Daily Current Affairs February 12

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs February 12. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

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February 12 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Sports – Daily Current Affairs February 12

1. Who has officially announced Meghalaya as the host of the 39th National Games in 2027?
A) Sports Authority of India
B) Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
C) Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
D) National Sports Federation
E) International Olympic Committee
Answer: B) Indian Olympic Association (IOA)

Event and Location:

• Event: 39th National Games 2027
• Date: February/March 2027
• Location: Meghalaya

Mandates and Objectives:

• Official Announcement: Meghalaya has been confirmed as the host of the 39th National Games by the Indian Olympic Association.
• Announcement By: IOA President PT Usha conveyed the decision to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
• IOA Flag Handover: Meghalaya will receive the IOA flag during the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand.
• Significance: The event will boost sports infrastructure and athlete participation in the northeastern region.
• Athlete Participation: Around 10000 athletes and officials are expected to take part in the event.

Important Terms Explained:

• Indian Olympic Association (IOA): Governing body responsible for organizing the National Games in India and overseeing India’s participation in global sporting events.
• National Games of India: A multi-sport event held every few years, featuring participation from athletes across states and Union Territories.
• Flag Handover Ceremony: A symbolic gesture where the host state of the upcoming edition receives the IOA flag at the closing ceremony of the ongoing National Games.

Tabular Summary:

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2. Who did Pankaj Advani defeat in the final to win the Indian Snooker Championship?
A) Aditya Mehta
B) Sourav Kothari
C) Brijesh Damani
D) Manan Chandra
E) Laxman Rawat
Answer: C) Brijesh Damani

Event and Location:

• Event: Indian Snooker Championship 2025
• Date: February 2025
• Location: Yashwant Club, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Victory and Milestones:
  • Pankaj Advani clinched his 36th national title and 10th men’s snooker championship.
  • The Indian Snooker Championship serves as India’s selection event for the Asian and World Snooker Championships.
• Final Match Performance:
  • Defeated Brijesh Damani in the final.
  • Lost the opening frame but made a strong comeback.
  • Sealed the final frame with an 84 break, showcasing his dominance.
• Road to Victory:
  • Group Stage: Suffered his only tournament loss against Brijesh Damani.
  • Round of 48: Made a dramatic 5-4 comeback after trailing 4-2, preventing early elimination.
  • Maintained consistency and precision throughout the tournament.
• Significance of the Win:
  • Secured qualification for the Asian Snooker Championship (Feb 15, 2025).
  • Strengthened India’s global representation in billiards and snooker.
• Advani’s Reflection:
  • Described the Round of 48 comeback as a pivotal moment in his journey.
  • Expressed pride in representing India internationally once again.
• Upcoming Challenges:
  • Pankaj Advani and Brijesh Damani will compete in the Asian Snooker Championship.

Important Terms Explained:

• Break in Snooker: A continuous series of successful shots in a single turn at the table. A break of 84 points means a player scored 84 points in one visit.
• Indian Snooker Championship: A national-level snooker competition that serves as a selection tournament for international events like the Asian and World Snooker Championships.
• Asian Snooker Championship: A continental-level championship where top players from Asia compete, with qualification based on national rankings.

Tabular Summary:

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Ranking – Daily Current Affairs February 12

3. What is India’s overall rank in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023?
A) 22nd
B) 44th
C) 38th
D) 54th
E) 30th
Answer: C) 38th

Event and Location:

• Event: India’s Logistics Performance in World Bank’s LPI 2023
• Date: 2023
• Location: Global (Ranked by World Bank)

Mandates and Objectives:

• India’s Performance in LPI 2023:
  • Overall Rank: 38th among 139 countries.
  • International Shipments Rank: 22nd (up from 44th in 2018).
  • Turnaround Time at Ports: 0.9 days, outperforming the USA (1.5 days), Australia (1.7 days), and Germany (1.3 days).

Key Government Initiatives for Logistics Growth:

• PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (2021):
  • Focuses on multimodal connectivity for faster and cost-effective transport.
  • Aims to reduce logistics costs and improve infrastructure by 2024-25.
• National Logistics Policy (NLP) (2022):
  • Aims to streamline last-mile delivery and reduce logistics inefficiencies.
  • Enhances tracking, automation, and digitalization in logistics.

Technology’s Role in Logistics Transformation:

• Logistics Data Bank Project (by NICDC):
  • Uses RFID tracking for real-time container monitoring.
  • Improves supply chain transparency and reduces delays.
• Automation & AI Integration:
  • Indian ports and warehouses are adopting AI-driven tracking systems for better cargo handling efficiency.

India’s Vision for the Future of Logistics:

• Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047:
  • Focuses on port capacity expansion with greenfield and brownfield developments.
  • Promotes sustainability measures like hydrogen hubs and eco-friendly logistics solutions.
  • Aims to make India a leader in shipbuilding and repair services.

