Current Affairs Monthly Capsule - February 2024

Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | February 2024
Table of Content
Awards and Honours Current Affairs ................................................................................................. 3
Banking Current Affairs.................................................................................................................... 12
Books and Authors Current Affairs .................................................................................................. 17
Defence Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 18
Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs ......................................................................... 24
Days and Events Current Affairs ...................................................................................................... 26
International Current Affairs ............................................................................................................. 33
MoU and Agreements Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 39
National Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 46
Appointments Current Affairs .......................................................................................................... 63
Obituaries Current Affairs ................................................................................................................ 72
Science and Technology Current Affairs .......................................................................................... 75
Sports Current Affairs Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 79
Summits and Conferences Current Affairs ....................................................................................... 89
Reports and Indices Current Affairs ................................................................................................. 95
2|Page
Awards and Honours Current Affairs

Acharya Lokesh Muni honored as Global Jain Peace Ambassador
• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to recognize Acharya Lokesh Muni, the founder of
Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti and the World Peace Center, as the 'Global Jain Peace Ambassador.'
• The recognition is a tribute to Acharya Lokesh's efforts in promoting global peace and harmony,
as well as his contributions to enhancing India and Jainism's reputation internationally.
Sunil Mittal becomes first Indian to be knighted by Britain's King
• Mittal, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, which owns the country's second-largest
telecom firm Airtel, is the first Indian to be awarded the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent
Order of the British Empire (KBE) by King Charles III,
• The KBE is among the highest honours conferred by the British Sovereign to civilians.
• It is awarded in an honorary capacity to foreign nationals.
Global Business Symposium 2024: Pride of UAE & Leaders of Asia Honored
• Mr. Saimik Sen, Editor-in-Chief of Herald Global was felicitated "Pride of UAE and Prestigious
Brands of Asia" at the Global Business Symposium 2024, Dubai.
• Notable figures from UAE, including government officials and business leaders, received awards.
• The Pride of UAE was marked by the felicitation of eminent names who have advanced their
talents and skills in building up the glory of UAE.
Sangeet Natak Akademi announced 2024 honorees
• 6 eminent artists elected as Akademi Fellows, a prestigious honor limited to 40 at any time, with
a purse of Rs. 3 lakhs each.
• 92 artists awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2022 & 2023 across various performing
arts, each receiving Rs. 1 lakh.
• 80 young artists chosen for Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar, promoting emerging talent with
a reward of Rs. 25,000 each.
Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee won Romain Rolland Book Prize 2024
• Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee, the Bengali translator of "Stalin’s Couch", a French novel about the
Soviet ruler’s final years, has won the 7th edition of the Romain Rolland Book Prize.
• The novel about Joseph Stalin was first published by French author Jean-Daniel Baltassat in 2013.
• The award recognises translations of French books into Indian languages, including English.
French Navy Chief Adm Pierre Vandier received Guard of Honour in Delhi
• French Navy Chief Admirak Pierre Vandier is on a three-day official visit to India.
• He also participated in the maiden humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-themed ‘Indian
Ocean Naval Symposium Exercise’
• He held wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart admiral R Hari Kumar as well as Army
Chief General MM Naravane and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.
'Oppenheimer' won top honour at the 35th Annual Producers Guild Awards
3|Page
• 'Oppenheimer' won the Outstanding Motion Picture award at the 35th Annual Producers Guild
Awards.
• Christopher Nolan and his producing team received the Darryl F. Zanuck Award.
• Cillian Murphy earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role at the 30th
Screen Actors Guild Awards.
• 'Body of Mine' received the PGA Innovation Award.
C-DOT sweeped Aegis Graham Bell Awards with 3 top honors
• C-DOT has clinched three awards at the 14th Annual Aegis Graham Bell Awards for its innovative
telecom solutions.
• The ASTR Project has jointly won the Innovation in AI category with Google India, combating
cybercrimes through facial recognition.
• CEIR and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) products have been recognized for revolutionizing
mobile security.
Indian-American computer engineer honoured In US State of Texas.
• Ashok Veeraraghavan, an Indian computer engineer, receives the Edith and Peter O’Donnell
Award for his revolutionary imaging technology
• The award, presented by the Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology,
is given annually to star researchers in the state engaged in pathbreaking work in medicine,
engineering, biological sciences, and technology innovation.
UPES ON won 2024 Best Online Education Award
• UPES ON awarded 'Academia Award for Best Online Learning 2024' for excellence in digital
education.
• Curriculum revamped to include AI, aligning with future workforce needs.
• Award ceremony emphasized the TEE formula: TECHNOLOGY-EDUCATION
ENTREPRENEURSHIP.
• UPES ON, established in 2003, offers online MBA, BBA and BCA degrees which have been fortified
with industry masterclasses and immersions.
Suresh Wadkar receives Lata Mangeshkar Award
• Veteran playback singer Suresh Wadkar has been honoured with the Gansamragini Lata
Mangeshkar Award.
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
presented him with special mementoes.
• In 2021, he also became a recipient of Padma Shri, The fourth-highest civilian award in the
Republic of India.
57th Maharashtra State Marathi Film Awards Ceremony
• The 57th Maharashtra State Film Awards concluded.
• Achyut Chopade, director of Marathi film Vegli Vaat, has received the Best Debut Film Director
award.
4|Page
• Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award 2022 has been presented to Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Raj
Kapoor
• Special Contribution Award 2021 to Sonu Nigam.
• The Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award 2022 was presented to veteran actress Helen.
Ashok Saraf awarded with Maharashtra Bhushan Award
• Veteran actor Ashok Saraf, who has acted in more than 250 Marathi films and is known for his
impeccable comic timing, was presented the Maharashtra Bhushan Award for 2023, the highest
civilian honour of the state.
• The prestigious award comprises a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh, a medal, and a citation.
• Award presented by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.
Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 Award
• Swedish photographer Alex Dawson has been named as Underwater Photographer of the Year
2024 for his image ‘Whale Bones’.
• The photo shows a diver beneath the Greenland ice sheet exploring the skeleton of a minke whale.
• Alex Mustard - Chaired the judging panel of the awards.
• This image was submitted in the Wide Angle category, with freediving mode.
Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024
• Best Film - Jawan
• Best Film (Critics) - 12th Fail
• Best Actor - Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan)
• Best Actress - Rani Mukerji (Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway)
• Best Director - Sandeep Reddy Vanga (Animal)
• Best Actor in a Negative Role - Bobby Deol (Animal)
• Best International Feature Film - Oppenheimer
• Best Web Series - Farzi
• Best Music Director - Anirudh Ravichander (Jawan)
Prasuma became 1st Indian Food Brand to win International Taste Award
• Prasuma, India's leading Frozen Foods brand has achieved an extraordinary milestone by
becoming the first and only Indian food brand to win an International Taste Award.
• Prasuma's Spicy Chicken Momos and BBQ Chicken Bao Buns have both been awarded 2 stars
out of 3 for the Superior Taste Award 2024 by the prestigious International Taste Institute in
Brussels.
Shashi Tharoor was conferred with France's highest civilian honour
• Shashi Tharoor was conferred France's highest civilian honour "Chevalier de la Legion d'honneur"
at a ceremony.
• The French government announced the award for Tharoor, a former Union minister, in August
2022.
5|Page
• Author of several books and a Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Tharoor was conferred
the prestigious award at the French Embassy by French Senate President Gerard Larcher.
Prof Aditi Sen De becomes first woman scientist to win G D Birla Award
• Prof. Aditi Sen De has been awarded for Scientific Research for the year 2023.
• The award, established in 1991, recognizes exceptional scientific research conducted by Indian
scientists below the age of 50.
• Prof. Aditi Sen De, a distinguished physicist from the Harish-Chandra Research Institute in
Prayagraj, has been honored for her outstanding contributions to the field of Physics.
77th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) 2024:
• "Oppenheimer" won Best Film award.
• Cillian Murphy and Emma Stone win Leading Actor and Actress for "Oppenheimer" and "Poor
Things" respectively.
• "The Zone of Interest" won Outstanding British Film award.
• "The Zone of Interest" won for Film Not in the English Language category.
• "20 Days in Mariupol" won the Documentary award.
• "The Boy and The Heron" awarded Best Animated Film.
REC received 'Innovative Technology Development Award'
• REC received 'Innovative Technology Development Award' at IIT Madras CSR Summit.
• REC Limited, a Maharatna CPSE, comes under the Ministry of Power.
• The award has been conferred in recognition of REC's CSR initiative of installation of 2 MW
rooftop solar plant at IIT Madras.
• REC also received the Global CSR Leadership Awards in 2023 and the PSE Excellence Award for
CSR in 2023.
President of India conferred RPSF Constable with 'Jeevan Raksha Padak'
• Shashikant Kumar of RPSF has been awarded with 'Jeevan Raksha Padak' for saving a passenger
at Prayagraj Chheoki Station.
• Demonstrated exceptional bravery by rescuing a passenger from a moving train, preventing a
fatal accident.
• His act of courage exemplifies the commitment and service ideals of the Railway Protection
Special Force.
Gulzar and Scholar Rambhadracharya chosen for Jnanpith Award. 🏆
• Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been
named the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award.
• Gulzar is known for his works in Hindi cinema and is considered one of the finest Urdu poets of
this era.
• Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, the founder and head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, is a renowned
Hindu spiritual leader.
6|Page
CGI in India named as a Top Employer 2024🏢

• CGI secured Top Employer 2024 recognition in India for the fourth consecutive year, highlighting
its exemplary HR practices.
• The certification acknowledges CGI's commitment to shaping policies, implementing best
practices.
• CGI's President, Rakesh Aerath, attributed the achievement to the company's progressive HR
initiatives, ownership culture, and dedication to empowering its employees.
Havildar Varinder Singh awarded Vishisht Seva Medal. 🥇
• President Droupadi Murmu awards Vishisht Seva Medal to Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh
Regiment in the Indian Army for his development of a 'Multipurpose Octocopter'.
• The 'Multipurpose Octocopter' developed by Singh is a versatile drone capable of conducting
surveillance operations, grenade dropping, aerial target engagement with weapons like the AK-
47, and logistics operations.
National Film Awards renamed, Cash Prizes increased🏆
• The 'Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director' and the 'Nargis Dutt Award for Best
Feature Film on National Integration' have been renamed to remove the names of individuals.
• The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema, has seen its cash prize
increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.
• Several other awards have also been renamed and their cash prizes increased.
Shamar Joseph, Amy Hunter won ICC Player of the Month awards🏆
• Latest pace sensation Shamar Joseph became the first West Indian to win the Men's ICC Player
of the Month award for his heroics in the Australia Test series.
• Ireland's explosive young batter Amy Hunter claimed the honour in the women's category after
her dominance against Zimbabwe.
• The ICC revealed the award winners for January after shortlists were announced last week.
India wins 9th GovTech prize for AI-Powered road safety. 🚗
• India has secured the prestigious 9th GovTech Prize for its pioneering endeavors in Artificial
Intelligence (AI)-powered government services, at the World Government Summit 2024.
• The award recognizes the remarkable efforts of the Ministry for Road Transport & Highways,
Government of India.
• iRASTE aims to reimagine road safety by leveraging AI as a force multiplier in road safety
engineering.
"Because She Can" secured three wins at the 2024 Anthem Awards 🏆
• "Because She Can," a nonprofit movement led by Divya Jain, won Gold in 'Community Outreach'
category and Silver in 'Community Event' category at the 2024 Anthem Awards.
• The movement's podcast, hosted by Divya, Neha Joshi, and Stuti Gupta, stood out among 2000
entries from 44 countries.
7|Page
• "Because She Can" aims to empower women through storytelling, conversations, and skilling
initiatives.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath bagged K.P.P. Nambiar Award 🏆
• Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Kerala section awarded the 2024 K.P.P.
Nambiar Award to ISRO Chairman S. Somanath.
• Somanath has played a key role in ISRO's lunar exploration program, Chandrayaan-3.
• The annual award is instituted to honour individuals or groups in Kerala, for their significant
contributions to the IEEE vision of advancing technology for humanity.
NTPC's USSC wins Global Procurement Summit 2024🏆
• NTPC's innovative Unified Shared Service Centre (USSC) received first prize at the 9th Global
Procurement Summit in New Delhi.
• The event was organized by AIMA in collaboration with the World Bank, Ministry of Finance, and
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
• NTPC’s strategic initiative of USSC resulted in bringing Uniformity, Standardization, and Process
simplification
Bharat Ratna awardees: Dr. MS Swaminathan, Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh
• The Bharat Ratna for 2024 will be awarded to:
1. Dr. MS Swaminathan
2. Former PM PV Narasimha Rao
3. Former PM Chaudhary Charan Singh
• The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
• Instituted in 1954, it is conferred in recognition of "exceptional service/performance of the highest
order."
• Bharat Ratna recipients rank 7th in the Indian order of precedence.
Pyarelal Sharma honoured with Lakshminarayana International Award
• Music composer Pyarelal Sharma has been honoured with the Lakshminarayana International
Award for his contribution to art.
• Pyarelal, 83, was announced as a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian
honour, on the eve of Republic Day 2024.
• The Lakshminarayana International Award was presented to the industry veteran by musicians L
Subramaniam and Kavita Krishnamurti.
Picture of sleeping polar bear won Wildlife Photography Award
• Nima Sarikhani has won the Wildlife Photographer of the Year People's Choice Award.
• Sarikhani spent three days searching for polar bears on Norwegian islands.
• The winning image titled 'Ice Bed' depicts a polar bear peacefully sleeping on ice.
• The annual competition is organized by the Natural History Museum, showcasing stunning
wildlife photography.
8|Page
Switzerland Tourism honoured Neeraj Chopra at Jungfrau's Ice Palace

• Neeraj Chopra, India's Olympic and world champion javelin thrower, was honored with a plaque
at the famous Ice Palace at Jungfraujoch, Switzerland, known as the 'Top of Europe.'
• Chopra unveiled the commemorative plaque and donated one of his javelins to the tourist
attraction, which will be displayed alongside the plaque.
• The honor recognizes Chopra's accomplishments in javelin throw.
Azerbaijan won 10th International IIHM Young Chief Olympiad
• Azerbaijan's Leyla Valiyeva won Gold at the 10th International IIHM Young Chef Olympiad 2024.
• Philippines' Clifford Jeff Cadunggo Unabia and Nepal's Kamal Thapa shared Silver, while Italy's
Francesco Orsi took Bronze.
• The closing ceremony took place in Kolkata.
• YCO also recognizes winners for best vegetarian dish, best crème souffle a l'orange, best kitchen
practice, best knife skills etc.
Noida recognized as "Water Warrior" city for wastewater treatment
• Noida has been awarded the "Water Warrior" title by the Union Water Ministry for its efforts in
wastewater treatment and reuse.
• The city received awards in two categories: best sewage treatment plant and water reuse project
of the year.
• Noida currently operates eight STPs with a total capacity of 411 MLD, treating 260 MLD of sewage,
of which 70-75 MLD is reused for various purposes.
Egis in India won Top Employer Certification for 3rd consecutive year
• Egis certified as a Top Employer 2024 in India, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil.
• The certification recognizes Egis' dedication to a better world of work and excellent HR policies
and practices.
• Egis has implemented HR initiatives aligned with its values, including supporting of new
employees, focusing on Ethics, Climate, Health & Safety, and Diversity & Inclusion.
WBR Corp forays in Southeast Asia with Asia Business Conclave & Awards
• WBR Corp, a London-based company, has entered the Singapore market and held its flagship
event, "Asia Business Conclave & Awards 2024."
• The conclave focused on critical topics such as bilateral trade, investment, digital transformation,
sustainability, and financial cooperation.
• The event featured distinguished speakers, panelists, and award recipients from various industries
across Asia.
REC Limited earns best green bond - corporate award 2024
• REC Limited secures the esteemed Best Green Bond - Corporate Award at The Asset Triple A
Awards for Sustainable Finance 2024.
• RECs issued $750 million Green Bonds in April 2023.
9|Page
• Chairman & Managing Director of REC Limited: Shri Vivek Kumar Dewangan
• It marked India's first USD Green Bond post its G20 Presidency and the largest Senior Green Bond
Tranche by a South or South-East Asian issuer.
Ishwari Prasad Namboodiri honored with the "Shankar Smriti Award"
• Chief priest (Rawal) of Badrinath Dham, Uttarakhand, Priest Ishwari Prasad Namboodiri, was
honored with the Shankar Smriti Award in Kerala.
• Namboodiri's selection for the Shankar Smriti Award brings pride to the religious community and
the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC).
• The Shankar Smriti Award is presented annually during the Malliyoor Bhagavat Hamsa Smarana
Utsav in Kerala.
66th Annual Grammy Awards 2024 unveiled in Los Angeles, USA:
• Record of the Year: "Flowers," Miley Cyrus
• Album of the Year: "Midnights," Taylor Swift
• Song of the Year: "What Was I Made For?" from "Barbie," Billie Eilish O’Connell & Finneas
O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)
• Best New Artist: Victoria Monét
• Best Rock Performance: "Not Strong Enough"
• Best Music Video: "I’m Only Sleeping" (The Beatles)
• Best Global Music Album: "This Moment," Shakti
Fusion band Shakti won best global music album Grammy for This Moment
• Shakti, a fusion music group comprising tabla maestro Zakir Hussain and singer Shankar
Mahadevan, has won the 2024 Grammy Award for best global music album for 'This Moment'.
• 'This Moment' features Shakti founding member, guitarist John McLaughlin alongside Hussain,
Mahadevan, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and percussionist Selvaganesh Vinayakram.
Dr. Bina Modi won 'Outstanding Business Woman of the Year 2023' Award
• Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson of Modi Enterprises, was honored with the 'Outstanding Business
Woman of the Year - 2023' Award by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC).
• Dr. Modi emphasized the importance of sustainable business practices and empowering people,
highlighting the success of Modi Enterprises under her leadership.
MHA launched Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak
• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has merged 4 existing medals -Special Operation Medal,
Medal for Excellence in Investigation, Asadharan Aasuchana Kushalata Padak & Awards for
Meritorious Service in Forensic Science into one- "Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak."
• The new medal recognizes excellence in operations in counter-terrorism, arms control, prevention
of narcotics smuggling, etc.
LK Advani to be honoured with Bharat Ratna
10 | P a g e
• Veteran leader, Shri Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian
award of the nation.
• Advani served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004 and is a co-founder of Bharatiya
Janata Party.
• He is also a member of the RSS.
• He was the longest-serving Minister of Home Affairs from 1998 to 2004.
• He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015.
"'Lachit the Warrior' secures best animation award.
• Animation film 'Lachit the Warrior' on Ahom general Lachit Barphukan wins Best Animation Film
at Kanchenjunga International Film Festival
• Directed by Partha Sarathi Mahanta, the film highlights the heroics of Lachit Barphukan in
preventing the Mughal capture of Assam in the 1600s
• The film is produced by Mina Mahanta and Indrani Baruah.
Pundalik K. Badiger won the best photographer award by KUWJ
• Pundalik K. Badiger, senior photographer who contributes to The Hindu, has won the best
photographer award instituted by the Karnataka Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ).
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the award during the KUWJ annual conference in
Davangere.
Rahul R Nair, Mehul Malik, Tanmay Bharat got UK Blavatnik Awards
• Three young Indian scientists received prestigious UK Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists,
highlighting their significant contributions to various fields.
• The recipients, including Professors Rahul R Nair, Mehul Malik, and Tanmay Bharat, are
recognized for their groundbreaking research in materials physics, quantum communications, and
electron cryotomography.
WHO honors countries for pioneering efforts in eliminating trans fatty
• WHO has awarded certificates recognizing five countries—Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi
Arabia, and Thailand—for their advancements in eliminating both industrially produced and
naturally occurring trans fatty acids.
• 53 countries implementing best-practice policies to combat TFA in food and protect 3.7 billion
people worldwide.
• WHO target of virtual elimination of TFA globally by 2025.
11 | P a g e
Banking Current Affairs

HSBC's Profit Surge in India 2023
• India outpaced China, becoming HSBC's third-largest profit hub with a 25% increase, reaching
$1.5 billion in 2023.
• Key profit drivers include reduced credit loss provisions and strong performances in global
banking and SME sectors.
• HSBC forecasts sustained economic growth for India and Southeast Asia, planning expansions in
wholesale franchises and private banking for the Indian diaspora.
AAI achieves 'Excellent' rating under MoU 2022-23
• Airports Authority of India (AAI) has achieved ‘Excellent’ rating under MoU 2022-23, signed with
Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• The Department of Public Enterprises has communicated AAI’s MoU score of 91.50.
• AAI has incurred highest ever Capital Expenditure of Rs 5,175 crore under MoU 2022-23.
• The ‘Excellent’ rating under MoU 2022-23 has paved a way for AAI to achieve higher scales in
future.
28th meeting of Financial Stability and Development Council conducted
• FSDC, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, focused on enhancing inter-regulatory
coordination for inclusive economic growth and financial stability.
• Strategies to simplify digital KYC, support fundraising for social enterprises via social stock
exchanges, and combat unauthorized online lending discussed.
• The council aimed to bolster India's global financial center role.
Reliance became 1st Indian stock to cross Rs 20 lakh cr. Market Cap📈
• RIL became the first listed Indian company to cross a market capitalization of Rs 20 lakh crore.
• RIL's achievement is a testament to its strong performance and growth potential across its various
businesses.
• Analysts expect 2024 to be an eventful year for RIL as its investments move into the monetization
phase.
Retail inflation eases to a three-month low in January, 2024: MoSPI📈
• India's retail inflation eased to a three-month low of 5.1% in January 2024, primarily due to lower
food prices.
• Food inflation declined to 8.30% in January from 9.53% in December 2023, while overall CPI
inflation was 5.69% in December and 6.52% in January 2023, as per data released by MoSPI.
• The Reserve Bank of India has kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.50% for the sixth consecutive
time.
EPFO hikes Interest Rate to 8.25% for FY24📈
• EPFO has fixed an interest rate of 8.25% on provident fund deposits for 2023-24, the highest in
three years.
12 | P a g e
• The increase in interest rate is attributed to strong financial returns earned by EPFO, including
from equity investments.
• The payout to EPFO members is expected to exceed ₹1 lakh crore for the year.
Shivalik Group got SEBI nod for Alternative Investment Fund🏦
• Ahmedabad-based real estate developer Shivalik Group has received SEBI approval for its first
AIF - Shivalik Investment Fund.
• The Category II AIF aims to raise up to Rs 300 crore through private placement, including a Rs
150 crore Green Shoe Option.
• The AIF will invest in real estate projects and other opportunities in line with the group's
investment strategy.
Paytm E-commerce rebranded to Pai Platforms, acquired Bitsila 🤝
• Paytm E-commerce has rebranded itself as Pai Platforms to mark its shift in corporate identity
and gain a larger foothold in online retail.
• Pai Platforms has acquired Bitsila, a key seller platform in the Open Network for Digital Commerce
(ONDC).
• Elevation Capital, the largest shareholder in Paytm E-commerce, now holds the same position in
Pai Platforms.
Juspay, Zoho, Decentro got RBI's nod for payment aggregator business🏦
• Two fintech startups, Juspay and Decentro, have received the final license to operate as payment
aggregators in India.
• Juspay aims to enter the payments space directly and expand operations beyond India.
• Zoho, an enterprise SaaS player, also received the payment aggregator license, becoming the
first of its kind to do so.
RBI targeted inflation at 4% for sustainable economic growth 📊
• RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized achieving the 4% inflation target for sustainable
economic growth.
• Inflation moderated to an average of 5.5% during April-December 2023 from 6.7% in 2022-23.
• Food price inflation continues to be a source of volatility in the inflation trajectory.
RBI imposes penalty of 63 lakh on Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank
• The compliance on the review report of the Supervisory Action Framework (SAF) dated March 31,
2021, and March 31, 2022
• It had offered interest rates on deposits for various durations higher than that offered by SBI in
non-compliance with the SAF directions.
• This penalty has been imposed under sections 47A(1)(c) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act,
1949.
RBI maintained status quo, kept Repo Rate unchanged at 6.5%
13 | P a g e
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for the sixth
consecutive time.
• The decision was made to keep inflation under control, as retail inflation continues to remain
above the RBI's target of 4%.
• RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das projected retail inflation at 5.4% for the current fiscal year and
4.5% for the next fiscal year.
OECD raised India's growth outlook for FY25 to 6.2%
• OECD raised India's growth outlook for FY25 to 6.2%, citing strong performance in FY23.
• Growth is projected to moderate to 6.3% in FY24 and 6.1% in FY25 due to adverse weather and
weak global outlook.
• Inflation is expected to decline gradually, supported by easing monetary policy, improved global
conditions, and policy reforms.
Monthly Revision January: Business & Economy-I
• Ola launches e-bike taxi service in Delhi & Hyderabad
• Zomato received the nod from the RBI for online payment aggregator
• Zydus Lifesciences secured USFDA approval for generic medicine
• Bank of Baroda raises Rs 5,000 Crore via 10-year infrastructure bonds.
• AIIB: India’s largest Renewable Energy Infrastructure Investment Trust
• NSE retains its position as the world's largest exchange in 2023
Monthly Revision January: Business & Economy-II
• LIC surpassed SBI to become most valuable PSU, market cap ₹5.8 Lakh Cr
• Zerodha fund house introduced India's First Growth Liquid ETF.
• Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024: attracts ₹6.6 lakh crore.
• Indian economy to grow at 7.3 percent in this year, NSO report
• Adani regained title of Asia's Richest Person, surpassed Ambani.
GST collection hits ₹1.72 lakh crore in January, surging 10% YoY
• India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue witnessed a remarkable 10.4% Year-on-Year surge
in January 2024, soaring to an outstanding ₹1,72,129 crore - the second-highest collection ever
recorded.
• This achievement marks the third time in the fiscal year 2023-24 that the ₹1.7 lakh crore
benchmark has been surpassed, reflecting positive economic momentum and recovery.
Interim Budget Highlights FY 2024-2025 Part 1
• Nirmala Sitharaman presented her 6th Union Budget in Lok Sabha.
• Theme: “Viksit Bharat by 2047”
• Fiscal Deficit for 2024-25 estimated at 5.1% of GDP against 5.8% of 2023-24.
• No changes relating to taxation & import duties.
• CAPEX increased by 11.1% to over ₹ 11.18 lakh crore
• FY24 total expenditure revised to ₹ 44.90 lakh crore
14 | P a g e
• FY 24 total receipts other than borrowings is ₹ 27.56 lakh crore

