Daily Current Affairs of 18th February 2025 in English

Introduction:

Daily Current Affairs of 18th February 2025, witnessed a series of significant events across various domains, ranging from infrastructure development to geopolitical concerns, cultural celebrations, and scientific discoveries. Here's an in-depth look at the noteworthy occurrences of the day.

Top Current Affairs and News Headlines – February 18, 2025

Daily GK Update – 18th February 2025: Current Affairs

Here are the major national and international updates, developments, and key events from 18th February 2025:

National News

Dharmendra Pradhan Commemorates Hindu College’s 126th Founding Anniversary

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, participated in the 126th Founder’s Day celebrations at Hindu College in New Delhi. Lauding the institution’s contributions to India’s academic, cultural, and national growth, he interacted with students and faculty, explored an exhibition on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and engaged with innovative business models. Emphasizing the importance of young minds in fostering innovation, he expressed confidence in their ability to shape the country’s future through entrepreneurship and job creation.

Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, and Suhas Yathiraj Inspire Students at Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025

The seventh edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, an interactive initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, featured celebrated sportspersons M.C. Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, and Suhas Yathiraj. They shared insights on goal setting, resilience, stress management, and valuable life lessons from sports, encouraging students to cultivate discipline, perseverance, and a growth-oriented mindset to excel academically and personally.

SILKTECH 2025 Inaugurated by Union Minister Pabitra Margherita

Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for Textiles & Foreign Affairs, inaugurated SILKTECH 2025, an international conference organized by the Central Silk Board (CSB) in association with its research institutes. The event, part of the Bharat Tex 2025 textile expo at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, focused on advancements in silk technology to enhance quality, sustainability, and competitiveness in global markets.

Government Strengthens MSME Sector with New Credit Guarantee Scheme and Economic Policies

The Union Budget 2025 prioritizes economic growth, energy security, education, healthcare, and agriculture. Notable initiatives include a complete Customs Duty exemption on 25 critical minerals, expansion of MSME loan guarantees, an increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits in the insurance sector, and the launch of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana to enhance agricultural productivity in 100 low-yield districts, benefiting 1.7 crore farmers. The budget also includes measures to improve student loan accessibility, rural development, and financial inclusion.

State News

Madhya Pradesh Pioneers India’s First Global Capability Centers (GCC) Policy

Madhya Pradesh has become the first Indian state to introduce a dedicated Global Capability Centers (GCC) Policy 2025. Designed to attract multinational corporations, the policy fosters innovation and business growth in cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur through financial incentives and infrastructure development. This strategic move aims to establish the state as a prime hub for GCCs in India.

Defence News

Indian Navy Expands Fleet with the Launch of MCA Barge LSAM 11

On February 14, 2025, the Indian Navy launched its eighth Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, LSAM 11 (Yard 79), at M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd in Maharashtra. Presided over by Commodore N. Gopinath, the launch strengthens the Navy’s logistics and operational capabilities, further enhancing maritime defense strategies.

Matsya-6000 Submersible Successfully Completes Wet Testing

India’s deep-sea exploration took a leap forward as Matsya-6000, a cutting-edge human-occupied submersible, successfully completed wet testing. Developed under the Samudrayan Project by the National Institute of Ocean Technology, this fourth-generation submersible is designed for deep-sea missions up to 500 meters, marking a significant milestone in India’s ocean research capabilities.

Banking News

RBI Penalizes Shriram Finance, Ujjivan SFB, and Nainital Bank for Regulatory Violations

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed financial penalties on Shriram Finance, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, and The Nainital Bank Limited for non-compliance with regulatory norms. Following the RBI’s 2023 Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE), violations including interest rate mismanagement, improper loan documentation, and risk assessment discrepancies were identified, leading to punitive action.

RBI Corrects Hindi Translation of Ombudsman Scheme to Avoid Legal Confusion

The RBI has revised the Hindi title of its Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, 2021, from "रिज़र्वबैंक-एकीकृत लोकपाल योजना" to "रिज़र्वबैंक-एकीकृत ओम्बड्समैन योजना." This correction was made to prevent confusion with the legally defined term "Lokpal," which refers to an anti-corruption body under Indian law.

Schemes News

PM-AASHA Scheme Extended Until 2025-26 to Support Farmers

The Indian government has extended the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) scheme until 2025-26. This initiative aims to ensure fair prices for farmers and stabilize essential food commodity rates, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Gujarat’s G-SAFAL Program to Empower 50,000 Underprivileged Women

The Gujarat government, under CM Bhupendra Patel, has launched G-SAFAL (Gujarat Scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting Livelihoods) to support low-income families. With a ₹80,000 grant per household, the initiative focuses on financial inclusion, skill development, and economic empowerment for 50,000 women from disadvantaged communities.

