Daily GK Update- 25th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi released 19th installment of PM-KISAN scheme from Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released the 19th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme from Bhagalpur in Bihar.The Prime Minister installment was released to 9.8 crore beneficiary farmers via Direct Benefit Transfer. More than 22 thousand 700 crore rupees in assistance directly released to the bank accounts of beneficiaries of the scheme.The PM-KISAN scheme provides six thousand rupees annually to landholding farmers in three equal installments. Programmes will also be organized in 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras across the country with nearly two and a half crore farmers joining the programme physically or virtually.

 

2. Datia becomes Madhya Pradesh’s 8th public airport: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted Datia Airport a license as a public aerodrome, under the 3C/VFR category.With this approval, Datia Airport has become the 8th public airport in Madhya Pradesh, available for general public use.Before September 2024, there were only five airports licensed for public use in Madhya Pradesh which include Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Khajuraho, and Gwalior.Subsequently, on September 9, 2024, Rewa Airport received a 3C/IFR category license, and its inauguration was done by Prime Minister Modi on October 20, 2024. Later, on December 23, 2024, Satna Airport was granted a 2B/VFR category public aerodrome license.The newly licensed Datia Airport spans approximately 118 acres, having a runway of 1,810 meters long and 30 meters wide. The terminal building covers 768 square meters, with a passenger handling capacity of 100 per hour. The apron is designed to accommodate two ATR-72 aircraft.

 

3. RailTel Secures Rs 288 Cr Contract To Implement Kavach Anti-collision System: RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has won a Rs 288 crore contract to install the Kavach anti-collision system across 71 stations.The project will cover 502 route kilometers (RKM) under the Danapur and Sonpur divisions of East Central Railway. The implementation of Kavach, an advanced automatic train protection system, aims to enhance railway safety and improve operational efficiency.Kavach is a state-of-the-art train protection system designed to prevent collisions by automatically applying brakes if a train passes a signal at danger or if there is a risk of collision. RailTel has described this as one of its largest signalling projects, emphasising its role in strengthening railway safety infrastructure.

 

4. Govt extends Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi’s tenure as DCGI by one year: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved an extension of tenure for Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi as Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for a one-year term.Raghuvanshi, who took charge as DCGI on February 23, 2023, was initially set to superannuate on February 28 this year. In addition, he also holds the additional charge of secretary-cum-scientific director of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC).The DCGI is the head of the country’s apex health regulatory body, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), which is responsible for the regulation, manufacturing, sales, export, and import of all medicines, vaccines, cosmetics, and medical devices in the country.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Telangana to host Miss World pageant in May 2025: The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant will be held in Telangana from May 7 to May 31. The opening and closing ceremonies, including the grand finale, are scheduled to take place in Hyderabad.Nandini Gupta to Represent India at 72nd Miss World in Telangana.The 71st Miss World was previously held in New Delhi and Mumbai.

 

2. Bisleri Signs MoU with Archaeological Survey of India to Revive Water Bodies at Heritage Sites Across India: Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has signed an MoU with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under the ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’ to integrate heritage conservation with sustainable water management.As part of Bisleri’s CSR initiative ‘Nayi Umeed,’ the partnership will focus on the rejuvenation of four historic water bodies: Chand Baori (Abhaneri), Baori (Neemrana), Padma and Rani Talabs (Ranthambore Fort), and Budha Budhi Pond (Kalinjar Fort) through desilting, cleaning, ecological revival, and landscaping.The project will be implemented in phases to maintain the integrity of the sites, with the addition of informative signages to boost tourism and encourage local community participation.Bisleri is committed to creating a meaningful impact on society through sustainability-driven initiatives. This collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India under the ‘Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme’ is a testament to our dedication to both environmental stewardship and heritage conservation.

 

3. 23 February – World Peace and Understanding Day: World Peace and Understanding Day is observed every year on February 23, marks the anniversary of the Rotary Club’s founding in 1905, emphasizing its commitment to global peace and humanitarian service.The day highlights the importance of fostering dialogue, cultural exchange, and collaboration among nations to resolve conflicts and build sustainable peace.

 

4. 24 February – Central Excise Day: Central Excise Day is celebrated annually on February 24 in India to honour the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and its role in tax administration.The day acknowledges the dedication and contributions of excise officers in preventing tax evasion and ensuring compliance with indirect tax laws.Central Excise Day promotes transparent and efficient tax collection, ensuring a level playing field for businesses and preventing illegal trade activities

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Kash Patel sworn in as 9th FBI director : Indian-origin Kash Patel was sworn in as the ninth director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), taking oath on the sacred Hindu text of Bhagavad Gita.Kash Patel is not the first Indian-American to have taken his oath of office on the Gita. Earlier, Congressman Suhash Subrahmanyam also took his oath on the Gita.Patel, a former Justice Department counterterrorism prosecutor, was nominated to replace Christopher Wray as the FBI director in November.

