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    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.

    Main Highlights of Budget 2025

    Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, 2025. This was her eighth consecutive budget presentation, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve this milestone.

    Here are the main highlights of Budget 2025:

    Income Tax Reforms: No income tax payable up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime.

    Capex Increase: Capital expenditure (Capex) rises to ₹11.21 lakh crore for FY2025-26.

    Agriculture Initiatives: Launch of Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana targeting 100 districts with low productivity.

    Nuclear Energy Mission: Aim to develop 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, with ₹20,000 crore allocated for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

    MSME Support: Customized credit cards for MSMEs, enhanced investment and turnover limits, and a new fund of funds.

    Urban Development: ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to transform cities into growth hubs.

    Employment Generation: Plans to generate 22 lakh jobs through various schemes.

    Regional Connectivity: Modified UDAN Scheme to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations.

    Healthcare: Enhanced credit limits for farmers and inclusion of gig economy workers in welfare schemes.

    Education: 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in government schools over the next five years.

    MCQs on Budget 2025:

    Q.: How many consecutive budgets has Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented as of 2025?

    A) Six
    B) Seven
    C) Eight
    D) Nine

    Ans: C) Eight
    Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, 2025. This was her eighth consecutive budget presentation, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve this milestone.

    Q.: Up to what amount is no income tax payable under the new tax regime in Budget 2025?

    A) ₹10 lakh
    B) ₹11 lakh
    C) ₹12 lakh
    D) ₹13 lakh

    Ans: C) ₹12 lakh
    Income Tax Reforms: No income tax payable up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime.

    Q.: As per Budget 2025, How many Atal Tinkering Labs are planned to be set up in government schools over the next five years?

    A) 40,000
    B) 45,000
    C) 50,000
    D) 55,000

    Ans: C) 50,000
    Education: 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in government schools over the next five years.

    Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa wins Tata Steel Masters 2025

    Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa clinched the prestigious Tata Steel Masters 2025 title by defeating World Champion D. Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreaker on 2 Feb 2025 at Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. This victory makes him the first Indian since Viswanathan Anand in 2006 to claim the prestigious title.

    The event ended dramatically, with both Gukesh and Pragg tied at 8.5 points after 13 rounds. In the tiebreak, Gukesh won the first of two blitz games and needed only a draw in the second to secure the title. However, Pragg staged a stunning comeback, winning both blitz games to clinch the championship.

    Economic Survey Projects India’s Real GDP to Grow by 6.4% in FY 2025

    The Economic Survey, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 31 Jan 2025, estimates India’s real GDP to grow by 6.4 percent in the financial year 2025, with growth likely ranging between 6.3 and 6.8 percent in FY 2026.

    The survey highlights that the fundamentals of the domestic economy remain robust, with steady growth supported by the agriculture and services sector. Rural demand is improving due to record Kharif production and favorable agricultural conditions. The manufacturing sector faced challenges due to weak global demand and seasonal conditions, but private consumption remained stable.

    Fiscal discipline and strong external balance contributed to macroeconomic stability, supported by a services trade surplus and healthy remittance growth. The survey stresses the importance of improving global competitiveness through grassroots-level structural reforms and deregulation.

    In Q1 of FY 2025, GDP grew by 6.7 percent, while Q2 saw a 5.4 percent growth, resulting in a real GDP growth of 6 percent in the first half of the fiscal year. The agriculture sector maintained steady growth, recording a 3.5 percent growth rate in Q2. The industrial sector grew by 6 percent in the first half of FY 2025, with a notable 8.3 percent growth in Q1. The services sector performed well, achieving a 7.1 percent growth in the first half of FY 2025.

    Fiscal discipline has progressively improved, and retail headline inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index, softened from 5.4 percent in FY 2024 to 4.9 percent from April to December 2024. Food inflation is expected to ease in Q4 of FY 2025. The unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 years and above has steadily declined from 6 percent in 2017-18 to 3.2 percent in 2023-24, according to the 2023-24 annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) report.

