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 25 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.

Bajaj Allianz Life Launches Bima-ASBA, a First in India

Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company (BALIC) has launched the Bima-Application Supported by Blocked Amount (Bima-ASBA) facility, becoming the first insurer in India to implement this innovative payment method. This initiative, introduced by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), is designed to improve transparency and convenience in premium payments. With Bima-ASBA, policyholders can block a designated premium amount in their bank accounts, providing enhanced financial security and control. This initiative is in line with IRDAI’s broader objective of making insurance more accessible and streamlining transactions for customers.

How Does the Bima-ASBA Facility Work?

Bima-ASBA, which was launched on February 22, 2025, allows policyholders to authorize the blocking of a premium amount—up to ₹2 lakh—directly from their bank accounts through UPI’s One-Time Mandate (OTM). Unlike traditional payment methods, the blocked amount stays in the policyholder’s bank account, accruing interest until the insurer completes the underwriting process and accepts the policy. If the policy is issued, the amount is debited; however, if it is rejected or not processed within 14 days, the blocked amount is automatically released back to the policyholder.

This feature eliminates the need for upfront premium payments, ensuring that customers do not face delays or hassles in getting refunds if their policy is not approved.

Indian Coast Guard Holds ‘Sagar Kavach’ Drill for Coastal Security

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the ‘Sagar Kavach’ security exercise along the 158 km coastline of West Bengal on February 21-22, 2025. This two-day operation aimed to assess and improve the coastal security system by involving various agencies in responding to simulated threats. The focus of the exercise was on improving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and fostering better inter-agency coordination to address potential threats along India’s eastern maritime border.

What Were the Key Scenarios in the ‘Sagar Kavach’ Exercise?

The ‘Sagar Kavach’ exercise was designed to simulate real-life security threats and measure the preparedness of maritime forces. Several threat-based scenarios were included in the drills:

• Hijacking Incidents: Security forces handled scenarios where fishing boats and barges were hijacked, replicating potential terrorist landings and hostage situations.
• Smuggling Operations: The drills tested the response to illegal transportation of goods and contraband along the coastline, a known security challenge in the region.
• IED Threats: The exercise also included the detection and disposal of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted on critical infrastructure, such as ports and jetties.

By covering a broad range of security threats, the exercise ensured that all agencies involved were well-equipped to deal with real-world situations.

Why is the ‘Sagar Kavach’ Exercise Important for West Bengal?

West Bengal’s coastline is strategically significant due to its geographical and economic features:

• Large Maritime Community: Over 330,000 fishermen and 16,000 fishing boats operate in the region, making security monitoring complex.
• High-Value Infrastructure: The presence of two major ports, several river ports, jetties, and industries makes it a potential target for security threats.
• Porous Borders: The region’s riverine geography creates challenges in monitoring unauthorized movements, making security exercises like ‘Sagar Kavach’ essential.

The continuous evolution of this exercise is part of a larger strategy to strengthen coastal security. Previous editions, such as the one held on September 25-26, 2024, focused on similar security challenges, demonstrating the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to proactive defense measures.

Sunil Mittal Receives Honorary Knighthood from UK

Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has been honored with an Honorary Knighthood (KBE) for his efforts in bolstering business relations between India and the UK. He received the title of Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) during a special ceremony held at the British High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi. This distinction was awarded under King Charles III, marking him as the first Indian citizen to be recognized in this way during the current monarch’s reign. Mittal has been instrumental in promoting trade and investment between the two countries, making significant contributions through Airtel Africa, Eutelsat OneWeb, and his role in the India-UK CEO Forum.

Key Points:

• Sunil Bharti Mittal received the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
• Presented By: British High Commissioner at a special investiture ceremony in New Delhi. 

• India-UK Relations: Recognized for strengthening business ties and fostering trade partnerships.
• Airtel Africa & OneWeb: Mittal’s Airtel Africa is listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 100 Index), and Eutelsat OneWeb has its operations center in London.
• Awarded Honorary Doctor of Civil Law from Newcastle University and Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Leeds.

• Padma Bhushan Awardee (2007): Recognized for his contributions to Indian industry.
• India-UK CEO Forum: Key contributor to business dialogues between India and the UK.
• Indian Delegation to the UK: Recently led a high-profile business delegation to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and senior officials.

