Daily GK Update- 1st July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Govt launches ‘GoIStats’ app for easy access to official data on the Go: The government has launched the ‘GoIStats’ mobile app, developed by the National Sample Survey Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, to provide stakeholders with seamless access to official statistics on the go.The GoIStats app features an interactive “Key Trends” dashboard with dynamic visualisations of critical socio-economic indicators such as GDP, inflation, and employment, enhancing the accessibility and user experience of official data.The Android version of GoIStats is now available free on the Google Play Store, with an iOS version expected soon, reflecting India’s commitment to making official statistics more user-centric and widely accessible.

 

2. Jindal Steel Commissions Odisha’s First Continuous Galvanising Line, Boosts Value-Added Steel Production: Jindal Steel has commissioned its first continuous galvanising line at the Angul integrated steel complex in Odisha as part of a ₹3,400 crore investment in a cold rolling mill complex, marking a significant step in expanding its value-added steel product portfolio.The new galvanising line will produce galvanised and galvalume products under the Jindal Panther Galvanised and Zinkalume brands, catering to key sectors including appliances, automotive, infrastructure, and construction industries.With this commissioning, Jindal Steel aims to boost its downstream capabilities for higher-margin products, while the crude steel capacity at Angul is set to rise to 12 million tonnes per annum by the end of 2025 as the company adds another 6 mtpa.

 

3. 1 July – National Doctors’ Day: National Doctors’ Day in India is celebrated every year on 1st July to honour the invaluable contributions of doctors and healthcare professionals in serving humanity.Theme 2025 – Behind the Mask: Who Heals the HealersThe day commemorates the birth and death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (B.C. Roy) — a renowned physician, freedom fighter, educationist, and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal, who was awarded Bharat Ratna in 1961.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Western Ghats Ecologically Sensitive Areas: The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are facing critical discussions on the designation of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs). An expert panel is actively reviewing proposals from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa. This follows a prolonged period of indecision concerning environmental protection in this vital region. The panel, led by Sanjay Kumar, is considering separate notifications for these states, which could expedite the protection process. The Western Ghats stretch over six states in India. They are known for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. In 2012, the Madhav Gadgil report proposed extensive ecological protection. This report suggested that the entire region should be designated as ecologically sensitive. However, political resistance has hindered its implementation. The panel is evaluating the extent of ESAs in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa. Reports indicate that Gujarat has the least area designated as ESA. Maharashtra has been proactive in submitting information, while Goa has also complied with the panel’s requests. The committee aims to resolve these states’ issues before addressing the remaining three states – Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

 

2. India-Pakistan Prisoner Exchange: India and Pakistan conducted their biannual exchange of prisoner lists. This exchange is part of the Agreement on Consular Access established in 2008. It aims to enhance transparency and cooperation regarding humanitarian issues between the two nations. The lists included number of civilian prisoners and fishermen from both sides. The Agreement on Consular Access was signed in 2008. It mandates both countries to share lists of prisoners in their custody twice a year. This initiative aims to address humanitarian concerns and improve relations. The agreement reflects a commitment to uphold human rights and ensure the welfare of prisoners.

 

3. Canada Scraps Digital Services Tax: Canada announced the withdrawal of its Digital Services Tax (DST) just before its implementation. This decision came after pressure from the United States, particularly from President Donald Trump. The DST was designed to impose a 3% levy on revenues generated by foreign digital companies from Canadian users. The tax was controversial due to its retroactive payments clause and the potential financial burden it would impose on major American tech firms. The Digital Services Tax was introduced to address the taxation gap for large international tech companies operating in Canada. It aimed to collect a 3% tax on revenues exceeding $20 million from Canadian users. The tax was intended to ensure that digital companies contributed fairly to the Canadian economy. However, its implementation was met with strong opposition from the US government.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Parag Jain Appointed as New RAW Chief: Senior IPS officer Parag Jain has been appointed as the new chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), succeeding Ravi Sinha, who retires on June 30; Jain will serve a two-year tenure.Jain, a 1989-batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre, currently heads RAW’s Aviation Research Centre (ARC) and is the second senior-most officer in the agency.He played a key role in intelligence operations during Operation Sindoor, launched after the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which led to retaliatory strikes by India.Jain’s extensive experience includes handling the Pakistan desk, tenures in J&K during Article 370 abrogation, and stints in Indian missions in Sri Lanka and Canada monitoring Khalistani terror networks.

