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 12 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-Israel Business & CEO Forums to Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

India and Israel are set to deepen their economic and trade relations with the upcoming India-Israel Business Forum and India-Israel CEO Forum, both scheduled for February 11, 2025, in New Delhi. These forums aim to bolster bilateral economic ties and open new pathways for technological collaboration, investment opportunities, and partnerships across various sectors. High-level delegations, business leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from both countries will convene to explore further opportunities for economic integration and innovation.

India-Israel Business Forum: Fostering Cross-Sector Collaborations

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), part of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, is organizing the India-Israel Business Forum in partnership with the Embassy of Israel and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). This forum aims to enhance trade relationships, encourage collaborations across various sectors, and explore investment opportunities between Indian and Israeli businesses.

Focus Areas for Collaboration

India and Israel share a common vision for technological advancement and entrepreneurship, making them natural economic allies. Key focus areas include:

• Technology and Innovation: Collaborations in AI, digital transformation, and smart manufacturing.
• Defense and Security: Partnerships in defense technology, cybersecurity, and homeland security.
• Clean Energy and Sustainability: Joint efforts in renewable energy, water conservation, and green technologies.
• Healthcare and Life Sciences: Collaborations in medical research, pharmaceutical trade, and biotech investments.
• Agriculture and Food Security: Israeli expertise in precision agriculture, drip irrigation, and sustainable farming solutions.

RBI Defers Liquidity Coverage Ratio and Project Financing Norms to 2026

In a significant decision aimed at ensuring financial stability and supporting banks, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has postponed the implementation of Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) and project financing guidelines by a year. The earliest implementation date is now set for March 31, 2026. This decision comes in response to worries expressed by both public and private sector banks about possible liquidity issues that these regulations might create.

Why Did RBI Postpone the LCR Norms?

The LCR norms were originally set to come into effect on April 1, 2025. These guidelines would have required banks to hold a larger amount of high-quality liquid assets (HQLAs) to better handle sudden withdrawals. A significant aspect of these norms included an extra 5% run-off factor for retail deposits accessed via internet and mobile banking. This requirement would have compelled banks to redirect substantial funds—estimated to exceed ₹4 lakh crore—from lending to the purchase of government securities. Such a transition could have limited the availability of credit in the market, impacting both businesses and consumers.

What Were Banks’ Concerns?

Both public and private sector banks raised concerns that strict LCR requirements could create liquidity stress, limiting their ability to extend loans to businesses and individuals. In late January 2025, the RBI engaged with banks to assess the impact of these norms. Banks urged the regulator to reconsider the timeline, suggesting that a phased approach would be more effective in balancing financial stability with credit flow.

What Is RBI’s Future Plan for Implementation?

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that the central bank remains committed to maintaining financial stability without disrupting the banking system. He assured that the RBI will provide banks with adequate time to adjust to the new norms while ensuring a smooth transition. The central bank is expected to introduce a phased implementation strategy, allowing banks to comply with the LCR guidelines gradually without affecting lending capacity.

International Epilepsy Day 2025: Date, Theme, History and Importance

International Epilepsy Day (IED) is a worldwide healthcare event that takes place on the second Monday of February each year, starting from 2015. The purpose of this event is to unite patients living with epilepsy and foster a sense of community where they can discuss the condition, its epidemiological aspects, diagnosis, and treatment options. IED is dedicated to raising awareness and offering support to the millions of people impacted by this neurological disorder. This year, International Epilepsy Day 2025 will be celebrated on February 10th, a Monday, with the theme “MyEpilepsyJourney.”

International Epilepsy Day 2025 Theme

The theme for International Epilepsy Day 2025 is “MyEpilepsyJourney.” This theme encourages those living with epilepsy to share their personal stories and experiences. By opening up about their struggles and victories, the initiative aims to raise awareness and deepen understanding of the condition. Sharing these experiences also helps improve patient care, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that individuals with epilepsy receive the best possible support to enhance their quality of life.

Aero India 2025: India’s Largest Defence Expo Begins

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Aero India 2025, marking the 15th edition of India’s top aerospace and defence exhibition, on February 10, 2025, at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. This five-day event, known as Asia’s largest in the industry, is an important venue for showcasing India’s advancements in defence technology, aerospace innovations, and global collaborations.

The scale of Aero India 2025 is unprecedented, spanning 42,438 square meters with participation from 30 defence ministers, 43 military chiefs, and representatives from 90 countries. The exhibition features an extensive display of 70 fighter jets, transport aircraft, and trainer aircraft, along with 30 helicopters performing aerial maneuvers.

One of the major highlights is the presence of Russian and American fifth-generation stealth fighter jets, including the Russian Su-57 and Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II. Their participation signals India’s growing stature as a global defence and aerospace hub.

How is the Indian Government Supporting Defence Growth?

The Indian government has made a strong commitment to defence modernization. In the Union Budget for 2025-26, ₹6.81 lakh crore has been allocated to the Ministry of Defence, with ₹1.80 lakh crore specifically designated for capital acquisition. Notably, 75% of this modernization budget is reserved for domestic procurement, which will enhance the Indian defense ecosystem.

