Current Affairs - February 11, 2025 Current Affairs

Former U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation officially recognizing February 9 as "Gulf of America Day" after renaming the Gulf of Mexico. The executive order was signed on January 20, instructing the Department of the Interior to implement the change. Following this directive, the U.S. Coast Guard also adopted the term "Gulf of America" in its official communications. This move was part of Trump's broader policies on national identity and territorial rebranding.

Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated "Sṛjanam," India's first automated biomedical waste treatment plant, at AIIMS, New Delhi. Developed by CSIR-NIIST Thiruvananthapuram, this facility ensures the eco-friendly disposal of biomedical waste, promoting sustainability in healthcare waste management. The initiative aligns with India's "Waste to Wealth" mission, which aims to convert waste into useful resources while reducing environmental hazards. This innovation marks a significant step forward in sustainable medical waste disposal practices.

South African cricketer Matthew Breetzke created history by becoming the first batter to score 150+ runs on his ODI debut. He scored 150 off 148 balls against New Zealand in a tri-series match, surpassing the previous record of 148 runs set by D.L. Haynes of West Indies in 1978. His innings included 11 fours and 5 sixes. Before Breetzke, Colin Ingram's highest ODI debut score for South Africa was 124 against Zimbabwe in 2010. His remarkable performance set a new benchmark for debutants in ODI cricket.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has renamed the Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36) as 'Yashas' after making significant modifications to enhance its spin resistance and stability. The aircraft is equipped with an advanced glass cockpit, a FADEC-controlled AL55I engine, and Indian-made avionics, improving its efficiency for pilot training. 'Yashas' plays a crucial role in Stage II pilot training, counter-insurgency operations, and aerobatics, with the capability to carry a 1,000 kg armament load. The renaming aligns with HAL’s efforts to modernize Indigenous aircraft for defence applications.

India has introduced new Harmonized System (HS) codes to facilitate the export of GI-recognized rice varieties such as Red Rice, Black Rice, and Kalanamak Rice. These codes help differentiate premium GI-tagged rice from general non-basmati rice, ensuring better market positioning and protection from export restrictions. The initiative aims to promote fair pricing, simplify trade processes, and strengthen India’s presence in global speciality rice markets. By assigning specific HS codes, India acknowledges the cultural and economic importance of these rice varieties while safeguarding farmers’ interests and boosting agricultural exports.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced the addition of translation services for 6 new languages: Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Manipuri, Urdu, and Sanskrit. This expansion builds upon the previously available 10 languages, ensuring greater accessibility and inclusivity in parliamentary proceedings. By incorporating more regional languages, the Lok Sabha aims to promote linguistic diversity and enable better communication for members representing various linguistic backgrounds across India.

The Para-Archery Asia Cup took place in Bangkok, where Indian archer Sarita secured a gold medal in the Women’s Compound Open category by defeating Singapore’s Nur Syahidah Alim 143-142. Additionally, Adil Mohammed won a bronze medal in the Men’s W1 category, further showcasing India’s strong performance in the tournament. The competition saw intense matches, with India achieving significant success on the international para-archery stage.

Justin Hotard has been named the new CEO of Nokia, effective April 1, 2025, succeeding Pekka Lundmark. Previously serving as Intel’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of Data Center & AI Group, Hotard brings significant expertise in artificial intelligence and data centres, aligning with Nokia’s strategic growth areas. Nokia’s Chair, Sari Baldauf, emphasized Hotard’s ability to drive technological advancement and business growth. Lundmark, who led Nokia since 2020, will remain as an advisor until the end of the year to facilitate a smooth leadership transition.

India and Oman have signed an Executive Programme of Cooperation (EPC) for the years 2025-2028 to strengthen their collaboration in the field of archives. This agreement is intended to enhance historical ties and promote future cooperation between the National Archives of India and the National Records and Archives Authority of Oman. Such initiatives help in preserving shared history and cultural heritage, further solidifying diplomatic relations between the two nations.

DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Transport Institute (KoTI) to enhance logistics and infrastructure cooperation. This partnership focuses on the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, aiming to improve logistics efficiency through knowledge exchange, research-driven initiatives, and technology adoption. Strengthening bilateral ties with global institutions like KoTI helps India advance its logistics sector and adopt best practices from leading economies.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed annually on February 11 to promote gender equality in STEM fields. Established by the United Nations in 2015, this day highlights the crucial role of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The 2025 theme, "Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science," emphasizes encouraging young women to pursue careers in these fields and addressing barriers that hinder their progress. Achieving gender equality in science is essential for innovation, economic development, and the success of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

International Epilepsy Day is observed on the second Monday of February each year to raise awareness about epilepsy, its diagnosis, treatment, and impact on individuals. In 2025, it falls on February 10, with the theme “MyEpilepsyJourney,” encouraging people with epilepsy to share their experiences. The event aims to foster a supportive community, improve public understanding, and enhance medical accessibility for epilepsy patients worldwide. With millions affected by epilepsy, particularly in developing nations, this observance plays a crucial role in advocating for better care and reducing the stigma associated with the condition.

Anti-Smuggling Day is observed annually on February 11 to raise awareness about the threats posed by smuggling to national security and the economy. Organized by FICCI’s CASCADE initiative, this day highlights the dangers of illegal trade, including arms smuggling, fake currency circulation, and drug trafficking. Smuggling not only weakens economic stability by causing revenue losses but also strengthens organized crime and terrorist activities. By promoting international cooperation and coordinated enforcement efforts, Anti-Smuggling Day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to combat illicit trade through awareness campaigns, seminars, and policy discussions.