RBI’s Unified Lending Interface (ULI) Pilot
Launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in August 2023, the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) aims to streamline the lending process. The ULI has facilitated the disbursement of ₹38,000 crore across 7.5 lakh loans, enabling frictionless credit access through standardized APIs. This platform has proven successful in transforming India’s lending landscape, making credit more accessible and efficient, especially for the agriculture and MSME sectors. The pilot highlights the potential of digital solutions in revolutionizing the financial sector.
Decline in India’s Water Storage Levels
Recent reports from the Central Water Commission (CWC) indicate a decline in water storage across major reservoirs in India. For the twelfth consecutive week, water levels have decreased, attributed to deficient post-monsoon and winter rainfall. Currently, the total storage in 155 major reservoirs stands at 66% of their capacity. This trend raises concerns about water availability for agriculture, drinking, and industrial use in the upcoming months.
Gallantry Awards 2025 Announced on Republic Day Eve
On the eve of Republic Day 2025, President Droupadi Murmu approved gallantry awards for 93 personnel from the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces, including 11 posthumous honors. The awards, recognizing acts of exceptional bravery and valor, include two Kirti Chakras, 14 Shaurya Chakras, one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), 66 Sena Medals (Gallantry), two Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry), and eight Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry). Additionally, 58 Mentioned-in-Despatches were approved.
Surge in Forest Fires Across India
India is experiencing a troubling rise in forest fires, with over 1.1 million incidents recorded over the past five fire seasons. The period from November to June is particularly prone to these blazes, which devastate ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities. States like Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra are especially hard-hit, accounting for nearly 43% of all forest fires. The widespread destruction poses significant threats to the livelihoods of millions who rely on forests for their sustenance and economic security.
INS Sarvekshak Completes Major Hydrographic Survey in Mauritius
On January 23, 2025, the Indian Navy’s INS Sarvekshak concluded a significant hydrographic survey in Mauritius, covering over 25,000 square nautical miles. High Commissioner of India to Mauritius, Anurag Srivastava, formally handed over the survey results, including new nautical charts and survey equipment, to President Dharambeer Gokhool. This achievement underscores the strong maritime partnership between India and Mauritius, enhancing regional cooperation and development.
Microplastics Affect Brain Function and Blood Flow
Recent research published in Science Advances reveals alarming effects of microplastics on brain function. Experiments on mice show that microplastics obstruct blood circulation, leading to impaired cognitive abilities. Though they don’t cross the blood-brain barrier, they block blood vessels and disrupt brain function. This study underscores the urgent need to address microplastic pollution and its potential health risks.