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CURRENT AFFAIRS: BANKING & FINANCE

Paytm Cloud Technologies Limited to Acquire 25% Stake in Brazilian Finance Firm Dinie for $1 Million

• Paytm Cloud Technologies Limited (PCTL) to invest $1 million (Rs 8.7 crore) for a 25% stake in Seven Technology LLC.
• Seven Technology LLC is the parent of Brazilian embedded finance startup Dinie.
• Expand Paytm’s merchant payments and financial services business in emerging fintech markets.
• Seven Technology and Dinie to become associate entities of Paytm’s parent company, One97 Communications.
• Dinie’s revenue fell from BRL 4.01 million (Rs 6.11 crore) in 2022 to BRL 357,920 (Rs 0.56 crore) in 2024.
• Paytm aims to enter the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore for merchant payments and financial services.
• Paytm is cutting subsidiaries related to legacy telecom marketing services in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa to focus on core fintech operations.

About Paytm:

• Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
• Founded: 2010
• Chairman & CEO: Vijay Shekhar Sharma
• Subsidiaries: Paytm Payments Bank, Paytm Mall, Paytm Cloud Technologies
• Key Products: Paytm App, Paytm Wallet, Paytm Payments Bank, Paytm Mall

HDFC Bank to Fund Over 50 Startups with 15 Incubators

• India's largest private sector bank,HDFC Bank has launched the 8th edition of its Parivartan Start-Up Grants initiative, with a total commitment of up to ₹20 crore.
• The initiative aims to support 50-60 social ventures this fiscal year.
• HDFC initiative funds startups in AI for social good, climate innovation, financial inclusion, agriculture, and sustainable rural development, along with education, livelihood enhancement, gender diversity, and inclusion.
• Selected startups will receive grants of up to ₹50 lakh.
• HDFC Bank has partnered with 15 incubators and accelerators, including IIT Madras, IIM Ahmedabad Ventures, Villgro, and ICAR Pusa Krishi, to identify promising social ventures.
• The program will conclude with "Demo Day" events, where funded startups will showcase their work to investors, corporates, and media.
• Startups from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, and northeastern states will participate.
• Since 2017, HDFC Bank Parivartan has supported 400+ startups through 120+ incubators, continuing its focus on social entrepreneurship and sustainability.

Recent News:

• In January 2025, HDFC Bank received RBI approval to acquire up to a 5% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank, through its group entities.

About HDFC Bank:

• Founded: 1994
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Managing Director & CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan
• Tagline: "We understand your world"

Beacon Introduces India Bill Pay Within the My Beacon Super App, Enabling Immigrants to Manage Money Seamlessly Across Borders

• Beacon launched Beacon India Bill Pay, enabling users in Canada to pay bills in India directly from their Beacon Money account.
• This service allows payment of over 20,000 bills in India using Canadian Dollars, integrating with Bharat Connect (formerly Bharat Bill Payment System, BBPS).
• The service complies with Reserve Bank of India policies and eliminates the need for NRI accounts or intermediaries.
• Beacon Money allows Indian nationals to open Canadian accounts before arriving in Canada, with no SIN or Canadian address required, offering a digital onboarding process.
• Visa cards are delivered within 7–10 days after arrival, supporting global transactions, Interac e-Transfers®, and bill payments.
• Beacon is the first company in North America to tie up with Bharat Connect for bill payments.

Key Features of India Bill Pay:

• Pay India Bills Directly from Canada: For the first time, immigrants can settle utility bills, hospital bills, family expenses, and other payments in India from all within a single app and through your Beacon Money account, eliminating intermediaries and complex NRI accounts.
• Seamless Cross-Border Management: Easily manage both Canadian and Indian payments in one app, designed for immigrants' needs.
• Quick and Easy Setup: Open a Canadian account in under 10 minutes.
• Low Fees and Fast Transactions: Avoid high fees and delays associated with traditional methods, with competitive rates and fast processing.
• Inclusive and Accessible: Beacon’s digital Know Your Customer (KYC) process gets you up and running quickly.

About Beacon:

• Beacon is a purpose-built financial solution to help immigrants in Canada settle with ease and build their future with confidence.
• Based in Toronto and Montreal, Beacon was founded in 2023 by Stuart Szabo and Aditya Mhatre.
• The organization’s mission is to simplify the path to a new life in Canada by delivering resources, guides and financial products through its Super App to ensure immigrants have all the tools they need to build their brightest possible future.