• Rupee comes from:
o Borrowing and Other Liabilities (28%)
o Income Tax (19%)
o GST and other taxes (18%)
o Corporation tax (17%)
o Non-Tax Receipts (7%)
o Others (10%)
• Rupee goes to:
o Interest Payments (20%)
o States' share of Taxes and Duties (20%)
o Central Sector Schemes (16%)
o Centrally Sponsored Schemes (8%)
o Finance Commission and other transfers (8%)
o Others (27%)
• Budgetary allocation for Specific Ministries:
o Ministry of Defence - 6.2 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Road Transport and Highways - 2.78 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Railways - 2.55 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution - 2.1 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Home Affairs - 2.03 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Rural Development - 1.77 Lakh Cr.
o Ministry of Agriculture - 1.27 Lakh Cr.
• Budgetary allocation to Major Schemes:
o Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme - 86 Thousand Crores
o Ayushman Bharat- PM Jan Arogya Yojana - 7500 Crores
o Production Linked Incentive Scheme - 6200 Crores.
o Modified Programme for Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing
ecosystem - 6900 Crores.
• Revenue Receipts have increased to 30 Lakh cr. in FY 2024-25 compared to 27 Lakh cr. in FY 2023-
24.
• Capital Receipts have decreased to 17.6 Lakh cr. in FY 2024-25 compared to 17.9 Lakh cr. in FY
2023-24.
• Revenue Expenditure has increased to 36.5 Lakh cr. in FY 2024-25.
15 | P a g e
• Effective Capital Expenditure has increased to 15 Lakh cr. in FY 2024-25 compared to 12.7 Lakh
cr. in FY 2023-24.
Interim Budget Highlights FY 2024-2025 Part 6:
• India’s real GDP is projected to grow at 7.3 % in FY 2023-24
• FDI inflow during 2014-23 was USD 596 billion, which is twice the inflow during 2005-14.
• Strong growth in economic activity has imparted buoyancy to revenue collections and GST
collection stood at ₹1.65 lakh crore in December 2023.
• The government aims to reduce the fiscal deficit below 4.5 % by 2025-26.
16 | P a g e
Books and Authors Current Affairs

Goa Governor's book 'Basic Structure and Republic' released.
• Goa Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai's book 'Basic Structure and Republic' was released by the
Archbishop of Changanacherry (Kerala), Mar Joseph Perumthottam.
• The first copy of the book was received by Shirodkar, which was presented by Mar Joseph
Perumthottam.
• The first lady of Goa Rita Shreedharan Pillai also graced the occasion.
A book titled “Dabbling in Diplomacy” by Prof. S.D. Muni
• A book named “Dabbling in Diplomacy: Authorised & Otherwise, Recollections of a Non-Career
Diplomat,” written by Professor S.D. Muni.
• The book details Prof. Muni's career at esteemed institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University
and the National University of Singapore.
“Maha Swaapnikudu” book launched by Chandrababu Naidu. 📕
• 'Maha Swaapnikudu' (A Great Visionary) marks a significant moment in India's political dialogue
by Honors the distinguished tenure of former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu
Naidu
• It was authored by journalist P. Vikram and released by NRI Koduri Venkat
• Highlights Naidu's extraordinary trajectory and contributions to Indian politics
CDS Anil Chauhan reveals book "AI and National Security".
• CDS Anil Chauhan revealed a book titled 'Artificial Intelligence and National Security' at the
Defence Literature Festival 'Kalam and Kavach' in Pune.
• CDS Chauhan highlighted the relevance of ancient Indian stratagems like Sun Tzu's 'Art of War'
and Kautilya's 'Arthashastra' in modern warfare.
• Other significant books: 'Russia, Gaza, Taiwan... A World at War" by Ajay Singh.
Himachal Pradesh Governor unveils Dr. Ramchandra Tiwari's book.
• Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla Launches Dr. Ramchandra Tiwari's Books on
Hindi Prose and Yoga.
• He inaugurated the 15th edition of Dr. Ramchandra Tiwari's two books 'Hindi Ka Gadya-Sahitya'
and the third edition of 'Yoga Ke Vividh Aayam'.
• Governor Praises Dr. Tiwari's Contribution to the Study of Hindi Prose Genres and Historical
Development.
17 | P a g e
Defence Current Affairs

Defence security corps celebrates its 77th Raising Day
• Defence Security Corps (DSC) is celebrating its 77th Raising Day today. The Corps was raised on
this day in 1947 as the ‘Defence Department Constabulary’.
• Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande has conveyed best wishes to all ranks, veterans and
families of the Defence Security Corps on the occasion.
• The Corps is adopting the latest technology to tackle any emerging threat.
India-Japan joint military drill in Rajasthan
• The 5th edition of military exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and Japan
Ground Self Defence Force has commenced in Rajasthan.
• It is aimed at reinforcing military cooperation, the exercise includes tactical drills, and special
arms skills, and showcases India's defense innovation.
• High-ranking officials, including Lt. Gen. TOGASHI Yuichi, will witness combat demonstrations.
Trilateral exercise 'Dosti-16' kicks off in Maldives.
• The two ships of the Indian Coast Guard – ICGS Samarth and ICGS Abhinav ready for the 16th
edition of the India-Sri-Lanka-Maldives trilateral exercise ‘Dosti’.
• Sri Lanka also sent SLNS Samudra to participate.
• The ‘Dosti’ drill started in 1991 as a bilateral exercise by the coast guards of India and the Maldives.
Sri Lanka joined it in 2012.
First ever 'Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo' in Pune
• The three-day 'Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo', will be held at the International Exhibition and
Convention Center at Moshi in Pune.
• The Expo will witness the participation of the Armed Forces, defence PSUs, and ordnance
factories.
• The IAF's Samar-II and Akash surface-to-air weapon systems, DRDO's Pinaaka multi-barrel rocket
launcher system and Mounted Gun will be on display at the Expo.
DRDO’s DURGA-2 Laser Weapon.
• DRDO has reportedly been engaged in the development of laser weapon systems for over two
decades.
• DURGA-2 (Directionally Unrestricted Ray Gun Array), the Indian laser weapon holds the promise
of altering the dynamics of modern warfare.
• Directed energy weapons like DURGA-2 operate by focusing energy, whether laser, microwave,
or particle beams, to disable or destroy targets.
CCS clears Rs 13,000 crore IAF projects for high-power radars
• Cabinet Committee on Security has cleared deals worth around Rs 13,000 crore to acquire new
high-power radars and close-in weapon systems from Indian manufacturer L&T.
18 | P a g e
• The new radars are under a project worth around Rs 6,000 crore and a Made in India Close-in
Weapon System project worth Rs 7,000 crore cleared by the CCS.
• The project was developed closely by the Air Force and Indian Army.
Turkish 5th-gen fighter KAAN completes maiden flight
• Turkey’s domestically built KAAN combat aircraft completed its first flight
• The 5th-generation aircraft, dubbed KAAN, “reached an altitude of 8,000 feet and achieved a
speed of 230 knots.
• Turkey Defense Minister Yasar Gular announced that Ankara is in talks to buy 40 Eurofighter
Typhoons. The US announced in late January that it is unfreezing a large deal of 40 new F-16
fighters to Turkey
Defence Minister inaugurated Naval technology demonstration MTEX-24
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Maritime Technical Exposition (MTEX-24) as a
part of MILAN exercise 2024 in Visakhapatnam.
• MTEX-24 showcased India's advancements in naval technology and promoting self-reliance.
• Major players from the Indian defence production, defence start-ups, defence PSUs and Indian
Naval organisations took part in it.
₹19,000 crore mega Navy deal for BrahMos missiles approved by CCS, GoI
• Cabinet Committee on Security has approved ₹19,000 crore deal for over 200 BrahMos extended-
range supersonic cruise missiles for Indian Navy.
• BrahMos Aerospace & MoD agreement will be signed shortly.
• BrahMos missiles, a joint venture between India and Russia, capable of launching from various
platforms, are also to be exported to the Philippines, marking their first international customer.
President viewed Joint Service Operational Demonstration in A&N island
• President Draoupadi Murmu visited Swaraj Dweep, witnessing a Joint Service Operational Demo
at Radhanagar Beach.
• The demo featured amphibious landings, Naval Gun Fire Support, and aerial displays,
emphasizing the synergy and interoperability across services.
• Commander-in-Chief Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan briefed the President on readiness and
integrated combat power of India.
21st round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting
• The 21st round of Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting
point on 19th February 2024.
• The discussions seek complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern
Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border
areas.
• They committed to maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas.
Digital Flight Control Computer for Tejas Mk1A flown successfully
19 | P a g e
• Tejas Mk1A's Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer integrated and flight-tested successfully,
enhancing the aircraft's control.
• Developed by Aeronautical Development Establishment, it features advanced processors and
meets DO178C level-A safety standards.
• Tejas Mk1A will include AESA Radar, advanced EW Suit.
• Successful test boosted confidence for timely Tejas Mk1A delivery to IAF.
Military Exercise - 'Shanti Prayas IV' - kicked off in Nepal.
• Multinational military exercise - 'Shanti Prayas IV' - kicked off in Nepal at the Army headquarters
with the participation of 19 countries, including India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan to enhance
interoperability.
• PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” inaugurated the special ceremony
• The multinational military exercise is taking place at the Birendra Peace Operation Training
Centre
Indian Army's Rs 57000 Cr plan to replace Russian T-72 tanks
• Indian Army plans to replace 1,800 T-72 tanks with 1,770 advanced AI-enabled Future Ready
Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) starting 2030, at an estimated cost of Rs 57,000 crore.
• Highlighting the importance of combined-arms operations, lessons drawn from Russian tanks'
losses in Ukraine influence the project's focus on survivability, drone countermeasures, and
network-centric warfare.
A two-day INDUS-X Summit to be held in New Delhi
• INDUS-X Summit is scheduled to be held on February 20-21, 2024 in New Delhi
• The India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) has been at the forefront of expanding
bilateral ties in defense innovation.
• The summit aims to be a pivotal event driving strategic technology partnerships and defense
industrial cooperation between India and the USA.
Sarang helicopter display team all set for Singapore Airshow 2024
• Sarang is the helicopter air display team of the Indian Air Force that flies modified HAL Dhruv
Mk-I helicopters, also known as Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
• The current commander of this team is Group Captain Santosh Kumar Mishra.
• The Singapore Airshow is a biennial aerospace event held in Singapore that debuted in 2008.
Indian Army launches Women's Skill Development initiative in Manipur🏣
• The Indian Army initiated a Women's Empowerment Program at Phougakchao village in the
Bishnupur district of Manipur in collaboration with the State Handicraft Department.
• The joint effort aims to provide women in Phougakchao and adjoining areas with comprehensive
training in handloom weaving.
• The initiative saw the participation of 35 women from local villages
BSF K9 dog wins first position at All India Police Duty Meet. 🐶
20 | P a g e
• A Border Security Force dog belonging to the Indian dog breed Mudhol Hound, created history
by winning first place in the All India Police Duty Meet (AIPDM)
• The AIPDM was organized in Lucknow from February 12th to 16th, BSF's K9 bagged the first
position with the indigenous dog breed Mudhol Hound named Riyaa, handled by constable Ashok
Kumar Kumawat.
12th edition of naval excercise MILAN to be held in Visakhapatnam ⚔️
• MILAN exercise's 12th edition will be held from Feb 19-27 in Visakhapatnam, featuring over 50
countries.
• The exercise is themed "Forging Naval Alliances For a Secure Maritime Future"
• The two-phase exercise includes Harbour Phase with seminars, tech expo, and Sea Phase with
advanced drills for participating navies to boost interoperability and exchange best practices.
Indian Coast Guard ship 'Varaha' makes port call in Mozambique. 🚢
• ICGS Varaha's port call in Maputo, Mozambique bolsters strategic East Africa deployment.
• Professional engagements focus on Marine Pollution Response and maritime Search and Rescue.
• The visit underscores India's shipbuilding prowess, promoting self-reliant "Atmanirbhar Bharat."
• NCC conducts a Beach clean-up drive, which aligns with the "Puneet Sagar Abhiyan" initiative.
Ministry of Defence surpasses Rs 1 lakh crore mark in online orders 🚚
• The Ministry of Defence surpasses the Rs 1 lakh crore mark in total order value through the
Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.
• In the current financial year, transactions worth around Rs 45,800 Crore have been awarded
• GeM has facilitated over 5.47 lakh orders for MoD.
• CEO of GeM, P. K. Singh praised MoD for being the first central government entity to achieve this
milestone.
Indian Navy, Air Force showing interest in indigenous Tapas drones. 🛸
• The Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force have expressed interest in the domestically designed
and developed "Tapas" medium altitude long endurance drone.
• The "Tapas" drones are being developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment
Laboratory.
• The Tapas drones managed to reach 28,000 feet altitude and could fly for over 18 hours.
Surya Kiran aerobatic team at Bagdogra air show. ✈
• The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team will perform at the Air Show to be held at Air Force Station
Bagdogra in West Bengal.
• SKAT is one of the very few nine-aircraft aerobatics teams in the world and is the only one in Asia.
• SKAT's motto is "Sadhaiva Sarvottam" (Always the Best), and the team's mission is to showcase
the skills of Indian Air Force pilots and inspire the youth of the country.
Navy Chief Inaugurated Radar and Surveillance System in A&N islands⚓
21 | P a g e
• Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar inaugurated a Precision Approach Radar (PAR) at INS Utkrosh
for accurate aircraft landing in low visibility conditions.
• He also inaugurated the Integrated Underwater Harbour Defence and Surveillance System
(IUHDSS) at Naval Jetty, Port Blair.
• The IUHDSS will enhance underwater security and surveillance in the harbor area.
Eastern Command Investiture Ceremony 2024 at Bengdubi Cantonment 🪖
• Eastern Command Investiture Ceremony 2024 was held at Bengdubi Military Station, Siliguri,
West Bengal.
• Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari felicitated officers and soldiers with gallantry and distinguished
service awards.
• 26 awardees received medals, including 20 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 2 Bar to Sena Medal
(Distinguished), and 4 Vishisht Seva Medals.
US, Australia, Japan conducted joint drills in South China Sea ⚓
• Warships from the US, Australia, and Japan conducted joint drills in the South China Sea,
challenging Beijing's sovereignty claims.
• The exercises aimed to promote transparency, rule of law, and freedom of navigation in the
strategic waterway.
• China, which claims the entire South China Sea, objected to the foreign military activities in the
region.
Indian Women Officers participated in Riyadh World Defense show
• Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, Colonel Ponung Doming, and Lieutenant Commander Annu
Prakash represented the Indian Armed Forces at the World Defence Show (WDS) 2024 in Riyadh,
Saudi Arabia.
• Squadron Leader Kanth participated in a seminar on 'International Women in Defence: Investing
in an Inclusive Future,' highlighting the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the defense
sector.
17th Staff Talks between Indian and French Navies held in New Delhi
• The 17th Staff Talks between the Indian and French Navies were held to strengthen maritime
cooperation.
• The talks were co-chaired by senior representatives from both navies and focused on operational,
training, and Subject Matter Expert exchanges.
• Both sides acknowledged the growing cooperation between two navies and agreed to enhance
collaboration & interoperability in the maritime domain.
DRDO's "ABHYAS" records successful flight trials
• Four flight trials conducted from January 30 to February 2 at ITR, Chandipur, achieved safe
booster release, launcher clearance, and the required end-of-launch velocity.
• ABHYAS, a High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) designed by ADE, utilizes an
autonomous flying system with an indigenously developed auto-pilot.
22 | P a g e
IAF to conduct mega exercise Vayu Shakti 2024 in Jaisalmer

• Indian Air Force to conduct mega exercise Vayu Shakti 2024 at Pokharan Range in Jaisalmer on
February 17.
• Over 100 aircraft and helicopters to participate, including indigenous Tejas, Prachand, and Dhruv.
• Air to air and surface-to-air missile systems such as MICA, R-73, SAMAR, and Akash to
demonstrate firepower.
• It will showcase interoperability and operational capabilities of the IAF.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to commission INS Sandhayak
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lead the commissioning ceremony of INS Sandhayak at
Visakhapatnam’s Naval Dockyard.
• Built by GRSE in Kolkata, INS Sandhayak reflects India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing
with 80% indigenous content
• The ship's role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations reinforces India's
commitment to maritime safety and security.
Indian Navy has declared 2024 as 'Year of Naval Civilians'.
• Indian Navy dedicates 2024 as the 'Year of Naval Civilians,' aiming to enhance administration,
efficiency, and well-being through targeted initiatives in Civilian HR Management.
• Naval Civilian Personnel, constituting a third of the Navy's workforce, play a vital role in
operational effectiveness across various domains, including Command Headquarters, Dockyards,
and Training Establishments.
23 | P a g e
Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs

PM Modi launched world's largest grain storage scheme
• PM Modi informed that that 700 lakh tonne storage capacity will be created in the next five years,
with an investment of ₹1.25 lakh crore.
• Under the scheme, thousands of warehouses and godowns will be constructed across the country.
• Modi inaugurated 11 godowns set up by 11 primary agricultural credit societies (PACS) across 11
states.
Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi launched Coal Logistics Plan and Policy
• Integrated Coal Logistics Plan aims for advanced, resilient coal logistics by 2030, enhancing
Aatmanirbhar Bharat's vision with reduced coal imports.
• Ministry of Coal targets 1.5 bn tonnes production by 2030, doubling output to bolster India's
energy security.
• Action plan developed for nationwide coal logistics infrastructure development, supporting
accelerated coal sector demand and supply.
PM Modi to launch PM Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan at Mumbai University
• PM Modii set to launch Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) to bolster higher
education.
• The grant will support infrastructure and educational innovations, including a new girls' hostel,
sports facilities, a solar power system, and AI projects.
• The initiative aims to enhance the quality of higher education with a focus on modern
infrastructure and technology integration.
Haryana CM Khattar launches 'Van Mitra' scheme. 🏝
• Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar launched the 'Van Mitra' scheme and its portal to encourage
community participation in tree planting activities in non-forest areas.
• The members of families with an annual income of less than Rs 1.80 lakh can register to become
'Van Mitras'.
• The objective of this scheme is to directly involve the local public in increasing forest areas across
the state.
PM Narendra Modi unveils 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana'. 🌤
• Under the scheme, one crore (10 million) households across India will receive up to 300 units of
free electricity every month, generated through solar power.
• The scheme is designed to accelerate the adoption of solar energy, reduce the financial burden
on households, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
• This pioneering project, an earmarked investment exceeding Rs 75,000 crore
NITI Aayog launched GROW Initiative for Agroforestry in Wastelands🪖
• NITI Aayog's GROW initiative aims to transform India's wastelands through agroforestry, using
remote sensing and GIS technologies to identify suitable areas.
24 | P a g e
• The GROW report and portal provide state & district-wise data on agroforestry potential,
including Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) for prioritization.
• Agroforestry has the potential to reduce wood imports, mitigate climate change.
Education Ministry launched APAAR initiative in remote villages🗒️
• APAAR, the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry, has been launched in rural areas
through Common Service Centres (CSCs).
• APAAR is a digital storage where students can store their academic credits and personal
information.
• The Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) system enables easy admission and credit transfer,
eliminating the need for physical certificates and streamlining the process.
‘SWATI’ (Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation) launched. 💻
• SWATI, the Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation Portal, launched by Govt. of India.
• It aims to empower Indian women and girls in STEMM fields.
• It promotes gender equality, inclusivity, and scientific advancement for women.
• It is a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine)
Odisha government hikes MBPY pension amount by Rs 500. 💰
• The Odisha government raised the Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY) pension amount by Rs
500.
• The MBPY beneficiaries, who were availing Rs 500, Rs 700, and Rs 900 each month, will now
receive Rs 1,000, Rs 1200, and Rs 1400 every month.
• The State Government will spend an additional Rs 3683 crore annually.
• MBPY was launched on January 1, 2008, by the Women & Child Development Department
Cabinet approved scheme for MSMEs in fisheries 🐟
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana for micro and small enterprises in fisheries
approved.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund extended for 3 years up to 2025-26
with a fund size of ₹7,522.48 crore and budget support of ₹939.48 crore.
• Aim to boost fisheries infrastructure development, leveraging financial resources and encouraging
private sector investment.
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 📜
• Parliament passed the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024.
• The bill decriminalizes certain violations and imposes penalties for the discharge of polluting
matter in water bodies.
• Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav assured that guidelines under the bill won't encroach on
state pollution control boards' rights and will promote ease of living and business.
25 | P a g e
Days and Events Current Affairs