 

2. Reliance Infra, US Firm Seal ₹20,000 Crore Pact to Modernise India’s Jets and Choppers: Reliance Defence Limited, backed by Reliance Infrastructure, has signed a strategic partnership with US-based Coastal Mechanics Inc (CMI) to jointly address India’s ₹20,000 crore defence market for maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), and upgrades of critical defence platforms.The collaboration will focus on providing comprehensive MRO, upgrades, and lifecycle support for key assets like over 100 Jaguar and MiG-29 fighter jets, Apache attack helicopters, L-70 air defence guns, and other legacy systems needing modernisation and long-term sustainment.A joint venture will be established at MIHAN in Nagpur, Maharashtra, enabling the companies to offer end-to-end MRO and upgrade services to the Indian Armed Forces and tap opportunities in both domestic and export defence markets.

 

3. INS Udaygiri: On 1 July 2025, the Indian Navy received INS Udaygiri, the second ship of Project 17A stealth frigates. This delivery signifies a major advancement in India’s naval capabilities. Udaygiri is built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, and is part of a series of seven ships designed for modern naval warfare. The frigate is a successor to the Shivalik class and is equipped to operate in a ‘Blue Water’ environment, addressing both conventional and non-conventional threats. Project 17A is a follow-on to the earlier Shivalik class (Project 17) frigates. The project includes the construction of seven multi-mission frigates. These ships are designed with enhanced stealth features and advanced weaponry. The capabilities of the Project 17A frigates represent upgrade from their predecessors.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Lando Norris Clinches Austrian Grand Prix Victory: Lando Norris won the Austrian Grand Prix, overtaking his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in an intense battle and converting his pole position into victory despite pressure; this marked Norris’ third win of the season and his first since the Monaco Grand Prix.The race saw drama early on with Max Verstappen eliminated on the first lap, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished third, Lewis Hamilton fourth, and Mercedes’ George Russell fifth, signaling a strong return for Ferrari at the Red Bull Ring.

 

2. Ayush Shetty Wins First BWF World Tour Title at US Open 2025: Ayush Shetty clinched his maiden BWF World Tour title by winning the US Open 2025, a BWF Super 300 tournament, defeating Canada’s World No. 33 Brian Yang 21-18, 21-13 in a 47-minute final; his stellar run also included a remarkable semifinal win over World No. 6 Chou Tien Chen, avenging his earlier loss at the Taipei Open 2025.The 20-year-old fourth seed started strong with victories over Denmark’s Magnus Johannesen, compatriot Tharun Mannepalli, and Chinese Taipei’s Kuo Kuan Lin before his semifinal and final triumphs, cementing his status as a rising star in Indian men’s badminton.

In women’s singles, 16-year-old Tanvi Sharma impressed the world by becoming the youngest Indian to reach a BWF World Tour final, defeating multiple higher-ranked opponents before narrowly losing to 34-year-old veteran Beiwen Zhang 11-21, 21-16, 10-21, continuing her streak after two BWF International Challenge titles and a final appearance at the Odisha Masters.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Om Birla inaugurated CPA Zone-2 conference on good governance in digital era at Dharamshala: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has inaugurated the annual conference of Zone-2 of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) at Tapovan, Dharamshala. This zone includes the states of Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab.The Conference aims to serve as a vital platform for strengthening democratic institutions, sharing best practices, and exploring innovative approaches to governance and legislative functioning in the contemporary era.

 

2. The theme of the Conference is – Good Governance in the Digital Era: Managing Resources, Defending Democracy, and Embracing Innovation. The CPA is a global organisation that brings together parliamentarians to strengthen parliamentary democracy.MiPhi Becomes India’s First Homegrown Enterprise SSD Manufacturer, Boosting Digital Sovereignty: MiPhi Semiconductors, a joint venture between Micromax Informatics and Taiwan’s Phison Technology, has begun designing and manufacturing enterprise-grade SSDs in India, becoming the country’s first homegrown brand to produce such advanced storage solutions.The company stated that this achievement marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward digital sovereignty and technological leadership, showcasing Indian innovation backed by engineering excellence and global collaboration.MiPhi’s enterprise SSDs are purpose-built for data centres, high-performance computing, and mission-critical environments, making it the only brand currently designing and manufacturing enterprise SSDs entirely within India.

