Daily GK Update- 21st Mar, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government sets up inter-ministerial-industry panel on fintech, DFS Secretary to head Panel: The government has set up an inter-ministerial-industry committee on fintech (IMICF) to look into entire gamut of issues that affect growth of fintech sector and suggest long term strategy for its development.The Panel, which is being chaired by DFS Secretary M Nagaraju, will also look into how fintech has influenced the broader banking and financial services industry, identify obstacles that hinder growth, and analyse global best practices in governance and regulation.The panel will analyse the growth of fintech sector and its contribution to BFSI sector; understand the issues and challenges of the fintech sector; take stock of the regulatory and policy developments in the fintech sector.The Committee is also expected to frame a “vision strategy” that would outline policy interventions and come up with industry recommendations.

 

2. Delhi Police launches ‘Shishtachar’ anti-eve-teasing squad to ensure women’s safety: Delhi Police has launched a dedicated squad against eve teasing, ‘Shishtachar,’ with at least 30 teams deployed across the national capital, especially in hotspots, to check incidents of harassment and ensure the safety of women in public spaces.These squads, consisting of male and female officers, will patrol high-risk areas, swiftly act on complaints and spread awareness regarding laws against harassment.The initiative adopts a multi-faceted approach, involving prevention, intervention and victim assistance. The squads have been directed to focus on enforcing the law without imposing personal or cultural morality, while also ensuring that victims are protected from undue public scrutiny or embarrassment.

 

3. Cabinet approves revised ₹2,790 crore dairy development scheme to boost infrastructure: The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), aimed at modernizing India’s dairy sector and ensuring its long-term growth.The scheme, classified as a Central Sector initiative, has been allocated an additional ₹1,000 crore, taking the total budget outlay to ₹2,790 crore for the duration of the 15th Finance Commission period from 2021-22 to 2025-26.The revised programme is focused on strengthening the dairy infrastructure across the country. It seeks to boost milk procurement and processing capacity, improve quality control systems, and ensure better market access for dairy farmers.The initiative is designed to encourage value addition in the sector, streamline supply chain efficiency, and ultimately raise rural incomes, particularly benefiting women, who represent 70% of India’s dairy workforce.

 

4. Cabinet approves implementation of Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission with enhanced allocation for 2024-25 and 2025-26: The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to boost growth in the livestock sector.The revised mission will be implemented as a Central Sector component of the Development Programmes scheme, with an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore, bringing the total allocation to ₹3,400 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle from 2021-22 to 2025-26.Two new activities have been introduced under the revised RGM. The first is a one-time assistance of 35 percent of the capital cost for the establishment of Heifer Rearing Centres, which will help in creating 30 housing facilities with a total of 15,000 heifers.The second initiative aims to encourage farmers to purchase High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF heifers by providing a 3 percent interest subvention on loans taken from milk unions, financial institutions, or banks for such purchases. This will facilitate the systematic induction of high-yielding breeds.

 

5. Union Cabinet approves new ammonia-urea complex in Assam: The s has approved a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex at Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup, Assam, with an annual production capacity of 12.7 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT).

The project will be executed under a Joint Venture (JV) with a 70:30 Debt-Equity ratio at a cost of ₹10,601.40 crore, following the New Investment Policy, 2012, and its 2014 amendments, with a completion timeline of 48 months.National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) has been granted an 18% equity stake, exceeding the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) guidelines, and an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) will oversee the project’s execution.The equity structure includes 40% by the Government of Assam, 11% by BVFCL, 18% each by National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) and Oil India Limited (OIL), and 13% by Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL).

 

6. Cabinet approves construction of 6-lane high-speed highway in Maharashtra: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by PM Modi, has approved the construction of a six-lane access-controlled Greenfield High-Speed National Highway from JNPA Port (Pagote) to Chowk in Maharashtra.The project, spanning 29.219 km, will be developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) mode at a total capital cost of ₹4,500.62 crore.The development of road connectivity to major and minor ports in India is a key focus area under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan principles. With the increasing container volume at JNPA Port and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the need for enhanced National Highway connectivity in the region has been identified.The newly approved project aims to address these connectivity challenges and enhance logistics efficiency between JNPA Port and Navi Mumbai International Airport. The highway alignment will commence at JNPA Port (NH 348) in Pagote village and conclude at Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH-48), while also linking the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH-66).

 

7. Bajaj Auto Reappoints Rajiv Bajaj as MD & CEO: Bajaj Auto has reappointed Rajivnayan Rahulkumar Bajaj as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for a five-year term starting April 1, 2025.The company’s board also approved a Rs 1,500 crore fund infusion into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bajaj Auto Credit Ltd (BACL), to be disbursed in phases during FY 2025-26, aimed at boosting BACL’s assets under management.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 20 March – World Sparrow Day: World Sparrow Day is observed annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the declining population of sparrows and the need for their conservation.Theme 2025 – A Tribute to Nature’s Tiny Messengers First observed in 2010 to highlight the challenges faced by sparrows due to urbanization, habitat loss, pollution, and radiation from mobile towers.

