Feb 24th 2025 Current Affairs

Index:

1. UNESCO Heritage Tag Sought for Shivaji’s Forts

Context:

Maharashtra government is seeking UNESCO World Heritage Status for 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
A delegation led by Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar is in Paris for discussions.

Key Details:

Proposal submitted under the concept of ‘Maratha Military Landscape of India’.
Delegation Duration: February 22 to 26.

Forts Included in the Proposal:

Lohagad
Salher
Raigad
Rajgad
Pratapgad
Panhala
Shivneri
Sindhudurg
Suvarnadurg
Vijaydurg
Khanderi
Gingee (Tamil Nadu)

Importance of Shivaji’s Forts:

Symbol of Maratha military strength and architecture.
Played a key role in resisting Mughal expansion.
Engineering marvels in terms of strategic positioning, defense mechanisms, and sustainability.

Significance of UNESCO Heritage Tag:

Global recognition of Maratha heritage.
Boost to tourism and local economy.
Conservation and better management of these historical sites.

Previous Indian Sites with UNESCO Status (For Comparison):

Ajanta & Ellora Caves (Maharashtra)
Elephanta Caves (Maharashtra)
Hill Forts of Rajasthan

Great Living Chola Temples

2. Kashi Tamil Sangamam – Jaishankar & Ambassadors' Interaction

Context:

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and 45 Ambassadors from different countries interacted with Tamil delegates during the third edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi.
The event showcases the cultural and historical connection between Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu.

Key Points:

Objective: To highlight the deep civilizational ties between the regions of Kashi (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu).
Jaishankar called Kashi India’s cultural heart, emphasizing its link with people across the country.
Tamil Nadu has a strong historical bond with Kashi, reflecting India’s unity in diversity.

Importance of Kashi Tamil Sangamam:

Celebrates cultural heritage and unity.
Highlights India’s multi-linguistic, multi-traditional, and diverse yet unified
Promotes India’s heritage internationally, with foreign diplomats witnessing the cultural depth of India beyond Delhi.
Encourages people-to-people connections across states.

Government’s Perspective:

Cultural diplomacy: Helps in projecting India’s soft power
Strengthens the national identity by reinforcing cultural integration.
Government actively supports such efforts to ensure that traditions remain alive through celebrations.

Role of Traditions in Progress:

Jaishankar linked tradition with technology, stating that Indian knowledge systems contribute to advancements in science, technology, and research.

India is taking steps to combine traditional wisdom with modern research.

3. Microsoft's Quantum Computing Breakthrough

Context:

Microsoft has claimed a breakthrough in quantum computing, which could significantly accelerate the development of meaningful quantum computers from decades to just a few years.
The company has developed a new type of qubit (quantum bit) that is more stable than existing ones.

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing is an advanced computational method that uses qubits instead of classical bits (0s and 1s).
Unlike traditional computers, quantum computers leverage:

Superposition – A qubit can be in multiple states (0 & 1) simultaneously.
Entanglement – Qubits can be interlinked, influencing each other even at a distance.
Parallel Processing – Enables exponential speedups in problem-solving compared to classical computers.

Microsoft’s Breakthrough

Developed a new qubit that is more resilient and can achieve better error correction.
The goal is to scale quantum computing to one million qubits, which would enable real-world applications.
Microsoft claims its qubits are:
More stable, reducing errors in calculations.
More efficient, potentially scaling down physical qubits needed for error correction.

Significance of the Breakthrough

Could accelerate AI, cryptography, drug discovery, climate modeling, and more.
More error-resistant qubits mean practical quantum computers could be built sooner than expected.
Boosts innovation in quantum mechanics and fundamental physics.
Positions Microsoft as a leader in quantum computing research, competing with Google, IBM, and other tech giants.

Challenges in Quantum Computing

Maintaining qubit stability (error correction is still a major hurdle).
Quantum decoherence (qubits lose their state due to environmental factors).
High cost and complexity of quantum hardware.
Scaling from lab experiments to real-world applications remains difficult.

Criticism & Skepticism

Some scientists are skeptical about Microsoft’s claim, as many previous quantum computing breakthroughs have not scaled successfully.

The process Microsoft used to develop these qubits is complex and unproven at a large scale.

4. HIV Self-Testing in Mizoram

Context:

A study by ICMR-NARI (Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Translational Virology and AIDS Research) and Mizoram University highlights how HIV self-testing has helped many young people in Mizoram get tested for the first time.
Mizoram has the highest HIV prevalence in India.

