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Monthly Current Affairs Magazine (English)

The document outlines various national and international affairs, including India's initiatives in renewable energy, the launch of the PM-Surya Ghar scheme, and the inauguration of India's first Open-Air Art Wall Museum. It also highlights Brazil's decision to join OPEC and Panama's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, the Union Budget for 2025-26 is presented, focusing on balanced growth and various agricultural and economic development programs.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
292 views39 pages

Monthly Current Affairs Magazine (English)

The document outlines various national and international affairs, including India's initiatives in renewable energy, the launch of the PM-Surya Ghar scheme, and the inauguration of India's first Open-Air Art Wall Museum. It also highlights Brazil's decision to join OPEC and Panama's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, the Union Budget for 2025-26 is presented, focusing on balanced growth and various agricultural and economic development programs.

Uploaded by

zgg9djgbz6
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 39

Contents
1. National Affairs ...............................................................................................................1
• 2. International Affairs .......................................................................................................5
• 3. Economic Affairs .............................................................................................................6
• 4. Science and Technology...............................................................................................11
• 5. Sports Affairs .................................................................................................................13
• 6. Defence Affairs ..............................................................................................................16
• 7. Awards and Honours .....................................................................................................18
• 8. Appointments and Resignation ..................................................................................20
• 9. Index and Reports .........................................................................................................22
• 10. Obituaries .......................................................................................................................26
• 11. Summits and Conferences............................................................................................28
• 12. Books and Authors ........................................................................................................31
• 13. Important Days ..............................................................................................................32
• 14. Government Schemes and Programs .........................................................................35
• 15. Persons and Places in News ........................................................................................37
Chapter

1 National Affairs

President of India Inaugurates the National • The government launched the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft
Tribal Festival ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ Bijli Yojana in February 2024 to provide rooftop
solar systems, aiming for 300 kWh per month for 10
million households, which will add 30 GW of capacity
2.
• A total financial outlay of ₹700 billion is allocated for
this scheme, offering up to 60% in capital subsidies
and incentives for distribution companies.
• The National Electricity Plan (Transmission)
introduced in October 2024 aims to enable
transmission of 500 GW of renewable capacity by
2030 and 600 GW by 2032, including provisions for
battery storage and green hydrogen infrastructure.

• The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu India successfully sends first-ever sea
inaugurated the National Tribal Festival ‘Aadi shipments of pomegranates to Australia
Mahotsav’ in New Delhi.
• Aadi Mahotsav is designed to highlight and promote
tribal heritage and provides opportunities for tribal
entrepreneurs, artisans, and artists to connect with
the market.
• The crafts, food, dress, jewelry, medical practices,
household equipment, and sports of tribal society are
celebrated as precious heritage that harmonizes with
nature and sustainable lifestyles.

India’s solar share to soar, Renewables set to


power 27% of energy mix by 2027: IEA

• In a landmark achievement for India’s agricultural


exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food
Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
has successfully facilitated the first-ever commercial
sea shipments of Indian pomegranates to Australia.
• Collaborating with AgroStar and Kay Bee Exports,
APEDA oversaw the export of premium Sangola
and Bhagwa pomegranates, marking a significant
expansion of market access for Indian fresh produce.
• India’s renewable energy share is expected to • The first air shipment of Indian pomegranates
increase from 21% in 2024 to 27% by 2027, with reached Australia in July 2024, helping to gauge
solar PV contributing significantly, projected to rise market demand and set the stage for sea shipments.
over 28% from 2025 to 2027.
India’s First “Open-Air Art Wall Museum” at • EPL will replace traditional physical licenses and
Mausam Bhawan be accessible via the eGCA Mobile Application,
streamlining the licensing process while enhancing
security and transparency.
• The initiative aligns with India’s “Ease of Doing
Business” and “Digital India” vision, aiming for a
seamless experience for aviation professionals.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched


India’s first indigenous Automated Bio
Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New
Delhi

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s


first “Open Air Art Wall Museum” at Mausam Bhawan,
celebrating 150 years of the India Meteorological
Department (IMD).
• The museum features 38 unique murals created
in collaboration with Delhi Street Art, showcasing
India’s meteorological advancements and the impact
of weather science.
• The artwork includes significant meteorological
events, advancements in technology, and the IMD’s • Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched India’s
role in providing early warnings for extreme weather first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste
conditions. Treatment Plant named “Sṛjanam” at AIIMS New
• The initiative aims to bridge science and creativity, Delhi.
enhancing public engagement and understanding of • The technology, developed by CSIR-NIIST, aims to
meteorology. revolutionize biomedical waste management and
promote sustainability.
India becomes second country to introduce
• “Sṛjanam” disinfects harmful biomedical waste
digital pilot licenses without relying on incinerators and has a daily
capacity of managing 400 kg of waste.

15th Edition of Aero India 2025

• India has launched the Electronic Personnel License


(EPL) for pilots, modernizing its civil aviation sector.
• Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu • Aero India 2025, the 15th edition of Aero India,
introduced the EPL, making India the second country commenced from 10th to 14th February 2025 at
globally to implement digital pilot licenses after ICAO Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru, Karnataka,
approval. India.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | March 2025 P


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• It is designed to be a landmark edition that leverages • India has successfully achieved its target of 100
the successes of its predecessors while charting new GW solar energy production, marking a significant
territories in aerospace and defence technology. milestone in its renewable energy journey.
• The first three days are dedicated to business visitors, • The credit for this achievement goes to initiatives
while the last two days are open to the general public. such as solar panels, solar parks, and rooftop solar
projects, which have revolutionized the sector.
About Aero India
• India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based
• Aero India, Asia’s Largest Air Show, is a biennial
energy capacity by 2030.
air show and aviation exhibition which is held in
Bengaluru, organized by the Defence Exhibition • The country’s solar power sector has witnessed an
Organisation, Department of Defence Production, extraordinary 3,450 per cent increase in capacity
Ministry of Defence. over the past decade, rising from 2.82 GW in 2014 to
• Aero India is India’s premier aerospace and 100 GW in 2025.
defence exhibition where global aero vendors and
the Indian Air Force (IAF) thrill the spectators with Cabinet approves extension of the tenure of
back-to-back aerobatic flying displays. National Commission for Safai Karamcharis
for three years
Fort William, Base of Army’s Eastern • The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra
Command, Renamed ‘Vijay Durg’ Modi, has extended the tenure of the National
Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) for three
additional years, until March 31, 2028.
• The initiative also aims for zero fatalities while
performing hazardous cleaning tasks.
• The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis
Act, 1993, was enacted in September, 1993 and a
statutory National Commission for Safai Karmcharis
was first constituted in August, 1994.
• Fort William, the headquarters of the Indian Army’s
Eastern Command in Kolkata, has been renamed MEA Declares ‘IBCA’ as Inter-Governmental
Vijay Durg. International Organization
• The decision was made in mid-December 2024, with • In February 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs
internal military communications already using the (MEA) announced that the International Big Cat
new name pending an official announcement. Alliance (IBCA) would become a full-fledged treaty-
• The change aligns with Prime Minister Narendra based inter-governmental organization, effective
Modi’s government efforts to decolonize names of from January 23, 2025.
landmarks and institutions, including renaming
• A total of 27 countries, including India, have joined
Rajpath to Kartavya Path.
IBCA, along with several wildlife conservation
India achieves milestone of 100 GW solar organizations.
energy capacity • Established by the National Tiger Conservation
Authority (NTCA), the alliance aims to conserve
seven big cat species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow
Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)


• Establishment- 2023
• Headquarters- New Delhi
• Director General- S P Yadav

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Ministry of Railways Launches ‘SwaRail’ • The 4.3 GW facility belongs to Tata Power Solar
SuperApp for Beta Testing Systems Limited (TPSSL), a subsidiary of Tata
Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL).
• In January 2025, the Ministry of Railways launched
the ‘SwaRail’ SuperApp, developed by the Centre • It is located at Gangaikondan State Industries
for Railway Information Systems (CRIS). Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu Limited
(SIPCOT) Industrial Growth Centre in Tirunelveli
• The app, now in beta testing, combines various
district, Tamil Nadu.
railway services into one platform, simplifying tasks
like ticket booking, PNR status, and food ordering. • The plant features advanced Tunnel Oxide Passivated
Contact (TOPCon) and Mono PERC technologies.
• It can be accessed through Mobile Personal Identifica-
tion Number (MPIN) or biometric authentication. Indian Army’s Eastern Headquarters ‘Fort
• Its goal is to improve digital infrastructure and
William’ Renamed as ‘Vijay Durg’
enhance the user experience.
• On February 6, 2025, the Indian Army’s Eastern
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Headquarters at Fort William, Kolkata, was renamed
‘Vijay Durg’ to remove colonial influences.
Launched a Nationwide Campaign
• Built by the British in 1781, the fort was initially
‘Watershed Yatra’ named after King William III. The new name is
• In February 2025, Union Minister Shivraj Singh inspired by the historic Vijaydurg fort in Maharashtra,
Chouhan launched the ‘Watershed Yatra’ campaign a key Maratha naval base under Chhatrapati
under the Ministry of Rural Development. Shivaji.
• The campaign aims to raise awareness and • Fort William became the Eastern Army Command’s
encourage public participation in watershed headquarters in 1963 after the Sino-India War.
development activities under the Pradhan Mantri • Additionally, ‘Kitchener House’ was renamed
Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY 2.0). Manekshaw House, and St. George’s Gate was
• It will cover 805 projects across 6,673 Gram Panchayats renamed Shivaji Gate.
and 13,587 villages in 26 states and 2 Union Territories, • These changes, initiated in December 2024, are
with van movements lasting 60 to 90 days. part of efforts to ‘Indianize’ military traditions,
supported by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
India’s Largest Single-Location Solar Plant
Inaugurated in Tamil Nadu
• In February 2025, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister
M.K. Stalin inaugurated India’s largest solar
manufacturing plant.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | March 2025 P