 

2. 20 March – International Day of Happiness: The International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20 to recognize the importance of happiness and well-being in people’s lives worldwide.Theme 2025 – CARING AND SHARINGThe General Assembly of the United Nations passed a resolution 66/281 of 12 July 2012 announcing March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, recognising the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals.

 

3. 20 March – World Oral Health Day: World Oral Health Day is celebrated annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene, dental care, and overall oral health.The day encourages individuals to adopt healthy oral habits and emphasizes the impact of oral health on overall well-being. Theme 2025 – A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Mind

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. GRSE Completes Sea Trials for Himgiri and Androth: CSTs are crucial for assessing a ship’s seaworthiness. During these trials, various performance metrics are evaluated. These include speed, manoeuvrability, and the functionality of onboard equipment. Senior officials from GRSE and the Indian Navy monitored the trials closely. The completion of these trials signifies that the vessels are ready for operational deployment. The Himgiri is the first of three Advanced Frigates being constructed under Project 17A. This project aims to enhance India’s naval capabilities with modern, indigenously designed ships. The Androth is the second of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare vessels being built at GRSE. Both ships feature advanced technology and improved stealth capabilities.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. INCOIS Identifies Cyclone Formation and Intensification Factors: Recent advancements in cyclone research have emerged from the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information and Services (INCOIS). Scientists have successfully quantified the oceanic and atmospheric factors influencing cyclone formation and intensification. This research is crucial for enhancing cyclone prediction and improving contingency planning for coastal regions in India. The Indian coastline is particularly vulnerable to cyclones during two main periods – April-May and October-December. May and November typically see the most intense storms. Historically, three out of four cyclones develop in the Bay of Bengal. However, the Arabian Sea has also witnessed severe storms in recent years. These cyclones often exhibit rapid intensification, complicating predictions.

 

2. H7N9 Bird Flu Outbreak in US: The spread of avian influenza has devastated poultry flocks around the world. This disruption has led to increase in egg prices, reaching record highs. The economic impact extends beyond poultry to other livestock, including dairy cows, raising concerns about broader food supply issues. The H7N9 virus has a high fatality rate among infected individuals. Since its emergence, 616 deaths have been reported from 1,568 confirmed cases. Most human infections have been linked to exposure to live poultry or contaminated environments. However, the World Health Organisation has indicated that the virus does not easily transmit from person to person.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Cabinet approves Rs 1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote low-value BHIM-UPI transactions: The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote low-value BHIM-UPI transactions (P2M) for FY 2024-25, running from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.The scheme is designed to encourage the adoption of the BHIM-UPI platform among small merchants and aligns with the government’s broader vision of transitioning towards a less-cash economy.The scheme focuses on transactions under ₹2,000, offering a 0.15% incentive per transaction for small merchants, while large merchants are not eligible.80% of the admitted claim amount will be disbursed each quarter unconditionally, while the remaining 20% depends on meeting performance criteria, including a technical decline rate below 0.75% and system uptime above 99.5%.The initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion by promoting digital payments, particularly through UPI services like UPI 123PAY and UPI Lite, reducing cash dependence in rural and remote areas.

 

2. RBI and Bank of Mauritius sign pact on use of local currencies for bilateral transactions: Reserve Bank and the Bank of Mauritius (BOM) have signed a pact for establishing a framework to promote the use of the Indian Rupee and the Mauritian Rupee (MUR) for cross-border transactions.The MoU was signed by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and BOM Governor Rama Krishna Sithanen G C S K.The MoU aims to promote the use of INR and MUR in bilateral trade. The MoU covers all current account transactions and permissible capital account transactions as agreed upon by both the countries.The framework would enable exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies, which in turn, would enable the development of a market in the INR-MUR pair.Use of local currencies in bilateral transactions will eventually contribute to promoting trade between India and Mauritius as well as deepen financial integration and strengthen the historical, cultural, and, economic relations between India and Mauritius.

3. RBI infuses Rs. 5 Lakh Crore into Banking System: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has infused over Rs. 5 lakh crore into the banking system since mid-January through bond purchases, forex swaps, and early-April maturity repos.Aiming to maintain surplus liquidity and ensure the transmission of its rate cut benefits to borrowers, the central bank is set to inject an additional Rs. 50,000 crore via bond repurchases.Additionally, even as RBI injects liquidity, it continues to withdraw rupees by selling dollars from its forex reserves. This strategy has helped stabilize the financial system, but short-term interest rates remain elevated due to liquidity deficits and economic uncertainties.

