Current affairs 15 December 2024

PM Modi Unveils AI Chatbot for Maha Kumbh 2025.

• Kumbh SahAIyak, an AI chatbot powered by Bhavish Aggarwal’s Krutrim AI, will enhance the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 experience in Prayagraj.
• The chatbot provides updates on events, guides devotees, and ensures a seamless experience for millions of pilgrims.
• It represents a significant step in cultural-tech integration, leveraging AI to support a globally significant Indian tradition.

RBI Increased Collateral-Free Agricultural Loan Limit to ₹2 Lakh.

• Effective January 1, 2025, the collateral-free agricultural loan limit has been increased from ₹1.6 lakh to ₹2 lakh, benefiting farmers and allied activities.
• This initiative reduces borrowing costs, and improves credit access for small and marginal farmers, enhancing the uptake of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans.
• Farmers can avail loans up to ₹3 lakh at a 4% effective interest rate.

Sports Minister Mandaviya to Launch "Fit India Cycling Tuesdays".

• Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the Fit India Cycling Tuesdays initiative on December 17 at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Delhi.
• The initiative will kick off at over 100 venues, including Sports Authority of India regional centres, with simultaneous events.
• Cycling events will be held every Tuesday nationwide to promote fitness and health.

NHAI Launches Advanced "Rajmarg Saathi" to Enhance Highway Safety.

• National Highways Authority of India aims to improve road safety and emergency response with upgraded Route Patrolling Vehicles (RPVs) under the Rajmarg Saathi initiative.
• New RPVs feature closed cabinets for organized storage, AI-enabled dashboard cameras for identifying cracks, potholes & infrastructure issues.
• Collected data on road conditions will be integrated into NHAI One application.

Switzerland Suspends MFN Clause in India Tax Treaty.

• Switzerland to suspend the MFN clause in its DTAA with India from January 1, 2025, increasing tax rates on dividends and royalties to 10%.
• Triggered by India’s SC ruling that MFN application requires formal notification under the Income Tax Act.
• The move may raise tax burdens for Indian and Swiss firms, potentially affecting bilateral trade ties.