Daily GK Update- 6th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 27th Saras Aajeevika Mela in New Delhi to Showcase ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and Empower Rural Women Entrepreneurs: The 27th edition of Saras Aajeevika Mela was held in New Delhi, with participation from over 400 rural women of Self Help Groups (SHGs) across all States and UTs, providing them a marketing platform to showcase handicrafts, handlooms, and food products.Themed “Making of Lakhpati Didis – Empowering Rural Women to Become Successful Entrepreneurs and Champions of Vocal for Local”, this is the first fair fully led by Lakhpati Didis.Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission, around 10 crore women are connected through 90 lakh SHGs, highlighting the fair’s role in women’s empowerment and grassroots entrepreneurship.

 

2. Manohar Lal Launches Angikaar 2025 Campaign to Fast-Track PMAY-Urban 2.0 Implementation and Housing Completion: Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal launched the Angikaar 2025 campaign under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) 2.0 to boost awareness and accelerate implementation.The campaign will fast-track verification of applications, ensure completion of already sanctioned houses, and promote last-mile delivery through community mobilisation and convergence with other government schemes.Under PMAY-U, 1.20 crore houses have been sanctioned, of which over 94 lakh pucca houses are already completed and delivered; Angikaar 2025 will facilitate the completion of the remaining houses.

 

3. India’s first telecom system with indigenous chips gets TEC certification : A telecom system powered by domestically manufactured chips has received the TEC (Telecommunication Engineering Centre) certification, marking a major milestone in India’s semiconductor journey; IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed it as a “big leap for India’s semiconductor story.”The certification ensures the system meets stringent quality and performance standards, strengthening India’s drive for technological self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and enhancing its position in the global telecom and electronics ecosystem.With a focus on mature-node manufacturing (28nm–65nm), India is targeting key sectors like automotive, telecom, and industrial electronics, aiming to fill critical global supply chain gaps while showcasing world-class integration services and talent.

 

4. Piyush Goyal Takes Charge As Secretary, Ministry of Mines: Piyush Goyal, a 1994-batch IAS officer of the Nagaland cadre, assumed charge as Secretary, Ministry of Mines.Prior to this assignment, Goyal served as the Chief Executive Officer of NATGRID under Ministry of Home Affairs.Piyush Goyal succeeds Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, IAS (1992 batch), who is currently serving as Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Amazon Completes $200 Million Acquisition of Axio to Strengthen Digital Lending in India: Amazon has completed the acquisition of Axio (formerly Capital Float) after approval from RBI, marking one of its largest deals in India, valued at around $200 million.The move converts a six-year partnership powering Amazon Pay’s Buy Now Pay Later service into full ownership, enabling Amazon to serve 10 million customers and expand into merchant lending.Amazon aims to leverage Axio’s lending expertise with its own reach and technology to expand access to credit for millions of customers and small businesses in India.

 

2. India Develops Rare Methandienone Long-Term Metabolite to Boost Global Anti-Doping Efforts: National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Guwahati, in collaboration with National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) New Delhi, has developed a rare and high-purity Reference Material (RM) – Methandienone Long-Term Metabolite (LTM), launched by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya during NDTL’s 22nd Governing Body Meeting.This Reference Material is crucial for anti-doping analysis, helping detect prohibited substances more effectively, even months or years after their use, thereby strengthening transparency and integrity in sports.India has so far developed 12 out of 22 planned Reference Materials, with Methandienone LTM being the latest, and plans to share it with all 30 WADA-accredited laboratories worldwide to support global anti-doping efforts.

 

3. Piyush Goyal Inaugurates India MedTech Expo 2025 Showcasing India as a Global MedTech Manufacturing Hub: Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the Second Edition of India MedTech Expo 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals along with EPCMD and CDSCO.The three-day expo is themed “India: Global MedTech Manufacturing Hub – Precision Engineering yet Affordable”, showcasing innovations by MSMEs, start-ups, research institutions, and government bodies.The event hosts 150+ international buyers from 30+ countries, providing a platform for global partnerships, collaborations, and investments in India’s MedTech sector.

