General Knowledge & Current Affairs Study Notes

DSC Teacher Recruitment Examinations (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)

SECTION 1: HISTORY OF ANDHRA PRADESH & TELANGANA

Ancient History

• Satavahanas (230 BCE - 220 CE): First major dynasty in the Deccan region with capital at Amaravati

• Ikshvakus (225-325 CE): Successors to Satavahanas; patronized Buddhism; known for Nagarjunakonda monuments

• Vishnukundins (5th-7th century CE): Ruled with capital at Vengi; promoted Sanskrit literature and Hinduism

• Eastern Chalukyas (7th-12th century): Ruled from Vengi; contributed to Telugu literature and temple architecture

• Kakatiyas (1163-1323): Ruled from Warangal (Orugallu); built Thousand Pillar Temple and Warangal Fort; introduced tank irrigation system

• Reddy Kingdom (1325-1448): Ruled parts of modern Andhra after Kakatiya fall

• Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646): Greatest Hindu empire of South India; promoted arts, literature, and temple construction

Medieval Period

• Qutb Shahi Dynasty (1518-1687): Ruled from Golconda; built Charminar and Golconda Fort; promoted Persian culture

• Asaf Jahi Dynasty/Nizams (1724-1948): Ruled Hyderabad State; last Nizam was Mir Osman Ali Khan

Modern History and Freedom Movement

• Madras Presidency: British administrative division including parts of Andhra

• Hyderabad State: Princely state under Nizams until 1948

• Vandemataram Movement (1905): Early nationalist stirrings in Andhra region

• Rampa Rebellion (1922-24): Tribal uprising led by Alluri Sitarama Raju

• Telangana Armed Struggle (1946-51): Peasant rebellion against Nizam and feudal landlords

• Operation Polo (1948): Indian military operation to annex Hyderabad State into Indian Union

• Andhra State Formation (1953): First linguistic state in India, carved from Madras Presidency

• Andhra Pradesh Formation (1956): Merger of Andhra State with Telangana region under States Reorganization Act

• Telangana Movement: Long struggle for separate statehood

• Telangana Formation (2014): Telangana became 29th state of India on June 2, 2014

Important Historical Figures

• Alluri Sitarama Raju: Led tribal rebellion against British

• Tanguturi Prakasam (Andhra Kesari): First Chief Minister of Andhra State

• Burgula Ramakrishna Rao: Last Chief Minister of Hyderabad State

• Potti Sriramulu: Fasted unto death for formation of Andhra State

• Prof. Jayashankar: Intellectual force behind Telangana movement

• K. Chandrashekar Rao: Led Telangana movement; first CM of Telangana

SECTION 2: GEOGRAPHY OF ANDHRA PRADESH & TELANGANA

Physical Features

• Andhra Pradesh: Located on east coast; area of 160,205 sq km

• Telangana: Landlocked state; area of 112,077 sq km

• Eastern Ghats: Mountain range running through eastern AP

• Deccan Plateau: Covers most of Telangana

• Krishna & Godavari: Major rivers flowing through both states

• Coastline: AP has India's second-longest coastline (974 km)

Administrative Divisions

• Andhra Pradesh: 26 districts (as of 2023)

• Telangana: 33 districts (as of 2023)

• Important Cities - AP: Amaravati (legislative capital), Visakhapatnam (executive capital), Kurnool (judicial capital), Tirupati, Guntur, Kakinada

• Important Cities - Telangana: Hyderabad (capital), Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Khammam

Climate & Agriculture

• Climate: Tropical with hot summers and moderate winters

• Rainfall: Mainly from Southwest monsoon (June-September)

• Agriculture - AP: Rice, sugarcane, cotton, chillies, turmeric, tobacco

• Agriculture - Telangana: Rice, cotton, maize, pulses

• Irrigation Projects:

  • AP: Polavaram, Nagarjuna Sagar, Srisailam, Somasila

  • Telangana: Kaleshwaram, Sriram Sagar, Nagarjuna Sagar (shared)

Natural Resources & Industry

• Minerals - AP: Bauxite, limestone, mica, natural gas

• Minerals - Telangana: Coal, limestone, granite

• Industries - AP: Pharmaceuticals, textiles, food processing, shipbuilding

• Industries - Telangana: IT/ITES, pharmaceuticals, textiles, defense manufacturing

