Daily GK Update- 27th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Post and NPCI International Join Forces to Transform Global Remittances via UPI and Postal Network: The Department of Posts (DoP) and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to collaborate on revolutionising inward remittances to India through a UPI-based system integrated with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Interconnection Platform.The initiative aims to modernise cross-border payment services by offering a secure, seamless, and affordable remittance option for the Indian diaspora, leveraging the strengths of UPI and the trusted global postal network.By combining UPI’s real-time transaction capability with the widespread reach of the postal system, the partnership seeks to expand access to financial services, especially in remote or underserved areas.

 

2. PM Modi Becomes India’s Second-Longest Serving Prime Minister, Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India in consecutive terms, compl0eting 4,078 days in office, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 4,077 days; only Jawaharlal Nehru served longer with 16 years and 286 days.Modi, aged 74, first took office on May 26, 2014, and has now served over 11 years and 60 days as Prime Minister. He is also the first and only PM born after Independence, and the longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister.He is the only non-Congress leader to serve two full terms and be re-elected twice with a clear majority, and the first sitting PM since Indira Gandhi in 1971 to return to power with a full mandate.Narendra Modi has won six consecutive elections as a party leader – three in Gujarat (2002, 2007, 2012) and three Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, 2024), making him the only Indian leader to achieve this across state and national levels.

 

3. Utpal Kumar Singh Appointed as New CEO of Sansad TV: Utpal Kumar Singh, currently serving as Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, has been appointed as the CEO of Sansad TV, replacing Rajit Punhani, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Bihar cadre.Sansad TV is a public broadcaster that telecasts live parliamentary proceedings, and Singh’s appointment comes during the ongoing restructuring of media and communication roles within Parliament.

 

4. Uma Kanjilal Appointed First Woman Vice Chancellor of IGNOU After Four Decades: Professor Uma Kanjilal has become the first woman Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), four decades after its establishment, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history.With over 36 years of experience in Open and Distance Learning (ODL), she brings expertise in digital education, library science, and academic leadership, having previously served as Pro Vice Chancellor and acting Vice Chancellor at IGNOU.

 

5. Anuradha Thakur Appointed as Director on the RBI Central Board: Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs, has been nominated as a Director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) by the Central Government.She replaces Ajay Seth, who has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and Indonesia Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil Production and Policy Alignment: The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (IPOA) signed a 3-year MoU during the IVPA conference in New Delhi to enhance cooperation in the palm oil sector, focusing on productivity, sustainability, and policy alignment.The agreement emphasises joint research, technology transfer, and sharing of best practices to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.A key focus is developing a sustainability roadmap that promotes certified sustainable palm oil, improves traceability, and ensures the inclusion of smallholder farmers.

 

2. 25 July – World Drowning Prevention Day: World Drowning Prevention Day is observed annually on 25 July, following its declaration by the UN General Assembly in April 2021 (Resolution A/RES/75/273), to raise awareness about the devastating impact of drowning and promote preventive actions.Drowning claims an estimated 236,000 lives each year globally, making it a major public health concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries with poor water safety infrastructure.It is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths, accounting for 7% of all such fatalities, and is a top cause of death among children and young people aged 1–24 years.

 

3. 25 July – International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent: The International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent is observed every year on July 25th to recognise and honour their contributions, identity, and rights.Women and girls of African descent often face multiple layers of discrimination—racial, gender-based, and socio-economic—making them one of the most marginalised groups globally.The day highlights the need for inclusive policies, cultural affirmation, and human rights-based approaches to empower and uplift women and girls of African heritage.

 

4. 25 July – International Day on Judicial Well-being: The International Day on Judicial Well-being is observed every year on 25th July to recognise the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of judges and judicial officers.The day highlights the importance of a healthy judicial ecosystem, promoting work-life balance, mental health support, and institutional reforms to reduce stress and burnout in the judiciary.Ensuring judicial well-being is vital for maintaining judicial independence, efficiency, and integrity, as well as upholding the rule of law in a fair and just manner.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. France to Recognise Palestinian State in 2025: France has announced it will officially recognise the State of Palestine in September 2025. This decision marks the first time a G7 nation will grant formal recognition. The announcement is expected to be made during the UN General Assembly session in New York. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised the urgent need to end the war in Gaza, secure humanitarian aid, and achieve a lasting peace in the Middle East. France’s recognition follows escalating conflict in Gaza after Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023. Macron called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and demilitarisation of Hamas. He stressed the importance of rebuilding Gaza and ensuring the viability of a Palestinian state that accepts Israel’s security. Palestinian leaders welcomed the move as support for their right to self-determination. Israel and its key allies, including the US and the UK, strongly opposed the decision.

