Daily GK Update- 15th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CCEA Approves ₹6,405 Crore Railway Doubling Projects to Boost Connectivity Across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved two key multi-tracking railway projects worth ₹6,405 crore, under the Ministry of Railways to boost rail infrastructure.The projects include the Koderma–Barkakana doubling (133 km) in Jharkhand and the Ballari–Chikjajur doubling (185 km), spanning parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, aimed at improving connectivity, especially for coal and freight movement.Together covering 318 km across 7 districts, the projects will enhance line capacity, ease congestion, and benefit 1,408 villages with a population of over 28 lakh, enabling smoother freight and passenger services.These projects, part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, are expected to handle 49 million tonnes of additional freight per year and ensure seamless multimodal connectivity across regions.

 

2. What is Black Box?: The recent crash of an Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London has raised concerns about aviation safety. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, resulting in a tragic loss of life and extensive damage. Firefighting teams quickly responded to the scene. Investigators will rely heavily on data from the aircraft’s black box to determine the cause of the crash. The black box is important device in aviation safety. It consists of two main components – the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR). The CVR captures audio from the cockpit, including pilot conversations and engine sounds. The FDR monitors various flight parameters, such as altitude and airspeed. Together, they provide invaluable information for accident investigations.

 

3. Cholera Outbreak in Odisha: The outbreak has led to five confirmed deaths and around 500 hospitalisations. A 14-member central team, including experts from various health organisations, is deployed to manage the situation. The outbreak primarily affects four blocks and one urban local body in Jajpur, with cases also reported in neighbouring districts. Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It spreads through contaminated food and water. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. If untreated, cholera can lead to death within hours. However, proper hydration can prevent fatalities.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Israel Launches ‘Operation Rising Lion’ Striking Iran’s Nuclear Sites: Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” on 13 June 2025, targeting over 100 Iranian nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility; Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency fearing Iranian retaliation.The U.S. denied involvement in the attack and confirmed American and Iranian negotiators will meet in Oman on 15 June 2025 for the sixth round of nuclear programme talks.Top Iranian military and nuclear figures killed, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami, armed forces chief Mohammad Bagheri, and six nuclear scientists such as Fereydoon Abbasi and Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi.

 

2. Jacinda Ardern Releases Memoir ‘A Different Kind of Power’: Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, has released her memoir titled “A Different Kind of Power”, reflecting on her journey from a small-town upbringing to global leadership while balancing motherhood, crises, and personal burnout.In the book, she candidly explains her resignation in January 2023, revealing that it stemmed from both exhaustion and a belief that her departure might lead to a less polarized, calmer New Zealand and better electoral prospects for her party.

 

3. 13 June – International Albinism Awareness Day: International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) is observed every year on 13th June to raise global awareness about albinism — a rare, genetically inherited condition that affects the production of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes.

Theme 2025 – Demanding our rights: Protect our skin, Preserve our lives.The day is also dedicated to promoting the human rights and dignity of people with albinism worldwide.The United Nations officially declared June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day in 2014, through a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly.

 

4. 15 June – World Wind Day: World Wind Day is observed every year on 15th June to raise global awareness about wind energy and its potential to power a cleaner, more sustainable future.Theme 2025 – Day of Community ActionThe event is coordinated by WindEurope and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) to educatethe public and advocate for supportive wind energy policies.It highlights how wind power can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and create sustainable green jobs aligned with global climate goals like Net Zero.

 

5. 15 June – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed every year on June 15th to raise global awareness about the abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by older persons.Theme 2025 –Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Long Term Care Facilities: Through Data and ActionThe day was officially recognised by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011, following its initiation by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in 2006.

 

6. 15 June 2025 – Father’s Day : Father’s Day is a global celebration held every year on the third Sunday of June to honor and appreciate fathers, father figures, and the role of paternal bonds in families and society. In 2025, Father’s Day falls on 15 June.The celebration originated in the United States in the early 20th century, with Sonora Smart Dodd of Washington credited as one of the first people to campaign for such a day in 1910.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Shipki La Pass: Himachal Pradesh opened the Shipki La Pass to domestic tourists. This pass, located at an altitude of 3,930 metres in Kinnaur district, aims to boost border tourism and revive India-China trade. The initiative was launched by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. It also serves as a potential route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, pilgrimage for many. The opening of Shipki La marks a very important moment for the local economy and cultural exchange. Shipki La has a rich history as a trade corridor between India and Tibet. It facilitated the exchange of various goods, including agricultural tools and textiles from India and wool and herbal medicines from Tibet. The pass was historically important for trade relations, especially before the 1962 India-China war when trade was disrupted.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DGT and Shell India Collaborate to Launch Nationwide Green Skills and EV Training Initiative: The Directorate General of Training (DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, in partnership with Shell India and Edunet Foundation, launched a structured green energy and electric vehicle (EV) training program across select NSTIs and ITIs in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.The program features a 240-hour advanced EV Technician course, a 90-hour job-oriented course, and a 50-hour foundational module. It includes hands-on training through specialised EV skill labs, joint certification by Shell and DGT, and Training of Trainers (ToT) for over 250 instructors.This initiative aligns with India’s net-zero goals and schemes like FAME by building a future-ready, climate-conscious workforce. It enhances employability through structured placement support and equips youth to lead in the green economy through practical, industry-relevant skilling.

