Daily GK Update- 4th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre approves Rs 1,900 crore plan for PM MITRA park in Virudhunagar: Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh announced approval of a ₹1,894 crore development plan for the PM MITRA Park in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, reinforcing the state’s ambition to remain India’s textile powerhouse with next-generation manufacturing facilities.The 1,052-acre park will focus on technical textiles and integrated processing units, featuring a 15-MLD zero liquid discharge effluent treatment plant, a 5-MLD sewage treatment plant, accommodation for 10,000 workers, and 1.3 million sq ft of modern factory space.The project, formalised in 2023 after extensive negotiations between the Tamil Nadu government and the Union Textile Ministry, is expected to attract ₹10,000 crore in investments and generate around one lakh jobs by its targeted completion in September 2026.

 

2. Santosh Kumar Takhele Assumes Additional Charge as Regional Executive Director (West-I), NTPC Ltd.: Santosh Kumar Takhele has taken additional charge as Regional Executive Director (West-I) at NTPC Ltd.He has served in key NTPC locations including Singrauli, WR-I HQ, Kanti, Farakka, and the Corporate Centre, contributing significantly to each assignment.He will continue as CEO of Ratnagiri Gas and Power Pvt. Ltd. (RGPPL) while leading NTPC’s Western Region-I, leveraging his extensive experience to drive regional performance excellence.

 

3. Sahil Kini Appointed as CEO of Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) to Drive Fintech Innovation: Sahil Kini has been appointed as the new CEO of the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH), a fintech subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of India, succeeding Rajesh Bansal who completed his five-year term in April 2025.Kini brings rich experience as a member of the core IndiaStack team, where he contributed to major product innovations and policy frameworks instrumental in building India’s digital financial infrastructure.Under his leadership, RBIH aims to drive fresh entrepreneurial energy and advanced product innovation, continuing its mission of technology-led transformation in India’s financial sector.

 

4. Eshwar Karra Appointed Deputy Managing Director at Kotak Alternate Asset Managers Ltd.: Eshwar Karra has been appointed as Deputy Managing Director at Kotak Alternate Asset Managers Ltd., reinforcing the firm’s leadership in the alternative investment sector.With over 20 years of experience at Kotak Mahindra Group, Karra has established himself as a seasoned leader in financial services and alternative investments.Prior to this new role, he served as Managing Partner at Kotak Alts, where he was instrumental in shaping the firm’s Private Credit strategy and driving business growth.

 

5. Sudhanshu Mittal Re-elected President of Kho Kho Federation of India: Sudhanshu Mittal has been re-elected as President of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), following successful elections held at the federation’s headquarters in New Delhi.The newly elected Governing Body includes Upkar Singh Virk as General Secretary, along with eight Vice Presidents, four Joint Secretaries, and 13 Executive Members.Kho Kho, currently played in 58 countries, aims to expand its presence to 90 nations this year, reflecting the sport’s growing international footprint.

 

6. Amitabh Kant Appointed as Non-Executive Director on IndiGo Board: Amitabh Kant, former NITI Aayog CEO and India’s G20 Sherpa, has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of InterGlobe Aviation Limited (IndiGo’s parent company), subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.Kant brings over four decades of bureaucratic experience across key positions, and he expressed optimism about contributing to IndiGo’s efforts to expand internationally, boost tourism, and enhance India’s connectivity and economic growth.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 6-Year-Old Teghbir Singh Sets World Record as Youngest to Summit Mount Elbrus: Teghbir Singh, a 6-year-old from Punjab, set a new world record as the youngest mountaineer to scale Mount Elbrus (18,510 ft), Europe and Russia’s highest peak.His training, guided by coach Bikramjit Singh Ghuman and supported by his parents, was crucial in this achievement, earning him certification from the Mountaineering Federation of Kabardino-Balkarian Republic in Russia.

Earlier, in 2024, Teghbir became the youngest Asian to scale Mt Kilimanjaro and also trekked to the Everest Base Camp, securing his place in the Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records.

