15th-17th February 2025

1. Corruption perceptions index
2. 12th World Government Summit Held in Dubai from 11-13 February 2025
3. India & Indonesia Sign Pact to Strengthen Traditional Medicine Quality Assurance
4. RBI approves Easebuzz to Operate as Online PA
5. REC & CVPPL Ink Rs 2,147.51 crore Term Loan Agreement for Pakal Dul HEP
6. IEA Report: India’s Natural Gas Consumption to Increase 60%, Imports double by 2030
7. KSSL and L3Harris Sign MoU to Strengthen Tactical Communication Networks for Indian Armed Forces
8. Maaza Joins the Billion-Dollar club, Becomes Third Indian Brand to Achieve this Milestone
9. Forbes India ‘30 Under 30’ Class of 2025 Lists: Featured 42 Individuals, including Actress Aparna Balamurali
10. Sportico’s 100 Top Highest-Paid Athletes 2024: Ronaldo Leads the List with USD 260 Million; No Female in the Top 100
11. Charanjot Singh Nanda Elected as 73rd President of ICAI for term 2025-26
12. Chennai Open 2025: Kyrian Jacquet Crowned Singles Champion; Mochizuki-Useugi Clinch Doubles Title
13. Folk artist and Padma Shri Awardee Sukri Bommagowda Passed away
14. Karnataka Launches Revamped Single Window System to Accelerate Investments and Ease of Doing Business
15. DoT & CDRI Unveiled Roadmap to Strengthen India’s Telecom Resilience
16. Ministry of Ayush & DoSJE Sign MoU to Boost Geriatric Healthcare
17. RBI Imposes Restrictions on New India Co-operative Bank on Supervisory Concerns
18. RBI Approves Zulu Investments to Increase Stake in AU SFB
19. IFC Invested Rs 860 Crore in India’s 1st SLB in Road Sector Issued by Cube InvIT
20. Exim Bank to Provide USD 300 Million Credit to Vietnam for Procurement of Guard Boats and Patrol Vessels
21. Decentro Launched India’s 1st Self-Hosted CKYC Solution to Align with CERSAI’s New Compliance Mandate
22. MSCI Equity Indexes February 2025: HML Included, AGEL Removed
23. Sportstar Aces Awards 2025: PR Sreejesh, Manu Bhaker Bagged Top Honours “Sportstar of the Year Male & Female”
24. NTPC Limited Conferred with Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025 for Water Resilience
25. ONGCPL Acquires 100% Stake in Ayana Renewable Power for Rs 19,500 Crore
26. Asian Winter Games 2025: China Dominates, India Ends Medal-Less
27. Renowned Classical Singer Pandit Prabhakar Karekar Passes Away
28. International Childhood Cancer Day 2025 – February 15
29. World Pangolin Day 2025 – February 15
30. Axis Bank Pledges ₹104 Crore to Ashoka University for Research Growth
31. India to Host First Regional Social Justice Dialogue in 2025
32. West Bengal’s “Nodi Bandhan” Scheme and Ghatal Masterplan
33. Jitendra Singh to Preside Over 12th All India Pension Adalat
34. 38th National Games 2025 Concludes with Grand Ceremony
35. Padma Shri Awardee Sukri Bommagowda Passes Away at 88
36. Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0: A Cultural Confluence
37. PM Modi’s Address at SAMVAD in Thailand: Key Highlights
38. Lam Research to Invest ₹10,000 Crore in Karnataka’s Semiconductor Industry
39. Pankaj Tripathi Joins Velvet as Co-Founder
40. China to Build First Deepwater ‘Space Station’ in South China Sea
41. Govt Approves Nilgai Culling in Haryana
42. Kevin Durant Reaches 30,000 Points – 8th Player in NBA History
43. PM Modi Receives Starship Heatshield Tile from Musk
44. President of India Inaugurates International Women’s Conference by Art of Living
45. Government Announces ₹100 Commemorative Coin Honoring Mohammed Rafi’s Legacy
46. Saab & HAL Join Forces for Advanced Laser Warning System in India
47. MIGA + MAGA = MEGA Partnership: Key Takeaways from PM Modi’s US Visit
48. PM Narendra Modi’s 2025 Visit to France
49. Easebuzz Secures RBI Authorization as Online Payment Aggregator
50. India Hosts First-Ever International Conference on Governance
51. Who is Tulsi Gabbard, First Hindu to Lead US Intelligence
52. A Book Titled “The New Icon: Savarkar and the Facts” by Arun Shourie’s

