“IMPORTANT DAY”

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Every individual deserves a life free from fear, filled with joy, and marked by a commitment to health and well-being. Unfortunately, human trafficking disrupts this ideal, forcing people into lives of punishment, terror, and crime. National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, observed annually on January 11, serves as a poignant reminder of the need to address this global crisis and bring an end to the suffering endured by victims. The annual observance serves as a rallying point for individuals, communities, and organizations to come together, share information, and take collective action against human trafficking.

 “APPOINTMENT”

Senthil Pandian C Appointed As India’s WTO Ambassador

The Indian government has named IAS officer Senthil Pandian C as the ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in Geneva. This appointment follows the conclusion of Brajendra Navnit’s term as India’s ambassador to the WTO on March 31, 2024. The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), entrusting Pandian, a 2002 IAS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, with the responsibility for a three-year term from the date of assuming office.

Tshering Tobgay Re-Elected As Bhutan’s Prime Minister

In a significant political development, Bhutanese voters have overwhelmingly chosen Tshering Tobgay as their Prime Minister for a second term. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), led by Mr. Tobgay, secured a landslide victory, winning nearly two-thirds of the seats in the recent election, as announced by the election commission on January 10.

Seema Kumar takes charge as Member of Railway Board

Seema Kumar has taken over the charge of the post of Member (Operations & Business Development), Railway Board. Prior to this, Ms Seema Kumar was Additional Member (Tourism & Catering), Railway Board. She also held the additional charge of Additional Member (Traffic), Additional Member (Marketing & Business Development) and also of Chairman & Managing Director of IRCTC at various intervals. Seema Kumar joined Indian Railways Traffic Service (IRTS) in 1988. She is a Gold Medalist in M.Sc. (Physics) from Meerut University and an M. Tech. from IIT Delhi.

“AWARDS”

Divyakriti Singh Becomes 1st Indian Woman Arjuna Awardee for Equestrian Sports

In a historic moment for Indian sports, the accomplished equestrian athlete, Divyakriti Singh, has been conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award, making her the first woman from Rajasthan to achieve this honour. The award was presented in a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

 “NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Indian Navy gets first India-made long endurance Drishti 10 Starliner drone

The Indian Navy has recently acquired its first indigenous medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone, the Drishti 10 Starliner unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This marks a significant development in enhancing the navy’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. Manufactured by Adani Defence and Aerospace in collaboration with Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems, the drone offers versatility and advanced features.

 Wings India To Be Held At Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport From Jan 18

Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport is set to host the aviation extravaganza, Wings India 2024, from January 18 to 21, marking the country’s most significant civil aviation event. Jointly organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Indian Industry (FICCI), this four-day biennial spectacle promises to be a showcase of cutting-edge aviation technology and machinery.

South Korea Bans Trade Of Dog Meat In New Law

South Korea’s parliament made history by passing a groundbreaking bill that bans the eating and selling of dog meat. This move marks the end of a centuries-old practice that has been increasingly criticized in the face of growing support for animal welfare.

Alexander Zverev-Led Germany Defeats Swiatek’s Poland In United Cup

Germany beat top seeds Poland to clinch the United Cup on Sunday after Alexander Zverev and Laura Siegemund won the deciding mixed doubles tie over Hubert Hurkacz and Iga Swiatek. The United Cup final delivered a spectacle of tennis prowess, determination, and sportsmanship, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the last point was played.