Daily GK Update- 7th Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CCI Approves 100% Acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates by Dalmia Cement Under Insolvency Process: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the 100% acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) by Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, under the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) as per the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL), is part of the Dalmia Bharat Group, which is primarily engaged in the manufacture and sale of cement across India.

 

2. Ladakh’s Shayok Village to Develop First-Ever Botanical Garden Near Galwan Valley by 2029: Shayok village in eastern Ladakh, located en route to the Galwan Valley, is developing the Union Territory’s first-ever botanical garden by converting 10 hectares of barren community land into a conservation space for fruits, medicinal plants, and regional flora and fauna, with a targeted completion year of 2029.The Leh Hill Council, through the Command Area Development department, is supporting the project with civil works like land tilling and water reservoir construction, with a funding of ₹1 crore, while Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee financed a solar-powered water pumping system.As part of the Go Green Go Organic initiative by Drikung Kyabsgon Chetsang Rinpoche, the garden is also envisioned as a potential Battlefield Tourism site and will feature specimens of apricots, apples, medicinal herbs, mountain flora, and unique Ladakhi rock varieties.

 

3. Giriraj Singh Launches Book on Carbon Footprint Assessment in Indian Handloom Sector to Promote Sustainable Practices: Union Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, launched a book titled “Carbon Footprint Assessment in the Indian Handloom Sector”, jointly prepared by the Development Commissioner for Handlooms and IIT Delhi’s Department of Textiles & Fibre Engineering.The book outlines practical methodologies to measure and reduce the carbon footprint in handloom production, promoting environmentally conscious practices and reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable development in the handloom sector.

 

4. Assam CM Launches Nijut Moina 2.0 Scheme to Support Over 4 Lakh Girls in Higher Education with Monthly Financial Aid : Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina 2.0 scheme in Guwahati, aiming to increase girls’ enrolment in higher education through monthly financial assistance, with application forms distributed statewide.The scheme offers monthly financial aid for girl students from HS to PG levels in government and government-aided institutions: ₹1,000/month for HS, ₹1,250/month for graduation, and ₹2,500/month for PG, all for 10 months annually.Over 4 lakh girl students are expected to benefit this year under the flagship initiative, which is open to girls from all families, regardless of income, and seeks to reduce school dropouts and promote women’s empowerment through education.

 

5. Ayush Ministry & WHO organise workshop on clinical relevance of Herbal medicines: The Ministry of Ayush, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), inaugurated the WHO-International Regulatory Cooperation for Herbal Medicines (IRCH) Workshop in Ghaziabad, focusing on the safety, efficacy, and regulation of herbal medicines.Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha emphasised India’s dedication to scientific validation and global recognition of traditional medicine systems, reinforcing its active role in international regulatory cooperation via the WHO-IRCH platform.The three-day workshop will cover discussions on regulatory convergence, quality assurance, and clinical relevance of herbal medicines, with participation from WHO member states, regulators, researchers, and herbal medicine industry representatives.

 

6. PM Modi Inaugurates Kartavya Bhavan as Beacon of Modern Governance and National Duty: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, calling it a modern hub for governance designed to shape policies for a developed India. The name reflects the spirit of duty and is inspired by the Bhagavad Gita’s message of selfless action.

The new building will co-locate key ministries like Home Affairs, External Affairs, MSME, Petroleum & Natural Gas, and others to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and overcome issues with colonial-era offices that suffer from poor infrastructure and high rental expenses.Kartavya Bhavan spans 1.5 lakh square meters, features IT-ready workspaces, sustainable infrastructure, and advanced security systems. It targets a GRIHA-4 rating with solar power, rainwater harvesting, and zero-discharge waste systems.

 

7. Chandigarh hosts first National Young Chef Competition to celebrate Indian culinary heritage: The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with PHDCCI, launched the first-ever National Young Chef Competition (NYCC) in Chandigarh, aiming to preserve and promote India’s culinary heritage by encouraging young chefs to blend tradition with innovation.The North Zone round saw participation from 11 premier hospitality institutes, with IHM Pusa (New Delhi) and IHM Kufri emerging as winners; the grand finale is scheduled for January 2026 in New Delhi.The competition is open to final-year hospitality students across India and is supported by several industry leaders. It includes zonal rounds, career sensitization workshops, and offers internship and job opportunities for participants.

