Daily GK Update- 3rd June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Karnataka Raises Tobacco Buying Age to 21, Bans Hookah Bars and Public Smoking: The Karnataka government has raised the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21 and increased penalties for violations, with fines going up from ₹200 to ₹1,000.Hookah bars have been completely banned, and public smoking is prohibited except in designated smoking areas in hotels (with at least 30 rooms), large restaurants, and airports.Sale of tobacco products is banned within 100 meters of educational institutions, and selling to anyone under 21 or in loose/single sticks is strictly prohibited.

 

2. DoLR Launches Second Phase of NAKSHA Training Programme to Boost Urban Land Survey Capacity: The Department of Land Resources (DoLR) has launched the second phase of capacity-building under the NAKSHA programme across five Centres of Excellence (CoEs) to enhance urban land survey capabilities using geospatial technologies.This phase inaugurated virtually by Shri Manoj Joshi, Secretary, DoLR, and involved training for 304 officers from 157 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), focusing on practical skills for high-accuracy land surveys.

 

3. Training will be conducted at five leading institutions: LBSNAA (Mussoorie), YASHADA (Pune), NER CoE (Guwahati), MGSIPA (Chandigarh), and ATI (Mysuru), with sessions covering GNSS/ETS-based surveying, Web-GIS, and land parcel mapping.The first phase of the programme, which trained 160 master trainers from participating states and UTs, was successfully completed in May 2025.

 

4. ADB Unveils $10 Billion Five-Year Plan to Boost India’s Urban Infrastructure and Sustainable Development: ADB President Masato Kanda announced a five-year plan to mobilise up to $10 billion, including third-party capital, to enhance India’s urban infrastructure, focusing on metro expansions, new Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridors, and sustainable urban development.The initiative supports India’s Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), aiming to attract private investments in city infrastructure through sovereign loans, private sector financing, and technical assistance, with $3 million allocated for developing bankable projects and capacity building.ADB will expand its urban transport projects, building on $4 billion committed over the past decade to metro and RRTS projects in eight cities, including Delhi–Meerut, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru, to reduce congestion and improve accessibility for marginalized groups.

In addition to urban development, ADB reiterated its commitment to rural development by offering $4–4.5 billion annually in sovereign loans and $1 billion in private sector funding, supporting food systems, entrepreneurship, employment, and skills programmes aligned with India’s manufacturing growth

 

5. IBA and Indian Oil Join Hands to Boost India’s Bioenergy and Bio-Hydrogen Sector: The Indian Biogas Association (IBA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) to jointly develop the bioenergy and bio-hydrogen sectors in India.The collaboration aims to leverage synergies between IBA and IOCL to expand and strengthen the bio-energy industry in the country.As part of the partnership, both organizations will establish a knowledge centre to support initiatives beneficial to both entities.IOCL and IBA will allocate resources such as technology, infrastructure, and skilled workforce to accelerate growth and innovation in India’s biofuels industry.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 3 June – World Bicycle Day: World Bicycle Day is celebrated annually on June 3 to promote cycling as a simple, affordable, and sustainable mode of transportation.Theme 2025 – Cycling for a Sustainable FutureThe United Nations officially recognized World Bicycle Day in 2018, emphasizing cycling’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The day encourages people of all ages to embrace cycling for fitness, recreation, and eco-friendly commuting.

 

2. Japan’s Innovative Approach to Artificial Intelligence Legislation: This legislation, known as the Act on the Promotion of Research, Development and Utilisation of Artificial Intelligence-Related Technologies, seeks to position Japan as a leader in the global AI landscape. The law diverges from stringent regulatory frameworks like the European Union’s AI Act, instead promoting an innovation-driven environment. The Act establishes an Artificial Intelligence Strategy Headquarters under the Cabinet. This body is responsible for formulating a national Basic Plan for AI. The plan encompasses foundational research, industrial deployment, international collaboration, and public education. The law avoids rigid regulatory frameworks and focuses on enabling innovation and encouraging cooperation among stakeholders.

 

3. India-Norway Maritime Cooperation in 2025: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal engaged with the Norwegian Shipowners Association to explore investment opportunities in India’s maritime sector. This initiative aligns with India’s broader vision for maritime growth known as MAHASAGAR. This vision emphasizes sustainable development and international collaboration in shipping and ocean business. A Memorandum of About (MoU) was signed between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Norway’s Kongsberg. This agreement marks the first step towards building India’s indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV). The vessel will be equipped with advanced scientific tools. It aims to facilitate research in polar and oceanic environments, contributing to global scientific knowledge and climate change efforts.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt Gen Dinesh Singh Rana Appointed as 18th Commander-in-Chief of Andaman & Nicobar Command: Lt Gen Dinesh Singh Rana took over as the 18th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN), becoming the first Chief of Defence Intelligence to be elevated to this prestigious rank.The Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC), based at Sri Vijaya Puram, is India’s only tri-services operational command, integrating the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard to secure the Indian Ocean Region.An alumnus of the NDA, DSSC, NDC (India), CNDS (Spain), and NDU (USA), Lt Gen Rana has an illustrious military background, having commanded the 10th Battalion of The Garhwal Rifles and topped several professional courses.