 

2. HAL, DIAT forge partnership to boost aerospace research, innovation : Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)’s nodal training institute, HAL Management Academy (HMA), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) to bridge the gap between industry and academia.The MoU with Pune-based DIAT, a prestigious institute under DRDO, aims to promote cutting-edge research in the aerospace sector and drive technological advancements.Under this partnership, HAL officials will have the opportunity to pursue master’s and PhD programs at DIAT, participate in specialized capsule modules on emerging technologies, and engage in faculty and student exchange programs.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Rohit Sharma becomes second fastest to complete 11,000 runs in ODI cricket: India captain Rohit Sharma has become the second fastest batter after compatriot Virat Kohli to complete 11,000 runs in One-day Internationals during their Champions Trophy clash against Bangladesh here. Rohit is only the fourth Indian and 10th batter overall to reach the mark in the 50-over format.The seasoned opener reached the mark in his 270th game, and is the second fastest behind Kohli to cross 11,000 runs in terms of innings.Kohli had crossed the 11,000-run mark in 222 innings while Rohit has brought up that many runs in 261 innings. In this list, they are followed by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar (276 innings), Ricky Ponting (286) and Sourav Ganguly (288).Rohit is now placed behind former India captain Ganguly (11,363 runs) in the list of overall highest run-scorers in ODI cricket, with Tendulkar cemented firmly at the top position with 18,246 runs in 463 matches.

 

2. Virat Kohli Becomes Fastest to 14,000 ODI Runs: Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has created history as he became the quickest batter to score 14,000 runs in One-Day Internationals during the ICC Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan in Dubai.Kohli is the quickest ever to the milestone, having completed his 14,000 ODI runs in 287 innings.Kohli is now only the third batter in ODI cricket to have scored 14,000 runs, after the legendary Indian Sachin Tendulkar and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara. Kohli already holds the record for scoring the most ODI centuries (50).Earlier in the game against Pakistan, Kohli had gone past former captain Mohammad Azharuddin’s record of most catches by any Indian fielder when he took his 157th catch. Azharuddin had taken 156 catches for India between 1985 and 2000.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Microsoft introduces new gen AI model ‘Muse’ : Microsoft has introduced Muse, its first generative AI model for game ideation. Muse is a gen AI model of a video game “that can generate game visuals, controller actions, or both”.Before renaming it as Muse, Microsoft originally referred to the gen AI model as the World and Human Action Model (WHAM).Muse is developed by the Microsoft Research Game Intelligence and Teachable AI Experiences (Tai X) teams in collaboration with Xbox Games Studios’ Ninja Theory.Muse was developed around the idea of how innovations in AI capabilities can support creativity. The tech giant found the gaming industry to be the perfect use case for Muse.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Ex-SBI chairman Khara to head panel to implement amendment to insurance law: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has set up a seven-member committee headed by former chairman of State Bank of India (SBI) Dinesh Khara to look into the proposed amendments to the Insurance Act, 1938 and suggest a framework for implementation of the same.The finance ministry has proposed to amend various provisions of the Act, including raising foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector to 100 per cent, reduction in paid-up capital, and provision for composite licence, among others.The Insurance Act, 1938 provided a broad legal framework within which the industry operates. It also led to the establishment of Irdai as a regulator for the industry. It details the various types of insurance policies across life, general, and health insurance that can be offered in India.

 

2. IRDAI Launches Bima-ASBA : The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has launched a new payment mechanism called Bima-ASBA (Applications Supported by Blocked Amount).The initiative, which aims to streamline the payment process for life and health insurance policies, allows policyholders to block funds in their bank accounts for premium payments, ensuring smooth transactions without immediate debits.All insurers must implement Bima-ASBA by March 1, 2025. They are required to include a standard declaration in proposal forms. Insurers can collaborate with multiple banks to facilitate the blocking of funds. It is also essential that the one-time UPI mandate is valid for up to 14 days.

 

3. What is Bima-ASBA?: Bima-ASBA stands for Applications Supported by Blocked Amount. It allows policyholders to secure funds in their bank accounts while waiting for the insurer’s decision on their application. The funds remain available but are blocked from use until the insurer either accepts or rejects the proposal.The insurer requests the bank to block the premium amount. Upon customer consent, the bank blocks the funds. These funds stay in the account but cannot be accessed. If the insurer approves the application, the amount is debited. If rejected, the funds are released back to the customer.

 

Daily GK Update- 24th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian student wins memory championship by recalling 80 digits in 13.50 seconds: A 20-year-old Indian student, Vishvaa Rajakumar has made headlines by winning the Memory League World Championship, an intense online competition where participants compete in rapid memorisation challenges.Vishvaa Rajakumar, a student at Manakula Vinayagar Institute of Technology in Puducherry, stunned competitors by memorising 80 random digits in just 13.50 seconds. This is an incredible speed of nearly six digits per second.

 

2. Tata Power partners with Amazon Web Services for smart energy transition: Tata Power has entered into a partnership with Amazon Web Services to initiate a data-driven transformation to speed up India’s energy transition.Tata Power has already established a sturdy digital foundation as it has migrated 23 mission-critical applications to AWS using Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS).This transition improves security, scalability, and real-time operational efficiency across major areas such as power generation, grid management, renewables, sales, and finance.

