Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visit Gujarat on 24th and 25th February 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Gujarat on 24th and 25th February 2024. He inaugurated and laid foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs52,250 crore in Gujarat. The PM arrived at Jamnagar and lead a roadshow in the city. PM inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs52,250 crore. The projects was launched are related to important sectors like health, road, rail, energy, petroleum & natural gas, and tourism among others. Prime Minister visited Dwaraka and dedicated to the nation the country’s longest signature stayed bridge called Sudarshan Setu connecting Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka island. With the construction of the bridge, pilgrims will no longer need to rely on boat transport to reach Beyt Dwarka. Built at a cost of Rs980 crores, this iconic bridge will also serve as a major tourist attraction of Devbhumi Dwarka. Prime Minister dedicated pipeline project at Vadinar and three Rail Electrification projects in the state. PM laid foundation stone of various projects including widening of Dhoraji-Jamkandorna-Kalavad section of NH-927D, Regional Science Center at Jamnagar, among others. PM travelled to Rajkot and dedicate to the nation five new AIIMS, at Rajkot, Bathinda, Raebareli, Kalyani and Mangalagiri. The PM inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than 48,100 crore at Race Course Ground, Rajkot.

The National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur and Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) of the Ministry of Public Health of the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand signed a MoU to establish an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Thai Traditional Medicine.

The National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur and Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) of the Ministry of Public Health of the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand signed a MoU to establish an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Thai Traditional Medicine. The signing ceremony took place during the 10th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting held at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The MoU, signed by B.K Singh, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, and Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin, Director General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Thailand. This collaboration is based on principles of equality and mutual benefit for both parties. Under this agreement, the two institutions will facilitate the exchange of experts for research and training programs. The focus will be on sharing information, technologies, and best practices related to Traditional Medicine.

Adani Defence & Aerospace unveiled its India's first private sector ammunition-missile manufacturing complex in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Adani Defence & Aerospace unveiled its India's first private sector ammunition-missile manufacturing complex in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The twin-facility complex, spread over 500 acres, was inaugurated by Army Chief Gen. Manoj Pande and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. 32 variants of ammunition in 12 categories were identified for manufacture by the Indian industry in phase one. The facilities will produce high-quality small, medium and large calibre ammunition for the armed forces, paramilitary forces and the police. The facility has started rolling out small calibre ammunition, starting with 150 million rounds estimated at 25% of India’s annual requirement. With a planned investment of over ₹3,000 crore, the complex will create over 4,000 jobs, with five times the multiplier effect on MSMEs, and the local ecosystem benefiting from it indirectly. The unveiling coincided with the fifth anniversary of the Balakot air strike when the Indian Air Force hit terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan, on February 26, 2019.

Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, Dharmendra Pradhan launched the ‘SWAYAM Plus’ platform, that will offer courses developed collaboratively with the industry in Delhi 27th Feb 2024.

Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, Dharmendra Pradhan launched the ‘SWAYAM Plus’ platform, that will offer courses developed collaboratively with the industry in Delhi 27th Feb 2024. These employability and professional development‐focused programs have been developed with leading industry players such as L&T, Microsoft, CISCO etc to bring to its learners. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will be operating the ‘SWAYAM Plus’ Platform. The Key Features of SWAYAM Plus include: Multilingual content: The platform will be multilingual, encouraging a diverse audience to choose SWAYAM Plus as a platform of choice. AI-Enabled chatbot: An AI-enabled chatbot will assist the students choose the right courses based on their needs. Credit Recognition: Credit equivalency shall be established for courses offered by industry players.

The Ministry of Ayush and Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) signed a MoU in New Delhi to bring forth the overview of Ayush Service sector.

The Ministry of Ayush and Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) signed a MoU in New Delhi to bring forth the overview of Ayush Service sector. This MoU will bring forth the overview of Ayush Service sector and will serve the continuation of academic cooperation and collaboration with RIS (a Policy Research autonomous institute of Ministry of External Affairs). Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha signed the MoU on behalf of Ministry of Ayush, whereas Director General Prof Sachin Chturvedi was the signatory on behalf of RIS. Also the academic cooperation between Ministry of Ayush and RIS includes continuance of Forum on Indian Traditional Medicine (FITM). Through FITM, RIS has contributed many policy papers, policy directions etc. Through this MoU, the Ministry of Ayush has agreed to continue this work.

As part of events planned to celebrate the "48th Raising Day of Indian Coast Guard", a "Day at Sea" was conducted by the Indian Coast Guard Regional Headquarters off Chennai harbour on 25th February 2024.

As part of events planned to celebrate the "48th Raising Day of Indian Coast Guard", a "Day at Sea" was conducted by the Indian Coast Guard Regional Headquarters off Chennai harbour on 25th February 2024. On this occasion, various distinguished guests which included families of ICG personnel, officials from Tamil Nadu State Administration, Port, CISF, and civil and private organizations were invited to sail on ships to witness operational prowess and ICG capabilities at sea. 8 ships of the Indian Coast Guard, with about 1,500 guests embarked, sailed out from Chennai harbour.

RBL Bank partnered with Innoviti Technologies Pvt Ltd to create an omnichannel payments platform called Omnium for merchants.

RBL Bank partnered with Innoviti Technologies Pvt Ltd to create an omnichannel payments platform called Omnium for merchants. The platform integrates RBL Bank's banking and payment application programming interfaces to deliver quick and secure payments. The platform aims to unlock value lying hidden in a retailer's data and business processes, helping them grow faster and with lesser efforts than possible otherwise. Innoviti has used a modern domain-driven design methodology to build Omnium, integrating with RBL Bank's modern banking and payment Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), enabling a fast, seamless, and secure payment integration.

Amazon Pay, the fintech branch of e-commerce giant Amazon India, has been granted a payment aggregator license by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Amazon Pay, the fintech branch of e-commerce giant Amazon India, has been granted a payment aggregator license by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The fintech startup has recently joined a list of organisations authorised by the central bank to function as payment aggregators (PA). The approval from the banking regulator would allow Amazon Pay to strengthen its distribution channels.

After 30 years of service the TU-142M aircraft of Indian Navy was decommissioned and displayed at museum in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh.

After 30 years of service the TU-142M aircraft of Indian Navy was decommissioned and displayed at museum in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Kakinada MP V. Geetha inaugurated an aircraft museum, allowing the visitors to catch a glimpse of the Indian Navy’s decommissioned aircraft TU-142M. Located just opposite to Submarine museum this became one more major tourist attraction at RK Beach Area. There is an entry fee of Rs70/- Per person no extra fee for camera. Equipments like sonobuoys, propeller, engine, survival kit, anti submarine missile, date recorder etc are displayed with all details.

The Ministry of Defence has inducted indigenously developed 46-meter Modular Bridge into Indian Army.

The Ministry of Defence has inducted indigenously developed 46-meter Modular Bridge into Indian Army. Designed and developed by DRDO and produced by Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the bridging system was formally handed over in a ceremony at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. The event was graced by General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff. Senior dignitaries from Indian Army, DRDO, and MoD were also in attendance. Over the next four years, a total of 41 sets, valued at ₹2,585 Crores, will be progressively inducted. It is a mechanically launched single-span, fully decked 46-meter assault bridge, enabling the army to overcome obstacles such as canals and ditches with ease. Each set of Modular Bridge consists of seven carrier vehicles based on 8x8 Heavy Mobility Vehicles and two launcher vehicles based on 10x10 Heavy Mobility Vehicles.

The Indian Army team won the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2024 title, winning 21 medals including 10 gold, 5 silver and 6 bronze.

The Indian Army team won the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2024 title, winning 21 medals including 10 gold, 5 silver and 6 bronze. The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2024 was conducted in two phases. The first, from February 2 to 6, was held in Leh, Ladakh while the second was scheduled from February 21 to 25, in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir. Karnataka won the silver with nine gold medals and two silvers. Jammu and Kashmir won four medals. A local boy from Tangmarg, Shahid Ahmad Chachi, triumphed ski mountaineering in men's verticle category at Kangdoori with gold, the first one for UT. In the same event for women, Kamaya Kartikayan from Maharashtra, Menak Gunjiyal from Uttrakhand and Gousia Gulzar from J&K won gold, silver and bronze respectively. Besides, in the sport of Alpine Skiing Slalom for women Anchal Thakur from Himachal Pradesh clinched Gold, Sobiya Nabi from J&K followed with silver and Diya Thakur from Himachal with bronze.

Goa Governor Shri P. S. Sreedharan Pillai unveiled his latest literary book, "Basic Structure and Republic," during a ceremony held in Raj Bhavan's Durbar Hall (Old), Panaji, Goa.

Goa Governor Shri P. S. Sreedharan Pillai unveiled his latest literary book, "Basic Structure and Republic," during a ceremony held in Raj Bhavan's Durbar Hall (Old), Panaji, Goa. A book written by Goa Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai was released by Archbishop of Changanacherry, Kerala, H G Mar Joseph Perumthottam. This 212th publication by Governor Pillai draws upon the ancient Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, to explore the foundational principles of Dharma and its correlation with victory, a concept resonated by the Supreme Court of India. The first copy was presented to Shri Subhash Shirodkar.

National Science Day is annually observed on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the 'Raman Effect' by Indian Scientist CV Raman.

National Science Day is annually observed on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the 'Raman Effect' by Indian Scientist CV Raman. The Raman Effect is the phenomenon where light gets scattered when passed through a transparent material, leading to changes in wavelength and energy. In 1928, on February 28, CV Raman discovered the Raman Effect. He also received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 due to his significant contribution in the field of Physics. The theme for National Science Day (NSD) 2024 is "Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat". 28th February 2024 marks the observance of the 38th NSD.

ICICI Bank has acquired an additional 1.41% stake in ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company through the open market.

ICICI Bank has acquired an additional 1.41% stake in ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company through the open market. The lender bought 69,82,852 shares through multiple block deals on the stock exchanges at Rs1,666.35 a share. As of December-2023, the private sector lender held a 47.91% stake in the insurance major. Through a separate deal, Bharti Enterprises sold a 1.3% stake in ICICI Lombard General Insurance for Rs1,042 crore. It sold 62,50,900 shares at Rs1,666.35 a share.

Padmashri Pankaj Udhas, The popular ghazal and playback singer, passed away at the age of 72 in Mumbai.

Padmashri Pankaj Udhas, The popular ghazal and playback singer, passed away at the age of 72 in Mumbai. Pankaj Udhas was born on May 17, 1951. He was an Indian ghazal and playback singer known for his works in Hindi cinema and Indian pop. His career began in 1980, with the release of the ghazal album Aahat. He went on to record several hits, including Mukarar in 1981, Tarrannum in 1982, Mehfil in 1983, Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall in 1984, Nayaab in 1985, and Aafreen in 1986. In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award.

The finance ministry has recognised SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) as a ‘designated Indian carrier’.

The finance ministry has recognised SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) as a ‘designated Indian carrier’. In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (5) of section 5 of the Central Sales Tax Act, 1956, the Central Government specifies Akasa Air having its registered office as ‘designated Indian carrier’ for the purpose of the said sub-section. Akasa Air will operate its first international flight between Mumbai and Doha from March 28, 2024. The carrier operated its first flight on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route on August 7, 2022.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Chhattisgarh’ programme and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over Rs34,400 crore.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Chhattisgarh’ programme on 24th February, 2024 via video conferencing. During the programme, Prime Minister inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over Rs34,400 crore. The projects cater to a number of important sectors including Roads, Railways, Coal, Power, Solar Energy among others. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Dedicated NTPC’s Lara Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-I (2x800 MW) to the Nation and lay Foundation Stone of NTPC’s Lara Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-II (2x800 MW) in Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh. While Stage-I of the station is built with an investment of around Rs15,800 crore, the Stage-II of the project shall be constructed on the available land of Stage-I premises, thus requiring no additional land for the expansion, and entails an investment of Rs15,530 crore. Prime Minister inaugurated three key First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects of South Eastern Coalfields Limited, built at a total cost of more than Rs600 crores. Prime Minister inaugurated the Solar PV Project at Rajnandgaon built at a cost of around Rs900 Crore. Project will generate an estimated 243.53 million units of energy annually and will mitigate around 4.87 million tons of CO2 emissions over 25 years, equivalent to the carbon sequestered by about 8.86 million trees over the same period.

'Maharashtra MSME Defense Expo' was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at International Exhibition and Convention Center at Moshi near Pune.

'Maharashtra MSME Defense Expo' was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at International Exhibition and Convention Center at Moshi near Pune. The theme of the 2024 expo is “Inspire : Learn : Engage”. To enhance cooperation and synergy with the industry, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organised a DRDO-Industry Meet on February25, 2024 during the Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo 2024. During the meet, DRDO handed over 23 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LATOT) to 22 industries. The DRDO handed over SAMAR (System for Advance Manufacturing Assessment and Rating) assessment certificates to nine Industry Partners. SAMAR is a benchmark to measure the competency of defence manufacturing enterprises. A brief and overview on SAMAR was also provided during the function.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir on 20th February, 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir and unveiled multiple development initiatives totalling over ₹32,000 crore, spanning various sectors such as education, railways, aviation, and roads. These projects encompass diverse areas like health, education, transportation, aviation, petroleum, and civic infrastructure. During the event, PM Modi hand over appointment letters to approximately 1500 newly recruited government employees from Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, the Prime Minister engaged with beneficiaries of various government schemes as part of the 'Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu' program. Additionally, PM Modi inaugurated, dedicated to the nation, and laid the foundation stones for numerous projects valued at around ₹13,375 crore, aimed at enhancing education and skilling infrastructure nationwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the campuses of three Indian Institutes of Management, in Jammu, Bodh Gaya and Visakhapatnam, and laid the foundation stone of several projects, including permanent campuses for three IITs, 20 Kendriya Vidyalayas and 13 Navodaya schools.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated and dedicated to the Nation around 2000 railway infrastructure projects worth more than Rs41,000 crores.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated and dedicated to the Nation around 2000 railway infrastructure projects worth more than Rs41,000 crores. Lakhs of people connected with the Viksit Bharat Viksit Railways event from 500 railway stations and 1500 other venues. In order to enhance the travel experience, 553 stations will be redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The foundation stones for these stations would be laid. Overbridges and underpasses across India will also be inaugurated. These 553 stations, spread across 27 states and union territories are being redeveloped at over Rs19,000 crore. These stations will act as ‘City Centres’ integrating both sides of the city. They will have modern passenger amenities like roof plaza, beautiful landscaping, inter modal connectivity, improved modern façade, kids play area, kiosks, food courts, etc. They will be redeveloped as environment friendly and also Divyang friendly. The design of these station buildings will be inspired by local culture, heritage and architecture.

The Ministry of Ayush and the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) signed a MoU for the nutritional improvement of adolescent girls in the age group of 14-18 years through Ayurveda Interventions in a 12-month period.

The Ministry of Ayush and the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) signed a MoU for the nutritional improvement of adolescent girls in the age group of 14-18 years through Ayurveda Interventions in a 12-month period. The joint public health initiative for anaemia control among adolescent girls using Ayurveda interventions will be launched in five districts under Mission Utkarsh. The MoU, which was signed in the presence of Ayush Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and WCD Minister Smriti Irani, will cover, in the first phase, five aspirational districts of five states - Assam (Dhubri), Chhattisgarh (Bastar), Jharkhand (Paschimi Singhbhum), Maharashtra (Gadchiroli) and Rajasthan (Dhaulpur). In these anaemia-prone districts, the average prevalence of anaemia is approximately 69.5%. The project will cover approximately 10,000 Anganwadi Centres in the five districts. Irani also announced that the ministry will also take up a joint venture with the Ayush ministry and ICMR for effective interventions like yoga in Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) among adolescent girls.

Election Commission of India (ECI) signed a MoU with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the Department of Posts (DoP) to amplify its voter outreach and awareness efforts ahead of the forthcoming General Elections to Lok Sabha 2024.

Election Commission of India (ECI) signed a MoU with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the Department of Posts (DoP) to amplify its voter outreach and awareness efforts ahead of the forthcoming General Elections to Lok Sabha 2024. The initiative is in continuation of ECI’s untiring efforts to enhance electoral awareness in the country. Notably, ECI had recently signed an MoU with the Ministry of Education to formally integrate electoral literacy into the educational curriculum of schools and colleges. As part of the MoU, IBA & DoP with its members and affiliated institutions/units will extend support in promoting voter education through their extensive network on a pro-bono basis, employing various interventions.

India's first 'Gati Shakti Research Chair' will be established at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong.

India's first 'Gati Shakti Research Chair' will be established at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has collaborated with IIM-Shillong to set up India’s first ‘Gati Shakti Research Chair’. This initiative aims to discuss the multimodal logistics development strategy focused on connecting the North Eastern Region (NER) with wider national and international regions to fortify the local economy.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties amounting to almost Rs3 crore on State Bank of India, Canara Bank, and City Union Bank for violation of regulatory norms.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties amounting to almost Rs3 crore on State Bank of India, Canara Bank, and City Union Bank for violation of regulatory norms. The penalty of Rs2 crore has been imposed on the State Bank of India (SBI) for contravention of certain norms related to the Depositor Education Awareness Fund Scheme, 2014. A penalty of Rs66 lakh has been imposed on City Union Bank Limited for non-compliance with certain directions issued by the RBI on ‘Prudential Norms on Income Recognition, Asset Classification and Provisioning Pertaining to Advances — Divergence in NPA Accounts’ and Know Your Customer Directions. The Reserve Bank has also levied a penalty of Rs32.30 lakh on Canara Bank for non-compliance with certain directions. A penalty of Rs16 lakh has been imposed on Ocean Capital Market Ltd, Rourkela, Odisha, for non-compliance with certain provisions related to non-banking financial companies.

Paytm founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma has resigned from his position as part-time non-executive chairman and board member of Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL).

Paytm founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma has resigned from his position as part-time non-executive chairman and board member of Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL). One97 Communications Limited, the parent company of Paytm, has informed that PPBL has reconstituted its board, adding that Sharma’s resignation will “enable this transition”. The decision follows a series of measures imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), including an order for Paytm Payments Bank to wind down operations by 15 March 2024 due to persistent compliance issues and supervisory concerns.

HDFC Bank has received approval from markets regulator Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to sell 90% stake in HDFC Credila.

HDFC Bank has received approval from markets regulator Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to sell 90% stake in HDFC Credila. HDFC Bank will retain a 9.99% stake in HDFC Credila, which provides education loans to students pursuing higher education in India and overseas. The sale of HDFC Credila comes about eight months after the completion of HDFC's merger with HDFC Bank.

India wins 14 medals, including 9 gold, 4 silver and 1 bronze medal at the Archery Asia Cup 2024, held in Baghdad, Iraq.

