CURRENT AFFAIRS SUITABLE FOR ALL COMPETITIVE EXAMS IN INDIA
Upto February 21, 2025
1. Political Developments
- India Investigates Alleged Foreign Election Interference: Indian authorities are examining reports that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $21 million to influence Indian elections. This follows statements by U.S. President Donald Trump and a report by DOGE, led by Elon Musk. The Indian government has expressed deep concern over potential foreign interference in its internal affairs.
- Shiv Sena Raises Concerns Over Demographic Changes in Mumbai: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam has alleged that certain real estate developers are manipulating beneficiary lists to alter Mumbai’s demographic composition. He termed this alleged practice as ‘housing jihad’ and called for immediate government intervention.
- Orissa High Court Addresses Prolonged Undertrial Detentions: The Orissa High Court has ruled that detaining an accused individual as an undertrial for over six years violates fundamental rights. The court granted bail to a person accused of defrauding people of over ₹31 crore, emphasizing the need for timely justice.
- Supreme Court Criticizes Assam Government in Beef Transportation Case: The Supreme Court reprimanded the Assam government for its actions against an individual accused of transporting packaged raw meat, suggesting that the state should prioritize more pressing issues.
- Mizoram Government Proposes Amendment to Prohibition Law: The Mizoram government plans to introduce a bill amending the state’s prohibition law to regulate the sale of beer and wine. This move aims to address concerns related to alcohol consumption and its socio-economic impacts.
2. Economic Updates
- RBI to Inject ₹1 Trillion to Address Liquidity Deficit: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to infuse at least ₹1 trillion into the banking system by the end of March to address a liquidity deficit. This decision follows recent cash infusions and aims to ensure effective policy transmission by lenders.
- Monetary Policy Committee Shifts Focus to Economic Growth: Minutes from the latest Monetary Policy Committee meeting reveal a shift in focus towards boosting economic growth, as inflation trends towards the 4% target. The committee recently reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points to address the slowdown in growth.
- RBI Announces $10 Billion Forex Swap to Enhance Rupee Liquidity: The RBI has announced a $10 billion three-year dollar/rupee swap auction to enhance rupee liquidity in the banking system. This move aims to address significant cash deficits and stabilize the financial system.
- Apple Expands Manufacturing Operations in India: Apple Inc. has significantly increased its manufacturing footprint in India, with exports rising substantially. This expansion aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and aims to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing amid global trade tensions.
- India to Cap Investments in EV Charging Infrastructure: The Indian government plans to cap investments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at 5% for automakers seeking tariff relief. This policy aims to encourage manufacturers to focus on local EV production, especially as companies like Tesla consider entering the Indian market.
- Maruti Suzuki Shares Decline Amid Market Downturn: Shares of Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. fell by 0.94% to ₹12,320.15, underperforming the broader market. The decline is attributed to various market factors, including competitive pressures and economic uncertainties.
- Power Grid Corporation Shares Underperform: Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd.’s shares decreased by 1.52% to ₹261.75, lagging behind competitors. The underperformance is linked to sector-specific challenges and broader market trends.
- Rupee Faces Pressure from Importer Dollar Demand: The Indian rupee experienced fluctuations, initially rising before stabilizing due to increased dollar demand from importers. The currency traded at 86.6325 against the dollar, with forward premiums ticking up amid global financial developments.
3. Environmental Concerns
- Cheetah and Cubs Released into Kuno National Park: In Madhya Pradesh, a cheetah and her four cubs have been released into the wild at Kuno National Park. This initiative is part of India’s efforts to reintroduce cheetahs into their natural habitat and boost biodiversity.
- South Sudan Closes Schools Amid Heatwave: South Sudan has temporarily closed schools due to an intense heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 42°C. The decision aims to protect students from health risks associated with extreme heat.
4. Social Issues
- ‘India’s Got Latent’ Show Faces Legal Challenges: YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani has filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking to quash or transfer an FIR filed against him in Guwahati. The case pertains to alleged obscenity on the show ‘India’s Got Latent,’ which also names podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia as a key accused.
- Zomato Under Scrutiny for Ticket Sales Practices: The Maharashtra Cyber Cell is preparing to issue a show-cause notice to Zomato for selling concert tickets without buyer identification. The investigation focuses on the sale of tickets for Honey Singh’s ‘Millionaire India Tour.’