 

2. Ghana and India Launch Climate-Resilient Wheat Initiative to Boost Food Security: Ghana, in collaboration with India, has launched a climate-resilient wheat initiative aimed at developing wheat varieties that can withstand the impacts of climate change and improve food security.The initiative focuses on introducing high-yield, heat- and drought-tolerant wheat strains suitable for Ghana’s agro-climatic conditions, enhancing the country’s agricultural resilience.This India-Ghana partnership is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, promote sustainable farming practices, and reduce dependence on wheat imports.

 

3. Suriname Becomes First Amazon Country Certified Malaria-Free by WHO: Suriname has become the first country in the Amazon region to receive malaria-free certification from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the culmination of nearly 70 years of dedicated efforts to eliminate malaria across its rainforests and diverse populations.With Suriname’s certification, the total number of WHO-certified malaria-free countries and territories has risen to 47, including 12 countries in the Region of the Americas, showcasing global progress in the fight against malaria.

 

4. Russia Becomes First Country to Recognise Taliban Government: Russia made a historic move in July 2025 by formally recognising the Taliban government in Afghanistan. This decision followed the removal of the Taliban from Russia’s list of outlawed organisations. It marks the first official recognition of the Taliban regime since it took power in 2021. The development signals a new phase in international relations with Afghanistan and has geopolitical implications. The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 after ousting the previous government. Since then, they have sought international recognition to stabilise the country and attract investment. While some countries accepted Taliban ambassadors, none had officially recognised the regime until Russia’s announcement. Russia’s move follows years of cautious engagement and reflects its strategic interests in the region.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. IG Drones Patents India’s First Indigenous Defence Drone Simulator: IG Drones has received a patent for India’s first indigenous defence drone simulator, designed to provide high-fidelity, realistic training for the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary forces, enabling mastery of combat drone operations in challenging simulated environments.Built with advanced AI, physics-based engines, and real-time terrain dynamics, the simulator offers a secure, cost-effective alternative to foreign systems, eliminating dependency and showcasing India’s technological resurgence in defence.Previously unveiled by Prime Minister Modi at Defence Expo 2022, IG Drones’ systems, including VTOL, FPV, and kamikaze drones, have been used in Operation Sindoor for strategic surveillance, mapping, and targeted strikes, reflecting India’s growing confidence in indigenous unmanned defence solutions aligned with the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Divyanshi Bhowmick Creates History with Gold in U-15 Girls’ Singles at Asian Youth Table Tennis Championships: India’s Divyanshi Bhowmick made history by winning gold in the U-15 Girls’ Singles at the 29th Asian Youth Championships in Tashkent, defeating China’s Zhu Qihi 4-2 in the final.With this victory, second-seeded Divyanshi also secured a berth for the World Youth Championships, showcasing her rising stature in international table tennis.India finished the tournament with one gold, one silver, and two bronze medals, while top seeds Ankur Bhattacharyya and P.B. Abhinand missed a medal in U-19 Boys’ Doubles after an unexpected loss.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Mobile PDS Shops: The Tamil Nadu State government launched a pilot project to deliver essential commodities directly to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PwDs) in Chennai. This initiative aims to improve access to the public distribution system (PDS) for those who may struggle to visit traditional fair price shops. The project, which involves mobile shops, is designed to cater to around 5,000 beneficiaries across various regions. Mobile shops are vehicles equipped with essential goods. They travel to the residences of beneficiaries, providing convenience and accessibility. Each truck is staffed with a shopkeeper, who manages transactions using a weighing machine and a palm reader for identification. This system streamlines the distribution process and ensures that vulnerable populations receive necessary items.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Slice Opens India’s First UPI-Powered Bank Branch in Bengaluru: Fintech company Slice has launched its first UPI-powered bank branch in Bengaluru, marking a major step towards integrating digital payments with traditional banking.The branch aims to offer seamless UPI transactions directly within the bank, enhancing customer convenience and promoting cashless banking.This innovative model is expected to redefine branch banking experiences in India, blending physical branches with modern payment technologies.

