Current Affairs of February 2024

Current Affairs of February 2024
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CONTENT
National…………………………………………….……………………...2
International…………………………………………………………..….13
Defence…………………………………………………………………..18
Appointments or Resign/Retired…………………………….…………..22
Honours/ Awards……………………………………………….………..25
Sports……………………………………………..……………..……….29
Obituary………………………………………………………………….32
Important Days with theme………………………………….…….…....35
www.tarainstitute.com Current Affairs Magazine
National Union Budget 2024 Detailed Sector Wise, Defence,

Education, Railway And Income Tax
Tamil Nadu Achieves Record With Highest  In the Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, the Union
Number Of Ramsar Sites In India Government demonstrates a robust commitment to
 Tamil Nadu has set a new benchmark in bolstering economic growth through substantial
environmental investments in infrastructure development.
conservation  The total expenditure in the Budget is estimated
and biodiversity at 47,65,768 crore(47.65 Lakh Crore), with a
protection by significant focus on capital expenditure, reaching
securing two 11,11,111 crore(11.11 Lakh Crore). This reflects a
more Ramsar commendable increase of 16.9% in capital expenditure
sites, thus over the Revised Estimates (RE) for 2023-24.
achieving the  The Budget allocates `11,11,111 crore for capital
highest number of such designated areas in the expenditure, marking a 16.9% surge over the RE for
country. 2023-24. The effective capital expenditure for 2024-25
 The recent addition of the Longwood Shola Reserve is projected at `14,96,693 crore, showcasing a
Forest in The Nilgiris and the Karaivetti Bird substantial increase of 17.7% over the RE for 2023-24.
Sanctuary in Ariyalur has propelled the state to the
forefront of ecological conservation efforts in India. Difference Between Interim Budget Vs Full Budget
 With these new designations, Tamil Nadu now boasts  As the political landscape gears up for the 2024 Lok
16 Ramsar sites, a testament to its rich biodiversity and Sabha elections in India, discussions surrounding the
the state government’s commitment to preserving it. country’s financial planning take center stage. Central
to this discourse are the distinctions between the
interim budget and the full union budget, two crucial
Interim Budget 2024-2025 Speech Of Nirmala
fiscal documents that guide the nation’s economic
Sitharaman
trajectory.
 Transformation of Indian Economy: Led by the
 The interim budget serves as a temporary financial
visionary leadership of
plan presented by the incumbent government when its
Hon’ble Prime
term is ending or during a transition of power. It is a
Minister Shri Narendra
stopgap arrangement designed to ensure the smooth
Modi, our government
functioning of the government until a new
has navigated through
administration assumes office.
significant challenges,
 In contrast, the full union budget represents
implementing
the comprehensive financial roadmap of the ruling
structural reforms and
government for the entire fiscal year. It encompasses
pro-people programs with the motto of ‘Sabka Saath,
all aspects of fiscal policy, including revenue
Sabka Vikas’.
generation, expenditure allocation, and policy
 Renewed Hope and Optimism: With the
initiatives.
implementation of these initiatives, the people of India
are now looking towards the future with renewed hope
and optimism. Tangible benefits have fostered RBI Imposes Major Restrictions On Paytm
confidence, garnering widespread support for inclusive Payments Bank: Operations Limited Post-
growth. February 29
 In a significant move, the Reserve Bank of India
 Comprehensive Development Agenda: In our second
(RBI) has imposed major business restrictions
term, under the continued leadership of Hon’ble Prime
on Paytm Payments Bank, effective from February
Minister Modi, we have doubled down on our
commitment to building a prosperous nation with 29.
 The RBI directive prohibits Paytm Payments Bank
comprehensive development for all.
from accepting fresh deposits, credit transactions, or
top-ups in customer accounts, including prepaid RBI Announces: 97.50% Of Rs 2,000 Notes
instruments such as wallets and FASTags, after Returned To System
February 29.  The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed on February
 While the Paytm app is expected to continue normal 1 that 97.50% of the Rs 2,000 currency notes in
operations, services linked to the Paytm Bank will circulation as of May 19, 2023, have been successfully
only be available until February 29 or until the reintegrated into the banking system.
exhaustion of the available balance.  The total value of Rs 2,000 banknotes in circulation
 The nodal accounts of Paytm’s parent company, decreased from Rs 3.56 lakh crore on May 19, 2023, to
One97 Communications Ltd., and Paytm Payments Rs 8,897 crore by January 31, 2024.
Bank Ltd., have been terminated by the central bank as  The Rs 2,000 banknotes were introduced in November
part of the regulatory measures. 2016 to address the urgent currency requirements after
the withdrawal of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. Printing
India’s First Beachside Startup Fest In Mangalore of Rs 2,000 notes ceased in 2018-19 once an ample
On Feb 16 supply of other denominations became available.
 The first-ever Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest is Despite this, Rs 2,000 notes remain legal tender, as
set to unfold from February 16th to 18th, marking a confirmed by the RBI.
significant
milestone in the Uttarakhand Cabinet Approves Uniform Civil
region’s Code Bill: Tabled In Assembly On Feb 6
entrepreneurial  The Uttarakhand Cabinet, led by Chief Minister
landscape. Pushkar Singh
 With a focus on Dhami, has
nurturing and greenlit
promoting the Uniform
nascent ventures, this event promises to be a catalyst Civil Code
for the burgeoning startup ecosystem in Mangalore. (UCC) bill,
 Under the banner of Tapasya Beach Festival (TBF), marking a
the Mangalore Beachside Startup Fest is poised to historic move.
become a hub of creativity and innovation.  The bill, crafted based on recommendations from a
 A highlight of the fest is the opportunity for students government-appointed committee, will be presented in
to showcase their innovative ideas. With the Uttarakhand Assembly on February 6. The
approximately 20 startups expected to present their committee suggests banning polygamy and child
concepts, the event promises a diverse array of marriage, advocating for uniform marriageable age
groundbreaking innovations across various domains. and divorce procedures
 If passed, Uttarakhand would be the first state post-
Budget 2024: Bhutan Leads As Top Indian Aid Independence to adopt the Uniform Civil Code, aiming
Recipient to standardize civil laws for all citizens, irrespective of
 The Interim Budget 2024, unveiled by Finance their religious affiliations.
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, sheds light on India’s
foreign aid allocation, with Bhutan emerging as a Mukesh Ambani Tops Global Brand Guardianship
significant recipient. Index 2024
 In the Financial Year 2024-25, India allocated a  Mukesh Ambani, the visionary leader steering
substantial portion of its budget to foreign aid, with a Reliance Industries Limited, secures the first position
notable emphasis on Bhutan. among Indian executives and an impressive second
 The Indian government provided ₹6,541.79 crore to globally in the prestigious Brand Guardianship
foreign governments with ₹4,927.43 crore as a grant Index 2024 by Brand Finance.
and ₹1,614.36 crore as a loan, as per the revised  This recognition places Ambani ahead of renowned
estimates for 2023-24. It crossed the budget estimates global leaders such as Satya Nadella, Sundar Pichai,
of ₹5,848.58 crore for 2023-24. Tim Cook, and Elon Musk.
 Brand Finance’s survey awarded Mukesh Ambani an across the nation, offering a kaleidoscope of
impressive Brand Guardianship Index (BGI) score performances.
of 80.3. He stands just below the leading score of 81.6
held by Huateng Ma of China-based Tencent. The Isha Foundation’s 242ft Adi Shiva Statue Approved
BGI utilizes a balanced scorecard, emphasizing CEOs’ Near Jewar Airport
ability to act as stewards of their company’s brand and  The Civil Aviation Ministry has granted in-principle
long-term value. approval for the
installation of a
towering 242 feet
India’s Woman Robot Astronaut “Vyommitra” high statue of
Will Fly Into Space Ahead Of ISRO’s Ambitious Adiyogi Shiva near
“Gaganyaan” Mission the upcoming
 In a pioneering leap for India’s space Noida International
endeavors, Vyommitra, the woman robot astronaut Airport in Jewar,
developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation western Uttar Pradesh.
(ISRO), is set to embark on an uncrewed mission in  The Isha Foundation has requested 200 acres of land
the third quarter of this year. from the Yamuna Authority for the establishment of
 The mission, named after the Sanskrit the statue and associated facilities.
words “Vyoma” (Space) and “Mitra”  The installation of the Adiyogi Shiva statue near the
(Friend), signifies a significant stride towards the Noida Airport holds the promise of not only enriching
ambitious Gaganyaan mission, the country’s maiden the spiritual identity of the region but also
manned space flight, slated for 2025. enhancing its cultural landscape.
 Vyommitra, equipped with advanced capabilities, is  As a beacon for yoga enthusiasts and spiritual seekers,
designed to monitor module parameters, issue alerts, it will complement existing landmarks and contribute
and execute life support operations. to the harmonious coexistence of industrial and
 This female robot astronaut simulates human functions spiritual activities.
in the space environment, interacting seamlessly with
the Life Support System. Its tasks include operating
six panels and responding to queries, showcasing its India To Fence Indo-Myanmar Border For
versatility for space exploration. Enhanced Security
 In an endeavor to bolster border security measures,
Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s Biggest Theatre India has
Festival, Kicks Off In Gujarat embarked on
 The prestigious Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s a significant
foremost theatre festival, inaugurated its festivities in project to
the culturally vibrant Kachchh district of Gujarat, fence the
heralding the onset of a lively homage to the entire 1643-
performing arts. kilometer-
 The festival kicked off in grand style with a long Indo-Myanmar border.
mesmerizing rendition of ‘Uttararamacharitam,’ a  With the surge of anti-Junta rebels and tribal militants
classic masterpiece by Bhavabhuti, directed by Dr. crossing over since the 2021 Myanmar military coup,
Chavan Pramod R. from Maharaja Sayajirao the fencing initiative aims to curb unauthorized border
University of Baroda. This stirring play, presented in crossings and enhance security measures.
Gujarati, showcased the remarkable talent of NSD  Apart from fencing, the plan includes paving a patrol
students. track along the border to facilitate better surveillance
 As Bharat Rang Mahotsav enters its 25th year, it capabilities, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of
stands as a testament to the diverse theatrical voices border activities.
that enrich India’s cultural landscape. From Mumbai to
Srinagar, the festival brings together artists from
The Public Examinations (Prevention Of Unfair Supreme Court Declares Electoral Bonds Scheme
Means) Bill, 2024 Unconstitutional
 The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair  In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court ruled
Means) Bill, 2024, represents a comprehensive legal the electoral
framework aimed at safeguarding the integrity and bonds scheme
fairness of public examinations across India. The bill
is introduced to address and prevent the use of unfair
means in public examinations.
 It encompasses a wide range of definitions and
stipulations that clarify the roles, responsibilities, and
penalties associated with the conduct of public unconstitutional, citing it as arbitrary and violative
examinations. of Article 14 of the Constitution.
 The bill’s enactment underscores the government’s  This verdict came following a batch of pleas
commitment to ensuring a transparent, equitable, and challenging the legality of the scheme, which allowed
merit-based assessment system. for anonymous funding to political parties.
 A Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice of
White Paper On Economy: NDA Govt To Table On India Dr D.Y. Chandrachud and also comprising
Alleged UPA Govt’s Economic Mis-Management Justices SanjivKhanna, B.R. Gavai, J.B. Pardiwala
 India’s Budget session has been extended by a day to and Manoj Mishra has held that the non-disclosure of
allow for the tabling of a “white paper” on alleged voluntary political contributions is violative
economic mismanagement under the previous of Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
Congress-led UPA government.
 Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Tata Group Achieves Historic ₹30 Lakh Crore
white paper in both houses of Parliament on Feb 10, Market Cap, With TCS Crosses 15 Lakh Crore
highlighting the economic challenges faced before  Tata Group has made history by becoming the first
2014 and the subsequent turnaround under the current Indian conglomerate to surpass the ₹30 lakh crore
government. mark in combined market capitalization.
 The white paper serves as a tool for the government to  This significant achievement is driven by strong
communicate its analysis of past economic performances from key subsidiaries, including Tata
policies and present its vision for the future. It aims to Consultancy Services (TCS), Tata Motors, Tata
educate the public on economic issues and gather Power, and Indian Hotels.
feedback on proposed strategies.  TCS shares reached a new peak on February 5, with a
remarkable surge of over 4 percent, propelling its
Uttarakhand Pioneers Uniform Civil Code market capitalization beyond ₹15 lakh crore. This
Implementation In India resurgence marks a significant milestone for the
 Uttarakhand has marked a significant milestone leading IT services company.
in India’s legislative history by becoming the first
state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). TomTom Traffic Index 2023: London Slowest,
 The UCC aims to standardize laws governing personal Bengaluru Second Most Congested City
matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and more  TomTom, a leading expert in location technology, has
across all citizens, irrespective of their religion. unveiled revealing insights into the global challenge of
 The journey towards implementing the Uniform Civil traffic congestion. Among the findings, London
Code in Uttarakhand began with the formation of a emerges as a focal point, experiencing the slowest
high-level committee led by retired Supreme Court traffic in 2023.
judge, Justice Ranjana P Desai. This committee was  Bengaluru’s ascent to the second spot as the most
tasked with drafting the UCC, which laid the congested city in 2023, according to TomTom’s
foundation for the Bill passed by the Uttarakhand rankings, underscores the urgent need for intervention.
Assembly.  With Delhi ranking 44th and Mumbai 52nd, there’s
a clear imperative for strategic interventions to
improve urban mobility and enhance the quality of life  The purpose of passing the bills is to provide
for residents. reservations to Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in
local bodies within the Union Territory. It was moved
Tata Trusts To Inaugurate India’s First Small by Union Minister of State for Home, NityanandRai.
Animal Hospital In Mumbai
 In a visionary collaboration with philanthropist Ratan Southern Railway Appoints First Transwoman
Tata, Tata Trusts proudly announces the launch of the TTE, Breaks Barriers In Dindigul
nation’s foremost Small Animal Hospital in  SindhuGanapathy was appointed as the first
Mahalaxmi, Mumbai. With a capacity exceeding 200 transwoman Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) of
beds, the hospital pledges round-the-clock services Southern Railway. This marks a significant milestone
aimed at safeguarding the well-being of pets. in the journey towards inclusivity and acceptance in
 Spanning an impressive 98,000 square feet across five the Indian workforce.
floors, this state-of-the-art facility epitomizes  Ms.Ganapathy’s career with the Railways began in
excellence in pet healthcare. Scheduled for 2003 when she joined as an Assistant. For years, life
inauguration in March 2024, the hospital is poised to seemed . At the age of 37, Ms.Ganapathy has not only
revolutionize the landscape of pet healthcare. broken barriers but also set a precedent for the
transgender community’s representation in prestigious
Telangana To Establish AI Hub, Make Internet A government positions.
Basic Right
 Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan made KatrinaKaif Joins Chennai Super Kings As Brand
groundbreaking announcements outlining the state Ambassador For IPL 2024
government’s ambitious agenda for digital inclusion  Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have officially
and technological advancement. announced the appointment of Katrina Kaif as their
 With a focus on ensuring universal access to the brand ambassador for the upcoming Indian Premier
internet and positioning Hyderabad and Telangana League (IPL) 2024 season.
as the nation’s AI capital, Governor Soundararajan’s  The announcement of Katrina Kaif as the brand
vision sets a bold precedent for the state’s future ambassador comes on the heels of CSK’s newly inked
development. sponsorship deal with Etihad Airways.
 Governor Soundararajan’s commitment to making the  Katrina Kaif, one of Bollywood’s most celebrated
internet a basic right for all citizens of actresses, is set to bring her star power to the
Telangana underscores her dedication to bridging the cricketing world as the new face of Chennai Super
digital divide and empowering every individual with Kings. Known for her charismatic presence and
the tools for success in the digital era. massive fan following, Kaif’s association with CSK is
expected to amplify the team’s appeal and strengthen
