Daily GK Update- 20th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Hosts 4th BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise to Boost Regional Preparedness for Cyclones and Floods: India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) hosted the 4th BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise (DMEx) as a virtual tabletop exercise, with participation from all BIMSTEC member countries: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.The primary focus of the exercise was on cyclone and flood preparedness, aiming to assess and enhance response mechanisms for such disasters common in the Bay of Bengal region.Member countries shared best practices, tested their response strategies through simulated scenarios, and explored ways to strengthen regional coordination in disaster risk reduction and emergency management.

 

2. Swachh Survekshan 2024-25: The Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 results have reaffirmed Indore, Surat, and Navi Mumbai as India’s cleanest cities. These cities topped the newly introduced Super Swachh League, which honours sustained excellence in urban sanitation. This year’s survey brought new innovations to promote inclusivity and competition among cities of all sizes. Indore secured first place, followed by Surat and Navi Mumbai. Vijayawada ranked fourth. Ahmedabad, Bhopal, and Lucknow emerged as the leading Swachh Shehars in the new generation category. The survey recognised 78 entities including cities, cantonments, and institutions for their sanitation achievements. Prayagraj was awarded Best Ganga Town. Secunderabad Cantonment Board earned praise for sanitation efforts. Visakhapatnam, Jabalpur, and Gorakhpur were honoured for prioritising sanitation worker safety and dignity.

 

3. Chhattisgarh’s Vision 2047: The state of Chhattisgarh has revealed an ambitious plan to increase its GDP by 14 to 15 times by 2047. The focus is on expanding the service sector from 35% to 50% of the state’s economy. This transformation aims to complement the existing industrial and agricultural sectors and create a balanced and sustainable economic model. Chhattisgarh’s GDP presently stands at approximately Rs 5 lakh crore. The industrial sector contributes 45%, the service sector 35%, and agriculture 20%. The state aims to raise its GDP to Rs 75 lakh crore by 2047. The service sector’s rapid expansion is expected to drive this growth. Key drivers identified for service sector growth include information technology, logistics, and tourism. The state plans to develop IT parks and attract IT-enabled companies. Special emphasis is placed on establishing hubs for Hindi Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and artificial intelligence startups. These initiatives are designed to generate employment and improve human capital.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Olympic Bronze Medallist Audun Gronvold Dies at 49: Olympic ski cross bronze medallist Audun Gronvold passed away at the age of 49 after being struck by lightning during a cabin trip, as confirmed by the Norwegian Ski Federation. Gronvold had a distinguished career in skiing, winning bronze at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and the 2005 World Ski Championships, and representing Norway in alpine skiing from 1993–94 to 2003–04.

 

2. Global Measles Surge Linked To Falling Vaccination Rates: Measles cases have surged worldwide in 2024 and early 2025. The Global Virus Network (GVN), a coalition of virologists from over 40 countries, has brought into light this alarming trend. The rise is mainly due to declining vaccination coverage. The United States recorded its highest number of measles cases in 30 years. Similar outbreaks are seen across Africa, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Weak health systems and interrupted vaccination drives worsen the situation. Measles is highly contagious. The virus spreads rapidly among unvaccinated populations. In the US, vaccination rates dropped below the 95% needed for herd immunity. Nonmedical exemptions rose to 3.3% during the 2023-2024 school year. This decline enabled outbreaks in states like Texas, New Mexico, and California. Globally, war, displacement, and poor health infrastructure contributed to the surge.

 

3. Africa’s Wetlands Face Critical Degradation Challenges: Africa’s wetlands are rapidly degrading despite their vital role for millions. The 2025 Global Wetland Outlook (GWO) report reveals urbanisation and industrial growth as primary causes. Wetlands provide food, water, and protection from natural disasters and climate impacts. Their decline threatens ecosystems and livelihoods across the continent. Africa’s wetlands are among the most degraded globally. The GWO 2025 report marks widespread deterioration in Africa and Asia, contrasting with improvements in Europe and North America. South Africa’s wetlands, for example, are degrading faster than restoration efforts can keep pace. Many wetlands suffer unseen damage due to limited field assessments.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Amethi-Made AK-203 Rifles: The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is set to complete the delivery of 6.01 lakh AK-203 rifles nearly 22 months ahead of the planned schedule. The contract, valued at Rs 5,200 crore, was initially set to end by October 2032. However, IRRPL aims to finish by December 2030. This development marks milestone in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. The AK-203 is a modernised version of the Kalashnikov assault rifle series. It is designed to be the primary weapon for Indian soldiers deployed along the northern and western borders. This includes sensitive zones like the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Each rifle undergoes 120 manufacturing processes and is made up of approximately 50 components and 180 sub-parts. The weapon has a service life of 15,000 rounds, ensuring durability in varied combat conditions. IRRPL has developed alternate sources for every material used in the AK-203, ensuring supply chain security within India. Quality control at the Amethi plant is being enhanced to become one of the best in the country. So far, around 48,000 rifles have been delivered. An additional 7,000 rifles are expected in the next 2-3 weeks, with 15,000 more planned by December 2025. The company plans to ramp up production to 1.5 lakh rifles annually to meet the armed forces’ demands.