 

3. Italy Unveils iRonCub MK3: World’s First Jet-Powered Flying Humanoid Robot for Disaster Response: Italian researchers have unveiled iRonCub MK3, the world’s first jet-powered flying humanoid robot, standing 3 feet tall, weighing 22 kg, and controlled remotely; its child-like appearance has unsettled many viewers online.Developed over two years by the Italian Institute of Technology, iRonCub MK3 is designed with applications in disaster response, combining aerial mobility with ground-based locomotion to assist in search and rescue missions by clearing debris and locating victims.Researchers highlight that flying humanoid robots like iRonCub MK3 could perform tasks in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments, such as repairs on bridges’ undersides or operations in areas affected by nuclear or chemical leaks; the robot has been tested outdoors and in wind tunnels.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda Launches bob Flexi Systematic Deposit Plan: Bank of Baroda has launched the bob Flexi Systematic Deposit Plan (SDP), a recurring deposit scheme that combines disciplined savings with flexible monthly contributions, allowing customers to deposit more based on their liquidity.The plan offers minimum instalments starting at ₹500, with top-ups in multiples of ₹100, and customers can increase deposits up to 10 times the base amount, capped at ₹1 lakh per month.Senior citizens enjoy preferential interest rates on deposits below ₹3 crore, while the scheme also offers a loan or overdraft facility of up to 95% of the outstanding balance.

Additional features include nomination facilities for eligible account holders and the option to open accounts for minors aged 10 years and above, with a deposit limit of ₹1 lakh for minors.

 

2. PhonePe, HDFC Bank Launch Co-Branded RuPay Credit Card with UPI Integration and High Rewards: PhonePe and HDFC Bank have launched a co-branded RuPay credit card—available in ‘Ultimo’ and ‘UNO’ variants—marking PhonePe’s entry into the co-branded card segment with features designed for the evolving needs of Indian digital consumers.The cards offer high rewards on PhonePe spends, including up to 10% reward points on bill payments, recharges, travel bookings, and purchases on Pincode (PhonePe’s hyperlocal delivery app), plus seamless UPI integration for payments via the PhonePe platform.

 

3. India’s GST Collections Double in Five Years to Record ₹22.08 Lakh Crore: Gross GST collection reached a record ₹08 lakh crore in FY 2024-25, doubling from ₹11.37 lakh crore in FY 2020-21, with average monthly collections rising to ₹1.84 lakh crore in FY25 from ₹1.68 lakh crore in FY24 and ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY22, reflecting strong revenue growth.GST recorded its highest-ever monthly collection of ₹37 lakh crore in April 2025, followed by ₹2.01 lakh crore in May 2025; June’s numbers are expected to be released on July 1, 2025.Since GST’s rollout on July 1, 2017, the number of registered taxpayers has more than doubled from 65 lakh to over 1.51 crore by 2025, demonstrating significant expansion of the tax base over eight years.By subsuming 17 local taxes and 13 cesses into a unified five-tier structure, GST has simplified India’s indirect tax regime, improved transparency, and strengthened the country’s fiscal position, according to the government’s statement on eight years of GST.

 

4. States/UTs to borrow Rs 2.86 lakh crore in Jul-Sep quarter: RBI: States and Union Territories in India will raise approximately ₹86 lakh crore from the markets during the July–September 2025 quarter, as per the Reserve Bank of India’s plan finalised after consultations with state governments and UTs.The borrowing drive begins on July 1, with ₹18,100 crore to be raised by 10 states, including Maharashtra (₹6,000 crore), Andhra Pradesh (₹2,000 crore), Kerala (₹2,000 crore), Tamil Nadu (₹2,000 crore), and others.Of the gross market borrowing budgeted at ₹82 lakh crore for FY 2025-26, ₹8.00 lakh crore (54%) is set to be borrowed in the first half of the fiscal through 26 weekly auctions of dated securities spanning maturities from 3 to 50 years.The borrowing distribution will include 10-year securities (26.2%), 15-year and 40-year securities (each at 14%), along with smaller shares in other tenures, ensuring a balanced debt profile across different durations.