PM Modi paid tributes to Morarji Desai on his birth anniversary
• Morarji Ranchhodji Desai, the 4th Prime Minister of India, led India’s first non-Congress
government from 1977 to 1979.
• He also served as the Deputy Prime Minister of India from 1967 to 1971.
• He received Bharat Ratna in 1991.
• During the time of the 44th amendment act, 1978, Morarji Desai was the then PM. It brought
various constitutional safeguards aimed at not letting autocracy prevail.
A Day in every 4 years - 29th February
• Roman Dictator Julius Caesar established the Leap Day concept for the Julian calendar in 45
BCE.
• Leap Day is very important because it helps to keep our calendar straight.
• The Gregorian calendar was introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582.
• The next leap year will be in 2028.
• A year on Mars is 668 Martian days, it takes 668.6 days for Mars to go around the Sun.
Click on this LINK 👈 to attempt our Special Quiz on Rare Disease Day
• Rare Disease Day is a worldwide healthcare event, typically observed either on the last day of
February or near the last day of February each year.
• According to the WHO, the basis of a rare disease can be identified with its epidemiology. The
frequency of any rare disease should be less than 6.5-10 per 10,000 people
• Organization for Rare Diseases India has listed 263 rare diseases in India.
National Science Day: 28th February, 2024
• The special day is observed on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect
by Indian Scientist CV Raman.
• In 1928, on February 28, CV Raman discovered the Raman Effect.
• He also received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 due to his significant contribution in the field
of Physics.
• The theme for this year's National Science Day is - Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat.
Chandrashekhar Azad Death Anniversary: 27th February
• Chandra Shekhar Sitaram Tiwari popularly known as Chandra Shekhar Azad, was an Indian
revolutionary.
• He reorganised the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) under its new name of Hindustan
Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) after the death of its founder, Ram Prasad Bismil, Roshan
Singh, Rajendra Nath Lahiri and Ashfaqulla Khan.
• He often used the pseudonym "Balraj."
World NGO Day - February 27
• World NGO Day is celebrated in more than 89 countries and over 6 continents
26 | P a g e
• It is an international day dedicated to recognize all non-governmental and nonprofit

organizations, and the people behind them that contribute to the society.
• The Global Inaugural event of World NGO day was hosted by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of
Finland on 27th of February 2014 in Helsinki, Finland.
Defence Security Corps celebrated its 77th Raising Day
• Defence Security Corps marked its 77th Raising Day; initially formed in 1947, securing defense and
civil sites nationwide.
• Army Chief Gen. Manoj Pande extended best wishes to DSC members, veterans, and families.
• DSC troops have been providing security to various sensitive defence and civil installations across
the length and breadth of the Country since 1947.
26 February: Balakot Airstrike Day
• The Indian Air Force on February 26, 2019, targeted the Balakot-based Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM)
terror camp in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan
• “Operation Bandar,” as it was code-named, was in retaliation for the Pulwama terrorist attack in
India, which killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soldiers on February 14, 2019.
National Management Day: 21st February
• The All India Management Association (AIMA) observed its 68th Foundation Day and 18th
National Management Day on 21st February.
• The theme for 2024 is “The Indian Century: Managing Growth with Transformation.”
• This flagship event brought together industry experts and senior government officials to share
their perspectives on crucial topics related to management.
World Thinking Day 2024: February 22
• It celebrates the friendship, sisterhood, and empowerment of girls and young women all over the
world.
• The day also raises funds for the development of 10 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across the
globe.
• The theme is "Our World, Our Thriving Future,"
• In 1999, at the 30th World Conference in Ireland, the day's name was officially changed from
"Thinking Day" to "World Thinking Day"
International Mother Language Day
• The theme for this year's International Mother Language Day is - Multilingual education – a pillar
of learning and intergenerational learning.
• In November 1999, the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) proclaimed International Mother Language Day, which was later
welcomed by the General Assembly of the UN.
Mizoram Statehood Day: 20th February
• Mizoram was previously part of Assam until 1972, when it was carved out as a Union Territory.
27 | P a g e
• In 1986, the Indian Parliament adopted the 53rd Amendment Act, which created the State of
Mizoram on 20 February 1987, as India's 23rd state.
• Capital: Aizwal
• Districts: 11
• Governor: Kambhampati Hari Babu
• Chief minister: Lalduhoma
• Legal jurisdiction: Gauhati High Court
Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day: 20th February
• It was formed from the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) region, and India declared it as a state
on 20 February 1987.
• It shares international borders with Bhutan in the west, Myanmar in the east, and a disputed 1,129
km border with China's Tibet Autonomous Region in the north at the McMahon Line.
• Capital: Itanagar
• Governor Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
• Chief minister Pema Khandu
World Day of Social Justice
• The International Labour Organization (ILO) endorsed the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for a
Fair Globalization on June 10, 2008.
• This day was announced on November 26, 2005, and first celebrated on February 20, 2007.
• The theme for World Day of Social Justice is "Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances."
• It is celebrated with the objective of raising your voice against social injustice
World Human Spirit Day: 17th February👨‍💼
• World Human Spirit Day is observed on 17 February each year.
• It is a day to reflect on the human spirit and reconnect with our sense of awe and purpose.
• The holiday was first established in 2003 by Michael Levy.
• The significance is evident in the way it encourages mindfulness and meditation.
• It is a day to recognize our humanity and to connect with our spiritual selves.
Dadasaheb Phalke's Death Anniversary: 16th February🪖
• Dadasaheb Phalke made "Raja Harishchandra" in 1913, the first Indian feature film.
• He is popularly known as the "Father of Indian Cinema."
• His real name is Dhundiraj Govind Phalke.
• He breathed his last on February 16, 1944.
• Some of his noted works are Mohini Bhasmasur (1913), Satyavan Savitri (1914), Lanka Dahan (1917),
Shri Krishna Janma (1918) and Kaliya Mardan (1919).
World Hippo Day: February 15 🪖
• Hippos are the third largest land mammal on earth.
• Nearly 5.9 million to 9,000 years ago, India was home to the hippopotamus.
28 | P a g e
• The pygmy hippo is now classed as endangered by the IUCN, and the common hippo was classed
as vulnerable in 2006.
• Hippos are now most common in countries such as Zambia and Tanzania.
• In the 20th century, attempts were made to introduce hippos into the US.
Pulwama attack 2019: 5 years of Pulwama attack 💥
• On 14 February 2019, 40 Indian CRPF personnel were martyred after terrorists targeted a convoy
of 78 vehicles, transporting more than 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.
• The suicide bomber, identified as Jaish-e-Mohammad's Adil Ahmed Dar.
• Around 12 days after the terror attack, in the wee hours of February 26, Indian Air Force jets
bombed the JeM camp in Balakot, Pakistan.
CSIR-IIIM Srinagar organized World Unani Day 2024 on 13th February🗓️
• World Unani Day is commemorated on 11th February every year.
• The day honours Hakim Ajmal Khan's contributions to Unani medicine.
• CSIR-IIIM and CSIR-TKDL are jointly celebrating Unani Day in Srinagar on February 13th, 2024.
• Experts highlighted Unani remedies' healthcare applications.
200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati celebrated🙏
• Dayanand Saraswati was an Indian philosopher, social leader and founder of the Arya Samaj, a
reform movement of Hinduism.
• He wrote the book 'Satyarth Prakash.'
• He was the first to give the call for Swaraj as "India for Indians" in 1876.
• Denouncing the idolatry and ritualistic worship, he worked towards reviving Vedic ideologies.
12 Feb: International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism 🗓️
• UN General Assembly declared 12 February the International Day for the Prevention of Violent
Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, in order to raise awareness of the threats linked
to violent extremism, as and when conducive to terrorism.
• The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) was established in 2004 in New York,
USA.
12 February – International Darwin Day. 🐵
• 12 Feb. is celebrated as Darwin Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of the father of
evolutionary biology, Charles Darwin.
• This day highlights Darwin's contribution to evolutionary and plant science.
• Darwin published his work on evolution by natural selection as a book (On the Origin of Species).
• In 2015, 'Origin of Species' was voted the most influential academic book in history.
World Pulses Day 2024: 10th February 🪖
• United Nations General Assembly designated 2016 as the International Year of Pulses and
declared February 10 as World Pulses Day in 2018.
• The day recognizes the significant contributions of pulses to global food security and nutrition.
29 | P a g e
• The theme for 2024 is 'Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People.'

International Day of the Arabian Leopard: 10th February 🐆
• The Arabian leopard, a Critically Endangered subspecies, is native to the Arabian Peninsula and
is one of the smallest leopard subspecies.
• The International Day of the Arabian Leopard aims to raise awareness about the species' plight
and the urgent need for conservation to prevent its extinction.
• UNGA has proclaimed February 10 as International Day of the Arabian Leopard in resolution
77/295
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 11th February��
• The event aims to bring together women in science leaders, experts, government officials, and
representatives from international organizations and the private sector to discuss women's
leadership in achieving sustainable development goals.
• Theme for 2024: 'Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability.'
CSIR-NIScPR Foundation Day: 10th February🗓️
• The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Science Communication
and Policy Research celebrated its Foundation Day on 10th February.
• The CSIR is a leading scientific and technology research organization that offers specialized sci-
tech services directly to industry and others.
• Parent institution: Ministry of Science and Technology
• Director General: N. Kalaiselvi
Commemorative coin released on 150th anniversary of Prabhupada Ji
• PM Modi addressed 150th anniversary of Srila Prabhupada ji.
• He paid floral tribute to the statue of Acharya Srila Prabhupada and released a commemorative
stamp and coin in his honor.
• Prabhupada ji was a Gaudiya Vaishnav guru and preacher of Sanatan Hinduism.
• He founded ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness)
• He helped spreading Krishna's consciousness to the western world.
National Science Day 2024 to celebrate indigenous technologies
• National Science Day (NSD) 2024 will focus on promoting public appreciation for science,
technology, and innovation.
• The theme, "Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat," underscores the importance of making
India Atmanirbhar through science.
• National Science Day is celebrated every year on 28 February to commemorate the discovery of
the ‘Raman Effect’.
National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: 7th February
• February 7 is National HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), which was first observed in 1999.
• This year’s theme is "Engage, Educate, Empower: Uniting to End HIV/AIDS in Black Communities".
30 | P a g e
• Black communities have made great progress in reducing HIV.

• This observance is a day to acknowledge how HIV disproportionately affects Black people.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
• International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is a UN-sponsored annual
awareness day that takes place on February 6 as part of the UN's efforts to eradicate female
genital mutilation.
• It was first introduced in 2003.
• This day are to benefit actions fighting violence against women and girls as a whole.
• Target to achieve gender equality and the elimination of FGM by 2030.
World Cancer Day 2024: 4th February
• World Cancer Day is an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control.
• The day was born on the 4 February 2000 at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New
Millennium in Paris.
• The Theme of the World Cancer Day 2024 is "Close the care gap: Everyone deserves access to
cancer care".
• The day is celebrated to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention and
treatment.
International Day of Human Fraternity 2024: 4th February
• International Day of Human Fraternity is observed on February 4 to promote unity and harmony
among people.
• It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2020.
• The day marks the signing of the Human Fraternity document in 2019, which emphasized peaceful
coexistence and mutual respect.
• The purpose is to encourage cooperation among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.
World Wetlands Day 2024 celebrated at Sirpur lake in Indore
• World Wetlands Day (WWD) 2024 was celebrated in Sirpur Lake, Indore, with the theme
"Wetlands and Human Wellbeing."
• The event was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and the Secretary General
of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
• Three publications were released, including revised guidelines for the National Plan for
Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems.
World Interfaith Harmony Week: 1-7 February
• World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed annually during the first week of February.
• It was established by the UN General Assembly in 2010 to promote harmony between people of
all faiths.
• The week encourages dialogue among different faiths to enhance mutual understanding,
cooperation, and peace.
• This year's theme is 'Uniting for peace'.
31 | P a g e
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day 2024: 2nd February

• World Rheumatic Arthritis Day is celebrated annually on February 2 to raise awareness about
rheumatoid arthritis.
• RA is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain and inflammation.
• The first methotrexate treatments for RA became available in 1988, and in 2011, the Rheumatoid
Patient Foundation was founded to raise awareness of the disease and available treatments.
World Wetlands Day 2024
• World Wetlands Day is observed on February 2.
• The Ramsar Convention treaty was signed on February 2, 1971.
• The theme of WWD-2024 is ‘Wetlands and Human Wellbeing’
• The number of Ramsar sites in India is 80, with Tamil Nadu continuing to have the maximum
number of Ramsar Sites (16 sites) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10 sites).
• The total area covered under Ramsar sites is 1.33 million ha
Indian Coast Guard Day 2024
• Indian Coast Guard Day, celebrated annually on February 1st
• 1 February 1977, the interim Indian Coast Guard was established to prevent the sea-borne
smuggling of goods.
• On 18 August 1978, the Indian Parliament officially declared the ICG Day to be celebrated on 1
February of every year.
• Director General Rakesh Pal, AVSM, PTM, TM is the 25th Director General of the Indian Coast
Guard.
32 | P a g e
International Current Affairs

Non-oil exports in January saw steepest fall amid Red Sea crisis
• India's non-oil exports in January saw a 9% decline due to disruptions in the Red Sea shipping
routes, marking the steepest monthly drop in nine months.
• The slowdown in exports to the US and Europe was impacted by the need for global shipping
lines to divert through Cape of Good Hope, lengthening transit times.
• The shift in shipping routes was prompted by sustained attacks by Houthi forces.
Singapore's total fertility rate fell below 1% for the first time
• Singapore's Total Fertility Rate fell to a historic low of 0.97 in 2023, first time below one, signaling
a deepening demographic challenge.
• A decline in both resident marriages and births reflects ongoing trends of fewer familial
formations.
• Singapore's problem aligns with broader global patterns seen in European countries, Malaysia,
and Thailand, exacerbating manpower shortages.
Ghana’s parliament passed anti-LGBTQ bill
• Ghana's parliament approved a stringent anti-LGBTQ bill, facing condemnation from rights
activists for harsh penalties on LGBTQ individuals and supporters.
• Sponsored by religious and traditional leaders, the bill penalizes LGBTQ acts and advocacy.
• Activists urge rejection of the bill, highlighting a setback to human rights in Ghana, where LGBTQ
discrimination is prevalent.
Peru declared health emergency amidst dengue surge.
• In Peru, the government has declared a health emergency due to the rapidly rising cases of
dengue fever across the South American country.
• The health emergency was declared in 20 of Peru's 25 regions.
• The move will enable the government to transfer funds more quickly to affected regions and more
easily deploy doctors and nurses.
In South Korea, world's lowest fertility rate plunged again in 2023
• South Korea's fertility rate hit a new low of 0.72 in 2023 from 0.72 in 2022, underscoring the
ongoing demographic crisis affecting economic growth and social welfare.
• It is far below the rate of 2.1 per woman needed for a steady population.
• Career advancement and financial concerns prompt South Korean women to postpone or forgo
childbirth, despite government spending to reverse the trend.
New Zealand set to scrap world-first tobacco ban
• New Zealand's government will repeal world-first anti-tobacco law, enabling tobacco sales to
future generations, affecting planned sales ban and nicotine reduction.
• Set to take effect from July, the toughest anti-tobacco rules in the world would have banned sales
to those born after Jan. 1, 2009
33 | P a g e
• Government to propose alternative measures to curb smoking, including tighter vaping

regulations.
Algeria inaugurated world’s third-largest mosque ahead of Ramadan
• Algeria has inaugurated the world's third-largest mosque, Djamaa El-Djazair, ahead of Ramadan.
• It features the tallest minaret at 265 meters and can accommodate 120,000 people.
• Constructed over seven years, it has been adorned with a modernist design and houses a library
for up to one million books.
• The mosque can accommodate 120,000 people at one time.
Philippines becomes first Asian country to ratify ILO convention
• The Philippines has become the first Asian country to ratify a convention to end workplace
violence and harassment.
• The Philippines deposited the instrument of ratification of the Violence and Harassment
Convention 2019 (No. 190) with ILO Deputy Director-General Celeste Drake on Tuesday, becoming
the 38th country in the world and the first Asian country to ratify Convention No. 190.
UAE dropped from FATF’s financial crime watch list
• The UAE has been dropped from a global watchdog's list of countries at risk of illicit money flows.
• The EU still lists the UAE as a high-risk country for money laundering and terrorist financing, along
with countries like South Africa, North Korea and Afghanistan
• FATF founded in 1989 on the initiative of the G7 to develop policies to combat money laundering
and to maintain certain interest
Three-day International Gita Mahotsav: Colombo
• The International Gita Mahotsav will be held in Colombo from March 1.
• The festival will be held at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre premises with the financial sponsorship of
Haryana’s Kurukshetra Development Board.
• On the 4th of March, a copy of the "Srimad Bhagavad Gita" will be presented to the Parliament
of Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh observes Language Day- Amar Ekushey
• Bangladesh observes 'Amar Ekushey', commemorating the language movement martyrs of 1952
who advocated for Bangla as the official language of then East Pakistan.
• In 1952, Pakistani forces' gunfire killed many protesting students during 'Amar Ekushey', sparking
widespread unrest in Bangladesh.
• President Mohammed Shahabuddin and PM Sheikh Hasina paid homage at the Shaheed Minar,
Dhaka
IIT-Delhi fellowships awarded to University of Canterbury researchers
• University of Canterbury academics awarded two of four inaugural IIT-Delhi India-New Zealand
Centre Fellowships.
34 | P a g e
• The IIT-Delhi India-New Zealand Centre aims to bolster academic and cultural exchange through
joint research in climate change, disaster management, urban planning, and environmental
monitoring.
• Professor Clemency Montelle and Professor Matthew Wilson received the Fellowship.
WHO launched digital health platform agreed in India’s G20 presidency
• Digital health refers to the use of technology, such as mobile devices, software apps etc. to
improve healthcare delivery.
• India’s CoWIN, UNICEF’s RapidPro and FamilyConnect etc. are few notable examples of digital
health initiatives.
• The Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), launched by World Health Organization is a
platform for sharing knowledge and digital products among countries.
EU launched "Operation Aspides" to protect shipping from Houthis
• The European Union has launched Naval Force "Operation Aspides" to protect Red Sea cargo
ships from Houthi attacks.
• The mission includes European warships, airborne early warning systems in Red Sea, Gulf of Aden.
• The initiative aims for a stronger European sea presence, ensuring navigation freedom.
UAE's non-oil trade hit record $952.93 billion in 2023.
• The United Arab Emirates non-oil trade reached a record high of 3.5 trillion dirhams ($952.93
billion) in 2023
• UAE's Prime Minister:- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum
• Trade in non-oil goods rose 12.6% from the previous year, while exports of goods and services
surpassed 1 trillion dirhams to set a new record.
• Minister of Foreign Trade:- Thani Al Zeyoudi
Japan hosts Ukraine reconstruction conference
• Japanese PM Fumio Kishida commits to Ukraine's reconstruction and views it as an investment
for the future.
• Over 50 cooperation agreements were signed between Japan and Ukraine.
• A memorandum of a cooperation exchange ceremony during the Japan-Ukraine Conference for
Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction at Keidanren Kaikan building in Tokyo
• Ukraine’s PM:- Denys Shmyhal
Ashwin Ramaswami: 1st Gen Z Indian-American running for GA Senate.
• Ashwin Ramaswami, a Gen Z Indian-American, steps into the political arena, running for a
Georgia Senate seat.
• Representing the Democrats, Ramaswami aims to unseat incumbent Republican Shawn Still.
• This landmark candidacy marks a significant chapter for Indian-Americans in U.S. politics,
symbolizing increased diversity and youth engagement in the governmental process.
Nepal celebrates National Democracy Day
35 | P a g e
• Every year Falgun 7 of Bikram Sambat is celebrated as National Democracy day in Nepal.
• Ordinary Nepali people's struggle ended the 104-year Rana regime in 1951, ushering in democracy.
• The armed struggle had established democracy in the country on Falgun 7, 2007 BS.
• The government has been observing Democracy Day on this day by organizing a special program
at Tudikhel every year.
Greece legalizes same-sex marriage. 👩🏻‍🤝
‍🧑🏼
• Greece became the first majority Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex marriage
• The bill also allows same-sex couples to adopt children and confers full parental rights to married
partners.
• Greece became the 16th EU country to legislate marriage equality
• 176 of 300 lawmakers voted in favor of the measure. Seventy-six rejected the bill, two abstained
and 46 were not present.
Zelensky secures security agreements with Germany, France. 🪖
• Zelensky signed a bilateral security agreement with Germany and plans another with France.
• The agreements aimed at demonstrating long-term solidarity and support nearly 2 years after
Russia launched its full-scale war.
• Berlin was providing another 1.1 billion-euro ($1.2 billion) package, including 36 howitzers, 120,000
rounds of artillery ammunition, and two more air defense systems.
US passed Quad Bill to strengthen cooperation with partner countries💪
• The US House of Representatives passed the 'Quad Bill' to strengthen cooperation among Quad
member countries.
• The bill aims to establish a working group with Japan, Australia, and India to facilitate closer
collaboration on shared interests.
• It requires the US State Department to report a strategy for enhancing engagement with Quad,
focusing on technology development & economic integration.
Japan in recession, loses third largest economy tag to Germany📈
• Japan's economy unexpectedly contracted, leading to a recession and the loss of its third-largest
economic status to Germany.
• Weak domestic consumption, with private consumption declining by 0.2%, contributed to the
economic downturn.
• Factors like high prices for food and fuel, weak currency, and recent earthquakes exacerbated
Japan's economic challenges.
Dream of the Desert: Saudi Arabia is launching its own luxury train🚆
• Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) partnered with Arsenale Group for a $53.33 million deal to launch
the kingdom's first luxury train.
• The "Dream of the Desert" luxury train will offer "luxury train cruise" journeys from Riyadh to
Qurayyat, spanning 1,300 kilometers.
36 | P a g e
• With 40 luxury cabins, the train aims to attract tourists to explore the kingdom's stunning desert
landscapes.
Aviation leaders united for NetZero by 2050 at World Govt Summit🤝
• Aviation leaders are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, recognizing the urgent
need to decarbonize the industry.
• Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) are seen as a critical solution.
• Industry leaders are working with governments to boost SAF production.
• Aviation companies are investing in SAF projects, aircraft efficiency improvements, alternative
propulsion technologies.
Dubai to launch World's First Air Taxi Service🚁
• Dubai has signed agreements to launch the world's first air taxi service in 2026.
• The air taxis will be electric-powered, have a range of 161 km, and a top speed of 321 km/h.
• The air taxi network will aim to reduce noise levels, operating emissions, and enhance passenger
convenience.
• Dubai has inked this agreements at the World Government Summit 2024 to launch this initiative.
New Guinea's PM first Pacific leader to address Australia's Parliament
• Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape addresses members and senators in the House
of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia.
• He became the first Pacific leader to address Australia's Parliament, vowing “nothing will come in
between our two countries”.
• Australia will spend AUD 100 million ($65.3 million) on Papua New Guinea's internal security.
Rio de Janeiro declares health emergency amid dengue fever surge.
• The city has opened 10 care centers, created an emergency operations center, and allocated
hospital beds specifically for dengue patients.
• The surge in dengue cases is attributed to increased temperatures and high rainfall associated
with climate change
• Rio has registered 10,000 cases so far this year, compared to 23,000 for the whole of 2023.
Israel Scientists uncover underwater canyon 'Eratosthenes' near Cyprus
• The Geological Institute of Israel reveals a new underwater canyon, named Eratosthenes, near
Cyprus, shedding light on ancient geological events dating back 5.5 million years.
• The canyon, measuring 10 km in width and 500 m in depth, formed during the Messinian Event
• It was created when the level of the Mediterranean Sea decreased at the same time there was a
rise in the salinity of the water
Oleg Kononenko set record for most time spent in space
• Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko set a world record for most time spent in space, surpassing
878 days or nearly two-and-a-half years.
37 | P a g e
• Kononenko broke the record while orbiting Earth during his fifth space flight, scheduled to end in
late September, when he will have logged a total of 1,110 days in space.
• Kononenko emphasized the significance of Russia's continued dominance in space sector.
France became first European country to issue digital Schengen visas
• France will become the first European country to introduce digital Schengen visas for visitors
attending the upcoming Paris Olympics.
• The "Olympic Consulate" system, operational from 2024, will handle visa applications for 15,000
athletes, 9,000 journalists, and delegations from foreign countries.
• This will help evade the complication of French visa processes amidst rising visa demand.
Kenya announced discovery of Coltan Deposits
• Kenya discovered coltan deposits within its borders for the first time, presenting a potential
economic boost.
• Coltan is a valuable mineral used in producing electronics and electric car batteries, with global
demand expected to rise.
• Ethical concerns surrounding coltan mining, such as environmental destruction and labor rights
abuses, necessitate responsible extraction practices in Kenya.
38 | P a g e
MoU and Agreements Current Affairs

NTPC Green Energy and MAHAGENCO partner for renewable energy parks
• The company to be set up under the joint venture will develop GigaWatt (GW)-scale renewable
energy parks and undertake projects of this scale in a phased manner.
• NTPC Group has ambitious plans to attain 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032.
• MAHAGENCO has an installed capacity of about 13,170 MW, including 9,540 MW Thermal, 2,580
MW Hydro, 672 MW Gas and 378 MW Solar-plant capacity.
Reliance, Disney announce deal to create $8.5 billion media goliath
• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Viacom18, and Walt Disney have signed definitive agreements
to form a joint venture by merging Viacom18's media operations into Star India through a court-
approved scheme of arrangement.
• RIL has committed to investing Rs 11,500 crore ($1.4 billion) in the JV, which is valued at Rs 70,352
crore ($8.5 billion) post-money, excluding synergies.
NIA signs MoU with the Government of Thailand
• The National Institute of Ayurveda, and Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine
Thailand signed a MoU on the establishment of an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Thai
Traditional Medicine.
• India chairs the 10th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting.
• B.K. Singh - Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
• Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin - Director General, DoTTAMT.
NVIDIA to collaborate with Indian Govt to develop India's Sovereign AI
• NVIDIA will collaborate with the Indian Government and help them to develop India’s Sovereign
AI, revealed IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
• The move will prove to be massively beneficial for Digital Public Infrastructure.
• He highlighted the significant opportunity for NVIDIA to contribute to the government’s efforts
with robust infrastructure supporting generative AI models.
NICDC and IIT Delhi Collaborate for Industrial Smart Cities Assessment
• National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited and Foundation for Innovation
and Technology Transfer at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi signed an MoU to assess
location optimality for Greenfield Industrial Smart Cities in India.
• The collaboration aims to leverage PM GatiShakti and advanced technology for informed
decision-making in urban planning.
Election Commission sign MoUs with Bank association and Post Office.
• The Election Commission has tied up with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the Department
of Posts (DoP) to amplify its outreach to electors ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
39 | P a g e
• As part of the agreement, both the organisations with its members and affiliated institutions or
units will extend support in promoting voter education through their extensive network on a pro-
bono basis
Bihar Govt & SIDBI signed MoU for Startup Ecosystem
• Bihar partners with SIDBI to foster startup growth, aiming to transform the state into a significant
startup hub.
• It introduces the Bihar Startup Scale-up Financing Fund with a Rs 50-crore corpus managed by
the Bihar Startup Fund Trust.
• This is part of the Startup Policy, featuring a substantial Rs 500 crore initial corpus to provide
crucial scale-up funding support to emerging startups.
MoWCD and MoAYUSH to boost nutrition in Utkarsh Districts
• Smriti Irani and Sarbananda Sonowal to chair an event for signing an MoU between MoWCD and
MoAYUSH, aiming to improve the nutritional status of adolescent girls in 5 Utkarsh Districts.
• The initiative is a component of Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, designed to battle
malnutrition with a multi-sectoral approach by engaging various ministries, departments, and
states/union territories
SSB inks MoU with Bengaluru institute to provide high education
• The SSB signed a MoU with United World Academy, offering world-class, affordable education
for children of its serving and retired personnel.
• The MoU was signed by Pradeep Kumar Gupta, Inspector General of the SSB, and KC Vijaya
Kumar, President of the United World Academy, Bangalore.
• SSB Director General - Daljit Singh Chawdhary
• The institute will offer 100 free seats to the wards.
Bangalore Airport's Green Energy Initiative
• CleanMax and Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) have signed a 25-year long-term
power purchase agreement for the generation and supply of renewable energy.
• The project, featuring 36 MW solar and 9.9 MW wind power plants, highlights the partnership's
dedication to sustainable energy usage and environmental responsibility.
• It is expected to generate 90 million units annually.
IRCTC, Swiggy to offer pre-ordered meals to train passengers
• IRCTC collaborated with Swiggy to offer pre-ordered meals to train passengers via its e-catering
portal, enhancing travel dining options.
• The service set for a launch at Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam
stations in its initial phase.
• This strategic partnership follows a previous tie-up with Zomato, indicating IRCTC’s commitment
to expanding quality food service options.
WTC Utah, IIRF to collaborate on India Trade Mission 2024
40 | P a g e
• World Trade Center Utah and Indus International Research Foundation partnered for
transformative trade mission to India.
• This strategic alliance aims to fortify economic relations between the U.S. state of Utah and India,
unlocking opportunities including aerospace, defence, technology, education, cybersecurity, and
more.
• Events to take place in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad & Bangalore.
NBCC and HUDCO join hands to boost infra & urban development
• NBCC and HUDCO signed 3 MoUs for bolstering infrastructure and urban rejuvenation.
• The MoUs have been formalized in the presence of NBCC's CMD KP Mahadevaswamy and
HUDCO CMD Sanjay Kulshrestha.
• NBCC and HUDCO will also collaborate on Asset Monetization activities.
• This collaboration aims to harness the collective expertise of both entities for sustainable
infrastructure solutions.
iCreate, Microsoft, MeitY joined hands to boost India's AI Startups
• Microsoft and iCreate launched iMPEL-AI (iCreate-Microsoft programme for Emerging Leaders in
Artificial Intelligence) program to screen 1100 AI innovators across India.
• The program will select and scale 100 startups across India to build with Azure OpenAI, and the
top 25 will receive go-to-market support from Microsoft’s Global Network to develop advanced,
globally competitive products.
IREDA and PNB partner to boost Renewable Energy Finance
• IREDA and Punjab National Bank signed a MoU to enhance financing for India's renewable energy
projects, aiming to accelerate clean energy development.
• The partnership focuses on making finance more accessible for green energy developers.
• It will leverage both entities' strengths, reducing financial risks for larger projects, thus fostering
sustainable growth and environmental consciousness.
IIT Roorkee & EIL collaborate to drive research and innovation👨🏼🤝
• Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) and Engineers India Limited (EIL) joined
hands intending to enhance innovation and research in areas of green technologies.
• Key research domains identified CO2 conversion to valuable chemicals for emissions reduction
and economic opportunities.
• Prof KK Pant - Director IIT Roorkee
India signs MoU with Colombia on sharing India's open-sourced DPIs. 📱
• India and Colombia signed a MoU on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital
Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation.
• It was signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the
Information Technologies and Communications of Colombia.
• Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar exchanged the MoU with Mr. Mauricio Lizcano
41 | P a g e
AFMS and IIT Roorkee to collaborate for medical research🏥

