Daily GK Update- 13th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan Gets Tenure Extension Till August 2026: Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, a 1989 batch IAS officer from the Sikkim cadre, has received a tenure extension till August 22, 2026.He was originally scheduled to retire on September 30, 2025, but his service has been extended under the provisions of FR 56(d) and Rule 16(1A) of the AIS (Death-Cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958.Govind Mohan assumed office as Union Home Secretary on August 23, 2024, after serving as the Culture Secretary.

 

2. Himachal Pradesh’s Progress In National Achievement Survey: The National Achievement Survey (NAS) 2025 results revealed a surprising shift in India’s educational landscape. Himachal Pradesh jumped from 21st place in 2021 to the top five. Punjab and Kerala maintained their leading positions. Himachal’s sharp rise by 16 ranks attracted widespread attention. This marks turnaround for the State’s public education system. The NAS is a nationwide assessment conducted every three years by the Ministry of Education. It measures learning outcomes of students in government and government-aided schools. The survey covers Classes 3, 5, 8, and 10. Core subjects tested include language, mathematics, and science. NAS provides data to help States improve education policies. However, it mainly assesses easily testable skills. Broader educational goals like critical thinking, emotional growth, civic awareness, and equity are not measured.

 

3. Caracal Sighting In Madhya Pradesh: The rare caracal has been captured on camera inside the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. This is the first confirmed sighting in the state in nearly 20 years. The discovery is linked to ongoing conservation efforts under Project Cheetah. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and Madhya Pradesh forest department have been monitoring wildlife in the area since 2023. The sighting offers hope for the revival of threatened species in the region. Project Cheetah began monitoring cheetahs, prey, and other predators in the Gandhi Sagar landscape in 2023. Camera traps were set up in the fenced Cheetah Closed Natural Area to track animal movement. The project aims to restore habitat and improve biodiversity. The caracal photographs were obtained from the Golabavdi beat in the West Range of the sanctuary. This marks the first confirmed presence of caracals since monitoring started.

 

4. India’s Forest Land Diversion Sparks Legal Controversy: The Government of India has approved the clearance of over 8,500 hectares of forest land in the first half of 2025. This move has raised concerns due to a Supreme Court order prohibiting forest land reduction without safeguards. The approvals include areas legally protected under earlier court directives. The issue centres on the misuse of compensatory afforestation (CA) and the recent Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023. Between February and June 2025, 8,518.23 hectares of forest land were approved for clearing. This area is roughly four times the size of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Approvals came from three statutory bodies – Regional Empowered Committees (REC), Forest Advisory Committee (FAC), and the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL). The REC approved 348.96 hectares, the FAC 4,711.91 hectares, and the NBWL 3,457.37 hectares, including protected areas like national parks.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kumar Mangalam Birla joining the USISPF Executive Committee: Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Board of Directors.He was also honoured with the Global Leadership Award at the 2025 USISPF Leadership Summit held in Washington, D.C., recognizing his global business influence.The Aditya Birla Group, India’s third-largest conglomerate, operates across diverse sectors with a global workforce of 180,000+ employees, and is known for its meritocratic culture and innovation-driven growth.

 

2. Kumar Mangalam Birla Joins USISPF Executive Committee: Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, has joined the Executive Committee of the S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).He received the Global Leadership Award at the 2025 USISPF Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., recognizing his global business impact.Aditya Birla Group, India’s third-largest conglomerate, operates across multiple sectors with a global workforce of over 1.8 lakh employees.

 

3. Salt Reduction Efforts in India: Recent studies reveal excessive salt intake is driving a silent health crisis in India. High salt consumption increases risks of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and kidney disorders. Scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE) have launched community-based interventions focusing on low sodium salt substitutes. These efforts aim to reduce salt intake and improve cardiovascular health across urban and rural populations. The World Health Organisation recommends less than 5 grams of salt per person daily. However, urban Indians consume about 9.2 grams per day, nearly double the recommended limit. Rural consumption is lower but still exceeds recommendations at 5.6 grams daily. This high intake is linked with increased hypertension and related diseases.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Kashmir Martyrs Day 2025: The politics of Jammu and Kashmir in 2025 is tense around Martyrs’ Day on July 13. This day, once an official holiday, honours those killed in 1931 during protests against the Dogra regime. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the holiday was scrapped. With an elected government now in power, political parties planned to visit the Martyrs’ Cemetery. The BJP opposed this. To prevent visits, the police placed many leaders under house arrest. The controversy marks deep political divides and the complex legacy of Kashmir’s struggle. Martyrs’ Day commemorates the killing of 22 Kashmiri Muslims on 13 July 1931. They were shot by Dogra police outside Srinagar Central Jail during a protest. The protest was against the Dogra rulers’ autocratic rule. The victims were buried at the shrine of Khawja Bahaudin Naqashbandi. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah declared this day as Martyrs’ Day to honour their sacrifice. The event marked the start of political awakening and identity assertion in Kashmir.

