Current Affairs for UPSC -25-02-2025

 Current Affairs for UPSC -25-02-2025

Get updated with latest Current Affairs for UPSC -25-02-2025. This blog provide current Affairs of IIT Madras hosts Asia's first global hyperloop competition, RBI fines Citibank ₹39 lakh and Ministry of Mines classifies barite, feldspar, mica and quartz as major minerals. Also, read about Prime Minister Modi inaugurating the first SOUL conference in Delhi, India becoming the second country after China to implement a digital licensing system, and the Supreme Court collegium approving three permanent judges for the Bombay High Court. These updates are important for UPSC, SSC and other exams. Stay ahead in your preparation with daily current affairs insights!

Current Affairs for UPSC -25 02 2025

 1.IIT Madras Hosts Asia's First Global Hyperloop Competition: (Current Affairs for UPSC)

The IIT Madras Institute recently hosted Asia's first Global Hyperloop Competition.

 What is Hyperloop?

 The Hyperloop is a state-of-the-art transportation system, much faster and more efficient than conventional rail. The system travels using pods (capsules) that run in vacuum tubes, which reduce air resistance and can reach speeds of 1000 km/h or more.

 IIT Madras and Global Hyperloop Competition

 IIT Madras is a leading technological university in India, known for its innovative research in transportation technology.

 They organized Asia's first Global Hyperloop Competition, where technology colleges and researchers from around the world participated.

 The purpose of the competition was to explore new concepts in hyperloop technology and develop practical technologies.

 What is the main purpose of this competition?

 1. To develop fast and clean transport system in India.

 2. To provide opportunities for students and researchers to work on Hyperloop technology.

 3. To promote new ideas for commercial use of Hyperloop.

 How important is Hyperloop for India?

•  In a country with a large population like India, there is a great need for a fast, energy-efficient and cost-effective transport system.
•  Hyperloop could make travel between major cities like Delhi-Mumbai or Bengaluru-Chennai possible in minutes instead of hours.
•  This will reduce the burden on transport and also reduce travel time and fuel costs.

 What will happen with this success of IIT Madras?

India will lead the way in global hyperloop research and development. In the future, innovation will be boosted to launch a hyperloop transport system in India itself. Students and startups will have opportunities to work on Hyperloop projects.

2. RBI imposes a penalty of Rs 39 lakh on Citibank (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently imposed a financial penalty of Rs 39 lakh on Citibank.

 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and its responsibilities

 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the apex body that regulates the banking and financial system of the country. Banks are bound to follow RBI regulations. If any bank violates the norms, the RBI can impose a monetary penalty or other penalties on it.

 Why was Citibank fined?

 RBI has imposed a penalty of ₹39 lakh on Citibank. Because Citibank was found to be non-compliant with certain regulatory norms. An investigation by the RBI revealed that the bank had violated the terms of consumer protection and banking regulations.

 What kind of rules were violated?

 Although the exact details of this have not been made public, it could be one or more of the following reasons:

 1. Violation of Consumer Interest – Collecting unnecessary charges or providing wrong information to the consumer.

 2. Non-adherence to policies – Non-adherence to the guidelines required for banking transactions.

 3. Non-implementation of enforcement measures – Non-adherence to risk management and data security measures as directed by RBI.

 4. Violation of KYC norms – Failure to properly verify customer identity.

 How important is this fine to the bank?

 While ₹39 lakh is not a huge financial penalty for Citibank, it could have a huge impact on the bank's reputation.

 Since trust and transparency are very important in the banking sector, the RBI's action may send a negative message to Citibank's customers and investors.

  What will be the implications for the banking sector?

 With this action, other banks will have to be alert to strictly follow RBI's regulations.

 It will become mandatory for banks to keep customer information safe and conduct transparent transactions.

 Financial regulation is likely to become tighter in India, making banking services safer and more reliable.

3. Ministry of Mines classifies barite, felspar, mica and quartz as major minerals: (Current Affairs for UPSC)

Recently the Ministry of Mines has included barite, felspar, mica and quartz in the category of major minerals.

 Why did the Ministry of Mines take this decision?

 Recently the Ministry of Mines has included barite, felspar, mica (mica) and quartz in the category of major minerals. The objective of this decision is to recognize the economic, industrial and strategic importance of these minerals and make their extraction, trade and use in a more controlled and sustainable manner.

 What is the importance of these minerals?

 1. Barite:

 Barite is used as drilling mud in the oil extraction process. Due to its high density, it is a very effective component in the oil exploration and extraction process.

 2. Feldspar:

 Felspar is mainly used in ceramics, glass and other industrial products. Its quality improves the quality of glass and ceramic products and simplifies the manufacturing process.

