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 22 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.

India Rolls Out Digital Pilot Licenses, Second After China

India has made a significant move to modernize its aviation sector by introducing the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for flight crew. With this initiative, India becomes the second country in the world, after China, to implement digital licensing for pilots. Launched by Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, the EPL is expected to improve convenience, transparency, and efficiency in the licensing process. This initiative aligns with India’s vision for digital transformation and aviation safety, while also preparing for the increasing demand in the aviation industry.

Key points of the EPL initiative

Global Milestone

• India is now the second country globally, after China, to introduce EPL for flight crew.

Launch Details

• Launched by: Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu
• Regulatory Body: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
• Date of Launch: February 2025

Objective

• Streamline the licensing process for pilots
• Enhance safety, security, and efficiency in civil aviation
• Boost digital transformation in aviation sector

Benefits of EPL

• Convenience: Reduces paperwork and simplifies licensing procedures
• Transparency: Ensures real-time tracking and authentication of pilot credentials
• Efficiency: Speeds up license issuance and renewal processes
• Security: Reduces fraud risks and improves regulatory compliance

Aviation Sector Growth Projections

• India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world.
• Requirement for 20,000 additional pilots in the coming years.
• Expansion plans include 50 new airports in the next five years.
• 120 new domestic routes to be added over the next decade.

Future Plans

• Development of digital twin systems for airports to enable real-time decision-making.
• Continued focus on technology-driven solutions for aviation operations and regulation.

Reactions and Industry Impact

• A senior pilot from an Indian airline welcomed the move, stating that it will streamline processes and allow pilots to focus on safe and efficient travel.
• Experts believe this initiative showcases India’s progress in aviation digitalization, making regulatory processes more efficient.

Mizoram Foundation Day 2025

Mizoram Foundation Day is observed every year on February 20 to celebrate the northeastern state’s achievement of statehood in 1987. This historic event marks the evolution of the Lushai Hills Autonomous District Council into a full-fledged state, making Mizoram the 23rd state of India. The day is also significant for Arunachal Pradesh, which achieved statehood on February 20, 1987.

Mizoram, located in the northeastern part of India, is the southernmost landlocked state in the area, sharing borders with Tripura, Assam, Manipur, and international frontiers with Myanmar and Bangladesh. This state is celebrated for its lush green forests, rich tribal culture, and distinct biodiversity. Mizoram Foundation Day is a significant celebration that honors the struggles and aspirations of the Mizo people, who fought for political recognition and autonomy.

The journey towards statehood for Mizoram began in the early 1960s, when Mizo tribal leaders established the Mizo National Front (MNF) in 1961. This organization was created to protect the political rights of the Mizo people and to pursue greater autonomy from the Indian government. A significant source of discontent stemmed from the central administration’s neglect, compounded by the devastating famine of 1959, known as Mautam, which destroyed crops and caused widespread suffering.

Kerala Unveils nPROUD for Safe Drug Disposal

The Kerala Health Department has introduced the nPROUD (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs) initiative, marking an important move towards the safe disposal of expired and unused medications. This program is designed to mitigate environmental hazards and health risks associated with the improper disposal of pharmaceuticals. Kerala is the first state in India to implement such a systematic, government-led initiative for drug disposal.

How Will nPROUD Work?

The nPROUD initiative focuses on collecting unused and expired medications from homes and pharmacies to guarantee their safe and scientific disposal. This program will launch as a pilot in Kozhikode Corporation and Ulliyeri Panchayat, encompassing about 200,000 households and numerous pharmacies. Plans are in place to gradually roll it out across the state.

Household Collection: Volunteers from Haritha Karma Sena and Kudumbashree will visit homes to collect unused medicines at no cost. This will also help in spreading awareness about the dangers of antimicrobial resistance.

Pharmacy Participation: Medical stores will have blue bins where people can drop their unused drugs. However, commercial entities like retailers, wholesalers, and hospitals will have to pay ₹40 per kilogram for disposal services.

Special Drives for Collection: To increase participation, the initiative will include “Go Blue Day” events, where pre-scheduled collection drives will take place at designated locations.

Safe Disposal Process: All collected medicines will be scientifically incinerated at the Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Ltd (KEIL) facility in Ernakulam, ensuring compliance with environmental safety norms.

Delhi Cabinet Approves Ayushman Bharat in First Meeting and Other Decisions

Rekha Gupta, a BJP leader and first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, was sworn in as the ninth Chief Minister of Delhi during a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan. On that same day, she convened her first cabinet meeting, where she announced two key decisions: the launch of the Ayushman Bharat scheme with a ₹5 lakh top-up and the introduction of 14 pending CAG reports during the first Assembly session. Her administration has also set its sights on several priority areas, including the cleaning of the Yamuna, infrastructure development, education, and the welfare of women.