 

2. India’s Astra Missile Achieves Indigenous Seeker Flight Success: Recent developments in India’s defence technology show milestone. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully tested the Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) equipped with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker. The test took place off the coast of Odisha from a Su-30 Mk-I fighter jet. This achievement marks a leap in India’s self-reliance in critical defence systems. On 11 July 2025, two Astra missiles were launched against high-speed unmanned aerial targets. Both missiles achieved pinpoint accuracy under varied launch conditions and target aspects. The Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, confirmed the flawless performance of all subsystems, especially the indigenously developed RF seeker. The missile’s range exceeds 100 kilometres, supported by advanced guidance and navigation systems.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NESTS Signs MoU with Tata Motors to Empower Tribal Youth through Skill-Based Education and Employment Opportunities: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and Tata Motors Limited (TML) signed an MoU to enhance skill-linked education and employment for tribal students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).Under this partnership, tribal students completing Class 12th will be enrolled in the Tata Motors Kaushalya Program, focusing on employability and vocational training.This five-year MoU reflects a shared goal of uplifting tribal communities through structured skill development, aligned with India’s national development and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

2. NESTS and UNICEF India Launch TALASH to Empower Tribal Students with Life Skills: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in collaboration with UNICEF India, has launched the TALASH initiative (Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub) to promote holistic development among students of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs).TALASH focuses on enhancing self-awareness, life skills, and career clarity among tribal youth, aiming to nurture both educational and personal excellence.It is the first national-level program of its kind specifically dedicated to tribal students, representing a focused effort to empower and uplift tribal communities through targeted educational support.

 

3. IN-SPACe Clearance for Starlink Satellites: Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, has secured the final regulatory clearance to offer satellite communication services in India. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) authorised Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, enabling the company to begin operations after receiving an operator licence from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). This move marks step in expanding satellite-based internet access across the country. Starlink obtained its operator licence from the DoT in May 2025 after a three-year application process. IN-SPACe granted authorisation for the Starlink Gen1 satellite constellation, which includes 4,408 satellites orbiting at 540-570 km altitude. The authorisation is valid for five years or until the constellation’s operational life ends. Starlink must comply with all regulatory provisions and secure additional clearances as required.

 

4. India’s Sulphur Dioxide Emission Norms: India recently extended the deadline for coal-fired power plants to install flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) units. This move relaxes sulphur dioxide (SO2) emission control norms. The extension has drawn criticism from independent researchers who warn of serious health and environmental risks. Despite strict norms set in 2015, most plants have not complied. The debate continues over the scientific basis and public health impact of this delay. In 2015, India introduced stringent SO2 emission standards for coal-based power plants. These required installation of FGD units within two years to reduce SO2 emissions. SO2 is a harmful pollutant that converts into fine particulate matter (PM2.5), causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Even with multiple deadline extensions, over 90% of plants have failed to install FGDs.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Imposes Penalties on HDFC Bank and Shriram Finance for Regulatory Violations: RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹4.88 lakh on HDFC Bank for violating foreign investment norms while sanctioning a term loan to a client.Shriram Finance Limited was penalised ₹2.70 lakh by the Reserve Bank of India for non-compliance with certain provisions of the RBI (Digital Lending) Directions, 2025 after a statutory inspection based on its March 2024 financials.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Prajakta Koli Becomes The Only Indian On 2025 TIME100 Creators List: Prajakta Koli, popularly known as MostlySane, has been featured in the 2025 TIME100 Creators List, making her the first and only Indian-born digital creator to receive this global recognition.The TIME100 Creators List highlights the world’s most influential digital voices and includes global icons like Mr. Beast (Jimmy Donaldson), Khabane Lame, Kai Cenat, and Mel Robbins.Koli began her journey on YouTube in 2015, gaining fame through relatable comedy sketches based on everyday Indian life, amassing 7 million+ subscribers and 8 million Instagram followers.Beyond digital content, she has acted in Netflix’s “Mismatched”, Bollywood films like Jugjugg Jeeyo and Neeyat, hosted YouTube Originals’ “Pretty Fit”, and in 2025, published her debut novel “Too Good To Be True”.