Reserve Bank of India approves Tata Communications' stake sale in Automatic Teller Machine biz to Australian Fintech for Rs 300 crore

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved for Tata Communications to divest its 100% stake in Tata Communications Payment Solutions Limited (TCPSL) to Findi's Indian subsidiary, Transaction Solutions International (TSI).
• The deal is valued at Rs 330 crore, with an additional Rs 75 crore contingent on certain conditions.
• Findi aims to expand its footprint in India's financial services sector, particularly targeting the 'underbanked' population.
• TSI aims to evolve into a payments bank, leveraging its network of 7,500 ATMs, including 'brown label' ATMs in collaboration with 12 banks.
• The acquisition will add 3,000 ATMs to Findi's network, bringing the total to over 12,000 ATMs, making it one of Asia's largest ATM operators.
• The deal includes the integration of 4,600 operational Indicash ATMs, expanding Findi’s service reach.
• Findi, originally established in 2008 under the Indicash brand, also acquired BankIT (a digital payments provider) in 2025.
• TCPSL will exit the ATM business and focus on other financial services, in line with RBI's vision to expand ATM penetration in India.

About RBI:

• Established : 1 April 1935
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Governor : Sanjay Malhotra

Securities and Exchange Board of India tightens algo trading norms for safer participation of retail investors

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) aims to ensure the safer participation of retail investors in algorithmic trading through brokers.
• Brokers are the principal, while algo providers/fintech/vendors act as their agents when using the broker's API.

Key Highlights:

• Algo trading refers to orders generated using automated execution logic, offering timed and programmed execution.
• Algos developed by retail investors using programming knowledge must be registered with the stock exchange if they cross the specified order per second threshold.
• Registered algos may only be used by the retail investor and their family, not other investors.
• Algo Categories:
  • Execution algos (white box algos) have disclosed and replicable logic.
  • Black box algos have undisclosed and non-replicable logic.
• All algo orders must be tagged with a unique identifier for audit purposes.
• Brokers must seek approval from exchanges for any modification to approved algos.

About SEBI:

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Madhabi Puri Buch (first woman to lead the SEBI)
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS

Government Expands Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana for Senior Citizens

• The Government of India expanded Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to provide free treatment benefits up to ₹5 lakh per year for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of socio-economic status, including tribal communities.
• The National Health Authority (NHA) introduced a revised Health Benefit Package (HBP) covering 1,961 medical procedures across 27 specialties such as General Medicine, Surgery, Orthopedics, Cardiology, and Oncology.

Key Highlights

• Key treatments available for senior citizens include Hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis, Acute Ischemic Stroke treatment, Total Hip & Knee Replacement, PTCA with diagnostic angiogram, and Permanent Pacemaker Implantation (Single & Double Chamber).
• States have flexibility to customize the Health Benefit Packages based on local needs.
• Beneficiaries of Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards can avail of these benefits through a network of 30,072 hospitals, including 13,352 private hospitals.
• Extensive awareness campaigns are being conducted through newspapers, radio, street plays, digital displays, mass messaging, and Doordarshan to reach rural and backward areas.
• Frontline workers such as ASHAs, AWWs, and VLEs are engaged to promote mass awareness.
• For assistance, beneficiaries can call the 24x7 helpline (14555) or give a missed call to 1800-110-770.
• The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, shared this information in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

About Ayushman Bharat Vaya Vandana scheme

• The Ayushman Bharat Vaya Vandana scheme provides health coverage to senior citizens aged 70 and above.
• This scheme is part of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).

Benefits

• Offers up to ₹5 lakh per year in free treatment
• Covers pre-existing diseases from the first day
• No waiting period for any disease or treatment

10th Empowered Programme Committee Meeting Approves Key Initiatives in Technical Textiles

• The Ministry of Textiles held the 10th Empowered Programme Committee (EPC) meeting under the National Technical Textiles Mission at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Four Start-Ups were approved under the ‘GREAT’ (Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles) scheme, each receiving a grant of ₹50 lakh for projects in Medical, Industrial, and Protective Textiles.

Key Highlights

• Three educational institutes, including IIT Indore and NIT Patna, were sanctioned a total grant of ₹6.5 crore to introduce courses in Geotextiles, Geosynthetics, Protective Textiles, and Sports Textiles.
• Twelve new Skill Development Courses in Medical Textiles, Protective Textiles, Mobile Textiles, and Agriculture Textiles were approved, developed by SITRA, NITRA, and SASMIRA to train professionals across the technical textiles value chain.

