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 20 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.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025

Every year the birth anniversary of Great Warrior, the founder of Maratha Empire, Chhatrapati Shivaji observed on February 19 as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. He is remembered as a brave warrior, military general and a champion of traditionalist Hindu values. Millions draws inspiration from his legacy.

In 2025, this year, the 395th birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj will be celebrated with great pomp and circumstance throughout the country, particularly in Maharashtra.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is celebrated every year on February 19 to honor the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the great warrior and founder of the Maratha Empire. He is remembered for his bravery, military skills and efforts to protect Hindu traditions. His legacy continues to inspire millions of people.

This year, in 2025, India will celebrate the 395th birth anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj with great enthusiasm, especially in Maharashtra.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2025 – Date

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is observed on February 19 every year. However, it is also celebrated on another date according to the Hindu calendar, which is the 3rd day of Phalgun month.

History of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Shivaji Maharaj was born on February 19, 1630, at the Shivneri Fort in what is modern-day Maharashtra. He was brought up by his mother, Jijabai, who shaped him with a strong sense of courage, justice and devotion to Hindu traditions.

He expanded Maratha Empire fighting with Mughals and Bijapur Sultanate as he grew up. Much of his success in battles was due to his guerilla warfare techniques. In 1674, he was officially crowned “Chhatrapati” (Emperor) at Raigad Fort.

Thiruvalluvar Statue Inaugurated in the Philippines

Ambassador of India to the Philippines, Harsh Kumar Jain, inaugurated a statue of famous Tamil saint-poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar in Gullas College of Medicine (GCM), Cebu on February 17, 2025. The unveiling ceremony was held as part of the celebrations on the 75th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines. The celebration was attended by dignitaries including former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, senior official, diplomats and members of Indian diaspora.

The event, organized by GCM Chief Executive Adviser Dr. David Pillai, also included the Indo-Philippine Cultural and Educational Exchange Summit, showcasing cultural performances by both Indian and Filipino artists. The installation of Thiruvalluvar’s statue underscores the strengthening cultural and historical connections between the two countries.

Key Highlights of the Event

Unveiling of Thiruvalluvar Statue

• Indian Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain inaugurated the statue of Thiruvalluvar at Gullas College of Medicine (GCM), Cebu.
• The statue was commissioned by Dr. David Pillai, Chief Executive Adviser of GCM.
• The unveiling marks a significant milestone in strengthening India-Philippines cultural ties.

75 Years of India-Philippines Diplomatic Relations

• India and the Philippines formally established diplomatic relations on November 26, 1949.
• The event was part of the year-long celebrations commemorating 75 years of bilateral engagement.
• Highlights the growing cooperation in cultural, educational, and diplomatic fields.

Indo-Philippine Cultural and Educational Exchange Summit

• Held at Gullas College of Medicine alongside the unveiling ceremony.
• Attended by former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, senior officials, diplomats, and members of the Indian diaspora.
• Key discussions on cultural exchange and academic collaborations between the two nations.

Cultural Performances

• Indian and Filipino cultural troupes performed during the event.
• Showcased the rich heritage and traditions of both countries.
• Strengthened people-to-people connections and promoted cultural understanding.

Significance of Thiruvalluvar’s Legacy

• Thiruvalluvar, the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, is the author of the classic Tamil text Thirukkural.
• His teachings emphasize ethics, morality, governance, and human values, resonating globally.
• The installation of his statue in the Philippines honors his contributions to literature and philosophy

TrailGuard AI: Revolutionizing Anti-Poaching Efforts in Wildlife Conservation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made a significant impact on wildlife conservation, particularly in enhancing anti-poaching strategies and leading to a considerable decline in poaching incidents. A key innovation in this field is TrailGuard AI, an advanced surveillance system that aims to detect and prevent poaching activities. A prime example of its successful deployment is the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, where officials have reported a notable improvement in wildlife protection and conservation efforts. This article discusses the significance of the Similipal Tiger Reserve, the function of TrailGuard AI in combating poaching, its operational methods, community effects, and future possibilities.

Similipal Tiger Reserve: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Location & Geography

Located in the Mayurbhanj District of Odisha, the Similipal Tiger Reserve is in the northernmost part of the state. It covers a large area of 2,750 square kilometers, ranking it among India’s largest tiger reserves.

• The reserve is famous for its picturesque waterfalls, including Joranda and Barehipani.
• It forms a critical part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, which also includes Hadgarh and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• The landscape is hilly and undulating, featuring grasslands and dense forests.
• It is surrounded by high plateaus and rolling hills, with its highest peaks being Khairiburu and Meghashini, standing at 1,515 meters above sea level.

TrailGuard AI: A Game-Changer in Anti-Poaching

What is TrailGuard AI?

