Shubhanshu Shukla: India’s First Astronaut on Axiom-4 Mission to ISS
India’s space exploration is set for a historic milestone as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to become the first Indian astronaut to pilot the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Scheduled for spring 2025, this mission will be launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. In collaboration with NASA, ISRO, and Axiom Space, the mission will feature former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson as the commander. Shukla plans to perform yoga in space and introduce traditional Indian cuisine to his fellow astronauts, marking a proud moment for India’s space endeavors.
Economic Survey 2025: Key Highlights and Insights
The Economic Survey of India 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, offers a detailed analysis of the nation’s economic performance and future prospects. Highlights include a projected GDP growth of 6.3%-6.8% for FY26, robust macroeconomic foundations, and a strategic focus on sustaining growth through deregulation and leveraging India’s demographic dividend. The survey also underscores the significance of capital expenditure and showcases the resilience of the Indian economy amid global uncertainties.
BIMTECH Launches India’s First Campus Blockchain Currency: BIMCOIN
The Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) has introduced BIMCOIN, a groundbreaking blockchain-based digital currency for its campus. This innovative currency ensures secure, transparent, and instant transactions among students, vendors, and administrators. Inspired by India’s Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) model, BIMCOIN promotes decentralization and transparency while offering programmable features such as smart contracts. Beyond being a payment solution, BIMCOIN serves as an educational tool, providing students with hands-on experience in blockchain technology and digital currencies.
Tragic Stampede at Prayagraj MahaKumbh Mela
During the Mauni Amavasya celebrations on January 29, 2025, at the Prayagraj MahaKumbh Mela, a tragic stampede occurred, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. The day, considered highly auspicious, attracted an estimated 10 million devotees. Despite crowd-management measures by the Uttar Pradesh administration, the massive influx of pilgrims overwhelmed the arrangements, leading to chaos and confusion. The incident highlights the challenges of managing such large-scale religious gatherings and underscores the need for enhanced safety measures.
US Funding Freeze Jeopardizes Global HIV Treatment
The United States’ recent funding freeze has sparked global concern about the future of HIV treatment and care. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that this halt could lead to increased illness and death among those living with HIV. The funding pause puts the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) at risk, a critical program in the fight against the HIV epidemic. WHO is urging for exemptions to ensure the continuation of life-saving HIV treatment and care, emphasizing the importance of sustained international support.
MoMSME Launches TEAM Initiative to Enhance MSMEs’ Digital Footprint
The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) has introduced the MSME Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) Initiative to enhance the digital presence of MSMEs across India. In partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), the initiative aims to onboard 5 lakh MSMEs, with 50% of them being women-led businesses. This program provides access to digital storefronts, integrated payment systems, and logistics support to reduce operational barriers and expand market reach. Over 150 workshops in Tier 2 and 3 cities will guide MSMEs in leveraging the ONDC network effectively.