16-28 FEB 2025

NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Panchayati Raj Devolution Index 2024: Karnataka Tops, Followed by Kerala & TN
Union Minister of State (MoS), S.P. Singh Baghel, Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), Ministry
of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) released the comprehensive
Devolution Index Report titled “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States – An Indicative
Evidence-Based Ranking 2024” at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi
(Delhi).
As per the report, Karnataka ranked 1st in the devolution of power to panchayats.

GoI extended due date for implementation of revised “Schedule M” for small & medium
pharmaceutical firms up to Dec 31, 2025
Small & medium pharmaceutical firms – having turnover of Rs 250 Cr or less
Bhupendra Patel (Gujarat CM) – unveiled “Gujarat Global Capability Centre Policy (2025-
30)” at GIFT City, Gandhinagar
Formulated by – Department of Science & Technology
• It targets to set up at least 250 new Global Capability Centres in Gujarat, attract Rs 10,000 Cr in
investments & create 50,000 jobs.
Karnataka – launched India’s 1st dedicated GCC Policy in Nov 2024.
“Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAGe) Smart Village Center (RSVC)” – inaugurated
in Mandaura, Sonipat, Haryana
By – Prof. Ajay Sood (Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India)
Highlights of the 15th edition Aero India 2O25
 The 15th edition of Aero India 2025, Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, was held
from February 10 to 14, 2025, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, under the theme “The Runway to a Billion
Opportunities.”
Madhya Pradesh Unveils India’s 1st Dedicated GCC Policy 2025
Madhya Pradesh (MP) has become the 1st state in India to introduce a dedicated Global
Capability Centre (GCC) Policy 2025, positioning itself as a leading hub for global innovation,
technology, and business collaboration.
Union Minister JP Nadda launches National MDA Campaign to eliminate LF
In February 2025, Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoHFW) launched the Annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA)
Campaign to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) (commonly known as Hathi Paon).
• India is committed to eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027.
GoI to Issue Rs 100 Commemorative Coin to Mark Birth Centenary of Mohammed Rafi
The Government of India (GoI) will issue a Rs 100 commemorative coin, to mark the birth
centenary of legendary playback singer Padma Shri Mohammed Rafi, which concluded on 24
December 2024
The metal composition of the Rs 100 commemorative coin will consist of a Quaternary Alloy,
comprising 50% Silver (Ag), 40% Copper (Cu), 5% Nickel (Ni), and 5% Zinc (Zn).
India Energy Week (IEW) 2025 – organised by FIPI from Feb 11-14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi
Convention Centre, New Delhi
Under – Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas | It is world’s 2nd-largest energy conference
• ‘Avinya’25 - Energy Startup Challenge’ (led by - MoPNG) – awarded innovative startups for
breakthroughs in CO₂ capture, ESG solutions & renewable energy
• ‘Vasudha - Oil and Gas Startup Challenge’ – recognized overseas startups revolutionizing
upstream oil & gas sector with AI-driven solutions
IEW 2026 – to be held in Goa
Bharat Tex 2025: India’s Largest Textile Event Held in New Delhi & Greater Noida
Bharat Tex 2025, the 2nd edition of India’s largest global textile event was organised by a
consortium of 12 Textile Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), supported by the Ministry of
Textiles (MoT) to highlight India’s exceptional capabilities in the textile industry. The 2025 event
was built around the twin themes of “Resilient Global Value Chains” and “Textile Sustainability”.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana turns Nine: Empowering Annadata & Protecting
Livelihoods
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), launched in 2016 by Prime Minister (PM)
Narendra Modi, marked its nine-year anniversary on February 18, 2025. PMFBY is a flagship
crop insurance scheme in India that operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers
Welfare (MoA&FW), designed to protect farmers from financial losses due to natural calamities.
Affordable Premiums: Farmers pay only 2% (Kharif crops), 1.5% (Rabi crops), or 5%
(horticulture/commercial crops), with the balance subsidized by the government.
Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Launched Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for
MSMEs in Mumbai
In February 2025, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Ministry
of Corporate Affairs (MoCA) launched the ‘Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro, Small
and Medium Enterprises (MCGS-MSME)’ in Mumbai, Maharashtra to support MSME sector in
India.
About Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MCGS-
MSME)’: i.The MCGS-MSME aims to facilitate a maximum loan of Rs 100 crore to MSMEs for
purchase of machinery or equipment without collateral.
• Minimum 75% of the total project cost must be for purchasing equipment or machinery.
• The scheme is available for 4 years or until Rs 7 lakh crore in guarantees are issued, whichever
comes first. ii.Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited
(NCGTC), a private limited company which works under MoF, will provide 60% guarantee
coverage to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) for loans approved to eligible MSMEs.
• Interest rate for this loan is charged as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.
iii.In order to avail the benefit of the initiative, the borrower is required to be an MSME with a
valid Udyam Registration Number (URN).
• URN is a 16-digit unique registration number for an Udyam Certificate holder. It is issued by
the Ministry of MSME(MoMSME) under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Development Act, 2006 (MSME Act 2006).
She introduced a new scheme named ‘Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY)’
which aims to enhance agricultural productivity across 100 districts for low agricultural output.
• The scheme is estimated to benefit 1.7 crore farmers to improve agricultural productivity,
enhance irrigation facilities and to provide short-term as well long-term credit.
5th International Conference on Green Metro Systems held in New Delhi
On February 18, 2025, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) under the i-Metro initiative in
collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Indian Green Building Council
(IGBC), organized the ‘5th International Conference on Green Metro Systems – The Future of
Urban Mobility’ in New Delhi (Delhi).
During the Conference, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, MoP, and MoHUA inaugurated
India’s first vertical bi-facial solar plant installation on the Metro Viaduct at Okhla Vihar Metro
station in New Delhi, aiming to promote more sustainable metro rail operations.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Inaugurates NAKSHA to Modernize Urban Land
Records
On February 18 2025, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Ministry of Rural Development
(MoRD), and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) inaugurated the
National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations (NAKSHA) to create a
modernize land records in 152 urban local bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories
(UTs) in India.
• The inaugural session of NAKSHA took place in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh (MP).
It is expected to cost around Rs. 194 crore, fully funded by the Government of India (GoI).
ii.It is a pilot program under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme
(DILRMP) of the Department of Land Resources (DoLR), MoRD.
Rajasthan government renamed Foy Sagar as Varun Sagar & King Edward Memorial as
Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih
In February 2025, the Rajasthan government renamed a lake and a building in Ajmer, Rajasthan,
that were over a century old and had British-era names. The 132-year-old Foy Sagar Lake was
renamed Varun Sagar, and the 113-year-old King Edward Memorial Bhawan was renamed
Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih.
Overview of Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s visit to India
from February 17 to 18, 2025
On the sidelines of the visit, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), New Delhi (Delhi) in
partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry
of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) organized the ‘India-Qatar Joint Business Forum’ on
February 18 2025 in New Delhi (Delhi).
India became Qatar’s 3rd largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing USD 15 billion in
Financial Year 2023-24 (FY24).
Qatar’s Investment Commitment: Qatar committed to investing USD 10 billion in India, focusing
on key areas such as infrastructure, technology, manufacturing, food security, logistics, and
hospitality.
Agreement on Establishment of Bilateral Strategic Partnership: India and Qatar agreed to explore
the possibility of entering into a bilateral Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
(CEPA) with an aim to double bilateral trade to USD28 billion by 2030.
Revised Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): An updated agreement on tax matters
between the 2 countries to enhance fiscal cooperation.
25th Quarterly Bulletin PLFS by NSO: India’s Urban Unemployment Rate Slightly
Decreased to 6.4% in Q3FY25 The National Statistics Office (NSO) under the Ministry of
Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) launched its 25th Quarterly Bulletin of the
Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), which presents data for the period October – December
2024 (Q3) for the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25.
India & Argentina signed MoU to Strengthen Cooperation in Lithium Exploration and
Mining
On February 19, 2025, India and Argentina formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
to enhance cooperation in lithium exploration and mining.
About Argentina: Capital – Buenos Aires
MeitY Unveils Digital Brand Identity Manual to Standardize Government Websites &
Digital Platforms
On 18 February 2025, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released the
Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) to standardize government websites and digital platforms.
28th GBBC: WB Lead in India’s Bird Count for 3rd Consecutive Year
In February 2025, West Bengal (WB) recorded the highest number of bird species across 37 states
and union territories (UTs) in India, with 543 species, topping the national list for the third
consecutive year. This achievement came during the 28th annual Great Backyard Bird Count
(GBBC), one of the world’s largest birding events, held from February 14 to February 17, 2025.
Soil Health Cards: Swasth Dharaa, Khet Haraa Successfully Completed 10 Years
On February 19 2025, the Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme, launched by Government of India
(GoI) to assist state governments to issue soil health cards to all farmers in the country, has
completed 10 years of successful implementation. soil samples are taken two times in a year.
India’s CSIR and Nepal’s NAST Sign MoU to Strengthen Science & Technology Partnership
In February 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) and the Nepal Academy of Science and
Technology (NAST), Nepal signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the CSIR-
National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) in New Delhi, Delhi.
India’s NCGG & Sri Lanka’s SLIDA Finalize Plan to Train 1,500 Civil Service Officers
Under MoU
In February 2025, India’s National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) under the Ministry of
Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions (MoPP&P) and Sri Lanka Institute of Development
Administration (SLIDA) finalized the modalities for the implementation of their Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) to train 1,500 Sri Lankan civil service officers over five years.
The MoU was signed between the two countries during the visit of President Anura Kumara
Dissanayake to India in December 2024.
MoD Signs Two Contracts for Procurement of SDRs and RTFLTs
In February 2025, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed two contracts worth approximately Rs.
1,917.47 crore for the procurement of Software Defined Radios (SDR) and Rough Terrain Forklift
Trucks (RTFLTs) to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the
Indian Army (IA), Indian Navy (IN), and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
India’s First Open-Air Art Wall Museum Inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh
In February 2025, Union Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge, IC) Dr. Jitendra Singh,
Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) inaugurated India’s first Open-Air Art Wall Museum at
Mausam Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
• This initiative marks the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), New
Delhi, honoring its contributions to weather science
UP Assembly Becomes 1st in India to Introduce Translation Facility
In February 2025, the Uttar Pradesh (UP) Assembly made history by becoming the first legislative
body in India to implement a translation facility. This innovative service will enable discussions