Additionally, the company has transitioned towards server-less architecture with AWS Step Functions, optimizing energy transactions and grid operations to cater to fluctuating demand patterns

 

3. Shaktikanta Das appointed Principal Secretary II to Prime Minister: Former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Shaktikanta Das has been appointed Principal Secretary II to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Das served as the Governor of the RBI from 2018-2023, a crucial period for the Indian economy along with the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.His appointment is being seen as the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) bolstering its financial management expertise in the uncertain geo-economic situation prevailing currently.A Tamil Nadu cadre Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1980 batch, Mr. Das will work alongside current Principal Secretary I, P.K. Mishra, who will continue in his post.Changes in the PMO at this level have been rare under Modi, with former Principal Secretary I, Nripendra Misra, retiring from that post only after he had served a whole term from 2014-2019.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi to be guest of honour at Mauritius National Day celebrations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, his Mauritian counterpart Navin Ramgoolam has announced, calling it a testimony of the close bilateral ties.Mauritius commemorates its National Day on March 12th every year. The day marks the anniversary of Mauritius’s independence from British rule in 1968.Addressing the National Assembly, Mauritian Prime Minister Ramgoolam said it is indeed a singular privilege for our country to host such a distinguished personality despite his very tight schedule.President Droupadi Murmu attended Mauritius’ National Day celebrations last year 2024 as the chief guest.

2. Microsoft unveils quantum chip ‘Majorana 1’- powered by new state of matter: Microsoft has introduced its first quantum chip. The chip, called Majorana 1, is powered by a new Topological Core architecture.Microsoft developed topological superconducting nanowires using indium arsenide (semiconductor) and aluminum (superconductor), forming MZMs, which are essential building blocks for quantum bits (qubits).Microsoft aims to scale up to one million qubits on a single chip while claiming that its design is less prone to errors than competing quantum chips.Majorana 1 represents Microsoft’s second quantum milestone, with the company envisioning a future where quantum computing enables breakthroughs in self-healing materials, sustainable agriculture, and chemical discovery.

 

3. Brazil Joins OPEC+ Forum to Balance Oil Production and Energy Transition Goals: Brazil has joined the OPEC+ Forum as an observer, signaling a calculated move to balance its role as a major oil producer with its energy transition ambitions.The decision by the National Council for Energy Policy, allows Brazil to participate in discussions without committing to policies like production cuts or price controls.As the world’s seventh-largest oil producer, Brazil pumps 4.3 million barrels of crude daily, contributing 4% of global output. In 2024, crude oil became the country’s top export, accounting for 13.3% of total sales and surpassing soybeans.OPEC+, which includes 23 countries producing nearly 40% of the world’s crude oil, coordinates production policies to stabilize markets.OPEC members comprise Algeria, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Venezuela. 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India, Bangladesh agree to launch new ‘hotline’ between border forces: India and Bangladesh have decided to establish a new communication link between the deputy commanders of their respective border-guarding forces and identified about 99 fresh patches for erecting a fence along their shared border.The decisions were finalised during the biannual director general-level talks between the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) that concluded here.This was the first time that a high-level meeting between the two forces took place after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh on August 5 last year.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Shami joins elite list of bowlers with 200 ODI wickets: India’s ace pacer, Md Shami, added a historic milestone to his name as he took three wickets in India’s first match against Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on, completing 200 wickets in ODI cricket.Shami is the eighth Indian player to reach this milestone. Ravindra Jadeja, with 224 wickets under his belt, is the only active Indian cricketer ahead of him on the list.While Shami has completed his 200 ODI wickets at a good pace, he is still 43rd on the list of players with the most ODI wickets overall.

Sri Lankan legend M Muralidaran leads the list with 534 wickets, while Anil Kumble, with 334 wickets, is the highest-ranked Indian player.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI imposes penalty on Citibank, Asirvad Micro Finance, JM Fin Home Loans: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed monetary penalties on Citibank, Asirvad Micro Finance, and JM Financial Home Loans for violating regulatory norms.The central bank fined Citibank Rs 39 lakh for reporting breaches in ‘Large Exposures’ limits with delay and not uploading rectified data in certain segments within seven days of receiving rejection reports from Credit Information Companies (CICs).Meanwhile, Asirvad Micro Finance failed to report the household income of certain borrowers to CICs. It also failed to provide factsheets to certain gold loan customers and did not establish a system of auto-escalation for all complaints that were partly or wholly rejected by its internal grievance redress mechanism to the internal ombudsman for a final decision. These deficiencies led to the RBI imposing a penalty of Rs 6.20 lakh on the company.The action was based on supervisory findings following a statutory inspection of the companies for their financial position as of March 31, 2023.

