Table of Contents
International News
MIGA + MAGA = MEGA Partnership: Key Takeaways from PM Modi’s US Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States has laid the foundation for a stronger partnership between India and the US, emphasizing trade, defense, and strategic cooperation. The meeting with US President Donald Trump highlighted key areas of collaboration, aiming for economic growth and global stability. The visit marked an important milestone in the growing Indo-US relations, with agreements on trade expansion, defense deals, counterterrorism, and regional security.
Constantine Tassoulas Elected as Greece’s New President
On February 12, 2025, the Hellenic Parliament elected Constantine Tassoulas, the former parliamentary speaker, as the new president of Greece. Tassoulas, a senior member of the ruling New Democracy party, secured 160 votes in the 300-seat parliament. He will take over from Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Greece’s first female president, whose term ends in March. The position of president in Greece is largely ceremonial, but the selection reflects the political direction of the country’s leadership.
Ilie Bolojan Assumes Role as Romania’s Interim President
Ilie Bolojan, the President of the Senate, has been sworn in as Romania’s interim President following the resignation of Klaus Iohannis. This political shift comes at a time of uncertainty as the country prepares for new presidential elections in May 2025. Bolojan, a seasoned politician known for his administrative expertise, steps into this role to ensure stability during the transition period.
Jotham Napat Becomes Vanuatu’s New PM
Jotham Napat was elected as Vanuatu’s new Prime Minister, securing the position unopposed. His nomination was proposed by Charlot Salwai, leader of the Reunification Movement for Change and a former prime minister. Ishmael Kalsakau, another former prime minister and MP for Port Vila, confirmed there were no other nominations and congratulated Napat on his election.
PM Narendra Modi’s 2025 Visit to France
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France in February 2025 marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations between India and France. The visit was packed with strategic discussions, high-level diplomatic engagements, and agreements aimed at boosting cooperation in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, and trade. Modi’s trip also emphasized historical ties and people-to-people connections, highlighting India’s growing global influence.
Who is Tulsi Gabbard, First Hindu to Lead US Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard has made history as the first Hindu to lead the US intelligence community after being confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI). She now oversees 18 intelligence agencies, coordinating national security efforts. A former Democratic Congresswoman, Iraq War veteran, and 2020 presidential candidate, Gabbard has had a controversial political career, marked by her independent stance, ties with India, and critiques of US foreign policy.
State News
Historic Renaming: Foy Sagar Now Varun Sagar, King Edward Memorial Transformed
The Rajasthan government has renamed two significant British-era landmarks in Ajmer to honor Indian heritage. The 132-year-old Foy Sagar Lake has been renamed Varun Sagar, and the 113-year-old King Edward Memorial Bhawan has been rechristened Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih. The renaming was confirmed by Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, who emphasized that these changes reflect India’s journey towards erasing colonial remnants and embracing cultural pride.
Defence News
Saab & HAL Join Forces for Advanced Laser Warning System in India
Swedish defence firm Saab has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to collaborate on the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (LWS-310). The agreement, signed on February 13, 2025, focuses on strengthening India’s defence sector by allowing HAL to manufacture the advanced laser warning system domestically. This move aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative and aims to enhance self-reliance in critical defence technology.
Banking News
RBI Injects ₹2.5 Lakh Crore to Strengthen Banking Liquidity
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a significant liquidity infusion of ₹2.5 lakh crore into the banking system through a Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction. This move is aimed at addressing the current liquidity shortfall in the financial system, which has been impacted by various economic factors. The liquidity support will help stabilize the banking sector, ensuring the smooth flow of credit and preventing any major disruptions in financial markets.
Easebuzz Secures RBI Authorization as Online Payment Aggregator
Easebuzz, a leading payment solutions provider, has received final authorization from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as an online payment aggregator (PA). This regulatory approval allows the company to streamline digital transactions, ensuring secure and seamless payment processing for businesses across India. The license reinforces Easebuzz’s commitment to compliance and enhances its role in the growing fintech sector.
RBI Approves Temasek Unit’s Stake Hike in AU Small Finance Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval to Zulia Investments, a subsidiary of Temasek Holdings, to increase its stake in AU Small Finance Bank to up to 7%. This move highlights Temasek’s growing interest in India’s financial sector and AU Small Finance Bank’s rising prominence. The Jaipur-based bank is the largest small finance bank in India, serving retail, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with a strong presence across the country.
Business News
TCS Joins UPM for IT Overhaul in Nordic Region
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has secured a significant IT transformation deal with UPM, a Finland-based company specializing in sustainable materials. This strategic partnership aims to modernize UPM’s IT infrastructure, focusing on cloud migration, digital transformation, and improving operational efficiency. TCS will manage key IT functions, including data center operations, network services, and end-user support, ensuring a seamless and advanced technology-driven ecosystem for UPM’s 19,000 employees.
Ranks & Reports News
Mukesh Ambani Tops Asia’s Wealthiest Families List
Asia’s wealthiest families continue to shape the global economy, with their influence spanning across diverse industries such as technology, finance, real estate, and energy. According to Bloomberg’s 2025 rankings, Mukesh Ambani and the Ambani family have retained the top position, reaffirming their dominance in business and wealth creation. The rankings highlight the remarkable legacy of Asia’s top business dynasties, showcasing their ability to sustain and expand their financial empires over generations.
Schemes News
One Year of PM Surya Ghar: A Bright Milestone
The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) marks its first anniversary on February 13, 2025, celebrating a year of promoting affordable solar energy for Indian households. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 13, 2024, the scheme aims to install rooftop solar panels in one crore households by March 2027, reducing electricity costs and promoting sustainability. The scheme has significantly boosted India’s renewable energy sector and contributed to environmental conservation.
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