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Chapter

2 International Affairs

Brazil to join OPEC, group of major oil • In a historic scientific breakthrough, Australian
exporting nations researchers have successfully created the first-ever
kangaroo embryos using in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
• This achievement marks the first time a kangaroo
embryo has been produced through intracytoplasmic
sperm injection (ICSI), a technique widely used in
human fertility treatments.
• IVF is being explored around the world for conserving
endangered species. In January 2024, scientists in
Germany transferred a rhino embryo, the world’s
first produced through IVF, into a surrogate.

Panama withdraws from China’s Belt and


• Brazil’s government approved joining OPEC, marking
a significant shift as it prepares for the UN climate
Road Initiative
summit in November 2025.
• The approval was granted by the National Council
for Energy Policy in response to an official invitation
received in 2023.
• President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who began his
third term in 2023, supports oil production to finance
the transition to green energy while advocating for
environmental protection.
• Brazil is the world’s seventh-largest oil producer,
contributing about 4.3 million barrels daily, which is • Panama has officially exited China’s Belt and Road
4% of global output. Oil became Brazil’s top export Initiative (BRI), as announced by President Jose Raul
product in 2024. Mulino.
• The decision is influenced by increasing pressure
Australian scientists successfully create the from the United States, particularly the Trump
first-ever kangaroo embryo using IVF administration, to limit Chinese influence in the
Panama Canal.
• Panama has submitted a 90-day statutory notice
regarding its embassy to Beijing, indicating its
decision not to renew involvement in the BRI.
• The BRI is a Chinese strategy aimed at enhancing
regional integration and economic growth through
land and maritime networks connecting Asia, Africa,
and Europe.
• This move marks a significant shift in Panama’s
foreign policy, as the BRI had been central to its
infrastructure development strategy under previous
governments.
Chapter

3 Economic Affairs

Union Budget 2025-26


• Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the Union Budget
2025-26 with the theme ‘Sabka Vikas’, focusing on balanced growth across all regions.
Budget Estimates 2025-26
• For FY2025-26, total receipts (excluding borrowings) are projected at ₹34.96 lakh crore, while total expenditure
is estimated at ₹50.65 lakh crore.
• Net tax receipts are expected to reach ₹28.37 lakh crore.
• The fiscal deficit is targeted at 4.4% of GDP.
• Gross market borrowings are estimated at ₹14.82 lakh crore.
• A capital expenditure of ₹11.21 lakh crore, or 3.1% of GDP, has been allocated.
Total Income per annum Rate of Tax
₹0 – 4 Lakh NIL
₹4 – 8 Lakh 5%
₹8 – 12 Lakh 10%
₹12 – 16 Lakh 15%
₹16 – 20 Lakh 20%
₹20 – 24 Lakh 25%
Above ₹24 Lakh 30%

Agriculture as the 1st Engine of Development


• Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Launched in partnership with states covering 100 districts
to enhance productivity, promote crop diversification, improve storage, irrigation, and credit availability for
farmers.
• Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program: A multi-sectoral initiative to address underemployment in
agriculture, focusing on skilling, investment, technology, and rural economic growth, with a special emphasis on
women, youth, small farmers, and landless families.
• Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: A 6-year mission focusing on Tur, Urad, and Masoor pulses, with
procurement support from NAFED and NCCF over the next 4 years.
• Comprehensive Agriculture Programs: Includes initiatives for vegetables and fruits, high-yielding seeds, and
a 5-year mission to improve cotton productivity.
• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Loan Limit Increase: Raised from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh under the modified interest
subvention scheme.
MSMEs as the 2nd Engine of Development
• MSMEs as Key Growth Engine: MSMEs contribute 45% of exports; they are described as the second power
engine for national development.
• Enhanced Investment & Turnover Limits: To support MSMEs, investment and turnover limits for classification
have been increased by 2.5 and 2 times, respectively.
• Credit Accessibility: Steps announced to enhance credit availability for MSMEs, including guarantee cover.
• New Scheme for First-Time Entrepreneurs: A new initiative will support 5 lakh women, SC/ST first-time
entrepreneurs with term loans up to Rs. 2 crore over the next 5 years.
• Global Toy Hub Initiative: Government plans to establish India as a global hub for “Made in India” toys.
• National Manufacturing Mission: A scheme to boost small, medium, and large industries under the “Make in
India” initiative.
Investment as the 3rd Engine of Development
• Investment in People:
Š 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in Government schools over 5 years.
Š Broadband connectivity to be provided to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in
rural areas under the Bharatnet project.
Š Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to offer digital Indian language books for school and higher education.
Š Five National Centres of Excellence for skilling to be established with global partnerships for “Make for India,
Make for the World” manufacturing.
Š Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education with a ₹500 crore outlay.
Š Gig workers to receive identity cards, e-Shram portal registration, and healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojana.
• Investment in Economy:
Š Infrastructure ministries to create a 3-year pipeline of PPP projects.
Š ₹1.5 lakh crore proposed for 50-year interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure and incentives for
reforms.
Š Second Asset Monetization Plan (2025-30) to raise ₹10 lakh crore for new projects.
Š Extension of Jal Jeevan Mission till 2028, focusing on rural piped water supply and infrastructure quality.
Š Urban Challenge Fund of ₹1 lakh crore to implement ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, ‘Creative Redevelopment of
Cities’, and ‘Water and Sanitation’ initiatives.
• Investment in Innovation:
Š ₹20,000 crore allocated for private sector-driven Research, Development, and Innovation.
Š National Geospatial Mission to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data for urban planning.
Š Gyan Bharatam Mission to survey, document, and conserve over 1 crore manuscripts, along with a National
Digital Repository for Indian knowledge systems.
Exports as the 4th Engine of Development
• Export Promotion Mission: Aim to help MSMEs access global markets through a joint export initiative.
• BharatTradeNet (BTN): Proposed digital public infrastructure for trade documentation and financing solutions.
• Support for Domestic Manufacturing: Government to aid the development of manufacturing capacities for
integration into global supply chains.
• Electronic Equipment Industry: Focus on enabling the industry to capitalize on Industry 4.0 opportunities.
• National Framework for Global Capability Centres: Promote the growth of Global Capability Centres in
emerging tier 2 cities.
• Infrastructure for Air Cargo: Government to enhance air cargo infrastructure, focusing on high-value perishable
horticulture products.