PM Modi Inaugurated Global Investors Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal, introducing 18 new industrial policies designed to turn Madhya Pradesh into a major investment destination. The event attracted prominent industrialists and global investors, focusing on India’s significance in global supply chains, especially in the aerospace sector. PM Modi pointed out India’s swift economic growth, referencing positive forecasts from organizations such as the World Bank, OECD, and the UN. The summit’s goal is to draw investments from diverse sectors, strengthening India’s status as a leading global economic force.

Key Highlights of Global Investors Summit 2025

1. PM Modi’s Address & Key Announcements

PM Modi highlighted India’s rise as a leading supply chain hub for international aerospace companies. He pointed out that Madhya Pradesh is on track to become a significant investment hotspot. He referenced global institutions such as the World Bank, OECD, and the UN, which recognize India’s economic prominence. Additionally, he showcased India’s successes in solar energy, manufacturing, and digital innovation.

2. Participation of Prominent Industrialists

The summit saw the presence of top industrialists, including,

• Kumar Mangalam Birla (Aditya Birla Group)
• Gautam Adani (Adani Group)
• Nadir Godrej (Godrej Industries)
• Piruz Khambatta (Rasna Private Limited)
• Baba N Kalyani (Bharat Forge)
• Rahul Awasthi (Sun Pharmaceuticals)
• Neeraj Akhouri (ACC Limited)

3. Madhya Pradesh’s Role in India’s Economic Growth

• CM Mohan Yadav reiterated MP’s commitment to PM Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
• Over 100 foreign delegates from 50+ countries attended the summit.
• More than 25,000 registrations were received from investors and entrepreneurs.
• The state is emerging as a major industry hub, attracting global and domestic investments.

4. Adani’s Endorsement of India’s Growth Under PM Modi

• Gautam Adani praised Modi’s leadership, stating that India has moved from following global trends to defining them.
• He credited Make in India, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat for propelling economic growth.

5. Major Investment Sectors in Focus

The summit is highlighting key investment opportunities in,

• Agriculture & Food Processing
• Textiles & Clothing
• Mining
• Information Technology & Renewable Energy
• Urban Development & Tourism
• Semiconductors, Drones, and Film Production

6. Industrial Policies & Future Roadmap

• 18 new industrial policies were launched, covering MSME, food, exports, GCC, startups, and more.
• A special video, “Madhya Pradesh – Infinite Possibilities,” showcased the state’s potential.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah will preside over the closing session on February 25, 2025.

7. Vision for the Future

• Chief Secretary Anurag Jain will outline Madhya Pradesh’s future roadmap.
• The CM will hold one-on-one meetings with industrialists to explore investment opportunities.
• The event aims to position Madhya Pradesh as a global investment destination.

RBI to Inject $10 Billion Through Forex Swap to Ease Liquidity Crunch

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a $10 billion foreign exchange (forex) swap to inject liquidity into the banking system and address the prevailing cash crunch. The three-year swap auction is scheduled for February 28, 2025. This action follows a $5 billion forex swap from last month, demonstrating the central bank’s commitment to ensuring liquidity stability. The banking sector is grappling with one of the worst liquidity shortages in more than a decade, partly due to the RBI’s proactive dollar sales aimed at shielding the rupee from volatility.

About the Forex Swap

• The RBI will buy US dollars from banks in exchange for rupees, with a promise to sell the dollars back at a later date.

• This swap will inject rupee liquidity into the banking system, which will help alleviate the liquidity shortfall.

• This is the second forex swap in a short period, following a $5 billion injection through a six-month swap in January.

• This action is anticipated to lower short-term interest rates.

Reason for the Liquidity Crunch

• India’s banking system is facing a liquidity deficit of approximately ₹2 trillion.
• March, being the fiscal year-end, is traditionally a difficult period for banks due to increased demand for liquidity.
• RBI’s dollar sales to protect the rupee from volatility, partly due to US President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, have contributed to the cash crunch.

