Daily & Latest Current Affairs in 2025

Correct Answer :   Dehradun

---

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is famously known as the School Capital of India. This beautiful district is home to some of the best schools in the country, offering students a calm and healthy environment for learning. Let's explore more about the "School Capital of India."

Uttarakhand is a state in northern India known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Among its many districts, Dehradun is famously known as the School Capital of India. This title reflects the district’s reputation for excellent educational institutions and a strong emphasis on learning.

An Overview of Uttarakhand :

Uttarakhand, also called the “Northern Land,” is a state in northern India. It borders Himachal Pradesh, Tibet, Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Covering 53,483 km², it has Dehradun as its capital and Nainital as the judicial capital. The state has 13 districts, 45.4% forest cover, and is home to the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.

Administrative Divisions of Uttarakhand :

Uttarakhand has 13 districts, grouped into two divisions: Garhwal and Kumaon, for better administration. Each division represents the unique culture and geography of this northern Indian state.

School Capital of India :

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is famously known as the School Capital of India. This beautiful district is home to some of the best schools in the country, offering students a calm and healthy environment for learning. Over the years, Dehradun has gained a reputation for its high-quality education and well-established boarding schools.

Why is Dehradun Known as the School Capital of India?

Here are some reasons for why Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand earned the title of the “School Capital of India”:

* Dehradun has a peaceful and healthy environment perfect for learning.
* It offers some of the best schools with top-class education systems.
* Many famous personalities studied in Dehradun’s boarding schools.
* Schools focus on overall development with sports, arts, and life skills.
* The city has a low cost of living and offers scholarships for students.
* Dehradun is safe and has well-developed facilities for comfortable living.
* Its natural beauty and pleasant climate support better learning and growth.

Correct Answer :   United States

---

The United States is famously called the “Land of Opportunities.” This nickname reflects the country’s belief in providing everyone with the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. Let’s explore why the United States earned this title.

Why is United States Known as the Land of Opportunities?

The United States is called the “Land of Opportunities” because it offers a chance for everyone to succeed, no matter their background. With a welcoming culture, belief in hard work, and world-class education, it inspires people to pursue their dreams. The idea of the “American Dream” reflects hope for a better future through determination.

A History of Opportunities :

The United States’ history is closely tied to its image as a place for fresh starts and new possibilities. From early settlers to modern-day immigrants, people have come to the country in search of freedom, wealth, and better lives.

A Welcoming Culture :

The United States is known for its welcoming ethos. It values diversity and encourages people from all over the world to contribute to its growth. This openness has helped it become a global leader in many fields.

Belief in Socioeconomic Mobility :

The phrase “Land of Opportunities” symbolizes the idea that anyone in the United States can rise from poverty to prosperity. This belief in socioeconomic mobility is a key part of the American Dream.

Correct Answer :   IIT Ropar

---

IIT Ropar’s Technology and Innovation Foundation (iHub – AWaDH) is celebrating its 4th Foundation Day by hosting a significant Farmer Engagement Session, marking a key milestone in its journey to transform agriculture through technology. Launched under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) with support from the Department of Science & Technology (DST), AWaDH is spearheading innovation in agriculture, water, and IoT, with a focus on deep-tech research, startups, and incubation.

The foundation has already made strides in developing over 70 technologies and nurturing more than 100 agri-tech and water-tech startups, contributing to sustainable agricultural and environmental solutions.

Foundation’s Vision and Achievements :

AWaDH’s mission revolves around driving cutting-edge solutions with funding support of ?110 crores from DST and ?5 crores from Startup India. The foundation has played a crucial role in skill development, training over 5000 youth in cyber-physical systems and artificial intelligence. The organization’s initiatives, like the Mooh Sense AI-powered livestock management system and Nano Bubble Technology for water treatment, are already making a tangible impact on farming practices, with deployments across Punjab.

Empowering Farmers and Building Community Connections :

The Farmer Engagement Session, involving over 50 farmers, marks a vital step in bridging the gap between academic expertise and real-world farming knowledge. It serves as an open platform for farmers to discuss challenges, share feedback, and explore AWaDH’s technology solutions, ensuring these innovations meet the specific needs of the farming community. This collaboration strengthens the link between traditional farming practices and emerging technological advancements, ensuring sustainability and empowerment for marginalized farming groups.

Key Technological Innovations and Impact

* Mooh Sense : An AI-powered cow health monitoring system providing real-time insights to farmers on their mobile phones.

* Nano Bubble Technology : Used to treat water by degrading organic matter and eliminating pathogens, now operational in multiple ponds and reservoirs across Punjab.

* Soil Health Monitoring System : Assesses soil quality to help farmers manage crops effectively.