The Government of India Introduces ‘Haj Suvidha App’ to Enhance Pilgrimage Experience

• The Government of India has launched the ‘Haj Suvidha App’, aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience for Indian Haj pilgrims.
• The app serves as a comprehensive guide for pilgrims, providing them with essential services throughout their journey to ensure they have a smooth and fulfilling experience while performing the sacred rituals.
• The initiative underscores the government's commitment to modernizing the pilgrimage experience by enhancing accessibility, support, and convenience for Indian pilgrims.

What Features Does the ‘Haj Suvidha App’ Offer?

The ‘Haj Suvidha App’ is equipped with several features designed to assist pilgrims before and during their pilgrimage:

• Training Modules: Provides comprehensive content to guide pilgrims through the rituals and practices of Haj, helping them prepare effectively for the pilgrimage.
• Accommodation and Flight Details: Offers information on pilgrims' accommodation and flight schedules, helping them plan their travel and stay efficiently.
• Baggage Information: Includes baggage policies and allows for baggage tracking, helping avoid the hassle of lost luggage.
• Emergency Helpline (SOS): A dedicated SOS service for urgent help, providing timely assistance in case of emergencies.
• Grievance Redressal: Pilgrims can voice their concerns and provide feedback via the app, ensuring issues are addressed promptly.
• Language Translation: Language support tools make it easier for pilgrims to communicate while in Saudi Arabia.

How Effective Was the ‘Haj Suvidha App’ During Haj-2024?

The ‘Haj Suvidha App’ proved to be highly effective during Haj-2024:

• 78,000 pilgrims registered on the platform out of 175,025 total pilgrims.
• The app successfully resolved 8,500+ grievances and handled 2,100+ emergency SOS calls.
• The introduction of a QR code for baggage tracking greatly reduced the number of lost baggage cases, improving the experience for all travelers.

How Does the Government Support Female Pilgrims Without Mehram?

• In Haj-2024, the number of female pilgrims who undertook the Haj without a Mehram (male companion) reached a historic high of 4,558 women. This increase reflects the government’s commitment to inclusivity and women empowerment, furthered by the introduction of the ‘Ladies without Mehram’ category since Haj-2018.

What Healthcare Support is Provided to Pilgrims?

The government has made significant provisions for the health and well-being of pilgrims, particularly the elderly:

• Temporary healthcare facilities were set up in Saudi Arabia, including four medical centers in Makkah, one in Madinah, and 17 24/7 dispensaries.
• A fleet of 24 ambulances was deployed to ensure quick medical assistance.
• Special care was given to elderly pilgrims, with medical teams conducting daily visits to their accommodations for health checks and consultations.
• Critically ill pilgrims were transferred to Saudi Ministry of Health hospitals, where Indian translators helped ensure smooth communication for better care.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Sri Lanka Marks the 77th Independence Day with a National Ceremony

• Sri Lanka is celebrating its 77th National Day on February 4^th, 2025 with official celebrations held at Independence Square in Colombo, featuring a military parade, cultural performances, and a special address by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
• The president urged Sri Lankans to focus on building a modern, progressive future rather than dwelling on past challenges and pledged to resolve the country's economic issues within his 5-year term.
• To manage financial constraints, the government significantly reduced the celebration expenses from 200 million Sri Lankan rupees last year to 87 million rupees this year.
• Meanwhile, India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar extended his greetings to Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening the bilateral partnership.
• As Sri Lanka marks this occasion, there is renewed hope for national unity, stability, and economic recovery under the new government, despite the challenges faced in recent years.

About Sri Lanka:

• Capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (Administrative), Colombo (Commercial)
• Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
• President: Anura Kumara Dissanayake
• Prime Minister: Harini Amarasuriya

CURRENT AFFAIRS: STATE NEWS

Amazon, Uttar Pradesh Government Collaborate to Boost Women Entrepreneurs in Gonda

• Amazon India has partnered with Uttar Pradesh’s ARGA initiative to support women entrepreneurs in Gonda through its Saheli programme.
• The initiative helps small businesses access digital tools and e-commerce opportunities to expand their reach.
• Amazon India will provide training on digital marketing, product listing optimization, advertising, and data analytics to improve online sales.
• The program aims to strengthen rural entrepreneurship by addressing challenges like packaging and marketing.
• The partnership was launched during World Wetlands Day at Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, attended by CM Yogi Adityanath and Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh.
• CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized the importance of e-commerce in scaling rural businesses through better packaging and digital marketing.
• The initiative enables rural women entrepreneurs to sell products on Amazon, gaining access to a wider customer base across India and beyond.
• The collaboration aligns with Amazon India’s strategy to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and integrate local products into mainstream e-commerce.

Recent News:

• Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, commemorates its Foundation Day every year on January 24.

