Current Affairs

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Guru Ravidas Jayanti – February 12, 2025

Guru Ravidas Jayanti is a significant festival celebrated in North India, particularly in Punjab, to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas, a renowned saint and poet. Also known as Bhagat Ravidas, he was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement and is revered for his teachings on equality, human rights, and devotion.

Guru Ravidas was born in 1377 CE in the village of Seer Govardhanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Despite his humble origins, he dedicated his life to spreading messages of social reform and spiritual enlightenment. His poetry is included in the Guru Granth Sahib, and he was recognized as a spiritual guide by Meera Bai.

The festival is observed on the full moon day (Purnima Tithi) in the month of Magh, which falls on February 12, 2025 this year. Devotees celebrate by singing Gurbani, performing special prayers, and organizing Nagarkirtans (processions). A grand celebration is held at the Shri Guru Ravidass Janam Asthan Mandir in Seer Govardhanpur, Varanasi.

Indian Students Win Bronze at Global Best M-Gov Award 2025 for ‘AccessWay’ App

Three Indian computer science students from Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology, New Delhi, won the Bronze Award at the Global Best M-Gov Award 2025 on February 11, 2025, during the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai. The award recognizes innovative technological solutions that enhance mobile government services and social progress.

The winning team, comprising Sagar Teotia (team lead), Abhinav Mishra, and Anushka Singh, received a cash prize of $10,000 for their AI-powered application, ‘AccessWay’. The app integrates augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and crowdsourced data to provide accessible navigation, social connections, and emergency tools for individuals with disabilities. It features personalized route planning, real-time voice assistance, and community-driven mapping of accessible spaces, promoting social inclusion and accessibility.

Presented by Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, the award was part of a global competition with 3,500 entries from 74 countries. The M-Gov Award and GovTech Award, prestigious honors from the UAE government, aim to inspire students, researchers, and companies to develop sustainable, technology-driven solutions for global challenges.

United States impose a 25% tariffs on Steel and Aluminum imports

The United States announced it will impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports starting from February 11, 2025. This decision aims to protect American industries and boost domestic production but has led to negative reactions in financial markets and concerns about global trade tensions.

Key allies like Canada and Mexico are affected and have warned of potential retaliation. The tariffs are expected to impact industries such as automotive and manufacturing that rely on imported metals, while the US administration argues it will strengthen national security and economic stability.

President Murmu takes holy dip at Triveni Sangam during Maha Kumbh

On February 10, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu visited Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, where she took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam. She was welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Before the holy dip, she fed migratory birds, emphasizing her reverence for nature. She then visited the Akshayavat tree, a sacred symbol in Hinduism, and offered prayers at the Bade Hanuman Temple.

President Murmu also explored the Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre, which provides a virtual experience of the Kumbh Mela. Her visit was historic, following the legacy of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, who had also taken a holy dip at a previous Kumbh.

After an eight-hour visit, she returned to New Delhi by 5:45 P.M., marking a significant moment in the spiritual and cultural history of the Maha Kumbh.

India Energy Week 2025 (IEW’25) from February 11 to 14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi

The India Energy Week 2025 (IEW’25) is set to take place from February 11 to 14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi. This flagship event, organized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, is one of the largest energy events globally, attracting over 700 exhibitors and 70,000 delegates.

IEW’25 will feature 10 country-specific pavilions and 8 thematic zones, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the energy sector. Key highlights include the participation of 20+ Foreign Energy Ministers, 90 CEOs from Fortune 500 energy companies, and 250 speakers from across the international energy value chain.

The event will focus on energy security, affordability, and sustainability, with special emphasis on green hydrogen technologies, solar innovations, and advanced exploration techniques. A dedicated Sustainable Mobility Pavilion will display 15 cutting-edge vehicle models from 10 manufacturers, promoting a “People-Centric Mobility Ecosystem”.

