Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 10 & 11 February 2025, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.

Paris AI Summit Kicks Off with PM Modi as Co-Chair

The “Summit for Action on Artificial Intelligence” has officially begun in Paris, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron co-chairing the high-profile event. This important global AI summit is uniting world leaders, industry experts, and researchers to discuss the future of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing ethics, regulation, and responsible development. The summit is crucial as AI continues to reshape industries, economies, and governance around the globe.

What Are the Key Goals of the Paris AI Summit?

The main goal of the Paris AI Summit is to create a worldwide framework for AI governance that promotes responsible and ethical development of AI technologies. Discussions will focus on AI safety, potential risks, and sustainable deployment of AI. Policymakers and industry leaders are engaged in debates over regulatory measures to ensure that AI serves the interests of all nations while preventing misuse or monopolization.

Another key focus is inclusive AI governance, which aims to bridge the gap between developed and developing nations. Many countries have different approaches to AI regulation—while the U.S. prefers a flexible, innovation-driven model, the European Union has introduced strict AI laws. The summit is working towards a balanced framework that considers both innovation and regulation while ensuring AI remains fair and transparent across the globe.

Which Global Leaders and Experts Are Attending?

The Paris AI Summit has attracted a diverse group of participants, reflecting its global impact. Notable political figures attending include U.S. Vice President JD Vance and China’s Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, highlighting the geopolitical significance of AI regulation. These leaders will engage in discussions about balancing AI innovation with ethical considerations.

Industry leaders from top AI firms are also playing a crucial role. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and Demis Hassabis, CEO of DeepMind, are among the key participants sharing insights on AI’s advancements and challenges. Their perspectives are expected to shape the direction of AI development, particularly in areas like deep learning, generative AI, and AI safety measures .

How Is India’s Role in AI Evolving?

India’s role as a co-chair at the Paris AI Summit highlights its growing influence in global discussions about artificial intelligence. Prime Minister Modi’s involvement underscores India’s dedication to advancing AI, both at home and on the international stage. The country has been focusing on AI-driven solutions in areas like governance, healthcare, and education, all while striving to make AI accessible to every segment of society.

Paris AI Summit – Key Points

Event Name: Summit for Action on Artificial Intelligence (Paris AI Summit)

Host Country: France

Co-Chairs: Indian PM Narendra Modi & French President Emmanuel Macron

Key Participants: U.S. Vice President JD Vance, China’s Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis

Main Focus: AI governance, ethics, safety, regulations, and global cooperation

Major Announcement: France’s €109 billion AI investment to boost its AI industry

China’s AI Move: Launched “DeepSeek” chatbot, strengthening AI dominance

India’s Role: Co-chairing the summit, advocating for ethical AI policies and inclusive governance.

World Pulses Day 2025

World Pulses Day is celebrated every year on February 10 to increase global awareness of the significance of pulses as a sustainable and nutritious food source. This day emphasizes the nutritional benefits, food security contributions, and environmental advantages of pulses, highlighting their importance in creating a sustainable agricultural system. Supported by the United Nations (UN), this observance aims to promote the role of pulses in eliminating hunger, improving human health, and enhancing soil fertility.

What Are Pulses?

Pulses, commonly known as legumes, are the edible seeds of leguminous plants grown primarily for food. These crops are distinct from other legumes because they are harvested solely for their dry grains. The most widely consumed pulses include:

• Dry beans (kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans)
• Lentils
• Peas (chickpeas, green peas)
• Other varieties like broad beans and cowpeas

Pulses are an integral part of various global cuisines, such as Mediterranean hummus, Indian dal, Mexican refried beans, and Middle Eastern falafel. They are rich in proteins, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a key component of a balanced diet.

Assam to Host World’s Largest Jhumur Festival

Assam is set to host the world’s largest Jhumur dance performance on February 24, 2025, during the upcoming Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment Summit. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the event, where Assam aims to achieve a Guinness World Record with more than 7,500 dancers. This festival not only showcases Assam’s vibrant cultural heritage but also provides a global platform to draw in investors.

Key Highlights

Event Details

• Date: February 24, 2025
• Occasion: Preceding the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment Summit (Feb 25-26)
• Venue: Guwahati, Assam
• Chief Guest: PM Narendra Modi

Jhumur Dance Performance

• The world’s largest-ever Jhumur (Jhumoir) dance performance.
• Over 7,500 dancers to participate.
• Aims for a Guinness World Record.