 

2. NSDL, CDSL launch Unified Investor App: National Securities Depository (NSDL) and Central Depository Services (CDSL), in collaboration with capital market regulator Sebi, have launched the Unified Investor App (UIP), integrating MyEasi by CDSL and SPEED-e by NSDL.This platform provides investors with a consolidated view of their financial statements, shareholdings, and investments, and financial statements.A key benefit of this initiative is the ability to access a consolidated view of demat securities across both NSDL and CDSL accounts. Investors no longer need to juggle between different platforms to monitor their holdings. This not only simplifies portfolio management but also ensures greater transparency by providing a unified dashboard for all securities.The platform also tackles major challenges by eliminating fraudulent intermediaries through direct data sourcing from exchanges, depositories, and clearing corporations.

 

3. MobiKwik to acquire 3.39% in B2B infra platform Blostem for Rs 1.49 crore: Fintech firm MobiKwik will acquire a 39 per cent stake in business-to-business (B2B) banking infrastructure platform Blostem for ₹1.49 crore.The aggregate shareholding of the Gurugram-based listed firm in the platform is expected to grow to 6.79 per cent after the deal.MobiKwik had entered into a share subscription and shareholders’ agreement with Blostem in March. It agreed to invest ₹3 crore in two tranches as part of its investment to acquire equity in the B2B platform.The first tranche of ₹5 crore was paid in March for 3.4 per cent of the fully diluted paid-up capital of Blostem.Founded in 2021, Blostem specialises in fixed deposit (FD) aggregation as its core offering. The company has built partnerships with multiple banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). For the year-ended March 2024, the company posted a revenue of Rs. 30.76 lakh.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sunil Bharti Mittal receives Honorary Knighthood by British High Commission: Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has received the insignia of the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).This honor follows the announcement in 2024 that His Majesty The King had graciously conferred the Honorary Knighthoodupon Mittal for his significant contributions to UK-India business relations, as stated by the British High Commission in New Delhi.The KBE is one of the highest honors awarded to foreign nationals in recognition of exceptional contributions to various fields, and Mittal’s leadership has undoubtedly had a profound impact on India-UK relations.

 

Daily GK Update- 23rd Feb, 2025

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kotak Mahindra Prime appoints Shahrukh Todiwala as new MD & CEO: Kotak Mahindra Prime, a subsidiary of Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB), has appointed Shahrukh Todiwala as the new MD, CEO of the company.Todiwala succeeds Vyomesh Kapasi, who will now take over as the head of product-consumer bank vertical at KMB.

 

2. NITI Aayog CEO Subrahmanyam’s tenure extended by one year: The Centre has extended the tenure of NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) B V R Subrahmanyam by one year.Subrahmanyam, a 1987-batch retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer ofChhattisgarhcadre, was in February 2023 appointed to the post for a period of two years.The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved extension in Subrahmanyam’s tenure as NITI Aayog CEO for a period of one year beyond February 24, 2025.

 

3. Soyabean Market Trends and Government Procurement Challenges: In recent months, the Indian soyabean market has faced challenges despite government interventions. The central government has procured 20 lakh tonnes of soyabean, yet wholesale prices remain stagnant. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of procurement strategies and market dynamics. Contrary to expectations, the wholesale market in Latur, Maharashtra, has seen prices drop. During November and December, the price per quintal hovered around Rs 4,200, lower than previous averages. This decline suggests a disconnect between government procurement efforts and market realities. Traders express concerns that prices may not recover soon, especially with government stocks still in play.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Brazil Joins OPEC+ Forum to Balance Oil Production and Energy Transition Goals: Brazil has joined the OPEC+ Forum as an observer, signaling a calculated move to balance its role as a major oil producer with its energy transition ambitions.The decision by the National Council for Energy Policy, allows Brazil to participate in discussions without committing to policies like production cuts or price controls.As the world’s seventh-largest oil producer, Brazil pumps 4.3 million barrels of crude daily, contributing 4% of global output. In 2024, crude oil became the country’s top export, accounting for 13.3% of total sales and surpassing soybeans.OPEC+, which includes 23 countries producing nearly 40% of the world’s crude oil, coordinates production policies to stabilize markets.OPEC members comprise Algeria, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Venezuela. OPEC+ members include Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan and Sudan. OPEC and OPEC+ members accounted for 53% of global crude oil production in 2023, compared to 60% in 2016. Brazil’s crude oil output represented 4% of global oil production in 2023.

 

2. Mount Fentale Volcano Emits Methan: Mount Fentale has been emitting methane at an alarming rate. Starting from 31 January, emissions peaked at 58 metric tonnes per hour. This is far greater than typical volcanic emissions, which usually consist of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Methane is known to be 28 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide over a century. Mount Fentale is not known for frequent eruptions. Its last recorded eruption was in 1820, which resulted in lava flow. Historical records indicate earlier eruptions, including one in the 13th century that devastated an Abyssinian town. Recent signs of volcanic activity, such as magma intrusion, were noted as early as September 2024.