IEW’25 will also host a Clean Cooking Ministerial on the sidelines, aiming to accelerate the global adoption of clean cooking solutions. The event is expected to foster international collaboration, drive policy discussions, and facilitate technology sharing to ensure clean, affordable, and accessible cooking energy for households worldwide.

With its comprehensive agenda and unparalleled global participation, IEW’25 is poised to be a pivotal platform for shaping the future of the global energy landscape.

India’s first indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, “Sṛjanam”, at AIIMS New Delhi

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched India’s first indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, “Sṛjanam”, at AIIMS New Delhi on 10 February 2025. Developed by CSIR-NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram, this pioneering technology aims to transform biomedical waste management in healthcare facilities.

The Sṛjanam rig disinfects pathogenic biomedical waste such as blood, urine, and laboratory disposables without using incinerators, reducing environmental impact. It also neutralizes foul odors, replacing them with a pleasant fragrance. With an initial capacity of 400 kg per day, it processes 10 kg of degradable medical waste daily.

Dr. Singh emphasized India’s shift from “fragile five” to “First Five” in economic growth and highlighted the rig’s role in sustainability and waste-to-wealth transformation.

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s First President and Independence Leader, Passes Away at 95

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first democratically elected president and independence leader, passed away at age 95 on February 8, 2025. A guerrilla leader and activist, he led SWAPO and played a key role in Namibia’s liberation from apartheid South Africa, becoming president on March 21, 1990.

Recognized as the “Founding Father of the Namibian Nation”, Nujoma promoted national reconciliation and democratic institutions but faced criticism for media suppression, opposition to homosexuality, and a constitutional amendment enabling his third term.

His presidency (1990-2005) shaped Namibia’s post-independence governance, though autocratic tendencies and suppression of the 1999 Caprivi rebellion tainted his legacy. A longtime ally of Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, he backed land reforms in Zimbabwe while adopting a “willing buyer, willing seller” approach at home.

Born in 1929, Nujoma fought apartheid, led a guerrilla war, and petitioned the United Nations for independence. SWAPO won the 1989 elections, making him president in 1990. His leadership laid the foundation for Namibia’s stability and regional partnerships.

Aero India Show 2025: Aviation & Defence Exhibition in Bengaluru (Feb 10-14)

The Aero India Show 2025, a biennial air show and aviation exhibition, is being held in Bengaluru from February 10 to 14, 2025. Inaugurated by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the event highlights India’s defence capabilities, aerospace innovations, and global collaborations.

Key Highlights:

Theme: “Runway to a Billion Opportunities”, emphasizing Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Viksit Bharat 2047.

Exhibitors: 900 exhibitors spread across 42,000 square meters.

International Participation: Defence ministers from 30 countries, Air Chiefs and Defence Secretaries from 43 countries attending.

Aircraft Displays:

  • Foreign aircraft: Russian Su-57, American F-35 Lightning II.
  • Indigenous aircraft: Tejas (LCA), Prachand (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter, and C-295 transport aircraft.
  • New Prototype: ADA showcased a fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Defence Ministers’ Conclave: A strategic discussion platform for global defence cooperation.

Aerospace Startups & MSMEs: Opportunities for joint ventures and collaborations with international manufacturers.

The largest aerospace event in Asia, Aero India 2025, is a landmark platform for advancing India’s aerospace sector and strengthening global defence ties.

India-Egypt Joint Military Exercise ‘Cyclone 2025’ Begins in Rajasthan on 10 Feb 2025

The third edition of the India-Egypt joint military exercise “Cyclone 2025” commenced on 10 February 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan. The 14-day exercise aims to enhance defence cooperation, share professional skills, and improve special forces interoperability in desert environments.

Key Highlights:

  • Focus Areas: Counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, raids, sniping, combat free fall, surveillance, and target designation.
  • Indian Contingent: Personnel from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
  • Egyptian Contingent: Egyptian Commando Squadron and Egyptian Airborne Platoon.
  • Strengthened military cooperation between India and Egypt, emphasizing security collaboration.