• AFMS and IIT Roorkee have signed an MoU to promote biomedical research and improve medical
care for military personnel.
• The collaboration includes research on medical devices, robotics, nanotechnology, AI, and
machine learning.
• Faculty exchange programs, joint academic activities, and healthcare startups are also within the
scope of the MoU.
MoD signed with AWEIL for Stabilized Remote Control Guns🤝
• Defence Ministry signed contract with Advanced Weapon Equipment India Ltd. for 463
indigenously manufactured 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote Control Guns for the Indian Navy and
Coast Guard.
• The SRCG will enhance the capability of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to engage small
targets in asymmetric environments.
• This acquisition will provide opportunities for over 125 Indian vendors and DPSUs.
MoU extended for Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre🏛️
• Ministry of DoNER, North Eastern Council and IIM Shillong signed MoU for continued operation
of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis.
• The Centre aims to assist North Eastern states and implementing agencies in planning and
executing projects, promoting innovation, and serving as a repository of best practices.
TEC, Amrita University to collaborate on Responsible AI🧑‍💻
• Telecommunication Engineering Centre and Amrita University signed a Memorandum of
Understanding for collaboration in the area of trustworthy and responsible artificial intelligence
systems.
• The collaboration aims to establish a framework for evaluating and certifying the fairness &
reliability of AI technologies.
• The partnership seeks to bridge the gap between academia and government bodies.
CIAL, BPCL to set up first green hydrogen plant at Cochin airport🛫
• Cochin International Airport Ltd and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd have signed an MoU to
establish the world's first green hydrogen plant and fueling station at Cochin Airport.
• Green hydrogen is produced from water via electrolysis.
• This strategic partnership will contribute to CIAL's continued efforts in promoting sustainable and
innovative green energy initiatives.
IT Department to ink deals worth ₹91,000 crore.💰
• IT department to roll out MoUs worth ₹91,000 crore at the groundbreaking ceremony (GBC) to be
held on February 19.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch 60 mega MoUs of the IT department, which are
expected to generate 81,424 employment opportunities.
42 | P a g e
• Major investments include the Noida Data Center Park, TARQ Semiconductors Private Limited,
and Sify Infinite Space Limited.
Defence Ministry signs ₹2,269 Cr. contract for 11 shakti EW systems 💰
• The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth ₹2,269 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited
for the procurement of 11 Shakti Electronic Warfare Systems for the Indian Navy.
• The Shakti EW System is indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured. It is capable of
accurately intercepting electronic emissions and implementing countermeasures in a dense
electromagnetic environment.
AIIMS Delhi, Liverpool University to collaborate for Cancer Research
• AIIMS New Delhi and the University of Liverpool have signed an agreement to establish the 'AIIMS
Liverpool Collaborative Centre for Translational Research in Head and Neck Cancer - ALHNS'.
• ALHNS aims to deliver cutting-edge medical innovation and personalized cancer treatments by
building upon existing collaboration between the Liverpool Head and Neck Centre and AIIMS.
IREDA and IIT Bhubaneswar signed MoU for Clean Energy Innovation🤝
• IREDA and IIT Bhubaneswar signed an MoU to collaborate on innovation, research, and start-up
ecosystem in the renewable energy sector.
• The partnership will facilitate joint research, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives
for IREDA officials.
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister for Education, Skill Development &
Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan.
Education Ministry tied up with FIFA to promote football culture⚽
• The Ministry of Education and FIFA are distributing 11 lakh footballs to 1.5 lakh schools across
India to promote football in schools.
• Union Education Minister launched the distribution in December and has already distributed
6,848 footballs to 1,260 schools in 17 districts of Odisha.
• The footballs have also been distributed in Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Dadra and Nagar Haveli,
etc.
India-ADB partnered to evade flood & erosion along Brahmaputra river🤝
• India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $200 million loan agreement for the
Climate Resilient Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Project
in Assam.
• The project aims to stabilize riverbanks, install pro-siltation measures, and build climate-resilient
flood embankments in five high-priority districts.
Balmer Lawrie signed MoU with IIM Lucknow for its startup program🤝
• Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd. signed an MoU with IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Centre to
incubate start-ups.
• Balmer Lawrie launched its startup fund in 2017, aligned with PM Modi's 'Startup India' initiative.
43 | P a g e
• IIML EIC has collaborated with various PSUs, banks, and MNCs to provide a structured framework
for startup growth, including accelerator programs, seed capital, and mentorship.
Tata Steel, South East Railway joined hands to develop green infra 🚇
• Tata Steel and South Eastern Railway will collaborate to develop sustainable rail infrastructure
using Tata Steel's slag-based aggregates.
• Tata Aggreto and Tata Nirman, greener alternatives to natural aggregates, will be used in the
construction of blanketing layers in railway tracks.
• This collaboration aims to preserve biodiversity by reducing the need for mining natural
aggregates.
"Etihad" to be official sponsor of Chennai Super Kings
• Gulf carrier Etihad Airways agreed with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to become its official
sponsor.
• The partnership will cover CSK's events and platforms, while its players' jerseys will display the
Etihad logo.
• Etihad announces Bollywood star Katrina Kaif as its brand ambassador.
• Etihad Airways Chief Revenue Officer - Arik De
MRPL and BPCL sign long-term RLNG pact
• Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) takes a significant step towards its net-
zero commitment and carbon footprint reduction by signing a long-term gas supply agreement
with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL).
• Under the 5-year agreement, BPCL will provide 0.43 MMSCMD of Regasified Liquefied Natural
Gas (RLNG) to MRPL's refinery and petrochemical facility in Mangalore.
MoRD and BRAC partner for economic inclusion and social protection
• National Rural Livelihood Promotion Society (NRLPS) and BRAC International signed an MoU to
empower poor women under DAY-NRLM.
• The collaboration aims to provide economic inclusion and social protection for the poorest of the
poor women in India.
• The MoU was formalized in the presence of senior officials from NRLPS, MoRD, and BRAC
International.
Monthly Revision January: Agreements & MoUs-I
• GAIL secured a 10-year LNG deal With UAE
• India, France adopted Roadmap for Defence Industrial Partnership
• Airbus and Tata to collaborate on the helicopter manufacturing facility.
• Cabinet Approves India-Oman MoU for IT Cooperation
• Joint economic and trade committee between India and Dominica Republic
• ACME and IHI Forge pact for green ammonia supply from India to Japan.
Monthly Revision January: Agreements & MoUs-II
44 | P a g e
• India & Cuba signed an MoU on digital public infrastructure collaboration

• Google Pay India inks MoU with NPCI to expand UPI
• Adani's Rs 62,400 Cr investment for Data Centres and Renewable Energy.
• GIFT City, IGX, and GSPC forge global hydrogen trading alliances.
• NLCIL awarded a 2400 MW Thermal Power Project in Odisha to BHEL
• ICG and SAIL signed an MOU for indigenous content in shipbuilding
ITC joined Argentine Football Association to promote food brands
• ITC has partnered with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) to promote its snacks, pasta, and
noodles brands.
• The collaboration will last for a year and will involve members of the World Cup-winning
Argentine football team endorsing ITC's food brands.
• ITC aims to leverage the popularity of the Argentine football team to increase brand awareness
and sales of its food products.
SECL to bring affordable healthcare with AMRIT pharmacies
• SECL, a subsidiary of Coal India, will become the first coal company to open AMRIT Pharmacies
in its hospitals, providing quality medicines at subsidized rates to employees and the general
public.
• The MoU signed between SECL and HLL Lifecare will establish Amrit Pharmacy stores in SECL
hospitals, initially in Bilaspur and operational areas like Gevra, Sohagpur, and Chirimiri.
India and Oman sign MoU to strengthen defense cooperation
• The 12th India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation Committee meeting was co-chaired by Defence
Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane and Secretary General, Ministry of Defence, Oman Dr.
Mohammed Bin Naseer Bin Ali Al Zaabi in Muscat.
• An MoU was signed, between India and Oman, about the procurement of Defense Materials and
Equipment, providing a framework for a new area of defense collaboration.
45 | P a g e
National Current Affairs

National Security Guard is replacing Labradors with Belgian Malinois
• India's counter-terrorism unit, the National Security Guard (NSG), is in the process of replacing its
Labrador squad with the more ferocious Belgian Malinois dog.
• So far, NSG’s Black Cat commandos used Labradors for sniffing and tracking, while German
Shepherds are used for attacking.
• The Belgian Malinois dogs are now being trained to carry out all three tasks – sniff, track and
attack.
CAG, ICAI to launch online courses to bolster local bodies’ accounting
• The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has partnered with the Institute of Chartered
Accountants of India to develop a set of online courses to create a pool of certified accountants
to strengthen accounting system at panchayat and municipal bodies
• These initiatives aim to support the third tier of governance for effective utilisation of taxpayer's
money, thereby fostering transparency.
Reliance launched animal welfare initiative ‘Vantara’
• Reliance launched Vantara in Jamnagar for animal rescue and rehabilitation, spread across 3,000
acres.
• Initiative under Anant Ambani’s lead, blending with Reliance's net zero carbon goal by 2035,
features jungle-like habitats for rescued species.
• Vantara focuses on advanced animal healthcare, collaborates with IUCN, WWF, and aims to
integrate research with international partnerships.
PM Modi to inaugurate NCL's first mile connectivity projects.
• PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate two significant First Mile Connectivity Projects (FMC) of
Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL).
• These projects, valued at Rs 1393.69 Crore spearheaded by Northern Coalfields Limited.
• These projects, after an inauguration, will usher in a new era of efficiency and sustainability in
coal evacuation processes.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launched SWAYAM Plus platform
• Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched SWAYAM Plus, enhancing NEP2020's reach,
targeting 43M+ students & professionals.
• MoUs with companies like TCS, L&T EduTech for industry courses on SWAYAM Plus, emphasizing
skill development & employability.
• SWAYAM Plus empowers individuals to balance work and studies through online courses,
enhancing skills and career prospects.
V.O. Chidambaranar Port to be converted into a Green Hydrogen Hub
• PM Modi has launched infrastructure projects worth ₹17,300 crore, including the Outer Harbor
Container Terminal.
46 | P a g e
• India's first green hydrogen fuel cell vessel launched under Harit Nauka initiative.
• V.O. Chidambaranar Port decided to be converted into a Green Hydrogen Hub.
• Rail and road projects unveiled to boost connectivity, alongside dedication of tourist facilities at
75 lighthouses.
Home Secretary got powers to destroy interception orders
• Opposition leaders, journalists and activists have seen increased evidence of surveillance;
surveillance records can now be destroyed by the Home Secretary.
• This power was vested only with security agencies until now under 2009 rules that were framed
for regulating call intercepts.
• In 2018, MHA had authorised 10 agencies including ED and IB to snoop into communications in a
statutory order.
Government declares ‘Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir’ as an 'Unlawful"
• Government of India has declared ‘Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir’ as an 'Unlawful Association'
for a further period of 5 years under Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
1967.
• The organisation is found continuing its activities against the security, integrity and sovereignty
of the nation.
• The outfit was first declared an 'Unlawful Association' on 28 February 2019.
Government launches 'Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye' campaign
• The government will organise 'Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye' in Higher Educational institutions
across the country.
• The objective is to engage and encourage young voters to vote and convey the importance of
voting for the larger good of the nation.
• The programme will be continued till the 6th of March.
• Dharmendra Pradhan has urged the youth of the nation to make their voices heard.
Rajya Sabha Election Result 2024
• The results for the Upper House election in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Himachal
Pradesh were declared.
• Total seats are 10 in Uttar Pradesh, four in Karnataka, and one in Himachal Pradesh.
• Karnataka: Ajay Maken, Dr Syed Naseer Hussain, GC Chandrashekhar, and Narayana Bandage
• Himachal Pradesh: Harsh Mahajan
• UP: BJP won eight out of 10 Rajya Sabha seats.
PM Modi inaugrated 2,000 railway infra projects worth ₹41,000 crore
• The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for 554 station redevelopment projects under the
‘Amrit Bharat’ station scheme.
• 1,500 road over bridge and under-passes will also be developed.
• PM also inaugurated Gomtinagar station in Uttar Pradesh. The station redevelopment took place
at an estimated cost of ₹385 crore.
47 | P a g e
India's ﬁrst septic tank cleaning robot strengthening Swatch Bharat.

• India's ﬁrst septic tank cleaning robot, offering an end-to-end solution to eliminate manual
scavenging, is strengthening the Swachhata Abhiyan.
• The technology called Homosep Atom solves manual cleaning methods and transforms them into
robotic cleaning methods.
• It is developed by the startup incubated in the Department of Science and Technology -
Technology Business Incubator of IIT Madras.
Mr. Rajeev launches ‘Investor Information and Analytics Plateform"
• Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar Launches ‘Investor Information and Analytics Platform’
Developed by IIT Madras.
• IIT Madras Introduces One-Stop-Shop Platform for Startups to Access to Investor Networks,
Insights & Research Analysis
• This platform will help researchers to understand how vast, deep, and diversified our startup
innovation ecosystem is.
President Murmu to open 'Purple Fest' at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
• 'Purple Fest', is to be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
• The event features interactive stalls, Purple Cafe, sports, live experiences, and tours of the
Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum to highlight and promote accessibility and inclusion.
• The fest offers a platform for insights into creating a more inclusive society, touching on various
disabilities.
PM Modi inaugurates two ‘Ayush Projects’ in Jhajjar and Pune
• PM Modi, inaugurated virtually two institutes of the Ministry of Ayush which will further promote
a holistic healthcare scenario in the country.
• The ‘Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy’ (CRIYN) at Jhajjar, Haryana, and the
National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) titled ‘NISARG GRAM’ in Pune, Maharashtra were
inaugurated.
• 19 Acre Project has been built with a cost of Rs 63 cr.
Andhra's Sai invents world's smallest washing machine
• Sai Tirumalaneedi from Andhra Pradesh clinches a Guinness World Record for crafting the world's
tiniest washing machine, measuring just 37x41x43 mm and weighing 33 grams.
• His creation features a 5-gram DC motor among other mini components.
• Sai, who had previously made the smallest air cooler, earned recognition in the India Book of
Records
Sports winners in armed forces will get financial incentives
• Rahnath Singh approved financial incentives for armed personnel who bagged medals in the 19th
Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China in Sep-Oct 2023.
48 | P a g e
• Gold medal winners will receive a cash reward of ₹25 lakh each, silver medal winners ₹15 lakh
each, and Bronze medal winners ₹10 lakh each.
• By 2028-29, India’s annual defense production is expected to touch ₹3 lakh crore.
PM Modi to Inaugurate First Mile Connectivity Projects of SECL
• PM Modi is scheduled to virtually inaugurate First Mile Connectivity Projects of South Eastern
Coalfields Limited.
• These projects, valued at over Rs 600 cr, mark a significant step towards faster, eco-friendly, and
efficient mechanized coal evacuation.
• The Dipka OCP Coal Handling Plant, located in SECL's Dipka Area, stands out as a key project
constructed at a cost exceeding Rs. 211 Crore.
PM Modi to inaugurate Global Textile Expo-Bharat Tex 2024
• PM Modi will inaugurate Global Textile Expo-Bharat Tex 2024 on 26th February in New Delhi.
• The four-day-long Bharat Tex will be spread over 22 lakh square feet of exhibition area across
Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi.
• The Expo will also witness the launch of Textiles Grand Innovation Challenge aimed at identifying
futuristic circular solutions
Two from Bhopal finish world’s toughest Frozen Lake Marathon
• Bhagwan Singh and Mahesh Khurana from Bhopal completed the Pangong Frozen Lake
Marathon 2024 in Leh-Ladakh
• The Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon is known as the ‘World’s Highest Frozen Lake Marathon’ at
an altitude of 18,680 feet
• The marathon, organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh with support from the
Administration Union Territory of Ladakh
Election Commission recognized NCP-Sharad Pawar party, allotted symbol
• Election Commission assigned "man-blowing turha" symbol to the Nationalist Congress Party-
Sharadchandra Pawar faction following a split in the party in July last year.
• The split occurred after Ajit Pawar and eight MLAs joined Eknath Shinde's government, leading
to the allocation of the original party name and "clock" symbol to Ajit Pawar's faction.
IIT Guwahati launches India's largest drone pilot training institute.
• IIT Guwahati, in collaboration with EduRade, launched India's largest Remote Pilot Training
Organization to fly 9 medium-class drones simultaneously.
• The primary objective of this RPTO is to promote the advancement of drone technology in India.
• It aligns with the vision of PM Modi to establish India as a global drone hub by 2030, thereby
contributing to the 'Namo Drone Didi' initiative.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launches 'Capacity Building Plan'
• Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Annual Capacity Building Plan for the Railways Ministry.
49 | P a g e
• The annual plan has been crafted to ensure capacity building and holistic development of
manpower keeping in mind National Priorities.
• It has helped them develop their capabilities to deliver the government’s services to the masses
in a better manner.
CJI inaugurated Ayush Holistic Wellness Centre at Supreme Court
• Chief Justice of India inaugurated the 'Ayush Holistic Wellness Centre' at the Supreme Court.
• An MoU was signed between the Supreme Court and the All-India Institute of Ayurveda to
establish and operate the wellness center.
• The center, aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being, is a collaboration
between the Supreme Court and AIIA under the Ministry of Ayush.
Government of India allowed 100% FDI in space sector
• The Union Cabinet approved an amendment in the FDI policy, allowing 100% foreign investment
in the space sector.
• GoI liberalized entry routes aiming to attract potential investors to Indian space companies.
• FDI up to 100% under the automatic route will be permitted for manufacturing components and
systems for satellites.
PM Modi celebrated Amul's 50 Years of Dairy Excellence
• PM honored Amul's Golden Jubilee, highlighting its journey from a small cooperative to a global
dairy giant.
• He acknowledged the contribution of over 36 lakh farmers and livestock to Amul’s success.
• He celebrated Amul’s remarkable growth and its pivotal role in making Bharat the world’s largest
milk producer, with a network extending across 50 countries.
Government approves Umbrella Scheme on “Safety of Women”.
• The Umbrella Scheme on 'Safety of Women' has been allocated a total budget of Rs. 1179.72 cr.
for the period spanning 2021-22 to 2025-26.
• Projects under the Scheme:
o 112 Support System
o Upgradation of Forensic laboratories
o Cyber Crime Prevention
o Women Help Desk
o Anti-human Trafficking Units.
•
• Rs.885.49 cr. will be provided by MHA
• Rs.294.23 cr. will be funded from Nirbhaya Fund.
Modi Govt hikes FRP for sugarcane by 8% to ₹340.
• FRP of sugarcane for Season 2024-25 at ₹ 340/quintal at sugar recovery rate of 10.25%.
• Which is about 8% higher than FRP of sugarcane for current season 2023-24.
• India is already paying the highest price of sugarcane in the world
50 | P a g e
• This decision is going to benefit more than 5 crore sugarcane farmers

• However, ₹ 315.10/quintal is the minimum price of sugarcane which is at recovery of 9.5%.
AYUSH and Tribal Affairs Ministries launch joint initiative for health
• The joint National Level Project of Health Screening and Management through Ayurvedic
Interventions will benefit over 20000 Tribal Students.
• Union Minister for AYUSH Sarbananda Sonowal and Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda together
announced an initiative to address the health needs of children in Eklavya Model Residential
Schools across tribal areas
AIIMS and IIT Delhi collaborate for HQ Elbow Replacement Surgery
• Collaboration between AIIMS and IIT Delhi aims to provide accessible, precise, and high-quality
implants for elbow replacement surgeries.
• The partnership addresses challenges posed by the high cost and inadequate quality of imported
elbow replacement setups.
• The initiative led by Prof. Bhavuk Garg and a Team from AIIMS to revolutionize elbow
replacement surgery in India.
IGNOU holds 37th convocation ceremony
• Over 300,000 degrees, diplomas, and certificates were conferred at the 37th convocation
ceremony of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
• The convocation ceremony was held at the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Convention Centre, IGNOU
Maidan Garhi Campus, New Delhi.
• Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar attended the ceremony as the chief guest.
Startek honored as one of India's best workplaces in IT
• Startek® (NYSE: SRT), a leading global customer experience solutions provider, has been honored
by Great Place To Work® India as one of India's Best Workplaces™ in IT & IT-BPM for 2023.
• S.M. Gupta, Global Chief People Officer at Startek, emphasizes the company's focus on integrity,
diversity, innovation, and teamwork.
PM Modi inaugurated India's Longest Tunnel in Jammu
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the first electrified trains in Jammu's Kashmir
valley on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL).
• The inauguration includes the 12.77-km T-50 tunnel, the country's longest transportation tunnel,
enhancing connectivity in the region.
• The event also marked the opening of the 48.1-km Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan section.
Panvel gets ₹650 cr for India’s largest training centre. 🏣
• Panvel sees major infrastructure development with PMC's ₹650 crore projects and the state
government's investment of ₹1700 crore for the country's largest training center.
• The State Government allocates ₹26 crore to PMC this year via the District Planning Committee,
set to increase to ₹36 crore in the next fiscal year.
51 | P a g e
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launches ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines 🛳