Parliament Passes Historic JK ST Quota Bill, Two its connection with fans across the globe.
Other Reservation Bills
 The RajyaSabha cleared three Bills related to J&K National Conference on APAAR: One Nation One
aiming to address issues of reservation for Student ID Card Inaugurated by Dharmendra
marginalized Pradhan
communities and  DharmendraPradhan, Union Minister of Education,
modify existing lists of Skill Development, and
Scheduled Castes and Entrepreneurship,
Scheduled Tribes in inaugurated the National
the Union territory. Conference on APAAR:
 1. Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws One Nation One Student
(Amendment) Bill, 2024. 2. Constitution (Jammu and ID Card in New Delhi.
Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill,  This conference aimed to
2024. 3. Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled emphasize the importance
Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024. of the APAAR ID as a universally recognized
document for students across the nation. Pradhan  The Palace on Wheels, renowned for its opulence and
highlighted the significance of Digital Public comfort, has long been synonymous with exploring the
Infrastructures (DPIs) and their proliferation, both royal heritage of Rajasthan.
globally and within India, with 19 established DPIs in  It will now offer a six-day spiritual journey,
the country. traversing from Delhi to Ayodhya, Prayagraj,
Varanasi, Mathura, and Vrindavan. This religious tour
Prime Minister NarendraModi Inaugurates Major aims to provide passengers with a profound immersion
Railway And Road Infrastructure Projects into the cultural and spiritual tapestry of India.
 Prime Minister Modi led the inauguration and laying
of foundation Farmers Protest 2.0: Key Demands Explained
stones for
several vital  Farmers affiliated with the KisanMazdoorMorcha
infrastructure (KMM) and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha
encompassing (SKM) are marching from Punjab and Haryana
railway towards Delhi to demand key reforms. Their primary
modernization, demand is the enactment of a law guaranteeing
road overpasses, and underpasses, aiming to enhance a minimum support price (MSP) for crops,
connectivity, safety, and efficiency. addressing uncertainties in the market.
 The objective of this initiative is to enhance station
facilities by implementing modern infrastructure,
thereby improving the overall passenger experience. PM Modi’s UAE Visit: UPI payment, CBSE office,
 The scope of the project involves the redevelopment of BAPS Hindu temple and other key highlights
553 railway stations spread across 27 states and union  Prime Minister NarendraModi embarked on a two-
territories. The investment for this ambitious endeavor day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he
is estimated to exceed Rs 19,000 crore. was warmly received by President Mohamed bin
Zayed Al Nahyan.
Prime Minister NarendraModi Unveils ‘PM Surya  Their cordial meeting included discussions on various
Ghar: MuftBijliYojana’ fronts, signifying the strengthening of bilateral
 Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra relations.
Modi, has announced the launch of an ambitious
scheme – the ‘PM Surya Ghar: MuftBijliYojana’. Reliance Industries Hits ₹20-Lakh Crore Market
 Aimed at fostering a greener future and facilitating the Cap Milestone
nation’s march towards energy self-sufficiency, this  Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) achieved a
initiative is set to revolutionize the energy landscape of significant milestone on Indian stock exchanges by
India. surpassing a market capitalization of ₹20-lakh crore.
 This pioneering project, with an earmarked investment  This marks the first instance of any company
exceeding Rs 75,000 crore, is designed to illuminate achieving this valuation on the Indian bourses. The
one crore households across the country by providing surge in market value is attributed to various factors
up to 300 units of free electricity every month, including robust performance across its business
generated through solar power. segments and favorable market conditions.
Luxury Train ‘Palace On Wheels’ To Begin Supreme Court Collegium Recommends Transfer
Spiritual Journey Of 3 High Court Judges
 After 42 years of its existence, the Palace on  The Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice
Wheels luxury train is set to embark on a new route, D Y Chandrachud, has recommended the transfer
delving into the sacred Indian cities of Ayodhya, of three high court judges upon their respective
Kashi, and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. requests.
 The collegium has acceded to Justice Moushumi Major Iron Ore Deposits Uncovered In Rajasthan’s
Bhattacharya’s request and recommended her transfer Karauli
to the High Court for the State of Telangana.  Rajasthan’s Karauli district has emerged as a new
 The collegium has accepted Justice AnuSivaraman’s focal point for
request and recommended her transfer to the mineral
Karnataka High Court. exploration after
 The collegium has resolved to recommend Justice the Mines
Sujoy Paul’s transfer to the High Court for the State of Department
Telangana, considering the better administration of announced the
justice. discovery of
substantial iron ore deposits.
16th Finance Commission Holds First Meeting  This find, located near Hindon, spans
Under Chairmanship Of Arvind Panagariya approximately 1,888 hectares and is poised to
 The 16th Finance Commission (FC) convened its significantly impact the state’s industrial landscape.
inaugural session with ArvindPanagariya at the helm  Mines Secretary Anandi highlighted this discovery’s
to deliberate potential to spur industrial development and generate
upon employment opportunities within the state.
its Terms of
Reference
(ToR). Tamil Nadu Assembly Rejects Delimitation And
 The ‘One Nation, One Election’ Proposals
commission  The Tamil Nadu Assembly made a political
aims to engage in comprehensive analytical endeavors statement by unanimously adopting two resolutions
and leverage expertise from prominent research that challenge the Union government’s proposals
institutions and think tanks specializing in fiscal on ‘One Nation, One Election’ and the post-2026
federal relations. delimitation process.
 The 16th FC acknowledges the necessity for extensive  The first resolution openly criticizes the concept of
consultations with diverse stakeholders, including state ‘One Nation, One Election,’ arguing that it undermines
governments, local bodies, various ministries of the the essence of federalism and democratic
Government of India, and subject matter experts. decentralization.
 The second resolution expresses apprehensions about
the proposed delimitation process, suggesting it could
India’s First Helicopter Emergency Medical unfairly penalize states like Tamil Nadu, which have
Service (HEMS) To Start From Uttarakhand made significant strides in socio-economic
 India is set to launch its first Helicopter Emergency development.
Medical Service (HEMS) from Uttarakhand,
marking a significant milestone in the country’s Himachal Pradesh Leads As India’s Most
healthcare and aviation sectors. Welcoming Region In 2024
 The HEMS will be based at the All India Institute of  In a recent announcement, Booking.com, the popular
Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rishikesh, strategically online travel agency, unveiled its 12th Annual
located to cover a radius of 150 kilometers. Traveller Review Awards 2024, highlighting the
 This positioning enables the swift airlifting of Most Welcoming
individuals who have encountered accidents or Regions and
medical emergencies, ensuring prompt access to Cities in India.
critical healthcare facilities.  Securing the top
spot in the
category of the
‘Most Welcoming
Region in India’ is Himachal Pradesh, showcasing a (MBCC) justifying the extension beyond the 50
remarkable jump from the 5th position in 2023. percent cap.
 This recognition reflects the state’s commitment to  The government has scheduled a special session of the
providing a warm and hospitable environment for state assembly to introduce the bill in response to
travelers. The rankings further feature Goa, Kerala, Maratha quota activist Manoj JarangePatil’s hunger
Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand in the following strike.
positions.
Chandigarh Unveils North India’s First ‘Pizza
India Achieves Global Digitalization Milestone As ATM’
Third Largest Digital Economy  CITCO (Chandigarh Industrial and Tourism
 India has cemented its position as the third-largest Development Corporation) introduces a pizza
digitalized nation in the world, trailing only behind maker near Sukhna Lake, producing hot pizzas in
the technological powerhouses of the United States of three minutes, a first in North India.
America (USA) and China.  The pizza vending machine is the only one operational
 This significant finding is part of the “State of India’s in India, marking a significant
Digital Economy Report, 2024,” unveiled by breakthrough. Dr.RohitShekhar Sharma, Founder &
the Indian Council for Research on International CEO at iMatrix Group of Companies leads the project
Economic Relations (ICRIER), a renowned Delhi- inspired by France.
based think tank.  The machine is crafted at their Mohali factory,
 The report paints a comprehensive picture of India’s outperforming similar ventures, dispensing 100 pizzas
digital landscape, comparing it favorably with some of daily. Operational since early 2024, the Pizza ATM
the world’s most developed economies, yet swiftly becomes a local favorite, offering both
highlighting areas for improvement in user-level vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
digital engagement.
Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power,
India’s Outward FDI In January 2024 Rises 25.7% And Vedanta Ltd: Private Investment In India’s
To $2.1 Billion Nuclear Energy Sector
 According to recent data released by the Reserve Bank  The Indian government is set to invite private
of India (RBI), In January 2024, India’s outward investment
foreign direct investment (FDI) commitments surged worth $26
by 25.7% year-on-year to $2.09 billion. billion into
 In January 2024, equity commitments surged to $760.9 its nuclear
million, marking a substantial increase from $597.4 energy
million recorded in January 2023. However, this figure sector. This
was slightly lower than the equity commitments of initiative aims to
$834.7 million reported in December 2023. bolster non-carbon-emitting energy sources, aligning
with India’s goal of increasing non-fossil fuel-based
Maharashtra Government Extends 10% electricity generation to 50% by 2030.
Reservation To Marathas  Private firms, including Reliance Industries, Tata
 The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved a draft bill to Power, Adani Power, and Vedanta Ltd, are being
extend a 10 approached for investments totaling around 440 billion
percent rupees each ($5.30 billion).
reservation to  The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited
the Maratha (NPCIL) will retain rights for building, operating, and
community in managing the nuclear stations, including fuel
both educational management.
institutions and government employment.
 This move follows a report submitted by
the Maharashtra Backward Class Commission
Reliance Industries Is Set To Launch ‘Hanooman’,  The aim is to empower over 1200 students through
A ChatGPT-Style AI Service this centre and equip them with the necessary skills
 Reliance Industries, led by MukeshAmbani, in for the 21st-century job market.
collaboration with some of the country’s premier
engineering institutions, is poised to unveil its PhonePe Launches Indus Appstore To Challenge
pioneering ChatGPT-style service named Google And Apple
‘Hanooman’ next month.  PhonePe has launched the Indus Appstore, a made-in-
 The development of ‘Hanooman’ is a result of a India Android app marketplace, aiming to rival Google
concerted effort between Reliance JioInfocomm, Play Store and Apple App Store.
Centre, and several Indian Institutes of Technology  The platform hosts over 2 Lakh apps across 45
(IIT), including IIT Bombay. categories. Indus Appstore boasts a wide array of apps
 This endeavor, featuring a consortium of Reliance and from Indian brands such as Zomato, Myntra,
eight affiliated universities, underscores the synergy Domino’s, Flipkart, Dream11, Swiggy, and more.
between India’s leading corporate powerhouse and its  The marketplace is accessible in English and 12 Indian
academic institutions in pushing the frontiers of languages, ensuring inclusivity and catering to a
technology. broader user base. Until March 2025, developers are
exempt from app listing fees, fostering an environment
India Opens Space Sector To 100% Foreign conducive to app development and innovation.
Investment
 India has taken a significant step by opening its space Cybercrime Report: India Ranks 80th Worldwide
sector  In 2023, India ranked as the 80th most targeted
to 100% country for
foreign cybercrime
direct globally. Local
investment threats affected
approximately
34% of users,
(FDI) through an amendment in the FDI policy. resulting in the blocking of 74,385,324 incidents
 Under the amended FDI policy, various sub-sectors by Kaspersky products.
and activities within the space sector now have  Nearly 34% of Indian users experienced local threats,
liberalized FDI thresholds leading to the blocking of over 74 million incidents.
 The liberalized entry routes are expected to enhance Nature of Threats Includes malicious programs
the ease of doing business in India, leading to directly on users’ devices and removable media, as
increased FDI inflows and contributing to overall well as those initially hidden within complex installers
economic growth, investment, income, and or encrypted files.
employment opportunities.
PMModi To Lay Foundation For 550 Amrit Bharat
Stations
1st Ever Skill India Centre Inaugurated In  Prime Minister NarendraModi is scheduled to
Sambalpur, Odisha inaugurate the
 Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & foundation stone
Entrepreneurship, laying ceremony
Shri DharmendraPradhan, spearheaded the for 550 Amrit
inauguration of the first Skill India Centre (SIC) in Bharat stations
Sambalpur, Odisha. on February 26.
 The centre boasts best-in-class infrastructure, cutting-  The initiative aims to improve railway station facilities
edge technologies, and modern facilities to facilitate by developing rooftop plazas and city centers, with an
effective learning investment of Rs 40,000 crore.
 Additionally, the Prime Minister will lay foundation  With over 2,000 projects valued at approximately
stones for about 1,500 road overbridges and Rs 41,000 crore, this ambitious endeavor aims to
underbridges across different states. revolutionize transportation networks, fostering
connectivity and economic development.
PMModi Inaugurates Ninth Edition Of Raisina
Dialogue VijayShekhar Sharma Steps Down From Paytm
 Prime Minister NarendraModi inaugurated the 9th Payments Bank Board
edition of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, marking a  In a significant development, Vijay Shekhar Sharma,
significant moment for global discourse on geopolitics the Founder and CEO of Paytm, has resigned from his
and geo-economics. role as part-time non-executive chairman and board
 Joining him in the inaugural session was the Prime member of Paytm Payments Bank.
Minister of Greece, KyriakosMitsotakis, who graced  This move comes amidst a restructuring of the bank’s
the event as the Chief Guest. board in response to regulatory concerns and a
 The theme of the 9th edition, “Chaturanga: Conflict, directive from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to
Contest, Cooperate, Create,” reflects the wind down operations by March 15.
multifaceted nature of global challenges and the  Vijay Shekhar Sharma holds a 51% stake in Paytm
imperative of collaboration in addressing them. Payments Bank, while One97 Communications, the
parent company of Paytm, owns the remaining stake.
India Unveils Largest Solar-Battery Project, Gaganyaan Mission And ISRO Projects
Pioneering Renewable Energy Innovation Inauguration By PM Modi
 The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has  PM Modi disclosed the identities of the four pilots
commissioned India’s largest solar-battery energy currently undergoing training for India’s first human
storage system (BESS) in Rajnandgaon, space flight mission, Gaganyaan, during his visit to the
Chhattisgarh. Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Kerala’s
 This large- Thiruvananthapuram.
scale  The astronauts, Group Captain P Balakrishnan
integration of Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group
solar and Captain AngadPratap, and Wing Commander S
battery storage Shukla, were also awarded ‘astronaut wings’ by the
represents Prime Minister.
a pioneering  The Gaganyaan mission marks India’s pioneering
leap in renewable energy generation and utilization in venture into manned space exploration, slated for
India. launch between 2024-2025.
 The project addresses peak energy demand by storing
solar energy during the day and releasing it during Reliance Launches “Vantara,” A National Initiative
evening hours, ensuring grid stability and reliability. For Animal Welfare
 Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation have
PMModi Inaugurates Sikkim’s First Railway launched a bold initiative, Vantara (Star of the
Station In Rangpo Forest), dedicated to the rescue, treatment, care, and
 Prime Minister NarendraModi ceremonially laid the rehabilitation of animals in need.
foundation stone for Sikkim’s inaugural railway  This ambitious program is spearheaded
station in Rangpo, marking a significant moment in by AnantAmbani. Vantara’s core lies in a
the state’s history. sprawling 3,000-acre sanctuary within the Green Belt
 The station’s design is deeply rooted in local culture, of Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery Complex in
heritage, and architecture. The inauguration of the Gujarat.
Rangpo railway station is part of a larger initiative to
enhance rail infrastructure nationwide.
Norovirus: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & PMNarendraModi Inaugurates India’s Longest