in Awadhi, Braj, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhand, and English to improve accessibility and inclusivity in
legislative proceedings.
BPCL – setting up a new polypropylene unit in Kochi
Investment – Rs 5,000 Cr | Annual capacity – 4 lakh tonnes
This is 2nd petrochemical unit in Kochi & is expected to be commissioned by October 2027
K. R. Naidu (Civil Aviation Minister) – launched “Electronic Personnel License (EPL)” for
pilots at UDAAN Bhawan
To be implemented by – DGCA | To be accessible via – ‘eGCA Mobile Application’
• With this launch, India became 2nd country in the world to implement EPL for flight crew (after
China)
Carbon Check – became 1st Designated Operational Entity (DOE) globally to receive
accreditation under ‘Article 6.4’ of ‘Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism’ of UNFCCC.
Ashwini Vaishnaw (Minister for I&B) – launched a pair of Mahakumbh songs produced by
Akashvani & Doordarshan
Theme song – “Mahakumbh Hai” | Produced by – Doordarshan | Sung by – Padma Kailash Kher
Bisleri Signs MoU with ASI for Heritage Water Conservation
In February 2025, Mumbai (Maharashtra) based Bisleri International Private Limited announced
a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ministry of Culture (MoC) under their ‘Adopt a Heritage
2.0(AAH 2.0) Programme’.
Himanta Biswa Sarma (Assam CM) announced to develop Dibrugarh into Assam’s 2nd
capital within next 3 yrs
Punjab – launched “SHE (Startups Handholding & Empowerment) Cohort 3.0” at Knowledge
City, Mohali Spearheaded by – Punjab State Council for Science & Technology
MoM Classifies Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz as Major Minerals
In February 2025, the Ministry of Mines (MoM) announced the reclassification of Barytes,
Felspar, Mica, and Quartz as major minerals to enhance the exploration and scientific mining of
these resources, which are key sources of many critical minerals.
Datia Airport Becomes 8th Public Airport in MP with DGCA License
On February 22, 2025, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), under the Ministry of
Civil Aviation (MoCA), granted Datia Airport, in Datia (Madhya Pradesh, MP), a license as a
public aerodrome under the 3C/Visual Flight Rules (VFR) category.
The other licensed public airports in MP are Raja Bhoj International Airport (Bhopal Airport) in
Bhopal, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (Indore) in Indore, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Air
Terminal (Gwalior Airport) in Gwalior, Dumna Airport (Jabalpur Airport) in Jabalpur, Khajuraho
Airport in Khajuraho, Rewa Airport in Rewa, and Satna Airport in Satna.
NITI Aayog Forms Committee to Develop a Plan for Transforming AIIMS
In February 2025, Government think tank National Institution for Transforming India (NITI)
Aayog based on New Delhi(Delhi) formed a committee to develop a plan aimed at transforming
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, into a premier institution for
medical practice and research.
• The committee chaired by its member, Dr. V K Paul.
Darjeeling Zoo Unveils India’s First Bio-Bank and Animal Museum
In February 2025, Darjeeling (West Bengal, WB) based Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological
Park (PNHZP), popularly known as Darjeeling Zoo opened India’s first bio-bank (Frozen Zoo)
and an animal museum.
Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’s 1st Phase Achieves 5 Guinness World Records
In February 2025, the Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan, under the Ministry of AYUSH
(Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy), achieved five Guinness
World Records, underscoring India’s commitment to holistic healthcare and the global recognition
of Ayurveda.
Union Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar chaired the Regional meeting of Power Sector 2025,
AEML Tops on 3 National Rankings
On February 20, 2025, the Regional meeting of Power Sector was convened in New Delhi (Delhi)
and was chaired by Union Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, Ministry of Power (MoP), Ministry of
Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) alongside Union Minister of State (MoS) Shripad Yesso
Naik, MoP, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
139 Artists Set World Record with 24-Hour Dance Marathon at Khajuraho Dance Festival
in MP
In February 2025, 139 Artists (classical dancers) achieved a ‘Guinness World Record’ by
performing continuously for over 24 hours, 9 minutes, and 26 seconds in a grand ‘Classical Dance
Relay Marathon’ at the inauguration of 51st Khajuraho Dance Festival held in Madhya Pradesh
(MP).
Performances include – Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam & Odissi.
Overview of PM of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Tobgay’s visit to India from February 20 to 21,
2025
The Prime Minister (PM) of Bhutan His Excellency (HE) Dasho Tshering Tobgay visited India
from February 20 to 21, 2025 to participate in the inaugural ‘Leadership Conclave of the School
of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL)’and to deepen the unique and historical partnership.
Ministry of AYUSH Felicitated Ayurveda Stalwarts with ‘National Dhanwantri Ayurveda
Awards’
In February 2025, the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha,
and Homoeopathy) bestowed the prestigious ‘National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards’ for 2025
on 3 distinguished practitioners in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the field of
traditional Indian medicine.
CAG & IIT Madras Signed Two MoUs to Enhance Data Analytic Skills
On 24 February 2025, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) and Indian Institute
of Technology (IIT) Madras, Chennai (Tamil Nadu, TN) signed two Memoranda of Understanding
(MoUs) to improve innovation, enhance data analytic skills, and support technology-driven
governance practices.
President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates National Tribal Festival ‘Aadi Mahotsav 2025’
The National Tribal Festival 2025 known as Aadi Mahotsav 2025, a flagship initiative organized
by Tribal Co-operative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED) under the
Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), was inaugurated by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu,
at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi (Delhi).
Security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ was conducted by ICG in WB
In February 2025, a two-day coastal security exercise, ‘Sagar Kavach’, conducted in West Bengal
(WB). The exercise was coordinated by Kolkata (WB) based Coast Guard Region(North East,
NE).
Indian Navy Hands Over INS Guldar to MTDC for Underwater Museum and Artificial Reef
In February 2025, the Indian Navy (IN) handed over an Indian Naval Ship (INS) Guldar, Landing
Ship Tank, to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) at Karwar,
Maharashtra on an ‘as is where is’ basis for conversion into India’s first underwater museum and
artificial reef.
Union Minister Manohar Lal Inaugurates Prakriti 2025 Conference
On 24 February 2025, Union Minister Manohar Lal, Ministry of Power (MoP) and Ministry of
Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) inaugurated the Prakriti 2025, an international conference
on carbon markets, held in New Delhi, Delhi.
SWAYATT Initiative on GeM Celebrated 6 Years of Transformative Impact
In February 2025, Government e-Marketplace (GeM), Department of Commerce (DoC),
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) celebrated 6 years of Startups, Women & Youth
Advantage through e Transactions (SWAYATT) initiative at its headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi.
CUNPK Hosts First-Ever ‘Conference For Women Peacekeepers From Global South’ In
New Delhi
The Indian Army (IA), through the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK), India
hosted the first ever ‘Conference on Women Peacekeepers from the Global South’ at the
Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.
• The theme of the Conference is “Women in Peacekeeping: A Global South Perspective”.
MoSPI & MyGov Announces ‘Innovate with GoIStats’ Hackathon
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), in partnership with MyGov,
is set to launch an exciting data-visualization hackathon, “Innovate with GoIStats,” from 25
February to 31 March 2025.
• The theme of the hackathon is “Data-Driven Insights for Viksit Bharat”.
India and UK Resumed Negotiations for FTA, Aims to Triple Bilateral Trade in 10 Years
In February 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I)
and Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade, the United
Kingdom (UK) have announced the resumption of negotiations for the proposed Free Trade
Agreement (FTA) between the two countries in New Delhi, Delhi.
• This FTA is estimated to double or even triple bilateral trade from the current USD 20 billion in
the next 10 years.
The UK emerged as 6th largest investor in India.
About the United Kingdom (UK): Capital- London Currency- British Pound Sterling (GBP)
IIT Madras Unveils India’s First Hyperloop Test Track
In February 25, 2025, India achieved a major milestone in transportation with the unveiling of
the first hyperloop test track at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras in Chennai (Tamil
Nadu,TN).
Australia Invests USD 16 Million to Strengthen Economic Ties with India
On February 26, 2025, The government of Australia unveiled a new roadmap to expand its
economic partnership with the Government of India(GoI) by launching the `Australia-India Trade
and Investment Accelerator Fund (TIAF)’ with an investment of USD 16 million. This initiative
aims to boost trade, enhance bilateral investments, and strengthen collaboration between
businesses in both nations.
Indian Army signs MoU with L&T for ACADA systems
In February 2025, New Delhi based Indian Army (IA) signed a contract with Mumbai
(Maharashtra) based Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Limited for procurement of 223 Automatic
Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm (ACADA) systems for Rs 80.43 Crore, under the Buy
Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (Indian-IDDM) category, with over
80% of components and subsystems sourced locally, supporting the Atmanirbharta initiative
 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
‘AI Action Summit’ – held in Paris, France | Co-chaired by = Narendra Modi & Emmanuel
Macron
• 58 countries (including India) + EU + AU = signed a joint statement on “Inclusive & Sustainable
AI for People & the Planet” It was not signed by – US & UK
• This is 3rd such international statement | Previous being issued after summits in UK & South
Korea
FutureBrand Index 2024: Samsung Tops; India’s Reliance Industries Ranks 2nd
According to ‘The FutureBrand Index 2024’, a global brand perception study, South Korea’s
Samsung has secured the top spot in the global rankings, reflecting its strong brand perception
and adaptability to market demands.
• India’s Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) ranks 2nd .
Brazil – approved joining ‘OPEC+’ (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries)
• OPEC+ comprises – 12 members of OPEC & 10 more significant oil-producing nations (Russia
- largest)
Brazil – to host UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 30) in Nov 2025
• OPEC+ countries – Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia,
South Sudan and Sudan
• HQs of OPEC – Vienna, Austria
OPEC is an intergovernmental organization established in September 1960 in Baghdad, Iraq, with
an agreement signed by 5 founding nations: the Islamic Republic of Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi
Arabia (SA), and Venezuela.
India Elected as Vice President of IALA in Singapore
India was elected as the Vice President (VP) of the International Organization for Marine Aids to
Navigation (IALA) during its 1st General Assembly in Singapore.
India is set to host the IALA Council meeting in December 2025 and the IALA Conference &
General Assembly in September 2027, both in Mumbai (Maharashtra).
EAM S Jaishankar Participated at 8th IOC in Oman
External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar participated at the inaugural session
of 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Muscat, Oman. The conference, themed “Voyage to
New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” aimed to enhance regional cooperation and address
shared challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
13th Governing Council Meeting of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation – held
in Male, Maldives
• India – assumed chairmanship of the organisation
• It was part of high-level conference ‘Policy Guidance for Mainstreaming Ecosystem Approach
to Fisheries Management (EAFM) in Small-Scale Fisheries’ Hosted by = Ministry of Fisheries &
Ocean Resources (Maldives) + Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation
(BOBP-IGO)
• Indian delegation led by – Abhilaksh Likhi (Secretary of Department of Fisheries)
• BOBP-IGO – set up in 2003 | Member countries – Bangladesh, India, Maldives & Sri Lanka
Cooperating non-contracting parties – Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar & Thailand
THE World Reputation Rankings 2025: Harvard University Retained Top Spot; 4 Indian
Varsities in the List According to Times Higher Education (THE)’ latest ‘World Reputation
Rankings 2025’, Harvard University based in the United States of America (USA) retained top
position as the world’s most reputed institution for the 14th consecutive year, with an overall score
of 99.9.