 

2. India Tests ULPGM-V3: India achieved milestone in defence technology with the successful test-firing of the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3. Conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, this trial marks a major boost to India’s missile capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) led the development and testing, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defence systems. The ULPGM-V3 is a precision-guided missile launched from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is designed for high accuracy strikes on ground targets while minimising risks to personnel. This variant is an extended-range version, building on earlier models like ULPGM-V2. It incorporates advanced technologies such as imaging infrared (IIR) seekers and dual-thrust propulsion systems. The missile suits modern battlefield demands with its lightweight and versatile design.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Launches TRACERS Mission to Study Earth’s Magnetic Shield and Space Weather Impacts: NASA successfully launched the TRACERS mission (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base to study how Earth’s magnetic field shields us from space weather.

The twin TRACERS satellites will fly in tandem, just 10 seconds apart, through the polar cusp — an open region of Earth’s magnetic field near the North Pole — to investigate magnetic reconnection, a powerful process where magnetic field lines from the Sun and Earth snap and realign, releasing energy.Over the next year, TRACERS will collect a record 3,000 measurements, helping scientists better understand how solar wind impacts Earth’s space environment and providing insights that could improve protection for satellites, astronauts, and power grids.Launched alongside TRACERS were NASA’s Athena, PExT, and REAL missions, which aim to demonstrate new space technologies and gather valuable scientific data, with all satellites successfully deployed and undergoing initial contact and commissioning procedures.

2. Global Tobacco Epidemic: The global tobacco epidemic continues to pose a severe health threat in 2025. Despite decades of awareness, tobacco use claims millions of lives annually. Women face unique health challenges linked to tobacco. New nicotine products complicate control efforts. Effective policies remain crucial to curb tobacco-related deaths worldwide. Tobacco use causes around 7.3 million deaths yearly. Over the past 30 years, tobacco-related deaths have reached 200 million. Smoking is a leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. Many of these diseases are preventable. The tobacco industry still aggressively markets products, increasing the global health burden.

 

3. Mycorrhizal Fungi Hotspots: Recent studies reveal that over 90 per cent of mycorrhizal fungi hotspots lie outside protected areas. These fungi are crucial for nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration and plant health. Despite their importance, they have been largely ignored in climate and conservation policies. The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) has created a digital atlas to map their global distribution. This effort aims to raise awareness and promote the inclusion of mycorrhizal fungi in environmental agendas. Mycorrhizal fungi live symbiotically with more than 80 per cent of plant species. They help plants absorb nutrients such as phosphorus from the soil. They also capture carbon dioxide released by plant roots, storing about 13 billion tonnes of CO2 annually. This amount equals roughly one-third of global fossil fuel emissions. These fungi support soil health, plant growth and ecosystem stability.

 

4. NASA’s TRACERS Mission: NASA’s TRACERS mission recently launched to study how Earth’s magnetic shield protects the planet from space weather effects. The twin satellites aim to understand magnetic reconnection, a key process in space weather that influences phenomena such as the aurora and satellite disruptions. TRACERS will operate in low Earth orbit, passing through the polar cusps where solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetosphere. TRACERS was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Along with TRACERS, three small NASA satellites—Athena EPIC, PExT, and REAL—were deployed to test new technologies and collect scientific data. Communication with both TRACERS satellites was established within hours after deployment. The mission entered a four-week commissioning phase to check instruments and systems before starting its main scientific operations.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Direct Benefit Transfer in Fertilizer Subsidy System: The Government of India continues to implement the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for fertilizer subsidies as of 2025. This system ensures that subsidies reach farmers directly through fertiliser companies based on actual sales verified by Aadhaar authentication at retail points. The scheme guarantees subsidised fertiliser supply to all farmers without discrimination. Under the DBT system, fertiliser companies receive 100% subsidy on various fertiliser grades based on actual sales to farmers. Sales are authenticated through Point of Sale (PoS) devices linked to the beneficiaries’ Aadhaar numbers. This method prevents diversion and ensures transparency. All farmers, irrespective of size, access fertilisers at subsidised rates. The scheme operates on a no-denial basis, meaning any Aadhaar-verified farmer can purchase fertilisers with subsidy benefits.

 

2. PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana: The Government of India has introduced the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), a major employment-linked incentive scheme starting from 1 August 2025. The scheme aims to generate over 3.5 crore new jobs in two years. It focuses on inclusive and sustainable employment, especially in the manufacturing sector. With a budget of Rs 99,446 crore, the scheme targets first-time workers and supports employers to boost job creation. PM-VBRY is designed to accelerate economic growth through job-led development. It incentivises both employees and employers to create and sustain employment. The scheme runs from August 2025 to July 2027. It is divided into two parts – Part A for first-time employees and Part B for employers generating additional jobs.

Daily GK Update- 26th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. National Expert Committee Reviews Safety of Key Ayurvedic Herbs at AIIA Goa Meeting: The National Expert Committee Meeting on Herb Safety Dossiers was held at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, co-chaired by Dr. A. Raghu and Dr. J. B. Gupta, with participation from senior scientists and experts from reputed institutions.The Ministry of Ayush is actively developing safety dossiers for four key Ayush herbs—Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Chandrashura (Lepidium sativum)—to strengthen the scientific evidence base of traditional medicine.The committee conducted a comprehensive review involving Ayurvedic classical texts, pharmacological and toxicology data, preclinical studies, and clinical literature to ensure the safety and credibility of these herbs.