National News

1. India Hosts Regional Dialogue on Social Justice in Delhi

• What:
  • The Ministry of Labour & Employment is hosting the first Regional Dialogue on Social Justice in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)-Employers’ Federation of India (EFI).
• Why:
  • To contribute to the Global Coalition for Social Justice and address social justice challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Tell me more:
  • The event will be held on February 24-25, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • The dialogue will focus on themes like skills, employment, social protection, responsible business, and women’s participation.
  • It will also mark the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).

Source: PIB

2. 12th Nation-wide Pension Adalat to be held in New Delhi

• What:
  • The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare will conduct the 12th Nation-wide Pension Adalat on February 13th, 2025 in New Delhi.
• Why:
  • The Adalat aims for on-the-spot resolution of long pending grievances of pensioners by bringing concerned parties together.
• Tell me more:
  • Cases pending for more than 120 days will be taken up in the Adalat, with senior officers from 16 Departments participating.
  • Till December 2024, eleven Pension Adalats have been organized, resolving 18,005 cases with a success rate of over 71 percent.
  • The 12th Pension Adalat will be attended by 16 Ministries/Departments and 180 cases pertaining to ministries will be discussed.

Source: PIB

3. President Murmu Addresses Art of Living Women’s Conference

• What:
  • President Droupadi Murmu addressed the inaugural session of the International Women’s Conference of the Art of Living in Bengaluru.
• Why:
  • To encourage women to gather courage, dream big, and utilize their strength to achieve their dreams for a developed India.
• Tell me more:
  • The President noted India’s Nari Shakti is rising in various fields and urged the promotion of human values of compassion, love, and unity in a competitive world.
  • The President acknowledged the Art of Living’s initiatives in education and emphasized the need to address global challenges like climate change.

Source: GOV

4. PM Modi’s Visits US

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day US visit with bilateral talks with President Donald Trump.
• Why:
  • To address key issues such as trade, tariffs, defense cooperation, and international relations between India and the US.
• Tell me more:
  • A major outcome was setting a $500 billion bilateral trade target by 2030.
  • The US committed to selling F-35 stealth fighter jets to India.
  • India will purchase US energy worth up to $25 billion.
  • PM Modi coined “MIGA – Make India Great Again,” linking India’s vision of “Viksit Bharat” with Trump’s “MAGA.”

Source: TOI

5. PM Modi Visits France

• What:
  • They announced the India-France Year of Innovation in New Delhi in March 2026 and introduced the India-France AI Roadmap.
• Tell me more:
  • They reaffirmed their deep defence partnership and reviewed progress on the Defence Industrial Roadmap.
  • France joined the Mangrove Alliance for Climate.
  • Indian startups gained inclusion in France’s Station F incubator, and UPI’s expansion in France was welcomed.

Source: France gov

6. India Hosts International Conference on Governance

• What:
  • Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance.
• Why:
  • To explore innovations in public administration, governance, and policymaking with a focus on “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile”.
• Tell me more:
  • The conference is jointly organized by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and the Department of Administrative Reforms, Government of India and has participation from nearly 55 countries.
  • Dr. Singh also released a book on “Viksit Bharat @ 2047” themed Governance Transformed.
  • The conference serves as a crucial global platform for discussing the future of public administration, governance reforms, and the role of technology.

Source: PIB

State News

1. Karnataka Launches Single Window System for Investments

• What:
  • The Karnataka government launched a new Single Window System to streamline and fast-track investments in the state.
• Why:
  • The system aims to improve ease of doing business and ensure Karnataka remains a preferred investment destination.
• Tell me more:
  • The system integrates over 150 business services from more than 30 state departments and agencies, simplifying and accelerating approvals.
  • Investors can secure in-principal approvals at either the district or state level through an online Common Application Form (CAF).
  • The system is integrated with the National Single-Window System and other central departments.