Investment Summit – Advantage Assam 2.0

• Second edition after its 2018 launch.
• Focus on infrastructure development and investment.
• Expected to attract national and global investors.

Preparations for the Event

• Master training workshops for dancers.
• Constituency-level and district-level rehearsals.
• Final rehearsals in Guwahati to ensure smooth execution.

Assam’s Progress and Investment Potential

• Already set a Guinness World Record for the largest Bihu performance.
• CM Sarma highlighted declining crime rates and peaceful conditions.
• Ease of Doing Business and single-window clearance boosting investments.
• Accelerated progress in infrastructure and industrial development.

Late Chaman Arora Honored with Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for Dogri Literature

The government has announced that the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri will be awarded posthumously to the late Chaman Arora for his book Ik Hor Ashwthama. This collection of short stories was chosen unanimously by a three-member jury as part of the official selection process. The award will be given to a family member or nominee during a special ceremony in New Delhi on March 8, 2025.

Key Highlights

Winner Details

• Award Winner: Late Chaman Arora
• Award Category: Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri literature
• Awarded Book: Ik Hor Ashwthama (Short Stories)

Selection

• Selection Process: Chosen unanimously by a three-member jury
• Approval: Given by Madhav Kaushik, President, Sahitya Akademi

Award Presentation

• Award Presentation Date: March 8, 2025
• Venue: New Delhi

Award Components

• A casket with an engraved copper plaque
• A cash prize of ₹1 lakh
• Organized by: Ministry of Culture & Sahitya Akademi

India Achieves Record ₹1.27 Lakh Cr in Domestic Defence Production

India has achieved a remarkable milestone in its defense sector, with domestic defense production exceeding ₹1.27 lakh crore. This achievement underscores the country’s growing self-reliance and its rising status in the global defense manufacturing arena. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made this announcement ahead of the Aero India 2025 show. The show, which is Asia’s largest aerospace and defense exhibition, will not only highlight India’s defense capabilities but also inspire the next generation to innovate and contribute to the nation’s growth in the defense sector.

Aero India 2025, a prestigious international event, will be the platform for India to showcase its growing strength in the defense industry. Rajnath Singh emphasized that the event will serve as a significant step towards forging stronger partnerships with friendly countries and strengthening defense cooperation globally. The event will also create opportunities for India’s MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) and startups to integrate into the global defense supply chain.

Theme of Aero India 2025

A key highlight of this year’s Aero India will be the Defence Ministers’ Conclave, featuring Defence Ministers from 26 countries. The theme for this conclave is BRIDGE (Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement). This theme underscores the importance of international collaboration in strengthening defense capabilities, especially in light of increasing security challenges. Global engagement will play a crucial role in enhancing relationships between nations and ensuring collective security through joint defense initiatives.

Increased Participation and Key Highlights

This edition of Aero India 2025 is anticipated to be significantly larger than those in the past. More than 70 aircraft will be showcased, with 30 of them featured in a static display and the remainder participating in flying demonstrations. Noteworthy among the aircraft will be the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35, which are regarded as two of the most advanced fighter jets globally. The presence of these aircraft underscores the increasing international acknowledgment of India’s defense capabilities and its strategic alliances with major global defense powers.

Furthermore, the LCA Mark I (Light Combat Aircraft) will also be featured prominently during the event. According to Sanjeev Kumar, the Secretary of Defence Production, the LCA Mark I production line in HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) has been streamlined, and deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF) will begin soon. Additionally, GE Company will be supplying engines for the LCA, marking a significant step in the domestic production of military aircraft engines in India.

Key Figures in Defence: Flying LCA Tejas

Another major highlight of the event was the flying demonstration of LCA Tejas aircraft by top Indian military officials. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh both took flights in the LCA Tejas today, showcasing the capabilities and performance of the indigenously developed aircraft. This demonstration is a testament to the growing self-reliance of India’s defense manufacturing sector and the country’s ability to develop and deploy cutting-edge military technology.

