🇮🇳 National News
The Government of India has launched a ₹20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission with the objective of developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The announcement was made during the Union Budget 2025–26 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who revealed plans to deploy at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are smaller, factory-built nuclear reactors with modular construction. They are considered a low-carbon energy source and represent advanced nuclear energy solutions for sustainable power generation.
This reflects a significant policy shift toward sustainable and advanced nuclear energy solutions, marking a strategic push toward energy diversification and long-term energy security.
₹20,000 crore mission | 5 SMRs by 2033 | Announced in Budget 2025–26
R. Praggnanandhaa won the prestigious Tata Steel Masters 2025, defeating world champion D. Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreaker with a final score of 2–1. Both players had tied at 8.5 points after 13 rounds of intense competition.
The Tata Steel Masters is one of the most prestigious international chess tournaments in the world. When players finish with equal points, tiebreakers are used to determine the winner.
This victory highlights India’s rising dominance in global chess and showcases the exceptional talent of young Indian chess prodigies on the world stage.
Praggnanandhaa beat Gukesh | 2–1 tiebreak | Both scored 8.5 points
💼 Business & Economy
L&T Finance Limited (LTF) introduced Knowledgeable AI (KAI), an AI-powered virtual advisor launched on its redesigned corporate website for home loan services. This innovative tool is designed to simplify the home loan application process, especially for first-time homebuyers.
Key features of KAI:
- AI-based chat advisor – Provides instant assistance and financial guidance
- Simplified application process – Makes home loans more accessible and user-friendly
- Customer service enhancement – Available 24/7 for queries and support
This represents the growing adoption of artificial intelligence in financial services, making complex financial products like home loans more accessible to common customers. Home loans are long-term secured loans provided against property.
LTF launches KAI | AI home loan advisor | Helps first-time buyers
🌐 International News
President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl.
Tariff details:
- 25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico
- 10% additional tariff on imports from China
The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) grants U.S. Presidents authority to regulate commerce after declaring a national emergency. Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods.
This signals intensified trade measures linked to national security and border concerns, potentially impacting global trade relations and supply chains.
25% tariff – Canada & Mexico | 10% tariff – China | Under IEEPA
🔬 Science & Technology
Japan’s H3 rocket successfully launched the Michibiki 6 satellite from the Tanegashima Space Centre in southwestern Japan. The purpose of this mission is to strengthen Japan’s positioning and navigation system.
Mission highlights:
- Launch site – Tanegashima Space Centre (southwestern Japan)
- Satellite separation – Around 29 minutes after lift-off
- Mission oversight – Makoto Arita, H3 project manager at JAXA
JAXA is Japan’s national aerospace agency. Navigation satellites like Michibiki improve GPS accuracy and positioning services, enhancing location-based applications and services.
This launch enhances Japan’s independent navigation infrastructure, reducing reliance on foreign satellite systems.
H3 rocket | Michibiki 6 | Tanegashima Space Centre
Iran introduced a long-range ballistic missile named “Etemad” with a range of 1,700 km (1,060 miles). The announcement was made during a ceremony in Tehran, attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian. Iran also tested a long-range anti-ship cruise missile during the event.
Ballistic missiles follow a high-arching trajectory and are typically used for long-range attacks. Cruise missiles travel at lower altitudes with guided navigation, making them harder to detect and intercept.
This represents a significant expansion of Iran’s military capabilities and its strategic defense posture in the region.
Etemad missile | 1,700 km range | Unveiled in Tehran
The 13th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Ekuverin’ between India and Maldives was hosted by the Maldives. This bilateral military exercise is conducted biennially (every two years) and strengthens defence cooperation between the two nations.
Bilateral military exercises like Ekuverin enhance interoperability and coordination between armed forces, improve tactical skills, and strengthen strategic partnerships in the region.
This reinforces regional defence ties in the Indian Ocean region, an area of strategic importance for India’s maritime security.
Ekuverin – 13th edition | Hosted by Maldives | Biennial exercise
📅 Important Days
World Cancer Day is observed annually on February 4 with a focus on awareness and reduction of the global cancer burden. The 2025 theme is “United by Unique”, which marks the beginning of a three-year campaign (2025–2027).
This theme emphasizes personalized cancer care and inclusivity, recognizing that each cancer journey is unique and requires tailored approaches to treatment and support.
World Cancer Day is a global health awareness initiative aimed at educating people about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to take action against cancer.
The campaign encourages inclusive and individualized approaches in cancer treatment, ensuring that every patient receives care suited to their specific needs.
World Cancer Day – Feb 4 | Theme 2025: “United by Unique” | 3-year campaign (2025–2027)
🕊️ Obituaries
Horst Koehler, former President of Germany, passed away at the age of 81. He had a distinguished career in both national and international roles.
Key positions held:
- President of Germany – Led the nation as its head of state
- Deputy Finance Minister – Served under Chancellor Helmut Kohl
- Managing Director of the IMF – Former head of the International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international financial institution that promotes global monetary cooperation, financial stability, international trade, high employment, and sustainable economic growth.
Horst Koehler held significant roles in Germany and international financial institutions, leaving behind a legacy of public service and economic leadership.
Horst Koehler | Former German President | Age 81 | Ex-IMF Chief
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