Schools across the country are gearing up for assembly presentations on February 8, 2025, and students are on the lookout for relevant news to share with their peers. This article compilies the latest headlines across national and international news as well as sports, making it easy for students to find interesting and significant stories to discuss.
National News Headlines
- India's Exports May Touch Record USD 800 BN This Year: India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal predicted significant export growth, reaching potentially $800 billion this year, underscoring the robustness of the nation's economy.
- Kerala Budget: Infrastructure Boost Amid Tax Hikes: The Kerala government announced its budget, promoting infrastructure development to address a ₹27,000 crore deficit, with expected tax increases to fund these initiatives.
- Rajya Sabha Debates Amendments to POCSO Act: The Rajya Sabha engaged in discussions to strengthen victim-centric reforms within the POCSO Act, highlighting the need for more rigorous protections for children.
- Delhi Polls: Tight Security at Counting Centres: Authorities deployed 10,000 police officers and 38 paramilitary companies to maintain security during the counting of votes, marking the importance of ensuring order during the elections.
- India's First Hydrogen Train: The Railway Minister announced the introduction of India's first hydrogen train, which is set to be among the world's longest and most powerful, showcasing India's commitment to sustainable transportation.
- Amit Shah Praises NCB: The Union Home Minister applauded the Narcotics Control Bureau for its recent success in dismantling significant drug cartels operating out of Mumbai.
- NEET-PG 2024: Supreme Court Ruling: The Supreme Court dismissed a plea for fresh counselling for the NEET-PG 2024 examination, solidifying the current guidelines for postgraduate medical admissions.
- Govt to Upgrade E-Nam Platform: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced plans to upgrade the E-Nam platform to facilitate inter-state and inter-mandi trade.
International News Headlines
- UN Rights Body Holds Urgent Session: The UN Human Rights Council convened urgently to discuss rising violence in Eastern Congo as rebel forces advance, raising concerns about the humanitarian crisis.
- Sri Lankans Killed in Ukraine War: The Sri Lankan Parliament was informed of the tragic death of 59 citizens fighting for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict, highlighting the global nature of the crisis.
- South Africa's Visa Reforms: South Africa introduced reforms aiming to attract more Indian tourists and investors, indicating a strategic move to boost economic ties.
- Greek Students Protest: Students in Greece blocked traffic, urging justice for victims of the 2023 rail tragedy, reflecting widespread public sentiment for accountability.
- Hong Kong's WTO Complaint: Authorities announced their intent to file complaints with the World Trade Organization against the U.S. for imposing tariffs deemed unjust.
- UK to Demolish Grenfell Tower Shell: Nearly eight years after the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, the UK has confirmed plans to demolish the remaining structure, representing steps toward healing the community.
- Iran Rejects US Nuclear Talks: Iran's Supreme Leader dismissed recent talks with the U.S. on nuclear issues, complicatings any diplomatic efforts for resolution.
- Indonesia Halts Trump-Linked Projects: Indonesia ordered the suspension of tourism projects associated with former President Trump due to environmental concerns, reflecting increasing scrutiny on investments.
Sports News Headlines
- Ranji Trophy Quarterfinals: Mumbai holds advantages against Haryana as the prestigious Ranji Trophy quarterfinals progress.
- Champions Trophy Injury Woes: Australian stars Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were ruled out of the upcoming Champions Trophy due to injuries, raising concerns for their team.
- ECB Confirms Afghanistan Match: The England and Wales Cricket Board Chief stated the upcoming match against Afghanistan will proceed as scheduled, showing nerves of steel amid uncertainty.
- Sergio Ramos Faces Backlash: Former Spanish footballer Sergio Ramos received criticism over his choice of jersey number after joining Mexican club, drawing attention to player expectations.
- Shreyas Iyer Talks ODI: Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer revealed he was called up late for the first ODI due to Virat Kohli's withdrawal, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of sports selections.
These headlines encapsulate some of the most significant updates from around the world and be featured by students during their school assemblies. Each story serves as potential discussion points for students to engage their peers effectively and thoughtfully.