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Meta introduces subsea internet cable • This agreement contributes to a cumulative
Project Water worth to cross over 50,000 km allocation of 40 GWh among four companies, out of
a total planned capacity of 50 GWh.
• Meta introduced its internet subsea cable Project
Water worth, which will cross 50,000 km in length, India’s ePlane secures $1 billion deal to
the longest subsea cable project globally.
supply 788 eVTOL air ambulances
• It aims to enhance connectivity for the U.S., India,
Brazil, South Africa, and other regions. • The ePlane Company, an Indian electric aircraft
startup, has secured a deal valued at over $1 billion
• The investment involves billions of dollars and is set to supply 788 air ambulances.
to span across years, in a bid to bring AI access to
• The agreement is non-binding and involves supplying
users all around the world.
electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft
• As part of Project Water worth, more cables are set to to ICATT, an air ambulance service provider, for
be laid at depths of up to 7,000 metres. deployment across all districts in India.
• This initiative responds to the challenge of worsening
India’s first road train unveiled by Volvo traffic congestion in busy Indian cities.
Trucks • eVTOLs aim to revolutionize urban travel with
• Volvo Trucks introduced India’s first road train, battery-powered aircraft capable of vertical takeoff
transforming long-distance transportation. and landing, helping commuters avoid traffic jams.
• The project was launched by Nitin Gadkari, the Union
Minister of Road Transport and Highways, in Nagpur. Google unveils ‘Ananta,’ its largest campus in
• Developed in collaboration with Delhivery Ltd, it India
aims to enhance the logistics industry. • Google unveiled Ananta, its largest campus in India,
• Road Train concept allows vehicle lengths up to 25.25 located in Mahadevapura, Bengaluru.
meters, incorporated into Indian regulations in 2020. • The name “Ananta” means “infinite” or “limitless” in
• The setup uses a tractor unit to tow multiple trailers, Sanskrit.
significantly increasing cargo capacity. • The campus can accommodate over 5,000 employees
• Volvo’s Road Train comprises a Volvo FM 420 4×2 and is designed with accessibility in mind.
tractor, a 24-foot containerized intermediate trailer, • Materials used for construction are predominantly
and a 44-foot semi-trailer. sourced locally.
• Ananta represents Google’s commitment to
Ministry of Labour & Employment inks MoU innovation and aims to drive advancements in AI.
with APNA for more jobs
• The Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) has RBI Launches ‘RBIDATA’ App for Seamless
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Access to Economic and Financial Data
APNA, a leading job recruitment platform. • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched RBIDATA,
• The partnership aims to bring over 10 lakh job a mobile app for accessing macroeconomic and
opportunities annually to the National Career Service financial statistics.
(NCS) portal. • The app aims to enhance data transparency and
• This initiative is designed to enhance employment accessibility for researchers, policymakers, financial
prospects for young job seekers and promote a professionals, and the public.
dynamic job ecosystem. • RBIDATA contains over 11,000 economic data series
• The MoU will provide broader employment options related to the Indian economy.
across metro and non-metro cities for job seekers. • Each dataset includes source information, units of
measurement, update frequency, and explanatory
Reliance Enters Into Agreement for 10 GWh notes for better clarity.
Battery Storage as Part of PLI Initiative
• The Ministry of Heavy Industries has signed a program
Bank of Maharashtra gets RBI approval for
agreement with Reliance New Energy Battery for a 10 opening GIFT City branch
GWh capacity under the Production Linked Incentive • Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) has received approval
(PLI) Program for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC). from the Reserve Bank of India to establish an

CURRENT AFFAIRS | March 2025 P


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International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) RBI lifts restrictions on Kotak Mahindra Bank
Banking Unit in GIFT City, Gandhinagar. • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lifted restrictions on
• This branch will be BoM’s first international branch Kotak Mahindra Bank, allowing it to issue new credit
focused on offshore banking operations from India. cards and onboard customers after nearly 10 months
• MD & CEO Nidhu Saxena described this as a significant of an embargo.
opportunity for the bank to expand its operations • The restrictions were imposed due to deficiencies
globally. in the bank’s IT management, including issues
with inventory management, data security, and
SEBI launches RPT portal to strengthen compliance.
corporate governance and transparency • Kotak Mahindra Bank undertook remedial measures
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and underwent an external audit by Grant Thornton
has launched a dedicated Related Party Transaction Bharat to address the issues before the restrictions
(RPT) portal to enhance transparency and governance were lifted.
in corporate India. • The bank’s new CEO, Ashok Vaswani, took charge
• This portal aims to bring greater transparency to in January 2024 and has focused on improving core
corporate boardrooms. banking resilience and digital transformation.
• SEBI introduced this portal as a strategic move
to track and analyse RPTs, a critical area where RBI allows pre-approved credit lines on UPI
governance lapses often occur. from small finance banks
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded
RBI Approves Voluntary Amalgamation of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions by
two Urban Co-operative Banks allowing small finance banks (SFBs) to offer pre-
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the sanctioned credit lines.
voluntary amalgamation of two urban cooperative • This update follows RBI’s introduction of credit lines
banks (UCBs). on UPI in September 2023 for banks and third-party
• The first merger involves the Citizen Cooperative apps.
Bank (CCB) from Goa merging with TJSB Sahakari • UPI facilitates transactions through linked savings
Bank from Thane, Maharashtra. accounts, overdraft accounts, prepaid wallets, and
• The second merger is between Pune Commercial credit cards; pre-sanctioned credit lines will be an
Cooperative Bank (PCC Bank) from Satara and Pimpri additional funding source.
Chinchwad Sahakari Bank (PCS Bank) from Pune.
• These actions are part of RBI’s efforts to strengthen
RBI Imposes Rs35.60 Lakh Penalty on
and consolidate the urban cooperative banking Federal Bank and Karur Vysya Bank
sector. • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a total
penalty of Rs35.60 lakh on Federal Bank Ltd and
SEBI launches MITRA to help investors track Karur Vysya Bank Ltd for non-compliance with
unclaimed mutual funds folios regulatory directions.
• SEBI launched a new digital platform called MITRA • Federal Bank received the highest penalty of Rs27.30
(Mutual Fund Investment Tracing and Retrieval lakh for non-compliance related to interest rates on
Assistant) to help investors track and reclaim inactive deposits.
or unclaimed mutual fund folios. • A statutory inspection revealed that Federal Bank
• It will be managed by two Qualified RTAs: Computer had opened savings deposit accounts for ineligible
Age Management Services Limited (CAMS) and entities.
KFIN Technologies Limited, acting as agents of Asset • Karur Vysya Bank was fined Rs8.30 lakh for failing to
Management Companies (AMCs) adhere to specific RBI directions concerning the loan
• The platform aims to encourage investors to search system for delivering bank credit.
for forgotten investments and update their KYC
information in compliance with current norms. 6th Bi-monthly RBI Monetary Policy FY25
• MITRA provides a searchable database of inactive • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy
and unclaimed mutual fund folios at an industry level. Committee (MPC) held its meeting from February

CURRENT AFFAIRS | March 2025 P


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5 to 7, 2025, and released the 6th bi-monthly • The SIB Business Startup Current Account is tailored
monetary policy for FY 25. for sole proprietorships and partnerships,
• This was the first meeting chaired by Sanjay providing essential banking services to help new
Malhotra, who became the RBI Governor on businesses establish themselves.
December 11, 2024. It was also the 53rd MPC • The SIB Corporate Startup Current Account caters
meeting and the final one for FY 25. to larger business entities, such as private limited
• Repo Rate Cut: Reduced by 25 basis points to 6.25%, companies, public limited companies, one-person
effective immediately. companies, and limited liability partnerships (LLPs),
• Other Rates: Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate addressing their more complex financial needs.
adjusted to 6.00%; Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) About South Indian Bank
and Bank Rate set at 6.50%.
• Establishment- 1929
• GDP Growth Projection for FY 26: Q1 (Apr-Jun
• Headquarters- Thrissur, Kerala
2025): 6.7%; Q2 (Jul-Sep 2025): 7.0%; Q3 (October-
December 2025) and Q4 (January-March 2026): • MD & CEO- P.R. Seshadri
6.5% each. • Tagline- Experience Next Generation Banking
• Inflation Projections: FY 26: 4.2%; FY 25: 4.8%
IOB Becomes a Signatory of PCAF
• Cybersecurity Initiatives: Introduction of ‘bank.in’
and ‘fin.in’ domains. • In February 2025, Indian Overseas Bank (IOB),
based in Chennai, joined the Partnership for Carbon
• Cross-Border Digital Transactions: AFA
Accounting Financials (PCAF), becoming one of the
(Automated Financial Authority) to be implemented.
first public sector banks in India to do so.
NaBFID Extended Rs 2,000 crore Loan to • As a PCAF signatory, the bank will measure and
disclose the Greenhouse Gas emissions linked to its
Blackstone-backed Data Centre
financed activities, following globally recognized
• In February 2025, Mumbai-based National Bank GHG accounting methods.
for Financing Infrastructure and Development
• PCAF, founded in 2015 by 14 Dutch financial
(NaBFID) sanctioned a ₹2,000 crore loan to Gramercy
institutions, was launched globally in 2019.
Techpark Private Limited.
• This will be Gramercy’s second data center in Navi Zomato Rebrands Itself as ‘Eternal’
Mumbai. Construction is set to begin in mid-2025.
• On February 6, 2025, Zomato announced that it would
• Data centers support growing computing and storage rename its parent company to ‘Eternal Limited’. The
needs. company also introduced a new logo.
About NaBFID • This change reflects its growth beyond food delivery.
• It was notified as a Public Financial Institution (PFI) Zomato is now expanding into other businesses,
by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MoCA) under including its quick-commerce arm, Blinkit, and other
the Companies Act, 2013 in September 2024. ventures.
• Establishment- 2021 • Eternal will oversee four major divisions:
• Headquarters- Mumbai Š Zomato: Core food delivery vertical.
• Chairman- KV Kamath Š Blinkit: Quick-commerce unit (10-minute
deliveries).
South Indian Bank Unveils ‘Startup Current Š District: Live events and B2B logistics.
Accounts’ Š Hyperpure: Restaurant supply chain services.
• In February 2025, South Indian Bank, based in About Zomato
Thrissur, launched two new startups Current Account • Establishment- 2008
products: ‘SIB Business Startup Current Account’
• Headquarters- Gurugram
and ‘SIB Corporate Startup Current Account’.
These accounts aim to support India’s growing • Chief Executive Officer- Deepinder Goyal
startup ecosystem.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | March 2025 P


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Chapter

4 Science and Technology

ISRO and IIT Madras jointly develop and China’s National Space Administration (CNSA)
indigenous semiconductor chip signed an MoU to include Pakistan’s first lunar rover
in China’s Chang’e-8 mission, scheduled for 2028.
• The mission will explore the Moon’s south pole,
which is of scientific interest for its resources and
unique environment.
• SUPARCO will contribute a 35-kg rover, and the
lander will carry 10 scientific instruments, including
cameras, a seismometer, a radiometer, and tools for
studying lunar soil, radiation, and resources.