TrailGuard AI is an advanced surveillance system that uses artificial intelligence to help prevent poaching and other illegal activities in protected wildlife areas. It features 100 to 150 AI-enabled cameras that are strategically positioned throughout the reserve.

How Does TrailGuard AI Work?

TrailGuard AI employs an advanced image recognition system to detect poachers and unauthorized movement within the reserve.

Motion Detection & Image Capture

• The cameras operate on low-power mode to conserve energy.
• When movement is detected, they switch to high-power mode and capture high-resolution images.

AI-Based Image Analysis

• The system uses AI inference models to classify detected objects as humans, animals, or vehicles.
• Suspicious activity triggers an instant alert to the control room.

Real-Time Threat Response

• The identified images are transmitted to the control center within 30-40 seconds.
• Forest officials receive real-time updates, enabling them to take swift action.

Reliance Beats Apple, Ranks 2nd in FutureBrand 2024

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has reached a remarkable achievement by ranking second in the FutureBrand Index 2024, outpacing global leaders such as Apple and Nike. This is the first instance of an Indian company breaking into the top three of this esteemed global ranking. The index evaluates companies based on how they are perceived as brands rather than their financial results, highlighting Reliance’s strong brand presence and its impact worldwide. Samsung secured the top position, while Reliance outperformed Apple, Nike, Disney, Netflix, Microsoft, Intel, and Toyota.

How Did Reliance Achieve This Remarkable Leap?

Reliance’s journey in the FutureBrand Index has been impressive. In 2023, it was ranked 13th, and within a year, it leaped to the second position. This growth reflects its strong consumer trust, strategic expansion, and its involvement in key sectors like energy, telecommunications, and retail. The company’s ability to innovate and diversify has been vital in enhancing its global brand perception.

Another critical factor is Reliance’s growing global footprint and its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. With investments in green energy, digital services, and consumer retail, the company has positioned itself as a leader in multiple sectors. This has strengthened its reputation among stakeholders and consumers alike.

How Has the Global Brand Landscape Changed?

The FutureBrand Index 2024 highlights a major shift in the geographic distribution of top brands. A decade ago, in 2014, seven out of the top ten brands were from the United States. In contrast, 2024’s ranking shows a more diversified mix, with only four US brands in the top ten. The rest come from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and the Middle East.

This shift underlines how Asian and Middle Eastern companies are making significant investments in brand-building. Businesses in these regions, especially in B2B sectors, are now competing at the same level as traditional US and European brands. The changing brand landscape reflects the growing influence of emerging economies and the evolving global business environment.

Ajmer Hosts First-Ever All India Transgender Conference

Ajmer has become the venue for the first-ever All India Kinnar Mahasammelan, a historic 10-day transgender conference held at a private school in Vaishali Nagar. The event started on February 17, 2025, with the Khichdi Tulai ritual and seeks to highlight and address the challenges faced by transgender individuals throughout India. This gathering is organized in memory of Anita Bai, who was the mentor of Gaddipati Saloni Nayak, a respected leader in Ajmer’s transgender community.

The event, attended by more than 2,000 transgender individuals from different states, is deeply embedded in religious and cultural traditions. Various rituals, such as Kalash Puja and Chak Pujan, are being carried out, highlighting the community’s spiritual values. Additionally, the conference includes stalls offering medical services, banking, perfumes, and travel options. The event is being held under strict supervision to ensure that only invited members can enter.

Conference Overview

• Location: Vaishali Nagar, Ajmer
• Organizer: Gaddipati Saloni Nayak, in memory of mentor Anita Bai
• Duration: 10 days
• Attendees: Over 2,000 transgender members from different states
• Objective: Addressing transgender rights, community traditions, and spirituality

Kerala Leads in Scientific Disposal of Expired Medicines

In a major move for environmental sustainability and public health, Kerala is poised to be the first state in India to implement a scientific method for collecting and disposing of expired and unused medicines from homes. The Kerala Drugs Control Department will officially kick off the ‘nPROUD’ (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs) initiative on February 22, 2025. This government-driven project seeks to address the increasing problem of pharmaceutical waste, which presents both environmental dangers and health risks.

Why Is Safe Disposal of Medicines Important?

The improper disposal of expired and unused medicines poses a significant issue. Many individuals tend to discard these medicines by tossing them in the regular trash or flushing them down the toilet, resulting in contamination of soil and water. This contamination can lead to antimicrobial resistance, making infections more difficult to treat and heightening health risks. Kerala’s initiative aims to tackle this problem by establishing a systematic approach for the safe collection and disposal of unused medications.

According to the Biomedical Waste Management Act and Rules, pharmaceutical waste must be handled properly to prevent environmental pollution. The nPROUD initiative will ensure that expired medicines are collected in a responsible manner and disposed of scientifically, following regulatory guidelines.

How Will the nPROUD Initiative Work?