Treatment Cable-Stayed Bridge, SudarshanSetu
 Norovirus, a highly contagious virus belonging to the  Prime Minister NarendraModi inaugurated India’s
Caliciviridae longest cable-stayed bridge, Sudarshan Setu,
family, in Gujarat’s Dwarka.
presents a  This
significant monumental
public health infrastructure
concern project,
worldwide. connecting
 Characterized by its rapid transmission through Okha and
various mediums, including close personal contact,
contaminated surfaces, and consumption of infected BeytDwarkaisland, stands as a testament to the
food or water, this pathogen poses challenges for both nation’s commitment to progress and connectivity.
healthcare systems and individuals alike.  SudarshanSetu, formerly known as the Signature
Bridge, has been constructed at a cost of ₹979
crore. Spanning an impressive 2.32 km, it is India’s
Uttarakhand To Become Third State Enacting Law longest cable-stayed bridge, serving as a vital link
Holding Rioters Liable For Damages between the Okha mainland and BeytDwarkaisland.
 The Uttarakhand government will introduce a bill to
hold rioters responsible for damage to both
government and private property.
 In the upcoming budget session, they intend to present
the Uttarakhand Public and Private Property
Damage Recovery Bill, aiming to make rioters
financially liable for losses resulting from protests or
strikes.
 Uttarakhand is poised to become the third
state, after Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, to enact
such a law. The move aligns with the govt’s agenda to
maintain law and order and protect public and private
assets from unlawful destruction.
World’s First Vedic Clock Unveiled In Ujjain,

Madhya Pradesh
 Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is set to unveil a
groundbreaking innovation in timekeeping with the
world’s first Vedic Clock.
 This meticulously crafted timepiece, housed on an 85-
foot tower at the city’s JantarMantar, will be
officially inaugurated on March 1st, 2024, by Prime
Minister NarendraModi in a virtual ceremony.
 Located near the Government Jiwaji Observatory,
the Vedic clock transcends the conventional role of
displaying time. It is designed to offer comprehensive
information relevant to the Vedic Hindu Panchang.
International France Takes Lead As First EU Nation To Offer