• ISRO and IIT Madras have developed the Indigenous Shubhanshu Shukla to Pilot NASA’s Private
RISCV Controller for Space Applications (IRIS). Axiom Mission 4
• IRIS is based on the SHAKTI processor, which is
part of the RISC-IV open-source Instruction Set
Architecture.
• The design of the 64-bit RSIC-V-based controller
was conceived by ISRO’s Inertial Systems Unit and
finalized based on existing sensor systems.
• The project was led by V Kamakoti from IIT Madras
under the SHAKTI microprocessor initiative
supported by Electronics and IT.
• The controller features fault-tolerant internal
memory, higher reliability, and integration with
advanced interfaces and serial buses.

Ellie, Asia’s first life-sized animatronic


elephant, unveiled in Bengaluru
• In January 2025, Indian Space Research Organisation
• Asia’s first empathy-building animatronic elephant,
(ISRO)’s astronaut and the Indian Air Force (IAF)
Ellie, visited St Joseph’s School in Bengaluru.
fighter pilot, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla,
• The visit is part of a nationwide awareness tour by was named the pilot for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a
PETA India. private spaceflight to the International Space Station
• Ellie is designed to help children understand that (ISS).
animals have emotions and deserve to live peacefully. • He will be the first Indian to visit the ISS on a private
• Since May 2023, Ellie has reached over 165,000 mission and the first Indian in space after 40
students across various schools in India. years. The mission, organized by Axiom Space, will
use SpaceX for transport and launch from NASA’s
Pakistan Partners with China for Chang’e-8 Kennedy Space Center, Florida, in 2025.
Lunar Mission in 2028 • Other crew members include Peggy Whitson (USA),
• On February 5, 2025, Pakistan’s Space and Upper Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland), and Tibor
Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) Kapu (Hungary).
Sunita Williams Sets New Record for Longest • In January 2025, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams
Spacewalk by a Female Astronaut set a new record for the longest total spacewalking
time by a female astronaut, with 62 hours and 6
minutes.
• This achievement occurred during the 92nd USA
spacewalk.
• She surpassed the previous record of 60 hours and
21 minutes held by Peggy Whitson.

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Chapter

5 Sports Affairs

Pankaj Advani Wins Indian Snooker • The 35-year-old will focus on T20 cricket and remains
Championship, 36th National Gold Overall available for selection.
• Stoinis played a significant role in Australia’s victory
at the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers win men’s


Hockey India League 2024-25 Title

• Pankaj Advani won his 36th national title and 10th


men’s snooker crown at the Yashwant Club.
• He defeated Brijesh Damani despite losing the
opening frame, ultimately winning the match 5-1. • The Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers triumphed in the 6th
• Advani’s performance was characterized by Men’s Hockey India League 2024-25, defeating the
consistency and precision; he achieved an impressive Hyderabad Toofans 4-3 in a closely contested final.
84 break in the final frame. • The final took place on February 1, 2025, at the Birsa
Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela,
Australian Cricketer Marcus Stoinis Odisha.
Announces Retirement From ODI • This victory marked the first title for the Shrachi Rarh
Bengal Tigers, earning them a prize of Rs 3 crore.

About Hockey India League


• The Hockey India League for both men and women
is organized by Hockey India.
• It is a premier club-based tournament in India that
includes participation from foreign players.
• The first edition of the Men’s Hockey India League
took place in 2013 and continued annually until
2017.
• Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has announced • After a seven-year hiatus, the 6th edition of the
his immediate retirement from ODI cricket. Men’s Hockey India League was held in 2024-25 in
• He will not participate in the 2025 ICC Champions Rourkela, Odisha.
Trophy.
Kyrian Jacquet Wins the 2025 Chennai Open 6th Men’s Hockey India League 2024-25
Tennis Single Title • In February 2025, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers
won their maiden title by defeating Hyderabad
Toofans 4–3 in the final of the 6th Men’s Hockey
India League 2024-25 at Birsa Munda International
Hockey Stadium, Rourkela, Odisha.
• The tournament, featuring 8 teams, was held from
December 28, 2024, to February 1, 2025.
• Top Scorer of the Tournament: Jugraj Singh
(Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers)
• Player of the Tournament: Sukhjeet Singh (Shrachi
Rarh Bengal Tigers)
• Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Bikramjit
Singh (Hyderabad Toofans)
• Upcoming Player of the Tournament: Arshdeep
• Kyrian Jacquet of France won the 2025 Chennai Open
Singh (Hyderabad Toofans)
Tennis men’s singles title.
• Fairplay Award (Team): UP Rudras
• Jacquet defeated Elias Ymer of Sweden in the final
held on February 9, 2025, at the SDAT Tennis Stadium • The Kalinga Lancers won the 5th edition of the Men’s
in Nungambakkam, Tamil Nadu. HIL in 2017.
• This tournament was part of the ATP 100 Challenger
India Wins the ‘ICC U19 Women’s T20 World
event and took place from February 3 to February 9,
2025. Cup 2025’ for 2nd consecutive time
• The victory marked Kyrian Jacquet’s first ATP title at
the age of 23.

Meghalaya to host next edition of National


Games in 2027

• India won the 2nd edition of the ICC Under-


19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, defeating
South Africa by 9 wickets in the final at Bayuemas
Oval, Kuala Lumpur. This marks India’s second
consecutive title.
• The team, captained by Niki Prasad, saw Gongadi
Trisha named ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of
the Series’ for her exceptional performance.
• In the inaugural ICC Women’s T20 World Cup
2023 played in South Africa, India defeated England.
• The 3rd edition of the tournament will be hosted by
Bangladesh and Nepal in 2027.
• Meghalaya will host the National Games in 2027,
coinciding with the 50th anniversary of its statehood. R Praggnanandhaa Win ‘Tata Steel Chess
• Preparations for the next National Games have Masters 2025’
already begun, with nearly 40 sports disciplines • On February 2, 2025, Indian Chess Grandmaster
planned. R Praggnanandhaa won the ‘Tata Steel Chess
• Sporting events will take place in Shillong, Tura, and Masters 2025’ title, defeating World Chess Champion
Jowai, representing different regions within the state. D Gukesh in a tiebreaker.

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• This victory made him the second Indian to win the • On February 1, 2025, Jasprit Bumrah won the
title after Viswanathan Anand (2006). ‘Polly Umrigar Award’ for Best International
• The 87th edition of the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, Cricketer (Men) for 2023–24 at the BCCI Awards.
held from January 17 to February 2, 2025, in Wijk Smriti Mandhana received the Best International
aan Zee, Netherlands. Cricketer (Women) award for 2023–24.
• Sachin Tendulkar was honoured with the ‘Colonel
Bumrah Wins ‘Polly Umrigar Award’ 2023-24, CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award 2024’.
‘CK Nayudu Award’ for Sachin Tendulkar He is the 31st recipient of this award, which was
instituted in 1994.
• A total of 26 winners were recognized during the
ceremony held in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The BCCI
also presented a special award to Ravichandran
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in
December 2024.

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Chapter

6 Defence Affairs

India, Japan to hold 6th edition of joint • The FPV on display is a 50-meter-long vessel capable
military exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ of speeds up to 35 knots, primarily used for patrolling,
anti-smuggling, and anti-terrorist operations, with
additional roles such as coastal convoy escort and
communication link during wartime.
• It is powered by three 2,720 kW diesel engines
and is designed to accommodate 35 personnel in
fully air-conditioned conditions, ensuring high
maneuverability and the ability to operate in
challenging sea conditions for extended periods
without external support.

India- Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise


Cyclone-III begins in Rajasthan
• The sixth edition of Joint Military Exercise Dharma
Guardian, between India and Japan, is scheduled at
Mount Fuji, Japan from February 25 to March 9.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability
between the two forces while undertaking joint
urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations
under UN mandate.
• Dharma Guardian 2025 highlights the growing
strategic partnership between India and Japan,
focusing on operational readiness for various • The 3rd edition of Joint Special Forces Exercise
security challenges. CYCLONE commenced at Mahajan Field Firing
Ranges in Rajasthan.
Goa Shipyard Showcases Indigenous Naval • The exercise is being conducted from 10th to 23rd
Vessels at NAVDEX 2025 February 2025.
• Exercise CYCLONE is an annual event conducted
alternatively in India and Egypt.
• Last edition of the same exercise was conducted in
Egypt in January 2024.

