Current Affairs - February 14, 2025 Current Affairs

China has approved the construction of a deepwater research facility in the South China Sea, set to be built at a depth of 2,000 meters. This cold seep ecosystem station will be one of the most advanced underwater structures, with a projected completion date of 2030. The project holds significant strategic and scientific value, particularly amid ongoing territorial disputes in the region. The facility will contribute to underwater research and expand China's technological capabilities in the marine environment.

Tata Elxsi and Garuda Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Aero India 2025 to collaborate on the development of advanced UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) aimed at sectors like defence, agriculture, and smart cities. The partnership focuses on creating AI-powered solutions that can cut energy use by 20%, reduce costs, and ensure regulatory compliance. This initiative is aligned with India's goal of enhancing self-reliance in UAV technology, contributing to both defence capabilities and employment opportunities in the country.

Biovet has developed Biolumpivaxin, the world’s first DIVA marker vaccine for Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), and has received CDSCO approval for it. The vaccine is based on the LSD virus strain developed by ICAR-NRCE and is noted for its high safety and efficacy. It also helps differentiate between infected and vaccinated animals, making it an important tool for managing LSD in livestock. With an annual production capacity of 500 million doses, this innovation supports India's self-reliance in veterinary healthcare.

ADNOC Gas and Indian Oil Corporation have finalized a 14-year agreement for the supply of up to 1.2 million tonnes of LNG annually, starting in 2026. The deal, valued between $7 billion and $9 billion, is part of India's broader strategy to increase gas usage to 15% of its energy mix by 2030. The LNG will be sourced from ADNOC Gas's Das Island facility, which has been operational for years and has delivered over 3,500 LNG cargoes since its inception.

The Jurassic-era bird fossils were discovered in Fujian Province, China, by a team of researchers led by Professor Wang Min from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP). These fossils, estimated to be 149 million years old, provide crucial new insights into the early evolution of birds. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about bird evolution, revealing that birds were more diversified by the end of the Jurassic period than previously thought. The fossils also push back the origin of the short-tailed bird feature by nearly 20 million years.

India is hosting the first-ever International Conference on Governance, the IIAS-DARPG India Conference 2025, from February 10-14, 2025, in New Delhi. This global event brings together experts from over 55 countries to discuss innovations in public administration, governance, and policymaking. The conference is jointly organized by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) of the Government of India. It offers a platform for addressing key administrative reforms and empowering citizens.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has partnered with UPM, a Finland-based company, to modernize its IT infrastructure. This collaboration focuses on cloud migration, AI-driven workplace transformation, and enhancing IT management for UPM's 19,000 employees. TCS will handle key IT functions such as data centre operations, network services, and end-user support. The partnership aims to improve operational efficiency and streamline business operations, reinforcing TCS's growing presence in the Nordic region and highlighting its capability to drive digital transformation for large enterprises.

Ilie Bolojan has been sworn in as Romania’s interim president. He is set to serve in this role until new presidential elections are held in May. Previously, Bolojan had been a local politician and became the president of the Senate in December. Although he was due to leave office after the previous presidential elections, which were annulled, he now assumes this interim position until the elections take place.

Saab signed an MoU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to collaborate on the production and maintenance of the Electronic Warfare Laser Warning System-310 (LWS-310) in India. The agreement allows HAL to manufacture this advanced system domestically and involves the transfer of critical maintenance technology. This partnership aligns with India’s "Make in India" initiative, enhancing the country's self-reliance in key defence technologies. The system will improve the survivability of military assets by providing early warnings against laser-guided weapons.

The symposium on "Aquatic Animal Diseases - Addressing Emerging Challenges and Preparedness" was inaugurated in New Delhi by Union Minister Shri George Kurian. The event is part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) being held from 12-15 February 2025. The theme of the forum is “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific,” which focuses on sustainable practices in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The symposium aims to address emerging challenges in aquatic animal diseases and discuss preparedness strategies.

ONGC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd to collaborate on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The partnership aims to improve grid stability, integrate renewable energy sources, and support India’s clean energy target of 500 GW by 2030. Additionally, ONGC has set a goal to achieve 10 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, which aligns with its broader objective of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2038. This collaboration strengthens efforts to transition toward sustainable energy solutions.

Zain Ahmed Samdani and Faria Zubair, siblings from Hyderabad, won the prestigious Global Best M-Gov Gold Award 2025 at the World Government Summit in Dubai. They were recognized for their innovative creation, ExoHeal, an AI-powered robotic glove designed to enhance neurorehabilitation for stroke and paralysis patients. This technology not only accelerates therapy but also offers personalized treatment and remote monitoring, making rehabilitation faster and more affordable.

The Karnataka government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Swiss-Indian Chamber of Commerce to enhance international business collaboration during the Global Investors 2025 event. The MoU signing ceremony took place with the Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M B Patil, and representatives from 19 leading Swiss companies present. This agreement aims to strengthen the economic ties and trade relations between Karnataka and Switzerland, supporting further growth and investment opportunities in the region.