Daily GK Update- 23rd July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Core Industries Growth Slows to 1.7% in June 2025; Coal Sector Contracts Sharply, Steel Leads Gains: June 2025 saw a modest 7% growth in the Index of Eight Core Industries, marking a three-month high but falling sharply from 5% growth in June 2024 and significantly below the FY 2024-25 average of 6.3%; five out of eight sectors reported contraction.The coal sector witnessed the steepest contraction at -6.8%, followed by declines in natural gas (-2.8%), crude oil (-1.2%), and electricity (-2.8%) in June 2025, as per data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on July 21, 2025.Steel (9.3%), cement (9.2%), and refinery products (3.4%) were the only sectors to show positive growth in June 2025, with steel posting the highest year-on-year gain among all sectors.The ICI measures the combined and individual performance of production of eight core industries viz. Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement and Electricity. The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27 percent of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

 

2. Parliament Passes ‘Bills of Lading, 2025’ to Modernize Maritime Shipping Laws: On the first day of the Monsoon Session, the ‘Bills of Lading, 2025’ bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha, after already being cleared by the Lok Sabha, and now awaits Presidential assent to become law.The bill seeks to replace the 169-year-old Indian Lading Act, 1856, introducing a modern and globally aligned legal framework for maritime shipping documentation in India.It aims to simplify legal language, reduce ambiguity, clarify rights and obligations of all parties involved in shipping, and minimize litigation, thus supporting Ease of Doing Business (EODB) and India’s global trade standing.The bill includes an enabling clause empowering the Central Government for effective implementation and features a repeal and saving clause to ensure legal continuity of actions under the old Act.

 

3. NESTS Signs MoU with Avanti Fellows to Provide JEE & NEET Coaching for Tribal Students from 2025: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) signed a five-year MoU with Avanti Fellows to provide IIT-JEE and NEET coaching to tribal students studying in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), effective from the academic year 2025–26.Under the initiative, a Centre of Excellence (CoE) will be established at EMRS Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) with a batch of 80 selected students, aiming to offer structured, high-quality academic support to tribal youth for national-level entrance exams.The collaboration seeks to bridge the educational gap, promote inclusive education, and empower tribal students with the tools, mentorship, and confidence needed to excel in competitive exams and realize their full potential.

 

4. Jharkhand Becomes First State to Launch Mining Tourism: Jharkhand has become the first Indian state to launch mining tourism, an initiative announced by CM Hemant Soren and inspired by his visit to the Gava Museum of Mines in Barcelona, aiming to showcase the state’s rich industrial and mineral heritage.Home to nearly 40% of India’s mineral wealth, Jharkhand has partnered with Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) through an MoU to open mining sites to tourists, students, and the general public for educational and experiential visits.The Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation (JTDC) will manage the project’s operations with the support of CCL and other stakeholders, promoting the state’s mining identity and boosting tourism diversification.

 

5. L&T to Build India’s Largest Green Hydrogen Plant at IOCL Panipat Refinery Under 25-Year Agreement: L&T Energy GreenTech (LTEG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro, will set up India’s largest green hydrogen plant at IOCL’s Panipat refinery in Haryana, supplying 10,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually for 25 years under a build-own-operate (BOO) model.

The plant will be powered entirely by renewable energy and will use indigenously manufactured high-pressure alkaline electrolysers from L&T Electrolysers Ltd’s Hazira facility, supporting the goals of the National Green Hydrogen Mission and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

 

6. Anup Kumar Saha Resigns as Bajaj Finance MD; Rajeev Jain Reappointed Till 2028: Anup Kumar Saha resigned as Managing Director of Bajaj Finance just four months after his appointment, citing personal reasons.Rajeev Jain has been reappointed as Managing Director till March 31, 2028; he previously held the same role and will also continue serving as Vice Chairman of the company.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. First Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath to Leave the IMF to Rejoin the Harvard Economics Faculty: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announced that Gita Gopinath, First Deputy Managing Director (FDMD), would be leaving the Fund at the end of August to return to Harvard University, where she will be the inaugural Gregory and Ania Coffey Professor of Economics in the Department of Economics.Gopinath joined the Fund in January 2019 as Chief Economist and was promoted to First Deputy Managing Director in January 2022.

