India’s Progress Across Sectors: A Comprehensive Overview
Politics & Governance
On February 27, 2025, the Indian government appointed Tuhin Kanta Pandey as the new chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a three-year term, succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch, the first woman to lead the organization. During her tenure, Buch introduced significant regulatory reforms, including stricter rules for derivatives markets and enhanced corporate disclosure requirements. Established in 1988 and granted statutory powers in 1992, SEBI plays a pivotal role in regulating India’s capital markets, ensuring investor protection, and promoting transparency. Pandey’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as SEBI faces scrutiny over its investigations into major conglomerates, a situation reminiscent of past corporate scandals like the Satyam scam of 2009 and the IL&FS crisis of 2018, underscoring the ongoing need for robust market oversight and financial transparency.
Economy & Finance
India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for the October-December quarter of 2024 is projected to rise to 6.3%, up from 5.4% in the previous quarter, driven by robust rural demand spurred by favorable monsoon conditions and increased government spending on infrastructure projects. Historically, such investments have been key growth drivers, as seen in initiatives like the Golden Quadrilateral Project (2001-2009) and the Smart Cities Mission (2015-present). However, annual growth for 2024-25 is expected to range between 6.3% and 6.8%, a decline from 8.2% in 2023-24, reflecting external pressures such as U.S. trade tariffs. India’s economic resilience has been tested before, notably during the 1991 balance of payments crisis, which spurred liberalization, and the 2008 global recession, when domestic demand helped stabilize the economy.
In the banking sector, loan growth slowed for the seventh consecutive month in January 2025, recording a year-on-year increase of 12.5%, down from 16.1% in January 2024. This slowdown stems from tighter lending norms imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in late 2023, including higher capital requirements for personal and credit card loans. Established in 1935, the RBI has a storied history of stabilizing the economy during crises like the 1991 reforms and the 2016 demonetization. Banks are now prioritizing deposit mobilization over loan expansion to improve credit-deposit ratios, a strategy echoing post-2008 financial reforms.
The Indian rupee is under pressure due to a surging U.S. dollar index, following new tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. The rupee is expected to open weaker at 87.30-87.32 against the dollar, compared to its previous close of 87.20. This depreciation recalls the 2013 rupee crisis, when it hit a low of ₹68.85 due to external shocks, highlighting India’s vulnerability to global trade tensions and the need for prudent economic management.
Science & Technology
India’s drug regulator is rolling out reforms to streamline export clearances for unapproved drugs and simplify manufacturing licensing. With just 2,000 officials overseeing more than 10,000 drug factories and 1 million pharmacies, the regulator aims to halve the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) by leveraging applicants’ export histories. Known as the “Pharmacy of the World,” India’s pharmaceutical sector has a rich legacy, bolstered by milestones like the 1970 Patent Act, which enabled generic drug production, and the development of indigenous vaccines like Covaxin (2020) and Rotavac (2014). Upcoming guidelines for cell and gene therapies and biosimilars signal India’s commitment to advancing pharmaceutical innovation.
International Relations
On February 24, 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Reflecting President Trump’s push for peace, the resolution adopts a neutral stance, signaling a shift in U.S. policy toward a more conciliatory approach with Russia. Previously deadlocked by Russia’s veto power, the Council’s move contrasts with the General Assembly’s consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, as seen during the 2014 Crimean crisis. India, adhering to its non-aligned stance since the Cold War, continues to balance relations with major powers, a strategy evident in its measured response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Environment & Climate Change
India has committed to creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes through enhanced forest and tree cover by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement (2015) and the National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008). Initiatives like the Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Programme build on past efforts, such as the Chipko Movement of the 1970s, to promote sustainable forest management. However, challenges like deforestation from urban and industrial expansion persist.