Daily GK Update- 30th June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CBSE to Conduct Class 10 Board Exams Twice a Year from 2026 Session: CBSE will conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year starting from the 2026 session, with the first phase in mid-February (results in April) and the second phase in May (results in June).The first phase of exams will be mandatory for all students, while the second phase will be optional, allowing students to improve performance in any three subjects out of science, mathematics, social science, and languages.This change aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to reduce the “high-stakes” pressure of board exams by giving students two opportunities in an academic year.

 

2. Kerala tops the Management Effectiveness Evaluation of national parks and protected areas: Eravikulam National Park (ENP) in Kerala emerged as the highest-scoring protected area in India’s Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) 2020-2025, with a top score of 92.97%, sharing the spot with Dachigam National Park in Jammu & Kashmir.Kerala secured the highest “Very Good” state rating with an overall MEE score of 76.22% for effective management of its 21 protected areas, outperforming Karnataka, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh, which received “Good” ratings.

Mathikettan Shola National Park in Kerala scored 90.63% and was recognized among “other well-managed sites”; the park plays a vital role as an elephant corridor and houses the rare Galaxy Frog, though systematic ecological monitoring is lacking.The MEE covered 438 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries across India, with recommendations for protected areas like ENP including expanding adjoining regions, enhancing eco-tourism, eradicating invasive species, and improving collaboration for ecological monitoring and conservation awareness.

 

3. Adani Group Emerges as Fastest-Growing Indian Brand in 2025: Adani Group was named the fastest-growing Indian brand in the Brand Finance India 100 2025 report, with its brand value surging by 82% to USD 6.5 billion, climbing from 16th to 13th place due to aggressive infrastructure expansion and green energy focus.Tata Group retained its position as India’s most valuable brand for 2025, with brand value rising 10% to USD 31.6 billion, making it the first Indian brand to cross the USD 30 billion mark.Infosys secured the second spot with a 15% increase in brand value to USD 16.3 billion, maintaining leadership in the IT services sector, while HDFC Group ranked third with 37% growth post-merger, reaching USD 14.2 billion.LIC showed strong performance, placing fourth with a 35% brand value increase to USD 13.6 billion, while HCLTech climbed to eighth with 17% growth to USD 8.9 billion; L&T and Mahindra followed with notable brand value gains.The collective brand value of India’s top 100 brands reached USD 236.5 billion in 2025, with emerging brands like L&T, JSW, Indian Oil, Adani, and others increasingly recognized globally, reflecting the growing strength of “Brand India” on the world stage.

 

4. Amit Shah Inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in Telangana: Amit Shah has inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana, and unveiled its official logo to mark a new chapter in farmer innovation and boosting the global competitiveness of Indian turmeric.Shah also unveiled the statue of veteran leader D Srinivas, recognising his decades of service to the people of the region.

 

5. Ravi Agrawal Re-appointed as CBDT Chairman for One Year: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the re-appointment of Ravi Agrawal as Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on a contract basis for one year, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, or until further orders.Ravi Agrawal, a 1988 batch IRS officer, has been a CBDT member (Administration) since July 2023 and succeeded 1986 batch IRS officer Nitin Gupta as CBDT Chairman in June 2024.

 

6. 29 June – National Statistics Day: National Statistics Day is celebrated annually in India on 29 June to highlight the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy-making.

Theme 2025 – 75 Years of National Sample SurveyThe date marks the birth anniversary of the legendary statistician Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis (1893–1972), regarded as the father of Indian statistics.He introduced the Mahalanobis distance in statistics, founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in Kolkata, and played a crucial role in India’s second five-year plan with his statistical models for economic planning.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, South Africa Sign Submarine Cooperation Pacts: India and South Africa signed two agreements on submarine cooperation during the 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting held in Johannesburg, marking a significant step in bilateral defence ties.Indian delegation, led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, showcased India’s advances in defence manufacturing and exports, reaffirming commitment to stronger relations with South Africa.The meeting, chaired on the South African side by Acting Secretary for Defence Dr. Thobekile Gamede, identified areas of mutual interest and mapped a path for deeper cooperation in the defence sector.

