India’s economic survey 2025 highlights the need to leverage global trade shifts, including rising protectionism, to boost growth and competitiveness. It suggests reducing trade costs and enhancing export facilitation. India’s forex reserves stood at $640.3 billion, covering 90 per cent of external debt. Exports grew 6 per cent to $602.6 billion, while imports rose 6.9 per cent to $682.2 billion. Despite global uncertainties, FDI inflows showed revival, and FPIs remained positive overall.
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Sundar Rajagopalan expressed deep sorrow at the final rituals for Bhaskar Da (BD), reminiscing about his unique style and close friendship. The ceremony at Banganga crematorium was attended by colleagues, friends, and the ad fraternity. BD’s loss is deeply felt by Sundar and Jayshree.
An Enforcement Directorate team interrogated ex-Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi and her son Tej Pratap Yadav for over four hours in connection to a money laundering case linked to the land-for-jobs scam during Lalu Prasad's tenure as railway minister. They're accused of acquiring land parcels from those selected for railway jobs.
The Pandit Nain Singh Surveyor Mountaineering Training Institute in Munsyari will hold a Basic Ski Course from February 14-27, 2025. Led by Reena Kaushal Dharmshaktu, the course costs Rs 12,000 and is open to beginners and those looking to enhance skiing skills in the Himalayas.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh condemned Pakistan for using PoK land for terror training camps, stated that Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without PoK and criticized PoK PM Chaudhry Anwarul Haq for anti-India remarks. Also highlighted the central government's efforts to bridge gaps between Kashmir and rest of India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held bilateral talks aboard the French presidential aircraft, a rare gesture reflecting their strong bond. During their flight to Marseille, they discussed geopolitical developments, defence, space, civil nuclear energy, health, and cultural ties, with a focus on artificial intelligence.
Indian cricket team's win in the Champions Trophy led to celebrations in Madhya Pradesh, but incidents of vandalism and violence marred the night in Dewas and Mhow. Police detained several individuals, shaved their heads, and paraded them after clashes and arson. Authorities confirmed stability in Mhow, detaining 13 people involved in the unrest.
During the Bhawani Deeksha Viramana event, QR-coded wristbands helped reunite 10 missing children with their families in Vijayawada. Approximately 12,000 children were tagged, with details securely stored on a server. Andhra Pradesh's CM emphasized skilled women employment through co-working centers to balance professional and personal tasks.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar inaugurated the new Indian Consulate in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He emphasized its role in enhancing Indian diaspora welfare, and expressed optimism regarding finalizing a free trade agreement with the UK and EU. The consulate aims to improve economic and technological ties.
A 72-hour shutdown in Katra against the proposed Vaishno Devi ropeway project has entered its second day, with protesters on a hunger strike demanding the release of detained members. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti claims that the project threatens local livelihoods. The bandh has halted business activities, causing inconvenience to pilgrims.
The Supreme Court has mandated that the government must proactively grant premature release to all eligible convicts without waiting for a formal application. This move ensures convicts aware of their eligibility for remission are considered for release, highlighting the government’s duty to avoid arbitrary and discriminatory actions.