UNESCAP released its Asia and Pacific SDG Progress Report 2025
In February 2025, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
(UNESCAP) published the report titled “Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report: Engaging
Communities to Close the Evidence Gap 2025”, which provides a comprehensive assessment of
progress on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their 169 targets in the Asia-
Pacific region.
India Expands Collaboration with UK in Key Areas of Telecom, AI, & Emerging
Technologies
In February 2025, Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of Department of Telecommunications (DoT),
Ministry of Communications (MoC), visited the United Kingdom (UK) to engage with the
Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), UK, and explore opportunities for
collaboration in next-generation telecommunications, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and space
technology, further strengthening Indo-UK ties in these critical areas.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh Co-Chairs 13th MIDCOM Meeting in Kuala
Lumpur
The 13th meeting of the Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) was held
in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 19 February 2025. The meeting was co-chaired by Rajesh Kumar
Singh, Secretary of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), India, and Lokman Hakim Bin Ali, Secretary
General (SG) of the MoD, Malaysia, acknowledging the strengthening bilateral defence
cooperation between their Armed Forces.
2nd FATF Plenary – held in Paris, France | Under Presidency of – Elisa de Anda Madrazo
(Mexico)
• Countries added to grey list – Nepal (for 2nd time) & Lao PDR | Country exited from grey list
– Philippines
Iran & Myanmar – remain on black list
Giles Thomson (UK) – to be next FATF Vice President for 2 years from Jul 1, 2025 (succeeding
- Jeremy Weil (Canada))
About Financial Action Task Force: President – Elisa de Anda Modrazo (Mexico) Headquarters-
Paris, France Founded – 1989 Note – The FATF Plenary meets three times a year, usually in
February, June and October.
IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi: 17–21 February 2025
The 17th edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and the 8th edition of the Naval
Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) were held from 17 to 21 February 2025
held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. (ADNEC) Centre in Abu Dhabi, United Arab
Emirates (UAE) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
President of the UAE.
India, Bangladesh Agreed to Launch new ‘Hotline’ between Border Forces
 In February 2025, India and Bangladesh have agreed to launch a new ‘hotline’ or links of
communication for effective communication between border forces. This link will be established
between the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF) eastern
command based in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB) and his Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB)
counterpart based in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
6th Edition of India-Japan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ Begins in Japan
On 24th February 2025, the 6th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise, ‘Dharma
Guardian,’ began at the East Fuji Manoeuvre Training Area in Japan.
Japan-India Maritime Exercise(JIMEX): • A bilateral military exercise between the Indian Navy
(IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
• The 8th edition of JIMEX was held in Japan in June 2024.
ii.Veer Guardian: • A joint air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-
Defense Force (JASDF). • The 1st edition of Veer Guardian was held in Japan in January 2023.
Donald Trump (US President) – announced private sector investment of up to $500 billion
to fund AI infrastructure
• OpenAI + SoftBank + Oracle = to form a JV, “Stargate”, in Texas-- Committed $100 billion
initially & then up to $500 billion over next 4 years.
Denmark Launches GTAI to Strengthen Sustainable Energy Collaboration
Denmark launched the Green Transition Alliance India (GTAI), a strategic initiative aimed at
enhancing collaboration between Denmark and India in sustainable energy solutions. This
partnership underscores both nations’ commitment to achieving global carbon neutrality.
India has set an ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. In contrast, Denmark
aims for the same goal by 2045.
About Denmark: Capital- Copenhagen Currency- Danish Krone (DKK)
India’s C-CAMP & France’s PariSanté Campus Partners to Establish Indo French Life
Sciences Sister Innovation Hub
In February 2025, Bengaluru (Karnataka) based Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-
CAMP), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T),
Government of India (GoI), and PariSanté Campus, a leading digital health innovation cluster in
France signed an agreement to launch a bilateral innovation collaboration in the healthcare domain
called the Indo French Life Sciences Sister Innovation Hub.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport among Top 10 Busiest Global Airports in 2025;
Dubai International Airport Tops: OAG
In February 2025, Luton (the United Kingdom, UK)-based air consultancy firm Official Airline
Guide (OAG) released its latest report about ‘World’s Busiest Airport in 2025’. As per the report,
Delhi Airport (DEL), named Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi (Delhi)
ranked at 8th spot, among the top 10 busiest airports globally as of February 2025.
 BANKING & FINANCE
SEBI Launched ‘RPT Portal’ to Strengthen Corporate Governance and Transparency
On February 14 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched ‘Related Party
Transaction (RPT) portal’, India’s 1st dedicated platform to monitor and analyse RPTs. The portal
also aims to bolster transparency and governance in corporate India.
RBI Imposes Restrictions on New India Co-operative Bank on Supervisory Concerns
In February 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions on Mumbai
(Maharashtra) based New India Co-operative Bank Limited from issuing new loans and
suspended deposit withdrawals amid supervisory concerns about its financial position.
• These restrictions were issued by the RBI under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act,
1949 to protect the interest of depositors.
• These restrictions came into force on February 13, 2025 and will remain in force for a period of
6 months, but they are subject to a future review by the RBI.
RBI informed that eligible depositors will receive a deposit insurance claim of up to Rs 5 lakh for
their deposits from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), as
applicable under the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961.
RBI Superseded BoDs of New India Co-operative Bank for 12 Months: The RBI in exercise of
the powers given under Section 36 AAA read with section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949
(as applicable to Co-operative Societies) has superseded the Board of Directors (BoDs) of New
India Co-operative Bank for a period of 12 months, to address its governance issues.
• It has appointed Shreekant, a former Chief General Manager (CGM), State Bank of India (SBI)
as the administrator to manage the bank’s affairs.
RBI Extends Vakrangee’s WLA Authorization till March 2026
On February 12, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted an extension to the Mumbai
(Maharashtra) based Vakrangee Limited authorization to set up, own, and operate White Label
ATMs (WLAs) across India until March 31, 2026.
RBI Removes Regulatory Barriers on Kotak Mahindra Bank
In February 2025, Mumbai based Reserve Bank of India (RBI) removed the restrictions placed
on Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) Limited, headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, allowing
KMB to resume onboarding new customers digitally and issuing new credit cards.
RBI Approves Zulia Investments to Increase Stake in AU SFB
In February 2025, Mumbai, Maharashtra based The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) permitted Zulia
Investments Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of Singapore-based Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited, to
raise its stake in Jaipur (Rajasthan)-based AU Small Finance Bank (SFB) to 7%.
IFC Invested Rs 860 Crore in India’s 1st SLB in Road Sector Issued by Cube InvIT
In February 2025, Washington (the United States of America, USA)-based International Finance
Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group (WBG), has invested Rs 860
crore (nearly USD 98.35 million) in India’s 1st Sustainability-linked Bond (SLB) in the road
sector.
Exim Bank to Provide USD 300 Million Credit to Vietnam for Procurement of Guard Boats
and Patrol Vessels
In February 2025, Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Export Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank)
announced that it will provide lines of credit worth USD 300 million to Vietnam for buying high-
speed boats and offshore patrol vessels.
In July 2024, the EXIM Bank had signed an agreement with the Government of the Socialist
Republic of Vietnam (GO-VNM), for making available to the latter, the Government of India
(GoI) had pledged to provide Line of Credit (LoC) of USD 180 million for procurement of 4
Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV).
The bank had also signed an agreement with GO-VNM for making available to the latter, GoI had
committed to provide LoC of USD 120 million for procurement of high speed guard boats.
Decentro Launched India’s 1st Self-Hosted CKYC Solution to Align with CERSAI’s New
Compliance Mandate
In February 2025, Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based Decentro Tech Private Limited, a leading fintech
infrastructure platform, has launched India’s 1st completely compliant, self-hosted Central Know
Your Customer (CKYC) solution.
• This will enable financial institutions to seamlessly switch to the new Central Registry of
Securitisation Asset Reconstruction and Security Interest of India (CERSAI) compliance
framework.
HDFC Bank – launched “Anmol Savings Account”, India’s 1st PSU Salary Account with a cyber
fraud cover.
P. D. Singh – appointed as CEO of Standard Chartered Bank India.
9th edition of “Bima Manthan” (quarterly review meeting with insurance company CEOs)
– held by IRDAI on Feb 13-14
• Bima Trinity – unveiled at the meeting to enhance accessibility, affordability & efficiency in
insurance sector
Bima Trinity consists of 3 key components:-
Bima Sugam – a unified digital marketplace for selling, servicing & claiming insurance policies
across insurers Bima Vistaar – a first-of-its-kind composite insurance product covering life,
accident, property & hospitalisation Bima Vahaak – a women-centric, localised insurance
distribution model to boost insurance penetration
Bank of Maharashtra – received approval from RBI to set up an IFSC Banking Unit at GIFT
City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
SEBI revised timelines for issuance of Consolidated Account Statements (CAS) by
depositories, w.e.f. May 14, 2025
• SEBI extended deadline for AMCs & MF-RTAs to provide common PAN data to depositories
Now, data should be submitted within 5 days from end of month (from 3 days previously)
BoI – raised Rs 2,690 Cr via infrastructure bonds of 10-year duration at 7.50% through NSE
Electronic Bidding Platform
LIC Launches ‘One Man Office’ to Empower Agents with Digital Services
In February 2025, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) launched ‘One Man Office’ (OMO),
a digital service platform aimed at empowering its agents and sales associates by providing
seamless policy sales, customer servicing, and business tracking through mobile phones.
• It is a vital tool in promoting life insurance and ensuring excellent customer service. The
initiative would contribute to LIC’s long-term goal of achieving ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.
LTIMindtree Partners with Eurobank for Banking Technology Transformation
In February 2025, Mumbai (Maharashtra) based L &T Infotech Limited (LTI) Mindtree Ltd,a
subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro(L&T) Limited, has partnered with Greece’s largest banking
services providers, Eurobank S.A. for a multi-year banking technology programme to enhance
customer experience, simplify operations, and develop creative Information Technology (IT)
solutions for Eurobank and its subsidiaries.
IRDAI – formed a 7-member committee to scrutinise various aspects of ‘Insurance Act, 1938’
& suggest amendments
To be led by – Dinesh Khara (former chairman of SBI)
Dinesh Pant & Ratnakar Patnaik – recommended for appointment as MDs in LIC
Federal Bank – unveiled a new NR (Non-Resident) Savings account variant, “Prospera” in
Dubai
• It offers complimentary insurance benefits up to – Rs 60 Lakh
NSDL + CDSL + SEBI = launched a mobile app “Unified Investor Platform” for investors
to manage their portfolios
• It combines ‘MyEasi’ by CDSL & ‘SPEED-e’ by NSDL, to provide investors with a consolidated
view of their financial data
Karnataka Bank Celebrated its 101st Founders’ Day by Launching Two New Products
Karnataka Bank Limited (KBL) celebrated its 101st Founders’ Day, marked over a century of the
bank’s operations, by launching two new products ‘KBL Stri’ and ‘KBL One Family Banking
Programme’. It also introduced a savings account for children and a high-interest term deposit
scheme.
IRDAI Launches Bima-ASBA to Make Insurance Premium Payment Easier via UPI
In February 2025, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) allowed
a One Time Mandate (OTM) on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for insurance companies
through a new payment mechanism called Bima-Applications Supported by Blocked Amount
(Bima-ASBA).
RBI Data: Outward Remittances under LRS Drop 10% to USD 22.82 Billion in 9MFY25
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) latest data, outward remittances under its
Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) declined 10.15% Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) to USD 22.82
billion in nine months (from April to December) of Financial Year 2024-25 (9MFY25), compared
to USD 24.80 billion in 9MFY24.
The scheme allowed all resident individuals (including minors) to freely remit up to USD 2,50,000
per financial year (April-March) for any permissible current or capital account transaction or a
combination of both.
RBI Launches ‘RBIDATA’ App for Access to Macroeconomic & Financial Data
On February 19 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched ‘RBIDATA’, a mobile
application (App) to provide the public with access to macroeconomic and financial data related
to the Indian economy.
RBI imposed monetary penalties of Rs 39 lakh on Citibank.
RBI – to conduct a USD-INR Buy/Sell swap auction of $10 billion for 3 years, from 10.30
am to 11.30 am on Feb 28, 2025
Authorised Dealers (ADs) - Category-1 banks – eligible entities to participate in auction
• Minimum bid size under this auction – $10 million
Paytm Launched India’s First Solar-Powered Payment Soundbox for Merchants
In February 2025, Noida (Uttar Pradesh) based Paytm Money Limited, a wholly owned
subsidiary of One97 Communications, has launched India’s first solar-powered payment device
‘Paytm Solar Soundbox’ designed for merchants to accept Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and
RuPay Credit Card payments using a Quick-Response (QR) code.
In 2024, Paytm launched the Near-Field Communication (NFC) Card Soundbox, a device that
combines NFC and QR payments.
AMFI (Association of Mutual Funds in India) – launched 3 initiatives—
‘SIP for smaller investments (Chhoti SIP)’ & ‘Tarun Yojana’ – to encourage young investors
MITRA (Mutual Fund Investment Tracing and Retrieval Assistant) – to help track & recover
forgotten investments.
As per a fund manager survey by Bank of America (BofA) Global Research
• India – 2nd-least favoured market in Asia Pacific (APAC) region | Least favoured – Thailand
• Favourite in APAC region – Japan | Followed by – Taiwan, China & Singapore
• IRDAI – asked insurance companies to inject an initial capital of Rs 300 Cr by the end of this
month into ‘Bima Sugam’
• Capital requirement for Bima sugam has increased to – Rs 500 Cr (from Rs 100-200 Cr)
RBI has mandated ARCs to maintain a minimum NOF of Rs 300 Cr in a phased manner by
FY26
• ARCs are in existence since – Oct 11, 2022 Minimum NOF of ₹100 Cr as on Oct 2022, ₹200 Cr
by March 31, 2024, & ₹300 Cr by March 31, 2026
IndusInd Bank has announced its partnership with the Professional Golf Tour of India
(PGTI) as its official Banking Partner.
• IndusInd Bank – also supporting sports in India under umbrella of ‘IndusInd For Sports’,
launched in 2016
RBI Launched Financial Literacy Week 2025 to Focus on Women’s Prosperity
Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based India’s central bank, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched the
Financial Literacy Week (FLW 2025) which commenced on February 24, 2025 and will be
observed till February 28, 2025 across India.
Theme of FLW 2025: ‘Financial Literacy – Women’s prosperity’
Recent Related News: In January 2025, RBI approved the establishment of National Urban Co-
operative Finance and Development Cooperation (NUCFDC) as an Umbrella Organisation (UO)
to boost Urban Co-operative Bodies (UCBs) across India. It has also approved NUCFDC to
function as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC).
RBI revises some lending norms for UCBs
On February 24 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised the norms for Urban Co-operative
Banks (UCBs), allowing them to classify loans of up to Rs 25 lakh, or 0.4% of Tier I capital,
whichever is higher, as small-value loans, subject to a ceiling of Rs 3 crore per borrower.
SEBI imposed a penalty of Rs 5.05 Cr on Indian Clearing Corporation Ltd (ICCL), directed to
pay within 45 days
RBI lowered risk weights on exposure of Scheduled Commercial Banks’ (SCBs) lending to
NBFCs & microfinance loans
In Nov 2023, Risk weights on consumer credit was increased – to 125%
• Now, microfinance loans in nature of consumer credit – to be subject to a risk weight of 100%
PNB signed MoU with ITBP for Financial benefits and Insurance Coverage
In February 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based Punjab National Bank (PNB) signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) at the ITBP Headquarters
in New Delhi (Delhi) to provide special financial benefits and insurance coverage for ITBP
personnel, pensioners and their families.
Axis Bank Hosts 9th Edition of ‘Evolve’ to Empower MSMEs
On February 25 2025, Mumbai (Maharashtra) based Axis Bank Limited, one of the largest private
sector banks in India, hosted the 9th edition of Evolve, its flagship knowledge-sharing seminar
for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Digit Insurance & KMD Launches India’s First AQI-based Parametric Insurance
In February 2025, Go Digit General Insurance Limited (Digit Insurance) in partnership with K.M.
Dastur Reinsurance Brokers (KMD), launched one of India’s first Air Quality Index (AQI)-based
parametric insurance policies for migrant labourers affected by construction bans during periods
of high air pollution in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) region.
ADB Approves USD 200 Million Loan to Expand Urban Services in Kolkata
On 26 February 2025, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a USD 200 million loan to
improve the development of climate and disaster-resilient sewerage and drainage infrastructure in
Kolkata,West Bengal with the aim of enhancing Kolkata’s livability.
About Asian Development Bank (ADB): President – Masato Kanda Headquarters – Mandaluyong
City, Manila, Philippines Established – 1966 Members – 69 countries (49 from the Asia-Pacific
region)
SIDBI signs MoU with TCL to Strengthen Financing Avenues for MSMEs
In February 2025, Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh,UP) based Small Industries Development Bank of
India (SIDBI) and Mumbai(Maharashtra) based Tata Capital Limited (TCL) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Partnership for financing Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs).
MFIN: Micro-credit Disbursements Decline 35.8% to Rs 22,091 crore in Q3FY25
In February 2025, Gurugram (Haryana) based Microfinance Institution Network (MFIN) India,
an umbrella body of the Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), released 52nd edition of Micrometer
as on 31 December 2025 report. The report revealed that disbursement of microfinance loans has
decreased 35.8% to Rs 22,091 crore.
YES Bank + WTC Mumbai (World Trade Center) = tied to enhance credit access for small
businesses & boost India’s export ecosystem They also hosted – ‘Export Conclave 2025’ at YES
Bank House.
Federal Bank – unveiled a new term deposit product, ‘Annuity Deposits’, for resident
customers
Tenure – 5-20 yrs | Minimum investment – Rs 15 lakh | Maximum investment – Rs 2 Cr
GoI – to issue an ultra-long, 50-year, on-tap bond issue during FY26
• ‘Insurance for All’ initiative – set by IRDAI in 2022 to ensure that India’s 1.4 billion population
is fully insured by 2047
• As of now, a 40-year dated government security is longest-duration bond sold by government.
SEBI made it mandatory for MFs to deploy proceeds from NFO within 30 days from the
date of allotment of units
• Circular will come into effect from Apr 1, 2025 | Investment Committee – may extend timeline
by 30 business days
 ECONOMY & BUSINESS
MSCI Equity Indexes February 2025: HMIL Included, AGEL Removed