    WHO Urges Shift to Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes to Combat Hypertension

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending the switch from regular table salt to potassium-enriched salt substitutes as part of efforts to combat hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases. The WHO’s mission to lower sodium intake stems from extensive research highlighting the health risks posed by excess sodium consumption.

    Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure, posing a significant risk for millions globally. Studies indicate approximately 1.9 million deaths annually are linked to high salt consumption, with hypertension as the underlying factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disorders. Interestingly, many people are unaware of their high sodium intake, which averages around 4.3 grams per day, far exceeding the WHO’s recommendation of less than 2 grams.

    India Adds Four New Ramsar Sites, Taking Tally to 89

    The Centre has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites in India, taking the total to 89. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change shared this news ahead of World Wetlands Day, stating that the new sites include Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand.

    Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted that India continues to have the highest number of Ramsar sites in Asia and ranks third in the world. He congratulated Tamil Nadu for becoming the state with the most Ramsar sites, now totaling 20. This addition also marks a significant achievement for Sikkim and Jharkhand, which have added their first Ramsar sites.

    Sachin Tendulkar Honoured with BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award 2025

    Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been honoured with the BCCI’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Board’s annual gala in Mumbai on 1 February 2025. Tendulkar, now 51, becomes the 31st recipient of this prestigious award, which was first introduced in 1994 to honor India’s inaugural cricket captain, Col. C.K. Nayudu.

    Throughout his illustrious career, Tendulkar played an astounding 664 international matches for India, amassing the highest number of runs in both Test (15,921) and ODI (18,426) cricket history. He also holds the record for the most appearances in both formats, with 200 Test matches and 463 ODIs to his name. One of Tendulkar’s crowning achievements was being a crucial member of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning team, marking his record sixth and final tournament appearance.

    In recent years, other notable recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award include former India head coach Ravi Shastri and wicket-keeping legend Farokh Engineer, who received the honor in 2023.

    US Plans 30,000-Bed Migrant Detention Facility at Guantanamo Bay

    US President Donald Trump has announced plans to build a 30,000-bed migrant detention facility at the US Navy base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, separate from the existing high-security prison.

    The facility, managed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), will house migrants, including those intercepted at sea, whom Trump referred to as the “worst criminal illegal aliens.”

    This announcement follows Trump’s signing of the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the jailing of undocumented immigrants accused of violent crimes. The act is named after a Georgia nursing student murdered by a Venezuelan migrant.

    The Cuban government has condemned the move, calling it illegal and inhumane, as Guantanamo Bay has been historically controversial due to allegations of detainee mistreatment.

    World Book Fair 2025 from February 1 to 9

    The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 will begin on February 1 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The theme of this year’s fair is “We the People of India,” marking 75 years of the Republic of India.

    The nine-day event will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. Yuvraj Malik, Director of the National Book Trust, mentioned that Russia is the focus country for this year’s fair, with participation from over 50 countries, including France, Argentina, Spain, Colombia, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. The fair will feature nearly 2,000 publishers and 1,000 speakers.

    Budget session of Parliament to begin on Jan 31

    The Budget session of Parliament began on January 31, 2025, with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of both Houses. Following this, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Economic Survey when both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha meet briefly. On February 1, 2025, she will present the Union Budget for 2025-26. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will then discuss the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address on February 3, 2025.

    During this session, 16 bills will be discussed, including the Finance Bill 2025, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025, the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024, and the Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024. The first part of the Budget session will run until February 13, 2025, and the second part will take place from March 10 to April 4, 2025.

    Uttar Pradesh’s ‘Mahakumbh 2025’ Tableau Wins Best Award at Republic Day Parade

    Uttar Pradesh’s tableau titled ‘Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ won the best tableau award at the Republic Day Parade on January 26 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.

    Tripura’s tableau themed ‘Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja’ secured the second place.

    Andhra Pradesh’s tableau depicting ‘Etikoppaka Bommalu – Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys’ won the third prize.

    Ministry of Tribal Affairs‘ ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh’ won the best tableau award among Central Ministries and Departments.