 

2. Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann Appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of Western Air Command: Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann has been appointed as the; he is a seasoned fighter pilot with over 3,000 flying hours.An alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College and the Royal College of Defence Studies (UK), Air Marshal Mann is a recipient of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vayu Sena Medal, and previously served as Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters.

 

3. France’s Nuclear Sharing Proposal and European Defence: Recent developments have positioned France at the forefront of European security discussions. On May 14, 2025, President Emmanuel Macron indicated France’s willingness to consider the stationing of its nuclear weapons in other European countries. This statement emerges amidst heightened security concerns due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Macron’s proposal aligns with France’s ambition for “European strategic autonomy,” aimed at enhancing the European Union’s independent defence capabilities. Nuclear sharing refers to arrangements where a nuclear-armed state places its nuclear weapons in allied non-nuclear states. The United States has implemented this model within NATO for decades, deploying B61 tactical nuclear bombs in five member countries. This strategy aims to reinforce alliance solidarity while sharing nuclear risks.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Heinrich Klaasen announces retirement from international cricket: South African power-hitter Heinrich Klaasen announced his immediate retirement from all forms of international cricket, including Test, ODI, and T20I formats, to focus on work-life balance and commitments in global T20 franchise leagues.The 33-year-old represented South Africa in 4 Tests, 60 ODIs, and 58 T20Is, scoring 2764 runs, and described playing for the Proteas as his “biggest privilege,” particularly recalling his participation in the T20 World Cup final against India

 

2. Glenn Maxwell Announces Retirement from ODIs After 13-Year Career: Glenn Maxwell, the star Australian all-rounder, has announced his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after a successful 13-year-long career, making his debut in August 2012.Maxwell was an integral part of Australia’s ICC World Cup-winning squads in 2015 and 2023, playing 149 ODIs, scoring 3,990 runs and taking 77 wickets.He decided to step away from ODIs to focus on the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, the Big Bash League, and other global franchise commitments.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jitendra Singh Launches ‘Bharat Gen’ — India’s First Indigenous AI Multimodal Language Model for Indian Languages: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched Bharat Gen, India’s first indigenously developed, government-funded AI-based Multimodal Large Language Model (LLM) for Indian languages, at the BharatGen Summit in New Delhi.Supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), BharatGen is a national mission aimed at creating ethical, inclusive, and multilingual AI rooted in Indian values, integrating text, speech, and image modalities across 22 Indian languages.BharatGen is designed to empower key sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance by providing region-specific AI solutions, including AI doctors that communicate in regional languages to enhance telemedicine in remote villages.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Canara Bank Waives Minimum Balance Requirement for All Savings Accounts from June 1, 2025: Starting 1 June 2025, Canara Bank has waived the Average Monthly Balance (AMB) requirement for all types of savings bank accounts.Customers will no longer face penalties for not maintaining a minimum balance in their savings accounts, making all SB accounts effectively zero balance.This move will allow customers to enjoy “no penalty on minimum balance” benefits, removing AMB-related fees and restrictions entirely.

 

2. India’s GST collections in May surge over 16% to ₹2.01 lakh crore: India’s gross GST collection crossed the ₹2 lakh crore mark for the second consecutive month in May 2025, reaching ₹01 lakh crore.The May 2025 GST collection was 16.4% higher compared to ₹72 lakh crore collected in May 2024.In April 2025, GST collections surged 12.6% to a record high of ₹37 lakh crore, reflecting strong tax revenue growth.

 

3. UPI transactions rebound in May with 18.68 bn payments: UPI processed 18.68 billion transactions in May 2025, up from 17.89 billion in April, marking a 33% year-on-year growth compared to 14.03 billion transactions in May 2024.The total transaction value via UPI rose to ₹14 lakh crore in May, a 5% increase from April’s ₹23.95 lakh crore, and a 23% increase compared to May 2024.The average daily UPI transaction volume was 602 million, with an average daily transaction value of ₹81,106 crore.Since its launch in 2016 by NPCI, UPI has become India’s leading digital payment system, driven by smartphone adoption, government digitization efforts, and platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm.

 

4. RBI Imposes ₹54.78 Crore Penalties on 353 Entities for Regulatory Violations in FY 2024–25: During the financial year 2024–25, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), including banks, NBFCs, ARCs, housing finance companies, and cooperative banks for violations of statutory and regulatory provisions.The enforcement actions targeted various areas of non-compliance such as cyber security, exposure norms, income recognition and asset classification (IRAC), KYC guidelines, fraud reporting, data submission to CRILC, and credit information reporting to CICs.Among the penalised entities, cooperative banks faced the highest number of penalties (264) amounting to ₹63 crore, followed by NBFCs and ARCs (37 penalties, ₹7.29 crore), and housing finance companies (13 penalties, ₹83 lakh).In the commercial banking sector, eight public sector banks were fined ₹11 crore, 15 private sector banks faced penalties totaling ₹14.8 crore, and six foreign banks were also penalised during the fiscal year 2024–25.

