Current Affairs - National

According to Knight Frank’s Wealth Report 2025, India ranks 4th in the global wealth rankings, with an estimated 85,698 High worth individuals (HNWIs) in 2024. This marks a 6% increase from the previous year. India’s share represents 3.7% of the world’s wealthy population, reinforcing its growing importance as a wealth-generating nation. The United States, China, and Japan occupy the top three positions, with India following closely behind.

According to a Lancet study, India could have over 440 million overweight and obese people by 2050. This estimate includes 218 million men and 231 million women. The number of overweight and obese adults in India is projected to be the second highest in the world, following China. The study, which is part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021, involved researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research and highlighted the growing health challenges facing the country.

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.

The first-ever river dolphin survey in India recorded a total of 6,327 dolphins across 28 rivers in eight states, with over 8,500 km surveyed. The survey, which involved 3,150 man-days, highlighted the importance of conservation efforts. Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of river dolphins, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam. The survey's findings are critical for promoting eco-tourism, conservation, and raising awareness about wildlife, as emphasized by the Prime Minister.

The Payment Security Summit & Awards – India will be hosted in Mumbai on March 4, 2025. The event will focus on strengthening digital payment security in response to rising cyber threats, bringing together industry leaders, regulators, and financial institutions. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the importance of cyber resilience for ensuring India’s economic growth and financial integrity, highlighting the summit’s relevance in addressing these challenges.