Defense & Security
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has partnered with France’s Safran Electronics & Defense to produce and maintain the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) weapon in India. This precision-guided, air-to-ground munition, compatible with Rafale and LCA Tejas jets, advances the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance in defense. This collaboration builds on India’s history of indigenous defense development, including the 1983 Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) and successes like the BrahMos missile and INS Vikrant.
Sports & Awards
The Services team dominated the 38th National Games, clinching 121 medals—68 gold, 26 silver, and 27 bronze—outpacing states like Maharashtra and Haryana. Originating in 1924, the Games have long been a springboard for Indian athletes excelling at the Olympics and Asian Games. Meanwhile, NTPC Ltd. received the Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025 from the UN Global Compact Network India for its water resilience efforts, including conservation and wastewater treatment. Targeting 60 GW of renewable energy by 2032, NTPC echoes the ambitions of the National Solar Mission (2010), reinforcing India’s sustainability goals.
Conclusion
These developments across politics, economy, technology, international relations, environment, defense, sports, and sustainability highlight India’s multifaceted progress as of February 28, 2025. They also offer valuable insights for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, providing a holistic view of current affairs shaping national growth and governance.
current affairs quiz questions
Question 1: Who was appointed as the new chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a three-year term starting February 27, 2025?
Option 1: Madhabi Puri Buch
Option 2: Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Option 3: Ajay Tyagi
Option 4: U.K. Sinha
Option 5: Rajiv Kumar
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: On February 27, 2025, the Indian government appointed Tuhin Kanta Pandey as the new chairman of SEBI, succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch. This is a significant development in India’s financial regulatory framework, as SEBI oversees the country’s capital markets. Madhabi Puri Buch was the first woman to lead SEBI, while Ajay Tyagi and U.K. Sinha are former chairmen, and Rajiv Kumar is unrelated to SEBI leadership. For UPSC and Banking aspirants, knowing key appointments in regulatory bodies is crucial as it reflects governance priorities.
Question 2: What was the projected GDP growth rate for India in the October-December quarter of 2024?
Option 1: 5.4%
Option 2: 6.3%
Option 3: 6.8%
Option 4: 8.2%
Option 5: 7.5%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s GDP growth for the October-December quarter of 2024 was projected at 6.3%, an improvement from 5.4% in the previous quarter. This uptick was driven by robust rural demand and government spending. The annual growth for 2024-25 is expected to range between 6.3% and 6.8%, lower than 8.2% in 2023-24. For SSC and Banking exams, economic indicators like GDP growth are frequently tested, requiring students to distinguish between quarterly and annual figures.
Question 3: Which regulatory body imposed tighter lending norms in late 2023, leading to a slowdown in loan growth by January 2025?
Option 1: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
Option 2: Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Option 3: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA)
Option 4: Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
Option 5: Competition Commission of India (CCI)
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), established in 1935, introduced stricter lending norms in late 2023, including higher capital requirements for personal and credit card loans. This led to a loan growth slowdown to 12.5% year-on-year by January 2025, down from 16.1% the previous year. SEBI regulates securities markets, not banking, while IRDA, PFRDA, and CCI have different mandates. This question tests knowledge of financial regulators, a key area for Banking and UPSC exams.
Question 4: What was the expected opening range of the Indian rupee against the U.S. dollar following the surge in the U.S. dollar index?
Option 1: 86.90-86.92
Option 2: 87.10-87.12
Option 3: 87.30-87.32
Option 4: 87.50-87.52
Option 5: 87.70-87.72
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Due to a surge in the U.S. dollar index after new U.S. tariffs were announced, the Indian rupee was expected to open at 87.30-87.32 against the dollar, weaker than its previous close of 87.20. Currency fluctuations are influenced by global trade tensions, a recurring theme in India’s economic history (e.g., the 2013 rupee crisis). For UPSC and SSC aspirants, understanding forex movements and their triggers is vital for economy-related questions.
Question 5: How many officials does India’s drug regulator employ to oversee more than 10,000 drug factories and 1 million pharmacies?