 

4. Shabana Mahmood Appointed UK Home Secretary in Labour Cabinet Reshuffle: Shabana Mahmood has been appointed as the new UK Home Secretary, succeeding Yvette Cooper after a major Labour-led government reshuffle triggered by Deputy PM Angela Rayner’s resignation.Mahmood, who previously served as Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor (2024–25), has been the MP for Birmingham Ladywood since 2010 and is a senior Labour Party leader.Taking charge amid challenges like small boat crossings, asylum hotels, and migration pressures, she has expressed support for reforming the European Convention on Human Rights and tightening immigration rules.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. COAS General Upendra Dwivedi Launches Book ‘Operation Sindoor’ by Retd. Lt. Gen. KJS Dhillion: Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, launched the book “Operation Sindoor: The Untold Story of India’s Deep Strikes Inside Pakistan” authored by Retd. Lt. Gen KJS Dhillion in New Delhi.General Dwivedi highlighted that the book is a tribute to the courage, professionalism, and spirit of the Indian Army, describing Operation Sindoor as a coordinated and synergised military action.The book is considered foundational in nature and is expected to serve as a valuable reference for academia and research scholars.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha Inaugurates North Eastern Zone Badminton Championship: Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha inaugurated the North Eastern Zone Badminton Championship, organized by the Tripura Badminton Association, with participation from over 200 players of seven North Eastern states.Saha emphasized the role of sports in fostering unity, discipline, and patriotism, calling the event a celebration of the North East’s diversity and talent.He highlighted Tripura’s investments in sports infrastructure, announcing new projects like two multi-purpose indoor halls and a 200-bed sports hostel to boost sports development in the state.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Launches First-Ever Vulture Conservation Portal ‘The Vulture Network’ to Safeguard Endangered Species: We Foundation India, in collaboration with Gauhati University’s Zoology Department, launched The Vulture Network (thevulturenetwork.org), India’s first dedicated portal for vulture conservation.The cloud-based portal compiles scientific data, spreads awareness in local languages (starting with Assamese), and provides free outreach materials for awareness campaigns.The initiative highlighted major threats to vultures, such as carcass poisoning, harmful veterinary drugs like diclofenac, and negative social perceptions, with focus on the slender-billed vulture (only ~800 mature individuals left).Partners include Assam Bird Monitoring Network, LASA Foundation, Suraksha Samitee, and individual researchers, stressing the importance of citizen science in vulture and endangered species conservation.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. DPIIT and ICICI Bank Partner to Launch Startup Engagement Programme Under Startup India Initiative: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed an MoU with ICICI Bank to support startups and innovators under the Startup India initiative.ICICI Bank will launch a Startup Engagement Programme on the Startup India portal, offering accelerator support, mentorship, pilot projects, and networking opportunities with investors and industry leaders.The collaboration aims to foster early- and growth-stage startups by providing business development guidance, product refinement, operational scale-up support, and access to ICICI Bank’s Mumbai-based accelerator facility.

 

2. SBI Hosts First-Ever Start-up Pitch Fest ‘Dream2Demo’ to Empower Entrepreneurs and Boost Innovation: SBI’s Start-up branch hosted its first-ever Pitch Fest – “Dream2Demo”, offering entrepreneurs a platform to present ideas directly to leading investors and strengthen start-up–investor connections.The event supported national initiatives like Make in India and Startup India, with leaders from IITM Research Park, Startup TN, and SBI highlighting SBI’s role in financing, mentorship, and market linkages for entrepreneurs.SBI showcased its customised start-up solutions, including equity-linked funding and collaborations with Startup TN and IIT Madras Incubation Cell, reaffirming its commitment to empowering innovators from grassroots to global markets.