The program will begin in Kozhikode Corporation and Ulliyeri Panchayat in Kozhikode district before expanding statewide. The initiative will function through a three-step process:

1. Household Collection – Officials will visit homes at designated periods to collect unused medicines directly from residents.
2. Permanent Collection Points – Special blue-colored bins will be placed in public areas for easy disposal.
3. Collaboration with Local Bodies – The Haritha Karma Sena (Green Task Force) and local self-government institutions will play a key role in managing the collection process.

Once collected, the medicines will be transported to Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Limited (KEIL), a waste treatment facility approved by both state and central environmental authorities. The initiative will ensure compliance with legal waste management standards while protecting public health.

Google unveils ‘Ananta,’ its largest campus in India

Google has taken a major step forward in its dedication to India’s digital ecosystem with the launch of Ananta, its largest campus in the country. The name Ananta, derived from Sanskrit, signifies “infinite” or “limitless.” This campus is more than just a place to work; it serves as a center for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Situated in Mahadevapura, Bengaluru, Ananta ranks among Google’s largest campuses globally, highlighting India’s importance in the realm of technology and AI development.

Ananta: A Symbol of Innovation and Growth

The newly opened Ananta campus can accommodate more than 5,000 employees. Google has made it clear that this facility is not just an office; it is a hub intended to foster innovative breakthroughs and AI-driven solutions that will make a difference globally. The company sees this campus as a reflection of its commitment to an AI-first strategy, showcasing India’s talent and its ability to tackle global issues on a large scale.

Strategic Location: Bengaluru as a Tech Hub

Bengaluru, often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of India,” has long been a preferred destination for tech giants. Google’s choice to expand here underscores the city’s significance as a hub for technological advancements, AI research, and software development.

With a workforce of over 10,000 employees across India, including locations in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Gurugram, the new Bengaluru campus will further strengthen Google’s presence and collaboration efforts in the country.

Uttarakhand Officer Leverages Technology to Prevent Forest Fires

In an effort to fight the increasing number of forest fires, Vaibhav Singh, an officer with the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) in Uttarakhand, has created an advanced Forest Fire App. This innovative tool, inspired by technologies from Canada, Australia, and South Africa, significantly improves fire detection, enhances response efficiency, and provides real-time tracking of firefighting teams. The Uttarakhand Forest Department has implemented this app, involving 7,000 forest staff and planning for further expansion.

Key Features

Inspired by Global Practices

• Studied Canada, Australia, and South Africa’s fire mitigation apps.
• Collaborated with an ecologist in Canada for research and development.

Development Process

• Took several years with 31 updates to reach its current advanced state.
• Initially tested in Rudraprayag (2020-2022) before wider implementation.

Real-Time Tracking and Response

• Reduces response time to five hours.
• Provides the exact location of the fire with GPS-based tracking.
• Monitors the live location of firefighters and 40 fire-fighting vehicles.

Firefighter and Public Involvement

• 7,000 forest staff currently linked to the app.
• Self-help groups, panchayats, and volunteers will be added in the future.
• Public participation: Common people can geo-tag forest fire locations.

Automated Data Collection and Alerts

• Uses satellite imagery to capture wildfire locations.
• Integrated with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for weather updates.
• Detects the genuineness of incidents and classifies forest types.

Forest Department Integration

• Monitored through the Integrated Command Center dashboard.
• Forest posts and surveillance towers are mapped within the application.

Accountability and Law Enforcement

• Firefighters must be within a 500-meter radius to update information.
• Identifies those responsible for wildfires and the respective forest outpost.

State-Level Implementation and Future Expansion

• Currently implemented in Uttarakhand but may expand to other states if successful.

Rekha Gupta Named Delhi’s New Chief Minister

Rekha Gupta, a leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and MLA from Shalimar Bagh, has been appointed as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, marking the BJP’s return to power after 27 years. The party won a significant majority, securing 44 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly elections held on February 8, 2025. The swearing-in ceremony is planned for February 20 at Ramlila Maidan, featuring a grand event inspired by the consecration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

Overview of CM Face

• Rekha Gupta will be the new Chief Minister of Delhi.
• She will be succeeding AAP’s Atishi Marlena.
• She won her assembly sheet from Shalimar Bagh.
• Rekha Gupta will be the only woman Chief Minister in BJP-ruled states (Present Ruling States).
• She will be the 4th Female Chief Minister of Delhi after Sushma Swaraj. Sheila Dixit, Atishi Marlena.