• The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal
launched ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines.
• "Sagar Aankalan" Guidelines aim to enhance Indian ports' performance through mapping,
benchmarking, and harmonizing standards with global benchmarks.
• GMIS 2023 emerged as one of the largest maritime summits globally, with an investment
commitment of ₹10 lakh crore.
Rohit Kumar Singh chaired committee to make guidelines on spam calls📞
• Department of Consumer Affairs formed a committee to tackle unwanted promotional calls,
comprising industry representatives.
• Meeting chaired by Rohit Kumar Singh discussed privacy breaches caused by unsolicited
commercial calls.
• The committee will emphasize telemarketers' registration on DLT platforms operated by major
telecom providers to combat SMS spam and protect consumers.
Sonowal inaugurates Kalughat Inland Water Transport Terminal. 🛳
• Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), officially
opened the Kalughat IWT (Inland Water Transport) Terminal and two community jetties in
Bettiah.
• The construction of the terminal, for Rs. 82.48 Crore, encompasses key infrastructure features,
including a 125m x 30m berth with an annual capacity of handling 77,000 TEUs.
Modi to lay foundation stone for ₹1,756 Cr, Barsingsar Solar Plant ☀
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will ceremonially lay the foundation stone for the 300 MW
Solar Power Plant.
• The company has secured a 300 MW solar project capacity in the CPSE Scheme Phase-II
Tranche-III floated by IREDA through competitive bidding.
• Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam Limited at a competitive tariff of Rs. 2.52/unit for the next 25 years.
I&B Minister Anurag Thakur inaugurates BSE EXPO-2024. 🚖
• I&B Minister Anurag Thakur inaugurates BSE EXPO-2024, emphasizing India's broadcasting sector
as a hub for innovation.
• Thakur highlights the importance of next-gen broadcasting tech and localized content to enrich
user experiences.
• Information & Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju underscores the need for indigenous
broadcasting technologies, aligning with Atmanirbharata Bharat Abhiyan.
GBC@IV unveils townships & railway coach projects in, Jhansi 🚆
• UPSIDA to launch projects worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore, including integrated townships, malls, industrial
parks, and more.
52 | P a g e
• Projects in Chandauli to create 18,000 jobs, including an integrated township and malls by World
Trade Center Noida.
• Significant investments in manufacturing, healthcare, and biofuel sectors to generate
employment across Uttar Pradesh.
Special 'Aastha' train to Ayodhya flagged off from Tripura. 🚆
• A special "Aastha" train carrying around 400 pilgrims to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh has been
flagged off from Tripura.
• This is the first time in Tripura that such a large number of people are going together to the holy
spot.
• Aastha train comprises 20 sleeper coaches. One train can accommodate around 1,400 people.
DCGI launches initiative to boost ease of doing business. 🚑
• The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing
the ease of doing business in India.
• The DCGI is the head of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
• It oversees drug approval, clinical trials, standards setting, and quality control of imports, and
coordinates with State Drug Control Organizations.
6 operational AIIMS to be dedicated to nation by PM Modi. 🏥
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of the AIIMS Rewari
• PM Modi to dedicate AIIMS Jammu to the nation on the 20th of this month and the 25th of this
month.
• PM Modi to dedicate to the nation AIIMS Rajkot, AIIMS Bhatinda, AIIMS Kalyani, AIIMS Mangalgiri
and AIIMS Raebareli on 25th
• The total cost incurred by the center on these 7 AIIMS is over Rs. 10,000 crores
SC declared Electoral Bonds scheme as Unconstitutional 📜
• Supreme Court struck down electoral bond scheme as unconstitutional and violative of Article 14
(equality before law).
• The Court directed the issuing bank (SBI) to stop issuing electoral bonds immediately.
• The court emphasized the need for transparency in political funding, pointing out that information
regarding corporate contributors through electoral bonds must be disclosed.
MeitY to hold first-ever Future Skills Summit in Guwahati🤝
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Institute of
Electronics and IT (NIELIT) are hosting the Future Skills Summit to discuss strategies for developing
future-ready talent in India.
• The Summit will focus on the impact of rapid digitization and new opportunities in cutting-edge
technologies like AI, ML, semiconductors, robotics, and cybersecurity.
Coastal Aquaculture Farm Registration Campaign launched🌊
53 | P a g e
• Coastal Aquaculture Authority launched a nationwide campaign to register all coastal

aquaculture farms.
• The Coastal Aquaculture Authority, Chennai under the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of
Fisheries started this campaign to achieve 100% farm registration in the country
• The first campaign to create awareness among farmers on need for registration was organized
at Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu
Coal Ministry reclaimed top position in GeM procurement🏆
• Ministry of Coal exceeded its GeM procurement target for FY 2023-24, reaching Rs. 63,890 Crore.
• Coal Ministry reclaimed the top position among all Central Ministries in GeM procurement, with
Coal India Limited (CIL) leading among CPSEs.
• The success underscores robust collaboration and proactive involvement of Coal PSUs, setting a
benchmark for future procurement endeavors.
IIT Jammu develops anti-drone system. 🛸
• Dr. Karan Nathwani, a professor in the Electrical Engineering department of IIT Jammu, pioneers
an anti-drone system.
• This system detects the sound emitted by drones, producing a unique signature that helps in their
identification.
• The cost of this system is about Rs 4 lakh.
• Sound-based drone detection systems will detect even drones and birds coming from Pakistan.
Election Commission bids farewell to Anup Chandra Pandey. 👨‍💼
• The Election Commission of India bids farewell to Anup Chandra Pandey as he steps down from
his position as Election Commissioner on February 14, upon completion of his tenure
• Anup Chandra Pandey joined the Commission in June 2021.
• Anup Pandey also served as a Member of the National Green Tribunal Oversight Committee in
Uttar Pradesh.
SUFALAM: Startup Conclave for Food Processing Entrepreneurs🥗
• Union Minister of Food Processing Shri Pashupati Kumar Paras emphasised the pivotal role of
startups in the food processing sector.
• He inaugurated "SUFALAM: Start-Up Forum for Aspiring Leaders and Mentors Startup Conclave
2024".
• The Secretary of MoFPI encouraged micro-entrepreneurs, SHGs, and MSMEs to register on the
Start-Up India Portal.
Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolutionizing Digitalization in Rural India🌐
• The Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj launched a pilot project titled
‘Smart Gram Panchayat’ to extend PM-WANI services in Gram Panchayats of Begusarai District,
Bihar, making it the first district in the state to provide Wi-Fi in all Gram Panchayats.
• The project aims to empower rural communities through technology, including women self-help
groups, farmers, and students.
54 | P a g e
Defence Minister unveiled the statue General Bipin Rawat in Dehradun🤵

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh revealed a life-size statue of the late General Bipin Rawat at
TonsBridge School in Dehradun.
• General Rawat served as the 57th Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee as well as 26th
Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.
• He served as the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) from January 2020 until his death in a
helicopter crash in December 2021.
AIIMS launched Smart Payment Card for Cashless Transactions📤
• AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card has been launched for cashless transactions at AIIMS, New Delhi.
• The card issued free of cost to all patients, linked to patient's Unique Hospital Identification
number and Ayushman Bharat Health Account ID.
• The card aims to provide ease and safety for patients and their caretakers, eliminating the need
to carry cash to the hospital.
ASHA and Anganwadi Workers to join Ayushman Bharat scheme📜
• The Health Ministry has received Aadhaar details of over 26 lakh ASHA and Anganwadi workers
for inclusion in the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
• The scheme will provide free health treatment cover to these healthcare workers and their
families.
• The government aims to issue Ayushman Bharat cards to these workers by the end of February,
with the scheme coming into effect from March 1.
Sri Satguru Ram Singh's bicentennial birth anniversary 🪖
• India commemorated the bicentennial birth anniversary of Sri Satguru Ram Singh with a Rs 200
commemorative coin and a Rs 10 currency coin.
• Satguru Ram Singh was a great philanthropist, thinker, seer, and social reformer who advocated
for India's liberation from British colonial rule through non-cooperation and swadeshi.
• He fought against gender discrimination, female infanticide and Sati.
Parliament passed Constitution (J&K) ST Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024📃
• More than 50 communities, including 7 PVTGs; many phonetic variations and synonyms; and a
few new communities set to be included in the list of STs of J&K, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
• Pahari Ethnic Group, Paddari Tribe, Koli and Gadda Brahmin communities were included in the
list of STs of UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
AIIMS Delhi introduced advanced surgery for skin cancer treatment 🏥
• AIIMS Delhi introduced Mohs micrographic surgery, an advanced technique for skin cancer
treatment.
• This technique offers precise tumor removal with minimal damage to healthy tissue, resulting in
better healing and lower recurrence rates.
55 | P a g e
• AIIMS Delhi is the first hospital in India to provide this surgery, eliminating the need for patients
to travel abroad for treatment.
Adani Ports secured top position for climate actions. 🌍
• Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd has secured the top position for its climate actions
and environmental performance in assessments done by four global rating agencies.
• The assessments were done by CDP, S&P, Sustainalytics, and Moody's.
• In 2023, company excelled leading in environmental stewardship per CDP Climate Assessment &
ranked 1st in S&P Global CSA among 324 transport firms.
The 1st trial cargo vessels from Maia Inland Port inagurated 🌊
• The first trial movement of vessels between Maia Port in India and Sultanganj Port in Bangladesh
was flagged off by the Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur.
• The riverine distance between Port Maia in India and Port Sultanganj in Bangladesh is 16
kilometers, out of which 4.5 kilometers of waterways are in India and the rest 11.5 kilometers are
in Bangladesh.
India launches mass drug administration campaign. 💊
• MoS Health SP Baghel launches Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for Lymphatic
Filariasis elimination.
• The campaign aims to cover 92 districts across 11 states over the next two weeks.
• Lymphatic Filariasis (elephantiasis) is a priority disease that is targeted to be eliminated by 2027.
• Currently, there are 345 lymphatic filariasis endemic districts in 20 states and union territories.
CSIR-NIScPR Foundation Day: 10th February🗓️
• The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Science Communication
and Policy Research celebrated its Foundation Day on 10th February.
• The CSIR is a leading scientific and technology research organization that offers specialized sci-
tech services directly to industry and others.
• Parent institution: Ministry of Science and Technology
• Director General: N. Kalaiselvi
Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrated NE India's Cultural Splendour 🎆
• President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated 'Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav' at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• The event showcased the diverse handicrafts, handlooms, agro products, and GI products from
all eight northeastern states.
• Organized by the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region in collaboration with the
Ministry of Culture, the Mahotsav served as a vibrant cultural odyssey.
UPSC inaugurated dedicated exam center in Kargil 📑
• UPSC established a dedicated examination center in Kargil, responding to the demands of UPSC
aspirants in the Frontier District.
• The new center will be operational for the upcoming Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination.
56 | P a g e
• This move is aimed at addressing the challenges faced by aspirants in remote areas and providing
them with a fair platform to pursue their dreams of civil service.
Bharatgas revolutionizes LPG delivery with PURE FOR SURE initiative🪖
• Bharatgas has introduced "Pure for Sure" to ensure transparency and trust in LPG delivery.
• Customers can authenticate their cylinders using tamper-proof seals with QR codes, verifying
weight and integrity.
• The initiative offers advanced features like delivery notifications, real-time tracking, OTP-based
delivery, and preferred slot booking.
DigiReady Certification Portal to empower MSMEs and small retailers
• The Quality Council of India and Open Network for Digital Commerce have launched the
DigiReady Certification portal.
• The portal aims to assess and certify the digital readiness of MSMEs and small retailers.
• By using the portal, MSMEs can evaluate their preparedness to seamlessly onboard as sellers on
the ONDC platform, expanding their digital capabilities and business potential.
President Droupadi Murmu to inaugurate "Aadi Mahotsav" in Delhi
• President Smt. Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the Aadi Mahotsav 2024, an annual National
Tribal Festival at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.
• The event, was organized by TRIFED under the aegis of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• The festival will feature with over 300 stalls, offering varied displays of Tribal art, handicrafts,
natural produce, and delectable tribal cuisine.
Jyotiraditya M. Scindia unveils "Airbus’sA220" door manufacturing
• Airbus partners with Dynamatic Technologies to manufacture all doors for the single-aisle A220
family aircraft in India
• The company is already exporting made-in-India products worth $750 million and aims to double
it.
• The A220 is ideally suited for India's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.
• This is the second contract for doors, awarded by Airbus to an Indian supplier.
NCPCR, Meta launch nationwide program to help students.
• The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and Meta have jointly launched
a pan-India program to help students manage stress ahead of their exams.
• NCPCR chairperson - Priyank Kanoongo
• In line with the Prime Minister's ParikshaPeCharcha programme, NCPCR is celebrating the sixth
edition of ParikshaParv.
Nirmala Sitharaman tabled ‘White Paper on Indian Economy’ in Lok Sabha
• Objectives of the 'White Paper':
57 | P a g e
o It to provide insight into the governance, economic, and fiscal challenges inherited by the
government in 2014, fostering transparency about the state of affairs at the time of
assuming office.
o It stimulates a broader and more informed discourse on the significance of prioritizing
national interest and fiscal prudence in governance decisions.
Digital Health India: 'Kilkari' Launched in Gujarat and Maharashtra
• Ministers of State for Health initiated the 'Kilkari' mobile health initiative in Gujarat and
Maharashtra.
• 'Kilkari' delivers weekly audio messages on pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare to beneficiaries.
• The launch underscores India's commitment to leveraging technology for public health
advancement.
• It is operational in 18 States and UTs.
Bhumi Samvaad VIII to showcase best practices in Land Management
• Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to inaugurate two-day Bhumi Samvaad VIII
at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi.
• The conference will focus on sharing best practices in land management modernization, land
records digitization, auto mutation, and innovative technologies.
• It will bring together stakeholders from Central and State govt to facilitate knowledge exchange
& showcase innovations.
Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav to showcase richness of Northeast India
• President of India, Smt. Drupadi Murmu will inaugurate the 4 day cultural extravaganza “Vividhta
ka Amrit Mahotsav: A cultural odyssey unveiling the richness of Northeast India” at Amrit Udyan,
Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Festival to highlight traditional arts, crafts, and cultures of the Northeast, with 320+ weavers,
artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs participating.
IRCTC launches Ramayana circuit tourist train
• IRCTC has launched a comprehensive tour program based on places of pilgrim importance as
cited in the Ramayana.
• The first tour began on February 4th, with 122 tourists from the United Kingdom, Portugal, and
India visiting sites like the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya and the Janaki Mandir in Nepal.
• The tour aims to boost tourism and promote India's rich cultural heritage.
Lok Sabha passes Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill
• The bill covers exams conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Staff Selection
Commission (SSC) and entrance tests such as National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and
Joint Entrance Examination (JEE).
• It prescribes penalties for different categories of offences, ranging from imprisonment of six
months to 10 years and fine of Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 crore
58 | P a g e
Dharmendra Pradhan launches EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme.

• Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme on 6th
February 2024 in New Delhi.
• The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Program aims to revolutionize opportunities for quality
education and access to higher education institutions.
• The program encourages private sector involvement through Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) initiatives.
PM inaugurated Integrated Sea Survival Training Centre, ONGC Institute
• ONGC Sea Survival Centre has been developed as Integrated Sea Survival Training Centre in Goa
to advance the Indian sea survival training ecosystem.
• It is expected to train 10000-15000 personnel annually.
• Exercises in simulated and controlled harsh weather conditions enhance the Sea Survival skills of
trainees and thus potentially increase the chances of safe escape from real-life disasters.
42nd Deep Dive Training Program held by National e-Governance Division
• The 'Cyber Surakshit Bharat' initiative aims to raise awareness about cybercrime and train Chief
Information Security Officers and IT officials to combat cyber threats.
• The program was held with participants from various states.
• The program focuseed on sensitizing participants about cybersecurity, enabling them to create
cyber-resilient ecosystems and support the Digital India program.
Encouraging Women in Central Armed Police Forces: Govt. Initiatives:
• The current strength of women personnel in CAPF and Assam Rifles stands at 41,606 as per Lok
Sabha report.
• GoI is taking steps to promote the recruitment of women in CAPFs, including publicity, exemption
from application fees, and relaxation in physical standards.
• Female CAPF personnel are provided facilities like maternity leave, childcare leave & committees
to address sexual harassment.
Former Chief Justice U.U. Lalit joins K.R. Mangalam University.
• K.R. Mangalam University welcomes U.U. Lalit, as the Eminent Jurist and Distinguished Professor
at The School of Legal Studies
• K.R. Mangalam University secures the 2nd position in Haryana according to the BW Legal World
Law School Rankings 2022
• He was appointed as the Special Public Prosecutor in the 2G Spectrum case and served two terms
on the Supreme Court’s Legal Services Committee.
Dharmendra Pradhan to inaugurate ULLAS Mela at National Bal Bhavan
• Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, to inaugurate the two-day ULLAS Mela on
February 7th at New Delhi's National Bal Bhavan.
59 | P a g e
• Organized by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, the ULLAS
Mela (6th-7th February 2024) will spotlight various National and State-level activities under
ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram.
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024
• Rajya Sabha presented the introduction of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution)
Amendment Bill, 2024, aiming to amend the existing Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution)
Act, 1974.
• Minister of State for Environment, Ashwani Choubey, presents the bill, signaling a proactive
approach to strengthen regulations for pollution prevention and control in the country's water
resources.
Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 introduced
• The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, introduced in Lok Sabha, aims to
prevent unfair practices in public examinations.
• The bill seeks to bring transparency & credibility to examination systems.
• It targets individuals, groups involved in unfair practices and serves as a model for states to adopt
to deter criminals from disrupting state-level public examinations.
AIIMS New Delhi to establish Ayushman Suvidha Kendras before March 31
• AIIMS New Delhi will set up Ayushman Suvidha Kendras in all Blocks and Centers by March 31st,
2024.
• These Kendras will serve as centralized hubs for patients and their attendants to access benefits
under Ayushman Bharat PM Jan Arogya Yojana.
• The Kendras will be located at easily accessible points in order to make the healthcare scheme
and its benefits seamless.
Shri Ramayana Yatra Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train flagged off
• Minister of State for Culture Meenakshi Lekhi flagged off the 'Shri Ramayana Yatra' Bharat
Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station.
• The train, operated under the 'Dekho Apna Desh' initiative, aims to showcase India's cultural
heritage and historical places linked to Lord Ram's life.
Ministry of DoNER organised ‘North - East Sammelan’
• The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region held the North-East Sammelan at the Dr.
Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi on 4th February, 2024.
• Key projects like educational institutions, healthcare facilities, sports infrastructure, and
international connectivity projects have been undertaken.
Banaras Hindu University launched human DNA Bank
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has established the Human DNA Bank and is nearing completion
of the Wildlife DNA Bank.
60 | P a g e
• The DNA banks aim to collect and analyze genetic data for personalized medicine, wildlife
conservation, and epidemiological studies.
• BHU's initiatives align with India's commitment to innovation and indigenous manufacturing
under the Make in India program.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurates Digital India FutureLABS at IIIT
• Digital India FutureLABS Launched to Catalyze Next-Generation Electronics System Design
• Minister Chandrasekhar inaugurates Digital India FutureLABS at IIIT, New Delhi.
• Over 20 MoUs signed with industry partners at the Digital India FutureLABS Summit 2024.
• The initiative aims to tap into the trillion-dollar opportunity presented by the Electronics System
Design and Manufacturing sector.
PM addressed Pali Saansad Khel Mahakumbh
• PM Modi addressed participants at the Pali Saansad Khel Mahakumbh, commending their
sporting talents and emphasizing the role of sports in youth and national development.
• PM Modi stressed the transformative power of sports, promoting personal development and
steering youth away from vices.
• He highlighted the government's commitment to youth welfare through increased sports budget.
GHAR (GO Home and Re-Unite) portal launched by NCPCR
• The portal has been developed and launched by National Commission For Protection of Child
Rights to digitally monitor and track the restoration and repatriation of children.
• It follows protocols under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• It exercises digital transfer of cases of children to the concerned Juvenile Justice Board/Child
Welfare Committee of the State
AIIMS launches AI-based platform for Cancer Diagnosis
• AIIMS, New Delhi, collaborates with CDAC, Pune, to launch iOncology.ai, an AI platform for early
cancer detection
• Cancer cases are on the rise in India, with late detection being a significant cause of death
• iOncology.ai utilizes sophisticated AI systems, including deep learning models, to enhance
accuracy in diagnosis
Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024
• It is India’s largest and first-of-its-kind mobility exhibition - Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 at
Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
• The expo, featuring 800+ exhibitors from 50+ countries, will display cutting-edge technologies,
sustainable solutions, and breakthroughs in mobility, including participation from 28 vehicle
manufacturers and 600+ auto component manufacturers.
Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurates Rashtriya Arogya Mela
• The fair was organized by Shri Puran Chandra Gupta Smarak Trust in collaboration with the
Ministry of Ayush.
61 | P a g e
• Shri Sonowal underscores the significance of the campaign, designed to bring the benefits of
Indian traditional medicine systems directly to the people.
• Sonowal emphasizes the National Arogya Fair's role in highlighting the rich legacy of Indian
Traditional Medicine Systems.
Two new Coal Mines started production in january 2024.
• Two new coal mines, contributing a combined 7.5 MT, commence production in January 2024
• Coal dispatch sees a substantial 27% rise, reaching 12.86 MT in January 2024
• Cumulative coal production and dispatch for April 2023 to January 2024 indicate a notable YoY
growth of 26% (112 MT) and 31% (116 MT), respectively
Shri Pralhad Joshi launched C-CARES, web portal of CMPFO
• Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi launched the web portal C-CARES for CMPFO thereby digitizing
CMPFO's records and processes.
• The portal has been developed by C-DAC.
• Coal Mines Provident Fund Organization, under the Ministry of Coal, administers Provident Fund
and Pension schemes for coal sector workers, serving around 3.3 lakh Provident Fund subscribers
and 6.1 lakh pensioners.
20th Webinar of the National Good Governance Webinar Series held
• Theme- ‘Promoting Excellence in Sports and Wellness through Khelo India Scheme.'
• Presentations were made on the following initiatives taken by the Districts of Churu, Rajasthan,
and Bishnupur.
• Manipur was awarded the PM’s Award for the year 2021.
• The Webinar was Chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms &
Public Grievances (DARPG).
Railways to implement three major economic corridor programs
• Implementation of three major economic railway corridor programs include Energy, Mineral, and
Cement corridors; Port connectivity corridors; and High-traffic density corridors.
• Conversion of normal rail bogies to Vande Bharat standards is considered to improve safety and
comfort for passengers.
• These initiatives are being planned to address the rapidly growing population and economy.
IIMC granted deemed-to-be university status.
• The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) has been granted the status of a deemed
university by the Ministry of Education, on the advice of the University Grants Commission (UGC).
• IIMC has five regional campuses across India, located in Jammu, Amravati, Aizwal, Kottayam, and
Dhenkanal, which will also be covered under the deemed university status.
62 | P a g e
Appointments Current Affairs