India’s Achievements in Defence Production

As India aims to achieve self-reliance in defense manufacturing, the ₹1.27 lakh crore figure represents a significant milestone. Over the years, the government has made substantial efforts to promote Make in India and encourage domestic defense production. India’s defense industry has been rapidly growing, driven by initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and reforms aimed at attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) into the sector. The goal is to transform India into a major global player in defense manufacturing, moving away from reliance on imports.

Strengthening the Defence Sector through Innovation

Aero India 2025 is not just about showcasing military hardware; it is also about innovation and future technologies. The show serves as a platform for showcasing India’s innovations in aerospace and defense technologies, fostering collaborations with global players, and offering MSMEs and startups the chance to get involved in the defense supply chain. The event aims to encourage the younger generation to explore career opportunities in the defense and aerospace sectors, helping to drive innovation and technological advancement.

Manipur CM Biren Singh Resigns Amid Ethnic Violence

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned on February 9, 2025, in the face of escalating ethnic violence and mounting political pressure. His resignation follows nearly two years of conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in considerable loss of life and widespread displacement. This decision also comes in response to opposition calls for accountability, including a proposed no-confidence motion against his government.

Why Did Biren Singh Resign?

The immediate reason for Singh’s resignation was the mounting political pressure from the opposition, especially the Congress party, which had been demanding his ousting since the ethnic conflict intensified in May 2023. The Congress was preparing to file a no-confidence motion against him in the state assembly, and there were reports that Singh attempted to sway legislators to block the motion. Manipur Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh accused him of pressuring MLAs to either abstain or vote in his favor. With the political landscape shifting against him, Singh resigned just a day before the critical assembly session.

How Did the Ethnic Violence in Manipur Lead to This Crisis?

Manipur has been in turmoil since May 2023 due to violent clashes between the majority Meitei and minority Kuki communities. The conflict erupted over demands for Scheduled Tribe status for Meiteis, which Kukis opposed, fearing it would take away their existing benefits. The violence has resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of around 60,000 people. Armed groups from both sides have engaged in violent attacks, and despite government interventions, tensions remained high. Kuki groups have long accused Singh, a Meitei, of favoring his community in government policies, further worsening the crisis.

Who Will Be the Next Manipur CM?

With N. Biren Singh’s resignation, the BJP is yet to decide on his replacement. Though President’s Rule is a possibility, the BJP, holding a majority with 32 out of 60 MLAs, may avoid it.

Among the frontrunners are Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, Rural Development Minister Yumnam Khemchand, and Senior Cabinet Minister T. Biswajit Singh. Khemchand, backed by the RSS, was a contender in 2022 and had earlier criticized Singh’s handling of the crisis. Both Khemchand and Satyabrata were called to Delhi before Singh’s resignation, signaling their strong chances.

RBI Introduces Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) for International Transactions

In a major step towards improving digital payment security, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revealed plans to introduce Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) for cross-border “Card Not Present” (CNP) transactions. This initiative is designed to safeguard international transactions made with Indian-issued cards, making them as secure and resistant to fraud as domestic transactions.

As online shopping continues to grow and fraudulent activities become more common, this new security measure is anticipated to bolster consumer protection and enhance confidence in international digital transactions.

What is Additional Factor Authentication (AFA)?

Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) is a multi-step security process that requires cardholders to confirm their transactions using more than one method. This extra layer of security greatly minimizes the chances of unauthorized access and fraud in online transactions.

AFA in Domestic vs. International Transactions

Domestic Transactions:

• Previously, AFA was mandatory only for domestic online transactions in India.
• It typically involved an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to the registered mobile number or biometric verification.
• The introduction of AFA in domestic payments has successfully reduced fraud and increased consumer confidence.

International Transactions:

• Until now, international transactions using Indian-issued cards did not require AFA.
• This created a security gap, making cross-border payments vulnerable to cyber threats and fraud.
• With this new directive, RBI is now extending AFA for international transactions, making them more secure and reliable.

Why is AFA Needed for International Transactions?

With the boom in e-commerce, Indian consumers are making more frequent purchases from overseas merchants. However, these transactions, being Card Not Present (CNP) payments, carry higher risks due to the absence of physical verification.