 

4. SBI Mutual Fund launches two new PSU bank-focused investment schemes: SBI Mutual Fund has introduced two new investment options centred around India’s public sector banking sector.

SBI BSE PSU Bank Index Fund – An open-ended scheme that mirrors or tracks the BSE PSU Bank Index.SBI BSE PSU Bank ETF – An open-ended exchange-traded fund (ETF) that also replicates the BSE PSU Bank Index.Their objective is to deliver returns closely aligned with the performance of the BSE PSU Bank Index, subject to tracking error. However, SBI Mutual Fund has clarified that achieving this investment objective is not guaranteed.The funds will primarily allocate 95% to 100% of their assets to stocks listed in the BSE PSU Bank Index.

 

Daily GK Update- 20th Mar, 2025

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government sets up inter-ministerial-industry panel on fintech, DFS Secretary to head Panel: The government has set up an inter-ministerial-industry committee on fintech (IMICF) to look into entire gamut of issues that affect growth of fintech sector and suggest long term strategy for its development.The Panel, which is being chaired by DFS Secretary M Nagaraju, will also look into how fintech has influenced the broader banking and financial services industry, identify obstacles that hinder growth, and analyse global best practices in governance and regulation.The panel will analyse the growth of fintech sector and its contribution to BFSI sector; understand the issues and challenges of the fintech sector; take stock of the regulatory and policy developments in the fintech sector.The Committee is also expected to frame a “vision strategy” that would outline policy interventions and come up with industry recommendations.

 

2. Delhi Police launches ‘Shishtachar’ anti-eve-teasing squad to ensure women’s safety: Delhi Police has launched a dedicated squad against eve teasing, ‘Shishtachar,’ with at least 30 teams deployed across the national capital, especially in hotspots, to check incidents of harassment and ensure the safety of women in public spaces.These squads, consisting of male and female officers, will patrol high-risk areas, swiftly act on complaints and spread awareness regarding laws against harassment.The initiative adopts a multi-faceted approach, involving prevention, intervention and victim assistance. The squads have been directed to focus on enforcing the law without imposing personal or cultural morality, while also ensuring that victims are protected from undue public scrutiny or embarrassment.

 

3. Cabinet approves revised ₹2,790 crore dairy development scheme to boost infrastructure: The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), aimed at modernizing India’s dairy sector and ensuring its long-term growth.The scheme, classified as a Central Sector initiative, has been allocated an additional ₹1,000 crore, taking the total budget outlay to ₹2,790 crore for the duration of the 15th Finance Commission period from 2021-22 to 2025-26.The revised programme is focused on strengthening the dairy infrastructure across the country. It seeks to boost milk procurement and processing capacity, improve quality control systems, and ensure better market access for dairy farmers.The initiative is designed to encourage value addition in the sector, streamline supply chain efficiency, and ultimately raise rural incomes, particularly benefiting women, who represent 70% of India’s dairy workforce.

 

4. Cabinet approves implementation of Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission with enhanced allocation for 2024-25 and 2025-26: The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to boost growth in the livestock sector.The revised mission will be implemented as a Central Sector component of the Development Programmes scheme, with an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore, bringing the total allocation to ₹3,400 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle from 2021-22 to 2025-26.Two new activities have been introduced under the revised RGM. The first is a one-time assistance of 35 percent of the capital cost for the establishment of Heifer Rearing Centres, which will help in creating 30 housing facilities with a total of 15,000 heifers.The second initiative aims to encourage farmers to purchase High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF heifers by providing a 3 percent interest subvention on loans taken from milk unions, financial institutions, or banks for such purchases. This will facilitate the systematic induction of high-yielding breeds.

 

5. Union Cabinet approves new ammonia-urea complex in Assam: The s has approved a new Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex at Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup, Assam, with an annual production capacity of 12.7 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT).

The project will be executed under a Joint Venture (JV) with a 70:30 Debt-Equity ratio at a cost of ₹10,601.40 crore, following the New Investment Policy, 2012, and its 2014 amendments, with a completion timeline of 48 months.National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) has been granted an 18% equity stake, exceeding the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) guidelines, and an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) will oversee the project’s execution.The equity structure includes 40% by the Government of Assam, 11% by BVFCL, 18% each by National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) and Oil India Limited (OIL), and 13% by Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL).

 

6. Cabinet approves construction of 6-lane high-speed highway in Maharashtra: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by PM Modi, has approved the construction of a six-lane access-controlled Greenfield High-Speed National Highway from JNPA Port (Pagote) to Chowk in Maharashtra.The project, spanning 29.219 km, will be developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) mode at a total capital cost of ₹4,500.62 crore.The development of road connectivity to major and minor ports in India is a key focus area under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan principles. With the increasing container volume at JNPA Port and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the need for enhanced National Highway connectivity in the region has been identified.The newly approved project aims to address these connectivity challenges and enhance logistics efficiency between JNPA Port and Navi Mumbai International Airport. The highway alignment will commence at JNPA Port (NH 348) in Pagote village and conclude at Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH-48), while also linking the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH-66).

