Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st February 2025) | General Test Preparation for CUET UG - CUET Commerce PDF Download

BrahMos NG Cruise Missile

Why in News?

• As of February 15, 2025, India is advancing its BrahMos cruise missile program with the introduction of the BrahMos NG (Next Generation) missile system. Set to enter production by 2027-28, this new variant aims to improve upon its predecessor, offering enhanced capabilities while being lighter and more compact.

Key Takeaways

• The BrahMos NG will maintain an effective range of 290 km.
• It is designed to be compatible with smaller delivery systems.
• With a weight of approximately 1.6 tonnes and a length of 6 metres, it is significantly lighter and shorter than the previous version, which weighed 3 tonnes and measured 9 metres.
• The missile will incorporate a reduced radar cross-section and a domestically developed seeker using AESA radar technology.

Additional Details

• Compatibility: The BrahMos NG is suitable for various platforms, including the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft and the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas. Its compact design enhances the operational flexibility across a broader array of military assets.
• International Interest: There is a rising global interest in the BrahMos missile system. India has successfully delivered three batteries of the BrahMos system to the Philippines and is currently negotiating a new export deal with Indonesia, valued at approximately USD 450 million, which would make Indonesia the second international buyer after the Philippines.
• Technological Advancements: The BrahMos NG missile boasts advanced stealth capabilities and versatility, making it effective in various combat scenarios. It is engineered to perform better against electronic countermeasures and can be launched from multiple platforms, including torpedo tubes and vertical launch systems.

The advancements in the BrahMos NG missile system signify a substantial leap in India's defense capabilities, reinforcing its position in the global arms market while catering to diverse military needs.

Kerala’s ₹529 Crore Loan for Landslide Rehabilitation

Why in News?

• The Government of India has sanctioned a ₹529 crore interest-free loan aimed at rehabilitating areas affected by landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. This decision follows catastrophic landslides in July 2024 that claimed over 300 lives and caused significant damage to infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• The loan is intended for restoring essential facilities such as roads, bridges, and water supply systems.
• Concerns have been raised regarding the tight deadlines and stringent conditions imposed by the central government.

Additional Details

• Landslides in Wayanad: In July 2024, heavy rainfall triggered severe landslides in Wayanad district, particularly impacting villages like Mundakkai and Chooralmala.
• Loan Approval and Conditions: The Union Finance Ministry approved the ₹529 crore loan under the 'Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2024-25.' Kerala must utilize the funds by March 31, 2025, or face interest charges at market rates, raising feasibility concerns.
• Criticism of the Central Government: Critics argue that the conditions attached to the loan are impractical, failing to address the urgent needs of the affected population. They believe that the central government has not provided sufficient financial assistance and has instead offered a loan rather than a comprehensive rehabilitation package.
• Future Steps for Rehabilitation: Despite the challenges, the Kerala government plans to initiate rehabilitation efforts immediately, including the construction of a new township.
• Federal Relations: The situation highlights tensions between the Centre and the states, with critics claiming the Centre is neglecting its constitutional duty to support disaster-affected regions.

In summary, while the sanctioning of the loan presents a crucial opportunity for rehabilitation in Wayanad, the associated conditions and the tight timeline have sparked significant criticism and concerns regarding the feasibility of effective recovery efforts.

Chhattisgarh HC Ruling on Marital Rape

Why in News?

• The recent ruling by the Chhattisgarh High Court regarding marital rape has ignited significant debate concerning the legal protections for women and the implications of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which concerns non-consensual sexual acts. This decision arose from a case involving a man's conviction for the death of his wife, where prior judgments were overturned due to interpretations of marital rights and consent.

Key Takeaways

• The High Court's ruling questioned the validity of the marital rape exemption under Section 375 of the IPC.
• Section 375 currently exempts husbands from prosecution for non-consensual sex with their wives, raising concerns about women's rights.
• Section 377 addresses "unnatural offences" and has been interpreted in light of recent decriminalization of homosexuality.
• The omission of Section 377 from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita could lead to gaps in legal protection for various victims.

