1. Question: What were the key highlights of the Union Budget 2025-2026 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025?
Answer:
On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The key highlights include:
Tax Reforms: Introduction of zero income tax for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh under the new tax regime, aiming to increase disposable income and stimulate economic growth.
Agricultural Initiatives: Launch of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, designed to bolster the agricultural sector through increased investment in infrastructure and technology.
Healthcare Allocation: A significant increase in healthcare spending, focusing on improving public health infrastructure and access to medical services.
Education and Skill Development: Enhanced funding for educational institutions and skill development programs to equip the workforce with necessary competencies for emerging industries.
Infrastructure Development: Allocation of substantial funds for the development of roads, railways, and digital infrastructure to boost connectivity and economic integration.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and addressing critical sectors of the economy.
2. Question: What significant political developments occurred in Manipur, India, in February 2025?
Answer:
In February 2025, Manipur experienced notable political changes:
February 9: Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned amid ongoing ethnic violence in the state, acknowledging the need for new leadership to restore peace.
February 13: The Union Government imposed President’s Rule in Manipur, citing the deteriorating law and order situation and the necessity for central intervention to maintain stability.
These developments underscore the challenges faced by the state in managing internal conflicts and the government’s response to ensure governance and security.
3. Question: What were the outcomes of the 61st Munich Security Conference held in February 2025?
Answer:
The 61st Munich Security Conference took place from February 14 to 16, 2025, in Munich, Germany. Key outcomes include:
Focus on Migration: U.S. Vice President JD Vance emphasized that illegal migration is Europe’s “most urgent” challenge, urging European leaders to take more decisive actions.
Ukraine’s Security: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in discussions with international leaders, seeking continued support and security guarantees amid ongoing regional tensions.
Global Cooperation: The conference facilitated dialogues on various global security issues, including cyber threats, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts, promoting collaborative approaches to address these challenges.
The event highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex security concerns.
4. Question: What economic measures did U.S. President Donald Trump implement in February 2025 concerning international trade?
Answer:
In February 2025, President Donald Trump introduced significant trade policies:
February 1: Imposed a 10% tariff on imports from China, aiming to address trade imbalances and protect domestic industries.
February 4: China retaliated by announcing export controls and increased tariffs on certain American imports, escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
These actions reflect the ongoing complexities in U.S.-China trade relations and have significant implications for global markets.
5. Question: What cultural event commenced in February 2025 to strengthen ties between Tamil Nadu and Kashi?
Answer:
The Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 began on February 15, 2025. This cultural event aims to reinforce the historical and cultural connections between Tamil Nadu and Kashi (Varanasi). A special train was flagged off from Chennai to facilitate participation, symbolizing the unity and shared heritage of the two regions.
6. Question: What significant administrative change occurred in the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in February 2025?
Answer:
On February 3, 2025, it was reported that USAID would be merged into the State Department. This restructuring aims to streamline foreign aid and diplomatic efforts, potentially leading to more cohesive international policy implementation.
7. Question: What tragic event occurred in Guatemala City on February 10, 2025?
Answer:
On February 10, 2025, a bus accident in Guatemala City resulted in the deaths of at least 54 people, with 9 others seriously injured. The bus fell off a bridge over the Las Vacas River, marking one of the deadliest transportation accidents in the region in recent years.
8. Question: What was the outcome of the 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly election held on February 5, 2025?
Answer:
The 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly election, held on February 5, resulted in a significant victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured a two-thirds majority. This outcome reflects the party’s strong influence and the electorate’s support for its policies in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.