February 2025

Krishna Jayasankar becomes first Indian woman to cross 16m in indoor shot put

Indian shot putter Krishna Jayasankar made history at the 2025 Mountain West Indoor Track and Field Championships on March 2, 2025, by becoming the first Indian woman to surpass the 16-metre mark in indoor shot put. She achieved a record-breaking throw of 16.03 metres, surpassing the previous Indian indoor record of 15.54 metres, set by Poornarao Rane at the 2023 American Athletic Conference Indoor Championships.

A Stunning Comeback to Win Bronze

Initially placed fourth, Krishna delivered her best performance in the final round, securing the bronze medal.

  • Gold: Mya Lesnar (USA)
  • Silver: Gabby Morns (USA)
  • Bronze: Krishna Jayasankar (India)

This victory marks a significant milestone in Indian athletics, showcasing Krishna’s immense potential on the international stage.

Breaking Records and Setting New Milestones

Krishna’s previous best indoor shot put throw was 15.03 metres, recorded just last month at the same venue. While her new record is a major achievement, India’s overall women’s shot put record remains 18.41 metres, set by Abha Khatua at the 2024 Federation Cup.

Khelo India Winter Games 2025: March 9-12 in Gulmarg

The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 are set to take place from March 9 to 12 in the picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir. This event, initially scheduled for February, was postponed due to insufficient snowfall but is now ready to welcome athletes and spectators alike.

The Games will feature four major snow sports: Alpine Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, Snowboarding, and Nordic Skiing. With over 300 athletes from across the country participating, the event promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and sportsmanship.

The Khelo India Winter Games aim to promote winter sports in India by providing athletes with a competitive platform in one of the country’s premier snow destinations. The event will also include cultural programs, night skiing demonstrations, fireworks, and a laser show, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 28 February 2025

Q: What critical resource was at the center of the agreement between Ukraine and the United States in February 2025?

a) Oil reserves
b) Natural gas
c) Rare earth minerals
d) Agricultural products

Show Answer
Ans: c) Rare earth minerals
On February 27, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the White House to finalize a significant minerals agreement with the United States. This deal grants the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits.

Q: Who was appointed as the new Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on February 27, 2025?

a) Madhabi Puri Buch
b) Tuhin Kanta Pandey
c) Raghuram Rajan
d) Uday Kotak

Show Answer
Ans: b) Tuhin Kanta Pandey
On February 27, 2025, Tuhin Kanta Pandey was appointed as the new Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch.

Q: What was the theme of the 10th India International Dance and Music Festival held from 22 to 27 February 2025, in New Delhi?

a) Unity in Diversity
b) Global Harmony
c) Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
d) Cultural Confluence

Show Answer
Ans: c) Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
The 10th edition of the India International Dance and Music Festival, themed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family), was held from February 22 to February 27, 2025, in New Delhi.

Q: Who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery that National Science Day (February 28) celebrates?

a) Albert Einstein
b) Niels Bohr
c) Sir C.V. Raman
d) Isaac Newton

Show Answer
Ans: c) Sir C.V. Raman
National Science Day is celebrated annually on February 28 in India to honor the discovery of the Raman Effect by the Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman on this day in 1928.

Q: Who is the President of the European Commission who visited India on February 27, 2025?

a) Angela Merkel
b) Ursula von der Leyen
c) Emmanuel Macron
d) Jean-Claude Juncker

Show Answer
Ans: b) Ursula von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in India on February 27, 2025 for a two-day visit to strengthen India-EU bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defense, and clean energy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s Visit to India (February 27-28, 2025)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in India on February 27, 2025 for a two-day visit to strengthen India-EU bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defense, and clean energy.

Key Highlights:

Held talks with Indian PM Narendra Modi on the India-EU free trade deal, tariffs on goods, and defense exports.

Discussions aimed at finalizing a new strategic partnership roadmap to be unveiled at the India-EU Summit later in 2025.

Stressed India’s role as a strategic ally for Europe amid global conflicts and competition.

Met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other senior officials.

National Science Day is celebrated annually on February 28

National Science Day is celebrated annually on February 28 in India to honor the discovery of the Raman Effect by the Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman on this day in 1928. The celebration of this day highlights the importance of science and its role in society.

Historical Background: National Science Day was first celebrated in 1987, after the Government of India accepted a proposal from the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) to mark this occasion. The day serves as a tribute to Sir C.V. Raman, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 for his groundbreaking work in the field of light scattering.