Appointments News

Gyanesh Kumar Appointed as India’s New Chief Election Commissioner

Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as India’s new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), becoming the first to assume the role under the newly revised selection process. His tenure, lasting until January 26, 2029, includes overseeing key electoral events such as the Lok Sabha elections.

Standard Chartered Names P.D. Singh as CEO for India

Prabdev (P.D.) Singh has been appointed CEO of Standard Chartered Bank for India and South Asia, effective April 1, 2025. With prior experience as JP Morgan India’s CEO, Singh succeeds Zarin Daruwala, who will retire on March 31, 2025.

Business News

IRDAI Introduces ‘Bima Trinity’ to Revolutionize India’s Insurance Sector

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has unveiled the ‘Bima Trinity’ initiative, aiming to enhance insurance accessibility, affordability, and efficiency. Launched at the 9th Bima Manthan summit, this program seeks to bridge coverage gaps and drive sectoral growth.

Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran Receives UK Knighthood

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Group, has been honored with an honorary knighthood by the UK government for his contributions to strengthening India-UK business relations and fostering economic collaboration.

Science and Technology News

ISRO Chairman V Narayanan Outlines India’s Space Vision for the Next Decade

Newly appointed ISRO Chairman V Narayanan has detailed India’s upcoming space missions, highlighting advancements in launch vehicles, human spaceflight, interplanetary exploration, and space station development.

High Levels of Faecal Bacteria in Ganga at Prayagraj Raise Health Concerns

Recent reports from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reveal significant faecal coliform contamination in the Ganga River at Prayagraj. This pollution, largely from untreated sewage, poses severe health risks, particularly during large gatherings like the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Sports News

Indonesia Claims First Asia Mixed Team Badminton Championship

In a historic win, Indonesia secured its first Asia Mixed Team Badminton Championship title by defeating China 3-1. This victory ends China’s dominance in the tournament and solidifies Indonesia’s standing in global badminton.

Saudi Arabia to Host the First Olympic Esports Games in 2027

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced Saudi Arabia as the host of the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2027, marking a significant milestone in integrating esports with traditional sports.

Daily Current Affairs Question Answers in English of

18th February 2025

1. Who participated in the 126th Founder’s Day celebrations at Hindu College in New Delhi?

A) Narendra Modi

B) Dharmendra Pradhan

C) Amit Shah

D) Ramesh Pokhriyal

Answer: B) Dharmendra Pradhan

Explanation: Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan attended the event, highlighting the institution’s role in academic, cultural, and national growth.

2. Which sportspersons participated in Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025?

A) P.V. Sindhu, Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra

B) M.C. Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, Suhas Yathiraj

C) Bajrang Punia, Saina Nehwal, Mithali Raj

D) Vinesh Phogat, Abhinav Bindra, Kidambi Srikanth

Answer: B) M.C. Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, Suhas Yathiraj

Explanation: These celebrated athletes provided guidance on resilience, stress management, and goal setting to inspire students.

3. What is the focus of SILKTECH 2025?

A) Artificial intelligence in textiles

B) Advancements in silk technology

C) Electric vehicle innovation

D) Traditional handloom weaving

Answer: B) Advancements in silk technology

Explanation: SILKTECH 2025, organized by the Central Silk Board, aims to improve the quality, sustainability, and competitiveness of silk in global markets.

4. What is the key objective of the new MSME Credit Guarantee Scheme?

A) Increase GST rates on MSMEs

B) Provide financial support and loan guarantees

C) Impose restrictions on foreign investments

D) Replace traditional business models

Answer: B) Provide financial support and loan guarantees

Explanation: The scheme expands MSME loan guarantees to facilitate credit access and economic growth.

5. Which state has become the first in India to introduce a Global Capability Centers (GCC) Policy?

A) Maharashtra

B) Karnataka

C) Madhya Pradesh

D) Tamil Nadu

Answer: C) Madhya Pradesh

Explanation: The policy aims to attract multinational corporations and enhance innovation in cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur.

6. What is the purpose of LSAM 11, launched by the Indian Navy?

A) It is a new warship

B) It is a nuclear submarine

C) It is a Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge

D) It is a reconnaissance aircraft

Answer: C) It is a Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge

Explanation: LSAM 11 enhances the Navy’s logistics and operational capabilities, supporting maritime defense strategies.