 

2. INS Nistar Diving Support Vessel: The Indian Navy recently commissioned INS Nistar at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. This vessel is the first of two indigenously designed diving support vessels (DSVs) built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited. The commissioning marks step in strengthening India’s underwater operational capabilities and maritime security across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). INS Nistar revives a legacy from a submarine rescue vessel acquired from the Soviet Union in 1969. The original served until 1989 and was central to India’s diving and submarine rescue operations. The new INS Nistar builds on this heritage with over 80% indigenous content, involving around 120 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It is the first fully indigenously designed and constructed DSV in India.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production Using Mo-DHTA COF: Recent advances in photocatalysis have led to a breakthrough method for producing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) using sunlight and water. Researchers have developed a novel material called Mo-DHTA COF that can synthesise H₂O₂ efficiently and sustainably. This innovation promises to transform industries by providing a greener alternative to conventional hydrogen peroxide production. Hydrogen peroxide is a vital chemical used in wound cleaning, water purification, fuel cells, and industrial processes. It decomposes into water and oxygen, making it environmentally friendly. However, traditional production methods are energy-heavy, costly, and polluting. A cleaner, more efficient synthesis method is needed to meet growing demand sustainably. Common photocatalysts like metal oxides, graphitic carbon nitride, polymers, and metal-organic frameworks have drawbacks. These include wide band gaps limiting light absorption, poor stability, and low electron mobility. Such factors reduce their efficiency in producing hydrogen peroxide under sunlight.

 

2. India’s Automotive Mission Plan 2047: The Government of India has launched the Automotive Mission Plan 2047 (AMP 2047) to transform India into a global automotive leader by 2047. This strategic roadmap aligns with the broader ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ vision. The plan emphasises innovation, sustainability, and increased global trade share. Multiple ministries, industry bodies, academia, and experts are collaborating to set clear milestones for 2030, 2037, and 2047. AMP 2047 builds on the earlier AMP 2016-2026 initiative. The previous plan aimed to place India among the top three global automotive hubs by value addition, exports, and job creation. AMP 2047 seeks to expand this vision with a stronger focus on technology, quality, and sustainability. Seven expert sub-committees have been formed to guide the process. They include representatives from government, industry, and academia.

 

3. Largest Black Hole Merger: Recent observations have revealed the merger of two extraordinarily massive black holes. This event marks the largest black hole collision detected via gravitational waves. The discovery challenges existing theories about black hole formation and offers fresh vital information about cosmic evolution. Gravitational waves are ripples in spacetime caused by massive objects in motion. Predicted by Albert Einstein in 1915, they were first detected a century later in 2015. These waves are extremely faint and require highly sensitive instruments such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO) to observe them. Since then, hundreds of black hole mergers have been identified through gravitational wave signals.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Department of Posts Signs MoU with AMFI to Simplify KYC for Mutual Fund Investors Across India: The Department of Posts (DoP) and the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) signed an MoU in Mumbai to simplify KYC verification for mutual fund investors, impacting over 24.13 crore folios.The agreement enables more than 1.64 lakh post offices across India to assist in investor KYC and document collection.

 

2. India saw rapid mutual fund investor growth: 4 million (FY23), 6.9 million (FY24), and 9.7 million (FY25), creating the need for robust KYC support.The partnership will help all AMFI-member Asset Management Companies (AMCs) by improving KYC processes and expanding financial inclusion.

 

3. Axis Bank Appoints Neeraj Gambhir as Executive Director: Axis Bank has appointed Neeraj Gambhir as Executive Director, effective from August 4, 2025, or after RBI approval, following the retirement of Rajiv Anand on August 3, after completing his third term on the board.Neeraj Gambhir, a 52-year-old financial sector veteran, has over 30 years of experience, having served as Managing Director at Nomura India, and previously worked with Lehman Brothers and ICICI Bank.He is a member of SEBI’s advisory committees on Mutual Funds and Corporate Bonds & Securitisation (COBOSAC) and holds a Computer Science Engineering degree along with a PGDM from IIM Lucknow, where he received the PGP Chairman’s Medal.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. INCOIS Honoured with National Geospatial Practitioner Award 2025 for Excellence in Open-Source Spatial Technologies: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) received the National Geospatial Practitioner Award 2025 for its exceptional use of open-source spatial technologies.The award was conferred during Open Source GIS Day (Edition 02) held at IIT Bombay.The award was presented to INCOIS Director T.M. Balakrishnan Nair by former ISRO Chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar.

