Daily GK Update- 4th Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Odisha Hosts 4th Adi Karmayogi Regional Lab to Empower Tribals and Strengthen Grassroots Governance: Odisha hosted the 4th Adi Karmayogi Regional Process Lab (RPL) in Bhubaneswar to promote responsive governance and empower tribal communities under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) initiative.25 selected tribal functionaries from Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha are participating in the week-long programme, which is being facilitated by the Bharat Rural Livelihoods Foundation (BRLF).The RPL follows a cascading capacity-building model, where trained State Master Trainers (SMTs) will further conduct State and District Process Labs to expand the impact at grassroots levels.

 

2. Centre Approves 7 PM MITRA Parks Across India to Boost Textile Sector, Launches Skill & Export Initiatives: The Government has finalized the setting up of 7 PM MITRA Parks at specific locations: Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), Warangal (Telangana), Navsari (Gujarat), Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Dhar (Madhya Pradesh), Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), and Amravati (Maharashtra). The scheme involves an outlay of ₹4,445 crore till 2027-28, aiming to attract ₹70,000 crore in investments and generate about 20 lakh direct and indirect jobs.The ‘Samarth’ scheme, aimed at capacity building in the textile sector, is being implemented across India to offer demand-driven, placement-oriented skill training (excluding spinning and weaving). In Haryana, 26 implementing partners are operating 80 active training centres for entry-level and up/reskilling programs.The Government provides financial support to various Export Promotion Councils and trade bodies involved in textile and garment exports for organizing or participating in trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets at national and international levels to enhance exports.

 

3. Cabinet Approves ₹6,520 Crore for PMKSY to Boost Food Processing and Safety Infrastructure: The Union Cabinet approved a total outlay of ₹6,520 crore for PMKSY during the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021–22 to 2025–26), including an additional ₹1,920 crore to enhance key components of the scheme.A major allocation of ₹1,000 crore will be invested to develop 50 Multi-Product Food Irradiation Units under the ICCVAI scheme and establish 100 NABL-accredited Food Testing Laboratories (FTLs).The initiative aims to strengthen India’s food processing ecosystem by increasing food preservation capacity by 20–30 lakh metric tonnes annually, reducing spoilage, and promoting private sector investment.

 

4. ICMAI appoints Srinivasa Prasad as President, Joshi as VP for 2025-26 term: TCA Srinivasa Prasad has been elected President of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) for the council year 2025–26; he brings nearly 40 years of experience in finance, cost management, and CSR.Neeraj D Joshi, a cost accountant, has been elected as the Vice President of ICMAI for the 2025–26 term.ICMAI, a statutory body under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, is headquartered in New Delhi and has over 1 lakh qualified CMAs and 6 lakh students.

 

5. 3 August – National Watermelon Day: National Watermelon Day is observed every year on 3rd August, primarily in the United States, to celebrate and enjoy the sweet and refreshing fruit — watermelon.Watermelon is composed of over 90% water, making it a hydrating and nutritious fruit, especially popular during the summer months.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. DPIIT Signs MoU with Roche India to Support Healthtech Startups in Critical Therapeutic Areas: DPIIT and Roche Products (India) Pvt. Ltd. have signed an MoU to support DPIIT-recognised startups working in key therapeutic areas like oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, haematology, and rare diseases, providing them with mentorship, validation support, and access to global platforms.The partnership also focuses on capacity-building in areas such as Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR), Good Clinical Practices (GCP), and patient engagement, reinforcing DPIIT’s mission to make India a global hub for health innovation.

 

2. 3 August – CLOVES Syndrome Awareness Day: CLOVES Syndrome Awareness Day is observed annually on August 3rd to raise awareness about CLOVES Syndrome, a rare and complex congenital disorder.CLOVES stands for Congenital Lipomatous Overgrowth, Vascular malformations, Epidermal nevi, and Scoliosis/Skeletal abnormalities.The syndrome is caused by mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which leads to abnormal tissue growth and vascular malformations affecting various parts of the body.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan Takes Charge as 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff: Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, AVSM, NM, has assumed charge as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS).

He is an alumnus of the 71st course of the National Defence Academy, Pune, and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1st January 1988.Before leading the Eastern Fleet, Vice Admiral Vatsayan held the position of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy and Plans) after his promotion to Flag Rank in February 2018.