Looking Ahead :

AWaDH continues to advance its goal of fostering innovation by setting up CPS Labs across India, enabling the development of more agri-tech and water-tech solutions. Through initiatives like these, AWaDH is poised to revolutionize agriculture in Punjab and beyond, making technology more accessible and impactful for farmers.

Correct Answer :   Karnal

---

Karnal, a district in Haryana, is often called the "Rice Bowl of Haryana" due to its large-scale rice production, especially basmati rice. This district is also recognized as the "Rice Bowl of India" because of its significant contribution to the nation's rice exports.

Haryana is an important state for agriculture in India, and it is especially known for producing a large amount of rice. Among its many districts, Karnal is famously called the “Rice Bowl of Haryana.”

An Overview of Haryana :

Haryana is a state in northern India, created on November 1, 1966, after Punjab was reorganized. It covers 44,212 km², less than 1.4% of India’s total land. The state shares its capital, Chandigarh, with Punjab. Faridabad is the most populous city, while Gurgaon is a major financial and tech hub in India.

Administrative Divisions of Haryana :

Haryana is divided into 6 administrative divisions, 22 districts, 72 sub-divisions, 93 revenue tehsils, 50 sub-tehsils, 140 community development blocks, 154 cities and towns, 7,356 villages, and 6,222 village panchayats.

Rice Bowl in Haryana :

Karnal, a district in Haryana, is often called the “Rice Bowl of Haryana” due to its large-scale rice production, especially basmati rice. This district is also recognized as the “Rice Bowl of India” because of its significant contribution to the nation’s rice exports. Karnal’s rich agricultural history and famous long-grain, aromatic basmati rice have made it a key player in India’s rice industry.

Why is Haryana Known as the Rice Bowl?

Karnal has earned the title of “Rice Bowl of Haryana” because of its vast rice fields and the high-quality rice it produces. The district is known for cultivating aromatic basmati rice, which is popular worldwide. The fertile soil and favorable climate in Karnal make it an ideal location for rice farming.

Importance of Rice Mills in Karnal :

Karnal has a large number of rice mills that process the rice grown in the district. These mills are mostly located around the city and play a key role in turning raw rice into the high-quality product that is exported. Many rice mills in Karnal specialize in basmati rice, known for its unique aroma and long grains.

Rice Exports from Karnal :

Karnal is a major exporter of basmati rice. A significant portion of the rice grown in the district is sent to Gulf countries, where it is in high demand. The quality and fragrance of Karnal’s basmati rice have made it a preferred choice for international markets.

National Institutes in Karnal :

Apart from its agricultural significance, Karnal is also known for being home to important scientific institutions. The National Institute of Animal Genetics and the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources are located in Karnal. These institutions contribute to research and development in animal genetics and resources.

Correct Answer :   United States

---

Many countries around the world are known by special names that reflect their history, culture, or unique characteristics. These names make them memorable. In this article, we will know about the country which is known as the “Uncle Sam.”

Uncle Sam Country :

The United States is known as Uncle Sam, symbolizing the country and its government. The name comes from Samuel Wilson, whose initials “U.S.” were linked to America during the War of 1812.

Why is United States Known as Uncle Sam?

The United States is known as Uncle Sam because of Samuel Wilson, a meat supplier during the War of 1812. His barrels of meat were labeled with the initials “U.S.” Soldiers started calling the food “Uncle Sam’s,” and over time, the name became a symbol of the United States, representing the country and its government.

The Namesake of Uncle Sam :

In 1961, Congress officially recognized the origin of the Uncle Sam symbol. It linked the name to a historical figure, Samuel Wilson, who supplied meat to soldiers during the War of 1812. Samuel’s initials, “U.S.,” were stamped on the barrels of meat, which soldiers began calling “Uncle Sam.”

The Birthplace of Samuel Wilson :

Samuel Wilson, the person associated with Uncle Sam, was born in Arlington, Massachusetts. There is a memorial statue near his birthplace to honor him. His parents were immigrants from Greenock, Scotland, adding an interesting cultural connection.

Correct Answer :   December 3rd

---

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is a global observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992, it is observed annually on December 3rd.

This day aims to enhance understanding of disability issues, advocate for the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, and mobilize support for their well-being.

It highlights the need to integrate persons with disabilities into every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life to achieve inclusive development.

Historical Background :

International Year of Disabled Persons (1981) :

* Declared by the UN General Assembly in 1976.
* Theme in 1976: “Full Participation and Equality”.
* Focused on equal opportunities, rehabilitation, and disability prevention.
* Promoted the right to participate fully in societal life and enjoy equal socio-economic conditions.

United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1992) :

Aimed to implement recommendations from the World Programme of Action.
Focused on equal opportunities and integrating persons with disabilities into mainstream society.