Digital Visas
BRICS Welcomes New Members: Saudi Arabia,  As of January 1, 2024, France has pioneered the
Egypt, UAE, Iran, And Ethiopia issuance of Digital Schengen visas, marking a
 In a significant development on January 1, Saudi significant leap in streamlining visa processes within
Arabia, Egypt, the the European Union.
United Arab Emirates,  This groundbreaking initiative precedes the broader
Iran, and digitalization of Schengen visa procedures scheduled
Ethiopia officially joined for full implementation in 2026.
the BRICS group,  France takes the lead in digitalizing the Schengen visa
expanding its system, setting the stage for a more efficient and
membership to ten streamlined application process. The initiative aims to
nations. enhance visa accessibility and convenience,
 The expansion, initially particularly with the upcoming major sporting events
set to occur during the in mind.
15th BRICS summit in August 2023 in Johannesburg,
South Africa, aims to enhance the group’s influence on Russian Cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko Sets World
the global stage. Argentina, initially invited, opted out Record For Most Time In Space
in December.  Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko achieved a
 The newly enlarged BRICS now boasts a combined historic
population of 3.5 billion and an economy exceeding milestone by
$28.5tn, constituting around 28% of the global setting a world
economy. While this growth signals a potential record for
geopolitical shift, analysts express uncertainty over its the most time
impact on decision-making and overall group spent in space,
dynamics. surpassing his
compatriot
India Launches UPI Payments At Eiffel Tower In Gennady Padalka’s previous record of 878 days in
Paris orbit.
 India has officially introduced the Unified Payments  At 0830 GMT, Oleg Kononenko officially broke the
Interface (UPI) at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, record, marking a significant achievement in the
marking a history of space exploration. His dedication and
significant contributions to space missions have positioned him as
step towards a prominent figure in the realm of human spaceflight.
realizing  The 59-year-old cosmonaut surpassed the previous
Prime record held by Gennady Padalka, who accumulated a
Minister total of 878 days, 11 hours, 29 minutes, and 48
Narendra seconds in space.
Modi’s vision of globalizing UPI.
 NPCI International Payments (NIPL) has partnered Israeli Researchers Uncover Underwater Canyon
with French e-commerce and proximity payments Near Cyprus
company, Lyra, to facilitate the acceptance of UPI  The Geological Institute of Israel has recently made a
payments in France. groundbreaking discovery near Cyprus, uncovering an
 The collaboration between India and France in the underwater canyon of unprecedented proportions.
digital payments sector, initiated in July, allows the  Named Eratosthenes after the nearby underwater
use of India’s UPI for retail payments in France. This mountain, this canyon sheds new light on the
groundbreaking agreement positions France as the geological history of the Mediterranean region.
pioneer in embracing UPI on the European continent.
 Eratosthenes Canyon is a relic of the past, dating back Gemini. This rebranding effort coincides with the
approximately 5.5 million years to the Messinian launch of a new subscription plan, offering users
Event. Stretching across approximately 10 kilometers access to Google’s most advanced AI model, the Ultra
in width and plunging to depths of 500 meters, 1.0, within the Gemini family.
Eratosthenes Canyon’s sheer magnitude is awe-  Gemini will seamlessly integrate with popular Google
inspiring. products like Gmail and Google Docs, offering users
a cohesive AI experience across various platforms.
Iran Abolishes Visa Requirements For Indian This integration sets Google apart from its competitors
Tourists From Feb 4, 2024 and enhances user convenience.
 Iran eliminates visa requirements for Indian tourists
from February 4, NASA Discovers Super-Earth In The Habitable
2024, aiming to Zone
boost tourism and  NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite
global (TESS) has made a
engagement. significant discovery—
Indian ordinary a super-Earth located in
passport holders a habitable zone, offering
can visit every six tantalizing possibilities
months for up to 15 days. for the conditions
 Iran has expanded its visa waiver program to conducive to life.
include 33 countries, alongside India, to encourage  This discovery sheds
overseas travelers, showcasing its commitment to light on the diversity of
global interaction. planets in our universe
 The countries approved for Iran’s new visa waiver and the potential for habitable worlds beyond our solar
program include India, Russia, UAE, Bahrain, Saudi system.
Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and others.  The newly discovered exoplanet, named TOI-715 b, is
situated in a solar system 137 light-years away from
Monkey Fever Earth. In cosmic terms, this distance is relatively close,
 Kyasanur Forest Disease also known as Monkey offering astronomers a valuable opportunity for
Fever, has emerged as a significant health concern in detailed study.
Karnataka, India. With two fatalities reported this year
and 49 positive cases, the state’s health department is India To Replace Military Personnel With
on high alert. Technical Staff In Maldives
 Originating from the Kyasanur Forest in 1957, KFD is  India has announced the replacement of military
caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus personnel operating aviation platforms in the
(KFDV), belonging to the Flaviviridae family. Maldives with competent Indian technical personnel.
 The state has witnessed 49 confirmed cases this year,  MEA Spokesperson RandhirJaiswal confirmed the
leading to heightened efforts by health officials to decision, stating that the current military personnel
contain the spread. The majority of cases have been will be substituted with skilled technical personnel.
reported in the Uttara Kannada district, signalling a This move aims to maintain operational expertise
concentrated outbreak zone. while addressing the Maldives’ request for the
withdrawal of Indian troops.
Google Rebrands Its Chatbot, Bard, As Gemini  The first aircraft’s military personnel will be replaced
 Alphabet’s Google has made significant strides in the by Indian technical personnel by March 10.
realm of artificial intelligence (AI), recently Replacement of military personnel in the remaining
rebranding its chatbot and introducing a new two aircraft will be finalized by May 10.
subscription plan.
 Formerly known as Bard, Google’s chatbot has
undergone a transformation and is now dubbed
7th Indian Ocean Conference Held In Perth, Saudi Arabia’s First Luxury Train ‘Dream Of The
Australia Desert’ Set To Launch First In The Middle East
 The 7th Indian Ocean Conference recently convened  Saudi Arabia is preparing to introduce its first luxury
in Perth, train, named the Dream of the Desert. It will be the
Australia, first luxury train in the Middle East, offering travelers
drawing a journey through Saudi Arabia.
together  The 800-mile journey will begin in Riyadh, the
leaders, capital city of Saudi Arabia, and wind its way
ministers, northwest toward the border with Jordan.
and officials  With its promise of luxury and cultural immersion, this
from Indian new venture is positioned to become a classic in its
Ocean rim countries. own right. Reservations for the train’s first ride will
 Organized by India Foundation in collaboration with open by late 2024, before its planned launch in 2025.
the Ministry of External Affairs and Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade, the conference aimed to Germany Overtakes Japan As Third-Largest
address diverse issues under the theme “Towards a Economy
Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean.”  Official data reveals that Germany has
 The IOC aims to foster Security and Growth for All surpassed Japan as the world’s third-largest
in the Region (SAGAR) by uniting critical states and economy, primarily due to a significant depreciation in
principal maritime partners in dialogue and the yen compared to the stability of the euro.
cooperation.  Japan’s economy, despite growing 1.9% last year,
contracted in the fourth quarter, leading to its
Dubai Launches World’s First Air Taxi Service at relegation to the fourth position.
World Government Summit 2024  The yen depreciated by over 18% against the dollar in
 At the World Government Summit 2024, Dubai has 2022 and 2023, facilitating Germany’s ascendancy due
unveiled groundbreaking agreements to introduce the to the stability of the euro against the dollar.
world’s inaugural air taxi service, setting a new
standard in urban transportation. Prabowo Subianto Wins Indonesian Presidency: A
 This initiative, centeredaround the innovative Joby Decisive Victory
Aviation S4 aircraft, promises to revolutionize  PrabowoSubianto emerges victorious in Indonesia’s
Dubai’s cityscape with its electric-powered, Presidential race, securing nearly 60% of the votes in
environmentally friendly design. the first round.
 His military background and alignment with President
India In Talks For Full Membership With IEA JokoWidodo’s policies propel him to a clear-cut
 India is engaged in discussions with ministers from victory, sparking positive reactions in Indonesian
member countries of the International Energy markets.
Agency (IEA) regarding its application to attain full  Prabowo’s running mate, Gibran
membership in the Paris-based organization, RakabumingRaka, the eldest son of President
comprising 31 nations. JokoWidodo, is set to become the youngest vice-
 These talks acknowledge India’s strategic significance president in Indonesian history.
in addressing global energy and climate challenges, as
highlighted during the IEA’s 2024 ministerial meeting US House Passes Quad Bill: All You Need To Know
held in Paris.  The US House of Representatives has
 The IEA, comprising 31 member countries and eight overwhelmingly passed the Quad bill aimed at
associates, has four countries, including India, seeking enhancing cooperation between the US, Australia,
full membership. India, and Japan.
 The bill mandates the establishment of a Quad Intra-
Parliamentary Working Group to bolster joint efforts
in various domains.
 This landmark legislation aims to bolster collaboration  With this development, Malta becomes the 119th
among the United States, Australia, India, and Japan. nation to join the alliance, reinforcing the collective
Its primary objective is to foster closer ties and effort to combat climate change through solar energy
facilitate strategic cooperation between these key deployment.
nations.
America’s Odysseus Spacecraft Makes 1st
Greece Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: A Landmark Commercial Moon Landing In History
Decision  In a historic moment for space exploration,
 Greece has made history by legalizing same-sex the Odysseus spacecraft, spearheaded by Intuitive
marriage and Machines (IM), has achieved what was once solely
granting equal the domain of
parental rights to national space
same-sex agencies: a
couples, marking a successful soft
significant shift in landing on the
the country’s societal and legal landscape. lunar surface.
 The newly passed legislation not only recognizes  This landmark
same-sex marriages but also ensures equal parental event marks the first commercial venture to
rights for same-sex couples. accomplish such a feat, signalling a significant leap
 This includes granting both parents in a same-sex forward in private sector involvement in space
union the same legal status as guardians, allowing exploration.
them to make crucial decisions for their children and  The significance of this achievement cannot be
participate fully in their upbringing. overstated. Not since the Apollo era in 1972 has an
American spacecraft delicately touched down on the
Japan’s 1,000-Year-Old Sominsai Festival Comes moon’s surface.
To An End
 The Sominsai festival, an ancient tradition deeply Philippines Becomes First Asian Country To Ratify
rooted in Japanese culture, has recently concluded its ILO Convention To End Workplace Violence And
final celebration after a millennium-long legacy. Harassment
 Commencing on the seventh day of the Lunar New  The Philippines has achieved a significant milestone
Year and spanning through the night, it was a by becoming the
spectacle of tradition and spirituality. first Asian
 At the heart of the festival was a display of fervor and country to ratify
tradition as hundreds of nude men engaged in the Violence and
spirited wrestling matches over wooden talismans. Harassment
Convention 2019
Malta Becomes 119th Country to Join International (No. 190) as
Solar Alliance announced by the International Labor Organization
 Malta, a small yet significant player in the global (ILO).
arena, recently took a  The convention addresses workplace violence and
remarkable step harassment comprehensively, marking a crucial step
towards sustainable towards ensuring safe and respectful work
energy by joining environments globally.
the International  By ratifying Convention No. 190, the Philippines
Solar Alliance (ISA). joins 37 other nations in the world that have taken a
 This move stance against workplace violence and harassment.
underscores the country’s commitment to reducing
reliance on non-renewable energy sources and
embracing environmentally friendly alternatives.
Mobile World Congress 2024 Begins On February swiftly removed, signaling significant progress in the
26 country’s efforts to combat illicit financial activities.
 Every year, the Mobile World Congress (MWC)  The Paris-based watchdog acknowledged the UAE’s
brings people strengthened anti-money laundering and counter-
from the terrorist financing measures, leading to the country’s
mobile exit from increased monitoring. Namibia and
industry Kenya have been placed on the gray list following the
together and latest FATF review.
gives them a
chance to Algeria Inaugurates World’s Third-Largest
connect as well as collaborate. Mosque
 The Mobile World Congress 2024 will be hosted  Algeria celebrated the grand opening of what has been
by GSMA, the global association representing the acclaimed as “Africa’s largest mosque” and the
interests of mobile network operators worldwide. third-largest mosque in the world.
 The event will take place in the vibrant city  Known as Djamaa El-Djazair, this monumental
of Barcelona, Spain, known for its rich cultural structure is more than just a mosque; it’s an
heritage and innovative spirit. architectural marvel and a modernist wonder.
Giant Anaconda Discovered In Amazon Rainforest  Featuring the tallest minaret ( A tall, thin tower)
 In a groundbreaking expedition led by National globally, standing at 265 meters, this structure has the
Geographic, the scientific community and the world capacity to host 120,000 worshippers.
at large have been introduced to a previously unknown
giant lurking in the depths of the Amazon rainforest. New Zealand To Repeal Anti-Tobacco Law
 The newly discovered Northern Green Anaconda,  New Zealand, under Prime Minister Christopher
scientifically named Eunectesakayima, challenges Luxon’s coalition government, is repealing the law
our perceptions of the natural world. banning
 It measures an astonishing 26 feet in length and tobacco sales
weighs 200 kg. Its head, comparable in size to that of to future
a human, and a body as wide as a car tyre underscore generations,
the snake’s immense size and strength. originally
enacted
Dubai Introduces 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa For during
Indian Travelers Jacinda
 Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism Arden’s tenure
(DET) has announced the introduction of a five-year  Sales to individuals born after Jan. 1, 2009, would
multiple-entry visa aimed at enhancing travel between have been prohibited, alongside other stringent
India and the UAE. regulations. The legislation aimed to drastically reduce
 This initiative comes in response to the significant nicotine content and slash the number of tobacco
increase in Indian visitors to Dubai, with India being retailers by over 90%.
the top source market for tourists in the region.  The new coalition government, elected in October, has
 The visa is processed within 2-5 working days upon announced the urgent repeal of the groundbreaking
application acceptance, granting holders a 90-day stay law. Repeal will occur without public consultation,
in the UAE, extendable once for an additional 90 days, aligning with previous plans of the administration.
with a maximum cumulative stay of 180 days within a
year. Peru declares dengue health emergency
 Peru has declared a health emergency in response to
UAE Removed From FATF Gray List the escalating cases of dengue fever across the nation.
 Less than two years after being demoted to  Health Minister Cesar Vasquez announced on
the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) “gray Monday that over 31,000 cases of dengue have been
list,” the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been reported within the first eight weeks of 2024, resulting
in 32 fatalities. The emergency declaration will

encompass 20 out of Peru’s 25 regions. Defence
Lord Buddha Sacred Relics Enshrined In Thailand Delhi’s Beating Retreat: A Spectacle Of Tradition
 In a ceremony, the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and And Music
His Two Disciples were enshrined for public  At the Vijay Chowk on January 29, the Beating
reverence. A procession, emanating from the national Retreat ceremony, which signifies the end of
museum, showcased the cultural heritage of Thailand. Republic Day celebrations, began amid the strains of
 The Governor of Bihar, beautiful music.
ShriRajendraVishwanathArlekar, presented the  The traditional ‘buggy’ that President and Supreme
Holy Relics of Buddha to Thai Prime Minister Commander of the Armed Forces Droupadi
(Chairman), Mr.SretthaThavisin. Murmu arrived at the location in added to the event’s
 This parade, spanning 26 days, celebrated the vintage charm, which dates back to its inception in
spiritual significance of the Relics and highlighted the the early 1950s.
friendship between India and Thailand, symbolized by  Major Roberts of the Indian Army created the
the display of their national flags and cultural original ceremonial of the massed bands performing a
exhibitions. beatdown in the early 1950s, which is when the
Beating Retreat ceremony first emerged. Over the
India’s years, it has evolved into a grand spectacle that
Position At showcases the unity, discipline, and musical prowess
42 In The of India’s military and paramilitary forces.
Global
Intellectual INS Sandhayak: A New Chapter In India’s Naval
Property Mapping And Surveillance
Index 2024  On February 3, Visakhapatnam’s Naval
 The US Chamber of Commerce recently unveiled Dockyard will witness a momentous occasion
the 12th edition of its International Intellectual as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presides over the
Property (IP) Index, offering a comprehensive commissioning ceremony of INS Sandhayak.
evaluation of the IP landscape across the globe.  Built by the
 This year’s index ranked 55 economies, assessing their GRSE in
IP frameworks’ effectiveness in fostering innovation Kolkata, the
and creative industries. India secured the 42nd 110-meter-
position out of the 55 countries evaluated, with an long INS
overall score of 38.64 percent. Sandhayak
 The United States retained its position at the pinnacle, displaces
followed closely by the United Kingdom and France, about 3,800
highlighting the critical role of robust IP systems in tonnes and boasts an impressive 80 percent indigenous
economic development. content.
 The ship is propelled by two robust diesel engines,
ensuring she can reach speeds over 18 Knots. With an
endurance of over 25 days, INS Sandhayak is well-
equipped for extended missions.
Preeti Rajak Becomes Indian Army’s First Female (JGSDF) for a focused training program aimed at
Subedar enhancing interoperability and fostering closer military
 Havildar Preeti Rajak, a distinguished trap shooter in cooperation.
the Indian  The exercise focuses on joint tactical maneuvers in a
Army, has simulated semi-urban environment, adhering to the
reached a principles outlined in Chapter VII of the United
historic Nations Charter.
milestone by
being IAF To Conduct Exercise Vayu Shakti-2024
promoted to  The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to
the esteemed conduct Exercise Vayu Shakti-24, a grand display of
rank of Subedar. its aerial
 She becomes the first woman in the Indian Army to might, on 17
hold this prestigious rank, signifying not only her February
personal accomplishment but also a significant 2024, at the
advancement for women in the armed forces. Pokhran Air
 Rajak embarked on her journey with the Corps of to Ground
Military Police in December 2022, earning her place Range near
through her outstanding performance in trap shooting. Jaisalmer.
She made history as the first meritorious sportswoman  Following the successful execution of the previous
in the shooting discipline to be enrolled in the army as edition on 16 February 2019, this year’s exercise
a havildar, laying the foundation for her trailblazing promises to be an even more impressive demonstration
career. of the IAF’s offensive and defensive capabilities, both
during the day and night.
 Exercise Vayu Shakti is a biennial event that serves as
India-US Seal $4B MQ-9B Armed Drone Deal a testament to the Indian Air Force’s strategic
 India’s strategic collaboration with the United capabilities. It is an opportunity for the IAF to
States in defense takes a significant leap forward with demonstrate its combat readiness and operational
the procurement of MQ-9B armed drones. effectiveness, showcasing a wide array of aircraft and
 The MQ-9B, developed by General Atomics weapon systems in action.
Aeronautical Systems Inc., epitomizes the cutting-
edge advancements in armed drone technology. Defence Minister Unveils The Statue General
 Designed to provide unparalleled intelligence, BipinRawat In Dehradun
surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, the  In a memorable event at TonsBridge School in
MQ-9B heralds a new era in modern warfare. Dehradun, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and
 India’s procurement plan includes acquiring a total of Uttarakhand’s CM Pushkar Singh Dhami unveiled a
31 MQ-9B drones. Among these, the Indian Navy statue of General BipinRawat, who was India’s first
will receive 15 MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones, while Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
the Army and Air Force will each be equipped  During the event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
with eight MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones. shared stories of General Rawat’s courage and
dedication. He talked about a incident which motivated
The Indo-Japan “Dharma Guardian” Military General Rawat to improve the operations of the Indian
Exercise Begins Army along the borders with Pakistan and China when
 The 5th edition of the Joint Military Exercise he was the Army Chief and later as the CDS.
‘Dharma Guardian’ commenced today at the  Singh praised General Rawat for his commitment to
Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, India. the country’s security and his role as a true symbol of
 The exercise, scheduled to run from February 25th to the military’s values. He mentioned how General
March 9th, 2024, brings together the Indian Army Rawat’s life motto, ‘Die with your boots on,’ showed
and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force his dedication to duty until his last breath.
Peacekeeping missions, underscores the collaborative