Major Risks in International CNP Transactions

• Increased Fraud Risks: Without AFA, cybercriminals can misuse card details for unauthorized transactions.
• Lack of Direct Merchant Verification: Unlike domestic transactions, where banks have strict security measures, cross-border merchants may not follow the same standards.
• Growing Digital Payments Trend: With an increasing number of Indians engaging in global e-commerce, security needs to match the evolving digital landscape.

Recognizing these risks, the RBI’s new directive aims to close the security gap and make international digital transactions as secure as domestic payments.

RBI’s Proposed Changes for AFA in International Transactions

New Verification Measures

Under this proposal, Indian cardholders making international online purchases will have to complete an additional verification step, such as:

• OTP Verification: A One-Time Password (OTP) sent to the user’s registered mobile number.
• Biometric Authentication: Transactions may require fingerprint scans or facial recognition for added security.

RBI’s Next Steps

• RBI will issue a draft circular to gather feedback from stakeholders, including banks, payment gateways, and merchants.
• Once finalized, the implementation process will begin, ensuring a smooth transition for consumers.
• This initiative is part of a larger RBI framework to strengthen the security of digital payments in India.

RBI’s Digital Payment Security Framework

To further improve online transaction security, RBI introduced a digital payment security framework last year. This mandates the use of a dynamically generated authentication factor for every digital transaction, except for card-present transactions.

Three Types of Authentication Factors

RBI categorizes AFA into three types, ensuring that each transaction remains unique and protected:

1. Something the user knows – Examples: Passwords, PINs
2. Something the user has – Examples: ATM/Debit Cards, Mobile Devices
3. Something the user is – Examples: Fingerprint, Facial Recognition

This multi-layered approach aims to eliminate fraudulent activities, ensuring that each transaction is authenticated through a unique security factor that cannot be reused.

Impact of AFA on Indian Consumers

Enhanced Consumer Protection

By implementing AFA for international transactions, Indian consumers will benefit from the same level of security that is already in place for domestic digital payments.

Encouraging Global E-Commerce Participation

With improved security, Indian consumers may feel more confident in making international purchases, leading to greater participation in the global e-commerce market.

Reduced Fraud & Unauthorized Transactions

This move will minimize online fraud, preventing cases where stolen or leaked card details are used for unauthorized transactions.

Seamless Transition & Adoption

Banks and financial institutions will need to upgrade their verification systems to align with the RBI’s new security guidelines. Consumers should stay updated on changes and ensure their contact details are up to date to receive OTPs and verification alerts.

India Ranks 3rd in Global LEED Green Buildings 2024

India has once again claimed the third spot worldwide in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) annual ranking of countries and regions with the highest number of LEED-certified green buildings. With 370 projects encompassing 8.50 million gross square meters (GSM) of certified space, India showcases its dedication to sustainable construction and environmentally friendly development. This ranking underscores India’s increasing influence in the global green building movement and its strides toward achieving sustainability objectives.

How Has India Performed in LEED Certifications in 2024?

In 2024, India achieved 370 LEED-certified projects, marking a notable increase from previous years. The total area certified as green reached 8.50 million GSM, showcasing a consistent growth in sustainable construction across commercial, residential, and industrial sectors. This positive trend highlights India’s commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure and climate-aware urban development.

According to the USGBC, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a globally recognized standard that measures sustainability, energy efficiency, water conservation, and reduced carbon footprint in buildings. India’s continuous performance in the top three rankings highlights its increasing adoption of these green building standards.

How Does India Compare with Other Countries in LEED Certifications?

On the global stage, mainland China led the rankings in 2024 with over 25 million GSM of LEED-certified space, while Canada followed with 10 million GSM. India’s 8.50 million GSM placed it third, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable construction in the Asia-Pacific region.

Although the United States was not included in the global ranking, it remains the largest market for LEED, with over 56 million GSM of certified space. The consistent performance of India in these rankings showcases the country’s progress in integrating green construction methods to combat climate change.

PM Modi and Macron to Inaugurate Indian Consulate in Marseille

India is set to strengthen its diplomatic and economic footprint in France as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurate the Indian Consulate in Marseille on February 12, 2025. This will be India’s second diplomatic mission in France, following its embassy in Paris. This initiative represents a significant advancement in Indo-French relations, highlighting India’s involvement in southern France and its dedication to fostering deeper economic, cultural, and strategic ties

Why is Marseille Important for India?