Important Terms Explained:

• Logistics Performance Index (LPI): A global ranking by the World Bank, evaluating logistics efficiency based on customs, infrastructure, international shipments, tracking, and timeliness.
• PM GatiShakti: A national master plan launched in 2021 to enhance multimodal transport connectivity and reduce logistics costs.
• National Logistics Policy (NLP): Introduced in 2022 to improve efficiency, reduce delays, and strengthen India’s global trade position.

Tabular Summary:

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4. What is India’s rank in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2024?
A) 93rd
B) 96th
C) 76th
D) 135th
E) 101st
Answer: B) 96th

Event and Location:

• Event: India’s Rank in Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2024
• Location: Global (Ranked by Transparency International)

Mandates and Objectives:

• India’s Performance in CPI 2024:
  • Rank: 96th out of 180 countries.
  • Score: 38 (declined from 39 in 2023 and 40 in 2022).
• Global and Regional Rankings:
  • Least Corrupt Nations:
    • 1st: Denmark
    • 2nd: Finland
    • 3rd: Singapore
  • Most Corrupt Nations (Bottom Ranks):
    • South Sudan (8 points, lowest)
    • Somalia (9 points)
    • Venezuela (10 points)
    • Syria (12 points)

India’s Neighboring Countries in CPI 2024:

• China: 76th
• Sri Lanka: 121st
• Pakistan: 135th
• Bangladesh: 149th

Global Corruption Trends:

• United States: Dropped from 69 to 65 points, ranking 28th (previously 24th).
• Germany: Dropped from 78 to 75 points, ranking 15th (previously 9th).
• Russia: Fell from 26 to 22 points, further impacted by geopolitical tensions.
• Ukraine: Declined to 35 points but showed progress in anti-corruption efforts.

Long-Term Trends:

• Since 2012, only 32 countries have reduced corruption.
• 148 countries have either stagnated or worsened.
• The global average CPI score is 43, indicating limited improvement in corruption control.

Corruption’s Impact on Climate and Governance:

• Misuse of climate funds delays progress on environmental issues.
• Bribery and political influence obstruct key policies.
• Financial hubs in developed nations enable illicit financial flows, worsening global corruption.

Call to Action:

• Urgent need for global transparency efforts to combat corruption.
• Stronger enforcement of anti-corruption laws to ensure financial accountability.

Important Terms Explained:

• Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI):
  • Released by Transparency International to assess perceived levels of public sector corruption worldwide.
  • Scale: 0 (Highly Corrupt) to 100 (Very Clean).
• Transparency International:
  • A non-governmental organization based in Berlin, Germany.
  • Works to combat global corruption and promote accountability.

Tabular Summary:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs February 12

5. Which Indian state has the highest female participation in stock markets as per the NSE report?
A) Maharashtra
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Delhi
D) Uttar Pradesh
E) Gujarat
Answer: C) Delhi

Event and Location:

• Event: Rising Women’s Participation in Stock Markets (NSE Report)
• Date: February 2025
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Increase in Female Investors: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) report indicates a steady rise in women’s participation in stock markets since 2022.
• Current Female Participation: As of December 2024, women account for just below 25% of new individual investor registrations.

State-wise Female Participation:

• Delhi leads with 30% of female investors.
• Maharashtra (28%) and Tamil Nadu (27.7%) follow closely.
• National Average (CY24): 24.1% of investors are women.
• Lowest Female Participation:
  • Bihar – 15.6%
  • Uttar Pradesh – 18.4%
  • Odisha – 19.7%
• Overall Trend: The increasing number of women investors suggests a shift towards greater gender inclusivity in Indian financial markets.

Age Demographics in Stock Markets:

• Rise of Young Investors:
  • The below-30 age group has grown from 22.7% in 2018 to 39.9% in 2024, making it the largest investor group.
• Decline in Older Age Groups:
  • 40-49 years: Dropped from 20.1% (2018) to 15.6% (2024).
  • 50+ years: Declined from 26.2% (2018) to 15% (2024).
  • 31-39 years: Also saw a slight decline in participation.

Impact of the Findings:

1. Increased Gender Inclusivity: More women are entering the stock market, reducing the gender gap in financial investments.
2. Shift Towards Younger Investors: The stock market is witnessing a demographic shift, with young investors under 30 dominating the space.
3. Need for Financial Awareness: While some states show high female participation, Bihar, UP, and Odisha still lag, indicating a need for financial literacy programs.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Stock Exchange (NSE): India’s largest stock exchange, facilitating stock trading and financial investments.
• Demographic Shift: A change in the age composition of stock market investors over time.
• Gender Inclusivity: The increased participation of women in traditionally male-dominated financial markets.