13th Edition of Joint Military Exercise


‘Ekuverin’
• The 13th edition of the joint military exercise
‘Ekuverin’ between the Indian Army and the
• Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) is showcasing its indigenously Maldives National Defence Force was hosted in the
designed Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Maldives in February 2025.
Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi,
• The 14-day exercise, hosted from February 2 to 15,
highlighting India’s naval innovation and self-reliance
aimed to strengthen military ties between the two
under the “Make in India” initiative.
nations.
• Held annually since 2009, ‘Ekuverin,’ meaning Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at
‘Friends’ in Dhivehi, focuses on enhancing counter- the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha.
insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, as • The surface-to-air missiles successfully intercepted
well as joint humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. and destroyed targets that simulated low-flying
• The 12th edition took place in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, drones with reduced thermal signatures under
India, from June 11 to 24, 2023. various flying conditions.

DRDO Conducts the 3 Flight-trials of About Defence Research and Development


Indigenous VSHORADS Organisation (DRDO)
• Establishment -1958
• Headquarters - New Delhi
• Works under - Ministry of Defence
• Chairman - Dr. Samir Vankatpati Kamat

Ministry of Defence Signed Contract with


Russia for Anti-Ship Cruise Missile
• In February 2024, the Ministry of Defence signed
a deal with Russia for the purchase of anti-ship
cruise missiles.
• On February 1, 2025, the Defence Research and • The agreement, signed in New Delhi by Rajesh Kumar
Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully Singh, Secretary of the MoD, will boost the combat
carried out three consecutive flight trials of the Very capabilities of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet.

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Chapter

7 Awards and Honours

Bhaker named BBC Indian Sportswoman of • She is the only Indian woman included on the list,
the Year 2024 which honors leaders working towards a more
equitable world.
• Other notable figures on the list include actor Nicole
Kidman and Gisele Pelicot, a survivor of
• The Time Magazine’s ‘Women of the Year’ list
recognizes leaders addressing pressing global issues
facing women and girls.

Varsha Bharath’s Bad Girl wins NETPAC


Award at International Film Festival
• Manu Bhaker was awarded the BBC Indian Rotterdam
Sportswoman of the Year following her remarkable
performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she
won two bronze medals.
• She became the first Indian woman to secure two
medals at a single Olympic Games and the first
Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting,
achieving this in the women’s 10m air pistol event.
• Bhaker’s second bronze was won in the mixed 10m
air pistol event alongside Sarabjot Singh.

Indian biologist Purnima Devi Barman


among Time Magazine’s 2025 list of ‘Women
• The teaser for Varsha Bharath’s debut film, Bad Girl,
of the Year’ received mixed reactions on social media, provoking
both praise and criticism regarding its portrayal of
women’s sexual desire and caste stereotypes.
• Despite the initial negative feedback, Bad Girl has
achieved recognition by winning the NETPAC Award
at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR)
2025.
• This award is a significant achievement as it follows
the last Tamil film, Nasir (2019), to have won the
same honor, and it adds Bad Girl to a distinguished
list of Indian films recognized in the past.
• Purnima Devi Barman, an Indian biologist and • The film stars Anjali Sivaraman in the lead role,
wildlife conservationist, was named one of Time along with Shanthi Priya, Hridhu Haroon, Teejay
Magazine’s ‘Women of the Year’ for 2025. Arunasalam, and Saranya Ravichandran.
Rakesh Roshan to receive Outstanding
Achievement Award at IIFA 2025

• The recognition is for NTPC’s significant


contributions to water conservation and sustainable
water management.
• Rakesh Roshan is set to receive the ‘Outstanding • The Forward Faster Sustainability Awards celebrate
Achievement in Indian Cinema’ award at IIFA 2025. organizations advancing sustainability and corporate
• Roshan praised IIFA for its journey and impact on responsibility in line with the UN Sustainable
celebrating cinematic excellence over 25 years. Development Goals (SDGs).
• He has had a long association with IIFA since its
inaugural event in 2000. India’s Chandrika Tandon Bags Grammy
• Roshan emphasized IIFA’s role in promoting Indian Award for ‘Triveni’
talent globally and the occasion’s significance. • On February 2, 2025, Chandrika Krishnamurthy
• The IIFA Silver Jubilee will be held on March 8-9, Tandon, an Indian-American entrepreneur and
2025, in Jaipur, Rajasthan. vocalist, won her first Grammy Award for Best New
Age, Ambient, or Chant Album for ‘Triveni’ at the
NTPC Wins Forward Faster Sustainability 67th Annual Grammy Awards.
Award 2025 for Water Resilience • She shared the award with Wouter Kellerman, a
• NTPC Ltd., India’s largest integrated power utility, has South African flutist, and Eru Matsumoto, a Japanese
been honoured with Forward Faster Sustainability cellist.
Award 2025 in the Water Resilience category. • Beyoncé Knowles-Carter won her first Album of
• The award was presented at a ceremony organised the Year Grammy for Cowboy Carter, becoming a
by the UN Global Compact Network India (UN GCNI) 35-time Grammy winner and the first Black artist
in Chennai. to win ‘Best Country Album’.

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Chapter

8 Appointments and
Resignation
Gyanesh Kumar takes charge as Chief • His confirmation followed a narrow Senate vote, with
Election Commissioner 51 in favor and 49 against.

Kotak Mahindra Prime appoints Shahrukh


Todiwala as new MD, CEO

• In February 2025, Gyanesh Kumar took charge as the


new Chief Election Commissioner, emphasizing that
voting is the first step for nation building.
• Gyanesh Kumar is a 1988-batch IAS officer from the • Kotak Mahindra Prime appointed Shahrukh Todiwala
Kerala cadre and is senior to other commissioners in as the new MD and CEO.
the three-member panel. • Todiwala succeeds Vyomesh Kapasi, who becomes
• Rajiv Kumar, the outgoing Chief Election the head of the product-consumer bank vertical at
Commissioner, expressed optimism about the future Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB).
of the Election Commission and its significance in • Ashok Vaswani, MD & CEO of KMB, emphasized the
democracy. importance of nurturing leadership talent within the
organization.
Indian-Origin Kash Patel is confirmed as FBI
director be US Senate SBI Cards Appoints Salila Pande As CEO For
Two Years

• Kash Patel, of Indian origin, has been officially


confirmed as the ninth director of the FBI by
President Donald Trump.
• Salila Pande has been appointed as the Managing • Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned
Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBI Cards and after nearly two years of ethnic violence in the
Payment Services Ltd. northeastern state.
• Her appointment is effective from April 1, 2025, • His resignation occurred amidst growing dissent
and the term is for two years, pending necessary within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with multiple
approvals, including from shareholders. legislators calling for a leadership change.
• Pande replaces Abhijit Chakravorty, who will retire at • Singh submitted his resignation at the Raj Bhavan,
the end of March 2025. accompanied by BJP’s Northeast in-charge, Sambit
• She is currently a Chief General Manager at the State Patra, and several state ministers.
Bank of India and has been with the organization • He tendered his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar
since 1995. Bhalla.

Rekha Gupta becomes New Chief Minister of Greece elects former parliament speaker as
Delhi new president

• Rekha Gupta, a first-time BJP MLA from Shalimar • Constantine Tassoulas was elected as Greece’s
Bagh, was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi, president by parliament, succeeding Katerina
marking the BJP’s return to power after 27 years. Sakellaropoulou, the first female president.
• She is the fourth woman Chief Minister of Delhi, • His election received 160 votes in the 300-
following Sushma Swaraj, Sheila Dikshit, and Atishi. seat parliament, supported by the conservative
• Gupta won the Shalimar Bagh seat in the February government.
5 Delhi Assembly elections by over 29,000 votes • The decision to nominate him faced protests over the
against AAP’s Bandana Kumari. handling of the investigation into a deadly 2023 train
• She becomes the fourth BJP Chief Minister of Delhi crash during his tenure as parliamentary speaker.
and the only incumbent woman Chief Minister in any • At 66 years old, Tassoulas has been a lawmaker since
BJP-ruled state. 2000 and has previously held positions including
culture minister and deputy defense minister.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigns
nearly two years after ethnic violence began Bart Albert Liliane De Wever Sworn-in as
New PM of Belgium
• On February 3, 2025, Bart Albert Liliane De Wever,
a Flemish nationalist, became Belgium’s new Prime
Minister.
• His appointment followed 7 months of negotiations
and the formation of a coalition with an 81-seat
majority in the 150-seat Belgian Parliament.
• Before this role, he was the Mayor of Antwerp. He
replaced Alexander De Croo, who was serving as
caretaker Prime Minister since June 2024.