2024 Theme :

* Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.
* Emphasizes the global disability rights movement’s slogan, “Nothing About Us Without Us.”
* Advocates for participation, representation, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
* Recognizes the leadership of persons with disabilities in advancing inclusive development and universal access to basic services.
* Observance aligns with key global summits, such as the Summit of the Future and the Second World Summit for Social Development.

United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy :

Launched in June 2019 :

* Aims to raise UN standards on disability inclusion across all areas of work.
* Emphasizes that the realization of the human rights of persons with disabilities is integral to all human rights.

2024 Secretary-General’s Fifth Report :

* Reflects on progress in disability inclusion within the UN system.
* Highlights challenges, opportunities, and areas of focus for continued progress.
* Reaffirms commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable world.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Established By	United Nations
Inception Year	1992
Original Name	International Day of Disabled Persons (renamed in 2007)
2024 Theme	“Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future”
Historical Milestones	– International Year of Disabled Persons (1981)   – United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1992)
Focus Areas	– Promote dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities   – Integrate persons with disabilities into political, social, economic, and cultural life

Correct Answer :   December 3

---

The death anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, India’s legendary hockey player, is observed on December 3. Known as the “Hockey Wizard,” he won three Olympic gold medals and left an unforgettable legacy in sports. His remarkable skills and dedication continue to inspire hockey players and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Early Life and Rise to Fame :

Dhyan Chand was born on August 29, 1905, in Allahabad, India. His talent for hockey was noticed early in his life, and he joined the Indian Army in 1922. His career took off after a successful tour with the army hockey team in New Zealand in 1926, where he impressed everyone with his skills.

The Birth of the “Hockey Wizard” :

Dhyan Chand earned the nickname “Hockey Wizard” for his amazing ability to control the ball. His ball-handling skills were so extraordinary that fans and opponents alike were mesmerized. He could glide past defenders effortlessly and score goals with ease, leading to his magical reputation.

Major Achievements in Hockey :

Dhyan Chand’s career was filled with incredible achievements. His first major success came in 1928 when he led the Indian team to a gold medal at the Amsterdam Olympics, scoring 14 goals in the tournament. He then went on to win two more Olympic gold medals, in 1932 and 1936.

In 1936, he captained the Indian team to victory at the Berlin Olympics, where he scored three goals in the final against Germany. Dhyan Chand’s leadership and skills made India the dominant force in international hockey during this time.

His Dedication to Hockey :

Dhyan Chand’s dedication to hockey was extraordinary. He trained late into the night, practicing under the moonlight. His nickname “Chand,” meaning “moon,” came from his habit of playing in the moonlit nights to improve his skills.

Legacy and Contributions :

After his remarkable career, Dhyan Chand retired from the Indian Army in 1956 with the rank of Major. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. He continued to serve the sport as a coach, contributing to the development of hockey in India.

Dhyan Chand’s legacy is celebrated in many ways. India observes National Sports Day on August 29, his birthday, to honor his contributions to the country. The Dhyan Chand Award, a prestigious sports honor, and the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, both commemorate his lasting impact on Indian sports.

Remembering Major Dhyan Chand :

As we mark the death anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand on December 3, his story continues to inspire generations of hockey players and sports lovers. His incredible talent, leadership, and dedication to the sport of hockey have made him a true national hero.

Correct Answer :   Srinagar

---

In a landmark move, Uber has launched Asia’s first water transport service, Uber Shikara, in the scenic Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

* This innovative initiative aims to offer a seamless and modern way for tourists to experience the traditional shikara ride, a popular attraction in the region, combining technology with Kashmir’s cultural heritage.

* With this new service, Uber seeks to uplift tourism and provide greater accessibility, making the shikara experience more convenient and hassle-free for visitors.

Launch :

* Uber Shikara was launched by Uber India and South Asia President Prabhjeet Singh, who personally inaugurated the service by booking a shikara ride via the Uber app.

Objective :

* The aim is to blend technology with the traditional shikara ride, improving the accessibility and overall tourism experience in the Kashmir Valley.
* The service brings innovation to a centuries-old tradition, enhancing its appeal to modern-day tourists.

Features of Uber Shikara :

* Booking Process : Users can now book shikara rides directly through the Uber app.
* Partnership with Local Shikara Owners : Uber has collaborated with seven local shikara owners to provide the service, with plans to expand based on demand.
* Fair Pricing : The rides will be available at government-regulated rates, ensuring tourists are charged fairly for their experience.
* No Additional Fees for Partners : Uber will not charge any fees from its shikara partners, ensuring that the full fare goes directly to the boat operators.

Operational Details :

Ride Availability :

* Shikaras are stationed at Nehru Park, located in the heart of Dal Lake.
* Operating Hours: Uber Shikara rides are available daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..
* Ride Duration: Each ride can last up to one hour.
* Booking Window: Rides can be booked anywhere from 12 hours to 15 days in advance.
* Passenger Capacity: Each shikara can accommodate up to four passengers.