Marseille, the second-largest city in France, is strategically important because of its location along the Mediterranean coast. It acts as a crucial trade link between Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The Port of Marseille-Fos, which is the largest port in France, plays a significant role in handling a large share of the country’s imports and exports, including essential oil shipments through the Fos-sur-Mer terminal.

By opening a consulate in Marseille, India seeks to strengthen economic relationships, boost trade, and discover new business opportunities. This initiative is part of India’s larger goal to enhance its global trade network, especially in relation to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), which is a vital project aimed at improving connectivity between India and Europe.

What is the Bigger Picture of Indo-French Relations?

The announcement to open the consulate came during PM Modi’s visit to France in 2023, representing a significant step in India’s diplomatic efforts. This inauguration is part of a larger initiative to strengthen Indo-French cooperation in areas like defense, trade, technology, and space exploration.

Furthermore, PM Modi is scheduled to co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Summit with President Macron in Paris on February 11, 2025. This event highlights the common goals of India and France in advancing technology and fostering AI-driven innovation. The partnership in AI, along with growing defense collaborations and trade agreements, emphasizes the strategic significance of Indo-French relations. A report indicates that the consulate’s opening aligns with India’s long-term diplomatic strategy in Europe. With improved trade relations, better connectivity, and increasing people-to-people interactions, this initiative is anticipated to enhance India’s global presence.

IPS Officer DK Kedia Honored with ‘CA in Public Service’ Award

Deepak Kumar Kedia, Inspector General (IG) Headquarters of the National Security Guard (NSG), has received the prestigious ‘CA in Public Service’ Award from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The award, presented at the World Forum of Accountants Meet in New Delhi on February 1, 2025, recognizes his outstanding contributions to public service, particularly in law enforcement and national security. Kedia, often referred to as the ‘CA in Uniform’, boasts a remarkable career that combines finance and policing, significantly influencing counter-terrorism efforts and national security initiatives.

Key Highlights

Award & Recognition

• Received the ‘CA in Public Service’ Award from ICAI on February 1, 2025.
• Honored for his exceptional contributions to law enforcement and national security.
• Also awarded the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service on Republic Day 2025.

Current Role

• Designation: Inspector General (IG) Headquarters, NSG.
• Key Responsibilities
• Strategic planning & operational oversight for NSG.
• Counter-terrorism operations.

Professional & Academic Background

• Known as the ‘CA in Uniform’ for his dual expertise in finance & policing.
• Prior experience in finance with Steel Authority of India (SAIL), Rourkela Steel Plant.
• Educational Qualifications
• Chartered Accountant (CA)
• Company Secretary (CS)
• Cost & Management Accountant (CMA)
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• Master of Arts in Anti-Corruption Studies (International Anti-Corruption Academy, Vienna, Austria).

Key Points Held

• Superintendent of Police (SP) in Assam.
• Director (Left Wing Extremism), Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Additional Director, Enforcement Directorate.
• Inspector General of Police (Law & Order), Assam.

Impact & Contributions

• Strengthened national security measures through his leadership.
• Played a key role in counter-terrorism operations as part of NSG.
• Expert in financial crimes, corruption control, and law enforcement strategies.
• Recognized for integrity, excellence, and commitment to public service.

India and Nicaragua Forge Partnership for Quick Impact Projects

In a major step toward strengthening bilateral relations, India and Nicaragua have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIPs). This agreement, formalized in Managua, Nicaragua, was signed by Indian Ambassador Sumit Seth and Nicaraguan Foreign Minister Valdrack Jaentschke. The partnership seeks to improve both physical and social infrastructure in Nicaragua, delivering direct and tangible benefits to local communities.

Under this MoU, India will offer grant assistance for a range of Quick Impact Projects. The main emphasis will be on enhancing physical infrastructure, including roads, community centers, and essential utilities. Furthermore, social infrastructure projects will aim to bolster education, healthcare, and sanitation. These initiatives are intended to bring about immediate enhancements in people’s daily lives by tackling urgent needs in essential services.

According to reports, the implementation of these projects will be swift, ensuring maximum impact in a short period. This strategy aligns with India’s broader development cooperation approach, which emphasizes high-impact, small-scale projects that bring rapid and visible change in partner countries.

