Daily GK Update- 9th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Budget 2025: Grameen Credit Score to serve credit needs of self-help groups: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced Grameen Credit Score, a framework to be developed by the public sector banks for the credit needs of the members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and people in rural areas.Public Sector Banks will develop a ‘Grameen Credit Score’ framework to serve the credit needs of SHG members and people in rural areas.GCS will complement existing microfinance models and work alongside credit scores like CIBIL and CRIF Highmark for assessing loans. This score will be integrated with the SVAMITVA Scheme.

 

2. Budget 2025: Government proposes Rationalization of Customs Tariff Structure: The Union Budget 2025-26 introduces major exemptions under Basic Customs Duty (BCD) to rationalize tariff structure and address duty inversion.The proposals are set to support domestic manufacturing and value addition while promoting exports, facilitating trade, and providing relief to common people.Delivering on the promise to review the customs rate structure announced in July 2024, the Budget proposes removing seven customs tariff rates for industrial goods over and above those removed in Budget 2023-24. This will leave only eight tariff rates, including the ‘zero’ rate.

 

3. Budget 2025: Where does the money come from and where does it go?: As per the Union Budget 2025-26 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, a total of ₹65 lakh crore will be spent during the financial year 2025-26 by the Indian government.This budget mainly explicates the receipts and expenditure on cash for the country’s growth, where tax revenues, borrowings, and non-tax revenues feature dominantly in its funding.

 

4. Odisha Govt. launches multiple initiatives to empower girl ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’: The Odisha government has launched a series of initiatives under the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme, which aims to address the alarming gender imbalance and declining child sex ratio in India.Key programs such as “Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud), “Mo Gelha Jiya” (My Dear Daughter) in Ganjam, “Kalpana Avijan” in Dhenkanal, “Swarna Kalika” in Keonjhar, and “Veerangana Yojana” in Deogarh district are designed to empower adolescent girls.These initiatives focus on preventing child marriage, combating sex selection and female foeticide, promoting higher education, and building self-esteem and confidence through martial arts and self-defense.“Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud) and “Mo Gelha Jhia” (My Lovely Daughter) in Ganjam District: The “Nirbhaya Kadhi” initiative by Ganjam district administration under BBBP aims to create a just society for girls. It has reached 183,933 adolescent girls in 3,309 villages, focusing on raising awareness.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 to kick off in Gandhinagar, Gujarat : The Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, is organizing the BIMSTEC Youth Summit from 7th to 11th February 2025 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will formally inaugurate the event on 8th February 2025, marking the beginning of the BIMSTEC Youth Summit.During the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu on 30th -31st August 2018, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India announced the hosting of a three-day BIMSTEC Youth Summit, aimed at bringing together the youth of BIMSTEC nations on a unified platform to exchange experiences and insights on youth-led initiatives undertaken by member states.The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven member states: India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan.

 

2. US Sanctions Impact on India’s Chabahar Port Project: The recent directive from the Trump administration raises concerns regarding the future of India’s Chabahar port project in Iran. This move is part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing pressure on Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions and military activities. The Chabahar port is crucial for India as it provides a direct route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. India has heavily invested in this project, viewing it as essential for regional connectivity and trade. India’s trade with Iran has diminished due to US sanctions. In the fiscal year 2018-2019, India imported goods worth around $13 billion from Iran. However, imports plummeted to less than $1 billion annually from 2019-2020 onwards. The sanctions have strained India’s economic ties with Iran, complicating its strategic interests in the region.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Stryker Infantry Combat  Vehicles: Recently, the focus on India-U.S. defence collaboration intensified, particularly concerning the Stryker infantry combat  vehicles. This comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump‘s encouragement for India to increase military procurement from the U.S. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington D.C. has further brought into light this strategic partnership. The Stryker vehicle’s performance in high-altitude conditions has been a key area of evaluation for the Indian Army. India’s procurement strategy involves a two-stage process. Initially, a small number of Strykers will be directly imported. Subsequently, a larger quantity will be manufactured in India, likely by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). This approach aims to enhance local defence manufacturing capabilities.