PayU named Renu Sud Karnad as chairperson and independent director
• Renu Sud Karnad appointed as chairperson and independent director of PayU, enhancing the
board to seven members including CEO Anirban Mukherjee.
• Additional directors include Jairaj Purandare, Gopika Pant, Laurent Le Moal, and Jan Bune.
• PayU focuses on full-stack digital services for financial inclusion, aiming to capitalize on India's $1
trillion internet economy by 2030.
World Gold Council appoints De Beers’ Sachin Jain as CEO.
• The World Gold Council has appointed Sachin Jain as its new CEO, India, who will take up the
role from March 2024.
• Sachin Jain joins from De Beers where he has held several senior roles for the past 13 years.
• As Managing Director of DeBeers India, he has led the De Beers Forevermark business in India
and the Middle East.
Hockey India's long-serving CEO Elena Norman stepped down
• Elena Norman resigned as CEO of Hockey India after nearly 13 years, during which Indian hockey
saw historic successes, including a bronze at the Tokyo Olympics.
• Under her leadership, India hosted 2 FIH Men's World Cups, 2 Junior World Cups, and 5 editions
of the Hockey India League, boosting the sport's profile.
• The federation successfully organized numerous FIH events under her command.
Former SC judge A M Khanwilkar appointed Lokpal chairperson.
• Justice Khanwilkar retired from the Supreme Court in July 2022.
• The President also appointed former high court judges Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Sanjay Yadav
and Ritu Raj Awasthi as judicial members of the Lokpal.
• Sushil Chandra, Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Tirkey were appointed as non-judicial members of the
anti-corruption ombudsman.
NCP's Praful Patel resigns as Rajya Sabha MP before end of term.
• Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Praful Patel on Tuesday resigned as the Rajya Sabha MP
four years ahead of the completion of his term.
• Patel was elected to the Rajya Sabha for a fifth term in July 2022,
• The decision was based on legal issues surrounding the disqualification petition filed against Patel
by the Sharad Pawar-led faction of NCP.
Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Shtayyeh resigned
• Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh has resigned along with his
government, which runs parts of the occupied West Bank.
• President Mahmoud Abbas accepted his decision, which could pave the way for a technocratic
government.
63 | P a g e
• Mr Abbas is under pressure from the US to reform the PA so it could govern Gaza after the Israel-
Hamas war ends.
Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid declares son as successor
• Syed Ahmed Bukhari, the incumbent Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid, declared his son "as his
successor".
• The first Imam of Jama Masjid (Hazrat Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, Shahi Imam) was
appointed the Shahi Imam at the age of 63.
• Syed Shaban Bukhari (29) was anointed as the mosque's Naib Imam in a 'dastarbandi' ceremony
in November 2014.
Geeta Batra named First Woman Director of World Bank's GEF
• Geeta Batra, a distinguished India-born economist, has been appointed as the Director of the
Independent Evaluation Office of the World Bank's Global Environment Facility (GEF).
• The GEF was established in October 1991 as a $1 billion pilot program in the World Bank to enable
developing countries to take action on environmental challenges and to promote sustainable
development.
Infosys CEO Salil Parekh joins USISPF Board
• Salil Parekh, CEO and MD of Infosys has been appointed to the Board of Directors at the US-
India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
• Mukesh Aghi - President and CEO of USISPF.
• Infosys claims to assist clients in over 56 countries with their digital transformation.
• USISPF, an independent not-for-profit institution, is dedicated to strengthening the partnership
between the US and India
Govt appoints A S Rajeev as Vigilance Commissioner.
• President Droupadi Murmu has appointed A S Rajeev as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central
Vigilance Commission.
• Prior to this appointment, A S Rajeev was MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra, a public sector
bank.
• The CVC became a three-member body, with the Central Vigilance Commissioner and two
Vigilance Commissioners.
• Praveen Kumar Srivastava - CVC
• Arvinda Kumar - VC
Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, and UCO Bank got new chairmen
• M R Kumar appointed as non-executive Chairman of Bank of India and Srinivasan Sridhar for
Indian Overseas Bank for 3-year terms by the ACC.
• Aravamudan Krishna Kumar named non-executive Chairman of UCO Bank, also for a 3-year term,
conditions apply regarding prior board memberships.
• Appointments aimed at bolstering leadership across major banks, enhancing governance and
strategic oversight.
64 | P a g e
SBM Bank India named Ashish Vijayakar as its new MD & CEO
• Private sector lender SBM Bank India Friday said it has appointed Ashish Vijayakar as managing
director and chief executive officer.
• The appointment is for three years starting February 17.
• Vijayakar is a veteran banker with a track record spanning around three decades in the banking
and financial services sector.
• SBM Bank India is a subsidiary of the State Bank of Mauritius.
KVS Manian appointed as Joint Managing Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank
• KVS Manian appointed as Joint Managing Director; Shanti Ekambaram named Deputy Managing
Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, both effective in March, signaling major leadership reshuffle.
• New roles include Devang Gheewalla as CFO and President, Milind Nagnur as COO while
retaining CTO position, and Paul Parambi as Group Chief Risk Officer, showing significant
organizational updates.
Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi took over as Vice Chief of the Army
• Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi has assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of the Army
Staff on 19 February 2024.
• Prior to this, he was appointed as General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command.
• He was commissioned into 18 J&K Rifles in 1984.
• He took over from Lt Gen. MV Suchindra Kumar, who now has been appointed as the General
Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command.
Prabowo Subianto elected as the new President of Indonesia
• PM Modi has congratulated the people of Indonesia on the successful presidential elections and
the newly-elected President Prabowo Subianto.
• Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo is an Indonesian politician, businessman, and former army
lieutenant general who has served as the 26th Indonesian Minister of Defense since 2019.
Lebanese Judge Nawaf Salam elected as ICJ’s new president. 👨‍💼
• Lebanese Judge Nawaf Salam was elected as the new president of the International Court of
Justice (ICJ) for a three-year term.
• Salam embarked on his ICJ journey in 2018, now occupying the highest judicial position worldwide.
• The International Court of Justice:
o Established: 26 June 1945
o Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands
o It is one of the six organs of the United Nations
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna joins USISPF Board.👨‍💼
• IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has joined the Board of Directors of US India Strategic and Partnership
Forum (USISPF).
65 | P a g e
• Krishna, 62, an Indian-American CEO, is a board member at the New York Federal Reserve Bank
and Northrop Grumman.
• His remarkable track record includes leading market transitions in hybrid cloud business, quantum
computing, and artificial intelligence.
Virendra Bansal appointed new MD & CEO of SBI Capital Markets🤵♂️
• Virendra Bansal appointed as MD & CEO of SBICAPS, replacing Rajay Kumar Sinha who joined
IRDAI.
• Bansal brings extensive experience from SBI's US and UK operations, with a career spanning over
three decades.
• Bansal aims to drive innovation, forge strategic partnerships, and provide top-notch investment
banking solutions.
Nikhil Joshi appointed as MD of Boeing Defence India🤵♂️
• Boeing appointed Nikhil Joshi as Managing Director of Boeing Defence India to bolster operations
and growth strategy.
• Joshi, with over 25 years of aerospace experience, will focus on enhancing mission readiness and
modernizing India's defence forces.
• His extensive background includes two decades of service with the Indian Navy's aviation branch,
ensuring valuable insights.
Sanjay Kumar Jain takes charge of IRCTC CMD. 👨‍💼
• IRCTC announced the appointment of Sanjay Kumar Jain as its Chairman and Managing Director
(CMD) with immediate effect.
• Before this role, Jain was the Principal Chief Commercial Manager (PCCM) of Northern Railway,
(IRCTC)
• The government of India approves Sanjay Kumar Jain as CMD of the Ministry of Railways on an
immediate absorption basis until December 31, 2026, or until further orders.
SC collegium recommends transfer of three High Court judges. 👨‍⚖️
• The Supreme Court collegium has recommended the transfer of three judges.
• Kerala High Court judge Justice Anu Sivaraman's transferred to the Karnataka High Court
• Madhya Pradesh High Court Justice Sujoy Paul transferred to Telangana High Court.
• Calcutta High Court judge Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya transferred to Telangana High Court.
ICAI elected Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal as new President👨🏻
• Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal has been elected as the 72nd President of the Institute of Chartered
Accountants of India (ICAI).
• Agarwal is a practicing Chartered Accountant for the past 24 years and also holds qualifications
as a Company Secretary and DISA from ICAI.
• He has previously served on the Central Council of ICAI for three consecutive terms.
Conservative ex-PM Alexander Stubb elected Finland president 🤵♂️
66 | P a g e
• Alexander Stubb, Finland's conservative former Prime Minister, won the presidential election with
51.6% of the vote.
• His rival, Pekka Haavisto of the Green Party, conceded defeat after securing 48.4% of the vote.
• Stubb took a hardline stance on Russia and supports Finland's membership in NATO, which the
country officially joined in April 2022.
Narendra Kumar Yadav new Brand Ambassador for Fit India Movement 💪
• Narendra Kumar Yadav, an IRS officer, has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the Fit
India Movement.
• Yadav is a fervent fitness enthusiast and certified fitness trainer and nutritionist.
• Through his new role, Yadav aims to amplify the message of health and fitness, inspire individuals
across the nation to prioritize their physical and mental well-being.
LIC Mutual Fund appointed Ravi Kumar Jha as MD & CEO 🏦
• Ravi Kumar Jha has been appointed as Managing Director and CEO of LIC Mutual Fund Asset
Management.
• Jha has over 30 years of experience with LIC, holding various positions.
• Prior to this role, he served as Executive of Corporate Strategy at LIC until December 2023.
NPCI appointed Ajay Kumar Choudhary as non-executive Chm of board 🤵♂
• Ajay Kumar Choudhary has been appointed as non-executive chairman of NPCI for three years
from February 8, 2024.
• Choudhary succeeded Biswamohan Mahapatra, who held the position since 2018.
• Choudhary has over three decades of experience at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), specializing
in banking regulation, supervision, and fintech.
Amitabh Mattoo appointed Dean of School of International Studies, JNU
• The Jawaharlal Nehru University has appointed Professor Amitabh Mattoo as the new Dean of its
prestigious School of International Studies.
• Before being made Dean, Mr. Mattoo was Chair of the Centre for International Politics,
Organisation and Disarmament at SIS.
• Also a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Mr. Mattoo is the only Padma Shri
awardee currently on the rolls of JNU.
El Salvador's Nayib Bukele won re-election with increased power
• El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele secured a landslide victory in the elections, consolidating his
power.
• Bukele's New Ideas party is set to control almost all 60 seats in the legislature, boosting his
influence.
• Bukele's success stems from his popular anti-gang measures, which have significantly improved
safety in the country.
Kazakhstan appointed Olzhas Bektenov as new Prime Minister
67 | P a g e
• Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev appointed Olzhas Bektenov as the new Prime Minister.
• Bektenov, formerly the head of the President's Executive Office, was nominated by the Amanat
party and received support from a majority of deputies.
• The new government's priorities include economic development, with a focus on industry, oil,
agriculture, and technology.
Yemen Appoints Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak as New Prime Minister
• Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak is a prominent figure in Yemeni politics, having served in various
positions, including as Yemen's ambassador to the United States and representative at the United
Nations.
• He was kidnapped by Iran-aligned Houthis in 2015 while serving as Yemen's presidential chief of
staff.
• Bin Mubarak is known for his staunch opposition to the Houthi rebels.
Rajendra Prasad Gupta appointed Rajasthan's new Advocate General
• Rajendra Prasad Gupta has been appointed as the new Advocate General of Rajasthan, replacing
MS Singhvi and embarking on a new chapter as the 19th Advocate General of Rajasthan.
• The Advocate General is a constitutional authority appointed under Article 165 of the Indian
Constitution, advising the State Government on legal matters and performing duties as specified
by the Governor.
Tata Digital appoints Naveen Tahilyani as CEO & MD
• Tata Digital announced the appointment of Naveen Tahilyani as Chief Executive Officer &
Managing Director of the company.
• Tahilyani is currently the CEO and Managing Director of Tata AIA Life Insurance.
• He will take up a new role effective February 19, 2024.
Vijay Bishnoi sworn in as Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court
• Justice Vijay Bishnoi was sworn in as Chief Justice of the Guwahati High Court.
• Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria administered the oath of office in the presence of CM
Himanta Biswa Sarma.
• The swearing-in ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including the Speaker of the
Assam Legislative Assembly, ministers, and judges.
• Before this, he was the Judge of the Rajasthan High Court.
ADB appointed Mio Oka as country director for India
• Mio Oka was appointed as the new Country Director for India by the Asian Development Bank
(ADB).
• Oka will oversee the implementation of ADB's country partnership strategy for India, focusing on
private sector-led growth, climate resilience, and social inclusiveness.
• ADB has been a steadfast supporter of India's development goals since commencing operations
in 1986.
68 | P a g e
Ranveer Singh joins boAt as a stakeholder and Brand Ambassador

• Bollywood icon Ranveer Singh has not only invested in lifestyle brand boAt but has also taken on
the role of the official face for the brand's audio products.
• BoAt was established in 2015 by Aman Gupta and Sameer Mehta, the company has garnered a
cumulative investment of $177 million thus far.
• The collaboration has already kicked off with the ‘Lost in Nirvana’ campaign.
Upendra Dwivedi to assume role as Indian Army's vice chief
• Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi to Take Over as Indian Army's Vice Chief.
• Current Northern Army Commander to Swap Positions with Lieutenant General MV Suchindra
Kumar, Becoming Udhampur-Based Northern Command's General Officer Commanding-in-
Chief.
• LG Dwivedi is the Frontrunner for the Position of Army Chief Due to Seniority Upon General Manoj
Pande's Retirement in May 2024.
Sanjay Jaju appointed as Information and Broadcasting Secretary.
• Senior bureaucrat Sanjay Jaju has been appointed as the new Information and Broadcasting
Secretary, in place of Chandra.
• Jaju, a 1992-batch IAS officer, is currently serving in his cadre state of Telangana.
• A Neerja, currently Additional Secretary, Department of Fertilisers has been appointed as Special
Secretary in the same department.
Apurva Chandra appointed Health Secretary
• Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra has been appointed as the Secretary,
of the Department of Health & Family Welfare.
• Chandra is a 1988-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Maharashtra cadre.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved Chandra’s appointment as
Secretary, the Department of Health and Family Welfare
Justice Ritu Bahri appointed First Woman Chief Justice of Uttarakhand
• Justice Ritu Bahri was sworn in as the new Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court
• The oath was administered by Governor Lt Gen (retd) Gurmit Singh.
• Justice Bahri, previously the acting chief justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, received
the Supreme Court collegium's recommendation for the chief justice in Uttarakhand
• She officially replaces former Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi
Pradeep Kumar appointed to permanent judge at Jharkhand High Court
• The Ministry of Law and Justice has appointed Justice Pradeep Kumar Srivastava as a permanent
judge at the Jharkhand High Court.
• The appointment is under Article 217(1) of the Indian Constitution and is effective from the date
Justice Srivastava assumes his new responsibilities.
69 | P a g e
• Srivastava's elevation was recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium and has been
approved by the President.
Pawan Kumar appointed as Chief Adviser in Dept. of Expenditure, MoF
• Shri Pawan Kumar, an Indian Cost Accounts Service officer of the 1992 batch, has taken charge
as Chief Adviser (Cost) in the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
• He played a pivotal role in developing a web-based Online Dashboard for performance
evaluation of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), which won a 'Gold Award' in the 'e-
Governance' category in 2022.
Prashant Ruia, Deloitte CEO among four appointed to US-India forum
• Prashant Ruia, director of Essar Group, and Deloitte Global CEO Joe Ucuzoglu have been
appointed to the board of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum.
• Qualcomm President of Global Affairs Alex Rogers and Raj Shah of MSI Surfaces have also been
appointed to the board.
• Ruia has played a key role in driving the growth, diversification, and value creation of Essar.
Vinay Kumar Choubey appointed principal secretary to Jharkhand CM
• Hemant Soren was arrested by the ED after seven hours of grilling in a money laundering probe.
• Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Champai Soren was sworn in as the new chief minister of
Jharkhand.
• The Champai Soren-led coalition government in Jharkhand is likely to seek a trust vote on
February 5.
Justice P S Dinesh Kumar to be Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court
• Justice P S Dinesh Kumar has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court.
• He will have a short tenure as he is set to retire on February 24.
• Justice Kumar was previously the acting Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court.
• He has been serving on the Karnataka High Court since 2015.
Champai Soren: The next Chief Minister of Jharkhand
• Champai Soren assumes the role of Chief Minister in Jharkhand, succeeding Hemant Soren
• Soren's tenure as a Cabinet Minister has seen him handle crucial portfolios, including Transport,
Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes, and Backward Classes welfare
• He has been a dedicated legislator since 1991, earning the moniker 'Jharkhand Tiger.'
Vice Admiral Lochan Singh Pathania assumed role of Chief Hydrographer
• Vice Admiral Lochan Singh Pathania assumed charge as the Chief Hydrographer to the Govt. of
India
• Commissioned in the Executive branch of the Indian Navy in 1990, he is a Hydrography Specialist.
• The Flag Officer has commanded IN Ships Darshak and Sandhayak.
• He also has the distinction of serving onboard HMS Bulldog of the Royal Navy.
Preeti Rajak became Indian Army's first woman Subedar
70 | P a g e
• Havildar Preeti Rajak achieved the historic milestone of becoming the first woman to attain the
rank of Subedar in the Indian Army.
• She is renowned for her prowess in trap shooting, earning a silver medal in the trap women's team
event at the 19th Asian Games.
• Subedar Rajak's promotion highlights the Indian Army's commitment to meritocracy and equal
opportunities, inspiring women nationwide.
AU SFB appointed Ex. RBI Dy.Governor HR Khan as non-executive chairman
• Harun Rashid Khan, former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), appointed as non-
executive chairman of AU Small Finance Bank.
• Khan's tenure began on January 30, 2024, until the completion of his first tenure as Independent
Director of the Bank on December 27, 2024.
• Khan brings over four decades of experience in banking, finance, payment systems, and financial
markets.
Shri Sanjay Verma took the oath of Office and Secrecy as Member, UPSC
• Shri Sanjay Verma, a member of the Indian Foreign Service since 1990, has been sworn in as a
Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
• His extensive career includes ambassadorial roles in Spain and Andorra, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and
the African Union.
• He brings a wealth of experience in international relations and diplomacy to his new role at the
UPSC.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar reconstituted the panel of Vice-Chairpersons
• Rajya Sabha Chairman, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, has reconstituted the panel of Vice-Chairpersons
with eight members.
• The Vice-Chairpersons appointed are Shrimati Ramilaben Becharbhai Bara, Shrimati Seema
Dwivedi, Dr. Amee Yajnik, Shrimati Mausam Noor, Shri Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar, Shri
Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy, Prof. Manoj Kumar Jha, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) D. P. Vats (Retd.).
Sultan Ibrahim ascends to the Throne as Malaysia's 17th King
• Sultan Ibrahim of Johor state has been appointed as Malaysia's 17th king, marking a significant
moment in the nation's constitutional monarchy system.
• Sultan Ibrahim will serve a 5-year term, performing ceremonial duties and holding special powers,
including appointing the prime minister, assenting to laws, and serving as the commander-in-
chief of the armed forces.
71 | P a g e
Obituaries Current Affairs

Senior Congress MLA Raja Venkatappa Naik died at 64
• Senior Congress MLA Raja Venkatappa Naik, aged 64, passed away in Bengaluru due to a heart
attack after undergoing surgery for kidney stones.
• Survived by his wife and sons, Naik's final rites will be conducted in Surpur.
• Naik, a four-time MLA from Surpur, has served in various capacities within the Congress party,
including as chairman of Karnataka State Warehousing Corporation.
Legendary Singer Pankaj Udhas, Dies At 72.
• Legendary singer Pankaj Udhas, who gave memorable hits like 'Chitthi aayi hai', died after a
prolonged illness in Mumbai.
• Pankaj Udhas was born in Jetpur in Gujarat on May 17, 1951.
• He was honoured with the Padma Shri award in 2006.
• His song 'Chitthi Aayee Hai', which became a huge hit, was selected as one of the 100 songs of
the millennium by BBC Radio.
Filmmaker Kumar Sahani passed away
• Renowned filmmaker Kumar Sahani passed away at 83 after a prolonged old-age-related illness.
• Kumar Shahani, pioneer of Indian parallel cinema, directed classics like Maya Darpan and Tarang,
and was revered alongside filmmakers like Pasolini and Tarkovsky.
• His collection, "The Shock of Desire and Other Essays," was published in 2015, cementing his legacy
in film theory.
Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Manohar Joshi passed away
• The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has condoled the demise of the former Chief Minister of
Maharashtra, Shri Manohar Joshi.
• Manohar Gajanan Joshi was an Indian politician from the state of Maharashtra, who served as
the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 1995 to 1999 and Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 2002 to
2004.
• He was one of the Indians to be elected to all four legislatures.
Andreas Brehme who led Germany win 1990 Football World Cup passed away
• Andreas Brehme, scorer of the winning penalty in the 1990 FIFA World Cup final against
Argentina, has passed away at 63.
• He earned legendary status in German football, representing clubs like Kaiserslautern, Bayern
Munich, and Inter Milan.
• Brehme's decisive spot kick secured Germany's third World Cup title, etching his name in football
history.
SC Judge Fali Sam Nariman passed away at 95
• Fali Sam Nariman was a senior advocate to the Supreme Court of India from 1971 and was the
President of the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010.
72 | P a g e
• He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Gruber Prize for Justice and 19th
Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
• He was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha in from 1999 to 2005.
Renowned radio personality Ameen Sayani passed away
• Ameen Sayani was an India radio announcer.
• He achieved fame and popularity all across the Indian Subcontinent when he presented his
Binaca Geetmala program of hits over the airwaves of Radio Ceylon.
• In 2009, he was presented with the Padma Shri award.
• He received Gold medal from Indian Society of Advertisers; presented by Mr. K.R. Narayanan, the
then Vice-President of India.
Renowned Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj passes away. 🚩
• Renowned Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj breathed his last at Chandragiri Teerth in
Dongargarh in Chhattisgarh's Rajnandgaon district after undertaking 'sallekhna'.
• Sallekhna is a Jain religious practice involving voluntary fasting unto death for spiritual
purification.
• Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was the most renowned saint in the Digambar Jain community.
Dangal actor Suhani Bhatnagar dies at 19.🕯
• Suhani Bhatnagar, who portrayed the role of young Babita Phogat in Aamir Khan's wrestling film
Dangal, succumbed to Dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory disease
• Dermatomyositis is an uncommon inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness and a
distinctive skin rash.
• Her role in 'Dangal', a biographical drama about a wrestler mentoring his two daughters to
success, was widely appreciated.
Manji Dada from Bagdana Ashram passed away👴🏻
• PM expressed his grief over demise of Bagdana's Manji Dada.
• The Bagdana Ashram, nestled in the heart of Gujarat, has been a bastion of spirituality and
humanitarianism under the guidance of revered figures like Manji Dada.
• His selfless dedication to uplifting the lives of others has left an indelible mark on the community,
earning him respect and admiration far and wide.
India's oldest Test cricketer Dattajirao Gaekwad passed away 🏏
• India's oldest Test cricketer and former captain Dattajirao Gaekwad died due to age-related
ailments.
• Gaekwad, who was the father of former India opener and national coach Aunshuman Gaekwad,
was 95.
• He appeared in 11 Test matches, toured England in 1952 and 1959 and West Indies in 1952.
• He was distantly related to Baroda royal family and served as the Deputy comptroller to the
Baroda state.
73 | P a g e
Famous litterateur & Padma Shri awardee Usha Kiran Khan passed away📖
• Renowned Hindi and Maithili writer Usha Kiran Khan passed away at the age of 78.
• Khan received the Padma Shri, Sahitya Akademi Award, and Mahadevi Verma Award.
• She was a prolific writer who significantly contributed to Hindi and Maithili literature.
• Khan's notable works include the Maithili novel 'Bhamati: Ek Avismaraniya Premkatha' and the
Hindi novel 'Sirjanhaar'.
Eminent artist A Ramachandran passed away at 89👴
• Renowned artist A Ramachandran passed away at the age of 89 due to prolonged illness.
• Ramachandran was known for his monumental canvases and colorful oil and watercolor
paintings inspired by rural life and myths.
• He received Padma Bhushan in 2005 and the Fellowship of the Lalit Kala Akademi in 2002.
• He was native to Attingal, Kerala.
Sahitya Akademi awardee Farooq Nazki passes away at 83
• Farooq Nazki, the veteran journalist and poet, dies at 83 in Katra Hospital.
• Nazki served as media advisor to Chief Ministers Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.
• Nazki held several important positions in All India Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan
• Nazki was awarded the Sahitya Academi award in Kashmiri for his poetry book "Naar Hyutun
Kanzal Wanas" (Fire in the eyelashes).
Former Chilean President Sebastián Piñera, dies in helicopter crash
• The helicopter carrying Pinera, 74, and 3 others plunged into a lake in southern Chile.
• Pinera was an economist who made his fortune introducing credit cards to Chile in the 1980s.
• As of 2024, he was ranked 1,176 on Forbes' global rich list, with a net worth of $2.7 billion.
• Pinera was best known for his role in to rescue of 33 miners who were trapped underneath the
Atacama desert.
Stalwart of Hindi and Odia cinema Shri Sadhu Meher passed away
• Adhu Meher was an Indian actor, director, and producer who worked in both Odia and Hindi films.
• He gained prominence in Parallel Cinema in the mid-1980s and won a National Film Award for
Best Actor for his role in the film Ankur.
• Meher was conferred with the Padma Sri, India's fourth highest civilian honor, in 2017.
• He passed away on 2 February 2024 at the age of 84.
Former Union minister Harmohan Dhawan passed away
• Former Union minister Harmohan Dhawan passed away at the age of 83.
• Dhawan served as the Civil Aviation Minister in the Chandra Shekhar-led government and was
elected to the Lok Sabha in 1989 as a Janta Party nominee.
• He was a versatile politician, also involved in fields such as hospitality and naturopathy, and had
a background in education, specializing in Botany from Panjab University.
74 | P a g e
Science and Technology Current Affairs

