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 4 March 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.
Virat Kohli Becomes Seventh Indian Cricketer to Play 300 ODIs
Virat Kohli, known as one of India’s greatest cricketers, has reached a significant milestone. On March 2, 2025, he played his 300th One Day International (ODI) match in a Champions Trophy game against New Zealand in Dubai. This achievement made Kohli the seventh Indian and the 22nd player globally to reach this impressive milestone.
300 ODI Matches, A Huge Achievement
On March 2, 2025, Virat Kohli reached a significant milestone by participating in his 300th One Day International (ODI) match for India. He has now become the seventh Indian cricketer to achieve this feat. The record is topped by Sachin Tendulkar, who played 463 ODIs, followed by MS Dhoni with 347 matches. Kohli’s career in international cricket has been filled with remarkable achievements, and he keeps adding to his impressive record.
Trump Declared English as the Official Language of the United States
On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump declared that English would become the official language of the United States. He explained that this move aimed to foster unity in a diverse nation. The White House issued an executive order emphasizing that it was “long past time” to establish English as the official language of the country.
Key Changes in the Executive Order
The executive order introduces several changes:
- Previous Language Assistance Programs Ended: Previously, during President Bill Clinton’s administration, there was a rule that mandated federal agencies and organizations receiving government funding to offer services in various languages. This rule has since been eliminated.
- Agencies Can Choose Language Services: Government offices and federally funded organizations whether they want to provide documents and services in languages other than English.
Why was This Order Passed?
The executive order explains that having a common language will:
- Make communication easier across the country.
- Strengthen national unity and shared values.
- Encourage immigrants to learn English, helping them integrate better and achieve success in the U.S.
National Defense Day: Date, Theme
Every year on March 3rd, India observes National Defence Day to honor the sacrifices and bravery of its armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The year 2025 marked the 87th anniversary of this important observance. This day serves as a tribute to the courage and dedication of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, recognizing their essential role in protecting the country from various threats.
Key Highlights of National Defence Day 2025
- Theme: Not Announced Yet
- Date: March 3rd
- Objective: To pay tribute to the Indian armed forces and acknowledge their unwavering commitment to national security.
RBI’s ‘Regulations at a Glance’: Key Insights for Cooperative Banks
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has published the “Regulations at a Glance” handbook, compiled by the Department of Regulation (DoR), to provide a comprehensive overview of important regulatory guidelines for different banking entities, including cooperative banks. The handbook presents key regulations in a table format for quick reference, but it is not intended to replace official circulars, Master Circulars, or Master Directions.
This article focuses on the crucial regulatory provisions for cooperative banks as detailed in the handbook.
Key Regulations for Cooperative Banks
1. Licensing of New Institutions
Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
- Minimum paid-up capital/net worth: ₹12.5 lakh – ₹4 crore (depending on location and population size).
- Note: RBI has stopped accepting fresh applications for new UCBs since 2004.
Rural Cooperative Banks (StCBs & CCBs)
- Declared as State Cooperative Banks (StCBs) or Central Cooperative Banks (CCBs) by the state government.
- RBI grants licenses based on NABARD’s recommendations and internal assessment.
Promoters’ Criteria
- Evaluated on educational qualifications, professional competence, financial strength, capital mobilization ability, and membership eligibility.
2. Branch Licensing
Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
- Automatic Route: UCBs classified as Financially Sound and Well Managed (FSWM) can open branches up to 10% of existing branches (min. 1, max. 5).
- Approval Route: FSWM UCBs must submit an Annual Business Plan (ABP) to RBI’s regional office by December 15.
State Cooperative Banks (StCBs)
- Require NABARD & RBI approval with conditions like:
- CRAR ≥ 9%, NNPA ≤ 5%, compliance record, and no penalties in last two years.
District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs)
Additional requirements,
- Operational for at least 3 years and net profit in last 2 years.
- Not under RBI restrictions.
3. Governance Framework
Regulated by
- State/Central Cooperative Society laws.
- Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949 (since 2020).
Key Provisions
- UCBs must form an Audit Committee of the Board.
- Fit and proper criteria for directors, MD/CEO, and WTD.
- Maximum continuous tenure limits for directors.
- Larger UCBs must appoint an independent Chief Risk Officer (CRO).
- NABARD issues governance guidelines for rural cooperative banks.
4. Credit Risk Management
Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
- Loan against shares, bonds, and debentures: Max ₹10 lakh, LTV 50%.
Rural Cooperative Banks
- Loan against shares, bonds, and debentures: Max ₹5 lakh, LTV 50%.