- Indians Among Migrants Detained in Panama: Reports indicate that Indian nationals are among over 300 migrants detained in a hotel in Panama. Authorities state that more than 40% of the migrants are unwilling to voluntarily return to their home countries, highlighting challenges in international migration and repatriation.
5. Defense and Security
- Supreme Court Criticizes Assam Government in Beef Transportation Case: The Supreme Court reprimanded the Assam government for its actions against an individual accused of transporting packaged raw meat, suggesting that the state should prioritize more pressing issues.
- Mizoram Government Proposes Amendment to Prohibition Law: The Mizoram government plans to introduce a bill amending the state’s prohibition law to regulate the sale of beer and wine.
Upto Feb 20, 2025
1. Political Developments
- Rekha Gupta Appointed as Delhi Chief Minister: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has named Rekha Gupta as the new Chief Minister of Delhi. A first-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Gupta was sworn in during a ceremony at Ramlila Maidan, with over 25,000 security personnel ensuring the event’s safety. In her inaugural cabinet meeting, she approved the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Delhi, marking a significant policy shift from the previous administration.
- Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Sentenced: Manikrao Kokate, Maharashtra’s Agriculture Minister, has been sentenced to two years in prison for a forgery case dating back to 1995. The case involved the submission of fake documents to obtain flats under a government quota.
- Assam Congress MP Attacked: Rakibul Hussain, a Congress Member of Parliament from Assam, was attacked by a mob in Nagaon district. While Hussain escaped unhurt, his personal security officers sustained minor injuries. Security has been heightened in the area following the incident.
2. Economic Updates
- RBI Projects Economic Boost: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) anticipates an economic boost from increased rural demand and government-announced tax reliefs supporting urban consumption. The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced significant income tax reliefs, expected to enhance disposable incomes and stimulate consumption. The RBI forecasts a growth rate of 6.7% for the fiscal year 2025-26.
- Samsung Seeks Government Intervention: Samsung India has approached the Tamil Nadu state government, alleging disruptions at its Chennai plant due to ongoing labor strikes. The company seeks intervention to resolve the issues and ensure smooth operations.
- Highways Infrastructure Trust Secures Funding: The Highways Infrastructure Trust has secured ₹8,000 crore in debt financing. The funds will be utilized for the Toll, Operate, and Transfer (TOT) functioning of a 251 km stretch on the Hyderabad-Nagpur corridor of NH-44 in Telangana, along with 12 other road projects.
- Extension of Chief Economic Adviser’s Term: The government has extended the term of Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran by two years, until March 2027. Nageswaran has been instrumental in shaping economic policies and recently projected a GDP growth of 6.3%-6.8% for the upcoming fiscal year.
- Impact of Reciprocal Tariffs on Indian Economy: Following recent trade discussions, concerns have emerged regarding the potential impact of reciprocal tariffs on India’s economy. Analysts suggest that while certain sectors may face challenges, the overall effect on the Indian rupee is expected to be minimal.
3. Environmental Concerns
- Karnataka Anticipates Above-Normal Pre-Monsoon Rainfall: The Karnataka state government has announced expectations of above-normal rainfall during the upcoming pre-monsoon season. This forecast follows higher-than-usual temperatures experienced in February.
- Gujarat Revises Construction Rules Near Asiatic Lion Habitat: The Gujarat government has revised regulations concerning construction activities near the Asiatic lion habitat. The new rules have sparked concerns among environmentalists about potential impacts on the endangered species’ ecosystem.
4. Social Issues
- Arunachal Pradesh Clarifies Anti-Conversion Law: Chief Minister Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh stated that the state’s anti-conversion law is not intended to target any specific religion. The clarification comes amid discussions on religious freedom and the law’s implications.
- Delhi Cabinet Ministers Face Criminal Cases: A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that five of the seven newly sworn-in Delhi cabinet ministers, including Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, have declared criminal cases against them. The findings are based on self-sworn affidavits submitted ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly Elections.
- Odisha Police Arrest KIIT Staff: Five staff members of the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha have been arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students during a hostel vacating process. The incident has raised concerns about campus safety and the treatment of international students.