 

2. India Marks 166th Income Tax Day: India celebrates the 166th Income Tax Day on 24 July 2025, marking the introduction of income tax in 1860 by Sir James Wilson and recognising the evolution of India’s tax system from the Income Tax Act of 1922 to the proposed Income Tax Bill, 2025.Major technological reforms—including PAN, TIN, CPC Bengaluru, Faceless Assessment, and Project Insight—have transformed tax administration into a fully digital and citizen-friendly system, enhancing compliance and transparency.The Finance Act 2025 has extended the time to file updated returns from 24 to 48 months, raised the zero-tax income threshold to ₹12 lakh, and introduced several middle-class relief measures, including full tax exemption for NSS withdrawals after August 29, 2024.

 

3. PM Modi Becomes India’s Second-Longest Serving Prime Minister, Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India in consecutive terms, compl0eting 4,078 days in office, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 4,077 days; only Jawaharlal Nehru served longer with 16 years and 286 days.Modi, aged 74, first took office on May 26, 2014, and has now served over 11 years and 60 days as Prime Minister. He is also the first and only PM born after Independence, and the longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister.He is the only non-Congress leader to serve two full terms and be re-elected twice with a clear majority, and the first sitting PM since Indira Gandhi in 1971 to return to power with a full mandate.Narendra Modi has won six consecutive elections as a party leader – three in Gujarat (2002, 2007, 2012) and three Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, 2024), making him the only Indian leader to achieve this across state and national levels.

 

4. India Successfully Tests First Hydrogen-Powered Rail Coach: India successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, marking a major step in green rail mobility.The coach is part of a project to develop a 1,200-horsepower hydrogen train, which will place India among the global leaders in hydrogen-powered train technology.Under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative, Indian Railways plans to run 35 hydrogen-powered trains on heritage and hill routes, with an estimated cost of ₹80 crore per train and ₹70 crore per route for necessary infrastructure.A pilot project worth ₹111.83 crore has been awarded for retrofitting a hydrogen fuel cell on an existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake, to operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of the Northern Railway.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Post and NPCI International Join Forces to Transform Global Remittances via UPI and Postal Network: The Department of Posts (DoP) and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to collaborate on revolutionising inward remittances to India through a UPI-based system integrated with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Interconnection Platform.The initiative aims to modernise cross-border payment services by offering a secure, seamless, and affordable remittance option for the Indian diaspora, leveraging the strengths of UPI and the trusted global postal network.By combining UPI’s real-time transaction capability with the widespread reach of the postal system, the partnership seeks to expand access to financial services, especially in remote or underserved areas.

 

2. India-Maldives Boost Strategic Ties with 6 MoUs, ₹4,850 Cr Credit Line, and Major Infrastructure Inauguration: India and Maldives signed six MoUs covering key areas like fisheries, aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure (including UPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia, and a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit to support infrastructure and development in the island nation.

India and Maldives exchanged an Amendatory Agreement reducing Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40% (from $51 million to $29 million) and began Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations to boost economic ties.PM Modi and President Muizzu jointly inaugurated key infrastructure projects, including Maldives’ new Defence Ministry building, Addu City’s 111 km road & 106 km drainage system, 6 community projects, and handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles.

 

3. India and Indonesia Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil Production and Policy Alignment: The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (IPOA) signed a 3-year MoU during the IVPA conference in New Delhi to enhance cooperation in the palm oil sector, focusing on productivity, sustainability, and policy alignment.The agreement emphasises joint research, technology transfer, and sharing of best practices to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.A key focus is developing a sustainability roadmap that promotes certified sustainable palm oil, improves traceability, and ensures the inclusion of smallholder farmers.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Thailand-Cambodia Border Conflict: The Thailand-Cambodia border conflict intensified in July 2025, with military strikes and deadly clashes resulting in civilian casualties and diplomatic strain. Both nations accuse each other of sovereignty violations amid ongoing disputes over territory and historic temples. The situation remains volatile with military engagements and political repercussions. In late July 2025, Thailand’s army launched air strikes targeting Cambodian military positions along their disputed border. Thailand deployed F-16 fighter jets and claimed to have destroyed Cambodian regional support units. Fighting occurred at six locations, prompting evacuation of Thai border residents. Cambodia accused Thailand of excessive force while Thailand condemned Cambodian landmine placements injuring Thai soldiers. The conflict centres on a border spanning over 800 kilometres, rooted in colonial-era maps from 1907. Both countries claim sovereignty over areas including the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple near Surin province and the Preah Vihear temple on the Cambodia-Thailand border. These sites hold religious and cultural significance and have been flashpoints for decades.