How Does This Agreement Align with India’s Global Development Strategy?

India has been working to strengthen its development partnerships with various countries, especially in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The signing of this MoU with Nicaragua is a key part of a broader initiative to assist developing nations through Quick Impact Projects.

In December 2024, India signed a similar agreement with Nicaragua, focusing on socio-economic development initiatives. Such collaborations highlight India’s commitment to global development through targeted and effective projects that benefit local communities.

By implementing high-impact projects in a short timeframe, India continues to position itself as a reliable partner in international development. These projects not only help improve living standards in partner countries but also enhance India’s global standing as a development-focused nation.

Varsha Bharath’s Bad Girl Wins NETPAC Award at IFFR

Varsha Bharath’s directorial debut, Bad Girl, has been awarded the prestigious NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2025. The film, backed by renowned filmmakers Anurag Kashyap and Vetrimaaran, initially sparked mixed reactions due to its daring themes but has now gained critical acclaim. This recognition places Bad Girl alongside notable Indian films such as Nasir (2019), Naukar ki Kameez (1999), and Vidheyan (1995), all of which have previously received this honor.

Important Highlights:

Award Recognition

• Bad Girl wins the NETPAC Award at IFFR 2025, a significant honor for Asian cinema.

Controversial Teaser Reception

• The film’s teaser sparked polarizing reactions on social media, with criticism for its depiction of female sexual desire and caste-based themes.

Global Premiere

• The film had its world premiere at IFFR 2025.

Notable Tamil Recognition

• The last Tamil film to receive this award was Nasir (2019).

Star Cast

• Features Anjali Sivaraman, Shanthi Priya, Hridhu Haroon, Teejay Arunasalam, and Saranya Ravichandran.

Amit Trivedi’s Tamil Debut

• The film marks the music composer’s first Tamil film project.

Technical Crew

• Cinematography by Preetha Jayaraman, Jagadeesh Ravi, and Prince Anderson; Editing by Radha Sridhar.

Presented by Vetrimaaran & Anurag Kashyap

• The film is backed by two of India’s most respected filmmakers.
• The recognition at IFFR might accelerate the film’s theatrical release.

India to Host Inaugural WAVES Summit in Mumbai from May 1-4, 2025

India will host the first-ever World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, 2025. This event is a significant step towards positioning India as a global media and entertainment center, uniting top industry leaders, including media CEOs, entertainment experts, and creative talents. The WAVES Summit is designed to encourage collaboration, investment, and technological progress within the global entertainment industry.

What is the WAVES Summit and Why is it Important?

The WAVES Summit is envisioned as a global platform similar to economic forums like Davos but dedicated to the media and entertainment industry. This event will highlight innovations in animation, gaming, visual effects, and filmmaking. It will create a space for both Indian and international industry leaders to come together, share insights on future trends, and investigate potential investment opportunities.

The Indian government, recognizing the country’s potential in media and entertainment, has structured this summit to boost India’s creative economy. With India’s rapidly growing digital content consumption and expanding influence in cinema, WAVES is expected to play a key role in positioning the country as a leader in content creation and entertainment technology.

How is the Government Supporting the Initiative?

The announcement of WAVES was made by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw following a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Advisory Board for WAVES includes global industry leaders like Sundar Pichai (Google), Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Mukesh Ambani. These influential figures have shared their insights to help India emerge as a major global player in the entertainment sector.

The government initially planned to launch WAVES alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in November 2024. However, to ensure wider participation and greater impact, the event was first shifted to February 2025 and then to May 2025. This reflects the commitment to making WAVES a major annual event that drives industry innovation, global partnerships, and economic growth.

How is WAVES Honoring Indian Cinema Legends?

Alongside the summit, Prime Minister Modi honored iconic figures of Indian cinema on the occasion of their centenary birth anniversaries. Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Tapan Sinha were recognized for their significant contributions to India’s cultural and cinematic heritage. Modi highlighted their enduring influence on both Indian and global cinema, underscoring India’s rich cultural legacy in filmmaking.

The WAVES Summit 2025 represents a significant step toward transforming India into a global media powerhouse. By bringing together international industry leaders, fostering technological advancements, and celebrating India’s cinematic history, the event is expected to elevate India’s standing in the global entertainment industry.