- Seizure of Books in Kashmir: Indian authorities have conducted raids in several bookstores in Kashmir, seizing over 650 books associated with the banned organization Jamaat-e-Islami. The action is part of a broader crackdown on dissent in the region.
5. Defense and Security
- Army Chief Asserts Stance on LoC: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that India is prepared to adopt an assertive posture along the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. He emphasized that while India seeks peace, it is ready to respond aggressively if provoked.
- Four Maoists Killed in Madhya Pradesh: In a gun battle in Madhya Pradesh’s Balaghat area, four Maoists were killed by security forces. Weapons, including an INSAS rifle and a self-loading rifle, were recovered from the scene.
6. Cultural Events
- Divya Kala Mela Inaugurated in Jammu: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, along with Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar, inaugurated the 24th Divya Kala Mela in Jammu. The event showcases products made by artisans with disabilities, promoting their talent and entrepreneurship.
- Kashi Tamil Sangamam Celebrations: The Kashi Tamil Sangamam commenced, celebrating the timeless civilizational bonds between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu. The forum brings together the spiritual, cultural, and historical connections that have flourished for centuries between the two regions.
- Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Achieves Historic Milestone: The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has witnessed an unprecedented turnout, with over 500 million devotees participating in the holy dip, marking the largest congregation in human history for any religious, cultural, or social event.
7. Legal and Judicial Updates
- Appointment of New Judges to Delhi High Court: The President of India has appointed judicial officers Renu Bhatnagar and Rajneesh Kumar Gupta as judges of the Delhi High Court. This decision follows the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation on February 5, 2025. The appointments aim to strengthen the judiciary and expedite the resolution of pending cases. Department of Justice
- Supreme Court Reserves Verdict on Modification of Arbitral Awards: A five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on whether courts possess the authority to modify arbitral awards under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. The bench, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, heard extensive arguments regarding the interpretation of Section 34 of the Act, which permits courts to set aside awards but does not explicitly grant modification powers. The forthcoming verdict is anticipated to have significant implications for arbitration proceedings in India.
Upto February 18, 2025
1. Political Developments
- Appointment of New Chief Election Commissioner: Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India. His selection was made by a committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Union Home Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition. Kumar succeeds Rajiv Kumar, who recently retired from the position.
- Supreme Court Seeks Data on Pending Bail Appeals: The Supreme Court has directed High Courts to provide data on individuals incarcerated without bail due to pending appeals. This move aims to address prolonged detentions and expedite the judicial process for undertrial prisoners.
2. Economic Updates
- Consideration to Raise Bank Deposit Insurance Limit: The government is actively deliberating an increase in the bank deposit insurance coverage beyond the current ₹5 lakh. This discussion follows recent restrictions placed on withdrawals from New India Co-operative Bank, highlighting depositor concerns.
- Indian Stock Market Downturn: The Indian stock market has experienced a notable decline, with key indices entering bear market territory. The BSE Sensex has fallen approximately 7.5% since mid-December, influenced by significant withdrawals from foreign portfolio investors redirecting funds to other markets.
- Call to Lift Ban on Broken Rice Exports: Industry representatives have urged the government to lift the ban on exporting 100% broken rice. With domestic rice stocks reaching a record 67.6 million metric tons, allowing exports could alleviate surplus and support global markets in need of affordable grain.
- Rupee’s Performance Tied to Global Factors: The Indian rupee’s valuation is expected to respond to global currency movements and trade policy developments. Recent interventions by the Reserve Bank of India have aimed to stabilize the currency amidst fluctuating international market conditions.
3. Environmental Concerns
- Postponement of National Winter Games in Kashmir: The national winter games scheduled in Gulmarg, Kashmir, have been postponed due to insufficient snowfall. Unseasonably warm temperatures have led to inadequate snow cover, impacting winter sports and raising broader concerns about climate change effects in the region.
- Impact of Urbanization on Dragonfly Species in Pune: Studies indicate that rapid urbanization in Pune is adversely affecting local dragonfly populations. Habitat loss and pollution are contributing to the decline of these vital bioindicators, emphasizing the need for sustainable urban planning.
4. Social Issues
- Controversy Over ‘India’s Got Latent’ Show: The show ‘India’s Got Latent’ has sparked debates after participants, including comedians and content creators, faced legal actions over alleged inappropriate remarks. The situation has ignited discussions on freedom of expression and the boundaries of comedic content in India.