Daily GK Update- 12th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NESTS Signs MoU with Tata Motors to Empower Tribal Youth through Skill-Based Education and Employment Opportunities: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and Tata Motors Limited (TML) signed an MoU to enhance skill-linked education and employment for tribal students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).Under this partnership, tribal students completing Class 12th will be enrolled in the Tata Motors Kaushalya Program, focusing on employability and vocational training.This five-year MoU reflects a shared goal of uplifting tribal communities through structured skill development, aligned with India’s national development and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

2. Kumar Mangalam Birla joining the USISPF Executive Committee: Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Board of Directors.He was also honoured with the Global Leadership Award at the 2025 USISPF Leadership Summit held in Washington, D.C., recognizing his global business influence. The Aditya Birla Group, India’s third-largest conglomerate, operates across diverse sectors with a global workforce of 180,000+ employees, and is known for its meritocratic culture and innovation-driven growth.

 

3. Kumar Mangalam Birla Joins USISPF Executive Committee: Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, has joined the Executive Committee of the S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF). He received the Global Leadership Award at the 2025 USISPF Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., recognizing his global business impact. Aditya Birla Group, India’s third-largest conglomerate, operates across multiple sectors with a global workforce of over 1.8 lakh employees.

 

4. Assam Cabinet Launches Gaja Mitra Scheme: The Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved the launch of the Gaja Mitra Scheme in eight high-risk districts to address rising human-elephant conflicts through community-based rapid response teams in 80 conflict-prone villages. These teams, consisting of eight local members, will function during peak conflict periods like the paddy cultivation season to ensure safe elephant passage and safeguard local livelihoods.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NESTS and UNICEF India Launch TALASH to Empower Tribal Students with Life Skills: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in collaboration with UNICEF India, has launched the TALASH initiative (Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub) to promote holistic development among students of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs). TALASH focuses on enhancing self-awareness, life skills, and career clarity among tribal youth, aiming to nurture both educational and personal excellence. It is the first national-level program of its kind specifically dedicated to tribal students, representing a focused effort to empower and uplift tribal communities through targeted educational support.

 

2. Prajakta Koli Becomes The Only Indian On 2025 TIME100 Creators List: Prajakta Koli, popularly known as MostlySane, has been featured in the 2025 TIME100 Creators List, making her the first and only Indian-born digital creator to receive this global recognition. The TIME100 Creators List highlights the world’s most influential digital voices and includes global icons like Mr. Beast (Jimmy Donaldson), Khabane Lame, Kai Cenat, and Mel Robbins. Koli began her journey on YouTube in 2015, gaining fame through relatable comedy sketches based on everyday Indian life, amassing 7 million+ subscribers and 8 million Instagram followers. Beyond digital content, she has acted in Netflix’s “Mismatched”, Bollywood films like Jugjugg Jeeyo and Neeyat, hosted YouTube Originals’ “Pretty Fit”, and in 2025, published her debut novel “Too Good To Be True”.

 

3. 11 July – International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica: The United Nations observes 11 July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica to honour the victims and survivors. The genocide, which occurred in July 1995 during the Bosnian War, led to the massacre of more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys in Srebrenica. The day serves to promote global awareness, remembrance, and education to prevent future genocides and uphold human rights.

 

4. 11 July – World Horse Day: World Horse Day is observed annually on 11 July to celebrate the significance of horses in human history, culture, agriculture, and sports. The day recognises the significant role horses have played in transportation, warfare, farming, and companionship across civilisations. It aims to raise awareness about horse welfare, protection, and ethical treatment, especially in industries where they are used for work or sport.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Centre Approves ₹1,066 Crore Relief for Flood and Landslide-Affected States: The Central Government has approved the release of ₹1,066 crore for flood and landslide-affected states—Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Kerala, and Uttarakhand, with Uttarakhand receiving the highest share of over ₹455 crore. So far in 2025, the Centre has released ₹6,166 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund to 14 states, ₹1,988 crore from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund to 12 states, and ₹726 crore from the State Disaster Mitigation Fund to 5 states. The government has provided logistical support including the deployment of 104 NDRF teams, Army units, and Air Force assistance across 21 states and UTs for monsoon-related rescue and relief operations.

