Current Affairs - March 5, 2025 Current Affairs

Pakistan, Russia, and Congo were excluded from the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to various issues such as administrative failures, geopolitical sanctions, and third-party interference. Pakistan's suspension was specifically related to its failure to implement a revised constitution for fair elections in its football federation. The 2026 World Cup will include 48 teams, but these nations will not be part of the competition due to ongoing controversies affecting their participation. This decision highlights the importance of governance and international relations in global sporting events.

Tata Motors launched the first-ever trials of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks in New Delhi, marking a significant step in the advancement of clean transportation technology. These trucks are equipped with Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (H2-ICE) and Fuel Cell (H2-FCEV) technologies, designed to reduce emissions in the heavy-duty vehicle sector. The trucks will be tested on India’s most prominent freight routes, highlighting Tata Motors' commitment to sustainable innovation in the automotive industry and contributing to the shift towards greener transportation solutions.

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 took place in Barcelona, under the theme "Converge. Connect. Create." This global event showcased significant advancements in 5G, AI, IoT, and digital transformation. India took the opportunity to highlight its telecom achievements, including the rapid 5G rollout, the lowest data tariffs, and the development of indigenous 4G/5G technology stacks. The MWC attracted over 101,000 attendees, making it a prominent platform for global tech innovations and discussions. Barcelona, a key hub for technology events, provided the perfect setting for such a major gathering.

DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) successfully conducted high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the LCA Tejas aircraft. This system is designed to generate and regulate breathable oxygen, removing the need for traditional liquid oxygen systems. The trials were conducted at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet, showcasing DRDO's capabilities in developing advanced life support systems that enhance the operational efficiency and safety of aircraft like the LCA Tejas.

Ajay Bhadoo, an Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, has been appointed as the CEO of Government e-Marketplace (GeM). As an IAS officer, Bhadoo has previously held significant positions, including Deputy Election Commissioner and CEO of the Gujarat Maritime Board. Under his leadership, GeM, which is India's largest e-marketplace for government procurement, has witnessed a remarkable growth in its Gross Merchandise Value, demonstrating his impact on the platform's success.

Indian Overseas Bank has partnered with the Confederation of Indian Industry-Indian Green Building Council (CII IGBC) to offer preferential financing for developers of IGBC-rated green buildings. This collaboration aims to promote sustainable construction practices by providing accessible financing options for developers and home buyers. The initiative is part of the bank's effort to support environmental sustainability and contribute to the development of green buildings, which are designed to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their lifecycle.

The International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness is observed annually on March 5. This day is dedicated to promoting awareness about disarmament and non-proliferation issues, especially among the younger generation. The day highlights the importance of disarmament in fostering global peace, preventing conflicts, and reducing the human suffering caused by weapons. Additionally, it coincides with the effective date of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, further emphasizing its significance in global security efforts.

Vantara, a modern animal rescue, conservation, and rehabilitation centre, was inaugurated in Jamnagar, Gujarat, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This centre is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities like MRI, CT scans, and ICUs, designed to provide medical care to rescued animals. During his visit, PM Modi interacted with rehabilitated animals, observed medical procedures, and highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation. The centre aims to protect endangered species and offer sanctuary to animals in need, showcasing the efforts made by India to promote environmental sustainability and animal welfare.

Aditya-L1, India’s first dedicated solar observatory, captured the first-ever image of a solar flare 'kernel', a rare phenomenon observed in the lower solar atmosphere. The mission, launched on September 2, 2023, and placed in orbit at the Lagrange Point L1, provides continuous solar observations, enabling groundbreaking discoveries. The mission’s instruments, such as the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT), study various solar phenomena, including flare activity, solar dynamics, and energy bursts. This image contributes significantly to understanding solar flares and their impact on space weather and communication systems on Earth.

The Special Olympics World Winter Games in 2025 will take place in Turin, Italy, from March 7 to 17. The event will feature athletes competing in multiple winter sports such as Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Snowboarding, among others. Italy was chosen as the host country for this prestigious event, which will showcase the largest Indian contingent ever. The venue, Turin, has a rich history of hosting international sporting events, further elevating the significance of this competition.