 

8. 7 August – National Handloom Day: National Handloom Day is celebrated every year on 7th August to honour the handloom weavers and highlight the contribution of the handloom industry to India’s economy, culture, and heritage.The day commemorates the Swadeshi Movement launched on 7 August 1905, which promoted the use of indigenous goods and boycotting British products during the freedom struggle.First observed in 2015, the day was officially declared by the Government of India to raise awareness and encourage support for the handloom sector.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bengaluru ranked 26th in Global AI City Index, Singapore secures top spot: Bengaluru secured the 26th spot in the Global AI City Index 2025 by Counterpoint Research, making it India’s leading hub for AI research, development, and data centers.The report highlighted Bengaluru, Riyadh, Hangzhou, and Sao Paulo as some of the fastest-growing global AI hubs, with Indian cities climbing rapidly in global AI rankings.Singapore topped the AI City Index, followed by Seoul, Beijing, Dubai, and San Francisco, thanks to strong public-private collaborations and a vibrant startup ecosystem.The report emphasized that Indian cities need a comprehensive AI roadmap and strong regulatory framework to unlock AI’s full potential. Microsoft, Google, and Amazon were noted for leading global AI infrastructure and training initiatives.

 

2. Gaurav Banerjee Appointed as New Chairman of BARC India: Gaurav Banerjee, MD & CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), has been appointed as the new Chairman of BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) India, succeeding Shashi Sinha, who held the position for over three years.Banerjee brings over 20 years of experience in the Media and Entertainment industry and currently serves as the Vice President of the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF).He also holds board positions at MSM-Worldwide Factual Media Pvt. Ltd. and Bangla Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., reflecting his influential role in shaping Indian media.

 

3. 6 August – International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries: The United Nations General Assembly has designated 6 August as the first-ever International Day of Awareness for the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), highlighting issues faced by 32 nations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.Landlocked Developing Countries suffer from a lack of territorial access to the sea, making them dependent on neighbouring countries for access to international trade routes, which significantly restricts their economic development.The first official celebration of this day is planned during the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in 2025, aiming to mobilise global attention and collaborative action.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Vice Admiral Manish Chadha takes charge as INA Commandant: Vice Admiral Manish Chadha has assumed charge as the new Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, replacing Vice Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair.He was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1991, and is a specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare.An alumnus of NDA Khadakvasla and a recipient of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2025) and Vishisht Seva Medal (2017), Vice Admiral Chadha has held several key command roles at sea and strategic positions at Naval and Command Headquarters.

 

2. DAC clears proposals worth Rs 67,000 crore to enhance operational capability of the Armed Forces: Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved proposals worth ₹67,000 crore, aimed at boosting the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.For the Indian Army, procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP Infantry Fighting Vehicles was approved to enhance night driving and mobility for Mechanised Infantry.For the Indian Navy, approvals were given for Compact Autonomous Surface Craft, BrahMos Fire Control System & Launchers, and BARAK-1 Missile System upgradation, enhancing capabilities in anti-submarine warfare and point defence.For the Indian Air Force, Acceptance of Necessity was granted for Mountain Radars, SAKSHAM & SPYDER system upgradation, and MALE Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), along with sustenance of C-17 & C-130J fleets and maintenance of S-400 systems, strengthening air defence and long-endurance surveillance.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Eco-Friendly Virus Controls Teak Defoliator Pest: The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) has developed a groundbreaking biological solution to protect teak plantations from the destructive teak defoliator moth (Hyblaea puera). This pest has caused severe damage to teak forests for decades. The new technology uses a naturally occurring virus, Hyblaea puera Nucleopolyhedrosis Virus (HpNPV), which specifically targets and kills the pest larvae. This innovation promises a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. The teak defoliator moth larvae feed on teak leaves, stripping trees up to six times annually. This repeated defoliation weakens trees and reduces timber growth. Trees expend energy regrowing leaves instead of increasing wood volume. The economic loss is substantial, estimated at 3 cubic metres of wood per hectare yearly. In Kerala alone, this translates to losses of ₹562.5 crore and ₹12,525 crore across India.