In February 2025, the United States of America (USA) based Morgan Stanley Capital
International Incorporation (MSCI), a leading service provider for the global investment
community announced the MSCI Equity Indexes February 2025 Index Review.
The review revealed that Gurugram (Haryana) based Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has
been added to the MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index, and also to the MSCI India Domestic
Index, while Ahmedabad (Gujarat) based Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has been removed
from the index.
ICRA estimates India’s GDP Growth to Rise to 6.4% in Q3 FY2025
Moody’s Projects India’s GDP Growth to Slow to 6.4% in 2025
In February 2025, New York (the United States of America, USA)-based Moody’s (formerly
known as Moody’s Analytics), a subsidiary of Moody’s Corporation released its report titled
‘Asia-Pacific(APAC) Outlook: Chaos Ahead’. According to the report, India’s Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) is expected to slow to 6.4% in 2025, from 6.6% in 2024.
S&P Global Market Intelligence Projects India’s GDP to Grow at 6.4% in FY25 and FY26
In February 2025, New York (the United States of America, USA)-based S&P Global Market
Intelligence projected India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will grow at 6.4% for Financial
Year 2024 25 (FY25) as well as for FY26.
HAL & BEML sign MoU with for Collaboration in Training Programmes
On February 25, 2025, Bengaluru (Karnataka) based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and
Bengaluru based BEML Limited (formerly Bharat Earth Movers Limited) signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on leadership and technical training programs aimed at
skill development and professional excellence.
India Set to Become High-Income Nation with USD 23-USD 35 Trillion GDP by 2047:
NASSCOM, Bain & Company
In February 2025, Boston, Massachusetts (United States of America, USA)-based management
consultant company, Bain & Company, Inc. in collaboration with National Association of
Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) released a report titled ‘India@2047:
Transforming India into a Tech-Driven Economy’. As per the report, India is set to become a
High-Income Nation (HIN) with a projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) between USD 23-
USD 35 trillion by 2047.
INOX India Becomes 1st to Earn IATF 16949 Certification for Cryogenic Fuel Tanks
In February 2025, Vadodara (Gujarat) based INOX India Limited (Inox India and Cryogenic
Vessel Alternatives, INOXCVA) became the first Indian manufacturer of cryogenic equipment to
receive the ‘International Automotive Task Force (IATF) 16949 Certification’ for cryogenic fuel
tank production.

