Table of Contents
National News
IRDAI Introduces Bima-ASBA for UPI-Based Insurance Payments
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced Bima-ASBA (Bima Applications Supported by Blocked Amount) to simplify premium payments for life and health insurance policies. This initiative, effective from March 1, 2025, allows policyholders to authorize a one-time UPI mandate (OTM) to block funds in their bank accounts for premium payments. The amount remains in the account until the insurer accepts the policy proposal, ensuring greater transparency and security in transactions.
Bengal Leads India in Bird Count for Third Consecutive Year
The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) 2025 saw West Bengal leading India for the third consecutive year, recording 543 bird species out of 1,068 species documented nationwide. Conducted from February 14-17, 2025, the event had fewer participants due to exam schedules but still showcased Bengal’s rich bird diversity and active birdwatching community. Notable sightings included the Ibisbill and Common Starling, emphasizing the state’s importance in bird conservation and habitat preservation.
India Rolls Out Digital Pilot Licenses, Second After China
India has launched the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for flight crew, becoming the second country after China to implement digital pilot licensing. Introduced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, EPL aims to enhance convenience, transparency, and efficiency in the licensing process. This initiative supports India’s digital transformation vision and strengthens aviation safety while addressing the growing industry demand.
International News
Mount Dukono erupts in Indonesia
Mount Dukono, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, erupted on February 20, 2025, spewing a massive ash cloud up to 2,000 meters into the air. The eruption, occurring on Halmahera Island in North Maluku province, has prompted Indonesian authorities to issue urgent aviation warnings and safety advisories for residents.
Brazil Joins OPEC+ as Observer for Global Energy Influence
Brazil has officially announced its decision to join the OPEC+ group of oil-producing nations as an observer, marking a significant step in its energy policy. This move, approved by Brazil’s National Council for Energy Policy, allows the country to participate in strategic discussions with major oil-exporting nations while maintaining its independence in production decisions. The timing of this decision is crucial, as Brazil prepares to host the United Nations climate summit, reflecting its efforts to balance energy security and environmental commitments.
State News
Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025-26
The Uttar Pradesh Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna on February 20, 2025, has a total outlay of ₹8,08,736 crore, a 9.8% increase from the previous year. The budget prioritizes R&D, IT, infrastructure, welfare schemes, and urban development, with a special focus on education, agriculture, healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
Delhi Cabinet Approves Ayushman Bharat in First Meeting and Other Decisions
Rekha Gupta, BJP leader and first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, took oath as Delhi’s 9th Chief Minister at Ramlila Maidan. In her first cabinet meeting, she announced the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Yojana, with ₹10 lakh free healthcare coverage (₹5 lakh from Centre + ₹5 lakh top-up by Delhi government), and the tabling of 14 pending CAG reports. Her government’s key focus areas include Yamuna cleaning, infrastructure, education, and women’s welfare.
Nagaon Hosts 2nd Simolu Festival Amid Blooming Bombax Ceiba
The 2nd Simolu Festival began on February 15, 2025, at Bwisang-Na, Barunguri, Laokhowa, Assam, celebrating the blooming Bombax ceiba (Shimul) flowers. The two-day festival promoted eco-tourism, conservation, and local culture, featuring cycling, camping, ethnic cuisine, cultural performances, and awareness sessions. Dr. Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park, emphasized its role in nature appreciation and environmental conservation.
Nagaland’s Forest Project Recognized with SKOCH Award
The Nagaland Forest Management Project (NFMP) won the SKOCH Award 2024 at the 100th SKOCH Summit on February 15, 2025, in New Delhi. Accepted by Ango Konyak and Wennyei Konyak, the award recognizes NFMP’s efforts in forest conservation, jhum rehabilitation, and sustainable livelihoods. Supported by JICA, the 10-year project spans 185 villages across 11 districts, covering 79,000+ hectares. It focuses on enhancing forest ecosystems, environmental conservation, and community empowerment through self-help groups.
Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day 2025: Celebrating the Land of the Rising Sun
Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day, also known as Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day, is a significant occasion in the state’s history. Observed annually on February 20th, this day marks Arunachal Pradesh’s transition from a Union Territory to a full-fledged state in 1987. The state is famously known as the Land of the Rising Sun as it is the first region in India to receive sunlight. Located in the northeastern part of India, Arunachal Pradesh shares international borders with Bhutan, China, and Myanmar, making it a strategically vital state for India.