- Protests Against BPSC Examination Process: In Patna, protests have erupted over alleged irregularities in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examination process. Educators and students are demanding transparency and reforms to ensure fair assessment and selection procedures.
5. Defense and Security
- Completion of Aero India 2025: The Aero India 2025 event in Bengaluru concluded successfully, showcasing advanced military aircraft and defense technologies. Notably, both Russian and American fighter jets were displayed, highlighting India’s diversified defense partnerships.
- India’s Strategic Manufacturing Shift: India is witnessing a significant shift in manufacturing, with major companies like Apple relocating production facilities to the country. This move aims to reduce dependence on traditional manufacturing hubs and strengthen India’s position in the global supply chain.
6. Cultural Events
- Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Achieves Historic Milestone: The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has witnessed an unprecedented turnout, with over 500 million devotees participating in the holy dip, marking the largest congregation in human history for any religious, cultural, or social event.
- Water Quality Concerns at Maha Kumbh Mela: Recent assessments have revealed that the river water at the Maha Kumbh Mela site in Prayagraj fails to meet bathing quality standards, with high levels of fecal coliform detected. Authorities are addressing the issue to ensure the safety and health of the pilgrims.
7. Legal and Judicial Updates
- Supreme Court Seeks Data on Pending Bail Appeals: The Supreme Court has directed High Courts to provide data on individuals incarcerated without bail due to pending appeals. This initiative aims to address prolonged detentions and expedite the judicial process for undertrial prisoners.
- Supreme Court Postpones ‘Places of Worship’ Case: The Supreme Court has deferred the hearing of the ‘Places of Worship’ case, noting that the central government has yet to file its response. The case pertains to the preservation of religious character of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947.
8. Infrastructure and Development
- Railways to Implement Crowd-Control Measures: In response to the recent stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, the Indian Railways has announced plans to establish permanent holding areas at up to 60 high-traffic stations. These measures aim to manage crowds effectively and prevent similar incidents in the future.
- Expansion of Bank Deposit Insurance Coverage: The government is considering increasing the bank deposit insurance limit from the current ₹5 lakh. This move aims to bolster depositor confidence, especially in light of recent restrictions on certain cooperative banks.
9. Miscellaneous
- India’s Cricketing Aspirations: Despite its financial dominance in the cricketing world, India faces challenges in translating its resources into consistent international tournament victories. The nation is focusing on strategic planning and player development to enhance its performance on the global stage.
- Preparations for ICC Champions Trophy: The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy features eight teams, with matches scheduled across various locations. India, placed in Group A, is set to play its matches in Dubai due to political tensions with the host nation, Pakistan. The tournament commences on February 19, 2025, with the final slated for March 9, 2025.
Latest Supreme Court directive regarding the controversy over the India’s Got Latent show:
The Supreme Court granted interim protection from arrest to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps) over multiple FIRs filed against him for alleged obscene remarks on the show.
However, the Court imposed several conditions:
Ban on content creation: Allahbadia and his team cannot air new shows on YouTube or other platforms until further notice.
Mandatory cooperation: He must cooperate with ongoing police investigations in Thane (Maharashtra) and Guwahati (Assam).
Travel restriction: He must surrender his passport and is barred from leaving the country without prior permission.
During the hearing, a Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh called Allahbadia’s remarks “very dirty” and criticized the lack of accountability in digital content. The Court further asked the Union Government to regulate obscene content on platforms like YouTube, indicating a possible policy intervention.
The ruling highlights judicial scrutiny of online content and the growing legal framework around digital free speech and decency laws in India.
Upto Feb 16, 2025
Economic Developments
- Aviva India’s Tax Penalty: Indian authorities have imposed a $7.5 million tax penalty on Aviva’s local unit for allegedly creating fake invoices to pay illegal commissions and claiming incorrect tax credits. Aviva India plans to appeal the decision.
- RBI’s Liquidity Infusion: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced plans to inject over ₹1.3 lakh crore into the banking system next week to manage large outflows due to tax payments. This move aims to maintain liquidity and ensure financial stability.