 

2. New Rain Snake Species: Recent research from Mizoram University and Help Earth, a Guwahati-based conservation group, has identified a new species of rain snake in Mizoram’s elevated tropical forests. Named Smithophis leptofasciatus, or the narrow-banded rain snake, this discovery adds to the biodiversity of the region and expands knowledge of the genus Smithophis. The narrow-banded rain snake was described after detailed morphological and molecular studies of collected specimens and live observations. It was previously mistaken for Smithophis bicolor but has been confirmed as a genetically and physically distinct species. The species name leptofasciatus means ‘narrow-banded’, referring to its unique creamish-white or yellowish-lime bands on a shiny black body. Smithophis leptofasciatus has narrow, incomplete transverse bands unlike its close relatives. Its body is glossy black with distinct cream or yellowish stripes. These markings help distinguish it from other species in the Smithophis genus. The snake is non-venomous and semi-aquatic in nature.

3. Rhisotope Project: The University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa has launched an innovative anti-poaching campaign. It uses radioactive isotopes injected into rhino horns. This method aims to make horns traceable and deter illegal trafficking. The initiative follows six years of research and testing. It is supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Rhisotope Project began with injecting radioactive isotopes into five rhinos at the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. Following a successful pilot involving 20 rhinos, the university plans mass treatment of rhinos across South Africa. The radioactive tagging is claimed to be harmless to the animals and detectable by global customs radiation monitors. Radioactive isotopes are unstable elements that emit radiation to become stable. Low doses are injected into rhino horns through a non-invasive procedure. The radiation makes the horn detectable by radiation portal monitors at borders and ports worldwide. This helps customs identify trafficked horns easily. Tests used 3D-printed horns mimicking real keratin to confirm detection inside large shipping containers.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Repco Bank Pays ₹22.90 Crore Dividend for FY 2024–25 : Repco Bank presented a cheque of ₹22.90 crore as dividend for FY 2024–25 to Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, after posting its highest-ever profit of ₹140 crore in the history of the bank.The bank, functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has been lauded by Amit Shah for its efficiency, professionalism, and dedication, serving as an inspiration for the cooperative sector.Repco Bank, a Government of India enterprise with 50.08% government shareholding, has been a profit-making cooperative for over three decades, consistently declaring dividends and achieving a 30% dividend payout in FY 2024–25.

 

2. RuPay Partners with BookMyShow to Offer Exclusive Ticketing Benefits for Major Events like Sunburn & Lollapalooza: RuPay, India’s national card payment network, has partnered with Bigtree Entertainment (BookMyShow) for a year to offer an enhanced ticketing experience to its cardholders across major entertainment events.RuPay cardholders will get exclusive benefits such as early pre-sale access, premium ticketing zones, curated food and beverage options, merchandise perks, fast-lane top-ups, and lounge access at select events like Sunburn 2025, Lollapalooza India 2026, and Bandland 2026.BookMyShow will integrate RuPay into its homepage and post-transaction journey, ensuring smoother engagement for users and promoting RuPay’s presence at key digital touchpoints.

Daily GK Update- 6th Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NITI Aayog Unveils Roadmap to Unlock $200 Billion EV Opportunity in India: NITI Aayog launched a report titled “Unlocking a $200 Billion Opportunity: Electric Vehicles in India,” highlighting strategic recommendations and challenges to accelerate India’s transition towards electric mobility. The report was released by senior officials, including Rajiv Gauba and B. V. R. Subrahmanyam.India aims for 30% EV share in total vehicle sales by 2030, with EV sales rising sharply from 50,000 units in 2016 to 2.08 million in 2024. However, further policy push and acceleration are needed to meet targets.The report was developed through seven stakeholder consultations and focuses on data-driven decision-making, national-level coordination, and cross-sector collaboration to unlock the full potential of the EV ecosystem.EV penetration in India has improved from one-fifth of the global level in 2020 to over two-fifths in 2024, showing progress but also emphasising the need for continued efforts to achieve large-scale adoption and tap into the projected $200 billion opportunity.

