today current affairs 2025

 As of February 14, 2025, several significant events have shaped India's current affairs landscape, encompassing international relations, economic developments, internal security, and cultural events.

International Relations

On February 13, 2025, India and the United States agreed to initiate talks aimed at securing an early trade deal and resolving tariff issues following discussions between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India has committed to increasing purchases of U.S. oil, gas, and military equipment, while also addressing illegal immigration. The deal could be concluded within the next seven months. Key agreements include reducing tariffs on U.S. products, expanding market access for U.S. agricultural products, and aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030. Both countries emphasized deepening security cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, and advancing joint production in artificial intelligence technologies. citeturn0news10

Economic Developments

In the economic sphere, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced its key repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25% on February 7, 2025, marking the first rate cut since May 2020. This decision aims to stimulate the economy, which is set to grow at its slowest pace in four years this fiscal year. The Monetary Policy Committee's unanimous decision reflects caution regarding growth while anticipating food price disinflation. Various industry experts believe this rate cut could make home and vehicle loans more affordable, boosting demand in the real estate and auto sectors. However, they also noted potential challenges such as currency depreciation and inflationary pressures. The RBI has committed to maintaining durable liquidity, with expectations of further rate cuts in the near future to support economic recovery. citeturn0news18

Additionally, India's retail inflation dropped to a five-month low of 4.31% in January 2025, boosted by easing food prices. This decline increases the prospects of additional rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) aimed at stimulating the slowing economy. Economists predict continued easing of food price inflation due to favorable conditions and support from the rabi harvest. Analysts expect that the RBI may further reduce interest rates by up to 75 basis points this year. However, challenges such as rupee depreciation and imported inflation need to be monitored. The lower-than-expected inflation supports an accommodative monetary policy stance, albeit the situation remains contingent on external factors like commodity prices and currency movements. citeturn0news20

Internal Security

On February 9, 2025, a significant encounter occurred between security forces and Maoist insurgents in the Indravati National Park, Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh. The clash resulted in the deaths of 31 Maoists and two security personnel, marking one of the deadliest encounters in recent times. Security forces recovered a substantial cache of weapons, including AK-47s, INSAS rifles, and grenade launchers, from the site. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in addressing internal security threats posed by insurgent groups. citeturn0search22

Cultural Events

The 2025 Prayag Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on January 13 and is scheduled to conclude on February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This iteration of the Kumbh Mela is particularly significant due to a unique constellation alignment occurring once in 144 years. As of February 12, over 48.83 million devotees have participated in the sacred bathing rituals at the Triveni Sangam. The event has attracted pilgrims and tourists from various countries, highlighting its global appeal. Notably, President Droupadi Murmu visited the Mela on February 10, taking a holy dip at the Sangam and offering prayers. citeturn0search23

These developments reflect the dynamic nature of India's current affairs, encompassing strides in international diplomacy, economic policy adjustments, internal security operations, and the celebration of cultural heritage.

As of February 14, 2025, several significant events have unfolded across various domains, pertinent to the UPSC examination. Below is a comprehensive overview:

1. International Relations

UK-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS):

The UK has announced the opening of the ballot for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme. This initiative allows Indian citizens aged between 18 and 30 to live and work in the UK for up to two years. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree, have savings of at least £2,530, and be selected through a ballot system. The scheme underscores the strengthening bilateral relations between India and the UK, focusing on youth mobility and skill development. citeturn0search6

World Government Summit 2025:

The World Government Summit 2025 commenced on February 10 in Dubai, UAE, under the theme "Shaping Future Governments." The summit has attracted over 30 heads of state and numerous global leaders to discuss governance frameworks, technological advancements, and sustainable development strategies. Key topics include artificial intelligence integration in public services, climate change policies, and global economic reforms. citeturn0search4

2. Environment and Climate Change

Germanwatch Report on Extreme Weather Events in India:

A recent report by Germanwatch highlights that between 1993 and 2022, India ranked as the sixth-most affected country globally by extreme weather events. The nation experienced approximately 80,000 fatalities and significant economic losses due to events such as floods, cyclones, and heatwaves. The report emphasizes the urgent need for robust climate resilience and adaptation strategies in India. citeturn0search4

Rising Temperatures in Australia:

In January 2025, over 30,000 fish perished off Western Australia's coast due to marine heatwaves exacerbated by climate change. Australia's average temperature has risen by 1.51°C since 1901, with 2024 being the second warmest year on record. These climatic shifts have led to altered rainfall patterns, increased frequency of marine heatwaves, and significant ecological impacts, including coral bleaching and loss of marine biodiversity. citeturn0search3

3. Governance and Policy

Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Review:

The Public Accounts Committee of Parliament has directed the government to reassess existing rules determining toll taxes on National Highways. The PAC plays a crucial role in auditing government expenditure and ensuring financial accountability. This move aims to enhance transparency and fairness in toll collection mechanisms. citeturn0search1

Challenges of the Forest Rights Act:

Sixteen years post-implementation, the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006 faces challenges in empowering forest dwellers. A recent study indicates issues in recognizing community forest rights, bureaucratic hurdles, and inadequate awareness among beneficiaries. Addressing these challenges is vital for the FRA's success in ensuring the rights and livelihoods of indigenous communities. citeturn0search4

4. Science and Technology

ESA’s Euclid Telescope Discovers Einstein Ring:

The European Space Agency's Euclid space telescope has captured a rare astronomical phenomenon known as an Einstein ring around the galaxy NGC 6505, located approximately 590 million light-years from Earth. This observation provides valuable insights into gravitational lensing and the distribution of dark matter in the universe. citeturn0search9

5. Economy

NIIF to Raise $2 Billion Private Credit Fund:

The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) of India plans to raise a $2 billion private credit fund aimed at bolstering infrastructure projects across the country. This initiative seeks to attract international capital and address the financing needs of large-scale developments, thereby stimulating economic growth. citeturn0search4

Impact of Rupee Depreciation on Indian Corporates:

The depreciation of the Indian Rupee has significant implications for Indian corporations, especially those with substantial foreign debt. A weaker rupee increases the cost of servicing foreign loans and can lead to higher import costs. Companies are advised to employ hedging strategies to mitigate currency risk and manage financial stability. citeturn0search3

6. Social Issues

Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) Revised:

The central government has revised the Market Intervention Scheme to better support farmers dealing with perishable agricultural commodities. Key changes include increasing the procurement limit from 20% to 25% of production and offering states the option to compensate farmers directly for price differences, enhancing the scheme's efficiency and reach. citeturn0search6

7. Defense

India's Consideration to Procure Additional P-8I Aircraft:

India is contemplating the acquisition of six more P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft from the United States. The P-8I, developed by Boeing, is instrumental in anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and surveillance operations, bolstering India's maritime security capabilities. citeturn0search1

These developments across international relations, environmental issues, governance, science, economy, social sectors, and defense are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of current affairs relevant to the UPSC examination.