 

2. Raj Kumar Arora Assumes Charge as Controller General of Defence Accounts: Shri Raj Kumar Arora assumed charge as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA). He is a 1990 batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS).He brings vast experience across multiple domains, including accounting, financial policy, audit, budgeting, procurement, and personnel management within the defence and finance sectors.

 

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Malta to Host 8th Commonwealth Youth Games in 2027: Malta will host the 8th Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) in late 2027, welcoming around 1,150 athletes aged 14–18 from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories to compete across eight sports.The event will feature a dual-island model, utilising existing world-class venues across Malta and Gozo, with two Athlete Villages set up using local hotels on each island.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Google to Invest ₹51,000 Crore in Asia’s Largest Data Centre in Visakhapatnam: Google is set to build Asia’s largest data centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with a total investment of ₹51,000 crore (approximately $6 billion). The facility will have a 1 gigawatt (GW) capacity along with supporting energy infrastructure.Out of the total investment, nearly ₹17,000 crore ($2 billion) will be dedicated to developing renewable energy capacity, reflecting Google’s global commitment to sustainable and green infrastructure.Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, has announced a $75 billion global investment plan in April 2025 to expand its data centre network, including major facilities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand to meet rising digital demand.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Approves Merger of New India Co-operative Bank with Saraswat Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the merger of New India Co-operative Bank with Saraswat Co-operative Bank, the largest urban co-operative bank in India. The merger will take effect from August 4, 2025.Following the merger, all assets, liabilities, and branches of New India Co-operative Bank will be taken over by Saraswat Bank, and all existing customers will be treated as Saraswat Bank customers from the effective date, with full protection of their interests.The merger was approved by the shareholders of both banks—Saraswat Bank at its Special General Meeting on July 22, 2025, and New India Co-operative Bank at its Annual General Meeting—before receiving RBI’s final nod.

 

2. Digital Transactions Surge in July 2025: UPI Hits 19.47 Billion, IMPS and AePS Also Rise While FASTag Sees Dip: UPI transactions reached a record 19.47 billion in July 2025, marking a 6% rise in volume and 4% in value (₹25.08 trillion) over June. Daily UPI transactions rose from 613 million to 628 million, with a 35% YoY increase in volume and 22% in value compared to July 2024.IMPS transactions stood at 482 million in July, up 8% from June’s 448 million, with a transaction value of ₹6.31 trillion (up 4%). Compared to July 2024, IMPS saw a 2% dip in volume but a 6% rise in value.FASTag transactions declined by 4% in July to 371 million, with the value slipping 2% to ₹6,669 crore. However, on a YoY basis, FASTag usage rose by 15% in volume and 20% in value compared to July 2024.Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) transactions in July touched 103 million, a 6% increase over June. However, the transaction value slightly decreased to ₹26,585 crore from ₹26,616 crore in the previous month.

 

3. India’s GST Collection Rises 7.5% YoY to ₹1.96 Lakh Crore in July 2025: India’s gross GST collection for July 2025 rose by 7.5% year-on-year, reaching ₹1.96 lakh crore, compared to ₹1.85 lakh crore in June 2025.Domestic GST revenue increased by 6.7% to ₹1.43 lakh crore, while revenue from imports rose 9.5% to ₹52,712 crore. GST refunds also surged by 66.8% to ₹27,147 crore.Net GST revenue in July 2025 stood at ₹1.69 lakh crore, showing a modest 1.7% year-on-year growth; April 2025 had recorded the highest-ever GST collection at ₹2.37 lakh crore.

 

4. Fitch Lowers India’s FY26 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.3%: Fitch Ratings has lowered India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 6.3%, a slight revision from its earlier estimate of 6.4% made in April 2025.The agency noted minimal direct impact on Indian corporates from increased U.S. tariffs,suggesting limited global downside pressure.Infrastructure spending remains a key driver, with domestic sectors like oil & gas, cement, construction, telecom, and utilities expected to stay resilient due to strong local demand and regulatory stability.