Technology Integration :

* Uber is leveraging its app-based platform to enable tourists to pre-book their rides, enhancing convenience and reducing the need for haggling with boat operators.
* Uber’s tech-driven approach aims to revolutionize the traditional boat ride experience, making it smoother and more reliable.

Tourism Impact :

* Enhanced Accessibility : By using the Uber platform, tourists will find it easier to book rides, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
* Promotion of Kashmiri Culture : The service aims to promote the timeless charm of shikara rides, providing a seamless blend of tradition and modern technology.
* Support for Local Economy : The service benefits local shikara operators by ensuring a steady stream of customers and providing a direct payment system without intermediary charges.

Previous Services :

* Uber had already established a presence in Srinagar with its cab services, and with the introduction of Uber Shikara, it aims to further enhance the tourism experience by offering a convenient, technology-enabled method of enjoying Dal Lake.

Correct Answer :   Chennai

---

The World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) is a premier global event held every three years under the auspices of the World Maritime Technology Congress.

This prestigious gathering brings together industry leaders, professionals, and experts in maritime technology and allied sectors from across the globe.

The 2024 edition of WMTC will be hosted in Chennai, India, from December 4-6, by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India) Chennai Branch.

Key Highlights of WMTC 2024

Overview :

* Organized By : World Maritime Technology Congress (WMTC Congress).
* Frequency : Held once every three years.
* Participants : 21 member organizations from 17 countries representing professionals in maritime technology and related sectors.

Significance of Chennai as the Host :

Maritime Hub :

* One of India’s oldest and most significant seaports.
* Home to major and minor ports, shipyards, and maritime logistics companies.
* Contributes significantly to India’s GDP through maritime trade.

Strategic Trade Gateway :

* A center for expanding maritime trade, attracting ship owners and logistics firms.
* A hub of shipbuilding and allied industries.

Cultural and Historical Richness :

* Offers a blend of tradition, culture, and hospitality reflective of Southern India.
* Known as a maritime success story in India’s economic and historical narrative.

Key Themes of WMTC 2024 :

* Innovation and advancements in maritime technology.
* Sustainable practices in maritime operations.
* Integration of artificial intelligence and automation in shipping.
* Enhancing global trade connectivity through maritime infrastructure.

Goals of the Conference :

* Facilitate knowledge sharing among global maritime professionals.
* Showcase advancements in shipbuilding, port operations, and logistics.
* Discuss challenges and opportunities in the maritime sector.
* Strengthen international cooperation in maritime technology and sustainability.

Correct Answer :   New Pamban Bridge

---

The New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, is replacing the 105-year-old Pamban Bridge to enhance connectivity between the Indian mainland and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. This state-of-the-art bridge is a leap in railway infrastructure, designed for speed, safety, and modern train compatibility.

Project Overview and Timeline :

The 2.05 km long bridge, built at a cost of Rs 535 crore by RVNL, features a fully automated vertical lift span that provides 22 meters of air clearance for ships. It’s designed to handle double tracks and supports high-speed trains. The original Pamban Bridge, constructed in 1914, was decommissioned in December 2022 due to corrosion, and the new bridge is set to replace it after several years of development. Construction began in February 2020, and the project faced delays due to the pandemic, with completion expected by June 30, 2024.

Lift Span Challenges and Precision :

The most challenging aspect of the bridge’s construction is the movement of the 550-ton lift span, which is 72.5 meters long and 16 meters wide. The span must be moved 450 meters into the sea, overcoming a sharp curve in the bridge alignment, which has slowed the process. Despite these challenges, RVNL officials are confident of completing the task by May 2024. The lift span can be raised to 17 meters, allowing ships to pass without disrupting train services.

Impact on Connectivity and Future Operations :

Once completed, the New Pamban Bridge will significantly enhance rail operations between Mandapam and Rameswaram, reducing travel time and supporting increased traffic. Before the road bridge was built in 1988, the Pamban Railway Bridge was the sole link to the island. The new bridge will also support double tracks, increasing the capacity of the railway route for the next century.

Key Point	Details
Why in news	The New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, replaces the 105-year-old Pamban Bridge, connecting Rameswaram to the mainland.
Length of Bridge	2.05 km
Length of Lift Span	72.5 m
Builder	Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL)
Cost of Construction	?535 crore
Unique Feature	Fully automated vertical lift span with 22m air clearance above sea level for ship movement
Track Type	Double-track and electrification compatible
Train Compatibility	High-speed trains
Decommissioned Bridge	Old Pamban Bridge (1914–2022)
Inauguration Foundation	Laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019
State	Tamil Nadu
State CM	M.K. Stalin
State Governor	R.N. Ravi
Connectivity	Links Mandapam (mainland) to Rameswaram Island