Rajnath Singh also emphasized public-private collaboration in boosting India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. A notable example is the Tata Advanced Systems Limited-Airbus joint venture for manufacturing C-295 transport aircraft in Gujarat. Such initiatives highlight the growing synergy between the government, private companies, and international defence firms.

How is India’s Defence Industry Growing in Manufacturing and Exports?

India’s domestic defence production is projected to surpass ₹1.25 trillion ($14.24 billion) by March 2025, marking a significant advancement for its Make in India initiative. This increase is fueled by the local manufacturing of cutting-edge fighter jets, missiles, drones, and various defence systems.

On the export front, India’s defence exports are expected to cross ₹210 billion, setting a new record. The Indian government has been aggressively promoting defence exports, securing deals with countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Aero India’s Journey from 1996 to 2025

Since its launch in 1996, Aero India has grown into one of the world’s most significant aerospace exhibitions. The 2023 edition recorded over seven lakh visitors, representatives from 98 countries, and 809 exhibitors, resulting in over ₹75,000 crore in MoUs and technology transfers. The 2025 edition aims to exceed these milestones, reinforcing India’s strategic position in global aerospace and defence.

Aero India 2025 is not just about showcasing military strength; it represents India’s ambitions to become a global defence hub, attract foreign investments, and strengthen international defence collaborations. The event reflects India’s vision for self-reliance, technological innovation, and strategic global partnerships in the aerospace sector.

Indian Army and IAF Execute ‘Winged Raider’ in Eastern Theater

The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF) have successfully conducted a joint military exercise referred to as ‘Winged Raider’ in the Eastern Theater. This strategic drill was aimed at improving special airborne operations and enhancing coordination between the two forces. Conducted in a crucial operational area, the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to boost rapid deployment capabilities and foster inter-service collaboration.

What Makes ‘Exercise Winged Raider’ Significant?

The ‘Winged Raider’ exercise is essential for improving airborne insertion techniques, especially in tough terrains. The operation featured both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, reflecting a high degree of readiness. A notable aspect was the first-time deployment of the Chinook helicopter for training troops in airborne operations in the Eastern Theater. Special Forces units engaged in this drill, emphasizing rapid deployment, tactical maneuvering, and mission preparedness.

How Does This Exercise Strengthen India’s Defense Readiness?

The joint exercise underscores the importance of airborne forces in modern military strategy. By practicing insertion techniques, coordinated attacks, and swift troop movements, the Indian Army and IAF are preparing for real-time operational challenges. Exercises like ‘Winged Raider’ also help develop integrated warfare strategies, which are crucial for countering threats in high-altitude and border regions. This drill reflects the armed forces’ ongoing efforts to enhance coordination, ensuring effective responses to any security challenges.

President of India Inaugurates International Conference on Unani Medicine

On February 11, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated an international conference on Unani medicine at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Organized by the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) under the Ministry of Ayush, the event was titled “Innovations in Unani Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way Forward.” It marked the celebration of Unani Day and aimed to highlight the role of Unani medicine in contemporary healthcare.

Unani Day is observed in honor of Hakim Ajmal Khan, a notable Unani physician, freedom fighter, and educator. Since 2016, this day has been celebrated to acknowledge his contributions to the Unani system of medicine in India. President Murmu paid tribute to him, underlining the importance of ongoing innovation in Unani medicine to ensure it remains relevant in modern healthcare.

How is the Government Supporting Unani Medicine?

India has a strong network of institutions dedicated to Unani education, research, and healthcare. The President noted the government’s commitment to mainstreaming traditional medicine, as reflected in the National Health Policy 2017. She highlighted the introduction of MD and PhD programs in Unani colleges, ensuring that the next generation of medical professionals continues to strengthen this ancient system. The conference also focused on evidence-based research, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in Unani medicine, and how modern technology can help enhance its credibility.

The two-day event provided a global platform for knowledge exchange, with participation from countries like the USA, South Africa, Iran, Malaysia, UAE, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Discussions revolved around:

• Global collaboration in Unani research
• Modernizing Unani medicine using AI and molecular biology
• Promoting Unani’s role in holistic healthcare

Government Initiatives to Support Women Employees and Entrepreneurs in India

The Government of India has introduced various initiatives to promote gender equality in the workplace and support women entrepreneurs. These efforts aim to create a safe, secure, and non-discriminatory environment for women employees while also encouraging women-owned businesses. Through legislative actions and diverse programs, the government strives to provide women with equal opportunities for career advancement, business growth, and social security.

The Companies Act, 2013, which is administered by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, includes provisions aimed at ensuring gender equality in corporate India. A significant provision in the Act requires that listed companies and other public companies with a paid-up share capital of Rs. 100 crore or more, or a turnover of Rs. 300 crore or more, must have at least one woman director on their boards. This stipulation is detailed in Section 149 of the Companies Act and is further supported by Rule 3 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014.

In addition, companies must include a statement in their Board Report, which is attached to the annual financial statement, confirming compliance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. This ensures that companies have a mandatory Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to address any grievances related to workplace harassment.