 

Daily GK Update- 3rd Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. DPIIT Signs MoU with HDFC Capital to Boost Innovation in Affordable Housing and PropTech through H@ART Programme : The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed an MoU with HDFC Capital Advisors Limited to encourage innovation and support startups in the affordable housing and PropTech sectors.The collaboration will leverage the H@ART Programme (HDFC Affordable Real Estate and Technology Programme), aimed at increasing efficiency and lowering costs in residential real estate development.The programme seeks to foster innovation by building connections with affordable housing developers and investing in emerging PropTech companies.Mentorship opportunities will be provided through partnerships with accelerators, academic institutions, and investors, creating a robust support ecosystem for startups.

 

2. DPIIT Signs MoU with Roche India to Boost Innovation and Startup Growth in Healthcare Sector: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed an MoU with Roche India to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector.The partnership aims to support DPIIT-recognised startups working in key therapeutic areas such as oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, haematology, and rare diseases.Roche India will offer mentorship from global experts, assistance with pilot and validation studies, and access to advanced technologies, infrastructure, and international platforms.

 

3. Rajarajan Appointed as New Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre: Rajarajan, a senior ISRO scientist, has been appointed as the new Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), succeeding Unnikrishnan Nair.Before this appointment, Rajarajan served as the Director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota and has nearly four decades of experience in ISRO.He joined VSSC in January 1987 and has held several leadership roles, specializing in the design and development of launch vehicles and spacecraft composite systems.

 

4. Khalid Jamil Appointed Head Coach of Indian Men’s Football Team: Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, becoming the first Indian in 13 years to hold this prestigious position.He is well-known for leading Aizawl FC to a historic I-League title in 2017, a remarkable achievement in Indian football history.Jamil, currently coaching Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), was selected by the AIFF executive committee from a shortlist of three candidates.

 

5. Tiger Introduction in Debrigarh Sanctuary: The Odisha government has announced plans to introduce tigers into Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district. This move aims to revive the big cat population in the state. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has granted technical permission to convert Debrigarh into a tiger reserve. An expert committee has been formed to demarcate the core and buffer zones for tiger habitation. Once completed, the government will initiate steps for tiger relocation. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bargarh district near Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River. It spans about 347 square kilometres. Established in 1985, the sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot. It also has historical importance as the base of freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai during his rebellion against British rule.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 1 – 7 August – World Breastfeeding Week : World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed every year from 1st to 7th August to promote and support breastfeeding globally. It is a joint initiative by WHO, UNICEF, ministries of health, and civil society partners.WBW 2025 emphasizes the importance of continued healthcare support for mothers and babies as part of WHO’s Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures campaign launched earlier in the year.The official theme for WBW 2025 is “Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future,” highlighting the potential to save over 820,000 children’s lives annually by improving breastfeeding practices.

 

2. Cascade Schengen Visa: The European Commission introduced a new fast-track Schengen visa system for Indian travellers. This “cascade” system rewards applicants with a clean visa history by offering long-term, multiple-entry visas. It simplifies travel across 29 European countries in the Schengen Area. The scheme aims to strengthen people-to-people contacts and facilitate easier movement for trusted travellers. A Schengen visa permits non-EU nationals to enter and move freely within the Schengen Area. The area includes 29 countries, mostly EU members and some European Free Trade Association states. Visa holders can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The visa covers tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, and cultural events. It does not allow employment. Indian citizens with two Schengen visas in the past three years qualify for a 2-year multi-entry visa. This visa can later be upgraded to five years if the passport is valid. The visa allows free travel across all Schengen countries without restrictions on travel purpose. However, the 90 days in 180 days stay rule remains. The scheme provides convenience and encourages repeat travel.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Recent Appointments in Defence Sector: Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) -Sanjay Singhal (replace Amrit Mohan Prasad)Vice-Chief of Army Staff – Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh (replace Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani)First Woman DG of Railway Protection Force (RPF) – Sonali Mishra (replace Manoj Yadava)Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy) – Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai Director General of Defence Estates -Shailendra Nath Gupta

 

2. Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman Director General of RPF in 143-Year History: Sonali Mishra, a 1983-batch IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), becoming the first woman to head the force in its 143-year history.Her appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, and she will serve as DG of RPF until her superannuation on October 31, 2026.

 

3. Navy takes delivery of Project 17A frigate Himgiri from GRSE: Himgiri, the third ship of the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) and the first of its class built by GRSE Kolkata, has been delivered to the Indian Navy.The new Himgiri is equipped with BrahMos cruise missiles, Barak 8 air defence missiles, AESA radar, and modern combat systems, and is capable of anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, showcasing a major boost in India’s naval combat capabilities.With 75% indigenous content, the warship project has involved 200+ MSMEs and provided employment to over 4,000 personnel directly and 10,000 indirectly, further strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and launched in December 2020, the ship is a reincarnation of the old INS Himgiri, which was decommissioned in May 2025 after serving the nation for 30 years.