 

Daily GK Update- 5th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IIT Madras tops NIRF 2025 rankings for record seventh time, IISc Bengaluru & IIT Bombay follow: IIT Madras has once again secured the top spot overall in the NIRF 2025 rankings, followed by IISc Bengaluru (2nd) and IIT Bombay (3rd).Among universities, IISc Bengaluru leads, while JNU and Manipal Academy of Higher Education hold the 2nd and 3rd spots, with Manipal being the first private institution to enter the top 3.In the colleges category, Hindu College and Miranda House of Delhi University retained their 1st and 2nd positions, followed by Hansraj College and Kirori Mal College.AIIMS Delhi remains the top medical institute, while IIM Ahmedabad continues to lead in management, followed by IIM Bangalore and IIM Kozhikode.In law, the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru ranked 1st, followed by NLU Delhi and NALSAR Hyderabad.In architecture & planning, IIT Roorkee secured the top spot, followed by NIT Calicut and IIT Kharagpur, highlighting the dominance of IITs in technical education.

 

2. Govt to Phase Out “Own Scribes” in Competitive Exams by 2027, P: Government to phase out “own scribes” system by August 2027 for differently-abled candidates in exams like NEET, IIT-JEE, and UPSC, replacing it with technological solutions and a scribe pool formed by Examining Bodies (EBs).New DEPwD guidelines encourage candidates to use software-enabled laptops; if refused, EBs will provide scribes. Bringing own scribes will be gradually disallowed within two years.Move aimed at curbing misuse of scribes, but disability rights activists caution against a one-size-fits-all approach, stressing the need for investment in assistive technology, infrastructure, and reasonable accommodations before implementation.

 

3. Sundeep Sikka Elected as AMFI Chairman, Vishal Kapoor as Vice-Chairman: Sundeep Sikka, CEO of Nippon Life India AMC, has been elected as the new chairman of Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) with immediate effect.Vishal Kapoor, CEO of Bandhan AMC, has been elected as vice-chairman; he has been on the AMFI Board since 2018 and chaired the ARN Committee since 2020.Sundeep Sikka returns for his second term as AMFI chairman (first term: 2013–2015); the previous chairman and vice-chairman were Navneet Munot and Anthony Heredia.

 

4. 5 September -Teachers’ Day: Teachers’ Day in India is celebrated annually on 5th September, the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India and a renowned teacher and philosopher.The day honors the contribution of teachers in shaping students’ lives and emphasizes the importance of education in society.Schools and educational institutions organize cultural programs, tribute events, and felicitation ceremonies for teachers.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple Inaugurated in Rajgir, Bihar to Strengthen India-Bhutan Ties: Inauguration of Royal Bhutan Buddhist Temple in Rajgir, Bihar, conducted with traditional Bhutanese and Buddhist rituals, highlighting the cultural and religious significance of the region where Lord Buddha performed penance.Ceremony attended by key dignitaries, including Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, India’s Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, and representatives from both countries.Strengthening India-Bhutan ties, with the Bhutanese Prime Minister noting that the temple will further enhance the friendship and cultural bonds between the two nations.

 

2. Citibank Appoints Kaustubh Kulkarni as Co-Head of Asia-Pacific Investment Banking: Citibank has appointed Kaustubh Kulkarni as Co-Head of Investment Banking for Asia-Pacific, covering Japan, North Asia, Australia, and South Asia. He will join in December 2025 and be based in Singapore.Kulkarni, a veteran with nearly three decades at JP Morgan, has held leadership roles including India Country Officer, Head of Investment Banking in India, and Co-Head of Southeast Asia Investment Banking.Alongside this, Citi also appointed Deepak Dangayach as MD & Co-Head of Debt Capital Markets for Asia and Australia, and earlier hired Vikram Chavali as MD, Head of Global Asset Managers for Japan, Asia, and Australia.