 

2. Hazardous Sewer Cleaning Risks and Safety Measures in India: Recent reports show critical safety lapses among sewer and septic tank workers in India. Over 90% of workers who died during hazardous cleaning lacked proper safety gear. A government-commissioned social audit has revealed alarming gaps in safety protocols, training and worker consent. This has prompted the launch of targeted schemes to improve conditions. Between 2022 and 2023, 150 deaths occurred due to hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning. The audit examined 54 cases across eight States and Union Territories. It found that in 49 cases, workers had no protective equipment. Only gloves and gumboots were sometimes provided. Mechanised cleaning tools were almost never used. Training on safety measures was nearly absent.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Ajay: The Indian Navy marked a key milestone with the launch of Yard 3034 Ajay, the eighth and final ship of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series. Built indigenously by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, this launch reinforces India’s push for self-reliance in defence shipbuilding under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Yard 3034 Ajay was launched on 21 July 2025 at GRSE’s Kolkata yard. The event was graced by Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel, and Mrs Priya Deshmukh, who ceremonially launched the ship. Senior officials from the Indian Navy and GRSE attended. The launch comes shortly after the commissioning of the first ship of the class, INS Arnala, on 18 June 2025. The second ship, INS Androth, is ready for delivery following successful sea trials.

 

SPORTS

 

1. National Sports Governance Bill 2025: The National Sports Governance Bill 2025 was introduced in India’s Parliament to improve transparency and accountability in sports administration. It targets national sports bodies including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The bill aims to establish a robust regulatory framework to govern sports federations and promote athlete welfare. The bill seeks to enhance governance in Indian sports by enforcing transparency and ethical practices. It focuses on athlete welfare, fair play, and integrity. The legislation intends to resolve long-standing issues such as opaque election processes and weak athlete representation. It aims to create a culture of good governance based on universally accepted principles. The bill mandates the formation of key bodies like the National Olympic Committee, National Paralympic Committee, National Sports Federations (NSFs), and Regional Sports Federations. Each body will govern specific recognised sports disciplines. This structure is designed to streamline administration and promote consistent standards across all sports.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. MSDE Launches AI-Powered ‘Skill India Assistant’ Chatbot to Boost Skilling Access via WhatsApp: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched the Skill India Assistant (SIA), an AI-powered chatbot developed by Meta and NSDC to provide personalised skilling and employment support through WhatsApp and the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) platform.Built on Meta’s open-source LLaMA model, SIA offers multilingual, multimodal support (voice/text in English, Hindi, and Hinglish), and provides services such as course recommendations, job listings, nearby training locators, and doubt-clearing quizzes — all available 24/7, even in low-bandwidth areas.With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, SIA is India’s first large-scale public AI deployment in the skilling sector, designed to reach rural and underserved communities through WhatsApp and supported by a national awareness campaign.

2. 23 July – National Broadcasting Day: National Broadcasting Day is observed in India on 23rd July every year.The day commemorates the first-ever radio broadcast in India, which was aired on July 23, 1927, from the Bombay Station of the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC).Later, the IBC was taken over by the government and renamed All India Radio (AIR) in 1936. The day recognizes the vital role broadcasting, especially radio, has played in informing, educating, and entertaining the public, particularly in rural and remote areas.

 

3. Comet AI Browser: The launch of Comet, an AI-first web browser by Perplexity, marks shift in internet usage in 2025. Designed to delegate web tasks to AI agents, Comet promises a new browsing experience where users interact less with websites and more with intelligent assistants that act on their behalf. Currently in early access under the Perplexity Max plan, Comet is shaping the future of browsing through automation and contextual understanding. Comet was developed to overcome limitations of traditional browsers and AI tools embedded within them. Unlike browsers that rely on cloud-based agents or extensions, Comet is a standalone application built on the Chromium framework. This gives it compatibility with popular Chrome extensions and user settings while maintaining full control over AI integration. The browser’s AI agents are deeply embedded, allowing seamless interaction across tabs and services without repeated logins or manual data transfer.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ADB Sanctions ₹975 Crore for Industrial Infrastructure in Tripura: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a ₹975.26 crore loan to build world-class infrastructure—such as industrial sheds, roads, power substations, and fire stations—across nine industrial zones in Tripura, including Bodhjungnagar, R K Nagar, Dukli, and AN Nagar.The Tripura Industrial Development Corporation (TIDC) has begun work in newly allotted industrial areas at Santirbazar (127 acres) and Fatikroy (28 acres), while also reclaiming 28 acres from inactive units to promote efficient land use and support emerging entrepreneurs.