About Uttar Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel
• Capital: Lucknow
• National Parks: Dudhwa National Park, Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, Sikramjheel Bird Sanctuary

Sikkim’s PM Shri Government school Namchi becomes Northeast’s only Green-Rated School

• PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School in Namchi, Sikkim has been recognized as the only educational institution in the Northeastern states to receive a Green School Rating.
• This recognition was awarded at the Green Carnival and Green School Award Ceremony 2025, organized by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in New Delhi.
• The Green Carnival and Award Ceremony is an annual event that engages young environmentalists from schools across the country.
• The awards are presented to schools rated ‘green’ after evaluating the Green School Audit reports submitted by schools in the Green School Programme Network.
• These reports are analyzed over the period from July-December each year.
• This year, more than 10,000 schools submitted their Green School Audit reports, and only 150 schools were rated as Green Schools for the 2024-25 session across India.

Recent News:

• As of February 2025, Sikkim is India's only income tax-free state, offering its residents a unique financial privilege.Under Article 371(F) of the Constitution and Section 10(26AAA) of the Income Tax Act, people of this state are completely exempt from paying income tax, regardless of their earnings.

About Sikkim:

• Chief Minister: Prem Singh Tamang
• Governor: Om Prakash Mathur
• Capital: Gangtok
• National Parks: Khangchendzonga National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Bart De Wever sworn in as Belgium’s New Prime Minister

• Bart De Wever, a conservative political leader, was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Belgium on 3rd February 2025 by King Phillippe in a ceremony at the royal palace in Brussels.
• He succeeded Alexander De Croo, who had served as the caretaker leader after the June 2024 elections.
• The June 2024 elections resulted in no decisive mandate, leading to seven months of negotiations to form a government.
• Bart De Wever became the first Flemish nationalist to become Prime Minister, leading a five-party coalition with his party NV-A, which emerged as the largest party.
• The coalition holds 81 seats in the 150-member Chamber of Representatives.
• Belgium's political system is complex, divided between Dutch-speaking Flanders and French-speaking Walloon
• The Belgian Parliament is bicameral, with a 60-member Senate (Upper House) and a 150-member House of Representatives (Lower House).
• The Prime Minister is appointed by the King, but is responsible to the House of Representatives.
• The position of Prime Minister in Belgium was created in 1919, and the Prime Minister holds executive power alongside the Council of Ministers.

About Belgium:

• Capital: Brussels
• Currency: Euro
• Prime Minister: Bart De Wever

Citi's Ashu Khullar to become Global Asset Manager’s (GAM) co-head

• Ashu Khullar has been appointed as the global co-head of Global Asset Managers (GAM), based in London.
  • He will oversee EMEA and Asia.
  • He will collaborate with Anthony Diamandakis (co-head for North America) on global GAM strategy and resource allocation.
  • He joins the investment banking global operating committee.
  • Under Khullar's leadership in India (2019-24), Citi's revenue grew at a CAGR of nearly 15%, double the growth from 2014-19.
• K Balasubramanian will succeed Khullar as CEO of Citibank India, subject to RBI approval.
  • He is a commerce graduate from Xavier's College, Kolkata, and is a qualified chartered accountant and cost accountant.
  • Balasubramanian joined Citibank in 1996 and briefly worked with HDFC Bank (2016-17).
  • He led Citi's Corporate Banking division for South Asia and became BCMA head in 2023.

About GAM:

• Founded: 1983
• Headquarters: Zürich, Switzerland

CURRENT AFFAIRS: ACQUISITION & MERGERS

Competition Commission of India Approves POSCO India’s Strategic Investment in Pune Processing Center

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of shareholding in POSCO-India Pune Processing Center by POSCO India Processing Center, a subsidiary of POSCO Holdings.
• The acquisition involves POSCO India Processing Center acquiring the entire shareholding of LX International Corporation, the current shareholder of POSCO-India Pune Processing Center.
• POSCO India Processing Center specializes in processing and distributing a wide range of value-added finished steel products, including hot-rolled and cold-rolled products, galvanized steel, and electrical steel.
• The acquisition will strengthen POSCO India's position in the Indian steel market, expanding its portfolio of products and increasing market share.
• The deal is expected to lead to synergies in operations, cost efficiencies, and market outreach, improving the ability to meet growing demand for high-quality steel products in India.
• The CCI approval indicates that the transaction is unlikely to significantly harm competition in the Indian steel processing and distribution markets.
• The acquisition aligns with POSCO's strategy to solidify its position in India, a key market for steel in sectors like automotive, infrastructure, and construction.