Additional Details

• Marital Rape Exception: Section 375 of the IPC includes a provision that protects husbands from prosecution for marital rape, which has been a contentious issue in discussions about women's rights and consent. Despite the 2013 amendments to the definition of rape, the marital rape exception remains, revealing prevailing societal attitudes toward marriage.
• Implications of Section 377: Section 377 criminalizes acts deemed "unnatural," but following the Supreme Court's 2018 decision to decriminalize homosexuality, the High Court clarified that consensual acts between partners do not fall under this section. However, non-consensual acts still require legal scrutiny, complicating the landscape of sexual offense laws.
• The recent exclusion of Section 377 from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has raised alarms among legal experts, who fear it leaves both women and LGBTQIA+ individuals vulnerable to sexual offenses.

The Chhattisgarh High Court ruling presents a critical juncture in the discourse surrounding marital rights and consent, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive legal frameworks that adequately protect all individuals from sexual offenses.

Indian Railways to Redevelop 61 Stations in Karnataka Under ABSS

Why in News?

• On February 17, 2025, Indian Railways announced the redevelopment of 61 railway stations in Karnataka under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). This initiative aims to modernize the infrastructure and enhance the facilities at these stations, addressing the growing demand for improved passenger amenities and sustainable solutions across India.

Key Takeaways

• The ABSS was launched in February 2023, with a goal to redevelop 1,309 railway stations nationwide.
• This project focuses on enhancing the overall quality of railway stations, including master plans for each station implemented in phases.
• It aims to improve passenger amenities, traffic circulation, and ensure inter-modal connectivity.
• Stations will be transformed into modern hubs that cater to the needs of all passengers, particularly those with disabilities.

Additional Details

• Key Features of the Scheme: The ABSS will provide modern passenger amenities such as clean waiting areas, restrooms, and food outlets. It will also facilitate improved traffic circulation through separate entry and exit points, wider roads, and adequate parking facilities.
• Structural Improvements and Sustainability: The scheme includes enhancements to station buildings and the installation of ballastless tracks, which reduce noise and vibration. Sustainability is prioritized with energy-efficient lighting, rainwater harvesting systems, and green spaces included in the design.
• The project is complex, requiring various statutory clearances, which may affect timelines for implementation. The estimated cost for the redevelopment in Karnataka is around ₹2,000 crore.
• In the Bengaluru Division, 15 stations, including Bangarpet and Whitefield, are set for redevelopment, with additional rejuvenation planned for 13 other stations, transforming them into urban icons with shopping zones, food courts, and facilities for the physically challenged.

The ABSS initiative represents a significant investment in railway infrastructure in Karnataka, aiming to enhance the travel experience and cater to the socio-economic needs of the community.

India-US Underwater Domain Awareness Cooperation

Why in News?

• India and the United States have recently strengthened their collaboration in the area of underwater domain awareness (UDA). This initiative gained momentum during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington, where the two nations announced the formation of the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA). This alliance is designed to foster industry partnerships and enhance production capabilities within the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Takeaways

• India and the US are prioritizing underwater domain awareness due to increased Chinese naval activities in the Indian Ocean.
• Enhanced UDA capabilities are essential for effective tracking of submarines and other underwater activities.

Additional Details

• Importance of Underwater Domain Awareness: UDA is critical for national security and maritime safety, especially with the growing maritime presence of China.
• Key Technologies Proposed:The US has suggested several advanced technologies for co-production in India, including:
  • Sea Picket autonomous surveillance system with sonar arrays
  • Wave Glider unmanned surface vehicle systems
  • Low frequency active towed sonar
  • Multistatic active (MSA) sonobuoys
  • Large diameter autonomous undersea vehicles
  • Triton autonomous underwater and surface vehicle
• The ongoing efforts aim to enhance defence cooperation frameworks, covering technology acceleration across various domains from 2025 to 2035.
• Current partnerships include Boeing negotiating with Sagar Defence Engineering for Wave Glider platform co-production and L3 Harris collaborating with Bharat Electronics Limited on sonar systems.