 

2. Income Tax Bill 2025: The Income Tax Bill 2025 has recently sparked debate over privacy concerns linked to its digital search and seizure provisions. The Bill grants tax authorities powers to override digital security measures and access social media and encrypted communications. Despite objections, a Parliamentary Select Committee has recommended retaining these powers with minimal changes. This move reflects the government’s intent to adapt tax enforcement to the digital age while balancing privacy and legal safeguards. The Bill defines virtual digital space broadly, covering all digital platforms where users interact and communicate. Tax officials can bypass passwords and encryption on social media, emails, and messaging apps to uncover financial data hidden in encrypted chats. This aims to tackle tax evasion through digital means but raises privacy issues.

 

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. “Meri Panchayat” App Wins WSIS Prizes 2025 Champion Award for Advancing Digital Rural Governance: The “Meri Panchayat” mobile application received the WSIS Prizes 2025 Champion Award under the category of Cultural Diversity and Identity, Linguistic Diversity, and Local Content at the WSIS+20 High-Level Event held in Geneva, Switzerland.Developed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and NIC, the app empowers over 25 lakh elected representatives and nearly 950 million rural citizens across 2.65 lakh Gram Panchayats, promoting digital inclusion and transparent rural governance.The app provides real-time access to Panchayat budgets, development plans, public services, weather updates, and grievance redressal in 12+ Indian languages, with geo-tagging and social audit features enhancing accountability.

 

2. Sant Kabir and National Handloom Awards 2024 Announced: The Ministry of Textiles will confer the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards 2024 to honor 24 outstanding contributors to the handloom sector, including weavers, designers, startups, marketers, and producer companies under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP)A total of 5 Sant Kabir Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards will be presented during the 11th National Handloom Day celebrations on August 7, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in the presence of the Hon’ble President of India and other dignitaries.The Sant Kabir Handloom Award includes a cash prize of ₹3.5 lakh, a gold coin (mounted), a Tamrapatra (certificate), shawl, and a certificate of recognition, awarded to weavers with exceptional contributions to weaving traditions, innovation, and community development.The National Handloom Award recognizes excellence in craftsmanship and innovation, offering a cash prize of ₹2 lakh, along with a Tamrapatra, shawl, and certificate, to motivate and inspire handloom artisans across the country.

Daily GK Update- 22nd July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s Electronics Exports Soar 47% in Q1: India’s electronics exports grew by 47%, reaching $12.41 billion in the first quarter (April–June) of the current fiscal, reflecting the nation’s rising profile as a global electronics manufacturing hubAs per the Commerce Ministry, the US (60.17%), UAE (8.09%), and China (3.88%) were the top three destinations for India’s electronic exports, with the Netherlands and Germany also emerging as significant markets.This wide geographical distribution of exports highlights India’s deepening role in the global electronics supply chain and its emergence as a reliable manufacturing alternative in Asia.Ready-made garment exports also increased to $4.19 billion, with the US (34.11%) remaining the largest buyer, followed by the UK, UAE, Germany, and Spain, indicating India’s strong competitiveness and quality reputation in the global apparel sector.

 

2. NCLT Approves Merger of Adani Cementation with Ambuja: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has approved the merger of Adani Cementation with Ambuja Cements, aiming to consolidate the Adani Group’s cement business and unlock synergistic benefits.The merger is based on a share swap arrangement, under which Adani Enterprises will receive 8.7 million shares of Ambuja Cements. The effective date of amalgamation has been set as April 1, 2024.With this consolidation, Adani Group becomes the second-largest cement manufacturer in India, boasting an annual production capacity of over 100 million tonnes (MTPA).

 

3. Centre Launches ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ in Varanasi: The central government has launched a nationwide youth-led national movement, ‘Nasha Mukt ‘Yuva for Viksit Bharat. The initiative was launched at the recently concluded Youth Spiritual Summit in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.The Youth Spiritual Summit adopted a ‘Kashi Declaration’ that outlined a series of initiatives to be undertaken to lay the foundation for a national youth-led anti-drug campaign in the country.The theme of the Youth Spiritual Summit was- Drug-Free Youth for a Viksit Bharat.

