Current Affairs One - Liner : 9th & 10th March 2025

National:

• The CEA and TPDDL organized the 5th Edition of Lineman Diwas on March 4, 2025, in New Delhi. The event honored linemen's contributions to India's power sector with the theme "Seva, Suraksha, Swabhiman". Over 180 linemen participated, sharing insights and best practices. The event highlighted dedication, safety, and pride in their vital roles.

• The Oil Technologists' Association of India (OTAI) and the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) signed an agreement on March 7, 2025, to promote Malaysian palm oil in India. The partnership focuses on consumer education, scientific research, and addressing misconceptions about palm oil's benefits.
• Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced on March 7, 2025, that Bengaluru City University will be renamed Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University. This honors the former PM's contributions to India's economic reforms. Government Arts College and Government RC College will become its constituent colleges. It marks the first Indian university named after Dr. Manmohan Singh.
• Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh was declared India's 58th Tiger Reserve on March 9, 2025. It spans 354 sq. km and is the 9th tiger reserve in the state, boosting tiger conservation efforts. The park currently has five tigers, with plans for further introductions. Its diverse terrains include forests, grasslands, and lakes.
• The Punjab government launched 'Project Hifazat' on March 7, 2025, to help women and children facing violence. It includes a 24x7 helpline (181), rescue vehicles, and collaboration with Punjab Police and Health departments for timely interventions.

International:

• Mark Carney was elected as the leader of Canada's Liberal Party on March 9, 2025, and is set to become the next Prime Minister. He succeeds Justin Trudeau, winning the leadership race with 85.9% of the vote.

Banking:

• Niva Bupa Health Insurance launched 'Rise' on March 7, 2025, catering to India's "Missing Middle". This plan offers affordable coverage, flexible premium options, and unlimited digital consultations. It aims to bridge the gap for those excluded from government schemes and private insurance.
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) launched the "Bob Global Women NRE & NRO Savings Account" on March 7, 2025, for women NRIs. It offers benefits like auto sweep, concessional loan rates, 100% locker rent waivers, and customized debit cards. Additional perks include airport lounge access and insurance coverage.
• CredResolve raised $1.1 million in funding on March 6, 2025, led by UNLEASH Capital Partners and CDM Capital. The funds will enhance its AI-based debt recovery technology and expand partnerships with 25+ financial institutions. It aims to automate workflows, improve borrower communication, and comply with RBI regulations.

Economy:

• ICRA announced its projection of India's GDP growth at 6.5% for FY26 on March 7, 2025. The growth outlook is attributed to a revival in urban demand, increased capital expenditure, and strong rural consumption.
• Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio presented a ₹24,849 crore budget for FY26 on March 6, 2025. The budget focuses on skill development, energy security, and infrastructure in border areas. Key initiatives include the Nagaland Skill Mission, State Solar Power Mission, and the Chief Minister’s Fellowship Programme.
• Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presented a ₹1.12 lakh crore zero-deficit budget for FY26 on March 7, 2025. The budget emphasizes economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare. Key highlights include free bus rides for women, enhanced pensions, and 200 units of free electricity for AAY families.

MoUs:

• The Bank of India (BoI) signed an MoU with the Indian Army on March 7, 2025 in New Delhi, to upgrade the 'Rakshak Salary Package'. It offers enhanced insurance coverage, including up to ₹200 lakh for air accidents, and exclusive banking benefits. Additional features include doorstep banking services and tailored privileges for Army personnel and Agniveers.

Sports:

• At 40, Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has returned to the Indian National Team after announcing his comeback on March 6, 2025, via the AIFF. His return aims to strengthen the squad for the FIFA International Window and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers.
• India defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets to win the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on March 9, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chasing 252, India scored 254/6 in 49 overs, powered by Rohit Sharma's 76 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 34. This is India's third Champions Trophy win, after victories in 2002 and 2013.
• India won the Asian Women’s Kabaddi Championship 2025 title on March 8, 2025, in Tehran, Iran. The event was the 6th edition of the championship, and India claimed their 5th title in the women’s kabaddi category. This victory highlights India's dominance in the sport of kabaddi.
• Indian Grandmaster (GM) Pranav Venkatesh won the prestigious FIDE World Junior U20 Championship 2025 in the Open category. The tournament took place from February 26 to March 7, 2025, in Petrovac, Montenegro.

Govt. Schemes:

• The Delhi government launched the Mahila Samridhi Yojana on March 8, 2025, aligning with International Women’s Day. It provides ₹2,500 financial aid to women from BPL families with annual incomes up to ₹2.5–3 lakh. The scheme, backed by ₹5,100 crore, aims to empower women.

Appointments:

• The Government of India appointed Vikas Kaushal as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) on March 7, 2025, for a term of five years. He is the first private-sector executive to lead a state-run oil refinery. Kaushal brings over 30 years of experience in energy, covering oil, gas, power, and renewables.
• Dr. Himanshu Pathak assumed charge as the Director General (DG) of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) on March 6, 2025. He brings over three decades of experience in agricultural research, focusing on climate resilience, soil health, and sustainable farming systems.

Obituaries:

• Former Odisha minister and senior BJD leader Ananta Das passed away at 85 on March 9, 2025, in Bhubaneswar. He was a four-time MLA from the Bhograi constituency, serving from 2004 to 2019.

Questions:

Q.1 Which national park was declared India's 58th Tiger Reserve on March 9, 2025?
a) Pench National Park
b) Tadoba National Park
c) Kanha National Park
d) Madhav National Park

Answer: d) Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh became the 58th Tiger Reserve, covering 354 sq. km, and became the state's 9th tiger reserve.

Q.2 What is the projected GDP growth rate for India in FY26, as per ICRA?
a) 6.5%
b) 6.4%
c) 7.2%
d) 6.8%

Answer: a) ICRA attributed this 6.5% growth projection to rising urban demand, capital expenditure, and strong rural consumption.