 

2. Quantum Secure Communication: Recent advancements in quantum secure communication have marked milestone in data transmission security. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi have successfully tested this technology over a free-space optical link. This breakthrough promises to revolutionise secure communications, particularly in military and national security contexts. Quantum secure communication is a method of transmitting information that is theoretically immune to hacking. It leverages the principles of quantum physics, particularly quantum entanglement. In this process, two particles remain linked regardless of the distance between them. Any attempt to intercept the communication alters the quantum state, alerting both the sender and receiver.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI allows KYC updation for low-risk customers till 30 June 2026: RBI has directed all regulated entities to continue processing transactions for low-risk individual customers, but they must ensure KYC details are updated by 30 June 2026 or within one year of due date, whichever is later, especially for accounts linked to DBT, PMJDY, and scholarship schemes.To ensure timely KYC updates, banks must send at least three advance and three post-due reminders, including one by physical letter, and are encouraged to organise special KYC camps in rural and semi-urban areas with high pendency.RBI has permitted the use of Business Correspondents (BCs) to help with KYC updates and activation of inoperative accounts, with provisions for self-declaration in cases where only address or no changes are involved.To enhance ease for customers, banks are advised to expand facilities for KYC updation at all branches (including non-home branches) and through Video-Customer Identification Process (V-CIP), with a deadline for full implementation before January 1, 2026.

 

2. RBI allows trading of state govt securities in STRIPS: RBI has allowed state government securities to be traded in STRIPS format (Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities), enabling traders to separate and trade principal and interest components of bonds individually.This move comes after consultation with state governments, Union Territories, and market participants, aiming to deepen the bond market and enhance liquidity in state government securities.While STRIPS trading in eligible central government securities has been allowed since April 2010, this is the first time it’s being extended to state-level securities.Only fixed-coupon state government bonds with a residual maturity of up to 14 years and a minimum outstanding amount of ₹1,000 crore — and that qualify for Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) — are eligible for STRIPS.

 

3. Scapia & Federal Bank Launch Dual-Network RuPay Credit Card with Zero Forex Markup and UPI Integration: Scapia, in partnership with Federal Bank, has launched the Scapia Federal RuPay Credit Card, a dual-network card offering both Visa and RuPay functionality for online, offline, UPI, and international transactions with a single credit card statement.The card offers zero forex markup on international transactions and includes unlimited domestic airport lounge access, along with complimentary dining, shopping, and spa benefits at airports.Users can earn Scapia Coins as rewards on eligible transactions and access exclusive travel benefits through the Scapia app, which has recently enhanced its features with student/senior fare customisation and improved hotel booking tools.Founded in 2022, the Bengaluru-based fintech raised $40 million in Series B funding (April 2025) and has continued to innovate after previously launching a Visa-only card in 2023. The new dual-network card can now be used in over 150 countries.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Javed Akhtar honoured with Dostoevsky Star Award for his influence on ‘cultural dialogue’.: Lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has been awarded the prestigious Dostoevsky Star Award. Javed was chosen for the honour in ‘recognition of his remarkable influence on cultural heritage and literary dialogue.’Considered as one of the greatest screenwriters in the history of Hindi Cinema, Javed has won numerous awards in the course of his decades-long career as a lyricist, poet and screenwriter. He has won five National Film Awards for Best Lyrics.He was also honoured by the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1999, and the Padma Bhushan in 2007. He went on to win India’s second-highest literary honour- the Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu for his poetry collection Lava.He is also the only Indian to receive the prestigious Richard Dawkins award, in 2020.