DEFENCE AFFAIRS
Various agreements signed during ‘Aero India 2025’:
• HMA (HAL Management Academy) + IIIT-Dharwad = an MoU to strengthen industry-academia
collaboration in advanced technologies
• HAL + Collins Aerospace (US) = an agreement to set up an MRO facility at HAL Accessories
Complex in Lucknow, UP
• Rosoboronexport (Russia) – offered to partner with India on Russian 5th generation fighter
aircraft (FGFA), “Su-57E”.
• HAL’s Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT)-36, called ‘Sitara’ – renamed as ‘Yashas’
DRDO – unveiled India’s first VHS (Very High Frequency) radar to detect 5th- & 6th-generation
stealth aircraft Detection range – up to 400 kilometres.
Adani Defence & Aerospace + DRDO = unveiled a ‘Vehicle-Mounted Counter-Drone System’ at
Aero India 2025
“Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025” – organised at Bet Dwarka, Gujarat, to strengthen security in Dwarka
& its surrounding islands.
INS Shardul & P8I aircraft – participated in “International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025” in
Bali, Indonesia
• INS Shardul & P8I – also participated in a multilateral naval exercise, “Exercise Komodo”
• INS Mumbai & P8I aircraft – had participated in ‘LA PEROUSE’ exercises in Indonesia
MoD – constituted a high-level committee to streamline the production of indigenous Light
Combat Aircraft (LCA) & enhance private sector’s role in making fighter jets
• The committee is headed by – Rajesh Kumar Singh (Defence Secretary)
DRDO + Indian Navy = conducted flight trials of first-of-its-kind ‘Naval Anti-Ship Missile
(NASM-SR)’
From – Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha | Range – 55 kms
• NASM-SR – India’s 1st indigenously developed air-launched anti-ship missile system with a
sea-skimming ability
• Developed by – multiple DRDO labs (including RCI, DRDL, HEMRL & TBRL)