Recent News:

• In January 2025, The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed acquisition of up to 72.64% shareholding in ITD Cementation India Limited by Renew Exim DMCC.

About CCI:

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairsand is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act of 2002.
• Founded: October 14, 2003
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Chairperson: Ravneet Kaur

CURRENT AFFAIRS: DEFENCE NEWS

Maldives host the 13th edition of the ‘Ekuverin’ military exercise

• The 13th edition of the joint India-Maldives military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ is being hosted by Maldives from 2-15 February 2025.
• The inaugural ceremony was held at the Official Composite Training Center of the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) in Maafilaafushi, Maldives.
• Major General Ibrahim Hilmy (Chief of MNDF) and G Balasubramanian (Indian High Commissioner) were present at the inauguration.

Key Highlights:

• The 12th edition of Ekuverin was held in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, from 11-24 June 2023.
• Ekuverin means Friends in the Dhivehi
• The exercise began in 2009 to strengthen bilateral military ties between India and Maldives.
• It is held alternately between the Indian Army and Maldivian National Defence Forces (MNDF), with platoon-level contingents from both countries.
• The main goal is to enhance coordination for counter-insurgency operations and conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
• India and Maldives have had a strong political and defence relationship since 1998.
• The Comprehensive Action Plan signed in 2016 has strengthened defence cooperation.
• India has gifted military hardware and trained MNDF personnel.
• Joint military exercises are held regularly to promote close ties between the armed forces of both nations.

Following is the list of the military exercises conducted between India and Maldives:

Military Exercise	Participants	Latest Edition
Ekuverin	Indian Army and the MNDF	13th edition in Maldives in February 2025. First edition in 2009.
Exercise Katha	Indian Navy and the Naval wing of the MNDF	The 6th edition was held in Maldives from 4th June to -3rd July 2023. The first edition was held in 2017.
Exercise Shield	Anti-narcotics and Maritime search and rescue operations, between the Indian Navy, MNDF, and the Sri Lanka Navy.	The first edition was held in 2021. It was a virtual exercise with the Indian Navy being the lead agency.
Exercise Dosti	Exercise between the Coast Guard of India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.	Started between the Indian and the Maldivian Coast Guard in 1991 as an annual exercise. The Sri Lankan Coast Guard joined in 2012. The 16th edition was held from 22-25 February 2024 near Male, Maldives.

About Ministry of Defence:

• Cabinet Minister: Rajnath Singh
• Minister of State (MoS): Ajay Bhatt

Indian Navy concludes joint manship drills under TROPEX-25

• The Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX-25) was held off India’s western coast on January 30-31, 2025.
• Senior military leadership participated, including Lieutenant General Johnson P Mathew (Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee) and vice chiefs from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• The exercise involved dynamic naval operations with Indian Navy ships, submarines, and aircraft.
• Key vessels involved included INS Vikrant (aircraft carrier), INS Visakhapatnam (guided missile destroyer), INS Satpura (stealth frigate), and INS Jalashwa (amphibious vessel).
• Highlights included precision missile, gun, and rocket firings, anti-submarine warfare drills, and amphibious landings by Indian Army troops.
• MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters showcased aerial strength through bomb busts, rocket firings, and low-level aerobatics.
• The exercise demonstrated the Navy’s ability to project air power across the maritime domain.
• In addition to TROPEX-25, the Indian Navy maintains a strong schedule of bilateral and multilateral exercises with navies globally.
• TROPEXis the Indian Navy’s largest biennial maritime exercise, involving the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
• Conducted in the Indian Ocean, it aims to validate operational concepts and enhance operational readiness and interoperability in a multi-threat environment.

About Indian Navy:

• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Established: 26 January 1950
• Motto: "Satyamev Jayate" (Truth Alone Triumphs)
• Chief of Naval Staff: Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

IIT Madras Launches Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas for Advanced Cancer Research

• IIT Madras launched India’s first cancer genome database, Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), to enhance cancer research and diagnostics.
• Addresses the underrepresentation of Indian genetic data in global cancer genome studies, impacting diagnostic kits and targeted therapies.

Key Highlights:

• Since 2020, IIT Madras has sequenced 960 whole exome analyses from 480 breast cancer tissue samples across India.
• BCGA provides genetic insights into Indian breast cancer cases, aiding early diagnostics, disease progression tracking, and treatment improvements.
• The project is a collaborative effort with Karkinos Healthcare, Mumbai; Chennai Breast Clinic; and the Cancer Research and Relief Trust, Chennai.
• Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics at IIT Madras played a key role, funded under the "Institutions of Eminence" initiative.
• BCGA will help identify cancer-specific biomarkers, enabling early detection and novel drug discovery for Indian patients.
• The database will act as a national genomic repository, accepting contributions from researchers across different cancer types.
• Enables personalized medicine, ensuring cancer treatment strategies are tailored to genetic and molecular profiles, improving medical care and patient outcomes.

