India Ranked 45th in Network Readiness Index
India secured the 45th rank in the Network Readiness Index, which assesses countries on parameters such as technology adoption, digital infrastructure, governance, and impact of information and communication technologies (ICT). The index evaluates nations across pillars including Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, reflecting India’s progress in digital transformation and connectivity expansion.
India Ranked 91st in Corruption Perceptions Index
India secured the 91st rank in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). The CPI ranks countries based on perceived levels of public sector corruption using expert assessments and surveys. The ranking highlights governance challenges while also underlining the importance of institutional transparency, accountability mechanisms, and anti-corruption reforms.
Approval of New Telescopes NLST and NLOT in Ladakh
The Government of India approved two new astronomical facilities — the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) and the National Large Optical Telescope (NLOT) — in Ladakh. These high-altitude telescopes will enhance India’s capabilities in solar physics and deep-space optical observations. Ladakh’s clear skies and low atmospheric disturbance make it ideal for advanced astronomical research.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science Observed on 11 February
The United Nations observes the International Day of Women and Girls in Science annually on 11 February. The day promotes full and equal access to and participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, supporting gender equality and scientific innovation globally.