 

3. India’s Role in UN Peacekeeping Missions: India has long been contributor to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions. Recently, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Global South nations in enhancing their peacekeeping capacities. This commitment includes training and capacity-building initiatives, particularly for women peacekeepers. India’s extensive involvement in peacekeeping reflects its dedication to maintaining international peace and security.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Enhances CBRN Defence with ACADA Systems: The Indian Army has recently contracted 223 Automatic Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm (ACADA) systems from L&T Limited. This procurement, valued at ₹80.43 crore, is part of a broader initiative to modernise the army’s capabilities against chemical warfare threats. The ACADA systems are designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and will boost the army’s chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defence capabilities. ACADA features two IMS cells for continuous and simultaneous monitoring of toxic agents. It is portable and can be easily deployed in various environments. The system includes audio and visual alarms to alert personnel in case of detection. Additionally, it can be mounted on vehicles for enhanced mobility.

 

2. Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR): Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR) at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. This milestone marks advancement in India’s defence capabilities. The trials showcased the missile’s sophisticated features, particularly its “Man-in-Loop” capability, which allows for in-flight retargeting. The missile was launched from an Indian Naval Seaking helicopter. During the trials, it first locked onto a large target within a designated search area. In the terminal phase, the pilot retargeted it to a smaller concealed target. This demonstrated the missile’s ability to accurately hit targets while in sea-skimming mode at maximum range.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Why is Mars Red? : For years, scientists believed that the Mars’ red hue was solely due to iron minerals rusting in dry conditions. However, new research indicates a wetter history for Mars. This research combines spacecraft data from the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA with advanced laboratory experiments. The findings suggest that ferrihydrite, an iron oxide requiring water to form, is key to understanding Mars’ distinctive colour. Researchers employed a combination of ground-based and orbital observations. They used analytical techniques similar to those of orbiting spacecraft to recreate Martian dust. By grinding minerals into fine powders, they simulated the dust particles found on Mars. This method allowed them to match their synthetic dust’s properties with those of actual Martian samples.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Recent Penalties imposed on Banks by RBI: Nainital Bank Ltd (₹40 lakh ) – for non-compliance with certain directions on ‘Interest Rate on Advances’ and ‘Customer Service in BanksUjjivan Small Finance Bank (₹70 lakh) – for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and Advances – Statutory and Other Restrictions.’Shriram Finance (₹80 lakh) – for non-compliance with certain provisions, including Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines and directions on ‘Data Format for Furnishing of Credit Information to Credit Information Companies.’

Equitas Small Finance Bank (Rs 65 lakh) – for deficiencies in regulatory compliancesIndia Post Payments Bank (26.70 lakh) – for deficiencies in regulatory compliances.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sunil Bharti Mittal receives Honorary Knighthood by British High Commission: Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has received the insignia of the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).This honor follows the announcement in 2024 that His Majesty The King had graciously conferred the Honorary Knighthoodupon Mittal for his significant contributions to UK-India business relations, as stated by the British High Commission in New Delhi.The KBE is one of the highest honors awarded to foreign nationals in recognition of exceptional contributions to various fields, and Mittal’s leadership has undoubtedly had a profound impact on India-UK relations.

 

Daily GK Update- 22nd Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Mising Tribe Celebrates Ali Ai Ligang Festival: The Mising tribe, Assam’s largest tribal community, recently celebrated the Ali Ai Ligang festival. This festival marks the beginning of the sowing season and is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the Mising people. Celebrated on the first Wednesday of the month of Fagun, the festival showcases the tribe’s rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices. Ali Ai Ligang is a traditional festival that signifies the start of cultivation. The name translates to “sowing of seeds and roots.” It reflects the Mising people’s connection to agriculture and their reliance on the land. The festival is a time for community gathering and celebration.

 

2.Amritpal Singh’s Parliament Attendance Plea: Amritpal Singh, the incarcerated Member of Parliament (MP) from Khadoor Sahib, has petitioned the  Punjab and Haryana High Court to attend the ongoing Parliament session. This request comes as he faces the risk of losing his seat due to his prolonged absence. Singh has been detained since April 2023 under the National Security Act and has only attended one session since being elected. Amritpal Singh has a mere 2% attendance record since his election. He attended only the session where he was sworn in. As of now, he has accumulated nearly 50 absences. The law mandates that if an MP exceeds the absence limit without permission, the House must vote to declare the seat vacant. However, in practice, this provision has never been invoked to vacate an MP’s seat.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Takes Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Organisation: India has recently assumed the Chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOBP-IGO) from Bangladesh. This transition took place during the 13th Governing Council Meeting held in Malé, Maldives. The event was part of a high-level conference focused on mainstreaming ecosystem approaches to fisheries management in small-scale fisheries. Key areas identified by India for enhanced cooperation include marine resource management, training and capacity-building programmes, research and policy advocacy, and addressing Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. India aims to encourage collaboration among member nations to tackle regional challenges effectively.

