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 28 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.

Punjab Schools to Compulsorily Teach Punjabi

The Punjab government has made it mandatory for all schools in the state, irrespective of their educational board, to teach Punjabi as a main and compulsory subject. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced this decision through a new notification, which takes effect immediately. This initiative guarantees that Punjabi will be a fundamental component of school curricula across various boards, including PSEB, CBSE, and CISCE. The decision comes in response to worries about the reported removal of Punjabi from the CBSE’s Class 10 regional language list.

Key Highlights of the Decision

The Punjab government has made it mandatory for all schools to teach Punjabi as a core subject for Class 10, regardless of their board affiliation.

• This rule applies to Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), CBSE, and CISCE schools.
• Certificates of students will be considered null and void if Punjabi is not included as a main subject.
• The Punjab Learning of Punjabi and Other Languages Act, 2008, will be strictly enforced, with penalties for non-compliance.
• Private schools violating the Act have been fined ₹50,000 each for non-compliance.

UAE Introduces Blue Visa: 10-Year Residency for Foreigners

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched the first phase of the Blue Visa system, a 10-year residency permit designed for individuals who contribute to environmental sustainability. This initiative was announced at the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, held from February 11 to 13. It was introduced by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP). The Blue Visa adds to the UAE’s existing long-term residency options, such as the Golden Visa and Green Visa, and highlights the country’s commitment to sustainability and climate action.

Key Highlights

UAE Blue Visa

• Objective: Designed for individuals contributing to environmental sustainability and climate action.
• Residency Duration: Offers a 10-year residency permit.
• Announced At: World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai (February 11-13).

Launching Authorities

• Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE)
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP)

Target Group

• Environmental innovators and sustainability leaders.
• Members of international organizations and NGOs.
• Corporate leaders in environmental protection.
• Recipients of global sustainability awards.
• Researchers working on sustainability solutions.

Initial Phase

• 20 sustainability experts will receive the visa.
• Eligible individuals can apply via ICP or get nominated by UAE authorities.

Application Process

• Fully electronic and available 24/7 via the ICP website and mobile app.
• Government agencies in the sustainability sector can submit nominations.

India’s First Hyperloop Test Track: A High-Speed Revolution

IIT Madras, in partnership with Indian Railways, has inaugurated India’s first hyperloop test track, representing a significant advancement in high-speed transportation. This 422-meter-long facility, situated on the IIT Madras campus, aims to facilitate ultra-fast travel, potentially reducing lengthy intercity trips to mere minutes. The hyperloop system operates with electromagnetically levitated pods traveling through vacuum tubes, minimizing air resistance and achieving speeds similar to those of airplanes.

How Does the Hyperloop Work and What Makes It Different?

Hyperloop technology works on the principle of magnetic levitation, where pods glide through a vacuum tube, reducing friction and air resistance. This allows for speeds of up to 1,200 km/h, making it much quicker than traditional rail systems. Reports indicate that a hyperloop could link cities such as Delhi to Jaipur or Bengaluru to Chennai in just 30 minutes. The technology, first conceptualized by Elon Musk, has gained global attention, and India’s initiative marks an important step in adapting this futuristic transport model for real-world use.

Who is Leading the Project and How is It Being Developed?

This project is a result of a strong partnership between the Indian government and academia. The Ministry of Railways is funding the test track, which will act as a research platform to refine hyperloop technology for large-scale implementation. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced an additional grant of $1 million to accelerate research and testing. The Avishkar Hyperloop team from IIT Madras, which has been actively pursuing this concept for years, is essential in the development and testing of the pods.

When Will Hyperloop Become a Reality in India?

The next phase of the project involves identifying a 40-50 km stretch for a full-scale hyperloop system. If the pilot testing is successful, Indian Railways aims to move toward commercial deployment. Once implemented, this technology has the potential to transform public transport by making travel faster, more efficient, and energy-saving. The Economic Times has reported that the government is keen on supporting further developments to make this a feasible transportation mode in the near future.