 

2. NITI Aayog Launches India’s First Electric Mobility Index to Track State-Wise EV Progress: NITI Aayog has launched the India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI), a first-of-its-kind tool designed to evaluate and benchmark the progress of States and Union Territories (UTs) in their transition towards electric mobility.The IEMI scores states and UTs out of 100 across 16 indicators under three core themes: Transport Electrification Progress (demand-side), Charging Infrastructure Readiness (support system), and EV Research & Innovation Status (supply-side ecosystem).The Index aims to drive informed decision-making, foster healthy competition among states, and encourage knowledge-sharing of best practices, helping align local actions with India’s national net-zero target by 2070.IEMI emphasizes the need for state-level coordination, integrated planning, and cross-sectoral collaboration, highlighting the critical role of states in deploying inclusive EV policies and infrastructure development.

 

3. Former J&K Governor Satyapal Malik dies: Satyapal Malik, former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, passed away at the age of 79 in New Delhi after a prolonged illness.He served as the last Governor of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir from August 2018 to October 2019, during which Article 370 was abrogated and the state was reorganised into two Union Territories.

Malik’s political career spanned over four decades, during which he held roles such as MLA in Uttar Pradesh (1974–77), Rajya Sabha MP (1980–84, 1986–89), and Lok Sabha MP (1989–91). He also served as Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism in 1990.Before his J&K posting, he was appointed as the Governor of Bihar in 2017 and later also served as Governor of Goa and Meghalaya. Former J&K Governor Satyapal Malik dies at 79 after prolonged illness

 

4. Nilgiri Tahr Population Surges: The 2025 joint census of Nilgiri tahr populations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu has recorded 2,668 individuals. Kerala accounts for 1,365 tahrs while Tamil Nadu has 1,303. This growth marks successful conservation efforts and calls for enhanced interstate collaboration. Controlled burning in ENP grasslands has been very important in sustaining the tahr population. This rotational burning is conducted every three years over 97 sq km to maintain nutritious grasslands suitable for grazing. Animals are temporarily relocated during burning to protect them. This practice, based on traditional knowledge from the Muthuvan tribal community, promotes fresh grass growth and enhances food security and reproductive success among tahrs. Nilgiri tahrs form a major prey base for apex predators such as tigers and leopards within ENP. Predator presence helps regulate tahr numbers naturally. The availability of prey inside the park reduces predator movement into human habitations, lowering human-wildlife conflict. The park’s ecosystem also supports species like dholes, Nilgiri langurs, and lion-tailed macaques, reflecting rich biodiversity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Becomes World’s 5th Largest Aviation Market in 2024: IATA Report: India ranked as the world’s fifth-largest aviation market in 2024, handling 241 million air passengers, surpassing Japan, and witnessing an 11.1% growth in passenger volume compared to 2023.The Mumbai–Delhi air route became the 7th busiest airport pair globally, carrying 5.9 million passengers in 2024; the Asia-Pacific region dominated the list of top airport routes.The US remained the largest aviation market with 876 million passengers, followed by China (741 million), UK (261 million), and Spain (241 million), as per IATA’s World Air Transport Statistics (WATS) 2024.Premium class international travel (business and first class) saw a global growth of 11.8%, with Asia-Pacific leading the surge at 22.8%, though economy travel in the region grew even faster at 28.6%.Among aircraft types, Boeing’s B737 was the most-used plane globally in 2024 with 10 million flights, followed by the Airbus A320 (7.9 million flights) and Airbus A321 (3.4 million flights), reflecting ongoing dominance of narrow-body aircraft.

 

2. 6 August – Hiroshima Day: Hiroshima Day is observed on 6th August every year to mark the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima by the United States in 1945 during World War II.On this day, a uranium bomb code-named “Little Boy” was dropped by the US B-29 bomber “Enola Gay”, instantly killing over 70,000 people and causing long-term suffering due to radiation.