SECTION 3: CULTURE OF ANDHRA PRADESH & TELANGANA

Arts & Crafts

• Dance Forms: Kuchipudi (AP's classical dance), Perini Sivatandavam (Telangana)

• Music: Carnatic music tradition; Annamacharya's compositions

• Folk Arts - AP: Burrakatha, Tholubommalata (shadow puppetry)

• Folk Arts - Telangana: Bathukamma, Bonalu, Oggu Katha

• Handicrafts - AP: Kalamkari, Etikoppaka toys, Kondapalli toys

• Handicrafts - Telangana: Nirmal paintings, Pembarthi metal craft, Cheriyal scrolls

Literature

• Telugu Literature Periods: Early (11th-14th century), Golden Age (15th-16th century), Modern

• Nannaya, Tikkana, Errana: Known as "Kavitrayam" (Trinity of poets)

• Notable Works: Manucharitra, Amuktamalyada, Andhra Mahabharatam

• Modern Writers: Gurajada Apparao, Sri Sri, C. Narayana Reddy, Kaloji Narayana Rao

Festivals

• Common: Sankranti, Ugadi, Dussehra, Diwali

• AP Special: Pushkaram (river festival), Teppotsavam

• Telangana Special: Bathukamma, Bonalu, Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara

Cuisine

• AP: Rice-based; spicy dishes; seafood on coast; Pulihora, Gongura pachadi

• Telangana: Jowar-based; spicy; Hyderabadi Biryani, Sarva Pindi, Jonna Rotte

Important Heritage Sites

• AP: Amaravati Stupa, Lepakshi Temple, Undavalli Caves, Chandragiri Fort

• Telangana: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, Ramappa Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

SECTION 4: POLITY & GOVERNANCE

Constitutional Framework

• State Legislature: Bicameral in Telangana (Assembly + Council); Andhra Pradesh moved to unicameral system in 2020

• Assembly Seats: AP - 175, Telangana - 119

• Parliament Seats: AP - 25 Lok Sabha + 11 Rajya Sabha; Telangana - 17 Lok Sabha + 7 Rajya Sabha

Governance Structure

• State Executive: Chief Minister and Council of Ministers

• Governor: Constitutional head of state

• Local Self-Government:

  • Rural: Gram Panchayats, Mandal Parishads, Zilla Parishads

  • Urban: Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, Nagar Panchayats

AP Reorganization Act, 2014

• Divided the state into Telangana and residuary Andhra Pradesh

• Special provisions for development of AP post-bifurcation

• Issues related to river water sharing, power distribution, educational institutions

Recent Administrative Reforms

• AP: Three-capital concept (Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, Kurnool)

• Telangana: District reorganization from 10 to 33 districts (2016)

• Digital initiatives: T-Wallet, MeeSeva, AP Purse, etc.

Key Government Schemes

• AP:

  • Amma Vodi (financial assistance to mothers for children's education)

  • YSR Rythu Bharosa (financial assistance to farmers)

  • YSR Arogyasri (health insurance)

  • Pedalandariki Illu (housing scheme)

• Telangana:

  • Rythu Bandhu (investment support for farmers)

  • Rythu Bima (life insurance for farmers)

  • Kalyana Lakshmi/Shaadi Mubarak (marriage assistance)

  • KCR Kit (care for mother and newborn)

  • Asara pensions

SECTION 5: ECONOMY

Economic Profile

• AP: Agriculture-based with emerging industrial corridors; per capita income approximately ₹2.07 lakh (2022-23)

• Telangana: IT and service sector-driven; per capita income approximately ₹3.17 lakh (2022-23)

Key Economic Sectors

• AP: Agriculture, aquaculture, pharmaceuticals, tourism

• Telangana: IT/ITES, pharmaceuticals, defense manufacturing

Industrial Corridors & SEZs

• AP: Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor, Sri City SEZ

• Telangana: Hyderabad Pharma City, Telangana Industrial Health Corridor

Recent Economic Initiatives

• AP: Ports development, electronics manufacturing clusters

• Telangana: T-Hub, T-Works, Pharma City, TASK (Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge)

SECTION 6: EDUCATION SYSTEM & REFORMS

Education Structure

• School Education: PP, Primary (1-5), Upper Primary (6-8), Secondary (9-10), Higher Secondary (11-12)

