cinema over several decades..

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sri Sri Radha Madanmohanji Temple of ISKCON in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the grand Sri Sri Radha Madanmohanji Temple of ISKCON in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. The temple, with its stunning architecture and serene ambiance, is a spiritual and cultural landmark. It is set to serve as a hub for devotion, community services, and spiritual education.

Singapore awarded Honorary Citizen Award to Tarun Das, former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

Tarun Das, the former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), has been honored with Singapore’s prestigious Honorary Citizen Award. This accolade recognizes his outstanding contributions to strengthening economic and strategic ties between India and Singapore.

Smriti Mandhana Smashes India’s Fastest Women’s ODI Century

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has etched her name in the record books by scoring the fastest century by an Indian woman in One Day Internationals (ODI). Mandhana’s blistering knock demonstrated her incredible skill and ability to dominate bowlers, thrilling fans worldwide. Playing against a strong bowling attack, she reached her century in just 62 balls, showcasing a blend of power-hitting and precision stroke play.

PV Sindhu becomes a brand ambassador for Puma India

Renowned badminton champion PV Sindhu has been named the brand ambassador for Puma India, strengthening the brand’s association with sports excellence. Sindhu’s partnership with the global sportswear giant reflects her stature as an icon in Indian sports and her influence on youth. As part of this collaboration, Sindhu will promote Puma’s range of athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories.

Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme inaugurated by Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme to enhance the ease of travel for Indian citizens. This initiative, developed in partnership with immigration and customs authorities, simplifies and expedites clearance at airports for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.

Suryoday SFB partners with Tata Digital to Launch FD Offerings on Tata Neu Platform

Suryoday Small Finance Bank (SFB) has partnered with Tata Digital to offer fixed deposit (FD) schemes on the Tata Neu platform. This innovative collaboration allows customers to invest in high-interest FD products seamlessly through the digital platform.

Angel One Names Ambarish Kenghe as Group CEO

Angel One, a leading retail stockbroking firm, has appointed Ambarish Kenghe as its Group CEO. Kenghe, known for his expertise in product development and strategic growth, will focus on driving the company’s digital transformation and expanding its market presence.

Blue Origin launched its first orbital rocket New Glenn

Blue Origin, the aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its first orbital rocket, New Glenn. Named after astronaut John Glenn, this cutting-edge rocket is designed for heavy-lift capabilities, making it a game-changer in the space industry. The maiden launch signifies Blue Origin’s readiness to compete in the commercial satellite deployment and space exploration market.

Pixxel and Digantara Launch Satellites for Earth and Space Monitoring

Indian space-tech startups Pixxel and Digantara have successfully launched satellites aimed at enhancing Earth and space monitoring. Pixxel’s satellite, equipped with advanced hyperspectral imaging technology, focuses on capturing high-resolution images for applications such as climate monitoring, agricultural management, and disaster response. On the other hand, Digantara’s satellite specializes in tracking space debris and monitoring space traffic, a crucial step toward ensuring the sustainability of space operations.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the Registration Portal for Kashi Tamil Sangamam Phase 3

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the registration portal for Phase 3 of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam. This initiative celebrates the cultural and historical ties between Tamil Nadu and Kashi (Varanasi). The registration portal simplifies the process for participants, ensuring widespread engagement from scholars, artists, and the general public. The program promotes cultural exchange through performances, discussions, and exhibitions that highlight the shared heritage of these regions.

Israel and Hamas Reach Agreement on Ceasefire and Hostage Release

After prolonged conflict, Israel and Hamas have reached a crucial agreement on a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

Also read: Daily Current Affairs: 14th January 2025

The deal marks a significant step toward de-escalation in the region, which has been plagued by violence and humanitarian crises. Mediated by international actors, the agreement includes provisions for humanitarian aid, prisoner swaps, and rebuilding efforts in Gaza.

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) partners with UAE-based fintech firm Magnati to enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in UAE

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India, has partnered with UAE-based fintech firm Magnati to facilitate Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in the UAE. This collaboration allows Indian tourists and residents in the UAE to make seamless digital payments using UPI, a step toward enhancing cross-border financial connectivity.

Odisha Government Announces 20,000 Pension for Emergency Detainees

The Odisha government has introduced a pension scheme providing ₹20,000 annually to individuals detained during the Emergency period in India (1975–77). This initiative acknowledges their sacrifices and struggles during a turbulent chapter in India’s history. Eligible beneficiaries will receive direct financial assistance as a token of gratitude for their courage in upholding democratic values.

Indian Army Conducts Exercise Devil Strike

The Indian Army has successfully conducted Exercise Devil Strike, a high-intensity military drill designed to test combat readiness and operational efficiency. Held in challenging terrains, the exercise involved integrated units, including infantry, artillery, and armored divisions.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Successfully Docked Two Satellites in Space

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved another milestone by successfully docking two satellites in space. This marks a significant advancement in India’s space capabilities, demonstrating precision engineering and cutting-edge technology. The docking mission has potential applications in satellite servicing, in-orbit assembly, and space station development.