    Jammu and Kashmir Rifles Contingent won the best marching contingent award among Services.

    Delhi Police Marching Contingent won the award among CAPFs and other auxiliary forces.

    Central Public Works Department and ‘Jayati Jai Mamah Bharatam’ Dance Group received the Special Prize for 75 years of the Constitution of India.

    Gujarat won the best tableau award in the Popular Choice Category for ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.

    Uttar Pradesh was the runner-up in the Popular Choice Category.

    Uttarakhand’s tableau on ‘Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports’ won the third spot in the Popular Choice Category.

    Signals Contingent won the Best Marching Contingent award among Services in the Popular Choice Category.

    CRPF Marching Contingent won the Best Marching Contingent award among CAPFs and other auxiliary forces in the Popular Choice Category.

    Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk to mark the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations

    The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on January 29, 2025, marked the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. Held at sunset, the ceremony featured captivating performances by the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

    The event was attended by dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The ceremony included a variety of patriotic tunes, ending with the ever-popular “Sare Jahan Se Acha”.

    Record Attendance and Unfortunate Incident Mark Mauni Amavasya at Kumbh Mela

    On January 29, 2025, over seven crore devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam at Prayagraj during Mauni Amavasya. Following their dip in the Triveni Sangam, devotees performed rituals and offered prayers. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, has seen more than 26 crore devotees take a holy dip so far.

    Tragically, at least 30 people lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in an incident at Sangam Ghat in the early hours of January 29. DIG Kumbh Mela Vaibhav Krishna reported that the incident occurred when a large crowd gathered, leading to broken barricades. Swift rescue operations were carried out, including creating a green corridor for ambulances to transport the injured to hospitals.

    ISRO Celebrates 100th Launch Milestone with NVS-02 Success

    On January 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the NVS-02 satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission, conducted using the GSLV-F15 rocket, marks ISRO’s 100th launch from Sriharikota.

    The NVS-02 satellite is part of the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, aimed at enhancing India’s space-based navigation services. The satellite will provide accurate positioning services for various sectors, including transportation, defense, and logistics.

    Jasprit Bumrah wins Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy as ICC men’s cricketer of the year 2024

    Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been honored with the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024, recognizing his exceptional performance across all cricket formats.

    Bumrah becomes the first Indian pacer to win this award, joining an elite list of Indian cricketers that includes Rahul Dravid (2004), Sachin Tendulkar (2010), Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2017, 2018). 

    Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup victory in 2024, emerging as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Additionally, he dominated Test cricket with 71 wickets in 13 matches, the highest by any bowler in 2024. Despite strong competition, Bumrah also won the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award.

    PM Modi inaugurates 38th National Games in Dehradun

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 38th National Games in Dehradun on January 28, 2025. The event, held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, marks the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand’s formation and features over 10,000 athletes from across India.

    The theme for this year’s games is “Green Games,” emphasizing sustainability with eco-friendly medals and a tree planted for each medal winner.

    The National Games of India is a prestigious multi-sport event where athletes from various states and union territories compete in disciplines such as athletics, boxing, and swimming.

    RBI Announces Rs 1.1 Lakh Crore Liquidity Injection to Ease Tight Conditions

    On January 27, 2025, the RBI announced a plan to inject Rs 1.1 lakh crore into the banking system via open market purchases of securities, a variable rate repo auction, and a $5 billion dollar-rupee swap auction. The RBI will purchase Rs 60,000 crore in government securities in three tranches (Jan 30, Feb 13, Feb 20). A Rs 50,000 crore repo auction is scheduled for Feb 7, and a $5 billion swap auction on Jan 31.

    Liquidity remains tight with a deficit of over Rs 3 lakh crore. The RBI also introduced new liquidity coverage norms requiring banks to set aside funds for risks, especially due to mobile and internet banking usage. Banks are concerned these norms may impact credit growth.

    This initiative is under the tenure of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, who succeeded Shaktikanta Das in December.