 

3. 5 September – International Day of Charity: International Day of Charity is observed globally on 5th September to promote charitable efforts and raise awareness about the importance of helping those in need.The day commemorates the death anniversary of Mother Teresa, a Nobel laureate and iconic humanitarian known for her selfless service to the poor.Activities on this day include fundraising, awareness campaigns, volunteering, and community service programs to support underprivileged communities.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO’s DMRL Transfers Three Advanced Defence Material Technologies to Industry Partners: DRDO’s Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), Hyderabad, transferred three advanced materials technologies to industry partners through Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToT).The technologies include: high-strength Radomes to BHEL (for missile systems), DMR-1700 steel sheets/plates to JSPL (for defence applications), and DMR-249A HSLA steel plates to BSP-SAIL (for naval vessels).DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat handed over the agreements and appreciated DMRL’s role in strengthening industry-research collaboration for indigenous defence technologies.A pact was signed with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to leverage DMRL’s expertise and facilities for civil aviation investigations.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DPIIT Partners with Pfizer to Support MedTech Startups Through INDovation Program: DPIIT signs MoU with Pfizer Limited to accelerate the lab-to-market journey of innovative healthcare products by providing financial and non-financial support to startups.Pfizer INDovation program to support startups with grants up to ₹60 lakh each for an 18-month tailored incubation program, offering mentorship, infrastructure, global networks, and access to Pfizer’s R&D facilities in Chennai.Focus on 14 MedTech startups working in screening, diagnostics, health monitoring, and treatment enablers, targeting areas such as non-communicable diseases, oncology, brain health, maternal and child health, and immunisation.

 

2. India Unveils First Indigenous 32-bit Vikram Processor at Semicon 2025: Vikram-32, India’s first indigenously built 32-bit microprocessor chip, developed by ISRO’s Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), was presented to PM Narendra Modi at Semicon India 2025 by IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.The chip, designed to withstand extreme space conditions, was successfully validated in space during the PSLV-C60 mission, proving its reliability for future satellite and launch vehicle applications.Fabricated at SCL’s 180nm CMOS facility in Mohali, Punjab, the Vikram-32 demonstrates India’s rapid progress in semiconductor self-reliance since the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission in 2021.Beyond space missions, the Vikram-32 chip holds potential for defence, aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors, symbolizing India’s rise as a global player in the semiconductor value chain with investments of over ₹1.60 lakh crore and 23+ supported design startups.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. South Indian Bank Partners with MoEngage to Boost Digital Innovation and Customer Engagement: South Indian Bank partnered with MoEngage to enhance customer engagement through automation, advanced data analytics, and a unified digital platform, reducing manual efforts.The partnership will focus on reactivating dormant accounts, boosting engagement of inactive customers, and improving mobile banking experiences with personalised in-app messaging and targeted campaigns.MoEngage ensures regulatory-grade data privacy and AI-driven personalisation, enabling secure customer data handling while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

 

2. Bank of Baroda Launches ‘Bob Digi Udyam’ to Provide Collateral-Free Digital Loans for MSEs: Bank of Baroda launched “Bob Digi Udyam“, a digital platform to provide collateral-free working capital loans from above ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).The platform uses automated, risk-based scorecards leveraging MSEs’ digital footprints, enabling quick provisional sanction within minutes, followed by processing through the TEJAS Loan Origination System.Customers can apply via DIY digital mode or assisted branch mode, with digital eligibility checks, risk assessments, and transparent loan processing.The scheme offers Cash Credit and Overdraft facilities for 12 months, backed by CGTMSE cover, ensuring no collateral requirement for borrowers.

 

3. India’s FDI Rises 15% to USD 18.62 Billion in April–June FY25; US Inflows Nearly Triple*: FDI in India rose by 15% to USD 18.62 billion during April–June FY25, compared to USD 16.17 billion in the same period last year.FDI inflows from the US nearly tripled to USD 5.61 billion in April–June FY25, highlighting strong investor interest.Total FDI (equity inflows, reinvested earnings, and other capital) increased to USD 25.2 billion, up from USD 22.5 billion in April–June FY24.

 

Daily GK Update- 4th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves ₹1,500 crore scheme under NCMM to boost recycling of critical minerals: The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved a ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) to boost recycling capacity for critical minerals.The scheme will run for six years (FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31), covering e-waste, lithium-ion battery scrap, and catalytic converters recycling.Incentives include a 20% capital subsidy on plant & machinery and operating subsidies (40% in the 2nd year and 60% in the 5th year) based on incremental sales.Out of the total outlay, one-third has been earmarked for start-ups and smaller players, with subsidy caps of ₹50 crore for large entities and ₹25 crore for small entities.