The Youth Spiritual Summit was organised by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports under the MY Bharat initiative of the ministry.The two-day Youth Spiritual Summit was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, at the Rudraksh International Cooperation and Convention Centre in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

 

4. Maharashtra, FTII sign MoU to boost creators’ economy and rural talent: The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, and the Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Limited (MFSCDCL), Mumbai, signed an MoU to boost skill development in Maharashtra’s film, media, and entertainment sectors, aiming to strengthen India’s creative economy through structured training programs.The collaboration will facilitate short-term courses in filmmaking and TV production, combining FTII’s academic expertise with MFSCDCL’s infrastructure, while addressing the lack of certification among emerging talent in India’s rapidly growing “orange economy.”Chairman of FTII  – R. Madhavan

5. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Health Reasons: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post, citing health concerns and the need to follow medical advice, with immediate effect under Article 67(a) of the Constitution.In his resignation letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar expressed gratitude for the support from the President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Members of Parliament during his tenure.

 

6. 22 July – National Mango Day: National Mango Day is celebrated every year on July 22 in India to honour the cultural, nutritional, and economic importance of mangoes, often hailed as the ‘King of Fruits’.India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world, with popular varieties like Alphonso, Dussehri, Kesar, Langra, and Banganapalli enjoyed across the country.The day is marked by fruit festivals, mango-eating contests, culinary showcases, and awareness about sustainable farming and export potential of mangoes.

 

7. 22nd July – National Flag Day: National Flag Day is observed every year on 22nd July to commemorate the adoption of the Indian National Flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947, just before Independence.The tricolour flag consists of saffron (courage), white (peace), green (prosperity), with a navy blue Ashoka Chakra (wheel of law) with 24 spokes in the centre.The flag was designed by Pingali Venkayya, a freedom fighter and Gandhian from Andhra Pradesh, whose design was later modified and adopted as the official flag.The day reminds citizens of the struggles and sacrifices made during India’s freedom movement, and inspires respect for national symbols and unity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre launches SASCI scheme to develop iconic tourist destinations at global standards: The Ministry of Tourism has launched operational guidelines for the ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI)’ scheme, aimed at transforming select tourist destinations into world-class iconic attractions.The scheme provides funding support for comprehensive development covering infrastructure, branding, sustainability, and overall tourist experience enhancement.Project proposals from states were evaluated on factors such as connectivity, ecological sustainability, infrastructure, carrying capacity, management, impact, and marketing, with final approvals following SASCI guidelines.The government will fund projects until March 31, 2026, while state governments will manage implementation, with expected completion within two years; the Ministry will also promote these sites through digital campaigns and events.

 

2. China Begins World’s Largest Hydropower Dam Project: China has initiated construction of the world’s largest hydropower dam on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The project, costing over $170 billion, is set to become China’s most ambitious hydropower venture since the Three Gorges Dam. It aims to generate 300 billion kilowatt-hours annually, matching the electricity consumption of the United Kingdom in 2024. The dam is located on the Yarlung Zangbo River, which flows into India and Bangladesh as the Brahmaputra. The project has sparked environmental and geopolitical concerns while also boosting Chinese markets. The dam consists of five cascade hydropower stations. It exploits a 2,000-metre drop in the river across 50 kilometres. This drop offers immense potential to generate electricity. The project is expected to be operational by the 2030s. It will supply power primarily to Tibet and other parts of China. The scale of investment is unprecedented, with an estimated cost of at least $170 billion.

 