India wins 14 medals, including 9 gold, 4 silver and 1 bronze medal at the Archery Asia Cup 2024, held in Baghdad, Iraq. In the women’s individual recurve category, three-time Olympian Deepika Kumari won the gold medal by defeating compatriot Simranjeet Kaur 6-2. Meanwhile, in an all-Indian final, Dhiraj Bommadevara beat Tarundeep Rai 7-3 to win the men’s recurve archery title. Parneet Kaur defeated Iran’s Fatemeh Hemmati 138-135 for the women’s gold medal match while Prathamesh Jawkar beat teammate Kushal Dalal 146-144 for the men’s title. Indian women’s recurve team comprising Simranjeet Kaur, Deepika Kumari and Bhajan Kaur defeated Uzbekistan 5-4 via shootout in a closely-fought final to clinch the gold. On the other hand, the trio of Dhiraj Bommadevara, Pravin Ramesh Jadhav and Tarundeep Rai ousted Bangladesh 6-2 to claim the gold. Dhiraj and Simranjeet also teamed up to win the mixed team recurve gold, blanking Bangladesh 6-0 in the final.

'Fool Bahadur', the first Magahi novel translated into English by Indian poet-diplomat, editor and translator Abhay K. was launched in Patna at the 4th edition of Grand Trunk Road Initiatives.

'Fool Bahadur', the first Magahi novel translated into English by Indian poet-diplomat, editor and translator Abhay K. was launched in Patna at the 4th edition of Grand Trunk Road Initiatives. The book was launched by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha, Press Secretary to the President of India Ajay Singh, and Principal Secretary to the Government of Bihar, S Siddharth. The book was published by Penguin Random House India. Fool Bahadur is a delightful novel set in colonial Bihar, a humorous reflection on the state's erstwhile society and bureaucracy.

World NGO Day, an event to celebrate the contributions made by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) worldwide, annually celebrated on February 27.

World NGO Day, an event to celebrate the contributions made by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) worldwide, annually celebrated on February 27. The theme for the 2024 World NGO Day is 'Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)'. The day was formally proposed and recognised in 2010 and announced in 2012. World NGO Day was observed for the first time by the United Nations, the European Union and other global organisations in 2014. The day is known for the attempts of NGOs to give compassionate guidance and promote social justice and contributions built in different fields.

World Protein Day is annually observed on February 27 to draw people’s attention and create awareness on the health benefits of protein in our diets and to promote nutritional security worldwide.

World Protein Day is annually observed on February 27 to draw people’s attention and create awareness on the health benefits of protein in our diets and to promote nutritional security worldwide. The World Protein Day originated as an initiative by the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC). Its aim is to educate people about the importance of adequate protein consumption for better nutrition and health. Established in 2020 by the Right to Protein awareness campaign, National Protein Day had its inaugural celebration on February 27, 2020. The theme for National Protein Day 2024 is 'Solve With Protein'.

India-born media executive Dr Samir Shah is set to be appointed as the new BBC chairman with effect from 4th March 2024 for a period of 4 years until March 2028.

India-born media executive Dr Samir Shah is set to be appointed as the new BBC chairman with effect from 4th March 2024 for a period of 4 years until March 2028. Samir was appointed a CBE for services to Television and Heritage in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours. He was previously made an OBE in the 2000 New Year’s Honours List. Samir was elected a Fellow of the Royal Television Society in 2002. Samir was appointed Visiting Professor of Creative Media at Oxford University in 2019.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th edition of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th edition of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis joined the inaugural session as the Chief Guest. External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar also addressed the gathering on the occasion. The theme of this edition is "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create”. The three-day Dialogue is witnessing participation of representatives from over 100 countries including Ministers, former Heads of State and Heads of Government, Military Commanders, Captains of Industry, Technology Leaders, Academics, Journalists, and Scholars on Strategic Affairs. Raisina Dialogue Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister of Finland, Ms. Elina Valtonen unveiled a logo celebrating 75 years of India-Finland diplomatic ties in New Delhi.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister of Finland, Ms. Elina Valtonen unveiled a logo celebrating 75 years of India-Finland diplomatic ties in New Delhi. The year 2024 marks three-quarters of a century since the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Kingdom of Denmark, as well as between India and Finland. The unveiling ceremony, attended by the Foreign Ministers of Finland and India, showcased the logo, symbolising the enduring friendship, cultural exchange, and collaborative spirit between the nations over the past seven decades. The logo not only honors the shared history but also anticipates a future marked by continued partnership, innovation, and mutual growth.

The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced on 25th February 2024 at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.

The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self Defence Force commenced on 25th February 2024 at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 25th February to 9th March 2024. The contingent of both sides comprises of 40 personnel each. The Japanese contingent is being represented by troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment and Indian Army contingent is being represented by a Battalion from the Rajputana Rifles. Aim of the Exercise is to foster Military Cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The Exercise would focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills and basics of special arms skills.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has virtually inaugurated two institutes of Ministry of Ayush in Jhajjar and Pune.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has virtually inaugurated two institutes of Ministry of Ayush in Jhajjar and Pune. The ‘Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy’ (CRIYN) at Jhajjar, Haryana, and the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) titled ‘NISARG GRAM’ in Pune were inaugurated during the ceremony. The ‘Central Research Institute of yoga and Naturopathy’ is an Apex level Yoga and Naturopathy Research and education facility. Through this project, tertiary level Yoga and Naturopathy health care infrastructure will be created. The Institute includes a 200 bedded Hospital with OPD, Treatment Block, Academic block, Hostel and Residential Block apart from Yoga Block and Diet Block. The 19 Acre Project has been built with a cost of INR 63.88 CR. NISARG GRAM is a 250 bedded hospital with Multi-disciplinary Research and Extension Service Centre along with a Naturopathy Medical College for Under Graduate (UG)/Post Graduate (PG) /Para Medical Courses. The college is also having residential & non-residential facilities comprising Boys & Girls Hostel, Auditorium, Yoga Hall, Cottages, and the famous Gandhi Memorial Hall is also an integral part of the campus. The 25 acre project costs total of INR 213.55 Crore.

Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) in partnership with the Lokamata Rani Rashmoni Mission (LRRM), West Bengal and WildTeam, Bangladesh, organised a transboundary community engagement learning and sharing workshop from 4th and 8th February 2024, at Joymoni, Bagerhat District, Bangladesh.

Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) in partnership with the Lokamata Rani Rashmoni Mission (LRRM), West Bengal and WildTeam, Bangladesh, organised a transboundary community engagement learning and sharing workshop from 4th and 8th February 2024, at Joymoni, Bagerhat District, Bangladesh. The Sundarbans, straddling both India and Bangladesh, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the iconic Bengal tiger. Recognising the need for joint efforts to address conservation challenges, WTI and WildTeam orchestrated this unique exchange program, facilitating the sharing of knowledge and experiences among key stakeholders.

The 5th Plenary Session of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) under the Presidency of T. Raja Kumar of Singapore concluded in Paris, France.

The 5th Plenary Session of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) under the Presidency of T. Raja Kumar of Singapore concluded in Paris, France. Delegates from the FATF’s Global Network of over 200 jurisdictions and observers from international organisations participated in three days of discussions on key money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation financing issues at the FATF headquarters in Paris. The Plenary also agreed to release for public consultation, a range of options for potential changes to Recommendation 16 and its Interpretive Note on wire transfers. The FATF issued a statement on the Russian Federation. The FATF identified jurisdictions with materially important virtual asset activity, to support them in implementing the FATF’s requirements to supervise and regulate this activity.

State-owned Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has become the first government firm to collaborate with SACE, an Italian export credit agency, to boost the cooperation between the two countries.

State-owned Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has become the first government firm to collaborate with SACE, an Italian export credit agency, to boost the cooperation between the two countries. PFC is partnering with SACE, the export credit agency of Italy, for an innovative ECA-backed financing facility under its 'Push Strategy' initiative. Through this structure, PFC will benefit from an 80 percent guarantee from SACE, with HSBC acting as a coordinating bank, lead arranger and facility agent for the financing of up to 200 million euros.

Tuvalu’s former Attorney-General Feleti Teo was appointed as 14th prime minister of Tuvalu, as Pacific Island nation in South Pacific Region.

Tuvalu’s former Attorney-General Feleti Teo was appointed as 14th prime minister of Tuvalu, as Pacific Island nation in South Pacific Region. Teo was the only nominee after the previous prime minister, Kausea Natano, lost his seat at the January 26 election. Teo, who was educated in New Zealand and Australia, was Tuvalu’s first attorney general and has decades of experience as a senior official in the fisheries industry – the region’s biggest revenue earner. Feleti Penitala Teo OBE MP is a Tuvaluan politician and lawyer. He was elected to the Parliament of Tuvalu in the 2024 Tuvaluan general election, with his previous role being the executive director of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed A S Rajeev as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed A S Rajeev as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). Prior to this appointment, A S Rajeev was Managing Director & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra, a public sector bank. Under the CVC Act, the Central Vigilance Commission became a three-member body, with the Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners. While Praveen Kumar Srivastava has been Central Vigilance Commissioner since May 2023, Arvinda Kumar has been a Vigilance Commissioner since August 2022.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given INSCO (Independent Sugar Corporation), a Madhvani Group company based in Africa, for green channel approval for the proposed acquisition of Hindustan National Glass (HNGIL).

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given INSCO (Independent Sugar Corporation), a Madhvani Group company based in Africa, for green channel approval for the proposed acquisition of Hindustan National Glass (HNGIL). The Commission had initiated an investigation following a complaint filed by AGI Greenpac. INSCO and AGI Greenpac had submitted bids to acquire HNGIL, India's largest glass company. INSCO emerged as the single eligible bidder and AGI's plan received the vote from COC led by SBI.

Indian shuttlers won 18 medals, including 3 gold, 4 silver and 11 bronze, at the BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024, which concluded in Pattaya, Thailand.

Indian shuttlers won 18 medals, including 3 gold, 4 silver and 11 bronze, at the BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024, which concluded in Pattaya, Thailand. Tokyo 2020 Paralympics silver medallist Suhas Yathiraj winning gold in the men’s singles SL 4 category by beating Indonesia’s Fredy Setiawan 21-18, 21-8. The Indian badminton players upset Olympic champion and world No. 1 Lucas Mazur 21-16, 21-19 in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Krishna Nagar got the better of the People’s Republic of China’s Naili Lin 22-20, 22-20 for the men’s singles title in the SH 6 category. In the men’s singles SL 3 event, Pramod Bhagat defeated world No. 1 Daniel Bethell of England 14-21, 21-15, 21-14 to claim gold. Nitesh Kumar and Manoj Sarkar won bronze in the same category.

Renowned Indian filmmaker and academic Kumar Sahani passed away at the age of 83 in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Renowned Indian filmmaker and academic Kumar Sahani passed away at the age of 83 in Kolkata, West Bengal. Kumar Shahani was an Indian film director and screenwriter, best known for his parallel cinema films Maya Darpan, Tarang, Khayal Gatha and Kasba. In 1969, he had the opportunity to intern under the famous French director Robert Bresson for the film ‘A Gentle Creature’. Throughout his career, Sahani achieved numerous accolades, including the Filmfare Critics Awards for Best Film in 1972, 1990, and 1991. He also received the International Film Festival of Rotterdam – FIPRESCI Award in 1990 and the Prince Claus Award in 1998, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished figure in the world of cinema.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who is also the Finance Minister, tabled a Rs 2.79 lakh crore budget in the assembly for the financial year 2024-25.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who is also the Finance Minister, tabled a Rs 2.79 lakh crore budget in the assembly for the financial year 2024-25. The state registered a growth rate of 10.64 percent in the current fiscal. The state’s budget estimate for the next fiscal was Rs 2,78,725.72 crore, an increase of Rs 16,840 crore, compared with the current financial year. Out of the total expenditure, Rs1 lakh crore was earmarked for “annual scheme outlay” with the largest share (22.20 percent) reserved for the education department, followed by rural development (13.84 percent). The estimated expenditure on health has been pegged at 7.41 percent of the annual scheme outlay, while 1.88 percent will be kept for “backward classes and most backward classes welfare”. The Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003 sets a target for the government to establish financial discipline in the economy.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented the annual state Budget of Rs58,444 crore for 2024-25 with a focus on the agriculture and rural sectors, and announced an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for milk.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented the annual state Budget of Rs58,444 crore for 2024-25 with a focus on the agriculture and rural sectors, and announced an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for milk. The government did not propose any new tax for the next fiscal. Presenting his second state Budget, Sukhu, who also holds the finance portfolio, announced a hike in MSP of cow milk from Rs 38 to Rs 45 per litre and buffalo milk from Rs 47 to Rs 55 per litre. Himachal is the first state to give MSP on milk. The rural-oriented Budget focused on strengthening farming and animal husbandry sectors, besides announcing steps to make the state self-reliant. The revenue receipts and expenditure are estimated at Rs 42,153 crore and Rs 46,667 crore, respectively, implying that the estimated revenue loss will be Rs 4,514 crore. The fiscal deficit was estimated at Rs 10,784 crore that was 4.75 percent of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Of every Rs100 expenditure, Rs 25 would be spent on salaries, Rs 17 on pension, Rs 11 on interest, Rs 9 on loan repayment, and Rs 10 on grants to autonomous institutions and only Rs 28 would be spent on other activities an capital works. The CM also announced increasing the daily wages of MGNREGA workers by Rs60 from Rs 240 to Rs300 per day and increase the honorarium of functionaries of panchayati raj institutions and urban local bodies. The government proposed to increase MLA discretionary grant from Rs 13 lakh to Rs 14 lakh and 'Vidhayak Kshetra Vikas Nidhi Yojana' from Rs 2.10 crore to 2.20 crore.

The Bihar Startup Fund Trust (BSFT), the Bihar government and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) have signed an MoU to administer the Rs 50-crore Bihar Startup Scale-up Financing Fund’ (BSSFF).

The Bihar Startup Fund Trust (BSFT), the Bihar government and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) have signed an MoU to administer the Rs 50-crore Bihar Startup Scale-up Financing Fund’ (BSSFF). The initiative is aimed at creating a conducive environment for startups and transforming Bihar into a startup hub. Under the policy, the state government has set up the BSFT with an initial corpus of Rs500 crore. Out of this, BSSFF has been established with an initial corpus of Rs50 crore for scale-up funding support to startups.

The Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, launched 4 transformatory portals for a Modernized Media Landscape.

The Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, launched 4 transformatory portals for a Modernized Media Landscape. These initiative is aimed at ensuring ease of doing business by fostering a more conducive business environment for Newspaper publishers and TV channels, enhance transparency and efficiency in government communication, provide easy access to authentic Government videos and create a comprehensive database of Local Cable Operators (LCOs). The 4 portals are: 1. The Press Sewa Portal, developed under the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 (PRP Act, 2023) by the Press Registrar General of India (PRGI - erstwhile RNI). Along with the portal, the website offers easy access to relevant information, featuring an AI-based chatbot for user-friendly interactions. 2. In addition to the Press Sewa Portal, the Ministry is introducing the Transparent Empanelment, Media Planning and eBilling System for Central Bureau of Communication. 3. The ‘NaViGate Bharat’ portal i.e., the National Video Gateway of Bharat, developed by the New Media Wing of the Ministry, is a unified bilingual platform which hosts videos on the entire gamut of Government’s development-related and citizen welfare-oriented measures. The portal eliminates the hassle of searching for official and reliable information from multiple sources, providing a one-stop platform for media and the general public. 4. National Register for LCOs: Strengthening Cable Sector National Register for Local Cable Operators (LCOs) is the first step to bring registration of LCOs currently with Post Offices spread across the country under a Centralised Registration System. A web form has been designed to collect information from local cable operators for the purpose of National Register. The National Register for LCOs has also been published online and is being updated regularly.

The Government has announced an extension of the Interest Equalization Scheme for pre and post-shipment rupee export credit until June 30, 2024, according to a notification by the Reserve Bank of India.

The Government has announced an extension of the Interest Equalization Scheme for pre and post-shipment rupee export credit until June 30, 2024, according to a notification by the Reserve Bank of India. Under this extension, Manufacturers and Merchant Exporters dealing with specified 410 HS lines will benefit from a 2% interest equalization rate, while MSME manufacturers exporting under any HS line will receive a higher rate of 3%. Additionally, starting from the financial year 2023-24, banks pricing loans covered under the scheme at an average interest rate higher than the Repo rate + 4% will face specific restrictions.

International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology (iCreate), Microsoft signed an MoU facilitated by the Ministry of Electronics & IT to boost AI startups in India.

International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology (iCreate), Microsoft signed an MoU facilitated by the Ministry of Electronics & IT to boost AI startups in India. This MoU is in line with the vision set forth by Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi during his meeting with Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella last year. Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Electronics and Information Technology, and Jal Shakti, Rajeev Chandrasekhar presided over signing of the MoU. The MoU signing for the partnership between Microsoft and iCreate to launch the IMPEL AI program will catalyze AI startups in India. Microsoft and iCreate, in the presence of Minister Chandrasekhar launched iMPEL-AI (iCreate-Microsoft programme for Emerging Leaders in Artificial Intelligence) programme. The program will screen 1100 AI innovators across India to become AI Most Valuable Players (MVPs) and focus on priority themes of Healthcare, Financial Inclusion, Sustainability, Education, Agriculture, and Smart Cities. In the second stage, the program will select and scale 100 startups across India to build with Azure OpenAI, and the top 25 will receive go-to- market support from Microsoft’s Global Network to develop advanced, globally competitive products.

NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) has signed a Land Lease Agreement with Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) for the development of an “Integrated Green Hydrogen Hub”.

NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) has signed a Land Lease Agreement with Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) for the development of an “Integrated Green Hydrogen Hub”. The hub will come up on 1,200 acres of land near Pudimadaka village of Atchutapuram Mandal in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The project includes construction of India's largest green hydrogen production facility (1,200 tons per day), which will enable further conversion of green hydrogen to derivatives such as green ammonia and green methanol, primarily catering to various export markets. The overarching objective of the Mission is to make India the Global Hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.

Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda has launched "Joint National Level Project of Health Screening and Management through Ayurvedic Interventions".

Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda has launched "Joint National Level Project of Health Screening and Management through Ayurvedic Interventions". The Ministry of Ayush through its research council CCRAS has taken this health Initiative for Tribal Students with the joint initiative of Ministry of Tribal Affairs and ICMR-NIRTH Jabalpur. Both the Union Minister together announced the joint initiative to address the health needs of children in Eklavya Model Residential Schools across tribal areas through public health initiatives.

The Indian Coast Guard is jointly conducting 16th edition of the biennial exercise 'Dosti-16' with Sri Lanka and Maldives, from 22-25 February 2024 in the Male, Maldives.

The Indian Coast Guard is jointly conducting 16th edition of the biennial exercise 'Dosti-16' with Sri Lanka and Maldives, from 22-25 February 2024 in the Male, Maldives. During the exercise yesterday at Male, Maldives Defence Minister HE Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon was present. A total of five coast guard ships, Samarth and Abhinav from India, are participating in the exercise while Bangladesh is acting as an observer. The aim of the exercise is to further fortify the friendship, enhance mutual operational capability, and exercise interoperability and to build cooperation between the Coast Guards of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

According to the 2023 edition of the 12th Annual World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) report, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) has been ranked again as the No. 1 cooperative among the top 300 cooperatives in the world.