The scheme aims to create 270 kilo tonnes recycling capacity, produce 40 kilo tonnes of critical minerals annually, attract ₹8,000 crore investments, and generate 70,000 jobs.

 

2. PM Modi launches Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi to empower rural women with affordable financial support: PM Narendra Modi virtually launched Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi Saakh Sahkari Sangh Limited, aimed at providing easy access to funds at affordable interest rates for Jeevika community members.All registered cluster-level federations of Jeevika will become members of this cooperative society, with financial contributions from both the Bihar government and the Central government.The Prime Minister transferred ₹105 crore into the institution’s bank account to support its functioning and provide immediate financial aid.The scheme will empower rural women entrepreneurs, helping them access funds easily, grow their businesses, and contribute to India’s development.

 

3. Rajit Punhani takes charge as CEO of FSSAI: Rajit Punhani, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Bihar cadre, has been appointed as the new CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). He replaced GKV Rao.He has previously served as Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Secretary, Rajya Sabha, CEO of Sansad TV, and Principal Secretary in Bihar Government.His appointment comes as the Supreme Court directed the Centre to implement updated food labelling regulations, ensuring packaged foods display key nutritional information like sugar, salt, and fat content.

 

4. Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi: The Government of India and Bihar have taken a major step to empower rural women entrepreneurs. On 2nd September 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi Saakh Sahkari Sangh Limited via video conferencing. The event saw the transfer of Rs. 105 crore into the institution’s bank account. This initiative aims to provide affordable and timely financial support to women associated with Jeevika self-help groups in Bihar. It promises to reduce dependence on costly microfinance loans and promote community-led enterprises. The Jeevika Nidhi is created to offer easy access to funds at lower interest rates. It targets members of registered cluster-level federations linked to Jeevika. Women entrepreneurs often face high interest rates from microfinance institutions, ranging between 18% and 24%. This new institution aims to provide larger loans at affordable rates, ensuring financial inclusion and sustainability for rural women-led businesses.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tamil Nadu secures 23 more deals in Germany worth more than ₹3,800 crore: Tamil Nadu signed 23 agreements with various companies in Düsseldorf, Germany, securing ₹3,819 crore investments and the potential to create 9,070 jobs, as part of the Tamil Nadu Rising Germany Investment Conclave attended by CM M.K. Stalin.Including three earlier deals (Knorr-Bremse, Nordex Group, and ebm-papst), total German investments during Stalin’s visit reached ₹7,020 crore, expected to generate 15,320 jobs.Major commitments include Vensys Energy (₹1,068 crore; 5,238 jobs), BASF (₹300 crore; 100 jobs), BellaPremier Happy Hygiene (₹300 crore; 200 jobs), Herrenknecht India (₹250 crore; 400 jobs), Puls (₹200 crore; 500 jobs), Witzenmann India (₹200 crore; 450 jobs), and MASH Energy (₹200 crore; 200 jobs).Guidance Tamil Nadu signed an agreement with Next Mittelstand (Ausbildung) to implement Germany’s dual vocational training model, which will train 20,000 youth in global skills over a decade, starting with 120 students.

 

2. Sharjah to host 18th Inclusion International World Congress 2025: Sharjah will host the 18th Inclusion International World Congress 2025 from September 15–17 at Expo Centre, marking the first time the event will be held in the MENA region, with participants from over 70 countries.The congress will focus on inclusive education, advocacy, healthcare, legal rights, employment, and community participation, while showcasing the UAE’s progress in building 80+ specialised facilities for persons with disabilities. Backed by WHO data, the event aims to tackle global challenges of poverty, discrimination, and reduced life expectancy among persons with disabilities, reaffirming inclusion as key to sustainable development.