India International Dance and Music Festival held from 22 to 27 February 2025, in New Delhi

The 10th edition of the India International Dance and Music Festival, themed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family), was held from February 22 to February 27, 2025, in New Delhi. It was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) at Baansera Park on the banks of the Yamuna River.

The festival showcased a diverse array of dance and music performances from artists around the world. Participants from countries including India, Russia, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Fiji, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, South Africa, and Rwanda highlighted their rich cultural heritage, promoting cross-cultural understanding and artistic collaboration.

The theme, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasized global unity and harmony. The event also marked the ecological revival of the Yamuna floodplain, symbolizing the confluence of culture and nature. With thousands of attendees, the festival was a resounding success, embodying the spirit of global togetherness and cultural exchange.

Tuhin Kanta Pandey appointed as new SEBI Chairman

On February 27, 2025, Tuhin Kanta Pandey was appointed as the new Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch. Finance Secretary Tuhin Kanta Pandey, a 1987-batch IAS officer from the Odisha cadre, brings extensive experience in financial and economic policy to his new role.

As the 11th chairman of SEBI, Pandey will serve a three-year term, during which he is expected to focus on enhancing market transparency, investor protection, and the overall stability of the financial markets.

Pandey’s predecessor, Madhabi Puri Buch, was the first woman to lead SEBI and served a three-year term that concluded on February 28, 2025. Her tenure was marked by significant regulatory advancements and initiatives aimed at strengthening the financial ecosystem in India.

Ukraine Grants the U.S. Access to Ukraine’s Rare Earth Minerals

On February 27, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the White House to finalize a significant minerals agreement with the United States. This deal grants the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits, which are crucial for industries such as aerospace, defense, and nuclear.

President Donald Trump, who announced the visit, emphasized that the agreement would help the U.S. recoup some of the financial aid provided to Ukraine during its ongoing conflict with Russia. Trump framed the deal as a way for Kyiv to repay the U.S. for the support it has received, while also strengthening ties between the two nations.

However, Zelenskyy insisted on security guarantees before finalizing the agreement, highlighting the importance of continued U.S. military support for Ukraine. The framework of the economic deal had been established, but the full agreement hinged on the upcoming talks in Washington.

The minerals deal represents a preliminary step toward a comprehensive package that will require ratification by the Ukrainian parliament. As the two leaders continue their discussions, the world watches closely to see how this agreement will shape the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit 2025 held on February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati

The Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 was held on February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati, Assam. This summit aimed to position Assam as a premier investment destination in India and Southeast Asia, showcasing the state’s potential across various sectors.

Key Highlights:

Investment Proposals: The summit concluded with investment proposals worth Rs 10,785 crore signed across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, manufacturing, mining, hospitality, and green energy.

Major Announcements: The Adani Group announced a massive Rs 50,000 crore investment in Assam, focusing on airports, aero-cities, city gas distribution, power transmission, cement, and road projects. Additionally, the Central government pledged Rs 1 lakh crore for infrastructure development in sectors such as road transport, railway connectivity, waterways enhancement, and air connectivity.

Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): A total of 164 MoUs were signed across 15 sectors, reflecting the growing confidence of industry leaders in Assam’s economic potential. Notable agreements included investments in data centers, super-specialty hospitals, cement plants, hydrogen and steam generation plants, eco-resorts, and manufacturing plants.

International Collaborations: The summit also saw several international collaborations, including an MoU with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for developmental support in health and agriculture. Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry signed an agreement to cooperate on nursing talent skills, while Japanese companies committed to establishing skill training institutes and language centers.

Government Support: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the summit, emphasizing Assam’s strategic importance and its role in India’s growth story. He highlighted the state’s dynamic workforce, rapid growth, and the government’s commitment to promoting industry and ease of doing business.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 27 February 2025

Q: Under the Gold Card Investor Visa Programme announced by US in February 2025, what is the required investment amount to obtain the visa?

a) $1 million
b) $3 million
c) $5 million
d) $10 million

Show Answer
Ans: c) $5 million
The United States has announced the introduction of the Gold Card Investor Visa Programme, a new initiative aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals to invest in the country.

Q: Which organization, along with the Indian Navy, conducted the successful test of Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) in February 2025?

(A) ISRO
(B) HAL
(C) DRDO
(D) BARC

Show Answer
Answer: (C) DRDO
DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.

Q: How much total loan amount has been provided under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) as of December 2024?