- Rupee Strengthens Amid RBI Intervention: The Indian rupee experienced its most significant weekly rise in seven months, closing at 86.8225 per U.S. dollar. This appreciation is attributed to the RBI’s substantial intervention in the foreign exchange market, aiming to stabilize the currency.
- SBI’s Perpetual Bonds Issuance: The State Bank of India (SBI) is set to raise approximately ₹5,000 crore through Basel III-compliant additional Tier-I perpetual bonds by the end of February. This marks the first such issuance by any lender in over three months.
- Foreign Investment in Indian Bonds: After a record high of ₹1.24 lakh crore in foreign inflows into Indian government bonds in 2024, projections for 2025 suggest a moderation in these investments. Factors influencing this trend include anticipated interest rate cuts by the RBI and potential currency fluctuations.
- Potential Safeguard Duty on Chinese Steel: India is considering imposing a temporary safeguard duty ranging from 15% to 25% on inexpensive Chinese steel imports within the next six months. This measure aims to protect the domestic steel industry from unfair trade practices and market distortions.
- Private Banks Face Increased Loan Defaults: Indian private sector banks anticipate a rise in defaults on small and personal loans continuing until mid-2025, primarily due to slower economic growth. However, the short duration of these loans and stricter lending regulations are expected to mitigate long-term impacts on asset quality.
- Union Budget 2025 Highlights: The Union Budget for 2025 introduced several key reforms:
- Taxation: Income up to ₹12 lakh is now exempt from income tax under the new regime. The standard deduction has been increased to ₹75,000.
- Agriculture: Initiatives like the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and enhanced credit facilities aim to support farmers and boost self-reliance in pulse production.
- Science and Innovation: An allocation of ₹20,000 crore is designated for private sector-driven research and development, alongside the introduction of the PM Research Fellowship.
- Export Promotion: Exemptions and incentives are provided for sectors such as electronics, electric vehicles, and shipbuilding to enhance global competitiveness.
2. Environmental Concerns
- Warmer February Poses Risk to Wheat Crop: India is bracing for above-average temperatures in February, with forecasts indicating potential increases of up to 5°C in key wheat-growing regions. This unseasonal warmth raises concerns about crop yields and could impact the nation’s food security.
3. Social Issues
- Deportation of Indian Nationals from the U.S.: A U.S. aircraft carrying 119 Indian deportees has landed in Amritsar. This marks the second batch of Indian illegal immigrants deported by the U.S. administration as part of its crackdown on illegal migration.
- New Delhi Railway Station Stampede: A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Initial reports suggest overcrowding and mismanagement as potential causes. Authorities are conducting investigations to determine the exact circumstances.
- Maha Kumbh Mela Fire Incident: A fire broke out at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, leading to property damage but no reported casualties. This incident follows a previous blaze reported two days earlier in different camps at the event.
- Bengaluru Metro Fare Hike Protests: In response to the recent fare hike of the Bengaluru Metro, protests erupted in the city. An FIR has been filed against 16 individuals for demonstrating against the state government’s decision.
- UP Woman Alleges In-Laws Injected Her with HIV-Infected Syringe: A woman in Uttar Pradesh has accused her in-laws of injecting her with an HIV-infected syringe over dowry disputes. A case has been registered against four individuals, including her husband and brother-in-law.
4. Cultural Events
- Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Achieves Historic Milestone: The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has witnessed an unprecedented turnout, with over 500 million devotees participating in the holy dip, marking the largest congregation in human history for any religious, cultural, or social event.
- Nita Ambani Honored with Governor’s Citation: Nita Ambani has been conferred with the Governor’s Citation by the Governor of Massachusetts. This honor recognizes her lifelong dedication to transformative impact across education, healthcare, sports, arts, culture, and women’s empowerment.
5. Defense and Security
- Completion of Aero India 2025: The Aero India 2025 event in Bengaluru concluded successfully, showcasing advanced military aircraft and defense technologies. Notably, both Russian and American fighter jets were displayed, highlighting India’s diversified defense partnerships.
- India-Afghanistan Trade Relations: Discussions are underway to enhance trade relations between India and Afghanistan, focusing on increasing bilateral trade volumes and exploring new avenues for economic cooperation.