 

3. Dr. Deepak Mittal Appointed as India’s New Ambassador to the UAE: The Ministry of External Affairs has appointed Deepak Mittal (1998-batch IFS officer) as India’s next Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, succeeding Sunjay Sudhir who retires in September. Mittal has earlier served as Ambassador to Qatar (2020–22), worked twice in the Prime Minister’s Office, and played a key role in India’s first formal diplomatic contact with the Taliban. The UAE is a key strategic partner for India, being a major energy supplier and home to over 3.5 million Indians; PM Modi has visited the UAE seven times since 2015, including inaugurating the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi (Feb 2024).

 

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. PRYMA Aerospace’s Arjuna drone gets DGCA certification for agriculture: PRYMA Aerospace’s Arjuna drone certified by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for agriculture use, marking a major step in India’s indigenous drone technology development and deployment.The certification follows DGCA’s earlier approval of PRYM Group’s Drone School of Excellence as a Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO), creating India’s first end-to-end pathway for drone manufacturing, training, and nationwide deployment via Salam Kisan. Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis presented the certificate; earlier this year, PRYM Group also signed a ₹300 crore Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos to promote drone adoption and skill development.

 

2. India–Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XIV begins in Meghalaya to boost defence cooperation: The 14th edition of India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XIV began at the Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi, Meghalaya, from 1st to 14th September 2025. The exercise is part of the military-to-military exchange programme, aimed at enhancing cooperation, interoperability, and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army. The Indian Army contingent of 120 personnel is represented by a Battalion of the Madras Regiment, while the Royal Thai Army contingent of 53 personnel is represented by the 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade. Exercise Maitree, started in 2006, is one of the key joint training exercises between India and Thailand, with the 13th edition held in Tak Province, Thailand.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Pakistan’s Asif Ali announces retirement from international cricket: Pakistan middle-order batter Asif Ali announced his retirement from international cricket. Since his debut in 2018, he played 21 ODIs and 58 T20Is, scoring a total of 959 runs in white-ball formats. Asif Ali called wearing the Pakistan jersey the greatest honour of his life and said serving his country on the cricket field was his proudest chapter.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. BHARATI to Support 100 Agri-Food Startups, Target $50 Billion Exports by 2030: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) launched its new initiative, BHARATI, to boost India’s agri-food exports. BHARATI has been designed to support 100 agri-food startups, promote innovation and boost exports to 50 billion dollars by 2030. BHARATI stands for Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Enablement. Aligned with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Startup India, APEDA aims to accelerate export, foster innovation and strengthen India’s position in global agri-food trade.

 

2. Boston Brahmins: Recent discussions around the term “Brahmins” have sparked confusion due to its different meanings in India and the United States. Recently, a controversy arose when a US political figure linked Indian Brahmins to profiteering, drawing criticism for misunderstanding caste and social structures. This has renewed interest in the historical and social context of the Boston Brahmins, a prominent American elite group. The Boston Brahmins were a wealthy, well-educated Protestant elite in Boston during the 1800s and early 1900s. The term was coined by Oliver Wendell Holmes in 1861 to describe the city’s upper-class families. They descended mostly from English colonisers and established themselves as a dominant social group through trade, education, and marriage alliances. Boston Brahmins embraced a lifestyle similar to that of English aristocrats. They valued education, arts, and culture, founding prestigious schools like Harvard University and elite preparatory institutions such as Choate and Phillips Exeter. Their mannerisms included a distinctive accent and preppy fashion. Marriages were usually within their community, maintaining social exclusivity and an inbred social circle.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IndiaBonds partners with Upstox to boost retail participation in bond investments: IndiaBonds and Upstox formed a strategic alliance to provide retail investors access to a wide range of bond investment options through Upstox’s brokerage platform. With this integration, over 1.3 crore retail investors of Upstox can now invest in bonds, enhancing retail participation in the Indian bond market. All transactions will be executed on IndiaBonds in compliance with SEBI’s Online Bond Platform Provider norms, ensuring transparency and regulatory adherence.