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs February 12

6. Why did RBI impose a ₹27.30 lakh penalty on Federal Bank?
A) Violating KYC norms
B) Non-compliance with fraud classification guidelines
C) Opening savings accounts for ineligible entities
D) Failing to meet working capital loan compliance
E) Issuing demand drafts without recording purchaser details
Answer: C) Opening savings accounts for ineligible entities

Event and Location:

• Event: RBI Fines Federal Bank & Karur Vysya Bank
• Date: February 12, 2025
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Reason for Federal Bank’s Penalty:
  • Violation: Opened savings accounts for entities not eligible under RBI’s deposit rules.
  • Fine Amount: ₹27.30 lakh.
  • Impact: Indicates lapses in due diligence and deposit compliance.
• Reason for Karur Vysya Bank’s Penalty:
  • Violation: Failed to ensure loan amounts met the required percentage of sanctioned working capital limits.
  • Fine Amount: ₹8.30 lakh.
  • Impact: Affects financial discipline and credit risk management.
• Past Penalties on These Banks:
  • Federal Bank (Nov 2023): ₹30 lakh fine for KYC violations, including issuing demand drafts above ₹50,000 without recording purchaser names.
  • Karur Vysya Bank (March 2023): ₹30 lakh fine for delayed fraud reporting under RBI fraud classification guidelines.
• RBI’s Regulatory Approach:
  • RBI’s action reinforces strict compliance measures to maintain transparency in the banking sector.
  • These penalties are based solely on regulatory lapses and do not impact customer transactions.

Important Terms Explained:

• Know Your Customer (KYC) Norms: Guidelines that require banks to verify customer identity, address, and financial activity to prevent fraud and money laundering.
• Working Capital Limit Compliance: Banks must ensure that the outstanding loan amount remains within a specified percentage of the sanctioned working capital limit to avoid excessive credit risk.
• Fraud Classification Guidelines: RBI mandates banks to report fraudulent accounts within a stipulated timeframe to maintain financial security.

Tabular Summary:

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7. Which Swiss investor has provided $9 million in FDI to Apex Kidney Care?
A) Quadria Capital
B) Blue Earth Capital AG
C) Tata Capital Healthcare Fund
D) Blackstone Group
E) Carlyle Group
Answer: B) Blue Earth Capital AG

Event and Location:

• Event: Apex Kidney Care (AKC) Secures FDI from Blue Earth Capital
• Date: February 2025
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Investment Details: Apex Kidney Care (AKC), India’s second-largest dialysis service provider, has received $9 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) from Swiss-based Blue Earth Capital AG.
• Facilitator: The investment was facilitated by Tata Capital Healthcare Fund (TCHF), a healthcare-focused private equity fund of Tata Capital.

Previous Investments:

• TCHF previously invested an equivalent amount in AKC through a similar equity investment in 2024.
• India’s largest dialysis service provider, NephroPlus, was valued at ₹2,000 crore in May 2024, when Quadria Capital acquired a stake.

Significance of the Investment:

• Expansion & Accessibility:
  • AKC aims to expand dialysis services across semi-urban and rural areas in India.
  • The investment will be used to enhance automation and improve service quality.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
  • AKC plans to collaborate with government hospitals and clinicians through PPP programs to increase accessibility to dialysis treatment.

Global Investor Confidence:

• Blue Earth Capital and TCHF’s investment reflects confidence in AKC’s business model and ethical approach.

Important Terms Explained:

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): A direct investment by a foreign entity in a company or industry within another country.
• Private Equity (PE) Fund: A pool of capital from investors that is used to invest in private companies for long-term growth.
• Public-Private Partnership (PPP): A collaboration between government and private companies to provide essential services such as healthcare and infrastructure.

Tabular Summary:

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8. Which company received a Rs 2,000 crore loan from NaBFID for a data centre project?
A) STT Global
B) Gramercy Techpark Pvt Ltd
C) Reliance AI Data Center
D) Nvidia India
E) Tata Communications
Answer: B) Gramercy Techpark Pvt Ltd

Event and Location:

• Event: NaBFID Extends Rs 2,000 Crore Loan for Data Centre Development
• Date: February 2025
• Location: New Mumbai, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Loan Details: The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) has provided a Rs 2,000 crore loan to Gramercy Techpark Pvt Ltd, a Blackstone-backed company, for constructing a 120 MW data centre at Mahape, New Mumbai.

Significance of the Loan:

• This will be Gramercy Techpark’s second data centre in New Mumbai.
• NaBFID is seeking additional lenders to share the financing burden by offloading part of its exposure.
• The loan is for construction finance, and the project is expected to start mid-2025.