HIV & Its Impact:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system.
If untreated, it leads to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is fatal.
Transmission:
Sexual contact
Contaminated needles
Infected blood or body fluids
Treatment: Modern Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) helps HIV patients lead long and healthy lives.

HIV Burden in Mizoram:

India has about 25.44 lakh people living with HIV.
Mizoram has the highest HIV prevalence in India:
73% of adults are infected (13 times the national average).
8% of drug-injecting individuals and 24.7% of female sex workers in Mizoram are HIV positive (highest in India).

The Study & HIV Self-Testing:

Objective: To explore HIV self-testing as a private, convenient, and stigma-free way to get
Conducted by ICMR-NIVTAR, the study aimed to:
Increase HIV awareness.
Encourage self-testing in youth.
Reach individuals who avoid traditional testing centers.
HIV self-testing process:
Individuals collect blood or saliva samples.
They interpret results themselves using test kits.
Used in 41 countries (WHO guidelines since 2016).

Key Findings:

2,101 youths in Aizawl took HIV tests after self-test kits were introduced.
1,772 (84%) were first-time testers.
85% of those aged 18-24 who tested positive opted for confirmatory tests and were linked with ART treatment.
Linkages were made with:
Community-based organizations
Church groups
College festivals, pharmacies, street outreach centers

Significance of HIV Self-Testing in India:

Addresses Stigma – Helps vulnerable groups test privately.
Encourages Early Detection – Reduces the risk of HIV spreading.
Increases Access to Healthcare – Reaches populations avoiding traditional testing centers.
Global Precedent – Adopted successfully in 41 countries.

Challenges & Way Forward:

India is yet to introduce official guidelines for HIV self-testing.
Strategic communication & awareness campaigns are essential.
Government & NGOs should collaborate to expand self-testing.

Ensuring linkage to ART (treatment) is critical after self-testing.

5. Russia's Largest Drone Attack on Ukraine

Context:

Russia launched 267 drones in an overnight attack on Ukraine, marking the largest drone strike since the start of the war.
Attack coincided with the third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack as “aerial terror” and called for unity among allies.

Key Details of the Attack:

267 attack drones were used by Russia.
138 drones were shot down by Ukraine’s air defense.
119 drones disappeared due to electronic warfare jamming.
Russia also launched three ballistic missiles.
Damage was reported in five Ukrainian regions.
Moscow has been conducting mass drone attacks on Ukraine for months.

Wider War Scenario:

Since the beginning of the war, Ukraine has faced continuous aerial bombardments and drone strikes.
In the past week alone, Russia launched:
1,150 attack drones
1,400 guided aerial bombs
35 missiles

Ukraine’s Response & International Implications:

Ukraine’s air defense systems actively intercepted many of the drones.
Zelenskyy urged Western allies to unite and provide more air defense systems to Ukraine.
The attack raises concerns about Russia’s increasing reliance on drones and missile warfare.

Geopolitical Angle – NATO & Zelenskyy’s Statement:

Zelenskyy stated he was “ready to quit as Ukraine’s President” if it meant Ukraine would be admitted into NATO.
His statement reflects Ukraine’s desperate push for NATO membership as a security guarantee against Russian aggression.
NATO has not yet granted full membership to Ukraine due to the ongoing war.

Strategic & Global Significance:

Drones & Modern Warfare: Russia’s increasing use of drones highlights the changing nature of warfare, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) playing a crucial role.
Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations:
Ukraine sees NATO membership as essential for long-term security.
However, NATO’s policy prevents admitting a country that is already in an active conflict.
Russia-West Tensions: The attack may escalate tensions between Russia and Western nations, possibly leading to more sanctions or increased military aid to Ukraine.

Challenges & Way Forward:

Strengthening Air Defenses – Ukraine requires more Western-supplied air defense systems to counter drone and missile attacks.
Diplomatic Efforts for Peace – The international community needs to push for peace talks to end the prolonged war.

Regulating Drone Warfare – There is a need for global regulations on drone warfare to prevent their misuse in conflicts.

6. Ban on Export of Drugs Containing Tapentadol & Carisoprodol

Context:

The Health Ministry of India has banned the export of unapproved combination drugs containing Tapentadol and Carisoprodol following reports of their misuse.
The ban includes withdrawal of export No-Objection Certificates (NoCs) and manufacturing licenses for these combinations.