MediBuddy, ELECOM to Launch IoT-Based Health Devices in India

• MediBuddy partnered with Japanese electronics company ELECOM to introduce IoT-enabled health monitoring devices in India.

Key Highlights:

• Aims to expand digital healthcare access and address lifestyle diseases, which cause 6 million deaths annually in India.
• Initial rollout includes smart health devices like body composition scales and blood pressure monitors, integrated with MediBuddy’s platform for real-time health tracking.
• Devices will collect health data, enabling preventive care programs and allowing remote patient assessment by doctors through the MediBuddy app.
• Enhances early detection of conditions such as hypertension and obesity, promoting data-driven preventive healthcare.
• MediBuddy CEO Satish Kannan emphasized digital solutions for healthier lifestyles and chronic disease management.
• ELECOM’s Healthcare Division CEO Dr. Kota Hada highlighted IoT-enabled personalized health management in India.
• Supports India’s digital healthcare initiatives, making health monitoring more accessible and efficient.

IIT Guwahati Introduces Multi-Stage Clinical Trial Method to Enhance Personalised Medical Care

• IIT Guwahati researchers, in collaboration with global institutions, developed a multi-stage clinical trial method to enhance personalized medical care.

Key Highlights:

• The study involved Duke-NUS Medical School, the National University of Singapore, and the University of Michigan, USA.
• Focuses on Dynamic Treatment Regimes (DTRs), developed through Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomised Trials (SMARTs).
• SMART trials optimize treatment sequences based on patient responses, ensuring more precise and effective therapies.
• Conventional SMART trials allocate patients equally across treatments, sometimes leading to ineffective outcomes.
• To solve this, Palash Ghosh and his team developed an adaptive randomization method, dynamically adjusting patient allocation in real time.
• Key benefits of this method:
  • Reduces treatment failures
  • Improves short-term and long-term patient outcomes
  • Encourages higher patient participation in trials
  • Potential for public health applications, such as substance abuse recovery and chronic disease treatment
• The research findings were published in the journal Biometrics.

WAVES 2025 launches TruthTell Hackathon to combat misinformation in live broadcasting

• TruthTell Hackathon launched by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) as part of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025.

Key Highlights:

• The hackathon is a part of the Season 1 of the Create in India Challenge (CIC) and focuses on developing AI-powered solutions to combat misinformation in live broadcasting.
• The competition aims to create tools for real-time misinformation detection and fact verification in live broadcasts.
• Prize pool of ₹10 lakh with cash prizes, mentorship, and incubation support for winning teams.
• Over 5,600 registrations received globally, with 36% participation from women.
• Objectives include enhancing trust and transparency in the media, promoting ethical journalism, and fostering the responsible use of AI in news reporting.
• Prototype submission deadline: 21st February 2025.
• Final presentations scheduled for the end of March 2025, with winners showcasing their work at WAVES Summit 2025.

About Ministry of Information and Broadcasting:

• Cabinet Minister: Ashwini Vaishnaw
• Minister of State (MoS): L. Murugan

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri Conferred on Late Chaman Arora

• The Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri has been conferred on Late Chaman Arora for his short story collection, "Ik Hor Ashwthama."
• The prestigious award was approved by Sri Madhav Kaushik, President of Sahitya Akademi, based on the recommendation of a three-member jury.

Key Highlights

Award Selection Process

• Book Selected: Ik Hor Ashwthama (Short Stories).
• Awardee: Late Chaman Arora.
• Selection Method: Unanimous decision by a three-member jury.

Jury Members

1. Sushma Rani
2. Veena Gupta
3. Jitendra Udhampuri

REC Limited Wins ‘Gold Shield’ at ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting

• REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power has been awarded the ‘Gold Shield’ in the ‘Financial Services Sector (Other than Banking and Insurance)’ category at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY 2023-24.
• The award reflects REC Limited's commitment to excellence in financial reporting, transparency, and adherence to accounting standards.
• The selection was based on accounting practices, disclosure policies, presentation of financial statements, compliance with Indian accounting standards, and statutory guidelines.

Award Presentation:

• The award was presented to Harsh Baweja (Director, Finance), Rajesh Kumar, and Mohan Lal Kumawat (Executive Directors, Finance) by Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.
• The ceremony took place at the World Forum of Accountants (WOFA) in New Delhi, with ICAI President CA Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal and other key ICAI officials present.