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Prasar Bharati Signs MoU with HAI to Boost the Sport Nationwide: Prasar Bharati and the Handball Association of India (HAI) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to produce and broadcast all national and international handball events. These events will be broadcast on DD Sports, Waves OTT, and other Prasar Bharati platforms. The MoU aims to significantly boost the sport’s reach and nurture talent in the country. Chairman of Prasar Bharati – Navneet Kumar Sehgal

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates Agricultural Technology Innovation Centre in Meerut: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the Agricultural Technology Innovation Centre at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Agricultural University, Meerut, aiming to transform farmers into entrepreneurs using AI and innovation. He emphasized AI’s potential in doubling farmers’ income and ensuring fair prices, and highlighted IIT Ropar’s role in leading the Centre of Excellence for AI in Agriculture. A new Skill Development Centre was also announced to support farmer-centric research and startups, with Union Ministers Jayant Chaudhary and Surya Pratap Shahi attending the event and backing the IIT-Agriculture University collaboration

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. AIIB Invests $100 Million in IIFL Home Finance to Boost Affordable Housing and Green Infrastructure in India: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has invested $100 million in IIFL Home Finance Limited to support affordable housing for low-income and economically weaker sections in India. This is AIIB’s first partnership with IIFLHF, promoting green building practices aligned with India’s climate goals and the Paris Agreement. The funding supports initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban 2.0 and AIIB’s Sustainable Cities Strategy, addressing both the social and environmental sides of India’s housing needs.

 

2. RBI Imposes Penalties on HDFC Bank and Shriram Finance for Regulatory Violations: RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹4.88 lakh on HDFC Bank for violating foreign investment norms while sanctioning a term loan to a client. Shriram Finance Limited was penalised ₹2.70 lakh by the Reserve Bank of India for non-compliance with certain provisions of the RBI (Digital Lending) Directions, 2025 after a statutory inspection based on its March 2024 financials.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Telangana Wins IESA Industry Excellence Award 2025 for State Leadership in Battery Manufacturing: Telangana received the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) Industry Excellence Award 2025 under the State Leadership – Battery Manufacturing category, recognizing its advancements in energy storage. The award was presented at the 11th India Energy Storage Week (IESW) 2025 held in New Delhi, acknowledging the state’s proactive efforts in fostering new energy technologies. With progressive policies like the Telangana EV and Energy Storage Policy and dedicated industrial clusters, the state has emerged as a national hub for battery manufacturing and EV supply chains.

Daily GK Update- 11th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Commemorative Stamp Released to Mark 125th Birth Anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee: The Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp on the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee during an event held at Siri Fort Auditorium, Delhi, organised by the Ministry of Culture.The event included a cultural programme with patriotic performances and an exhibition depicting the life, legacy, and contributions of Syama Prasad Mookerjee; the stamp was designed by Smt. Nenu Gupta.A First Day Cover and Brochure were also launched, and the first stamp album was presented by Col. Akhilesh Kumar Pandey, Chief Postmaster General, Delhi Circle, in the presence of senior government officials and dignitaries.

 

2. NCSC Submits Annual Report 2023–24 to President Highlighting Welfare and Safeguards for Scheduled Castes: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) submitted its Annual Report 2023–24 to the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhawan, led by NCSC Chairman Shri Kishor Makwana.As per Article 338 of the Constitution, the NCSC is mandated to submit reports to the President regarding the functioning of Constitutional Safeguards for Scheduled Castes, including their welfare and protection.The report contains recommendations to the Union and State Governments for improving the implementation of laws and schemes aimed at the socio-economic development and protection of Scheduled Castes.It also provides a comprehensive review of issues such as atrocities and crimes against Scheduled Castes, based on field visits, consultations, and analysis of welfare scheme implementation across various states.

 

3. Maharashtra Declares Ganeshotsav as Official State Festival to Promote Cultural Heritage: The Maharashtra government has announced that the annual Ganeshotsav (Ganesh festival) will now be officially recognised as a ‘State Festival’, enabling more facilities, funding, and relaxed restrictions during the festival period.The demand was raised by BJP MLA Hemant Rasane in the state assembly, emphasizing the need to promote the rich cultural and religious legacy initiated by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1893.Declaring Ganeshotsav as a state festival acknowledges its deep-rooted significance in Maharashtra’s social, cultural, and historical identity, reflecting widespread public support and sentiment.

 

4. Babitha B P Appointed as Deputy CISO at SBI to Strengthen Cybersecurity Framework: Babitha B P has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at the State Bank of India (SBI), enhancing the bank’s leadership in the cybersecurity domain.She brings extensive experience in information security and risk management, contributing to SBI’s efforts in safeguarding digital infrastructure and customer data.Her appointment reflects SBI’s commitment to bolstering its cybersecurity framework amidst growing digital threats and technological advancements.