 

2. SBI raises $500 million via dollar bonds at record-tight spreads after India’s S&P rating upgrade: State Bank of India (SBI) raised $500 million through five-year dollar bonds from international investors at the tightest-ever spread of T+75 bps over US Treasuries, following India’s sovereign rating upgrade by S&P from BBB- to BBB. The bond issue carries a coupon rate of 4.5%, tighter than the T+82 bps spread at which SBI had raised $500 million in November 2024. SBI successfully compressed spreads by 30 bps from the initial guidance of T+105 bps, with the issuance order book crossing $1.1 billion across 85 accounts. The bonds are expected to carry ratings of ‘BBB’ from S&P and ‘BBB-’ from Fitch, highlighting investor confidence after India’s recent sovereign rating upgrade.

 

3. Suryoday Small Finance Bank launches two FD-backed RuPay credit cards to boost financial inclusion: Suryoday Small Finance Bank launched two FD-backed secured credit cards – RuPay Select and RuPay Platinum – offering 0.5% cashback on all transactions with lifetime free benefits. The cards require minimum fixed deposits of ₹1,000 (Platinum) and ₹1,11,500 (Select), with deposit interest up to 8.40%, and provide instant virtual issuance with UPI integration. Targeted at first-time users and low-income households, the move aims to bridge India’s low credit card penetration (111 million cards for 1.4 billion population) by enabling access without conventional income proof.

Daily GK Update- 3rd Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tata Electronics partners with Merck to boost India’s semiconductor ecosystem: Tata Electronics Private Limited and Merck signed an MoU for a strategic collaboration to boost India’s semiconductor and electronics manufacturing capabilities, focusing on materials, fabrication infrastructure, and specialty chemicals.Merck will provide high-purity electronic materials, advanced gas and chemical delivery systems, AI-powered Material Intelligence™ solutions, and support Tata Electronics’ upcoming Fab in Dholera, Gujarat.The partnership includes local warehousing, raw material supply chain development, talent cultivation, and industry standards, aligning with the India Semiconductor Mission and Tata Electronics’ Rs 91,000 crore investment in India’s first semiconductor Fab.

 

2. Department of Posts Partners with ESRI India to Strengthen DIGIPIN Initiative with Advanced GIS Solutions: Department of Posts (DoP) signed an MoU with ESRI India to strengthen the DIGIPIN initiative using advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) solutions.The collaboration will allow DoP to use high-resolution imagery, street basemaps, and Esri India’s Living Atlas portal, enhancing accessibility for the larger GIS community.ESRI India will provide technical support for seamless integration, making the DIGIPIN system more robust, efficient, and citizen-friendly.

 

3. Giriraj Singh Launches Kapas Kisan App to Aid Cotton Farmers: Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh launched the Kapas Kisan app to enable seamless cotton procurement from farmers under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme.The app provides self-registration, slot booking, and payment tracking, ensuring transparency, speed, and protection against distress sales for cotton growers.It features a user-friendly interface with support for multiple Indian languages, reducing manual paperwork and saving time at procurement centres.

 

4. Vishakha Mulye Reappointed as MD & CEO of Aditya Birla Capital for Five Years: Vishakha Mulye has been reappointed as Managing Director & CEO of Aditya Birla Capital for a period of five years, effective from September 1, 2025.Under her leadership since 2022, the company expanded across Loans, Investments, Insurance, and Payments, with the vision of ‘One ABC, One P&L’ strategy.The company also appointed Rakesh Singh as Executive Director & CEO (NBFC) for five years, who previously worked with Standard Chartered Bank for 16 years.

 

5. Gandhi Reappointed as Non-Executive Chairman of Yes Bank by RBI: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the reappointment of former Deputy Governor R. Gandhi as non-executive chairman of Yes Bank.His tenure will be from September 20, 2025, to May 13, 2027, with remuneration approved by the RBI.Gandhi served as RBI Deputy Governor from 2014 to 2017 and has 37 years of experience as a seasoned central banker.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Announces 1,000 E-Scholarships for Afghan Students for Academic Year 2025-26 under SSSAN: India has announced 1,000 e-scholarships for Afghan nationals for the academic year 2025-26 under the Special Scholarship Scheme for Afghan Nationals (SSSAN) via ICCR.The scholarships enable Afghan students aged 18–35 years to pursue online undergraduate and postgraduate courses through the e-VidyaBharati (e-VB) i-learn portal.Nine Indian universities, including Jamia Millia Islamia, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Anna University, and Kurukshetra University, are offering a wide range of online programmes under this scheme.