Key Considerations for Financing:

• Due Diligence by NaBFID:
  • Occupancy Prospects: Ensuring that the data centre has long-term tenants, providing stable cash flows.
  • Power Supply Arrangements: Verifying that the facility has sufficient energy supply for uninterrupted operations.
• Industry Demand for Data Centres:
  • Growth in Digital Platforms: Businesses are rapidly shifting to cloud computing post-pandemic.
  • AI and High-Speed Data Usage: The rise of GenAI, OTT platforms, and digital payments is driving demand.
  • Increasing Investment Needs: Rs 55,000-65,000 crore investment required in the next three years to meet growing demand.

Economic Impact of Data Centres:

• Debt-to-Equity Structure:
  • Typically 80:20 for capital-intensive data centres.
  • Projects require highly automated infrastructure with minimal employment generation.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Land & Building Costs: Account for 25-30% of overall capital expenditure (CapEx).
  • Future Growth Potential: Operators build infrastructure first, securing clients later.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID):
  • Government-owned infrastructure financier providing long-term loans for major infrastructure projects.
• Hyper-Scalers:
  • Large-scale data centres that lease space to businesses for cloud storage and computing.
• Debt-to-Equity Ratio:
  • Financial structure of a project, indicating how much is financed by debt vs. company equity.

Tabular Summary:

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs February 12

9. Which AI-powered app developed by Indian students won the Bronze Award at the Global M-Gov Awards 2025?
A) NavPath
B) AccessWay
C) SmartGov
D) InclusiveRoute
E) VisionAssist
Answer: B) AccessWay

Event and Location:

• Event: Global Best M-Gov Award 2025
• Date: February 2025
• Location: World Government Summit (WGS), Dubai

Mandates and Objectives:

• Winners:
  • Sagar Teotia (Team Lead)
  • Abhinav Mishra
  • Anushka Singh
  • All are fourth-semester Computer Science students from Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology, Delhi.
• Winning Project – AccessWay App:
  • AI-powered platform integrating Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and crowdsourced data.
  • Navigation assistance for people with disabilities using AR-based route planning and real-time voice guidance.
  • Social inclusion features enabling community-driven mapping of accessible locations.
  • Accessibility certification for businesses to encourage inclusivity.
  • User incentives for contributing accessibility data to sustain engagement.
• Award Recognition:
  • Global Best M-Gov Award 2025 at World Government Summit (WGS), Dubai.
  • Bronze Medal with a $10,000 cash prize.
  • Presented by: Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE.
  • Recognized for scalability, innovation, and social impact.
• Competition Overview:
  • Organized by: UAE Government as part of WGS 2025.
  • Received entries from 74 countries, with over 3,500 submissions.
  • Finalists: 60 teams, with 6 winners recognized globally.
  • Encourages students, startups, and government entities to create tech-driven solutions for mobile governance.

Important Terms Explained:

• World Government Summit (WGS): A global platform held annually in Dubai to discuss innovation, governance, and technology-driven solutions.
• Augmented Reality (AR): Technology that overlays digital information onto the real world to enhance navigation and accessibility.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine intelligence used to analyze data, provide real-time assistance, and improve decision-making.

Tabular Summary:

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs February 12

10. What is the name of the indigenous microprocessor developed by ISRO and IIT Madras for space applications?
A) SHAKTI
B) IRIS
C) PARAM
D) VEGA
E) SCL-64
Answer: B) IRIS

Event and Location:

• Event: ISRO & IIT Madras Develop Indigenous ‘IRIS’ Chip for Space
• Date: February 2025
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of ‘IRIS’ Chip: ISRO and IIT Madras have developed IRIS (Indigenous RISC-V Microprocessor for Space Applications) to enhance India’s self-reliance in space technology and semiconductor manufacturing.
• Technology Used: The chip is based on the open-source RISC-V Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) and is derived from IIT Madras’ SHAKTI microprocessor project.

Key Applications:

• Space Missions: Used in command and control systems for ISRO spacecraft.
• IoT & Computing Systems: Potential applications in strategic computing and embedded systems.

Development Process:

• Concept & Design: Proposed by ISRO’s Inertial Systems Unit (IISU),
• Thiruvananthapuram, and developed in collaboration with IIT Madras.

Fabrication & Manufacturing:

• Chip Design & Implementation: IIT Madras
• Fabrication: Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh
• Packaging: Tata Advanced Systems Ltd., Karnataka
• Motherboard Manufacturing: PCB Power, Gujarat

Reliability Enhancements:

• Fault-tolerant internal memory to improve chip performance in space.
• Custom functional and peripheral interface modules for space system compatibility.

Significance of ‘IRIS’ in ‘Make in India’ & ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Initiatives:

• Indigenous Semiconductor Manufacturing: The entire chip design, fabrication, and production process was carried out in India, showcasing India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem.
• Reduced Dependence on Foreign Chips: The IRIS chip replaces foreign semiconductor components, enhancing India’s technological independence in space exploration.