Source: ET

2. Bengal Budget 2025-26: “Nodi Bandhan” Scheme Announced

• What:
  • The West Bengal government announced a new scheme called “Nodi Bandhan” and allocated funds for the Ghatal Masterplan to prevent floods and check erosion along the Ganga.
• Why:
  • To develop riverine areas, create livelihoods, combat natural calamities, and prevent erosion in districts like Murshidabad and Malda.
• Tell me more:
  • The “Nodi Bandhan” scheme will interconnect rivers and wetlands to create livelihood options, especially in pisciculture and irrigation.
  • ₹1,500 crore is required to execute the Ghatal Masterplan, with ₹500 crore allocated for this year.
  • ₹200 crore has been allocated to implement a masterplan to prevent Ganga-Padma erosion in districts like Murshidabad and Malda within two years.
  • West Bengal has 39 river sub-basins and three major river basins.

Source: TT

3. Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 to Celebrate Tamil-Kashi Civilizational Bonds

• What:
  • Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS) 3.0 will be held in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from February 15 to 24, 2025.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to celebrate and reinforce the civilizational bond between Tamil Nadu and Kashi by providing a platform for exchanging knowledge, culture, and best practices.
• Tell me more:
  • The event, organized by the Ministry of Education with multiple ministries and the Government of Uttar Pradesh, will host scholars, students, artisans, traders, artists, and philosophers.
  • This year’s theme highlights Sage Agasthyar’s contributions to the Siddha System of Medicine, Classical Tamil Literature, and cultural unity.

Source: PIB

4. Karnataka Exceeds Investment Target at Global Investors Meet 2025

• What:
  • The Government of Karnataka announced it attracted ₹10.27 lakh crore in investment commitments at the Global Investors’ Meet: Invest Karnataka 2025.
• Why:
  • The investments are expected to create over six lakh new jobs across the State.
• Tell me more:
  • The investment commitments include ₹4,03,533 crore recognized/announced and ₹6,23,845 crore through MoUs.
  • The renewable energy sector attracted the most investment at ₹4,25,781 crore, followed by core-manufacturing at ₹1,59,843 crore.
  • JSW Group made the largest investment commitment of ₹1,20,000 crore.
  • Lam Research, an American company that develops tools essential for semiconductor manufacturing, has announced an investment of over ₹10,000 crore in Karnataka over the next few years.
  • Around 75% of investments will go outside Bengaluru, with over 45% in north Karnataka, and 70% are greenfield projects.

Source: TH1 TH2

International News

1. World Governments Summit 2025: Shaping Future Governance, Innovation

• What:
  • The World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 convened under the theme ‘Shaping Future Governments’, attracting governments, organizations, thought leaders, and private sector leaders.
• Why:
  • The summit aims to foster international cooperation, identify innovative solutions for future challenges, and empower the next generation of governments.
• Tell me more:
  • The 12th edition of the summit includes forums such as the Future of Work Forum, Artificial Intelligence Forum, and Gender Balance Forum.
  • Bhupender Yadav, India’s Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, emphasized capacity building in clean technology and securing financial resources to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary-General of OPEC, noted that the oil sector would require cumulative investments projected to reach $17.4 trillion between 2024 and 2050.

Source: DD

2. India Extends USD 300 Million Credit Line to Vietnam

• What:
  • The Export Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) will provide lines of credit totalling USD 300 million to Vietnam for procuring high-speed guard boats and offshore patrol vessels.
• Why:
  • To support Vietnam’s procurement of four Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) and high-speed guard boats.
• Tell me more:
  • An agreement was made on July 31, 2024, with the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (GO-VNM) for a USD 180 million Line of Credit (LoC) for Offshore Patrol Vessels.
  • Another agreement with GO-VNM involves a USD 120 million LoC for procuring high-speed guard boats.
  • Both agreements are effective from January 20, 2025, with disbursement allowed up to 60 months after the project’s scheduled completion date.
  • The export of eligible goods and services from India will be subject to the Foreign Trade Policy.

Source: ET

3. China Approves Deep-Sea Research Facility in South China Sea

• What:
  • China has approved a deep-sea research facility to be anchored 2,000 metres below the surface in the South China Sea.
• Why:
  • The facility will study cold seep ecosystems and methane hydrates, and also strengthen China’s territorial claims.
• Tell me more:
  • The facility, expected to be operational by 2030, will accommodate six scientists for month-long missions.
  • It will work with unmanned submersibles, surface ships, and seabed observatories to create a surveillance grid.
  • The South China Sea holds 70 billion tonnes of methane hydrates and rare mineral deposits.