 

2. ITBP Establishes New Company Operative Base in Chhattisgarh: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has opened a new Company Operative Base (COB) in Kutul, Chhattisgarh. This area is a stronghold for Naxalite activity. The establishment of the COB aims to enhance security and reduce Naxalite influence in the Abhujhmad region. This region is known for its dense forests and hilly terrain, making it a challenging area for law enforcement. The new COB in Kutul serves multiple purposes. It aims to deter Naxalite activities in the region. The ITBP believes that a stronger presence will instil confidence among local residents. This initiative aligns with Mission Kagar-2026, aimed at eradicating Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. The ITBP’s presence is expected to encourage local populations to engage with the mainstream.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India’s Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Revolution: India’s electric vehicle (EV) charging market is experiencing growth. Recent investments have exceeded $450 million in start-ups focused on charging networks and battery-swapping models. Despite this, the current infrastructure is inadequate. There is only one public charger for every 135 EVs, compared to a global average of one charger for every 6 to 20 EVs. To meet ambitious government targets, urgent expansion of charging facilities is essential. Government initiatives have played important role in attracting investment. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME II) scheme and Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) have been implemented. Various state governments have introduced policies offering subsidies and support for land acquisition, particularly in urban areas.

 

2. SARAT Version 2: The Government of India has recently upgraded its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to enhance operational efficiency for search and rescue agencies. The latest version, SARAT version 2, aims to provide faster response times and higher success rates in search-and-rescue operations, particularly in the Indian Ocean region. The latest version introduces several enhancements. The computation of probable search areas is now anchored to the Last Known Position (LKP) of the object. This shift allows for more accurate search area definitions. Previously, the search area was determined based on the point with the minimum longitude, which was less precise.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Introduces Additional Factor Authentication for International Transactions: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced enhancement to the security of online payments. This new measure focuses on cross-border “Card Not Present” (CNP) transactions. The introduction of Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA) aims to ensure that international digital transactions using Indian-issued cards are as secure as domestic ones. This move comes in response to the increasing volume of online shopping and the associated rise in fraud risks. The RBI’s proposal will require cardholders to undergo additional verification when making international purchases. This may include OTPs sent to registered mobile numbers or biometric checks. The RBI aims to issue a draft circular for stakeholder feedback shortly. This initiative is part of a broader framework to improve the security of digital payments in India.

 

2. Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching (NDS-OM) Platform: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently announced policy change. Non-bank brokers registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) will now have access to the Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching (NDS-OM) platform. This initiative aims to increase retail participation in government securities trading. The RBI’s decision reflects an ongoing effort to enhance liquidity and accessibility for individual investors in the financial market. Sebi’s consultation paper from October 2024 proposed a framework for stock brokers to engage in trading government securities. Brokers must maintain a separate business unit for these activities, ensuring an arm’s-length relationship with their other operations. They will also need to establish agreements with members of the Clearing Corporation of India (CCIL) for transaction settlements.

 

Daily GK Update- 8th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Budget 2025: Export promotion mission, Bharat Trade Net in works to boost trade: The Union Budget announced an Export Promotion Mission with an outlay of ₹2,250 crore to facilitate easy access to export credit, cross-border factoring support, and help MSMEs tackle non-tariff measures in overseas markets.The Mission, with sectoral and ministerial targets, will be driven jointly by the Ministries of Commerce, MSMEs, and Finance. This is among the slew of measures announced in the Budget to promote exports.Another major plan is to create a digital public infrastructure, ‘BharatTradeNet’ (BTN), for international trade and it will be a unified platform for trade documentation and financing solutions. This will complement the Unified Logistics Interface Platform. The government will also revamp the model BIT (Bilateral Investment Treaty) to make it more investor-friendly and encourage sustained foreign investment.In order to support food processing exports, a National Food Technology Institute will be set up in Bihar and it will enhance value addition, agri-exports, and job creation.

 

2. Budget 2025: Government to introduce Jan Vishwas 2.0 for greater ease of doing business: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, that the government would introduce the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to decriminalise over 100 outdated legal provisions to achieve greater ease of doing business in the country.The existing Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 has decriminalised 183 Central Acts administered across a spectrum of 19 Ministries or Departments.The key objective of the Jan Vishwas Act 2023 was to remove archaic provisions that did not serve the evolving technological and business environment.The Jan Vishwas 2.0 intends to further usher in comprehensive reforms aimed to unburden the judiciary and reduce litigation time and costs. It would introduce civil penalties and administrative actions for minor technical and procedural lapses.The 2023 Act covers amendments in statutes across a span of over 100 years. These include the Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867, the Indian Post Office Act of 1898, the Boilers Act of 1923, the Indian Forest Act 1927 to the more recent laws like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 and the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) of 2016.