 

2. Mashreq Becomes First UAE Bank to Get In-Principle Approval for Branch in GIFT City: Mashreq has become the first UAE-based bank to receive in-principle approval (IPA) to set up a branch in GIFT City, after securing approvals from the UAE Central Bank and SEZ authorities.The GIFT City branch is expected to start operations by the fourth quarter of 2025, pending final regulatory clearances from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).The new branch will offer services such as foreign currency loans, trade finance, treasury, and risk management products, benefiting from regulatory incentives like initial TDS exemptions to enhance competitive financial solutions.

 3. Gujarat becomes third Indian state to cross 1 crore stock market investors: NSE: Gujarat has become the third state in India to surpass one crore registered stock market investors, joining Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh; together, these three states now account for 36% of the country’s total investor base, according to NSE data.India’s total number of registered investors reached nearly 11.5 crore as of May 2025, with over 11 lakh new investors added in May alone, marking a 9% month-on-month growth after four months of declining registrations.Region-wise, North India leads with 4.2 crore investors, followed by West India (3.5 crore), South India (2.4 crore), and East India (1.4 crore); North and East India recorded the highest annual growth rates of 24% and 23%, respectively, reflecting shifting investment trends across regions.

Daily GK Update- 3rd July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bihar Launches ‘Mukhya Mantri Pratigya’ Scheme to Support Youth Internships: The Bihar government has launched the ‘Mukhya Mantri Pratigya’ scheme to provide financial assistance to youths for internships lasting 3 to 12 months after clearing their class 12 board exams, aiming to boost employability and industry readiness.Under the scheme, youths aged 18-28 will receive monthly stipends based on their qualification: ₹4,000 for those who passed Class 12, ₹5,000 for ITI diploma holders, and ₹6,000 for graduates and postgraduates.Those doing internships outside their home district will get an additional ₹2,000 per month, while those interning outside the state will receive an extra ₹5,000 per month for up to three months; the payments will be directly credited to their bank accounts.Additionally, the cabinet approved the Mukhya Mantri Kalakar Pension Yojana, granting ₹3,000 per month pension to artists who have dedicated at least 10 years to traditional classical visual and performing arts, to help preserve Bihar’s cultural heritage.

 

2. NIPCCD Renamed as Savitribai Phule National Institute, New Ranchi Centre to Boost Women and Child Development in Eastern India: The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) has been officially renamed the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development, highlighting its commitment to focused support for women and children’s development across India.A new Regional Centre will open in Ranchi, Jharkhand, to address specialized training and research needs for key programs like Mission Shakti, Mission Vatsalya, and Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0, specifically for states in the eastern region—Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal.The new Regional Centre will also offer the Advance Diploma in Child Guidance and Counselling and will facilitate better accessibility for frontline functionaries in these states. It is estimated that over seven lakh functionaries operate under the Ministry’s missions across the four states, spread across 115 districts.

 

3. Gujarat CM Launches Jan Suraksha Santrupti Abhiyan to Expand Welfare Benefits Nationwide: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the Jan Suraksha Santrupti Abhiyan in Gandhinagar.The campaign will run from July 1 to September 30, aiming to identify eligible citizens who have not yet received benefits from key government welfare schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, and Jan Dhan Yojana.Activities under the campaign include updating KYC details for Jan Dhan accounts, opening new accounts, and raising awareness about digital fraud to improve financial security and inclusion for citizens.