BJP Returns to Power in Delhi After 27 Years, Defeats AAP in Assembly Elections

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a decisive victory in the Delhi Assembly Election on 8 February 2025, returning to power after 27 years by defeating the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

  • BJP won 48 seats in the 70-member assembly, while AAP secured 22 seats.
  • Congress failed to win a single seat, getting wiped out from the polls.
  • A party needs 35 seats to form the government in Delhi.

Key Winners:

✅ BJP: Parvesh Sahib Singh (New Delhi), Vijender Gupta (Rohini), Kapil Misra (Karawal Nagar), Manjinder Singh Sirsa (Rajouri Garden), and others.
✅ AAP: Atishi (Kalkaji), Gopal Rai (Babarpur), Imran Hussain (Ballimaran), Sahi Ram (Tughlakabad), and others.

Notable Defeats:

❌ AAP: Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Saurabh Bhardwaj.
❌ Congress: Sandeep Dikshit.
❌ BJP: Ramesh Bidhuri, Raaj Kumar Anand.

RBI Cuts Repo Rate After 5 Years, Announces Financial and Digital Security Measures

On 7 February 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the policy repo rate by 25 basis points, from 6.50% to 6.25%, marking the first rate cut in nearly five years. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra made the announcement after a three-day Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in Mumbai. As a result:

  • Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate is now 6.00%
  • Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate remain at 6.50%
  • The MPC has maintained a ‘neutral’ stance, focusing on controlling inflation while supporting growth

The last rate cut was in May 2020, and the most recent revision was in February 2023, when the repo rate was raised to 6.50%.

Economic and Inflation Projections

  • Real GDP growth for FY 2024-25 is projected at 6.4% (earlier 6.6%)
  • Real GDP for FY 2025-26 revised from 6.9% to 6.7% due to global uncertainties
  • CPI Inflation for FY 2024-25 estimated at 4.8%, with Q4 at 4.4%
  • CPI Inflation for FY 2025-26 projected at 4.2% (assuming normal monsoon)

Key Announcements

Banking Security Measures: RBI will launch ‘bank.in’ as an exclusive Internet domain for Indian banks, starting April 2025. A ‘fin.in’ domain for the financial sector will follow

Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA) to be extended to international digital payments : Banks and NBFCs advised to strengthen cybersecurity measures and incident response mechanisms

Financial Literacy & Market Reforms: Financial Literacy Week (starting 24 February 2025) will focus on women’s financial decision-making with the theme “Financial Literacy: Women’s Prosperity”

A working group will review trading and settlement timings for RBI-regulated markets and submit a report by 30 April 2025

This repo rate cut signals RBI’s confidence in moderating inflation while ensuring sustained economic growth.

India Surpasses 100 Giga Watt (GW) of Installed Solar Power Capacity

India has surpassed 100 Giga Watt (GW) of installed solar power capacity, marking a historic milestone and reinforcing its position as a global leader in renewable energy. This achievement aligns with the nation’s commitment to a cleaner future and the ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030, set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted India’s inspiring energy journey over the past decade, noting the transformative impact of solar panels, solar parks, and rooftop solar projects. India has also seen a significant increase in solar manufacturing capacity, growing from 2 GW in 2014 to 60 GW in 2024.

This progress emphasizes India’s strides toward self-reliance and leadership in green energy, setting an example for the world.

PM Modi visit France and the United States from February 10 to 12

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit France and the United States from February 10 to 12, focusing on artificial intelligence, defense, trade, and strategic partnerships. In Paris, he will co-chair the AI Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, discussing ethical AI governance and global regulatory frameworks. He will also visit Marseille to pay tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery and inaugurate a new Indian consulate.

From France, Modi will travel to Washington for his first meeting with US President Donald Trump since Trump’s second-term inauguration. The talks will cover trade, defense collaboration, and immigration issues. This visit highlights India’s global leadership in AI, defense, trade, and people-to-people ties, positioning India as a key voice in global AI governance and reinforcing strategic relations with two important partners.