 

Daily GK Update- 2nd Jun, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Dedicates 660 MW Unit of Ghatampur Thermal Power Project to Nation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated Unit-1 (660 MW) of the Ghatampur Thermal Power Project to the nation, marking a significant milestone in India’s energy infrastructure.Located in Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, the plant is part of a 3×660 MW supercritical thermal power initiative with a total capacity of 1,980 MW.The project is a joint venture between NLC India Limited (51%) and UPRVUNL (49%) under the name Neyveli Uttar Pradesh Power Ltd (NUPPL). With a total cost of ₹21,780.94 crore, the remaining two units are scheduled for commissioning by FY 2025–26, significantly boosting regional power supply.Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) have been signed to allocate 75.12% (1487.28 MW) of the generated electricity to Uttar Pradesh and 24.88% (492.72 MW) to Assam, contingent on the transfer of 20% equity from UPRVUNL to the Assam government in NUPPL.

 

2. Goa Achieves Full Functional Literacy: On Goa’s 39th Statehood Day, the Union Government declared Goa as a fully literate state under the Ullas-New India Literacy Programme, making it one of four states to achieve this status.Goa attained an impressive literacy rate of 99.7%, surpassing the 95% benchmark set by the government for declaring a state fully literate.A total of 82 panchayats achieved 100% literacy, 33 panchayats recorded 95%-99% literacy, and one municipality reported 99% literacy; out of 6,299 illiterate individuals identified, 2,136 completed learning under the scheme.Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, highlighted that this is the first time the government has defined criteria for full literacy, and Goa has successfully met these under the Ullas scheme.

 

3. 16-Year-Old Vishwanath Karthikey Padakanti Becomes Youngest Indian to Complete 7 Summits Challenge by Conquering Everest: Vishwanath Karthikey Padakanti from Hyderabad became the youngest Indian and second youngest in the world to complete the 7 Summits challenge by climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents at just 16 years old.He completed his final and most difficult climb by summiting Mount Everest (8,848 metres), fulfilling a long-held dream.Before him, the youngest Indian to complete the challenge was Kaamya Karthikeyan at 17 years, and the youngest worldwide is American Jordan Romero, who finished it at age 15.

 

4. Centre to Launch Jan Aushadhi Kendra Experiential Learning Program for Youth: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Department of Pharmaceuticals, is launching a 15-day Jan Aushadhi Kendra Experiential Learning Program, starting from 1 June, to engage youth in public health outreach.Five youth volunteers per district will be deployed to Jan Aushadhi Kendras nationwide, where they will assist in daily operations, inventory management, and spreading awareness about generic medicines and public health literacy.The initiative aims to foster hands-on learning and instill values of service and discipline, while strengthening the link between youth development and the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).

 

5. Rajiv Memani appointed as President of CII for 2025-26: Rajiv Memani, Chairman & CEO of EY India, has assumed office as President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for the 2025-26 term, succeeding Sanjiv Puri of ITC Ltd.Mukundan, MD & CEO of Tata Chemicals Ltd, has been appointed as the CII President-Designate, while Suchitra K. Ella, Co-founder of Bharat Biotech, is now the CII Vice President for 2025-26.Rajiv Memani also serves on the EY Global Executive Board as Chair of its Growth Markets Council, bringing global leadership experience to his new CII role.

 

6. Asheesh Pandey and Kalyan Kumar Recommended as MDs of Union Bank and Central Bank by FSIB: Asheesh Pandey, currently Executive Director at Bank of Maharashtra, has been recommended by FSIB as the next Managing Director of Union Bank of India, succeeding A Manimekhalai, whose term ends next month.Kalyan Kumar, Executive Director at Punjab National Bank, has been recommended to become the Managing Director of Central Bank of India, replacing M.V. Rao after his retirement in July.A Manimekhalai has not been granted an extension as MD of Union Bank of India, amid a controversy involving the order of 2,00,000 copies of a book by KV Subramanian.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 1 June – World Milk Day: World Milk Day is observed every year on 1st June to recognize the importance of milk as a global food and to celebrate the dairy sector’s contributions to nutrition, livelihoods, and economic development.Theme 2025 – Let’s Celebrate The Power of DairyWorld Milk Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and was first marked in 2001.

 

2. 1 June – Global Day of Parents: The Global Day of Parents is observed annually on 1st June to honor and appreciate all parents around the world for their selfless commitment to children and their lifelong sacrifice towards nurturing this relationship.Theme 2025 – Raising ParentsThis day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, aiming to promote awareness of the importance of family as the core unit of society.

 

3. 2 June – International Sex Workers’ Day: International Sex Workers’ Day, also known as International Whores’ Day, is observed annually on June 2 to honor sex workers and address their often exploitative working and living conditions.The day originated from a historic protest on June 2, 1975, when over 100 sex workers occupied Saint-Nizier Church in Lyon, France, to protest police harassment, unsafe working conditions, and systemic discrimination.

 

4. Sheikh Hasina’s Crimes Against Humanity Charges: On June 1, 2025, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal accepted charges against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She is accused of crimes against humanity amid an uprising that led to her ousting in August 2024. The tribunal has ordered an investigation into her alleged actions, including murder and inciting violence against protesters. Hasina has been in exile in India since her removal from power. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) was established under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act in 1973. This act aimed to prosecute individuals for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity committed during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The tribunal was formed to address the atrocities that occurred during the nine-month conflict between East and West Pakistan.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Conducts Major Trials of Next-Gen Indigenous Defence Technologies Across Key Locations: The Indian Army is conducting large-scale field trials of next-generation defence technologies at multiple strategic locations including Pokhran, Babina, Joshimath, Agra, and Gopalpur, under simulated near-combat conditions to test real-world effectiveness through integrated Electronic Warfare (EW) simulations.These trials are part of the Army’s vision for a “Decade of Transformation” and align with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, focusing on indigenously developed advanced platforms like Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Precision-Guided Munitions, Vertical Launch Drones, and Integrated Drone Detection Systems.