 

4. UPI Hits 18.40 Billion Transactions in June: India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) recorded 40 billion transactions worth ₹24.04-lakh crore in June, showing a 32% yearly increase in transaction volume and a 20% rise in value, with an average of 613 million transactions worth ₹80,131 crore happening daily.Despite a slight decrease from May’s 18.68 billion transactions totaling ₹25.14-lakh crore, experts believe this indicates UPI reaching a critical scale rather than a slowdown in adoption.The next phase of UPI’s growth is expected to come from innovative use cases like embedded credit, B2B payments, IoT-enabled transactions, and expanding its reach in both global and rural markets, which will require stakeholders to modernize infrastructure and operations

 

5. Centre Extends FSIB Chairperson and Members’ Tenure by One Year Till June 2026: The Centre has extended the tenure of the FSIB chairperson and members by one year, allowing them to serve until 30 June 2026; the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved this decision.Bhanu Pratap Sharma will continue as FSIB chairperson, with part-time members from banking and insurance sectors like Animesh Chauhan, Deepak Singhal, Shailendra Bhandari, Usha Sangwan, A V Girija Kumar, and Sujay Banarji also receiving extensions.Originally established as the Banks Board Bureau (BBB) and restructured as FSIB in 2022, the bureau acts as the headhunting agency for top appointments in state-run banks and financial institutions, recommending names for whole-time directors and non-executive chairpersons to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.

 

6. Rajendra Prasad Goyal gets additional charge as NHPC CMD: Rajendra Prasad Goyal, Director (Finance) at NHPC Limited, has been given the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NHPC from July 1, 2025.Goyal, a member of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India and M.Com from the University of Rajasthan, has over 36 years of experience in NHPC, with expertise in financial, contractual, and regulatory aspects of hydropower projects.The position became vacant after Raj Kumar Chaudhary retired on June 30, 2025, while the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has already recommended Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical) at THDC India Ltd, as the next CMD of NHPC.

 

7. Kesavan Ramachandran Appointed as RBI Executive Director: Kesavan Ramachandran has been appointed as Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from July 1, 2025, and will head the Department of Regulation (Prudential Regulation Division).With over three decades of experience at RBI, he previously served as Principal Chief General Manager in the Risk Monitoring Department and was also a board member of Canara Bank and one of the boards of ICAI.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ancient Egyptian Genome Sheds Light on Early Civilisation: Recent advancements in genetic research have led to the sequencing of the oldest known DNA from ancient Egypt. This genome belonged to an individual who lived approximately 4,500 to 4,800 years ago during Egypt’s Old Kingdom. The findings were published in July 2025, denoting the importance of genetic studies in understanding ancient populations. The ancient remains were found in a ceramic pot within a rock-cut tomb at Nuwayrat, a site located 265 km south of Cairo. The individual was a genetically male adult who lived between the ages of 44 to 64. His burial suggests a relatively high socioeconomic status, despite evidence of a physically demanding life. The genetic data indicates historical cultural exchanges between ancient Egypt and the Eastern Fertile Crescent. These interactions likely influenced practices in agriculture, trade, and possibly the development of writing systems. The findings suggest a complex web of migration and cultural exchange over thousands of years.

 

2. Gaden Phodrang Trust: The 14th Dalai Lama recently reaffirmed the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution. He stated that the Gaden Phodrang Trust will have sole authority in recognising future reincarnations. This announcement comes as he approaches his 90th birthday, ensuring the tradition of the Dalai Lama will persist. The Dalai Lama’s previous statements also support this continuation, indicating that the next reincarnation will be recognised by the Gaden Phodrang Trust. The Gaden Phodrang Trust is a registered body in India. It was established in 2011 and operates from the Dalai Lama’s office in Dharamshala. The trust’s primary responsibility is to oversee the recognition of the next Dalai Lama. It is managed by Prof Samdhong Rinpoche, a senior monk closely associated with the Dalai Lama. The trust ensures adherence to Tibetan Buddhist traditions in the recognition process.

