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 27 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.

Operative Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Amount Crosses ₹10 Lakh Crore Benefiting 7.72 Crore Farmers

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme has played a crucial role in ensuring that farmers in India have timely access to affordable credit for agricultural and allied activities. Over the years, the scheme has seen several changes aimed at improving credit availability in the agriculture sector. A notable achievement in this process is the significant increase in the total KCC loan amount, which has more than doubled from ₹4.26 lakh crore in March 2014 to ₹10.05 lakh crore in December 2024. This remarkable growth indicates a strengthening of institutional credit in agriculture and a decrease in farmers’ reliance on non-institutional sources.

Understanding the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) is a banking product aimed at providing farmers with short-term, affordable credit to support their agricultural needs. This scheme was launched to ensure easy and timely access to credit for purchasing essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, as well as to cover cash requirements related to crop production. In 2019, the KCC’s scope was broadened to include allied activities like Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Fisheries, thus extending credit benefits to a wider range of farmers involved in various agricultural pursuits.

Rise in KCC Loans: A Reflection of Agricultural Credit Expansion

The phenomenal growth in the operative KCC loan amount, reaching ₹10.05 lakh crore by December 2024, underscores a significant expansion in agricultural credit. This increase reflects the increasing reliance on institutional credit by farmers, which helps lessen their dependence on costly informal loans. The boost in KCC credit guarantees that farmers have access to essential financial resources to invest in modern farming techniques, enhance productivity, and improve their earnings.

Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS): Enhancing Credit Affordability

The Government of India has launched several initiatives aimed at making credit more accessible for farmers. Through the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS), the government offers a 1.5% interest subvention to banks that provide short-term agricultural loans via KCC. This allows farmers to secure loans of up to ₹3 lakh at a reduced interest rate of 7% per annum.

Additionally, the scheme provides a Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) of 3% for farmers who repay their loans on time. This effectively reduces the interest rate to just 4%, encouraging farmers to adhere to timely repayment schedules and further enhancing their financial security.

Saras Aajeevika Mela 2025: Showcasing India’s Rich Rural Art, Craft, and Culture

The Saras Aajeevika Mela 2025, one of India’s most celebrated exhibitions of rural art, craft, and tradition, is set to take place at Noida Haat, Sector 33 A, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This significant event, organized by the Ministry of Rural Development in partnership with the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR), will run from 21st February to 10th March 2025. The Mela aims to highlight and promote the skills and creativity of Self Help Groups (SHGs) from all over the country.

The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, along with Ministers of State for Rural Development, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani and Shri Kamlesh Paswan. This year’s theme, “Developing Export Potential of Lakhpati SHG Didis,” reflects the government’s vision for a self-reliant rural India and supports the ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ initiatives launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

A Platform for Rural Artisans and SHGs

The Saras Aajeevika Mela provides an essential platform for rural artisans and Self Help Groups (SHGs) to display their handicrafts, handlooms, and food products. With participation from 30 states, the Mela features a wide variety of traditional and cultural goods that reflect India’s rich heritage.

Handloom and Handicrafts on Display

The Mela showcases a vast collection of handloom and handicraft products, highlighting the diversity of India’s textile traditions. Some of the key exhibits include:

• Andhra Pradesh – Kalamkari paintings and textiles
• Assam – Mekhla Chador, a traditional Assamese attire
• Bihar – Cotton and Silk fabrics
• Chhattisgarh – Kosa Saree, known for its elegance and texture
• Gujarat – Bharat Gunthan and Patchwork
• Jharkhand – Tasar Silk and Cotton weaves
• Madhya Pradesh – Chanderi and Bagh Print textiles
• Meghalaya – Unique Eri Silk products
• Odisha – Tasar and Bandha prints
• Tamil Nadu – Kanchipuram Silk Sarees
• Telangana – Pochampally Ikat weaving
• Uttarakhand – Pashmina Wool products
• West Bengal – Kantha, Batik Print, Tant, and Baluchari weaves

Apart from textiles, visitors can explore handcrafted jewelry, home décor items, and wooden artifacts from various states, making this event a treasure trove of authentic Indian craftsmanship.