NITI Aayog Panel to Drive AIIMS Modernization

NITI Aayog, the leading think tank of the Indian government, has set up a committee aimed at creating a roadmap to elevate AIIMS, New Delhi, into a top-tier institution for medical research and healthcare excellence. The committee, led by NITI Aayog member VK Paul, will review existing systems and suggest reforms along with specific timelines for their execution. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to improve healthcare infrastructure, governance, and self-reliance at AIIMS.

Furthermore, NITI Aayog has been focusing on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and making treatments for rare diseases more affordable, collaborating with the CSEP Research Foundation to study global UHC models. It has also promoted the local production of cost-effective drugs for rare diseases, leading to a significant decrease in treatment expenses.

Key Highlights of AIIMS Transformation Panel

Committee Formation

• Led by VK Paul, focusing on AIIMS New Delhi’s transformation.

Objectives

• Evaluate existing systems and suggest reforms with specific timelines.

• Optimize patient flow management and strengthen hospital governance.

• Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for excellence in clinical, academic, and research areas.

• Promote financial responsibility and sustainability in AIIMS operations.

Focus Areas

• Governance & transparency.
• Research excellence.
• Clinical & academic improvements.
• Self-sufficiency & financial sustainability.

NITI Aayog’s Efforts on Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

• Partnership with CSEP Research Foundation to study global UHC models.

Draft paper on healthcare financing strategies,

• Addresses supply-side & demand-side financing.
• Aims to improve healthcare accessibility, quality, and affordability.
• Extensive government & stakeholder consultations planned to shape policies.

Rare Disease Drug Accessibility Initiative

• Effort to provide affordable indigenous treatments for rare diseases.
• 4 affordable drugs introduced, priced at 1/60th to 1/100th of imported versions.
• 4 more drugs undergoing regulatory approval, expected to launch by year-end.

‘Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’ Sets 5 Guinness World Records

In a remarkable accomplishment, India’s ‘Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’ has achieved five Guinness World Records, highlighting the nation’s commitment to holistic healthcare and the global significance of Ayurveda. The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), with the backing of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, wrapped up the first phase of the campaign on February 20, 2025, in Mumbai. This event represented a major step forward in merging Ayurveda with public health through extensive participation and data-driven healthcare insights.

Key Achievements of the ‘Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’

Guinness World Records Achieved

1. Most pledges received for a health campaign in one week

• 6,004,912 pledges (New global benchmark, no previous record).

2. Most pledges received for a health campaign in one month

• 13,892,976 pledges (Surpassed previous record of 58,284 held by Cigna & CMB Life Insurance, China).

3. Most pledges received for a health campaign (Overall)

• 13,892,976 pledges (Broke India’s previous record of 569,057 held by Zifi FDC Limited).

4. Largest online photo album of people displaying a digital certificate

• 62,525 photos (Surpassed previous record of 29,068 held by Accenture Solutions Private Limited, India).

5. Largest online video album of people saying the same sentence

• 12,798 videos (Broke previous record of 8,992 videos held by Ghe Bharari, Rahul Kulkarni, and Neelam Edlabadkar, India).

Mohun Bagan Clinch Back-to-Back ISL Winners Shield

Mohun Bagan Super Giant achieved their second straight Indian Super League (ISL) Winners Shield with a nail-biting 1-0 victory over Odisha FC at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on February 23, 2025. The game was tense until the very end when Dimitrios Petratos netted the winning goal in injury time, marking Mohun Bagan as the first team in ISL history to defend the Shield successfully. This triumph also secures their direct qualification for the AFC Champions League 2.

How Did Mohun Bagan Secure the ISL Winners Shield?

Mohun Bagan entered their final league match needing a win to secure the title. The score remained 0-0 until the 93rd minute, when Dimitrios Petratos fired a powerful shot from outside the box, finding the bottom left corner. His goal clinched the Shield and sent the home fans into a frenzy of celebration.

A crucial moment in the match occurred in the 82nd minute when Odisha FC’s Mourtada Fall received a red card for a foul on Jamie Maclaren. Playing with 10 men, Odisha struggled to contain Mohun Bagan’s attack, leading to the late winning goal.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Mohun Bagan displayed dominant form, accumulating 52 points from 22 matches, with 16 wins, 4 draws, and only 2 losses. Their consistent performance made them strong contenders for the Shield from the beginning.