 

3. ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue: The inaugural ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue took place in Chennai, in 2025. This event marks step towards enhancing maritime cooperation between India and ASEAN member nations. The dialogue aims to improve cruise connectivity and promote sustainable tourism across the Indo-Pacific region. It was attended by delegates from all ASEAN nations, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, among others. The event is hosted aboard the MV Empress at Chennai Port and will continue in Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The primary objective is to strengthen maritime cooperation among ASEAN nations and India. The dialogue seeks to enhance cruise connectivity and promote sustainable tourism. It aims to develop an integrated cruise network linking Indian ports with ASEAN destinations. The dialogue also focuses on regulatory alignment and the identification of cruise routes that connect cultural and commercial centers.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO Tests Indigenous Communication Systems: In recent developments, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted field trials of two advanced communication systems. The Defence Electronics Application Laboratory (DEAL) in Dehradun executed these trials in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. This initiative signifies a strong commitment to indigenous technologies that boost national security. The two systems tested are the Software Defined Radio (SDR) Manpack and the Compact Transhorizon Communication System (CTCS). Both systems are designed to improve communication capabilities in challenging environments. The SDR Manpack allows for secure communication across various frequency bands, while the CTCS ensures high data rate connectivity in remote areas lacking civil communication infrastructure. The primary aim of the trials was to validate the performance of the SDR and CTCS under real-world conditions. This involved testing in diverse terrains and operational environments. The focus was on meeting user-defined operational benchmarks established by various security agencies.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. CEA and IIT Roorkee Join Hands to Boost Research and Skill Development in Energy Sector: The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and IIT Roorkee signed an MoU to collaborate on research, capacity building, and knowledge sharing in the electricity and energy sector.Under the agreement, CEA personnel will gain access to IIT Roorkee’s short-term projects and online courses to enhance their technical skills, while both institutions will conduct joint studies on critical energy issues like electricity planning, hydropower, and renewable energy integration.Key areas of cooperation include clean energy transition, flexibility in power systems, distributed generation, and interdisciplinary research on decarbonisation, water neutrality, energy efficiency, and just transition frameworks.

 

2. Lanthanum-Doped Silver Niobate: Recent advancements in energy storage technology have attracted global attention. Researchers from Bengaluru and Aligarh Muslim University have developed a new energy storage material. This innovation improves the performance of supercapacitors. Supercapacitors are essential for powering modern devices. They offer rapid energy storage and release. However, their energy capacity has often been limited compared to batteries. The breakthrough involves silver niobate, a lead-free and eco-friendly material. Supercapacitors are devices that store energy electrostatically. They charge and discharge rapidly. This makes them ideal for applications in mobile devices and electric vehicles. They provide a bridge between traditional capacitors and batteries. While they charge faster than batteries, their energy density has historically been lower. Enhancing their capacity without sacrificing speed is crucial for technological progress.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Saraswat Bank Seeks RBI Nod to Acquire New India Cooperative Bank: Saraswat Cooperative Bank has sought RBI approval to acquire New India Cooperative Bank Ltd; if approved, Saraswat will take over all liabilities and assets, offering relief to thousands of depositors affected by the RBI-imposed moratorium on New India from February 13. Currently, each New India depositor is limited to withdrawing ₹25,000.Depositors’ interest component will be fully protected, according to Gautam Thakur, chairman of Saraswat Cooperative Bank. New India Cooperative currently holds deposits worth ₹2,397.8 crore and advances of ₹1,162 crore.

 

2. SBI inaugurates specialised trade finance hubs at Kolkata and Hyderabad: SBI inaugurated ‘Global Trade Finance Centres’ in Kolkata and Hyderabad to strengthen trade finance services and enhance the efficiency of inland trade and import-export transactions.These specialized hubs, staffed by over 800 skilled professionals, will enable faster processing, better turnaround times, and a significantly improved customer experience for businesses.

 

3. CCI Approves Viggo Investment’s Acquisition of 2.143% Stake in Groww Parent Billionbrains Garage Ventures: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Viggo Investment Pte. Ltd.’s proposed acquisition of a 2.143% shareholding in Billionbrains Garage Ventures Limited, which operates the online investment platform “Groww.”The deal involves a Deed of Adherence and Share Subscription Agreement signed on April 28, 2025, allowing Viggo Investment (a GIC group subsidiary) to invest in Groww, expanding its presence in India’s financial technology sector.Groww, through its affiliates, not only offers online stock and mutual fund investment services but is also engaged in software design, customization, and development, along with providing consultancy services and marketing of licensed software.

