Current Affairs - February 12, 2025 Current Affairs

Dubai is hosting the largest MRO Middle East & AIME 2025, bringing together over 250 exhibitors and key aviation stakeholders. The event highlights major developments in the aerospace industry, including GE Aerospace’s $10 million investment and Airbus’s projection of a $32 billion global service demand by 2043. Industry leaders are discussing emerging trends such as AI applications and modernization programs at the Go Live! Theatre, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for aviation advancements.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) partnered with IIT Madras to develop the ‘IRIS’ (Indigenous RISC-V Microprocessor for Space Applications) chip, a semiconductor designed for space missions. Derived from the SHAKTI microprocessor project, the chip is based on the open-source RISC-V architecture. It enhances self-reliance in space technology and aligns with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The chip’s design was carried out at IIT Madras, with fabrication at the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh and packaging by Tata Advanced Systems. This marks a major milestone in India’s indigenous semiconductor development efforts.

The inaugural Olympic Esports Games will be hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027 as part of a 12-year agreement. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is organizing this event to tap into the growing popularity of Esports and attract younger audiences. Following the success of the Olympic Virtual Series, a six-member committee will be responsible for selecting the games that will be featured in this historic event. This marks a significant step in integrating Esports into the global sporting community under the Olympic framework.

NASA has chosen SpaceX to launch the Pandora mission as part of the VADR (Venture-Class Acquisition of Dedicated and Rideshare) contract. The mission aims to study over 20 exoplanets and their host stars by analyzing atmospheric observations. Equipped with a 17-inch telescope, Pandora will complement the work of NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, enhancing the understanding of exoplanet atmospheres and their potential habitability. This mission represents another significant step in exoplanet research and deep space exploration.

Pankaj Advani, India's most decorated cueist, secured his 36th national title and 10th men’s snooker championship at the Yashwant Club. In a thrilling final, he defeated Brijesh Damani, avenging his only group-stage loss. Advani showcased remarkable skill, winning the final with an 84 break in the last frame. His victory ensures his qualification for the upcoming Asian Snooker Championship on February 15, 2025, further cementing his legacy in Indian cue sports. His consistent performances continue to strengthen India’s global representation in both billiards and snooker.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched a $95 million, seven-year climate-resilient agriculture project called "Ugbaad" in Somalia. The initiative aims to strengthen Somalia’s agrifood systems, restore degraded landscapes, and protect the livelihoods of farmers. With agriculture supporting 65% of the country’s population, the project plays a crucial role in enhancing food security and climate adaptation efforts. Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister has emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling climate challenges as the nation faces increasing weather shocks.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), in collaboration with MyGov, has launched the 'Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic' festival to celebrate India's cultural heritage. The event, held at locations like Kartavya Path and Amrit Udyan, brings together artisans, photographers, and food enthusiasts. A key attraction is the ‘Moods & Magic’ photography contest, encouraging participants to capture vibrant public spaces. Winners of the contest will receive cash prizes, and selected photos will be showcased on official platforms, highlighting the dynamic interaction between people and urban environments.

The 14th Asian Fisheries Forum (AFAF) is being hosted in New Delhi from February 12-14, 2025, under the theme "Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific". Organized by ICAR and AFS, the event brings together 1,000 delegates from 24 countries to discuss sustainable fisheries and the future of the blue economy. India, as the world's second-largest producer of fish and aquaculture, is showcasing its advancements in the sector, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly fisheries practices.

Meghalaya has been chosen as the host for the 39th National Games, scheduled to take place in 2027. The National Games is India's premier multi-sport event, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete in various disciplines. The 2025 edition of the National Games, currently ongoing, features top-performing teams like the Services Sports Control Board, Maharashtra, and Karnataka leading the medal tally. Hosting the event in 2027 will provide Meghalaya with an opportunity to showcase its sporting infrastructure and boost sports culture in the region.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminium imports, effective March 4, 2025, with no exemptions for key exporters like Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and South Korea. The decision aims to boost domestic production and counter foreign dumping but has sparked a global backlash. Countries such as Canada and the European Union have condemned the move and are preparing retaliatory measures. This tariff reinstates Trump's earlier protectionist trade policies and could lead to heightened trade tensions and economic uncertainty in global markets.

The 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSoCD) took place in New York, bringing together representatives from 49 countries. The session focused on inclusive social policies and global well-being, with India's participation emphasizing "Women-led development." Smt. Savitri Thakur addressed the event, highlighting India's commitment to strengthening social cohesion and solidarity. The discussions aimed at fostering policies that promote inclusive growth and address social challenges worldwide.

Uttar Pradesh is formulating a new leather and footwear policy to enhance exports, provide financial aid, and introduce technological upgrades. The initiative aims to double the state’s ₹20,000 crore leather industry within five years, focusing on key hubs such as Kanpur, Agra, Unnao, and Noida. This policy aligns with the Union Budget 2025-26, which sets a target of $50 billion in Indian leather exports by 2030. By implementing this strategy, Uttar Pradesh seeks to strengthen its position as a major contributor to the country’s leather sector.

Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL) introduced 'Spinner,' a new sports drink co-created with cricket legend Muttiah Muralitharan. The drink is priced at ₹10 for 150 ml and is available in Lemon, Orange, and Nitro Blue flavours. To enhance its brand presence, Spinner has partnered with IPL teams like MI, GT, PBKS, SRH, and LSG. RCPL aims to build a $1 billion sports beverage market within the next three years, positioning Spinner as a key player in the segment.