The bombing of Hiroshima was followed by the bombing of Nagasaki on 9th August, leading to Japan’s surrender and the eventual end of World War II.Hiroshima Day serves as a global symbol of peace, reminding the world of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear warfare and urging nations to promote nuclear disarmament.

 

3. New Rain Snake Species: Recent research from Mizoram University and Help Earth, a Guwahati-based conservation group, has identified a new species of rain snake in Mizoram’s elevated tropical forests. Named Smithophis leptofasciatus, or the narrow-banded rain snake, this discovery adds to the biodiversity of the region and expands knowledge of the genus Smithophis. The narrow-banded rain snake was described after detailed morphological and molecular studies of collected specimens and live observations. It was previously mistaken for Smithophis bicolor but has been confirmed as a genetically and physically distinct species. The species name leptofasciatus means ‘narrow-banded’, referring to its unique creamish-white or yellowish-lime bands on a shiny black body. Smithophis leptofasciatus has narrow, incomplete transverse bands unlike its close relatives. Its body is glossy black with distinct cream or yellowish stripes. These markings help distinguish it from other species in the Smithophis genus. The snake is non-venomous and semi-aquatic in nature.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Magnus Carlsen Clinches Inaugural Chess Esports World Cup Title with Dominant Win Over Firouzja: Magnus Carlsen won the inaugural Chess Esports World Cup (EWC 2025) in Riyadh, defeating Alireza Firouzja of Team Falcons in a dominant grand final to claim gold for Team Liquid.

Carlsen secured victory with a commanding scoreline of 4 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, clearly showcasing the skill gap between world No. 3 Blitz player Firouzja (2856) and world No. 1 Carlsen (2937).Along with the title, Carlsen earned $250,000 and 1,000 Club Championship points, giving Team Liquid a major boost in the Club Championship standings and marking one of the largest chess prize wins in recent years.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. PFRDA launches revamped website under PFRDA CONNECT to boost digital engagement: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has launched its modernised and user-friendly website under the PFRDA CONNECT initiative, marking a major step towards digital transformation in the pension sector. The new platform was unveiled by PFRDA Chairperson S. Ramann in New Delhi.The upgraded website reflects PFRDA’s vision of enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accessibility through cutting-edge technology. Designed in compliance with the Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW) and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the new site ensures inclusiveness and ease of access for all stakeholders, including subscribers, intermediaries, and the general public.The initiative aligns with PFRDA’s commitment to digital empowerment and stakeholder engagement, creating a more transparent and user-friendly ecosystem for India’s pension sector.

 

2. Dhruva Space to Launch First Commercial Mission LEAP-1 in Collaboration with Australian Partners Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9: Dhruva Space, a Hyderabad-based spacetech startup, will launch its first commercial mission, LEAP-1, in Q3 of 2025 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, carrying two payloads—an AI module from Australia’s Akula Tech and a hyperspectral imager from Esper Satellites—on its saindigenously built P-30 satellite platform.The mission strengthens Indo-Australian collaboration in space tech, with applications spanning defence, agriculture, disaster response, mining, and environmental management. Akula’s AI module will process machine learning models in orbit, while Esper’s imager will provide rich remote sensing data.Following successful P-30 testing during ISRO’s PSLV-C58 mission in Jan 2024, LEAP-1 marks Dhruva’s first hosted payload mission integrating GSaaS and ISOCS systems for real-time mission operations. The mission is also backed by support from ISRO and the Australian Space Agency.

