Current affairs 17 January 2025

India Set to Become "GCC Capital of the World".

• India is poised to become the GCC Capital of the World with 1,700 global capability centres (GCCs) employing 2 million people, expected to grow by 2030.
• Skill development and industry-academia collaboration are key to creating a future-ready workforce.
• Emphasis on building a skilled, diverse workforce with eco-friendly practices and preparing for a tech-driven job market.

US Lifts Sanctions on 3 Indian Nuclear Entities.

• The US removed Cold War-era sanctions on BARC, Indian Rare Earths, and Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center to bolster energy security and scientific collaboration with India.
• The decision reflects strengthened India-US peaceful nuclear cooperation benefiting global partners.
• Simultaneously, 11 Chinese companies were added to the US Entity List for security concerns.

Cabinet Approves Establishment of 3rd Launch Pad at ISRO’s Sriharikota.

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the Third Launch Pad (TLP) at ISRO's Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
• The project is set to be completed within 48 months (4 years).
• The total expenditure is ₹3984.86 crore, covering the launch pad and associated facilities.

India Nears $450 Million BrahMos Missile Deal with Indonesia.

• India and Indonesia are nearing a $450 million agreement for BrahMos missiles.
• Announcement likely during Indonesian President's visit for Republic Day 2025.
• India may offer a loan via the State Bank of India or another national bank.
• Indonesia joined BRICS in January 2024, boosting strategic partnerships with India.
• BrahMos System was Jointly developed by India and Russia.

Amit Shah to Launch Fast Track Immigration at 7 Airports.

• HM Amit Shah will inaugurate the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme at 7 airports, enabling seamless and secure international travel.
• Amit Shah will launch the service at airports in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.
• FTI-TTP, launched at IGI in June 2024, will expand to 21 airports nationwide.