India’s first hyperloop test track is a crucial milestone in transportation innovation. If successful, it could redefine travel in the country, making intercity commuting faster and more convenient. With continued research and investment, hyperloop travel may soon become a reality, putting India at the forefront of futuristic mobility solutions.

MP Secures ₹30.77 Lakh Cr in Investment Pledges

Madhya Pradesh has received investment commitments worth ₹30.77 lakh crore at the 8th edition of the Invest Madhya Pradesh Summit, held in Bhopal. This two-day event aimed to draw in global investors by showcasing the state’s strategic benefits, industrial capabilities, and business-friendly policies, all while promoting economic growth across various sectors. The summit featured participation from major corporate players such as Adani Group, Reliance Industries, NTPC, and Avaada, further establishing MP’s rising status as a key investment destination.

Key Highlights

Major Investment at Madhya Pradesh Summit

• Record Investment Commitments: MoUs worth ₹30.77 lakh crore were signed.
• Major Investors: Companies like Adani, Reliance, NTPC, Avaada, PFC, REC, and OPG Power Generation pledged large-scale investments.
• Sectoral Focus: Investments span manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and technology.

Top Investment Announcements

• Adani Group: ₹1.10 lakh crore in pumped storage, cement, mining, smart meters, and thermal energy.
• Reliance Industries: ₹60,000 crore in biofuel projects.
• NTPC Green Energy Ltd & MPPGCL: ₹1.2 lakh crore in renewable energy (20 GW capacity).
• Avaada: ₹50,000 crore in solar, wind, battery storage, and solar PV module manufacturing.
• PFC & REC: ₹26,800 crore and ₹21,000 crore in lending support.
• OPG Power Generation: ₹13,400 crore for battery storage, green hydrogen, and hybrid power.

India Successfully Test Fires Naval Anti-Ship Missile

India has successfully carried out the test-firing of a novel Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. The missile was launched from an Indian Naval Seaking helicopter and showcased its precision strike capability. This event marks a crucial milestone in enhancing India’s defense and naval warfare capabilities.

Successful Missile Test at Chandipur

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Navy, conducted the test at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur. The Defence Ministry announced that the missile successfully struck its target, a small ship, while in sea-skimming mode at its maximum range. This successful flight test highlighted India’s advancements in missile technology, especially in naval warfare systems.

Key Features of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR)

The Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR) is an indigenously developed missile system designed to engage and destroy enemy warships. Some of its key features include:

• Man-in-Loop Feature: The missile allows in-flight retargeting by transmitting live images back to the pilot.
• Sea-Skimming Mode: It flies at a low altitude close to the sea surface to evade enemy radar detection.
• Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker: This enables precise target acquisition and terminal guidance.
• High Bandwidth Two-Way Datalink System: Ensures real-time communication between the missile and the pilot.

The successful test of NASM-SR is a major boost for India’s maritime defense capabilities. This missile system is expected to be deployed on Indian Navy helicopters and warships, significantly enhancing their ability to neutralize enemy naval assets. The missile’s precision strike capability will improve the Navy’s offensive strength in oceanic warfare scenarios.

SIDBI Signs MoU with Tata Capital Limited to Strengthen MSME Financing

The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Capital Limited (TCL) to improve financing options for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This agreement focuses on supporting the growth of MSMEs by providing various funding opportunities, including loans for machinery and equipment, working capital loans, and loans against property. The collaboration will also investigate co-lending, risk-sharing, and joint financing approaches to facilitate better credit access for MSMEs.

Key Highlights

Objective of the MoU

• Strengthen financing avenues for MSMEs through SIDBI and Tata Capital Limited (TCL).

Funding Areas Covered

• Machinery/equipment financing
• Working capital loans (CC/OD/business loans)
• Loans against property
• Risk Sharing and Co-Lending: The MoU will explore risk-sharing mechanisms, joint financing, and co-lending models to improve MSME credit access.