Mizoram Foundation Day 2025: Celebrating the Birth of the 23rd State of India
Mizoram Foundation Day is observed annually on February 20 to commemorate the northeastern state’s attainment of statehood in 1987. This historic occasion marks the transformation of the Lushai Hills Autonomous District Council into a full-fledged state, making Mizoram the 23rd state of India. The day is shared with Arunachal Pradesh, which also achieved statehood on February 20, 1987.
Kerala Unveils nPROUD for Safe Drug Disposal
The Kerala Health Department has launched the nPROUD (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs) initiative, a significant step toward addressing the safe disposal of expired and unused medicines. This program aims to prevent environmental hazards and health risks caused by improper disposal of pharmaceuticals. Kerala is the first state in India to introduce such a systematic, government-led initiative for drug disposal.
Economy News
India’s Q3 FY25 GDP Growth Set at 6.4%
India’s economy is set to grow at 6.4% in Q3 FY25, according to a projection by ICRA, up from 5.4% in the previous quarter. This growth is being driven by higher government spending and a rebound in exports, strengthening key economic sectors. The Gross Value Added (GVA) is expected to rise by 6.6%, with industry growing at 6.2%, services at 7.7%, and agriculture at 4.0%. A notable highlight is the record $36.9 billion in service exports in December 2024, along with a strong recovery in merchandise exports.
Banking News
RBI Unveils RBIDATA App for Seamless Economic Data Access
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced RBIDATA, a new mobile application that provides seamless access to macroeconomic and financial data related to the Indian economy. This app is designed to cater to a wide range of users, including researchers, students, policymakers, and the general public, by offering a structured and interactive platform to explore over 11,000 economic data series.
Appointments News
V Anantha Nageswaran’s Term as Chief Economic Advisor Extended to March 2027
The Indian government has extended V Anantha Nageswaran’s tenure as Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) until March 2027, approved by the Union Cabinet. A key figure in shaping economic policies and drafting the Economic Survey, he plays a crucial role amid concerns of economic slowdown. The Economic Survey projects GDP growth of 6.3%-6.8% for FY26, with Nageswaran emphasizing India’s global economic role and long-term growth prospects despite global uncertainties.
Vivek Joshi Assumes Charge as Election Commissioner
Vivek Joshi, a distinguished mechanical engineer from IIT-Roorkee and a seasoned 1989-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Haryana cadre, has been appointed as Election Commissioner of India. At 58 years old, he is among the youngest individuals to join the Election Commission of India (ECI). With an extensive career spanning administrative services, governance, and financial regulation, Joshi brings vast experience to his new role. His tenure is set to last until February 18, 2031, aligning with the legal framework governing the appointment of election commissioners in India.
Sports News
Rohit Sharma Becomes Second Fastest to 11,000 ODI Runs
Rohit Sharma became the second fastest batsman to reach 11,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in 261 innings during India’s Champions Trophy 2025 match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, 2025. He is the fourth Indian to reach this mark, joining Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and Virat Kohli, and the 10th overall in ODI history. Virat Kohli remains the fastest, achieving it in 222 innings. Rohit reached the milestone in the fourth over by hitting Mustafizur Rahman for a boundary over mid-on.
Mohammed Shami Joins Elite Club with 200 ODI Wickets
Mohammed Shami became the fastest Indian to claim 200 ODI wickets, achieving the feat during India vs Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Dubai. He broke Ajit Agarkar’s Indian record (133 matches) and equaled Saqlain Mushtaq as the joint second fastest globally, behind Mitchell Starc (102 matches). Shami also became India’s highest wicket-taker in ICC ODI events, surpassing Zaheer Khan’s 59 wickets, with 60 wickets in just 19 matches.
Ranks And Reports News
Women Billionaires Global List 2025: Forbes Billionaire List
The net worth of an individual is more than just numbers, it’s also about influence, innovation, and impact. In today’s modern-day world, women are at the forefront, establishing themselves as influential billionaires. Notably, women made up 13.3% of the global billionaire population last year, according to the Forbes Billionaire List 2024. The world’s top ten richest women featured by Forbes have emerged as formidable leaders across diverse sectors, collectively amassing an impressive net worth surpassing $500 billion (approximately).
Important Days
International Mother Language Day 2025: Date, Theme, History and Significance
International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21st. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity and the need to protect endangered languages worldwide. Theme 2025: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day. Originated in Bangladesh’s 1952 language movement; UNESCO proclaimed February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999.
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