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Chapter

9 Index and Reports

Karnataka tops in the Devolution Index Indonesia, and Spain.


ranking of the Panchayat Raj system • These companies collectively added nearly 1.4
million jobs in 2024, raising their total workforce
to 8.4 million, which is about 16% of India’s total
workforce.
• The Tata Group leads the rankings with 15 companies,
contributing 10% of the total cumulative value, while
the Adani Group added a new company for a total of 9.
• Haryana advanced to join the top three states in
representation, while major cities like Mumbai and
Bangalore saw declines in company numbers.
• Karnataka ranks first in the overall Devolution Index
Forbes top 10 richest women in the world
(DI) for the Panchayat Raj system among Indian
states. (2025) List
• The report, titled ‘Status of Devolution to Panchayats
in States – An Indicative Evidence-Based Ranking’
(2024), was released by Union Minister of State, Prof.
S. P. Singh Baghel in New Delhi.
• Karnataka also leads in sub-indices of ‘finances’ and
‘accountability’.
• The overall index score for Karnataka is 72.23,
followed by Kerala with 70.59 and Tamil Nadu with • The forbes has released its 5th edition of the Top 10
68.38. Richest Women in World in 2025 list.
• The report was prepared by the Union Ministry of • The report highlights that women constitute 13.3%
Panchayati Raj and the Indian Institute of Public of the global billionaire population in the Forbes
Administration, New Delhi. Billionaire List 2024.
• The top ten richest women collectively have a net
India’s top 500 private sector companies worth exceeding $500 billion as of February 2025.
valued at Rs 324 lakh crore
Top 10 Women Billionaires (2025)
Rank Name Net Worth Source of
(USD) Wealth
1 Alice Walton $112.5 Walmart
billion
2 Francoise $74.4 billion L’Oréal
Bettencourt
Meyers and Family
• The 2024 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 report
reveals that India’s top 500 private sector companies 3 Julia Koch and $74.2 billion Koch
Family Industries
have a cumulative value of $3.8 trillion, surpassing
India’s GDP and the combined GDPs of the UAE, 4 Jacqueline Mars $42.3 billion Mars Inc
5 Rafaela Aponte- $39.0 billion Mediterranean Angel One AMC launches maiden NFO on
Diamant Shipping Nifty Total Market Index
Company
(MSC) Group
6 Abigail Johnson $36.0 billion Fidelity
Investments
7 Savitri Jindal & $32.3 billion JSW Group
family
8 MacKenzie Scott $32.3 billion Amazon
9 Miriam Adelson & $31.5 billion Las Vegas
family Sands
• Angel One Asset Management Company has launched
10 Marilyn Simons & $31.0 billion Hedge Funds its first New Fund Offer (NFO) on the Nifty Total
family Market Index, introducing India’s first exchange-
traded fund (ETF) alongside an index fund.
Indian School of Business ranks 27th • The fund comprises two passive investment options:
globally in FT MBA Ranking 2025 the Angel One Nifty Total Market Index Fund and
• The Indian School of Business (ISB) has been ranked the Angel One Nifty Total Market ETF, collectively
as the best Indian business school in the Financial covering approximately 750 stocks across 22 sectors.
Times (FT) MBA Rankings 2025. • These funds represent about 93% of India’s
• ISB is now ranked 27th globally, marking a four-place total market capitalization and aim to mirror the
improvement from last year’s 31st rank. performance of the Nifty Total Market Total Return
• In the Asian region, ISB has retained its 5th position. Index (TRI).
• Following ISB in the rankings are several Indian • The NFO is priced at Rs 10 per unit, with no exit load,
Institutes of Management (IIMs): and a minimum investment starting at Rs 1,000 in Re
1 multiples.
1. Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
(IIM-A) - 31st globally (2nd in India). • Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) options are available
on the index fund with various frequency choices
2. IIM Bangalore - 57th globally.
(daily, weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly)..
3. IIM Calcutta - 61st globally.
4. IIM Indore - 69th globally. 2025 Henley Passport Index: Singapore’s
5. IIM Lucknow - 71st globally. passport is world’s strongest, India at 80th
6. Other Indian institutes in the top 100 include: spot
7. XLRI – Xavier School of Management at 83rd
rank.
8. IIM Kozhikode at 86th rank.
• These are the only Indian institutes to make it into
the top 100 of the FT Global MBA Ranking 2025.
Global Ranking
• Globally, the first rank has been achieved by University
of Pennsylvania: Wharton (US), followed by another
American institute, Columbia Business School, at the
second spot.
• Representing Europe in the top ranks is Spain’s IESE • The 2025 Henley Passport Index ranks Singapore’s
Business School at the third spot, France’s Insead at passport as the world’s most powerful, with visa-free
the fourth spot, and Italy’s SDA Bocconi School of access to 193 out of 227 destinations.
Management at the fifth rank globally. • India’s passport ranks 80th, sharing this position
with Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Tajikistan.

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• The index evaluates 199 passports based on the number India ranks 96 out of 180 countries in
of destinations with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access. Corruption Perceptions Index 2024
• Japan and South Korea are in second place, each
providing access to 190 countries.
• Seven countries, including Denmark, Finland, France,
Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain, are tied for third,
with access to 189 destinations.
• At the bottom of the index, Afghanistan ranks 99th with
access to only 25 destinations, followed by Syria (98th,
27 destinations) and Iraq (97th, 30 destinations).
• Singapore and Japan have improved their positions,
with Japan regaining visa-free access to China post-
pandemic.
• Finland and South Korea have dropped one position
yet still offer access to 192 destinations. • The Transparency International has published the
• The United Arab Emirates has made significant gains, 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).
now ranking 10th with access to 185 destinations. • In CPI 2024, India ranks ranked at 96 out of 180
• China has improved from 94th place in 2015 to 60th countries, while Denmark ranks as the least corrupt
in 2025, with visa-free access to 58 countries. country in the world for the second consecutive year,
followed by Finland, Singapore, and New Zealand.
NITI Aayog Releases Policy Report on • India has dropped in rank from 93rd to 96th, scoring
‘Expanding Quality Higher Education 38 out of 100, highlighting ongoing corruption
through States and State Public Universities’ challenges in its public sector.
• The CPI assesses corruption in 180 countries and
territories based on expert and business perceptions,
with a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very
clean).
• South Asian neighbors, including Pakistan (135th),
Sri Lanka (121st), Bangladesh (149th), and China
(76th), also show low corruption rankings.
• Several Western nations, such as the United States
(28th), France, and Germany, have seen declines in
their corruption scores.
• NITI Aayog released a policy report titled “Expanding • South Sudan and Somalia rank at the bottom of the
Quality Higher Education through States and State index with scores of 8 and 9, respectively, followed by
Public Universities” focusing on the standards of Venezuela (10) and Syria (12).
state public universities (SPUs) in India.
• The report was launched by Vice Chairman Suman India ranked 38th in the Logistics
Bery and CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, highlighting its Performance Index 2023
status as the first comprehensive analysis of SPUs
over the past decade.
• The report is the first of its kind focusing on State
Public Universities (SPUs), providing detailed
quantitative analysis on Quality, Funding, Governance,
and Employability over the past decade.
• Extensive consultations were held with stakeholders
from 20 States and Union Territories, 50 SPUs, and
various educational councils to gather insights.

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• As per the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index • Top 10 Wealthiest Families in Asia:
(LPI), 2023 India moved up to 22nd Rank in the 1. Mukesh Ambani’s family (India) - $90.5 billion,
Global Ranking in International Shipments category Reliance Industries.
and the Overall 38th Rank in Logistics Performance 2. Chearavanont family (Thailand) - $42.6 billion,
Index score among the 139 countries. Charoen Pokphand conglomerate.
• India’s advancements in the logistics sector result 3. Hartono family (Indonesia) - $42.2 billion,
from several key factors: primarily through banking and tobacco.
1. Policy reforms 4. Mistry family (India) - $37.5 billion, stakes in
2. Initiatives driven by technology Tata Sons and Shapoorji Pallonji Group.
3. Improvements in infrastructure 5. Kwok family (Hong Kong) - $35.6 billion, from
• The country has greatly improved its competitiveness Sun Hung Kai Properties.
in global trade by: 6. Tsai family (Taiwan) - $30.9 billion, financial
1. Streamlining supply chains services firms.
2. Minimizing delays 7. Jindal family (India) - $28.1 billion, OP Jindal
3. Enhancing efficiency in freight transport Group conglomerate.
• International Shipments Rank Improvement: 8. Yoovidhya family (Thailand) - $25.7 billion,
1. Ranked 44th in 2018; rose to 22nd in 2023 creators of “Red Bull”.
2. This increase demonstrates the effectiveness 9. Birla family (India) - $23 billion, diversified
of government policies designed to facilitate interests in various sectors.
global trade 10. Lee family (South Korea) - $22.7 billion, fortune
• Turnaround Times at Ports: from Samsung.
1. Indian ports now have an average turnaround • Notable other families in the top 20 include the Zhang
time of 0.9 days family (China), Cheng family (Hong Kong), Bajaj
family (India), and Kwek/Quek family (Singapore),
Asia’s 20 richest families: Mukesh Ambani highlighting the growing wealth in Asia.
leads, 6 Indians in the ranks India Retains 3rd Spot Globally for LEED
Green Building Certification in 2024
• In February 2025, the United States Green Building
Council (USGBC) released its annual list of the top 10
countries and regions for Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) in 2024.
• India secured the 3rd spot with 370 LEED-
certified projects, covering 8.5 million Gross Square
Meters (GSM).
• India has consistently ranked among the top three,
• New York based Bloomberg Limited Partnership has reflecting its commitment to the United Nations’
released ‘Asia’s Richest Family 2025’ index, according Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030.
to which Ambani family of Reliance Industries
• China ranked first with 1,860 projects, while
secured the top position as Asia’s richest family.
Canada was second with 300 projects.
• Under Mukesh Ambani’s leadership, Reliance
• The bottom five countries included Mexico, Hong
Industries has diversified into technology, consumer
Kong (SAR), Italy, Brazil, and Turkey.
goods, financial services, and green energy.