Signing Ceremony

• Signed by Vivek Kumar Malhotra, Chief General Manager, SIDBI
• Signed by Vivek Chopra, Chief Operating Officer, Retail Finance, TCL
• Attended by senior officials from SIDBI and TCL

SIDBI’s Role in MSME Development:

• Indirect Lending: Expands reach in MSME financing through partner institutions.
• Direct Lending: Addresses existing credit gaps in the MSME sector.
• Fund of Funds: Supports startups to boost entrepreneurial culture.
• Promotion & Development: Handholding and credit-plus initiatives for MSMEs.
• Facilitator: Acts as a nodal agency for government MSME schemes.

Bharat Calling Conference 2025: A Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047

In a major step towards shaping the economic landscape of India, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, officially opened the ‘Bharat Calling Conference 2025’. This event, organized by the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Mumbai, carries the theme ‘Path to Viksit Bharat 2047: Pioneering Prosperity for All’. It highlights India’s crucial role in global economic development and its potential as a top investment hub. With a robust economy, a vast consumer base, and supportive government policies, India is poised to draw investments from various sectors.

India’s Position in Global Economic Growth

While delivering the keynote address, Shri Piyush Goyal emphasized India’s unparalleled opportunities in manufacturing, skill development, and innovation. He discussed the Government of India’s strategic initiatives, such as Make in India, Digital India, Startup India, Swacch Bharat, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, which have collectively bolstered the country’s economic foundation. These initiatives are steering India towards self-reliance and greater involvement in global trade, in alignment with the overarching vision of Amrit Kaal, the transformative two decades leading to 2047.

Key Enablers for Viksit Bharat 2047

Shri Goyal outlined five critical enablers for India’s development into a fully developed nation by 2047:

• Quality Management and Handholding of Small Businesses
• Sustainability in Trade and Commerce
• Inclusive Growth
• Skill Development
• Competitiveness and Efficiency

These pillars are instrumental in ensuring economic prosperity, social equity, and technological advancement in the country.

Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony 2025: Recognizing Excellence in Animal Welfare

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), which operates under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, hosted the Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony on February 27, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The event was held to honor individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to animal welfare, protection, and compassionate treatment of animals.

The AWBI, established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, plays a crucial role in ensuring that animals are not subjected to unnecessary pain or suffering. The ceremony was attended by eminent personalities, including Union Ministers of State, senior government officials, representatives from various states, and distinguished animal welfare advocates.

Launch of Key Books on Animal Welfare

The event also marked the launch of four significant books aimed at strengthening the implementation of animal welfare laws and ensuring better awareness among veterinarians, policymakers, and field officials. These books include:

1. Handbook for Veterinary Officers on Animal Welfare Laws – A detailed guide for veterinary professionals on legal aspects and responsibilities concerning animal welfare.
2. Law Enforcement Handbook on Animal Welfare Laws – A reference book for law enforcement agencies to ensure effective implementation of animal welfare regulations.
3. Animal Law Handbook for Urban Local Bodies – A guide to help municipal authorities and local governing bodies enforce animal welfare laws more efficiently.
4. Revised Animal Birth Control (ABC) Module – A comprehensive strategy for managing the street dog population, preventing rabies, and reducing man-dog conflict.

About Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Awards

Prani Mitra Award

The Prani Mitra Award was launched in 1966 to celebrate individuals for their remarkable contributions to animal welfare and protection. As the years have gone by, the award has also come to recognize organizations. To date, 54 individuals have received this esteemed honor.

Jeev Daya Award

The Jeev Daya Award, established in 2001, recognizes and appreciates the contributions of animal lovers. Since then, 12 individuals and organizations have been conferred with this prestigious award for their work in promoting animal welfare.

Prani Mitra Awards 2025 – Honouring Excellence in Animal Welfare

The Prani Mitra Awards were presented under five categories to individuals and organizations that demonstrated outstanding commitment to animal welfare:

Jeev Daya Awards 2025 – Recognizing Compassion in Animal Welfare

Aadhaar Good Governance Portal Launched to Enhance Ease of Living and Service Accessibility

In a major step towards enhancing digital governance and improving public service access, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has introduced the Aadhaar Good Governance Portal. This initiative is designed to simplify the approval process for Aadhaar authentication requests, facilitating easier access to a range of services in both the public and private sectors. The launch is in line with the government’s goal of making Aadhaar more user-friendly, ultimately promoting a better quality of life and ensuring that citizens can easily access essential services.