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Sportstar Aces Awards 2025: PR Sreejesh, Manu Bhaker Bagged Top Honours “Sportstar
of the Year Male & Female
On February 14, 2025, the 7th edition of the “Sportstar Aces Awards 2025” was held at the Taj
Mahal Palace in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The event celebrated exceptional achievements in Indian
sports, honoring the winners across 24 distinct categories.The awards recognized the remarkable
contributions and accomplishments of athletes, coaches, and organizations that have significantly
impacted Indian sports.
N Chandrasekaran (Tata Group Chairman) – awarded with UK Knighthood ‘Most
Excellent Order of the British Empire’
He was honoured with France’s highest civilian award, “Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur” in
2023
BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards 2024: Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker won
Top Honour
On February 17 2025, the 5th edition of the “British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Indian
Sportswoman of the Year (ISWOTY) Award 2024” was held in New Delhi, Delhi.
Governor of Massachusetts Honors Nita Ambani with Citation for Philanthropic
Contributions
In February 2025, Nita Mukesh Ambani, renowned Indian philanthropist, and Founder and
Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, a charitable arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL),
was awarded the Governor’s Citation by Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts (the United
States of America, USA) during a special ceremony in Boston, the USA.
Forbes’ Top 10 Richest Women in the World in 2025: USA’s Alice Louise Walton Tops,
India’s Savitri Devi Jindal Ranks 7th
In February 2025, Forbes India released its 5th Edition of the “Top 10 Richest Women in the
World in 2025” list, highlighting the significant wealth amassed by women across different
sectors.
• Alice Louise Walton, the daughter of United States of America (USA) based Walmart Inc.
founder Sam Walton, has secured the top position globally with a net worth of USD 112.5 billion.
• India’s Savitri Devi Jindal and Family claimed the 7th position, with a net worth of USD 32.3
billion, from the JSW (Jindal South West) Group.
Nagaland Forest Management Project receives the SKOCH Award
Nagaland Forest Management Project (NFMP) was awarded with the prestigious SKOCH Award
2024 for improving forest ecosystems and supporting income generation.
• The award was presented on 15th February 2025 as part of the 100th SKOCH Summit held at
Silver Oak Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
2024 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 List: RIL Tops as Most Valuable company for 4th
Consecutive Year According to the 2024 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 list, released by Axis
Bank Limited‘s Burgundy Private and Hurun India, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) based in
Mumbai, Maharashtra has retained its position as India’s most valuable company for the fourth
consecutive year with a valuation of Rs17,52,650 crore.
Purnima Devi Barman: Assam’s Conservation Champion featured in TIME’s Women of the
Year 2025
On February 20 2025, New York, United States of America (USA) based TIME Magazine’s
announced 2025 Women of the Year list,recognizing 13 inspiring women worldwide for their
efforts in shaping a more equal and sustainable future.
Goa’s Mopa Airport becomes 1st in India to win ‘Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskaar’
Goa’s Manohar International Airport (GOX), also known as Mopa Airport, became the first airport
in India to receive the “Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar (Golden Trophy)” at the National Safety
Council of India (NSCI) Safety Awards 2024 in the ‘Service Sector‘ category held in Mumbai,
Maharashtra.
Sunil Bharti Mittal – presented with “Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the
British Empire (KBE)” medal
At British High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi.
“Times Higher Education (THE) World Reputation Rankings 2025” – 4 Indian universities
featured
• Universities slipped in 201-300 band from their 2023’s rankings: IISc Bengaluru – from 101-
125 band | IIT Delhi – from 151-175 band | IIT Madras – from 176-200 band
• Shiksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (a pvt deemed-to-be university from Bhubaneswar, Odisha) – new
entrant in 201-300 band
• Top-ranked institution – Harvard University (US) for the 14th consecutive year 2nd – University
of Oxford (UK) & MIT (US)
Award ceremony – held in Cambridge, UK |
Hosted by – Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)
• Prof Urbasi Sinha – awarded “Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025” (awarded to total 8 people)
‘BRICS Industrial Innovation Contest 2024’
• Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone’s (AMTZ) Solar Powered Tricycle – won “Outstanding Project
Award”
Presented by – BRICS Partner Innovation Center & Ministry of Industry & IT
4th ‘Ministerial Conference on Road Safety’ – held in Marrakech, Morocco
• India – honoured with “Prince Michael Decade of Action Road Safety Award”, highest accolade
in the field
18th “ICG Investiture Ceremony” – held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
• Rajnath Singh (Defence Min.) – conferred gallantry, distinguished & meritorious service medals
to personnel of ICG
• Total 32 medals were presented for 2022, 2023 & 2024-- 6 President’s Tatrakshak Medals
(Distinguished Service)| 11 Tatrakshak Medals (Gallantry) | 15 Tatrakshak Medals (Meritorious
Service)