Visakhapatnam To Host 12th Edition Of MILAN spirit and dedication towards maintaining global peace
Naval Exercise and security.
 The 12th edition of the MILAN naval exercise is  The Shanti Prayas Exercise is co-hosted by the Nepali
poised to set sail in Army and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, reflecting
the strategic port the strong military cooperation between Nepal and the
city of United States
Visakhapatnam
from February 19 India Hosts Milan Naval Exercise With
to 27, marking a Participation Of Nearly 50 Countries
significant  India is hosting the 12th edition of the ‘Milan’ naval
gathering of naval forces from over 50 countries. exercise in Visakhapatnam, aimed at bolstering
 This year’s theme, “Forging Naval Alliances for a maritime
Secure Maritime Future,” underscores the exercise’s cooperation
commitment to enhancing global maritime security among like-
through cooperation and strategic dialogue. minded nations.
 MILAN 2023 seeks to bolster the safety of maritime  Navies from
trade, a vital artery of the global economy, through almost 50
shared efforts and expertise. countries
including the US, Japan, Australia, France,
Indian Air Force (IAF) Conducted ‘Exercise Vayu Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and
Shakti-24’ Malaysia are participating.
 Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted ‘Exercise Vayu  Milan is a biennial multinational naval exercise
Shakti-24’ at the Pokhran range near Jaisalmer, initiated in 1995 with the participation of Indonesia,
Rajasthan, presenting a formidable display of its Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, aligned with
aerial India’s ‘Look East’ policy. The exercise evolved under
firepower. the Andaman and Nicobar Command until its 10th
 The event, edition.
attended by the
Chief of DRDO To Test Indigenous Laser Weapon
Defence Staff, DURGA-2
General Anil  In a notable stride towards advanced military
Chauhan, technology, the Defence Research and Development
marked a significant demonstration of the IAF’s Organisation (DRDO) is reportedly gearing up to test
offensive capabilities through a series of meticulously a real prototype of its indigenous laser weapon
planned aerial manoeuvres and precision strikes. system, DURGA-2.
 Adhering to this year’s theme, ‘Lightning Strike  Directed energy weapons, commonly known as laser
from the Sky’, the exercise involved over 120 aircraft weapons, operate by focusing energy through laser,
showcasing the IAF’s day and night offensive microwave, or particle beams. If successfully
prowess. developed and deployed, such weapons have the
capability to safeguard vital defense infrastructure
Multinational Military Exercise ‘Shanti Prayas IV’ from missile or air attacks.
Commences In Kathmandu
 Kathmandu became the focal point of global
peacekeeping efforts as it hosted the commencement
of the multinational military exercise ‘Shanti Prayas
IV’.
 This event, which draws army representatives from 19
countries actively involved in United Nations
Trilateral Exercise ‘Dosti-16’ Kicks Off In  The complex is expected to generate

Maldives approximately 4,000 jobs, with a significant multiplier
 Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships joined effect benefiting MSMEs and the local ecosystem.
the Dosti 16 exercise held in the Maldives from
February 22- NATO Launches Steadfast Defender 2024 Military
25. Exercise
 This year  The North Atlantic Treaty Organization
marked a (NATO) launched its largest military exercise in
significant Europe in decades, Steadfast Defender 2024, in late
development January 2024.
with  This large-scale operation, conducted against the
Bangladesh backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict,
participating as an observer, indicating a widening serves as a potent symbol of NATO’s collective
scope for the exercise and underlining the growing military might and unwavering commitment to the
importance of maritime collaboration in tackling security of its member states.
evolving challenges.  The exercise strategically encompasses various
 By fostering cooperation, the exercise addresses European countries, with a particular focus on nations
traditional security concerns while collectively bordering the Baltic Sea, a critical region due to its
preparing for non-traditional threats like piracy, proximity to Russia’s exclave Kaliningrad and its
smuggling, and environmental disasters. economic importance for oil exports.
IAF Strengthens Air Defense With Indigenous
SAMAR-2 Missile System
 he Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken a significant
stride in bolstering the nation’s air defense capabilities
with the development of the Surface to Air Missile
for Assured Retaliation (SAMAR-2) missile system.
 This innovative system leverages repurposed Russian
R-27 air-to-air missiles, transforming them into a
potent surface-to-air defense solution.
 SAMAR-2 represents a strategic approach
to maximizing the utility of aging missile systems.
By integrating these nearing-expiration assets into a
robust air defense network, the IAF ensures their
continued effectiveness in safeguarding Indian
airspace.
Adani Group Launches South Asia’s Largest

Ammunition And Missiles Complex In U.P.
 The Adani Group has inaugurated the Ammunition &
Missiles Complex in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Uttar
Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with
Chief of Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande, inaugurated
the complex.
 This complex, owned by Adani Defence, marks the
first phase of the state’s defense corridor and is
dedicated to the brave warriors of the Balakot strike.
Engineering and a Master of Engineering degree,

Appointments or brings extensive leadership experience and expertise in
Strategic Management to his new role.
Resign/Retired  PD Vaghela vacated the position in November
2023, leading to Lahoti’s appointment. Lahoti’s
Champai Soren: The Next Chief Minister Of tenure, initially for three years or until he turns 65,
Jharkhand replaces Meenakshi Gupta, who held the position
 In a significant political development, Champai temporarily.
Soren has been announced as the next Chief Minister
of Jharkhand, following the resignation of Hemant Michelle O’Neill Becomes Northern Ireland’s First
Soren. Minister
 Born in November 1956 in Jilinggora village,  In a groundbreaking move, Michelle O’Neill, an Irish
Seraikela-Kharsawan district, Champai Soren’s nationalist representing
political journey is deeply rooted in his early life Sinn Fein, has been
experiences and his involvement in the movement for appointed as Northern
the creation of the state of Jharkhand. Ireland’s First Minister.
 Champai Soren has been a stalwart in Jharkhand  O’Neill’s appointment
politics, serving as a legislator from the Serikela reflects Sinn
assembly constituency since 1991. His dedication to Fein’s (Political party)
the JMM and his role in the Jharkhand movement aspiration for a United
earned him the nickname ‘Jharkhand Tiger.’ Ireland, a vision they
believe is now within
Jay Shah Secures Historic Third Term As grasp. Her elevation to the
President Of The Asian Cricket Council position of First Minister
 The cricketing world witnessed a historic moment on signifies the party’s growing influence and political
January 31, as Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board clout in Northern Ireland.
of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was  O’Neill’s commitment to serving all citizens equally,
unanimously appointed for a third consecutive term as as demonstrated in her address to the assembly,
the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). underscores her role as a leader for all of Northern
 This extension, granted during the ACC Annual Ireland. Her appointment signals a new era of
General Meeting in Bali, reflects not only Shah’s inclusivity and representation in the region’s political
accomplishments but also the success and progress leadership.
achieved under his dynamic leadership.
 The proposal for his extension, put forth by Shammi Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit Resigns
Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket, received  Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator
unanimous support from all ACC members, Banwarilal Purohit resigned from his post, citing
underscoring the unity and shared vision within the “personal reasons.”
council.  Purohit’s resignation comes just a day after meeting
Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi. The timing
Anil Kumar Lahoti Appointed Chairman Of TRAI of his resignation, following the BJP’s triumph in the
 Former Railway Board Chief Anil Kumar Lahoti has Chandigarh mayoral polls where they secured all
been appointed as the chairman of the Telecom three posts.
Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) following the  Banwarilal Purohit, born on 16 April 1940, is an
vacancy left by PD Vaghela. Indian politician who served as the 29th Governor of
 The appointment, approved by the Department of Punjab, India, and Administrator of Chandigarh until
Personnel and Training (DoPT), marks a significant 3 February 2024. He previously served as
transition in India’s telecommunications sector. the Governor of Tamil Nadu from 2017 to 2021 and
 Lahoti, an Indian Railway Service of the Governor of Assam from 2016 to 2017.
Engineer (IRSE) with a background in Civil
Justice Ritu Bahri Becomes Chief Justice Of  Lt Gen. Dwivedi boasts a distinguished career within
Uttarakhand High Court the Indian Army, having previously served in key
 Justice Ritu Bahri has become the new Chief Justice positions including Deputy Chief and Director
of the Uttarakhand High Court. The Governor, Lt General of Infantry at the Army Headquarters.
Gen (retd) Gurmit Singh, gave her the oath at a  His operational experience in the Northern Command,
beautiful ceremony at Raj Bhawan. particularly during the ongoing India-China military
 The government announced Justice Bahri’s new role standoff, positions him well for his new role as Army
on February 2, 2024. She takes over from the previous Vice Chief. With expertise in command and strategic
Chief Justice, Vipin Sanghi, who retired. roles, Lt Gen. Dwivedi brings a wealth of experience
 Before this, she was the Acting Chief Justice in Punjab to his appointment.
and Haryana. The Supreme Court said she should get
this job on November 2, 2023, which is a big deal. Nikhil Joshi Appointed As Managing Director Of
Boeing Defence India
Ranveer Singh Joins BoAt As A Stakeholder And  Boeing, the
Brand Ambassador American
 Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh has recently aerospace
invested in the popular lifestyle brand boAt, becoming giant, has made a
not only a stakeholder but also the official face of the significant move to
brand’s audio products. enhance its
 This partnership marks a strategic move for boAt, as operations and
they welcome Singh into their illustrious list of brand propel its growth
ambassadors, which already features notable strategy in India by appointing Nikhil Joshi as the
celebrities and sports personalities. managing director of Boeing Defense India (BDI).
 With Ranveer Singh on board, boAt’s lineup of brand  Prior to his engagement with Boeing, Joshi served as
ambassadors now includes some of the most the country manager for Eaton Aerospace in India,
influential names in the entertainment and sports where he significantly contributed to expanding the
industry, such as Kiara Advani, Rashmika Mandanna, company’s business footprint.
and cricket stars Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, KL  His extensive experience includes commanding
Rahul, and Jemimah Rodrigues. frontline ships and air squadrons, coupled with over
4,000 hours of flying time on various maritime
Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi Appointed reconnaissance aircraft.
Army Vice Chief
 In a strategic move within the Indian Nand Kishore Yadav Elected As Bihar Legislative
Army, Lieutenant Assembly Speaker
General Upendra  Veteran BharatiyaJanata Party (BJP) leader Nand
Dwivedi has been Kishore Yadav has been elected as the Speaker of
appointed as the the Bihar Legislative Assembly.
new Army Vice  Nand Kishore Yadav, a seven-time Member of the
Chief, effective Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Patna Sahib
February 15. constituency, has been a prominent figure in Bihar
 This transition politics.
signifies a seamless  First elected as an MLA in 1995, Yadav’s career has
succession plan as Lt been distinguished by his several tenures as a minister
Gen Dwivedi steps in the Nitish Kumar government, showcasing his
into the role, versatility and leadership within the state’s
succeeding Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, who is set governance.
to assume command at the Northern Army Command
in Udhampur
Lebanese Judge Nawaf Salam Elected As ICJ’s recognized for his leadership in executing business
New President turnarounds and managing successful acquisitions.
 Nawaf Salam was elected president of the ICJ in The  Since taking the helm at Infosys on January 2, 2018,
Hague, succeeding US Judge Joan Donoghue. This Parekh has set the strategic direction for the company,
significant milestone marks him as the first Lebanese steering one of India’s leading IT giants through
and second Arab to hold this prestigious position for a periods of significant change and global challenges.
three-year term.
 Salam’s journey with the ICJ began in 2018, and he GeetaBatra’s Historic Appointment To The World
currently holds the highest judicial position globally. Bank’s GEF
His appointment highlights his remarkable trajectory  GeetaBatra, a distinguished Indian economist, has
within the field of international law. been appointed as the Director of the Independent
 As the principal judicial body of the United Nations, Evaluation Office (IEO) of the World Bank’s
the ICJ is responsible for adjudicating legal Global Environment Facility (GEF).
disputes between states and providing advisory  This appointment marks a significant milestone, as
opinions on legal questions referred to by UN organs Batra becomes the first woman from a developing
and specialized agencies. country to assume this prestigious role.
 At 57, GeetaBatra brings a wealth of experience and
Shubman Gill Designated As Punjab ‘State Icon’ expertise to her new position. Prior to this
For LokSabha Polls appointment, she served as the Chief Evaluator &
 In a significant move to boost voter engagement and Deputy Director for Evaluation at the GEF’s IEO.
participation in
the upcoming Maryam Nawaz Becomes First Woman Chief
LokSabha Minister Of Punjab
elections,  Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Pakistan’s former
the Punjab Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and a senior leader of
Chief Electoral the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party,
Officer’s has become the first woman Chief Minister of Punjab
office has announced Indian cricketer Shubman province.
Gill as the new “state icon” for Punjab.  Maryam Nawaz secured victory in the chief ministerial
 This appointment is a strategic effort to connect with elections despite facing a walkout by lawmakers from
the youth and sports enthusiasts, ensuring that the Imran Khan’s party-backed Sunni Ittehad Council
electoral process resonates more deeply across various (SIC).
demographics.  She defeated RanaAftab of the PTI-backed SIC in the
 As a state icon, Shubman Gill will be actively involved election, marking a significant political triumph in the
in various voter awareness campaigns. The cricketer’s politically crucial Punjab province.
popularity could have on encouraging voter
participation, especially in areas where voter turnout Former PM Alexander Stubb Wins Finland
has historically been low. Presidential Election
 Former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb secured
victory in Finland’s presidential runoff against ex-
Appointment Of Salil Parekh To The USISPF Foreign Minister PekkaHaavisto.
Board Of Directors  This win places Stubb in charge of navigating
 In a significant move, Salil Parekh, the Chief Finland’s foreign and security policies, particularly
Executive Officer and Managing Director of Infosys, significant given Finland’s recent NATO membership
has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the US following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF).  Stubb of the National Coalition Party secured 51.6%
 Salil Parekh, with a distinguished career spanning of the votes, while independent candidate Haavisto
nearly three decades in the IT services industry, is received 48.4%.
World Gold Council Appoints De Beers’ Sachin

