Current Affairs One - Liner : 25th December 2024

The Government of India sanctioned Rs. 4388 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme on December 25, 2024. This funding aims to solarize agriculture by supporting the installation of solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants for farmers.

Hanukkah is celebrated by Jewish communities around the world. While its origins are rooted in Jerusalem, the festival is observed in homes, synagogues, and public spaces wherever Jewish people live.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) notified a new asset class called Specialized Investment Fund (SIF) on December 17, 2024. SIFs require a minimum investment of Rs 10 lakh and aim to bridge the gap between Portfolio Management Services (PMS) and mutual funds.
YES BANK launched YES Business, powered by IRIS Biz, on December 13, 2024. This platform supports MSMEs by integrating banking and business services, offering digital onboarding, unified account management, and quick access to funds. It also includes features for accounting, taxation, and merchant solutions.
SBI Life Insurance launched the Smart Platina Supreme plan on December 17, 2024. This plan offers customizable protection with guaranteed pay-outs, flexible premium payments, policy durations, and income payout frequencies.
Max Life Insurance rebranded to Axis Max Life Insurance on December 13, 2024. The new brand identity incorporates Axis Bank's 'A' and burgundy shade, symbolizing trust and modernity. This rebranding aims to leverage the strengths of both brands, ensuring long-term growth and market expansion.

The Technology Development Board (TDB) announced its support for Agnikul Cosmos on December 18, 2024, to develop and commercialize the Agnibaan launch vehicle. This initiative aims to enhance India's space ecosystem by making satellite launches more accessible and affordable

Doordarshan (DD) partnered with the Hockey India League (HIL) to broadcast the 2024-25 season live, starting on December 28, 2024. This edition features the debut of the Women's Hockey India League alongside the men's competition.
Pranav Venkatesh won the FIDE World U-18 Youth Rapid & Blitz Chess titles on December 17, 2024, in Slovenia at the World Youth Under-18 Open Rapid and Blitz 2024 event. He secured gold in both categories, scoring 9.5/11 in Rapid and 19.5/22 in Blitz.

Indian Railways launched the Sanraksha App on December 2, 2024, to enhance passenger safety. The app focuses on capacity building of frontline staff by providing customized safety training and real-time feedback.
On December 25, 2024, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh launched the Rashtraparv website and mobile app on Good Governance Day. This platform provides comprehensive information on national events, live streaming, ticket purchases, seating arrangements, route maps, and a Tableau Management Portal for Republic Day parade preparations.

Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) partnered with Kongsberg Maritime to supply advanced Replenishment-at-Sea (RAS) equipment for the Indian Navy's Fleet Support Ships (FSS) programme. This collaboration, announced on December 4, 2024, aims to enhance operational efficiency and safety for naval vessels during extended missions.
On December 19, 2024, DRDO, IIT Delhi, and industry partners signed 10 agreements at the DIA-GARIMA event to enhance defence capabilities. Key projects include the Advanced Bullet Resistant Jacket with IIT Delhi, Indigenous Ballistic Material with Reliance Industries Ltd, and Extreme Weather Clothing with various companies.

Good Governance Day is observed on December 25 to honor Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary. The theme for this year is "Empowering Citizens Through Digital Governance". The day focuses on transparent, accountable governance and enhancing digital government services.

Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas were honored with Knighthood and Damehood by King Charles III on December 18, 2024, at Buckingham Palace. This recognition celebrates their significant contributions to the film industry.

Questions:

1 Who won the FIDE World U-18 Youth Rapid & Blitz Chess titles on December 17, 2024?

2 As per SEBI, What is the minimum investment amount required for participating in a Specialized Investment Fund (SIF)?