 

4. Operation Shiv Shakti: The Indian Army launched Operation Shiv Shakti in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation successfully eliminated two terrorists attempting infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC). This came shortly after Operation Mahadev neutralised three terrorists involved in the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. These operations show India’s intensified efforts to counter cross-border terrorism and secure vulnerable regions. Operation Shiv Shakti was initiated following precise intelligence inputs from the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The operation targeted Lashkar-e-Taiba militants trying to infiltrate via the Maldivalan sector of Degwar in Poonch. This region is prone to militant activity due to its challenging terrain and proximity to the LoC. The primary aim was to intercept and neutralise armed infiltrators before they could enter Indian territory. The operation also sought to protect civilian populations and important pilgrimage routes such as the Budha Amarnath Yatra. It was designed to pre-empt terror activities and maintain peace in the border areas.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Project Cimon: The International Space Station (ISS) has recently integrated advanced artificial intelligence (AI) robots to assist astronauts during extended missions. Key among these is Cimon, an AI-powered companion designed to ease crew workload and improve operational efficiency. Alongside Cimon, NASA’s Astrobee robots support various station tasks, marking a new era of human-machine collaboration in space. Cimon, short for Crew Interactive MObile companioN, is an AI assistant developed by Airbus, IBM, and the German Space Agency. It was launched to the ISS in 2018. This voice-controlled robot floats freely inside the station, providing hands-free support to astronauts. It acts as a database, computer, and mobile camera, aiding scientific experiments and maintenance work.

 

2. Digital Payments Index Surges: India’s digital payments ecosystem has witnessed leap in 2025. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that its Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) reached 493.22 in March 2025. This marks a strong rise from 465.33 in September 2024. The RBI-DPI tracks the growth and extent of digital payment adoption across the country. It marks the rapid digital transformation in both urban and rural India. Since 2018, the index has shown a steady upward trend. Starting at 100 in March 2018, it rose to 153.47 by March 2019. By March 2020, it reached 207.84. The surge accelerated with the index hitting 349.30 in March 2022. It further climbed to 445.50 in March 2024 and 465.33 by September 2024. The current figure of 493.22 in March 2025 represents more than a fourfold increase in digital payment activity over seven years.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Banking Laws Amendment Act 2025: The Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 came into effect on 1 August 2025. This act introduces key reforms across five major banking legislations. It aims to improve governance, protect depositors, and enhance audit quality in India’s banking sector. The amendments reflect the need to modernise rules that have remained unchanged for decades. The Act includes 19 amendments spanning the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, Banking Regulation Act, 1949, State Bank of India Act, 1955, and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts of 1970 and 1980. The Central Government notified the implementation date as 1 August 2025 for several key sections. These provisions were formally notified in the Official Gazette in July 2025. One major change is the increase of the threshold for ‘substantial interest’ from ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore. This limit, fixed since 1968, determines eligibility for directorship in banks. The revision ensures that only stakeholders can influence bank governance. This modernisation aligns with the current economic environment and banking practices.

 

2. IEPFA Launches Saksham Niveshak Campaign: The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs launched the Saksham Niveshak campaign in 2025. This 100-day national drive ran from 28th July to 6th November. It focused on empowering shareholders by raising awareness about unclaimed dividends and guiding them to update KYC and nomination details. The campaign aimed to help investors reclaim their dividends and prevent transfer of shares to the IEPFA. The campaign was initiated to address the issue of unclaimed dividends held by companies. Many shareholders remain unaware of dividends owed to them due to outdated records or lack of communication. Saksham Niveshak sought to bridge this gap by encouraging companies to reach out proactively. It also urged shareholders to update their KYC and nomination information to ensure smooth dividend payouts.