• Higher Education: Universities, degree colleges, professional institutions

Education Boards & Bodies

• School Boards: SCERT, State Boards of Secondary Education

• Higher Education: State Council of Higher Education, Universities

Recent Educational Reforms

• AP:

  • Nadu-Nedu (infrastructure development in schools)

  • Jaganna Vidya Kanuka (student kits)

  • Jaganna Vidya Deevena (fee reimbursement)

• Telangana:

  • Residential schools expansion

  • KG to PG free education concept

  • Digital classrooms

Teacher Recruitment Framework

• DSC (District Selection Committee): Principal recruitment mechanism

• Eligibility: Academic qualifications, teaching certifications (B.Ed, D.Ed)

• Selection Process: Written test, demonstration class, interview (as applicable)

• Recent changes: Weightage systems, reservation policies

SECTION 7: CURRENT AFFAIRS (NATIONAL)

Political Developments

• Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Results and formation of new government

• Key National Legislation: Recent laws passed by Parliament

Economic Updates

• Budget 2024-25: Key provisions affecting education and states

• GDP Growth: Current economic indicators and trends

• Inflation: Current rates and government measures

Major National Schemes Affecting Education

• National Education Policy 2020: Implementation status and key provisions

• PM SHRI Schools: Strengthening of exemplary schools

• NIPUN Bharat Mission: Foundational literacy and numeracy goals

• DIKSHA Platform: Digital infrastructure for knowledge sharing

Other Important National Developments

• G20 Presidency of India: Outcomes and educational initiatives

• Digital India: Recent initiatives in educational technology

• National Research Foundation: Updates on research infrastructure

SECTION 8: CURRENT AFFAIRS (STATE LEVEL)

Political Updates

• Recent Elections: Results of latest Assembly/Local Body elections

• Cabinet Changes: Major portfolios and policy directions

New Government Initiatives

• AP:

  • Latest policies under Navaratnalu program

  • Administrative reforms and capital development

• Telangana:

  • Updates on Telangana Thalli scheme

  • Development of new districts

Educational Updates

• Teacher Recruitment: Latest DSC notifications and guidelines

• Curriculum Changes: New textbooks or syllabus revisions

• Infrastructure: School renovations and digital classroom initiatives

SECTION 9: IMPORTANT EDUCATIONAL COMMISSIONS & REPORTS

National Level

• National Education Policy 2020: Key recommendations for school education

• Kasturirangan Committee: Highlights affecting state educational policies

• National Curriculum Framework 2023: Implementation in states

State Level

• AP State Education Mission: Vision and implementation

• Telangana Education Reforms: Priorities and implementation status

SECTION 10: PRACTICE QUESTIONS

History & Culture

1. Who built the Thousand Pillar Temple in Warangal? Answer: Kakatiyas (King Rudra Deva)

2. Which rebellion against British rule was led by Alluri Sitarama Raju? Answer: Rampa Rebellion (1922-24)

Geography

3. Which district of Andhra Pradesh has the largest bauxite deposits? Answer: Visakhapatnam

4. Name the project known as "engineering marvel" designed to lift water from Godavari River in Telangana. Answer: Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project

Polity & Administration

5. How many districts were created in Telangana after reorganization in 2016? Answer: 33 districts

6. What is the three-capital concept proposed for Andhra Pradesh? Answer: Legislative Capital (Amaravati), Executive Capital (Visakhapatnam), Judicial Capital (Kurnool)

Economy & Current Affairs

7. Which city hosts T-Hub, India's largest innovation center? Answer: Hyderabad

8. Which program provides financial assistance to mothers for children's education in AP? Answer: Amma Vodi

Education

9. What is the full form of SCERT? Answer: State Council of Educational Research and Training

10. Which educational scheme in Telangana provides free education from kindergarten through post-graduation? Answer: KG to PG free education program

🎯 Complete General Knowledge Study Notes for Competitive Exams

Your gateway to success in competitive employment tests!