Future Prospects:

• Flight Testing: ISRO plans to conduct flight tests of IRIS-based controllers in upcoming space missions to validate real-world performance.

Long-Term Impact:

• Strengthens India’s capabilities in advanced microprocessor development.
• Encourages industry-academia collaboration for future semiconductor projects.
• Positions India as a leader in space-grade semiconductor technology.

Important Terms Explained:

• RISC-V Architecture: An open-source Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) that allows nations to develop custom processors without licensing restrictions.
• SHAKTI Microprocessor Project: An IIT Madras-led initiative to develop indigenous processors for various applications, including defense, aerospace, and IoT.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: A self-reliance initiative by the Government of India promoting domestic technology and manufacturing.

Tabular Summary:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs February 12

11. Where is the third edition of Exercise CYCLONE-III being conducted?
A) Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
B) Cairo, Egypt
C) Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan
D) Alexandria, Egypt
E) Pokhran, Rajasthan
Answer: C) Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan

Event and Location:

• Event: India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise CYCLONE-III
• Date: February 10-23, 2025
• Location: Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of the Exercise: CYCLONE-III aims to enhance military interoperability, counter-terrorism strategies, and special operations tactics between India and Egypt.

Participants:

• Indian Contingent: Troops from two Special Forces Battalions.
• Egyptian Contingent: Special Forces Group and Task Force of Egyptian Special Forces.

Focus Areas:

• Physical endurance and joint planning to ensure high fitness and operational coordination.
• Tactical drills involving advanced combat techniques and mission execution strategies.
• Counter-terrorism operations, including a 48-hour validation exercise simulating real-world scenarios in desert and semi-desert environments.

Defense Cooperation:

• India and Egypt have strengthened military ties through joint training, technology sharing, and defense collaborations.
• The exercise enhances India’s defense outreach in the Middle East and Africa, positioning it as a key regional partner.
• India will also showcase indigenous defense equipment to the Egyptian forces.

Historical Significance of CYCLONE Exercises:

• First CYCLONE Exercise: Held in India.
• Second Edition (CYCLONE-II): Conducted in Egypt in January 2024.
• Third Edition (CYCLONE-III): Currently being held in Rajasthan, India.

Strategic Importance:

• Enhances India-Egypt military collaboration in counter-terrorism and desert warfare.
• Reinforces regional security by addressing evolving terror threats and defense challenges.
• Strengthens India’s defense partnership with the Middle East and Africa.

Important Terms Explained:

• Special Forces: Elite military units trained for counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare in extreme environments.
• Interoperability: The ability of military forces from different nations to coordinate and operate effectively in joint missions.
• Mahajan Field Firing Ranges: A major Indian Army training ground in Rajasthan, used for live-fire exercises and military training.

Tabular Summary:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 12

12. Which country is NOT among those significantly affected by Trump’s 25% steel and aluminum tariffs?
A) Canada
B) Mexico
C) Brazil
D) Germany
E) South Korea
Answer: D) Germany

Event and Location:

• Event: Trump Imposes 25% Tariffs on Steel & Aluminum Imports
• Date: March 4, 2025 (Implementation Date)
• Location: United States

Mandates and Objectives:

• Tariff Announcement: U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, effective March 4, 2025.
• Elimination of Exemptions: This move removes previous country-specific exemptions that were in place for key U.S. trading partners like Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and South Korea.

Reason for the Tariffs:

• Boosting U.S. domestic production by reducing competition from foreign imports.
• Countering foreign pricing strategies that allegedly undercut American producers.
• Reinstating 2018 tariffs, which were originally introduced under national security concerns but later eased for some U.S. allies.

Global Reactions:

• Canada’s Response:
  • Canada is the largest supplier of steel and aluminum to the U.S.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the tariffs “unjustified” and is planning countermeasures.
• European Union (EU) Reaction:
  • European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hinted at retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports.
• UK’s Position:
  • The UK has taken a more cautious approach, stating it will assess the situation before deciding on a response.
• Potential Trade War:
  • Reciprocal tariffs by affected countries could increase global trade tensions.
  • The EU, Canada, and other nations may introduce import duties on U.S. goods.

Economic Impact:

• Impact on the U.S.:
  • Rising costs for U.S. manufacturers, especially in automobiles, construction, and consumer goods.
  • Small businesses that rely on imported steel and aluminum will face higher operational costs.
  • Potential job losses in downstream industries due to increased material expenses.
• Impact on India:
  • With the U.S. restricting imports, excess steel and aluminum from exporting countries may be redirected to India.
  • India’s steel industry fears market flooding, especially from China.
  • India’s steel ministry has proposed a 25% safeguard duty on certain imported steel products to protect domestic producers.