Daily GK Update- 19th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indore Tops Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 for 8th Year: President Droupadi Murmu presented the 9th edition of the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2024-25 in New Delhi, organised by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, which launched the survey in 2016.The 9th edition surveyed over 4900 cities under SBM-Urban with the theme “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, introduced the Super Swachh League, school-level assessments, population-based indicators, and penalties for false data, enhancing overall transparency and citizen participation.Indore (Madhya Pradesh) retained its title as India’s cleanest city for the 8th consecutive year, followed by Surat (Gujarat) and Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra) in second and third place respectively.Prayagraj received the award for Best Ganga Town, while Secunderabad Cantonment Board was honoured as the Best Cantonment Board for outstanding sanitation work.

 

2. Department of Posts Signs MoU with AMFI to Simplify KYC for Mutual Fund Investors Across India: The Department of Posts (DoP) and the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) signed an MoU in Mumbai to simplify KYC verification for mutual fund investors, impacting over 24.13 crore folios.The agreement enables more than 1.64 lakh post offices across India to assist in investor KYC and document collection.India saw rapid mutual fund investor growth: 4 million (FY23), 6.9 million (FY24), and 9.7 million (FY25), creating the need for robust KYC support.The partnership will help all AMFI-member Asset Management Companies (AMCs) by improving KYC processes and expanding financial inclusion.

 

3. Gujarat launches India’s first tribal genome project to tackle inherited diseases: Gujarat has launched India’s first genome sequencing project, specifically focused on tribal communities to address inherited and genetic health issues.The project, titled “Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat,” will sequence the genomes of 2,000 individuals from tribal groups across 17 districts.Implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), the project is part of the 2025–26 State budget and involves advanced infrastructure for sample collection, sequencing, and data analysis.

 

4. India Hosts 4th BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise to Boost Regional Preparedness for Cyclones and Floods: India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) hosted the 4th BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise (DMEx) as a virtual tabletop exercise, with participation from all BIMSTEC member countries: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.The primary focus of the exercise was on cyclone and flood preparedness, aiming to assess and enhance response mechanisms for such disasters common in the Bay of Bengal region.

Member countries shared best practices, tested their response strategies through simulated scenarios, and explored ways to strengthen regional coordination in disaster risk reduction and emergency management.

 

5. Axis Bank Appoints Neeraj Gambhir as Executive Director: Axis Bank has appointed Neeraj Gambhir as Executive Director, effective from August 4, 2025, or after RBI approval, following the retirement of Rajiv Anand on August 3, after completing his third term on the board.Neeraj Gambhir, a 52-year-old financial sector veteran, has over 30 years of experience, having served as Managing Director at Nomura India, and previously worked with Lehman Brothers and ICICI Bank.He is a member of SEBI’s advisory committees on Mutual Funds and Corporate Bonds & Securitisation (COBOSAC) and holds a Computer Science Engineering degree along with a PGDM from IIM Lucknow, where he received the PGP Chairman’s Medal.

 

6. Nitin Gupta Appointed as Chairperson of NFRA: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has appointed Nitin Gupta, former CBDT Chairman and IRS officer, as the new Chairperson of the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA).The post had been vacant since March 31, after the tenure of Ajay Bhushan Prasad Pandey ended; CCI chief Ravneet Kaur was handling it as additional charge until now.Along with Gupta, the government also appointed Smita Jhingran, P. Daniel, and Sushil Kumar Jaiswal as Full-Time Members of the NFRA.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. US Designates The Resistance Front As Terrorist Group: The US Department of State designated The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) in July 2025. This move marks step in international counter-terrorism cooperation, particularly between India and the US. TRF claimed responsibility for the April 2025 Pahalgam attack in South Kashmir, which killed 26 people. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar welcomed the designation as a strong affirmation of joint efforts against terrorism. The Resistance Front surfaced in 2020 amid rising tensions in Jammu and Kashmir. It is an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), formed to continue militant activities after LeT’s leadership suffered heavy losses in Kashmir. The group gained attention after deadly encounters with Indian security forces, including a May 2020 gunbattle in Keran that killed five army commandos and five militants. TRF’s emergence followed two major events – the killing of LeT commanders in 2018 and the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, which removed Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.

 

2. China’s GDP Growth Defies Global Economic Challenges: China’s economy expanded by 5.2% in the second quarter of 2025. This growth surpassed global analysts’ expectations despite ongoing trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States. The steady economic performance marks China’s resilience amid structural challenges and shifting global trade patterns. China’s GDP growth in Q2 2025 was 5.2%, following a 5.4% increase in Q1. These figures exceeded market estimates of around 4.5%. The country is on track to meet its annual growth target of approximately 5%. Manufacturing output and industrial production remained robust. Exports rose overall despite a 26% drop in shipments to the US, compensated by higher exports to ASEAN, Africa, and the EU. China’s growth has slowed compared to its three-decade boom driven by manufacturing and exports. The economy faces structural imbalances due to heavy reliance on exports and a real estate sector that has recently collapsed. The downfall of Evergrande, a major real estate company, triggered a crisis affecting consumer confidence and domestic demand. Real estate remains part of household wealth, and its decline has increased unemployment, particularly youth unemployment which reached over 20%.

