This compilation of key current affairs today from 13 January 2024 is specifically tailored for aspirants preparing for Judiciary, Assistant Prosecution Officer (APO), and Junior Legal Officer (JLO) exams. Covering significant national and international events, it provides insights into political developments, legal initiatives, and global partnerships crucial for competitive exam preparation.
Table of Contents
1. Austrian Interim Chancellor Appointed Amid Political Uncertainty
Key Updates
- New Appointment: Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has been sworn in as the interim Chancellor following the resignation of Karl Nehammer.
- Swearing-In Ceremony: Conducted by Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen, who commended Schallenberg for taking on dual responsibilities as both Chancellor and Foreign Minister.
- Background: Schallenberg is an experienced diplomat, having served as Foreign Minister since 2019 and as Chancellor briefly in 2021 for two months.
Political Instability in Austria
- Collapse of Coalition Talks: Chancellor Nehammer resigned after failing to reach agreements with the Social Democratic Party and NEOS party.
- Government Formation Challenges: President Van der Bellen assigned Herbert Kickl, leader of the far-right Freedom Party, to form a government. Despite winning 29% of the vote in the parliamentary elections, the Freedom Party faces difficulties securing coalition partners.
Who was sworn in as Austria’s interim Chancellor? Alexander Schallenberg.
Which Austrian President conducted the swearing-in ceremony? Alexander Van der Bellen.
2. Sri Lanka Launches First Hindi Certificate Course
Highlights
- Inaugural Event: Sri Lanka launched its first certificate course in Hindi during the Bharat Sri Lankan Hindi Sammelan in Colombo.
- Key Figures: Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Dr. Madhura Senevirathne, and India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, unveiled the course curriculum.
- Participants: The Sammelan featured over 400 participants, including scholars, teachers, and students from India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
Promoting Hindi Education
- The initiative aims to popularize Hindi as a communication bridge in the region.
- High Commissioner Santosh Jha highlighted the Open University of Sri Lanka’s role in advancing Hindi education.
Which country launched its first Hindi certificate course? Sri Lanka.
3. Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed Honored with Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025
Recognitions and Contributions
- Award: Eminent physician Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed, based in Saudi Arabia, received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025 for his contributions to healthcare, community welfare, and India-Saudi relations.
- Healthcare Leadership: With over 45 years of medical experience, Dr. Khursheed has served in prestigious institutions like King Faisal Hospital and National Guard Hospital.
- COVID-19 Contributions: He played a vital role during the pandemic by advocating vaccines and providing consultations for Indian expatriates.
Philanthropic and Diplomatic Efforts
- Founder of the International Indian School in Taif, which promotes education among expatriates.
- Strengthened bilateral ties between India and Saudi Arabia through healthcare and cultural integration initiatives.
Who received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025? Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed.
4. Union Minister Inaugurates ‘5G Use Case Test Lab’ at CMPDI, Ranchi
Key Developments
- Launch by Shri G. Kishan Reddy: Union Minister for Coal and Mines inaugurated the ‘5G Use Case Test Lab’ at the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI), Ranchi.
- Purpose: The lab aims to transform the coal sector with applications like high-speed communication, predictive maintenance, and digital twin technologies.
Innovative Use Cases
- Technologies Explored: Automated guided vehicles, augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR), and IoT applications for real-time monitoring.
- Sustainability Focus: The lab replicates an Industry 5G Private Network, advancing safer and greener mining practices.
Who inaugurated the 5G Use Case Test Lab? Shri G. Kishan Reddy.
Where is the lab located? CMPDI, Ranchi.
5. AWBI and NALSAR University Collaborate for Animal Welfare Training
MoU Signing
- Parties Involved: The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) signed an MoU with NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.
- Purpose: To train Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives (HAWRs) on animal cruelty laws and investigation techniques.
Training Program Details
- Duration: At least three days with a maximum of 25 participants per batch.
- Certification: AWBI will issue certifications upon successful assessments.
Which institution partnered with AWBI for animal welfare training? NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.
6. Inauguration of ‘Kumbhvani’ Channel for Mahakumbh 2025
Details
- Launched by Yogi Adityanath: The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister inaugurated All India Radio’s ‘Kumbhvani’ Channel (FM 103.5 MHz) in Prayagraj.
- Broadcast Schedule: From January 10 to February 26, 2025, covering Mahakumbh events.
Significance
- Provides live updates and cultural programs to promote India’s traditions and assist devotees unable to attend the Mahakumbh.
Which city hosted the inauguration of the ‘Kumbhvani’ Channel? Prayagraj.
7. India to Host 28th CSPOC Conference with AI and Social Media Focus
Announcements by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
- Event Details: India will host the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in 2026.
- Theme: Integration of AI and social media to modernize parliamentary processes.
Global Challenges Addressed
- Discussions on climate change, terrorism, and cybercrime will feature prominently, alongside India’s advancements in AI and technology.
What is the focus of the 28th CSPOC conference in 2026? Artificial Intelligence and social media.
8. National River Traffic & Navigation System Unveiled
Enhancing Inland Waterways
- Launch by Sarbananda Sonowal: The National River Traffic & Navigation System (NRT&NS) aims to improve vessel movement safety and efficiency.
- Green Shipping Goals: Plans to launch 1,000 eco-friendly vessels in the next five years.
What is the purpose of the NRT&NS? To track and manage vessel traffic on inland waterways.
9. India Joins UN Committee on Big Data and Data Science
Significance of Membership
- India has joined the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN-CEBD).
- Focus: Leveraging big data for policymaking and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
What does India’s membership in the UN-CEBD signify? India’s commitment to utilizing data science for policymaking.
10. India-Mongolia Mining Partnership
Collaboration Highlights
- MoU Signing: India and Mongolia strengthened ties through a mining partnership focused on copper and coking coal.
- Economic Benefits: Mongolian coking coal is $50 cheaper per metric ton than Australian coal, making it a cost-effective choice for Indian industries.
Which resources are the focus of the India-Mongolia mining partnership? Copper and coking coal.
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