Table of Contents
National News
Rise in Female Labour Force Participation Says Economic Survey
The Economic Survey for 2024-25 highlighted a significant rise in the Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) in India, driven largely by women in rural areas joining the workforce. This increase is considered a key factor contributing to the improvement of overall labour market indicators in the country. The findings were presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on January 31, 2025, during the tabling of the survey in Parliament. The surge in FLFPR has been attributed to government schemes, women’s entrepreneurship initiatives, and better inclusion of women in economic activities.
- From 23.3% in 2017-18 to 41.7% in 2023-24.
- 21 States have a FLFPR ranging between 30% and 40%.
- 7 States/UTs report FLFPR above 40%, with Sikkim leading at 56.9%.
Kavach: India’s Pledge to Safer Railways
India’s railway safety is about to undergo a major transformation with the nationwide rollout of the Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that this ambitious project will cover the entire railway network in the next six years. The aim is clear – to ensure safer, more efficient train operations while boosting passenger confidence in one of the world’s largest railway systems.
International News
Indian Embassy Urges Evacuation of Bukavu Amid DRC Conflict
In a crucial move to ensure the safety of Indian nationals, the Indian Embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has issued an urgent advisory for Indians in Bukavu to evacuate the city immediately due to escalating violence. This announcement follows the rapid advance of rebel forces in the eastern DRC, including the M23 group, which has already captured nearby areas like Goma. The embassy’s advisory is a clear reflection of its commitment to protecting Indian citizens during the ongoing crisis.
Mount Taranaki Granted Legal Personhood
On January 30, 2025, a historic moment unfolded in New Zealand as the country’s Parliament passed a law that grants Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga, legal personhood. This unprecedented decision recognizes the mountain as a living entity with rights similar to those of a human being. This move is deeply rooted in the Māori people’s spiritual and cultural beliefs and aims to correct past injustices while promoting environmental conservation.
U.S. Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China
On February 1, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing steep tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. The move, aimed at addressing issues like illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking, triggered strong retaliatory measures from affected countries. The decision has sparked a global economic debate, with analysts warning of inflationary risks, slowed economic growth, and potential trade wars.
Russian Lawmaker Vyacheslav Volodin’s Official Visit to India
Russian Lawmaker Vyacheslav Volodin, the Chairman of the State Duma of Russia, arrived in India on February 3, 2025, for a crucial official visit. The visit aims to further enhance the strategic relationship between Russia and India, which has continued to evolve in recent years. Volodin’s discussions with Indian leaders will focus on strengthening ties in various sectors, such as economic growth, education, technology, and cultural exchanges, while also pushing for deeper inter-parliamentary cooperation. This visit signals the continued importance of the Russia-India relationship in the current global context.
Defence News
DRDO Conducts Three Back-to-Back VSHORADS Trials
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out three successive flight trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) on February 1, 2025, from the Chandipur test range off the Odisha coast. These tests were conducted against high-speed aerial targets flying at low altitudes, reinforcing India’s air defence capabilities. The trials showcased the missile system’s precision, reliability, and effectiveness in neutralizing airborne threats, particularly drones and loitering munitions.
India’s Defence Ministry Pilot Study on LAWS
In February 2025, India’s Defence Ministry took a significant step forward in enhancing its military capabilities by conducting a pilot study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS). This study, conducted in collaboration with the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses, focuses on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern warfare. As nations around the world continue to advance their defence technologies, India is exploring how AI can be integrated into its defence strategy while also considering the ethical, legal, and accountability challenges of using such advanced systems in military operations.
Economy News
Gender Budgeting in 2025-26: A Step Toward Inclusive Growth
The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025, has made significant strides in gender budgeting, increasing the share of the Gender Budget allocation to 8.86% of the total Union Budget, compared to 6.8% in FY 2024-25. The allocation for women and girls has risen to ₹4.49 lakh crore, marking a 37.25% increase from the previous year’s ₹3.27 lakh crore. Additionally, 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported gender-specific allocations, making it the highest number of contributors to the Gender Budget Statement (GBS) since its inception.
FDI Limit for Insurance Raised from 74% to 100%
FDI limit increased from 74% to 100% for companies investing entire premiums within India. The current conditions and regulatory guardrails on foreign investment will be simplified. This move is expected to attract global insurance giants, bringing in significant foreign capital. It aims to deepen market penetration, foster competition, and introduce global best practices.
Schemes News
PM-JANMAN Package for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
The PM-JANMAN Package (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) was launched in November 2023 with the primary objective of improving the living conditions of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India. This initiative comes as a solution to the longstanding challenges faced by these marginalized communities. The mission is designed to bring significant infrastructural and socio-economic improvements through a series of strategic interventions.
Important Days News
World Wetlands Day 2025 Date, Theme, Challenges, Role of RAMSAR Convention
World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on February 2, raises global awareness about the critical role wetlands play in supporting biodiversity, human well-being, and cultural heritage. The 2025 theme, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’, emphasizes the significance of wetlands in preserving life, combating climate change, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Wetlands are vital ecosystems that contribute significantly to the planet’s ecological balance, and protecting them is essential for the future of both nature and humanity.
Theme for 2025: ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’ highlights the need for continued conservation efforts to preserve wetlands for the health of future generations.
World Cancer Day, Date, Theme, History, Significance, Symptoms, Treatment
Cancer is one of the most significant health challenges that humanity faces today, with millions of people diagnosed and millions more succumbing to the disease each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths globally in 2022. With its staggering impact, cancer remains a leading cause of mortality, underscoring the importance of addressing the disease at all levels. World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, serves as a powerful reminder to raise awareness, take action, and reduce the global burden of this life-threatening condition. This day encourages individuals, communities, and governments to come together in the fight against cancer.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025, “United by Unique,” marks the launch of a three-year campaign that will run until 2027.
Science and Technology News
AI in Focus: Key Allocations in Union Budget 2025
In her 8th Union Budget presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined the Cabinet’s commitment to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors of the Indian economy. With a strong focus on education, agriculture, healthcare, and governance, the government has significantly increased allocations for AI-related schemes compared to previous years. Key highlights of the budget include the establishment of a new Centre of Excellence (CoE) in AI for education, along with expanded funding for ongoing AI missions and initiatives, signaling the government’s dedication to advancing AI as a cornerstone of India’s future growth.
ISRO’s NVS-02 Satellite Faces Orbit-Raising Challenge
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is addressing a significant technical issue with its NVS-02 navigation satellite, launched on January 29, 2025, aboard the GSLV-F15 rocket. Post-launch, the satellite’s solar panels deployed successfully, and communication with ground control was established. However, a malfunctioning valve has prevented the Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) from firing, hindering the satellite’s orbit-raising maneuvers. Consequently, NVS-02 remains in an elliptical Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) instead of reaching its designated geostationary orbit.
Awards News
Grammy Awards 2025: Complete List of Winners, Key Highlights, and Record-Breaking Moments
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards held on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles marked a milestone in the music industry. With host Trevor Noah bringing charm and excitement to the event, the night became a celebration of musical talent across various genres. Beyoncé made history, while Kendrick Lamar dominated the evening with multiple awards, cementing his place as one of the most influential artists today.
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