 

2. Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel: Brazil is preparing to formally join South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The case, filed in 2023, alleges that Israel’s military actions extend beyond targeting Hamas militants and involve attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Brazil’s move reflects growing international concern over alleged violations of international law in the conflict. South Africa filed a lawsuit at the ICJ under the 1948 Genocide Convention. It claims Israel’s military strikes in Gaza violate its obligations by targeting civilian areas such as schools, hospitals, and shelters. The case argues that these actions constitute acts of genocide against Palestinians. Israel denies these allegations, stating its operations focus solely on Hamas militants.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Launches TRACERS Mission to Study Earth’s Magnetic Shield and Space Weather Impacts: NASA successfully launched the TRACERS mission (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base to study how Earth’s magnetic field shields us from space weather.

The twin TRACERS satellites will fly in tandem, just 10 seconds apart, through the polar cusp — an open region of Earth’s magnetic field near the North Pole — to investigate magnetic reconnection, a powerful process where magnetic field lines from the Sun and Earth snap and realign, releasing energy.Over the next year, TRACERS will collect a record 3,000 measurements, helping scientists better understand how solar wind impacts Earth’s space environment and providing insights that could improve protection for satellites, astronauts, and power grids.Launched alongside TRACERS were NASA’s Athena, PExT, and REAL missions, which aim to demonstrate new space technologies and gather valuable scientific data, with all satellites successfully deployed and undergoing initial contact and commissioning procedures.

 

2. India’s Satellite Instructional Television Experiment: India’s space journey in 2025 continues to inspire with renewed focus on practical applications. The 50th anniversary of the Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) marks India’s pioneering role in using space technology for social benefit. SITE was a landmark project that brought educational television to rural India through satellite broadcasting. It set the foundation for India’s space programme to prioritise societal development alongside scientific advancement. Launched on 1 August 1975, SITE was a collaboration between India and the United States. It used NASA’s ATS-6 satellite to beam educational and development programmes to 2,400 remote villages across six diverse state of Indias. The project targeted backward districts, including unelectrified villages. TV sets were installed in community centres, schools, and panchayat ghars for free public viewing, transcending caste and class barriers. SITE was the first large-scale direct-to-home satellite broadcasting experiment, bringing television to rural India long before urban areas had widespread access.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Federal Bank Launches India’s First Biometric Authentication for E-Commerce Transactions with M2P and MinkasuPay: Federal Bank, in partnership with M2P and MinkasuPay, has launched India’s first biometric authentication solution for e-commerce card transactions, enabling users to approve payments using fingerprint or face ID.This innovation eliminates the need for traditional OTPs, reducing transaction time to just 3–4 seconds, while offering enhanced security and a smoother user experience.The biometric solution aims to simplify and secure online shopping, marking a significant leap in digital payment technology and user convenience.

 

2. Russian Rouble’s Sharp Rise: The Russian rouble has surged by 45% against the US dollar since early 2025. This makes it one of the best performing currencies worldwide this year. The rise is mainly due to Russia’s tight monetary policy and optimism following US-Russia peace talks in February. However, the strong rouble presents mixed effects for Russia’s economy, especially under heavy sanctions. The Russian central bank’s high interest rates, exceeding 20%, attract savers and speculators seeking yield. This reduces demand for foreign currencies as borrowing costs remain high. The weak US dollar, down 6.6% since April 2025, also supports the rouble’s rise. Although the exchange rate floats freely, the central bank intervenes by selling Chinese yuan to maintain rouble stability and prevent arbitrage. A strong rouble reduces the rouble value of dollar-denominated energy exports. This lowers government revenues, as the 2025 budget is based on a rate of 94.3 roubles per dollar, but the current rate is near 78. Analysts estimate a potential 2.4% revenue loss this year. Exporters face difficulties as their goods become costlier for foreign buyers, shrinking income in dollar terms. Many Russian officials favour a weaker rouble around 100 per dollar to support trade and budget.

Daily GK Update- 25th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. JSW Energy Signs 25-Year Power Pact with BESCOM for 100 MW Solar Project with Battery Storage in Karnataka: JSW Renew Energy Forty Five, a step-down subsidiary of JSW Energy, has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with BESCOM for a 100 MW grid-connected solar project integrated with a 100 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at a tariff of ₹4.31/kWh.The project will be developed on a designated site and connected to the 220/400 kV KPTCL Firozabad substation in Kalaburagi district, enhancing grid reliability and renewable power integration.Following this deal, JSW Energy’s total committed energy storage capacity has reached 29.4 GWh, including 3.0 GWh from BESS and 26.4 GWh from Pumped Hydro Storage.

 

2. Ajay Seth Appointed as New IRDAI Chairman for Three-Year Term: The government appointed former Finance and Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth as the Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).His appointment is for a period of three years, or until he turns 65, or until further orders—whichever comes earlier.A 1987-batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, Ajay Seth succeeds Debasish Panda, whose term ended in March 2025, leaving the IRDAI post vacant since then.