 

Daily GK Update- 2nd Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Cabinet Approves ₹2,000 Crore Grant-in-Aid to NCDC to Boost Cooperative Sector and Employment Generation: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a Central Sector Scheme titled “Grant-in-Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)” with a total outlay of ₹2,000 crore for four years (FY 2025–26 to 2028–29), with ₹500 crore allocated annually.Using this ₹2,000 crore grant, the NCDC will raise ₹20,000 crore from the open market to provide loans to cooperatives for setting up new projects, expanding plants, and meeting working capital needs.The scheme is expected to benefit around 2.9 crore members of 13,288 cooperative societies across sectors such as dairy, livestock, fisheries, textiles, food processing, storage, cold storage, labour, and women-led cooperatives.It aims to promote income generation, capacity building, modernization, and employment creation, while also encouraging women’s participation and helping bridge socio-economic gaps through cooperative development.

 

2. Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman Director General of RPF in 143-Year History: Sonali Mishra, a 1983-batch IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), becoming the first woman to head the force in its 143-year history.Her appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, and she will serve as DG of RPF until her superannuation on October 31, 2026.

 

3. Deepak Reddy Appointed as CEO of Manappuram Finance: Deepak Reddy has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Manappuram Finance, where he will lead the company and its subsidiaries into the next phase of growth, focusing on gold loans, vehicle finance, microfinance, MSME loans, housing finance, and digital lending.Reddy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a PGDM from TAPMI, Manipal, and brings with him rich experience in financial services and leadership roles.He previously worked with Bajaj Finserv for over 17 years, including as Head of HR at Bajaj Finance, and also held senior positions at American Express, where he managed personal loans and platinum credit cards.

 

4. 1 August – National Mountain Climbing Day: National Mountain Climbing Day is observed every year on 1st August to honour the courage, resilience, and achievements of mountain climbers across the world.The day was established in the United States in memory of Bobby Matthews and Josh Madigan, who successfully climbed all the 46 High Peaks of New York’s Adirondack Mountains on August 1, 2005.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 1 – 7 August – World Breastfeeding Week: World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is observed every year from 1st to 7th August to promote and support breastfeeding globally. It is a joint initiative by WHO, UNICEF, ministries of health, and civil society partners.WBW 2025 emphasizes the importance of continued healthcare support for mothers and babies as part of WHO’s Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures campaign launched earlier in the year.The official theme for WBW 2025 is “Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future,” highlighting the potential to save over 820,000 children’s lives annually by improving breastfeeding practices.

 

2. Barbados Threadsnake: The Barbados threadsnake, the world’s smallest-known snake, was rediscovered in 2025 after nearly two decades without a confirmed sighting. This tiny, elusive reptile had been feared extinct. Its rediscovery has renewed interest in the island’s unique biodiversity and the urgent need to protect endangered habitats. First scientifically identified in 2008 by S. Blair Hedges, a biology professor at Temple University, the snake was previously mistaken for a similar species, the Brahminy blind snake. The discovery came after genetic analysis confirmed it as a new species. Before this, only three specimens were known, held in museums in London and California. The species was named in honour of Hedges’ wife, Carla. The snake’s cryptic nature and tiny size mean it can easily be overlooked. Scientists can search for hours without spotting one. Recently, after a year of searching, Connor Blades from Barbados’ Ministry of Environment finally found a specimen under a rock in a small forest. The snake’s wriggling made identification difficult even under a microscope. A still image helped confirm its identity.

 

3. Bhutan-India Dorjilung Hydropower Project: The recent launch of the Dorjilung Hydropower Project in Bhutan marks milestone in regional clean energy collaboration. This 1125 MW project is a joint venture between Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) and India’s Tata Power Company Limited. It represents a strategic shift towards private sector participation and shared infrastructure development between the two nations. Construction has begun with foundational infrastructure such as access roads and bridges. Two Bhutanese contractors, Chimi RD Construction and KD Builders, are responsible for these works with contracts valued at Nu/₹479 million combined. The total project cost is estimated at $1.7 billion (around Nu/₹150 billion). The World Bank is financing the project, marking an important shift from traditional government grants towards investment-based funding.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan Assumes Charge as Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command: Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, succeeding Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh after his retirement.Commissioned into the Indian Navy in July 1987, Vice Admiral Swaminathan is a specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare and has commanded key warships including INS Vikramaditya, Mysore, Kulish, Vinash, and Vidyut.