Upto February 14, 2025
1. Economic Developments
- RBI Supersedes Board of New India Co-operative Bank: The Reserve Bank of India has taken control of the board of New India Co-operative Bank for a period of 12 months, appointing an administrator to manage its affairs. This action aims to protect depositors’ interests amid concerns over the bank’s financial health.
- January Wholesale Inflation Steady at 2.31%: India’s wholesale price inflation remained stable at 2.31% year-on-year in January, slightly down from 2.37% in December. The moderation in food prices, particularly vegetables, contributed to this steadiness, while manufactured products saw a marginal increase in prices.
- Introduction of the Income-tax Bill, 2025: The government has introduced the Income-tax Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to replace the Income-tax Act of 1961. The new bill seeks to simplify the direct tax system, reduce compliance burdens, and make tax laws more comprehensible.
- RBI Enhances Liquidity Measures: To manage anticipated outflows due to upcoming tax payments, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced plans to inject over ₹1.3 lakh crore into the banking system through open market operations and variable rate repo auctions.
2. International Relations
- India-France AI Action Summit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on open-source AI development, sustainability, and creating job opportunities through skill development. The leaders reviewed the ‘Horizon 2047’ Roadmap, marking 25 years of their strategic partnership.
- India-U.S. Defense Partnership Expansion: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington, D.C., discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump led to plans for increased defense cooperation, including potential sales of advanced military equipment such as F-35 fighter jets to India.
- Trade Negotiations and Tariff Reductions: In an effort to strengthen economic ties, India has agreed to reduce tariffs on certain American products, including a significant cut on bourbon whiskey tariffs from 150% to 100%, addressing longstanding U.S. concerns over trade imbalances.
3. Environmental Concerns
- Unloading of Union Carbide Waste in Madhya Pradesh: The process of unloading toxic waste from the Union Carbide plant has commenced in a town in Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to address long-standing environmental and health concerns stemming from the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy.
4. Social Issues
- Challenges in Malaria Vaccination: As malaria elimination becomes more achievable, challenges in vaccination efforts have emerged. Issues such as vaccine accessibility, distribution logistics, and public awareness are critical factors that need to be addressed to ensure successful immunization campaigns.
5. Defense and Security
- Aero India 2025 Concludes: The 15th edition of Aero India concluded in Bengaluru, showcasing advanced military aircraft and defense technologies. Notably, the event featured the Russian Su-57 and American F-35 fighter jets, highlighting India’s strategic defense partnerships.
6. Political Developments
- Supreme Court Ruling on Legislative Authority: The Supreme Court has ruled that the judiciary cannot direct the legislature to enact or amend laws in a specific manner, emphasizing the separation of powers and the autonomy of the legislative process.
Upto Feb 13, 2025
1. Political Developments
- India Imposes Presidents’s Rule in Manipur: The Indian central government has taken direct control of Manipur following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid ongoing ethnic violence. The decision was based on a report from the Manipur governor and other pertinent information. The unrest has been exacerbated by an influx of refugees from Myanmar.
2. International Relations
- Prime Minister Modi’s U.S. Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to strengthen bilateral ties and address trade issues. Discussions will focus on avoiding new U.S. tariffs on Indian goods and deepening cooperation in technology, trade, defense, and energy.
- India’s Stance on Russian Oil Imports: India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, has increased procurement of discounted Russian oil following Western sanctions. However, secondary U.S. sanctions have complicated logistics, prompting India to insist that Russian suppliers provide sanction-compliant cargo.
3. Economic Updates
- India’s Economic Growth Outlook: India’s economic growth is slowing, posing challenges to the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Structural reforms in labor laws, land policies, and workforce skill development, especially for women, are needed to accelerate growth.
4. Science and Technology
- Increased Budget for Gaganyaan Mission: India has raised the budget for its Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission to $2.32 billion. The mission aims to send a crewed capsule into orbit and return it safely to Earth, with plans for a national space station by 2035 and a Moon mission by 2040.
5. Defense and Security
- Aero India 2025 Airshow: In Bengaluru, Russian Su-57 Felon and American Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets were showcased at the Aero India 2025 airshow. This highlights India’s strategic balancing between Russian and Western defense partnerships.
6. Social Issues
- Indians Tricked into Fighting for Russia in Ukraine: Reports indicate that Indian citizens were deceived into joining the Russian army after being promised job opportunities in Poland or non-combat positions. Some have died on the front lines, straining India-Russia relations.