3. Australia-Tuvalu Climate Migration Visa Scheme: Australia launched a pioneering migration visa for Tuvalu residents. This visa offers a legal pathway for climate-induced migration. Over 5,000 Tuvaluans applied within a month. The scheme allows 280 people annually to relocate to Australia through a ballot. This initiative addresses the severe impacts of climate change on Tuvalu’s population. Tuvalu is a small Pacific island nation made up of nine low-lying atolls. Its average elevation is just 2 metres above sea level. Rising seas threaten flooding, storm surges, and land loss. Sea levels near Tuvalu have risen by 15 cm in 30 years. By 2050, much of the land and infrastructure may be below high tide. Saltwater intrusion endangers freshwater supplies and agriculture.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Ajay: The Indian Navy marked a key milestone with the launch of Yard 3034 Ajay, the eighth and final ship of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series. Built indigenously by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, this launch reinforces India’s push for self-reliance in defence shipbuilding under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Yard 3034 Ajay was launched on 21 July 2025 at GRSE’s Kolkata yard. The event was graced by Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh, Chief of Materiel, and Mrs Priya Deshmukh, who ceremonially launched the ship. Senior officials from the Indian Navy and GRSE attended. The launch comes shortly after the commissioning of the first ship of the class, INS Arnala, on 18 June 2025. The second ship, INS Androth, is ready for delivery following successful sea trials.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India to Host 2025 FIDE Chess World Cup from October 30 to November 27: India will host the 2025 FIDE Chess World Cup from October 30 to November 27, featuring 206 players in a knockout format; the host city will be announced later.The top 3 players of the tournament will qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, which decides the challenger for the World Chess Championship. This event strengthens India’s growing chess legacy, having already hosted prestigious tournaments like the 2022 Chess Olympiad, Tata Steel Chess India, and the 2024 World Junior U20 Championships.

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Deepak Bagla Assumes Charge as Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission: Deepak Bagla, former MD & CEO of Invest India, has assumed charge as the Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog.He brings extensive experience in banking, investment promotion, policy advisory, and leadership across multilateral institutions, government, and the private sector.

 

2. ISRO Chief Unveils Plans for Space Station by 2035 and Moon Mission by 2040: ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced that India plans to establish its own space station by 2035 and conduct an independent human moon mission by 2040, marking a major leap in the nation’s space ambitions.Reflecting on India’s humble beginnings, Dr. Narayanan highlighted the growth from a 17-metre rocket carrying 35 kg to today’s giant rockets as tall as 40-storey buildings, capable of lifting 74,000 kg payloads.He also emphasized the success of the Aditya mission, which made India one of only four countries to study the Sun via satellite, significantly enriching scientific data globally.

 

3. Kamchatka Earthquake 2025: The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia experienced a series of powerful earthquakes. The strongest measured magnitude 7.4. These quakes occurred near the eastern coast, a region known for intense seismic activity due to tectonic plate interactions. Authorities issued tsunami warnings which were later cancelled as no waves were detected. The event brought into light the ongoing geological risks in this remote but geologically active area. Kamchatka sits at the junction of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. This makes it a hotspot for earthquakes and volcanic activity. Since 1900, seven earthquakes of magnitude 8.3 or above have struck the region. The peninsula hosts 127 volcanoes, 22 active, including Klyuchevskaya Volcano, the highest peak at 4,750 metres. Volcanic activity and earthquakes are closely linked here.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Laraware Launches India’s First Fully AI-Powered Fintech Platform ‘Nxtbanking’: Laraware Pvt Ltd, under the leadership of Anvesh Tiwari, has launched India’s first fully AI-native fintech platform, Nxtbanking, aimed at revolutionizing digital financial services by offering scalability, compliance, and automation.Nxtbanking provides a plug-and-play AI-powered fintech stack with 50+ pre-integrated APIs and an 8-layer AI compliance engine, enabling instant onboarding, verification, transaction execution, and real-time fraud prevention.With features like real-time Aadhaar, PAN & bank verification, facial recognition, geo-tagging, and fraud scoring, the platform reduces go-to-market time from months to hours, offering banks, NBFCs, and fintechs a secure and intelligent ecosystem.

 

2. Jio Financial Services and Allianz Group Join Hands to Launch Reinsurance Joint Venture in India: Jio Financial Services (JFSL) and Allianz Group have signed a binding agreement to establish an equal domestic reinsurance joint venture (JV) aimed at enhancing risk management capabilities for the Indian insurance market.The partnership will combine JFSL’s strong local presence with Allianz’s global underwriting and reinsurance expertise, offering competitive capacity and improved risk solutions to Indian insurers.In addition to reinsurance, the companies have also signed a non-binding agreement to create joint ventures for general and life insurance businesses in India, further expanding their collaboration in the financial services sector.

