Inaugural Lokpal Day Set for January 16
The Lokpal of India has declared January 16 as “Lokpal Day,” with the inaugural celebration slated for January 16, 2025. This decision was reached during a meeting on March 14, 2024. Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna will be the chief guest at the event, which will be held at Zorawar Auditorium, Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. The occasion aims to highlight the role and significance of the ombudsman and will include recognitions for notable contributions in the field of Indian law.
New Leadership at IAF: Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra Takes Charge
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra officially assumed command of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Western Air Command, following the retirement of Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha after an exemplary 39-year career. With over three decades in service and more than 3,000 flying hours under his belt, Air Marshal Mishra brings extensive experience to this critical role. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy in Pune and has received advanced training from notable institutions such as the Air Force Test Pilots School in Bangalore, the Air Command and Staff College in the USA, and the Royal College of Defence Studies in the UK. His leadership is expected to strengthen the IAF’s operations along India’s western borders.
New Cabinet Schemes to Boost Farmers’ Livelihoods
The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sanctioned seven transformative schemes to uplift farmers’ lives and increase their incomes. With a financial outlay of ₹14,235.30 crore, the initiatives cover areas such as digital agriculture, crop science, agricultural education, sustainable livestock health, horticulture development, strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and natural resource management. These schemes aim to enhance productivity, ensure food security, and build climate resilience, positively impacting farmers nationwide.
New Edition of India-Nepal Joint Military Exercise “Surya Kiran”
The 18th edition of the India-Nepal joint military exercise, “Surya Kiran,” started on December 29, 2024, at Saljhandi, Nepal, and will continue until January 13, 2025. This exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and cooperation between the Indian and Nepalese armies. Key areas of training include jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter. With around 700 defense personnel participating from both nations, the exercise reflects the deep-rooted friendship and trust between India and Nepal. The Indian Army contingent is led by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles.
Honoring Sports Excellence: 2024 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees
The Indian government revealed the recipients of the prestigious 2024 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to sports.
The honorees include:
- Manu Bhaker (Shooting): Created history at the Paris Olympics, becoming the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic Games.
- D Gukesh (Chess): Youngest-ever World Chess Champion at 18, defeating Ding Liren in Singapore.
- Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey): Led the Indian men’s hockey team to a second consecutive bronze medal at the Olympics.
- Praveen Kumar (Para-Athletics): Won gold in the T64 high jump at the Paris Paralympics.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Honoring 207 Years of Bravery: Koregaon Bhima Shaurya Din 2025
The 207th Shaurya Din, or Valour Day, is being celebrated at Koregaon Bhima. This annual event commemorates the British victory over the Peshwa forces in 1818, symbolizing bravery and resilience. The historic battle, fought on January 1, 1818, holds great significance for many. This year’s celebration has drawn an estimated crowd of 8 to 10 lakh attendees who have come to honor the courage displayed by the soldiers. The event features various cultural programs, speeches, and tributes, highlighting the importance of this day in India’s history and the enduring spirit of valour it represents.