7. Cultural Events
- Nita Ambani’s Keynote at Harvard University: Nita Ambani is set to deliver a keynote address at the Annual India Conference at Harvard University. The event will focus on India’s global influence in business, policy, and culture.
Upto February 12, 2025
1. Political Developments
- Delhi Legislative Assembly Election Results: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a two-thirds majority in the Delhi Legislative Assembly election held on February 5, 2025, marking its return to power in the Union Territory after 27 years. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which had governed Delhi for the past decade, faced a significant defeat, with several prominent leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, losing their seats.
- Resignation of Manipur Chief Minister: On February 9, 2025, N. Biren Singh resigned as the Chief Minister of Manipur amid ongoing ethnic violence in the state. His resignation came after 20 months of intermittent unrest.
2. Economic Updates
- MSCI Index Rebalancing: MSCI announced the addition of Hyundai Motor India to its Global Standard index and the removal of Adani Green Energy as part of its February 2025 index rebalancing. These changes will take effect on February 28, 2025.
- Fiscal Deficit Target: In the recent budget, India set a fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of its GDP for the fiscal year 2025-26, down from a revised 4.8% for the current year. The government plans to increase gross borrowing to 14.82 trillion rupees to fund the deficit.
3. Environmental Concerns
- Delayed Climate Action Plan Submission: India is set to miss the February deadline to submit its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the UN Paris Agreement. The delay is attributed to unfinished studies on emission trajectories and roadmaps.
- Warmer February Predicted: The India Meteorological Department forecasts above-average temperatures for February 2025, following a warmer-than-normal January. This trend poses a threat to winter crops such as wheat, rapeseed, and chickpeas, especially in key agricultural states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
4. International Relations
- Prime Minister Modi’s U.S. Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United States from February 12 to 13, 2025, following an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump. The discussions are expected to focus on immigration, trade, and security issues.
- UK-India Young Professionals Scheme 2025: The ballot for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) 2025, offering 3,000 Indian nationals the opportunity to live, study, travel, and work in the UK for up to two years, will open in February 2025.
5. Cultural Events
- Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has witnessed a massive turnout, with over 7.3 million devotees participating in the Maghi Purnima Snan on February 12, 2025. The event, which began on January 13 and will conclude on February 26, is expected to attract up to 400 million visitors.
- MoHUA’s ‘Culinary, Crafts & Clicks’ Festival: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), in partnership with MyGov, has launched the ‘Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic’ festival to showcase India’s cultural richness through food, traditional arts, and photography.
6. Defense and Security
- Completion of Mehar Baba Competition-II: The Indian Air Force announced the successful completion of the Mehar Baba Competition-II, aimed at fostering innovation in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
- India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘CYCLONE-III’: India and Egypt commenced the ‘CYCLONE-III’ joint special forces exercise in Rajasthan, focusing on counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and other special operations.
7. Science and Technology
- Analysis of Union Budget 2025-26 Impact on Scientific Research: The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated increased funding for scientific research, emphasizing innovation and development in sectors like biotechnology, space exploration, and renewable energy.
- India-France AI Summit: India and France are set to co-host an Artificial Intelligence Summit to collaborate on advancements in AI technology, focusing on ethical AI, research partnerships, and applications in healthcare and agriculture.
8. Social Issues
- PM-VIKAS Initiative: The Prime Minister’s Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman (PM-VIKAS) initiative has been launched to support traditional artisans and craftsmen through skill development, financial assistance, and market linkages.
- Global Corruption Index 2024: Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks India at 96th position, highlighting ongoing challenges in governance and the need for strengthened anti-corruption measures.
9. Environmental Studies
- Kiwis Rethink Deep-Sea Mining Ban: New Zealand is reconsidering its stance on deep-sea mining, balancing economic interests with environmental concerns and the protection of marine ecosystems.
- Study on Earth’s Inner Core: Recent research indicates that Earth’s inner core is changing shape, which could have implications for our understanding of planetary dynamics and geomagnetic processes.
10. Sports
- 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) 2025: The 14AFAF 2025 is focusing on advancing sustainable fisheries in the Asia-Pacific region, addressing challenges like overfishing, climate change, and the promotion of aquaculture innovations.
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