• ICAI’s Role: The ICAI Awards, established in 1958, recognize and encourage excellence in financial reporting across sectors.

RITES Limited Awarded ‘Gold’ at ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting FY 2023-24

• RITES Limited, a Navaratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has been conferred the ‘Gold’ award in the ‘Public Sector Entities’ category at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY 2023-24.
• This prestigious recognition is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to financial excellence, transparency, and regulatory compliance.

Key Highlights

• Award Title: ‘Gold’ Award under the Public Sector Entities
• Financial Year: 2023-24.
• Award Significance:
  • Financial Excellence: Recognizes the company's meticulous financial reporting and adherence to the highest accounting standards.
  • Transparency and Regulatory Compliance: Highlights responsible disclosure practices and strict compliance with statutory guidelines.
  • The award underscores RITES Limited's commitment to maintaining integrity and building stakeholder trust.
  • It sets a benchmark in financial governance for public sector entities, reflecting the company's leadership in financial transparency.

Tshego Gaelae Makes History as the First Black Woman to Win Mrs World 2025

• Tshego Gaelae, a Soweto-born attorney, has made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the Mrs World 2025 title at the grand finale in Las Vegas.
• The 34-year-old, who is also the 2024 Mrs South Africa Queen, follows in the footsteps of Candice Abrahams, the only other South African to hold the title (2016).
• Gaelae’s victory is a historic moment in the 40-year history of the Mrs World pageant, and she plans to leverage her platform to champion women’s empowerment while representing South Africa on the global stage.

Key Highlights of Tshego Gaelae’s Victory

• Historic Achievement: Gaelae becomes the first Black woman to win the prestigious Mrs World title in the pageant's history.
• Second South African Winner: She is only the second South African to win the Mrs World title, following Candice Abrahams, who won in 2016.
• Global Milestone: Gaelae’s victory marks a significant milestone in the global pageant community, further elevating South Africa’s standing on the world stage.

About South Africa

• Capitals: Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein
• President: Cyril Ramaphosa
• Currency: Rand

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Karnataka to Sign MoUs for ‘KWIN’ Knowledge Hub Ahead of GIM 2025

• Ahead of the Global Investor Summit 2025 (GIM 2025), Karnataka is set to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with 5-6 foreign universities and 6-8 Indian universities to establish institutions in its upcoming Knowledge and Innovation Hub (KWIN City).

Key Highlights

KWIN City Project

• Location: 5,000 acres between Doddaballapur and Dabaspet, Karnataka.
• Objective: Establish a hub for education, healthcare, research, and innovation.
• Vision: Drive Karnataka’s growth by integrating world-class institutions and industries.

MoUs with Universities

• The state government is in talks with multiple universities to set up institutions within KWIN City.
• Indian Universities Invited:
  • Azim Premji University
  • PES University
  • MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
  • Dayananda Sagar University
  • Chanakya University
  • Joseph’s University
  • Manipal Academy of Higher Education
  • Amity University
  • BLDE University
  • Christ University
  • Jain University
  • KLE University

OpenAI Partners with Kakao in South Korea Amid Growing AI Competition

• Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, signed a strategic partnership with South Korean tech giant Kakao, aiming to expand OpenAI’s reach and explore new alliances in the face of intense competition, particularly from Chinese AI firm DeepSeek.
• The deal will allow Kakao to use ChatGPT in its AI services, marking a significant step in OpenAI's global strategy.

Key Highlights

• Objective: Kakao will integrate ChatGPT-powered services to enhance its messaging service, online banking, and taxi-hailing app.
• DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, has become a significant competitor to OpenAI, prompting Altman to admit that OpenAI hasn't found a strategy yet to respond to DeepSeek’s open-source models.

About South Korea

• Capital: Seoul
• President: Yoon Suk Yeol
• Prime minister: Han Duck-soo
• Currency: Won

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Simona Halep Announces Retirement from Professional Tennis at 33

• Simona Halep, a two-time Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1, has officially announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 33.
• The decision comes after a challenging comeback attempt following an injury and a doping suspension.
• Halep made her retirement announcement after a first-round loss to Lucia Bronzetti at the Transylvania Open in her home country of Romania.

