Here are the top news highlights from January 1, 2025, covering important events and updates from around the world.

National News:

Vitul Kumar is an IPS officer from the 1993 batch of the Uttar Pradesh cadre. He has been appointed as the new Director General (DG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). His appointment started on January 1, 2025.

Recent reports show that India is one of the top 25 countries with strong government rules on religion. These rules include laws that control religious practices, limit religious freedom, or oversee religious institutions.

Economy and Finance:

SBI Life Invests ₹6.6 Crore for 10% Stake in Bima Sugam:
SBI Life Insurance has taken a big step in the insurance industry by investing ₹6.6 crore to buy a 10% stake in Bima Sugam India Federation. This move aims to improve digital insurance services and make it easier for people to buy and manage policies. With this investment, SBI Life hopes to grow stronger in the changing insurance market and offer better services to customers.
India's Current Account Deficit Falls to 1.2% in Q2 FY25:
India's Current Account Deficit (CAD) dropped to 1.2% of GDP in Q2 FY25, compared to 1.3% in the same period last year. This small decrease shows a slight improvement in the country's financial balance.

COP29 Highlights Concerns About Climate Finance:
At COP29, world leaders talked about the challenges of climate finance and how to improve it. They raised concerns about whether enough funds are available, how they are being used, and if they are reaching the countries that need them most. The discussions focused on finding better ways to support climate action and make sure all nations get fair financial help.

ISRO Deploys POEM-4 Module for Space Experiments:
ISRO has successfully deployed the POEM-4 module to conduct space experiments. POEM-4 (Payload Orbital Experiment Module) will help scientists test new technologies in space. This module provides a platform for research and innovation, allowing different experiments to be carried out in orbit. ISRO’s achievement marks another step forward in advancing space science and technology.

Indian Navy Commissions Three New Indigenous Warships:
The Indian Navy has added three new warships that were built in India. This is an important step in making the country's defense stronger. These warships will help protect India's seas and improve security. Their commissioning shows India's progress in building its own advanced defense equipment.

Quad Members Promise to Keep Indo-Pacific Safe and Open:
The Quad members—India, the US, Japan, and Australia—agreed to work together to keep the Indo-Pacific region safe and open for all. They want to improve security, trade, and teamwork to support peace and growth in the area.

Haryana Steelers Win Their First Pro Kabaddi League Title:
The Haryana Steelers became Pro Kabaddi League champions for the first time after defeating the Patna Pirates 32-23 in the final. The match was held in Pune, and the Steelers put on a strong performance to secure their victory.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Cyber Experts to Keep Event Safe Online:
For Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, 56 cyber experts have been deployed to protect online security. This brings together tradition and modern technology to ensure a safe and smooth experience for all visitors.