 

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Daily GK Update- 21st July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Unveils ₹5,400 Crore Development Projects in Durgapur: PM Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated projects worth over ₹5,400 crore in Durgapur, focusing on infrastructure upgrades, industrial identity, gas-based economy, and job creation, aligning with the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision.Major connectivity projects included road overbridges in Paschim Bardhaman under the Setu Bharatam scheme, the Purulia-Kotshila rail line doubling, and Kolkata Metro expansion, significantly enhancing safety, reducing travel time, and supporting industrial growth across West Bengal.Energy initiatives like the ₹1,190 crore Durgapur-Haldia Natural Gas Pipeline and City Gas Distribution projects in Bankura and Purulia (₹1,950 crore) aim to power lakhs of homes, vehicles, and industries with clean fuel, supporting the One Nation, One Gas Grid vision.

 

2. NIEPID and Jai Vakeel Foundation Join Hands to Launch Nationwide Structured Education for Children with Intellectual Disabilities: NIEPID and Jai Vakeel Foundation have signed an MoU in Mumbai to implement a structured and uniform education model for Children with Intellectual Disabilities (CwID) across India, ensuring standardized and inclusive learning nationwide.The collaboration will promote the NIEPID DISHA Curriculum as a holistic education framework, integrating training, research, and field-level implementation, tailored to the unique needs of children with intellectual disabilities.Key resources like the DISHA Assessment Checklist for IEPs, Multisensory Curriculum, Digital Portal, and Teacher Training modules will be made accessible to schools and organizations, expanding nationwide educational access for CwIDs.

 

3. Maharashtra Approves Renaming of Islampur to Ishwarpur: The Maharashtra government has approved the renaming of Islampur town in Sangli district to Ishwarpur, with Cabinet approval already secured and the proposal sent to the Union government for final clearance.The demand to rename Islampur dates back to 1986 and was revived by the Hindutva outfit Shiv Pratisthan, led by Sambhaji Bhide, which had warned of continued agitation until the demand was fulfilled.

 

4. Reliance Retail Acquires Iconic Brand Kelvinator: Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd. (RRVL), a division of Reliance Industries, has acquired the iconic consumer durables brand Kelvinator, known globally for pioneering electric refrigeration and famous in India during the 1970s–80s for its tagline “The Coolest One.”Additionally, Reliance Retail acquired a minority stake in U.K.-based wellness brand FACEGYM, reinforcing its strategy of delivering globally benchmarked, high-quality products and enhancing lifestyle offerings for Indian households.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rare 1931 Oil Portrait of Mahatma Gandhi Fetches Over $204,000 at London Auction: A rare oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, painted by British artist Clare Leighton in 1931, was sold for $204,648 at a Bonhams auction in London, far surpassing its estimated value of $64,000–$90,000.The painting is believed to be the only oil portrait Gandhi ever sat for, created during his visit to London for the Second Round Table Conference on India’s constitutional reforms.The artwork attracted strong global interest due to its historical significance and rarity, symbolizing a key moment in India’s freedom movement.

 

2. 20 July – International Chess Day: International Chess Day is celebrated every year on July 20, marking the foundation of FIDE (International Chess Federation) in 1924, uniting the global chess community in celebration.For 2025, the theme is “Every Move Counts“, emphasizing that every decision—on the chessboard or in life—has a lasting impact, highlighting the game’s deep connection with real-life choices.FIDE has declared this as the ‘Year of Social Chess’, promoting chess as a powerful tool for inclusion, education, empowerment, and mental well-being, with Indian players—from Viswanathan Anand to young prodigies—shining on the global stage.

 

3. 20 July – International Moon Day: International Moon Day is observed every year on July 20 to commemorate the first human landing on the Moon by NASA’s Apollo 11 mission in 1969, when astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the lunar surface.The day celebrates the achievements of space exploration and promotes international cooperation in lunar research, innovation, and peaceful uses of outer space. It was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2021.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Sandhayak Makes Maiden Visit to Malaysia’s Port Klang to Promote MAHASAGAR Vision: INS Sandhayak, India’s first indigenously designed and built hydrographic survey ship, made its maiden port call to Port Klang, Malaysia to strengthen maritime ties and promote India’s MAHASAGAR vision for regional cooperation.The visit underscores India’s role in hydrographic capacity building under the Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD) and aims to facilitate technical exchanges and institutional cooperation.Commissioned in February 2024, INS Sandhayak is equipped for deep-water surveys, oceanographic data collection, SAR and humanitarian missions, with onboard helicopter and hospital facilities.