Source: SCMP

4. 8th Indian Ocean Conference

• The 8th Indian Ocean Conference is being organised by India Foundation in association with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Oman on February 16-17, 2025 in Muscat, Oman.
• The theme for this year of the Conference is Voyages to New Horizons of Maritime Partnership.
• The Indian Ocean Conference was started by India Foundation in 2016 at Singapore, with participation from 30 countries.

Source: IOC

Banking and Economy

1. Easebuzz Receives RBI Approval as Online Payment Aggregator

• What:
  • Easebuzz has received final authorization from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as an online payment aggregator.
• Why:
  • The authorization allows Easebuzz to process online payments for various Indian businesses across sectors like e-commerce, travel, education, and real estate.
• Tell me more:
  • Easebuzz currently processes an annualized Gross Transaction Value (GTV) of USD 30 billion and serves over 200,000 businesses, including SMEs and startups.
  • The company aims to expand its digital offerings and has recently launched an invoice management and payments platform in partnership with NPCI Bharat BillPay.

Source: ET

2. REC Finances Pakal Dul Hydro Electric Project in J&K

• What:
  • REC Limited signed a term loan agreement worth ₹2,147.508 crore with Chenab Valley Power Project Limited (CVPPL) for the 1,000 MW Pakal Dul Hydro Electric Project.
• Why:
  • The project aims to enhance India’s renewable energy capacity and strengthen energy security in Jammu & Kashmir.
• Tell me more:
  • The project is being developed on the Marusadar River in the Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir with a total estimated cost of ₹12,669.67 crore.

Source: ET

3. Maaza Enters Billion-Dollar Club in 2024

• What:
  • Maaza, an Indian drink, entered the billion-dollar club in 2024, becoming the third brand from Coca-Cola’s Indian stable to achieve this milestone.
• Why:
  • Driven by higher consumption, the brand has demonstrated significant growth, contributing to Coca-Cola’s overall volume growth in India.
• Tell me more:
  • Thums Up and Sprite joined the billion-dollar club in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Source: BS

4. RBI Supersedes Board of New India Co-operative Bank

• What:
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has superseded the Board of Directors of New India Co-operative Bank for 12 months.
• Why:
  • The action was taken due to poor governance standards.
• Tell me more:
  • Shreekant, a former chief general manager of SBI, has been appointed as the administrator to manage the bank’s affairs.
  • A committee of advisors comprising Ravindra Sapra and Abhijeet Deshmukh will assist the administrator.
  • The RBI had previously imposed restrictions on the bank, including a six-month freeze on withdrawals.

Source: BS

5. Temasek Unit Gets RBI Nod to Raise Stake in AU SFB

• What:
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a Temasek unit, Zulia Investments Pte. Ltd., to increase its stake in AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) up to 7%.
• Why:
  • The approval signals continued foreign interest in India’s banking sector and underscores confidence in AU SFB’s growth trajectory.
• Tell me more:
  • Zulia Investments held a 1.37% stake in AU Small Finance Bank as of December 2024.
  • The approval is valid for one year, until February 12, 2026.

Source: ET

6. IFC Invests in Cube Highways Trust Sustainability-Linked Bond

• What:
  • The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has invested Rs 860 crore (approximately $98.35 million) in a sustainability-linked bond (SLB) issued by Cube Highways Trust.
• Why:
  • The InvIT aims to fund the acquisition of NAM Expressway Limited (NAM) and support its long-term corporate objectives, including sustainability and inclusion initiatives.
• Tell me more:
  • The InvIT completed the acquisition of 100 per cent equity shareholding of NAM Expressway at a consideration of Rs 717.60 crore on February 12, 2025.
  • The bond is India’s first SLB in the roads sector and the first by a road InvIT in India.