 

2. NATO Leaders Commit to Historic 5% Defence Spending Target by 2035 at Hague Summit: NATO leaders officially agreed to raise annual defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a significant increase from the previous 2% targetOf the 5%, 3.5% is earmarked for core military expenditures like troops, equipment, and ammunition, while the remaining 1.5% will go toward broader defence-related areas such as infrastructure and cybersecurityThe new spending commitment—which gained momentum under pressure from former US President Donald Trump—was hailed as a “transformational” move to enhance NATO’s collective defence, especially in response to threats from Russia.While most allies reached consensus, Spain opted out, choosing to maintain defence spending at around 2.1% of GDP, drawing criticism from partners who argued full adherence was crucial.Private Firms Eligible as REIAs to Boost Renewable Energy, But Experts Urge Strong Oversight on

 

3. Trading Margins and National Priorities: Private Indian companies with a net worth over ₹500 crore and long-term credit rating of A or above can now be designated as Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (REIAs) for five years, expanding eligibility beyond PSUs like NTPC, SJVN, SECI, and NHPC.REIAs act as intermediary procurers, aggregating renewable power through tariff-based competitive bidding, signing back-to-back power sale agreements with developers and power purchase agreements with Discoms or consumers, and ensuring payment security for RE projects.Designated REIAs must have a valid Category-I electricity trading licence from the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), board approval for REIA designation, and follow e-bidding procurement processes as per Section 63 of the Electricity Act 2003.

 

4. 29 June – International Day of the Tropics: The International Day of the Tropics is observed every year on 29 June to celebrate the extraordinary diversity of the tropics while highlighting unique challenges and opportunities faced by tropical regions around the world.The tropics — regions located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn — are home to around 40% of the world’s population, 80% of Earth’s biodiversity, and some of the fastest-growing economies.

 

5. 30 June – World Asteroid Day: World Asteroid Day is observed every year on 30 June to raise awareness about asteroids, their potential threat to Earth, and the importance of finding, tracking, and studying them.The date marks the anniversary of the Tunguska event (30 June 1908), when a massive explosion caused by an asteroid or comet flattened around 2,000 square kilometers of Siberian forest — the largest asteroid impact on Earth in recorded history.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt Gen DS Rana Assumes Role as 23rd Colonel of Garhwal Rifles Amidst Grand Ceremony in Lansdowne: Commander-in-Chief of Andaman & Nicobar Command, Lt Gen Dinesh Singh Rana, has taken over as the 23rd Colonel of the Regiment of Garhwal Rifles, succeeding Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani.The ceremonial handing over of the baton was held at the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand, with full military honours, highlighting the proud legacy of the regiment.Lt Gen DS Rana received the Guard of Honour and paid homage at the War Memorial, honouring the supreme sacrifice of the bravehearts of the regiment, which comprises 27 Battalions including a Scouts Battalion.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Odisha Women, Tamil Nadu Men Clinch Titles in Inaugural Hockey India Masters Cup 2025 in Chennai: Hockey Association of Odisha and Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu won the women’s and men’s titles, respectively, in the inaugural edition of the Hockey India Masters Cup 2025.The inaugural edition of the Hockey India Masters Cup was held at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, from June 18 to 27, 2025.The Master Cup was for male players above 40 years of age, and for women, the age criterion was above 35 years.