 

3. Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman exempts parts for open cells in LCD/LED TVs from customs duty to boost manufacturing: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced to increase the basic customs duty (BCD) on interactive flat panel display (IFPD) or touch sensitive display to 20% from the current 10% and simultaneously reducing the duty to 5% on open cell and other components.The proposed changes might increase the bill of materials (BOM) for the laptops that ship with touch sensitive displays and other flat touch screens used for advertising.In 2023 -24 Budget, for the manufacture of Open Cells of LCD/LED TVs, I had reduced the BCD on parts of Open Cells from 5% to 2.5%. To further boost the manufacture of such Open Cells, the BCD on these parts will now stand exempted.She also proposed to add 35 additional capital goods for EV battery manufacturing, and 28 additional capital goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing.

 

4. Zomato renamed ‘Eternal’, food delivery company unveils new logo: Food and grocery delivery platform Zomato will rename the company to “Eternal” and unveil a new logo.The change of name is subject to the approval of shareholders, the corporate affairs ministry, and other statutory authorities. After the approval, the company’s corporate website will transition from zomato.com to eternal.comEternal will comprise the company’s four major businesses – food delivery platform Zomato, quick commerce arm Blinkit, going-out business District, and business-to-business supplies vertical Hyperpure. The development comes over two years after the company began using the new name internally.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India ranks third globally for LEED green building certification in 2024: India ranks third in USGBC’s LEED green building certification globally during 2024, according to a report.India retained its third spot on US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) annual list of top 10 countries and regions for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) in 2024.LEED certifications in India are managed by the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), which works to accelerate the adoption of green buildings nationwide.The annual ranking by USGBC highlights the significant progress made by countries and regions outside the United States in adopting healthy, sustainable and resilient building design, construction and operations.China topped the top 10 rankings for 2024 with over 25 million GSM certified followed by Canada with 10 million GSM. In India, as many as 370 projects, across both buildings and spaces, were certified for LEED, covering 8.50 million gross square meters (GSM) (91.5 million square feet).

 

2. Trump’s Sanctions Threaten International Criminal Court Operations: The recent executive order by US President Donald Trump has raised concerns regarding the future of the International Criminal Court (ICC). This order imposes sanctions on the ICC, which is the only permanent global tribunal for war crimes and genocide. The ICC’s role is crucial, especially as it investigates and prosecutes serious international crimes. Trump’s action comes in response to the ICC’s investigation into alleged war crimes committed by Israeli leaders during the conflict in Gaza. Trump’s sanctions invoke emergency powers and target the ICC’s operations. The sanctions may affect the court’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, and others involved in the investigations against Israeli officials. These measures could halt the ICC’s functions entirely. Previous sanctions imposed by Trump on former prosecutor Fatou Bensouda limited her access to US-based financial resources.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Enhances Firepower with New Contracts: The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently signed contracts worth Rs 10,147 crore to boost the firepower of the Indian Army. These agreements involve the procurement of advanced munitions for the indigenously developed PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The contracts were signed with Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL). Additionally, software upgrades were contracted to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). This initiative is step in the modernisation of India’s defence capabilities. The MoD’s procurement strategy prioritises indigenous development. Collaborations with private companies like Bharat Forge and Tata Group are expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing. This approach not only enhances military capabilities but also promotes economic growth by encouraging local industries.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. FIFA suspends Pakistan Football Federation after failure to amend constitution : The International Football Federation (FIFA) has suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) after it failed to amend its constitution as required for the smooth and fair governance of the sport in the country.FIFA stated that Pakistan will remain suspended until the PFF Congress makes the necessary amendments. This is the Pakistan Football Federation’s third suspension since 2017.Since June 2019, Pakistan’s football has been managed by a FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee, which was tasked with organizing elections and addressing parallel factions within the football setup.

 

2. Tarundeep Rai Wins Bronze in Men’s Recurve Archery at 38th National Games : At the ongoing 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, four-time Olympian archer Tarundeep Rai from Sikkim won the Bronze Medal in the Men’s Recurve event.Juel Sarkar from West Bengal clinched the Gold while Indira Chand from Services Sports Control Boar clinched the Silver medal.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. The Universe’s Largest Structure : Recent  astronomical research has revealed Quipu, the largest known structure in the universe. Named after an Incan recording system, Quipu contains an astonishing mass of 200 quadrillion solar masses. Its immense size stretches over 400 megaparsecs, equivalent to more than 1.3 billion light-years. About Quipu is essential for comprehending cosmic evolution and refining cosmological models. Quipu’s discovery is crucial for understanding galaxy evolution. Studying its properties aids in refining cosmological parameters. The superstructure’s gravitational effects modify the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) and influence measurements of the Hubble constant. These alterations complicate our understanding of cosmic expansion and the universe’s early conditions.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IDFC FIRST Bank Launches Exclusive Banking Package for Senior Citizens: IDFC FIRST Bank has introduced a specialised range of banking products and services tailored for senior citizens, reaffirming its commitment to offering secure, customised, and superior financial solutions for this important customer segment.The newly launched offerings include the Senior Citizen Savings Account and Senior Citizen Fixed Deposits, designed to cater to the unique financial needs of elderly individuals.As part of this initiative, the bank has also introduced a dedicated feature on its Mobile Banking App called ‘Senior Citizen Specials’, providing exclusive benefits such as:

 

2. RBI reduces interest rates for first time in nearly 5 years: Almost after 5 years, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reduced the policy repo rate by 25 basis points, from 6.50 per cent to 6.25 per cent.Governor Sanjay Malhotra made the announcement in Mumbai, following a three-day meeting of the MPC. As a result, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate will be set at 6.00 per cent, while the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate will both remain at 6.50 per cent. The MPC has also unanimously decided to maintain a ‘neutral’ stance, focusing unambiguously on aligning inflation with the target while supporting growth.The 25-basis points rate cut to 6.25 per cent comes after the last rate reduction in May 2020. The most recent revision occurred in February 2023, when the policy rate was raised by 25 basis points to 6.50 per cent.According to the first advance estimates, real GDP growth for the current year is projected at 6.4 per cent, with economic activity expected to improve in the coming year. Earlier it was projected at 6.6 per cent.

 

Daily GK Update- 7th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Budget 2025-26: 10,000 New Fellowships Under PMRF Scheme: The Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) scheme, aimed at supporting talented students pursuing doctoral research in India, has received a major boost in Budget 2025.FM Nirmala Sitharaman has announced that 10,000 new fellowships will be awarded over the next five years.Launched in Budget 2018-19, the PMRF scheme provides direct admission to PhD programmes in IITs, IISc, and IISERs, along with attractive financial support. Selected scholars receive a monthly stipend ranging from Rs 70,000 to Rs 80,000, along with a research grant of Rs 2 lakh per year (up to Rs 10 lakh for five years).

 

2. Budget 2025-26: Centre to set up 2nd gene bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines: The government will set up a second Gene Bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines to conserve genetic resources and secure food and nutritional security. This aims to provide conservation support to the public and commercial sectors for genetic resources and to secure future food and nutritional security.A gene bank preserves and stores genetic material, including seeds, tissues and DNA samples from various plant and animal species. . Established in 1972, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Genebank is a well-known institution committed to the preservation and conservation of crop genetic resources.ICRISAT Genebank is a key institution protecting the genetic diversity of 11 vital crops, including various types of millet, chickpea, pigeon pea, and groundnut. It operates globally with facilities in India, Zimbabwe, Niger, and Kenya.In 2019, the ICRISAT set up the world’s first gene bank in Hyderabad that is powered entirely by solar energy.

 

3. Budget 2025-26: New ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ for manuscripts announced: The Union Budget 2025-26 announced a special mission for the survey, documentation, and conservation of India’s manuscript heritage. Launched as the ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’, it intends to cover more than one crore manuscripts.The ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ is for undertaking the “survey, documentation and conservation” of India’s manuscript heritage lying with academic institutions, museums, libraries, and private collectors.To accommodate this new initiative, the budget allocation for the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM), whose aim is to identify and document manuscripts and make the manuscript heritage accessible across the country, has been hiked from ₹5 crore to ₹60 crore.The overall allocation for the Culture Ministry has been increased by approximately ₹100 crore with a total outlay of ₹3,360.96 crore as against the revised estimate of ₹3,260.93 crore in the current fiscal.

 

4. Budget 2025-26: National Geospatial Mission announced to modernise land records: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the launch of a National Geospatial Mission in the Budget 2025-26.The mission will be aimed at modernising land records and enhancing urban planning across India. This initiative will leverage the existing PM Gati Shakti framework to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data, facilitating improved design and execution of infrastructure projects.Geospatial refers to data or information that is associated with a specific location on the Earth’s surface. The National Geospatial Mission is expected to significantly impact various sectors, particularly in urban development and land management

 

5. Guneri village in Gujarat declared the first biodiversity heritage site: The 32.78-hectare area of Guneri village in Lakhtar tehsil of Kutch district, which is a natural inland mangrove site, has been declared as the first Biodiversity Heritage Site of Gujarat.The Gujarat government made the announcement after considering a recommendation from the Gujarat Biodiversity Board. This will ensure conservation and enrichment of the flora and fauna in the area “through a management plan”.The announcement has been done under the provisions of The Biodiversity Act, 2002. The Act empowers the state government to notify an area as a BHS after consulting concerned local bodies.