 

3. Chronic Venous Insufficiency in US President Trump: US President Donald Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a common vascular condition causing swelling in the legs. The diagnosis followed medical evaluations after visible ankle swelling and bruising on his hand raised public concern. His physician confirmed the condition is manageable and ruled out more serious illnesses. This disclosure continued the administration’s commitment to transparency about the president’s health. Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when leg veins fail to efficiently return blood to the heart. This results from damaged or weakened valves in the veins. Blood pools in the lower limbs, causing swelling and discomfort. CVI is progressive and common in older adults, especially those over 70. Risk factors include prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, and family history of venous diseases.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. HAL Receives First LCA Mk1A Wing Assemblies from L&T: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) received the first set of wing assemblies for the LCA Mk1A from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.L&T will initially supply 4 wing sets annually, with plans to scale up to 12 sets per year using advanced assembly processes and automation.Various components for the LCA Mk1A have been sourced from multiple Indian firms including Lakshmi Machine Works, Alpha Tocol, Amphenol, Tata Advanced Systems, VEM Technologies, and now L&T.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Olympic Bronze Medallist Audun Gronvold Dies at 49: Olympic ski cross bronze medallist Audun Gronvold passed away at the age of 49 after being struck by lightning during a cabin trip, as confirmed by the Norwegian Ski Federation.Gronvold had a distinguished career in skiing, winning bronze at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and the 2005 World Ski Championships, and representing Norway in alpine skiing from 1993–94 to 2003–04.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Launches YD One Lightest Active Wheelchair Developed by IIT Madras: YD One, developed by IIT Madras in collaboration with TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development and THRYV Mobility, is India’s lightest active rigid-frame wheelchair, weighing just 8.5 kg.The wheelchair features a minimalistic monoframe design made from aerospace-grade material, and is available in 14 colors and customizable sizes ranging from 13 to 18 inches.It underwent rigorous testing, including 2 lakh double drum test cycles and 6,666 drop tests with a 120 kg load, passing without even a scratch, demonstrating its precision engineering and durability.

 

2. Lightest Brain Control Device Guides Bee Movement: Recent advancements in brain control technology have led Chinese researchers to develop the world’s lightest device capable of directing a bee’s movement. The device weighs only 74 milligrams, lighter than the nectar a bee carries. It is fixed on the bee’s back and connects directly to its brain through fine needles. Electrical signals transmitted by the device allow precise control over the bee’s flight and walking directions. This innovation opens new possibilities for insect-based robotic systems with applications in surveillance, disaster relief, and security operations. The device was created by a research team at the Beijing Institute of Technology. It was published in the Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering in June 2025. The device uses ultra-thin flexible film circuits nearly as thin as an insect wing. Multiple microchips embedded in the film enable complex commands via infrared remote control. This design marks improvement over previous models, which were heavier and less flexible.

 

3. Alien Plant Invasion Threatens Tropical Biodiversity: Recent studies reveal a rapid spread of alien plant species across tropical ecosystems. This invasion is altering native flora and destabilising rich biodiversity. Climate change and human actions accelerate this trend. The Greater Tropics, home to most of Earth’s biodiversity and a billion people, face serious ecological and economic risks. Urgent research and restoration efforts are needed to address these challenges. Alien plants are species introduced outside their native regions by human activity. Since the 1950s, their spread has increased exponentially. Currently, about 4% of plant species globally—between 13,939 and 18,543—exist beyond their original ranges. In the Greater Tropics, nearly 9,831 alien plants are established. Islands are particularly affected, with some having more alien than native species. Examples include Guam with 66.5% and Tahiti with 73.8% alien flora.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UN SDG Report 2025: The 2025 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Report reveals a worrying slowdown or reversal in progress across 35 per cent of targets. With only five years remaining to meet the 2030 Agenda, critical goals such as Zero Hunger, Quality Education, and Clean Water are most affected. The report puts stress on the urgent need for multilateral cooperation and financial reforms to reinvigorate global efforts. The report shows that 35 per cent of measurable targets under 14 of the 17 SDGs have stalled or moved backward. Particularly affected are SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG10 (Reduced Inequalities). Between 50 and 57 per cent of targets in these areas are off-track. Other goals like Responsible Consumption (SDG12), Life Below Water (SDG14), and Peace and Justice (SDG16) also face setbacks.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. INCOIS Honoured with National Geospatial Practitioner Award 2025 for Excellence in Open-Source Spatial Technologies: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) received the National Geospatial Practitioner Award 2025 for its exceptional use of open-source spatial technologies.The award was conferred during Open Source GIS Day (Edition 02) held at IIT Bombay.The award was presented to INCOIS Director T.M. Balakrishnan Nair by former ISRO Chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar.