Source: BS

7. Decentro Launches India’s First Self-Hosted CKYC Solution

• What:
  • Decentro has launched India’s first fully compliant, self-hosted CKYC solution that enables financial institutions to seamlessly transition to the new CERSAI compliance framework.
• Why:
  • To allow banks, NBFCs, and insurers to onboard customers faster while ensuring regulatory adherence and to address challenges such as compliance risks, operational disruptions, and significant time and cost implications for institutions lacking the necessary infrastructure.
• Tell me more:
  • Financial institutions can no longer process CKYC data via third-party service providers, according to the recent CERSAI circular from the last quarter of 2024.
  • Decentro’s self-hosted CKYC solution offers 80% faster processing, 75% lower compliance costs, and zero vendor dependencies.
  • Financial institutions like Gosree Finance Limited have already integrated Decentro’s CKYC Suite.
  • Union Budget 2025 has emphasized AI-driven KYC reforms, reinforcing the need for a secure, transparent, and centralized CKYC system.
  • Rohit Taneja is the Co-Founder & CEO of Decentro.
  • Decentro has over 1,200 active customers, including AU Small Finance Bank, MoneyTap, Dhan, and NewTap Finance.

Source: BFSI

8. MSCI Index February Rebalancing

• What:
  • MSCI’s February rebalancing led to changes in Indian stocks, including the addition of Hyundai Motor India to the Global Standard Index and the removal of Adani Green.
• Why:
  • The rebalancing is a periodic review by MSCI to accurately reflect the composition of global equity markets.
• Tell me more:
  • Hyundai Motor India’s stock rose 3.4% after its inclusion, while Adani Green’s stock fell 2.65% following its removal.
  • India’s weight in MSCI Global Standard Indexes will increase to 19% from 18.8% effective February 28.
  • 20 stocks were added to the MSCI India Domestic Smallcap Index, and 17 were removed.
  • Weights increased for IndusInd Bank and other stocks, and decreased for Adani Green and other major companies.
  • The MSCI rejig could lead to passive inflows of $850 million to $1 billion into Indian stock markets.
  • Globally, India has slipped to third position in terms of weightage across emerging markets.

Source: BS

9. ONGC-NTPC JV Acquires Ayana Renewable Power for ₹19,500 Crore

• What:
  • A joint venture between ONGC and NTPC, called ONGPL, has acquired a 100% equity stake in Ayana Renewable Power for ₹19,500 crore.
• Why:
  • The deal marks the first strategic investment by government-owned companies in India’s renewable energy sector and aligns with ONGC and NTPC’s net-zero targets.
• Tell me more:
  • ONGPL is a 50:50 joint venture between ONGC Green Limited (OGL) and NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL).
  • Ayana currently has 4 gigawatts (Gw) of operational and under-construction assets.
  • NGEL, the green energy arm of NTPC, was listed on the stock exchanges in September last year.

Source: BS

10. Axis Bank Pledges ₹104 Crore Grant to Ashoka University

• What:
  • Axis Bank has committed a CSR grant of ₹104 crores over four years to Ashoka University to strengthen its PhD, Post-Doctoral, and Research programmes.
• Why:
  • To bolster Ashoka University’s research ecosystem and facilitate the development of advanced scientific facilities.
• Tell me more:
  • The initiative, titled “Co-building Interdisciplinary Sciences and Research at Ashoka University,” will support investment in PhD and Post-Doctoral programmes.
  • It will also facilitate the creation of shared advanced science laboratories.
  • The MoU was signed between Axis Bank and Ashoka University.

Source: ET

11. Pankaj Tripathi Co-Founding New Audio Stories Platform

• What:
  • Actor Pankaj Tripathi has become a co-founder of Velvet, a platform for cinematic audio stories.
• Why:
  • The platform aims to create a unique space for listeners to experience engaging and imaginative audio content, primarily in Hindi.
• Tell me more:
  • Velvet was co-founded by Tripathi along with Vikas Kumar, Akshat Saxena, Varad Bhatnagar, and Sharib Khan.
  • The platform, launched in October 2024, plans to expand into English and regional Indian languages.
  • Velvet has already attracted over 10,000 listeners on its own platform and over 1 million listeners through partners like Josh App in India and Future Today Group in the US.
  • Velvet is designed to preserve and promote the ancient art of storytelling while providing entertainment.