 

6. Citibank appoints K Balasubramanian as India head: Citibank appointed, succeeding Ashu Khulla.Balasubramanian will report to Amol Gupte, head of Asia South and banking head. Ashu Khullar will transition to co-head of global asset managers (GAM) with Anthony Diamandakis.Under Khullar’s leadership from 2019 to 2025, Citi India achieved significant growth, becoming a top investment bank in equity capital markets and mergers and acquisitions.

 

7. Noel Tata awarded honorary doctorate by the University of Sussex: The University of Sussex has conferred an honorary doctorate upon Noel Tata, a distinguished business leader within the Tata Group and a proud alumnus of the University.The honorary degree was presented by Professor Sasha Roseneil, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sussex, during a private ceremony held in Mumbai.Noel Tata, who graduated from the University of Sussex in 1978 with a degree in Economics.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Zepto world’s second-most-downloaded app in food and drink category: Zepto, the Indian quick commerce startup, last year became the world’s second most downloaded mobile app on mobiles in the foods and drinks category, according to data Sensor Tower released.McDonald’s, the US fast food chain, was the most downloaded. Zepto’s rival Blinkit was the tenth most downloaded app in the category.Other Indian companies in the category were food and grocery delivery companies Zomato at number five and its competitor Swiggy at number nine.The category also included fast food and fast casual restaurants, restaurant order and delivery, other food delivery services, dining and listing, reviews and reservations and dining and restaurant apps.

 

2. Jayant Chaudhary inaugurates NSDC International Academy at Greater Noida: Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education inaugurated the NSDC International Academy at Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.The academy is a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide world-class skill development and training programmes.With a target of training over 1,000 candidates annually, the NSDC International Academy is committed to addressing the demands of both local and international job markets.With residential facilities accommodating up to 500 candidates, the NSDC International Academy offers an immersive learning environment that promotes both academic and personal growth.

 

3. Following USA, Argentina withdraws from World Health Organization: Argentina announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following the United States’ similar move under President Donald Trump.The decision was made by Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei, who instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to initiate the withdrawal.President Milei cited “deep differences” regarding the WHO’s management of health issues, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

4. 6 February – International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is observed every year on 6 February.The day aims to raise awareness and promote action to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a harmful practice affecting millions of women and girls worldwide Theme 2025- Step up the Pace

In 2012, the UN General Assembly designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, with the aim to amplify and direct the efforts on the elimination of this practice. Since 2008, UNFPA, jointly with UNICEF, leads the largest global programme to accelerate the elimination of female genital mutilation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Enhances Firepower with New Contracts: The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently signed contracts worth Rs 10,147 crore to boost the firepower of the Indian Army. These agreements involve the procurement of advanced munitions for the indigenously developed PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The contracts were signed with Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL). Additionally, software upgrades were contracted to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). This initiative is step in the modernisation of India’s defence capabilities. The MoD’s procurement strategy prioritises indigenous development. Collaborations with private companies like Bharat Forge and Tata Group are expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing. This approach not only enhances military capabilities but also promotes economic growth by encouraging local industries.

 

2. Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles: Recently, the focus on India-U.S. defence collaboration intensified, particularly concerning the Stryker infantry combat vehicles. This comes in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump‘s encouragement for India to increase military procurement from the U.S. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington D.C. has further brought into light this strategic partnership. The Stryker vehicle’s performance in high-altitude conditions has been a key area of evaluation for the Indian Army. India’s procurement strategy involves a two-stage process. Initially, a small number of Strykers will be directly imported. Subsequently, a larger quantity will be manufactured in India, likely by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). This approach aims to enhance local defence manufacturing capabilities.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Two time Grand Slams winner Simona Halep announced Retirement: Two-time grand slam champion and former world No. 1 Simona Halep has retired from tennis.The Romanian announced her decision at the Transylvania Open in Cluj, Romania after losing her first-round match against Lucia Bronzetti 6-1, 6-1.Halep has struggled with injuries since returning to the court last year after serving a doping ban.The 33-year-old was handed a four-year ban in September 2023 after testing positive for the banned substance Roxadustat at the 2022 US Open.

She won her first grand slam at the French Open in 2018, before securing her second at Wimbledon in 2019.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India’s Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Revolution: India’s electric vehicle (EV) charging market is experiencing growth. Recent investments have exceeded $450 million in start-ups focused on charging networks and battery-swapping models. Despite this, the current infrastructure is inadequate. There is only one public charger for every 135 EVs, compared to a global average of one charger for every 6 to 20 EVs. To meet ambitious government targets, urgent expansion of charging facilities is essential. Government initiatives have played important role in attracting investment. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME II) scheme and Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) have been implemented. Various state governments have introduced policies offering subsidies and support for land acquisition, particularly in urban areas.