 

2. Shikhar Dhawan Releases Autobiography “The One”: Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has released his autobiography titled “The One: Cricket, My Life and More”, published by HarperCollins India.The memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at Dhawan’s cricketing career, highlighting key professional milestones, emotional challenges, and moments of personal transformation.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Santhal Hul: The Santhal Hul, event in tribal history, marks its 170th anniversary in 2025. This rebellion, which began in 1855, is celebrated annually in Jharkhand as ‘Hul Diwas’ on June 30. It represents a very important moment of resistance against colonial oppression in India. The Santhal Rebellion, known as ‘Hul’, initiated in 1855, two years before the 1857 uprising. This rebellion was a structured war against colonialism. It was led by the Santhal community, who faced severe exploitation from British authorities and local zamindars. The rebellion was spearheaded by two brothers, Sidhu and Kanhu, who united various castes and communities. The roots of the Santhal rebellion trace back to 1832 when the East India Company designated the Damin-i-Koh region for Santhal settlement. Promised agricultural land, the Santhals were instead subjected to land-grabbing and bonded labour. These oppressive practices led to widespread discontent among the Santhal population, igniting the rebellion.

 

2. Altermagnets: Recent advancements in material science have revealed intriguing properties of altermagnets, a novel class of magnetic materials. These materials have the potential to transform electronic devices . Researchers have particularly focused on chromium antimonide (CrSb), an altermagnet that exhibits remarkable characteristics. This discovery brings forth new opportunities in the field of spintronics and electronic device manufacturing. Altermagnets combine features of both ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. Unlike ferromagnets, which exhibit external magnetism, altermagnets do not show net magnetism on the surface. However, their internal electron behaviour can be highly beneficial for future technologies. This dual nature of altermagnets presents a unique opportunity for innovation in electronic applications. CrSb stands out due to its metallic nature and superior magnetic order. It maintains magnetic properties at temperatures exceeding double that of room temperature. Notably, CrSb demonstrates the largest altermagnetic spin-splitting recorded, exceeding 30 times that of room temperature. Such attributes position CrSb as a leading candidate for practical applications in electronics.

 

3. GPS Interference: Recent incidents show the rising threat of GPS interference. A Delhi-Jammu flight had to turn back due to navigation issues. Similarly, two tankers collided near the Strait of Hormuz. A container ship ran aground off Jeddah. All these incidents stemmed from GPS interference, which has become challenge for maritime and aerial navigation. GPS interference involves two main types – jamming and spoofing. Jamming occurs when a device emits strong radio signals to overpower GPS signals. This prevents GPS receivers from determining accurate location or time. Spoofing, on the other hand, involves sending false GPS signals to mislead receivers. While jamming disrupts signals, spoofing deceives devices into trusting incorrect data.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NIF Progress Report 2025: India has made notable strides in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as brought into light in the National Indicator Framework (NIF) Progress Report 2025. Released on Statistics Day, this report outlines time series data on various SDG indicators. It reflects improvements in sectors like health, education, and social protection since 2015–16. However, challenges remain in areas such as clean energy and inequality. The report indicates a substantial increase in social protection coverage. The proportion of the population covered rose from 22% in 2016 to 64.3% in 2025. Maternal and child health indicators have also improved , showcasing the effectiveness of health initiatives. The number of senior citizens receiving institutional assistance surged to 157,000 in 2023–24, up from 23,000 in 2015.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. The Kerala Sahitya Akademi announced the 2024 literary awards: The Kerala Sahitya Akademi announced the 2024 literary awards, honouring both new and established Malayalam writers across 14 categories, including novel, poetry, short story, drama, essay, biography, and more.G R Indugopan won best novel for Aano, Anitha Thampi was awarded best poetry for Muringa Vazha Kariveppu, and V Shinilal received the short story award for Garisappa Aruvi Athava Oru Jalayathra.Each award carries a cash prize of ₹25,000, a plaque, and a certificate, while Fellowship and Lifetime Contribution Awards include ₹50,000, a gold medal, a citation, a shawl, and a plaque.

Daily GK Update- 29th June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Flags Off First Consignment of Rose-Scented Litchi from Pathankot to Qatar: India flagged off its first consignment of 1 metric tonne of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, Punjab to Doha, Qatar, with an additional 0.5 metric tonne exported to Dubai, UAE, marking a twin export milestone that reinforces India’s position in global fresh fruit markets.The initiative was coordinated by APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Punjab, Lullu Group, and progressive farmer Shri Prabhat Singh, who supplied the high-quality litchi produce.Punjab produced 71,490 metric tonnes of litchi in FY 2023–24, contributing 12.39% to India’s total litchi output; during FY 2024–25, India’s fruits and vegetables exports reached USD 3.87 billion, growing 5.67% year-on-year, with rising international demand for litchis, cherries, and jamun alongside traditional exports like mangoes and bananas.