 

4. CCI Approves Coromandel International’s Acquisition of Equity Shares in Agrochemical Firm NACL Industries: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Coromandel International Limited’s proposed acquisition of certain equity shares in NACL Industries Limited, strengthening its presence in the agrochemical sector.Coromandel International Limited, a public listed company, operates across the farming value chain with key businesses in crop nutrition, crop protection, active ingredients, and retail services for farmers.NACL Industries, also a public listed company, specializes in agrochemicals, offering a wide range of crop protection products such as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, plant growth regulators, and active ingredients.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. PM Modi conferred Ghana’s highest honour for distinguished statesmanship: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana” by President John Mahama, Ghana’s highest civilian honour, in recognition of his influential leadership and contributions on the global stage.The Order of the Star of Ghana is a prestigious national award given to individuals who significantly contribute to Ghana’s interests or strengthen its international relations; the insignia includes a seven-pointed star medal with a ribbon in Ghana’s national colors.

Daily GK Update- 2nd July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Maharashtra Launches Hedging Desk in Pune to Protect Farmers from Price Fluctuations: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated a dedicated Hedging Desk in Pune under the Balasaheb Thackeray Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project to help farmers protect themselves against market price fluctuations.The desk will initially cover cotton, turmeric, and maize crops, with plans to expand to more crops, and is supported by the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) and its research wing, NICR.The initiative prioritises key agricultural districts like Yavatmal, Sangli, Akola, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, aiming to modernize agriculture and provide price security to farmers in Maharashtra.

 

2. Ladakh’s First Astro Tourism Festival Concludes in Leh: The first Ladakh Astro Tourism Festival was held in Leh to promote Ladakh as a top astro tourism destination, thanks to its high altitude, dry weather, and low light pollution ideal for stargazing.The festival featured expert talks from ISRO, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, and Kashmir University, offering learning sessions for tourists and astronomy enthusiasts at Leh and Hanle Dark Sky Reserve.Night Sky Observation at Ladakh University’s Leh campus allowed participants to view constellations, planets, and deep-sky objects through guided telescope sessions.

 

3. Cabinet Approves ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme to Boost Private Sector Research and Innovation: The Union Cabinet approved the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme with an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore to boost India’s research and innovation ecosystem by encouraging private sector participation, especially in strategic and sunrise sectors.The scheme offers long-term financing or refinancing at low or nil interest rates to address funding challenges faced by private companies in undertaking research projects, aiming to accelerate technological adoption, enhance competitiveness, and support economic self-reliance. RDI Scheme will fund projects at higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and support acquisition of critical technologies; it will also establish a Deep-Tech Fund of Funds to promote technology-driven ventures and startups.The scheme will follow a two-tier funding model with a Special Purpose Fund (SPF) under ANRF allocating funds to second-level managers; oversight will be provided by Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)’s Governing Board chaired by the Prime Minister, supported by its Executive Council and an Empowered Group of Secretaries led by the Cabinet Secretary.

 

4. Cabinet Approves ₹99,446 Crore Employment Linked Incentive Scheme: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme with an outlay of ₹99,446 crore, aiming to create over 3.5 crore jobs in two years, focusing especially on manufacturing and providing social security coverage to new employees.

Under Part A, first-time employees registered with EPFO and earning up to ₹1 lakh monthly salary will receive incentives equivalent to one month’s EPF wage (up to ₹15,000), paid in two installments after 6 and 12 months of service, with a portion kept in a savings account to encourage financial discipline.Part B will incentivise employers hiring additional employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh; they will receive monthly incentives of ₹1,000–₹3,000 per additional employee for two years, with extended benefits up to four years for the manufacturing sector.The ELI Scheme benefits apply to jobs created between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027, and requires establishments to hire at least two additional employees (if fewer than 50 staff) or five additional employees (if 50 or more staff), retained for at least six months to qualify for incentives.