Natural and Organic Food Products

In addition to handicrafts, Saras Aajeevika Mela 2025 also presents a wide variety of natural and organic food products crafted by rural entrepreneurs. Visitors can explore:

• Ginger, tea, and coffee from the northeastern states
• Lentils, pulses, and spices from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
• Apple jam, papad, and pickles from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
• Traditional sweets and snacks from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal

With over 200 stalls showcasing rural India’s best products, this event serves as a perfect marketplace for both domestic and international buyers looking for authentic handmade goods.

RBI Raises Small Loan Limit for UCBs to ₹3 Crore

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has updated the small-value loan limit for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs), raising it to ₹3 crore for each borrower. This adjustment is part of a larger effort to redefine small-value loans and enhance the financial stability of UCBs. Although the new limit provides more lending flexibility, the RBI has maintained the current conditions, timelines, and prudential norms to promote responsible credit distribution.

Key Points:

Revised Small-Value Loan Definition

• Loans classified as small value should not exceed ₹25 lakh or 0.4% of Tier I capital, whichever is higher.
• The maximum ceiling is capped at ₹3 crore per borrower.
• All existing conditions, timelines, and intermediate targets remain unchanged.

Mandated Loan Composition for UCBs

• UCBs must ensure that at least 50% of their total loans and advances consist of small-value loans by March 31, 2026.
• Bank boards are required to periodically review loan portfolios and may set lower lending ceilings to manage risk.

Housing and Real Estate Exposure Limits

• Aggregate exposure to housing, real estate, and commercial real estate sectors is capped at 10% of total assets.
• An additional 5% exposure is permitted for priority sector housing loans.

Individual housing loan limits

• ₹60 lakh for Tier-1 UCBs.
• ₹1.4 crore for other UCBs.

Caps on Real Estate Exposure

• UCBs’ exposure to residential mortgages (non-priority sector loans) must not exceed 25% of total loans and advances.
• Exposure to real estate (excluding individual housing loans) is limited to 5% of total loans and advances.

SEBI Fines BSE’s ICCL ₹5 Crore for Regulatory Violations

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has imposed a fine of ₹5.05 crore on the Indian Clearing Corporation Ltd. (ICCL), a subsidiary of BSE Ltd., for breaching regulatory standards. This action follows an inspection that highlighted non-compliance with SEBI’s cybersecurity framework, IT asset management, and disaster recovery protocols. SEBI discovered that ICCL had not maintained an up-to-date inventory of critical IT assets, was slow to address audit observations, and failed to ensure proper alignment between its Disaster Recovery Site (DRS) and Primary Data Centre (PDC). Despite ICCL’s claim that the issues were technical and did not affect investors, SEBI found the violations serious enough to justify a financial penalty.

Key Findings from SEBI’s Inspection

Non-compliance with IT Asset Management

• ICCL failed to maintain an updated and accurate inventory of its critical IT assets.
• The centralized inventory lacked details on software assets and the criticality of these assets.

Failure to Comply with SEBI’s Cybersecurity Framework

• ICCL did not resolve audit observations in a timely manner.
• Some audit findings remained unresolved for over six months, violating SEBI’s guidelines.

Deficiencies in Disaster Recovery Systems

• SEBI’s review found that ICCL failed to maintain a one-to-one correspondence between the Disaster Recovery Site (DRS) and the Primary Data Centre (PDC).
• This failure threatened business continuity in the event of a disaster.

Regulatory Violations Identified

• Violations of the SEBI Act, 1992, Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 (SCRA), and SEBI’s Stock Exchange and Clearing Corporations Regulations, 2018 (SECC) were noted.

ICCL’s Defense

• ICCL claimed the violations were technical in nature and did not cause financial harm to investors.
• It argued that corrective actions had already been taken, including updating the asset inventory and resolving audit findings.
• ICCL maintained that some issues, such as minor variations in server specifications, were discrepancies rather than violations.
• The clearing corporation contended that penalties should not be imposed for inadvertent, non-malicious lapses.