 

2. Indian Army’s Capacity Development Demonstrations: The Indian Army is currently engaged in extensive Capacity Development Demonstrations across key locations in India. These include the Pokhran and Babina Field Firing Ranges, as well as Joshimath. The demonstrations are intended to evaluate advanced defence systems under near-combat conditions. They integrate electronic warfare simulations to rigorously assess performance. This initiative is part of the Indian Army’s vision for a “Decade of Transformation.” The primary aim is to enhance operational readiness. The Army seeks to rapidly absorb emerging technologies. This initiative supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign, promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The demonstrations also reflect the increasing collaboration between the Army and domestic defence manufacturers.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Virat Kohli Becomes First Cricketer to Score 9,000 T20 Runs for a Single Franchise with RCB: Virat Kohli became the first cricketer to score 9,000 T20 runs for a single franchise, achieving this milestone while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their final league match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).His total runs of 9,000 include performances in both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the now-defunct Champions League T20 (CLT20), making him RCB’s all-time leading run-scorer with consistent and remarkable performances.In the IPL 2025 season, Kohli has scored 548 runs in 12 innings, maintaining a high average of 60.88 and a strike rate of 145.35, showcasing his enduring form and skill as a top batsman.

 

2. Thailand’s Opal Suchata Wins 72nd Miss World Title: Miss Thailand, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, was crowned Miss World 2025 at the 72nd Miss World pageant held in Hyderabad, standing out for her confidence, grace, and dedication to women’s health awareness.Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Admassu was the first runner-up, Poland’s Maja Klajda was second runner-up, and contestants from Martinique, Ethiopia, Poland, and Thailand received continental titles like Miss America and Caribbean, Miss Africa, Miss Europe, and Miss Asia and Oceania respectively.Eminent actor Sonu Sood was honored with the Miss World Humanitarian Award for his philanthropic contributions during the event.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India to Launch Its First Artificial Intelligence Special Economic Zone in Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh: India is launching its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh, developed by RackBank Datacenters Pvt. Ltd. with an investment of ₹1,000 crore to boost AI research and technology.The AI SEZ will span six acres and include a 1.5 lakh sq. ft. data centre housing four high-density data centres with a combined capacity of 80 megawatts, equipped with advanced AI servers and systems.The project is expected to create job opportunities for youth from remote districts like Kanker and Sukma, reduce migration to bigger cities, and attract global tech giants such as Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta.Benefiting from tax exemptions and regulatory relaxations under India’s SEZ policy, the AI SEZ aims to position Chhattisgarh as a major digital economy hub aligned with initiatives like Digital India and Make in India.

 

2. Perito Moreno Glacier: The Perito Moreno glacier, located in Argentina, is experiencing alarming changes due to climate change. This iconic glacier has long been a symbol of natural beauty and stability. However, recent ice calving events have raised concerns among scientists. The glacier, once stable for decades, has started to retreat and lose mass at unprecedented rates. The Perito Moreno glacier is situated in Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It spans 250 square kilometres and is approximately 30 km long. The glacier towers 60 m above water level. It serves as important freshwater resource for Argentina. Formed during the last Ice Age, it has witnessed numerous ice calving events since at least 1917.

 

3. Tianwen-2 Asteroid Mission: China has embarked on a pioneering space mission named Tianwen-2. Launched on 28 May 2025, this mission aims to retrieve samples from the near-Earth asteroid 469219 Kamoʻoalewa. This asteroid is unique as it acts as a quasi-satellite of Earth, orbiting between 15 to 39 million kilometres away. The mission is step in China’s growing role in space exploration. The Tianwen-2 mission has clear objectives. It aims to study the asteroid closely and collect approximately 100 grams of material. The mission will use a suite of 11 sophisticated instruments, including cameras and spectrometers, to conduct in-depth analysis.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda opens first ‘Phygital’ branch in Kolkata: Bank of Baroda inaugurated its first ‘Phygital’ branch in the Kolkata Zone, blending digital tools with personalised customer service to enhance the banking experience.This is the seventh ‘Phygital’ branch in India, featuring self-service kiosks, a video contact centre for non-financial services, and universal service desks for in-person support.Kolkata Zone, a major business hub for BoB in West Bengal, currently has 258 branches and plays a crucial role in the bank’s regional operations.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Faizan Zaki Wins 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee: Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old Indian-American student from Texas, won the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee by correctly spelling the word “eclaircissement”, meaning enlightenment or clarification.Zaki, a 7th-grade student at C M Rice Middle School, defeated Sarvadnya Kadam in the final round, continuing the strong performance of Indian-American students in the competition.This was Zaki’s fourth attempt at the Scripps Bee; he had finished runner-up in 2024 in a spell-off against Bruhat Soma before claiming the title in 2025.