Key Highlights of Simona Halep’s Career & Retirement

Career Achievements

• Former World No. 1 in WTA rankings, first achieving the position in 2017.
• Two Grand Slam singles titles:
  • French Open 2018 (defeated Sloane Stephens).
  • Wimbledon 2019 (defeated Serena Williams).
• Three-time Grand Slam runner-up:
  • Australian Open 2018 (lost to Caroline Wozniacki).
  • French Open 2014 (lost to Maria Sharapova).
  • French Open 2017 (lost to Jelena Ostapenko).
• 24 WTA singles titles across her career.
• Earned over $40 million in prize money.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day Of Zero Tolerance For Female Genital Mutilation: 6th February

• International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation 2025 is observed on the 6th February 2025.
• The Joint Programme on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting was initiated by UNFPA and UNICEF in 2007 to accelerate the abandonment of the practice.
• In 2008, WHO and 9 other United Nations partners released a declaration titled "Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation: An Interagency Statement" regarding the abolition of FGM.
• WHO 2010 published a "Global strategy to stop health care providers from performing female genital mutilation" in collaboration with other key UN agencies and international organizations.
• The UN General Assembly in 2012 adopted a resolution A/RES/67/14 on the elimination of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Daily CA One- Liner: February 6

• The Government of India expanded Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to provide free treatment benefits up to ₹5 lakh per year for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of socio-economic status, including tribal communities
• The Ministry of Textiles held the 10th Empowered Programme Committee (EPC) meeting under the National Technical Textiles Mission at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.
• The Government of India has launched the ‘Haj Suvidha App’, aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience for Indian Haj pilgrims.
• The Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri has been conferred on Late Chaman Arora for his short story collection, "Ik Hor Ashwthama”.
• REC Limited , a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power has been awarded the ‘Gold Shield’ in the ‘Financial Services Sector (Other than Banking and Insurance)’ category at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY 2023-24
• RITES Limited, a Navaratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has been conferred the ‘Gold’ award in the ‘Public Sector Entities’ category at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY 2023-24.
• Tshego Gaelae, a Soweto-born attorney, has made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the Mrs World 2025 title at the grand finale in Las Vegas
• Ahead of the Global Investor Summit 2025 (GIM 2025), Karnataka is set to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 5-6 foreign universities and 6-8 Indian universities to establish institutions in its upcoming Knowledge and Innovation Hub (KWIN City).
• Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, signed a strategic partnership with South Korean tech giant Kakao, aiming to expand OpenAI’s reach and explore new alliances in the face of intense competition, particularly from Chinese AI firm DeepSeek.
• Simona Halep, a two-time Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1, has officially announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 33
• Paytm Cloud Technologies Limited (PCTL) to invest $1 million (Rs 8.7 crore) for a 25% stake in Seven Technology LLC.
• HDFC Bank has partnered with 15 incubators and accelerators, including IIT Madras, IIM Ahmedabad Ventures, Villgro, and ICAR Pusa Krishi, to identify promising social ventures.
• Beacon launched Beacon India Bill Pay, enabling users in Canada to pay bills in India directly from their Beacon Money account.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved for Tata Communications to divest its 100% stake in Tata Communications Payment Solutions Limited (TCPSL) to Findi's Indian subsidiary, Transaction Solutions International (TSI).
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) aims to ensure the safer participation of retail investors in algorithmic trading through brokers.
• Sri Lanka is celebrating its 77th National Day on February 4^th, 2025 with official celebrations held at Independence Square in Colombo, featuring a military parade, cultural performances, and a special address by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
• Amazon India has partnered with Uttar Pradesh’s ARGA initiative to support women entrepreneurs in Gonda through its Saheli programme.
• PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School in Namchi, Sikkim has been recognized as the only educational institution in the Northeastern states to receive a Green School Rating.
• Bart De Wever, a conservative political leader, was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Belgium on 3rd February 2025 by King Phillippe in a ceremony at the royal palace in Brussels.
• Ashu Khullar has been appointed as the global co-head of Global Asset Managers (GAM), based in London and K Balasubramanian will succeed Khullar as CEO of Citibank India, subject to RBI approval.
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of shareholding in POSCO-India Pune Processing Center by POSCO India Processing Center, a subsidiary of POSCO Holdings.
• The 13th edition of the joint India-Maldives military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ is being hosted by Maldives from 2-15 February 2025.
• The Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX-25) was held off India’s western coast on January 30-31, 2025.
• IIT Madras launched India’s first cancer genome database, Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), to enhance cancer research and diagnostics.
• MediBuddy partnered with Japanese electronics company ELECOM to introduce IoT-enabled health monitoring devices in India.
• IIT Guwahati researchers, in collaboration with global institutions, developed a multi-stage clinical trial method to enhance personalized medical care.
• TruthTell Hackathon launched by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) as part of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025.
• International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation 2025 is observed on the 6th February 2025.