 

3. BEML and TuTr Hyperloop Join Hands to Develop India’s First Indigenous Hyperloop Transportation System: BEML Ltd. and TuTr Hyperloop, a deep-tech startup incubated at IIT Madras, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop India’s first indigenously designed Hyperloop transportation system.The Hyperloop system is designed to enable passenger or cargo pods to travel at ultra-high speeds through sealed, near-vacuum tubes, significantly reducing travel time.The pods in the Hyperloop will use Magnetic Levitation (Maglev) and Linear Induction Motor propulsion systems, enabling them to glide with minimal resistance for efficient and futuristic transportation.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda Launches ‘bob FxOne’ Digital Forex Platform for Corporate and MSME Clients: Bank of Baroda has launched ‘bob FxOne’, a digital foreign exchange platform designed specifically for corporate and MSME clients, enabling seamless execution of forex and derivative transactions.The platform offers real-time live rates, instant confirmations, downloadable deal tickets, and a personalised dashboard, allowing customers to conduct transactions online without the need for branch visits or manual intervention

 

2. IRDAI Slaps ₹5 Crore Penalty on Policybazaar for Multiple Regulatory Violations: IRDAI has imposed a ₹5 crore penalty on Policybazaar Insurance Brokers Pvt Ltd for serious violations involving corporate governance, misleading product promotions, irregularities in premium remittances, and multiple compliance failures.The penalty, issued on August 4, 2025, is based on 11 charges under the Insurance Act, 1938 and IRDAI (Insurance Web Aggregators) Regulations, 2017, highlighting broad ethical and operational lapses by the company.

 

3. Axis Bank Launches ‘Lock FD’ Feature to Curb Cyber Fraud and Strengthen Deposit Security: Axis Bank has launched a new feature called ‘Lock FD’ to prevent the premature closure of fixed deposits through digital platforms, aiming to reduce cyber fraud incidents.The feature is available via the Axis Mobile App or at bank branches, and it restricts internet and mobile banking access for FD withdrawal once enabled.The launch of ‘Lock FD’ is part of Axis Bank’s broader cybersecurity initiatives, including the recent rollout of the ‘In-App Mobile OTP’ feature to combat OTP-related fraud.

 

4. Tata AIA launches women-focused term insurance plan ‘Shubh Shakti’: Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched “Shubh Shakti“, a term insurance plan exclusively designed for women, offering approximately 15% lower premiums compared to men, with additional benefits such as 12-month premium breaks after childbirth and special support for single mothers.“Shubh Shakti” is integrated with Tata AIA Health Buddy, enabling policyholders and their families to access wellness rewards, vaccination support, and other health incentives.

Daily GK Update- 5th Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. VOC Port Becomes First in India to Produce Green Hydrogen: O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Thoothukudi has become the first Indian port to produce green hydrogen and generate over 1 MW of rooftop solar power.The “Green Ports and Shipping – Chartering Sustainable Maritime Future” conference, held under the NAVIC Cell-3 initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aims to promote net-zero emissions in India’s maritime sector and showcases key developments like a planned green methanol bunkering facility and solid-waste-based methanol production.Experts, including Vijay Kumar (IWAI), Abhay Bakre (NGHM), and Vibha Dhawan (TERI) emphasised coordinated efforts toward India’s 2070 net-zero goal through renewable energy adoption, promotion of green fuels like hydrogen and ammonia, and energy-efficient port equipment and policies.

 

2. India Launches First Scientifically Authenticated Monofloral Lavender Honey: India has developed its first scientifically bio-authenticated monofloral lavender honey, a landmark achievement led by CSIR–IIIM at its Pulwama Field Station in Jammu & Kashmir, under the CSIR Floriculture Mission.The honey, derived from Lavandula angustifolia, was scientifically validated using advanced methods like fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, melissopalynology, GC-MS, and DNA barcoding, making it India’s first honey with such comprehensive authentication.This innovation is expected to promote functional foods, sustainable agriculture, and rural entrepreneurship, offering a market-ready, export-oriented product backed by scientific research and rural empowerment goals.

 

3. Buddha’s Sacred Piprahwa Relics Returned to India After 127 Years: The sacred relics of the Buddha, originally excavated from Piprahwa (Uttar Pradesh) in 1898, were returned to India after 127 years, following successful diplomatic efforts to prevent their auction in Hong Kong.The Government of India, with support from the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), coordinated with global Buddhist networks and international missions to halt the Sotheby’s auction, where the relics reappeared alongside ornaments linked to the 1898 excavation.The relics, linked to the Sakya clan—Buddha’s family—were originally discovered by British engineer William Claxton Peppe, and their return has been hailed as a powerful example of cultural diplomacy rooted in dharma and heritage.