Key Highlights of Rekha Gupta’s First Cabinet Meeting

Implementation of Ayushman Bharat Yojana

• Delhi government to sign an MoU with the Centre.
• Free healthcare coverage of ₹10 lakh (₹5 lakh from the Centre + ₹5 lakh top-up by Delhi government).
• A pre-poll promise of the BJP, previously unimplemented by the AAP government.

Tabling of 14 Pending CAG Reports

• Reports were not tabled under the AAP government.
• BJP commits to transparency and accountability.

Yamuna River Cleaning Initiative

• A key election promise of the BJP.
• Resources will be allocated for pollution control.

Ministerial Portfolio’s Announcement

• Rekha Gupta: Finance, General Administration, Women & Child Development, Revenue, Vigilance, Planning, etc.
• Pravesh Verma: PWD, Water, Legislative Affairs, Irrigation & Flood Control.
• Ashish Sood: Home, Power, Education, Urban Development.
• Manjinder Singh Sirsa: Food & Supplies, Environment, Industries.
• Ravinder Indraj Singh: Social Welfare, SC/ST Welfare, Cooperative.
• Kapil Mishra: Law & Justice, Labour, Tourism.
• Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh: Health, Family Welfare, Transport, IT.

Nagaon Hosts 2nd Simolu Festival Amid Blooming Bombax Ceiba

The 2nd Simolu Festival began on February 15, 2025, at Bwisang-Na, an ethnic eco-resort in Barunguri, Laokhowa, Assam. This two-day celebration honored the blooming of the Bombax ceiba (Shimul) flowers and aimed to promote eco-tourism, conservation, and local culture. The festival included a variety of activities such as cycling, camping, showcasing ethnic cuisine, cultural performances, and awareness sessions.

Dr. Sonali Ghosh, the Field Director of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, highlighted the event’s significance, describing it as a spectacular way to experience nature’s beauty while raising awareness about environmental conservation.

Key Highlights of 2nd Simolu Festival

Festival’s Aim

• Showcase the stunning beauty of Simolu trees (Bombax ceiba) when they are in full bloom.
• Promote sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives.
• Engage local communities and students in activities that connect them with nature.
• Highlight the ecological and cultural importance of Laokhowa and Donduwa Beel.

Festival Location and Natural Significance

• The festival was held at Bwisang-Na, a serene ethnic eco-resort in Barunguri, Laokhowa.
• The region is famous for its wetlands, grasslands, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal setting for an eco-tourism festival.
• The name “Simolu” comes from Bombax ceiba (Shimul tree), which blooms during this period, creating a striking red landscape.

Microsoft’s Majorana 1: Quantum Computing Breakthrough

Microsoft has made a significant advancement in quantum computing by unveiling its Majorana 1 chip, a processor designed with an innovative topological core architecture. This development has the potential to transform the computing landscape, providing a stable and scalable method for quantum computing that seeks to address complex industrial and scientific challenges. In contrast to conventional quantum chips, Majorana 1 features topological qubits, which are naturally more resistant to errors.

What Makes the Majorana 1 Chip Different?

Majorana 1 is fundamentally based on the use of topological superconductors, a cutting-edge state of matter that enables the generation and control of Majorana particles. These particles are instrumental in creating topological qubits, which exhibit far greater stability than the traditional qubits utilized in current quantum computing. Stability remains a key challenge in quantum computing, as errors can easily compromise calculations. With this advanced chip, Microsoft intends to decrease the need for error correction, thus making quantum computing more practical and scalable.

According to Microsoft, the topological approach allows qubits to maintain their states more efficiently, which is essential for performing large-scale quantum computations. If successful, this could lead to quantum computers that are reliable and capable of solving real-world problems in ways classical computers cannot.

How Does Majorana 1 Enable Large-Scale Quantum Computing?

One of the most significant features of Majorana 1 is its scalability. Microsoft envisions a future where millions of qubits can be integrated into a single, compact chip. Why is this important? Because the true power of quantum computing comes into play only when large numbers of qubits work together.

With traditional quantum chips, adding more qubits increases errors and makes computation unstable. However, Majorana 1 aims to eliminate this bottleneck by using topological qubits, which are less prone to noise. If successful, this approach will allow quantum computers to handle complex simulations, encryption, and optimization tasks—problems that classical supercomputers struggle to solve.