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Chapter

10 Obituaries

Acharya Satyendra Das, Chief Priest of Shri • He was recognized for his deep devotion to music,
Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Passes Away with his life described as a “symphony of dedication”
by fellow artist Ashwini Bhide Deshpande.
• Karekar was notable for his signature performance
of the Natya Geet ‘Priye Paha’ and his ability to
imbue devotional compositions with deep spiritual
resonance, particularly with pieces like ‘Bolava Vithal
Pahava Vithal’ and ‘Vakratund Mahakay’.
• His contributions to the field were recognized with
several awards, including the Tansen Samman (2014)
and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2016).

Former CEC Navin Chawla Passed Away


• Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of the Ram
Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, passed away at • Navin Chawla, former Chief Election Commissioner
Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical of India, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age
Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow of 79 in New Delhi.
• Acharya Satyendra Das served as chief priest during • He served as Election Commissioner from May
the Babri Masjid demolition on December 6, 1992, 16, 2005, to April 20, 2009, and as Chief Election
and was responsible for relocating the idols to the Commissioner from April 2009 to July 2010.
nearby Fakire Mandir before the demolition and to a • Chawla oversaw the 2009 Lok Sabha elections and
makeshift temple after. introduced reforms, including allowing third-gender
• He had been serving as the chief priest of the newly voters to select a new category.
consecrated Ram Temple since its inauguration. • In 1992, he wrote the ‘Authorized Biography of
• He celebrated the first anniversary of the Pran Mother Teresa’, which was later translated into 14
Pratishtha ceremony at the Ayodhya Temple on languages.
January 11, describing the event as “very beautiful.”
Former German President & IMF’s MD Horst
Classical Vocalist andit Prabhakar Janardan Koehler Passed Away
Karekar passed away

• Horst Kohler, former German President and Managing


• Pandit Prabhakar Karekar, a renowned Hindustani
Director of the IMF, passed away on February 1, 2025,
classical vocalist, passed away in Mumbai at the age
at the age of 81 in Berlin.
of 80, due to age-related health complications.
• He was the IMF MD from 2000 to 2004 and served of Merit of Baden-Württemberg (2002), and the
as the 9th President of Germany from 2004 to 2010. Grand Cross of the Order of Saint Olav (2007), for his
• He received several prestigious awards, including efforts in promoting international cooperation and
the Global Economy Prize (2017), the German Order development.

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Chapter

11 Summits and Conferences

Brazil to host BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro disruption, stating that women’s roles are crucial as
in July they embody compassion and kindness.
• The event was attended by key figures, including
Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Union
Minister Annapurna Devi, and spiritual leader Sri Sri
Ravi Shankar, who advocated for women’s emotional
well-being.

14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum


on “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-
• The next BRICS summit will take place in Rio de Pacific”
Janeiro, Brazil on July 6-7, 2025.
• Brazil will chair the BRICS bloc throughout 2025,
focusing on global governance reform and enhancing
cooperation among Global South countries.
• BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India,
and China, with South Africa joining in 2010.

President Draupadi Murmu Inaugurates


10th International Women’s Conference
(ICW)

• The 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum


(14AFAF), with the theme “Greening the Blue Growth
in Asia-Pacific” is being organized in New Delhi
during February 12-14, 2025.
• The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF)
is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society with
its Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
• This prestigious event is being hosted in India for the
2nd time after the 8AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.
• The 10th Edition of the International Women’s
Conference was inaugurated by the Hon. President of
President Draupadi Murmu Inaugurates
India Smt. Droupadi Murmu emphasizing the inner
strengths and virtues of women to create a positive International Conference on Unani Medicine
impact on society. • The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu,
• The conference is being organized by the Art of Living inaugurated the International Conference, organised
International Centre by Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine
• President Murmu highlighted the importance of (CCRUM), Ministry of Ayush, Government of India on
maintaining human values in an era of technological the occasion of Unani Day, 11th February 2025.
• Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth,
presented Restricted Military Type Certificates
(RMTC) for the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual
Range (BVR) missile and the HTT-40 aircraft during
the seminar.

First edition of WAVE Summit to be held in


Mumbai

• The conference’s theme is “Innovations in Unani


Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way
Forward,” emphasizing the importance of integrating
tradition with innovation for global recognition of
Unani Medicine.
• The event paid tribute to Hakim Ajmal Khan, an
influential Unani physician and freedom fighter,
highlighting his contributions to education and
Unani medicine.
• The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment
BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 to kick off in Summit (WAVES) will take place from May 1, 2025,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
• The Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth • Union Information and Broadcasting Minister
Affairs & Sports, Government of India, is organizing Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized India’s ambition
the BIMSTEC Youth Summit from 7th to 11th to become the creative powerhouse of the world,
February 2025 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. declaring the summit a unifying event for global
• During the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu on media CEOs and entertainment icons.
30th -31st August 2018, the Hon’ble Prime Minister • The summit was initially scheduled for November at
of India announced the hosting of a three-day Goa but was rescheduled to May.
BIMSTEC Youth Summit, aimed at bringing together • WAVES will serve as a ground breaking initiative
the youth of BIMSTEC nations on a unified platform providing a platform for creators in fields such as
to exchange experiences and insights on youth-led animation, visual effects (VFX), augmented reality-
initiatives undertaken by member states. Sustainable virtual reality (AR-VR), and virtual production.
Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
• BIMSTEC Members: India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, AI Action Summit in France to Discuss Future
Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan. Global Collaborations and Governance

15th edition of Biennial Aero-India


International Seminar held in Bengaluru
• The 15th Aero India International Seminar took
place in Bengaluru, Karnataka as a precursor to Aero
India 2025, which will be held from February 10 to
14, 2025.
• The seminar was organized by the Centre for
Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC)
in collaboration with the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO) and the • The AI Action Summit will take place in France on
Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI). February 10 and 11, co-chaired by French President

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Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister • Key topics include ensuring AI benefits society, the
Narendra Modi. economy, and the environment in an inclusive way,
• The summit aims to gather global leaders, CEOs, focusing on five central themes.
academics, artists, and civil society representatives • The summit aims to provide a platform for innovative
to address critical challenges in artificial intelligence solutions to use AI responsibly, benefiting all citizens
and promoting a sustainable future.
(AI).

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Chapter

12 Books and Authors

A Book Titled “The New Icon: Savarkar and • Arun Shourie, a prominent Indian public intellectual,
the Facts” Penned by Arun Shourie is releasing his significant book titled ‘The New Icon:
Savarkar and the Facts’ on January 31, 2024.
• The book critically examines the controversial legacy
of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and his ideological
impact on modern Indian politics.
• It aims to challenge historical narratives, drawing
parallels with Shourie’s earlier work ‘Worshipping
False Gods’ (1997), which dealt with B R Ambedkar.
• Unlike Ambedkar, Savarkar does not have a “socio-
political protective shield,” making Shourie’s critique
potentially more influential in national discourse.
• One of the book’s major revelations concerns
Savarkar’s alleged involvement in the assassination
of Mahatma Gandhi.
Chapter

13 Important Days

World Day of Social Justice of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) CASCADE to


raise awareness about the dangers of cross-border
smuggling.
• The day features seminars, conferences, and
awareness campaigns aimed at promoting
cooperation among law enforcement agencies and
engaging the public in anti-smuggling efforts.
• Anti-Smuggling Day highlights the critical impact
smuggling has on national security and the economy,
seeking to unite efforts in combating these threats.
• The observance fosters international collaboration,
• The World Day of Social Justice is observed annually emphasizing the need for coordinated actions at
on February 20 to promote social justice and address national and global levels to disrupt smuggling
issues like poverty, unemployment, exclusion, gender activities.
inequality, and human rights, emphasizing the need
for a more equitable society. International Day of Women and Girls in
• The 2025 theme is “Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Science
Gaps of Social Justice,” highlighting the importance
of inclusive policies and social protection to manage
systematic inequality.
• Established by the International Labour Organization
(ILO) on June 10, 2008, the day serves as a platform to
evaluate progress toward social justice and identify
areas needing improvement.