Jain As Chief Executive Officer Honours/ Awards
 The World Gold Council (WGC), representing
global gold miners, has named Sachin Jain as its Three Indian Scientists To Be Honored With
new CEO for India, effective from March. Prestigious UK Prize In London
 Jain joins WGC India from De Beers, where he served  The prestigious Blavatnik Awards will recognize the
in various senior capacities over the past 13 years. exceptional contributions of Rahul R Nair, Mehul
Notably, as Managing Director of De Beers India, he Malik,
spearheaded the De Beers Forevermark business in Tanmay
India and West Asia. Bharat,
 Prior to his stint at De Beers, Jain held significant roles and
at renowned companies such as Lladro, Swatch Group, other
and Benetton. His diverse experience spans over two early
decades, reflecting his versatile skill set and strategic career
acumen. scientists at a black-tie gala in London on February 27.
 These awards, totaling 480,000 pounds in grants,
Justice A M Khanwilkar Appointed Lokpal underscore the importance of recognition and research
Chairperson funding in propelling scientific breakthroughs.
 In a significant development, former Supreme Court  Rahul R Nair, has been honored as the Laureate in
judge Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar has been Physical Sciences & Engineering for his pioneering
appointed as the chairperson of the Lokpal, the anti- work in developing innovative membranes using
corruption ombudsman of India His appointment two-dimensional (2D) materials.
comes after a distinguished career in the judiciary,  Professor Mehul Malik work harnesses high-
retiring from the apex court in July 2022. dimensional entanglement to create robust
 The notification issued by RashtrapatiBhawan also quantum networks, promising secure transmission of
announced the appointments of other key members of data over long distances.
the Lokpal. Joining Justice Khanwilkar are Justice  Dr. Tanmay Bharat, a structural microbiologist at the
LingappaNarayanaSwamy, Justice Sanjay Yadav, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, utilizes cryo-
and Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi as judicial members. electron tomography to uncover atomic-level
details of cell surface molecules.
FM Sitharaman Declares Free Cervical Cancer

Vaccine For Girls Aged 9-14
 Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her
interim budget speech for 2024-25, indicated that the
government would actively “promote” vaccination
to combat cervical cancer.
 Sitharaman stated, “Our government will encourage
vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 years as a preventive
measure against cervical cancer” during her budget
speech.
 In India, cervical cancer ranks as the second most
common cancer among women, posing a significant
health challenge.
Grammy Awards 2024

 The 66th Annual Grammy Awards, marking a
significant milestone in the music industry, celebrated
the most remarkable recordings, compositions, and
artists of the year, from October 1, 2022, to (BJP), has been instrumental in shaping the party’s
September 30, 2023. ideology and steering it to national prominence.
 Hosting for the fourth consecutive time, Trevor
Noah brought his charismatic presence and sharp wit
to the stage, making the night unforgettable for both PT Usha Honored With Lifetime Achievement
the winners and the worldwide viewers. Award By SJFI And DSJA
 This year’s ceremony not only highlighted the  Legendary sprinter and current President of the Indian
incredible talent and achievements within the music Olympic Association (IOA), PT Usha, was honoured
industry but also continued the tradition of celebrating with the prestigious ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award.
the universal language of music in all its diversity and  This accolade was presented to her by the Sports
splendour. Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) and Delhi
Sports Journalists Association (DSJA), recognizing
Priest Ishwari Prasad Namboodiri Honored With her extraordinary contributions to Indian athletics.
The Shankar Smriti Award  PT Usha, often hailed as the “Queen of Indian track
 Priest Ishwari Prasad Namboodiri, the chief priest and field,” was presented with a medallion, a citation,
(Rawal) of the world-renowned Badrinath Dham in and a memento, signifying the high esteem in which
Uttarakhand, was honoured with the Shankar Smriti she is held for her stellar sporting career.
Award in Kerala.  This event not only celebrated her achievements but
 This recognition marks a significant acknowledgement also highlighted the legacy she has built over the years,
of his dedication and service to the spiritual domain, inspiring countless athletes across the nation.
enhancing the rich tapestry of Indian religious
practices. Picture Of Polar Bear Falling Asleep On Iceberg
 Awarded annually during the 103rd Malliyoor Wins Top Photography Prize
Bhagavat Hamsa Smarana Utsav in Kerala’s Kottayam  In a celebration of nature’s serene beauty, a
district, the Shankar Smriti Award celebrates photograph depicting a polar bear asleep on an
outstanding contributions to spirituality, art, and iceberg has clinched the prestigious Wildlife
service. Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award.
 The Malliyoor Bhagavat Hamsa Smriti Trust presents  This enchanting image, titled ‘Ice Bed,’ captured by
this award to individuals who have shown exceptional British
dedication to ritual practice, meditation, and the amateur
pursuit of spiritual service. photographer
Nima
Sarikhani, has
LK Advani To Be Awarded Bharat Ratna, emerged
Announced By PM Modi victorious in
 The Indian government has announced that LK a competition
Advani, one of the most prominent figures in Indian that saw a record-breaking 75,000 votes from the
politics, will be conferred with the Bharat Ratna, the public.
nation’s highest civilian award.  Polar bears, symbols of the Arctic’s wild majesty, face
 The Bharat Ratna is a fitting recognition of LK significant threats from climate change and
Advani’s legacy as a statesman who has dedicated his diminishing sea ice. ‘Ice Bed’ not only showcases the
life to the nation. The award celebrates his immense stunning beauty of these creatures but also highlights
contributions and his role as a catalyst for political and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect their
social change in India. natural habitat.
 Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi, LK Advani’s
political journey is a saga of resilience, leadership, and UAE Awards ‘Golden Visa’ To Super 30 Founder
profound influence on the Indian political landscape. Anand Kumar
Advani, a key architect of the Bharatiya Janata Party  Renowned Mathematics educator Anand Kumar,
founder of Super 30, achieved a significant milestone
on Tuesday, February 6, as he was granted the to individuals who have made significant contributions
prestigious ‘Golden Visa’ by the United Arab to the world of music.
Emirates (UAE) government.
 Traditionally dominated by luminaries from Dr. Bina Modi Named ‘Outstanding Business
entertainment and sports, the Golden Visa now Woman Of The Year 2023’
embraces intellectual prowess and educational  Dr. Bina Modi, the esteemed Chairperson of Modi
contribution, exemplified by Kumar’s pioneering Enterprises, has been honored with the
work in mathematics education. prestigious ‘Outstanding Business Woman of the
 Introduced in 2019 by the UAE government, the Year’ Award.
Golden Visa aims to attract exceptional foreign talents  This recognition, bestowed upon her by Rajnath
across various fields, including entrepreneurs, Singh, Defence Minister of India, at a distinguished
scientists, and outstanding students. It offers recipients conference organized by the Indo-American Chamber
the opportunity to reside, work, or study in the UAE, of Commerce (IACC), underscores her exceptional
coupled with exclusive benefits. leadership and contributions to the industry.
 As Chairperson of Modi Enterprises – KK Modi
Group, Dr. Bina Modi oversees a diverse portfolio
Bharat Ratna To Honour PV Narasimha Rao, of companies, including the renowned FMCG giant,
Chaudhary Charan Singh, And MS Swaminathan Godfrey Phillips India, and the leading agro-chemical
 India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, is firm, Indofil.
set to honour the
indelible Bengali Translation Wins Prestigious Romain
contributions of Rolland Book Prize 2024
three  The recipient of this year’s Romain Rolland Book
distinguished Prize is Pankaj Kumar Chatterjee for his
individuals remarkable translation of Jean-Daniel Baltassat’s “Le
whose efforts Divan de Staline” into Bengali, titled “Staliner
have significantly shaped the nation’s trajectory. Divan.”
 Former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and  Published by New Bharat SahityaKutir, Kolkata,
Chaudhary Charan Singh, alongside renowned Chatterjee’s translation stood out for its linguistic
agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, are the prowess and fidelity to the original text. This marks
esteemed recipients of this prestigious accolade, the second time that a Bengali translation has been
acknowledging their unparalleled dedication to the honoured with this prestigious award.
progress of India.
 The ‘Bharat Ratna,’ the country’s highest civilian 2024 World Governments Summit In Dubai: India,
award, was established in 1954. Individuals, Türkiye, And Qatar Named Guests Of Honor
irrespective of race, occupation, position, or gender,  The 2024 World Governments Summit, scheduled to
are eligible for this prestigious honor be held in Dubai from February 12-14, has
designated India, Türkiye, and Qatar as guests of
Pyarelal Sharma Honored With Lakshminarayana honor.
International Award  Themed ‘Shaping Future Governments,’ the summit
 Pyarelal Sharma, one-half of the legendary composer aims to
duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, has been felicitated with the facilitate
prestigious Lakshminarayana International Award. discussions
 This honour was bestowed upon him as part of the among over
Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival, 25
acknowledging his invaluable contributions to the government
Indian music industry. and state
 The Lakshminarayana International Award, named heads worldwide.
after the violin maestro Lakshminarayana, is presented
 President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister Gulzar And Jagadguru Rambhadracharya
Narendra Modi, and Prime Minister and Foreign Awarded Prestigious Jnanpith Award 2023
Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin  The Jnanpith Award, India’s most prestigious
Jassim Al Thani to lead their respective delegations. literary accolade, has announced its recipients for the
These nations will exhibit their successful government year 2023, marking a momentous occasion in the
experiences and best developmental practices. annals of Indian literature.
 This year, the honour is bestowed upon two luminaries
K.P.P. Nambiar Award For ISRO Chairman S. from the world of letters: celebrated Urdu poet and
Somanath Bollywood personality Gulzar, and the distinguished
 The field of space exploration and technology in India Sanskrit scholar and spiritual
witnessed a momentous occasion as the IEEE Kerala leader JagadguruRambhadracharya.
Section announced the recipient of the  Their selection for the 58th edition of the
prestigious K.P.P. Nambiar Award. award underscores the rich diversity and depth of
 This year, the accolade was bestowed upon ISRO Indian literary traditions, spanning the classical to the
Chairman S. Somanath, a figure synonymous with contemporary.
innovation and leadership in space technology.
 Named after the doyen of the electronic industry and
the founder chair of the IEEE Kerala section, K.P.P. Alex Dawson Captures The Underwater
Nambiar, the award honors individuals or groups Photographer Of The Year 2024 Award
within the State who have demonstrated significant  Swedish photographer Alex Dawson has clinched the
contributions towards the IEEE vision of advancing prestigious title
technology for humanity. of Underwater
Photographer of
the Year 2024.
Noida Recognized As “Water Warrior” City  His winning entry,
 The Department of Water Resources, River ‘Whale Bones’, is
Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, under the a mesmerizing
Union Water Ministry, hashonored Noida with the title image that transports viewers beneath the icy expanse
of “Water Warrior” city. of the Greenland ice sheet, where a diver is seen
 The city clinched the title of the best sewage exploring the skeletal remains of a minke whale.
treatment plant (STP) and also received accolades for  This striking composition not only showcases
its water reuse project of the year. Dawson’s exceptional photographic skills but also
 Satish Pal, the additional chief executive officer of the highlights the haunting beauty of the underwater
Noida Authority, along with RP Singh, the deputy world.
general manager of the authority’s water department,
received these awards on behalf of the city. Shashi Tharoor Honoured With France’s Highest
Civilian Award
National Film Awards: Indira Gandhi And  Diplomat, author, and politician, ShashiTharoor has
NargisDutt Names Removed From Categories been bestowed with the prestigious ‘Chevalier de la
 The National Film Awards, one of India’s most Légiond’Honneur’
prestigious film award ceremonies, is set to see (Knight of the
significant changes in its 70th iteration in 2022. Legion of Honour),
 In a noteworthy update, the names of former Prime France’s highest
Minister Indira Gandhi and celebrated civilian honour.
actor NargisDutt will no longer be associated with  This accolade
specific award categories as previously done. celebrates Tharoor’s
 Previously known as the Indira Gandhi Award for lifelong dedication to
Best Debut Film, this category will now be simply fostering global understanding and his significant
referred to as the “Best Debut Film of a Director.” service to India and the world at large.
 Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the