 

2. Dr. Sonal Mansingh Honoured with Srimanta Sankardeva Award for Cultural Contributions in Assam: Sonal Mansingh, a renowned Indian classical dancer and cultural icon, was conferred the Srimanta Sankardeva Award by the Government of Assam in a prestigious ceremony held at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, Guwahati, for her exemplary contribution to Indian art and culture.Dr Sonal Mansingh was honoured for her immense contribution to Indian classical dance, social reform and for cultural advocacy.The Srimanta Sankardeva Award, named after the 15th-century saint-reformer, is among Assam’s highest cultural honours and is awarded to individuals who embody Sankardeva’s values of unity, inclusivity, and cultural integrity through their societal contributions.

 

Daily GK Update- 14th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CCEA Approves ₹6,405 Crore Railway Doubling Projects to Boost Connectivity Across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved two key multi-tracking railway projects worth ₹6,405 crore, under the Ministry of Railways to boost rail infrastructure.The projects include the Koderma–Barkakana doubling (133 km) in Jharkhand and the Ballari–Chikjajur doubling (185 km), spanning parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, aimed at improving connectivity, especially for coal and freight movement.Together covering 318 km across 7 districts, the projects will enhance line capacity, ease congestion, and benefit 1,408 villages with a population of over 28 lakh, enabling smoother freight and passenger services.These projects, part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, are expected to handle 49 million tonnes of additional freight per year and ensure seamless multimodal connectivity across regions.

 

2. DGT and Shell India Collaborate to Launch Nationwide Green Skills and EV Training Initiative: The Directorate General of Training (DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, in partnership with Shell India and Edunet Foundation, launched a structured green energy and electric vehicle (EV) training program across select NSTIs and ITIs in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.The program features a 240-hour advanced EV Technician course, a 90-hour job-oriented course, and a 50-hour foundational module. It includes hands-on training through specialised EV skill labs, joint certification by Shell and DGT, and Training of Trainers (ToT) for over 250 instructors.This initiative aligns with India’s net-zero goals and schemes like FAME by building a future-ready, climate-conscious workforce. It enhances employability through structured placement support and equips youth to lead in the green economy through practical, industry-relevant skilling.

 

3. Jacinda Ardern Releases Memoir ‘A Different Kind of Power’: Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, has released her memoir titled “A Different Kind of Power”, reflecting on her journey from a small-town upbringing to global leadership while balancing motherhood, crises, and personal burnout.In the book, she candidly explains her resignation in January 2023, revealing that it stemmed from both exhaustion and a belief that her departure might lead to a less polarized, calmer New Zealand and better electoral prospects for her party.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Israel Launches ‘Operation Rising Lion’ Striking Iran’s Nuclear Sites: Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” on 13 June 2025, targeting over 100 Iranian nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility; Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency fearing Iranian retaliation.The U.S. denied involvement in the attack and confirmed American and Iranian negotiators will meet in Oman on 15 June 2025 for the sixth round of nuclear programme talks.Top Iranian military and nuclear figures killed, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami, armed forces chief Mohammad Bagheri, and six nuclear scientists such as Fereydoon Abbasi and Mohammad Mahdi Tehranchi.

 

2. 13 June – International Albinism Awareness Day: International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) is observed every year on 13th June to raise global awareness about albinism — a rare, genetically inherited condition that affects the production of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes.

Theme 2025 – Demanding our rights: Protect our skin, Preserve our lives.The day is also dedicated to promoting the human rights and dignity of people with albinism worldwide.The United Nations officially declared June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day in 2014, through a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly.

 

3. 14 June – World Blood Donor Day: World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on 14 June to raise awareness about the importance of safe blood donation and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving contributions.Theme 2025 – Give blood, give hope: together we save livesThe date commemorates the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered the ABO blood group system.

 

4. 15 June – World Wind Day: World Wind Day is observed every year on 15th June to raise global awareness about wind energy and its potential to power a cleaner, more sustainable future.Theme 2025 – Day of Community ActionThe event is coordinated by WindEurope and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) to educate the public and advocate for supportive wind energy policies.It highlights how wind power can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and create sustainable green jobs aligned with global climate goals like Net Zero.

 

5. 15 June – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed every year on June 15th to raise global awareness about the abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by older persons.Theme 2025 –Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Long Term Care Facilities: Through Data and ActionThe day was officially recognised by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011, following its initiation by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) in 2006.