According to the 2023 edition of the 12th Annual World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) report, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) has been ranked again as the No. 1 cooperative among the top 300 cooperatives in the world. The ranking is based on the ratio of turnover over gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) report was published by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). IFFCO has also stepped up to the 72nd position in the overall turnover ranking from the 97th position in the last financial year. IFFCO, along with its 35,500-member cooperative societies, 25,000 PACS and 52,400 PMKSK centres progressing towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Atmanirbhar Krishi', is a testimony of prosperity through cooperatives.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) amended the Master Direction on Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI), to allowed authorised bank and non-bank PPI issuers to issue PPIs for making payments across various public transport systems.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) amended the Master Direction on Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPI), to allowed authorised bank and non-bank PPI issuers to issue PPIs for making payments across various public transport systems. The apex bank noted that, across India, public transport systems cater to a multitude of commuters on a daily basis. To provide convenience, speed, affordability, and safety of digital modes of payment to commuters for transit services, it has been decided to permit authorised bank and non-bank PPI issuers to issue PPIs for making payments across various public transport systems.

The Central Economic Intelligence Bureau (CEIB) has launched an “Automated Search Portal” to help public sector banks (PSBs) with antecedent verification of prospective borrowers and non-performing assets (NPAs).

The Central Economic Intelligence Bureau (CEIB) has launched an “Automated Search Portal” to help public sector banks (PSBs) with antecedent verification of prospective borrowers and non-performing assets (NPAs). The portal was launched by CEIB Director General Amit Mohan Govil and SBI Chairman Dinesh Khara in a meeting with all public sector banks in Mumbai. It aims at equipping banks with quick access to information for taking timely decisions with regard to credit sanction. As per the “Framework for timely detection, reporting, investigation etc relating to large value bank frauds” (May 13, 2015 and November 6, 2019) issued by Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, PSBs seek report from the Bureau before sanction of loan exceeding ₹50 crore and above in case of new borrowers and if the existing borrower’s accounts turn NPA.

Akshayakalpa Farms and Foods Pvt Ltd has signed an MoU with UK-based British International Investment plc (BII) and agri-firm Samunnati to provide financing to up to 1,500 smallholder dairy farmers in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.

Akshayakalpa Farms and Foods Pvt Ltd has signed an MoU with UK-based British International Investment plc (BII) and agri-firm Samunnati to provide financing to up to 1,500 smallholder dairy farmers in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. As per the MoU, BII will extend guarantees for new and existing Akshayakalpa Organic smallholder farmers, who are typically outside of the formal lending ecosystem. This commitment is made through BII's 200 million pound Climate Innovation Facility, announced by the UK government at COP26 to provide finance for the most pioneering climate solutions in developing countries.

Uber has signed a MoU with India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to explore an integration with the network to explore integration with the network to expand the range of mobility offerings on its app.

Uber has signed a MoU with India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to explore an integration with the network to explore integration with the network to expand the range of mobility offerings on its app. Uber intends to further its presence and offerings in India, one of its key markets. The signing of the MoU was announced at an event in Bengaluru. The partnership entails Uber exploring integrations with the ONDC platform to diversify its range of mobility services available through the Uber app.

Former Maharashtra CM and ex-Lok Sabha Speaker Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai.

Former Maharashtra CM and ex-Lok Sabha Speaker Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. Joshi's political career began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later became a member of the Shiv Sena. In the 1980s, Joshi emerged as a key leader within the Shiv Sena, known for his organisational skills and grassroots connect. He was also elected as a Member of Parliament and was the Lok Sabha Speaker from 2002 to 2004 when the Vajpayee government was in power. He contested the first elections of BMC polls in 1986 and three corporators of Sena won. He became a mayor in 1976 and was also a standing committee chairperson prior to that. He moved to the state politics in 1980s.

The Central Excise Day is observed on February 24 every year in India to honour the contributions of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to the Indian economy.

The Central Excise Day is observed on February 24 every year in India to honour the contributions of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to the Indian economy. The day commemorates the establishment of the Central Excise and Salt Act, which came into effect in 1944. On February 24, 1944, the Central Excise and Salt Act was established. This is said to have paved the way for the establishment of the excise department in the country. This day is observed to commemorate the legislation of the Central Excise and Salt Act, aimed at monitoring the production and regulation of salt and other manufactured goods. The Act was a combination of 11 Acts concerning excise duties and was passed to make changes in the law related to salt and central duties. Later, in 1966, the name of this Act was changed to The Central Excise Act, 1944.

Odisha finance minister Bikram Keshari Arukha presented the Annual Budget (Vote-on-Account) for 2024‐25 in the State Assembly with an outlay of Rs2,55,000 crore, which is about 11 percent more than 2023-24 budget.

Odisha finance minister Bikram Keshari Arukha presented the Annual Budget (Vote-on-Account) for 2024‐25 in the State Assembly with an outlay of Rs2,55,000 crore, which is about 11 percent more than 2023-24 budget. The FM has earmarked a programme expenditure of 1,40,000 for the FY 2024-25. Of this Rs 63,400 crore has been provided in the Vote-on-Account. Similarly, the administrative expenditure has been pegged at Rs1,03,500 47,660, up from Rs94,000 allocated in 2023-23 budget. The highest resource allocation of Rs 33,865 crore has been proposed for the school and mass education department. It constitutes 9.71 percent share in total budget size for the financial year 2024-25. The other departments which have got maximum allocations are the panchayati raj department Rs 22,543 crore (8.84 percent), health and family welfare Rs 19,729 crore (7.74 percent), water resources Rs 13,267 crore (5.20 percent) and planning and convergence Rs 12,043 crore (4.72 percent). According to the state finance minister, the overall food production in Odisha has doubled in the last 22 years. The state government implemented the KALIA scheme to speed up agricultural development and alleviate poverty. So far, 43.88 lakh small and 18.93 lakh landless farmers’ families have been benefited under the scheme.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of up to 8.79% of the equity share capital of Pricol Limited (Pricol/Target) by Minda Corporation Limited (Minda/Acquirer).

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of up to 8.79% of the equity share capital of Pricol Limited (Pricol/Target) by Minda Corporation Limited (Minda/Acquirer). The Acquirer is engaged in the business of manufacturing of auto - components parts and caters to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier-1 in various segments in India. The Target is engaged in the business of manufacturing of automobile components for OEMs, Tier-1 and replacement markets across India and globally.

The World Bank Group (WBG) appointed Wencai Zhang as Managing Director and World Bank Group Chief Administrative Officer.

The World Bank Group (WBG) appointed Wencai Zhang as Managing Director and World Bank Group Chief Administrative Officer. Wencai, a Chinese national, comes from the Export-Import Bank of China where he is Vice President. He is also serving as a Trustee of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation, which promotes international accounting and sustainability standards globally. In the past decade, Wencai has been Vice President at the Agricultural Development Bank of China (ADBC).

The Digital Fly-by-Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) was integrated in prototype LSP7 and successfully flown.

The Digital Fly-by-Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) was integrated in prototype LSP7 and successfully flown. DFCC has been indigenously developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru for the Tejas - Mk1A. Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer features Quadraplex Power PC based Processor, high speed autonomous state machine based I/O controller, enhanced computational throughput and complex on-board software complied to DO178C level- A safety requirements.

Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (Mahindra Finance) has partnered with American technology company IBM to develop a 24x7 super app.

Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (Mahindra Finance) has partnered with American technology company IBM to develop a 24x7 super app. The digital platform aims to be a 24x7 gateway for consumers across India, offering a single interface to access a wide array of financial services. The development aims to make financial solutions more accessible to both urban and rural consumers, simplifying the management of products like loans, insurance, and investment solutions.

Magnus Carlsen (NOR) defeated Fabiano Caruana (USA) in the second game of the Finals to win WEISSENHAUS Freestyle Chess G.O.A.T Challenge.

Magnus Carlsen (NOR) defeated Fabiano Caruana (USA) in the second game of the Finals to win WEISSENHAUS Freestyle Chess G.O.A.T Challenge. After losing to D Gukesh, Nodirbek Abdusattorov (UZB) in the Playoff Rapid, the world no.1 suffered his sole Classical time control loss against Alireza Firouzja (FRA). Levon Aronian (USA) finished third by defeating Abdusattorov. Firouzja won his match versus Gukesh to finish fourth. The total prize fund was US$ 200000. The top three prizes were US$ 60000, $40000, $30000 each.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was visit Uttar Pradesh on 19th February, 2024.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was visit Uttar Pradesh on 19th February, 2024. Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham Temple in Sambhal district. Prime Minister also unveiled the model of Shri Kalki Dham Temple and address the gathering on this occasion. Shri Kalki Dham is being constructed by Shri Kalki Dham Nirman Trust whose chairman is Acharya Pramod Krishnam. The programme was attended by many saints, religious leaders and other dignitaries. Prime Minister launched 14000 projects across Uttar Pradesh worth more than Rs10 Lakh crore at the fourth ground breaking ceremony for investment proposals received during the UP Global Investors Summit 2023 (UPGIS 2023) held in February 2023. The projects relate to sectors like Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, IT & ITeS, Food Processing, Housing & Real Estate, Hospitality and Entertainment, Education, among others. The programme was attended by about 5000 participants, including notable industrialists, representatives of top global and Indian companies, ambassadors and high commissioners and other distinguished guests. PM Modi was the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the fourth edition of the Ground Breaking Ceremony (GBC 4.0) in Lucknow. This initiative is expected to create over 33.5 lakh job opportunities in Uttar Pradesh.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the continuation of centrally sponsored Scheme FMBAP with total outlay of Rs4,100 crore for a period of 5 years from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the continuation of centrally sponsored Scheme, “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)” with total outlay of Rs4,100 crore for a period of 5 years from 2021-22 to 2025-26 (15th Finance Commission period). Under the Flood Management Programme (FMP) component of FMBAP with an outlay of Rs2940 crore, central assistance will be provided to State Governments for taking up critical works related to flood control, anti-erosion, drainage development and anti-sea erosion, etc. The pattern of funding to be followed is 90% (Centre): 10% (State) for Special Category States (8 North-Easter States and Hilly States of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and UT of Jammu & Kashmir) and 60% (Centre):40% (State) for General/ Non-Special Category States. Under River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component of FMBAP with an outlay of Rs1160 crore, flood control and anti-erosion works on common border rivers with neighbouring countries will be taken up with 100% central assistance.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the proposal of Ministry of Home Affairs of continuation of implementation of Umbrella Scheme on ‘Safety of Women’ at a total cost of Rs1179.72 crore during the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the proposal of Ministry of Home Affairs of continuation of implementation of Umbrella Scheme on ‘Safety of Women’ at a total cost of Rs1179.72 crore during the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26. Out of the total project outlay of Rs1179.72 crore, a total of Rs885.49 crore will be provided by MHA from its own budget and Rs294.23 crore will be funded from Nirbhaya Fund. The Government of India has proposed to continue the following projects under the Umbrella Scheme for “Safety of Women”: 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0; Upgradation of Central Forensic Sciences laboratories, including setting up of National Forensic Data Centre; Strengthening of DNA Analysis, Cyber Forensic capacities in State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs);

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has accorded approval for procurement of more than 200 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and associated equipment for the Indian Navy at a cost of around Rs19,000 crore.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has accorded approval for procurement of more than 200 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and associated equipment for the Indian Navy at a cost of around Rs19,000 crore. The missiles will largely be deployed on various warships to enhance overall combat capabilities of the Navy. The proposal approved by the CCS entails acquisition of a mix of BrahMos missiles having a range of around 290 km and the latest extended range variant of the weapon with a range of around 450 km.

The Government of Goa has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the World Bank to establish a pioneering Blended Finance Facility (BFF) aimed at bolstering climate resilience.

The Government of Goa has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the World Bank to establish a pioneering Blended Finance Facility (BFF) aimed at bolstering climate resilience. The announcement of the Blended Finance facility was made during the 2024 edition of the World Bank's India Climate and Development Partners' Meet, a prestigious annual conference held in Panaji from February 19 to 21, 2024. This conference serves as a platform for thought leaders and changemakers in the climate sector to convene and collaborate on pressing climate challenges. Aligned with the state's vision of "Samruddhi, Santulan, and Suramyata" as outlined in Viksit Goa 2047, the facility will support the operationalization of Goa's State Action Plan on Climate Change (2023-2033).

Fintech startup Paymart has partnered with 5 Indian banks to offer its innovative virtual, cardless, and hardware-less cash withdrawal service.

Fintech startup Paymart has partnered with 5 Indian banks to offer its innovative virtual, cardless, and hardware-less cash withdrawal service. Paymart has partnered with five prominent banks, including IDBI Bank, Indian Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, and Karur Vyasa Bank, to roll out this service nationwide. The startup plans to launch pilot programmes with its partner banks in February/March, with a phased nationwide rollout slated for April/May 2024. It successfully piloted the virtual ATM service with IDBI Bank for over six months.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $23 million loan to enhance access to quality fintech education, research, and innovation at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT) in India.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $23 million loan to enhance access to quality fintech education, research, and innovation at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT) in India. The ambitious project spearheaded by ADB will see the establishment of an inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient International Fintech Institute (IFI) within GIFT's premises. The IFI, in collaboration with renowned global institutes and universities, will offer cutting-edge fintech training programs aligned with industry standards and international best practices. In line with ADB's commitment to fostering research and innovation, the program will channel resources towards exploring innovative solutions and technologies in various domains, including climate fintech, regulatory technology, social inclusion, and gender equality in finance.

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has increased India’s GDP growth forecast for Financial Year FY24 to 6.9% from 6.7% projected in January 2024.

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has increased India’s GDP growth forecast for Financial Year FY24 to 6.9% from 6.7% projected in January 2024. India’s economy is expected to grow at 6.5% in FY25. The projection, however, is sharply lower than the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) forecast of 7% GDP growth next year. In FY24, the National Statistical Office has projected India’s economy to grow at 7.3%. According to Ind-Ra, the private sector raised Rs3.56 trillion to fund 982 projects in FY23 – which is substantially higher than Rs1.98 trillion raised to fund 791 projects in FY22. The RBI in its latest bulletin had mentioned that the total cost of projects, for which loans were sanctioned by major banks stood at Rs2.4 trillion during April-December 2023, 23% higher on year.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of MR Kumar as a part-time non-official Director as well as Non- Executive Chairman on the Board of Bank of India for a term of three years.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of MR Kumar as a part-time non-official Director as well as Non- Executive Chairman on the Board of Bank of India for a term of three years. Kumar is the former chairman of Life Insurance Corporation of India. Apart from Kumar, two other appointments were approved by the committee. The committee also approved the appointment of Srinivasan Sridhar as part-time non-official Director as well as Non-Executive Chairman, on the Board of Indian Overseas Bank. This appointment is for a term of three years. However, the appointment is subject to the condition that he resigns from the Board of Bank of Baroda. Aravamudan Krishna Kumar has also been appointed as a part-time non-official Director and Non-Executive Chairman on the Board of UCO Bank, for a term of three years.

Assert AI launched 'Pratham', a groundbreaking platform that is patented for its innovative approach to democratizing computer vision and artificial intelligence.

Assert AI launched 'Pratham', a groundbreaking platform that is patented for its innovative approach to democratizing computer vision and artificial intelligence. With Pratham, users can unlock the potential of Vision AI technology without the need for coding or AI expertise, marking a significant milestone in the field of computer vision technology. Pratham, which translates to "first" in Hindi, employs an innovative framework that places the power of computer vision directly into the hands of users, allowing them to analyze and utilize video data effortlessly.

SpaceX launched the 'Merah Putih 2' communications satellite on a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

SpaceX launched the 'Merah Putih 2' communications satellite on a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The company's Falcon 9 rocket launched the Telkomsat Merah Putih 2 at 3:11 p.m EST from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. It was the 300th successful mission for the workhorse rocket to date. It was the 17th launch and landing for this particular booster.

Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog presented a Rs 2.9 lakh crore budget for the 2024-2025 financial year with a deficit of Rs 774.47 crore and proposed no new tax.

Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog presented a Rs 2.9 lakh crore budget for the 2024-2025 financial year with a deficit of Rs 774.47 crore and proposed no new tax. The government will support the education of 10 lakh girls up to post-graduation level in order to eliminate child marriage from society. The Budget Estimates of 2024-25 show a receipt of ₹1,43,605.56 crore under the Consolidated Fund of the state. After adding the receipt of ₹1,44,550.08 crore under Public Account and ₹2,000 crore under Contingency Fund, the aggregate Receipts amount to ₹2,90,155.65 crore. As against this, the total expenditure from the Consolidated Fund in 2024-25 is estimated at ₹1,43,890.62 crore. The expenditure of ₹1,42,670.09 crore under the Public Account and ₹2,000 crore under the Contingency Fund, the aggregate expenditure for the year is estimated at ₹2,88,560.71 crore. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is expected to reach Rs 6.43 lakh crore in the next financial year, compared to Rs 5.7 lakh crore in 2023-24.

FIFA World Cup winner Andreas Brehme, whose late penalty in the 1990 final against Argentina in Italy handed Germany their third world title, has passed away at the age of 63.

FIFA World Cup winner Andreas Brehme, whose late penalty in the 1990 final against Argentina in Italy handed Germany their third world title, has passed away at the age of 63. Brehme also played for Bayern Munich and Inter Milan among others before retiring in 1998. He won 86 caps for Germany, scoring 8 goals.

The 11th edition of World Government Summit 2024 (WGS2024), was held in Dubai, UAE from 12th to 14th February 2024, with the theme "Shaping Future Governments'.

The 11th edition of World Government Summit 2024 (WGS2024), was held in Dubai, UAE from 12th to 14th February 2024, with the theme "Shaping Future Governments'. Held in Dubai since 2013, the World Government Summit (WGS) is a global event that brings together government officials, international organisations, and industry leaders to discuss and address global challenges. The World Government Summit is a global platform dedicated to shaping the future of government worldwide. The WGS2024 focuses on six main themes: government acceleration and transformation, artificial intelligence and the next frontiers, reimagining development and future economies, future societies and education, sustainability and the new global shifts, and urbanisation and global health priorities. It was attended by over 60 prominent speakers in key and interactive sessions, including leaders, decision-makers, ministers, CEOs, thought leaders, government officials, and experts, with over 4,700 individuals representing government entities from various countries.

Malta has joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA), becoming the 119th country to be part of this intergovernmental organization.

Malta has joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA), becoming the 119th country to be part of this intergovernmental organization. This collaboration aims to enhance cooperation among solar resource-rich countries, promote the deployment of solar energy, and facilitate the achievement of global sustainable development goals. Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ministry, Malta, Christopher Cutajar signed the ISA Framework Agreement in the presence of Head of Depository and Joint Secretary (Economic Diplomacy), Abhishek Singh in New Delhi.

The Nepali Army and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command are co-hosting Exercise Shanti Prayas IV at the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre (BPOTC) in Panchkhal, Nepal from 20 February to 4 March 2024.