7. Matsya-6000 is developed under which project?

A) Gaganyaan Mission

B) Chandrayaan Project

C) Samudrayan Project

D) Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative

Answer: C) Samudrayan Project

Explanation: Matsya-6000 is a deep-sea submersible designed for underwater exploration, marking a milestone in India's ocean research.

8. Why did RBI impose penalties on Shriram Finance, Ujjivan SFB, and Nainital Bank?

A) Non-compliance with regulatory norms

B) Excessive profit margins

C) Cybersecurity breaches

D) Unethical advertising practices

Answer: A) Non-compliance with regulatory norms

Explanation: The RBI found violations in interest rate management, loan documentation, and risk assessment.

9. What was the reason for RBI correcting the Hindi translation of the Ombudsman Scheme?

A) Improve readability

B) Legal clarity

C) Political pressure

D) Enhancing public engagement

Answer: B) Legal clarity

Explanation: The term "Lokpal" is legally defined as an anti-corruption body, necessitating the correction to "Ombudsman."

10. Until when has the PM-AASHA scheme been extended?

A) 2026-27

B) 2024-25

C) 2025-26

D) 2030-31

Answer: C) 2025-26

Explanation: The PM-AASHA scheme aims to stabilize agricultural commodity prices and ensure fair prices for farmers.

11. What is the objective of Gujarat’s G-SAFAL program?

A) Promote digital literacy

B) Empower women from disadvantaged communities

C) Expand urban development

D) Strengthen local governance

Answer: B) Empower women from disadvantaged communities

Explanation: The program provides financial aid and skill development support for 50,000 underprivileged women.

12. Who has been appointed as India’s new Chief Election Commissioner?

A) Rajiv Kumar

B) Sunil Arora

C) Gyanesh Kumar

D) Sushil Chandra

Answer: C) Gyanesh Kumar

Explanation: He is the first CEC appointed under the revised selection process and will serve until 2029.

13. Who is the newly appointed CEO of Standard Chartered Bank India?

A) Aditya Puri

B) P.D. Singh

C) Zarin Daruwala

D) Chanda Kochhar

Answer: B) P.D. Singh

Explanation: He will succeed Zarin Daruwala and assume the role from April 1, 2025.

14. What is the goal of IRDAI’s ‘Bima Trinity’ initiative?

A) Promote cryptocurrency in insurance

B) Enhance insurance accessibility and efficiency

C) Reduce insurance premiums for high-income individuals

D) Introduce mandatory home insurance

Answer: B) Enhance insurance accessibility and efficiency

Explanation: ‘Bima Trinity’ aims to increase insurance coverage and affordability in India.

15. Who has received an honorary knighthood from the UK government?

A) Ratan Tata

B) Mukesh Ambani

C) N. Chandrasekaran

D) Gautam Adani

Answer: C) N. Chandrasekaran

Explanation: The Tata Group Chairman was honored for his contributions to India-UK business relations.

16. What is ISRO’s vision for the next decade?

A) Reduce space research

B) Focus solely on satellites

C) Expand human spaceflight and interplanetary missions

D) Privatize all space operations

Answer: C) Expand human spaceflight and interplanetary missions

Explanation: ISRO aims to advance launch vehicles, human spaceflight, and space station development.

17. What environmental issue was reported in the Ganga River at Prayagraj?

A) High plastic pollution

B) Increased arsenic levels

C) High faecal bacteria contamination

D) Toxic oil spills

Answer: C) High faecal bacteria contamination

Explanation: CPCB reports found significant faecal coliform contamination due to untreated sewage.

18. Which country won the Asia Mixed Team Badminton Championship 2025?

A) China

B) Japan

C) Indonesia

D) South Korea

Answer: C) Indonesia

Explanation: Indonesia defeated China 3-1, claiming their first title in the tournament.

19. Which country will host the first Olympic Esports Games in 2027?

A) USA

B) China

C) Saudi Arabia

D) South Korea

Answer: C) Saudi Arabia

Explanation: The IOC selected Saudi Arabia to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games.

20. Which initiative in the Union Budget 2025 supports low-yield agricultural districts?

A) PM Krishi Kalyan Yojana

B) PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

C) Green Revolution 2.0

D) Atal Krishi Vikas Mission

Answer: B) PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

Explanation: This scheme aims to enhance agricultural productivity in 100 low-yield districts, benefiting 1.7 crore farmers.