Daily GK Update- 18th July, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet Clears ₹7,000 Crore Investment Exemption for NLCIL to Boost Renewable Energy Expansion: The Union Cabinet has approved an exemption for NLC India Ltd. (NLCIL) from investment restrictions applicable to Navratna CPSEs, allowing it to invest ₹7,000 crore in its subsidiary NLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL) without prior approval.NLCIL and NIRL are exempted from the 30% net worth cap on investments in joint ventures and subsidiaries, enabling greater financial and operational flexibility.The decision supports NLCIL’s renewable energy goals of achieving 10.11 GW capacity by 2030 and 32 GW by 2047, contributing to India’s clean energy transition.The move aligns with India’s climate commitments under COP26, including the goal of building 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and reaching Net Zero by 2070.

 

2. National Conference on Good Governance Practices to Be Held in Bhubaneswar: The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), in collaboration with the Government of Odisha, is organising a two-day National Conference on “Good Governance Practices” in Bhubaneswar.The conference will feature 5 plenary sessions, including discussions on Prime Minister’s Awarded Initiatives 2023 & 2024, focusing on Holistic Development of Districts, Aspirational Block Program, and Innovation, chaired by senior DARPG officials like Shri Puneet Yadav and Smt. Sarita Chauhan.District Magistrates/Deputy Commissioners from various states will participate and present successful state-level good governance practices for wider sharing and potential replication across the country.

 

3. Centre Forms High-Level Panel to Resolve Telangana–Andhra Water Disputes and Polavaram Link Project Issues: The Central Government has decided to form a high-level technical committee to address concerns related to the Polavaram Banakacherla Link Project (PBLP) and other pending inter-state water disputes between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil with Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu and Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy in New Delhi.Both states agreed to install telemetry devices for real-time water flow monitoring in the Krishna Basin, carry out urgent maintenance at Srisailam Dam, and shift the Krishna River Management Board office to Vijayawada/Amravati.

 

4. Sanjay Kaul Appointed as MD & CEO of GIFT City for Three-Year Term: Senior IAS officer Sanjay Kaul has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of GIFT City, Gandhinagar, as per a notification from the Gujarat Government’s General Administration Department (GAD).He will serve on deputation for three years or until further orders, succeeding Tapan Ray, who previously held the post.GIFT City is India’s first operational smart city and international financial services centre, playing a crucial role in shaping the nation’s financial and economic future.

 

5. Neetu Chandra Appointed as Icon Face of Bihar Election Commission to Boost Voter Awareness: Bollywood actress Neetu Chandra has been officially appointed as the Icon Face of the Election Commission of Bihar, chosen to help raise voter awareness and promote electoral participation across the state.In this role, Neetu Chandra will be involved in multiple awareness campaigns, including public service messages, outreach events, and social-media engagements aimed at encouraging increased voter turnout.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ukraine Appoints Yuliia Svyrydenko as First New Prime Minister Since Russian Invasion: Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko has been appointed as the country’s new Prime Minister, becoming the first new head of government since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reshuffled the Cabinet, including the replacement of former PM Denys Shmyhal, as part of efforts to revitalise the government, strengthen domestic weapons production, and energise a war-weary nation.

 

2. 18 July – International Nelson Mandela Day: International Nelson Mandela Day is observed every year on 18th July, the birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa and an iconic leader in the global fight against apartheid, injustice, and inequality.The day was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009, to honor Mandela’s legacy in promoting peace, democracy, and social justice.He became South Africa’s first democratically elected president from 1994 to 1999. Mandela’s courageous 27-year jail struggle and journey of upholding human rights, standing up for social justice and equality continue to inspire the world.

 

3. CP Violation in Baryon Decays: Recent experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have revealed the first clear evidence of CP violation in baryons. This discovery marks step in understanding why the universe is dominated by matter rather than antimatter. The LHCb collaboration observed this phenomenon in the decay of the Λb⁰ baryon, a particle made of three quarks, confirming a long-sought prediction of particle physics. The universe contains mostly matter, though the Big Bang should have produced equal amounts of matter and antimatter. The puzzle of why antimatter vanished remains unresolved. CP violation, which means a difference in physical laws for matter and antimatter, is a key ingredient. It breaks the expected symmetry when particles are replaced by antiparticles and spatial coordinates are flipped.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Successfully Tests DRDO’s Akash Prime Air Defence System at 15,000 ft in Ladakh: The Indian Army’s Air Defence unit successfully conducted a user trial of the DRDO-developed Akash Prime air defence system at a high-altitude location in Ladakh at 15,000 feet, demonstrating its effectiveness in extreme conditions.Akash Prime is one of the four variants of the Akash air defence system developed by DRDO, the other variants being Akash Mark-1, Akash-1S, and Akash NG (New Generation).The Akash air defence system, a surface-to-air missile, is currently in use by both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, and is capable of targeting helicopters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and other aerial threats.The Akash system, manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Hyderabad, also played a key role in Operation Sindoor, where it helped neutralise a Pakistani drone attack on India.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Andre Russell Announces Retirement from International Cricket: Andre Russell will retire from international cricket after the T20I series against Australia, with his final matches scheduled for July 20 and 22, 2025, at Sabina Park, Jamaica.He had a successful limited-overs career, playing 84 T20Is (1,078 runs, 61 wickets), 56 ODIs (70 wickets), and was part of West Indies’ T20 World Cup wins in 2012 and 2016.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. EU’s General-Purpose AI Code of Practice: The General-Purpose AI (GPAI) Code of Practice was published on 10 July 2025. It aims to help AI industry players comply with the European Union’s AI Act. This voluntary framework addresses safety, transparency, and copyright obligations for providers of general-purpose AI models. Member States and the European Commission are currently reviewing the Code’s adequacy. Following endorsement, AI providers who adopt the Code can demonstrate legal compliance more easily and reduce administrative burdens. The Code assists providers of general-purpose AI models to meet legal duties under the AI Act. It is designed through a multi-stakeholder process involving independent experts. The Code is voluntary but offers legal certainty and easier compliance proof. It focuses on three main areas – transparency, copyright, and safety and security. The latter applies specifically to providers of highly advanced AI models with systemic risks.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NPCI International adds 13 more banks to India-Singapore UPI-PayNow platform: NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), the international arm of NPCI, has enhanced the UPI–PayNow real-time payment system between India and Singapore by adding 13 more Indian banks, raising the total number of participating Indian banks to 19.