 

7. Bajaj Auto Reappoints Rajiv Bajaj as MD & CEO: Bajaj Auto has reappointed Rajivnayan Rahulkumar Bajaj as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for a five-year term starting April 1, 2025.The company’s board also approved a Rs 1,500 crore fund infusion into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bajaj Auto Credit Ltd (BACL), to be disbursed in phases during FY 2025-26, aimed at boosting BACL’s assets under management.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 20 March – World Sparrow Day: World Sparrow Day is observed annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the declining population of sparrows and the need for their conservation.Theme 2025 – A Tribute to Nature’s Tiny Messengers First observed in 2010 to highlight the challenges faced by sparrows due to urbanization, habitat loss, pollution, and radiation from mobile towers.

 

2. 20 March – International Day of Happiness: The International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20 to recognize the importance of happiness and well-being in people’s lives worldwide.Theme 2025 – CARING AND SHARINGThe General Assembly of the United Nations passed a resolution 66/281 of 12 July 2012 announcing March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, recognising the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals.

 

3. 20 March – World Oral Health Day: World Oral Health Day is celebrated annually on March 20 to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene, dental care, and overall oral health.The day encourages individuals to adopt healthy oral habits and emphasizes the impact of oral health on overall well-being. Theme 2025 – A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Mind

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. GRSE Completes Sea Trials for Himgiri and Androth: CSTs are crucial for assessing a ship’s seaworthiness. During these trials, various performance metrics are evaluated. These include speed, manoeuvrability, and the functionality of onboard equipment. Senior officials from GRSE and the Indian Navy monitored the trials closely. The completion of these trials signifies that the vessels are ready for operational deployment. The Himgiri is the first of three Advanced Frigates being constructed under Project 17A. This project aims to enhance India’s naval capabilities with modern, indigenously designed ships. The Androth is the second of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare vessels being built at GRSE. Both ships feature advanced technology and improved stealth capabilities.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. INCOIS Identifies Cyclone Formation and Intensification Factors: Recent advancements in cyclone research have emerged from the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information and Services (INCOIS). Scientists have successfully quantified the oceanic and atmospheric factors influencing cyclone formation and intensification. This research is crucial for enhancing cyclone prediction and improving contingency planning for coastal regions in India. The Indian coastline is particularly vulnerable to cyclones during two main periods – April-May and October-December. May and November typically see the most intense storms. Historically, three out of four cyclones develop in the Bay of Bengal. However, the Arabian Sea has also witnessed severe storms in recent years. These cyclones often exhibit rapid intensification, complicating predictions.

 

2. H7N9 Bird Flu Outbreak in US: The spread of avian influenza has devastated poultry flocks around the world. This disruption has led to increase in egg prices, reaching record highs. The economic impact extends beyond poultry to other livestock, including dairy cows, raising concerns about broader food supply issues. The H7N9 virus has a high fatality rate among infected individuals. Since its emergence, 616 deaths have been reported from 1,568 confirmed cases. Most human infections have been linked to exposure to live poultry or contaminated environments. However, the World Health Organisation has indicated that the virus does not easily transmit from person to person.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Cabinet approves Rs 1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote low-value BHIM-UPI transactions: The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote low-value BHIM-UPI transactions (P2M) for FY 2024-25, running from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.The scheme is designed to encourage the adoption of the BHIM-UPI platform among small merchants and aligns with the government’s broader vision of transitioning towards a less-cash economy.The scheme focuses on transactions under ₹2,000, offering a 0.15% incentive per transaction for small merchants, while large merchants are not eligible.80% of the admitted claim amount will be disbursed each quarter unconditionally, while the remaining 20% depends on meeting performance criteria, including a technical decline rate below 0.75% and system uptime above 99.5%.The initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion by promoting digital payments, particularly through UPI services like UPI 123PAY and UPI Lite, reducing cash dependence in rural and remote areas.

 

2. RBI and Bank of Mauritius sign pact on use of local currencies for bilateral transactions: Reserve Bank and the Bank of Mauritius (BOM) have signed a pact for establishing a framework to promote the use of the Indian Rupee and the Mauritian Rupee (MUR) for cross-border transactions.The MoU was signed by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and BOM Governor Rama Krishna Sithanen G C S K.The MoU aims to promote the use of INR and MUR in bilateral trade. The MoU covers all current account transactions and permissible capital account transactions as agreed upon by both the countries.The framework would enable exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies, which in turn, would enable the development of a market in the INR-MUR pair.Use of local currencies in bilateral transactions will eventually contribute to promoting trade between India and Mauritius as well as deepen financial integration and strengthen the historical, cultural, and, economic relations between India and Mauritius.