 3. Mica:

 Mica is used in electronic equipment, power distribution, insulation and decorative items. Mica is highly useful in industry due to its high temperature tolerance and electrical insulation properties.

 4. Quartz:

 Quartz is an important ingredient in electronic devices, glass, clocks and decorative materials due to its hard, durable and precise crystal structure. Its use is also important for software and hardware industries.

 Advantages of this classification

 1. Industrial Development:

 Including these minerals in the category of major minerals will lead to more planned and sustainable strategies for their exploration, extraction and processing. This will boost industrial development in the country.

 2. Regulation and Transparency:

 This classification will impose strict regulation on the mining of minerals. This will prevent illegal mining, environmental damage and misuse of resources.

 3. Foreign Investment:

 Minerals falling under the category of major minerals gaining prominence in the global market will help attract foreign investors and boost economic growth.

4. Ecological Balance:

 Controlled mining and sustainable development policies will ensure protection of the environment and proper utilization of natural resources.

 In short, This decision of the Ministry of Mines has become an important step in the management of mineral resources in India. Inclusion of barite, felspar, mica and quartz in the category of major minerals will control the economic and industrial use of these minerals more effectively, thereby improving industrial development, regulation and environmental balance in the country.

 4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first SOUL conference in Delhi (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first SOUL (Sources of Universal Learning) conference in Delhi.

 What is the SOUL Conference?

 SOUL stands for "Sources of Universal Learning". The conference is organized to make education, knowledge and research more comprehensive and inclusive. In this conference, education experts, researchers, teachers and students come together to discuss new concepts, modern education technologies and future education policies.

 What is the objective of the SOUL conference?

1.  To promote quality and inclusive education.
2.  Emphasis on improving the education system with the help of new technologies.
3.  To promote research and innovation in the field of education.
4.  Creating new opportunities for students and teachers to get world-class education.
5.  Enhancing academic cooperation at national and international levels.

 Important issues in this conference

 1. Diffusion of Digital Education:

 Planning to provide quality education to more people with the help of online education and e-learning platform.

 2. Skill Based Education:

 Encouraging business skills and startup culture rather than just imparting theoretical education.

 3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Learning:

 Developing smart learning solutions using AI that can deliver learning tailored to the needs of students.

 4. New National Education Policy (NEP 2020):

 Accelerate implementation of NEP 2020 and make education system more effective.

 5. Bridging the education gap between rural and urban areas:

 Measures to facilitate access to higher education and digital resources for students in rural and remote areas.

 Why SOUL conference is important for India?

 This is a major step towards making India's education system globally competitive. Modern technologies such as AI, machine learning and big data will create opportunities for greater use in education. Free online education and easy access to digital resources will help rural and poor students. Startups and new research projects will be boosted, giving new dimensions to the innovative capacity of the country.

 In short, SOUL Parishad is an important step towards taking India global in the field of education and knowledge. This initiative will create new opportunities for students and teachers, expand digital education and strengthen India's education policy.

 5. India Becomes Second Country After China To Implement Digital Licensing System (Current Affairs for UPSC) :

 India recently became the second country in the world to implement digital licensing system after China.

 What is Digital Licensing System?

 A digital licensing system is a system for issuing and managing all types of licenses, certificates and permits in digital form instead of traditional documents. These include vehicle licenses, business licenses, industry licenses, environmental licenses and other government approvals.

 India's Historic Decision:

 India has recently implemented a digital licensing system, making it the second country in the world to implement this initiative after China. This system will help in transparency in government processes, speedy service and eradication of corruption.

Objectives behind implementation of Digital Licensing System:

 1. Digitization of Government Processes:

 Making all licenses and permits available online.

 2. Enhancing efficiency and transparency:

 Citizens and entrepreneurs should not have to make frequent visits to government offices for document processing.

 3. Reducing corruption and malpractice:

 A digital system will reduce fraud and brokering.

 4. Time and Paper Savings:

 Paperless transactions will be possible by reducing the need for documents.

 5. Data security and reliability:

 Secure and verified digital documents will be easily accessible to citizens.

 How is digital licensing system useful for India?

 1. Transport Sector: Vehicle licenses and transport related documents will now be available in digital form.

 2. Industry and Business: Business licenses, industry licenses and various clearances can now be obtained online.

 3. Environmental clearances: Environmental clearances can be obtained digitally for industries and construction projects.

 4.Health and Education: Medical practice licenses, university recognition certificates and other licenses will now be available in digital format.

 Future Benefits of Digital Licensing System:

1.  E-Governance will gain momentum.
2.  Citizens will have more convenient and faster access to government services.
3.  Digital India campaign will get more momentum.
4.  India's status in digital governance will improve globally.