🇮🇳 INDIAN HISTORY

Ancient India (Pre-Historic to 1200 CE)

Key Civilizations:

• Indus Valley Civilization (2500-1500 BCE): Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, advanced urban planning, drainage systems

• Vedic Period (1500-500 BCE): Rigveda (oldest), four Vedas, caste system emergence

• Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE): Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka the Great, Buddhism spread

• Gupta Period (320-550 CE): Golden Age of India, decimal system, Aryabhata, Kalidasa

Religious Movements:

• Buddhism: Founded by Gautama Buddha (563-483 BCE), Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path

• Jainism: Founded by Mahavira, Ahimsa (non-violence), 24 Tirthankaras

• Hinduism: Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, major deities (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva)

Medieval India (1200-1700 CE)

Delhi Sultanate (1206-1526):

• Five dynasties: Slave, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, Lodi

• Important rulers: Qutub-ud-din Aibak, Alauddin Khalji, Muhammad bin Tughlaq

Mughal Empire (1526-1857):

• Babur (1526-1530): First Battle of Panipat (1526)

• Akbar (1556-1605): Din-i-Ilahi, Nine Gems (Navratnas), Fatehpur Sikri

• Shah Jahan (1628-1658): Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Peacock Throne

• Aurangzeb (1658-1707): Last great Mughal, strict Islamic policies

Modern India (1700-1947)

British Rule:

• East India Company: Battle of Plassey (1757), Dual Government

• Revolt of 1857: First War of Independence, Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmibai

• Freedom Struggle:

  • Congress formation (1885), Partition of Bengal (1905)

  • Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), Salt March (1930)

  • Quit India Movement (1942)

Freedom Fighters:

• Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience

• Subhash Chandra Bose: INA, "Give me blood, I'll give you freedom"

• Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev: Revolutionary activities

• Sardar Patel: Iron Man of India, integration of princely states

🏛️ INDIAN POLITY & CONSTITUTION

Constitutional Framework

Key Features:

• Preamble: We, the people of India... Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic

• Fundamental Rights (Articles 12-35):

  • Right to Equality, Freedom, Against Exploitation

  • Freedom of Religion, Cultural and Educational Rights

  • Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32 - Heart of Constitution)

Fundamental Duties (Article 51A):

• Respect Constitution, National Flag, National Anthem

• Protect sovereignty and integrity of India

• Defend country and render national service

Government Structure

Executive:

• President: Head of State, elected by Electoral College

• Prime Minister: Head of Government, leader of majority party

• Council of Ministers: Collective responsibility to Lok Sabha

Legislature:

• Parliament: Rajya Sabha (Upper House) + Lok Sabha (Lower House)

• Rajya Sabha: Maximum 250 members, 6-year term

• Lok Sabha: Maximum 552 members, 5-year term

Judiciary:

• Supreme Court: Highest court, 34 judges including CJI

• High Courts: State level, original and appellate jurisdiction

• District Courts: Local level, civil and criminal matters

Important Constitutional Amendments

• 1st Amendment (1951): Right to Property restrictions

• 42nd Amendment (1976): Mini Constitution, added Socialist, Secular

• 44th Amendment (1978): Right to Property removed from Fundamental Rights

• 73rd & 74th Amendments: Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies

🌍 GEOGRAPHY

Physical Geography

Physiographic Divisions:

1. The Himalayas: Greater, Lesser, Outer Himalayas

2. Northern Plains: Ganga-Brahmaputra plain, most fertile

3. Peninsular Plateau: Deccan Plateau, rich in minerals

4. Coastal Plains: Western (narrow) and Eastern (wide)

5. Islands: Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep

Climate:

• Monsoon: Southwest (June-September), Northeast (October-December)

• Seasons: Winter, Summer, Monsoon, Post-monsoon

• Rainfall: Western Ghats (heavy), Rajasthan (scanty)

Indian Geography Facts

Rivers:

• Ganga: Longest river, Gangotri to Bay of Bengal

• Brahmaputra: Flows through Tibet, Assam

• Narmada & Tapi: Flow westward into Arabian Sea

• Godavari: Largest peninsular river

Mountain Peaks:

• Kanchenjunga: Highest peak in India (8,586m)

• Nanda Devi: Second highest (7,816m)

• Western Ghats: Nilgiris, Sahyadris

World Geography Essentials

Continents & Oceans:

• 7 Continents: Asia (largest), Australia (smallest)

• 5 Oceans: Pacific (largest), Arctic (smallest)

Important Lines:

• Equator: 0° latitude

• Prime Meridian: 0° longitude (Greenwich)