 

2. Navy takes delivery of Project 17A frigate Himgiri from GRSE: Himgiri, the third ship of the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) and the first of its class built by GRSE Kolkata, has been delivered to the Indian Navy.The new Himgiri is equipped with BrahMos cruise missiles, Barak 8 air defence missiles, AESA radar, and modern combat systems, and is capable of anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, showcasing a major boost in India’s naval combat capabilities.With 75% indigenous content, the warship project has involved 200+ MSMEs and provided employment to over 4,000 personnel directly and 10,000 indirectly, further strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and launched in December 2020, the ship is a reincarnation of the old INS Himgiri, which was decommissioned in May 2025 after serving the nation for 30 years.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Khalid Jamil Appointed Head Coach of Indian Men’s Football Team: Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, becoming the first Indian in 13 years to hold this prestigious position.He is well-known for leading Aizawl FC to a historic I-League title in 2017, a remarkable achievement in Indian football history.Jamil, currently coaching Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), was selected by the AIFF executive committee from a shortlist of three candidates.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DPIIT Signs MoU with Roche India to Boost Innovation and Startup Growth in Healthcare Sector: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed an MoU with Roche India to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector.The partnership aims to support DPIIT-recognised startups working in key therapeutic areas such as oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, haematology, and rare diseases.Roche India will offer mentorship from global experts, assistance with pilot and validation studies, and access to advanced technologies, infrastructure, and international platforms.

 

2. DPIIT Signs MoU with HDFC Capital to Boost Innovation in Affordable Housing and PropTech through H@ART Programme: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed an MoU with HDFC Capital Advisors Limited to encourage innovation and support startups in the affordable housing and PropTech sectors.The collaboration will leverage the H@ART Programme (HDFC Affordable Real Estate and Technology Programme), aimed at increasing efficiency and lowering costs in residential real estate development.The programme seeks to foster innovation by building connections with affordable housing developers and investing in emerging PropTech companies.Mentorship opportunities will be provided through partnerships with accelerators, academic institutions, and investors, creating a robust support ecosystem for startups.

 

3. Rajarajan Appointed as New Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre: Rajarajan, a senior ISRO scientist, has been appointed as the new Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), succeeding Unnikrishnan Nair.Before this appointment, Rajarajan served as the Director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota and has nearly four decades of experience in ISRO.He joined VSSC in January 1987 and has held several leadership roles, specializing in the design and development of launch vehicles and spacecraft composite systems.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India’s Fiscal Deficit Reaches ₹2.8 Lakh Crore or 17.9% of Full-Year Target by June 2025: CGA Data: As per data released by the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), the central government’s fiscal deficit reached ₹80 lakh crore, which is 17.9% of the full-year target for FY 2025-26 by the end of June 2025.The Centre’s net tax revenue stood at ₹5.4 lakh crore, accounting for 19% of the Budget Estimates (BE) for FY 2025-26 — lower than 21.3% in the same period last fiscal year.

Total government expenditure in April–June 2025 was ₹12.22 lakh crore, or 24.1% of the full-year BE, compared to 20.1% in the same quarter of the previous financial year.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Shah Rukh Khan bags his career’s first National Film Award for ‘Jawan’: Shah Rukh Khan won his first-ever National Award, sharing the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey for their performances in Jawan and 12th Fail, respectively, marking a major milestone in SRK’s illustrious career.Rani Mukerji received the Best Actress award for her powerful performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, while Sudipto Sen won Best Director for his controversial and impactful film The Kerala Story.

 

Daily GK Update- 1st Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IEPFA Launches 100-Day “Saksham Niveshak” Campaign to Help Investors Reclaim Unclaimed Dividends and Update KYC Details: The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs has launched a 100-day nationwide campaign titled “Saksham Niveshak”, running from 28th July to 6th November 2025, to create awareness about unclaimed dividends and promote KYC and nomination updates.The campaign encourages companies to proactively help shareholders recover unclaimed dividends and avoid the transfer of shares and dividends to IEPFA by ensuring timely KYC compliance and record updates.IEPFA aims to empower investors and promote financial literacy through initiatives like Niveshak Didi, Niveshak Panchayat, and Niveshak Shivir, while also ensuring direct dividend payouts to the rightful shareholders.