 In Short, This decision of India is a big step towards digital transformation of the country. A digital licensing system will make the process simpler, faster and more transparent. When this system is fully operational in the future, it will revolutionize India's digital governance and make the country more equipped and advanced.

 6. Supreme Court Collegium approves appointment of three permanent judges in Bombay High Court (Current Affairs for UPSC) :

Recently the Supreme Court Collegium has approved the appointment of three permanent judges in Bombay High Court.

 What is Supreme Court Collegium?

 The Supreme Court Collegium is an important body that determines appointments and promotions of judges in the High Courts and the Supreme Court. This collegium is composed of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and four senior judges. The system exists to avoid executive interference in the appointment of judges so that the judiciary remains autonomous and effective.

 Why was the appointment sanctioned?

 Recently, the Supreme Court Collegium approved the proposal to appoint three new permanent judges to the Bombay High Court. This decision will speed up the judicial system in the Bombay High Court and will help in quick disposal of pending cases.

 Difference between Permanent Judge and Additional Judge:

 1. Permanent Judge:

 Their appointment is for long term (till retirement). They are part of the overall functioning of the court and take important decisions.

2. Additional Judge:

 They are appointed for a fixed period (usually 2-3 years). Appointed on temporary basis to dispose of pending cases.

 Why is Bombay High Court Judge Appointment Important?

1. High case pendency:

 More than 5 lakh cases are pending in the Bombay High Court. The appointment of new judges will increase the efficiency of the court.

2. Justice process will be expedited:

 Cases can be disposed of in a speedy manner, thereby providing citizens with timely justice. 

3. Basis of Judiciary for Maharashtra and Goa:

 The Bombay High Court is the principal judiciary for the two states of Maharashtra and Goa, so there must be an adequate number of judges.

 Procedure for Selection of Judges:

 1. The Chief Justice of the High Court recommends suitable candidates.

 2. The Supreme Court collegium examines the names and approves the suitable candidates.

 3. The Central Government accepts the recommendations of the Collegium and gives final approval to the appointment.

 4. The President issues an official order and the appointment takes effect.

 In Short, This judgment of the Supreme Court collegium is an important step in strengthening the judiciary of the Bombay High Court. Appointment of more judges will speed up disposal of pending cases, improve the judicial process and help citizens get timely justice.

7.  First All India Transgender Conference organized in Ajmer (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

The first All India Transgender Conference was recently organized in Ajmer.

 Important information about the conference:

 Recently, the All India Transgender Conference was organized for the first time in the city of Ajmer, Rajasthan. The conference discussed various issues related to rights, empowerment, health, education, employment and social acceptance of the transgender community. The conference was attended by transgender persons, social activists, legal experts and government officials from across the country.

 Objectives of this Conference:

 1. Formulating effective policies and laws for the rights of the transgender community.

 2. To improve their health, education and employment opportunities.

 3. To promote equal opportunities and acceptance of transgender persons in the society.

 4. To discuss and find solutions to the problems of the transgender community.

 Important issues discussed in the conference:

 1. Educational Opportunities:

 Demand for implementation of separate scholarship and special education scheme for transgender students.

 2. Employment and Economic Empowerment:

 Emphasis on concrete measures to ensure employment of transgender persons in government and private sectors. Financial assistance options to promote self-employment and entrepreneurship.

 3. Health facilities and medical assistance:

 To provide free and accessible healthcare facilities to the transgender community. Measures to make Gender Reassignment Surgery easy and affordable.

 4. Laws and Social Justice:

 Demand for stricter laws to prevent discrimination against transgender community. Efforts to ensure constitutional rights and protections for transgender persons.

 5. Social Acceptance:

 Awareness program to mainstream transgender persons in the society. 

India and Transgender Rights:

1.  In 2014, the Supreme Court recognized the transgender community as a 'third gender' in the landmark case 'Nalsa v Government of India'.
2.  The 'Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act' was enacted in 2019, paving the way for equal rights and opportunities for them.
3.  Central and state governments are implementing various welfare schemes for the transgender community.

 In Short, The first All India Transgender Conference held in Ajmer is an important step towards social inclusion. Through this conference, the problems of the transgender community were discussed and new avenues were opened for their rights. In future such conferences will create more awareness in the society and equal opportunities and justice for transgender persons.

 8. Jharkhand government bans production, distribution, sale and storage of nicotine and tobacco containing gutka and paan masala (Current Affairs for UPSC) :

Recently the state government of Jharkhand has imposed a complete ban on the production, distribution, sale and storage of nicotine and tobacco containing gutka and paan masala.