 

2. Cancer Care Challenges in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia: Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) presents health challenges worldwide, particularly in low and middle-income countries. In India, the burden of AML is acute, with late-stage diagnoses and limited access to advanced treatment options. Despite global advancements in cancer care, disparities remain evident in patient outcomes, especially in rural areas. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving survival rates. Socioeconomic status affects access to AML care. Patients from rural areas experience heightened challenges, including logistical issues related to travelling for treatment. Public hospitals often face resource shortages, while private facilities may be financially inaccessible. This disparity necessitates a more nuanced approach to healthcare delivery.

 

3. 27th Western Zonal Council Meeting: Union Home Minister Amit Shah led the 27th Western Zonal Council meeting in Pune, Maharashtra, on Saturday. The meeting included the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa, the Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and senior government officials from the state and central ministries.  Zonal Councils remain vital for encouraging cooperative federalism in India. They facilitate dialogue between states, addressing issues of common interest and enhancing collaboration among regions. The concept of Zonal Councils was proposed by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1956. This initiative aimed to counteract linguistic conflicts following the reorganisation of states. By grouping states into councils, Nehru sought to encourage cooperative governance. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 formalised the establishment of five Zonal Councils.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. MoD, BEL Sign Contract for  Software Defined  Radios: The Indian Ministry of Defence has recently signed contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of 149 Software Defined Radios (SDRs). This contract, valued at ₹1220.12 crore, was finalised on 20th February 2025. It marks a very important move towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and aligns with the government’s broader objectives for maritime security and indigenous defence manufacturing. The procurement of SDRs will also enhance interoperability between the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy. Improved communication systems will facilitate better coordination during joint operations, thereby strengthening national maritime security.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. AI Tools for Real-Time Antibiotic Resistance Tracking: A collaborative initiative involving IIIT-Delhi, CHRI-PATH, Tata 1mg, and the Indian Council of Medical Research has led to the development of AMRSense. This AI-powered tool analyses routine hospital data to provide timely vital information about antibiotic resistance patterns. The findings were published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia, showcasing a six-year study across 21 tertiary care centres in India. The AMROrbit Scorecard is another innovation from this research. It provides a visual representation of resistance trends for hospitals. By comparing local data with global averages, it helps identify areas needing intervention. The scorecard aims to position hospitals within an ideal quadrant of low resistance and low change rates.

2. Sinking of Iraq’s Zagros Mountains: Recent geological studies have revealed that the northern region of Iraq, particularly around the Zagros Mountains, is experiencing slow but geological changes. A research team has identified a sinking oceanic slab beneath the Earth’s surface that is gradually pulling this area downwards. This phenomenon is a result of complex tectonic processes occurring over millions of years. The Neotethys oceanic slab is a remnant of an ancient oceanic floor that formed over 66 million years ago. This slab is currently located beneath the Zagros Mountains and is slowly sinking into the Earth’s mantle. The ongoing separation of this slab from the continental plates has created a growing tear, leading to the gradual subsidence of the surrounding region.

 

3. What is HKU5-CoV-2?: Recent research has brought to light a new bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2. This discovery was made at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. Scientists have noted its similarities to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic. The study has raised questions about potential human transmission and pandemic risks. Despite its ability to infect human cells in laboratory settings, researchers believe the transmission risk from HKU5-CoV-2 is lower than that of SARS-CoV-2. The study’s authors have cautioned against alarmism, emphasising the need for careful monitoring without inciting panic.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Working Hours and Economic Impact in India: A working paper titled ‘Time Spent on Employment-Related Activities in India’ was recently released by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister.  The analysis is based on the 2019 Time Use Survey conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Gujarat, Punjab, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Kerala are the top five states where over 70 hours of work per week is common. In Gujarat, 7.2% of the population works these long hours. In comparison, Bihar has only 1.1% of its workforce in this category. Nationally, 4.55% of the workforce exceeds 70 hours per week.

 

2. Recent Controversies About Ex-Gratia Payments: The recent ex-gratia compensation disbursal to the families of victims from the New Delhi railway station stampede has sparked debate. The Ministry of Railways provided cash payments of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased. This raised questions about the appropriateness of cash payments in such situations. Ex-gratia payments arise from goodwill. They do not involve admitting wrongdoing. Compensation, however, is a legal requirement. It is aimed at reimbursing losses incurred due to negligence or harm. About this distinction is crucial in evaluating the government’s role in disaster response.

 