The joint commitment from Modi and US President Donald Trump to enhance military cooperation signifies a broader effort to improve logistics, intelligence sharing, and joint humanitarian operations, alongside new Quad initiatives aimed at disaster response and maritime patrol enhancements. Additionally, India's acquisition of military assets like the P-8I maritime patrol aircraft and the MH-60R helicopters will significantly bolster its anti-submarine warfare capabilities, fostering greater interoperability among allies and strengthening maritime security.

ISRO Develops World’s Largest Vertical Propellant Mixer

Why in News?

• The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone in its pursuit of self-sufficiency in the space sector. On February 13, 2025, ISRO unveiled its latest innovation: a 10-tonne Vertical Planetary Mixer, recognized as the largest of its kind for solid propellants globally. This state-of-the-art equipment was developed in partnership with the Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) located in Bengaluru. The advent of this technology is anticipated to significantly enhance the production capabilities of solid rocket motors.

Key Takeaways

• ISRO has successfully developed the world’s largest vertical mixer for solid propellants.
• The mixer is crucial for improving the efficiency and safety of solid rocket motor production.
• This development aligns with India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in essential space technologies.

Additional Details

• Significance of Solid Propulsion: Solid propulsion systems are essential for the effective functioning of India’s space transportation frameworks. Precise mixing of sensitive and hazardous materials is critical, and the new vertical mixer will substantially enhance the quality of propellants used in space missions.
• Technical Specifications: The vertical mixer weighs 150 tonnes, with dimensions of 5.4 metres in length, 3.3 metres in breadth, and 8.7 metres in height. It is equipped with multiple hydrostatically driven agitators and features a remotely operated PLC-based control system integrated with SCADA stations, ensuring high precision in the mixing process.
• Collaborative Efforts: The project was a collaborative initiative between the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) and CMTI, involving contributions from academia and industry professionals. Successful completion of factory-level acceptance tests confirmed the operational readiness of the mixer.
• Impact on Indian Space Missions: This vertical mixer is expected to revolutionize the production process of solid rocket motors, boosting productivity and efficiency, thereby supporting India’s broader initiative for self-reliance in critical technological domains.

In summary, the development of the world's largest vertical propellant mixer is a testament to ISRO's commitment to innovation and self-reliance in space technology, marking a significant advancement in India's capabilities in the space exploration arena.

Solar Coronal Holes Influence Indian Summer Monsoon

Why in News?

• Recent studies have uncovered critical information about how solar coronal holes affect space weather and the Indian summer monsoon, highlighting their significance in meteorological patterns.

Key Takeaways

• Coronal holes are distinct areas on the Sun characterized by open magnetic field lines.
• They are sources of fast solar wind, impacting Earth's magnetic environment.
• Research indicates a correlation between coronal holes and variability in Indian summer monsoon rainfall.

Additional Details

• Coronal Holes: These are low-density regions on the Sun's surface first identified in the 1970s. They are known to release solar wind at speeds ranging from 450 to 800 km/sec, allowing charged particles to escape into space.
• Coronal holes can cause geomagnetic storms on Earth, disrupting satellite operations and communications due to their interaction with the Earth's magnetic field.
• Recent research utilizing data from the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) has detailed the thermal and magnetic structures of coronal holes, revealing consistent temperature across latitudes and increasing magnetic field strength from the solar equator to the poles.
• The study suggests that coronal holes may originate from the Sun's deep interior and could form through interactions of Alfven wave perturbations.

Given the increasing relevance of space weather, ongoing research into coronal holes is essential for improving predictions of their impact on Earth. This understanding is crucial for protecting satellite operations and enhancing weather forecasting capabilities.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases in Andhra Pradesh

Why in News?

• On February 19, 2025, Andhra Pradesh has reported a concerning increase in cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), leading the government to take prompt action. The Chief Minister has initiated an investigation into this outbreak, following a similar rise in GBS cases earlier this year in Maharashtra.

Key Takeaways

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system.
• Recent reports indicate a surge of GBS cases in Andhra Pradesh, with 43 new cases recently identified.
• Investigation by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is underway to understand the cause of the outbreak.