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

President’s Rule Imposed in Manipur, After CM Biren Singh’s Resignation
On February 13 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) imposed President’s Rule in Manipur
following the resignation of Chief Minister (CM) N Biren Singh. This marks the 11th instance of
President’s Rule being imposed in the state since its formation in 1951.
Gyanesh Kumar – appointed as 26th Chief Election Commissioner till Jan 2029 (succeeding -
Rajiv Kumar)
Vivek Joshi – appointed as EC (succeeding - Gyanesh Kumar)
Rekha Gupta Sworn-in as 4th Women CM of Delhi, Parvesh Verma Sworn-in as Deputy
CM
On 20 February 2025, Rekha Gupta, Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP) leader, took oath as the 9th
Chief Minister (CM) of Union Territory (UT) of Delhi at Ramlila Maidan, New Delhi, Delhi. She
succeeded Atishi Marlena Singh.
SBI Cards Appoints Salila Pande as MD & CEO
V Anantha Nageswaran – tenure extended as Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) for 2 years till
Mar 2027
B V R Subrahmanyam – tenure extended as CEO of NITI Aayog by 1 year till Feb 24, 2026
Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi – tenure extended as DCGI for 1 year.
Kash Patel – became 1st Indian-American to lead Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as its
9th Director
M. Mohan – appointed as Director of Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Shaktikanta Das (former RBI Governor) – appointed as Principal Secretary II to PM Narendra
Modi
• Principal Secretary I – P. K. Mishra
Masato Kanda – appointed as 11th President of ADB (succeeding - Masatsugu Asakawa)
He is currently serving as special adviser to Japan’s PM & Minister of Finance
Chairman of Tata Sons, N Chandrasekaran was Appointed as Chairman of RTEF
On 25 February 2025, N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, was appointed as the Chairman
of the Ratan Tata Endowment Foundation (RTEF), a Section 8 entity established by the late Ratan
Tata.

ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

ONGPL Acquires 100% Stake in Ayana Renewable Power for Rs 19,500 Crore
In February 2025, New Delhi (Delhi) based ONGC NTPC Green Private Limited (ONGPL), a
50:50 joint venture (JV) between Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Limited and National
Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited, has made its first major investment by acquiring a
100% stake in Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based Ayana Renewable Power Private Ltd for Rs 19,500
crore (USD 2.3 billion).
 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (IIT Kanpur) – developed a solar dehydration technique to
enhance the value of farm produce.
India’s 4th-Generation deep-ocean submersible – completed wet testing at L&T Shipbuilding
facility in Kattupalli Port, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
NIOT (National Institute of Ocean Technology) – entrusted for designing & developing 4th
Generation deep-ocean human scientific submersible, “Matsya-6000”
By – MoES, under GoI’s Samudrayan Project (or Deep Ocean Mission).
Deep Ocean Mission – India’s first manned mission to explore deep ocean Initiated in – 2021 |
Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Earth Sciences | Allocation in Union Budget 2025 – Rs 600 Cr
Lam Research (US) – to invest Rs 10,000 Cr in India
• Lam Research + Karnataka = an MoU to lease & eventually purchase a land parcel at Whitefield
in Bengaluru.
IN Launches 8th Missile Cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 11 (Yard 79)
On February 14, 2025, the Indian Navy (IN) successfully launched its ‘8th Missile Cum
Ammunition (MCA) Barge’, Large Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM 11) (Yard 79) at Mira
Bhayandar, Maharashtra, the launch site of M/s SECON Engineering Projects Private Limited
(SEEPL) based in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
ePlane Company (incubated by - IIT Madras) – signed a deal of $1 billion to supply 788
eVTOL aircrafts to ICATT • ePlane – targeting commercial operations by late 2026
IN-SPACe – announced a Rs 500 Cr Technology Adoption Fund (TAF)
• TAF – corpus supporting space technology firms, mainly startups & MSMEs, in developing
commercially viable products
• It will offer financial support with a maximum funding cap – Rs 25 Cr per project
Stanford University (US) + King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (Saudi Arabia)
= developed a prototype device that generates ammonia directly from air using wind energy
Microsoft – launched “Majorana 1”, its 1st quantum computing chip, powered by a new state of
matter.
ISRO – germinated cowpea (black-eyed pea) seeds, better known as ‘lobia’ in Hindi, in space
Developed by – Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
As part of ‘CROPS’ (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies) module
• ISRO – operated India’s first space robotic arm, “Relocatable Robotic Manipulator-Technology
Demonstrator (RRM TD)”, aka “Walking Robotic Arm”
Developed by – IISU
• These two experiments were part of 24 payloads flown on PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission’s POEM-
4 on Dec 30, 2024 POEM – PS4-Orbital Experiment Module
China Launched ChinaSat-10R Communication Satellite into Orbit
In February 2025, China has successfully launched a new communication satellite ‘ChinaSat-
10R’ or Zhongxing-10R, through Long March-3B carrier rocket into Geosynchronous Transfer
Orbit (GTO) to replace ChinaSat-10, launched in 2011. This also marks the 8th orbital launch
attempt of the year by China.
IIT Madras – established “Centre of Biodegradable Packaging” to develop zero-waste bioplastics
Amazon – unveiled a prototype of its first-ever in-house quantum computing chip, called
“Ocelot”
NASA – launched “Spectro-Photometer for History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization
and Ices Explorer (SPHEREx)”
-- It is a megaphone-shaped space telescope | Mission time – 2 years
Aboard – SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket | From – Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, US
• It will map entire celestial sky in 102 infrared colours for 1st time in humanity’s history
 SPORTS
Asian Winter Games 2025: China Dominates, India Ends Medal-Less
The 9th Asian Winter Games (Harbin 2025), held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China, from
February 7 to February 14, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the promotion of winter sports
across Asia.
38th National Games – being held at Ganga Stadium in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
• Animesh Kujur (Odisha) – equalled the National Games record of 10.28 seconds by winning
gold medal in 100m race.
4th edition of “Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025” – held in Qingdao, China
It is a biennial tournament |
Organized by – Badminton Asia
• Indonesia – won its first-ever title.
Saudi Arabia to Host First-Ever Olympic Esports Games in 2027
On February 11, 2025, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that the inaugural
Olympic Esports Games will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (SA) for the 1st time, in 2027
Mohammed Shami – became fastest Indian bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets
“2025 Asian Snooker Championship” – held in Doha, Qatar
Organised by – Asian Confederation of Billiards Sports | Hosted by – Qatar Billiards Sports
Federation
Men’s title – Pankaj Advani (India-14th title win)
Women’s title – Narantuya Bayarsaikhan (Mongolia)
‘Champions Trophy 2025’ match – held at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE
• Virat Kohli – became fastest batter to reach 14,000 ODI runs in only 287 innings | Against –
Pakistan
He surpassed – Sachin Tendulkar (350 innings)
“Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 League” – held at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati
Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata
• Winner – Mohun Bagan Super Giant (Mariners) | Defeated – Odisha FC
PSA (Professional Squash Association) Challenger – held at Octane Sydney Classic 2025 in
Australia
• PSA Challenger title – Saurav Ghosal (India-11th PSA title)
2025 Archery Asia Cup World Ranking Tournament, Stage I: India Tops Medal Tally With
5 Gold Medals
India concluded the ‘2025 Archery Asia Cup-World Ranking Tournament, Stage I’ organized by
World Archery Asia (WAA), held from February 16 to 23, 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. Indian
Archers topped the medal tally with an outstanding performance of securing 8 medals in the
competition including 5 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 Bronze.