 

Daily GK Update- 1st June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. AYUSH Minister Launches Ayush Suraksha Portal to Combat Misleading Ads and Ensure Drug Safety: AYUSH Minister Prataprao Jadhav launched the Ayush Suraksha Portal to address issues related to misleading advertisements and adverse drug reactions.The portal aims to strengthen consumer protection and regulatory oversight in the field of traditional medicine.The Minister emphasized that the platform will act as a vigilant watchtower to ensure only safe and credible Ayush products reach the public.

 

2. Odisha Launches ANKUR Initiative to Drive Smart, Citizen-Centric Urban Growth and Prepare for Future Challenges: Odisha government launched ANKUR (Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanisation and Reforms), a strategic initiative to drive smart, efficient, and citizen-centric urban growth across the state, marked by MoUs signed with six leading urban development organizations.ANKUR was developed through extensive consultations and collaborations, aiming to address the accelerating urbanization in Odisha by fostering new partnerships, innovation, and co-creation of sustainable solutions for resilient and future-ready cities.The initiative focuses on strengthening four key pillars—capacity building, knowledge and research, implementation support, and innovation—aligning Odisha’s urban growth vision with the national goal of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ and preparing for the projected tripling of the state’s urban population by 2036.

 

3. AIIMS Bhopal Launches ‘Code Emergency’ App on World Emergency Day: On World Emergency Day, AIIMS Bhopal launched the mobile app ‘Code Emergency’, a life-saving tool aligned with the ‘One State One Health One Emergency’ policy inaugurated in 2024 by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.Designed for both healthcare professionals and the general public, the app functions in both Hindi and English and supports offline usage once downloaded. It features audio-visual CPR instructions tailored to all age groups, making emergency response more accessible.The app includes a dropdown menu providing guidance on various medical emergencies, based on the state’s unified health policy. ‘Code Emergency’ will soon be available for free download on the Google Play Store.

 

4. Gujarat Launches ‘Karmayogi Swasthya Suraksha Yojana’ Providing ₹10 Lakh Cashless Health Cover: Gujarat launched the ‘Gujarat Karmayogi Swasthya Suraksha Yojana’ to provide cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family for AIS officers, state government employees, and pensioners under the PMJAY “G” category card system.Enrollment requires eligible beneficiaries to possess the PMJAY “G” category card, issued by the State Health Agency (SHA), which is also responsible for card distribution and scheme implementation.

 

5. Family definitions for scheme eligibility differ based on service rules: Gujarat State Services (Medical Treatment) Rules, 2015 for state employees/pensioners, and AIS (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1954 for AIS officers/pensioners, with mandatory dependent family certificates issued by designated authorities.

6. Swiggy Instamart Appoints Ankit Jain as SVP – Operations Amid Rapid Expansion: Instamart, the quick commerce arm of Swiggy, has appointed Ankit Jain as Senior Vice President – Operations, overseeing supply chain, dark stores, delivery experience, and network expansion.Ankit Jain previously held the position of SVP and Head of Grocery & Large Supply Chain at Flipkart, also leading Ekart Design.Instamart has rapidly expanded, now active in 120+ cities, with the addition of 300+ dark stores and mega pods in the last quarter, along with entry into new categories.

 

7. Axis Max Life CEO Prashant Tripathy to Resign Effective September 30: Axis Max Life Insurance announced that its Managing Director and CEO, Prashant Tripathy, will step down effective September 30.Prashant Tripathy has been with the company since 2007 and served as MD & CEO for the past six years.The company’s Board of Directors will start the process to find a successor for Tripathy.

 

8. Hinduja Global Solutions Names Venkatesh Korla as New Global CEO: Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS) appointed Venkatesh Korla, President and CEO of HGS Americas, as the new Global CEO, effective after Partha DeSarkar’s retirement in September 2025.Mahesh Kumar Nutalapati, Deputy CFO since February, has been promoted to the position of Global CFO at HGS. Venkatesh Korla brings over 25 years of experience in digital services and customer experience and has led digital transformations, supporting HGS’s shift towards an AI-driven future.

 

9. 30 May – Hindi Journalism Day: Hindi Journalism Day is observed on 30th May every year to commemorate the launch of India’s first Hindi newspaper, ‘Udant Martand’ (The Rising Sun), which was first published on May 30, 1826, in Calcutta (now Kolkata) during British rule.The newspaper was founded and edited by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla, a visionary journalist who published it weekly on Tuesdays, charging Rs. 2 per year. Despite limited resources, he laid the foundation for Hindi journalism in India.‘Udant Martand’, though pioneering, could not sustain for long due to financial constraints, high postal charges, and limited readership—highlighting the early struggles of vernacular media in colonial India.Hindi journalism in India now boasts a 199-year-long legacy, evolving from a small weekly into a powerful medium that plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, upholding democracy, and amplifying local voices.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 31 May – World No Tobacco Day: World No Tobacco Day is observed on 31st May every year to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.Theme 2025 – Bright products. Dark intentions. Unmasking the AppealThe day was initiated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and its preventable health consequences.

 

2. What is Bow Echo? : The recent storm that struck Delhi showcased a unique phenomenon known as a bow echo. This meteorological event was visually represented on weather radar as a crescent shape. Bow echoes are because they often precede severe windstorms. During the Delhi storm, wind speeds reached up to 100 km/h. Understanding bow echoes is crucial for predicting severe weather events. A bow echo is a radar signature of a line of thunderstorms that appears bowed or curved. This formation can range from 20 km to 100 km in length and typically lasts between three and six hours. The term “bow echo” was introduced in the 1970s by meteorologist Ted Fujita.