 

6. 15 June 2025 – Father’s Day: Father’s Day is a global celebration held every year on the third Sunday of June to honor and appreciate fathers, father figures, and the role of paternal bonds in families and society. In 2025, Father’s Day falls on 15 June.The celebration originated in the United States in the early 20th century, with Sonora Smart Dodd of Washington credited as one of the first people to campaign for such a day in 1910.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rudrastra Advanced Hybrid VTOL Drone: The Rudrastra drone represents advancement in India’s military technology. Developed by Solar Aerospace and Defence Limited, it was recently tested by the Indian Army, marking a very important moment in unmanned aerial warfare. This drone combines vertical take-off and landing capabilities with long-range precision strike capabilities. Rudrastra is a hybrid drone designed for battlefield operations. It can take off like a helicopter and fly long distances like a jet. This versatility makes it difficult to detect. The drone is engineered for anti-personnel roles, targeting enemy soldiers with high accuracy.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. What is AviList?: AviList, launched on June 12, 2025, serves as the first unified global checklist of bird species. This initiative followed four years of collaborative work by the Working Group on Avian Checklists. The checklist replaces previous lists, including the International Ornithological Committee and Clements lists. It aims to provide clarity and consistency in avian taxonomy, crucial for conservation efforts. AviList compiles a comprehensive list of 11,131 bird species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders. This extensive classification reflects a global consensus on avian taxonomy. The checklist is published by BirdLife International and is available for free download.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI allows KYC updation for low-risk customers till 30 June 2026: RBI has directed all regulated entities to continue processing transactions for low-risk individual customers, but they must ensure KYC details are updated by 30 June 2026 or within one year of due date, whichever is later, especially for accounts linked to DBT, PMJDY, and scholarship schemes.To ensure timely KYC updates, banks must send at least three advance and three post-due reminders, including one by physical letter, and are encouraged to organise special KYC camps in rural and semi-urban areas with high pendency.RBI has permitted the use of Business Correspondents (BCs) to help with KYC updates and activation of inoperative accounts, with provisions for self-declaration in cases where only address or no changes are involved.To enhance ease for customers, banks are advised to expand facilities for KYC updation at all branches (including non-home branches) and through Video-Customer Identification Process (V-CIP), with a deadline for full implementation before January 1, 2026.

 

2. RBI allows trading of state govt securities in STRIPS: RBI has allowed state government securities to be traded in STRIPS format (Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities), enabling traders to separate and trade principal and interest components of bonds individually.This move comes after consultation with state governments, Union Territories, and market participants, aiming to deepen the bond market and enhance liquidity in state government securities.While STRIPS trading in eligible central government securities has been allowed since April 2010, this is the first time it’s being extended to state-level securities.Only fixed-coupon state government bonds with a residual maturity of up to 14 years and a minimum outstanding amount of ₹1,000 crore — and that qualify for Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) — are eligible for STRIPS.

 

3. Scapia & Federal Bank Launch Dual-Network RuPay Credit Card with Zero Forex Markup and UPI Integration: Scapia, in partnership with Federal Bank, has launched the Scapia Federal RuPay Credit Card, a dual-network card offering both Visa and RuPay functionality for online, offline, UPI, and international transactions with a single credit card statement.The card offers zero forex markup on international transactions and includes unlimited domestic airport lounge access, along with complimentary dining, shopping, and spa benefits at airports.Users can earn Scapia Coins as rewards on eligible transactions and access exclusive travel benefits through the Scapia app, which has recently enhanced its features with student/senior fare customisation and improved hotel booking tools.Founded in 2022, the Bengaluru-based fintech raised $40 million in Series B funding (April 2025) and has continued to innovate after previously launching a Visa-only card in 2023. The new dual-network card can now be used in over 150 countries.

 

4. Tata Asset Management Launches Unified Investment App Offering One-Stop Portfolio Tracking and Smart Financial Insights: Tata Asset Management has launched a new mobile app providing a unified view of investors’ financial portfolios, integrating mutual funds, equities, and bank holdings in one dashboard.The app aims to simplify the investment journey with end-to-end support — from onboarding to planning, investing, and tracking — under the theme “One App. One View. Infinite Opportunities.”It offers features like personalised insights, smart tools, and seamless tracking to help users make informed decisions and gain better control over their financial assets.Established in 1994, Tata Asset Management manages Tata Mutual Fund, which currently serves over 59 lakh folios as of April 30, 2025, across equity, debt, and hybrid categories.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Javed Akhtar honoured with Dostoevsky Star Award for his influence on ‘cultural dialogue’.: Lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has been awarded the prestigious Dostoevsky Star Award. Javed was chosen for the honour in ‘recognition of his remarkable influence on cultural heritage and literary dialogue.’Considered as one of the greatest screenwriters in the history of Hindi Cinema, Javed has won numerous awards in the course of his decades-long career as a lyricist, poet and screenwriter. He has won five National Film Awards for Best Lyrics.He was also honoured by the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1999, and the Padma Bhushan in 2007. He went on to win India’s second-highest literary honour- the Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu for his poetry collection Lava.He is also the only Indian to receive the prestigious Richard Dawkins award, in 2020.