Option 1: 1,000
Option 2: 2,000
Option 3: 3,000
Option 4: 4,000
Option 5: 5,000
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s drug regulator, tasked with overseeing over 10,000 drug factories and 1 million pharmacies, operates with only 2,000 officials. To address this strain, reforms aim to streamline export clearances by halving No Objection Certificates (NOCs) issued. This fact highlights resource constraints in India’s pharmaceutical sector, dubbed the “Pharmacy of the World,” a key topic for Science & Technology in UPSC exams.
Question 6: Which country drafted the resolution adopted by the UN Security Council on February 24, 2025, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine?
Option 1: India
Option 2: United States
Option 3: Russia
Option 4: France
Option 5: United Kingdom
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The United States drafted the resolution adopted on February 24, 2025, by the UN Security Council, taking a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This reflects a shift in U.S. policy under President Trump toward peace mediation. India maintains a non-aligned stance, while Russia’s veto power had previously stalled Council actions. For UPSC aspirants, this tests knowledge of international relations and India’s foreign policy.
Question 7: By what year has India pledged to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes through increased forest cover?
Option 1: 2025
Option 2: 2028
Option 3: 2030
Option 4: 2035
Option 5: 2040
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India committed to creating a carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement (2015). This builds on initiatives like the Green India Mission and reflects India’s environmental goals. For UPSC and SSC, climate commitments are critical, testing awareness of timelines and international agreements.
Question 8: Which company partnered with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to manufacture the HAMMER weapon in India?
Option 1: Lockheed Martin
Option 2: Safran Electronics & Defense
Option 3: Boeing
Option 4: Raytheon
Option 5: BAE Systems
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: BEL partnered with France’s Safran Electronics & Defense to produce the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) weapon, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This precision-guided munition enhances India’s defense capabilities for aircraft like Rafale. Other options are prominent defense firms but not involved here. Defense collaborations are a frequent UPSC topic.
Question 9: How many gold medals did the Services team win in the 38th National Games?
Option 1: 26
Option 2: 27
Option 3: 68
Option 4: 121
Option 5: 94
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Services team topped the 38th National Games with 121 medals, including 68 gold, 26 silver, and 27 bronze. This outperformed states like Maharashtra and Haryana. The National Games, started in 1924, are a key platform for Indian athletes. For SSC aspirants, sports achievements are straightforward but important current affairs.
Question 10: In which category did NTPC Ltd. win the Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025?
Option 1: Renewable Energy
Option 2: Water Resilience
Option 3: Carbon Reduction
Option 4: Waste Management
Option 5: Air Quality
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: NTPC Ltd. received the Forward Faster Sustainability Award 2025 from the UN Global Compact Network India in the Water Resilience category for its efforts in water conservation and wastewater treatment. While NTPC targets 60 GW of renewable energy by 2032, the award specifically recognized water-related initiatives. This tests nuanced award-related knowledge for UPSC.
Question 11: Who was the first woman to lead SEBI, succeeded by Tuhin Kanta Pandey in 2025?
Option 1: Arundhati Bhattacharya
Option 2: Madhabi Puri Buch
Option 3: Chanda Kochhar
Option 4: Naina Lal Kidwai
Option 5: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Madhabi Puri Buch was SEBI’s first female chairman, implementing key reforms before being succeeded by Tuhin Kanta Pandey on February 27, 2025. Other options are notable women in finance or business but unrelated to SEBI leadership. This question tests historical firsts, a common UPSC theme.
Question 12: What was the year-on-year loan growth percentage in India’s banking sector in January 2025?
Option 1: 10.5%
Option 2: 12.5%
Option 3: 14.5%
Option 4: 16.1%
Option 5: 18.5%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Loan growth slowed to 12.5% year-on-year in January 2025, down from 16.1% in January 2024, due to RBI’s tighter norms. This reflects a focus on financial stability, a key topic for Banking exams. Options like 16.1% test attention to detail between current and past data.