38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair from 7 to 23 February 2025 in Faridabad

The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Fair in Faridabad began on February 7, 2025, and runs until February 23, 2025. This significant event features over 2,500 artisans from India and abroad, with more than 1,250 huts showcasing a variety of crafts.

The fair, inaugurated by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, supports the vision of ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ and the Orange Economy. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, live cultural performances, and diverse cuisines. The fair highlights theme states Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, and includes participation from BIMSTEC nations. It’s a celebration of India’s unity, culture, and artistic legacy.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) Major Achievements and Future Missions

On February 6, 2025, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Space, stated in the Rajya Sabha that space sector reforms have unlocked India’s commercial potential in space. NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, has been instrumental in boosting industry participation in space-related activities.

Key Achievements of NSIL:

  • Successfully launched GSAT-N1 (GSAT-24) in June 2022 for DTH services.
  • Launched GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20) in November 2024 for broadband services (currently in-orbit testing).
  • Successfully launched 124 international and 3 Indian customer satellites using PSLV, LVM3, and SSLV.
  • Operates 15 in-orbit communication satellites providing services for DTH, broadband, and TV.
  • Disseminating Earth Observation satellite data globally since May 2023.
  • Provided 11 launch vehicle tracking supports and 9 early orbit phase (LEOP) & TTC supports for Indian and international customers.
  • Signed 75 Technology Transfer Agreements to transfer ISRO-developed technologies to Indian industries.
  • NSIL is a profit-making company with increasing revenues since its inception in 2019.

Upcoming Missions:

  • GSAT-N3 (Q1 2026): To meet India’s S-Band communication needs.
  • First fully industry-made PSLV (Q2 2025): Produced by HAL-L&T consortium.

Dr. Singh emphasized that India aims to expand its commercial space business, including satellite and rocket manufacturing, launch services, and space-based applications. The space sector reforms since June 2020 have enabled NSIL to operate under a demand-driven model, strengthening India’s presence in the global space market.

“Shatavari – For Better Health” Campaign Launched

On February 6, 2025, the Ministry of Ayush launched a nationwide species-specific campaign titled “Shatavari – For Better Health” to promote awareness of the medicinal benefits of Shatavari, particularly for women’s health. The event was led by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (IC), along with senior ministry officials.

The campaign aligns with India’s Panch Pran Goal for a developed nation by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shatavari has been recognized as a key resource in improving women’s health.

Key highlights:

  • NMPB’s Contribution: The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) has previously conducted similar campaigns for Amla, Moringa, Giloe, and Ashwagandha.
  • Financial Support: ₹18.9 Lakhs will be provided to eligible organizations to promote Shatavari’s cultivation and usage.
  • Long-term Impact: The campaign will aid in public awareness, sustainable management, and conservation of medicinal plants, reinforcing traditional medicine’s role in India’s healthcare.

This initiative strengthens the Ministry of Ayush’s ongoing efforts in promoting medicinal plants and holistic well-being across the nation.

January 2025 was the warmest January on record

January 2025 was the warmest January on record, despite the presence of La Niña, a climate pattern that typically brings cooler global temperatures. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the global average temperature for January 2025 was 13.23°C, which is 0.09°C warmer than the previous record set in January 2024 and 0.79°C above the 1991-2020 average.

This record-breaking warmth comes on the heels of 2024 being the hottest year on record, with global average temperatures rising 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time. Scientists have noted that global temperatures have stayed above the 1.5-degree mark for 18 of the last 19 months.

Despite La Niña’s cooling effect, ocean temperatures in the eastern Pacific remained above normal, suggesting that the shift toward La Niña may be slowing or stalling. The Arctic also experienced unusually high temperatures, with parts of the Canadian Arctic seeing temperatures 30°C (54°F) warmer than average.

US Withdraws from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

On February 4, 2025, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). This decision came during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, DC. Trump cited the council’s “anti-Semitic” bias and its disproportionate focus on Israel as the primary reasons for the withdrawal.