 

2. Dr. Sonal Mansingh Honoured with Srimanta Sankardeva Award for Cultural Contributions in Assam: Sonal Mansingh, a renowned Indian classical dancer and cultural icon, was conferred the Srimanta Sankardeva Award by the Government of Assam in a prestigious ceremony held at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, Guwahati, for her exemplary contribution to Indian art and culture.Dr Sonal Mansingh was honoured for her immense contribution to Indian classical dance, social reform and for cultural advocacy.The Srimanta Sankardeva Award, named after the 15th-century saint-reformer, is among Assam’s highest cultural honours and is awarded to individuals who embody Sankardeva’s values of unity, inclusivity, and cultural integrity through their societal contributions.

 

Daily GK Update- 13th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Goan Feni Secures GI Tag: First-of-its-Kind Recognition for India’s Iconic Local Spirit: Ozzo Feni, produced by Cazcar Distillery in Nanora village, has become the first-ever feni to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, officially recognizing it as a unique product of Goa, thereby protecting it from imitation and boosting its market value.Feni is a centuries-old Goan spirit made from cashew apples or coconut sap, introduced by Portuguese missionaries in the 1600s. Traditional distillation methods used by bhatikars have now evolved into modern copper pot techniques.The GI tag places Goan feni in the league of global spirits like Scotch whisky and Champagne, with strict adherence to sourcing from Goa and production in certified equipment like stainless steel, copper, or glass, enhancing its domestic and international identity.

 

2. Punjab Government Launches ‘FastTrack Punjab Portal’ to Accelerate Industrial Approvals and Boost Ease of Doing Business: Punjab Government launched the FastTrack Punjab Portal to streamline industrial approvals and reduce bureaucratic delays, ensuring investors get time-bound clearances with a guaranteed approval timeline of 45 days. If missed, deemed approval is automatically granted.The portal features a strong accountability mechanism, where delays are escalated to the Chief Secretary and trigger internal inquiries against responsible officials.The portal offers a Single-Window Clearance System, integrated with the Invest Punjab Portal, to issue statutory approvals like CLU, fire safety, forest, and pollution certificates within 15 days using just one stamp paper.Key reforms include self-certification for compliance, coverage of investments up to ₹125 crore under the expanded Right to Business Act, and the disbursal of ₹150 crore in industrial incentives since April 2025, with a target of ₹250 crore by June 2025.

 

3. Dept of Posts introduces ‘Gyan Post’ to deliver educational books at affordable rates: The Department of Posts has launched ‘Gyan Post’, a dedicated postal service aimed at delivering educational, cultural, social, and religious books at affordable rates, supporting the objectives of the New Education Policy (NEP).Gyan Post ensures nationwide accessibility, including rural and remote areas, with charges starting from ₹20 for up to 300 grams and going up to ₹100 for up to 5 kilograms, excluding taxes.The service includes a tracking facility for transparency and is available at all post offices across India; for more details, customers  or contact their nearest post office.

 

4. SCCL Signs MoU with IMMT to Explore Rare Earth Elements and Enter Critical Minerals Sector: Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has signed an MoU with the Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar to explore and produce critical minerals found in Singareni mines using advanced and eco-friendly technologies.This MoU marks SCCL’s formal entry into the critical minerals sector, with a focus on extracting rare earth elements (REEs) like lanthanum, cerium, yttrium, and dysprosium from both open-cast mines and fly ash from its thermal power plant.Preliminary surveys by SCCL and Geological Survey of India (GSI) confirm the presence of REEs in Durgam Gutta block near Manuguru, with applications in electronics, lasers, glass, magnetic materials, and various industrial uses.IMMT will provide technical expertise and ensure environmentally sustainable methods for mineral extraction, reinforcing India’s strategy for critical mineral self-reliance and clean-tech development.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India slips to 131st position in Global Gender Gap Index 2025: India ranked 131st out of 148 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index 2025, slipping from its previous rank of 127 in 2024, according to the World Economic Forum (WEF) report.The ranking reflects a decline in gender parity across key areas like economic participation, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment.Despite progress in female political representation, India continues to face wide gaps in labour force participation, wage equality, and access to leadership roles for women.The report noted that India’s gender gap in economic participation and opportunity remains one of the widest globally, dragging down its overall score.Iceland topped the index for the 15th consecutive year, followed by countries like Finland, Norway, and New Zealand, while India lags behind neighbours like Bangladesh (24th), Bhutan (119th), Nepal (125th) and Sri Lanka (130th).