 

2. About Banaras Locomotive Works: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), formerly known as Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and was established with the foundation stone laid by President Rajendra Prasad in 1956; it began production in 1961 and delivered its first locomotive in 1964.Originally focused on manufacturing diesel locomotives, BLW started producing electric locomotives in 2017 to meet modern railway needs, reflecting its evolution with the changing demands of the Indian Railways.BLW has manufactured over 10,000 diesel and electric locomotives to date and has exported locomotives to several countries, including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Myanmar, Angola, Sudan, Mozambique, and Tanzania, showcasing India’s global railway capabilities.

 

3. Dhole Returns to Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape: Recent research has confirmed the return of the dhole, or Asiatic wild dog, to the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape (KKAL) in Assam. This species, once thought to be locally extinct, was documented through camera-trap evidence in the Amguri corridor. The study marks the ecological importance of this area for the conservation of various threatened species. The dhole (Cuon alpinus) is a social carnivore classified as endangered by the IUCN. It is known for its rusty-red coat and bushy black-tipped tail. Dholes typically form packs that can consist of up to 30 individuals, although they may hunt alone or in pairs depending on prey availability. This species plays important role in maintaining the balance of prey populations within forest ecosystems.

 

4. Patna’s Water Metro: The introduction of water metro services in Patna is poised to revolutionise the city’s transport landscape. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s recent announcement marks step towards utilising the Ganga for inland water transport. This initiative aims to alleviate the chronic traffic congestion that plagues Patna’s roadways. With a growing population and limited road expansion options, the water metro presents a sustainable alternative for urban mobility. The water metro model, first implemented in Kochi, involves electric or hybrid ferries operating on scheduled routes. Kochi’s successful system connects islands to the mainland, serving over 40 lakh passengers since its launch in 2023. The Patna project seeks to replicate this model, focusing on the city’s east-west axis along the Ganga and potentially extending to cross-river routes.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 27 June – International Day of Deafblindness: International Day of Deafblindness is observed every year on 27 June to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by people with combined hearing and vision impairments and to advocate for their rights and inclusion in society.The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Helen Keller, a renowned deafblind activist who became a global symbol of courage, education, and empowerment for persons with disabilities.The General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/79/294, proclaiming 27 June of each year the International Day of Deafblindness. This day commemorates the birth of renowned author Helen Keller (1880 – 1968), one of the most iconic figures in the deafblindness community.

 

2. India-Africa Partnership in Agriculture and Food Security: The India-Africa partnership has gained prominence in recent years. This collaboration focuses on addressing food insecurity and transforming agriculture. Both regions face challenges such as climate change, weak infrastructure, and limited access to finance. Africa’s agriculture employs a large portion of its workforce but contributes minimally to GDP. This paradox marks the urgent need for effective agricultural strategies. India and Africa have a long history of collaboration in agriculture. This partnership has evolved through government initiatives and private sector involvement. India has provided soft loans and technical assistance to various African nations. The aim is to improve farming practices and enhance food security. Africa’s agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate risks. Extreme weather events have disrupted agricultural productivity. Droughts and erratic rainfall are frequent threats. These challenges lead to sharp declines in crop yields. Additionally, farmers often lack access to modern infrastructure and market data. This results in high post-harvest losses and low competitiveness.