 

3. Nirmal Minda Appointed as New President of ASSOCHAM: Nirmal K. Minda, Executive Chairman of Uno Minda, has been appointed as the new President of ASSOCHAM, succeeding Sanjay Nayar.Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank, is set to become the Vice-President of ASSOCHAM, subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).The appointments aim to combine manufacturing expertise and financial leadership to advance ASSOCHAM’s goals of sustainable growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

 

4. India’s Gig Economy Growth: India’s gig economy has expanded rapidly in recent years. By FY 2024–25, gig workers numbered about 12 million, up from 7.7 million in 2020–21. This sector now comprises over 2% of the total workforce. Growth is driven by digital connectivity, urbanisation, and a shift towards flexible work. This change marks a structural shift in India’s labour market. Gig workers are individuals earning income without formal employment benefits. They include cab drivers, food delivery personnel, home cleaners, and other service providers working through digital platforms. Unlike traditional informal workers, gig workers operate in a semi-structured system where tasks and payments are documented. This formalisation brings transparency and some recognition to their work.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Assam Launches ₹1.5 Lakh Scholarship Scheme for Japanese Language Training to Boost Overseas Employment: The Assam Government has launched a scheme named Chief Minister’s Foreign Language Initiative for Global Human Talent (CM-FLIGHT) to promote Japanese language learning and facilitate overseas employment for Assamese youth under Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa programme.Under the scheme, the government will provide a scholarship of ₹1.5 lakh per student pursuing Japanese language training (up to JLPT N2 level), helping youth qualify for global employment opportunities.A pilot project will be implemented in the current financial year through three designated agencies that will provide language training and assist in overseas placements, especially in Japan.3,000 youth will be selected in the first phase of the programme. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted that with Japan’s aging population (average age 48) and Assam’s younger demographic (average age 22), there is huge potential for employment, with a minimum salary of ₹2.5 lakh/month in Japan.

 

2. India Set to Become World’s 3rd Largest Economy by 2028: Morgan Stanley: India is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028 and could double its GDP to $10.6 trillion by 2035, according to Morgan Stanley.States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka are expected to individually approach the $1 trillion mark by 2035, ranking among the top 20 global economies.Over the last decade, infrastructure investment has surged, with highway networks expanding by 60%, airports doubling, and metro systems quadrupling. Central schemes like PM Gati Shakti, Bharatmala, and UDAN have driven this growth.

 

3. 4th Edition of World Food India 2025 to be Held in New Delhi: The 4th edition of World Food India will be held in New Delhi from 25–28 September 2025, showcasing India’s food culture and investment opportunities in the food processing sector.The 2025 edition will be the largest ever, with participation from over 90 countries and 2,000+ exhibitors and stakeholders across the food value chain.The event is organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, co-organised by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), with FICCI as the National Partner and Ernst & Young as the Knowledge Partner.The theme of World Food India 2025 is “Processing for Prosperity”, aiming to boost collaboration and growth in the global food processing ecosystem.

World Food India aims to promote India as a promising global hub for food processing, manufacturing, and cold chain logistics.

 

4. India Rises 8 Spots to 77th Rank on Henley Passport Index 2025, Gains Visa-Free Access to 59 Countries: India has improved its position on the Henley Passport Index 2025, climbing 8 spots to rank 77th, compared to 85th in 2024, despite a modest increase in visa-free access from 57 to 59 countries.The Henley Passport Index, based on International Air Transport Association (IATA) data, ranks passports by the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Singapore holds the top spot with visa-free access to 193 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place (190 destinations), and seven EU countries (Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain) in third place (189 destinations).Traditionally strong passports like the U.S. and U.K. have declined in ranking — the U.S. dropped to 10th place (182 destinations), and the U.K. fell to 6th (186 destinations).The Philippines and Sri Lanka are the two new additions to India’s visa-free access list in 2025, contributing to its improved global ranking.

 

5. Trump Unveils Aggressive AI Action Plan to Make U.S. a Global AI Export Powerhouse: The Trump administration has introduced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan titled “Winning the Race“, aimed at transforming the U.S. into a global AI export powerhouse.The plan includes three executive orders focusing on cutting environmental regulations for faster construction of AI supercomputers, promoting the sale of U.S.-made AI technologies, and streamlining permits for data center infrastructure.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prachet’ Launched by Goa Shipyard for Indian Coast Guard: ‘Samudra Prachet’, the second and final indigenous Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), was launched for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), with 72% indigenous content, promoting local industry, MSMEs, and national skill development.The vessel is 114.5 meters long, 16.5 meters wide, with a displacement of 4,170 tonnes, and will be operated by 14 officers and 115 sailors; it features state-of-the-art oil spill response systems, including side-sweeping arms and advanced radar for detecting oil slicks.‘Samudra Prachet’ is capable of recovering oil across all viscosity levels, pumping contaminated water, analyzing and separating pollutants, and storing recovered oil in dedicated onboard tanks, ensuring rapid and efficient response to maritime pollution incidents.