About Tapentadol & Carisoprodol:

Tapentadol:
Opioid medication used to treat moderate to severe pain.
Approved in 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg tablet forms and extended-release tablets of 150 mg & 200 mg.
Carisoprodol:
Muscle relaxant that acts on the brain and spinal cord to relieve pain.
Combination of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol is NOT approved in India.

Regulatory Concerns:

Not classified under Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in India.
Risk of abuse and addiction led to regulatory action.
Reports suggested illegal export to West African countries from India.

Actions Taken by Health Ministry & CDSCO:

Comprehensive audit of pharmaceutical sector initiated in December 2022.
905 units inspected; 694 regulatory actions taken, including:
Stop production orders
Suspension of licenses
Warning letters & show-cause notices
Seizure of:
3 crore tablets/capsules
26 batches of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)

Implications of the Ban:

Curbing Drug Misuse – Prevents misuse of these drugs as illegal painkillers and narcotics.
Strengthening Drug Regulations – Highlights the role of CDSCO & State Drug Authorities in ensuring safe drug practices.
Impact on Pharma Industry – Pharmaceutical companies will have to comply with stricter regulations to prevent similar violations.

Global Pharmaceutical Trade & Reputation – India’s action reinforces its commitment to safe pharmaceutical exports and prevents black market drug trade.

7. Women Achievers to Take Charge of PM's Social Media Accounts on International Women’s Day

Context:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his Mann Ki Baat address that on March 8 (International Women’s Day), his social media accounts will be handed over to women achievers across sectors.
The aim is to highlight the contributions of women and inspire others.

Key Highlights of the Announcement:

Recognition of Women’s Contribution:

Women played a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle and Constitution-making (Example: Hansa Mehta’s contribution).
The initiative aligns with the theme of “Nari Shakti” (Women’s Power).

Participation of Women in Science & Space:

PM Modi emphasized the rising number of women in space science and technology.
Example: ISRO’s achievements and India’s satellite launches (460 satellites in recent years).

Focus on AI & Digital Innovation:

PM encouraged women to participate in the AI for All initiative on Pariksha Pe Charcha.
Highlighted the example of Thoddam Kailash, a government school teacher in Telangana who created digital music using AI in the local language.

Sports Achievements by Women:

Young female athletes making a mark in shooting, hammer throw, and pole vault at the National Games.

Awareness on Environment & Culture:

Discussed the importance of wildlife protection and how animals are deeply embedded in Indian history and culture.

Importance of the Initiative:

Promotes Women Empowerment – Encourages greater participation of women in science, technology, and governance.
Recognizes Female Achievements – Inspires young women to innovate, lead, and succeed.
Boosts Digital Inclusion – Encourages women to use social media for impactful storytelling and awareness.

Encourages Youth in STEM – Motivates youth to explore science, AI, and technology fields.

8. India to Host a Conference on Women Peacekeepers

Context:

India is hosting a two-day international conference on women peacekeepers at UN missions to highlight their contributions.
The conference is scheduled for February 24-25, 2024, in New Delhi.
Theme: “Women in Peacekeeping: A Global South Perspective.”

Key Details:

Participants & Scope:

35 troop-contributing countries from the Global South will participate.
Women peacekeepers will share experiences, challenges, and strategies.

Organizers:

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
Defence Ministry
Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK)

Keynote Address:

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will deliver the keynote speech.

Significance of the Conference:

Women’s Role in Peacekeeping:

Women peacekeepers contribute to conflict resolution, community trust, and post-conflict rebuilding.
The UN has been advocating for greater gender inclusion in peacekeeping missions.

India’s Leadership in Global Peacekeeping:

India is one of the largest troop contributors to UN Peacekeeping Missions.
India has previously deployed all-female peacekeeping units (e.g., Liberia mission in 2007).

Strengthening Global South Cooperation:

The conference amplifies voices from the Global South in international peace efforts.

Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda:

Aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace, and Security, advocating for more women in peacekeeping roles.

9. Foreign Influence and India's Response to Tainted Aid

Context:

Debate over USAID’s presence in India has led to misinformation and political rhetoric.
BJP and Congress accuse each other of foreign funding links.
Discussion often shaped by Trump-era skepticism of international aid.

Foreign Aid & Its Implications:

Foreign aid as soft power: Stronger nations use it to influence weaker nations.
USAID’s presence in India:
Has funded various development projects, including government partnerships.
Lack of verifiable data leads to prejudiced narratives.