 

2. The 19 Indian banks now part of the network are: Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, IDFC FIRST Bank, IndusInd Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Punjab National Bank, South Indian Bank, UCO Bank, Axis Bank, DBS Bank India, ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and State Bank of India.Indian users can receive remittances from Singapore into their accounts with these 19 banks using UPI-enabled apps like BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe, and respective bank apps, while outward remittances to Singapore are supported by seven banks including Canara Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, etc.In Singapore, the service can be accessed via DBS Bank Singapore and Liquid Group, allowing real-time fund transfers between individuals using UPI ID, mobile number, or Virtual Payment Address (VPA) for seamless cross-border transactions.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. President Murmu Confers Kalinga Ratna on Dharmendra Pradhan and Sarala Samman on Bijaya Nayak

: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was conferred with the prestigious Kalinga Ratna award, while renowned Odiya short story writer Bijaya Nayak received the Sarala Samman, both presented by President Droupadi Murmu in Cuttack, Odisha.The awards were presented during President Murmu’s official visit to Odisha, where she participated in key cultural and academic events.The Kalinga Ratna Award was instituted by the Sarala Sahitya Sansad in 2007.The award is given to an eminent person of Odisha who has made an outstanding contribution at the national or international level.

 

Daily GK Update- 17th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tesla Enters India with Liberty, ACKO as Insurance Partners: Tesla has entered the Indian market, partnering with Liberty General Insurance and ACKO as its official insurance collaborators to offer tailored coverage for its electric vehicles.Liberty General Insurance has introduced a range of customized protection plans designed specifically for Tesla vehicles, focusing on performance, safety, and the unique requirements of EV owners.ACKO has been named Tesla’s preferred insurance partner in India, while Zurich Kotak General Insurance launched a new EV-specific cover called ‘EV Protect’, which also includes Tesla among the covered brands.

 

2. Gujarat Leads India in Processed Potato Production and Export with Record 48.59 Lakh Tonnes in 2024–25: Gujarat has become the leading state in India for processed potato production and export, recording a total output of 48.59 lakh tonnes in 2024–25, with over 25% of this yield dedicated to processing into French fries and wafers. Among the processed output, 60% goes to wafer production and 40% to French fries.The State has emerged as the top producer of processed potatoes in India, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.The state’s Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli districts are major contributors, collectively producing 38 lakh tonnes over 1.19 lakh hectares. Banaskantha alone produced 18.70 lakh tonnes, making it Gujarat’s top potato-producing district in the season.India’s processed potato production has seen remarkable growth—from less than 1 lakh tonnes in 2004–05 to 11.50 lakh tonnes in 2024–25, with cultivation area rising from 4,000 to 37,000 hectares, indicating a tenfold rise in output and ninefold expansion in farming area.Gujarat grows high-yield, processing-grade potato varieties like Lady Rosetta, Kufri Chipsona, and Santana, which are favored by quick-service restaurants, frozen food processors, and exported largely to Middle Eastern countries. Cold storage infrastructure in northern districts ensures a stable supply

 

3. Manohar Lal Launches ₹1000-Crore ADEETIE Scheme to Boost Energy Efficiency in MSMEs: The ADEETIE (Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments) scheme was officially launched by Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal at Arya P.G. College, Panipat, aiming to support MSMEs in adopting energy-efficient technologies through financial and technical assistance.With a budget outlay of ₹1000 crore, the scheme is implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, offering interest subvention of 5% for Micro & Small Enterprises and 3% for Medium Enterprises, along with support like energy audits, DPRs, and monitoring.The scheme is expected to help MSMEs reduce energy consumption by 30–50%, improve power-to-product ratios, and promote the creation of green energy corridors, thereby contributing to India’s low-carbon economic transition and climate goals.