SEBI’s Ruling and Penalty

• Despite ICCL’s explanations, SEBI found the lapses serious, as they compromised the integrity and security of financial market operations.

SEBI imposed a total penalty of ₹5.05 crore, divided as follows,

• ₹5 lakh under Section 15HB of the SEBI Act
• ₹5 crore under Section 23GA of the SCRA
• ICCL is required to pay the penalty within 45 days of receiving the order.

Paytm Solar Soundbox: A Game-Changer for Small Merchants in India

Paytm has launched the Paytm Solar Soundbox, an innovative solution that aims to transform digital payments for small merchants in India. Launched on February 20, 2025, this product provides seamless and consistent transaction alerts powered by solar energy. It is specifically tailored for hawkers, street vendors, and small shopkeepers, allowing them to operate without relying on electricity, which is particularly advantageous for businesses in rural and remote areas.

How Does the Paytm Solar Soundbox Work?

The Paytm Solar Soundbox is built with an inbuilt solar panel, allowing it to charge automatically under sunlight. It features two batteries:

• One that charges using solar energy.
• Another that charges via electricity as a backup.

Just 2-3 hours of sunlight is enough to fully charge the solar-powered battery, allowing for a full day of operation. The secondary battery, when charged via electricity, can last as long as 10 days. This dual-battery system ensures that functionality is maintained, reduces the need for frequent charging, and supports sustainable energy use.

What Are the Key Features for Small Merchants?

Paytm has designed this device specifically for India’s small merchants, who rely on quick and secure digital transactions. Key features include:

• 4G Connectivity: Ensures fast and reliable payment confirmations.
• Clear Audio Alerts: Comes with a 3-watt speaker, providing loud and clear transaction alerts, even in noisy environments.
• Multilingual Support: Supports 11 regional languages, making it more accessible to diverse users.
• QR Code Integration: The Paytm QR Code is embedded in the device, allowing merchants to accept UPI and RuPay Credit Card transactions seamlessly.

Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards Honor India’s Healthcare Legacy

The Ministry of Ayush has awarded three exceptional practitioners with the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards in recognition of their significant contributions to traditional Indian medicine. Each awardee received a citation, a statue of Lord Dhanwantari, and a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.

Who Are the 2025 Award Recipients?

Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma: Renowned as a Nadi Vaidya and author, Sharma has significantly advanced Ayurvedic diagnostics and literature.

Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal: A scholar in Dravyaguna Vigyana with over six decades of service, Uniyal’s extensive writings and leadership have inspired many in the field.

Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni: Founder of the Vishwa Vyakhyanmala national conference and Vishwa Ayurveda Prabodhini, Jamadagni has transformed Ayurveda education over four decades.

How Do These Awards Reflect India’s Healthcare Mission?

Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, stated that these awards highlight India’s significant role in global healthcare. The dedication of these practitioners aligns with the mission to integrate traditional wisdom with modern healthcare systems.

Moon’s South Pole: First Detailed Geological Map Unveiled

Indian scientists have made a groundbreaking achievement by creating the first comprehensive geological map of the Moon’s south pole, utilizing data from the Chandrayaan-3 mission. This new map offers critical insights into the lunar surface, providing valuable information about the region’s topography, crater formations, and geological history. The research, a collaborative effort between the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad, Panjab University in Chandigarh, and ISRO’s Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems, represents a significant advancement in our understanding of the Moon’s evolution.

What Does the New Geological Map Reveal?

The map illustrates the diverse landscape surrounding the Chandrayaan-3 landing site, featuring both highlands and lowland plains. Researchers estimate that this area is about 3.7 billion years old, which coincides with the time when early microbial life was beginning to develop on Earth. This finding enriches our understanding of planetary science, enabling scientists to draw comparisons between Earth’s ancient geological activities and those of the Moon.

Furthermore, scientists have analyzed the arrangement of secondary craters in the area, confirming that debris from the Schomberger crater has significantly influenced the surface around Chandrayaan-3. By studying these crater patterns, researchers can better understand past lunar impacts, enhancing our models of the Moon’s geological history.