 

5. Federal Bank Appoints V. Venkateswaran as Executive Director for Three-Year Term: Federal Bank has appointed Venkateswaran as Executive Director on the board, following the exit of Shalini Warrier, with approval from the Reserve Bank of India.Venkateswaran, currently serving as Group President & CFO, will assume charge from July 10, 2025, for a three-year term, overseeing financial reporting, credit administration, and recovery.A Chartered Accountant by profession, he joined Federal Bank in April 2021 after holding key roles at Standard Chartered, HSBC, and beginning his career in the manufacturing sector.

 

6. Abhijit Kishore Reappointed as COAI Chairperson for 2025–26: Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer of Vodafone Idea Ltd, has been reappointed as Chairperson of the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), while Rahul Vatts, Chief Regulatory Officer of Bharti Airtel, will serve as the Vice Chairperson for 2025–26.The announcement was made during the Annual General Body Meeting of COAI, where the new leadership for the year 2025–26 was formally declared.

 

7. Priya Nair to Become First Woman CEO and MD of Hindustan Unilever Limited: Priya Nair will take over as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) from August 1, 2025, becoming the first woman to hold this position in the company’s history.She has been with HUL since 1995 and held key roles in sales, marketing, home care, and beauty segments, eventually becoming the Global Chief Marketing Officer for Beauty & Well-Being at Unilever.Current CEO and MD Rohit Jawa will step down on July 31, 2025, after over two years of leading HUL with his ‘ASPIRE’ strategy focused on high-growth demand spaces.

 

8. Arthunkal Police Station Becomes First in India to Receive ISO 9001:2015 Certification from BIS: Arthunkal Police Station in Alappuzha, Kerala, has become the first police station in India to receive the prestigious IS/ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), recognising its excellence in service delivery.The certification was officially presented by Sri Praveen Khanna from BIS to Sri Ravada Azad Chandrashekhar, State Police Chief of Kerala, in the presence of senior police officials and dignitaries.The ISO 9001:2015 certification acknowledges the station’s high performance in crime prevention, investigation, law & order maintenance, traffic control, emergency response, judicial coordination, and grievance redressal, focusing on efficiency and transparency.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 11 July – World Population Day: World Population Day is observed every year on 11th July to raise awareness about population-related issues such as family planning, gender equality, poverty, maternal health, and human rights.It emphasises the need to address the challenges posed by rapid population growth, especially in developing countries, and advocates for sustainable development through education and healthcare access.Theme 2025 – Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world The day was established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989, inspired by the global milestone of the Day of Five Billion on 11 July 1987.

 

2. Europe Accelerates River Barrier Removal Drive: Europe is intensifying efforts to remove barriers from rivers. The goal is to make 25,000 kilometres of rivers barrier-free by 2030. In 2024, 23 countries demolished 542 barriers. This is the highest number since the drive began in 2020. The push aims to restore natural river ecosystems and improve aquatic life. Rivers have been dammed for centuries to benefit human societies. Barriers like dams, weirs, culverts and sluices control water flow for irrigation, energy and flood management. However, these structures disrupt ecosystems. They block fish migration, change water temperature and sediment flow, and harm local communities relying on fisheries. The Dam Removal Europe coalition, including WWF and The Rivers Trust, leads the barrier removal campaign. By 2023, 15 countries removed 487 barriers. In 2024, 23 countries increased removals to 542. Eleven countries removed 101 barriers in early 2025. The European Union’s Water Framework Directive first recognised barriers as a major ecological pressure in 2000. The Nature Restoration Law adopted in 2023 mandates 25,000 km of barrier-free rivers by 2030.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Commissions Indigenous DSV Nistar: The Indian Navy commissioned its first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV) named Nistar on 18 July 2025. The event took place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in attendance. This ship marks milestone in India’s defence self-reliance and enhances the Navy’s deep-sea diving and submarine rescue capabilities. Nistar was designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam. Over 120 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) contributed to the project, achieving more than 80% indigenous content. The vessel is approximately 120 metres long and displaces over 10,000 tonnes. It features a Dynamic Positioning System that allows it to maintain precise positioning at sea.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India to Host ISSF Combined World Cup 2027 and Junior World Championships 2028 in New Delhi: India has secured the hosting rights for two major ISSF events: the Combined World Cup in 2027 and the Junior World Championships in 2028, as announced by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) during its executive committee meetingNew Delhi will also host the Junior World Cup (Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun) in September–October 2025, and the prestigious ISSF World Cup leg in all three disciplines (rifle, pistol, and shotgun) in 2026, with dates to be confirmed.The Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, which previously hosted the elite ISSF World Cup Final in 2023 and the World Cup ahead of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, will again serve as the central venue for these international competitions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. MEITY signs MoU with BITS-Pilani to launch cybersecurity program: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and BITS-Pilani have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch professional development programs in cybersecurity for professionals across government, public sector and industry.The collaboration aims to address the growing demand for structured, high-impact capacity building in cyber security in view of the evolving digital threats and cyber security challenges. The program will begin on 19th July and is open to professionals. Indian Navy Signs Pact with BEL to Launch AI-Enabled NMDA Project for Enhanced Maritime SecurityDEPwD and Sri Aurobindo Society Join Hands to Boost Inclusive Education for Children with DisabilitiesIndian Railways Partners with BHASHINI to Launch Multilingual AI Services for Enhanced Passenger ExperienceIIT Delhi, AIIMS sign MoU to establish centre to research AI in healthcareNLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL) signed a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) with MAHAPREIT to establish a new Joint Venture Company (JVC) for green energy development.