The US had previously withdrawn from the UNHRC in 2018 under the Trump administration, citing similar concerns. The recent decision also includes ending support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which Trump accused of having ties to Hamas.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar supported the US decision, stating that Israel would also withdraw from the UNHRC, calling it “anti-Israel”. The move has been met with mixed reactions, with some human rights organizations expressing concern over the potential impact on global human rights advocacy.

PM Modi takes holy dip at Treveni Sangam at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj

On 5 February 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a holy dip in Triveni Sangam at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj. He described the experience as a divine connection and prayed for peace, wisdom, and good health for all. UP CM Yogi Adityanath accompanied him on a boat ride to the site, where PM Modi performed Aarti and Puja.

The Mahakumbh 2025, which began on 13 January (Paush Purnima), is the world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering and will continue until 26 February (Mahashivratri). So far, over 39 crore devotees have participated.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also took a holy dip and urged people to follow Mela guidelines, emphasizing that Mahakumbh happens once in 144 years and should remain above politics.

US Military Plane Carrying Deported Indians Lands in Amritsar

On February 5, 2025, a US military aircraft carrying 104 deported Indian nationals landed at the Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar. The C-17 aircraft departed from San Antonio, Texas, and arrived in Amritsar after a long journey. The deportees, primarily from Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, were handed over to local authorities upon arrival.

The deportees included 25 women, 12 minors, and 79 men. Many of them had entered the US through illegal means and were subsequently caught and deported. The Punjab government has set up counters at the airport to assist the returnees and ensure their smooth transition back to their home state.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation and working alongside law enforcement agencies to determine the next steps. The state government has also announced plans to provide assistance to the deportees and help them reintegrate into society.

Third Amrit Snan Held on Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj

Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025. The Amrit Snan is the most significant and sacred ritual of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The first two Amrit Snans took place on Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya.

The third Amrit Snan in Mahakumbh concluded smoothly as the state government adopted a zero-error approach. The Amrit Snan commenced with Saints and seers of 13 Akharas followed by the devotees. Flower petals were showered on saints and devotees taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. To avoid chaos, separate pathways were used for entry and exit to safeguard the flow of devotees. The security of the Mela area was monitored through drones, helicopters and CCTV cameras. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regularly monitored the security situation at the war room set up at his residence, taking continuous updates from the DGP and Home Secretary and giving them instructions for the smooth conduct of the Amrit Snan. The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, commenced on 13th January and over 37 crore devotees have taken holy dips so far.

Q.: On which occasion was the third Amrit Snan held in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on February 2, 2025?

a) Makar Sankranti
b) Basant Panchami
c) Mauni Amavasya
d) Holi

Ans: b) Basant Panchami
Over 2.33 crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami in Mahakumbh, Prayagraj on 2 Feb 2025.

Delhi Assembly Polls: Voting turnout nearly 60.42% turnout

Voting for the 70-member Delhi Assembly was held peacefully on 5 Feb 2025, with a voter turnout of 60.42%. The highest turnout was in North East Delhi (66.25%), while the lowest was in South East Delhi (56.16%). Prominent candidates included Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi, Manish Sisodia (AAP), Parvesh Verma, Vijender Gupta, Arvinder Singh Lovely, Ramesh Bidhuri (BJP), and Devendra Yadav, Sandeep Dixit, Alka Lamba (Congress). A total of 699 candidates contested the elections.

The Election Commission ensured strict security measures and seized ₹236 crore worth of illegal inducements since the announcement on 7 Jan 2025. Counting will take place on Saturday.

Additionally, bye-polls were held in Erode-East (Tamil Nadu) with 67.97% turnout and Milkipur (Uttar Pradesh) with 65.35% turnout.

UNGA President Philemon Yang Visits India for Strengthening Multilateral Engagement

Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, is visiting India for four days from 4 February 2025. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that Mr. Yang, previously Prime Minister of Cameroon, assumed office on 10 September 2024. Under his leadership, the UN adopted “A Pact for the Future,” aimed at realizing “multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow.”