 Important Decision of Jharkhand Government:

 Recently, the Jharkhand government has imposed a complete ban on the production, distribution, sale and storage of gutka and panmasala containing nicotine and tobacco. This decision has been taken to improve public health and control tobacco related diseases.

 Main reasons behind the ban:

 1. Threat to public health:

 Tobacco and nicotine-containing products cause cancer, heart disease, respiratory disorders and other serious health problems.

 2. Addiction in Youth:

 Gutkha and Panmasala have become a major addictive factor among youth and students.

 3. Social and Economic Impact:

 Tobacco causes many families to suffer financially due to health problems.

 4. Stress on Government Health Services:

 The government spends a lot of money on health services to treat diseases caused by tobacco.

 Effects of Ban:

1.  Action will be taken against companis producing gutkha and panmasala.
2.  Strict penal action will be taken against the shopkeepers who sell.
3.  Special teams will be appointed to enforce the ban.
4.  Anti-tobacco campaigns will be implemented by creating awareness among the public.

 Similar bans in other states:

 Apart from Jharkhand, the states of Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala, Assam, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh have also banned gutkha and panmasala containing tobacco.

 Further measures taken by the Government:

1.  Health care centers for tobacco addiction will be increased.
2.  A helpline will be started for people addicted to tobacco to get advice and treatment.
3.  Anti-tobacco awareness programs will be conducted for school and college students

 In Short, This decision of the Government of Jharkhand is very important for the health of the people. A strict ban on tobacco and nicotine-containing products will improve the health of the citizens and keep the youth away from this dangerous addiction. People expect that other states should follow the example of Jharkhand's initiative and take similar drastic steps.

 9. President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution Imposed in Manipur (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

Recently President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution has been imposed in Manipur.

 What is President's Rule?

 President's rule is imposed under Article 356 of the Constitution, when the government of a state cannot run its affairs according to the constitution. In such a situation, the central government directly takes over the administration of that state and the state government is dissolved.

 Why was President's rule imposed in Manipur?

1.  Recently, President's Rule was imposed in Manipur due to ever-increasing communal violence and deteriorating law and order situation.
2.  Ethnic conflict, riots, and violence between the Metei and Kuki groups in Manipur weakened the government's position.
3.  Due to the failure of the state government to handle the situation, the central government had to impose President's rule.

 Procedure for imposition of President's Rule:

 1. The Governor submits a report to the Central Government that the State Government is not competent.

 2. The Central Government recommends to the President the imposition of President's Rule under Article 356.

 3. The President gives his assent and the State Government is dissolved.

 4. State administration is brought directly under the control of the Central Government.

 Effects of President's Rule:

1.  The Chief Minister and the entire cabinet are dismissed.
2.  The Governor manages the administration of the state on behalf of the Central Government.
3.  The State Legislature (Assembly) is dissolved or suspended.
4.  Central security forces are used to maintain law and order in the state.
5.  Elections must be held within 6 months to restore a democratic government. (This period can be extended up to 3 years if approved by Parliament.)

 Some other important times when President's rule was imposed in India:

•  In 1975, the Indira Gandhi government imposed President's rule in many states during the Emergency.
•  President's rule was imposed in 2019 after the cancellation of the special status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
•  President's rule was also imposed in Punjab (1987), Uttar Pradesh (1992), Maharashtra (1980 and 2019) and Uttarakhand (2016).

 In Short, President's rule is an important decision taken by the central government due to the ever-increasing instability in Manipur. This will strengthen law enforcement and help improve the situation in the state. But, to preserve democracy, it is necessary to hold fresh elections at the earliest, so that a stable and efficient government can be established in Manipur.

 10. According to a Lancet study, suicide rate in India has decreased by 30% in three decades (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

According to a Lancet study, the suicide rate in India has decreased by 30% in the last three decades.

 Important information about the study:

 According to a study conducted by the prestigious medical journal "The Lancet", the suicide rate in India has decreased by 30% in the last 30 years. The report reflects India's progress towards suicide prevention through mental health awareness, government policies and efforts to provide various mental health services.

 How was the decline in suicide rates possible?

 1. Growing awareness about mental health:

 Misconceptions about mental health have decreased over the past few decades, and people have become more positive about seeking treatment for mental illness. Mental health education is being imparted through the media, social organizations and at the school level.

 2. Government Initiatives and Policies:

 Under the "National Mental Health Program" (NMHP), the government has made efforts to extend mental health services across the country.  The law criminalizing suicide was repealed in 2017, so people are no longer afraid to seek help.