The Nepali Army and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command are co-hosting Exercise Shanti Prayas IV at the Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre (BPOTC) in Panchkhal, Nepal from 20 February to 4 March 2024. The exercise was inaugurated by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda in a ceremony held at the Nepali Army Headquarters in Bhadrakali, Kathmandu. This marked the beginning of an intensive training program aimed at enhancing the peacekeeping capabilities of the participating nations.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed loan agreements with the Government of India in Delhi to provide Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans of up to Japanese Yen (JPY) 232.209 billion for 9 projects across various sectors in India.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed loan agreements with the Government of India in Delhi to provide Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans of up to Japanese Yen (JPY) 232.209 billion for 9 projects across various sectors in India. The Notes were exchanged between Mr. Vikas Sheel, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, and Mr. Suzuki Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to India. The ODA loan assistance has been committed to: The North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project (Phase 3) (Tranche II): Dhubri-Phulbari bridge (JPY 34.54 billion); The North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project (Phase 7): NH 127B (Phulbari-Goeragre section) (JPY 15.56 billion); The Project for Promoting Start-up and Innovation in Telangana (JPY 23.7 billion); The Project for the Construction of Chennai Peripheral Ring Road (Phase 2) (JPY 49.85 billion); The Project for Promoting Sustainable Horticulture in Haryana (Tranche I) (JPY 16.21 billion); The Project for Climate Change Response and ecosystem Services Enhancement in Rajasthan (JPY 26.13 billion); The Project for the Establishment of the Medical College Hospital at Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kohima (JPY 10 billion); The Project for the Improvement of Urban Water Supply System in Uttarakhand (JPY 16.21 billion); and The Dedicated Freight Corridor Project (Phase 1) (Tranche V) (JPY 40 billion).

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has notified the National Pension System Trust (Second Amendment) Regulations 2023 and Pension Fund (Amendment) Regulations 2023.

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has notified the National Pension System Trust (Second Amendment) Regulations 2023 and Pension Fund (Amendment) Regulations 2023. The amendments to NPS Trust Regulations simplify the provisions related to appointment of Trustees, their terms and conditions, holding of meetings of Board of Trustees and appointment of CEO - NPS Trust. Amendments to Pension Fund Regulations simplify the provisions related to governance of Pension Funds in line with Companies Act, 2013 and enhanced disclosure by Pension Funds. The amendments in key areas aim at simplification and reducing compliance.

The book 'Neeraj Chopra: The Man Who Made History' was written by Norris Pritam.

The book 'Neeraj Chopra: The Man Who Made History' was written by Norris Pritam. The book was published by Bloomsbury Publishing India Pvt Ltd. The book, with simple prose and easy pace, tracks the iconic javelin thrower’s life of a boy from the Haryana hinterland to a history-making global star. Pritam, by writing in some detail about the past of Indian athletics, has put Neeraj’s achievement in the right perspective.

Shashi Tharoor, a prolific author and a diplomat-turned-politician, was conferred France’s highest civilian honour “Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur” at the French Embassy by French Senate President Gerard Larcher.

Shashi Tharoor, a prolific author and a diplomat-turned-politician, was conferred France’s highest civilian honour “Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur” at the French Embassy by French Senate President Gerard Larcher. The French government had announced the award for Tharoor, a former Union minister, in August 2022. The highest French civilian award came in recognition of Dr Tharoor’s tireless efforts to deepen Indo-French ties, commitment to international peace and cooperation, and as a long-standing friend of France. Instituted in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion d’honneur is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has re-designated KVS Manian as the joint managing director as of March 1, 2024.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has re-designated KVS Manian as the joint managing director as of March 1, 2024. Manian was previously appointed as the whole-time director on Nov.1, 2019 and later re-appointed for a further period of three years. He played a vital role in Kotak's journey from an NBFC to a bank. The other appointments include Devang Gheewalla succeeding Jaimin Bhatt as the group chief financial officer with effect from April 1, 2024. Bhatt is superannuating on March 31, 2024.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and State Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramaraka presented the Vote on Account Budget for the year 2024-25 with an outlay Rs2,75,891 crore in the State Legislative Assembly.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and State Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramaraka presented the Vote on Account Budget for the year 2024-25 with an outlay Rs2,75,891 crore in the State Legislative Assembly. This includes the Revenue expenditure is Rs201,178 crore and the Capital expenditure is Rs29,669 crore. The Finance Minister proposed 53,196 crore rupees in the Budget for the implementation of six guarantees, including cooking gas cylinders at 500 rupees, Indiramma House and 200 units of free power among others. The provision of additional funds will be made as required, once a complete assessment is made about the schemes. The government is committed to implementing Rythu Bharosa and modalities are being worked to enhance Rythu Bandhu to 15000 rupees annually from the current 10000 rupees but only to the eligible farmers. The Government is committed to improving the lives of citizens and prioritizing the welfare of the disadvantaged.

Skyroot Aerospace has launched the Kalpana Fellowship.

Skyroot Aerospace has launched the Kalpana Fellowship. This new program is India's first fellowship exclusively dedicated to empowering women engineers in the realm of space technology. Named in honour of the late astronaut Kalpana Chawla, the Kalpana Fellowship is designed to nurture the next generation of female talent in the space industry. The fellowship aims to provide a robust platform for women to engage hands-on with advanced space technology projects, thereby promoting innovation, creativity, and leadership among aspiring female space professionals.

Renowned announcer and talk show host Ameen Sayani passed away due to a heart attack at the age of 91 in Mumbai.

Renowned announcer and talk show host Ameen Sayani passed away due to a heart attack at the age of 91 in Mumbai. Ameen Sayani was a legendary Indian announcer and talk show host. His program "Binaca Geetmala," which aired on Radio Ceylon and later on All India Radio's Vividh Bharati for nearly 42 years, broke all records of success. In 2009, he was presented with the Padma Shri award.

World Thinking Day (WTD) is annually celebrated on February 22.

World Thinking Day (WTD) is annually celebrated on February 22. The theme of World Thinking Day 2024 is "Our World, Our Thriving Future: The Environment and Global Poverty". The history of World Thinking Day can be traced back to 1926 when delegates from across the globe met at Camp Edith Macy in New York for the fourth World Conference of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). World Thinking Day helps in raising funds for empowerment and development of around 10 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts all over the world.

Morgan Stanley Research expects India’s GDP growth for FY25 to moderate to 6.5 percent from 6.9 percent projected for FY24.

Morgan Stanley Research expects India’s GDP growth for FY25 to moderate to 6.5 percent from 6.9 percent projected for FY24. ICRA, meanwhile, has projected the year-on-year (Y-o-Y) GDP growth to moderate sequentially to 6 percent in Q3 FY24 from 7.6 percent, led by agriculture and industry sectors. Expecting the GDP growth to remain healthy, Morgan Stanley Research has projected growth for the third quarter of FY24 ending December 2023 at 6.5 percent, even as it slows from 7.7 percent in the first half of the current financial year. The capital outlay and net lending of 25 state governments shrank by 3.9 percent Y-o-Y, after having surged by 42.4 percent in Q2 FY24. The tighter monetary policies would translate into global inflation declining to 6.9% in 2023 and 5.8% in 2024 (2022: 8.7%).

Prabowo Subianto to be appointed as 8th President of Indonesia.

Prabowo Subianto to be appointed as 8th President of Indonesia. Prabowo Subianto will succeed Joko Widodo as the next President of the Southeast Asian nation. Branded as the “reformed" general, Prabowo Subianto is a former officer of the special forces and previously served as the Defence Minister of Indonesia. Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo is an Indonesian politician, businessman and former army lieutenant general, who is the current Indonesian Minister of Defense and President-elect of Indonesia.

PhonePe, a Walmart Inc. owned fintech, has launched a mobile application store 'Indus Appstore' for consumers in India.

PhonePe, a Walmart Inc. owned fintech, has launched a mobile application store 'Indus Appstore' for consumers in India. Indus Appstore will have more than 200,000 mobile applications and games in 12 Indian languages. PhonePe has informed that no app listing fees will be charged for one year, until 1 April 2025, for developers.

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal launched ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines during the stakeholders meet for implementation of the MoUs signed earlier at the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (GMIS 2023).

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal launched ‘Sagar Aankalan’ guidelines during the stakeholders meet for implementation of the MoUs signed earlier at the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (GMIS 2023). The “Sagar Aankalan” Guidelines for National Benchmarking of Indian Ports Performance would be applicable to all Indian seaports. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) successfully concluded the Stakeholders Meet - Implementation of MoUs at the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 (GMIS 2023). The signing of 360 MoUs, with an investment commitment of ₹8.35 lakh crore, and the announcement of additional investible projects worth ₹1.68 lakh crore, underscored the immense potential of India's maritime sector.

Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched three impactful books from SBM-G during the National Conference on Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM-(G)) held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched three impactful books from SBM-G during the National Conference on Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM-(G)) held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The conference also featured digital displays of innovative solutions, technologies, and best practices in the rural WASH sector including SBM-G and JJM that served as an interactive experience offering the attendees a comprehensive look at the advancements and successes achieved across different States/UTs. Book Launch Highlights: 1. Swachhata Chronicles: Transformative Tales from India- Vol. II (SBM-G): Swachhata Chronicle Volume 2 is a compilation of best practices from the community where impactful change continues to unfold for SBM-G. 2. ‘Swachhata Green Leaf Rating (SGLR)’ System Booklet is a benchmark index encompassing responsible sanitation across SBM-G aspects. 3. Compendium on Liquid Waste Management (LWM) Technologies: A consolidated booklet of approved technologies, operational guidelines, and successful case studies, providing a knowledge bank for stakeholders on LWM, serving as a guide, fostering a cleaner and healthier rural environment.

The 12th edition of the Multilateral Naval Exercise-2024 “MILAN24”, hosted by India, commenced on 19th February 2024 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

The 12th edition of the Multilateral Naval Exercise-2024 “MILAN24”, hosted by India, commenced on 19th February 2024 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The exercise is being conducted from 19th to 27th February 2024 by the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) of the Indian Navy (IN). The theme of the Exercise is “Cohesion, Camaraderie, Collaboration”. ‘MILAN’ means 'a meeting of confluence and its motto – ‘Camaraderie Cohesion Collaboration’ symbolises the enduring spirit of international maritime cooperation. MILAN 24 is the biggest International Naval Exercise in which 50 friendly foreign countries are being invited and nearly 20 foreign warships along with one maritime patrol aircraft. In addition, a large number of Indian Navy ships, submarines and aircraft including both aircraft carriers Vikrant and Vikramaditya would be participating in the event.

Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the Country's first Skill India Centre (SIC) in Sambalpur, Odisha.

Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the Country's first Skill India Centre (SIC) in Sambalpur, Odisha. Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari; CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International Shri Ved Mani Tiwari; and other dignitaries were present at the event. The initiative is designed to build the capabilities and knowledge of Yuva Shakti in trades that are high in demand such as Media & Entertainment, Leather, Tourism & Hospitality, and IT-ITeS. It stands as a progressive step towards creating a conducive learning environment that empowers youth with industry-specific skills through a unique combination of classroom and work-based learning. The SIC will play a pivotal role in designing curriculum along with industry experts which will be aligned with the changing industry needs, promote standardization, and create employment opportunities that meet the demand for skilled talent across industries.

The Henley Passport Index for 2024 has been released, with France securing the top spot, while India's passport ranking has slipped one place from last year, moving from 84th to 85th position.

The Henley Passport Index for 2024 has been released, with France securing the top spot, while India's passport ranking has slipped one place from last year, moving from 84th to 85th position. The Henley Passport Index ranks nations based on the strength of their passports. In 2024, France leads the list, with its passport granting visa-free access to 194 countries. Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain are also among the top-ranked countries alongside France. Meanwhile, Pakistan maintains its position at 106th place, similar to last year, while Bangladesh has slipped from 101st to 102nd position. India's neighbour, Maldives, continues to have a strong passport, maintaining its position at 58th place.

India has contributed 1 million US Dollars to the Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund IBSA, established by India, Brazil, and South Africa.

India has contributed 1 million US Dollars to the Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund IBSA, established by India, Brazil, and South Africa. The fund is aimed at alleviating poverty and hunger. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj handed over the cheque to the Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) Dima Al-Khatib.

As per S&P Global ratings, Credit growth in India is expected to moderate to 14 percent in FY25 from the existing 16 percent.

As per S&P Global ratings, Credit growth in India is expected to moderate to 14 percent in FY25 from the existing 16 percent. As per the report, system-level credit growth to moderate to 14 percent in 2024-25 from about 16 per cent year-on-year growth in the first three quarters of FY24. If credit and deposit growth rates remain steady, a period of deposit competition looms, squeezing bank margins to 2.9 percent from 3 percent. Adding to the stress on the private-sector banks, the lenders are growing at a much faster pace than public sector banks.

Professor Aditi Sen De has been awarded the prestigious 32nd G. D. Birla Award for Scientific Research for the year 2023.

Professor Aditi Sen De has been awarded the prestigious 32nd G. D. Birla Award for Scientific Research for the year 2023. Aditi Sen De is an Indian scientist, a professor in quantum information and computation group at the Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Allahabad. She is the first female physicist to be given this honour. In 2022, she was elected as a member of Indian Academy of Sciences and Indian National Science Academy.

Eminent jurist and senior Supreme Court advocate Fali S Nariman passed away at the age of 95 in New Delhi.

Eminent jurist and senior Supreme Court advocate Fali S Nariman passed away at the age of 95 in New Delhi. He was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1991 and Padma Vibhushan in 2007. Throughout his career, Nariman had been associated with several landmark cases. He also published an autobiography - Before Memory Fades- in which he devoted one chapter to the Bhopal gas leak case in which, as senior counsel, he represented Union Carbide Corporation.

NASA has initiated a series of extended flights across Asia with its colossal flying laboratory, the DC-8.

NASA has initiated a series of extended flights across Asia with its colossal flying laboratory, the DC-8. Air pollution is responsible for millions of deaths annually, making accurate identification and forecasting all the more significant. Commencing this week in the Philippines, NASA's DC-8 is conducting flights lasting up to eight hours, hovering as close as 15 meters (50 feet) from the ground to collect air particles for detailed analysis. The project, named ASIA-AQ, represents a collaboration between NASA and regional governments in an area grappling with some of the highest air pollution-related death rates globally.

The 11th edition of the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tehran, Iran concluded on February 19, 2024.

The 11th edition of the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tehran, Iran concluded on February 19, 2024. India’s Jyothi Yarraji broke the National Record to win gold in the women’s 60m hurdles at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tehran. Two-time Asian Games silver medallist Harmilan Bains clinched India’s first gold clocking 4:29.55 in the women’s 1500m. Yarraji clocked 8.12s in the finals to break her own National Record and win India’s second gold in the competition. China have finished atop the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships 2024 medal tally with 16 medals, having clinched eight gold, six silver, and a couple of bronze medals in the competition. Japan finished second with nine medals, including one bronze, four silver, and as many bronze medals. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan occupy the third spot in the medal tally with 12 medals (four gold, two silver, and six bronze). Iran find themselves in the fourth position, having bagged 17 medals in the three-day tournament. The hosts won three gold, six silver, and seven bronze medals. Ankita won a silver medal in the women's 3000m race with a time of 9:26.22. Meanwhile, India's Gulveer Singh finished first in the men's event of the race and clinched the gold medal.

International Mother Language Day is annually observed on 21 February to recognise and promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

International Mother Language Day is annually observed on 21 February to recognise and promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. The theme for International Mother Language Day 2024 is "Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning". In November, 1999, the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) proclaimed International Mother Language Day, which was later welcomed by the General Assembly of the UN. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO, International Mother Language Day was recognised on the initiative of Bangladesh and has been observed throughout the world since the year 2000.

West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya presented a Rs 3.6 lakh crore budget for West Bengal for 2024-25.

West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya presented a Rs 3.6 lakh crore budget for West Bengal for 2024-25. Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, in her budget speech, highlighted the groundbreaking success of the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, benefiting 2.11 crore women and disbursing Rs10,101.87 crore in the fiscal year 2023-24. The augmented financial support will be disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), starting April 2024, with beneficiaries receiving it in early May 2024. West Bengal’s fiscal deficit surged to Rs 68,250 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, marking a significant increase of almost 37% from the previous fiscal year’s deficit of Rs 49,966 crore in 2022-23. Monthly allowances for the general category have surged from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000, while for the SCs/ST communities, it has increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200. This enhancement necessitates an additional allocation of Rs 12,000 crore in the budget.

Tripura Chief Minister Professor Dr. Manik Saha launched the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana (CM-JAY), a health insurance scheme that aims to provide coverage of Rs5 lakh per year to 4.15 lakh families in the state.

Tripura Chief Minister Professor Dr. Manik Saha launched the Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana (CM-JAY), a health insurance scheme that aims to provide coverage of Rs5 lakh per year to 4.15 lakh families in the state. With this launch, Tripura became the first Northeastern state to launch a universal health cover. The CM-JAY was formally inaugurated at Netaji Subhash Vidyaniketan in Agartala, where the Chief Minister handed over the first batch of health cards to the beneficiaries.

Minister for Industries, Law and Coir Shri P Rajeeve unveiled the logo and web portal of the Kerala Brand as part of the ambitious project to tap into the increasing domestic and global demand for a wide range of high-quality products made in Kerala.

Minister for Industries, Law and Coir Shri P Rajeeve unveiled the logo and web portal of the Kerala Brand as part of the ambitious project to tap into the increasing domestic and global demand for a wide range of high-quality products made in Kerala. The logo of Kerala Brand bears the motto ‘Nanma”, a Malayalam expression that signifies ‘Goodness’. Kerala Brand envisages to project the distinguishing features of products and services bearing Made-in-Kerala imprint to tap into the domestic and global market by highlighting their distinguishing features including quality, authenticity of raw materials and the ethical practices followed in production.

Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has been named as Punjab's 'state icon' for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections.

Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has been named as Punjab's 'state icon' for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections. Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C said cricketer and Punjab resident Shubman Gill would assist in ensuring polling of over 70 percent votes in the General Election. The star cricketer will be bestowed the responsibility of engaging in awareness campaigns to increase the voter percentage in the state. Gill's popularity has grown multi-fold over the IPL 2023 and ODI World Cup 2023.

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd (IREDA) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) have signed a MoU aimed at advancing renewable energy initiatives across the nation.

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd (IREDA) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) have signed a MoU aimed at advancing renewable energy initiatives across the nation. The agreement, signed at IREDA's registered office in New Delhi, paves the way for joint efforts in co-lending and loan syndication for a diverse spectrum of renewable energy projects. The MoU comprises various provisions aimed at enhancing support for renewable energy projects. These include joint lending, loan syndication and underwriting, management of Trust and Retention Account (TRA) for IREDA borrowers, and working towards competitive terms of sanction, including pricing on IREDA borrowings. Through the collaboration, IREDA and PNB can also invest in bonds issued by either organization.

Mswipe Technologies has received a payment aggregator (PA) license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Mswipe Technologies has received a payment aggregator (PA) license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The approval propels Mswipe into an elite group of entities, including Juspay, Razorpay, and Google, who are poised to redefine the digital payments landscape in India.

Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and Singapore-headquartered DBS Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding to spread awareness on investment and fraudulent schemes.

Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and Singapore-headquartered DBS Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding to spread awareness on investment and fraudulent schemes. According to the MoU, DBS Bank aims to support IEPFA's investor awareness activities by disseminating safety messages via its various digital platforms. Leveraging DBS Bank's extensive network of branches and ATMs in 19 Indian states, as well as its digital infrastructure, will significantly increase the reach of IEPFA's investor awareness and protection messages to the end users.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs organised Prize Distribution Function of the 16th National Youth Parliament Competition, 2019-20 for Universities/Colleges at GMC Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs organised Prize Distribution Function of the 16th National Youth Parliament Competition, 2019-20 for Universities/Colleges at GMC Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi. Five other Universities/Colleges were also conferred Awards for their meritorious performance in the competition. The list of the winning institutions is: 1. DAV College, Jalandhar; 2. Jadavpur University, Kolkata; 3. University of Mumbai, Mumbai; 4. Chanakya National Law University, Patna; 5. Shivaji University, Kolhapur. Students of Central University of Punjab, Bathinda which stood first at National Level in the 16thNational Youth Parliament Competition, presented a repeat performance of their ‘Youth Parliament’ sitting.

Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been named the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award (2023).

Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been named the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award (2023). Sampooran Singh Kalra, popularly known as Gulzar, is celebrated for his works in Hindi cinema and is considered one of the finest Urdu poets of this era. Gulzar received the Sahitya Akademi Award for Urdu in 2002, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013, Padma Bhushan in 2004, and at least five National Film awards for his works. Rambhadracharya, the founder and head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, is a renowned Hindu spiritual leader, educator and writer of more than 240 books and texts, including four epics. A polyglot who speaks 22 languages, Rambhadracharya is a poet and writer in several Indian languages, including Sanskrit, Hindi, Awadhi, and Maithili. In 2015, he received the Padma Vibhushan award. Established in 1944, the Jnanpith Award is given annually for outstanding contributions to Indian literature. This is the second time the award is being given for Sanskrit language and the fifth time for Urdu language.

Private sector lender SBM Bank India has appointed Ashish Vijayakar as managing director and chief executive officer.

Private sector lender SBM Bank India has appointed Ashish Vijayakar as managing director and chief executive officer. The appointment is for three years starting February 17, 2024. Vijayakar is a veteran banker with a track record spanning around three decades in the banking and financial services sector. He comes with a strong background in building and growing global businesses, with involvement in portfolio management and credit risk, having held key leadership positions across various geographies in Standard Chartered Bank and Crédit Lyonnais over close to 25 years.

In the Bengaluru Open tennis, India's Saketh Myneni and Ramkumar Ramanathan won the doubles title.

In the Bengaluru Open tennis, India's Saketh Myneni and Ramkumar Ramanathan won the doubles title. Myneni and Ramkumar defeated the French pair of Constantin Kouzmine and Maxime Janvier 6-3, 6-4 to clinch the doubles title. Earlier, Stefano Napolitano of Italy defeated Nagal 6-7, 4-6 in the singles semi-final. In the second semi-final, South Korea’s Seongchan Hong defeated Spain’s Oriol Roca Batalla 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to set up a summit clash with Napolitano.

Renowned chef Imitiaz Qureshi, a recipient of the Padma Shri award, passed away at the age of 93.

Renowned chef Imitiaz Qureshi, a recipient of the Padma Shri award, passed away at the age of 93. Chef Qureshi, known for his culinary expertise as the master chef at ITC Hotels, gained acclaim for establishing the culinary brand Bukhara. Born in Kolkata in 1928, Chef Qureshi began his culinary journey at the age of seven by assisting the royal chefs in his family home. He was one of the essential pillars in popularizing the art of Dum Pukht abroad, making it a global gastronomic sensation.

World Day of Social Justice is observed on 20 February annually to raise voices against social injustice and remove barriers regarding gender, race, inequality, religious discrimination, etc.

World Day of Social Justice is observed on 20 February annually to raise voices against social injustice and remove barriers regarding gender, race, inequality, religious discrimination, etc. It also highlights the social injustice done throughout the world and looks into the solutions and improvements. The theme of World Day of Social Justice 2024 is "Global Coalition for Social Justice: Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances". On 26 November 2007, the UN General Assembly declared 20 February as the annual World Day of Social Justice. In 2009, this day was first observed.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched a World Bank-assisted programme Sikkim INSPIRES (Integrated Service Provision and Innovation for Revising Economics), aimed at providing economic growth opportunities for women and youth.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched a World Bank-assisted programme Sikkim INSPIRES (Integrated Service Provision and Innovation for Revising Economics), aimed at providing economic growth opportunities for women and youth. The programme focuses on providing better economic opportunities for women and youth through training and employment initiatives. This initiative aims to boost economic inclusion for women and youth in non-farm sectors, backed by a $100 million grant from the World Bank and a significant support from the Indian government. With India funding 90% of the loan, the State government is responsible for just 10% repayment. Over the next five years, Sikkim INSPIRES will operate across nine government departments, fostering economic growth and inclusivity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit Rewari in Haryana.

During his visit, he inaugurate, dedicated to the nation, and laid the foundation stone of several development projects worth more than 9,750 crore rupees. These projects pertain to the urban transport, health, rail, and tourism sectors. One of the projects is the Gurugram Metro Rail project, which will be built at a cost of around 5,450 crore rupees. The project's total length is 28.5 Kms and will connect Millennium City Centre to Udyog Vihar Phase-5, merge with the existing metro network of Rapid Metro Rail Gurugram at Moulsari Avenue station near Cyber City, and have a spur at Dwarka Expressway. In line with the Prime Minister's vision to strengthen public health infrastructure across the country, the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rewari, Haryana, will be laid. The institute will be constructed on 203 acres of land at a cost of about 1,650 crore rupees. It will have facilities such as the Hospital Complex with 720 beds, Medical College with 100 seats, Nursing College with 60 seats, and AYUSH Block with 30 beds. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the newly built Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra. The Prime Minister will also laid the foundation stone of several railway projects and dedicate them to the nation. These projects include doubling several railway lines in the State.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organised a two-day national workshop convened in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from February 15-16, 2024.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organised a two-day national workshop convened in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from February 15-16, 2024. With participation from about 150 delegates from across the country, the workshop served as a platform for high-level deliberations on emerging trends and opportunities in urban livelihoods, with a primary focus on bolstering and empowerment for women across urban India. Participants included State Mission Directors of the State Urban Livelihoods Mission, senior officials from MoHUA and Jharkhand state government, senior officials from UNDP India, leading sector experts, and representatives from research institutions, start-ups, philanthropies, and donor organizations. The workshop served as a platform for states to share the best practices concerning women-led urban livelihoods and economic enhancement, facilitating peer learning and replication of successful models by other states.

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman presided over the 19th Foundation Day celebrations of the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) through hybrid mode, in New Delhi.

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman presided over the 19th Foundation Day celebrations of the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) through hybrid mode, in New Delhi. The programme was attended in virtual mode across various units of SPMCIL; senior officers, employees, employees/ representatives of recognised unions of Apex Bipartite Forum, EPF and GPF trustees and employees/representatives from SC, ST & OBC organisations participated enthusiastically in the event. The Union Finance Minister also launched three souvenir coins: Coloured souvenir coin on Endangered Animals of India - Greater One Horned Rhino; Bi-metallic clad souvenir coin on Enlightenment of Buddha; and Coloured souvenir coin of Ral Lalla and Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

The Government of India (GoI) has announced an increase in the authorized capital of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) from Rs10,000 Crore to Rs21,000 Crore.

The Government of India (GoI) has announced an increase in the authorized capital of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) from Rs10,000 Crore to Rs21,000 Crore. This strategic move shows the government's steadfast commitment to supporting farmers and fortifying India's agrarian economy. The increase in authorized capital is a significant step towards enhancing the operational capabilities of FCI in fulfilling its mandate effectively. GoI provides equity to FCI for working capital requirement and for creation of capital assets. These initiatives of integrated IT solutions serving as the core operational software for FCI, shall provide a single source of information and streamline functions with a common digital backbone.

Department of Fisheries signs a MoU with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

The Department of Fisheries signed an Memorandum of Understanding with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to provide a digital platform and empower all stakeholders including traditional fishermen, fish farmers producer organization, entrepreneurs from fisheries sector to buy and sell their products through e-market place. ONDC is a unique platform of e-marketing that will play a significant role in fisheries sector by connecting fishermen, fish farmers, FFPOs, self-help groups and other fishermen cooperatives in a structured manner. The program envisions a comprehensive approach which will ensure that small- scale fishers and marginalized communities have equal access to market opportunities, fostering social inclusion and equitable economic development.

Azerbaijan Incumbent president Ilham Aliyev won a fifth consecutive term with over 92% of the vote and re-elected.

Presidential elections were held in Azerbaijan on 7 February 2024. Incumbent president Ilham Aliyev, who has held office since 2003, won a fifth consecutive term with over 92% of the vote, defeating his closest runner-up Zahid Oruj, who obtained just 2% of the vote. Aliyev was first elected president in 2003 after the death of his father Heydar Aliyev, a former KGB officer who had ruled Azerbaijan since 1993.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched 'Asha Kirana Eye Care at Your Doorstep' under the aegis of National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment in Haveri, Karnataka.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched 'Asha Kirana Eye Care at Your Doorstep' under the aegis of National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment in Haveri, Karnataka. An initiative by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, comprehensive eye check-ups will be done for individuals across all age groups under the 'Asha Kirana' scheme. Free spectacles will be provided to the visually impaired and cataract surgeries will be done free of cost. With the objective of reducing prevalence of avoidable blindness, 'Asha Kirana' has already been implemented successfully in eight districts across two phases. The first phase covered Chikkaballapur, Kalaburagi, Haveri, and Chamarajanagar, while the second phase included Chitradurga, Mandya, Raichur, and Uttara Kannada district. These initiatives have yielded promising results, with millions of individuals benefiting from primary and secondary gaps in eye health services availability.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded approval for Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) for various capital acquisition proposals amounting to Rs 84,560 crore.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded approval for Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) for various capital acquisition proposals amounting to Rs 84,560 crore. The DAC has accorded AoN under Buy {Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)} category for procurement of a new generation of Anti-tank mines having seismic sensor and provision of remote deactivation with additional safety features.

The Indian Air Force conduct Exercise 'Vayu Shakti-24' on 17 February 2024 at the Pokhran Air to Ground Range, near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

The Indian Air Force conduct Exercise 'Vayu Shakti-24' on 17 February 2024 at the Pokhran Air to Ground Range, near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The exercise also showcased joint operations with the Indian Army. This year, the exercise saw participation by 121 aircraft, including the indigenous Tejas, Prachand and Dhruv. Other participated aircraft include the Rafale, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar, Hawk, C-130J, Chinook, Apache and Mi-17. Indigenous Surface to Air Weapon systems Akash and Samar demonstrated their capability to track and shoot down an intruding aircraft. Exercise Vayu Shakti demonstration of the IAF's capability to deliver weapons with long range, precision capability as well as conventional weapon accurately, on time and with devastating effect, while operating from multiple air bases.

Taiwan and India signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate employment of Indian workers in Taiwan.

Taiwan and India signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate employment of Indian workers in Taiwan. The MoU was signed via video link by Baushuan Ger, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India, and Manharsinh Laxmanbhai Yadav, director general of the India-Taipei Association. Taiwan will initially seek Indian workers with good English proficiency on a small scale, and if the results of the MoU are good, the openings will be gradually increased. According to the terms of the MoU, the Taiwanese side will decide the industries and number of Indian migrant workers to be employed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, marking his seventh visit to the UAE and second to Qatar since assuming office in 2014.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, marking his seventh visit to the UAE and second to Qatar since assuming office in 2014. In his departure statement, PM Modi underscored the substantial growth in cooperation between India and the UAE over the past nine years, covering diverse sectors such as trade, investment, defence, security, food and energy security, and education. PM Modi inaugurated the first Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE, organized by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, symbolizing the deepening cultural bonds between the two countries. Additionally, he also addressed global leaders at the World Government Summit in Dubai, upon an invitation extended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defense Minister of the UAE.

Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) celebrated its 89th Business Commencement Day in Pune on 8th February, 2024.

Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) celebrated its 89th Business Commencement Day in Pune on 8th February, 2024. As Bank has undertaken Digital transformations in areas of digital journey, digital operations & digital compliance, accordingly new 89 digital products and services were launched marking this occasion as "Maha Parivartan Diwas 2.0". All Branches/offices across the country were also connected virtually to the program. The Bank has implemented several initiatives to cater to both businesses and individuals. For businesses, they have launched the Mahabank Equipment Finance Scheme to finance construction equipment purchases for MSMEs and Corporates. To effectively cater to new-age banking users, the Bank has enhanced features on its WhatsApp banking service (+91 – 7066036640), customers can now warm list, hotlist, and modify debit card limits for various channels.

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has granted In-principle approval to Policybazaar for upgradation of license from direct insurance broker (Life and General) to composite insurance broker.

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has granted In-principle approval to Policybazaar Insurance Brokers Private Limited (Policybazaar), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company for upgradation of license from direct insurance broker (Life and General) to composite insurance broker. This approval is expected to pave the way for Policybazaar to sell reinsurance products besides being a pure play platform focused on insurance buying. This will allow to deepen the insurance penetration in the country by bringing more technology, process control and data analytics based innovation into re-insurance capacity.

PayNearby, a branchless banking and digital network has launched the 'Digital Naari' platform to generate long-term self-employment for women across Bharat.

PayNearby, a branchless banking and digital network has launched the 'Digital Naari' platform to generate long-term self-employment for women across Bharat. This program is designed to provide additional income generation opportunities for women in rural and semi-urban areas, recognising their pivotal role as equal contributors to the nation's growth. Aligned with the Government's ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, the platform seeks to onboard and uplift 1 lakh women by the end of 2025, facilitating their economic empowerment. Through the Digital Naari platform, the uplifted lady banker, called didi, can provide a diverse range of financial and digital services to the masses.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) announced the reconstitution of the Expert Committee on the implementation of Ind AS/IFRS.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) announced the reconstitution of the Expert Committee on the implementation of Ind AS/IFRS. The 13-member committee, which will be headed by the Member (Finance and Investment) F&I of IRDAI. It will also include the Chairman of the Accounting Standards Board (ASB) of ICAI, the President of the Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI), the CGM & HOD of IRDAI’s Actuarial Department, among others. The committee will also address the requirements of guidance notes, APS, and Education Material from respective professional institutes.

Forbes India unveiled its prestigious 30 Under 30 list for 2024.

This year's list includes three familiar names from the entertainment space: actors Radhika Madan, Rashmika Mandanna, and Dot. 27-year-old actress Rashmika Mandanna appears in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi movies. In the action movie 'Varisu', directed by Vamshi Paidipally, she starred with Tamil superstar Vijay. Actress Radhika Madan, 28, works in Hindi cinema. She began the year in a supporting role in the criminal drama 'Kuttey', which was directed by Aasman Bhardwaj. Aditi Saigal is the youngest of the three. The 23-year-old singer-actor is famous for her stage name, Dot. The Forbes India 30 Under 30 alum club boasts a formidable 300 members, including notable success stories like Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha and the Postman co-founders Abhinav Asthana, Abhijit Kane, and Ankit Sobti. The impact of the 30 Under 30 extends beyond business into entertainment and sports.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the INSAT-3DS mission into space aboard the heavy-lift Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-II (GSLV-MkII).

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the INSAT-3DS mission into space aboard the heavy-lift Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-II (GSLV-MkII). The mission, designed to operate in space for 10 years, aims to boost India's environment monitoring, oceanic observations, weather forecasting, and disaster relief operations. This orbit is over 35,000 kilometers above the Earth's equator. The INSAT-3DS, a state-of-the-art meteorological satellite, is the latest addition to India's third-generation satellites in geostationary orbit. The satellite is equipped with a multi-spectral Imager (optical radiometer) capable of capturing images of the Earth and its surroundings in six distinct wavelength bands.

SpaceX launched 'Odysseus', also known as NOVA-C, as part of the Intuitive Machines 1 Mission (IM-1) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

SpaceX launched 'Odysseus', also known as NOVA-C, as part of the Intuitive Machines 1 Mission (IM-1) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The aim of the mission is to place Odysseus at crater Malapert A near the lunar south pole. Odysseus carries five NASA payloads, and commercial cargo. Odysseus’s payloads will study interactions between the lunar surface and plumes, which are clouds of gas. They will also perform radio astronomy experiments, and study how the lunar surface interacts with the space weather. Odysseus will also demonstrate precision landing technologies, and exhibit communication and navigation mode capabilities. First, Odysseus will be placed into an Earth orbit of size 185 kilometres x 60,000 kilometres.

Researchers at Odisha’s Berhampur University have discovered a new species of marine amphipod, named 'Parhyale odian', from the state’s Chilika Lake, Asia’s biggest brackish water lagoon on India’s east coast.

Researchers at Odisha’s Berhampur University have discovered a new species of marine amphipod, named 'Parhyale odian', from the state’s Chilika Lake, Asia’s biggest brackish water lagoon on India’s east coast. The new species has been named Parhyale odian after Odisha’s native language, Odia, as the species was collected there. The present contribution has added one more species to the genus Parhyale, raising the global species number in the group to 16.

The Indian women's badminton team clinched their maiden gold defeated Thailand (3-2) at the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) 2024.

The Indian women's badminton team clinched their maiden gold defeated Thailand (3-2) at the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) 2024. PV Sindhu, Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly and teenage sensational Anmol Kharb won their respective matches as India won the final 3-2 in Shah Alam. The 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships was held at the Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, from 13 to 18 February 2024. This championships was organised by the Badminton Asia along with Badminton Association of Malaysia as the host organiser. Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, the world No. 11, kicked off the Indian title charge in style, beating the 17th ranked Supanida Katethong 21-12, 21-12.

World Pangolin Day is observed annually on the third Saturday in February and taken place on February 17 in this year 2024.

World Pangolin Day is observed annually on the third Saturday in February and taken place on February 17 in this year 2024. The day aims to celebrate pangolins, raise awareness and recommit international N.G.O.s to the fight against the global capturing of pangolins in Africa and Asia. 17th February 2024 marked the observance of the 13th World Pangolin day.

President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024.

President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024. The Bill was passed by the Parliament in the recently concluded budget session. President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024. The Bill was passed by the Parliament in the recently concluded budget session. The Bill intended to prohibit collusion or conspiracy to facilitate indulgence in any unfair means. As per the provisions of the Bill, committed offence will be punishable with imprisonment between three to ten years, and a fine up from ten lakh to one crore rupees. All offences under the Bill will be cognisable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala launched the realigned Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) Scheme and released the Radio Jingle on AHIDF at New Delhi.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala launched the realigned Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) Scheme and released the Radio Jingle on AHIDF at New Delhi. The scheme has been realigned and will be implemented for another 3 years. The industry, FPO, Dairy Cooperatives should take benefit of the scheme. Now the Dairy Cooperatives will avail benefit of interest subvention of 3% under AHIDF instead of 2.5% which was received in DIDF. The Dairy Cooperative will also get Credit Guarantee support under the Credit Guarantee Fund of AHIDF. Amba Feed informed that they have set up 120000 MT per annum of Animal Feed plant in Coimbatore under AHIDF.