Additional Details

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome: GBS is characterized by muscle weakness and paralysis, often starting with sensations of tingling or numbness in the limbs. Symptoms can escalate quickly, leading to significant paralysis that can persist for several months to a year.
• Causes and Triggers: While the precise cause of GBS is unknown, it typically follows infections (bacterial or viral) where the immune system erroneously attacks the body's nerves. Rare instances have been associated with vaccinations or surgeries.
• Recent Statistics: In 2024, Andhra Pradesh recorded 301 cases of GBS, with 17 patients currently under treatment.
• Impact of COVID-19: There have been instances of GBS following COVID-19 infections and vaccinations, with the World Health Organisation noting rare occurrences post-adenovirus vector vaccines. However, the overall risk remains low compared to the benefits of vaccination.
• Public Health Response: The health department is closely monitoring the situation and ensuring the availability of medical supplies as the ICMR investigates the surge in GBS cases.

In summary, the rise in GBS cases in Andhra Pradesh has prompted immediate governmental action and public health investigations to identify potential causes and manage the outbreak effectively.

Death Penalty in India

Why in News?

• The Indian judiciary's application of the death penalty has been under intense scrutiny, particularly following two recent murder cases that resulted in notably different outcomes. On January 22, 2025, a civic volunteer was sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a medical student, while a woman received the death penalty for poisoning her partner. These contrasting cases have reignited discussions surrounding the 'rarest of rare' doctrine, which currently lacks a comprehensive statutory definition.

Key Takeaways

• The 'rarest of rare' doctrine stipulates the death penalty should only apply in exceptional circumstances.
• Ambiguity in defining this doctrine leads to varied interpretations among judges.
• Recent court rulings illustrate inconsistencies in judicial decisions regarding capital punishment.

Additional Details

• The Rarest of Rare Doctrine: Established by a Supreme Court ruling in 1980, this doctrine dictates that the death penalty should be reserved for the most extreme and exceptional cases. However, it lacks precise definitions, which results in differing applications by the judiciary.
• Key Supreme Court Cases:
  • In Jagmohan Singh vs. State of U.P. (1972), the constitutionality of the death penalty was upheld, although the court expressed concerns about the absence of clear guidelines.
  • Bachan Singh vs. State of Punjab (1980) established the 'rarest of rare' principle but did not specify its parameters.
  • The framework was further developed in Machhi Singh vs. State of Punjab (1983), identifying five categories justifying the death penalty, based on factors like the manner of murder and the victim's vulnerability.
• Legislative Revisions: Despite existing frameworks, challenges persist. In Mithu vs. State of Punjab (1983), the Supreme Court ruled against mandatory death penalties for life sentence inmates, reinforcing the need for judicial discretion.
• Contemporary Implications: The current application of the death penalty reveals significant disparities in judicial decisions, raising concerns about fairness and the equitable application of justice.

The ongoing discourse around the death penalty in India remains polarized. Advocates argue for its deterrent effect on heinous crimes, while critics raise concerns about potential judicial errors and the ethical implications of capital punishment. These discussions reflect broader societal values and attitudes towards justice and retribution.

Arunachal Pradesh’s Dulari Kanya Scheme

Why in News?

• The Arunachal Pradesh government has recently enhanced the Dulari Kanya Scheme, an initiative aimed at supporting institutional births of girl children, reflecting the state's commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

Key Takeaways

• The scheme provides financial support for institutional births of girl children.
• The fixed deposit amount has been increased from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000.
• An additional Rs 20,000 is available for Class XI admissions via direct benefit transfer.
• The total financial support of Rs 50,000 is accessible when the child turns 18.
• This initiative encourages families to opt for institutional births, promoting better health outcomes.