 

3. Sustainable Agricultural Intensification in Senegal: Recent studies show the potential of sustainable agricultural intensification (SAI) in Senegal. Researchers from the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) have identified methods to improve food security and conserve land. Their findings suggest that strategic crop choices can enhance farmers’ incomes while reducing environmental impacts linked to land expansion. This innovative approach is vital for addressing the challenges of food production in the face of climate variability and population growth. Sustainable agricultural intensification aims to increase food production without compromising environmental health. It focuses on improving land-use efficiency. The approach promotes high-value crops, such as fruits and vegetables, over traditional staple crops. This shift can lead to better economic returns and reduced reliance on food imports.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rwanda and Congo Sign Peace Agreement: Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed peace agreement, brokered by the United States. This agreement aims to end years of conflict that have resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement. The deal is important step towards stability in the region, which is rich in valuable minerals. The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Following the genocide, tensions escalated, leading to multiple violent confrontations. The M23 rebel group has been player in this ongoing conflict, seizing control of key areas in eastern Congo. The peace agreement was signed in Washington, D.C., with the presence of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Key provisions include the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern Congo within 90 days and the establishment of a joint security coordination mechanism. The agreement also outlines a framework for regional economic integration.

 

SPORTS

 

1. ICC Introduces New Powerplay Rules for Shortened T20 Matches to Ensure Fair Play in Rain-Affected Games: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced revised powerplay rules for shortened T20 matches, updating the number of overs with restricted fielding based on the reduced length of each innings.Under the new Playing Conditions effective from July, an eight-over innings will feature 2.2 overs of powerplay with only two fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle.For five-over innings, the powerplay will last 1.3 overs; for ten-over innings, it will remain at three overs; and for 15-over innings, 4.3 overs will constitute the powerplay phase.These changes aim to provide clarity and consistency in shortened T20 games, which typically occur when matches are reduced due to interruptions like rain or poor light, ensuring fair competition under all circumstances.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Punjab govt signs MoU to set up Data Intelligence unit for tackling drug menace: The Punjab Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Mohali, and Vidyasagar Institute of Mental Health, Amritsar, to establish a Data Intelligence and Technical Support Unit aimed at combating the drug menace in the state.The new unit will develop a comprehensive model of psycho-social care to support rehabilitation efforts and design informed policies and effective strategies for tackling drug addiction challenges.Renowned experts from AIIMS’ National Drug Treatment Centre, IIT Ropar, Tata Institute of Social Sciences Mumbai, and PGI Chandigarh will provide technical support to ensure the success and impact of the unit’s initiatives.

 

2. Sugamya Bharat App: The Sugamya Bharat App (SBA) is a vital initiative by the Government of India aimed at improving accessibility for persons with disabilities and elderly citizens. Launched in 2021 by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, this app has undergone revamp to enhance user experience and effectiveness. As of June 2025, the app has achieved remarkable milestones, including over 14,358 registered users and 83,791 downloads, predominantly from Android devices. The revamped SBA introduces several features designed to improve accessibility. It now boasts a more intuitive user interface that simplifies navigation. An AI-powered chatbot has been integrated to provide real-time assistance to users. This feature allows users to receive immediate support for their queries. Additionally, the app includes notifications about new initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility. It also offers a compilation of government schemes and resources beneficial for persons with disabilities.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRDAI Slaps ₹1 Crore Fine on Edelweiss Life Insurance for Violating Corporate Governance Norms: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has imposed a penalty of ₹1 crore on Edelweiss Life Insurance Company for violating corporate governance norms, highlighting serious lapses in adherence to regulatory standards.In its order, IRDAI directed the company to categorise certain transactions as outsourcing in line with applicable regulations and to report these transactions to the Authority as required.IRDAI also instructed Edelweiss Life Insurance to implement a Board-approved outsourcing policy with provisions for periodic reviews, along with a vendor management policy that includes clear standard operating procedures for cost allocations.

 

2. 2025 World Investment Report: The 2025 World Investment Report marks challenges in the global investment landscape. It reveals that foreign direct investment (FDI) is not reaching the nations and sectors that require it the most. Despite a notable increase in FDI in Africa, overall investment in developing countries has stagnated. The report puts stress on the urgent need for investment to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Foreign direct investment is crucial for economic growth. In 2024, FDI in Africa rose by 75% to $97 billion. This increase was largely driven by megaproject in Egypt. However, FDI flows to developing nations remained flat overall. The stagnation in investment hampers job creation and infrastructure development. The investment gap is a pressing issue. In 2024, investments related to the SDGs in developing countries dropped by over 25%. Key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and agrifood systems saw substantial declines. Only the health sector experienced growth, increasing by 25%. This trend indicates a misalignment between investment flows and development needs.