 

2. Indian Navy Joins 32nd SIMBEX Exercise in Singapore: The Indian Navy will participate in the 32nd edition of SIMBEX (Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise), formerly known as Exercise Lion King, later this month in Singapore, strengthening maritime ties with the Republic of Singapore Navy.The Indian Navy’s recent complex HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) and SAR (Search and Rescue) operations in the Arabian Sea have been internationally appreciated, highlighting India’s growing leadership in maritime response.Four Indian warships — INS Delhi, INS Satpura, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti — have arrived in Singapore for SIMBEX under Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, showcasing India’s indigenous naval capability and commitment to joint training with ASEAN partners.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Hyderabad to Host 2nd Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 from August 3–10: The second Women’s Kabaddi World Cup will be held in Hyderabad, Telangana, from August 3 to 10, 2025, at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium.A total of 14 countries are expected to participate, with India as the host, and confirmed teams including Argentina, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei, Germany, Holland, Iran, Japan, Kenya, Nepal, Thailand, Uganda, Zanzibar, and Poland (pending confirmation).Hyderabad is returning to the international kabaddi stage after 20 years, having last hosted the Asian Kabaddi Championship in 2005, reflecting its growing role in promoting women’s sports.

 

2. England to Host Next Three World Test Championship Finals: ICC: England will host the, as announced by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during its annual conference in Singapore.These finals are scheduled to be held in June, aligning with the English summer season and favourable weather conditions for test cricket.England has previously hosted the WTC finals in 2021 (Southampton), 2023 (The Oval), and will also host the 2025 edition at Lord’s, continuing its role as a key venue for red-ball cricket.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jitendra Singh Launches NSCSTI 2.0 to Transform Civil Services Training with AI: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the National Standards for Civil Service Training Institutes 2.0 (NSCSTI 2.0) at CSOI, Delhi, developed by the Capacity Building Commission (CBC) to modernize civil services training across India.The revamped framework reduces evaluation metrics from 59 to 43, offering greater clarity and outcome-based assessments, and was shaped through consultations with over 160 training institutes and experts.NSCSTI 2.0 integrates hybrid learning models, AI-driven training, and Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) along with tools like the Karmayogi Competency Model (KCM) and Amrit Gyaan Kosh (AGK) to build a future-ready, citizen-centric bureaucracy.The framework is scalable across all levels of government — Central, State, and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), marking a key milestone in aligning training with global best practices and India’s governance vision.

 

2. Largest Known Martian Meteorite on Earth Sells for $5.3 Million at Sotheby’s Auction: A 54-pound (24.5 kg) Martian meteorite, known as NWA 16788, sold for $5.3 million at Sotheby’s, setting a new world auction record for a meteorite after a 15-minute bidding war.The meteorite, confirmed to be the largest known piece of Mars found on Earth, was discovered in November 2023 in Niger’s Sahara Desert by a local meteorite hunter.Scientists believe it was ejected from Mars around 5 million years ago by a massive asteroid or comet impact, travelling 140 million miles through space before landing intact in a remote desert region.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Sweden’s EQT Acquires Niwas Housing Finance: Swedish investment firm EQT has completed the acquisition of Niwas Housing Finance Ltd (formerly Indostar Home Finance) from IndoStar Capital Finance, marking a strategic move into India’s affordable housing finance sector.EQT plans to invest ₹500 crore ($58 million) as growth capital to drive geographic expansion and boost digital capabilities of Niwas Housing Finance.Founded in 2017, Niwas focuses on providing affordable home loans in Tier 2 to Tier 4 cities, having supported over 47,000 low-income homeowners and small businesses, with an AUM of over ₹3,000 crore as of March 31, 2025.

 

2. State Bank of India Named World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025 by Global Finance: State Bank of India has been awarded the title of “World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025” by Global Finance magazine, based on extensive global research, expert analysis, and insights from financial professionals worldwide.The award will be presented to SBI Chairman C.S. Setty at the World’s Best Bank event in Washington, D.C., on October 18, 2025, during the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings. SBI’s recognition highlights its customer-first digital transformation strategy, which includes vernacular voice banking, 24/7 digital support, and AI-powered hyper-personalised services.

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.