India as an Aid Provider:

India has emerged as a donor nation:
Ministry of External Affairs has given $48 billion in aid to 65+ countries since 2000.
Includes grants, credit lines, capacity-building programs.

Challenges in Regulating Foreign Aid:

Stringent regulations on foreign contributions in India.
Politicization of regulations:
Pro-government entities face fewer hurdles.
Apolitical organizations face restrictions.

Way Forward:

Balanced & transparent approach:
Avoid reactionary rhetoric and self-sabotage.
Investigate foreign influence objectively.
Recognize interconnectedness in a globalized world.

10. RBI’s Long-Term Currency Swap & Financial Stability

Context:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) injected $10 billion into the financial system through a dollar-rupee swap auction.
Aimed at addressing liquidity concerns in the banking sector.
Response to foreign capital outflows and rupee depreciation.

Reasons for the Currency Swap:

Flight of Foreign Capital:

Investors prefer higher returns in the U.S. due to Trump’s tax cuts and tariff policies.
Strengthened S. dollar weakened other currencies.

Liquidity Deficit in Banking Sector:

India faces a ₹1.7 trillion liquidity shortfall (as of Feb 20, 2025).
Swap auctions provide banks with rupee liquidity in exchange for dollar reserves.

Rupee Depreciation & Market Volatility:

Rupee depreciated 3% against the dollar (Oct 2024 – Feb 2025).
Breached ₹85 per dollar on Dec 19, 2024.

FII & FPI Outflows:

$31 billion withdrawn from Indian equity markets.
RBI sold $111.2 billion (18% of forex reserves) to stabilize the rupee.

Comparison with Previous Currency Swaps:

Jan 31, 2025: $5 billion swap (6-month tenure).
Current Swap: $10 billion (3-year tenure).
Previous Long-Term Swap (2019):
Response to global financial volatility, trade war, tax cuts.
Then, forex reserves were rising; now, dollar reserves are depleting.

Significance & Way Forward:

Helps stabilize the rupee and reduce inflationary pressures.
Ensures liquidity for banks, supporting credit growth & economic expansion.
Critical for capital investment, employment, wage growth, and consumption demand.

Supports India’s real GDP growth, currently at 6.4%.

11. Manipur’s GST Growth Decline & Inflation Surge

Context:

Manipur’s economy has been severely impacted by ethnic violence and prolonged Internet shutdowns.
GST revenue growth has slowed down, and inflation has surged to the highest among all states.

Impact on GST Growth

Manipur was among the fastest-growing GST revenue states between FY18-FY19 and FY19-FY20.
However, between FY23-FY24, GST revenue grew by only 5.8%, among the lowest in India.
Reasons for the slowdown:
Ethnic violence & instability.
Frequent Internet shutdowns, affecting businesses.
Disruptions in trade and economic activity.

Comparative Analysis (Chart 1):

FY19: India’s GST growth – 62.3%, Manipur – 153.3% (2.5x national average).
FY20: India – 7.7%, Manipur – 40.8% (higher than India).
FY24: India – 9%, Manipur – 5% (significant decline).

Rising Inflation in Manipur

Inflation rate in Manipur (Jan 2025): 4% (higher than national average of 4.3%).
May 2023 Inflation: 5% (highest in India).
Factors Driving Inflation:
Supply chain disruptions due to conflict.
Fuel & essential goods shortages.
Economic uncertainty and capital flight.

(Chart 2 shows that before the conflict, Manipur had one of the lowest inflation rates in India.)

Internet Shutdowns & Economic Impact

Over 4,300 hours of Internet shutdowns in 2023, among the highest in India.
Disruptions in business, digital transactions, & governance.

Examples:
April 28, 2023: Shutdown in Churachandpur & Pherzawl.
Followed by more shutdowns in May 2023.
Shutdowns continued in 2024, similar to Jammu & Kashmir’s record shutdowns.

Conflict & Casualties in Manipur

Ethnic violence concentrated in:
Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Kakching, Thoubal, Tengnoupal.
Phase-wise impact:
Initial phase (May 2023): Conflicts limited to the periphery.
Second phase (2024): Widespread conflict, especially in Jiribam & Kamjong.

(Maps 3A & 3B highlight conflict regions and their spread over time.)

Way Forward & Policy Recommendations

Restore stability through conflict resolution mechanisms.
Ensure economic revival by reopening businesses and restoring digital infrastructure.
Prevent inflationary pressures through price control measures and essential goods supply chain management.

Minimize Internet shutdowns to support e-commerce and banking.