 

2. Indian Railways Signs MoU with DFCCIL to Deploy AI-Based Inspection Systems for Enhanced Train Safety: Indian Railways and DFCCIL have signed an MoU to install Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS) powered by Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, aimed at improving train safety and automating rolling stock maintenance.The MVIS technology captures high-resolution images of the under-gear of moving trains and automatically detects loose, missing, or hanging components, generating real-time alerts for immediate corrective action.DFCCIL will handle the procurement and installation of four MVIS units, which are expected to reduce manual inspections, enhance operational safety, and minimize potential accidents or service disruptions.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. MCX to Launch India’s First Electricity Futures Contracts for Power Sector Hedging: India’s Multi Commodity Exchange will launch the country’s first electricity futures contracts, providing power generators, distribution companies, and large industrial consumers with a tool to hedge their risks.The exchange will initially launch cash-settled contracts for the current and next three-month periods, but they will subsequently be available for all 12 calendar months.All government payments above ₹75 crore must go via RBI’s e-Kuber from July 16: Central government departments and ministries will be required to process all payments above ₹75 crore from July 16, including to private parties, through the Reserve Bank of India’s e-Kuber system.This measure aims to enhance transparency and expedite fund reconciliation.The department also plans to lower the threshold to ₹50 crore in the next financial year.

Daily GK Update- 10th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Punjab Launches ‘Young Entrepreneurs’ Scheme to Teach Business Skills in Govt Schools from 2026: Starting from the 2026–27 academic year, the Punjab government will introduce business and marketing skill education for Class 11 and 12 students in government schools under the ‘Punjab Young Entrepreneurs’ scheme.At the Business Blasters Expo 2025 in Rupnagar, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains highlighted the government’s aim to turn students into job creators, providing financial and technical assistance to support their ventures.Ten student-led ventures pitched their ideas in a Shark Tank-style showcase and secured funding, while another 30 teams exhibited and sold products at Expo stalls. ₹17 lakh has been invested to set up innovation labs for product development, possibly in collaboration with IITs.Former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia said students will now be required to present a business idea to pass school, emphasizing practical learning, earning while studying, and building real-world entrepreneurial skills before graduation.

 

2. Punjab Becomes First State to Offer ₹10 Lakh Universal Cashless Health Insurance Under ‘Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has launched a universal health insurance scheme under the Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana, offering cashless treatment of up to ₹10 lakh per annum to all 65 lakh families in the state at government and empanelled private hospitals.The scheme expands on existing coverage by providing an additional ₹5 lakh top-up, raising the insurance limit from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh for families already enrolled under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Punjab’s state scheme.A total of ₹778 crore has been allocated in the Punjab Budget 2025–26 to implement this initiative, which is set to become operational from October 2, making Punjab the first state in India to offer such comprehensive cashless health coverage.

 

3. Kalaa Setu Challenge: India is rapidly advancing its digital governance by integrating AI technologies to improve communication in multiple Indian languages. The Kalaa Setu challenge, launched in 2025 by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting via the WaveX Startup Accelerator, invites startups to develop scalable AI tools for multimedia content creation from text. This initiative aims to overcome linguistic barriers and enhance public outreach through real-time, multilingual audio, video, and graphic content generation. Kalaa Setu focuses on creating AI-driven solutions that convert text into multimedia content. It supports three core areas – text-to-video, text-to-graphics, and text-to-audio generation. These technologies enable automated production of videos, infographics, and voice content that are customised for various regional languages and cultural contexts. The challenge encourages startups to build tools that can scale to meet the diverse communication needs of India’s vast population.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ISA to Host 7th Asia-Pacific Regional Meet in Colombo: The 7th Regional Committee Meeting for Asia and the Pacific, hosted by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka from 15–17 July 2025, under the theme ‘Advancing Solar Cooperation Across a Region of Diversity and Opportunity’.The meeting will bring together governments, universities, think tanks, private sector leaders, and international partners to advance solar deployment, promote regional solar interconnections, and explore technologies like Green Hydrogen, storage, and E-Mobility.Key agenda items include operationalizing the SIDS solar platform, signing Country Partnership Frameworks, launching new STAR Centres for capacity building, and aligning regional solar priorities with ISA’s four-pillar strategic vision, including blended finance, technology roadmap, and policy innovation.The RCM aims to strengthen ISA’s leadership in the Asia-Pacific solar transition, build on the ISA-ADB Green Hydrogen project, and explore cross-border solar trade frameworks, ensuring inclusive and resilient growth especially for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