 

2. PM Modi Releases ₹1,000 Coin to Commemorate 1,000th Anniversary of Rajendra Chola I’s Naval Expedition: Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a ₹1,000 commemorative coin in Gangaikonda Cholapuram to mark the 1,000th anniversary of the naval expedition of King Rajendra Chola I, celebrating India’s rich maritime history.The proposal to release the coin was made by R. Komagan, chairman of the Gangaikondacholapuram Development Council Trust, who also designed the coin featuring King Rajendra Chola I on horseback with a ship in the backdrop.

 

3. Jyotiraditya Scindia Launches Sanchar Saathi App in Hindi: Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the Sanchar Saathi mobile app in Hindi and 21 regional languages, aiming to expand its accessibility and utility across India’s diverse linguistic population.The app, originally launched in January, enables users to report suspicious communications, block or trace lost/stolen phones, and detect unauthorized mobile connections, and has already crossed 46 lakh downloads.The relaunch took place during a stakeholders’ meeting in New Delhi focused on combating telecom-related cyber frauds, with participation from law enforcement agencies, telecom providers, financial institutions, C-DOT, RPF, and civil society.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Australia bans Youtube for children under 16 to protect from harmful online content: Australia has expanded its child online safety law to ban YouTube for users under 16, adding it to the list of restricted platforms alongside Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.The inclusion of YouTube came after a survey revealed that 37% of minors encountered harmful content on the platform, despite its earlier exemption for educational purposes.The law, effective from December 10, 2025, imposes fines up to 49.5 million Australian dollars on companies that fail to comply, reinforcing Australia’s strict approach to protecting teenagers from online harm.

 

2. Australia’s First Homegrown Orbital Rocket ‘Eris’ Crashes 14 Seconds After Liftoff in Test Flight: Australia’s first homegrown orbital rocket, Eris, crashed just 14 seconds after liftoff during its maiden test flight from a spaceport near Bowen, Queensland.The rocket, developed by Gilmour Space Technologies, was designed to carry small satellites into orbit and marked a significant milestone as the first Australian-made orbital launch vehicle.Despite successfully clearing the launch tower, the 23-meter Eris rocket failed mid-air, with videos showing it hovering briefly before crashing and smoke rising from the site.

 

3. Indian-Origin Nikhil Ravishankar Appointed as New CEO of Air New Zealand: Indian-origin Nikhil Ravishankar has been appointed as the new CEO of Air New Zealand, succeeding Greg Foran, who is set to step down on October 20, 2025.Ravishankar currently serves as Air New Zealand’s Chief Digital Officer and has been instrumental in enhancing digital infrastructure, customer experience, and loyalty systems during his nearly five-year tenure.

 

4. Indian-Origin Executive Shailesh Jejurikar Appointed CEO of Procter & Gamble: Indian-origin executive Shailesh Jejurikar has been appointed as the next President and CEO of Procter & Gamble (P&G), effective January 1, 2026, becoming the first Indian to lead the global consumer goods giant.Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer, Jejurikar has been with P&G since 1989, holding key leadership roles across regions and categories like fabric care and home care, and playing a major role in global business transformation and supply chain innovation.Current CEO Jon Moeller will transition to Executive Chairman, while Jejurikar has also been nominated to stand for election as a Director at the October 2025 annual shareholder meeting.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt. Gen. Pushpendra Singh Appointed as Vice-Chief of Army Staff: Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, a decorated officer of the Parachute Regiment with over 35 years of service, has been appointed as the new Vice-Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) and will assume charge, succeeding Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani.An alumnus of the Indian Military Academy, he was commissioned into 4 Para (Special Forces) in 1987 and has participated in several key operations, including Pawan, Meghdoot, Rakshak, and Orchid, as well as UN Peacekeeping Missions in Lebanon and Sri Lanka.In other appointments, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan will become the next FOC-in-C of Western Naval Command, while Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan is set to take over as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on August 1, 2025.

 

2. Sanjay Singhal Appointed as DG of SSB: The Central Government has appointed BSF’s Special Director General Sanjay Singhal as the new Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). He is a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre.Sanjay Singhal will assume charge on September 1, 2025, and serve until his superannuation on December 31, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. He will succeed Amrit Mohan Prasad, who is set to retire on August 31, 2025.