Legion of Honour stands as the epitome of French Sports
recognition for outstanding service to France,
transcending nationality. Abhinav Bindra Selected As Torchbearer For The
2024 Paris Olympics
 The ancient tradition of the Olympic Torch
Relay continues its journey towards Paris 2024, with
the flame set to cross the Mediterranean and embark
on a 68-day adventure across France.
 Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic
gold medalist
and an IOC
Athletes’
Commission
member, is
among the
11,000
torchbearers
chosen to carry the iconic symbol.
 Abhinav Bindra, a shooting legend and the first Indian
athlete to win an individual Olympic gold medal, has
been selected as one of the torchbearers. His inclusion
reflects the unifying power of the Olympics and the
celebration of sporting excellence on a global stage.
SCA Stadium Renamed In Honor Of Niranjan

Shah Ahead Of India-England Test Match
 Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) Stadium is
set to be
rebranded as
the Niranjan
Shah
Stadium. This
change comes as
a tribute to the
former first-class cricketer and senior cricket
administrator, Niranjan Shah, marking his immense
contributions to the sport and the region.
 The renaming ceremony will be a notable event, taking
place in Khandheri, where the stadium has been a
central hub for national cricket matches for over a
decade.
 Niranjan Shah’s legacy in cricket extends beyond his
playing days; from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, he
represented Saurashtra in 12 first-class games, laying
the groundwork for a lifelong association with cricket.
FIFA To Introduce Blue Cards And Sin-Bins SumitNagal Clinches Chennai Open Title, Secures
 The International Football Association First-Ever Top 100 Spot
Board (IFAB) is preparing to debut a new card,  SumitNagal has rise to the top 100 which is a
the blue card as part of trials involving sin bins in testament to his resilience and determination.Nagal’s
professional football. journey began
 IFAB proposes the inclusion of blue cards alongside in 2023 when
the traditional yellow and red cards. Blue cards he played as a
will serve as a disciplinary measure for dissent and player ranked
cynical fouls, resulting in players being temporarily 506 in the
sent to the sin-bin. world and
 Ifab, the governing body responsible for football’s qualified for
laws, aims to bolster disciplinary measures with the the ATP Chennai Open Challenger.
introduction of blue cards. These measures target  His success in Chennai Challenger last year marked
dissent and cynical fouls, emphasizing a zero-tolerance the beginning of his resurgence after surgery. Nagal’s
approach to unsportsmanlike behavior. victory in the ATP Chennai Open Challenger on
February 12, 2024, saw him rise from 121 to 98 in the
Etihad Airways Takes Flight As Official Sponsor ATP rankings.
Of CSK  This achievement marked the first time Nagal entered
 Etihad Airways joins forces with the Chennai the top 100 in his career. Only 10 Indian men have
Super Kings ever reached the top 100 since the introduction of ATP
(CSK) as their rankings in 1973.
official Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the
sponsor, Gandhinagar Premier League
marking a  Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated
thrilling new the Gandhinagar Premier League (GPL) in
chapter for Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event, graced by the
both entities. presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel
 This strategic partnership, announced on February 9th, among other dignitaries, marks a pivotal step towards
2024, promises to propel the excitement of cricket to enhancing grassroots cricket and fostering local talent
new heights for fans around the world. across the nation.
 Etihad Airways, a global airline renowned for its  HardikPandya, an India all-rounder, was spotted with
premium services and innovative approach, shares a Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the Gandhinagar
similar commitment to excellence and a passion for Premier League’s launch.
connecting people across diverse cultures.
ICC Bans UK Cricketer RizwanJaved For Over 17
U19 World Cup 2024 Final, Australia Beats India Years For Match-Fixing
By 79 Runs  UK-based club cricketer RizwanJaved has been
 Australia U19 win the U19 World Cup 2024 handed a severe ban from all cricketing activities for a
Final by 79 runs. With the massive win over India, period of 17 ½ years.
Australia has secured its fourth World Cup title in U-  This decision comes in the wake of his involvement in
19 cricket. several breaches of the Emirates Cricket
 Australia added to their triumphs in 2002, 2010, and Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code for Participants.
2020. Their consistent performance throughout the  RizwanJaved was one among eight individuals
tournament showcased their depth and talent, making charged by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on
them deserving champions. behalf of the ECB for their involvement in corruption
 KwenaMaphaka was named U19 Cricket World Cup attempts during the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket
Player of the Tournament and player of the Match was League.
awarded to MahliBeardman.
Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024: India

Women Win Title Bhopal Athletes Conquer The World’s Highest
 In an unforgettable showdown at Shah Alam, Frozen Lake Marathon
Malaysia, the Indian women’s badminton team etched  In a remarkable display of endurance and
their names into determination, Bhagwan Singh and Mahesh
history by Khurana from Bhopal have completed the Pangong
clinching a Frozen Lake
historic gold Marathon
medal at 2024, held in
the Badminton Leh-Ladakh.
Asia Team Bhagwan Singh
Championships 2024. is also the first
 This victory marks a groundbreaking moment in mountaineer
India’s badminton journey, as the team emerged from Madhya
victorious against Thailand with a thrilling 3-2 Pradesh to scale Mount Everest.
scoreline.  Known for its extreme conditions, this marathon is
 The finale saw 17-year-old AnmolKharb deliver a celebrated as the ‘World’s Highest Frozen Lake
stellar performance in the decisive match, securing Marathon.’ The event unfolded on February 20, amidst
India’s maiden continental triumph. heavy snowfall, at an altitude of 18,680 feet with
temperatures plunging to -15°C, posing an ultimate
challenge to the participants.
MS Dhoni Named Captain Of IPL’s Greatest All-
Time Team South Africa’s Tristan Stubbs Hits First-Class
 The Indian Premier League (IPL), since its inception Triple Century
in 2008, has been a powerhouse of talent and  Tristan Stubbs has etched his name in the annals of
excitement in the cricketing world. South African cricket history, becoming the 11th
 The selection panel comprises renowned cricketing batter to achieve a first-class triple-century in the
figures including WasimAkram, Matthew Hayden, nation, and notably the eighth since readmission.
Tom Moody, and Dale Steyn, whose expertise and  Stubbs’ outstanding performance places him at the
experience bring invaluable insight to the decision- forefront of Division 11’s leading run-scorers in the
making process. domestic four-day competition.
 The iconic Mahendra Singh Dhoni was unanimously  With two centuries from five matches, he has
chosen to lead this star-studded ensemble, bringing his showcased consistency and prowess with the bat,
unparalleled leadership and cricketing acumen to the solidifying his position as a formidable force in the
fore. cricketing arena.
Pakistan’s Babar Azam Becomes Quickest To JacinthaKalyan Makes History As India’s First
10,000 Runs In T20s Female Pitch Curator
 Former Pakistan captain and batting maestro Babar  In a groundbreaking move for Indian cricket, Jacintha
Azam etched his name in the annals of cricket history Kalyan has etched her name in the annals of sports
by becoming the quickest batter to surpass the history as the country’s first female pitch curator.
milestone of 10,000 runs in T20 cricket.  JacinthaKalyan’s journey to becoming India’s first
 His remarkable achievement came during an female curator is nothing short of inspiring. Previously
exhilarating clash between Karachi Kings and serving in the administrative sector, Kalyan made a
Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) bold transition to curatorship driven by her
2024. unwavering passion for the game.
 Babar Azam’s achievement adds another feather to his  With the highly anticipated 2nd edition of the
illustrious cap, making him the 13th batter to amass Women’s Premier League (WPL) just around the
10,000 runs in T20 cricket.
corner, the excitement among fans, players, and