 

2. 12 June – World Day Against Child Labour: World Day Against Child Labour is observed every year on 12 June to raise awareness about the global issue of child labour and to encourage efforts to eliminate it in all forms.The day was launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 to highlight the plight of millions of children forced into labour and to push for international commitment and action.Theme 2025 – Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up efforts

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. First Indian & US Special Forces Exercise ‘Tiger Claw’ Concludes: The first-ever joint military exercise “Tiger Claw” between the Indian Air Force’s Special Forces (Garud) and the United States Air Force Special Forces was held across North India concluding at the Garud Regimental Training Centre.The Tiger Claw exercise marks the first collaboration between the Air Forces’ Special Forces of India and the U.S., aimed at enhancing interoperability, sharing best practices in Special Operations, and strengthening bilateral military ties.India and the U.S. already conduct other bilateral Special Forces exercises such as Vajra Prahar (Indian Army & U.S. Army) and Sangam (Indian Navy MARCOs & U.S. Navy SEALs); Tiger Claw adds the Air Force Special Forces dimension to this growing defence cooperation.

 

2. France to Host 8th Edition of Indo-French Military Exercise ‘Shakti’ at La Cavalerie: France will host the 8th edition of the India-France joint military exercise “Shakti” from 18 June to 1 July 2025 at La Cavalerie. The 7th edition was held in Umroi, Meghalaya (India) in May 2024.Exercise Shakti, launched in 2011, is a biennial exercise alternately hosted by both nations. It aims to enhance interoperability and joint capability in sub-conventional operations like counter-terrorism.The joint exercise will strengthen cooperation between Indian and French armies, promoting multi-domain operational coordination and deepening military diplomacy between the two countries.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Portugal beats Spain to win the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League Title: Portugal won their second UEFA Nations League title by defeating Spain in a thrilling final held at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, via a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regular and extra time.Cristiano Ronaldo set a new world record by becoming the oldest player to score a goal in an international men’s football match, scoring in both the semi-final against Germany and the final against Spain.Portugal reached the final after beating host nation Germany 2-1, while Spain thrashed France 5-1 in the other semi-final to set up a clash of former UEFA Nations League champions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Hosts ITU FG-AINN Meeting to Advance AI-Native Telecom Networks: India hosted the 3rd meeting of the ITU-T Focus Group on AI-Native for Telecommunication Networks (FG-AINN) in New Delhi, marking a key step in advancing AI-native telecom infrastructures globally.The event was organized by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), the technical arm of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).India used the platform to seek support for its bid to host the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2030 (PP-30), continue as a member of the ITU Council (2027–2031), and back Ms. M. Revathi as the first woman and regional candidate for Director of ITU Radiocommunication Bureau (2027–30).The FG-AINN, established by ITU-T Study Group 13 in July 2024, focuses on redefining network architecture to be AI-native, aiming to revolutionize the telecom landscape with smarter, more adaptive communication networks.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Sebi mandates verified ‘@valid’ UPI handles to tackle payment fraud: To curb payment fraud and impersonation, SEBI has mandated the use of verified ‘@valid’ UPI handles for all registered intermediaries like brokers, mutual funds, and investment advisors, effective October 1, 2025.Verified UPI handles (e.g., abc.bkr@validhdfc, xyz.mf@validhdfc) will feature a green ‘thumbs up’ icon for easy visual authentication, especially helping non-English speaking investors identify genuine payment accounts.Only banks can issue ‘@valid’ UPI IDs after verifying intermediaries via SEBI’s portal, ensuring that only authorized entities can receive investor funds; this shift will affect 8,000–9,000 intermediaries.Existing SIPs remain unaffected, but new investments must use the ‘@valid’ UPI handles. SEBI will also launch a 2-year investor awareness campaign and introduce a ‘SEBI Check’ tool to verify UPI IDs and bank details of intermediaries.

 

2. DFCC Bank’s Green Bond Debut: First Foreign Corporate Issuer at GIFT IFSC: Sri Lanka’s DFCC Bank PLC became the first foreign corporate to list green bonds on the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT IFSC, with a value of LKR 2.5 billion, aimed at financing solar energy projects.These bonds represent Sri Lanka’s first capital market debt instruments exclusively dedicated to renewable energy, supporting the country’s ambitious target of generating 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.The listing aligns with the IFSCA’s vision to develop GIFT IFSC as a global hub for green and sustainable finance, particularly benefiting the Global South in addressing climate goals.NSE IX, launched in 2017, holds over 99% market share in GIFT IFSC, and this landmark issuance highlights its growing role in hosting innovative financial products from both domestic and international players.