Securitization of Standard Assets
- Allowed for SCBs, AIFIs, and NBFCs.
- Not allowed for RRBs and Cooperative Banks.
5. Interest Rate Framework & Deposit Pricing
General Principles
- Uniform interest rates across all branches/customers.
- No discrimination in deposit rates for similar amounts and dates.
- No negotiation of interest rates with individual depositors.
- NRE/NRO deposit rates cannot exceed domestic deposit rates.
6. Mergers & Amalgamations
Key Provisions
- Governed by the Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949.
- RBI has discretionary power under Section 44A to approve voluntary amalgamations.
- Private Bank Mergers: Must be approved by shareholders (2/3rd majority) before submission to RBI.
- UCB Mergers: Considered only if depositors’ funds are fully protected.
7. Resolution of Banking Companies & Cooperative Banks
Compulsory Amalgamation/Reconstruction
- RBI can apply to the government for restructuring under Section 45 of the BR Act.
- Section 45(4) (2020 Amendment): RBI can initiate amalgamations during a moratorium or at any other time.
International Women’s Day 2025: Date, Theme
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 to recognize the accomplishments of women across various fields. This day also raises awareness about gender equality and promotes women’s empowerment. It is a worldwide event that acknowledges women’s contributions to society, the economy, culture, and politics, while advocating for their rights and opportunities.
International Women’s Day 2025 – Date
Every year, International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8. In 2025, this day will be observed on Saturday, March 8. This significant occasion honors the accomplishments of women and promotes the cause of gender equality. It is a global celebration where people acknowledge the contributions of women in various sectors and encourage actions to ensure their rights and opportunities.
Theme for International Women’s Day 2025
The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “Accelerate Action.” This theme highlights the importance of making faster strides in improving the lives of women. It calls on people, governments, and organizations to take proactive measures to foster women’s growth, guarantee equal opportunities, and eradicate discrimination.
World Hearing Day 2025: Date, Theme
World Hearing Day is celebrated every year on March 3 to increase awareness about hearing loss, promote the importance of ear and hearing care, and motivate action to tackle hearing-related issues. This global event, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), focuses on a specific theme each year to encourage both individuals and policymakers to take proactive measures in the realm of hearing health.
For 2025, the theme is “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all!” This theme continues from the 2024 focus on altering attitudes towards hearing care and aims to motivate individuals to take ownership of their hearing health.
Key Highlights of World Hearing Day 2025
Theme & Focus
- Theme: “Empower yourself” – promoting individual responsibility for hearing care.
- Goal: Encourage behavior change by inspiring individuals to adopt healthy hearing habits, protect themselves from loud sounds, use hearing devices if needed, and support those with hearing loss.
Vidarbha Clinch Their Third Ranji Trophy Title in Seven Seasons
Vidarbha was crowned the Ranji Trophy champions for the third time in seven seasons following an impressive performance in the 2024-25 final against Kerala in Nagpur. Led by Akshay Wadkar, the team finalized their victory on Sunday, March 2, after the final at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium ended in a draw, winning on the basis of their first-innings lead.
Vidarbha’s Journey to Glory in the Final
Vidarbha showed remarkable grit and determination in the final, beginning with a strong first innings total of 379 runs. Their bowlers effectively limited Kerala to 342, ensuring a crucial first-innings lead. By Day 3, with the lead secured, Vidarbha carefully batted through 143.5 overs in their second innings, finishing at 375/9 before both captains decided to agree on a draw.
This triumph further cements Vidarbha’s legacy in domestic cricket, marking their resurgence as a dominant force in red-ball cricket. Their previous Ranji Trophy victories came in 2017-18 and 2018-19, and after narrowly missing out last season against Mumbai, they made a strong comeback this year.
New fish species discovered in Beijing in over 40 years
The discovery of a new species of spined loach, Cobitis beijingensis, is a significant milestone for biodiversity in Beijing. This finding is the first of its kind in more than 40 years and highlights the ongoing efforts to restore aquatic ecosystems in urban settings. The research was carried out by the Institute of Zoology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, showcasing a strong commitment to conservation and ecological awareness.
Species Identification and Characteristics
- Cobitis beijingensis is a small fish, approximately 5 centimetres in length.
- It features distinctive yellow and black patterned markings on its body.
- The species was identified through extensive morphological and molecular analysis, confirming its uniqueness compared to other loach species in the region.
- The Beijing loach thrives in calm, clear waters with muddy or sandy bottoms, preferring habitats abundant in aquatic plants.