Source: BS

Reports and Indices

1. ‘The India Gas Market Report: Outlook to 2030’ Report Released by the IEA

• What:
  • Natural gas consumption in India is projected to grow by nearly 60% to 103 billion cubic meters (bcm) annually by 2030, driven by the city gas distribution sector.
• Why:
  • This growth is fueled by the expansion of compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure and the cost advantage of gas over liquid fuels for small industries.
• Tell me more:
  • The IEA report suggests that LNG imports will need to more than double to around 65 bcm annually by 2030.
  • Heavy industrial sectors like iron and steel production are expected to add around 15 bcm/year to the demand.
  • India’s natural gas demand grew by more than 10% in both 2023 and 2024 due to infrastructure development and recovering domestic production.
  • LNG imports increased by 10% in 2023 and 2024, reaching 36 bcm in 2024, making India the fourth-largest LNG importer globally.

Source: BS

2. Corruption Perceptions Index 2024 by Transparency International

• What:
  • India ranked 96th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), with a score of 38.
• Why:
  • Parameters: The CPI ranks 180 countries based on perceived public sector corruption, using a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). It relies on assessments from experts and business leaders.
• Tell me more:
  • Top Country: Denmark ranked as the least corrupt nation, followed by Finland and Singapore.
  • Most Improved: Since 2012, 32 countries have significantly reduced their corruption levels.
  • Lowest Country: The report does not explicitly mention the lowest-ranked country, but countries with very low rankings include Bangladesh (149), Pakistan (135), and Sri Lanka (121).
  • About India:
    • India ranked 96 out of 180 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2024, with a score of 38, down from 39 in 2023 and 40 in 2022. India’s rank in 2023 was 93.
    • The report highlights corruption as a major threat to climate action, obstructing policies and diverting funds meant for climate mitigation and adaptation.
    • The global average CPI remained stagnant at 43 for years, with over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50.
    • The report warns that corruption weakens democracy, fuels instability, and violates human rights, urging global action to combat it.

Source: TH

Defence News

1. KSSL & L3Harris Unite to Boost India’s Defence

• What:
  • Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) and L3Harris Technologies are teaming up to develop advanced C4ISR technologies for India’s defence.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to enhance India’s defence capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign imports while strengthening military self-reliance.
• Tell me more:
  • The two-year agreement supports the creation of a robust tactical communications network in India.
  • L3Harris will bring its expertise to improve communication infrastructure for the Indian Armed Forces.

Source: ET

2. Saab and HAL Partner on Electronic Warfare System

• What:
  • Saab, a Swedish defence company, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have signed an agreement to collaborate on the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (LWS-310).
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and ensure long-term support for the Indian armed forces.
• Tell me more:
  • HAL will acquire the capability to manufacture LWS-310 domestically through Maintenance Transfer of Technology (ToT).
  • Saab will provide infrastructure support, training programs, and technical expertise.
  • The LWS-310 system provides rapid threat warning for combat vehicles, enhancing situational awareness and self-protection.

Source: ET

2. Saab and HAL Partner on Electronic Warfare System

• What:
  • Saab, a Swedish defence company, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have signed an agreement to collaborate on the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (LWS-310).
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and ensure long-term support for the Indian armed forces.
• Tell me more:
  • HAL will acquire the capability to manufacture LWS-310 domestically through Maintenance Transfer of Technology (ToT).
  • Saab will provide infrastructure support, training programs, and technical expertise.
  • The LWS-310 system provides rapid threat warning for combat vehicles, enhancing situational awareness and self-protection.

Source: IT

Awards

1. Top 100 Highest-Paid Athletes of 2024 Revealed

• What:
  • The list of the top 100 highest-paid athletes in 2024 was released, showing no women included, with Daniel Jones ranked 100th.
• Why:
  • This highlights the ongoing gender disparity in sports earnings and the dominance of male athletes in high-paying sports leagues.
• Tell me more:
  • Cristiano Ronaldo topped the list with an income of $260 million, followed by Stephen Curry at $153.8 million and Tyson Fury at $147 million.
  • The total income of the top 100 athletes reached $6.2 billion, including $4.8 billion in salaries and $1.4 billion in endorsements.

Source: FP

2. Sportstar Aces Awards 2025

• The awards were held at the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai to celebrate outstanding achievements in Indian sports.