 

4. Tesla Launches First India Showroom in Mumbai; Model Y Bookings Open at ₹59.89 Lakh: Tesla officially launched its operations in India by opening its first experience centre in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.The company launched the Model Y electric SUV in two variants, starting at ₹59.89 lakh, both of which will be imported from Tesla’s China factory. While the base model will be delivered this quarter, the long-range rear-wheel drive version will arrive next quarter.Ahead of deliveries, Tesla is setting up EV charging infrastructure in Mumbai and Delhi-NCR. Bookings for both variants are now open, and the vehicles will initially be registered in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram.

 

4. PM Modi Launches ‘Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana’ to Boost Agriculture in 100 Low-Productivity Districts Over Six Years: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana for six years starting from FY 2025–26, targeting 100 districts with low agricultural productivity, limited credit access, and low cropping intensity.Inspired by NITI Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme, the scheme focuses exclusively on agriculture and allied sectors, aiming to improve crop productivity, promote sustainable and diversified farming, strengthen post-harvest infrastructure, and expand irrigation and credit access.The scheme will be implemented through convergence of 36 existing schemes across 11 central ministries, state-level programs, and public-private partnerships. At least one district from every state and union territory will be covered, with fund allocation based on net cropped area and operational holdings.Customized plans will be developed by each District Dhan-Dhaanya Samiti, including progressive farmers, and progress will be tracked through a digital dashboard with 117 key performance indicators. NITI Aayog will oversee guidance and evaluation, while Central Nodal Officers monitor district-level implementation.

 

5. Goa Launches India’s First High-Speed RoRo Ferries on Chorao–Ribandar Route: Two new Roll on-Roll off (RoRo) ferries, Gangotri and Dwarka, have been launched by the Goa government on the Chorao–Ribandar route across the Mandovi river, offering relief to daily commuters and tourists.These advanced ferries travel at double the speed of traditional boats (10 knots), reducing travel time from 30 minutes to just 12–13 minutes; each ferry can carry 100 passengers, 15 cars, and 30–40 two-wheelers.The ferries feature air-conditioned passenger cabins, emergency medical kits, and clearly marked lanes for vehicles; they will operate under a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model at zero cost to the state government.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. HSBC Becomes First UK Bank to Exit Net Zero Banking Alliance, Sparking Climate Commitment Concerns: HSBC has become the first UK bank to withdraw from the Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), raising serious concerns about its long-term commitment to climate action.HSBC was a founding member of NZBA in 2021, aiming to align its financial activities with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, in February 2025, the bank delayed parts of its climate goals by 20 years and weakened environmental targets, sparking criticism from environmental groups like ShareAction.Climate advocates have warned that HSBC’s departure could trigger a domino effect among other UK banks, weakening global climate coordination efforts. Meanwhile, other UK lenders like Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, and Nationwide remain part of NZBA as of now.

 

2. 17 July – World Day for International Justice: World Day for International Justice is observed every year on 17 July to promote international criminal justice and recognise the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in upholding law and accountability globally.This day marks the adoption of the Rome Statute on 17 July 1998, which led to the establishmentof the ICC—the world’s first permanent international court to prosecute individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.

 

3. 17 July – World Emoji Day: World Emoji Day is celebrated annually on 17 July to recognise the importance of emojis in digital communication and the way they’ve transformed how people express emotions online.World Emoji Day, established by Jeremy Burge, the founder of Emojipedia, honours these essential elements of digital communicationEmojis are now a universal digital language, used in texting, emails, social media, and more to add tone, emotion, and fun to conversations. This day celebrates how emojis bring people together beyond languages and cultures.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India Receives Second GE-F404 Engine for LCA Tejas: India recently received the second GE-F404 engine from the United States for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark-1A programme. This marks a key step in the ongoing effort to strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF) with indigenous fighter jets. Despite delays caused by supply chain disruptions, deliveries of these engines are now underway. The public sector company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is responsible for integrating these engines into the LCA Tejas Mk-1A jets. HAL took delivery of the second GE-F404 engine in July 2025. A total of 12 engines are expected by the end of the financial year. HAL had placed a ₹5,375 crore order for 99 engines with GE Aerospace in August 2021. The IAF has ordered 83 LCA Mk-1A jets and plans to procure an additional 97 aircraft. The Defence Ministry has given clearance for this expanded order, worth about ₹67,000 crore.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India’s Deepika Wins Poligras Magic Skill Award 2024–25 for Stunning Solo Goal Against Netherlands: Indian women’s hockey forward Deepika won the Poligras Magic Skill Award 2024–25 for her brilliant solo goal against world No. 1 Netherlands during the FIH Hockey Pro League match held in Bhubaneswar.Other nominees included Spain’s Patricia Alvarez for her 3D skill goal against Australia and the Australian women’s team for a team goal versus England, while in the men’s category, Belgium’s Victor Wegnez won for his midfield brilliance against Spain.