 

2. Trinidad & Tobago 8th country to have UPI: India will assist Trinidad and Tobago in developing a digital payment system similar to Unified Payments Interface (UPI), as part of PM Narendra Modi’s recent visit during his five-nation tour.UPI is currently operational in several countries including UAE, Singapore, France, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius, allowing Indian users to make payments abroad by scanning QR codes and paying in INR while merchants receive local currency.To use UPI internationally, users must have a UPI-enabled app, an Indian bank account linked to UPI, and international roaming activated for OTPs. Apps like BHIM offer a “UPI Global” feature for secure overseas transactions.Cross-border UPI transactions may involve minimal conversion fees, often lower than debit/credit card charges, and NPCI has signaled further expansion into Europe and the Caribbean, making Indian digital wallets increasingly borderless.

 

3. Bulgaria to Adopt Euro as 21st Member of Eurozone from January 1, 2026: Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member of the Eurozone on January 1, 2026, after receiving the final approval from EU finance ministers, marking a major economic milestone nearly 19 years after joining the European Union.The official exchange rate has been fixed at 1.95583 Bulgarian lev per euro, as part of the legal framework adopted by EU ministers to facilitate Bulgaria’s transition from its current currency (the lev) to the euro.Bulgaria’s entry follows Croatia, which became the 20th member in 2023, continuing the expansion of the euro area that began with 12 countries in 2002 and gradually included others like Slovenia (2007), Slovakia (2009), and Lithuania (2015).The euro has been strengthening against the U.S. dollar recently, partly due to global shifts in economic confidence and trade tensions driven by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist policies.

 

4. 10 July – Global Energy Independence Day: Global Energy Independence Day is observed every year on 10 July to promote awareness and action toward achieving energy self-reliance and reducing global dependency on non-renewable and imported energy sources.It encourages the use of clean, renewable, and sustainable energy solutions such as solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Inducts First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel ‘Nistar’ Built by Hindustan Shipyard: ‘Nistar’, the first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel, was delivered to the Indian Navy by Hindustan Shipyard Limited at Visakhapatnam, marking a major step in India’s self-reliance in naval capabilities.Designed as per Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards, the 118-meter-long vessel weighing nearly 10,000 tons is equipped for deep-sea saturation diving up to 300 meters and side diving operations up to 75 meters.The vessel serves as a ‘Mother Ship’ for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV) and can carry out submarine rescue missions, with advanced systems like Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of operations up to 1000 meters.With nearly 75% indigenous content, ‘Nistar’ aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, showcasing India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities.

 

2. DRDO Successfully Conducts User Trials of ERASR from INS Kavaratti: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the final user trial of the indigenously developed Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) from the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kavaratti.The DRDO conducted the first test of the ERASR on April 3, 2023, from the Navy’s guided missile destroyer, INS Chennai.The ERASR will replace the existing Soviet-era RBU-6000 Smerch-2 system currently deployed on Indian naval ships with a range of up to 5 km.The ERASR rocket system has been indigenously designed and developed by two DRDO labs based in Pune. The Armament Research and Development Establishment, as well as the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory.The launcher and the rocket have been manufactured by the Hyderabad-based public sector company, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and the private sector company Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited, based in Nagpur.