3. RBI Conducts $10 Billion Dollar/Rupee Swap Auction: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced $10 billion three-year dollar/rupee swap auction. Scheduled for February 28, this initiative aims to address the persistent liquidity deficits within the banking system. The RBI’s recent actions reflect a proactive approach to stabilising the financial landscape amidst ongoing cash shortages. The extended maturity of the swap indicates the RBI’s intent to ensure effective transmission of future rate cuts. The central bank recently cut the repo rate for the first time in nearly five years. Sufficient liquidity is crucial for lenders to implement these cuts effectively.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Shaktikanta Das Appointed Principal Secretary to PM: Shaktikanta Das, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has been appointed as Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India as of February 22, 2025. This appointment marks shift in the Indian bureaucratic landscape as Das brings a unique blend of experience in both monetary and fiscal policy. His role will be very important in coordinating efforts across various ministries and advising the Prime Minister on critical economic matters. Shaktikanta Das joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1980, representing the Tamil Nadu cadre. He graduated with a degree in history from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi. Over the years, he held several key positions, including Secretary of Fertilisers and Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. His tenure as RBI Governor spanned from 2018 to December 2024.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 21st Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Meesho launches ‘creator marketplace’ to ramp up influencer-driven traffic: Meesho has introduced a ‘creator marketplace platform’ to strengthen its influencer-driven content commerce strategy after seeing success with over 14 million influencer-driven purchases in the past year.The company is collaborating with content creators who reflect diverse lifestyles, aiming to provide a personalized shopping experience tailored for the Indian market.Meesho’s influencer-driven approach has led to nearly 10 times growth in categories such as women’s Western wear, jewellery, footwear, home décor, kidswear, and beauty products.Meesho is committed to supporting both large and micro creators across metro and tier-2+ cities by providing tools and resources to thrive in the evolving digital commerce landscape.

 

2. Govt removes caste, income restrictions for free coaching under PM-CARES: The government has introduced an updated scheme to provide high-quality coaching to children covered under the PM CARES scheme along with students from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).Originally launched during the Sixth Five-Year Plan, the free coaching scheme has undergone multiple revisions over the years to enhance its effectiveness. The latest update extends its benefits to PM CARES beneficiaries, removing caste and income-related restrictions for these students.Under the scheme, students will receive coaching for a wide range of competitive examinations, according to the guidelines of the updated scheme. These include Civil Services examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and State Public Service Commissions, as well as officer-grade recruitment tests for banks, insurance companies, and public sector undertakings (PSUs).

 

3. Union Health Ministry launches Intensified Special NCD Screening Drive to ensure 100% coverage of all individuals: In view of the escalating burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the country, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has launched an Intensified Special NCD Screening Campaign.Running from 20th February to 31st March 2025, this ambitious initiative aims to achieve 100% screening of all individuals aged 30 years and above for prevalent NCDs, including Diabetes Hypertension, and three common cancers—Oral, Breast, and Cervical.

The campaign will be executed across Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) and various healthcare facilities nationwide, under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD).The Intensified Screening Campaign aims to achieve the following-100% Screening Coverage– The campaign aims to ensure early detection and timely intervention for NCDs.

 

4. Govt extends Chief Economic Adviser Nageswaran’s term until March 2027: India’s Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran’s term has been extended by two years until March 2027.Nageswaran was appointed to the position in 2022 and has also served as a part-time member of the economic advisory council to the prime minister from 2019 to 2021.Nageswaran authored India’s annual economic survey in January that projected GDP growth at 6.3 per cent-6.8 per cent in the next fiscal year that starts on April 1.

 

5. Rekha Gupta sworn in as 9th Chief Minister of Delhi: Mrs Rekha Gupta of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was sworn in as the 4th woman and 9th Chief Minister of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.While, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, who defeated former CM Arvind Kejriwal in the recently held 8th Delhi Legislative Assembly Election 2025, was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of NCT Delhi.The first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh constituency, Rekha Gupta and her six cabinet ministers were administered the oath of office and secrecy by the Lieutenant Governor of NCT Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, at a function held at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi.Delhi LG V K Saxena administered the oath of office and secrecy to Ms. Gupta and six Cabinet Ministers. They are Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, who also took the oath.The BJP won 48 seats in the 70-member Delhi Legislative Assembly election held on 5th February 2025. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party won only 22 seats, and its founder and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal lost his seat to Parvesh Verma of the BJP.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 9th Asia Economic Dialogue organised in Pune: The 9th Asia Economic Dialogue has been organised in Pune, Maharashtra. The Asia Economic Dialogue is External Affairs Ministry’s annual flagship ‘Track 1.5 Dialogue’ on Geoeconomics.The theme of the Dialogue is “Economic Resilience and Resurgence in an Era of Fragmentation.”The Dialogue explored key contemporary topics in geo-economics, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation, economic imperatives of Cyber Security, and facets of Blue Economy in Indian Ocean Region and beyond. It also aims to address the complexities of economic fragmentation and identify actionable pathways for resilience and resurgence.

 

2. Google opens new office Ananta in Bengaluru: Google has officially opened Ananta, its newest and one of its biggest campuses globally, in Bengaluru.Situated in Mahadevapura, the campus marks another step in the company’s long-standing presence in India.Ananta is designed to support teams working across various Google services, and with the launch of this large office space, Google now has over 10,000 employees across multiple locations in India, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Gurugram, Mumbai, and Pune.The Ananta campus, meaning limitless in Sanskrit, spans 1.6 million square feet and can accommodate over 5,000 employees. Various Google teams working on Android, Search, Pay, Cloud, Maps, Play, and DeepMind, among others, will operate from this new space.

