Current affairs 04 January 2025

IMD Launched Special Weather Webpage for Mahakumbh Mela.

• Weather Updates: IMD's new webpage provides 15-minute updates and bi-daily forecasts for the Mahakumbh Mela.
• Enhanced Setup: Mahakumbh designated as a temporary district with 3 AWS installations and real-time weather displays.
• Event Highlights: Mahakumbh begins Jan 13 in Prayagraj, featuring Shahi Snan on Jan 14, Jan 29, and Feb 3.

HMPV Outbreak Overwhelms China's Healthcare.

• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases are rising in China alongside influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19; hospitals and crematories face overload.
• Symptoms: Cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, and breathlessness; incubation period 3–6 days.
• High-Risk Groups: Young children, elderly, and immunocompromised, with risks of severe complications like pneumonia and bronchitis.

SJVN Partnered with Bihar for 1000 MW Pumped Storage Project.

• SJVN signed an MoU with Bihar's government to develop the 1000 MW Hathidah Durgawati PSP, attracting a ₹10,000 crore investment and creating 5,000 jobs.
• Proposed on the Durgawati River in Kaimur, the PSP will generate 2308.65 MU annually at ₹9.39/kWh.
• State's PSP Push: SJVN was allotted four PSPs, with Hathidah Durgawati identified as the most feasible.

Revamped "BAANKNET" E-Auction Portal Launched.

• E-Auction Portal Features: Consolidates Public Sector Banks' e-auction properties, offering a one-stop destination for residential, commercial & industrial assets.
• Economic Impact: Enhances distressed asset recovery, boosts bank balance sheets & improves credit availability.
• Advanced Features: Includes KYC tools, automated payments, analytics, & 24/7 support.
• Launched by Ministry of Finance

"Faral Sakhi" Initiative Empowers Women Entrepreneurs.

• Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation's Faral Sakhi trains women in traditional snack production, offering tools, skills, and municipal support to scale businesses sustainably.
• WEP Collaboration: NITI Aayog's Women Entrepreneurship Platform aids with training, funding, and market access.
• It aims to transition home industries into large-scale enterprises and inspire societal transformation.