During his visit, Mr. Yang will meet with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to discuss key multilateral and regional issues. He will also pay a courtesy call to President Droupadi Murmu and visit Bengaluru.

King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Takes Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan visited Prayagraj on February 4, 2025 to participate in the Maha Kumbh. During his visit, he took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. This significant event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who welcomed the King and participated in the rituals alongside him.

The King’s visit highlights the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Bhutan. After the holy dip, both the King and the Chief Minister offered prayers and performed the Aarti amid the chanting of Vedic hymns. The event was attended by several dignitaries and devotees, emphasizing the global significance of the Maha Kumbh.

The King’s participation in the Maha Kumbh reflects the spiritual and cultural importance of this grand religious gathering, which attracts millions of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world.

World Cancer Day 2025 theme: ‘United by Unique’

World Cancer Day is observed on February 4th every year. This year’s theme is “United by Unique”, which emphasizes a people-centered approach to cancer care. The campaign aims to highlight the importance of personalized treatments and support systems for cancer patients, acknowledging that each person’s experience is unique.

The campaign encourages open discussions about cancer to reduce stigma and create a supportive environment for those affected. It also stresses the need for compassionate, individualized care to improve outcomes and quality of life.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) officially comes into force

The Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force, as announced by the Environment Ministry. The IBCA and its Secretariat have become a treaty-based, inter-governmental international organization and legal entity as of January 23.

Five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification under the Framework Agreement. A total of 27 countries, including India, have consented to join the IBCA. Several international and national organizations working in wildlife conservation have partnered with the IBCA.

The IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during the ‘Commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger’ event. The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the IBCA last year, with its headquarters in India.

The IBCA aims to conserve seven big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

India-Maldives Joint Military Exercise ‘Ekuverin’ Begins in Maldives

The 13th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force began on February 2, 2025, in the Maldives.

This bilateral annual exercise, named ‘Ekuverin’ which means ‘Friends’ in the Dhivehi language, is conducted alternately in India and the Maldives. The 2023 edition took place in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, from June 11 to 24.

Bart De Wever sworn in as Belgium’s new Prime Minister

Bart De Wever has been sworn in as Belgium’s new prime minister on February 3, 2025, in an oath-taking ceremony before King Philippe at the Royal Palace.

De Wever’s coalition government consists of five parties, with seven francophone ministers and seven Flemish ministers. The new government’s agenda focuses on budget reform, stricter migration policies, and economic restructuring.

However, there are concerns about gender equality, as only three women are represented in the 15-member cabinet. Additionally, the government faces the challenge of bridging Belgium’s linguistic and political divides.

India retained U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup Title

Trisha Gongadi put out a sparkling all-round performance as a dominant India retained their U19 Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup title with a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the summit clash at the Bayuemas Oval on 2 Feb 2025.

A stellar bowling performance, with the spinners taking nine wickets – three of which went to Trisha – along with fielders stepping up nicely, helped Niki Prasad-led India bowl out South Africa for 82 on a slow pitch.

In the chase, Trisha made 44 not out off 33 balls while Sanika Chalke slammed an unbeaten 26 off 22 deliveries to help India complete the chase in 11.2 overs. This victory marks India’s second successive triumph in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, showing their dominance at this level as they also became the first side to win the title without losing any game.

Brief Scores:

  • South Africa 82 all out (Mieke van Voorst 23, Fay Cowling 15; Trisha Gongadi 3-15, Parunika Sisodia 2-6)
  • India 84/1 in 11.2 overs (Trisha Gongadi 44 not out, Sanika Chalke 26 not out; Kayla Reyneke 1-14)

India won by nine wickets.

US imposes tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China

On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump imposed significant tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. The tariffs include a 25% increase on imports from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% increase on imports from China, citing issues such as illegal immigration and the smuggling of fentanyl as reasons for the decision.

This move has led to swift retaliatory measures from the affected countries, signaling the beginning of a broader trade war.

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