PM unveiled India’s 1st hydrogen fuel cell ferry at Cochin Shipyard
• The inauguration of the fuel cell ferry will provide impetus for using hydrogen in marine
application as envisaged under National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• The fuel cell powered vessel has zero emission, zero noise and is energy efficient.
• It is part of the Harit Nauka initiative—a pilot project aimed at showcasing the technology for the
maritime sector.
Harpic Loocator: new app to help women find and access public toilets
• Reckitt launched Harpic Loocator App to help locate public toilets, with a focus on women's
accessibility.
• The app features user ratings for toilet amenities like cleanliness, lighting, and availability of water
and soap.
• Survey in Delhi shows 70% of women struggle to find public toilets, risking dehydration and UTIs
due to infrequent water intake.
PM Modi to inaugurate ISRO's second spaceport in Tamil Nadu
• The new spaceport will eliminate need for rocket diversion due to Sri Lanka's airspace
• Location closer to Equator and propulsion complex nearby will reduce time and cost.
• It will be dedicated to launch small satellites, will be built in Thoothukudi district.
• A Space Industrial Park and Propellants Park will be built close to the facility to create an
ecosystem for the Space Industry.
PM Modi revealed names of 4 pilots chosen for Gaganyaan mission
• They are Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain
Angad Pratap and Wing Commander Subhanshu Shukla.
• The four pilots have been training at the astronaut training facility in Bengaluru.
• The Gaganyaan mission is India's first manned space mission, aiming for a launch between 2024-
2025.
• PM Modi also launched 3 space projects worth Rs 1,800 crore.
Physicists achieved Laser Cooling of Positronium in breakthrough test
• The Antihydrogen Experiment: Gravity, Interferometry, Spectroscopy (AEgIS) collaboration
achieved the first successful laser cooling of Positronium, a short-lived atom.
• The experiment was conducted at European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) by AEgIS,
paving the way for advanced quantum studies.
• Professor Sadiq Rangwala from India played a key role in the research effort.
BRIC-THSTI Faridabad, IIT Madras developed way to decide fetal age
• BRIC-THSTI Faridabad and IIT Madras developed Garbhini-GA2, an India-specific fetal age
estimation model.
75 | P a g e
• Garbhini-GA2 reduces gestational age estimation errors by three times using three key fetal
ultrasound parameters.
• The model aims to enhance pregnancy care, improving maternal and infant mortality rates in
India, with validation studies underway for nationwide application.
Assert AI unveil Pratham: World's 1st No-code Computer Vision Platform
• Pratham, a no-code AI platform, democratizes computer vision, making it accessible to all without
coding skills.
• Innovatively designed for easy video data analysis, enabling users to leverage Vision AI
technology effortlessly.
• Assert AI's Pratham paves the way for widespread AI adoption in video analysis, breaking barriers
for non-specialists.
Chennai gets India's first 360-degree immersive dome theatre
• At Sun Dance by Casagrand, said to be India’s first 360-degree super immersive dome theatre,
characters and locations come to life.
• Located at the Kelambakkam-Vandalur Road, this new Chennai experience hopes to attract
audiences of all ages, especially children.
• The 360-degree view makes the observers feel like they are in the midst of the movie, thereby
enhancing the viewers' experience.
US pulled off first moon landing since 1972 with spacecraft Odysseus
• Odysseus is the first spacecraft built by a private company to land on the lunar surface.
• Odysseus, an uncrewed robot lander built by Houston-based Intuitive Machines with funding from
NASA, touched down near the lunar south pole.
• The last time a US spacecraft landed on the moon was in 1972 when Apollo 17 brought astronauts
Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt to the lunar surface.
Reliance Industries is set to launch ‘Hanooman’, a ChatGPT-style AI.
• Reliance Industries, in collaboration with IITs, is set to launch 'Hanooman', an indigenous AI service
similar to ChatGPT.
• Hanooman will operate in 11 languages across sectors like healthcare, governance, finance, and
education.
• The model, developed by the BharatGPT group, aims to offer speech-to-text capabilities,
enhancing user-friendliness.
• Jio is concurrently developing 'Jio Brain',
Scientists used microrobots in MRI device to treat liver cancer
• Researchers in Canada have developed a novel approach to treat liver cancer using magnet-
guided microrobots in an MRI device.
• Guided by an external magnetic field, the miniature biocompatible robots, made of iron oxide
nanoparticles, can theoretically provide medical treatment in a very targeted manner, the
researchers said.
76 | P a g e
India's first spy satellite made by TASL set for launch

• Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), a local private company in India, has built the country's first
spy satellite for use by the armed forces.
• This satellite is set to be launched on a SpaceX rocket.
• A ground control centre is being established in Bengaluru, in collaboration with Satellogic..
• This centre will guide the satellite and process its imagery, with operational readiness.
GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS satellite successfully launched
• INSAT-3DS, launched by ISRO, bolstered India's meteorological capabilities alongside INSAT-3D
and INSAT-3DR.
• It features advanced payloads for comprehensive Earth, atmospheric, and ocean monitoring,
improving data accuracy.
• It is aimed to enhance weather forecasting, disaster preparedness, and support search and rescue
operations.
Japan to launch world’s first wooden satellite. 🚀
• NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are set to launch the world's first
wooden satellite into orbit.
• LignoSat, a coffee mug-size satellite made from magnolia wood, is set to launch into Earth's orbit
by summer 2024
• The timber satellite has been built by researchers at Kyoto University.
• It is approximately 10 centimeters in diameter and weighs around 330 grams.
ISRO to launch weather satellite INSAT-3DS. 🚀
• ISRO's meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS is set for launch on February 17.
• The satellite will be launched aboard a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle F14 (GSLV F14)
from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.
• INSAT-3DS satellite is designed for advanced meteorological observations and land/ocean
surface monitoring to boost weather forecasting and disaster warning.
IIT Guwahati inaugurates "SWASTHA" Project for advanced healthcare 🏥
• Secretary of the MeitY, S Krishnan, inaugurated the SWASTHA project and the state-of-the-art
ISO 5 and 6 clean room facilities at the Centre for Nanotechnology, IIT Guwahati.
• The "SWASTHA" project aims to revolutionize healthcare with advanced nanoelectronic
theranostic devices.
• It focuses on innovation, scientific collaboration, and technological progress in healthcare
NASA's PACE Satellite launched to study climate change 🛰️
• NASA's PACE satellite successfully launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral.
• The satellite will spend at least three years studying the oceans from 420 miles (676 kilometers)
up, as well as the atmosphere.
• PACE will provide valuable data for understanding climate change and its impacts on the planet.
77 | P a g e
China's Jielong-3 Rocket launches nine satellites

• The Jielong-3 rocket, developed by China, successfully launches nine satellites into orbit from a
floating barge off the coast of Yangjiang.
• President Xi Jinping's push for expansion in the commercial space sector underscores the
significance of building satellite networks for communication, remote sensing, and navigation.
• The rocket's ability to carry 1,500kg payloads to a 500km orbit.
NASA discovers 'Super-Earth' in habitable zone, 137 light years away
• NASA finds exoplanet TOI-715 b, potentially habitable due to its position within a habitable zone.
• TOI-715b orbits a small, reddish star and is about 1.5 times wider than Earth.
• The planet's proximity to its star results in a short "year" equivalent to 19 Earth days, making it
easier to observe.
Monthly Revision January: Science & Technology-I
• Elon Musk's Neuralink implants brain chip in first human.
• Maersk revealed world’s largest ship fueled by Methanol
• CoRover.ai unveiled BharatGPT, India’s first large language model
• Cameroon launched world’s first Malaria vaccine program for children.
• NASA unveiled X-59 supersonic jet ‘Son of Concorde’
• Japan achieved historic soft moon landing with SLIM Mission.
Monthly Revision January: Science & Technology-II
• Hardeep Puri launches pilot project for alcohol-based Jet Fuel in Pune
• Oxford launched first human vaccine trials for deadly Nipah virus.
• India’s first X-ray polarimetry satellite captures supernova remnant.
• Japan launched satellite for intelligence gathering on North Korea
• Scientists of Bangladesh, Mauritius join India's Antarctic expedition
Marut Drones developed India's 1st mineral exploration drone for NMDC
• Marut Drones, a Hyderabad-based startup, delivered India's first mineral exploration drones to
National Mineral Development Corporation Ltd., a state-run iron ore miner.
• Equipped with advanced sensors, these drones revolutionize prospecting for critical minerals by
enhancing precision in exploration and mapping.
• This collaboration signified a significant leap in the mining industry.
78 | P a g e
Sports Current Affairs

Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer's central contracts terminated by BCCI
• Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan dropped from BCCI's 2023-24 contract list due to Ranji Trophy non-
participation.
• A+ contracts for stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli; notable promotions include Mohammed
Siraj to A category, while Pant and Patel demoted to B.
• BCCI introduced fast bowling contracts, emphasizing domestic cricket's importance and
commitment to grassroots talent development.
Indian shooters clinch team silver in Women's 50m Rifle 3 Positions
• Indian shooters Ashi Chouksey, Manini Koushik, and Sift Kaur Samra won a silver medal in the
Women's 50m Rifle 3 Positions event at the Asian Games, showcasing exceptional marksmanship
and precision.
• They accumulated 1764 points during the qualification round, securing a second-place finish on
the podium.
• The gold medal was claimed by China.
Dhinidhi clocks 'Best India Time' in 100m girl's freestyle.
• Dhinidhi Desinghu produced a record-breaking swim to clock the 'Best India Time' in the girl's
100m Freestyle event at the 11th Asian Group Aquatics Championships in the Philippines.
• Dhinidhi broke the previous record of 57.35 seconds set by Kenisha Gupta, clocking a new Indian
best time of 57.33 at New Clark City in Capas, Philippines.
Namibia's Loftie-Eaton smashed fastest T20I hundred
• Playing against Nepal, he brought up his century in 33 balls, bettering Kushal Malla's record by
one ball in the process.
• In all, Loftie-Eaton scored 101 off 36 balls, which included 11 fours and eight sixes.
• The 92 runs he scored in boundaries were also the most by a batter in T20Is.
Indian shuttler Raksha Kandasamy won Italian Junior singles title
• Indian shuttler Raksha Kandasamy maintained her dominant run to clinch the Italian Junior
singles title defeating compatriot Ananya Agrawal in the final 21-14, 21-12.
• Raksha had an impeccable run in the tournament held in Milan, Italy from February 23-25 as she
did not drop a single game through the course of the competition from the round of 64 to lift the
title.
New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner retired from international cricket
• Neil Wagner, the New Zealand fast bowler, has retired from international cricket after an
illustrious 64-Test career.
• Despite being named in the squad to face Australia, Wagner was not selected for the first Test
and will be omitted from the second.
79 | P a g e
• Wagner cited a difficult decision but expressed pride in his Test cricket journey with the Blackcaps,
thanking everyone involved.
Ashwin overtakes Kumble for most wickets in Tests in India.
• R. Ashwin overtook Anil Kumble for the most wickets taken in Tests in India.
• Kumble had amassed 350 wickets in 63 matches in India at an average of 24.88. Ashwin has 351
wickets to his name in 59 Tests at home at an average of 21.40.
• Most wickets in India in Tests
o R. Ashwin - 354*
o Anil Kumble - 350
o Harbhajan Singh - 265
o Kapil Dev - 219
o Ravindra Jadeja - 211*
Army topped Khelo India Winter Games 2024, Karnataka finished second
• Alpine skier Bobby Pandey won Gold at Khelo India Winter Games 2024 in Gulmarg, securing
Army's top medal tally position with 10 golds.
• Karnataka's skier Thekkada Bhavani Nanjunda won 2 Gold.
• Six Olympians, including Shiva Keshavan and Arif Mohammed Khan, involved in Games' technical
management, highlighting Sports Authority of Indias role.
• Maharashtra finished third after Army & Karnataka.
India bagged 9 gold medals at Archery Asia Cup 2024 in Baghdad
• India finished the Archery Asia Cup 2024 with 14 medals, including nine gold, four silver and one
bronze medal in Baghdad, Iraq.
• In the women’s individual recurve category, three-time Olympian Deepika Kumari won the gold.
• Dhiraj Bommadevara won the men’s recurve archery title.
• Parneet Kaur won the women’s gold medal.
• Prathamesh Jawkar won the men’s title.
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda topped Nordic ski event, won 3 Gold at KIWG
• Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda from Karnataka won 3 golds in Nordic skiing events at Khelo India
Winter Games.
• Born in low-altitude Napoklu, excelled on 4,000m high slopes in Gulmarg, showcasing remarkable
adaptability.
• Victories in 10km, 1.6km, and 5km sprints highlight her dominance in skiing competitions.
BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024
• Suhas Yathiraj clinches gold in SL4, marking his first world title with a victory over Indonesia's
Fredy Setiawan.
• Pramod Bhagat secures his third world title in the SL3 category, adding to his illustrious career
that includes a Paralympic gold.
• India’s Krishna Nagar won gold in the SL6 category, defeating China’s Lin Naili in a close contest
80 | P a g e
Jacintha Kalyan became India's First Female Pitch Curator

• Jacintha Kalyan, from a humble background in Doddaladahalli, became India’s first woman pitch
curator after starting her career as a receptionist at KSCA.
• She developed an interest in ground maintenance, passing BCCI's Curator Examination to work
on domestic, international, and IPL wickets.
• Kalyan's journey reflects her passion for cricket and dedication to breaking gender norms in
sports.
Babar Azam makes cricket history with fastest 10,000 T20 runs
• Pakistan player Babar Azam became the fastest batter to score 10,000 T20 runs.
• Babar achieved this feat surpassing the likes of Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli.
• He became the 13th batter and the fastest overall to achieve this feat in just 271 innings.
o Chris Gayle: 285 innings
o Virat Kohli: 299 innings
o David Warner: 303 innings
o Aaron Finch: 327 innings
o Jos Buttler: 350 innings
8-year-old Indian-origin boy Ashwath Kaushik beats Polish Grandmaster
• 8-year-old Indian-origin boy Ashwath Kaushik became the youngest to beat a GM, beating Jacek
Stopa of Poland.
• Ashwath Kaushik, who represented Singapore, defeated Stopa, who, at 37 is nearly 5 times older
than him.
• The previous record was set when Serbia’s Leonid Ivanovic, who is several months older than
Ashwath, beat Bulgarian grandmaster Milko Popchev at the Belgrade Open.
India won Four Gold in Asian Athletics Indoor Championships
• Gulveer Singh fetched India's fourth gold medal in the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships as
he won the 3000m final race with a time of 8:07.48.
• India secured four gold, one silver; improving from last edition's tally.
• T Harmilan Bains and Jyothi Yarraji won gold in the women’s 1500m and 60m hurdles,
respectively.
• Tajinderpal Singh Toor defended his men’s shot put crown.
Yashasvi Jaiswal broke record in Test Series
• Yashasvi Jaiswal set a new record for most runs by an Indian left-hander in a Test series with 545
runs.
• It surpassed Sourav Ganguly's previous best of 534 runs against Pakistan in 2007.
• His performance was key to India's success against England in 2024.
• Jaiswal’s achievement underscores his talent and ability to deliver consistently at the highest level
of the game.
81 | P a g e
PM Modi to inaugurate 4th edition of Khelo India University Games

• PM Modi will inaugurate the Khelo India University Games 2023 at Sarusajai Sports Complex in
Guwahati, promoting Northeast states' development.
• The event features 4500 athletes from over 215 universities competing in 20 sports, highlighting
unity and sportsmanship.
• The games, spread across 7 cities and 18 venues, will end on 29th February 2024, showcasing
India's diverse talent.
Jannik Sinner triumphs at Rotterdam Open, sets Italian record
• Jannik Sinner won the Rotterdam Open against Alex de Minaur with a 7-5, 6-4 victory, marking
his second tour-level title of the season.
• Sinner extended his win streak to 15 matches and improved his ATP Head2Head record against
de Minaur to 7-0.
• He has achieved a career-high ATP rank of No. 3, the highest ever for an Italian player, following
his Australian Open victory.
MS Dhoni named captain of IPL's all-time greatest team. 🏏
• Ex-India captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has been chosen to captain
the all-time greatest IPL team.
• The selection panel comprised former cricketers Wasim Akram, Matthew Hayden, Tom Moody,
and Dale Steyn.
• MS Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to 5 IPL titles to date.
• The marquee tournament will complete 16 years of the first-ever IPL auction on February 20, 2024.
India women clinch Badminton Asia Team Championships title. 🏸
• India's women's badminton team clinches the Badminton Asia Team Championships title by
defeating Thailand 3-2 in the final.
• Led by PV Sindhu, India overcomes top-seeded teams like China, Japan, and Thailand to secure
the title.
• Teresa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand contributed significantly by winning a tense doubles
encounter.
Jyothi Yarraji wins 60m hurdles gold at Asian Indoor. 🚧
• India's Jyothi Yarraji continued her golden run by clinching gold in the 60m hurdles event with a
timing of 8.12 seconds at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Tehran.
• she broke her national record, which she had created in the previous edition (8.13s) in Astana,
Kazakhstan.
• Jyothi is the reigning Asian Outdoor champion in the 100m hurdles, having won the title in
Bangkok last year.
ICC imposes over 17-year ban on UK cricketer Rizwan Javed. 🏏
• UK Club Cricketer Rizwan Javed Receives 17 ½ Year Ban for ECB Anti-Corruption Code Violations.
82 | P a g e
• Rizwan Found Guilty on Five Breaches, including Article 2.1.1, Article 2.1.3, Article 2.1.4, Article 2.4.4,
Article 2.4.6.
• The ban on Rizwan Javed is Backdated to September 19, 2023, the Date of His Provisional
Suspension.
• The Chair of the ICC Code of Conduct Committee - Michael J Beloff KC,
Rohit Sharma: India's 4th-highest run-maker in international cricket🏏
• Rohit Sharma surpassed Saurav Ganguly to become the fourth-highest run-scorer in international
cricket during the fourth Test against England in Rajkot.
• With 18,641 runs in 470 matches at an average of 43.35, including 47 centuries and 100 fifties,
Rohit Sharma cemented his status as one of India's cricket legends.
Ravichandran Ashwin completed 500 Test wickets🏏
• Ravichandran Ashwin became only the second Indian cricketer to claim 500 Test wickets,
following the legendary spinner Anil Kumble.
• Ashwin achieved this milestone during a Test match against England, securing his 500th wicket
with the dismissal of Zak Crawley on Day 2 of the third Test.
• With 500 Test wickets to his name, Ashwin joined a prestigious list of bowlers in cricket history.
Indian Women's Badminton Team made history at Badminton Asia C'ship🏸
• The Indian women's team secured its first-ever semi-final spot in the Badminton Asia Team
Championships by defeating Hong Kong.
• PV Sindhu led the charge with a hard-fought victory after a strong start against Lo Sin Yan Happy.
• Doubles pair Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa, along with Ashmita Chaliha, contributed to
India's 3-0 win, ensuring a medal.
Anurag Singh Thakur handed over Chess Olympiad Torch to Budapest♟️
• Union Minister Anurag Thakur handed over Chess Olympiad Torch to Budapest, Hungary, for the
upcoming 45th Chess Olympiad.
• The handover ceremony took place in New Delhi, where Minister Thakur & Grandmaster
Vishwanathan Anand played a friendly chess game with FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich &
Hungarian Grandmaster Judit Polgar.
• The 44th edition of Chess Olympiad was held in Chennai in 2022.
Rohit Sharma to captain India in this year's T20 World Cup. 🏏
• India will be playing in the T20 World Cup 2024, to be organized in the Caribbean and the USA,
under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma.
• The ICC Men's T20 World Cup has been organized by the International Cricket Council since 2007.
• Winners:
o 2007-India
o 2009-Pakistan
o 2010-England
o 2012-West Indies
83 | P a g e
o 2014-Sri Lanka
o 2016-West Indies
o 2021-Australia
o 2022-England
United World Wrestling lifts suspension on WFI 🪖
• UWW lifted the suspension imposed on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on August 23,
2023, with immediate effect.
• UWW Bureau reviewed the suspension on February 9 and decided to lift it, considering all the
information and elements.
• UWW asked WFI to re-convene the elections to its Athletes Commission before July 1.
Sumit Nagal won Chennai Open ATP Challenger title 🏆
• Sumit Nagal won Chennai Open ATP Challenger title with a straight set 6-1,6-4 win over top seed
Luca Nardi.
• Nagal became the first Indian to win Men's Singles event at Chennai Open at SDAT Stadium.
• Nagal broke into the top 100 in the world for the first time, gaining 100 ATP points and US$18230.
• He gained 100 ATP points and US Dollar 18230 equivalent of Rs.15.13 lakhs.
India finished 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament with 8 medals 🏅
• Amit Panghal and Sachin Kumar clinched gold medals in the 51kg and 57kg categories
respectively at the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament.
• Nikhat Zareen, Arundhati Choudhary, Barun Singh Shagolshem, and Rajat settled for silver
medals in their respective weight categories.
• Akash and Naveen Kumar signed off with bronze medals, bringing India's total medal tally to 8.
ICC Under 19 World Cup 2024 Final: India U19 vs Australia U19 🏏
• Australia blew India away by 79 runs, lifting the U-19 WC trophy for 4th time.
• Australia defeated India in a 3rd straight ICC tournament final, this time to be crowned the new
U-19 champions.
• The men’s team had lost to the Aussies in the World Test Championship and the 2023 ODI Final
and now, the U-19s lost the title to their rivals.
Chris Gayle to lead Telangana Tigers in IVPL 🏏
• Chris Gayle, the legendary West Indian batter, will lead the Telangana Tigers in the inaugural
edition of the Indian Veteran Premier League (IVPL).
• The IVPL will be held from February 23 to March 3, 2024, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket
Stadium in Dehradun.
• Gayle expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasizing his belief in himself and the
crowd's support.
Sportstar Aces Awards 2024 Part 1:
84 | P a g e
• Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra won the Sportstar Aces Award for Sportstar of the Year
(Male)
• Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports) - Hardik Singh, Mohammed Shami
• Sportswoman of the Year (Team Sports) - Vandana Katariya
• Sportsman of the Year (Individual) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty
• Sportswoman of the Year (Individual) Rameshbabu Vaishali, Sift Kaur Samra
Sportstar Aces Awards 2024 Part 2:
• Sheetal Devi won Sportstar of the Year (Female) at Sportstar Aces Awards 2024.
• Coach of the Year - Rahul Dravid
• Young Achiever of the Year (Male) - Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar
• Young Achiever of the Year (Female) - Tilottama Sen
• Lifetime Achievement Award - Chandu Borde, Karnam Malleswari
• National Team of the Year - India Men’s Cricket Team
• Ace of Aces Award - Rohan Bopanna
India and Bangladesh were winners of SAFF Women's Under-19 Football.
• India and Bangladesh Declared Joint Winners of SAFF U-19 Women's Championship After Toss
Controversy.
• Match Ended 1-1, Penalty Shootout Tied 11-11, Leading to Confusion and Protest.
• AIFF Accepts Decision to Declare Both Teams Joint Winners Due to Tournament Rules
Misunderstanding.
• India won comfortably against Bhutan (10-0) and Nepal (4-0) but lost to Bangladesh
Naveen Malik won National Wrestling Championship in 74kg category
• Naveen Malik, Commonwealth Games gold medallist, emerged victorious in the men's freestyle
74kg category at the National wrestling championships.
• Malik faced a tough challenge from Yash Tushir, a former World junior bronze medallist, but
managed to secure a narrow 5-4 victory.
• Despite injuring his right ankle early in the contest, Tushir put up a strong fight.
Wei Yi won 2024 Tata Steel Chess Masters in a thrilling tiebreak
• Wei Yi emerged victorious in the 2024 Tata Steel Chess Masters after a thrilling four-player
tiebreak, becoming the first Chinese player to win the prestigious tournament.
• Wei Yi's victory propelled him into the world's top 10 rankings for the first time, a testament to his
exceptional performance at Tata Steel.
Jasprit Bumrah topped the Test bowling rankings
• Jasprit Bumrah has showcased exceptional bowling performances in Test cricket during 2024,
securing two five-wicket hauls.
• Bumrah's achievements mark him as the fourth Indian player, and notably the first fast bowler, to
lead the bowling charts in Test matches, joining the esteemed ranks of bowlers like Ashwin,
Ravindra Jadeja, and Bishan Bedi in this regard.
85 | P a g e
Hyderabad to host FIFA World Cup qualifier on June 6

• Hyderabad to host a FIFA World Cup qualifier match for the first time on June 6.
• The match between India and Kuwait will be held at a yet-to-be-announced venue in the city.
• Telangana Football Association (TFA) secured the approval for hosting the match with the
support of the state government.
BIMSTEC Aquatics Championships held for the first time
• 1st BIMSTEC Aquatics Championships kicked off at Delhi’s Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee
Swimming Pool Complex in New Delhi.
• Union Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur highlighted the importance of the event in fostering
friendship and collaboration among BIMSTEC countries.
• Competitions held in swimming, water polo & diving for the under-20 age category, with 39
medals and 9 trophies up for grabs.
Sunil Kumar won Greco-Roman title in National Wrestling Championship
• Sunil Kumar, India's Asian Games bronze medalist, won the 87 kg title at the National Wrestling
Championships 2024 in Jaipur.
• Suraj Vashist narrowly missed out on gold in the men's 60 kg competition, losing 3-2 to Gyanender
in the final.
• Naveen secured the gold medal in the 103 kg greco-roman category with a 5-1 victory over
Hardeep.
PT Usha honoured with lifetime award by SJFI & DSJA
• Legendary sprinter and IOA president PT Usha received the 'Lifetime Achievement' award from
Sports Journalists Federation of India and Delhi Sports Journalists Association.
• Usha is the 5th recipient of this award, following Vijay Amritraj, Prakash Padukone, Sunil Gavaskar
& Milkha Singh.
• Usha won 103 international medals for India, including 4 gold and 7 silver medals at the Asian
Games.
Vinesh Phogat won 55kg Gold medal at National Wrestling Championship
• Vinesh Phogat won the gold medal in the 55 kg category at the Senior National Wrestling
Championships 2024.
• In 2022, Vinesh last took part in the World Championships in Belgrade, where she won bronze.
• She returned to competition after a 16-month break due to a knee injury and surgery.
• Anshu Malik won gold in the women's 59 kg category, while Nirmala claimed the 50 kg category
gold.
Karnataka clinches Nagesh Trophy, defeated Andhra Pradesh
• Karnataka emerges victorious in the Men's National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind
• Andhra Pradesh sets a target of 238, but Karnataka secures victory with three balls to spare
86 | P a g e
• Thrilling final sees Karnataka lift the Nagesh Trophy in a remarkable display of visually impaired
cricket prowess.
Agni Chopra set record with four centuries in debut Ranji Trophy
• The 25-year-old batter set a Ranji Trophy record by scoring four consecutive centuries in his debut
season while playing for Mizoram.
• Agni Chopra is the son of renowned film director Vidhu Vinod Chopra and film critic Anupama
Chopra.
• Agni's superb performances have anchored the Mizoram team in the Ranji Trophy 2024
Sri Lanka to host ICC Annual General Meeting in July this year
• Sri Lanka has been cleared to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Annual General Meeting
in July.
• Lifting of the suspension has enhanced opportunities for cricket and tourism in Sri Lanka.
• The suspension has been lifted due to the removal of government interference.
• Roshan Ranasinghe, Fernando's predecessor has been appointed an interim committee alleging
corruption in SLC.
Akhil Sheoran bagged Bronze medal on final day of Cairo World Cup
• Akhil Sheoran, an Indian shooter, won the bronze medal in the men's 50m rifle 3 positions event
at the ISSF World Cup stage in Cairo, Egypt.
• This is Akhil's second individual ISSF World Cup stage medal of his career.
• Czech shooter Jiri Privratsky won the gold medal with a score of 462.9, while French shooter
Romain Aufrere won the silver medal with a score of 460.5.
Abhinav Bindra selected as torchbearer for 2024 Paris Olympics
• Abhinav Bindra, India's first individual Olympic gold medalist, selected as a torchbearer for the
2024 Paris Olympic Games.
• Bindra will be part of the Olympic torch relay from April 16 to July 26.
• The inaugural lighting of the torch will take place on April 16 at the Olympia sanctuary in Greece.
• The torch relay will last 68 days, covering 65 territories and involving 11,000 torchbearers.
Rhythm Sangwan & Ujjwal Malik secure India’s first gold: ISSF Shooting
• Rhythm Sangwan and Ujjwal Malik clinched gold in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the
ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) World Cup in Cairo
• Arjun Babuta and Sonam Uttam Maskar secured silver in the 10m air rifle mixed team event
• Anuradha Devi set the pace for India's success by winning silver in the women's 10m air pistol
event
Khelo India Youth Games 2023: Part - 1
• Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur gave away the trophies at the
closing ceremony of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 Tamil Nadu in Chennai.
• 1st Position - Maharashtra 158 medals (57 gold, 48 silver, 53 bronze)
87 | P a g e
• 2nd Position - Tamil Nadu 98 medals (38 gold, 21 silver, 39 bronze)