 

5. Railways Minister launches ‘RailOne’ app as one-stop platform for all passenger services: Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has launched the RailOne app, which is a one-stop solution for all passenger services. The App offers ease of access for services like ticketing, enquiries of trains, PNR, Journey Planning, Rail Madad Services and Food on Train.The passengers can also book the unreserved ticket through the RailOne app. The app not only combines all services in one place but also has several integrations between services to give the user a complete package of Indian Railway services.

 

6. 1 July – National Postal Worker Day: National Postal Worker Day is observed on 1st July every year to recognise and celebrate the dedication, hard work, and vital role of postal workers in ensuring the timely delivery of mail and essential services across the country.The day was established in 1997 by the Seattle-area postal carriers in the United States, but over the years, it has gained recognition globally as a way to appreciate postal workers’ efforts.

 

7. 1 July – Chartered Accountants Day: Chartered Accountants Day is celebrated every year on 1st July in India to commemorate the foundation of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), the country’s premier accounting body.The ICAI was established on 1st July 1949 under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949, making this day significant for the accounting profession and marking the birth of one of the largest accounting bodies in the world.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. FM Sitharaman embarks on official visit to Spain, Portugal, Brazil for FFD4, BRICS, NDB meets: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will visit Spain, Portugal, and Brazil from 30 June to 5 July 2025 to attend key international meetings, including the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), the 10th Annual Meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB), and the BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting.In Seville, Spain, Sitharaman will address the United Nations 4th FFD4, a global conference focused on innovative strategies for resource mobilisation and supporting development in emerging and developing countries. During her stop in Lisbon, Portugal, Sitharaman will hold a bilateral meeting with Portugal’s Finance Minister Fernando Medina to discuss economic cooperation and strengthen financial ties.In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she will represent India at the 10th Annual Meeting of the New Development Bank’s Board of Governors, the highest decision-making body of the NDB, established by BRICS nations in 2015, which now includes nine member countries.

 

1. 2 July – World UFO Day: World UFO Day is celebrated every year on July 2nd.The day aims to raise awareness about Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and encourages people to think about, discuss, and share information on the topic.The date marks the anniversary of the famous Roswell incident on July 2, 1947, when reports emerged of a UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico, USA. This event sparked worldwide interest and debates about UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

 

2. ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue: The inaugural ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue took place in Chennai, in 2025. This event marks step towards enhancing maritime cooperation between India and ASEAN member nations. The dialogue aims to improve cruise connectivity and promote sustainable tourism across the Indo-Pacific region. It was attended by delegates from all ASEAN nations, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, among others. The event is hosted aboard the MV Empress at Chennai Port and will continue in Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The primary objective is to strengthen maritime cooperation among ASEAN nations and India. The dialogue seeks to enhance cruise connectivity and promote sustainable tourism. It aims to develop an integrated cruise network linking Indian ports with ASEAN destinations. The dialogue also focuses on regulatory alignment and the identification of cruise routes that connect cultural and commercial centres.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Air Marshal S Sivakumar assumes charge as Air Officer-in-Charge Administration: Air Marshal S Sivakumar VSM assumed the appointment of Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA) at Air Headquarters, New Delhi, taking charge of key administrative responsibilities in the Indian Air Force.Commissioned into the Administration branch of the IAF in June 1990, he brings over 35 years of experience in various important command and staff roles within the service.