(A) ₹4.26 lakh crore
(B) ₹7 lakh crore
(C) ₹10 lakh crore
(D) ₹12 lakh crore

Show Answer
Answer: (C) ₹10 lakh crore
Over ₹10 lakh crore in loans have been provided under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), benefiting 7.72 crore farmers.

Q: What was the primary goal of the Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit held on February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati?

a) Promote tourism in Assam
b) Position Assam as a premier investment destination
c) Organize cultural events
d) Develop educational institutions

Show Answer
Ans: b) Position Assam as a premier investment destination
The Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 was held on February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati, Assam. This summit aimed to position Assam as a premier investment destination in India and Southeast Asia

Kisan Credit Card loans cross 10 Lakh Crore, benefitting 7.72 crore farmers

Over ₹10 lakh crore in loans have been provided under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), benefiting 7.72 crore farmers. KCC offers timely and affordable credit for agricultural inputs.

The government provides a 1.5% interest subvention on short-term agricultural loans up to ₹3 lakh, reducing the interest rate to 7% per annum. Additionally, a 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive lowers the effective interest rate to 4% for timely repayments.

The total loan amount under KCC has more than doubled from ₹4.26 lakh crore in 2014 to over ₹10 lakh crore in December 2024.

DRDO & Indian Navy Successfully Test Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) with In-Flight Retargeting Capability

DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The missile was launched from an Indian Naval Seaking Helicopter and demonstrated its capability against ship targets.

The missile, equipped with an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker, achieved a direct hit in sea-skimming mode. It also demonstrated a high-bandwidth two-way datalink for live image transmission and advanced mid-course guidance systems, including a Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based INS, Radio Altimeter, and Electro-Mechanical actuators.

US announces Gold Card Investor Visa Programme for wealthy individuals to invest in the country

The United States has announced the introduction of the Gold Card Investor Visa Programme, a new initiative aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals to invest in the country. This programme, announced by President Donald Trump on February 25, 2025, is set to replace the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa Program.

Under the Gold Card Investor Visa Programme, foreign investors can obtain permanent residency in the United States by making a $5 million investment (Rs 43.5 Crore Approximately). This investment will grant them Green Card privileges and provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship. The programme is designed to streamline the process for wealthy individuals to gain residency, with the aim of stimulating the U.S. economy through their investments.

Unlike the EB-5 program, which required investments in American businesses and the creation of jobs, the Gold Card Visa will not have such requirements. Instead, it allows for a direct purchase of a Green Card by paying a flat fee to the U.S. government. This change is expected to reduce the risks of fraud and misuse that were associated with the EB-5 program.

The Gold Card Investor Visa Programme is anticipated to bring significant revenue to the U.S. government and attract business leaders capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth. However, it has also raised concerns about the ethical implications of putting American citizenship on sale and potentially favoring wealthy individuals over skilled professionals.

The programme is expected to launch in the coming weeks, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) administering and regulating the issuance of the Gold Card.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 26 February 2025

Q.: Who has been elected as the next Chancellor of Germany in February 2025?

A) Olaf Scholz
B) Annalena Baerbock
C) Friedrich Merz
D) Markus Söder

Show Answer
Ans: C) Friedrich Merz
Friedrich Merz is set to become the next Chancellor of Germany after winning the early election on February 23, 2025.

Q.: How many times will CBSE conduct Class 10 board exams under the proposed draft policy from the 2025-26 academic session?

A) Once a year
B) Twice a year
C) Three times a year
D) Four times a year

Show Answer
Ans: B) Twice a year
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has proposed a draft policy to conduct two board exams for Class 10 starting from the 2025-26 academic session.

Q.: On which day did the Mahakumbh 2025 culminate?

a) Diwali
b) Holi
c) Mahashivratri
d) Janmashtami

Show Answer
Ans: c) Mahashivratri
The Mahakumbh, a grand spiritual gathering that takes place once every 12 years, culminated on the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, February 26, 2025.

Mahakumbh 2025 Culminating on Mahashivratri (26 February 2025)

The Mahakumbh, a grand spiritual gathering that takes place once every 12 years, culminated on the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, February 26, 2025. This 45-day event, which began on January 13 (Paush Purnima), saw millions of devotees from across India and beyond converge at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.

Mahashivratri, a significant day in Hinduism, commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds special importance in the context of the Kumbh Mela, as it is believed that bathing in the holy waters on this day cleanses one of past sins and paves the way for spiritual liberation.