Source: TH

3. NTPC Wins Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025

• What:
  • NTPC Ltd. has been awarded the Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025 in the Water Resilience category.
• Tell me more:
  • The award was presented by the UN Global Compact Network India (UN GCNI) in Chennai.
  • NTPC is committed to optimising water use through Reduce, Reuse & Recycle principles.
  • NTPC has an installed capacity of over 77 GW and is committed to achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032.
  • NTPC contributes one-fourth of India’s power requirements.

Source: PIB

4. PM Modi Visits US, Receives SpaceX Starship Heat Shield

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the United States and received a heat shield tile from SpaceX’s Starship rocket as a gift from Elon Musk.
• Why:
  • The gift is technologically and symbolically significant, representing advancements in space exploration and rocket reusability.
• Tell me more:
  • The heat shield tile is from Starship Flight Test 5, which took place in October 2024.
  • Starship Flight Test 5 marked a major breakthrough for SpaceX, demonstrating crucial advancement in rocket reusability.
  • Prime Minister Modi presented Elon Musk and his family with a selection of books, including The Crescent Moon by Rabindranath Tagore, The Great RK Narayan Collection, and Panchatantra by Pandit Vishnu.

Source: TOI

Important Dates

1. International Childhood Cancer Day – February 15

• Theme: Inspiring Action

Source: N18

2. World Pangolin Day – February 15

Sports

1. India at Asian Winter Games 2025

• What:
  • India finished without medals at the Asian Winter Games 2025 in Harbin, China, but had notable performances in figure skating and ice hockey.
• Tell me more:
  • India sent a contingent of 59 athletes to the Asian Winter Games 2025.

Source: OC

2. 38th National Games Conclude; India Bids for 2036 Olympics

• What:
  • The 38th National Games concluded in Haldwani with Amit Shah declaring India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
• Why:
  • The event promoted sports development and showcased Uttarakhand’s commitment to sports infrastructure.
• Tell me more:
  • The closing ceremony was held at Haldwani’s Indira Gandhi International Stadium.
  • The next National Games will be hosted in Meghalaya, with involvement from all six remaining northeastern states.
  • The sports budget has increased from Rs 800 crore in 2014 to Rs 3,800 crore for 2025-26.
  • Uttarakhand finished 7th with 103 medals, its best-ever performance.
  • Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) topped the medals tally with 68 golds.

Source: OC

2. 38th National Games Conclude; India Bids for 2036 Olympics

• What:
  • The 38th National Games concluded in Haldwani with Amit Shah declaring India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
• Why:
  • The event promoted sports development and showcased Uttarakhand’s commitment to sports infrastructure.
• Tell me more:
  • The closing ceremony was held at Haldwani’s Indira Gandhi International Stadium.
  • The next National Games will be hosted in Meghalaya, with involvement from all six remaining northeastern states.
  • The sports budget has increased from Rs 800 crore in 2014 to Rs 3,800 crore for 2025-26.
  • Uttarakhand finished 7th with 103 medals, its best-ever performance.
  • Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) topped the medals tally with 68 golds.

Source: TOI

3. NBA Introduces New All-Star Game Format

• What:
  • The NBA is introducing a new All-Star Game format featuring a single-elimination mini-tournament with four teams.
• Tell me more:
  • The four teams are Shaq’s OGs, Kenny’s Young Stars, Chuck’s Global Stars, and Candace’s Rising Stars and the first team to 40 points wins each game.
  • The new format replaces the Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference matchup and will debut on February 16 at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Source: TOI

Memorandum of Understanding

1. India and Indonesia Join Hands for Traditional Medicine Quality

• What:
  • India and Indonesia exchanged an MoU to ensure the quality of traditional medicine.
• Why:
  • The collaboration aims to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of traditional medicines and to promote a scientifically regulated approach to healthcare.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU includes the exchange of information on regulatory provisions, capacity-building initiatives, technical visits, and joint participation in international events.
  • PCIM&H is an IS/ISO 9001:2015 certified institution for Quality Management Systems (QMS).

Source: ET

2. Ayush and Social Justice Ministries Sign MOU for Senior Citizen Health

• What:
  • The Ministry of Ayush and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE) signed an MoU to promote health among senior citizens and address substance abuse.
• Why:
  • The collaboration aims to leverage Ayush systems alongside social welfare initiatives to empower senior citizens and those affected by substance abuse.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU includes developing elderly-specific training modules, treatment protocols, and yoga training programs.
  • Initiatives will include awareness programs, capacity-building for service providers, and the establishment of geriatric health and de-addiction units under Ayush autonomous bodies.
  • The MoU encourages research in geriatric health, substance abuse, and mental health, focusing on the therapeutic benefits of traditional healthcare practices.