 

2. India Tests ULPGM-V3: India achieved milestone in defence technology with the successful test-firing of the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3. Conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, this trial marks a major boost to India’s missile capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) led the development and testing, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defence systems. The ULPGM-V3 is a precision-guided missile launched from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is designed for high accuracy strikes on ground targets while minimising risks to personnel. This variant is an extended-range version, building on earlier models like ULPGM-V2. It incorporates advanced technologies such as imaging infrared (IIR) seekers and dual-thrust propulsion systems. The missile suits modern battlefield demands with its lightweight and versatile design.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Divya Deshmukh Creates History as First Indian to Reach FIDE Women’s World Cup Final: Divya Deshmukh created history by becoming the first Indian to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, after defeating China’s Tan Zhongyi in the semifinal held in Batumi, Georgia, with a 1.5-0.5 score.With this win, the 19-year-old not only entered the final but also secured a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament and achieved her first Grandmaster norm, marking a major milestone in her chess career.In the final, Divya will face the winner of the other semifinal match between China’s Lei Tingjie (top seed) and India’s No. 1 Koneru Humpy, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

 

2. Vikramaditya Chaufla to Lead India at World Racketlon Championship 2025 in Netherlands: Vikramaditya Chaufla has been appointed captain of the Indian squad for the World Racketlon Championship 2025, scheduled from July 30 to August 3 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.Racketlon is a multi-racket sport involving four disciplines: table tennis, badminton, squash, and tennis. Chaufla, a former badminton player, had previously led the team and secured a silver medal in the 2022 edition.The Indian men’s squad includes Krishna B Kotak, Prashant Sen, Nihit Kumar Singh, Suhail Kapur, with Raghav Jatia as a reserve, while Nidhi Tiwari is India’s only representative in the women’s category.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA’s TRACERS Mission: NASA’s TRACERS mission recently launched to study how Earth’s magnetic shield protects the planet from space weather effects. The twin satellites aim to understand magnetic reconnection, a key process in space weather that influences phenomena such as the aurora and satellite disruptions. TRACERS will operate in low Earth orbit, passing through the polar cusps where solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetosphere. TRACERS was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Along with TRACERS, three small NASA satellites—Athena EPIC, PExT, and REAL—were deployed to test new technologies and collect scientific data. Communication with both TRACERS satellites was established within hours after deployment. The mission entered a four-week commissioning phase to check instruments and systems before starting its main scientific operations.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Approves Warburg Pincus Arm Currant Sea to Acquire 9.99% Stake in IDFC First Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Currant Sea Investments B.V., an arm of Warburg Pincus, to acquire up to 9.99% stake in IDFC First Bank.This approval follows an earlier clearance by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on June 3, despite shareholders recently rejecting the appointment of a non-retiring Currant Sea board member due to insufficient support (only 64.1% votes, below the 75% threshold).As part of the deal, IDFC First Bank will issue 81.26 crore preference shares to Currant Sea and 43.71 crore shares to ADIA-backed Platinum Invictus, both priced at ₹60 per share.

 

2. IRDAI Proposes Internal Ombudsman Scheme to Strengthen Complaint Resolution for Insurance Claims up to ₹50 Lakh: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has released draft norms proposing an Internal Insurance Ombudsman Scheme for insurers to handle complaints related to claims up to ₹50 lakh.The proposed framework mandates an independent and impartial review mechanism, where the internal ombudsman will report directly to the board or its committee and will have decision-making authority for eligible complaints.The scheme will be applicable to all insurers (except reinsurers) with more than three years of operations, making it mandatory to appoint an internal insurance ombudsman. This mechanism aims to enhance grievance redressal quality and boost consumer confidence in the insurance sector by ensuring faster and more transparent complaint resolution.

 

3. Angel One to Invest ₹400 Crore in Digital-First Life Insurance JV with Singapore’s Livwell: Angel One has announced an investment of ₹400 crore in a life insurance joint venture with Singapore-based Livwell Holding Company, aiming to launch a digital-first life insurance company in India.In the JV, Angel One will hold a 26% stake, while Livwell will hold the remaining 74%; the initiative targets India’s underpenetrated life insurance market.Livwell is backed by private equity firm Olympus Capital, which has previously invested in notable institutions like HDFC Bank, CreditAccess Grameen, Karur Vysya Bank, and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank.

 

4. Fino Payments Bank Launches “GATI” Digital Savings Account: Fino Payments Bank has launched “GATI” (which means “speed” in many Indian languages), a zero-balance digital savings account aimed at expanding UPI adoption in semi-urban and rural West Bengal, especially among digitally-savvy individuals underserved by traditional banks.With over 40,000 merchant points, Fino leverages its merchant-led model to provide last-mile access to banking services, enabling instant onboarding through eKYC and immediate UPI activation without the need for physical bank visits.

Daily GK Update- 24th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. LIC Disburses ₹115.13 Crore Under Bima Sakhi Scheme in FY 2025–26: The Bima Sakhi – Mahila Career Agent (MCA) Scheme was launched by the Government of India on 9th December 2024; in FY 2024–25, LIC disbursed ₹62.36 crore as stipends under the scheme.For FY 2025–26, LIC allocated a budget of ₹520 crore, out of which ₹115.13 crore has been paid to Bima Sakhis till 14th July 2025; currently, there are 2,05,896 Bima Sakhis across the country.LIC provides a monthly stipend for the first 3 years, ranging from ₹7000 in the 1st year to ₹5000 in the 3rd year, along with commission, subject to performance parameters.Graduate Bima Sakhis who complete 5 years of service can apply for the post of Apprentice Development Officer (ADO) in LIC, based on eligibility and performance.