• Tropic of Cancer: 23.5°N (passes through India)

• International Date Line: 180° longitude

🧪 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Physics Fundamentals

Basic Concepts:

• Motion: Distance, Speed, Velocity, Acceleration

• Force: Newton's Laws of Motion

• Energy: Kinetic, Potential, Conservation of Energy

• Light: Reflection, Refraction, Spectrum (VIBGYOR)

• Sound: Frequency, Amplitude, Echo, Ultrasonic waves

Important Units:

• Force: Newton (N), Energy: Joule (J), Power: Watt (W)

• Current: Ampere (A), Voltage: Volt (V), Resistance: Ohm (Ω)

Chemistry Basics

Periodic Table:

• Groups: Vertical columns (1-18)

• Periods: Horizontal rows (1-7)

• Noble Gases: Group 18 (Helium, Neon, Argon, etc.)

Acids & Bases:

• Strong Acids: HCl, H₂SO₄, HNO₃

• Strong Bases: NaOH, KOH, Ca(OH)₂

• pH Scale: 0-14, 7 is neutral

Important Compounds:

• Water (H₂O): Universal solvent, boiling point 100°C

• Salt (NaCl): Common salt, melting point 801°C

• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Greenhouse gas, photosynthesis

Biology Essentials

Cell Structure:

• Prokaryotic: No nucleus (bacteria)

• Eukaryotic: Well-defined nucleus (plants, animals)

• Cell Organelles: Mitochondria (powerhouse), Chloroplasts (photosynthesis)

Human Body Systems:

• Circulatory: Heart (4 chambers), blood circulation

• Respiratory: Lungs, oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange

• Digestive: Mouth to anus, 9-meter long small intestine

• Nervous: Brain, spinal cord, neurons

Diseases & Prevention:

• Bacterial: Tuberculosis, Typhoid, Cholera

• Viral: COVID-19, Influenza, Hepatitis

• Deficiency: Scurvy (Vitamin C), Beriberi (Vitamin B1)

💰 INDIAN ECONOMY

Economic Planning

Five-Year Plans:

• First Plan (1951-56): Focus on agriculture

• Second Plan (1956-61): Industrial development, Mahalanobis Model

• NITI Aayog (2015): Replaced Planning Commission

Economic Reforms:

• 1991 Liberalization: LPG (Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization)

• GST (2017): One Nation, One Tax

• Demonetization (2016): ₹500 and ₹1000 notes

Banking & Finance

Reserve Bank of India (RBI):

• Central Bank, established 1935

• Functions: Currency issue, monetary policy, banking regulation

• Current Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Important Banks:

• SBI: Largest public sector bank

• HDFC, ICICI: Major private banks

• Payment Banks: India Post, Airtel, Paytm

Major Economic Indicators

GDP Growth: India is 5th largest economy globally Inflation: CPI (Consumer Price Index), WPI (Wholesale Price Index) Employment: Agriculture (45%), Services (32%), Industry (23%)

🏆 SPORTS & GAMES

Olympics & International Sports

Recent Achievements:

• Tokyo 2020: Neeraj Chopra (Gold in Javelin), 7 medals total

• Chess: Viswanathan Anand (5-time World Champion)

• Badminton: PV Sindhu (Olympic medalist), Saina Nehwal

Major Tournaments:

• Cricket: World Cup, IPL, T20 World Cup

• Football: FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro

• Tennis: Wimbledon, US Open, French Open, Australian Open

National Sports Awards

• Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna: Highest sporting honor

• Arjuna Award: Outstanding performance in sports

• Dronacharya Award: Excellence in coaching

🌟 CURRENT AFFAIRS ESSENTIALS

Government Schemes

Social Welfare:

• PM-KISAN: ₹6000 per year to farmers

• Ayushman Bharat: Health insurance for poor families

• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: Housing for all

Digital India:

• JAM Trinity: Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile

• UPI: Unified Payments Interface

• Digital India: E-governance initiatives

International Relations

Neighboring Countries: Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa G20: Group of 20 major economies, India hosted 2023

📚 STUDY STRATEGY & TIPS

Effective Study Techniques

Daily Routine:

1. Morning (2 hours): History & Polity - when mind is fresh

2. Afternoon (1.5 hours): Geography & Science - visual learning

3. Evening (1 hour): Current Affairs - newspaper reading

4. Night (30 mins): Quick revision of the day's topics

Memory Techniques:

• Acronyms: VIBGYOR for light spectrum, JAM for financial inclusion

• Timeline Method: Create chronological charts for history

• Mind Maps: Connect related concepts visually

• Flashcards: Quick recall practice

Practice Strategy

Mock Tests:

• Take one full-length test weekly

• Analyze mistakes immediately

• Focus on weak areas identified

Current Affairs:

• Read newspaper daily (The Hindu, Indian Express)

• Monthly magazines (Pratiyogita Darpan, Competition Success Review)

• Government websites for latest schemes

Final Week Preparation

Last 7 Days:

• Revise only important formulas and facts

• Practice previous year questions

• Stay calm and confident

• Maintain regular sleep schedule

🎯 QUICK REVISION POINTS

Must-Remember Facts

Constitutional:

• Articles: 356 (President's Rule), 370 (J&K), 35A (Special Status)

• Schedules: 12 schedules, 8th schedule (Languages - 22)

Historical Dates:

• 1857: First War of Independence

• 1885: Indian National Congress formation

• 1947: Independence Day (August 15)

Geography Numbers:

• India's area: 32.87 lakh km²

• Coastline: 7,516.6 km

• States: 28, Union Territories: 8

Science Constants:

• Speed of light: 3 × 10⁸ m/s

• Boiling point of water: 100°C

• Human body temperature: 37°C

🌟 MOTIVATIONAL MESSAGE

Remember: Success in competitive exams is not about being perfect, but about being consistent and persistent. Every topic you master brings you one step closer to your dream job. Stay focused, practice regularly, and believe in yourself!

Your journey to success starts with the first page you study. Make it count!

Study smart, practice hard, and success will follow! 🚀

🌟 Current Affairs Study Notes: January 2024 - January 2025

Your complete guide to stay updated for competitive exams!

⚠️ Important Note: These notes cover events up to January 2025. For the most recent developments (February 2025 onwards), please refer to current newspapers and official sources.

🏛️ POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS

Major Elections 2024

Lok Sabha Elections 2024:

• Timeline: April-June 2024, conducted in 7 phases

• Result: BJP-led NDA won majority, Narendra Modi became PM for third consecutive term

• Key Statistics:

  • BJP: 240 seats (down from 303 in 2019)

  • Congress: 99 seats (up from 52 in 2019)

  • Total turnout: Approximately 66.3%

State Assembly Elections:

• Andhra Pradesh & Odisha (2024): Simultaneous with Lok Sabha

• Haryana (October 2024): BJP retained power

• Maharashtra & Jharkhand (November 2024): Key state polls

• Delhi Assembly: Expected early 2025

Government Policy Changes

Union Budget 2024-25:

• Presented by: Nirmala Sitharaman (7th consecutive budget)

• Key Highlights:

  • Focus on employment generation

  • Increased allocation for agriculture and rural development

  • Digital infrastructure enhancement

  • Tax rationalization measures

New Legislative Measures:

• Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act 2023: Decriminalization of minor offenses

• Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023: Data privacy framework

• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita: Replacement for IPC (implemented from July 2024)

🌍 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India's Global Engagements

G20 Presidency Legacy (2023-2024):

• New Delhi Declaration: Consensus on global issues

• African Union: Became permanent G20 member during India's presidency

• Digital Public Infrastructure: India's model adopted globally

BRICS Expansion:

• New Members (2024): Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE joined BRICS

• India's Role: Balancing act between traditional and new members

• Economic Cooperation: Enhanced trade partnerships

Bilateral Relations:

• India-USA: Enhanced defense cooperation, technology partnerships

• India-France: Rafale deal completion, space cooperation

• India-Russia: Energy partnerships despite global sanctions

• India-Japan: Strategic partnership in Indo-Pacific

Global Events Impact on India

Middle East Crisis:

• Hamas-Israel Conflict (October 2023-2024): India's balanced approach

• Operation Ajay: Evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel

• Energy Security: Impact on crude oil prices

Russia-Ukraine Conflict:

• India's Stance: Continued neutrality, humanitarian aid

• Energy Imports: Increased Russian oil purchases

• Diplomatic Efforts: PM Modi's peace initiatives

📊 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS

Major Economic Indicators 2024

GDP Growth:

