International news
Switzerland bans face covering, increases pension in new year
Switzerland is implementing a series of important changes from January 1, 2025, which will affect a variety of sectors, including legal, economic and social frameworks. These include a ban on face coverings, reform of inheritance laws, pension increases and measures to strengthen bank solvency and liquidity. These changes reflect increasing convergence with European norms and a response to past financial crises. Here’s a detailed overview of these changes.
Tourist tax implemented in Russia from January 1
effective January 1, 2025, Russia introduces a new tourist tax, In place of earlier resort fees. The initiative, implemented through amendments to the Russian Tax Code, aims to strengthen the regional tourism infrastructure. The phased plan will initially charge travelers 1% of the cost of their accommodation, with the rate increasing to 3% by 2027. The tax applies to hotels and other accommodations, with the costs indirectly passed on to tourists. Regional authorities have the right to impose it as a local levy, making it an important step in enhancing Russia’s tourism landscape.
defense news
Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra takes command of Western Air Command of Indian Air Force
On 1 January 2025, Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra took command of Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force (IAF), He succeeded Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha, who later retired. over 39 years Of special service.
India-Nepal “Surya Kiran” military exercise begins
18th edition of India-Nepal Joint Force Exercise “Sun Ray” but has started Saljhandi, Nepal, From December 29, 2024 to January 13, 2025. This annual exercise aims to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous areas and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the UN Charter.
economy news
India’s coffee exports reach record high in FY 2024
India’s coffee exports Have reached a remarkable milestone, Achieving a record $1.14 billion between April and November of FY24, An increase of 29% was recorded compared to the same period last year. Growth has been fueled by rising global demand for robusta coffee and supply chain challenges in major coffee producing countries such as China. Brazil and Vietnam. India’s high-quality coffee, mainly from Karnataka, has made its way into premium global markets, further fueling this boom.
India achieved 36% reduction in GDP emissions intensity from 2005 to 2020
India has made significant progress in decoupling economic growth from greenhouse gas emissions 36% decline in GDP emission intensity between 2005 and 2020. This progress is in line with the country’s climate action targets under the Paris Agreement.
GST growth slowed to 7.3% in December
India’s GST collection growth slows down 7.3% per annum In December 2024, with total revenue stands at ₹1.77 lakh crore, Compared to ₹1.65 lakh crore. In December 2023. This marks the slowest growth in three months and reflects a slight decline in consumer spending after the holiday season. With the December quarter average, GST revenue has remained above ₹1.7 lakh crore for ten consecutive months ₹1.82 lakh crore—up 8.3% YoY.
schemes news
Cabinet approves seven major schemes to enhance lives and livelihood of farmers
The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, allowed seven important schemes The aim is to improve the lives of farmers and increase their income with a total financial outlay of Rs. ₹13,966 crore.
appointment news
Manish Singhal appointed Secretary General of ASSOCHAM
Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)One of the oldest top trade chambers of India (established in 1920)has appointed Manish Singhal appointed as its new general secretary. Singhal, an industry veteran with over 35 years of experience, succeeds Deepak Sood, who served for five years and transformed the operations of the Chamber, leaving a strong financial foundation. Singhal’s career spans leadership roles in organizations such as Tata Motors, Eicher (Volvo) and FICCI, where he was Deputy Secretary General.
Bhuvnesh Kumar appointed CEO of UIDAI
IAS officer Bhuvnesh KumarThe 1995 batch officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, took charge as the CEO of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on January 1, 2025. UIDAI, which manages Aadhaar, plays a key role in India’s digital identity infrastructure. Kumar, who also serves as additional secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), will succeed Amit Agarwal, a 1993 batch IAS officer. UIDAI under the leadership of Kumar It aims to maintain its significant contribution to India’s governance and service delivery.
sports news
Magnus Carlsen, Nepomniachtchi Share Blitz Title: Brawl begins
The decision to share by Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi World Blitz Championship title at the FIDE Rapid and Blitz Championship in New York Has caused quite a stir in the chess world. The controversy escalated after a video surfaced in which Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi were seen strategizing on how to pressure FIDE to allow them to win titles together. Several prominent chess figures have expressed their criticisms with allegations of possible match-fixing and manipulation of tournament rules. This article breaks down the sequence of events and reactions from top grandmasters and analysts.
awards news
Announcement of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award winners
The Government of India has announced the recipients of the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for 2024, recognizing exceptional contributions to sports. Manu Bhakar (Shooting), Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey), Praveen Kumar (Para Athletics), D Gukesh (Chess).
important day news
Global Family Day: A celebration of unity, love and peace
Global Day of Families, celebrated every year on 1 January, Sets the tone for the New Year with a focus on promoting peace, unity, and appreciation for the families that bring joy and stability to our lives. The day is meant to emphasize the importance of world peace, connections between communities and strengthening families. The day aims to encourage global peace and understanding, calling for an action-driven approach to addressing conflicts and promoting harmony.