The Government of India has unveiled the prestigious 'National Creators Award' to acknowledge the growing influence of digital creators and influencers and champion India's digital economy.

The Government of India has unveiled the prestigious 'National Creators Award' to acknowledge the growing influence of digital creators and influencers and champion India's digital economy. The award aims to shine a spotlight on the multifaceted voices and talents shaping India's trajectory, while also propelling positive societal change and fostering innovation in the digital realm. The award ceremony will recognise outstanding creativity and innovation across a broad spectrum of categories, spanning storytelling, advocacy for social change, environmental sustainability, education, gaming, and beyond.

India and Colombia signed a MoU on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation.

India and Colombia signed a MoU on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation. It was signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Information Technologies and Communications of Colombia. Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, and Jal Shakti, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar exchanged the MoU with Mr. Mauricio Lizcano, Minister of Information Technologies and Communications of Colombia. Both sides discussed the importance of Digital Public Infrastructures. The MoU intends to promote digital transformation (viz INDIA STACK) through capacity-building programs, the exchange of best practices, the exchange of public officials and experts, the development of pilot or demo solutions.

Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, chaired the 62nd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD62), held from 5th to 14th February 2024 at the UN headquarters in New York.

Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, chaired the 62nd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD62), held from 5th to 14th February 2024 at the UN headquarters in New York. This Commission is a functional body of the Economic and Social Council that serves as a vital intergovernmental platform to discuss and enhance international cooperation on social development matters. The priority theme of the 62nd session was, “Fostering Social Development and Social Justice through Social Policies to Accelerate Progress on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to Achieve the Overarching Goal of Poverty Eradication”.

LIC of India has introduced a new plan called "LIC’s Amritbaal Plan 874”.

LIC of India has introduced a new plan called "LIC’s Amritbaal Plan 874”. This plan, launched by Dr Vivek Joshi, Secretary of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, GOI, will be available for purchase starting from 17 February 2024. LIC’s Amritbaal is a savings-oriented life insurance plan tailored to meet the educational and other needs of a child. It offers guaranteed additions of Rs 80 per thousand basic sums assured annually, provided the policy remains in force. The plan allows entry from birth (30 days completed) up to 13 years of age, with maturity ranging from 18 to 25 years. Premium payment terms of 5, 6, or 7 years are available. The minimum policy terms vary based on premium payment type, ranging from five to 10 years. The maximum policy term is 25 years, except for policies obtained through specific channels, which have a maximum term of 20 years. The minimum sum assured is Rs 2 lakh with no maximum limit (conditions apply). At maturity, the sum assured along with guaranteed additions is payable. Settlement options are available for receiving the maturity amount over 5, 10, or 15 years.

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) for setting up a world's first green hydrogen plant in the premises of Cochin Airport.

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) for setting up a world's first green hydrogen plant in the premises of Cochin Airport. This collaborative effort will result in the world's first green hydrogen plant and fueling station located within an airport setting. The agreement exchange ceremony for the green hydrogen plant was held at Legislative Complex, Thiruvananthapuram in the presence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan who is also the chairman of CIAL.

Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is the India's ‘most valuable company’ with a market capitalisation (mcap) of ₹15.64 trillion, according to a study by Axis Bank's private banking unit Burgunddy Private, and Hurun India.

Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is the India's ‘most valuable company’ with a market capitalisation (mcap) of ₹15.64 trillion, according to a study by Axis Bank's private banking unit Burgunddy Private, and Hurun India. The latest edition of the annual Burgundy Private and Hurun India 500 report is based on data from October 2022-October 2023, with Reliance Industries topping the list for the third consecutive time. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and HDFC Bank are the second and third most valuable companies, respectively, with a market value of ₹12.36 trillion and ₹11.25 trillion. Rounding off the top five were ICICI Bank ( ₹6.47 trillion) and Infosys ( ₹5.71 trillion). Bharti Airtel, ITC, Larsen & Toubro, HCL Technologies, and Kotak Mahindra Bank, in that order, rounded off the top 10, with their mcaps being ₹5.55 trillion, ₹5.36 trillion, ₹4.02 trillion, ₹3.43 trillion, and ₹3.41 trillion, respectively.

President Droupadi Murmu has awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal to Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh Regiment in the Indian Army for his development of a ‘multipurpose octocopter’.

President Droupadi Murmu has awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal to Havildar Varinder Singh of the Sikh Regiment in the Indian Army for his development of a ‘multipurpose octocopter’. The ‘multipurpose octocopter’ developed by Singh is a versatile drone capable of not only conducting surveillance operations but also performing tasks such as grenade dropping, aerial target engagement with weapons like the AK-47, and logistics operations. With the help of a four-hand grenade MGM rifle, the enemy can be killed with pinpoint accuracy. The Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) is a decoration of the Indian Armed Forces. It is given to personnel of all levels in the Indian Armed Forces as an acknowledgement for “distinguished service of a high order.” The medal is crafted from bronze and is adorned with a golden ribbon featuring three dark blue stripes.

Japan's space agency Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successful launched its new flagship rocket on 17 February 2024, the third time, H3 launch vehicle (H3TF2) after two previous failed attempts.

Japan's space agency Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successful launched its new flagship rocket on 17 February 2024, the third time, H3 launch vehicle (H3TF2) after two previous failed attempts. The H3 rocket, billed as flexible and cost-effective by space agency JAXA, "was put into orbit", after the rocket launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan.

A team of researchers have discovered a new species of damselfly named 'Phylloneura rupestris' at the Ponmudi hills in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.

A team of researchers have discovered a new species of damselfly named 'Phylloneura rupestris' at the Ponmudi hills in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The hills are a part of the Agasthyamalai landscape, at the southernmost tip of the Western Ghats. The Ponmudi hills are biodiversity-rich, and this is the third species of damselfly discovered from the region. The new species, named Cliffside Bambootail (Phylloneura rupestris), belongs to a group called bambootails, so named because of their long abdomen that resembles bamboo stalks.

Justice Nilay V Anjaria was appointed as the next chief justice of the Karnataka High Court.

The Supreme Court Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud recommended the appointment of Justice N V Anjaria of the Gujarat High Court as the Chief Justice (CJ) of Karnataka High Court. The Karnataka HC CJ, P S Dinesh Kumar, is set to retire on February 24, 2024. The Collegium recommended that Justice Anjaria be appointed as the CJ of Karnataka High Court with effect from the date on which CJ P S Dinesh Kumar demits office.

The Global Tourism Resilience Day is annually celebrated on February 17 to raise awareness of the need to promote resilient tourism development capable of withstanding both predictable and unexpected challenges.

The Global Tourism Resilience Day is annually celebrated on February 17 to raise awareness of the need to promote resilient tourism development capable of withstanding both predictable and unexpected challenges. The United Nations’ Global Tourism Resilience Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly on 17 February 2023. UNWTO projected scenarios for 2023 indicated that international tourism would recover almost 90% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2023. 17 February2024 marked the observance of the 2nd Global Tourism Resilience Day.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched the ‘Van Mitra’ scheme and its portal to encourage community participation in tree planting activities in non-forest areas.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched the ‘Van Mitra’ scheme and its portal to encourage community participation in tree planting activities in non-forest areas. The members of families with an annual income of less than Rs 1.80 lakh can register to become ‘Van Mitras’. The objective of this scheme is to directly involve the local public in increasing forest areas across the state, ensuring an increase in the survival rate of afforestation, and promoting tree planting in non-forest areas. Each van mitra will receive an incentive based on the maintenance of the plant and they can plant a maximum of 1,000 saplings. Any individual aged between 18 and 60 can become a van mitra.

The Odisha Cabinet approved 'Swatantra Yuva Udyami (SWAYAM)' yojana, which is meant to provide interest-free loans to unemployed youths in the State.

The Odisha Cabinet approved 'Swatantra Yuva Udyami (SWAYAM)' yojana, which is meant to provide interest-free loans to unemployed youths in the State. The state government, in its cabinet meeting, has decided to provide interest-free loans up to Rs 1 lakh to youth of the state under the new government scheme 'Swayam'. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has also decided to give more employment or more income to the rural youth and the urban youth by introducing one new scheme, 'SWAYAM' so that people who are maintaining small enterprises can avail liquid capital without any collateral security. Under the new government scheme to create self-employment for youth, 1 lakh eligible rural and an equal number of urban youth in the age group of 18-35 years will receive interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 lakh for starting a new business or expanding an existing one. The scheme will be operational for two years and Rs 672 crore will be spent from the state's coffers.

The second edition of India Energy Week 2024 in Goa concluded successfully, with an announcement that the next edition of the global energy conclave will be held at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi between February 11-14.

The second edition of India Energy Week 2024 in Goa concluded successfully, with an announcement that the next edition of the global energy conclave will be held at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi between February 11-14. Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Hardeep Singh Puri also announced that the fourth edition of the global conclave in 2026 will be back in Goa at the IPSHEM-ONGC-Training Institute. The four day event, inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, featured global oil, gas, biofuels and renewable companies exhibiting their products and services. The International Energy Agency (IEA) released a report ‘Indian Oil Market Outlook to 2030’ stating India will become the largest source of global oil demand growth between 2024 and 2030.

Union minister for education, skill development & entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan launched the 100-Cube Start-Up initiative of IIT Bhubaneswar’s Research and Entrepreneurship Park.

Union minister for education, skill development & entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan launched the 100-Cube Start-Up initiative of IIT Bhubaneswar’s Research and Entrepreneurship Park. The 100-Cube Start-up Initiative will shape the future of the entrepreneurship landscape of Odisha and India by creating a conducive environment. During the event, IIT Bhubaneswar signed MoUs with 15 companies to build strategic collaborations for achieving the 100 Cube objective. Pradhan also officially inaugurated the 1500-seater auditorium hosting the event and laid the e-foundation for infrastructure projects worth Rs450 crores.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, exempted Income Tax for the Dairy Cooperative Society.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, exempted Income Tax for the Dairy Cooperative Society. A primary cooperative society engaged in supplying of milk to the Federal Cooperative Society is eligible to claim deduction in respect of its entire profit relating to supply of milk to Unions society u/s 80P of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The surcharge on co-operative societies has been reduced from 12% to 7% on income of more than ₹1 crore and up to ₹10 crores. The rate of Alternate Minimum Tax for the cooperative societies have also been reduced from 18.5% to 15% for cooperative societies at par with companies. A higher limit of ₹ 3 crore for TDS on cash withdrawal has been provided for co- operative societies as against Rs 1 crore threshold for applicability of TDS u/s 194N for other recipients.

The “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot Projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector”, have been issued by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) on February 14, 2024, under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

The “Scheme Guidelines for implementation of Pilot Projects for use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector”, have been issued by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) on February 14, 2024, under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. With the falling costs of renewable energy and electrolyzers, it is expected that vehicles based on green hydrogen can become cost-competitive over the next few years. Future economies of scale and rapid technological advancements in the field of vehicles powered by hydrogen are likely to further improve the viability of transport based on green hydrogen. These pilot projects will be implemented through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the Scheme Implementing Agencies (SIAs) nominated under this Scheme. The scheme will support development of technologies for use of Green Hydrogen as a fuel in Buses, Trucks and 4-wheelers, based on fuel cell-based propulsion technology / internal combustion engine-based propulsion technology. The other thrust area for the scheme is to support development of infrastructure such as hydrogen refuelling stations.

The World’s Migratory Species report was released at the opening press conference of the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The first-ever State of the World’s Migratory Species report was launched by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), a UN biodiversity treaty, at the opening of a major UN wildlife conservation conference (CMS COP14). The World’s Migratory Species report was released at the opening press conference of the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The landmark report reveals: Some migratory species listed under CMS are improving, nearly half (44 percent) are showing population declines. More than one-in-five (22 percent) of CMS-listed species are threatened with extinction. Nearly all (97 percent) of CMS-listed fish are threatened with extinction. Globally, 399 migratory species that are threatened or near threatened with extinction are not currently listed under CMS.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) issued draft regulations on Bima Sugam, which is a one-stop online insurance marketplace.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) issued draft regulations on Bima Sugam, which is a one-stop online insurance marketplace. The one-stop solution is slated to facilitate a range of services related to insurance policies -- from purchase, sale, servicing and settlement of claims to grievance redressal. Bima Sugam, which is part of the Bima trinity, seeks to empower and protect the interest of policyholders. The other branches are Bima Vistaar and Bima Vahak. Bima Sugam shall be a one-stop solution for all Insurance stakeholder’s vis-a-vis customers, insurers, intermediaries or insurance intermediaries and insurance agents to promote transparency, efficiency, collaboration across the entire insurance value chain, technological innovation in the insurance sector.

Federal Bank introduced its newest product, the 'Stellar Savings Account', aiming to transform the banking sector by delivering exceptional benefits and innovative features.

Federal Bank introduced its newest product, the 'Stellar Savings Account', aiming to transform the banking sector by delivering exceptional benefits and innovative features. Noteworthy features of the Stellar Savings Account comprise: One-year complimentary wellness plan: Emphasizing the overall well-being of its customers, Federal Bank presents a complimentary one-year wellness plan alongside the Stellar Savings Account. Insurance coverage: Ensuring peace of mind and financial security, the Stellar Savings Account provides robust insurance coverage, offering protection for customers and their loved ones in the face of unforeseen circumstances. Milestone benefits: The Stellar Savings Account introduces milestone benefits, ensuring the celebration of each banking achievement with exclusive perks and privileges. Accelerated reward points: With the Stellar Savings Account, customers can accumulate reward points on every transaction, enjoying accelerated points for debit card expenditures in travel, electronics, and apparel segments, thereby maximizing their rewards. Eco-friendly debit card: Aligning with its commitment to sustainability, Federal Bank introduces an environmentally friendly debit card with the Stellar Savings Account.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) signed Terms of Reference for the integration of fast payment systems.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) signed Terms of Reference for the integration of fast payment systems. This interface is designed exclusively for India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Nepal’s National Payments Interface (NPI). The main goal of this integration is to streamline and facilitate low-cost fund transfers between India and Nepal, allowing users of both systems to make rapid transactions.

BOBCARD (formerly known as BOB Financial Solutions), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched Corporate Credit Card on RuPay Network.

BOBCARD (formerly known as BOB Financial Solutions), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched Corporate Credit Card on RuPay Network. This makes BOBCARD the second credit card issuer in the ecosystem (after IndusInd Bank) to have corporate credit card on RuPay with a host of benefits for the corporates for varied use cases and convenience of linkage with UPI through any UPI-enabled app. A corporate credit card on the RuPay network is a financial instrument designed specifically for corporate clients, offering benefits and features tailored to meet the needs of businesses.

Isha Ambani, Director of Reliance Retail Ventures, received a special award at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year 2024 (LMOTY 2024) for her remarkable contributions in the field of business.

Isha Ambani, Director of Reliance Retail Ventures, received a special award at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year 2024 (LMOTY 2024) for her remarkable contributions in the field of business. She spearheaded leading brands like Tira & Trends.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) elected Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal as their new President.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) elected Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal as their new President. Agarwal is the 72nd President of ICAI and served as Vice President in 2023-24. He succeeded Aniket S. Talati. A graduate of Calcutta University, Agarwal is a practicing Chartered Accountant since last 24 years. He is also a Company Secretary and DISA from ICAI. He was elected to the 23rd, 24th and 25th Central Council of ICAI three times in a row.

February 13th is celebrated as National Women's Day in India, in honour of Sarojini Naidu, known as 'The Nightingale of India'.

February 13th is celebrated as National Women's Day in India, in honour of Sarojini Naidu, known as 'The Nightingale of India'. 13th February 2024 marks the 145th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. She was born on the 13th February 1879 in Hyderabad. Sarojni Naidu was well known as the “Nightingale of India” or “Bharat Kokila”. This title was given to her by Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation. National Women’s Day will empower, encourage women and recognises their contribution to society.

International Childhood Cancer Day is observed every year on February 15 to raise awareness around the unique challenges of childhood cancers.

International Childhood Cancer Day is observed every year on February 15 to raise awareness around the unique challenges of childhood cancers. International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) is a global campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer and its unique challenges, showing support for children and adolescents with cancer, survivors and their families worldwide. February 15 is marked as International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) and is observed to highlight the challenges related to childhood cancer and the need to support children, adolescents and their families to battle this dreaded disease. The campaign theme of International Childhood Cancer Day 2024 is “Unveiling Challenges”.

Bihar introduced 'Patna Declaration' to strengthen bird conservation initiatives in South Asian region.

Bihar introduced 'Patna Declaration' to strengthen bird conservation initiatives in South Asian region. In a bid to check Illegal hunting of wild and migratory birds and suggest measures to strengthen their conservation efforts in countries falling in the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), a three-day international workshop was held in the Bihar capital from February 5, 2024. The international workshop was organised by the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (DEFCC) of Bihar government in association with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). The workshop, which concluded on February 7, was attended by delegates from countries like Myanmar, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan besides those from across India.

Arunachal Pradesh has become the first state in the North-East India and 10th in the country to achieve 100 percent saturation of Har Ghar Jal under Jal Jeevan Mission.

Arunachal Pradesh has become the first state in the North-East India and 10th in the country to achieve 100 percent saturation of Har Ghar Jal under Jal Jeevan Mission. The Centre’s Rs396541.22 lakh and State’s Rs 45551.18 lakh ensured that every household in the state has clean and safe piped water. The mission aims at improving the ‘quality of life’ and enhanced ‘ease of living’ in rural areas by making a provision of assured tap water supply to every rural household in the country by 2024.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has inks a contract worth Rs 2,282 crore from the Indian Navy.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has inks a contract worth Rs 2,282 crore from the Indian Navy. The deal is for supplying of state-of-the-art indigenously designed and developed electronic warfare suite for use on-board warships. The company has also received additional orders worth Rs 114.59 crore since the last disclosure on 30th January 2024 and these orders pertain to the supply of SDRs, HD VLF receivers, EVMs etc.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various developmental projects worth Rs 7,500 crore in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various developmental projects worth Rs 7,500 crore in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh. The event, attended by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and his cabinet ministers, focused on initiatives benefiting the significant tribal population of the region. The Prime Minister dedicated and laid the foundation stone for multiple initiatives aimed at benefiting the tribal population. One such initiative is the monthly disbursement of instalments under the Aahar Anudan Yojna to approximately two lakh women beneficiaries. This scheme provides Rs 1,500 per month for nutritious food to women from various especially backward tribes in Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi distributed 1.75 lakh Adhikar Abhilekh (record of rights) to beneficiaries of the SVAMITVA Scheme, offering documentary evidence for their land rights. Furthermore, he transferred Rs 55.90 crores for 559 villages under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana and laid the foundation stone for the 'CM Rise School' in Jhabua. The school aims to integrate technology, providing modern facilities such as smart classes and an e-library to students.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has revised the National Film Awards regulations and made significant changes, including renaming awards, merging categories, and increasing prize money.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has revised the National Film Awards regulations and made significant changes, including renaming awards, merging categories, and increasing prize money. The ‘Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director’ and the ‘Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration’, which are part of the National Film Awards, have been renamed on the recommendation of the Committee for Rationalisation of Film Awards. ‘Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director’ be renamed as ‘Best Debut Film of a Director’, and the award money be increased to Rs 3 lakh. ‘Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration’ be renamed as ‘Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values’. This award carries a Rajat Kamal to the director and the producer with Rs 1.5 lakh each. It be clubbed with ‘Best Film on Social Issues and Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation’. The award amount has been increased to Rs 2 lakh each to the director and producer. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award has increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. The rationalisation committee was headed by Neerja Sekhar, additional secretary in the Information and Broadcasting ministry. Other changes include the creation of a new category called ‘Best AVGC Film’, which combines the Best Animation Film and Best Special Effects categories. Awards for Best Actor, Actress, Supporting Actor, and Supporting Actress have been renamed and the prize money increased. Additionally, changes have been made to categories such as Best Audiography and Best Music Director.

Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal was launched by Prof Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog at NITI Aayog.

Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal was launched by Prof Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog at NITI Aayog. This multi-institutional effort led by NITI Aayog utilized remote sensing and GIS to assess agroforestry suitability across all districts in India. Using thematic datasets, an Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) was developed for national-level prioritization. The report provides state-wise and district-wise analysis, supporting government departments and industries for greening and restoration projects.

The urban unemployment rate declined to its lowest level in over four years of 6.5% in October-December 2023 (Q3FY24).

The urban unemployment rate declined to its lowest level in over four years of 6.5% in October-December 2023, while the female labour force participation rate rose to its highest level of 25%, according to quarterly Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data released. Urban unemployment was 7.2% in October-December 2022 and 6.6% in the previous quarter. During the pre-pandemic period, the urban unemployment rate ranged from 7.8-9.7%, as per the PLFS. The decline in the overall unemployment rate during Q3 FY24 was due to a drop in the male unemployment rate, which fell from 6.0% in Q2FY24 to 5.8% in Q3FY24. The female unemployment rate stayed flat at 8.6% in Q3FY24. The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) also increased to 46.6% in Q3FY24 from 46.0% in Q2FY24.The WPR is defined as the percentage of employed persons in the population.

Mirae Asset Mutual Fund launched Mirae Asset Nifty Smallcap 250 Momentum Quality 100 ETF, marking the country's first multi-factor-based ETF (exchange traded fund) on the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index.

Mirae Asset Mutual Fund launched Mirae Asset Nifty Smallcap 250 Momentum Quality 100 ETF, marking the country's first multi-factor-based ETF (exchange traded fund) on the Nifty Smallcap 250 Index. The open-ended new fund offer (NFO) will be available for subscription till February 21, 2024. Additionally, the ‘Mirae Asset Nifty Smallcap 250 Momentum Quality 100 ETF Fund of Fund’ will open for subscription on February 15, 2024 and close on February 28, 2024. Mirae Asset Nifty Smallcap 250 Momentum Quality 100 ETF aims to generate returns commensurate with the performance of the Nifty Smallcap 250 Momentum Quality 100 Total Return Index, subject to tracking error.

REC Limited has signed agreements worth Rs588 crores with Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) to strengthen infrastructure and energy projects in the Damodar Valley region.

REC Limited has signed agreements worth Rs588 crores with Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) to strengthen infrastructure and energy projects in the Damodar Valley region. The agreements aim to strengthen the cooperation between REC and DVC for the development of tubed coal mines, and include a Term Loan agreement, an Escrow agreement, and Hypothecation deeds. The agreements signed underscore the collaborative efforts of both organizations in promoting sustainable development and leveraging resources for the greater benefit of the community.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the Proposed Combination involving acquisition of 100% of the equity shares of Tianish Laboratories Private Limited by the Matrix Pharma Private Limited.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the Proposed Combination involving acquisition of 100% of the equity shares of Tianish Laboratories Private Limited by the Matrix Pharma Private Limited. Kotak Strategic Situations India Fund II (Investor 1) is an alternative investment fund registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012. Kotak Alternate Asset Managers Limited (Investor 2) acts as an investment manager, engaged in the business of managing and advising funds across the following asset classes namely: (a) Special Situations; (b) Real Estate; (c) Infrastructure; (d) Private Equity; and (e) Private Credit.

The United World Wrestling (UWW) announced that they have lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) with immediate effect on 13th February 2024.

The United World Wrestling (UWW) announced that they have lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) with immediate effect on 13th February 2024. The candidates for this commission (WFI’s Athletes’ Commission) shall be active athletes or retired for no longer than four years. However, the UWW directed the national body to provide written guarantees that there would be no discriminatory action against the protesting wrestlers and that the WFI would have to re-convene the elections of its Athletes’ Commission no later than July 1, 2024.

World Radio Day is marked annually on 13th February.

World Radio Day is marked annually on 13th February. It is generally believed that the first radio transmission was made by Guglielmo Marconi in 1895 and radio broadcasting of music and talk that was aimed towards a wider audience came into existence, albeit experimentally, sometimes around 1905-1906. The radio came into existence commercially in the early 1920s. The theme for the World Radio Day 2024 is "Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating".

The famed Kaji nemu (kaji lemon), which has been declared the state fruit of Assam.

The famed Kaji nemu (kaji lemon), which has been declared the state fruit of Assam. Kaji nemu is a lemon whose botanical name is citrus limon, and a GI-certified product. The oval-shaped elongated lemon looks a bit like the gondhoraj lebu but is different. It is not as pungently fragrant as the gondhoraj and its peel is smooth and thin. While this is easily available in various parts of Assam, getting Kaji nemu can be quite a task in other parts of India.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant presented a Rs 26,850.56 crore revenue surplus budget for 2024-25 in the Assembly, with no additional taxes being imposed on the citizens of the coastal state.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant presented a Rs 26,850.56 crore revenue surplus budget for 2024-25 in the Assembly, with no additional taxes being imposed on the citizens of the coastal state. The revenue surplus was Rs 1,720 crore, while the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is expected to witness a growth of 13.87 percent, with per capita income of Rs 7.64 lakh. He also announced a one-time amnesty scheme for residential houses that are being operated illegally as home stays, hotels and restaurants. Goa received Rs 750 crore as financial assistance from the Centre for fiscal 2023-24 and this is expected to rise to Rs 1,506 crore for 2024-25. There are several leave and licence agreements (between government and private parties) that are not renewed, due to which there is revenue leakage, and to curb this the state government will introduce a regulation for such agreements.

The pristine Gupteswar Forest, adjacent to Gupteswar Shiva temple in Odisha’s Koraput district has been declared as the fourth Biodiversity-Heritage Site (BHS) of the state.

The pristine Gupteswar Forest, adjacent to Gupteswar Shiva temple in Odisha’s Koraput district has been declared as the fourth Biodiversity-Heritage Site (BHS) of the state. The site is spread over 350 hectares of demarcated area. Along with its sacred grooves traditionally worshipped by the local community, the site is bestowed with a wide range of flora and fauna.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, handed over the Chess Olympiad Torch to Budapest, Hungary, the host of the 45th edition of the Chess Olympiad.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, handed over the Chess Olympiad Torch to Budapest, Hungary, the host of the 45th edition of the Chess Olympiad. The transfer of the torch took place at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi. The ceremony, held at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi, was not just a formal handover but also a celebration of chess as an intellectual sport deeply rooted in India’s heritage.

International Epilepsy Day 2024, observed on 12th February.

International Epilepsy Day observed annually on the second Monday of February to awareness programs were conducted across various regions to educate and sensitize the public about epilepsy. International Epilepsy Day 2024, observed on 12th February. The theme for International Epilepsy Day 2024 is 'Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey'. International Epilepsy Day was instituted in 2015. According to the official website of the World Health Organization (WHO), epilepsy is characterized as a non-communicable neurological disorder impacting approximately 50 million individuals globally.

Centre For Development Of Telematics (C-DOT) and Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT-R), have signed an agreement to develop a groundbreaking 140GHz Fully Integrated Transmitter & Receiver Module for 6G and Beyond.

Centre For Development Of Telematics (C-DOT) and Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT-R), have signed an agreement to develop a groundbreaking 140GHz Fully Integrated Transmitter & Receiver Module for 6G and Beyond. The agreement, signed under the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) scheme of the Department of Telecommunications.

Google has introduced a new video generation AI model called 'Lumiere' that uses a new diffusion model called Space-Time-U-Net, or STUNet.

Google has introduced a new video generation AI model called 'Lumiere' that uses a new diffusion model called Space-Time-U-Net, or STUNet. Lumiere creates 5-second videos in one process instead of putting smaller still frames together. This technology figures out where things are in a video (space) and how they simultaneously move and change (time). The design facilitates a wide range of content creation tasks and video editing applications, including image-to-video, video inpainting, and stylised generation. It supports both text-to-video and image-to-video generation and joins existing AI models such as Runway Gen-2 and Pika 1.0.

National Productivity Day is celebrated on 12th February every year in India to commemorate the founding of the National Productivity Council (NPC).

National Productivity Day is celebrated on 12th February every year in India to commemorate the founding of the National Productivity Council (NPC). Indian Productivity Week which is observed from February 12 to February 18. The theme of National Productivity Day 2024 is “Artificial Intelligence (AI)- Productivity Engine for Economic Growth”. It highlights the crucial role of AI in driving a country’s economic growth and productivity. The goal of the NPC is to raise national awareness of the need to boost productivity. The purpose of the festivities is to increase public awareness of innovation, efficiency, and productivity.

Every year on 12 February International Darwin Day is observed to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin.

Every year on 12 February International Darwin Day is observed to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin. He was born on 12 February 1809 at Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England. Darwin Day is also known as International Darwin Day. The day focuses on the contribution of Charles Darwin to science and also to promote science in general. Darwin Day celebration began with three Darwin enthusiasts: Dr. Robert Stephens, who motivated the community of Humanist in Silicon Valley to initiate an annual Darwin Day celebration in 1995; Prof. Massimo Pigliucci, who organised an annual Darwin Day event at the University of Tennessee in 1997 and Amanda Chesworth, who joined Stephens to officially incorporate the Darwin Day Program in 2000 in New Mexico.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed an interim Budget of ₹1.18 lakh crore for fiscal 2024-25 for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed an interim Budget of ₹1.18 lakh crore for fiscal 2024-25 for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. The interim Budget envisages a fiscal deficit of Rs 20,760 crore and a 7.5 percent growth in gross state domestic product (GSDP). The capital expenditure for the fiscal has been proposed at Rs 38,566 crore, which is 14.64 percent of the GSDP, as per the interim Budget tabled by Sitharaman in Parliament. The revenue receipts for the next fiscal stood at Rs 97,861 crore. The revenue of the UT has been estimated at ₹20,867 crore. The UT administration also pursued Union government for getting central financial assistance. The Union government has agreed to provide ₹41,751.44 crores to the UT administration in this financial year and ₹37,277.74 crores in the next financial year. While the budgetary estimate for the next financial year 2024-25 is about ₹1,18,728 crore, the UT administration has proposed the vote on account for ₹59,364 crore.

The Ministry of Rural Development unveiled the National Generic Document Registration System (NDGRS) throughout Assam, alongside the launch of the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) and Blockchain technology in the Darrang district of Assam.

The Ministry of Rural Development unveiled the National Generic Document Registration System (NDGRS) throughout Assam, alongside the launch of the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) and Blockchain technology in the Darrang district of Assam. The ULPIN (Unique Land Parcel Identification Number) is taken as the unique blockchain ID and the land parcel is uniquely identified using ULPIN from Bhunaksha. The ULPIN, a 14-digit alpha numeric identification number to every land parcel can be described as the AADHAR or fingerprint for land. The identification is based on the longitude and latitude of the land parcel and is dependent on geo-referenced cadastral maps.

Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) commemorated its 88th Foundation Day on 10 February 2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) commemorated its 88th Foundation Day on 10 February 2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Indian Overseas Bank has drawn up expansion plans to open 88 new branches during the year commemorating the 88th Foundation Day celebrations. The Chennai-headquartered bank marking the occasion unveiled RuPay Credit Card variants, IOB Freedom Savings and Current Account Variant and Digital Documents Execution for online locker agreements. Meanwhile, Indian Overseas Bank has increased the interest rates on Rupees Retail Term Deposits for 444 days by 20 basis points with immediate effect. Retail term depositors would receive an interest rate of 7.30 percent, senior citizens 7.80 percent, and Super Senior Citizens 8.05 percent on term deposits with 444 days.

Former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, and eminent agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan will be conferred with the highest civilian award ‘Bharat Ratna’.

Former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, and eminent agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan will be conferred with the highest civilian award ‘Bharat Ratna’. Serving in various capacities, PV Narasimha Rao is widely credited with initiating pivotal economic reforms and appointing Manmohan Singh as Finance Minister during a challenging economic period. He died in 2004. Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth prime minister, founded the Lokdal party in 1980 and is often hailed as India's farm hero. The father of green revolution, Dr Swaminathan played a key role in introducing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice, saving India from famine-like conditions in the 1960s.

Indian paraarcher Sheetal Devi won the Sportstar Aces Award for the Sportstar of the Year (female) and Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra won the Sportstar Aces Award for Sportstar of the Year (Male) at Sportstar ACES Awards 2024 held at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai.

Indian paraarcher Sheetal Devi won the Sportstar Aces Award for the Sportstar of the Year (female) and Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra won the Sportstar Aces Award for Sportstar of the Year (Male) at Sportstar ACES Awards 2024 held at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai. In 2023, Sheetal became the world record holder in the women’s doubles event at the Para Worlds, while at the World Archery Para Championships, she clinched a silver medal, making her the first female armless archer to do so. She won three medals at the Asian Para Games, including two golds and one silver. This is Neeraj Chopra second consecutive Sportstar of the Year award. Neeraj, the world No. 1 in men’s javelin throw, began 2023 by winning Diamond League events in Doha [88.67m], before becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World Athletics Championships with an 88.17m throw. India cricketer Mohammed Shami claimed the ‘Sportsman of the Year (Team Sports)’ honour at the Sportstar ACES Awards 2024. Shami was the top wicket-taker of the ODI World Cup 2023 with 24 scalps.

The 193rd Meeting of Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) was held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Shri Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Chairman, ESIC.

The 193rd Meeting of Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) was held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Shri Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Chairman, ESIC. Shri Rameswar Teli, Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Petroleum and Natural Gas also attended the meeting as Vice-Chairman. During the 193rd meeting of the ESI Corporation, the proposal to provide Medical Benefit to the Insured superannuating workers who went out of the ESI Scheme coverage due to exceeding the wage ceiling, if the worker was under insurable employment for at least 5 years before superannuation/voluntary retirement, has been approved. The persons who were in the insurable employment for at least 5 years after 01.04.2012 and superannuated/voluntarily retired on or after 01.04.2017 with wages up to Rs30,000 per month will be benefitted under the new benefit scheme. To promote holistic wellbeing of the ESI beneficiaries, a new Policy on AYUSH 2023 in ESIC institutions was adopted during the meeting. The policy details the establishing of Panchkarma, Kshara Sutra and AYUSH Units in ESIC Hospitals.

India and Russia have signed a protocol on amendments to the 2008 intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in construction of additional nuclear reactors in Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project site and in construction of Russia-designed nuclear power plants at new sites in India.

India and Russia have signed a protocol on amendments to the 2008 intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in construction of additional nuclear reactors in Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project site and in construction of Russia-designed nuclear power plants at new sites in India. Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom State Corporation, and Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission of India, Secretary of Department for Atomic Energy of the Government of India, signed in the agreement during their visit to KKNPP site where the Russian nuclear energy agency has built 2 X 1,000 MWe VVER nuclear reactors and is constructing four more reactors with similar capacity. During the two-day visit, the Russian delegation inspected the power units being constructed as the second and third stages of the KKNPP i.e., the construction of reactors 3 to 6 and discussed the long-term cooperation agenda. The KKNPP in Tamil Nadu is a joint initiative of the two countries and the flagship project of bilateral technological and energy cooperation.

Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya launched the AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card.

Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya launched the AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card. The AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card will ensure hassle free payments for treatment in AIIMS New Delhi. AIIMS Smart Payment Card will resolve the long pending issue of patients from far flung areas carrying cash with them to the hospital. That patients or their caretakers can get the card easily from the facilitation centres across AIIMS, New Delhi and thereafter use it for payment at various counters. Funds can now be transferred easily and swiftly from across the country by anyone in case of any urgent payment related requirement, for the patient being attended at AIIMS, New Delhi. The card once issued will be valid for a period of five years. All transactions done using this card are linked to the E-Hospital functional at AIIMS. Reconciliation of all financial transactions can be done by the Finance Division, AIIMS owing to the two-way integration between AIIMS & the bank. The card will be linked to the patient’s Unique Hospital Identification (UHID) number & the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID issued under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

Japan's Mizuho Bank has acquired 15 percent stake in Digital non-banking finance company Credit Saison (CS) India for Rs 1,200 crore.

Japan's Mizuho Bank has acquired 15 percent stake in Digital non-banking finance company Credit Saison (CS) India for Rs 1,200 crore. This is Credit Saison's first investment from an external investor. CS India received its (Non-banking Finance Company) NBFC licence in September 2019 from the RBI and focussed initial operations in wholesale lending and tech-integrated partnerships with other NBFCs and fintechs.

Padma Shri awardee Dr Ishwar Chander Verma (I C Verma), an advisor in the institute of medical genetics and genomics, passed away.

Padma Shri awardee Dr Ishwar Chander Verma (I C Verma), an advisor in the institute of medical genetics and genomics, passed away. Dr Verma has gone on to become the only doctor from Delhi to win the country’s fourth-highest civilian award in 2023. Professor Verma received the prestigious Padma Shri in 2023 for his groundbreaking research contributions. He was awarded the BC Roy National Award in 1983. Under Professor Verma's exemplary guidance, the Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH) garnered the esteemed FICCI 9th Annual Healthcare Excellence Award in 2017.

The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism (PVE Day) is annually observed on 12th February.

The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism (PVE Day) is annually observed on 12th February. The United Nations General Assembly (in its resolution 77/243) declared 12 February the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism (PVE day). 12th February 2024 marked the observance of the 2nd International PVE Day.

Australia beat India in the Under-19 World Cup of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in South Africa.

Australia beat India in the Under-19 World Cup of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in South Africa. The 2024 ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup was an international limited-overs cricket tournament organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), that was held in South Africa from 19 January to 11 February 2024. It was the 15th edition of the Under-19 Cricket World Cup.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the "Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY)".

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the "Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY)". The scheme aims formalization of the fisheries sector and supporting fisheries micro and small enterprises with an investment of over Rs6,000 crores over a period of next four (4) years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2026-27 in all States/Union Territories. The Sub-scheme will be implemented as a Central Sector Sub-scheme under the Central Sector Component of the PMMSY at an estimated outlay of Rs 6,000 crore consisting of 50% i.e Rs3,000 crore public finance including the World Bank and the AFD external financing. And rest 50% i.e Rs3,000 crore being the anticipated investment from the beneficiaries/private sector leverage. It will be implemented for 4 (four) years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2026-27 across all the States and UTs.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved auctions in eight spectrum bands for mobile phone services at a base price of Rs 96,317.65 crore to improve the quality of telecom services and coverage for consumers.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved auctions in eight spectrum bands for mobile phone services at a base price of Rs 96,317.65 crore to improve the quality of telecom services and coverage for consumers. The Ministry of Communication has announced auctions for spectrum in 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3300 MHz and 26 GHz frequency bands. The said spectrum will be offered with a validity period of 20 years. A total of 10,523.15 MHz is being offered with a valuation of Rs 96,317.65 crore.

Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India Prof Ajay Kumar Sood launched “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal.

Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India Prof Ajay Kumar Sood launched “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal. It is aim to creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine). Launching the Portal on the occasion of International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Indian National Science Academy (INSA), New Delhi, the database of SWATI Portal will serve in policy making to address the challenges of Gender-gap. The Portal is a complete interactive database and the first-of-its-kind in India which is developed, hosted and maintained by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), New Delhi under the leadership of Dr Subhra Chakraborty.

Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) has released the Annual NeSDA Way Forward Report 2023.

Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) has released the Annual NeSDA Way Forward Report 2023. The Report highlights the significant progress made by the States and UTs during the year under mandatory e-Services and total e-Services under NeSDA Framework. Towards promotion of e-Services the Department organized three Regional Conferences at Bhopal, Mumbai and Guwahati, respectively, which were addressed by Dr Jitendra Singh, MoS (PP) and senior dignitaries of State Governments. The Department also engaged with RTS Commissioners / Appellate Officers for improving e-Services delivery. It also organized Brain-Storming Session with Industry Leaders on the Theme of Emerging and Future e-Governance Initiatives and Emerging Technologies.

The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has released the CRISIL's impact assessment of the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) study report named “Prabhaav”.

The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has released the CRISIL's impact assessment of the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) study report named “Prabhaav”. It assesses the impact of the Fund of Funds for Start-ups (FFS). Funds of Fund for Start Ups (FFS) under the Start Up India Action Plan launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2016, is one of the flagship programmes of DPIIT, Government of India. The scheme is being managed by SIDBI on behalf of, and under the overall guidance and direction of DPIIT. The scheme has already catalysed investments to the tune of ~4x of the amount drawn with ₹17,534 crore invested in 938 unique startups. Thus, the scheme resulted in significant multiplier effect, promoting enhanced capital flow into this segment. While FFS largely focusses on early-stage funding in young companies, as many as 18 of its startups have already become unicorns.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to strengthen flood and riverbank erosion risk management along the 650 kilometers (km) long main stem of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to strengthen flood and riverbank erosion risk management along the 650 kilometers (km) long main stem of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India. The project builds on the success and lessons from the ADB-financed Assam Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management Investment Program (2010–2020) and similar investments in Bangladesh and will continue to tackle recurrent flooding and continual riverbank erosion of the Brahmaputra River. The project will apply a holistic, integrated, and risk-informed approach to scale up investment in flood and riverbank erosion risk management and its long-term planning, while intensifying support for climate and disaster resilience and food security. By optimizing co-benefits and empowering women through disaster-resilient economic activities, the project will benefit about 1 million people and increase crop production over 50,000 hectares.

India has successfully introduced its Unified Payment Interface (UPI) services in Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

India has successfully introduced its Unified Payment Interface (UPI) services in Sri Lanka and Mauritius. Additionally, RuPay card services were launched in Mauritius as part of this initiative. The first UPI transaction in Sri Lanka was made by an Indian, with Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, along with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attending the virtual ceremony. The launch of UPI further strengthens India's ties with Sri Lanka and Mauritius, making transactions easier for Indians visiting Sri Lanka and Mauritius, as well as Mauritian nationals travelling to India.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised upwards the ceiling in respect of remuneration of Non-Executive Directors (NEDs), other than the Chair of the Board, to ₹30 lakh per annum from ₹20 lakh.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised upwards the ceiling in respect of remuneration of Non-Executive Directors (NEDs), other than the Chair of the Board, to ₹30 lakh per annum from ₹20 lakh. The board of the bank may fix a lower amount within the ceiling limit of Rs 30 lakh per annum depending upon the size of the bank, experience of the NED and other relevant factors. The instructions on review of fixed remuneration granted to NEDs would be applicable to all the private sector banks including small finance banks (SFBs) and payment banks (PBs) as also the wholly owned subsidiaries of foreign banks. The instructions come into force with immediate effect.

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has increased its paid-up share in SBI Cards and Payments Services, a non-banking financial company, to over 5.02% from 4.99%.

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has increased its paid-up share in SBI Cards and Payments Services, a non-banking financial company, to over 5.02% from 4.99%. LIC, acting as an investor, has bought over three lakh shares of SBI Cards and Payments Services recently. The average cost per share was ₹716.

Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the C-390 Millennium bid for the Indian Air Force's (IAF's) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project.

Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the C-390 Millennium bid for the Indian Air Force's (IAF's) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project. As part of the MOU, which was signed in New Delhi on 9 February, Embraer and Mahindra will “jointly pursue the MTA programme”, according to Bosco da Costa Junior, president and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. The objective of the MoU is to jointly fulfil the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force in its upcoming MTA procurement project.

Researchers from the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Botanical Survey of India, and the University of Hyderabad have discovered a new fungus species, 'Trichoglossum syamviswanathii', from Kerala.

Researchers from the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Botanical Survey of India, and the University of Hyderabad have discovered a new fungus species, 'Trichoglossum syamviswanathii', from Kerala. The species Trichoglossum syamviswanathii is named after renowned scientist and former director of KFRI Syam Viswanath for his contribution to the field of forestry in India. Trichoglossum species play a critical role in the decomposition of organic matter and forest survival.

The Ministry of Education has partnered with Fédération internationale de football association (FIFA) to promote football in schools across India.

The Ministry of Education has partnered with Fédération internationale de football association (FIFA) to promote football in schools across India. Their joint initiative aims to distribute 11 lakh footballs to more than 1.5 lakh schools, making the sport accessible to students nationwide. The initiative seeks to integrate football-related activities into the education system, emphasizing inclusivity regardless of gender.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated on February 11 every year.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated on February 11 every year. The day is observed by the United Nations to promote full and equal access and participation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. This year will be the ninth International Day of Women and Girls in Science Assembly. The United Nations General Assembly passed resolution 70/212 on 22 December 2015, which proclaimed the 11th day of February as the annual commemoration of the observance. The theme for International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024 is “Women and Girls in Science Leadership, a New Era for Sustainability”.

World Unani Day is celebrated on 11 February across the world.

World Unani Day is celebrated on 11 February across the world. The day marks the birth anniversary of social reformer and great Unani scholar, Hakim Ajmal Khan. This day marks the contribution of Hakim Ajmal Khan to the development of Unani medicine in India and across the world. It aims to create awareness among people about healthcare delivery through Unani medicines. Indian Govt declared the birthday of Hakim Ajmal Khan as World Unani Day to recognize his tremendous contributions to the development of the Unani system of medicine. In 2017, First World Unani Day was celebrated at Hyderabad’s Central Research Institute of Unani Medicine (CRIUM). The theme of Unani Day 2024 is "Unani Medicine for One Earth, One Health".

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has given his approval to the annual budget of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for the financial year 2024-25, setting an ambitious outlay of Rs 8,811 crore.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has given his approval to the annual budget of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for the financial year 2024-25, setting an ambitious outlay of Rs 8,811 crore. In line with the emphasis of the Centre, the capital expenditure constitutes 61 percent (around) of the annual allocations. The overall receipts of DDA saw a massive jump of 75 per cent in the current financial year at Rs 7,696 crore in comparison to Rs 4,392 crore in the previous year. The proposed expenditure in the next financial year 2024-25 for these projects will be financed from revenues, which have been projected at Rs 9,182 crore.

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) has partnered with Google Cloud to finance fast-growing climate technology firms.

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) has partnered with Google Cloud to finance fast-growing climate technology firms. Under the new partnership, Google Cloud will introduce GCR-Sustainability companies to HSBC’s specialist climate tech finance team to explore venture debt financing options. HSBC will seek financing opportunities for companies within the GCR-Sustainability ecosystem, as part of its ambition to deploy $1bn of climate tech finance, as well as facilitating connections with HSBC’s customer base.

Ahmedabad-based real estate developer Shivalik Group has received regulatory approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its first fund- Shivalik Investment Fund as a Category II AIF (Alternative Investment Fund).

Ahmedabad-based real estate developer Shivalik Group has received regulatory approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its first fund- Shivalik Investment Fund as a Category II AIF (Alternative Investment Fund). The proposed AIF aims to raise up to Rs300 crore through private placement, including Rs150 Crore Green Shoe Option exercisable at the discretion of the investment manager. The fund will mobilize funds from a diverse group of domestic investors, including individuals, family offices, HUFs, high net-worth individuals, private institutions, other body corporate or non-corporate in India.

Central Board of Trustees (CBT) of Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has recommended 8.25 percent interest rate for fiscal year 2023-24.

Central Board of Trustees (CBT) of Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has recommended 8.25 percent interest rate for fiscal year 2023-24. The 235th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees, EPFO, has recommended 8.25 percent as rate of interest on Employees' Provident Fund deposits for 2023-24. This decision follows a marginal increase in the interest rate to 8.15% for FY23 from 8.10% in FY22, and a historic low of 8.1% in FY22 from 8.5% in FY21. The recommended distribution of Rs1,07,000 crore to EPF members' accounts for FY24 marks a significant increase from the previous fiscal year.

Finland's former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb became the Nordic country’s 13th president after defeating former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto in election.

Finland's former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb became the Nordic country’s 13th president after defeating former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto in election. Stubb, of the conservative National Coalition party, secured 51.6% of the vote, while Haavisto of the Green Party received 48.4%. The 55-year-old Stubb, who was prime minister in 2014-2015 and started his political career as a lawmaker at the European Parliament in 2004, will become the 13th president of Finland since the Nordic country’s independence from the Russian empire in 1917. Haavisto was Finland’s top diplomat in 2019-2023 and the main negotiator of its entry into NATO.

Information and Broadcasting Secretary, Sanjay Jaju inaugurated the Publications Division stall at the World Book Fair in New Delhi's Pragati Maidan.

Information and Broadcasting Secretary, Sanjay Jaju inaugurated the Publications Division stall at the World Book Fair in New Delhi's Pragati Maidan. Mr. Jaju also unveiled the Division's latest publications 'India Year Book 2024' and 'Career Calling'. 'India Year Book 2024,' the annual reference guide captures the pulse of India's progress, encapsulating the latest government plans, policies, and initiatives. In addition to that 'Career Calling,' is a curated collection exploring careers from traditional to lesser-known paths.

Andhra Pradesh finance minister Buggana Rajendranath has presented the Vote-On-Account Budget with an outlay of Rs2.86 lakh crore for 2024-25 in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly.

Andhra Pradesh finance minister Buggana Rajendranath has presented the Vote-On-Account Budget with an outlay of Rs2.86 lakh crore for 2024-25 in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly. Industries minister Gudivada Amarnath presented the same in the Legislative Council. Rajendranath has put the revenue expenditure at Rs 2,30,110.41 crore and the capital expenditure at Rs 30,530.18 crore. The fiscal deficit is Rs 55,817 crore while the revenue deficit was placed at Rs 24,758 crore. The fiscal deficit rate is about 3. 51 percent while revenue deficit rate is 1.56 percent of the GSDP. The Global Investor Summit held at Visakhapatnam in March 2023 resulted in the signing of 386 MoUs to bring in Rs 13,11,000 crore by way of investments. The revised estimate for revenue expenditure for FY 2023-24 is Rs 2,28,237.77 crore, whereas for capital expenditure, it is Rs 27,308.12 crore. The revenue deficit for 2023-24 is around Rs 31,534.94 crore, whereas the fiscal deficit for the same period is around Rs 60,153.59 crore, which amounts to 2.19 per cent and 4.18 per cent of the GSDP respectively.

World Pulses Day is annually observed on February 10 with the primary aim of educating the masses about its nutritional value and environmental benefits.

World Pulses Day is annually observed on February 10 with the primary aim of educating the masses about its nutritional value and environmental benefits. The UN General Assembly recognised the value of pulses in 2013 and initiated the process of adopting the year 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP). The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the UN aimed the day to focus on public awareness of its nourishing and environmental benefits. Following the International Year of Pulses conclusion, Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, proposed the idea of observing a day as World Pulses Day. Eventually, in 2019, the UN General Assembly dedicated February 10 as World Pulses Day. The theme for World Pulses Day 2024 is ‘Pulses: Nourishing soil and people’.

National Deworming Day (NDD) is annually observed February 10 to make every child in the country worm-free.

National Deworming Day (NDD) is annually observed February 10 to make every child in the country worm-free. The initiative aims to deworm all children under the age group of 1 year to 19 years from the prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH). The STHs are also known as parasitic intestinal worms in common language. The National Deworming Day, established in February 2015 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, works under the Government of India. According to the National Health Mission’s official website, the day is observed in around 277 districts across 11 states and Union Territories of India.

The first-ever United Nations (UN)'s International Day of the Arabian Leopard was observed across the globe on 10th February 2024 to raise awareness about the critically endangered status of the Arabian Leopard.

The United Nations General Assembly has marked February 10th as the International Day of the Arabian Leopard. This decision, formalized in resolution 77/295, highlights the critical status of the Arabian Leopard (Panthera pardus nimr), classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The International Day of the Arabian Leopard aims to restore this species as a flagship for conservation, underscoring the essential role of biodiversity in maintaining the planet’s health and ecosystem resilience.

Renowned litterateur and Padma Shri awardee Usha Kiran Khan passed away at the age of 78 in Patna, Bihar.

Renowned litterateur and Padma Shri awardee Usha Kiran Khan passed away at the age of 78 in Patna, Bihar. Khan’s literary contributions earned her widespread recognition, including prestigious honours such as the Padma Shri in 2015, the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Mahadevi Verma Award, the Dinakar National Award, and the Bharat-Bharati, among others. Her notable works include her Maithili novel ‘Bhamati: Ek Avismaraniya Premkatha’, for which she received the Sahitya Akademi Award, and her Hindi novel ‘Sirjanhaar’, which earned her the Kusumanjali Sahitya Samman from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations in 2012.

Bandhan Financial Holdings Limited (BFHL) has received the final approval on the acquisition from the Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority (IRDAI) to acquire the 100% paid up share capital of Aegon Life Insurance Company.

Bandhan Financial Holdings Limited (BFHL) has received the final approval on the acquisition from the Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority (IRDAI) to acquire the 100% paid up share capital of Aegon Life Insurance Company. With this, all regulatory approvals for the proposed acquisition are in place.

India and Bangladesh were declared joint champions of the SAFF U19 Women's Championship at the BSSSMK Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on February 8, 2024.

India and Bangladesh were declared joint champions of the SAFF U19 Women's Championship at the BSSSMK Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on February 8, 2024. The 2024 SAFF U-19 Women's Championship was the fifth edition of the SAFF U-18/19/20 Women's Championship, an international football competition for women's under–19 national teams organized by SAFF. The tournament was held from 2 to 8 February 2024 in Bangladesh.

The American space agency NASA has launched a new PACE satellite designed to closely study the world’s oceans and atmosphere.

The American space agency NASA has launched a new PACE satellite designed to closely study the world’s oceans and atmosphere. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carried PACE into orbit from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. PACE stands for Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, Ocean Ecosystem. The satellite will spend at least three years studying the environment from an orbit 676 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. A third instrument will collect monthly measurements. Scientists should start getting their first data within one or two months.

Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Logo, Anthem, Mascot, Jersey, and Torch of Khelo India University Games - 2023, Ashtalakshmi in Guwahati.

Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Logo, Anthem, Mascot, Jersey, and Torch of Khelo India University Games - 2023, Ashtalakshmi in Guwahati. Union Minister Nisith Pramanik was also present on the occasion. The inaugural ceremony will be held on 19th February and of the total 20 sporting events, 16 will be held in Guwahati. Competitions for the rest of the disciplines will be held in other North Eastern states. Government of Assam, in association with the Sports Authority of India, is going to host the Fourth Khelo India University Games 2023 in Guwahati from the 19th to the 29th of this month. The event will be organised at 18 venues in 7 cities during 11 days duration where around 4500 athletes are expected to participate in 20 sporting disciplines. Over 200 universities will participate in the mega-university event.

The Telangana government decided to change the state’s abbreviation to 'TG' from present 'TS'.

The Telangana government decided to change the state’s abbreviation to 'TG' from present 'TS'. The decision was taken at the state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. Following the Cabinet decision, 'TG' will replace 'TS' in the gazette of the Union government. After formation of Telangana in 2014, then TRS government had opted 'TS' as the state abbreviation. The Cabinet also decided to change the Telangana Talli statue to reflect the sentiments of the people of Telangana. It decided to adopt Andesri’s ‘Jai Jai Ho Telangana’ as the state song. It was also decided to design a new state emblem in consultation with all stakeholders. The Cabinet decided to conduct the Assembly session from February 8 and approved the Governor’s speech. Two more guarantees will be implemented after discussion in the Assembly. These guarantees are gas cylinders for Rs 500 and free power up to 200 units to households. The Cabinet also decided to take up caste census in the state.

In a significant stride towards fostering digital inclusion in the MSME sector, the Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) launch of the DigiReady Certification (DRC) portal.

In a significant stride towards fostering digital inclusion in the MSME sector, the Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) launch of the DigiReady Certification (DRC) portal. For the initiative, QCI, in conjunction with ONDC, aim to assess and certify digital readiness of MSME entities. By leveraging this online self-assessment tool, MSMEs can evaluate their preparedness to seamlessly onboard as sellers on the ONDC platform, thereby expanding their digital capabilities and business potential. The DRC portal is meticulously designed to facilitate a streamlined seller journey, ensuring that MSMEs and small retailers can integrate seamlessly into existing digitized workflows.

Ministry of Education launched the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) using Common Service Centres (CSCs) in remote villages across the country.

Ministry of Education launched the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) using Common Service Centres (CSCs) in remote villages across the country. The goal of APAAR is to set up a unified student identification system called 'One Nation, One Student ID'. APAAR is part of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) requiring all college/university students to register on the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC). Under the new rule, possessing an ABC ID is mandatory for college or university admission. Launching the programme, Sanjay Kumar, secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, highlighted the growing digital services in the country and how they can benefit school education through CSCs.

The second edition of the World Defense Show was held from 4th February 2024 to 8th February 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The second edition of the World Defense Show was held from 4th February 2024 to 8th February 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Bearing testimony to the growing defence ties between India and Saudi Arabia, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt was on a visit to Riyadh as head of the Indian delegation for the ongoing World Defence Show (WDS) 2024. The exhibition features defense companies from every sector and tier of the industry with an abundance of show features, all designed to deliver best-in-class events that connect you with the defense community. On February 06, 2024, the Raksha Rajya Mantri held a meeting with the Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud on the sidelines of the show. They discussed various aspects of bilateral defence cooperation. Shri Ajay Bhatt also witnessed the signing of an MoU between Munitions India Limited and its local partner on the sidelines of WDS 2024.