• FY 2023-24: 7.6% growth rate

• Q1 2024-25: 6.7% growth

• World Ranking: India remained 5th largest economy

Inflation Trends:

• CPI Inflation: Average 4.85% in 2024

• Food Inflation: Seasonal variations, government interventions

• Fuel Prices: Gradual stabilization

Banking & Financial Sector

RBI Policy Measures:

• Repo Rate: Maintained at 6.50% (status quo policy)

• Digital Payments: UPI transactions crossed 100 billion annually

• Bank Performance: PSU banks showed strong recovery

Capital Market Developments:

• Stock Market: Sensex crossed 85,000 mark (December 2024)

• IPO Activity: Strong primary market performance

• FPI Flows: Mixed foreign investment trends

Government Schemes & Initiatives

PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:

• Launch: February 2024

• Target: 1 crore households with rooftop solar

• Budget Allocation: ₹75,000 crore

PM Vishwakarma Scheme:

• Beneficiaries: Traditional craftsmen and artisans

• Components: Skill training, financial support, market linkage

• Impact: Enhanced rural employment

🔬 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Space Achievements

ISRO Milestones 2024:

• Chandrayaan-3 Success Impact: International lunar missions collaboration

• Aditya-L1: Solar observation mission operational

• PSLV-C58: XPoSat launch for X-ray polarimetry

• Gaganyaan Program: Human spaceflight preparations

International Space Cooperation:

• NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR): Joint mission preparations

• Artemis Accords: India's participation in lunar exploration

Technology Innovations

Artificial Intelligence:

• National AI Mission: ₹10,372 crore allocation

• AI Research Centers: IITs and IISc partnerships

• Industry Applications: Healthcare, agriculture, governance

Digital Infrastructure:

• 5G Rollout: Expanded coverage across major cities

• Digital India 2.0: Enhanced e-governance services

• Cyber Security: National Cyber Security Strategy 2024

Health & Medical Breakthroughs

COVID-19 Management:

• Vaccine Diplomacy: Continued global vaccine supply

• Endemic Phase: Transition from pandemic protocols

• Healthcare Infrastructure: Strengthened systems

Medical Research:

• ICMR Studies: Various health initiatives

• Ayushman Bharat: Digital health ID implementation

• Traditional Medicine: Global promotion of Ayurveda

⚽ SPORTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Olympics & International Events

Paris Olympics 2024:

• India's Performance: 6 medals (1 Gold, 5 Bronze)

• Star Performers:

  • Neeraj Chopra: Silver in Javelin Throw

  • Hockey Team: Bronze medal

  • Wrestling: Multiple medal hopes

Commonwealth & Asian Games:

• Asian Games 2023 Impact: Continued momentum in 2024

• Commonwealth Games 2026: Preparations for Victoria games

Cricket Highlights

IPL 2024:

• Winner: Kolkata Knight Riders

• Records: Several batting and bowling milestones

• International Players: Global talent participation

International Cricket:

• T20 World Cup 2024: India's performance and campaign

• Test Series: Home and away victories

• Women's Cricket: Rising profile and achievements

Other Sports

Badminton:

• PV Sindhu: Continued international presence

• Emerging Players: New talent in world rankings

Chess:

• World Championship: Indian players' strong showing

• Chess Olympiad Impact: Growing popularity

🌱 ENVIRONMENT & CLIMATE

Climate Initiatives

COP28 Follow-up (2024):

• Dubai Consensus Implementation: India's renewable energy targets

• Global Stocktake: Assessment of climate commitments

• Loss and Damage Fund: India's position and contributions

National Environmental Policies:

• National Green Hydrogen Mission: Progress and targets

• Electric Vehicle Policy: State-wise implementation

• Plastic Waste Management: New regulations and compliance

Natural Disasters & Management

Monsoon 2024:

• Rainfall Patterns: Regional variations and impact

• Flood Management: Early warning systems effectiveness

• Drought Mitigation: Water conservation measures

Disaster Preparedness:

• Cyclone Management: Enhanced forecasting capabilities

• Earthquake Preparedness: Building code implementations

• Fire Safety: Forest fire prevention strategies

🏆 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

National Awards 2024

Padma Awards 2024:

