CURRENT-AFFAIRS

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• This year, the annual National Youth Festival (NYF), held from January 10-12 at Bharat Mandapam, will undergo a significant transformation and will be reimagined as the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.
• About National Youth Festival (NYF):
  • As part of the 'Promotion of National Integration' initiative under the National Programme for Youth and Adolescent Development (NPYAD), the NYF is organized annually in January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda (January 12), which is celebrated as National Youth Day. Since 1985, the Government of India has observed January 12 as National Youth Day, and the week following it is observed as National Youth Week.
  • The NYF typically runs from January 12 to January 16 each year and is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports in collaboration with a hosting State/Union Territory (UT). The cost of the festival is shared between the central government and the host state.
  • During the festival, a variety of cultural programs (both competitive and non-competitive), youth conventions, exhibitions, adventure programs, and thematic displays are organized. Approximately 7,500 youth delegates from various states and UTs participate in these events.
• NYF 2025:
  • The theme for NYF 2025 will be Innovation in Science and Technology. The main event will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

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• Sabarimala is fully geared up for the Makaravilakku festival, with 5,000 police personnel deployed and reinforced security measures in place.
• About Makaravilakku:
  • Makaravilakku is an important annual festival held at the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.
  • It is observed on the day of Makara Sankranti.
  • The festival marks the end of the annual pilgrimage season to the temple.
  • On Makaravilakku day, the sacred Thiruvabharanam, the royal ornaments of Lord Ayyappa, are transported to the temple from the Pandalam Palace.
  • A key feature of the festival is the appearance of a celestial light, known as the "Makarajyothi" or "Makaravilakku."
  • This light is believed by many to be a divine manifestation of Lord Ayyappa.
  • It is seen on the horizon of Ponnambalamedu hill, located near the Sabarimala Temple.
  • However, there is no supernatural element to the Makaravilakku.
  • Historically, the Malayaraya tribe performed a ritual at the temple in Ponnambalamedu.
  • Today, the Travancore Devaswom Board oversees the proceedings, and traditional religious rituals continue to be followed.
  • At Ponnambalamedu, a ritual Aarti is held, and the Makaravilakku light is seen as a result of camphor burning during the Aarti, visible three times from Sabarimala.
  • The Makaravilakku festival lasts longer than the day of Makara Sankranti itself.
  • It extends for seven days and concludes with a ritual called 'Guruthi,' a ceremony to honor the deities of the wilderness.
  • Once the Guruthi is performed, no one remains at the temple.

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• The Nagoba Jatara, an eight-day sacred pilgrimage event for the Mesram clan of the Adivasi Gonds, is set to begin at Keslapur village in the tribal heartland of Indervelli Mandal, Adilabad district, in north Telangana.
• About Nagoba Jatara:
  • Nagoba Jatara is a tribal festival celebrated annually in January or February at Keslapur village in Adilabad district, Telangana.
  • It is the second largest tribal festival in India, following the Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, also held in Telangana.
  • The festival is celebrated over 10 days by the Mesram clan of the Gond tribes.
  • Tribal people from various regions, including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh, all belonging to the Mesram clan, gather to offer prayers during the festival.
  • The central deity worshipped at the festival is ‘Nagoba,’ a representation of the Cobra (Sri Shek).
• Rituals:
  • Prior to the Jatara, a few elder members of the Mesram clan make a barefoot pilgrimage to the Godavari River to collect holy water, which is then placed near the Banyan Tree in front of the Nagoba Temple.
  • The Jatara includes the significant ‘Bheting’ ceremony, where new brides are formally introduced into the clan. The brides, dressed in white saris, are led by elder women to the Nagoba Temple to offer prayers, after which they are officially accepted as full members of the clan.
• One of the main attractions of the event is the Gusadi Dance, performed by the Gond tribe dancers, adding a vibrant cultural element to the festival.

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• Auroville recently marked its 57th anniversary with a bonfire meditation at the Amphitheatre, near the Matrimandir.
• About Auroville:
  • Auroville is a unique international township located in South India, near Pondicherry, in the state of Tamil Nadu. It serves as an experimental community where residents from over 60 countries are dedicated to exploring alternative approaches to living, working, and coexisting peacefully.
  • Founded on February 28, 1968, by Mirra Alfassa, known as the Mother, who was the spiritual partner of Sri Aurobindo, Auroville was conceived as an international cultural township.
  • The township was designed by renowned architect Roger Anger.
  • Auroville is the world’s largest and oldest surviving international intentional community.
  • It has transformed from a barren desert into a thriving 3,000-acre township and bioregion, where over 3 million trees have been planted, creating a rich biodiversity. It is also home to 9 schools and various social enterprises.
  • Today, Auroville houses a community of 2,700 people from 50 nations, and its guiding vision is that it belongs not to any specific individual but to humanity as a whole.
  • The residents of Auroville, called Aurovilleans, live by principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living, and ‘divine consciousness’, a philosophy promoted by the Mother.
  • UNESCO recognized Auroville’s unique vision, endorsing the project through four resolutions in 1966, 1968, 1970, and 1983.
  • Since 1980, Auroville has been administered under the control of the Ministry of Education and operates according to the Auroville Foundation Act of 1988, passed by the Indian Parliament.
  • The Government of India provides partial financial support through grants to help cover the costs associated with Auroville's establishment, maintenance, and development.