 

2. Quad Nations Launch First-Ever “Quad-at-Sea” Mission to Boost Indo-Pacific Maritime Security: The coast guards of India, the US, Australia, and Japan have launched the first-ever Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission under the 2024 Wilmington Declaration to enhance maritime security, operational coordination, and interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region.This cross-embarkation mission marks an unprecedented step in Quad Coast Guard cooperation, deepening joint readiness and domain awareness while promoting a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order.The mission reflects the vision set at the Quad Leaders’ Summit in September 2024, demonstrating stronger operational ties among the Indian Coast Guard, Japan Coast Guard, US Coast Guard, and Australian Border Force.India’s participation aligns with its SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), reaffirming its commitment to maritime capacity-building, humanitarian outreach, and respect for international maritime laws.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Cabinet approves National Sports Policy 2025: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025, a landmark initiative aimed at reshaping the country’s sporting landscape and empowering citizens through sports.The new policy supersedes the existing National Sports Policy, 2001, and lays out a visionary and strategic roadmap to establish India as a global sporting powerhouse and a strong contender for excellence at international sporting events, including the 2036 Olympic Games.The NSP 2025 is the outcome of extensive consultations involving Central Ministries, NITI Aayog, State Governments, National Sports Federations (NSFs), athletes, domain experts, and public stakeholders. The policy is anchored on six key pillars.Excellence on the Global StageSports for Economic Development Sports for Social Development Sports as a People’s Movement Integration with Education (NEP 2020) Strategic Framework

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Ericsson’s First India-Made Antenna Facility at VVDN Innovation Park: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia has inaugurated Ericsson’s state-of-the-art antenna manufacturing facility at VVDN’s Global Innovation Park in Manesar, marking Ericsson’s first India-made antenna facility. Developed through collaboration between Ericsson and VVDN Technologies, the facility will begin shipments of passive antennas for global markets starting July 2025, highlighting India’s role in global telecom supply chains.More than 50% of passive antenna production for the domestic market will be localized at this facility, meeting rigorous standards and strengthening India’s position as a trusted global manufacturing and innovation hub.Ericsson’s Head of Antenna Systems- Mikael Eriksson.

 

2. Japan Launches Climate Satellite on Final H-2A Rocket Flight, Paves Way for Next-Gen H3: Japan successfully launched the GOSAT-GW climate monitoring satellite aboard the H-2A rocket’s 50th and final flight; the satellite will monitor greenhouse gases like carbon and methane, providing high-resolution climate data globally within a year.The H-2A rocket, which began service in 2001 with a 98% success rate, retires after this mission and will be replaced by Japan’s new flagship H3 rocket, developed with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to offer larger payload capacity at roughly half the launch cost, boosting global competitiveness.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Govt Keeps Small Savings Rates Unchanged for 6th Straight Quarter to Shield Savers Amid Falling Market Rates: Ministry of Finance has decided to keep interest rates on small savings schemes unchanged for the July–September 2025 quarter, marking the sixth consecutive quarter without any change, despite a sharp decline in market interest rates driven by RBI’s recent repo rate cuts and liquidity infusions.The central government’s decision comes even as the RBI has reduced the repo rate by 100 basis points in 2025 to 5.5%, alongside injecting liquidity to help banks transmit lower lending rates; the unchanged small savings rates aim to protect savers, especially senior citizens who rely on guaranteed returns.Small savings are crucial for government financing; as per the 2025-26 Union Budget, the government plans to mobilize ₹3.43 lakh crore through small savings to partly fund its fiscal deficit, though this is lower than the ₹4.12 lakh crore raised in the previous fiscal year.

 

2. June GST Collection Rises 6.2% YoY to ₹1.85 Lakh Crore: India’s gross GST collection for June 2025 stood at ₹85 lakh crore, reflecting a 6.2% increase compared to June last year, although it showed a decline from April’s record ₹2.37 lakh crore and May’s ₹2.01 lakh crore.Collections of Central-GST, State-GST, Integrated-GST, and cess all registered year-on-year growth in June, indicating a broad-based increase in tax compliance and economic activity.As GST completes 8 years since its rollout in July 2017, the government reported that GST collections doubled over the past five years, reaching a record ₹22.08 lakh crore in FY25 — a 9.4% rise from ₹20.18 lakh crore in FY24, marking the highest-ever annual GST revenue.

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.