    Jasprit Bumrah wins ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award 

    Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2024 for his outstanding performance. He took an astonishing 71 wickets while bowling 357 overs in 13 matches, at an average of 14.92 in 2024.

    Renowned for his yorkers and consistency, Bumrah was instrumental in India’s success across formats, including the ODI World Cup and major Test series.

    Hariman Sharma, ‘The Apple Man of India,’ honoured with Padma Shri for Transforming Apple Cultivation in India

    Hariman Sharma, a farmer from Himachal Pradesh, received the Padma Shri for his revolutionary contribution to Indian agriculture.

    He developed HRMN-99, a self-pollinating, low-chilling apple variety, enabling apple cultivation in tropical and sub-tropical regions with temperatures up to 40-45°C.

    The innovation expanded apple farming across 29 Indian states and Union Territories, improving accessibility and affordability.

    Sharma’s journey began in 1998 when he planted discarded seeds, refining the variety by 2001 through grafting to produce up to 75 kg per plant annually.

    Initially overlooked, the variety was validated by NIF in 2012 with trials by ICAR and Krishi Vigyan Kendras, benefiting farmers, especially in North-Eastern states.

    Sharma has received multiple awards, including the National Award for Grassroots Innovation (2017) and National Innovative Farmer Award (2016), and represented India at the ASEAN Innovation Forum in 2023.

    HRMN-99 is a symbol of grassroots innovation, transforming apple cultivation, empowering farmers, and contributing to food security in India.

    Smriti Mandhana named ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for 2024 performances

    India’s opener and vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, has been named the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024 for her exceptional performance.

    She scored a career-best 747 runs in 13 innings, leading the Women’s ODI run charts, surpassing players Laura Wolvaardt (697), Tammy Beaumont (554), and Hayley Matthews (469).

    This is her third ICC recognition, having won in 2018 and 2022 as well.

    76th Republic Day celebration at Kartavya Path in New Delhi

    The 76th Republic Day celebration in India was a grand affair held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. The event was graced by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the Chief Guest.

    The parade featured more than 18 marching contingents and 31 tableaux from various states and services, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and developmental achievements. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Legacy and Progress).

    Some highlights of the celebration included:

    • Best Tableau Award: Uttar Pradesh’s tableau depicting the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj won the Best Tableau Award.
    • Best Contingent Award: The 61st Cavalry, led by Lieutenant Ahan Kumar, received the Best Contingent Award.
    • Best Para Military Contingent award: Border Security Force (BSF) Camel Contingent, led by Deputy Commandant Manohar Singh Kheechee
    • Spectacular Displays: The parade included mind-blowing stunts by daredevils and spectacular aerial formations by the Indian Air Force.
    • Cultural Performances: Over 5,000 artists performed, covering the entire Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s diverse cultural traditions.

    The event concluded with the national anthem, leaving the audience in high spirits and a sense of national pride.

    Unified Pension Scheme for Government Staff to Begin from 1st April 2025

    The Centre has officially notified the implementation of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) under the National Pension System (NPS) for Central Government employees. The scheme, introduced in August 2024, will be effective from 1st April 2025.

    The UPS will apply to Central Government employees covered under the NPS who choose this option. Both existing and future employees can either opt for UPS under the NPS or continue with the NPS without the UPS option.

    The notification clarified that employees who choose the UPS option will not be entitled to claim any other policy concessions, policy changes, financial benefits, or parity with future retirees, including post-retirement benefits.

    Padma Awards 2025

    The Padma Awards 2025 list, announced by the central government and approved by President Droupadi Murmu, includes 139 awardees: 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients. The list features one duo case, 23 women, 10 individuals from the Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI category, and 13 posthumous awards.

    Notable awardees include Osamu Suzuki, former Suzuki Motors chief; ex-Maharashtra CM Manohar Joshi; BJP leader Sushil Modi; ex-CJI Jagdish Singh Khehar; Malayalam literary icon MT Vasudevan Nair; singers Arijit Singh and Pankaj Udhas; cricketer R. Ashwin; and hockey player PR Sreejesh.