 

3. ASEAN-GCC Summit: The summit comes at a time of economic volatility. U.S. tariffs have impacted several ASEAN countries . The GCC is ASEAN’s seventh-largest trading partner, with trade reaching $130.7 billion in 2023. The summit aims for stronger ties to secure sustainable prosperity and navigate geopolitical challenges. The GCC consists of oil-producing nations including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Strengthening ASEAN-GCC ties could lead to increased trade and investment opportunities. This partnership is seen as vital for economic stability in the face of external pressures, particularly from U.S. tariffs.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rajnath Singh Grants Miniratna Status to MIL, AVNL & IOL to Boost Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the grant of “Miniratna Category-I” status to Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), and India Optel Limited (IOL), marking a significant step in empowering state-run defence firms.These three companies were carved out of the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in October 2021 as part of the structural overhaul aimed at making defence manufacturing more autonomous and competitive.MIL, which manufactures various types of ammunition, increased its revenue from ₹2,571.6 crore (FY 2021–22 H2) to ₹8,282 crore in FY 2024–25, with exports rising dramatically to ₹3,081 crore from just ₹55 crore.AVNL, a producer of main battle tanks and combat vehicles, reported ₹4,986 crore revenue in FY 2024–25, up from ₹2,569.26 crore in FY 2021–22 (H2), and successfully indigenised engines across T-72, T-90, and BMP-II platforms.

 

2. India and Mongolia Begin 17th ‘Nomadic Elephant’ Military Exercise in Ulaanbaatar: India and Mongolia will conduct the 17th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Nomadic Elephant’ in Ulaanbaatar from May 31 to June 13, 2025, with a focus on enhancing interoperability under UN mandates in semi-urban and mountainous terrains.The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 45 personnel primarily from the Arunachal Scouts battalion, will train alongside Mongolia’s 150-member Special Forces unit, aiming to improve joint task force capabilities.‘Nomadic Elephant’ is an annual bilateral exercise conducted alternately in India and Mongolia, with the last edition held in Umroi, Meghalaya in July 2024.

 

3. Recent Exercise: Indian Army conducted a large-scale field exercise named ‘Teesta Prahar’ – Teesta field firing range, West Bengal11th of Talisman Sabre Exercise 2025 between india, Australia, Japan, & USA – Papua New GuineaIndian Air Force Joins Multinational ‘Desert Flag-10’ Exercise in UAE6th edition of DUSTLIK exercise between India and Uzbekistan – Foreign Training Node, Aundh in Pune, Maharashtra Indian Air Force (IAF) participate in the multinational air exercise INIOCHOS-25 in Greece’s Hellenic Air Force.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. IIT Kharagpur and Singapore’s IME Sign MoU to Advance Semiconductor Technology Collaboration: IIT Kharagpur and Singapore’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME) under A*STAR signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during SEMICON Southeast Asia 2025.

The MoU establishes a framework for joint research and human capital development in cutting-edge semiconductor fields including post-CMOS technologies, AI hardware accelerators, quantum devices, photonics, and thermal management.The partnership includes bilateral exchange programs, specialized training, and joint workshops aimed at equipping researchers, engineers, and students with advanced skills to support India’s emergence as a key player in the global semiconductor ecosystem.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Hero FinCorp secures SEBI approval for Rs 3,668 crore IPO: Hero FinCorp has received SEBI approval to launch its ₹3,668 crore IPO, marking a key milestone in its journey to go public.The IPO comprises a fresh issue of ₹2,100 crore and an Offer for Sale (OFS) of ₹1,568 crore by existing shareholders.Key investors involved in the OFS include AHVF II Holdings Singapore II, Apis Growth II (Hibiscus), Link Investment Trust, and Otter Ltd.India’s Q4 economic growth accelerated to 7.4%, outperforming estimates, but the full fiscal year 2024-25 recorded its slowest growth since the Covid era at 6.5%, down sharply from 9.2% in FY24.

 

2. India’s FY25 economic growth hits four-year low of 6.5%, Q4 GDP beats estimates: India’s Q4 economic growth accelerated to 7.4%, outperforming estimates, but the full fiscal year 2024-25 recorded its slowest growth since the Covid era at 6.5%, down sharply from 9.2% in FY24.Despite global uncertainties and subdued private investment, officials remain confident India will continue as the fastest-growing major economy, supported by strong industrial activity and government spending.The IMF expects India’s economy to surpass Japan’s size by the end of 2025, reaching approximately $4.18 trillion, while GVA growth stood at 6.4%, slightly below GDP figures.Key sectors showed mixed performance: agriculture accelerated to 4.6%, construction grew 9.4%, but manufacturing slowed to 4.5% YoY, with some analysts cautioning that lower subsidies may have inflated GDP numbers.

 

3. Crisil Projects India’s GDP Growth at 6.5% for FY26: Crisil has projected India’s GDP growth at 6.5% for FY 2026, citing improving domestic consumption as a key driver, supported by factors like easing inflation, RBI’s expected rate cuts, income tax relief, and robust agricultural growth.