Additional Details

• Financial Support for Education: The direct benefit transfer of Rs 20,000 for students entering Class XI aims to alleviate educational expenses and promote higher education for girls, aligning with the state’s goals of gender equality.
• Other Recent Initiatives:
  • The establishment of the Institute for Transforming Arunachal (ITA) has been approved, which will focus on socio-economic development and provide advisory support for the state’s growth.
  • The Arunachal Pradesh Arun Parivar Patra Authority Bill, 2025, aims to create a family-centric citizen database to enhance governance.
  • Amendments to the Goods and Services Tax Act will simplify tax provisions in the state.
  • New measures to combat land encroachment empower Deputy Commissioner officers as appellate authorities, enhancing land management efficiency.
  • The Arunachal Pradesh Handloom and Handicrafts Policy 2024 aims to modernize these sectors and create a digital database for weavers and artisans.
  • The financial year 2024-25 has been declared as the year of youth, with the Arunachal Pradesh Youth Policy approved to guide youth development programs.
  • Mission Olympics is a new initiative to provide athletes with top-tier training resources.

These initiatives reflect the Arunachal Pradesh government's commitment to empowering women and youth, fostering educational opportunities, and enhancing socio-economic development in the state.

IRDAI Launches Bima-ASBA

Why in News?

• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced a new payment solution known as Bima-ASBA, aimed at facilitating premium payments for life and health insurance policies. This initiative, effective from March 1, 2025, allows policyholders to utilize the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to block funds in their bank accounts, streamlining the transaction process by eliminating immediate debits.

Key Takeaways

• Bima-ASBA allows policyholders to secure funds while waiting for the insurer's decision.
• The funds remain blocked but accessible until the proposal is accepted or rejected.
• Insurers must implement Bima-ASBA by March 1, 2025, offering flexibility in payment options.

Additional Details

• Bima-ASBA: This acronym stands for Applications Supported by Blocked Amount, which enables policyholders to have their premium amounts secured in their accounts while awaiting approval from the insurer.
• How It Works: When applying for an insurance policy, customers select Bima-ASBA, allowing the insurer to request the bank to block the premium amount. With the customer’s consent, the funds are blocked from use but remain in the account. If the insurer approves the application, the amount is debited; if rejected, the funds are released back to the customer.
• Benefits: Policyholders can manage their finances better, avoiding immediate deductions. If an application is rejected, funds are returned quickly, and during the blocking period, the amount may still earn interest.
• Optional Facility: Bima-ASBA is not mandatory for policyholders; insurers cannot deny a proposal solely based on the non-utilization of this payment method.
• Regulatory Context: This initiative aligns with the Master Circular on ‘Protection of Policyholders’ Interests’ issued in September 2024, aimed at enhancing transparency and security in insurance transactions.

In summary, Bima-ASBA represents a significant advancement in the insurance sector, providing a more user-friendly payment process for policyholders while ensuring their financial interests are protected.

MoD, BEL Sign Contract for Software Defined Radios

Why in News?

• The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has officially signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of 149 Software Defined Radios (SDRs), valued at ₹1220.12 crore. Finalized on February 20, 2025, this contract represents a significant advancement in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and supports the government's wider goals for maritime security and the promotion of indigenous defence manufacturing.

Key Takeaways

• The contract involves the procurement of 149 SDRs to boost the ICG's capabilities.
• This initiative aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign.
• The SDRs will enhance communication effectiveness and operational efficiency for the ICG.

Additional Details

• Software Defined Radios (SDRs): SDRs are sophisticated communication systems that utilize software to manage various radio functions, enabling high-speed data transmission and secure voice communication. This technology will facilitate vital information sharing and improve collaboration during operations.
• Importance for the Indian Coast Guard: The new SDRs will significantly support the ICG's core responsibilities, including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue missions, fisheries protection, and safeguarding the marine environment.
• Interoperability: The implementation of SDRs will enhance interoperability between the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy, thus improving coordination during joint operations and fortifying national maritime security.
• Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative: This contract falls under the "Buy (Indian-IDDM)" category, which aims to encourage indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign technology.
• Economic and Employment Opportunities: The deal is anticipated to create employment opportunities and foster technological expertise in advanced military communication systems, crucial for establishing a robust defence manufacturing ecosystem in India.
• Strategic Modernisation Efforts: This procurement is a strategic initiative aimed at modernizing the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard, showcasing a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to address evolving maritime security challenges.

This collaboration between the MoD and BEL not only enhances the technological framework of the Indian Coast Guard but also marks a pivotal step towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing, ensuring enhanced security and operational readiness in the maritime domain.