 

2. SARAT Version 2: The Government of India has recently upgraded its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to enhance operational efficiency for search and rescue agencies. The latest version, SARAT version 2, aims to provide faster response times and higher success rates in search-and-rescue operations, particularly in the Indian Ocean region. The latest version introduces several enhancements. The computation of probable search areas is now anchored to the Last Known Position (LKP) of the object. This shift allows for more accurate search area definitions. Previously, the search area was determined based on the point with the minimum longitude, which was less precise.

 

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. L & T Finance launches AI-powered Virtual Home Loan Advisor ‘KAI’: L &T Finance Limited (LTF) has introduced Knowledgeable AI (KAI), an AI-powered virtual home loan advisor, designed to simplify and personalize the home loan journey, accessible on their newly redesigned corporate website.KAI addresses challenges like complex terminology, intricate calculations, and lengthy processes, offering intuitive, efficient support to first-time homebuyers, helping them navigate the home loan process smoothly.Utilizing a specialized Large Language Model (LLM), KAI provides personalized guidance, instant EMI calculations, and expert answers, functioning as a 24/7 home loan guide rather than a traditional chatbot.

 

2. Recent Facilities Launched in Banking & Insurance Sector: PNB MetLife partners with Policybazaar to Launch Smart Invest Pension Plan for Early RetirementFinvasia partners with Yes Bank to launch AI-enabled super app ‘Jumpp’Shriram GI Unveils Shri Health Suraksha Insurance – A Comprehensive and Affordable Health PlanTata AIA Life Insurance launches ‘Shubh Muhurat’ to meet wedding expenses IDFC FIRST Bank launched the UPI enabled RuPay Credit Card called – FIRST EARN .

 

3. Airtel Payments Bank partners with Karnataka Bulldozers for CCL 2025: Airtel Payments Bank has partnered with the Karnataka Bulldozers for the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) 2025.As part of this collaboration, Airtel Payments Bank will be co-sponsoring the team in its quest for victory while promoting safe digital banking solutions to fans across the nation.The Celebrity Cricket League, known for its blend of cricket and entertainment, will begin on 8 February 2025. Through this collaboration, Airtel Payments Bank aims to connect with millions of cricket fans nationwide and reinforce its position as a trusted partner in digital banking.

 

Daily GK Update- 6th Feb, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Budget 2025-26: ₹20,000 Crore Allocated for ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a ₹20,000 crore ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’ to develop indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMR).The Budget proposes that at least five of these reactors will be operationalised by 2033.India’s larger goal of ensuring 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 and towards this, amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act would be made.

 

2. Budget 2025-26: Maritime Development Fund with ₹25,000-crore corpus: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a Rs 25,000 crore maritime development fund for the shipping industry among other incentives.This follows complaints from Indian exporters against alleged “arm-twisting” by foreign shipping lines over freight rates amid the ongoing Red Sea crisis.The Rs 25,000 crore maritime development fund will be for distributed support and promoting competition. This will have a 49 per cent contribution by the government and the balance will be mobilised by the ports and the private sector.

 

3. Budget 2025-26: UDAN scheme to add 120 new destinations in next 10 years: Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced that the government will launch a modified version of its regional connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik), which will set out to connect 120 new destinations over the next 10 years.The finance minister has allocated ₹530 crore for UDAN in 2025-26, compared to the revised estimate of ₹800 crore in 2024-25. The scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2016, aims to make air travel affordable by improving connectivity from unserved and underserved airports.The modified scheme will expand its scope to include support for helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational, and northeastern regional districts, Sitharaman said.According to the Economic Survey, UDAN has already operationalised 619 routes connecting 88 airports, including two water aerodromes and 13 heliports.

 

4. Budget 2025-26: Top 50 tourist destinations to be developed in ‘Challenge Mode’: In a significant boost to tourism, the Union Budget 2025 allocated funds for the development of the top 50 tourist destinations in the country in partnership with State governments through a “challenge mode”.While States will be responsible for providing land for essential infrastructural development, hotels at these destinations will be included in the Harmonised Master List (HML) of infrastructure projects.The government will also promote homestays by extending Mudra loans to these businesses and organising skill development programmes in hospitality institutes. Additionally, it will streamline e-visa facilities and provide visa fee waivers for select tourist groups to attract international visitors.The total Budget allocation for the Ministry for 2025-26 stands at ₹2,541.06 crore, marking a substantial increase from the revised estimate of ₹36 crore in 2024-25.