An above-normal monsoon (106% of the long-period average) forecast by the IMD is expected to boost agricultural output and keep food inflation in check, while subdued crude oil prices (averaging $65–$70 per barrel) are also seen supporting macroeconomic stability.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. President Murmu Confers National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15 Outstanding Nursing Professionals: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15 distinguished nursing professionals during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognizing their outstanding contributions to public health and community welfare.The awards, instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, honor Registered Nurses, Midwives, ANMs, and Lady Health Visitors across government and voluntary sectors for their compassion, resilience, and service.Each awardee received a Certificate of Merit, a ₹1,00,000 cash prize, and a medal, symbolizing the nation’s appreciation for their dedicated efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery.

 

Daily GK Update- 31st May, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for ₹1010 Cr City Gas Project in Alipurduar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of a City Gas Distribution (CGD) project worth over ₹1010 crore in Alipurduar, West Bengal.The project aims to supply Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to over 2.5 lakh households, 100+ commercial establishments and industries, and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) through 19 proposed CNG stations.This initiative will ensure an eco-friendly, reliable, and affordable fuel supply while also generating employment opportunities in the region.

 

2. Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ and Fish Vaccine at ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA-2025)’ at ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, to promote advanced agricultural and fisheries technologies nationwide.A major highlight was the launch of “CIFA Argu VAX–I”, an innovative fish vaccine developed by ICAR-CIFA to combat parasitic infections and reduce economic losses in aquaculture.An exhibition showcased innovations from Self Help Groups (SHGs), KVK Khordha, and ICAR-CIFA, emphasizing community participation and grassroots innovation; VKSA-2025 will run from May 29 to June 12, 2025, across all districts.

 

3. NIRL and MAHAPREIT Join Hands to Establish a Green Energy: NLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL) signed a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) with MAHAPREIT in Mumbai to establish a new Joint Venture Company (JVC) for green energy development.The JVC will focus on developing up to 2000 MW of renewable energy projects in Phase I, including solar, wind, hybrid, floating solar, BESS, and pumped storage, with a long-term goal of scaling up to 5000 MW in Maharashtra.The equity structure of the JVC will be 74% held by NIRL and 26% by MAHAPREIT, with MAHAPREIT supporting land acquisition and grid connectivity, while NIRL will handle project planning, financing, and implementation.

 

4. PM Modi releases commemorative coin on 50 years of Sikkim Statehood: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the “Sikkim@50: Where Progress meets purpose and nature nurtures growth” event in Gangtok, Sikkim.He also released a commemorative coin and stamp on the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood.Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for various projects, such as a 500-bed district hospital in Namchi district and a passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling, Pelling in Gyalshing District.

 

5. Hitachi India Appoints N Venu as Its Managing Director: Hitachi India appointed N Venu as Managing Director, while Bharat Kaushal, the first Indian MD, was elevated to Executive Chairman.N Venu will continue his roles as MD & CEO of Hitachi Energy India and Region Head of South Asia at Hitachi Energy, focusing on expanding Hitachi’s footprint in India under the Inspire 2027 management plan.

 

6. 30 May – Goa Statehood Day: Goa Statehood Day is celebrated annually on May 30 to mark the day when Goa became the 25th state of India in 1987.Before statehood, Goa was a Union Territory after being liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961.The day commemorates Goa’s transition from a Union Territory to full statehood, recognising its cultural identity, political significance, and economic growth.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 29 May – International Day of UN Peacekeepers: International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed every year on 29 May.The day honours the dedication and sacrifices of UN peacekeepers who work to maintain global peace and security in conflict zones.Theme 2025 – The Future of PeacekeepingIt commemorates the start of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1956 and pays tribute to thousands of military, police, and civilian personnel who serve under the UN flag.

 

2. 29 May – International Everest Day: International Everest Day is observed annually on May 29 to commemorate the historic first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953.The day honors the spirit of human endurance, courage, and adventure, celebrating the achievement of reaching the world’s highest peak at 8,848.86 meters.Declared officially by the Government of Nepal in 2008, it also recognizes the contributions of the Sherpa community and promotes awareness about mountaineering and environmental conservation.

 

3. 30 May – International Day of the Potato: International Day of the Potato is observed annually on May 30 to recognise the importance of the potato as a global food crop.Theme 2025 – Shaping history, feeding the futureThe day was declared by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2008 to raise awareness about the contribution of potatoes to food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture worldwide.Potatoes are one of the most widely grown root crops globally and play a vital role in combating hunger and malnutrition, especially in developing countries.

