Russian Lawmaker Vyacheslav Volodin’s Official Visit to India
Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the Russian State Duma, began an official visit to India on February 3, 2025. His agenda includes discussions with Indian leaders on enhancing cooperation in economic, cultural, educational, and technological sectors, along with strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue. Volodin’s visit emphasizes the ongoing engagement between Russia and India. He plans to meet with both houses of the Indian Parliament. Later this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to visit India for the annual summit, further solidifying bilateral ties.
Mount Taranaki Recognized as Legal Entity
Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga, has been officially recognized as a legal person in New Zealand. This historic decision, announced on February 1, 2025, acknowledges the mountain’s profound cultural and spiritual significance to the Indigenous Māori people. As a legal entity, Mount Taranaki will be co-managed by representatives from local Māori tribes and the government. This arrangement ensures the mountain’s protection, conservation, and respect, aligning with the Māori belief that natural features are sacred ancestors deserving of care.
India Launches Pilot Study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS)
In February 2025, India’s Defence Ministry initiated a pilot study on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS), aiming to explore the transformative potential of AI-driven military technologies. Collaborating with the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses, the study addresses key issues such as control, accountability, and ethical deployment of autonomous systems. This initiative is a significant step toward enhancing India’s strategic autonomy and preparing for future conflicts involving advanced AI technologies.
U.S. Implements Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China to Combat Illicit Drug Influx
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. The tariffs include a 25% duty on goods from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% duty on Chinese imports. This action aims to address the influx of illicit drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the United States. In response, Canada and Mexico plan to retaliate with their own tariffs. The tariffs are set to take effect on February 4, 2025.
Economic Survey 2024-25: Rise in Female Labour Force Participation
The Economic Survey for 2024-25 highlighted a significant increase in female labor force participation, rising to 26.8% from 24.5% in the previous year. This growth is attributed to various government initiatives aimed at improving female employment opportunities, such as skill development programs, flexible work arrangements, and incentives for employers to hire women. The survey also noted improvements in sectors like healthcare, education, and technology, where female representation has notably increased. These advancements contribute to overall economic growth and social development.
Former CEC Navin Chawla Passes Away at 79
Navin Chawla, the former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, passed away on February 3, 2025, at the age of 79. Chawla, who served as CEC from April 2009 to July 2010, was known for his significant electoral reforms, including enabling third gender voters to cast their votes as “Other”. He was also a close associate of Mother Teresa and authored her biography. Chawla’s tenure was marked by both achievements and controversies, but his contributions to India’s electoral process remain noteworthy.