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• Unprecedented wildfires have recently ravaged South Korea’s southern regions, causing extensive damage to the Gounsa Temple complex, with two buildings designated as national treasures being burned down.
• About Gounsa Temple:
  • Gounsa Temple, meaning "Solitary Cloud Temple," is a 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple located in South Korea.
  • Nestled at the base of Deungun Mountain in the southeastern town of Uiseong, it was reportedly established in the 7th century during the Shilla Dynasty, which ruled over the region and much of the Korean Peninsula at the time.
  • Although the temple does not contain structures from the ancient period, it is home to several renowned cultural heritage sites constructed later on.
  • Unlike many other major temples in Korea, Gounsa Temple managed to avoid destruction during the Japanese invasions of the time.
  • Following the Imjin War, Gounsa Temple underwent a significant reconstruction project that began in 1695.
  • Today, it serves as the Headquarters Temple for the 16th District of the Jogye-jong Order, the largest Buddhist order in Korea.

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• The renowned Abel Prize in Mathematics was recently awarded to Japanese mathematician Masaki Kashiwara, recognized for his work in algebraic analysis, representation theory, and sheaf theory.
• About the Abel Prize:
  • The Abel Prize honors groundbreaking achievements in the field of mathematics.
  • It is named after Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel (1802-29), who made significant contributions to several areas of mathematics during his brief life.
  • Established by the Norwegian Parliament in 2002, the prize was created to mark the 200th anniversary of Abel’s birth.
  • The prize is awarded and administered by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters, representing the Norwegian government.
  • An expert committee, appointed by the Academy with advice from the International Mathematical Union (IMU) and the European Mathematical Society (EMS), selects the recipients.
  • First awarded in 2003, the Abel Prize is often regarded as the mathematics equivalent of the Nobel Prize, which does not have a category for mathematics. The Abel Prize is modeled similarly to the Nobel.
  • The award includes a monetary prize of 7.5 million kroner (approximately $720,000) and a glass plaque designed by Norwegian artist Henrik Haugan.

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• The Mahabodhi Temple was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, after he worshiped at the Bodhi tree, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment.
• The temple remained an important Buddhist site through the Pala dynasty and was visited by the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang in 629 AD.
• However, following the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji in the 13th century, Buddhism saw a decline in the region.
• The current structure of the Mahabodhi Temple dates back to the 5th–6th century CE, during the Late Gupta period, and is constructed entirely of brick.
• In 1590, a Hindu monk established the Bodh Gaya Mutt, which led to Hindu control over the temple.
• After India’s Independence, the Bodh Gaya Temple Act, 1949, transferred the control of the temple from the Hindu head to a shared management committee.
• Architectural Features:
  • The temple boasts a Shikhara, the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne), Chaitya niches, amalaka, kalasha, sculpted balustrades, and numerous Buddha images and votive stupas.
  • The Seven Sacred Sites associated with Buddha's seven weeks after his enlightenment are located nearby, including Animeshlochan Chaitya, Ratnachakrama, Lotus Pond, Ajapala Nigrodh Tree, and Ratnaghar Chaitya, marking key events of Buddha’s journey.

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• With the addition of the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra, India now has 14 entries in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. These join significant Indian manuscripts such as the Rig Veda, Gilgit Manuscript, Maitreyayvarakarana, and the works of Abhinavagupta. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) has also been added to this esteemed list.
• The Bhagavad Gita, composed between the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE, is part of the Mahabharata and comprises 700 verses. It is a philosophical dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, offering timeless spiritual and ethical guidance.
• The Natyashastra, attributed to Bharatmuni and codified around the 2nd century BCE, forms the foundation of Indian performing arts. Preserved at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, it covers drama, music, dance, and aesthetics.
• UNESCO’s programme, launched in 1992, aims to preserve and promote global documentary heritage of outstanding significance to humanity.