The Mahakumbh 2025 witnessed a record-breaking turnout, with over 64 crore pilgrims participating in the event. The final day saw a massive influx of devotees, with over 41.11 lakh people taking a holy dip at the Sangam by 6 am. The event featured grand processions of Naga Sadhus and three ‘Amrit Snans’ (holy baths), adding to the religious fervor.

Despite the grandeur, the Mahakumbh 2025 was also marked by unfortunate incidents, including a deadly stampede on January 29 that claimed 30 lives and injured over 60 people. Several fire incidents and road accidents also occurred as pilgrims traveled to and from the Kumbh.

As the Mahakumbh concluded on Mahashivratri, devotees bid farewell to this historic event, carrying with them blessings, memories, and the hope of returning to the next great gathering.

CBSE Proposes a Draft Policy to Conduct Two Board Exams for Class 10

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has proposed a draft policy to conduct two board exams for Class 10 starting from the 2025-26 academic session. According to the proposal:

Exams will be held in two phases: February-March (first phase) and May (second phase).

Class 10 and 12 exams will begin on the first Tuesday after February 15.

The policy aligns with NEP 2020 recommendations, allowing students to take board exams twice a year, with one main attempt and an optional improvement attempt.

Stakeholders have been asked to submit their feedback by the 9th of next month.

Friedrich Merz to Become the Next Chancellor of Germany

Friedrich Merz is set to become the next Chancellor of Germany after winning the early election on February 23, 2025. A veteran politician from Sauerland, western Germany, Merz previously served in the European Parliament (1989) and later in the Bundestag, earning a reputation as a strong speaker.

He is known for advocating liberal economic policies, nuclear power, and reducing bureaucracy. After a period in the private sector, he returned to politics in 2022 and became the leader of the CDU. His victory represents a conservative shift in German politics, with a focus on economic growth and stricter migration policies.

Germany faces economic stagnation and migration concerns, and Merz’s leadership is expected to address these challenges with pro-business reforms and deregulation.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 25 February 2025

Q.: How did the US resolution adopted by the UN Security Council in February 2025 differ from the previous U.S. stance on Ukraine?

A) It called for military intervention
B) It took a neutral stance compared to Biden’s strong support for Ukraine
C) It imposed stronger sanctions on Russia
D) It rejected peace talks with Russia

Show Answer
Answer: B) It took a neutral stance compared to Biden’s strong support for Ukraine
The UN Security Council adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution on February 24, 2025, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Q.: Which government scheme completed six years on February 24, 2025?

a) Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
b) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
c) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
d) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

Show Answer
Ans: b) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)

Q.: The Madhya Pradesh Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 was held on February 24-25 in which city?

A. Indore
B. Gwalior
C. Jabalpur
D. Bhopal

Show Answer
Ans: D. Bhopal
The Madhya Pradesh Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 was held on February 24-25 in Bhopal and aimed to showcase the state’s investment climate and industrial infrastructure.

Madhya Pradesh Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 held on February 24-25 in Bhopal

The Madhya Pradesh Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 was held on February 24-25 in Bhopal and aimed to showcase the state’s investment climate and industrial infrastructure. The event attracted global leaders, industrialists, and experts, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the summit and Home Minister Amit Shah attending the closing ceremony.

The summit featured the Madhya Pradesh Experience Zone and Tourism Pavilion, which impressed delegates with digital displays, interactive technology, and virtual reality experiences. Notably, Gautam Adani announced a ₹2.1 lakh crore investment blueprint for Madhya Pradesh, expected to create over 1.2 lakh jobs by 2030. German officials praised the state’s facilities for investors and its ease of doing business.

Overall, the GIS 2025 successfully positioned Madhya Pradesh as a leading destination for global investors, highlighting its commitment to industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

Six Years of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, launched on 24 February, 2019, has completed six years of providing financial assistance to farmers across India. This initiative, aimed at ensuring stability and enhancing crop production, has played a crucial role in reducing agricultural costs and improving farmers’ economic conditions.

Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually, credited directly to their bank accounts in three installments of ₹2,000 each. This financial aid is transferred through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, eliminating middlemen and ensuring that the rightful benefits reach the farmers without any delays or discrepancies.

Over the past six years, the scheme has disbursed approximately ₹3.5 lakh crore to farmers’ accounts, benefiting millions of small and marginal farmers across the country. The 19th installment of the PM-KISAN financial assistance was recently released, providing over ₹22,000 crore to 9.8 crore farmers, including 2.41 crore female farmers.

The PM-KISAN scheme has not only provided financial support but has also brought respect, prosperity, and new strength to India’s food providers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and enhancing their livelihoods through various initiatives, including the PM-KISAN scheme.