3. RBI infuses Rs. 5 Lakh Crore into Banking System: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has infused over Rs. 5 lakh crore into the banking system since mid-January through bond purchases, forex swaps, and early-April maturity repos.Aiming to maintain surplus liquidity and ensure the transmission of its rate cut benefits to borrowers, the central bank is set to inject an additional Rs. 50,000 crore via bond repurchases.Additionally, even as RBI injects liquidity, it continues to withdraw rupees by selling dollars from its forex reserves. This strategy has helped stabilize the financial system, but short-term interest rates remain elevated due to liquidity deficits and economic uncertainties.

 

4. SBI Mutual Fund launches two new PSU bank-focused investment schemes: SBI Mutual Fund has introduced two new investment options centred around India’s public sector banking sector.

SBI BSE PSU Bank Index Fund – An open-ended scheme that mirrors or tracks the BSE PSU Bank Index.SBI BSE PSU Bank ETF – An open-ended exchange-traded fund (ETF) that also replicates the BSE PSU Bank Index.Their objective is to deliver returns closely aligned with the performance of the BSE PSU Bank Index, subject to tracking error. However, SBI Mutual Fund has clarified that achieving this investment objective is not guaranteed.The funds will primarily allocate 95% to 100% of their assets to stocks listed in the BSE PSU Bank Index.

 

Daily GK Update- 19th Mar, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Meghalaya inaugurates first scientific coal mine after nearly a decade long ban: Meghalaya initiated the scientific mining of coal after almost a decade of ban on rat-hole coal mining imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma virtually inaugurated the first scientific coal mining block at Saryngkham-A block in the Byndihati area of East Jaintia Hills district.The NGT enforced the ban on rat-hole coal mining in 2014 after a series of coal mine tragedies in Meghalaya over the years. Later, the Supreme Court had upheld the ban order.

 

2. FM Nirmala Sitharaman Launches Mobile App for PM Internship Scheme: Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman has launched a dedicated mobile app for the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme in New Delhi.The App provides various facilities including intuitive interface with a clean design and effortless navigation, easy registration through Aadhaar face authentication and real time alerts to keep candidates abreast of new updates.The PM Internship Scheme has the potential to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations, thereby enhancing youth employability.The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme was announced in the Budget 2024-25. It aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in top 500 companies in five years. As an initiation to this Scheme, the Pilot Project targeted at providing 1.25 lakh internship opportunities to the youth was launched in October last year.

 

3. Anupriya Patel inaugurates the India Innovation Summit: Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel has inaugurated the India Innovation Summit – Pioneering Solutions to End TB, at Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre.The Summit was organized jointly by the Department of Health Research-Indian Council of Medical Research (DHR-ICMR) and the Central TB Division (CTD), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The summit aims to accelerate India’s progress towards TB elimination by 2025.The Program is steadily progressing towards the goal of eliminating TB by 2025. The number of missing cases has been reduced from 15 lakh in 2015 to 2.5 lakhs in 2023.The programme was able to notify 25.5 lakh TB and 26.07 lakh cases in 2023 and 2024-the highest ever.

 

4. Vikas Kaushal takes charge as HPCL CMD : Vikas Kaushal has assumed charge as the Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL).A Chemical Engineering graduate from DCET, Panjab University, he holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.He started his career with ICICI Limited in Project Finance and Advisory Services before transitioning into global management consulting. Since 2000, he has been associated with A.T. Kearney.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and New Zealand explore digital payments, trade, and investment ties: India and New Zealand have agreed to boost cooperation in digital payments and greater two-way trade and investment during the ongoing visit of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.India’s merchandise exports to New Zealand stood at $535 million in 2023-24, while imports stood at $335.07 million, representing a total trade value of $873 million.The country is only the 59th largest source of historical foreign direct investment into India, accounting for $87.2 million of inward investments since 2000.Both leaders also welcomed the signing of the Authorised Economic Operators Mutual Recognition Arrangement under the aegis of the Customs Cooperation Arrangement signed in 2024, which would facilitate easier movement of goods between the two countries.After updating the bilateral air services agreement, both sides have also agreed to encourage their carriers to commence direct (non-stop) flight operations between the two countries.

 

2. Stuart Young to be sworn in as new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago: During a ceremony at the President’s House in St. Ann’s, Stuart Young will be sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago.Mr Young is currently serving as the Minister of Energy and Energy Industries. He will succeed the outgoing Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who made his last public appearance, during the People’s National Movement (PNM)’s Special Convention.