    Other honorees include Ram temple architect Chandrakant Sompura, Brazilian Hindu spiritual leader Jonas Masetti, Paralympian Harvinder Singh, and Kuwaiti yoga practitioner Shaikha A J Al Sabah. Several Padma Shri recipients include travel bloggers Hugh and Colleen Gantzer, gynecologist Dr. Neerja Bhatla, freedom fighter Libia Lobo Sardesai, and Dhak player Gokul Chandra Dey, who has broken gender barriers by training women in the traditionally male-dominated art.

    The Padma Awards honor extraordinary contributions across diverse fields, such as art, literature, medicine, sports, science, public service, and social work, making them one of India’s highest civilian recognitions.

    Full List of Padma Awardees are : https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2096285

    15th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2025

    India celebrated the 15th National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2025. This day marks the foundation of the Election Commission of India (ECI) in 1950 and aims to encourage voter participation and raise electoral awareness.

    The theme for this year was “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure”, emphasizing the importance of voting. President Droupadi Murmu graced the event in New Delhi, where the Best Electoral Practices Awards were presented to state and district officials. The celebration also highlighted the significant strides made in creating a youthful and gender-balanced electoral roll, with 99.1 crore registered voters, including 21.7 crore young voters aged 18-29.

    Defence Minister flags off Battlefield Surveillance System SANJAY

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025, flagged off the Battlefield Surveillance System SANJAY in New Delhi. This advanced system enhances battlefield transparency with state-of-the-art sensors and cutting-edge analytics. Its induction into the Indian Army will begin in three phases starting March 2025.

    Key features of SANJAY:

    • Automated System: Integrates inputs from ground and aerial battlefield sensors to create a unified surveillance picture.
    • Enhanced Border Security: Aids in monitoring vast land borders, preventing intrusions, and providing accurate situation assessments.
    • Force Multiplier: Boosts Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance capabilities, enabling commanders to operate effectively in a Network-Centric Environment.

    Development: SANJAY was indigenously developed by the Indian Army in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited at a cost of ₹2,402 crore.

    Significance: The system represents a significant leap toward data and network-centricity in the Indian Army and will be a key highlight of the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path.

    Micheal Martin elected as Ireland’s Prime Minister

    On January 24, 2025, Micheál Martin, leader of Fianna Fáil, was elected as Ireland’s Prime Minister for the second time by the Dáil (Irish Parliament). His election was supported by a coalition of the two major center-right parties, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, along with independent lawmakers.

    Martin, 64, previously served as Prime Minister from 2020 to 2022 before transferring leadership to Fine Gael as part of a power-sharing agreement. Outgoing Prime Minister Simon Harris is expected to reassume leadership in late 2027 under the coalition deal. Following the November 2024 general election, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael retained power, winning a combined 86 seats in the 174-seat Dáil, just shy of a majority. Sinn Féin, the main opposition party, secured 39 seats, second to Fianna Fáil’s 48 seats.

    Iniyan Panneerselvam Clinches Johor International Open Chess Title

    Indian Grandmaster Iniyan Panneerselvam, 22, secured the title at the 9th Johor International Open chess tournament in Malaysia on 24 Jan 2025. With a total of 8.5 points in nine rounds, Iniyan outperformed 84 participants from 8 countries, including four International Masters and one Grandmaster.

    His victory in the final round against Vietnamese GM Nguyen Van Huy sealed his dominating performance. Iniyan finished 1.5 points ahead of his closest competitor.

    Indian short film Anuja nominated for Best Short Film (Live Action) category at Oscars 2025

    The Indian short film Anuja has been nominated in the Best Short Film (Live Action) category for the 2025 Oscars. Directed by Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai, and produced by Guneet Monga, Priyanka Chopra, and Mindy Kaling, the film tells the story of a nine-year-old girl and her sister facing a life-changing opportunity that tests their bond.

    Other nominated films in the same category include A Lien, The Last Ranger, I’m Not a Robot, and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent. The 2025 Oscar nominations were announced by Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott, after being postponed twice due to wildfires in Los Angeles.

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