2. Bihar win U18 Boys’ title at Junior National Rugby 7s 2025: Bihar clinched the U18 Boys’ title by defeating defending champions Odisha 17–15 in a thrilling final at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun.Bihar remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, overcoming strong teams like Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, West Bengal, and Maharashtra.Maharashtra secured third place with a golden try by Saurabh Sanjay Rajput against Delhi, who finished fourth with a marked improvement from 2024.Indian Rugby President – Rahul Bose

 

3. India Bags 2 Gold, 2 Silver at International Chemistry Olympiad 2025: India’s four-member student team won 2 gold and 2 silver medals at the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2025 held in Dubai, competing against 354 students from 90 countries.Gold medals were won by Devesh Pankaj Bhaiya (Jalgaon, Maharashtra) and Sandeep Kuchi (Hyderabad, Telangana), while Debadatta Priyadarshi (Bhubaneshwar, Odisha) and Ujjwal Kesari (New Delhi) secured silver, placing India sixth in the overall medal tally.The team was selected through the National Olympiad Examinations conducted by HBCSE, Mumbai (under TIFR), and underwent rigorous training in theory and laboratory work before the event.The participation was supported by national agencies, including DAE, DST, DOS, and MoE, reflecting India’s growing strength in pre-university science education and international academic competitions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Delhi Launches Cloud Seeding to Combat Pollution: Delhi is set to conduct its first cloud seeding operation between August 30 and September 10, 2025. This initiative aims to reduce air pollution by triggering artificial rainfall. The project was postponed from July following expert advice from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. The Rs 3.21 crore project will use five modified Cessna aircraft to seed clouds over northwest and outer Delhi. Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique. It involves adding substances like silver iodide, dry ice, or salt particles to clouds. These materials encourage cloud droplets to form and fall as rain or snow. The process requires existing clouds and can increase rainfall by 5-15 per cent. It is used to address water scarcity, reduce hail, or clear fog.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Labour Force Participation and Unemployment Trends 2025: The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data for May and June 2025 reveals key trends in unemployment and labour force participation in India. The unemployment rate stayed constant at 5.6%. However, there was a slight decline in labour force participation, particularly among women. Seasonal factors and socio-economic changes influenced these shifts. The overall unemployment rate remained at 5.6% for both months. Male unemployment was steady, while female unemployment saw a minor drop of 0.1 percentage points. Rural unemployment decreased by 0.2 points, but urban unemployment rose by 0.2 points. This indicates varying job market dynamics across regions. Women’s participation is notably lower than men’s across all regions. The decline is sharper in rural areas, where female LFPR dropped by 1.7 percentage points from May to June. The share of rural female workers in agriculture also fell slightly, from 70.2% to 69.8%. This suggests reduced agricultural engagement possibly linked to lower rural inflation and seasonal work patterns.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Leila Aboulela Wins 2024 PEN Pinter Prize for Powerful Writing on Migration, Faith, and Women’s Lives: Leila Aboulela has been awarded the 2024 PEN Pinter Prize for her powerful writing on migration, faith, and the lives of women, reflecting deep societal truths with intellectual clarity.The prize honors writers who exhibit an “unflinching, unswerving” view of the world, in the spirit of Harold Pinter, and who strive to uncover the real truths of society and human experience.Aboulela, originally from Khartoum, Sudan, and based in Aberdeen, Scotland since 1990, is the author of six novels and two short story collections, including The Translator, Elsewhere, Home, and her latest, River Spirit (2023).The PEN Pinter Prize is awarded annually to writers from the UK, Ireland, the Commonwealth, or former Commonwealth countries. Past winners include Arundhati Roy, Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

 

2. Recent Awards: Hem Bahadur Malla Award 2080 – Former Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha (for his contributions to Nepal’s judiciary and institutional reform)ISO 9001:2015 Certification from BIS – Arthunkal Police Station (First in India)Namibia’s Highest Civilian Honour ‘Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis’ – PM Narendra ModiKerala Fisheries Excellence Award 2025 – Kasaragod district (Ifor its outstanding performance under the Popular Fish Farming Project)Brazil’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross – PM Narendra Modi

 

3. Indian Activist Varsha Deshpande Wins 2025 UN Population Award for Championing Women’s Rights: Varsha Deshpande, a renowned women’s rights activist and founder of the Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, has been awarded the 2025 UN Population Award in the individual category for her lifelong work on gender-based issues and social justice.With over 35 years of activism, Deshpande has focused on fighting gender-based violence, discrimination, and promoting women’s rights, especially among Dalit and marginalized communities.Her organization, Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, established in 1990, works at the grassroots level to empower women through vocational training, resource access, and financial independence.In the institutional category, the award was given to the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP), a global body established in 1927 that contributes significantly to population science and policy.