 

4. LTIMindtree gets ₹792 cr contract from IT dept to overhaul PAN services: LTIMindtree has secured a ₹792 crore contract for the Income Tax Department’s PAN 2.0 project, making it one of the largest government e-governance projects awarded to a mid-tier IT company, as it aims to modernise taxpayer registration and PAN/TAN services.The PAN 2.0 initiative, with a total budget of ₹1,435 crore, will consolidate services currently spread across the e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL, and Protean e-Gov portals into a single unified digital platform, streamlining processes like Aadhaar-PAN linking, allotment, re-issuance, updates, and validation.Set to go live in 18 months, the project will introduce technology-driven innovation and enhanced security features to improve the taxpayer experience and efficiency of PAN/TAN issuance and management across India.

 

5. CM M.K. Stalin Inaugurates VinFast’s First EV Plant in India at Thoothukudi: Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin inaugurated VinFast’s first EV manufacturing plant in India, at Thoothukudi, built in just 17 months on a 408-acre site under a ₹16,000-crore MoU signed during the 2024 Global Investors Meet.The plant, located in the SIPCOT industrial complex at Sillanatham, will initially produce 50,000 EVs annually, with capacity scaling up to 1.5 lakh units and creating over 3,500 jobs in the next five years, contributing to Tamil Nadu’s leadership in EV manufacturing.CM Stalin highlighted that 40% of India’s EVs are made in Tamil Nadu, and praised VinFast for employing local youth under the ‘Naan Mudhalvan’ initiative while inviting parent company Vingroup to expand into sectors like education, healthcare, and technology in the State.

 

6. First BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival Held in New Delhi: The first BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival, titled ‘SaptaSur: Seven Nations, One Melody’, was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, featuring performances by artists from all seven BIMSTEC countries — India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurated the event, emphasizing that music acts as a bridge between nations, expresses cultural identity, and reflects the soul and dignity of society through its unifying power.The festival was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) as a follow-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment at the April 2025 BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand to enhance cultural cooperation through traditional music.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. P B Balaji Appointed CEO of Jaguar Land Rover: Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has appointed P B Balaji as its next Chief Executive Officer, making him the first Indian executive to lead the Tata Motors-owned British luxury carmaker.Balaji, currently serving as Group CFO at Tata Motors, will assume the role of CEO in November 2025, succeeding Adrian Mardell, who is set to retire at the end of his contract.

 

2. World Bank Income Classification System: The World Bank’s income classification system remains a key tool for comparing countries by income. Updated annually, it sorts countries into four groups based on gross national income (GNI) per capita. This system helps researchers and policymakers understand global economic diversity clearly and consistently. In 2024, the World Bank continued to classify countries into low, lower-middle, upper-middle, and high-income groups. These categories are based on fixed income thresholds adjusted yearly for inflation. Over the past two decades, many countries have shifted upward in income groups, reflecting economic growth. However, some have moved downward due to conflicts or crises. GNI per capita measures the average income of a country’s residents, including income earned abroad. It is reported in local currency and converted to US dollars using exchange rates. This standardisation allows for consistent comparison across countries. The World Bank uses GNI per capita as the sole criterion for income classification.

 

3. Hong Kong Enforces Stablecoin Licensing: The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) enforced the Stablecoins Ordinance starting August 1, 2025. This new law aims to regulate stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency linked to assets like fiat currencies. The move follows rising global interest in stablecoins for finance and trade. It sets clear rules for issuers and protects investors from unregulated risks. Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain stable values. They differ from volatile coins like Bitcoin or Ether. Their value is pegged to assets such as the US dollar, euro, gold, or other cryptocurrencies. This pegging helps keep their price steady, making them useful for everyday transactions and trading. Stablecoins are widely used for trading and cross-border payments. In countries with unstable currencies, they help people preserve savings. The global stablecoin market is worth over $250 billion. Regulation ensures issuers hold adequate reserves and disclose assets transparently. It reduces risks of fraud and financial instability.