 

3. TAFE appoints Lakshmi Venu as vice chairman: Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE) has appointed Lakshmi Venu as Vice Chairman.Lakshmi has been a key member of our leadership team and a member of TAFE’s Board.Chairman & MD – Mallika Srinivasan

 

4. 15 March – International Day to Combat Islamophobia: The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is observed annually on March 15.This day was established by the United Nations (UN) in 2022 to address and raise awareness about Islamophobia, discrimination, and violence faced by Muslims worldwide.The UN General Assembly declared March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia in response to the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand, where 51 people were killed.The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution sponsored by 60 Member-States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which designated 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India and France to Strengthen Naval Ties with VARUNA 2025 Exercise in Arabian Sea: The Indian and French Navies are set to strengthen their maritime partnership with the 23rd edition of their bilateral naval exercise, Varuna 2025, scheduled to take place from March 19 to 22, 2025.This long-standing exercise, which began in 2001, continues to serve as a cornerstone of cooperation between the two nations, showcasing their commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy in the Indo-Pacific region.The exercise, to be conducted in the Arabian Sea, will feature an impressive lineup of naval assets, including the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the French Navy’s nuclear-powered carrier Charles de Gaulle.VARUNA 2025 will feature advanced air defence drills and fighter exercises, including mock air-to-air combat between the French Rafale-M and Indian MiG-29K, designed to refine tactical and operational capabilities.

 

2. Recent Exercise: 12th edition of Exercise KHANJAR-XII between India and Kyrgyzstan – Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan7th edition of Security Belt-2025 between Russia, China and Iran – Iranian port of Chabahar near Indian OceanExercise Desert Hunt 2025 between Indian Navy, Indian Army and India Air Force – Indian Air Force at Air Force Station Jodhpur.6^th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian between Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) – Mount Fuji, Japan.3^rd edition of military exercise “Cyclone 2025” between India and Egypt – Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.EX Winged Raiders between Indian Army and the Indian Air Force – Eastern Theater.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. IOC Board approves boxing for inclusion in 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has approved the inclusion of boxing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics games.The decision follows the IOC’s granting of provisional recognition to World Boxing last month (February), effectively sidelining the International Boxing Association (IBA) and transferring authority to the new governing body.World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst, said this is a significant decision for Olympic boxing and takes the sport one step closer to being restored to the Olympic programme.The IOC Executive Board on February 26 decided to provisionally recognise World Boxing, which is currently composed of 84 national federations over the five continents.

 

2. India secures 33 medals at Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025: India clinched 12 medals in four events on the final day, concluding their campaign at the Special Olympics World Winter Games with a total of 33 medals in Turin, Italy.India’s medal tally included 8 gold, 18 silver, and 7 bronze medals.This was the 12th edition of the Special Olympics Winter Games, happening after a long wait of 8 years. This was also the first time that Italy hosted the Special Olympics World Games.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Allianz exits Bajaj Insurance JVs after 24 years in €2.6 billion sale: German insurer Allianz SE has announced the sale of its 26% stake in two joint ventures with India’s Bajaj Finserv for approximately €2.6 billion ($2.84 billion).The agreement will see Bajaj Group gain complete ownership of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company (BAGIC) and Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company (BALIC), marking the end of a 24-year-old partnership.The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals from the Competition Commission of India and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).Once the transaction is completed, Bajaj Group will increase its ownership in BAGIC and BALIC from 74% to 100%. The deal will be executed in tranches, with at least 6.1% being acquired in the first phase, which will also see Allianz reclassified from “Promoter” to “Investor.”

 

2. Muthoot Microfin wins Double Gold at SKOCH Awards 2025 : Muthoot Microfin, a leading microfinance institution committed to empowering women entrepreneurs, has achieved a remarkable double victory at the SKOCH Awards 2025, securing two prestigious Gold Awards.The accolades were presented to Sadaf Sayeed, CEO of Muthoot Microfin, by Sameer Kochhar, Chairman of SKOCH Group, and Gursharan Dhanjal, Vice-Chairman of SKOCH Group, at a distinguished ceremony in New Delhi.The company was recognized for its excellence in digital financial inclusion and insurance solutions, winning:– Corporate Excellence – “Best Customer Application on Digital Financial Inclusion” for its groundbreaking Mahila Mitra initiative.– BFSI Award – “Best Insurance Scheme” for its Griha Raksha Insurance Scheme, which has provided coverage to 2.66 million beneficiaries, reinforcing Muthoot Microfin’s commitment to financial security and social empowerment.

 

3. Canara Bank becomes the first bank to introduce Online Digital Balance Confirmation Certificate: In a significant step toward digitisation and operational efficiency, Canara Bank has become the first bank in India to introduce an Online Digital Balance Confirmation Certificate through the PSB Alliance Pvt. Ltd portal.This initiative reduces the time required for auditors to complete the auditing process by replacing the traditional manual approach with a seamless digital solution.Previously, auditors had to approach banks individually with authority letters to obtain Balance Confirmation Certificates, a time-consuming process. With this digital service, confirmation will flow directly to auditors through the online portal after obtaining online consent from the customer, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bengaluru Airport wins air service quality award for third year running: Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIAB) has been honored with the Air Service Quality (ASQ) award for the third consecutive year.KIAB’s sustained commitment to delivering superior passenger experiences has been recognized through this consecutive accolade.The ASQ award is a testament to KIAB’s dedication to maintaining high service standards, reinforcing its position as a leading airport on the international stage.