Important Terms Explained:

• Tariff: A tax imposed on imported goods, making them more expensive to encourage domestic production.
• Trade Retaliation: When a country imposes tariffs or trade restrictions in response to another country’s economic policies.
• Safeguard Duty: A temporary tax on imports to prevent damage to domestic industries due to surging foreign supplies.

Tabular Summary:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs February 12

13. Who inaugurated the International Conference on Unani Medicine on February 11, 2025?
A) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
B) Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav
C) President Droupadi Murmu
D) Dr. Jitendra Singh
E) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
Answer: C) President Droupadi Murmu

Event and Location:

• Event: International Conference on Unani Medicine
• Date: February 11, 2025
• Location: Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of the Event: The conference was organized to discuss innovations in Unani medicine and its integration with modern healthcare.
• Organizer: The event was conducted by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) under the Ministry of Ayush.
• Theme of the Conference: The event was titled “Innovations in Unani Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way Forward.”
• Significance of Unani Day: Unani Day is observed annually to honor Hakim Ajmal Khan, a prominent Unani physician, freedom fighter, and educationist. It has been celebrated since 2016 to acknowledge his contributions to Unani medicine in India.
• Government Initiatives: The Indian government is actively promoting traditional medicine, as outlined in the National Health Policy 2017, which aims to integrate Unani and other AYUSH systems into mainstream healthcare.
• Educational Advancements: The introduction of MD and PhD programs in Unani medicine ensures continued growth and modernization of this ancient practice.
• Scientific Modernization: The event focused on the use of AI, molecular biology, and evidence-based research to modernize and validate Unani medicine.

Important Terms Explained:

• Unani Medicine: A traditional healing system with origins in Greece, later adopted and refined in India. It emphasizes holistic healing and herbal treatments.
• Hakim Ajmal Khan: A pioneering Unani physician and freedom fighter, honored for his contributions to Unani medicine in India.
• National Health Policy 2017: A government policy aimed at integrating traditional healthcare systems like AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) into mainstream medicine.
• Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM): An autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush, responsible for promoting Unani research and development.

Tabular Summary:

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14. Where will the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) be held from February 12-14, 2025?
A) Kochi
B) Mumbai
C) New Delhi
D) Hyderabad
E) Chennai
Answer: C) New Delhi

Event and Location:

• Event: 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF)
• Date: February 12-14, 2025
• Location: ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of the Event: The forum aims to promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Organizer: The event is jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Department of Fisheries (DoF), and Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB).
• Theme of the Conference: “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific.”
• India’s Role in Fisheries: India is hosting the Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum for the second time, with the first being in Kochi in 2007. This highlights India’s growing influence in global fisheries.
• Key Discussions: The forum will include 20+ technical sessions covering topics like sustainable fisheries management, climate impact, smart aquaculture, biotechnology, and post-harvest processing.

Special Events:

• Symposium on Aquatic Animal Diseases (February 13, 2025): To be inaugurated by Minister of State George Kurian at A.P. Shinde Auditorium, NASC Complex, New Delhi.
• Academia-Industry-Government Meet (February 14, 2025): Focused on de-risking shrimp aquaculture value chain, inaugurated by Rajya Sabha MP B. Mastan Rao at Parijat Lecture Hall, NAAS Block, NASC, New Delhi.
• Closing Ceremony: The forum will conclude on February 14, 2025, at 4:30 PM with Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Bhagirath Choudhary, as the Chief Guest at Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, ICAR Convention Centre, New Delhi.

Important Terms Explained:

• Blue Economy: A sustainable economic model that focuses on responsible use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ecosystem health.
• Smart Aquaculture: The use of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain to improve fish farming efficiency and productivity.
• Asian Fisheries Society (AFS): A scientific organization promoting fisheries and aquaculture research, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tabular Summary:

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15. What is the title of the policy report released by NITI Aayog on State Higher Education?
A) National Higher Education Vision 2047
B) Transforming State Public Universities in India
C) Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities
D) Roadmap for Higher Education Reforms in India
E) Strengthening the Role of SPUs in India
Answer: C) Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities

Event and Location:

• Event: NITI Aayog Report on State Higher Education
• Date: February 12, 2025
• Location: New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Report Title: Expanding Quality Higher Education through States and State Public Universities
• Released By: The report was launched by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery, along with key officials Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul (Member, NITI Aayog), CEO BVR Subrahmanyam, Secretary DHE Vineet Joshi, and AIU Secretary General Dr. Pankaj Mittal.

Purpose of the Report:

• The report provides a data-driven analysis on key areas such as quality, funding, governance, and employability in State Public Universities (SPUs).
• It presents 80+ policy recommendations for improving India’s higher education system, aligning with NEP 2020 and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Role of State Public Universities (SPUs):

• 80% of higher education in India takes place in SPUs.
• By 2035, enrolment in SPUs is projected to rise to 7 crore students, as per NEP 2020 targets.
• SPUs need to transition from access-based institutions to world-class education providers.