 

3. Retail Inflation Drops to 2.82% in May, Lowest Since Feb 2019: India’s retail inflation fell to 82% in May 2025, down from 3.16% in April, marking the lowest year-on-year inflation rate since February 2019, mainly due to easing food prices.Food inflation dropped significantly to 0.99%, the lowest since October 2021, with rural food inflation at 0.95% (down from 1.85%) and urban food inflation at 0.96% (down from 1.64%).The decline in overall inflation was largely driven by reduced price pressures on pulses, vegetables, fruits, cereals, sugar, eggs, and household goods, coupled with a favourable base effect, as per the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

 

Daily GK Update- 12th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CAQM, CSIR-CRRI, SPA sign MoU to reduce dust pollution via urban road redevelopment: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) and School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), New Delhi, to tackle dust pollution through urban road redevelopment.Focus on Dust Pollution Control: The collaboration targets the implementation of a standardized framework for urban road redevelopment, including paving and greening of sidewalks and pathways to reduce dust levels in Delhi-NCR.Project Monitoring Cell Setup: The MoU includes establishing a Project Monitoring Cell (PMC) at CAQM, with facilitation from CSIR-CRRI and SPA, to ensure phased and efficient implementation of road redevelopment strategies across NCR States.

 

2. Covrzy and NammaYatri join forces to provide health coverage to gig workers: Bengaluru-based insurance-tech startup Covrzy has collaborated with Namma Yatri to provide affordable and accessible health insurance to auto and cab drivers and their families across India.Covrzy’s health insurance offerings will be embedded directly into the Namma Yatri driver app, enabling drivers to compare, purchase, and manage insurance policies digitally with ease, including features like claim requests, policy downloads, and network hospital listings.The initiative will initially cover over 3,000 drivers in Bengaluru and is planned to expand to more than 50,000 drivers across multiple cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, and Bhubaneswar within 12–18 months.a

 

3. Andhra Pradesh Govt to Disburse ₹8,745 Crore Under ‘Talliki Vandanam’ Scheme as TDP Marks One Year in Power: The Andhra Pradesh government will disburse ₹8,745 crore under the ‘Talliki Vandanam’ scheme, providing ₹15,000 annually to mothers of school-going children, benefiting around 67 lakh students.The scheme, approved by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu coincides with the TDP-led coalition government’s first anniversary, and is considered a key component of Naidu’s “Super Six” welfare agenda.The benefit will cover students from Class 1 to Intermediate First Year, with the amount credited directly to the mothers’ bank accounts after admission data is finalized.

 

4. Sumit Madan Appointed as MD & CEO of Axis Max Life Insurance: Max Financial Services Ltd has announced the appointment of Sumit Madan as the new Managing Director and CEO of Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd, effective from October 1, 2025, following the retirement of current CEO Prashant Tripathy on September 30, 2025. His appointment is subject to shareholder and IRDAI approval.Sumit Madan, currently the Chief Distribution Officer at Axis Max Life, has over 25 years of experience in the banking and financial services sector. He previously played a key role at IDFC FIRST Bank, where he helped expand the branch network and achieve a CASA ratio of over 50%.

 

5. FSIB Recommends R Doraiswamy as Next CEO & MD of LIC, to Succeed Interim Chief Sat Pal Bhanoo: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended R Doraiswamy as the new CEO and MD of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), after evaluating four candidates on performance, experience, and other criteria.Doraiswamy, who has been serving as MD at LIC since September 1, 2023, brings over 30 years of experience across operations, marketing, technology, and academics; he previously worked at National Insurance Academy and currently holds multiple directorships.He is expected to succeed Sat Pal Bhanoo, the interim CEO & MD (appointed on June 8, 2025), who is set to serve till September 7, 2025, following the tenure of former CEO Siddhartha Mohanty.

 

6. Mohd. Arif Khan Appointed Deputy CEO of SBI General Insurance: Arif Khan has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Dy. CEO) of SBI General Insurance, bringing over two decades of experience in the banking industry.He started his career in 2000 as a probationary officer at State Bank of India (SBI) and has since held senior roles in retail banking, core banking systems, and strategic training.Prior to this appointment, he served as the General Manager, Network-I, at SBI’s Local Head Office in Thiruvananthapuram, showcasing strong leadership in network management.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 10 June – International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations: The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations is observed every year on June 10, with the aim of promoting understanding, tolerance, and open dialogue between cultures, communities, and civilizations around the world.