Election Results Overview

• Election Date: February 8, 2025
• Total Seats: 70
• Majority Mark: 36

Final Tally

• BJP: 48 seats
• AAP: 22 seats
• Congress: 0 seats
• BJP’s Vote Share: 45.56%
• AAP’s Vote Share: 43.57%
• Congress’s Vote Share: 6.34%

Date, Time, and Venue of Oath Ceremony

• Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
• Time: The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 12:00 PM
• Venue: Ramlila Maidan, Delhi
• Expected Attendance: 50,000 people, including political leaders, party workers, and citizens

Goa Shipyard Displays Indigenous Vessels at NAVDEX 2025

Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), a leading shipbuilder in the Indian defense sector, is featuring its indigenously designed Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi. These vessels highlight India’s increasing maritime capabilities as part of the “Make in India” initiative. The exhibition offers GSL a chance to showcase its naval innovations and broaden its reach in the global defense market.

Key Points:

Fast Petrol Vessel (FPV) on Display

• Length & Speed: 50 meters long, capable of reaching 35 knots.
• Purpose: Patrolling, anti-smuggling, anti-terrorist operations, coastal convoy escort, and wartime communication link.
• Propulsion System: Three 2,720 kW diesel engines driving independent waterjets for high maneuverability.
• Capacity: Fully air-conditioned accommodation for 35 personnel.
• Operational Strength: Designed for long-duration missions in challenging sea conditions.

Past Deployments

• Indian Coast Guard: Seven FPVs delivered, actively used in disaster response (e.g., tsunami relief).
• Exports: Two FPVs supplied to Mauritius, expanding GSL’s international presence.
• Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) at NAVDEX 2025

Primary Roles

• Combat operations
• Law enforcement and anti-piracy patrols
• Search and rescue (SAR) missions
• Environmental disaster response

Design Features

• Robust steel hull for durability in heavy sea conditions.
• Optimized for multi-role operations and adaptability in diverse missions.

Additional Maritime Solutions Showcased

• Floating Docks: Adapt to tidal movements, unlike traditional fixed docks.
• Pollution Control Vessels: Designed for marine pollution management and oil recovery operations in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Goa Shipyard limit (GSL): A Legacy of Naval Excellence

• Established: 1957
• DPSU Status: Became a Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) in 1967.
• Innovation Recognition: Accredited by Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) for indigenous warship design and development.

NAVDEX 2025: A Strategic Defense Platform

• Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Organizer: ADNEC Group, in partnership with UAE Ministry of Defence & Tawazun Council.

Significance

• A leading maritime defense exhibition held alongside IDEX.
• Features global defense leaders, government officials, and industry experts.
• Showcases emerging defense trends, strategic partnerships, and advancements in military technology.

Arunachal Cabinet Unveils Key Schemes for Women, Youth & Development

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Arunachal Pradesh government has announced a set of initiatives focused on empowering women, supporting youth, and fostering development within the state. These decisions were made during the fourth outdoor cabinet meeting at Nyapin’s Mini Secretariat. The measures, which include financial aid for girl children and the creation of a think tank for policy planning, are anticipated to have a significant socio-economic impact.

How is the Dulari Kanya Scheme Changing for the Girl Child?

The state cabinet has made significant changes to the Dulari Kanya Scheme, boosting financial assistance for girls born through institutional deliveries. The amount for fixed deposits has been increased from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000, which will be available when the beneficiary reaches 18 years of age. Furthermore, to promote girls’ education, a direct benefit transfer (DBT) of ₹20,000 will be given upon their enrollment in Class XI. With these updates, the total benefit under the scheme now amounts to ₹50,000. The initiative is designed to promote female education and enhance the overall well-being of girls throughout the state.

What New Policies Are Being Introduced for Governance and Economic Growth?

The cabinet has approved The Arunachal Pradesh Arun Parivar Patra Authority Bill, 2025, which aims to establish a comprehensive citizen database focused on family-centric governance. This initiative will enable data-driven policy decisions and ensure that welfare schemes reach the right beneficiaries .

To strengthen policy planning, the government has also introduced the Institute for Transforming Arunachal (ITA) under the Department of Finance, Planning & Investment. The think tank will provide research-backed policy recommendations in governance, economic growth, and sustainable development, aligning state initiatives with national objectives .

Manu Bhaker Wins BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2024

Olympic medal-winning shooter Manu Bhaker has been awarded the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year (ISWOTY) for 2024. This esteemed award, presented by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), celebrates the accomplishments of Indian female athletes and their impact on sports over the past year.

The award, determined by a mix of expert panel nominations and public voting, recognized Manu Bhaker as the winner from a competitive group of nominees, which included golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, cricketer Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat. This is the fifth edition of the ISWOTY award, reinforcing its significance in celebrating and promoting women’s sports in India.

The award, which is decided through a combination of expert panel nominations and public voting, saw Manu Bhaker emerge as the winner among a strong field of nominees, including golfer Aditi Ashok, para-shooter Avani Lekhara, cricketer Smriti Mandhana, and wrestler Vinesh Phogat.

This marks the fifth edition of the ISWOTY award, further cementing its role in celebrating and promoting women’s sports in India.