 

Daily GK Update- 18th Mar, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PB-SHABD: Free subscription extended till March 2026 to support media organisations: Prasar Bharati’s Shared Audio-Visuals for Broadcast and Dissemination (PB-SHABD), a 24/7 news hub, has completed one year since its launch in March 2024.The platform provides over 1,000 daily stories in more than 50 categories, delivering high-quality news content without logos in text, video, picture, and audio formats. It is supported by an extensive network of over 1,500 reporters, correspondents, and stringers, ensuring comprehensive coverage from across India.To further support media organisations, especially smaller ones, Prasar Bharati has announced that access to PB-SHABD will remain free until March 2026.This initiative is aimed at helping media outlets by providing them with ready-to-use, logo-free content, saving time and resources.PB-SHABD offers content across a wide range of news categories, such as agriculture, technology, foreign affairs, political developments, and more. The stories are uploaded in all major Indian languages, sourced from Prasar Bharati’s Regional News Units (RNUs) and headquarters.

 

2. PM Modi inaugurated 10th edition of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 10th edition of Raisina Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi.Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon was the chief guest at the inaugural session and delivered the keynote address.This year’s theme is “Kālachakra —People, Peace and Planet.” During the event, decision-makers and thought leaders from around the world will engage in conversations in various formats, focusing on six thematic pillars.The Raisina Dialogue is India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community.

 

3. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates Fit India Carnival in Delhi: Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated the first edition of Fit India Carnival in Delhi.The Fit India Carnival is a three-day fitness and wellness festival that aims to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, aligning with the Fit India Movement’s vision of a fitter, healthier, and obesity-free nation.A host of sports activities including rope skipping, stationary cycling, arm wrestling, cricket bowling, squat and push-up challenges will be the highlight of the three-day carnival.

 

4. CCI approves acquisition of Uprising Science Private Limited by Hindustan Unilever Limited: The Competition Commission of India has approved acquisition of Uprising Science Private Limited by Hindustan Unilever Limited.The proposed transaction involves the acquisition by Hindustan Unilever Limited (Acquirer/HUL), of 90.5% shareholding of Uprising Science Private Limited (Target), with eventual acquisition of the remaining 9.5% shareholding of the Target in about two years from the completion date as per the terms set out in the Share Purchase & Subscription Agreement executed by and between HUL and the Target.

 

5. Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman assumes charge of CEO Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Shivkumar Kalyanaraman has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).Earlier, Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), was serving as the acting CEO. He officially handed over the position to Dr. ShivkumarShivkumar previously worked as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Energy Industry in Asia at Microsoft. ANRF will act as an apex body to provide high-level strategic direction of scientific research in the country as per recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).

 

6. March 18 – National Ordnance Factories Day: Ordnance Factories Day is s to commemorate the establishment of the first ordnance factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1801. The day highlights the contribution of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and its network of factories in strengthening India’s defense sector. First Ordnance Factory- Established in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1801. Purpose- To manufacture arms, ammunition, and defense equipment for the Indian Armed Forces. Managed by- Initially under the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), which was later restructured into seven defense PSUs in 2021. Celebrations- Exhibitions and public awareness programs showcasing defense manufacturing capabilities.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2024-2025: In 2024, the building and construction sector’s emissions did not increase for the first time since 2020. This milestone was reported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. Despite this progress, the sector still accounts for over a third of global emissions. The Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2024-2025, released on March 17, 2025, indicates that decarbonisation efforts are beginning to yield results. The building sector’s emissions stabilised in 2024. This marks a very important shift in a sector that has long been a substantial contributor to climate change. The energy intensity of buildings decreased by nearly 10 per cent. Additionally, the proportion of renewable energy in final energy demand rose by about 5 per cent.

 