51st Khajuraho Dance Festival 2025: A Celebration of Classical Art and Heritage

The Khajuraho Dance Festival, a vibrant annual celebration of culture, is poised to captivate art enthusiasts once more from February 20 to 26, 2025. Organized by the Department of Culture in Madhya Pradesh, with the backing of Madhya Pradesh Tourism, this festival has been a cornerstone of classical dance since it began in 1975. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Khajuraho Group of Temples, the event not only honors India’s rich cultural legacy but also encourages innovation in classical dance while maintaining its traditional roots. This year’s festival, which marks its 51st edition, promises an engaging experience featuring record-breaking dance performances, heritage tours, craft exhibitions, culinary delights, adventure activities, and much more.

Key Highlights of the 51st Khajuraho Dance Festival 2025

1. Classical Dance Marathon (Relay) – Guinness World Record Attempt

• 100 participants will showcase different Indian classical dance forms for over 24 hours.
• Date: February 19-20, 2025
• Venue: Aadivart Tribal Museum, Khajuraho

2. Awe-Inspiring Classical Dance Performances

• Renowned Indian classical dancers will take the stage, continuing the legacy of this prestigious festival.
• Performances will include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Yakshagana, and more.

3. Culinary Delights – Food Festival

• Experience the authentic flavors of Madhya Pradesh through its traditional cuisine at the Food Festival.

4. Hunar Mela – Handicrafts & Art Fair

• Explore the diverse crafts and artworks of Madhya Pradesh, including handicrafts, paintings, and jewelry.

5. Heritage and Adventure Activities

6. Live Exhibition

7. Open Discussions and Art Seminars

Mopa Airport Wins Prestigious ‘Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar’

Manohar International Airport (GOX), which is developed and operated by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd. (GGIAL), has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first airport in India to be honored with the prestigious “Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar (Golden Trophy)” at the National Safety Council of India (NSCI) Safety Awards 2024 in the ‘Service Sector’ category. This award was presented during a ceremony at The Lalit in Mumbai.

This recognition underscores Manohar International Airport’s outstanding performance in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), its dedication to minimizing workplace injuries, and its implementation of top safety practices. The airport’s proactive safety initiatives and its impressive zero-incident record were key factors in achieving this esteemed award.

Key Highlights of the Award

• First Airport in India to receive the ‘Sarvashrestha Suraksha Puraskar (Golden Trophy)’ under the ‘Service Sector’ category.
• Awarded by the National Safety Council of India (NSCI), an organization under the Ministry of Labour, Government of India (GoI).
• Recognizes organizations across sectors for excellence in occupational safety, health, and risk management.
• Ceremony held in January 2025 at The Lalit, Mumbai.

HAL & DIAT Collaborate for Aerospace Innovation

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has taken an important step in connecting industry with academia by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) located in Pune. This collaboration is designed to promote innovative research, skill enhancement, and technological progress in the aerospace field. HAL’s primary training institute, HAL Management Academy (HMA), will be instrumental in this partnership, providing HAL executives with opportunities for advanced education, research, and training in new aerospace technologies.

Key Highlights of the HAL-DIAT Collaboration

Objective of the Partnership

• Strengthening the relationship between the aerospace industry and universities.
• Advancing efforts in research and development for aerospace technology.
• Fostering skill growth and innovation in the defense and aviation sectors.

Key Features of the MoU

• Higher Education Opportunities: HAL executives can pursue master’s and Ph.D. programs at DIAT.
• Specialized Training: HAL personnel will undergo training in emerging aerospace technologies through capsule modules.
• Faculty & Student Exchange: Knowledge-sharing programs will be conducted between HAL and DIAT.
• Joint Conferences & Seminars: The two institutions will collaborate on hosting industry-focused academic events.
• Collaborative Research Projects: HAL and DIAT will work together on strategic R&D projects to boost India’s defence and aviation capabilities.

Impact of the Collaboration

• Boost to Aerospace Innovation: Enhancing India’s aerospace research ecosystem with new technological advancements.
• Workforce Skill Development: Creating a talent pipeline with advanced knowledge in aerospace engineering.
• Strengthening Defence Sector: Contributing to self-reliance in aviation and defence technology.
• Global Competitiveness: Reinforcing India’s position as a leader in aerospace and defence innovation.