 

5. India’s First White Tiger Breeding Centre Approved in Madhya Pradesh: Central Zoo Authority (CZA), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), has approved the proposal to set up India’s 1st white tiger breeding centre in Govindgarh area of Rewadistrict in Madhya Pradesh.The breeding centre is expected to enhance biodiversity conservation, promote wildlife tourism, and create job opportunities for the local population.

 

6. Shivraj Singh Chouhan launches a national-level mass outreach campaign “Watershed Yatra” : Union Minister of Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched a national level mass outreach campaign “Watershed Yatra”, in Hybrid mode to generate people’s participation and create awareness about the Watershed Development activities carried out under Watershed Development Component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY 2.0) in project areas.A total of about 800 Gram Panchayats and more than one lakh people participated in the Watershed Yatra launch program. The Watershed Yatra will consist of Van movement for around 60-90 days across 805 projects, which cover 6673 GPs (13587 villages) in 26 States and 2 UTs.The Department has developed a Learning Management System (LMS) on Watershed Development and hosted on DoLR’s website, which has also been linked to MY Bharat portal for further engagement of youth.

 

7. ECI’s ‘Chandrayaan Se Chunao Tak’ initiative boosts voter enthusiasm in West Delhi: A captivating and futuristic initiative by the Election Commission of India (ECI) has been turning heads and generating excitement in West Delhi.At a special polling booth in Vikaspuri, voters are greeted with a remarkable theme: “India’s Flight from Chandrayaan to Election.”The booth is unlike any other, featuring models of the Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan, as well as interactive displays of planets through a bioscope and telescope.The idea behind this initiative is to increase voter awareness and enthusiasm, while also celebrating India’s remarkable achievements in space exploration.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UK becomes first nation to outlaw AI tools used to generate child sexual abuse content : The United Kingdom has become the first country to introduce laws against artificial intelligence tools used to generate sexualised images of children.The government announced that it would make it illegal to possess, create or distribute AI tools that generate abusive images, making it a crime punishable by up to five years in prison.AI tools are being used to generate child sexual abuse images by “nudeifying” real-life images of children or by “stitching the faces of other children onto existing images.

 

2. BAPS inaugurates South Africa’s largest Hindu Temple in Johannesburg: The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) has inaugurated the largest Hindu Temple of South Africa in Johannesburg.The inauguration of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Cultural Complex marks a historic milestone for the Hindu community in the country.This new temple joins a growing network of 35 BAPS temples across Africa, including seven in South Africa.BAPS has currently a global presence with over thirteen thousand temples built across various countries, serving as centres for spirituality, cultural preservation, and community service.

 

3. President Trump signs executive order withdrawing US from UNHRC : President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the US from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), prohibiting any future funding for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.President Trump also directed the US to review its participation in the UN’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).The Executive order said that the United States helped found the United Nations after World War II to prevent future global conflicts and promote international peace and security. Mr. Trump halted funds for UNRWA during his first term. President Joe Biden put a block on US funds for UNRWA in January 2024.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Fort William Renamed as Vijay Durg: ecently, the Indian Army’s Eastern Command headquarters, Fort William, was officially renamed Vijay Durg. This change reflects India’s ongoing efforts to shed colonial legacies and honour its indigenous military history. The decision to rename the fort was made in December 2024, marking a historic shift from British influence in recognition of India’s past. Additionally, Kitchener House inside Fort William was renamed Manekshaw House, and St. George’s Gate has been renamed Shivaji Gate. Fort William stands as a reminder of colonial architecture in India. Its design and construction reflect the military needs of the time. While much of the fort remains unchanged, adaptations have been made to suit contemporary military requirements.

 

2. Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan Initiative: On the occasion of 77th Army Day, the Defence Ministry launched the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative. This programme aims to promote battlefield tourism across India. It focuses on 77 sites that commemorate the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. The initiative is a collaboration between the Indian Army, state governments, and the Ministry of Tourism. It seeks to enhance awareness of India’s military history while ensuring visitor safety. Safety is paramount for visitors to these sensitive locations. The Indian Army has implemented several risk mitigation strategies. Visitors must coordinate with army units for access to high-risk zones. Special permits regulate entry to certain high-altitude areas. Emergency response protocols are in place, ensuring immediate medical assistance when needed.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Develops Vaccine Candidate Against H5N1: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is spearheading the development of a human vaccine candidate against the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1. This initiative comes in response to recent outbreaks that have posed threats to both animal and human health in India. The ICMR is inviting eligible organisations and manufacturers to collaborate in this critical research and development effort. H5N1 poses a grave public health risk due to its high mortality rate and potential for a global pandemic. The virus can mutate, allowing sustained human-to-human transmission. Although human cases are rare, they can lead to severe outcomes. The case fatality rate exceeds 50 per cent in infected individuals. Symptoms include fever, respiratory distress, and multi-organ failure.