Challenges Identified in SPUs:

• Funding Limitations: Need for increased investment and better financial management.
• Governance Issues: Need for leadership and structural reforms.
• Capacity Building: Training for Vice-Chancellors, faculty, and staff.

Policy Recommendations:

• Improving Quality: Enhancing research, pedagogy, and curriculum development.
• Boosting Funding & Financing: Strengthening institutional financial capacity.
• Governance Reforms: Upgrading governance structures for better accountability.
• Industry-Academia Linkages: Strengthening employability through partnerships.

Government Initiatives & Financial Commitments:

• PM-USHA scheme: ₹13,000 crore allocation (2023-26) for SPUs.
• Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs): ₹100 crore per SPU for transformation.
• Higher Education Expansion: 10,000 PMRF research fellowships, 6,500 new IIT seats, and Bharatiya Bhasha textbook scheme to promote regional language education.

Alignment with National Goals:

• Supports NEP 2020 implementation to make India a knowledge hub.
• Critical for developing human capital and achieving the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Important Terms Explained:

• State Public Universities (SPUs): Universities funded and operated by state governments, responsible for the majority of higher education in India.
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: A policy aimed at transforming education by improving accessibility, quality, and integration of technology in learning.
• PM-USHA Scheme: The Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) is a ₹13,000 crore initiative (2023-26) focused on improving state universities and colleges.
• Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs): Institutions set up to offer multidisciplinary education and high-quality research under NEP 2020.

Tabular Summary:

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16. Which ministry launched the ‘Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic’ festival?
A) Ministry of Tourism
B) Ministry of Culture
C) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
D) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
E) Ministry of Rural Development
Answer: C) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)

Event and Location:

• Event: Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic Festival
• Date: February 12, 2025
• Location: Kartavya Path, Amrit Udyan

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose of the Festival:
  • The event promotes India’s cultural heritage through food, crafts, and photography.
  • It provides a platform for artisans, photographers, and food enthusiasts to celebrate and showcase their work.
• Organizing Ministry: The festival is launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with MyGov.

Key Attractions:

• Moods & Magic Photography Contest: Encourages photographers to capture India’s public spaces, cultural interactions, and artistic expressions.
• Traditional Crafts & Culinary Delights: Displays a range of local handicrafts and cuisines to highlight India’s rich heritage.

Themes of the Photography Contest:

• Families enjoying gardens
• Children exploring nature
• Local artisans showcasing craftsmanship
• Workers maintaining urban spaces

Prizes & Recognition:

• 1st Prize: ₹50,000
• 2nd Prize: ₹30,000
• 3rd Prize: ₹20,000
• Spotlight Awards: ₹5,000 each for categories like Best Candid Moment, Most Vibrant Mood, and Cultural Engagement.
• Winning photos will be exhibited at Kartavya Path and featured on DAY-NULM and MyGov platforms.

Alignment with Past Initiatives:

• The festival follows previous MoHUA events like Bharat Parv at Red Fort and Shilp Samagam Mela at Dilli Haat, both aimed at promoting Indian culture.
• These initiatives strengthen the link between heritage, urban spaces, and community participation.

Important Terms Explained:

• MyGov: A government platform encouraging citizen participation in policy-making, governance, and national initiatives.
• Kartavya Path: A historic boulevard in New Delhi, formerly known as Rajpath, used for national celebrations and public events.
• DAY-NULM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission): A program under MoHUA that promotes urban employment, skill development, and social empowerment.

Tabular Summary:

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17. Which power plant marks THDC India Ltd’s entry into the thermal energy sector?
A) Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Plant
B) Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant
C) Singrauli Super Thermal Power Plant
D) Talcher Super Thermal Power Plant
E) Rihand Super Thermal Power Plant
Answer: B) Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant

Event and Location:

• Event: THDC India Ltd’s Entry into Thermal Energy
• Date: January 25, 2025 (Operational Status)
• Location: Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

Mandates and Objectives:

• Project Overview:
  • THDC India Ltd (THDCIL) has commenced commercial operations of a 660-MW unit at Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant (STPP).
  • This marks THDCIL’s first venture into the thermal energy sector, expanding its presence beyond hydro, wind, and solar power.
  • The total capacity of the plant is 1,320 MW (2×660 MW), with Unit 2 expected to start soon.
• Investment & Infrastructure:
  • The project is developed with an investment of ₹13,000 crore.
  • Spread across 1,200.843 acres in Bulandshahr district, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Coal linkage: The plant sources coal from Amelia coal mine, Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh.
• Power Generation & Distribution:
  • Expected to generate 9,264 million units (MUs) annually with an 85% Plant Load Factor (PLF).
  • Power allocation:
    • 64.7% (854 MW) for Uttar Pradesh
    • 21.3% for Rajasthan
    • 3.9% for Uttarakhand
    • 10.1% for other regions
  • Connected to the national grid for seamless power distribution.