In addition to the financial aid, the government has also dedicated 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to the country, further strengthening the support system for agricultural producers. The scheme has significantly contributed to reducing the cost of agriculture, increasing farmers’ access to the market, and improving their income.

UN Security Council adopts US-drafted resolution on war in Ukraine

The UN Security Council adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution on February 24, 2025, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The resolution takes a neutral stance, reflecting U.S. President Donald Trump’s shift in policy compared to former President Joe Biden’s strong support for Ukraine. Russia welcomed the U.S.’s changing position but noted the resolution was only a starting point.

Despite previous deadlock due to Russia’s veto power, the resolution passed with 10 votes in favor, while France, Britain, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia abstained. Russia voted in favor after failing to amend the text. The resolution mourns casualties, reaffirms the UN’s role in maintaining peace, and calls for an end to the conflict.

Trump’s mediation efforts have raised concerns among Ukraine and its European allies, who stress that peace must not mean Ukraine’s capitulation. The UN General Assembly earlier adopted two resolutions—one by Ukraine and Europe and another by the U.S., later amended to support Ukraine. The U.S.’s alignment with Russia on some issues highlighted shifting global alliances, with India abstaining from several votes.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 24 February 2025

Q.: Which team won the Indian Super League (ISL) League Winners’ title in 2025?

A) Odisha FC
B) FC Goa
C) Mohun Bagan Super Giant
D) Bengaluru FC

Show Answer
Answer: C) Mohun Bagan Super Giant
In the Indian Super League (ISL) Football, Mohun Bagan Super Giant became the League Winners after their 1-nil victory over Odisha FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata on 23 Feb 2025.

Q.: India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy on 23 Feb 2025. This match was played at:

A) Eden Gardens, Kolkata
B) Dubai International Stadium
C) Melbourne Cricket Ground
D) Lord’s, London

Show Answer
Answer: B) Dubai International Stadium
India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy Group A match on 23 Feb 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium.

Q.: Who was appointed as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2025?

a) Urjit Patel
b) Raghuram Rajan
c) Shaktikanta Das
d) D. Subbarao

Show Answer
Ans: c) Shaktikanta Das
Shaktikanta Das, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has been appointed as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Q.: Who is the current Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of India who began a four-day official visit to France on 23 Feb 2025?

A) General Manoj Pande
B) General Bipin Rawat
C) General Upendra Dwivedi
D) General Dalbir Singh Suhag

Show Answer
Answer: C) General Upendra Dwivedi
Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi began his four-day official visit to France on 23 Feb 2025 to strengthen India-France defence cooperation.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on 4-day visit to France

Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi began his four-day official visit to France on 23 Feb 2025 to strengthen India-France defence cooperation. He will receive a Guard of Honour and meet French Army Chief General Pierre Schill in Paris.

On 24 Feb, he will visit Marseille to discuss the French Army’s 3rd Division, bilateral exercise SHAKTI, and modernisation programme (Scorpion). On 25 Feb, he will visit the Neuve Chapelle Indian War Memorial to honor Indian soldiers of World War I and deliver a talk at Ecole de Guerre on modern warfare and India’s strategic vision.

India defeats Pakistan by six wickets in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy

India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy Group A match on 23 Feb 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium. Chasing Pakistan’s 242-run target, India reached 244/4 in 42.3 overs, with Virat Kohli scoring an unbeaten century and Shreyas Iyer contributing 56.

Kuldeep Yadav led India’s bowling attack with three wickets, while Hardik Pandya took two. Axar Patel excelled in fielding with two run-outs and a sharp catch. Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (46) were the top scorers.

Kohli also set a new record for most catches in ODIs by an Indian, surpassing Mohammed Azharuddin with 158 catches. India, led by Rohit Sharma, is now close to securing a semi-final spot, while Pakistan faces a must-win situation.

Shaktikanta Das Appointed Principal Secretary-2 to PM Modi

Shaktikanta Das, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has been appointed as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and will be effective from the date he assumes office.

Das brings a wealth of experience in finance and governance to his new role. He has previously held key positions in the Ministry of Finance and served as a Member of the 15th Finance Commission and India’s G20 Sherpa. His tenure as the 25th Governor of the RBI, from December 2018 to December 2024, was marked by significant decisions on monetary policy, inflation control, and financial sector stability.