 

2. Global Concerns Over DeepSeek AI Usage: DeepSeek, a Chinese AI application, has recently faced scrutiny due to privacy and security concerns. Various governments have issued bans on its use, particularly within official capacities. The Finance Ministry of India has advised its employees against using AI tools like DeepSeek and ChatGPT, citing risks to sensitive government data. This advisory comes at a time when India plans to develop its own AI models to compete globally. DeepSeek has been under investigation for its data collection practices. Privacy watchdogs in Europe have raised alarms about how the app handles user data. DeepSeek’s privacy policy states that it stores information on servers in China. This raises fears that user data could be accessed by Chinese authorities.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Approves Tata Communications’ Rs. 330 Crore ATM Business Sale to Findi : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Tata Communications’ plan to sell its entire stake in Tata Communications Payment Solutions (TCPSL) to Transaction Solutions International (TSI), the Indian arm of Australian fintech company Findi.The deal, first announced in November 2024, is valued at Rs 330 crore, with an additional Rs 75 crore based on interchange rate adjustments.TSI currently operates more than 7,500 “brown label” ATMs, partnering with banks like SBI, PNB, Central Bank of India, and HDFC. It also manages back-end operations for over 10,000 “white label” ATMs and facilitates digital payments through 50,000+ merchants under its FindiPay brand.

 

2. NaBFID raises Rs 5,000 crore via 15-year bonds at 7.25% cut-off rate: State-owned National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) has raised Rs 5,000 crore through 15-year bonds at a cut-off rate of 7.25 per cent.Additionally, the state-owned Power Finance Corporation (PFC) raised Rs 3,950 crore through bonds maturing in approximately 10 years and 20 years, with cut-off rates of 7.24 per cent and7.25 per cent, respectively.According to market participants, NaBFID’s cut-off rate was considered realistic, given the large state development loan (SDL) issue this week and the increasing selectivity among some of the large long-term investors. The cut-off for ‘AAA’-rated long-term issuance has moved up in the last few months.State–owned REC had raised Rs 1,620 crore through bonds maturing in 10 years at a very attractive cut of 7.10 per cent. During this time, the 10–year government securities yield has come down from 6.74 per cent at the end of November to 6.67 per cent as of February 4.

 

3. PNB MetLife partners with Policybazaar to Launch Smart Invest Pension Plan for Early Retirement: Lift insurance firm PNB MetLife has partnered with Policybazaar to launch the PNB MetLife Smart Invest Pension Plan, a Unit-Linked, Non-Participating Individual Pension Plan, designed to help individuals plan for their golden years.The Smart Invest Pension Plan is designed for individuals between 40 to 50 years of age and offers a flexible approach to early retirement planning.MD & CEO of PNB MetLife – Sameer Bansal

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Chaman Arora awarded Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri for his book “Ik Hor Ashwthama”: Sri Madhav Kaushik, President, Sahitya Akademi, has approved Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 in Dogri for Ik Hor Ashwthama (Short Stories) by Late Chaman Arora.The book was selected on the basis of recommendation made by the Jury comprising three members in accordance with the rules and procedures laid down for the purpose.The Award in the form of a casket containing an engraved copper-plaque and a payment of Rs.1,00,000/- will be presented to the family member/nominee of the awardee at a special function will be held on 8 March 2025 at New Delhi.The Sahitya Akademi was formally inaugurated by the Government of India on 12 March 1954.Akademi gives 24 awards annually to literary works in the languages it has recognized and an equal number of awards to literary translations from and into the languages of India. Besides the 22 languages enumerated in the Constitution of India, the Sahitya Akademi has recognised English and Rajasthani as languages in which its programme may be implemented.

 

2. Chandrika Tandon wins Best New Age Album Award at the 67th Grammy: Indian-born American musician Chandrika Tandon won her first Grammy award in the ‘ Best New Age Album, Ambient or Chant Album category’ for her album Triveni at the 67th Grammy Awards 2025.This was the first Grammy Award for the 71-year-old Chandrika Tandon who was once nominated for a Grammy award in 2011 for her album Soul Call.The 67th annual Grammy Awards function was held at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the United States of America.The Grammy Awards is considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in the music industry and is given annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences in the United States of America. The first Grammy Award was given in 1959.