• Padma Vibhushan: Recognitions in various fields

• Padma Bhushan: Distinguished service awards

• Padma Shri: Excellence in diverse domains

Other National Honors:

• Bharat Ratna: Highest civilian award recipients

• Gallantry Awards: Armed forces recognitions

• Civilian Bravery Awards: Courage and sacrifice honors

International Recognitions

Global Rankings:

• Ease of Doing Business: India's improved position

• Innovation Index: Technology and research rankings

• Happiness Index: Social and economic indicators

Nobel Prizes 2024:

• Literature: Global literary achievements

• Peace Prize: International cooperation efforts

• Science Categories: Breakthrough discoveries

📰 IMPORTANT COMMITTEES & REPORTS

Government Committees

Economic Survey 2024:

• Key Findings: Growth projections and challenges

• Sectoral Analysis: Agriculture, industry, services

• Policy Recommendations: Structural reforms needed

Parliamentary Committees:

• Standing Committee Reports: Various ministry assessments

• Joint Parliamentary Committees: Special investigations

• Public Accounts Committee: Government expenditure audit

Regulatory Bodies

RBI Reports:

• Annual Report 2024: Banking sector health

• Financial Stability Report: Risk assessments

• Monetary Policy Statements: Economic outlook

Other Regulatory Updates:

• SEBI Guidelines: Capital market regulations

• TRAI Policies: Telecom sector developments

• CCI Decisions: Competition and merger approvals

🎯 QUICK REVISION SECTION

Month-wise Key Events

January 2024:

• Republic Day celebrations and chief guest

• Union Budget 2024 preparations

• Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration

April-June 2024:

• Lok Sabha Elections (7 phases)

• Heat wave management

• Election results and government formation

July-September 2024:

• Monsoon session of Parliament

• International summits and visits

• Educational policy implementations

October-December 2024:

• Festival season economic impact

• State assembly elections

• Year-end economic assessments

Important Dates to Remember

• April 14: Ambedkar Jayanti

• May 1: Labour Day

• August 15: Independence Day

• October 2: Gandhi Jayanti

• November 26: Constitution Day

Key Government Websites for Updates

• PIB (Press Information Bureau): Latest government announcements

• MyGov: Citizen engagement platform

• Ministry Websites: Sector-specific updates

• Parliamentary Proceedings: Legislative updates

💡 STUDY STRATEGY FOR CURRENT AFFAIRS

Daily Study Routine

Morning (30 minutes):

• Read one national newspaper thoroughly

• Focus on editorial and opinion pages

• Note important government announcements

Evening (20 minutes):

• Review news apps and websites

• Watch reliable news summaries

• Update your current affairs diary

Weekly Practice

Sunday Compilation:

• Summarize the week's important events

• Create topic-wise notes

• Practice previous year questions

Monthly Tests:

• Take current affairs mock tests

• Analyze areas of improvement

• Update knowledge gaps

Important Sources

Newspapers:

• The Hindu: Comprehensive coverage

• Indian Express: Policy analysis

• Business Standard: Economic focus

Magazines:

• Yojana: Government schemes

• Kurukshetra: Rural development

• Competition Success Review: Exam-focused

Online Resources:

• PIB releases

• Government ministry websites

• Reliable news aggregators

🚀 MOTIVATION & SUCCESS TIPS

Stay Updated Strategy

Current Affairs is Dynamic:

• Events change rapidly, stay flexible

• Focus on understanding trends, not just facts

• Connect current events with static GK

Smart Study Approach:

• Don't memorize everything, understand patterns

• Focus on India-centric developments

• Link current affairs with exam syllabus

Final Preparation Tips

Last Month Strategy:

• Revise compiled notes, not new sources

• Practice current affairs sections in mocks

• Stay updated but don't overwhelm yourself

Exam Day Confidence:

• Trust your preparation

• Answer what you know confidently

• Don't second-guess obvious answers

⚡ REMEMBER

Success Formula: Regular Reading + Smart Notes + Mock Practice = Current Affairs Mastery

Your consistency in following current affairs will set you apart from other candidates. Stay curious, stay informed, and success will follow!

Keep Learning, Keep Growing! 🌟

Note: This covers events up to January 2025. Continue reading newspapers and official sources for the most recent developments!