Kash Patel Sworn in as the Ninth Director of the FBI, Takes Oath on Bhagavad Gita

Indian-origin Kash Patel was officially sworn in as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday, February 21, 2025. Known for his close relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Patel took his oath on the sacred Hindu scripture, the Bhagavad Gita, marking a historic moment in U.S. history. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, where U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi administered the oath. Patel takes over from Christopher Wray, who resigned at the end of the Biden administration.

Kash Patel’s Swearing-In Ceremony

The ceremony was attended by Patel’s girlfriend and family, as well as several prominent Republican figures, including Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Jim Jordan. Patel’s confirmation was achieved by a slim Senate vote of 51-49, with two Republican senators, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, casting their votes against him.

Not the First Indian-American to Take Oath on the Bhagavad Gita

Patel’s oath on the Bhagavad Gita may have garnered a lot of attention, but he is not the first Indian-American to take this step. Congressman Suhash Subrahmanyam also took his oath of office using the Hindu scripture, which underscores the growing presence of Indian-origin leaders in U.S. governance.

PM Modi Inaugurates First SOUL Leadership Conclave

The SOUL (School of Ultimate Leadership) Conclave 2025, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, signifies an important milestone in leadership development for Viksit Bharat (Developed India). The event is aimed at fostering future leaders from diverse sectors, equipping them with vital skills in strategic decision-making, adaptability, and a focus on solutions. SOUL intends to train individuals in governance, business, technology, sports, and social sectors, ensuring that India ascends as a global powerhouse. A dedicated SOUL campus will be constructed near GIFT City in Gujarat to facilitate world-class leadership training.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Address

Introduction

• The first edition of the SOUL Leadership Conclave 2025 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
• The event aims to nurture leaders who can drive national and global progress.
• A new campus for SOUL will be established near GIFT City, Gujarat.

Importance of Leadership for Viksit Bharat

Leadership development plays a crucial role in creating a developed India (Viksit Bharat). Effective leadership is required across all sectors, such as politics, business, technology, sports, and governance. Swami Vivekananda envisioned that the influence of just 100 capable leaders could bring about significant transformation in India.

India as a Global Powerhouse

• India is emerging as a global powerhouse and needs world-class leaders.
• The nation requires leaders with a global vision and local mindset.
• Leadership must focus on strategic decision-making, crisis management, and futuristic thinking.

SOUL’s Role in Leadership Development

• SOUL aims to train leaders through scientific and structured approaches.

India Assumes Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

India has officially assumed the Chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOBP-IGO) from Bangladesh during the 13th Governing Council Meeting in Malé, Maldives. This transition was observed by representatives from Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bangladesh, and occurred during the conference on “Policy Guidance for Mainstreaming Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) in Small-Scale Fisheries.” The event took place from February 20 to 22, 2025, and was organized by the Ministry of Fisheries & Ocean Resources of the Maldives in partnership with BOBP-IGO.

Leading India’s delegation, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, assumed the Chairmanship and reiterated India’s dedication to sustainable fisheries, regional collaboration, and the welfare of small-scale fishers. Under India’s guidance, BOBP-IGO will prioritize marine resource management, capacity building, research, policy advocacy, and addressing Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. This leadership is in line with India’s national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, which aims to foster economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.

PM Modi To Attend Mauritius’ National Day Celebrations As Guest of Honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Mauritius next month to serve as the Guest of Honour at the National Day celebrations. This was announced by Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, who highlighted that Modi’s attendance reflects the strong and historic bilateral relationship between the two countries.

Mauritius’ National Day: A Historic Occasion

Mauritius observes its National Day on March 12 each year, marking its independence from British rule in 1968. This day is highly significant for the nation, symbolizing the start of its journey as an independent country. This year’s festivities will be especially meaningful with the attendance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the enduring friendship between India and Mauritius.

PM Modi’s Visit: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Speaking at the National Assembly on Friday, Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam expressed his gratitude, stating that it is a “singular privilege” for Mauritius to host such a distinguished leader despite his tight international schedule.

Purnima Devi Barman Named in TIME’s Women of the Year List

Indian biologist and wildlife conservationist Purnima Devi Barman has been named in TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year 2025 list, which recognizes outstanding leaders working towards a more equitable and sustainable world. She is the only Indian woman on this year’s list, joining global figures such as actress Nicole Kidman and Gisele Pelicot from France, who has become a prominent figure in the fight against sexual violence. Barman’s initiatives to conserve the greater adjutant stork, known locally as Hargila, have made a significant impact on both environmental and social fronts.