Source: PIB

Appointments

1. Charanjot Singh Nanda Appointed ICAI President

• What:
  • Charanjot Singh Nanda has been appointed as the new President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for the term 2025-26.
• Tell me more:
  • D Prasanna Kumar was chosen as the Vice-President of ICAI.
  • Nanda previously served as the Vice-President of ICAI and was elected as the 73rd President during a meeting in New Delhi.
  • ICAI is the world’s largest accountancy body.
  • Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, administered the oath of office.

Source: IN

2. President Murmu Accepts Credentials from Five New Ambassadors/High Commissioners

• What:
  • President Droupadi Murmu accepted credentials from the Ambassadors/High Commissioners of Cambodia, Maldives, Somalia, Cuba, and Nepal at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Why:
  • The President accepts credentials from newly appointed Ambassadors/High Commissioners to officially recognize them as representatives of their countries to India.
• Tell me more:
  • The Ambassadors/High Commissioners who presented their credentials were H.E. Ms Rath Many (Cambodia), H.E. Ms Aishath Azeema (Maldives), H.E. Dr Abdullahi Mohammed Odowa (Somalia), H.E. Mr Juan Carlos Marsan Aguilera (Cuba), and H.E. Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma (Nepal).

Source: PIB

3. Tulsi Gabbard Meets PM Modi After Becoming Intelligence Head

• What:
  • Tulsi Gabbard, newly confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence in the US, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC.
• Why:
  • The meeting aimed to discuss the India-US friendship and congratulate Gabbard on her new role.
• Tell me more:
  • She is known for taking her oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita and previously gifted a copy to PM Modi.
  • Gabbard is the first Hindu member of the US House of Representatives.

Source: IE

Miscellaneous

1. Sukri Bommagowda, Renowned Folk Singer, Passes Away

• What:
  • Celebrated folk singer Sukri Bommagowda, known as Sukrajji, died at her home in Badageri village, Uttara Kannada district.
• Why:
  • Her passing is a significant loss to the Halakki community and the preservation of folk traditions in India.
• Tell me more:
  • The Halakki Vokkaliga are an indigenous tribe in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India. They are known for their ancient way of life, poetic songs, and distinctive attire.
  • Sukrajji was revered for memorizing nearly 5,000 folk songs and played a key role in cultural documentation.
  • She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2017 for her contributions to folk art and culture.

Source: HT

2. Pandit Prabhakar Karekar, Hindustani Music Maestro, Passes Away

• What:
  • Pandit Prabhakar Karekar, a renowned figure in Hindustani classical music, has passed away in Mumbai due to age-related health complications.
• Tell me more:
  • Born in 1944 in Goa, Pt Karekar trained under eminent maestros like Pandit Suresh Haldankar, Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki and Pandit C R Vyas.
  • He founded the Swaranjali music festival in 2002.
  • He was a graded artist with All India Radio and Doordarshan.
  • Pt Karekar received the Tansen Samman in 2014 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2016.
  • His signature Natya Geet ‘Priye Paha’ from the musical drama ‘Saubhadra’ was very popular.

Source: HT

3. Commemorative Coin to Mark Mohammed Rafi’s Birth Centenary

• What:
  • The government will issue a ₹100 commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of playback singer Mohammed Rafi.
• Why:
  • To honor the legacy and cultural influence of Mohammed Rafi on his 100th birth anniversary.
• Tell me more:
  • The coin will be circular with a 44mm diameter and have 200 serrations and a quaternary alloy composition (50% silver, 40% copper, 5% nickel, 5% zinc).
  • The coin’s face will feature the Ashoka Pillar, ‘Satyamev Jayate,’ and ‘₹100’ in international numerals.
  • The reverse side will display an image of Mohammed Rafi with inscriptions in Devnagari and English and the years “1924-2024”.

Source: HBL

4. Arun Shourie New Book Titled “The New Icon: Savarkar and the Facts”

Source: BS

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