 

4. India-Brazil Biofuels Alliance: The India-Brazil partnership on biofuels is gaining momentum amid rising global trade tensions and shifting energy geopolitics. While the India-US trade relationship faces strain due to tariffs and disagreements, India and Brazil are deepening cooperation through the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA). This alliance focuses on sustainable biofuel adoption and energy security, positioning itself as a key player in the global low-carbon transition. Recently, the United States imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian imports. This move stalled bilateral trade talks aimed at expanding trade to USD 500 billion by 2030. Key Indian export sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and electronics face vulnerability in the US market. Despite this, India continues its strategic cooperation with Brazil and the US within the GBA framework, balancing trade conflicts with clean energy collaboration.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi Inaugurates ‘Agnishodh’ Research Cell at IIT Madras: Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi inaugurated ‘Agnishodh’, the Indian Army Research Cell at IIT Madras, to convert academic research into defence-ready technologies aligned with the Army’s Five Pillars of Transformation and the vision of “Swadeshikaran Se Sashaktikaran”.The centre will collaborate with IIT Madras Research Park, AMTDC, and Pravartak Technologies Foundation, focusing on advanced domains like additive manufacturing, quantum computing, cybersecurity, wireless communication, and unmanned aerial systems, while also upskilling military personnel.During his two-day visit, Gen. Dwivedi addressed OTA Chennai on grey zone warfare and hailed Operation Sindoor as a historic tri-service mission that forced a ceasefire within 88 hours; he also honoured four veterans with Veteran Achievers Awards.

2. Dr. Mayank Sharma Assumes Charge as Financial Advisor (Defence Services): Mayank Sharma took charge as the Financial Advisor (Defence Services). He is a 1989-batch officer from the Indian Defence Accounts Service with over 30 years of experience in various key government roles.He has represented India on multiple international platforms, including the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, and the UN Commission on International Trade Law.

 

3. India Receives Final C-295 Aircraft from Spain: India has received the final unit of 16 Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft from Spain, completing the first phase of the ₹21,000 crore deal signed in September 2021 to modernize the Indian Air Force’s transport fleet.The C-295 aircraft, with 5–10 tonne capacity and up to 11 hours of flight endurance, will replace the IAF’s ageing Avro fleet and enhance tactical transport capabilities with advanced technology.Under the C-295 program, 40 of the total 56 aircraft will be manufactured in India, marking a major step toward defence indigenisation and boosting the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the aerospace sector.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. BSNL and NRL Sign MoU to Launch India’s First 5G CNPN in Refinery Sector: BSNL and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) have signed a landmark MoU to implement India’s first 5G Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN) in the refinery sector, marking a major step towards Industry 4.0 adoption in critical industries.The collaboration aims to deliver secure, ultra-reliable, and real-time industrial connectivity using indigenous 5G infrastructure, enhancing mission-critical operations within the refinery environment.Signed during the “Industry 4.0 Workshop for CPSEs” in Guwahati, the partnership is expected to serve as a replicable model for other sectors, driving digital transformation across India’s industrial landscape.

 

2. National Medicinal Plants Board Signs Two MoUs to Boost Conservation and Awareness: The National Medicinal Plants Board under the Ministry of Ayush signed two strategic memorandum of understanding to further boost the conservation efforts and create public awareness about medicinal Plants.The MoUs are related to conserving germplasm of rare, endangered and threatened medicinal plants through tissue culture methods and the establishment of medicinal plants garden in the premises of All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IndusInd Bank Appoints Rajiv Anand as CEO for Three-Year Term: IndusInd Bank has approved the appointment of Rajiv Anand as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a tenure of three years, starting from August 25, 2025, to August 24, 2028, as per a regulatory filing with stock exchanges.A seasoned banking veteran, Rajiv Anand brings extensive leadership experience to the role, and his appointment marks a significant transition in the bank’s top management.

 

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.