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Current Affairs Daily Digest - 6 February 2025
Last Updated: Thu, Feb 06 2025
MEA Declares IBCA as Inter-Governmental International Organization
In February 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), headquartered in New Delhi, has officially become a treaty-based inter-governmental international organization. The designation took effect from January 23, 2025. The MEA, acting as the Depository of the Framework Agreement, confirmed that five countries—India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia, and Liberia—have ratified the agreement.
As of now, 27 countries, including India, have pledged support for IBCA, along with multiple national and international wildlife conservation organizations.
Background of IBCA:
- Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during the 50th Anniversary of India's Project Tiger.
- Established in 2024 with funding support of Rs. 150 crore, covering five years.
- Aims to conserve seven big cat species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.
- Membership is open to all UN member states, particularly those hosting these species.
- Promotes international collaboration and enhances global conservation efforts.
IBCA's Leadership:
- Director General: S P Yadav
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Established: 2023
India’s First Ferret Research Facility Inaugurated at THSTI, Haryana
On February 3, 2025, India’s first Ferret Research Facility was inaugurated by Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, at the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in Faridabad, Haryana. The facility adheres to global research standards and aims to foster advancements in biomedical research.
Additional Launches:
- GARBH-INi-DRISHTI data platform launched, featuring clinical data from over 12,000 pregnant women and newborns.
- A Technology Transfer Agreement (TTA) signed with Sundyota Numandis Probioceuticals to commercialize THSTI's innovations.
INCOIS Celebrates 26th Foundation Day with New Initiatives
On February 3, 2025, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) celebrated its 26th Foundation Day. Dr. Kalaiselvi, Director-General of CSIR, launched two new services:
- Hilsa Fishery Advisory (HiFA) to predict fish availability along the West Bengal coast.
- INCOIS Global Ocean Reanalysis (IGORA) Version 1 to improve ocean climate data for research and forecasting.
MoUs and Collaborations:
- MoUs signed with CSIR-CCMB, DGS, and ICAR-CIFE to promote national and international research.
GMR Airports Joins UN Global Compact for Sustainable Aviation
On February 3, 2025, GMR Airports Limited (GAL) joined the UN Global Compact (UNGC) to advance its sustainable aviation efforts. Through this membership, GAL commits to aligning its operations with UNGC’s ten principles across human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.
About GAL:
- Operates major airports in Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, and abroad.
- All GAL airports are certified green buildings.
India-Maldives Joint Military Exercise 'Ekuverin' Begins
The 13th edition of the Ekuverin joint military exercise between India and Maldives commenced on February 2, 2025, with an inaugural ceremony at Maalifushi, Maldives. The 14-day exercise aims to enhance counterinsurgency and disaster relief operations, with contingents from both nations participating.
Historical Context:
- The exercise began in 2009 and alternates annually between the two countries.
South Indian Bank Launches New Startup Current Accounts
In February 2025, South Indian Bank (SIB) launched two startup current accounts:
- SIB Business Startup Current Account for sole proprietorships and partnerships.
- SIB Corporate Startup Current Account for larger business entities.
These accounts come with several features, including zero minimum balance for the first three years and unlimited RTGS/NEFT transactions.
IOB Signs Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials
Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) became a signatory to the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) in February 2025, joining global efforts to measure and disclose greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative supports IOB’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
RBI Releases Payment System Report for December 2024
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its Payment System Report for December 2024, revealing a 94-fold increase in digital transactions over the past decade. The report tracks significant growth in retail payments and highlights the central role of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
CA Grameen Receives USD 50 Million IFC Loan for Women Entrepreneurs
On February 2025, CA Grameen, a leading microfinance institution, received a USD 50 million loan from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The loan will enhance financial access for women entrepreneurs in rural India.
RBI Launches Regulatory Sandbox for Offline Digital Payment Solutions
In January 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) launched a Regulatory Sandbox for testing offline digital payment solutions. Exto India Technologies was selected for the test phase, with its solution integrating biometric authorization and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT).
Ministry of Defence Signs Anti-Ship Missile Procurement Deal with Russia
In February 2025, the Ministry of Defence signed a deal with Russia to procure 31 MQ-9B Predator drones worth USD 3.99 billion, enhancing India's intelligence and surveillance capabilities.
Indian Wicketkeeper-Batter Wriddhiman Saha Announces Retirement
Indian cricketer Wriddhiman Saha announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in February 2025, with his final appearance in the Ranji Trophy for West Bengal.
This Daily Digest provides a snapshot of key developments from India and beyond, focusing on government initiatives, defense matters, and significant milestones in various sectors.