Official Launch of the Aadhaar Good Governance Portal

The Aadhaar Good Governance Portal was officially launched by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, in the presence of key dignitaries, including:

• Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, CEO, UIDAI
• Shri Inder Pal Singh Sethi, Director General, NIC
• Shri Manish Bhardwaj, DDG, UIDAI
• Shri Amod Kumar, DDG, UIDAI
• Senior officials from MeitY, UIDAI, and NIC

This online platform, available at http://swik.meity.gov.in, is launched in accordance with the notification of the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Amendment Rules, 2025, which falls under the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits, and Services) Act, 2016. The purpose of the amendment is to improve transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency in the decision-making process.

Features of the Aadhaar Good Governance Portal

The Aadhaar Good Governance Portal has been designed as a comprehensive digital resource, offering a step-by-step guide for entities seeking Aadhaar authentication approval.

Key Features of the Portal:

• Step-by-Step Authentication Guide: The portal provides a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for entities on how to apply for Aadhaar authentication and onboard onto the system.
• User-Friendly Interface: Entities can seamlessly submit applications and track approvals in real-time.
• Resource Repository: Access to documents, guidelines, and FAQs to assist entities in compliance with Aadhaar authentication regulations.
• Integration with Face Authentication: The portal supports the integration of Face Authentication in customer-facing applications, enabling anytime, anywhere authentication.

Military Exercise ‘Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025’ Held at Bet Dwarka

The Indian Army, in partnership with the Indian Coast Guard and Marine Police, conducted a large-scale military exercise known as ‘Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025’ at Bet Dwarka, Gujarat. This exercise focused on strengthening island security, combating illegal encroachment, and improving coordination among different security forces. Multiple government agencies observed the drill to ensure readiness against any potential security threats.

Key Highlights of the Exercise

Location & Purpose

• Conducted at Bet Dwarka, Gujarat.
• Focused on securing islands and combating illegal encroachments.

Participants

• 11 Ahmedabad and 31 Jamnagar Army units.
• Indian Coast Guard and Marine Police.
• District Administration of Devbhoomi Dwarka, Forest Department, Maritime Board, Gujarat Energy Department, and NSG.

Activities Conducted

• Coordinated security drills involving hovercraft landings and securing critical infrastructure.
• Response simulations for potential land-based threats and terrorist attacks.
• Strengthening interdepartmental coordination in times of crisis.

Strategic Importance

• Enhances India’s coastal defense capabilities.
• Improves inter-service coordination for emergency response.
• Boosts preparedness for security threats to key maritime zones.

NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer for Mapping the Moon’s Water Launched

NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer, a small satellite designed to map lunar water, has embarked on its mission to explore one of the Moon’s most valuable resources. Launched on 26th February aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the orbiter will investigate the presence, form, and distribution of water in the cold, shadowed regions of the Moon. By providing high-resolution maps of lunar water, the mission aims to support future human and robotic exploration, offering crucial insights for sustainable space travel and lunar resource utilization.

Key Points:

Mission Objectives

• Map the distribution and form of water on the Moon.
• Determine how lunar water changes with time and temperature.
• Improve understanding of water cycles on airless celestial bodies.

Advanced Science Instruments

Lunar Trailblazer will use two key instruments,

• HVM3 (High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper)
• Detects and maps spectral fingerprints of minerals and water.
• Built by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).
• LTM (Lunar Thermal Mapper)
• Maps thermal properties and minerals.
• Developed by the University of Oxford, funded by the UK Space Agency.

Journey to the Moon

• Weighs 440 pounds (200 kg) and measures 11.5 feet (3.5 meters) wide.
• Uses a low-energy transfer trajectory, relying on Sun, Earth, and Moon gravity.
• Travel time: 4 to 7 months after launch.

Exploration of the Moon’s South Pole

• Will peer into permanently shadowed craters at the Moon’s South Pole.
• Uses faint reflected light to detect possible frozen water deposits.
• Identifying ice deposits could aid future lunar exploration and resource utilization.