Environmental & Technological Advancements:

• Equipped with Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) system to reduce sulphur emissions and improve air quality.
• Uses advanced coal-based thermal power technology for efficiency and lower environmental impact.

THDC’s Energy Portfolio Before Thermal Expansion:

• Hydropower: 1,424 MW
• Wind Energy: 113 MW
• Solar Energy: 50 MW

Company & Ownership:

• THDC India Ltd is a joint venture (75:25) between NTPC Ltd (Govt. of India) and the Uttar Pradesh government.
• Headquarters: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand.

Important Terms Explained:

• Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD): A pollution control technology that removes sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from exhaust gases in coal-fired power plants.
• Plant Load Factor (PLF): A measure of power plant efficiency, representing the ratio of actual energy generated to the maximum possible generation capacity.
• National Grid: The electric power transmission network that connects power plants across India, ensuring stable electricity supply nationwide.

Tabular Summary:

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18. Why is India planning to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA)?
A) To increase liability on nuclear operators
B) To align with global norms and attract foreign investment
C) To reduce India’s dependence on nuclear energy
D) To phase out nuclear projects in India
E) To impose stricter penalties on nuclear suppliers
Answer: B) To align with global norms and attract foreign investment

Event and Location:

• Event: India’s Plan to Amend CLNDA and Atomic Energy Act
• Date: February 2025
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Reason for Amendment: India plans to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) and the Atomic Energy Act to attract foreign nuclear investments and revive stalled projects.
• Foreign Investment Concerns: Western nuclear firms, like EDF (France) and Westinghouse (U.S.), have hesitated to invest due to high supplier liability risks under CLNDA (2010).

Key Nuclear Projects Affected:

• Jaitapur, Maharashtra: Six EPR1650 reactors by EDF (France).
• Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh: Six AP1000 reactors by Westinghouse Electric Company (U.S.).
• Expansion into Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology for future nuclear projects.

Reasons for Amending India’s Nuclear Liability Law:

• Addressing Foreign Companies’ Concerns:
  • The current CLNDA (2010) imposes supplier liability, unlike the global Convention for Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), which holds operators liable.
  • CLNDA was influenced by past disasters like the Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) and Fukushima Nuclear Leak (2011).
  • High liability discourages foreign investment in India’s nuclear sector.
• Expanding India’s Nuclear Energy Capacity:
  • India’s current nuclear capacity is 6,780 MW with 22 reactors, with Russia’s Rosatom as the only foreign partner.
  • Budget 2025: Allocates ₹20,000 crore for nuclear expansion, aiming for 100 GW by 2047.
  • Plan to develop five Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033.
• Strengthening Strategic Ties with the U.S. & France:
  • The U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008) has been delayed due to liability concerns.
  • EDF’s Jaitapur project in Maharashtra has been stalled for years.
  • Modi’s visit to the U.S. & France aims to finalize nuclear agreements and enhance clean energy partnerships.

Challenges in Amending CLNDA:

• Domestic Political Opposition:
  • The 2010 CLNDA was passed after strong debates, ensuring foreign suppliers were held liable.
  • Reducing supplier liability may face backlash from opposition parties and civil groups.
• Legal & Regulatory Uncertainty:
  • Experts suggest aligning CLNDA with global norms, but specific amendments remain undisclosed.
• Investor Confidence & Insurance Issues:
  • India created a ₹1,500 crore nuclear insurance pool in 2019, but it failed to attract major investors.
  • Amendments must provide a clear compensation framework to assure suppliers and operators.

Potential Global & Economic Impact:

• Unlocking Stalled Nuclear Projects:
  • CLNDA amendments could accelerate Westinghouse’s AP1000 reactors and EDF’s Jaitapur project.
• Strengthening India’s Role in Global Nuclear Energy:
  • Partnerships with the U.S. & France could help India develop cost-effective, modular nuclear technologies.
• U.S. & France’s Strategic Interests:
  • The U.S. views nuclear exports as part of its trade and strategic objectives.
  • France, a global leader in nuclear energy, sees India as a key market for its reactor technology.

Important Terms Explained:

• Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) (2010):
  • India’s nuclear liability law that holds suppliers financially responsible for damages in case of a nuclear accident.
• Convention for Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC):
  • A global treaty where only operators, not suppliers, are held liable for nuclear accidents.
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):
  • Next-generation nuclear reactors that are smaller, more flexible, and cost-effective compared to traditional large-scale reactors.

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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