How Does This Map Help in Lunar Science?

Lunar craters are natural records of the Moon’s history, helping scientists figure out the ages of geological formations. By studying how craters are distributed and the composition of the surface, researchers can learn about the evolution of the Moon and other celestial bodies in the inner solar system over billions of years. The new geological map enhances our understanding of the Moon’s impact history, revealing the processes that have shaped its surface.

Moreover, this map provides critical information for future lunar missions. As space agencies, including NASA and ISRO, plan for Moon exploration and possible human settlements, detailed mapping of the south pole will assist in selecting safe landing sites and potential resource locations. The south pole is particularly significant due to the presence of shadowed craters that may contain frozen water—an essential element for future lunar missions.

Prakriti 2025: Advancing India’s Carbon Market

The inaugural International Conference on Carbon Markets, Prakriti 2025, was held in New Delhi on February 24-25, 2025, marking an important milestone in India’s climate action agenda. Hosted by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, the conference welcomed over 600 delegates, including policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and international experts, to engage in discussions about the future of carbon markets in India. The focus was on developing a structured carbon market to support India’s shift towards a low-carbon economy while ensuring transparency, sustainability, and collaboration among industries.

Why Is India Focusing on Carbon Markets Now?

India has been taking steps to decrease carbon emissions as part of its commitment to international climate goals. During the event, Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, emphasized the vital role of carbon markets in emission control. He mentioned that India is moving away from fossil fuels and is increasingly adopting renewable energy solutions. He also pointed out the cultural significance of sustainability in India, referencing practices like Ganga Deep Puja and Govardhan Puja that promote environmental consciousness. The Minister further highlighted the need for transparent and verifiable mechanisms for carbon reduction to ensure accountability.

How Will the Indian Carbon Market (ICM) Work?

The Indian Carbon Market (ICM) is expected to operate in a phased manner, as explained by Shri Akash Tripathi, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Power. The initiative aims for a 40% reduction in emissions by 2027, with full implementation targeted for 2030. This carbon market will enable businesses to trade carbon credits, encouraging companies to lower their emissions and shift towards cleaner energy options. This strategy ensures that industries can achieve national climate goals in a cost-effective manner. The effectiveness of this system will hinge on clear regulations, market stability, and active engagement from industries.

Advantage Assam 2.0: A New Dawn for Investment and Infrastructure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, representing a significant milestone in the economic development of Assam. The event saw considerable investment commitments from major industrial players and showcased Assam’s transformation into a peaceful and business-friendly state.

What Are the Major Investment Announcements?

During the summit, Reliance Industries Limited and the Adani Group both revealed their intentions to invest ₹50,000 crore each in Assam over the next five years. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance, highlighted the company’s dedication to fostering growth in Assam, especially in the technology and digital sectors. In a similar vein, Gautam Adani detailed the group’s plans for investment in a range of infrastructure projects, such as airports, city gas distribution networks, and roadways.

How Has Assam’s Economy Transformed?

According to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam’s economy is expected to grow to $143 billion by 2030, illustrating a dramatic shift from a history of unrest to one of stability and growth. He noted that the state’s GDP growth for this year is projected to be 15.2%, attributing this progress to the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the execution of significant industrial projects.

What Is the Significance of Advantage Assam 2.0?

Prime Minister Modi described Advantage Assam as a “mega campaign” aimed at connecting the world with Assam’s potential and progress. He highlighted the region’s historical role in India’s prosperity and emphasized its renewed strength in the nation’s development trajectory. The summit also attracted participation from global industry leaders and delegations from countries such as Australia, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan, underscoring Assam’s growing appeal as an investment destination.

TRIFED Partners with NIFT and HPMC to Boost Tribal Entrepreneurship

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED), functioning under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has signed important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Ltd (HPMC). These agreements were formalized at the Aadi Mahotsav event in New Delhi on February 24, 2025, and are designed to shift tribal marketing from a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) model to a more extensive Business-to-Business (B2B) model, significantly broadening the market reach and opportunities for tribal artisans and producers.