Conservation Significance
Naming this species with the pinyin “Beijing” is a strategic decision aimed at raising awareness about the conservation of freshwater fish in the region. This species acts as a symbol for the protection of local fish populations. Its discovery serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for conservation efforts, especially since many fish species are becoming rare and endangered.
Historical Context of Fish Biodiversity in Beijing
Historically, Beijing hosted 78 species of indigenous fish. However, urbanisation and environmental changes led to decline in fish populations, dropping to about 40 species by 2010. Since then, authorities have prioritised aquatic ecology, resulting in a gradual recovery of fish species. Recent surveys indicate that the number of indigenous fish has increased to around 60.
Challenges from Invasive Species
Despite the positive trends, the survival of Cobitis beijingensis is threatened by invasive species such as the river sand goby and bluegill sunfish. These non-native species compete for resources and habitat, posing risk to indigenous fish. The presence of invasive species marks the ongoing challenges in managing aquatic ecosystems in urban environments.
Restoration Efforts and Public Awareness
Since 2010, efforts to restore microhabitats in major rivers have been initiated. Activities include stocking and releasing native species, improving water quality, and increasing public awareness of river protection. These measures have contributed to the recovery of the Beijing loach and other indigenous fish populations. However, continued vigilance is needed to manage the impact of invasive species.
India’s Growing Obesity Crisis and Health Implications
The recent emphasis on obesity in India has surged after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme. He shed light on troubling statistics that show one in eight Indians is dealing with obesity, especially among children. Modi advocated for reducing oil consumption and called for a collaborative effort to confront this urgent health crisis. The escalating rates of obesity have significant health consequences, leading experts to delve into the causes and possible solutions.
About Obesity in India
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as an excessive accumulation of fat that can lead to various health issues. According to data from the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS), there is a worrying trend: the percentage of overweight or obese women increased from 20.6% to 24% between 2015 and 2021. For men, the figures rose from 18.9% to 22.9%. Furthermore, urban populations tend to have higher obesity rates than those in rural areas. Childhood obesity is particularly troubling, with projections indicating that by 2030, 10.81% of children aged 5 to 9 years will be obese.
Health Risks Associated with Obesity
Obesity is often called the ‘mother of all diseases’ due to its links to serious health problems. The WHO identifies obesity as a major risk factor for conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and various cancers. India has the highest number of diabetes cases globally, with around 101 million people affected. Furthermore, the burden of cancer is projected to rise, with estimates suggesting there will be 1.57 million cases by 2025.
Factors Contributing to Rising Obesity Rates
The increase in obesity rates in urban India is attributed to several factors. Unhealthy diets rich in ultra-processed foods and decreased physical activity are contributors. Air pollution also exacerbates health risks by promoting inflammation. Economic factors play a role; low-income households often rely on inexpensive carbohydrates, leading to nutritional deficiencies. The rising trend of obesity is now also observed among rural populations, indicating a widening crisis.
Physical Activity Challenges
Research indicates that nearly half of all Indians are insufficiently active. Sedentary lifestyles are increasing due to office work and digital device usage. Unsafe outdoor conditions hinder physical activity. The lack of safe spaces for exercise, coupled with rising traffic and crime rates, discourages outdoor activities. Urban environments need to be transformed to encourage active lifestyles.
Measuring Obesity Effectively
Traditional measures of obesity, such as Body Mass Index (BMI), have limitations. BMI does not differentiate between fat and muscle mass or account for fat distribution. Abdominal fat, which is genetically predisposed in Indians, poses greater health risks. Recent guidelines recommend incorporating waist circumference and body fat measurements alongside BMI for a more accurate assessment of obesity.
Yamandú Orsi Sworn in as Uruguay’s President
Yamandú Orsi was sworn in as Uruguay’s President on March 1, 2025, marking the return of the leftist Broad Front coalition after a five-year conservative rule. With a background as a history teacher and mayor, Orsi has promised to bolster Uruguay’s social safety net while confronting economic stagnation. His presidency will require careful navigation of the demands from his leftist base alongside the need for economic growth and maintaining investor confidence. Observers will closely monitor his approach to labor disputes, fiscal challenges, and global expectations.
Key Points:
- Yamandú Orsi, 57 years old, took the oath of office in Montevideo before Congress on March 1, 2025.
- Thousands of Uruguayans gathered in the city’s main square to watch the ceremony on giant screens.
- Orsi’s victory in a highly civilized election was seen as a contrast to the political polarization in Latin America.
- His inauguration brings the Broad Front coalition back to power after a five-year term by Luis Lacalle Pou (centre-right).