 

3. Indian Air Force Jaguar Jet Crashes: The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently witnessed the crash of a SEPECAT Jaguar jet in Rajasthan’s Churu district. Both pilots aboard were killed. This incident marks the third Jaguar crash in India this year, denoting ongoing challenges with the vintage fighter-bomber. Despite these setbacks, the IAF plans to keep the Jaguar in service until around 2040. The Jaguar is a product of a unique British-French collaboration from the 1960s. Developed by SEPECAT, a joint venture between Britain’s British Aircraft Corporation and France’s Breguet, it was initially designed as a jet trainer. It evolved into a supersonic tactical support aircraft capable of nuclear strike roles. The jet first flew in 1968 and was inducted into the IAF in 1979.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Wins 588 Medals at World Police and Fire Games 2025: Team India secured a total of 588 medals, including 280 gold medals, at the 21st edition of the World Police and Fire Games 2025 in Birmingham, Alabama, USA.India ranked third overall, behind the USA with 1,354 medals (569 gold, 433 silver, and 352 bronze) and Brazil with 743 medals (266 gold, 246 silver, and 231 bronze).The 2029 edition of the tournament will be hosted by India in Ahmedabad.The World Police and Fire Games is an Olympic-style competition for athletes representing law enforcement, firefighters, and officers from corrections, probation, border protection, immigration, and customs offices globally.The event, held biennially, features over 60 sports. It is governed by the California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF), the Host City, and the WPFG Board of Directors. The inaugural edition of the competition took place in 1985 in San Jose, California.

 

2. Magnus Carlsen Wins Super United Rapid & Blitz Title in Zagreb: World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen clinched the Super United Rapid and Blitz Chess tournament title in Zagreb with a round to spare, finishing with an impressive 22.5 points—2.5 points ahead of second-place Wesley So.Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh delivered a strong performance to finish third with 19.5 points, narrowly edging past France’s Alireza Firouzja and Poland’s Duda Jan-Krzysztof, proving his critics wrong.

From the total prize pool of USD 175,000, Carlsen secured USD 40,000, while Wesley So and Gukesh earned USD 30,000 and USD 25,000 respectively for their second and third place finishes.

 

3. Mexico Beats USA 2-1 to Win Record 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup Title in Thrilling Final: Mexico defeated the United States 2-1 in a thrilling final at NRG Stadium, Houston, to secure their 10th CONCACAF Gold Cup title, coming from behind after Chris Richards opened the scoring for the U.S. in just the 4th minute.With this win, Mexico successfully defends their Gold Cup title and extends their record to 10 championships, also having previously won the CONCACAF Nations Championship (the Gold Cup’s predecessor) three times.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Centre to Set Up New Akashvani Kendra in Ujjain Under BIND Scheme: The Government of India has announced the establishment of a new Akashvani Kendra in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, aimed at enhancing regional broadcasting and timely public communication.The initiative will be implemented under the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) scheme, which provides financial support to Prasar Bharati for upgrading infrastructure and content creation.The Kendra will also focus on preserving Madhya Pradesh’s cultural heritage, promoting regional identity, and strengthening the connection between the government and the people through effective media outreach.

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Uttarakhand Geothermal Energy Policy 2025: The Uttarakhand government approved the Geothermal Energy Policy 2025 to boost exploration and development of geothermal resources. This policy aims to promote clean energy, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security. It targets power generation, heating, cooling, water purification, and community development using geothermal sites across the state. The policy encourages scientific and technical research on geothermal energy. It supports sustainable and economically viable projects. The Energy Department will implement the policy in coordination with Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA) and Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd (UJVNL). Projects will be allotted for up to 30 years through competitive bidding or other methods. Both public and private entities can participate.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Kasaragod Bags Kerala Fisheries Excellence Award 2025 for Outstanding Aquaculture Initiatives: Kasaragod district won the Kerala Fisheries Department’s Excellence Award 2025 for outstanding performance under the Popular Fish Farming Project, recognizing its grassroots-level implementation of fisheries schemes.Two individual farmers from Kasaragod also received recognition: Ravi P.P. from Padanna secured second place for Best Backwater Fish Seed Production, while Sea Pearl Aquafarm from Kumbala won third place for Best Innovative Fish Farming.The awards are part of Kerala’s annual State Farmer Awards, which aim to honour exemplary contributions in aquaculture and promote innovation in the fisheries sector across the state.This accolade adds to Kasaragod’s list of recognitions, including the Matsya Karshaka Award for Best District, the Best BMC award in the 2023 State Biodiversity Awards, and becoming the first district to declare an official tree, flower, and bird for biodiversity awareness.

 

2. PM Modi Receives Namibia’s Highest Civilian Honour ‘Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis’: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Namibia’s highest civilian award, ‘The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis’, during his one-day state visit, becoming the first Indian leader to receive this honour.The award was presented by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, symbolising a deepening of diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Namibia.Established in 1995, the award is named after the unique Namibian desert plant Welwitschia Mirabilis, which represents resilience and longevity; this marks Modi’s 27th international honour, and his fourth during the ongoing five-nation tour.