 3. Suicide Prevention Helplines and Counseling Centres:

 Many helplines like iCall, Snehi, Vandrevala Foundation, AASRA are available to help people. Emphasis is placed on providing free counseling to persons suffering from mental stress.

 4. Reforms in Agriculture and Rural Development Sector:

 To reduce the rate of farmer suicides, the government implemented a policy of providing agricultural insurance schemes, loan waivers, crop insurance and subsidies. Water conservation and irrigation measures have reduced the financial burden on farmers to some extent.

 5. Urbanization and lifestyle changes:

 As new employment opportunities have been created in urban areas, unemployment and poverty-related suicides have decreased. As modern treatments and psychological help become more readily available, suicide rates have decreased.

 What challenges still remain?

 Mental health facilities are still lacking in rural areas. Due to economic crisis in agriculture, family stress and educational pressure, the suicide rate among some age groups is still alarming. A new challenge is the negative impact of social media and online trolling on mental health.

 In Short, A 30% drop in suicide rates is a positive for India, according to a Lancet report. However, there is still a need to provide more mental health facilities, expand support options in rural areas and take more effective measures to prevent suicide.

 11. Himachal Pradesh State Starts Pilot Study of Hemp Cultivation for Medicinal and Industrial Use (Current Affairs for UPSC) : 

Recently, Himachal Pradesh State has started a pilot study of hemp cultivation for medicinal and industrial use.

 Important information about hemp farming:

 Recently, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has started a pilot project of Hemp cultivation for medicinal and industrial use. This project has been undertaken to study the commercial and medicinal use possibilities of hemp. As the climatic and geographical conditions of Himachal Pradesh are favorable for hemp cultivation, the state government decided to start this initiative.

 What is hemp farming?

 Hemp is a member of the Cannabis family, but contains very little of the psychoactive ingredient (THC). Hemp is widely used for pharmaceuticals, textiles, paper production, construction materials and bioplastics. Medicinally, the CBD (Cannabidiol) component of hemp is used as an analgesic, anti-stress and anti-inflammatory.

 Objective of Government of Himachal Pradesh:

 1. Providing new opportunities to agriculture sector:

 Hemp farming will provide farmers with a new productive and profitable option.  Hemp farming requires less water and fertilizers than conventional crops.

 2. Medicinal and Health Uses:

 Cannabis is used in CBD oil, pain relievers, mental health medications, and cancer treatments. Research will clarify its medicinal benefits and provide new opportunities for drug companies.

 3. Industry and Employment Generation:

 Hemp can be used to make textiles, ropes, biofuels, construction materials and plastic alternatives. This new industry will increase employment opportunities in the state.

 4. Strict rules to prevent misuse:

 The government has clarified that the project is for industrial and medicinal use only. Strict controls will be in place to prevent abuse of the intoxicating (THC-containing) form of cannabis.

 Hemp Cultivation in Other States:

 Uttarakhand was the first state in India to legalize hemp cultivation for industrial use.

 Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh are also preparing policies in this regard.

 This decision of the Government of Himachal Pradesh is an important step for the agricultural, industrial and pharmaceutical sectors. If properly planned and strictly controlled, this initiative will boost the economic development of the state and be beneficial to the farmers.

 Current Affairs for UPSC -25-02-2025 - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 1.IIT Madras hosted which historical tournament?

 Answer: IIT Madras successfully organized Asia's first Global Hyperloop Competition.

 2.Why did RBI impose penalty on Citibank?

 Answer: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 39 lakh on Citibank, as it violated norms.

 3.Which new minerals were declared as 'major minerals'?

 Answer: India's Ministry of Mines has declared barite, felspar, mica (mica) and quartz as major minerals.

 4. What is 'SOUL Conference' and who inaugurated it?

 Answer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first 'SOUL' (Science of Universe & Life) conference in Delhi.

 5. When is 'World Social Justice Day' celebrated?

 Answer: World Social Justice Day is celebrated on 20th February all over the world.

 6. Who became the second country to implement digital licensing system?

 Answer: India has become the second country after China to implement a digital licensing system.

 7. The Supreme Court Collegium approved the appointment of three new judges in which High Court?

 Answer: The Supreme Court Collegium has approved the appointment of three permanent judges to the Bombay High Court.

 8. Which venue was chosen for the first All India Transgender Conference?

 Answer: All India Transgender Conference was organized for the first time in Ajmer.

 9. The Jharkhand government imposed a total ban on which products?

 Answer: The Jharkhand government has completely banned gutkha and panmasala containing nicotine and tobacco.

 10. President's rule was imposed in Manipur under which constitution?

 Answer: President's rule has been imposed in Manipur under Article 356 of the Constitution of India.

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