 

2. NUCFDC and IIA India Sign MoU to Strengthen Audit and Governance in Urban Cooperative Banks: The National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. (NUCFDC) and Institute of Internal Auditors India (IIA India) have signed an MoU to strengthen audit, governance, and risk management frameworks in Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs).The collaboration will focus on adopting international audit standards, improving internal control systems, and enhancing the professional capabilities of internal auditors and senior management in UCBs.Through this partnership, UCBs will gain access to global resources, including audit standards, ESG and AI practices, training modules, webinars, and tools like “Internal Auditor” magazine and “Tone at the Top” briefings to improve institutional resilience and depositor trust.

 

3. PhonePe Partners with SBI Card to Launch PURPLE and SELECT BLACK Co-Branded Credit Cards: PhonePe, in partnership with SBI Card, has launched two co-branded credit cards — PhonePe SBI Card PURPLE and PhonePe SBI Card SELECT BLACK — issued on RuPay and Visa networks, aiming to expand formal credit access and offer rewards on everyday spending.The SELECT BLACK card offers up to 10% value back on PhonePe and Pincode app spends and comes with premium benefits like Priority Pass membership, while the PURPLE card offers up to 3% value back and includes basic rewards and benefits.Both cards come with welcome e-gift vouchers (₹1,500 for SELECT BLACK and ₹500 for PURPLE), annual travel vouchers, fuel surcharge waivers, and complimentary domestic lounge access, with RuPay cards also being UPI-linkable for seamless merchant payments.

 

4. Ashok Chaudhary Elected as Chairman of GCMMF: Dairy cooperative leader Ashok Chaudhary was elected unopposed as the chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets milk and dairy products under the brand “Amul”.Gordhan Dhameliya, Chairman of Rajkot District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union Ltd, has been elected as the new Vice-Chairman of GCMMF.

 

5. Sandiip Bharadwaj Appointed as New MD & CEO of Paytm Money: Paytm Money appointed Sandiip Bharadwaj as its new Managing Director and CEO, succeeding Rakesh Singh, who will take up a new role within the Paytm group.Prior to joining Paytm Money, Bharadwaj was the Chief Operating and Digital Officer at HDFC Securities, where he led digital strategy, product innovation, marketing, and customer experience.Paytm Money is a part of the Paytm Group, founded by Vijay Shekhar Sharma.

 

6. 24 July – National Thermal Engineer Day: National Thermal Engineer Day is observed on 24th July every year to recognise and celebrate the important contributions of thermal engineers in various industries, particularly in electronics, power generation, manufacturing, and automotive sectors.The day honors the hard work and innovation of thermal engineers, who design and manage systems that deal with heat transfer and thermal management — essential for the efficiency, safety, and durability of modern electronic devices and industrial systems.National Thermal Engineer Day was first established in 2014 by Advanced Thermal Solutions Inc. (ATS), a company known for designing thermal management solutions.

 

7. 24 July – National Refreshment Day: National Refreshment Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of July, and in 2025, it falls on 24 July. This day honours the joy of refreshing beverages and relaxing moments, especially during the peak summer heat.The day celebrates the simple pleasure of enjoying a refreshing drink, whether it’s a cold soda, lemonade, iced tea, fruit juice, or a chilled mocktail.It also encourages people to take a break, unwind, and enjoy moments of relaxation with friends, family, or co-workers.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian Cities Need $2.4 Trillion by 2050 to Combat Climate Risks: World Bank Report: Indian cities are becoming more vulnerable to floods, heatwaves, and other climate-related risks, requiring over USD 2.4 trillion in investments by 2050 to develop resilient and low-carbon infrastructure, as per a World Bank report.Annual economic losses from rain-related flooding are currently around USD 4 billion and could rise to USD 5 billion by 2030 and between USD 14 to 30 billion by 2070 if no corrective measures are taken.The report, prepared with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, highlights that cities will remain central to economic growth, with 70% of new jobs projected to come from urban areas by 2030.

 

2. India and Nepal Sign MoUs for 5 High-Impact Development Projects Worth NRs. 390 Million: The Embassy of India in Kathmandu, along with Nepal’s Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, signed MoUs for 5 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) in education and health sectors under Indian grant assistance, with a total estimated cost of NRs. 390 million.The five projects include construction of school buildings and a hospital in Dhanusha, Parsa, Achham, Bara, and Manang districts, and will be implemented by local authorities including municipalities and rural municipalities of Nepal.These projects aim to enhance education and healthcare infrastructure at the grassroots level, benefiting local communities with improved access to essential services.Since 2003, India has undertaken 579 HICDPs in Nepal, out of which 496 have been completed, covering sectors such as health, education, sanitation, connectivity, and drinking water across all 7 provinces.