Government Schemes Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

The Government of India has introduced a variety of schemes aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs by offering financial support, training, and capacity building.

• Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGS)
• Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)
• Stand-Up India Scheme (SUI)
• Yashasvini Initiative
• Legislative Provisions for Women’s Protection and Welfare
• Maternity Benefits and Workplace Equality
• Supporting Working Mothers

Indian Men’s Cricket Schedule 2025

The Indian cricket team is all set for an exhilarating 2025, featuring a combination of international and domestic games that are bound to create memorable cricketing moments. With the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy on the agenda, the Indian team will be involved in crucial tournaments while also preparing for upcoming challenges in the World Test Championship (WTC) and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Let’s take a closer look at the Indian cricket team’s schedule for 2025.

Indian Men’s Cricket Schedule 2025

Explore key dates, tours, and events including the ICC Champions Trophy, WTC series, and IPL. Find out the hosts and match details for a packed year of cricket action!

Bangladesh Launches ‘Operation Devil Hunt’

Bangladesh has initiated a significant security operation called “Operation Devil Hunt,” aimed at targeting supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This action follows attacks on protesters by gangs that are reportedly associated with Hasina’s government. The interim administration, headed by Muhammad Yunus, has committed to restoring order and maintaining democratic principles. The unrest was ignited by rumors of Hasina potentially addressing the nation from exile in India, which resulted in violent protests, including the destruction of properties connected to her family. Additionally, tensions between India and Bangladesh have escalated due to India’s criticism of the demolition of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.

Key Points of ‘Operation Devil Hunt’

Background of the Crackdown

• Protests & Attacks: Gangs allegedly loyal to Sheikh Hasina attacked student protesters, leaving several injured.
• Government Response: The interim government, led by Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, initiated “Operation Devil Hunt” to dismantle pro-Hasina forces.
• Goal of the Operation: Chowdhury declared that the crackdown would continue until “the devils are uprooted.”

Political Turmoil and Public Unrest

• Hasina’s Exile & Controversy: The unrest intensified after reports emerged that Hasina, in exile in India, was planning a virtual address.
• Destruction of Hasina-Linked Buildings: Protesters demolished buildings associated with Hasina’s family, including the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, using excavators.
• Interim Leader’s Call for Calm: Nobel laureate and interim leader Muhammad Yunus urged protesters to uphold democracy and human rights.

India-Bangladesh Diplomatic Tensions

• Indian MEA’s Statement: India condemned the destruction of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, calling it an attack on Bangladesh’s national consciousness.
• Bangladesh’s Response: The Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry rejected India’s statement, calling it “unexpected and unwarranted”, asserting that Bangladesh does not interfere in India’s internal matters.

DPIIT & KOTI Ink MoU for Logistics & Infrastructure Growth

India and South Korea have taken a significant step towards strengthening their logistics and infrastructure collaboration. On February 10, 2025, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of the Government of India and the Korea Transport Institute (KOTI) of the Republic of Korea signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Sejong National Research Complex in South Korea.

The agreement was officially signed by Mr. Youngchan Kim, the President of KOTI, and H.E. Amit Kumar, the Ambassador of India to South Korea. This partnership is designed to boost logistics efficiency, improve infrastructure planning, and foster sustainable economic development through the exchange of knowledge and technical collaboration.

How Will This MoU Benefit India’s Logistics Sector?

The MoU focuses on fostering deeper cooperation between DPIIT’s Logistics Division and KOTI. South Korea’s expertise in transport and logistics is expected to aid India’s ongoing infrastructure expansion, particularly under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. The agreement outlines a structured mechanism for knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and research-driven programs.

India Sets New HS Codes for GI-Tagged Rice Exports

India is taking a major step to enhance the export of rice varieties recognized by Geographical Indication (GI) by creating new Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) codes. This effort is designed to simplify the export process for distinctive rice types like Red Rice, Black Rice, and Kalanamak Rice, all of which carry GI tags.

Why is India Introducing New HS Codes for GI-Tagged Rice?

For many years, India’s rice exports have been categorized under general HSN codes, which complicates the process of differentiating between standard and specialty rice varieties. This situation has posed challenges, particularly during times of export restrictions or shifts in policy.

The new HSN codes aim to:

• Provide distinct recognition to GI-tagged rice varieties such as Red Rice, Black Rice, and Kalanamak Rice.
• Help exporters in avoiding unnecessary trade barriers.
• Ensure that premium rice varieties receive fair pricing and global recognition.

What Are the Expected Benefits of These New HS Codes?

The introduction of specific HS codes for GI-recognized rice varieties is likely to bring multiple advantages, including:

• Better Market Positioning: Dedicated codes will help GI-tagged rice varieties stand out in global markets, ensuring better branding and competitive pricing.
• Easier Trade and Customs Clearance: New codes will simplify export documentation and reduce the chances of misclassification.
• Protection Against Export Restrictions: In case of trade bans or duty hikes on general rice categories, having specific HS codes will help ensure these specialty rice varieties are treated separately and protected from broad restrictions.