 

4. Global Glacier Melting Accelerates Amid Climate Crisis: Recent studies indicate that glaciers are melting faster than anticipated. This alarming trend coincides with the first United Nations conference on glaciers held in Tajikistan. The research suggests that limiting global warming to 1.5°C can preserve glacier ice compared to current trajectories. If climate policies remain unchanged, the world could warm by 2.7°C, leading to catastrophic glacier loss. Glaciers are retreating globally. A study involving 21 scientists from ten countries assessed over 200,000 glaciers. Even with stable temperatures, glaciers are projected to lose approximately 39% of their ice mass by 2100. The situation worsens with rising temperatures.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Aircraft Carriers: In recent discussions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh brought into light the significance of aircraft carriers in naval warfare. He addressed officers on the INS Vikrant, emphasising its role as a very important asset for the Indian Navy. Aircraft carriers, particularly the INS Vikrant and its counterpart, INS Vikramaditya, are crucial for maintaining maritime dominance. These vessels are not only formidable in offensive capabilities but also serve as symbols of national power. An aircraft carrier is a large warship that functions as a seagoing airbase. It allows for the deployment and recovery of aircraft. The carrier is equipped with a flight deck for take-offs and landings. It also contains a hangar for storing aircraft. The primary offensive weapon of a carrier is its fighter aircraft, which provide air superiority over vast distances.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Shubman Gill Named Brand Ambassador for Oakley’s “Artifacts from the Future” Campaign in India: Oakley has appointed Indian cricketer Shubman Gill as its brand ambassador and the face of its “Artifacts from the Future” campaign in India.Shubman Gill is recognized as one of the most promising young talents in international cricket, making him a fitting choice for Oakley’s campaign.The “Artifacts from the Future” campaign showcases Oakley’s iconic designs, blending futuristic style with five decades of signature innovation, aimed at 2075.

 

2. Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes First Player to Score 800 Club Goals: Cristiano Ronaldo became the first footballer to score 800 goals in club football, achieving this milestone at the age of 40 during Al-Nassr’s recent Saudi Pro League match.Ronaldo won the Saudi League top scorer award again this season, scoring 25 goals after a remarkable 35 goals last season.With 800 goals scored across five clubs, including an incredible 450 goals for Real Madrid, Ronaldo’s record surpasses all, including Lionel Messi’s 753 club goals.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DHRUVA Initiative: The DHRUVA initiative is a groundbreaking digital policy introduced by the Department of Posts in India. Launched in 2025, it aims to reshape how address information is structured and utilised across the nation. DHRUVA stands for Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address. This initiative builds on the earlier Digital Postal Index Number (DIGIPIN) system, enhancing the effectiveness of address data as a critical component of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). DHRUVA is designed to transform address information into a key pillar of governance and service delivery. The initiative allows secure, real-time sharing of verified address data among citizens, businesses, and government entities. It promotes interoperability and standardisation of address formats, ensuring that various sectors can effectively collaborate.

 

2. Tianwen-2 Asteroid Mission: China has embarked on a pioneering space mission named Tianwen-2. Launched on 28 May 2025, this mission aims to retrieve samples from the near-Earth asteroid 469219 Kamoʻoalewa. This asteroid is unique as it acts as a quasi-satellite of Earth, orbiting between 15 to 39 million kilometres away. The mission is step in China’s growing role in space exploration. The Tianwen-2 mission has clear objectives. It aims to study the asteroid closely and collect approximately 100 grams of material. The mission will use a suite of 11 sophisticated instruments, including cameras and spectrometers, to conduct in-depth analysis.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IEPFA and SEBI Launch ‘Niveshak Shivir’ Pilot to Resolve Unclaimed Dividend Issues: The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, in collaboration with SEBI, is launching a pilot initiative called ‘Niveshak Shivir’, with the first camp scheduled for June 1, 2025, in Pune.The initiative aims to provide a one-stop solution for investors by addressing issues like unclaimed dividends and shares, KYC updates, nomination, and resolving pending IEPFA claims directly at the event.Niveshak Shivir promotes direct interaction between investors, companies, and Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs), eliminating intermediaries and offering on-the-spot grievance redressal through dedicated kiosks.

 

2. Jio BlackRock AMC Gets SEBI Nod to Launch Mutual Fund Business: Jio BlackRock Asset Management, a 50:50 joint venture between Jio Financial Services and BlackRock, has received final SEBI approval to launch its mutual fund business in India, with Sid Swaminatha appointed as MD & CEO.The fund house, set to become the 48th AMC in India, will focus on innovative, data-driven investment products, competitive and transparent pricing, and aims to democratize mutual fund investing for retail investors across the country.As per SEBI norms, operations must begin within six months; the venture will leverage BlackRock’s global expertise and Jio’s domestic reach to target India’s rapidly growing mutual fund industry, which had ₹70 lakh crore AUM as of April-end.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Raja Kumari Becomes First Indian-Origin Musician to Win American Music Award: Rapper and singer-songwriter Raja Kumari became the first Indian-origin musician to win an American Music Award (AMA) at the 51st AMA held in Los Angeles.She won for the song “Renegade (We Never Run)” from Arcane League of Legends: Season 2, a collaboration with UK artist Stefflon Don and Dominican-Brazilian artist Jarina de Marco.Two Indian Peacekeepers to Receive Posthumous Dag Hammarskjöld Medal at UN for Supreme

 

2. Sacrifice in Peacekeeping Missions: Indian peacekeepers Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh will be posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal for their supreme sacrifice in UN peacekeeping missions, on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers (May 29) at the UN Headquarters in New York.Brigadier Amitabh Jha served with the UNDOF in the Golan Heights managing ceasefire arrangements, while Havildar Sanjay Singh was deployed with MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of Congo, working in conflict-affected regions.The Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, established in 1997, honors military, police, and civilian personnel who died while serving in UN peacekeeping operations, named after the second UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, who died in 1961 during a peace mission.