The day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2001, in response to increasing global tensions and cultural misunderstandings, encouraging nations to replace the “clash of civilizations” with conversations that foster peace and cooperation.

 

2. 12 June – World Day Against Child Labour: World Day Against Child Labour is observed every year on 12 June to raise awareness about the plight of child labourers worldwide and to promote efforts to eliminate child labour in all its forms.Theme 2025 – Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up effortsThe day was established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 to highlight the need for global action against child labour, which deprives children of their childhood, education, and potential.The observance aims to encourage governments, organizations, and individuals to take decisive steps to combat child labour by enforcing laws, improving education access, and supporting families economically.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s 1st Underwater Museum to be Built Around INS Guldar in Maharashtra: India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef will be developed around the decommissioned warship INS Guldar near Nivati Rocks at Vengurla in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra.The initiative, supported by the central government, aims to boost marine conservation and tourism, offering scuba diving and future submarine tours. The Union Tourism Ministry has approved 46.91 crore rupees for the project.The ship, weighing 1,120 tons, was decommissioned in January 2024. It has been officially handed over by the central government to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation for conversion into a submerged museum.

 

2. Indian Army Joins 22nd Multinational Khaan Quest Exercise in Mongolia with 40-Member Contingent: A 40-member Indian Army contingent, including personnel from the Kumaon Regiment and three women (one officer and two soldiers), has arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to take part in the 22nd edition of the multinational military exercise Khaan Quest, scheduled from 14 to 28 June 2025.Khaan Quest, co-sponsored by the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Mongolian Armed Forces, began as a bilateral exercise in 2003 and became a multinational event in 2006, with India participating since then.The exercise aims to enhance interoperability for UN peace operations (Chapter VII) through drills in joint operations, counter-IED tactics, evacuation of civilians, cordon and search, and checkpoint establishment, promoting cooperation among participating nations’ armed forces.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Ocean Darkening: Recent studies reveal alarming trends in ocean health. Research indicates that over 20% of the global ocean has darkened in the past two decades. This phenomenon poses serious threats to marine ecosystems and overall planetary health. Ocean darkening refers to the reduction of light penetration in the photic zones. These zones are vital as they support photosynthesis, which is essential for marine life. The photic layer can extend up to 200 meters deep and is crucial for maintaining biodiversity. The study employed satellite data and advanced modelling techniques. Researchers measured changes in light absorption using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490). Between 2003 and 2022, 21% of the global ocean experienced darkening. Particularly, 9% saw a reduction in photic zone depth exceeding 50 meters.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Razorpay and RateGain Join Forces to Transform Hotel Payments with AI-Driven, Secure Digital Solutions: RateGain Travel Technologies has partnered with Razorpay to revolutionize hotel payments in India by integrating Razorpay’s secure and flexible payment gateway into RateGain’s hotel booking engine, providing guests with a seamless and intelligent digital payment experience.With the Indian travel and hospitality market projected to reach $125 billion by 2027 and over 70% of hotel bookings expected to happen online, the partnership aims to meet the growing demand for secure, frictionless, and automated digital payment solutions in the industry.

Razorpay’s platform, compliant with PCI DSS Level 1 and SOC 3 standards, brings advanced fraud detection and payment security tools, while RateGain leverages AI-driven automation to enhance decision-making and further streamline the guest experience.

 

2. RBI to Discontinue Daily Variable Rate Repo Auctions from June 11 Amid ₹3 Lakh Crore Liquidity Surplus: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will discontinue daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auctions from June 11, 2025, due to a significant liquidity surplus in the banking system, which currently stands at around ₹3 lakh crore.The decision follows weak demand for daily VRR operations, with banks borrowing only ₹3,711 crore and ₹3,853 crore on June 9 and 10 respectively, against a notified ₹25,000 crore—signaling that banks do not need daily support under current surplus conditions.Daily VRR auctions were introduced on January 16, 2025, to manage temporary liquidity tightness caused by tax outflows and forex interventions, but with easing liquidity and declining overnight market rates, the RBI is now focusing on stabilizing money market dynamics.While daily VRRs are being discontinued, the RBI is expected to continue 14-day VRR auctions to handle short-term liquidity needs. This move follows a 100 bps CRR cut to 3.0%, aimed at injecting ₹5 lakh crore into the banking system, aligning with the RBI’s calibrated and neutral policy stance.