2. Alien Enemies Act: Under the act, the President can order the apprehension and removal of non-citizens aged 14 and older from enemy nations. This can occur during times of declared war. The lack of judicial oversight has led to debates about potential violations of due process and equal protection under the law. The act was introduced during heightened tensions with France in the late 18th century. Its purpose was to prevent espionage and sabotage by foreign nationals. President James Madison first applied it during the War of 1812 against British nationals. It was also used during World War I and World War II to detain and deport individuals from enemy nations, including Japanese and German nationals.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. GRSE Completes Sea Trials for Himgiri and Androth: CSTs are crucial for assessing a ship’s seaworthiness. During these trials, various performance metrics are evaluated. These include speed, manoeuvrability, and the functionality of onboard equipment. Senior officials from GRSE and the Indian Navy monitored the trials closely. The completion of these trials signifies that the vessels are ready for operational deployment. The Himgiri is the first of three Advanced Frigates being constructed under Project 17A. This project aims to enhance India’s naval capabilities with modern, indigenously designed ships. The Androth is the second of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare vessels being built at GRSE. Both ships feature advanced technology and improved stealth capabilities.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India Masters beat West Indies Masters by 6 wickets to clinch International Masters League T20 title: In Cricket, Sachin Tendulkar led India Masters clinched the inaugural International Masters League T20 title beating Brian Lara’s West Indies Masters by 6 wickets at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. After electing to bat first, West Indies Masters got restricted to 148 for 7 due to Vinay Kumar and Shahbaz Nadeem’s wicket-taking spells. In response to this, India Masters got home in just 17.1 overs with Ambati Rayudu’s 74 off 50 balls, who also got the Player of the Match award. Shane Watson got the Elevated Most Sixes of the Season award and Kumar Sangakkara bagged the Masterstroke of the Season award.

 

2. Kabaddi World Cup 2025 begins in England: The 2nd edition of Kabaddi World Cup 2025 begins in England. The Indian Men’s team will start their campaign against Italy at Wolverhampton. The competition will span seven days with over 60 matches, taking place in Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton – in the West Midlands region of the United Kingdom. The men’s competition will start with 10 teams split into two equal groups – A and B. India will compete in Group B along with Italy, Scotland, Wales and China. On the other hand, the women’s competition will be among six teams with two groups – D and E. India will compete in Group D along with Wales and Poland. At the inaugural edition hosted by Malaysia in 2019, India won both the men’s and women’s crowns. Also, this is the first time the Kabaddi World Cup has been hosted outside of Asia. Moreover, this Kabaddi World Cup is different from the one hosted by the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF), whose all editions have been hosted in India.

 

3. India concludes Special Olympics Winter Games with 33 medals: Indian athletes concluded their remarkable campaign at the Special Olympics World Winter Games with 33 medals having 8 Gold, 18 Silver, and 7 Bronze – in Turin, Italy. This was the 12th edition of the Special Olympics Winter Games, happening after a long wait of 8 years. This was also the first time that Italy hosted the Special Olympics World Games.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. H7N9 Bird Flu Outbreak in US: The United States has recently reported its first outbreak of the H7N9 bird flu since 2017. This outbreak occurred on a poultry farm in Mississippi and has raised concerns regarding food safety and public health. The spread of avian influenza has devastated poultry flocks around the world. This disruption has led to increase in egg prices, reaching record highs. The economic impact extends beyond poultry to other livestock, including dairy cows, raising concerns about broader food supply issues. The H7N9 virus has a high fatality rate among infected individuals. Since its emergence, 616 deaths have been reported from 1,568 confirmed cases. Most human infections have been linked to exposure to live poultry or contaminated environments. However, the World Health Organisation has indicated that the virus does not easily transmit from person to person.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Standard Chartered raises €1 billion via first social bond: Standard Chartered has raised 1 billion euro (about ₹9,400 crore) through issuance of the first social bond which will support sustainable development projects across the bank’s emerging market footprint, including India. The 8-year bond will primarily facilitate lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring access to finance, helping create jobs and empowering and nurturing women-owned SMEs, StanChart said in a statement on Friday. Of the total, about 50% would be allocated for India for sustainable projects. The top five countries where StanChart’s social assets are located include India (57%), Malaysia (10%), Bangladesh (6%), Mainland China (5%), and Nepal (4%).

 

2. Piramal Finance and Punjab & Sind Bank Join Hands to Expand Credit Access: Piramal Finance has partnered with Punjab & Sind Bank to make loans more accessible to middle and low-income borrowers, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. This partnership aims to improve financial inclusion by providing affordable and customized loan options in smaller cities (Tier 2 & Tier 3). Punjab & Sind Bank’s 1,575 branches and Piramal Finance’s 514+ branches, covering 13,000 pin codes and serving 4.5 million customers across 26 states, will work together to offer better credit solutions. By combining Punjab & Sind Bank’s financial expertise with Piramal Finance’s technology-driven approach, the initiative will support small businesses (MSMEs) and home loan seekers.

 

3. SATYA MicroCapital unveils bold vision to empower 10 million households by 2030: SATYA MicroCapital Ltd, a NBFC-MFI committed to promoting entrepreneurship and financial independence, has unveiled an ambitious goal of reaching 10 million households by 2030. This milestone aligns with the company’s core mission of promoting financial inclusion, with a particular focus on supporting women-led enterprises. This initiative aims to extend access to affordable financial resources, empowering underprivileged families with seamless opportunities for economic growth. By providing tailored financial solutions such as microloans, SATYA seeks to drive entrepreneurship, elevate household incomes, and contribute to sustainable development.