How will NIFT’s collaboration benefit tribal artisans?

TRIFED is partnering with NIFT to focus on the design and curation of tribal handloom and handicraft products. NIFT, a leading fashion and design institute, will help enhance the aesthetics and marketability of these items. This initiative aims to ensure that tribal craftsmanship is in tune with current market trends and consumer preferences, thereby boosting its demand in both domestic and international markets. With NIFT’s technical expertise, tribal artisans will be exposed to modern design techniques, branding, and product presentation, making their work more competitive.

What role does HPMC play in tribal entrepreneurship?

The MoU with HPMC is centered on enhancing the technological and processing aspects of horticultural and minor forest products. TRIFED aims to add value to raw tribal produce by incorporating advanced processing techniques that extend shelf life and improve quality. HPMC, with its extensive experience in horticulture and food processing, will provide technical expertise to help tribal entrepreneurs refine their products for larger distribution networks. This collaboration will create new market opportunities and boost income levels for tribal farmers engaged in minor forest produce and agriculture.

SWAYATT Completes 6 Years of Digital Procurement Success

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) marked the sixth anniversary of the Startups, Women & Youth Advantage through eTransactions (SWAYATT) initiative at its headquarters in New Delhi on February 19, 2025. Launched on February 19, 2019, SWAYATT has focused on boosting the involvement of women-led businesses, startups, youth, and marginalized communities in public procurement. Aligned with GeM’s dedication to social inclusion, the initiative promotes ease of doing business, creates direct market connections, and empowers small-scale entrepreneurs.

Key Highlights of SWAYATT’s 6-Year Journey

Empowering Entrepreneurs

• SWAYATT focuses on onboarding, training, and supporting last-mile sellers, especially women entrepreneurs, micro & small enterprises (MSEs), and self-help groups (SHGs).

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FICCI-FLO

• On the 6th anniversary, GeM signed an MoU with FICCI Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO), representing over 9,500 women entrepreneurs, to facilitate direct market access and boost local job creation.

Startup Growth

• From just 3,400 startups at launch, the platform now supports over 29,000 startups, who have received orders worth ₹35,950 Crore.

Women’s Participation in Public Procurement

• Women entrepreneurs now constitute 8% of GeM’s seller base, with 1,77,786 Udyam-verified women MSEs contributing to a cumulative order value of ₹46,615 Crore.

Dedicated Platforms

• SWAYATT includes specialized storefronts such as “Startup Runway” and “Womaniya”, enhancing visibility and business opportunities for startups and women-led enterprises.

Vision for Expansion

• GeM aims to onboard 1 Lakh DPIIT-registered startups, double the number of women entrepreneurs, and increase their share in national procurement beyond 3.78%.

World Protein Day 2025

World Protein Day, which is celebrated annually on February 27, aims to increase awareness about the essential role of protein in our diets. It highlights the health benefits of sufficient protein consumption while addressing the challenges of protein deficiency. This observance also emphasizes the importance of protein-rich foods in enhancing global nutritional security, ensuring improved health and well-being for people around the world.

Significance of World Protein Day

Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a key role in muscle growth, immune function, and hormone regulation. It’s important to raise awareness about protein deficiency, particularly in areas where malnutrition is common. Encouraging the intake of protein-rich foods can help prevent malnutrition, diseases related to deficiency, and various lifestyle disorders. This initiative aims to foster a healthier and more nutritionally secure population by ensuring that protein-rich foods are accessible to everyone.

How Much Protein Do You Need Daily?

• According to Harvard research, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight.
• A sedentary 50-year-old woman weighing 63 kg needs approximately 53 grams of protein per day.
• During pregnancy, women should consume 75-100 grams of protein per day to support fetal development, placenta growth, and blood supply expansion.

Sources of Protein

• Animal-based sources: Eggs, chicken, fish, dairy products.
• Plant-based sources: Lentils, chickpeas, soy products, nuts, and seeds.