In his new role, Das will work alongside Pramod Kumar Mishra, who has been serving as Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister since September 2019. Das’s extensive experience in both fiscal and monetary policy is expected to be a valuable asset to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Das’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the financial management expertise within the Prime Minister’s Office, given the uncertain global economic situation. His deep understanding of economic policy, fiscal management, and governance will be crucial in supporting the Prime Minister’s agenda for economic growth and stability.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant become Indian Super League (ISL) Football winners 

In the Indian Super League (ISL) Football, Mohun Bagan Super Giant became the League Winners after their 1-nil victory over Odisha FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata on 23 Feb 2025. The Mariners became the first team in the ISL to successfully defend their title of league winners. They moved to 52 points, gaining an unassailable lead over second-placed FC Goa. Dimitrios Petratos scored the only goal of the match for The Mariners in the added time and eventually sealed the game.

The Indian Super League (ISL) is a professional football league in India that has rapidly gained popularity since its inception in 2014. The league features some of the best football talent from India and around the world, making it a thrilling competition for football enthusiasts. The ISL operates on a franchise model, with teams representing various cities across India. The league has played a significant role in elevating the standard of football in the country and has contributed to the growth of the sport at the grassroots level.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 22 February 2025

Q.: Which state in India has the highest number of vultures according to the recent census?

A. Rajasthan
B. Gujarat
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Maharashtra

Show Answer
Ans: C. Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh has now become the state with the highest number of vultures in India. In a recent census conducted by the Forest Department, the vulture population reached 12,981.

Q.: What was the reason for RBI’s penalty on Citibank in February 2025?

A) Non-compliance with KYC norms
B) Violations related to Large Exposures Framework and Credit Information reporting
C) Unauthorized foreign transactions
D) Mismanagement of customer accounts

Show Answer
Answer: B) Violations related to Large Exposures Framework and Credit Information reporting

Q.: What is the theme of the Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2025?

A) Smart Farming – Future of Agriculture
B) Green Revolution 2.0
C) Digital Farming – Modern India
D) Unnat Krishi – Viksit Bharat

Show Answer
Answer: D) Unnat Krishi – Viksit Bharat
The Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2025 was inaugurated in New Delhi on 22nd February 2025 by Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The three-day fair is themed “Unnat Krishi – Viksit Bharat” and will conclude on 24th February

Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2025 Held in New Delhi (22-24 February)

The Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2025 was inaugurated in New Delhi on 22nd February 2025 by Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The three-day fair is themed “Unnat Krishi – Viksit Bharat” and will conclude on 24th February, with Ministers Ramnath Thakur and Bhagirath Choudhary as Chief Guests at the Valedictory Session.

Key attractions include live demonstrations of advanced agricultural technologies developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and exhibitions showcasing innovations from Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Farmers’ Producer Organizations, entrepreneurs, and start-ups.

The event also features technical sessions and farmer-scientist interactions on topics such as climate-resilient agriculture, crop diversification, digital agriculture, and entrepreneurship development for youth and women. On-spot agro-advisory services will also be available for farmers.

RBI imposes monetary penalty on Citibank, Asirvad Micro Finance, and JM Financial

On 21st February 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed monetary penalties on three financial institutions for regulatory non-compliance:

Citibank was fined ₹39 lakh for violating directions related to the Large Exposures Framework and Furnishing of Credit Information to Credit Information Companies.

Asirvad Micro Finance Limited was fined ₹6.2 lakh for failing to report borrowers’ household income, not providing factsheets to certain gold loan customers, and lacking an auto-escalation system for rejected complaints.

JM Financial Home Loans Limited was fined ₹1.5 lakh for not disclosing the approach for risk gradation and the rationale behind different interest rates for different borrower categories.

RBI clarified that these penalties are due to regulatory deficiencies and do not question the validity of transactions or agreements with customers.

Madhya Pradesh: Home to the Highest Number of Vultures

Madhya Pradesh has now become the state with the highest number of vultures in India. In a recent census conducted by the Forest Department, the vulture population reached 12,981. The census covered 16 circles, 64 divisions, and 9 protected areas in the state. Since the census began in 2016, the vulture population has steadily increased, from 8,397 in 2019 to 10,845 in 2024.

There are 7 species of vultures in Madhya Pradesh, with 4 being local and 3 migratory. The winter season is ideal for conducting the census as both local and migratory vultures can be easily counted.

Vultures are large birds of prey that primarily feed on carrion (dead animals). They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up animal remains, which helps prevent the spread of diseases. Vultures have sharp beaks, strong talons, and excellent eyesight to locate food from great distances.

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