• 3rd Position - Haryana 103 medals (35 gold, 22 silver, 46 bronze)
Khelo India Youth Games 2023: Part - 2
• 4454 young athletes across 26 competitive sports from 36 States/UTs battled in the game.
• There was almost equal representation at the games with 2307 male athletes and 2147 female
athletes.
• Swimmer Vritti Agarwal of Telangana meanwhile became one of the best athletes of the games,
winning a total of 5 gold medals.
• A total of 30 records have been created in this edition of the games.
88 | P a g e
Summits and Conferences Current Affairs

India, South Africa blocked major deal at WTO
• India and South Africa formally opposed the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement
at the WTO Meet.
• The IFD led by Chile, South Korea and China, aims to boost global welfare by up to $800 billion
by improving the investment climate.
• Despite approval from 125 countries, WTO rules allowing any of the 164 members to object
highlight the need for unanimous consensus on deals.
PM addresses News 9 Global Summit
• The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the News 9 Global Summit in New Delhi.
• The theme of the Summit is ‘India: Poised for the Big Leap’.
• The Prime Minister underlined the centrality of the commission citizen in the destiny of India.
• Prime Minister mentioned the record increase in FDI from 300 billion US dollars to 640 billion US
dollars in the last 10 years.
13th WTO Ministerial Conference held in Abu Dhabi
• The 13th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi reported advancements
on trade reviews, fisheries subsidies, e-commerce, and the imminent WTO entry of Comoros and
Timor-Leste.
• Director-General Okonjo-Iweala emphasized open trade and collaborative efforts to navigate
global uncertainties, highlighting UAE's role in supporting developing nations.
Mahabiz 2024: Global Business Conclave held in Dubai
• Mahabiz 2024, organized by the Gulf Maharashtra Business Forum in Dubai, aims to connect over
700 entrepreneurs from diverse regions, including India, Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
• Its theme is "Connect with Opportunities to Progress."
• The event will feature addresses by prominent Indian political and business figures, emphasizing
the significance of the India-UAE relationship.
8th Asia Economic Dialogue to be held in Pune
• The annual geo-economics conference, organised jointly by the MEA and Pune International
Centre, will be held from February 29 to March 2.
• It focused on the theme, ‘Geo-economic Challenges in an Era of Flux’.
• The inaugural session on the theme ‘Promoting Economic Integration in South Asia’ will be chaired
by Amb. Gautam Bambawale, convenor, AED 2024.
INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SEMINAR
• Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Hon’ble Vice President inaugurated the International Maritime
Seminar.
• The Seminar, which was a pivotal component of MILAN 2024, proved to be a convergence of
global maritime excellence.
89 | P a g e
• The theme - "Partners across Oceans: Collaboration, Synergy, Growth"

• The seminar served as a platform for collaboration, synergy, and growth among nations across
the oceans.
MoS V Muraleedharan to represent India at G20 Foreign Ministers’ meet
• V Muraleedharan will represent India at the 10th G20 Foreign Ministers' Meet in Rio, Brazil.
• Brazil, current G20 President, hosted with India supporting G20 priorities for a just and sustainable
world; introduced groups focusing on women’s empowerment and judiciary.
• Muraleedharan to attend India-Brazil-South Africa meet and hold bilateral discussions
highlighting Global South partnerships.
9th Raisina Dialogue 2024: New Delhi
• Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece will pay a State visit to India from February 21-22
• This would be the first bilateral Head of State/Government level visit from Greece to India after
15 years
• He will be the Chief Guest at the 9th Raisina Dialogue, 2024 in New Delhi.
• PM Modi welcomed Greece into the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
The 14th Global Immigration Summit 🪖
• The 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit was organized at the Shangri-la Hotel in New
Delhi
• Summit focuses on immigration programs like EB-5, Portugal Golden Visa, UK Business
Immigration, and Europe Golden Visa.
• BLS Global and Acquest Advisors organized the summit, assembling a diverse range of
immigration experts worldwide.
16th conference of World Social Forum commenced in Kathmandu🚩
• The 16th conference of the World Social Forum commenced under the "Another World is Possible"
banner.
• It aims to open horizontal exchange among civil society organisations, social movements, trade
unions and individuals opposing neoliberal globalisation.
• More than 1252 organizations from 92 countries participated in person and virtually in the 5-day
Forum which will conclude on February 19.
First International Inclusion Alliance Conference. 🏢
• 1st International Inclusion Alliance Conference fosters global inclusivity and diversity.
• Chief Guest Meenakshi Lekhi highlights India's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Panel discussions and contributions from diplomats enrich dialogue on societal inclusion.
• Dr Neeraj A Sharma, Co-Founder of IIA, emphasized the alliance's commitment to fostering
inclusive environments globally.
India chaired 62nd Session of Commission for Social Development🤵♂️
90 | P a g e
• India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ruchira Kamboj, chaired the 62nd Session of the
Commission for Social Development.
• The session focused on fostering social development and social justice to accelerate progress on
the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and eradicate poverty.
• 4 resolutions were adopted including one on promoting care for social development
International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024🪖
• The "International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024" will take place in New Delhi on February
15th at the Stein Auditorium, Indian Habitat Centre.
• It was organized by Entrepreneurial Guru & Mentor Neeraj A Sharma and Global DEI Specialist
Shruti Swaroop
• It seeks to promote financial inclusion, societal inclusion, and equitable access to resources and
opportunities at the grassroots level.
Inauguration of IAPSMCON 2024 at KMC Mangalore 🏫
• 51st Annual National Conference of Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine was
inaugurated at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore.
• Pre-conference workshops were held on February 6th and 7th, 2024.
• Theme: 'Transformations for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Innovate, Integrate,
Implement.'
• Hosted by Department of Community Medicine at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore
Geological Survey Workshop on Offshore Exploration in Mangalore 📜
• The Marine and Coastal Survey Division of Geological Survey of India is organising a workshop
titled "Offshore Exploration: Synergies and Opportunities (OESO)" on 15th February 2024, in
Mangalore.
• It aims to facilitate private sector participation in offshore exploration activities.
• Discussions to focus on streamlining exploration regulations, data sharing, and sustainable
practices.
NADA hosted Conference on Clean Sports and Anti-Doping 💉
• NADA organized a conference on anti-doping in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics 2024.
• Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the Center of Excellence for Nutritional
Supplements Testing at the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• Thakur emphasized the importance of fair play, integrity, and the role of NADA in strengthening
India's anti-doping framework.
India, Türkiye, Qatar named Guests of Honor at World Government Summit
• India, Türkiye, and Qatar will be the honored guests at the 2024 World Governments Summit in
Dubai, which will take place from February 12-14.
• The summit's theme is "Shaping Future Governments."
• The guest countries will showcase their successful governance experiences and best
developmental practices during the summit.
91 | P a g e
• The summit will host 120 governmental delegations and 4,000 attendees.
Vice-President inaugurated World Sustainable Development Summit
• Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the World Sustainable Development Summit in
New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of optimum utilization of natural resources.
• The event was started in the presence of Prime Minister of Guyana Mark Phillips and Union
MoEFCC minister Bhupender Yadav.
• The Summit was organized by 'The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)'.
7th Indian Ocean Conference to be held in Perth, Australia
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar to deliver the inaugural address at the 7th Indian Ocean
Conference in Perth, Australia.
• The two-day conference, themed "Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean," will discuss
various issues related to regional cooperation, maritime security, and sustainable development in
the Indian Ocean region.
Prelude to International Water Conclave 2024 wraps up in Shillong
• The prelude to the International Water Conclave 2024 concluded with a successful Curtain Raiser
event at the State Convention Centre, Shillong.
• The Conclave will continue discussions on improving water resource quality and sustainability
with global experts.
• It was graced by the State Minister of the Water Resources Department Coming One Ymbon,
Additional Chief Secretary Shakil P. Ahammed.
New Delhi hosts first ever EU-India roundtable on combatting terrorism
• The inaugural EU-India Track 1.5 dialogue, addressing the threat of unmanned aerial systems by
extremists, will convene in New Delhi.
• It is Organized by the ESIWA project in collaboration with India's National Security Guard and the
EU Delegation,
• it's co-funded by the EU, the German Federal Foreign Office, and the French Ministry for Europe
and Foreign Affairs.
India's win in TB reduction highlighted at Stop TB Partnership Meeting
• Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya virtually addressed the 37th Board Meeting of the
Stop TB Partnership in Brazil.
• He highlighted India's significant progress in TB reduction, with a 16% decline in cases compared
to the global average of 8.7%.
• Mandaviya attributed this success to various initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt
Bharat Abhiyan and the TB Mukt Panchayat initiative.
PM Narendra Modi to address World Government Summit in Dubai.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the prestigious World Government Summit (WGS)
in Dubai
92 | P a g e
• The WGS, an annual global gathering held in Dubai since 2013, convenes world leaders,
policymakers, and experts to tackle pressing global issues.
• PM Modi's visit will also include the inauguration of the UAE's first traditional stone temple, the
BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.
IICA hosted ‘The Great Indian Board Reboot: Roadshow 2024’ in Mumbai
• Inaugural event of 'The Great Indian Board Reboot: Roadshow 2024' held by the Indian Institute
of Corporate Affairs in partnership with National Stock Exchange & Bombay Stock Exchange.
• Focused on board renewal, diversity, and integration of new technologies and regulatory
frameworks.
• Panel discussions explored challenges and opportunities in board renewal and stakeholder
representation.
PM Modi inaugurates CLEA conference on cross-border justice challenges
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Commonwealth Legal Education Association
(CLEA) - Commonwealth Attorneys and Solicitors General Conference in New Delhi
• The theme of the conference is Cross-Border Challenges in Justice Delivery.
• Attorney Generals and Solicitors from the Commonwealth nations along with various
international delegations will participate in the conference.
Monthly Revision January: Summit and Conferences-I
• Piyush Goyal chairs unicorn roundtable at Startup India Innovation Week
• India Energy Week 2024 to kick off in Goa
• Sweden set to become NATO member as Turkey approves its membership bid
• First meeting of the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB).
• 63rd Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) Meeting: Bhopal
• S Jaishankar co-chairs the 6th India-Nigeria joint commission meeting.
Monthly Revision January: Summit and Conferences-II
• 11th NESAC Meeting in Shillong: Discusses space Technology advancement
• V Muraleedharan represents India at G-77 third summit in Uganda.
• VP Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurates the Asian Buddhist Conference,
• Switzerland agrees to host the Global Peace Summit for Ukraine.
• External Affairs Minister to attend 19th NAM Summit in Uganda.
RPF to host 67th All India Police Duty Meet in Lucknow
• Railway Protection Force (RPF) to host the 67th All India Police Duty Meet (AIPDM) in Lucknow
from February 12-16, 2024.
• DG RPF Manoj Yadava launched a dedicated mobile application and website for the event.
• The digital platforms aim to enhance communication, transparency, and promote the use of
technology in investigative duties.
IIPE conference on earth materials begun in Vizag
93 | P a g e
• A two-day national conference on "Earth's Materials for Energy: Mantle to Market" began in
Visakhapatnam, organized by the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE).
• The conference focused on six key themes related to natural resources used for energy purposes,
including hydrocarbons, nuclear fuels, white hydrogen, and geothermal energy.
94 | P a g e
Reports and Indices Current Affairs

Number of ultra-rich in India increased by 6% in 2023 to 13,263
• The real estate consultant Knight Frank India released 'The Wealth Report 2024' saying that the
number of UHNWIs in India grew 6.1% to 13,263 in 2023 as against 12,495 individuals in the
previous year.
• On rising prosperity, the number of affluents would grow further to reach nearly 20,000 in India
by 2028.
• 90% of affluents are expecting to witness an increase in their wealth during 2024.
India conducted Fifth cycle Leopard Population Estimation
• The leopard population estimation was carried out by the National Tiger Conservation Authority
and Wildlife Institute of India, in collaboration with State Forest Departments.
• India's leopard population is estimated at 13,874.
• Madhya Pradesh houses the largest population of leopards in the country – 3907.
• Tiger Reserve with highest leopard population- Nagarajunasagar Srisailam.
Global Intellectual Property Index 2024: US Chamber of Commerce
• India’s position remained unchanged at 42 on the International IP Index 2024 compared to 2023,
with no change even on the index score which stood at 38.64% since 2022.
• The index ranks 55 countries on their intellectual property (IP) regime.
• Top 5 Economies for IP Rights
o United States (95.48%)
o United Kingdom (94.12%)
o France (93.12%)
o Germany (92.46%)
o Sweden (92.12%)
India’s poverty rate declined to 4.5-5% in 2022-23: SBI Research
• According to Household Consumption Expenditure Survey data, India's poverty rate declined to
4.5-5% in 2022-23, with rural poverty declining to 7.2% & urban poverty down to 4.6%.
• This decline is attributed to government programs targeted at the bottom of the pyramid.
• Spending inequality is shrinking due to enhanced infrastructure.
• The new weights are likely to lower inflation numbers.
10th edition of ‘Secretariat Reforms’ report: January 2024
• DARPG published 10th edition of monthly report on “Secretariat Reforms” for the month of
January, 2024
• Key highlights of the Report:
o Cleanliness Campaign at 4,563 offices
o Rs 18.18 Cr earned by scrap disposal
o 17.02 Lakh sq. ft of Space Freed
95 | P a g e
o 4,67,955 Public Grievances disposed

•
• Average transaction for active files in the Secretariat dropped from 7.19 (Jan 2021) to 4.58 (Jan
2024)
Poverty level in India down to 5%, as per Niti Aayog's latest survey
• Niti Aayog CEO reported that poverty in India dropped to 5% due to strong rural consumption,
closing gap with urban areas.
• The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey indicates near elimination of rural deprivation,
impacting RBI's interest rate decisions.
• Shift in expenditure pattern from food to non-food items like appliances and healthcare observed.
India reported less than one case of Kala-Azar per 10,000 population
• India reported less than 1 kala azar case per 10,000 in 2023, a step closer to eliminating the fatal
disease, with data shared with the WHO.
• The elimination threshold was <1 case per 10,000 across all blocks for 3 consecutive years; 2023
marked the first year
• Kala azar cases dropped to 520 in 2023 from 818 in 2022; HIV-VL co-infections decreased from
891 to 595, showing significant progress.
PM Modi again emerges as most popular global leader
• PM Modi has again emerged as the most popular global leader with 78 percent approval rating.
• This was unveiled in a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency
Morning Consult.
• In the survey, President of Mexico Andrés Manuel López has secured the 2nd place with 65 percent
approval rating.
• Argentina President Javier Milei - 3rd
• S President Joe Biden - 11th
IFFCO ranked No. 1 in top 300 cooperatives of the world
• The World Cooperative Monitor report published by the International Cooperative Alliance has
reported "Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited" as number 1 on the basis of the ratio of
turnover to GDP per capita.
• IFFCO has also secured the first position among the top ten cooperatives in the world in the
agriculture sector.
• This signifies IFFCO's contribution to the GDP.
India - 80th most targeted country worldwide in cybercrime: Report
• According to the cybersecurity firm Cyfirma, nearly 34% of users in India were targeted by local
threats in the year 2023, making the country the 80th most targeted in the world.
• The number of state-sponsored cyber attacks in India increased by more than 100 percent in 2022
compared to 2021.
96 | P a g e
• Healthcare is the most targeted sector by hackers, followed by education, research, military
sector.
The world's second-largest road network is found in India
• India possesses the world's second-largest road network, after the United States.
• India has surpassed China in the last nine years with the construction of more than 50,000 km of
national highways.
• The nation's longest highway is the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. india has a road network spanning
over 63 lakh kilometres.
• The Network National Highway is 1,44,000 km long overall.
EIU 2023 democracy report
• According to the 2023 Democracy Index
o 7.8% of the world’s population in 24 countries live in a “full democracy”
o 37.6% in 50 countries in a “flawed democracy”
o 15.2% in 34 countries in a “hybrid regime”
o 39.4% in 59 countries in an “authoritarian regime”
• The worst-performing regions - the Middle East and North Africa.
• EIU’s Democracy Index has been published annually since 2006.
Henley Passport Index: India ranked 85th
• France topped the list, as its passport provides visa-free access to 194 countries.
• Germany, Italy, Japan, and Singapore also ranked first alongside France.
• India slipped one rank down from last year to 85th even as the countries with visa-free access to
its citizens increased to 62 from 60 in 2023.
• The data from the International Air Transport Authority is used to prepare this index.
Odisha's Chief Minister Navin Patnaik topped in popularity rating. 👨
• 1st Spot - Odisha's CM Navin Patnaik with a popularity rating of 52.7 percent.
• 2nd Spot - Uttar Pradesh's CM Yogi Adityanath with 51.3 percent.
• 3rd Spot - Assam's CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, with a 48.6 percent rating,
• 4th Spot - Gujarat's CM Bhupendra Patel, with a 42.6 percent rating.
• 5th Spot - Dr Manik Saha, with a commendable 41.4 percent popularity rating
DARPG released the Annual NeSDA Way Forward Report for 2023 📄
• Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances has released the Annual NeSDA
Way Forward Report 2023.
• The Report highlights the significant progress made by the States and UTs during the year under
mandatory e-Services and total e-Services under the NeSDA Framework.
• As per the report, Jammu and Kashmir is providing the maximum number of e-Services, across
States/UTs.
India's Maternal Mortality Ratio heavily reduced: UN MMEIG report
97 | P a g e
• As per the UN MMEIG 2020 report, India's MMR declined from 384 in 2000 to 103 in 2020, a 6.36%
annual reduction rate.
• The decline in India's MMR is three times higher than the global decline rate of 2.07%.
• Government initiatives like PMSMA, SUMAN, JSSK, LaQshya, VHSND, and HWCs have
contributed to this decline.
Challenges in Elderly Care in India: "India Ageing Report 2023"
• “India Ageing Report 2023” has been prepared by the United Nations Population Fund(UNFPA)
and International Institute of Population Sciences(IIPS), on the welfare of senior citizens in India.
• It highlights challenges such as digital illiteracy, mental health stigma, and poverty among senior
citizens.
• The Government of India is addressing these challenges through laws, policies, schemes, etc.
Traffic Index Ranking 2023
• According to the report by the Amsterdam-based location technology specialist TomTom,
London was the most congested city in the world in 2023.
• This resulted in Londoners losing approximately 148 hours per year due to traffic delays.
• Bengaluru and Pune in India took the sixth and seventh spots.
• Rankings:
o 1 - London
o 2 - Dublin
o 3 - Toronto
o 4 - Milan
o 5 - Lima
Mukesh Ambani ranked top Indian in Brand Guardianship Index 2024
• Mukesh Ambani ranked top Indian and second globally in Brand Guardianship Index 2024.
• N Chandrasekaran climbed to fifth place, Anish Shah secured sixth position, and Salil Parekh
ranked 16th.
• Brand Finance awarded Ambani a BGI score of 80.3, just below Tencent's Huateng Ma's score of
81.6.
RBI’s Digital Payments Index rises in September 2023
• RBI’s Digital Payments Index increased to 418.77 in September 2023 from 395.57 in March 2023.
• The RBI-DPI has been constructed with March 2018 as the base period, that is, the DPI score for
March 2018 is set at 100. In September 2019, the index stood at 173.49, which rose to 217.74 in
September 2020, and to 304.06 in September 2021.
Vedanta Aluminum recognised world's most sustainable aluminum producer
• Vedanta Aluminium Ltd. ranked as the world's most sustainable aluminum producer in the S&P
Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) 2023.
• The company scored high on biodiversity, occupational health & safety, social impact, human
rights, talent planning, and water management.
98 | P a g e
• VAL is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050 through reducing its carbon footprint & creating
carbon sinks.
New cancer cases to soar 77% by 2050: WHO
• The number of new cancer cases will rise to more than 35 million in 2050 - 77% higher than 2022.
• Tobacco, alcohol, obesity and air pollution being the key factors in the estimated rise.
• India had more than 14.1 lakh new cancer cases and over 9.1 lakh deaths.
• Cancers of lip, oral cavity and lung were the most common ones in men.
• Breast and cervix cancer were the most frequent ones in women.
International Energy Agency Electricity 2024 Report
• India's electricity demand to grow at 6.5% annually until 2026, surpassing China's growth rate.
• Coal remains the dominant energy source, meeting 68% of India's electricity needs in 2026.
• Nuclear and hydro generation to expand, with Asia set to overtake North America in nuclear
generation.
• India is also expanding renewable energy, with a target of 40% non-fossil fuel generation by
2030.
Consumer Price Index for industrial workers sees slight decrease
• The All-India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) for December 2023 decreased
by 0.3 points to 138.8, marking a 0.22% decline compared to the previous month.
• The Food & Beverages group contributed the most to the downward pressure on the index.
• The year-on-year inflation for December stood at 4.91%, slightly lower than the previous month's
4.98%.
99 | P a g e

Current Affairs Monthly Capsule - February 2024

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Current Affairs Monthly Capsule - February 2024

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Current Affairs Monthly Capsule - February 2024

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | February 2024

Awards and Honours Current Affairs

CGI in India named as a Top Employer 2024🏢

Switzerland Tourism honoured Neeraj Chopra at Jungfrau's Ice Palace

Banking Current Affairs

• FY 24 total receipts other than borrowings is ₹ 27.56 lakh crore

Books and Authors Current Affairs

Defence Current Affairs

IAF to conduct mega exercise Vayu Shakti 2024 in Jaisalmer

Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs

Days and Events Current Affairs

• It is an international day dedicated to recognize all non-governmental and nonprofit

• The theme for 2024 is 'Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People.'

• Black communities have made great progress in reducing HIV.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day 2024: 2nd February

International Current Affairs

• Government to propose alternative measures to curb smoking, including tighter vaping

MoU and Agreements Current Affairs

AFMS and IIT Roorkee to collaborate for medical research🏥

• India & Cuba signed an MoU on digital public infrastructure collaboration

National Current Affairs

India's ﬁrst septic tank cleaning robot strengthening Swatch Bharat.

• This decision is going to benefit more than 5 crore sugarcane farmers

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launches ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines 🛳

• Coastal Aquaculture Authority launched a nationwide campaign to register all coastal

Defence Minister unveiled the statue General Bipin Rawat in Dehradun🤵

Dharmendra Pradhan launches EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme.

Appointments Current Affairs

Ranveer Singh joins boAt as a stakeholder and Brand Ambassador

Obituaries Current Affairs

Science and Technology Current Affairs

India's first spy satellite made by TASL set for launch

China's Jielong-3 Rocket launches nine satellites

Sports Current Affairs

Jacintha Kalyan became India's First Female Pitch Curator

PM Modi to inaugurate 4th edition of Khelo India University Games

Hyderabad to host FIFA World Cup qualifier on June 6

• 2nd Position - Tamil Nadu 98 medals (38 gold, 21 silver, 39 bronze)

Summits and Conferences Current Affairs

• The theme - "Partners across Oceans: Collaboration, Synergy, Growth"

Reports and Indices Current Affairs

o 4,67,955 Public Grievances disposed

You might also like