 

3. 20 February – World Day of Social Justice: World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on February 20.The day highlights the need for social justice in eliminating poverty, ensuring decent work, gender equality, and access to education and healthcare.Theme 2025 – Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps Of Social JusticeThe ILO Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization was unanimously approved by the International Labour Organization (ILO) on June 10, 2008. This is the third significant statement of principles and policies adopted by the International Labour Conference since the 1919 ratification of the ILO Constitution.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Goa Shipyard Showcases Indigenous Naval Vessels at NAVDEX 2025: Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), one of India’s premier defense shipbuilding yards, is showcased its indigenously designed Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi.These vessels highlight India’s growing capabilities in naval innovation and self-reliance under the “Make in India” initiative.The Fast Patrol Vessel (Model) on display is a 50-meter-long, high-speed craft capable of reaching 35 knots. Designed and built in-house by GSL, it is primarily intended for patrolling, anti-smuggling, and anti-terrorist operations.Additionally, it can serve as a coastal convoy escort and a communication link during wartime. The vessel is powered by three 2,720 kW diesel engines driving independent waterjets, offering high maneuverability and efficiency.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. 34th ITTF-ATTU Asian Cup table tennis tournament begins in China: The 34th edition of the ITTF-ATTU Asian Cup table tennis tournament begins in Shenzhen, China.India’s men’s team is led by world No. 42 Sharath Kamal, a five-time Olympian and reigning Commonwealth Games singles champion.The squad also includes world No. 60 Manav Thakkar and world No. 70 Harmeet Desai. The Indian women’s team features Paris 2024 Olympian Sreeja Akula, Ayhika Mukherjee, and Yashaswini Ghorpade.The event features men’s and women’s singles competitions, with 32 players in each category. The top four semi-finalists in both events will qualify for the ITTF World Cup 2025, scheduled for April.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Technology Adoption Fund : The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has recently launched a ₹500-crore Technology Adoption Fund (TAF). This initiative aims to support space technology firms, particularly startups and MSMEs, in creating commercially viable products. The TAF is a strategic move to reduce India’s reliance on imported space solutions and boost domestic research and development. TAF is open to all eligible Non-Government Entities (NGEs) that demonstrate commercial potential. The initiative not only provides financial backing but also offers technical guidance and mentoring. This dual support system is crucial for overcoming challenges in product development.

 

2. Majorana 1 Quantum Chip: Microsoft has recently introduced Majorana 1, a quantum chip that promises enhanced reliability and scalability of qubits. This development marks advancement in quantum computing technology. Microsoft aims to create a fully functional quantum computer by 2027-2029. The Majorana 1 chip employs a novel type of particle known as Majorana, fabricated using topological conductors. These materials exist in a unique topological state, differing from conventional states of matter. Topological conductors, or topoconductors, are crucial to the functionality of Majorana 1. Unlike traditional semiconductors made of silicon, topoconductors are composed of indium arsenide and aluminium. When cooled near absolute zero and subjected to magnetic fields, these materials exhibit unique properties that are essential for stable qubit formation.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Eurobank partners with LTIMindtree to elevate banking operations and IT services: Eurobank has established a strategic multi-year partnership with Indian IT giant LTIMindtree to modernise its banking operations and enhance its technology ecosystem. As part of this collaboration, Eurobank has established a new global delivery centre at LTIMindtree’s Pune office.This centre, set up in partnership with Fairfax Digital Services, a subsidiary of Canada’s Fairfax Financial, is designed to spearhead technology innovation, digital transformation, and the maintenance of key banking applications.LTIMindtree has also been selected as the services partner for Eurobank Luxembourg’s Temenos implementation program. This initiative builds on Eurobank’s group-wide IT overhaul that began in 2019, leveraging Temenos T24 Transact and T24 Infinity solutions.

 

2. Mirae Asset Sharekhan Expands into Life Insurance Distribution with ICICI Prudential, HDFC Life Partnerships: Mirae Asset Sharekhan, a leading financial services platform, has entered the life insurance distribution sector through strategic partnerships with ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and HDFC Life.This move aligns with the company’s vision of offering a one-stop financial platform that integrates wealth creation with long-term financial security.With a growing number of retail investors in the stock market, Mirae Asset Sharekhan aims to bridge the gap between investment and financial protection by providing a diverse range of life insurance products. These include:Term Life & Health Plans – Ensuring income protection and financial security for dependents.Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) – Offering market-linked returns alongside life cover.Endowment Plans – Providing risk-free savings with life cover for family security.Annuity & Retirement Solutions – Ensuring financial stability post-retirement.

 

3. India’s GDP growth rate to slow to 6.4% in 2025: Moody’s Analytics: India’s growth is anticipated to decelerate to 6.4% in 2025 from 6.6% in 2024, due to new US tariffs and weaker global demand affecting exports, according to Moody’s Analytics.In its report titled ‘Asia-Pacific Outlook: Chaos Ahead’, Moody’s Analytics said growth across the Asia-Pacific economy will slow in 2025 as trade tensions, policy shifts, and, uneven recoveries knock the region’s fortunes.As per its APAC forecast, India’s GDP is expected to grow 6.4 percent both in 2025 and 2026 fiscal years.