 

3. U.S. to Withdraw from UNESCO Again by End of 2026: The United States has decided to withdraw from UNESCO for the third time, citing what it calls the agency’s anti-Israel bias and support for “woke, divisive” cultural policies.The decision, announced under former President Donald Trump’s leadership, will take effect at the end of December 2026, just two years after the U.S. rejoined during the Biden administration.The U.S. had previously exited UNESCO in 1984 under the Reagan administration and again in 2017 under Trump, mainly over issues of mismanagement, bias, and Palestine’s inclusion as a member state.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel: Brazil is preparing to formally join South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The case, filed in 2023, alleges that Israel’s military actions extend beyond targeting Hamas militants and involve attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Brazil’s move reflects growing international concern over alleged violations of international law in the conflict. South Africa filed a lawsuit at the ICJ under the 1948 Genocide Convention. It claims Israel’s military strikes in Gaza violate its obligations by targeting civilian areas such as schools, hospitals, and shelters. The case argues that these actions constitute acts of genocide against Palestinians. Israel denies these allegations, stating its operations focus solely on Hamas militants.

 

2. Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel Launched for Indian Coast Guard: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently took step in enhancing its maritime environmental response capabilities with the launch of ‘Samudra Prachet’. This is the second and final Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL). The vessel was launched on 23 July 2025 in Vasco, Goa, marking a milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence production and maritime security. ‘Samudra Prachet’ features 72% indigenous content, reflecting a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing. This project has boosted national capability, generated employment, and enhanced skills by involving local industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The vessel is part of India’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers in critical defence sectors.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Maruti Suzuki Partners with DPIIT to Support Tech-Driven Startups in Auto and Mobility Sector: Maruti Suzuki India has partnered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to support DPIIT-recognised startups in developing technology-driven solutions for automobile manufacturing and mobility.Startups under the ‘Startup India’ initiative will get the opportunity to participate in Maruti Suzuki’s innovation programmes, aiming to drive innovation in the auto sector.Selected startups will receive expert mentorship, industry insights, and access to Maruti Suzuki’s infrastructure and network to validate and scale their solutions effectively.

 

2. New Wart Sea Slug Species Discovered in Indonesia: Recent research has led to the discovery and formal description of two new wart sea slug species in the waters off North Sulawesi, Indonesia. These species, named Phyllidia ovata and Phyllidia fontjei, enrich the known marine biodiversity of the Indo-Pacific region. The findings show the importance of citizen science and international collaboration in uncovering hidden species. Five women scientists from Germany, Indonesia, and Wales identified these species. Phyllidia ovata was recognised after 23 years of underwater photography records across Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Australia. Phyllidia fontjei, smaller and harder to find, was documented mainly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Andaman Sea. Both species belong to the Phyllidiidae family, known for their bright colours and chemical defences derived from sponge prey.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ADB Lowers India’s FY26 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.5% Citing US Tariffs and Policy Uncertainty: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 down to 6.5% from the earlier 6.7% due to the impact of US tariffs, global slowdown, and policy uncertainty affecting exports and investments.Despite the downgrade, India remains one of the fastest-growing major economies, with strong domestic consumption supported by a revival in rural demand helping maintain economic momentum.For FY27, ADB lowered the GDP growth forecast to 6.7% from 6.8%, citing policy uncertainty, but expects improvement due to rising investments, supportive monetary easing, and favorable financial conditions; meanwhile, World Bank maintained its FY26 projection at 6.3%.

 

2. Crisil Projects 6.5% GDP Growth for FY26: Crisil has projected India’s GDP to grow at 6.5% in FY26, supported by rising domestic consumption, above-normal monsoon, income tax relief, and expected rate cuts by the RBI Monetary Policy Committee.The report identifies US tariff-related global uncertainty as the top risk to India’s growth, but emphasises a positive near-term outlook due to improving macroeconomic indicators.Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation fell to 2.1% in June 2025 — the lowest in 77 months — and is expected to average 4% in FY26, down from 4.6% in FY25, aided by falling food and global commodity prices.

 

3. Equitas Small Finance Bank Launches FCNR (B) Deposit and Explorer Savings Account for NRIs and Seafarers: Equitas Small Finance Bank has launched two new offerings for NRIs and seafarers: the FCNR (B) Deposit and the Equitas Explorer Savings Account, aimed at catering to their financial needs with attractive features.The FCNR (B) Deposit offers tax-free interest income, competitive interest rates, and full repatriation of principal and interest for Non-Resident Indians.The Equitas Explorer Savings Account, available in NRE and NRO variants, includes benefits such as an International VISA Platinum Debit Card, ₹1 crore air accident insurance, ₹2 lakh home insurance, and mandate facility for resident relatives in India.

 

4. Shriram Life Partners with ESAF Small Finance Bank to Boost Insurance Access for Rural and Low-Income Families: Shriram Life Insurance Company (SLIC) has partnered with ESAF Small Finance Bank to enhance the distribution of life insurance products, particularly targeting first-time buyers, low-income families, and rural households.Under the partnership, ESAF Bank will act as a corporate agent for SLIC, offering insurance solutions through its branch network across India.