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• Why in News?
  • Sri Lanka is observing the sacred Poson Poya festival today, commemorating the arrival of Buddhism on the island over two millennia ago. Celebrated on the full moon day in June, Poson Poya holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for Sri Lankan Buddhists.
• Key Provisions:-
  • The festival marks the historic event when Arahat Mahinda, the son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, delivered the first Buddhist sermon to King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale, symbolizing the formal introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
  • Poson Poya emphasizes core Buddhist values, particularly Ahimsa or non-violence. In a world still grappling with conflict and division, the message of peace and compassion remains profoundly relevant. For Buddhists, this sacred day ranks just below Vesak in importance, and is often observed with pilgrimages, meditation, and acts of generosity.
  • The celebration serves as a reminder of Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and the enduring influence of Buddhist teachings on its national identity.

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• Why in News?
  • At the first annual Indian Knowledge System (IKS) conference, the Vice President emphasized that India's global ascent must be matched by the resurgence of its intellectual and cultural legacy.
• About Indian Knowledge System (IKS):-
  • IKS refers to the rich and diverse body of traditional Indian knowledge developed over centuries in fields such as science, astronomy, medicine, performing arts, and philosophy. Ancient texts in Sanskrit, Pali, Tamil, and other languages hold immense insights, seen in systems like Ayurveda, Yoga, and the concept of zero. Institutions like Nalanda and Takshashila once drew scholars worldwide. However, colonial influence diminished the value of indigenous knowledge, replacing it with Western-centric paradigms. This marginalization, alongside limited scholarly engagement, threatens IKS today. Yet, India is reclaiming this heritage through initiatives like the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library, IKS Initiative, and legal frameworks. IKS also enhances India's soft power through cultural diplomacy, global academic presence, and heritage tourism—signaling a renewed global role rooted in its civilizational wisdom.

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• Why in News?
  • India’s Maratha Military Landscape has been inscribed as the country’s 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural continuity, distinct architectural style, and deep-rooted historical relevance. This inclusion highlights India’s position as 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of the number of World Heritage Sites. The Archaeological Survey of India is the central body managing heritage-related affairs.
• Key Provisions:-
  • The Maratha Military Landscape comprises a strategic network of twelve forts from the 17th to 19th centuries CE, showcasing military foresight, regional adaptation, and architectural innovation. Spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the forts—such as Raigad, Pratapgad, Sindhudurg, and Gingee—are located in varied terrains, from hilltops to coastal areas.
  • World Heritage Sites must demonstrate outstanding universal value and fulfill at least one of ten selection criteria. Nominations are reviewed by ICOMOS and IUCN, with final decisions made by the World Heritage Committee, of which India is a member (2021–2025).

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• Why in News?
  • Prime Minister recently offered prayers at the iconic Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, a marvel of ancient Indian architecture and spiritual heritage.
• Key Provisions:-
  • Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, this temple stands as a prime example of the grandeur of Dravidian architecture from the Chola dynasty. Built around 1010 AD by the great Chola ruler Rajaraja Chola I, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, enshrined in the form of a massive ‘Lingam’.
  • The structure is adorned with intricate inscriptions and frescoes, chronicling the city’s vibrant history—from its glorious rise to periods of decline. It holds immense cultural significance and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
  • Brihadeeswara is one of the famed "Great Living Chola Temples," along with Gangaikondacholeeswaram and Airavatesvara temples, representing the zenith of Chola temple architecture and their enduring legacy in Tamil culture.

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• Why in News?
  • The winners of the 71st National Film Awards for the year 2023 were recently announced across various categories, recognizing outstanding contributions to Indian cinema.
• About the National Film Awards:
  • Established in 1954, the National Film Awards aim to honor films that make a significant impact on Indian cinema and reflect the nation’s cultural richness. These prestigious awards are presented annually by the President of India.
  • Key Winners – 2023:
    • Best Feature Film: 12th Fail
    • Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
    • Best Actress: Rani Mukerji (Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway)
    • Best Short Film: Giddh – The Scavenger
    • Best Non-Feature Film: Flowering Man
  • These awards continue to celebrate cinematic excellence, offering recognition to artists and filmmakers who shape India's vibrant storytelling tradition across diverse genres and languages.

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• Why in News?
  • The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell (USA), and Shimon Sakaguchi (Japan) for groundbreaking discoveries explaining how the body maintains immune balance through peripheral immune tolerance.
• Key Provisions:-
  • Their research focused on the peripheral immune system, which regulates immune responses outside the brain and spinal cord. In 1995, Sakaguchi identified regulatory T cells (Tregs)—a unique class of T-cells that suppress excessive immune reactions and prevent the body from attacking itself. This mechanism, termed peripheral tolerance, is vital for immune stability.
  • Brunkow and Ramsdell furthered this work by studying scurfy mice, which suffer from autoimmune disease, leading to the 2001 discovery of the FOXP3 gene. They demonstrated that FOXP3 governs Treg development, linking genetic control to immune regulation.
  • Their discoveries have transformed medical science, opening new avenues in cancer immunotherapy, autoimmune disease treatment, and organ transplant tolerance.