17th January, 2025 Current Affairs
Sakshi Education

NATIONAL
World’s First Mahamrityunjaya Yantra Installed in Prayagraj
- The world’s first Mahamrityunjaya Yantra, measuring 52 feet in length, width, and height, has been installed at Tapovan Ashram in Jhunsi Havelis, Prayagraj—known as the sacred land of Maha Kumbh. This monumental Yantra is a spiritual marvel, believed to connect devotees to the higher consciousness of Lord Shiva.
- The Mahamrityunjaya Yantra, often referred to as the “Victory over Death” Yantra, is a spiritual tool that:
- Helps individuals overcome the fear of death, disease, and danger.
- Enhances courage and positivity in devotees.
- Acts as a divine connector to Lord Shiva’s higher energy.
Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran Joins the Supreme Court
- Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran was sworn in as the newest judge of the Supreme Court of India on January 16, 2025. Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna administered the oath of office. With this appointment, the Supreme Court’s judicial strength has risen to 33, just one short of its full sanctioned capacity.
- The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice Khanna, recommended Justice Chandran’s elevation on January 7, 2025.
- The recommendation noted the absence of any judge from Kerala High Court in the Supreme Court at the time.
- Justice Chandran, the senior-most judge from Kerala High Court, ranked 13th in all-India seniority among High Court judges.
Kappad and Chal Beaches Receive Prestigious Blue Flag Certification
- Kerala’s renowned Kappad beach in Kozhikode and Chal beach in Kannur have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
- This certification recognizes beaches that meet high standards in environmental protection, safety, and sustainability.
- The Blue Flag status enhances Kerala’s appeal as a sustainable tourism destination and serves as a global benchmark for eco-friendly tourism practices. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to preserve its natural beauty while promoting responsible tourism.
- The Blue Flag certification enhances the beaches’ international appeal, drawing attention to Kerala’s sustainable practices and commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
![]() ![]() |
![]() ![]() |
INTERNATIONAL
India-Spain Declare 2026 as ‘Dual Year’ for Culture, Tourism, and AI
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that India and Spain will commemorate 2026 as a ‘dual year’ focusing on culture, tourism, and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote mutual understanding between the two nations.
- India and Spain currently share an annual trade volume of USD 10 billion, encompassing sectors such as railways, clean technology, drones, and space exploration. Minister Jaishankar expressed optimism about the future growth of this trade, emphasizing that the ‘dual year’ initiative will further enhance economic ties.
- Both nations are committed to meticulous planning throughout 2025 to ensure the success of the ‘dual year’ celebrations in 2026. This includes setting up joint committees, securing funding, and coordinating with cultural and tourism departments to organize events and initiatives.
ECONOMY
India Set to Surpass Japan as World’s Fourth-Largest Economy by 2026
- India is projected to overtake Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2026, according to the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI). This optimistic outlook is underpinned by robust GDP growth forecasts and strategic policy recommendations aimed at enhancing economic resilience and fostering sustainable development.
- PHDCCI anticipates India’s GDP to grow by 6.8% in the current fiscal year (FY2024-25) and accelerate to 7.7% in FY2025-26. This growth trajectory is expected to elevate India’s economic standing globally, enabling it to surpass Japan by 2026.
- With Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation expected to decline to between 2.5% and 4% in the coming quarters, PHDCCI anticipates that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may reduce the benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points in its forthcoming policy review. This monetary easing is projected to support economic growth by lowering borrowing costs.
Published date : 17 Jan 2025 05:43PM