Question 13: Which initiative is the collaboration between BEL and Safran Electronics & Defense a part of?
Option 1: Make in India
Option 2: Atmanirbhar Bharat
Option 3: Digital India
Option 4: Skill India
Option 5: Startup India
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The BEL-Safran partnership to manufacture the HAMMER weapon aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, aimed at self-reliance in defense. While Make in India is related, Atmanirbhar Bharat specifically emphasizes indigenous defense production, a nuanced distinction for UPSC aspirants.
Question 14: What is the primary driver cited for the projected GDP growth increase to 6.3% in the October-December quarter of 2024?
Option 1: Increased foreign investment
Option 2: Robust rural demand
Option 3: Higher export earnings
Option 4: Reduced inflation
Option 5: Industrial expansion
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Robust rural demand, boosted by favorable monsoons, alongside government spending, drove the projected 6.3% GDP growth. Other factors like exports or inflation weren’t highlighted as primary drivers. This analytical question tests economic reasoning for UPSC and SSC.
Question 15: Which historical event is referenced as a past example of India’s currency vulnerability to global pressures?
Option 1: 1991 Balance of Payments Crisis
Option 2: 2008 Global Financial Crisis
Option 3: 2013 Rupee Depreciation Crisis
Option 4: 2016 Demonetization
Option 5: 1970 Patent Act
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The 2013 Rupee Depreciation Crisis, when the rupee hit ₹68.85 per dollar, is cited as a precedent for the current rupee pressure at 87.30-87.32. Other events impacted the economy differently, making this a test of historical economic context for UPSC.
Question 16: What is the target renewable energy capacity set by NTPC Ltd. to be achieved by 2032?
Option 1: 40 GW
Option 2: 50 GW
Option 3: 60 GW
Option 4: 70 GW
Option 5: 80 GW
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: NTPC Ltd. aims for 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032, aligning with India’s sustainability goals like the National Solar Mission. This specific target tests knowledge of environmental commitments, relevant for UPSC and SSC exams.
Question 17: Which aircraft can use the HAMMER weapon manufactured by BEL and Safran?
Option 1: Rafale and Sukhoi-30
Option 2: LCA Tejas and Mirage 2000
Option 3: Rafale and LCA Tejas
Option 4: MiG-29 and Jaguar
Option 5: Sukhoi-30 and Mirage 2000
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The HAMMER weapon is adaptable for Rafale and LCA Tejas jets, enhancing India’s air-to-ground precision capabilities. Other aircraft like Sukhoi-30 or MiG-29 aren’t mentioned, making this a precise defense-related question for UPSC.
Question 18: What was the total number of medals won by the Services team in the 38th National Games?
Option 1: 68
Option 2: 94
Option 3: 121
Option 4: 147
Option 5: 153
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Services team won 121 medals (68 gold, 26 silver, 27 bronze) in the 38th National Games, a straightforward factual recall question for SSC aspirants. Options like 68 (gold only) test attention to detail.
Question 19: Which international agreement is India’s carbon sink pledge of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes aligned with?
Option 1: Kyoto Protocol
Option 2: Paris Agreement
Option 3: Montreal Protocol
Option 4: Copenhagen Accord
Option 5: Rio Declaration
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s pledge by 2030 aligns with the Paris Agreement (2015), focusing on climate mitigation through carbon sinks. Other agreements address different environmental issues (e.g., Montreal Protocol for ozone). This tests climate policy knowledge for UPSC.
Question 20: What is the primary goal of India’s drug regulator reforms regarding export clearances?
Option 1: Increase staff recruitment
Option 2: Double the issuance of NOCs
Option 3: Reduce NOCs by half
Option 4: Ban unapproved drug exports
Option 5: Raise export tariffs
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The drug regulator aims to reduce No Objection Certificates (NOCs) by half by using past export histories, easing the workload of 2,000 officials. This reform enhances efficiency in the pharma sector, a nuanced policy question for UPSC and SSC aspirants.