tournament organizers is palpable. Obituaries
Rocky Actor Carl Weathers Passed Away At 76
Army Clinches Khelo India Winter Games 2024  On February 1st, 2024, the entertainment world was
Title On Final Day rocked by the news of the passing of Carl Weathers,
 The Khelo India Winter Games 2024 concluded in a beloved Hollywood actor renowned for his
Gulmarg, with the Army emerging victorious after a unforgettable roles in ‘Rocky’ and ‘Predator.’ The
thrilling final day of competition. announcement was made by Deadline, a leading US-
 Alpine skier Bobby Pandey’s gold medal in the based media outlet.
parallel slalom event proved decisive, propelling Army  Born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, Carl
to the top of the medal table with 10 gold medals. Weathers embarked on a remarkable journey in the
 This narrow margin placed them one gold ahead world of cinema. With a career spanning five
of Karnataka (9 gold) and three ahead decades, he left an indelible mark on audiences
of Maharashtra (7 gold), who had led after the first worldwide.
round in Ladakh.  Weathers etched his name in cinematic history with
his portrayal of Apollo Creed, the charismatic and
Ashwin Surpasses Kumble To Become India’s formidable heavyweight champion in the ‘Rocky’
Leading Wicket-Taker In Tests At Home franchise. His electrifying performances opposite
 Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin etched his Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa captivated
name in audiences and earned him a place in the pantheon of
cricketing Hollywood legends.
history,
surpassing Namibian President Hage Geingob Passes Away At
legendary leg- 82, Undergoing Cancer Treatment
spinner Anil  Namibia is mourning the loss of President Hage
Kumble to Geingob, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 82.
become the leading wicket-taker in Test matches He had been undergoing treatment for the illness,
played on Indian soil. leaving the nation in a period of transition.
 The feat unfolded during the third day of the ongoing  Born in 1941, Geingob played a pivotal role in
fourth Test match between India and England in Namibia’s political landscape. He chaired the drafting
Ranchi. Ashwin dismissed Ben Duckett and Ollie of Namibia’s constitution and served as the first
Pope, taking his tally to 351 wickets in Tests played in prime minister after the country gained independence
India. This eclipsed Kumble’s previous record of 350 in 1990.
wickets achieved in 63 matches.  Namibia, known for its diamond and lithium
deposits, faces a shift in leadership as Vice President
Namibia’s Jan NicolLoftie-Eaton Smashes Fastest Nangolo Mbumba takes charge until upcoming
T20I Hundred elections later in the year. Geingob’s tenure included
 Jan NicolLoftie-Eaton, the dynamic Namibian addressing economic disparities and overseeing the
batter, etched his name in cricketing history by mining sector’s prominence in the country.
scoring the fastest T20 International (T20I)
century in a blistering innings against Nepal. ‘Anupamaa’ Actor Rituraj Singh Passes Away At
 Loftie-Eaton’s extraordinary feat occurred during the 59
first T20I of the Tri-Nation series on Tuesday,  The Indian entertainment industry mourns the loss
February 27, leaving fans and pundits in awe of his of Rituraj Singh, a versatile actor who passed away at
remarkable display of power-hitting. the age of 59 due to cardiac arrest.
 Singh, whose career spanned over several decades,
was revered for his dynamic performances across
television, cinema, and web series.
 His sudden demise has left fans and colleagues deeply  Dum pukht, a slow-cooking method that originated in
saddened, reflecting on the indelible mark he has left the royal kitchens of Awadh, became his signature
on the world of entertainment. style.
 This technique involves cooking ingredients in a
Renowned Jain Monk AcharyaVidyasagarMaharaj sealed pot (or ‘handi’), allowing the meats to cook in
Passed Away At 77 their own juices and spices to infuse deeply, creating
 Renowned Jain monk AcharyaVidyasagarMaharaj, flavors that are both delicate and profound.
aged 77, breathed his
last on Sunday,
February 18 at DattajiraoGaekwad, Nation’s Oldest Test
ChandragiriTeerth in Cricketer, Passes Away At 95
Chhattisgarh’s  DattajiraoGaekwad, the nation’s oldest Test
Rajnandgaon district. cricketer, passed away recently at the age of 95.
 The revered spiritual  Gaekwad, a name synonymous with resilience,
leader undertook elegance, and sportsmanship, leaves behind a legacy
‘sallekhna,’ a Jain that is etched in the annals of Indian cricket history.
religious practice involving voluntary fasting unto His contribution to the sport goes beyond just the runs
death for spiritual purification. he scored or the matches he played; it encompasses the
 AcharyaVidyasagarMaharaj was born on October 10, spirit of cricket that he embodied throughout his life.
1946, in Sadalga, Karnataka. His early life was marked
by a profound inclination towards spirituality, setting
World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum
the stage for his remarkable journey.
Dies In Road Accident
 Kelvin Kiptum, the men’s marathon world record
‘Udaan’ Actor KavitaChaudhary Passes Away At holder, and his
67 coach,
 KavitaChaudhary, a veteran actor and creative force
GervaisHakizimana,
best known for her groundbreaking role in the
met with a tragic
television show “Udaan” and as the iconic Lalitaji in
end in a traffic
Surf commercials.
accident on the night
 Chaudhary passed away at the age of 67 due to cardiac
of February 12,
arrest in Amritsar, leaving behind a legacy that
2024.
continues to inspire generations.
 At only 24 years of
 KavitaChaudhary’s journey in the world of Indian
age, Kiptum had already made history at the
television was marked by her passion for storytelling
Chicago Marathon in October by setting a new
and her commitment to portraying strong, independent
world record of 2:00:35, surpassing the previous
women. Her most notable work, “Udaan,” aired in
record held by his compatriot EliudKipchoge.
1989, where she not only played the lead role of IPS
 The fatal crash occurred between the towns of Eldoret
officer Kalyani Singh but also took on the roles of
and Kaptagat in western Kenya, an area known for its
writer and director.
significance in the training of elite distance runners.
The accident claimed the lives of Kiptum and his
Iconic ‘Dum Pukht’ Chef ImtiazQureshi Passes Rwandan coach, leaving the athletics community in
Away At 93 shock and despair.
 Chef ImtiazQureshi, who passed away at the age of
93. The Padma Shri awardee, often hailed as a
“culinary genius,” was instrumental in bringing the
ancient dumpukht cooking technique back to the
forefront of Indian cuisine.
Ameen Sayani, Renowned Radio Presenter And
Voice Of Geetmala, Passes Away
 AmeenSayani, the legendary voice that defined radio  The music world mourns the passing of legendary
for generations of Indians, passed away at the age of ghazal singer PankajUdhas, who died at the age of 72
91. after a prolonged
 Known for his iconic program Binaca illness. Udhas was
Geetmala, Sayani’s voice was a staple in Indian Born in Jetpur, Gujarat,
households, bridging the gap between music and its in 1951.
lovers across the nation.  Udhas’ initial career
 He suffered a heart attack on the evening of February involved Bollywood
20 and was rushed to H N Reliance Hospital in south playback singing and
Mumbai, where he breathed his last around 7 p.m., as even exploring Indian
confirmed by his son, RajilSayani. pop. However, his true passion lay in ghazals, a form
of Urdu poetry set to music.
Senior Supreme Court Advocate Fali S Nariman  In 1980, he released his debut ghazal album, “Aahat,”
Passes Away At 95 marking the beginning of a remarkable career that
 Renowned constitutional jurist and senior Supreme would span over 40 years.
Court
advocate Fali S
Nariman passed ShafiqurRahmanBarq, India’s Oldest MP And
away at the age of Samajwadi Party Leader, Dies At 94
95 in New Delhi.  ShafiqurRahmanBarq, a senior leader of the
 His journey to Samajwadi Party and MP representing Sambhal, Uttar
becoming a senior Pradesh, breathed his last at a private hospital in
advocate in 1961 Moradabad at the age of 94.
marked the  ShafiqurRahmanBarq was a significant presence in
beginning of a legal practice that would span over Indian politics, closely aligned with the Samajwadi
seven decades. Party. His political journey included multiple terms as
 Nariman’s initial years at the High Court of Bombay a Member of Parliament in the LokSabha, representing
laid the foundation for a career that would see him constituencies like Moradabad and Sambhal.
move to New Delhi in 1972, where he would leave an
indelible mark on the Supreme Court of India’s
history.
FormerLokSabha Speaker Manohar Joshi Passes

Away At 86
 Former LokSabha Speaker and ex-Maharashtra Chief
Minister, Manohar Joshi, passed away at the age of
86, marking the end of an illustrious career that
spanned several decades in Indian politics.
 A prominent figure in the Shiv Sena, Joshi was the
first from the party to hold the top post in Maharashtra,
serving as Chief Minister from 1995 to 1999.
 His tenure as LokSabha Speaker from 2002 to 2004,
during the Vajpayee government, was a testament to
his leadership and political acumen.
Legendary Ghazal Singer PankajUdhas Passes

Away
 This year’s sub-theme, “Together, we challenge

Important Days with those in power,” emphasizes the importance of
holding leaders accountable for investing the necessary
theme resources to combat cancer effectively.
World Wetlands Day 2024

 On February 2, 2024, the world comes together to World Pulses Day 2024
celebrate World Wetlands Day, emphasizing the  Every year on February 10th, the global community
undeniable celebrates World Pulses Day, an occasion dedicated
importance of to recognizing the pivotal role of pulses in promoting
wetlands to both food security, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural
the environment practices.
and human  This year’s theme, “Pulses: Nourishing Soils and
wellbeing. People,” emphasizes the dual benefits of pulses for
 The theme for enhancing soil health and providing essential nutrients
World Wetlands to humans.
Day  World Pulses Day finds its roots in the International
2024, “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing,” highlights Year of Pulses (IYP) 2016, an initiative led by the
the intricate connection between wetland ecosystems FAO to raise awareness about the benefits of pulses.
and the health, safety, and prosperity of human
communities. World Radio Day 2024, Date, History, Significance
 World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February And Theme
2, marking the anniversary of the Ramsar Convention  Every year on February 13th, the world unites to
on Wetlands, signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. celebrate World Radio Day, a day that marks the
 This international treaty aimed at the conservation and enduring significance of radio as a medium of
wise use of wetlands was a significant milestone, communication.
leading to the global recognition of the value of  The United Nations Educational, Scientific and
wetlands. Cultural Organization (UNESCO) honours this day
to reflect on radio’s vast virtues and its ongoing
relevance in today’s digitally divided world.
World Cancer Day 2024  The theme for World Radio Day 2024, “Radio: A
 Cancer remains one of the most formidable health Century Informing, Entertaining and
challenges of Educating,” celebrates the historical evolution of
our time, radio and its profound impact on society.
affecting
millions of
people 145th Birth Anniversary OfSarojini Naidu,
worldwide with National Women’s Day
its myriad forms  February 13, 2024 marks the 145th birth
and complexities. anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a distinguished figure
 Recognized annually on February 4th, World in India’s struggle for independence and a celebrated
Cancer Day aims to shed light on this critical issue, poet known as the “Nightingale of India.”
advocating for advances in research, prevention, and  This day is also recognized as the National Women’s
patient care. Day as she played a pivotal role in advocating
 The ongoing theme for World Cancer Day from 2022 for women’s rights. Naidu’s literary prowess earned
to 2024, “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves her the title of the “Nightingale of India.”
Access To Cancer Care,” focuses on the disparities in  Her poetry, characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical
cancer care across different communities and regions. quality, resonated deeply with the Indian nationalist
sentiment. Published in 1912, “In the Bazaars of
Hyderabad” remains one of her most celebrated World NGO Day 2024
works.  Every year on February 27th, the world comes
together to celebrate World NGO Day, a day
dedicated to
World Day Of Social Justice 2024 recognizing
 Every year, on the 20th of February, the global and
community comes together to observe the World Day honouring
of Social Justice. It serves as a reminder of the the
pressing need to address inequality, injustice, and invaluable
social exclusion around the world. contributions
 At the core of the World Day of Social Justice is the of Non-
advocacy for decent work and fair globalization. The Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
theme chosen for the World Day of Social Justice  These organizations, driven by a passion for positive
2024, “Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances,” highlights change, play a crucial role in addressing some of
the importance of collaboration and partnership in humanity’s most pressing challenges.
tackling global challenges.  The theme for World NGO Day 2024 is “Building a
Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in
International Mother Language Day 2024 Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
 Annually commemorated on February 21, (SDGs).”
International
Mother National Science Day 2024
Language  National Science Day is celebrated annually on 28th
Day in February in India to commemorate the discovery of
2024 falls on the ‘Raman Effect’ by Indian physicist Sir
a Wednesday, ChandrasekharaVenkata Raman.
marking a  This day serves as a reminder of the pivotal role
special day of science plays in shaping our lives and society. Each
recognition and celebration of linguistic diversity year, National Science Day is celebrated with a
worldwide. specific theme, highlighting significant aspects of
 The genesis of International Mother Language Day scientific progress and innovation.
traces back not to India, but to Bangladesh,  The theme for National Science Day 2024
highlighting a pivotal movement in the history of is ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit
linguistic rights. Bharat’, emphasizing the importance of promoting
 This year, the theme for International Mother scientific, technological, and innovation skills.
Language Day is “Multilingual education – a pillar
of learning and intergenerational learning.”
Central Excise Day 2024

 Every year on February 24th, India observes Central
Excise Day, a tribute to the enactment of the Central
Excise and Salt Act in 1944.
 This significant day marks the foundation of
the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
(CBIC), a pivotal institution in the administration of
indirect taxes in India.
 Central Excise Day 2024 not only commemorates the
historic legislation but also celebrates the relentless
efforts of the CBIC officers in maintaining the quality
and safety of goods within the country.

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Current Affairs of February 2024

Help Line No.-

National Union Budget 2024 Detailed Sector Wise, Defence,

Norovirus: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & PMNarendraModi Inaugurates India’s Longest

World’s First Vedic Clock Unveiled In Ujjain,

International France Takes Lead As First EU Nation To Offer

in 32 fatalities. The emergency declaration will

Peacekeeping missions, underscores the collaborative

Trilateral Exercise ‘Dosti-16’ Kicks Off In  The complex is expected to generate

Adani Group Launches South Asia’s Largest

Engineering and a Master of Engineering degree,

World Gold Council Appoints De Beers’ Sachin

FM Sitharaman Declares Free Cervical Cancer

Grammy Awards 2024

 Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the

SCA Stadium Renamed In Honor Of Niranjan

Badminton Asia Team Championships 2024: India

corner, the excitement among fans, players, and

FormerLokSabha Speaker Manohar Joshi Passes

Legendary Ghazal Singer PankajUdhas Passes

 This year’s sub-theme, “Together, we challenge

World Wetlands Day 2024

Central Excise Day 2024

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