SCHEMES & INITIATIVES

Centre launched next phase of ‘Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik’ scheme, “UDAN 5.5”, to enhance
regional air connectivity
• ‘UDAN’ scheme – launched in Oct 2016 as part of ‘National Civil Aviation Policy
‘Atal Pension Yojana (APY)’ enrolments – grown to 7.33 crore by Jan 2025 (from 1.54 crore in
Mar 2019) | CAGR – 29% New enrolments in FY25 alone – 89.95 lakh
• Top state in total enrolments – UP (16.11%) | Followed by – Bihar (9.59%), MH (7.96%), WB
(7.68%) & TN (6.69%)
Gujarat – introduced “G-SAFAL” (Gujarat Scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting
Livelihoods) Implemented by – Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company Ltd (Rural Development
Department)
PM Modi released 19th instalment of ‘PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana’ in Feb 2025
It transfers ₹22,000 Cr to 9.8 Cr farmers’ accounts from Bhagalpur, Bihar
• PM-KISAN – world’s largest DBT scheme | Launched in – Feb 2019 | DBT made so far – Rs
3.68 lakh Cr
PM-KISAN AI Chatbot: It is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbot launched in 2023, designed
specifically for the PM-KISAN scheme, thus, becoming the 1st AI chatbot which has been
integrated with a major flagship scheme of GoI.
Nayab Singh Saini (Haryana CM) – launched “Haryana Witness Protection Scheme, 2025” to
ensure protection of witnesses.
Education & Panchayati Raj Minister of Rajasthan government – unveiled first-of-its-kind
“Shiksha Sanjeevani Bima Yojana” at Residency Girls Higher Secondary School in Udaipur

MoU’S & COLLABORATIONS

ADA (DRDO) + MIDHANI = an MoU for indigenous development of high strength high
toughness special grade steel “MDN100” for aeronautical applications
-including in development of 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) + DHFP (Uttarakhand) = signed ‘Records
of Discussions’ for a Technical Cooperation Project titled, “Uttarakhand Integrated Horticulture
Development Promotion Project”.
EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited) + Odisha = an MoU to serve as a framework for
deploying innovative & sustainable solutions
• EESL is a JV of = NTPC Ltd + PFC + REC Ltd + POWERGRID
Uttarakhand government identified 40 geothermal sites across the state to achieve carbon
neutrality by 2070
• Uttarakhand + Verkis Consulting Engineers (Iceland) = an MoU for ‘Exploration &
Development of Geothermal Energy in Uttarakhand’
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and the Centre for Development of Advanced
Computing (C-DAC), a Scientific Society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology (MeitY), have signed an umbrella MoU to advance technological innovation and
excellence in India’s maritime sector.
CBDA (Chhattisgarh Biofuel Development Authority) + GAIL (India) + BPCL = an
agreement to produce compressed biogas (CBG) from urban solid waste of 6 municipal
corporations in Chhattisgarh-- Under ‘Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable
Transportation’ scheme.
Amount to be invested by GAIL & BPCL – Rs 600 Cr.
India – to sign an MoU with Israel & Saudi Arabia to explore & process critical minerals.
India – exploring mining of critical minerals in Zambia, Congo, Tanzania & Australia to secure
raw materials
‘Advantage Assam 2.0 Infrastructure and Investment Summit 2025’
• NSE + Assam = an MoU to implement a student skilling programme for youth of Assam in BFSI
sector
• Assam – 4th state to partner with NSE on skilling youth | Previous 3 states – Uttarakhand,
Meghalaya & Chhattisgarh

RANKS & REPORTS

1st phase of 2025 state-level census of vultures – conducted by Forest Department 2nd phase
of census – to take place on Apr 29, 2025 |
Census of vultures in MP – started in 2016
• Highest number of vultures in India – MP with 12,981 (from 10,845)
• Species of vultures found: Globally – 23 | India – 9

ORDINANCE & BILLS

Nirmala Sitharaman – introduced “New Income Tax Bill, 2025” in Lok Sabha to simplify
existing ‘Income Tax Act, 1961’
To come into effect from – Apr 1, 2026
India – became 1st country to introduce a ‘Harmonised System (HS)’ code for GI tagged rice
varieties & amended ‘Customs Tariff Act, 1975’ .
HS – managed by World Customs Organization (WCO) | It updated every 5 years
 OTHER NEWS
“Source Code: My beginnings” book — authored by Bill Gates
1320 MW Koradi Thermal Power Station (by BHEL) – Nagpur, Maharashtra
A Book Titled “The New Icon: Savarkar and the Facts” by Arun Shourie
In February 2025, A book titled “The New Icon Savarkar and the Facts” was authored by Arun
Shourie.
2nd edition of Simolu Festival held in Assam
The 2nd edition of the Simolu Festival, a vibrant celebration of the stunning Bombax Ceiba
flowers, was held from February 15 to 16, 2025, in Nagaon, Assam.
2nd All India State Water Minister’s Conference – Udaipur, Rajasthan
(Theme - “India@2047 - A Water Secure Nation”)
• 9th edition of Asia Economic Dialogue 2025 – Pune, Maharashtra
(Theme - “Economic Resilience & Resurgence in an Era of Fragmentation”)
Purulia Observatory – West Bengal
(by WB-based = S N Bose Centre for Basic Sciences + Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University)
India’s 1st Assembly equipped with Translator Facility – Uttar Pradesh
1st Regional Office of Central Register Cooperative Society – Pune, Maharashtra
“Enlightened Leadership” book — authored by Tshering Tobgay
Tianshan Shengli Tunnel (world’s longest expressway tunnel) – China
Chief Minister’s Mobile Operation Theatre – Nagaland
Padma Shri Awardee & ‘Father of Odissi Dance’ Mayadhar Raut Passes Away
In February 2025, Padma Shri Awardee and renowned Odissi dancer Mayadhar Raut passed away
at the age of 92 in New Delhi, Delhi. He was born on 6 July 1933 in Cuttack district, Odisha.
Namita Gokhale released her 25th Book ‘Life on Mars: Collected Stories’
In February 2025, Eminent Author and Sahitya Akademi Awardee, Namita Gokhale released her
25th book titled ‘Life on Mars: Collected Stories’, published by Speaking Tiger Books.
Jhumoir Binandini 2025 – Guwahati, Assam
Boda Tyohar Festival (by Hatti tribe) – Himachal Pradesh