Mon Jan 13 02:40:00 UTC 2025: ## India’s Space Ambitions, Maha Kumbh Mela, and More: Daily News Roundup

**NEW DELHI** – India is on the cusp of a major space achievement as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) continues its ambitious satellite docking experiment. Two satellites, the Chaser and Target, came within three meters of each other yesterday before being separated for safety. A successful docking would place India among a select group of nations with this crucial technology, vital for future lunar missions.

Meanwhile, the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, has begun in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Millions of devotees are expected to attend the 40-day festival, held at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The event, costing the government ₹6,990 crore in infrastructure upgrades, is also projected to generate ₹25,000 crore in revenue. However, the government’s “Make in India” initiative faces challenges, with some departments opting for foreign brands for procurement despite the 2017 order.

Delhi’s upcoming elections have brought scrutiny to the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) flagship mohalla clinics. Data reveals a recent drop in clinic visits, attributed to drug shortages, though officials maintain the clinics remain popular.

On the global stage, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will represent India at Donald Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Amidst past trade tensions, the visit aims to maintain strong bilateral ties. Concerns remain regarding India’s innovation potential, with challenges cited in overcoming cultural barriers to risk-taking. A recent error in gold import figures caused government and industry upheaval, potentially leading to import duty hikes. Finally, Jubilant FoodWorks’ remarkable growth in the quick restaurant service sector is analyzed, exploring its future potential.

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