 

3. INS Satpura Reaches Singapore to Participate in 32nd SIMBEX-25: INS Satpura has reached Singapore to take part in the 32nd edition of SIMBEX-25, the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise, reinforcing the strong and strategic maritime partnership between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).The Harbour Phase of the exercise includes Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), professional interactions, and operational-level discussions, promoting knowledge sharing, doctrine alignment, and deck familiarisation visits aboard RSN ships Vigilant and Supreme.SIMBEX-25 aligns with India’s ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision and Act East Policy, symbolising growing trust and operational synergy between the two naval forces in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

4. Goa Shipyard Launches ICGS ATAL, Sixth Indigenous Fast Patrol Vessel to Boost Coast Guard Capabilities: Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched ICGS ATAL (Yard 1275), a Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), in Vasco-da-Gama, Goa, reinforcing India’s push for indigenous defence production and maritime self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.ICGS ATAL is the sixth of eight indigenously designed state-of-the-art FPVs being constructed by GSL for the Indian Coast Guard, with the vessel measuring 52 meters in length, 8 meters in beam, and 320 tonnes in displacement.These high-speed vessels are equipped for coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, island security, and offshore asset protection, significantly boosting India’s maritime domain awareness and national security capabilities.

 

5. Operation Shiv Shakti: The Indian Army launched Operation Shiv Shakti in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation successfully eliminated two terrorists attempting infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC). This came shortly after Operation Mahadev neutralised three terrorists involved in the deadly April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. These operations show India’s intensified efforts to counter cross-border terrorism and secure vulnerable regions. Operation Shiv Shakti was initiated following precise intelligence inputs from the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The operation targeted Lashkar-e-Taiba militants trying to infiltrate via the Maldivalan sector of Degwar in Poonch. This region is prone to militant activity due to its challenging terrain and proximity to the LoC.

 

SPORTS

 

1. MS Dhoni Joins ACKO as Brand Ambassador: MS Dhoni has partnered with ACKO as both a brand ambassador and a strategic investor, marking a significant collaboration with one of India’s fastest-growing digital insurance companies.Dhoni’s investment in ACKO comes through his family office, Midas Deals Pvt Ltd, reflecting his confidence in the company’s vision of transforming insurance through technology and customer-first solutions.The partnership aims to simplify and modernise insurance for urban India, making it more accessible, intuitive, and aligned with the evolving digital expectations of consumers.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. 2023 Marine Heat Waves: The year 2023 witnessed marine heat waves (MHWs) of unprecedented scale and intensity. Covering 96 per cent of the global ocean surface, these events lasted four times longer than historical averages. Scientists warn that such extreme ocean warming may indicate a climate tipping point. This could lead to irreversible damage to marine ecosystems and threaten global marine industries. Marine heat waves are prolonged periods of unusually high ocean temperatures. They occur in various ocean regions and have become more frequent and intense over recent decades. These events disrupt marine ecosystems, affect fisheries, and impact human livelihoods dependent on the sea. In 2023, MHWs reached new extremes in intensity, duration, and geographic extent. The total marine heat wave activity amounted to 53.6 billion °C days square kilometre. This figure exceeds the historical norm by more than three standard deviations since 1982. MHWs lasted four times longer than the average duration recorded over the past 40 years.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Anju Rathi Rana Appointed as Ex-Officio Member of IBBI: Anju Rathi Rana, the current Law Secretary and the first woman to hold the post of Secretary, Legal Affairs, has been appointed as an ex-officio member of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) by the central government under Section 189 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.This appointment provides representation to the Ministry of Law & Justice on the IBBI Board, which already includes members from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Reserve Bank of India, and legal and financial experts.Anju Rathi Rana, a senior officer of the Indian Legal Service, previously served as a public prosecutor for 18 years and joined the law ministry in 2017 as a Joint Secretary before becoming Law Secretary in March 2025.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Suhani Shah Becomes First Indian to Win Best Magic Creator Award at FISM World Championship 2025: Suhani Shah has made history by winning the Best Magic Creator award at the FISM World Championship of Magic 2025, becoming the first Indian—and one of the very few women—to be recognised at this prestigious global platform often called the “Olympics of Magic.”She triumphed over globally renowned magicians like Jack Rhodes, Jason Ladanye, and Mohammad Imani, earning the award in the newly introduced Online Magic Awards category, which celebrates digital innovation in magic through platforms like YouTube and Instagram.Shah’s win is a landmark moment for Indian magic and women in performance arts, spotlighting India’s magical heritage and modernising the art form through digital storytelling, psychological illusion, and human-centric performances.