Anti-Smuggling Day

• The International Day of Women and Girls in Science


is celebrated on February 11 each year, marking its
10th anniversary in 2025.
• The theme for 2025 is “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her
Voice in Science.”
• UNESCO highlights that science in the 21st century is
dynamic, collaborative, and essential for addressing
global challenges.
• The United Nations promotes full and equal access
• Anti-Smuggling Day is observed on February 11 each for women in science, technology, engineering, and
year, organized by the Federation of Indian Chamber mathematics (STEM) fields.
Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025 Indian Coast Guard Day 2025
• Indian Coast Guard Day is celebrated on 1st
February every year to mark the establishment
of the Indian Coast Guard. The 49th Raising Day of
ICG was observed on 1st February 2025.
• The Indian Coast Guard, India’s maritime armed
force under the Ministry of Defence, was formed on
1st February 1977 through the Coast Guard Act,
1978, to curb sea-based smuggling that affected the
economy.
• Guru Ravidas Jayanti 2025 celebrates the 648th birth About Indian Coast Guard (ICG)
anniversary of Guru Ravidas, observed on February
• Establishment - 1977
12, 2025, during Magh Purnima, the full moon day of
the Hindu month of Magh. • Headquarters - New Delhi
• Guru Ravidas was born in 1377 CE in Seer • Director General - Paramesh Sivamani
Govardhanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and is known by • Motto - Vayam Rakshamah (We Protect)
various names, including Raidas, Rohidas, and
Ruhidas. World Cancer Day 2025
• He was a prominent poet and a key figure in the • Observed on- 4 February (annually)
Bhakti movement, advocating for equality and • Purpose- To raise awareness of fundamental cancer
human rights, with his verses included in the Guru issues and promote efforts in prevention, detection,
Granth Sahib. and treatment
• Celebrations on Guru Ravidas Jayanti include singing • Theme 2025- ‘United by Unique’
Gurbani, offering special prayers, participating in • On February 4, 1999, the ‘Charter of Paris’ was
Nagarkirtans, and visiting sacred sites. adopted at the World Summit Against Cancer for the
New Millennium in Paris. This document, consisting of
International Day for the Prevention of 10 articles, laid the foundation for cancer awareness.
Violent Extremism • The first World Cancer Day (WCD) was observed on
February 4, 2000. February 4, 2025, marks the 25th
anniversary of the signing of the Charter of Paris
Against Cancer.
About Union for International Cancer Control
(UICC)
• Establishment - 1933
• Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland
• The International Day for the Prevention of Violent
• Chief Executive Officer - Dr Cary Adams
Extremism is observed every year on 12th February.
• Established by the UN and aims to combat violent World Wetlands Day 2025
extremism, which threatens global peace, human
rights, and sustainable development.
• Violent extremism is a universal concern, affecting
various regions and belief systems, often exemplified
by groups like ISIL, Al-Qaida, and Boko Haram, noted
for their terror tactics and digital propaganda.
• The impact of violent extremism leads to
humanitarian crises, mass displacement, and
social instability, as individuals may flee or become
recruited by extremist organizations.

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• Observed on- 2nd February (annually) World Interfaith Harmony Week 2025
• Purpose- To raise global awareness about the
importance of wetlands in protecting both people
and the planet.
• Theme 2025- ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common
Future’
• It marks the Convention on Wetlands of International
Importance (Ramsar Convention), which was signed
on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
• The observance started in 1997 under the Ramsar
Convention and has been celebrated by its Contracting
Parties since then. • Observed on- 1st week of February (1st - 7th
February) (annually)
• The first UN-recognized World Wetlands Day was
observed on February 2, 2022. • Purpose- To promote peace, tolerance, and non-
violence among people of all faiths.
About the Ramsar Convention • It promotes the shared values of ‘Love of God and
• The Ramsar Convention Secretariat is based at the Love of Neighbour’ or ‘Love of the Good and Love
International Union for Conservation of Nature of Neighbour’. The message is inclusive, open to
(IUCN) headquarters in Gland, Switzerland. everyone, and entirely voluntary.
• The current Secretary-General is Dr. Musonda • The United Nations observed the first World
Mumba. Interfaith Harmony Week from February 1 to 7, 2011.

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Chapter

14 Government Schemes
and Programs
Government credit guarantee scheme of • On February 18, 2025, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima
₹1,000 cr to push e-NWR adoption Yojana marks its nine-year anniversary, celebrating
close to a decade of empowering the farmers of India.
• Launched in 2016 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
Modi, the scheme offers a comprehensive shield
against crop losses caused by unpredictable natural
hazards.
• Witnessing the success and potential of the scheme,
the Union Cabinet in January 2025 approved the
continuation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and
• The government has allocated ₹1,000 crore towards Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme
the Credit Guarantee Scheme for electronic- till 2025-26 with a total budget of ₹69,515.71 crore.
Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-NWRs) based • Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance
Pledge Financing, expected to significantly boost the Scheme (RWBCIS) is a weather index-based scheme,
adoption of warehouse receipts and post-harvest which was introduced along with PMFBY.
credit finance in agriculture.
• The Digital India Mission has introduced the e-Kisan Government approves PM-AASHA Scheme
Upaj Nidhi (e-KUN) program, aimed at providing till 2025-26
farmers with access to low-interest loans through
e-NWRs, empowering them and preventing distress
sales.
• NeRL (National e-Repository Limited), holding an
88% market share in e-NWR issuance, anticipates
an increase in warehouse registrations with the
Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority
(WDRA).
• India has approximately one lakh warehouses, of
which 40,000 are public warehouses; currently,
about 5,000 are registered with WDRA, and around
2,500 issue e-NWRs through NeRL or its competitor.

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana marks its • The Government of India approved the continuation
nine-year anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan
Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) Scheme till 2025-26 during
the 15th Finance Commission cycle.
• It is an Umbrella scheme ensuring remunerative
prices for farmers through effective procurement
and price support.
• It is Managed and administered by the Ministry of
Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Implemented
through Central Nodal Agencies (NAFED, NCCF)
along with State Governments.
Cabinet Approves Continuation and • About 45% of beneficiaries are receiving zero
Restructuring of Skill India Programme electricity bills, contingent on their solar energy
generation and consumption patterns.
• The Union Cabinet approved the continuation and
restructuring of the Skill India Programme (SIP) until Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary launches
2026. Swavalambini programme
• The scheme has an outlay of Rs. 8,800 crore for the • The Swavalambini Programme has been launched
period 2022-23 to 2025-26. by the Ministry of Skill Development and
• The SIP includes three key components: Pradhan Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in collaboration with
Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), NITI Aayog to promote women entrepreneurship in
Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram.
Scheme (PM-NAPS), and the Jan Shikshan Sansthan • The initiative targets female students in select
(JSS) Scheme. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to equip them
with necessary entrepreneurial skills, resources and
• Over 2.27 crore beneficiaries have been supported mentorship.
under the Ministry of Skill Development and
• The program aligns with the National Education
Entrepreneurship’s flagship schemes. Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing skill integration and
industry collaboration.
M Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana completes
one year Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Launched
• The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) ‘Bikashita Gaon, Bikashita Odisha’ Scheme
celebrated its first anniversary, emphasizing India’s • In February 2025, Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan
commitment to renewable energy and empowering Charan Majhi, launched the ‘Bikashita Gaon,
households. Bikashita Odisha (BGBO) Scheme’ with a budget
of Rs 5,000 crore for five years.
• Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on
February 13, 2024, the initiative aims to provide • The scheme focuses on improving rural
infrastructure and connectivity in Odisha.
free electricity through rooftop solar panel
installations. • It will cover all 53,845 villages in the state, with an
annual allocation of Rs 1,000 crore from FY2024-25
• This program is the world’s largest domestic rooftop to 2028-29.
solar initiative, with a goal to supply solar power to • The project supports Odisha’s goal of becoming a
one crore households by March 2027. developed state by 2036.

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Chapter

15 Persons and Places in News

Dr. Purnima Devi Burman honored in TIME’s • In February 2025, Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, a
Women of the Year 2025 list distinguished wildlife biologist from Assam, has been
honored in TIME’s Women of the Year 2025 list for
her exceptional conservation efforts.
• She is renowned for her dedication to protecting the
greater adjutant stork, locally known as ‘hargila’, a
species that was once endangered due to habitat loss
and negative perceptions.
• In 2007, Dr. Barman initiated a grassroots movement
by founding the ‘Hargila Army’, a group now
comprising around 20,000 local women.

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