 

2. SMBC’s $1.6 Billion Stake in Yes Bank Gets Approval: India’s competition regulator has approved Japanese company Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation’s stake purchase in Indian lender Yes Bank.SMBC in May had inked a deal to take a 20% stake in Yes Bank for $1.6 billion, making it the largest cross-border merger and acquisition deal in India’s financial sector.

 

3. 3 September – Skyscraper Day: Skyscraper Day is observed every year on September 3 to celebrate the world’s tallest architectural marvels and their creators.The day honors the achievements of architects, engineers, and workers who design and construct skyscrapers, symbolising progress and innovation.It also raises awareness about urbanisation, modern infrastructure, and the impact of tall buildings on city life and the environment.

 

4. SCO Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack: The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) leaders issued a joint declaration in September 2025 strongly condemning terrorism. The statement explicitly mentioned the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people. This marks development as earlier defence minister-level meetings had avoided mentioning the attack. The declaration also condemned terrorist attacks in Pakistan’s Balochistan region. The move reflects evolving geopolitics and China’s tentative shift in its stance towards terrorism-related issues involving India and Pakistan. The SCO leaders’ statement condemned terrorism in all forms. It expressed condolences to victims of the Pahalgam attack. The declaration also mentioned the Jaffer Express hijacking and the Khuzdar school bus bombing in Pakistan. Earlier, India had pushed for explicit references to terrorism and cross-border threats in SCO documents. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had refused to sign the June 2025 defence ministers’ statement due to Pakistan’s objections. The leaders’ summit in Tianjin marked a breakthrough with the clear mention of Pahalgam.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 21st Edition of India–US Joint Exercise Yudh Abhyas Underway in Alaska: 21st edition of India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 is being held at Fort Wainwright, Alaska (USA) from 1st to 14th September 2025, with the Indian Army’s Madras Regiment battalion participating alongside the US 5th Infantry Regiment “Bobcats” of the 11th Airborne Division.The exercise includes heliborne operations, UAV deployment, mountain warfare, artillery-aviation integration, and electronic warfare systems, aimed at enhancing tactical interoperability.Experts from both armies will lead working groups on UAS & Counter-UAS, information warfare, communications, and logistics, culminating in joint tactical manoeuvres, live-fire drills, and high-altitude warfare to strengthen UN peacekeeping and multi-domain preparedness.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Australian Fast Bowler Mitchell Starc Retires from T20Is: Mitchell Starc announced his retirement from T20 International cricket to focus on his Test and ODI career, finishing as Australia’s second-highest T20I wicket-taker.In his 65-match T20I career (2012–2025), Starc claimed 79 wickets with an economy rate of 7.74.He played in five of six T20 World Cups, missing only 2016 due to injury, and was a key member of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup-winning team in Dubai.

 

2. World Junior Champion Pranav Venkatesh Clinches Fujairah Global Superstars Title: World Junior Champion Pranav Venkatesh won the Fujairah Global Superstars chess tournament in the UAE, defeating Grandmaster Alan Pichot of Spain.Pranav scored 7 points out of 9, finishing one point ahead of closest competitors Brandon Jacobson (USA), Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara (Mexico), and Amin Tabatabai (Iran), who all had 6 points.Despite needing only a draw in the final round, Pranav played aggressively with white pieces and secured a resounding victory to claim the top prize.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jarosite Discovery in Kutch: Recent research has identified the village of Matanomadh in Gujarat’s Kutch district as a key terrestrial analogue for Mars. The discovery of jarosite, a rare iron-rich sulphate mineral, dating back 55 million years, links Earth’s geological past with Martian conditions. This finding opens new avenues for planetary science and future Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) missions, including Mangalyaan-2. ISRO is expanding its planetary research with multiple analogue sites. Alongside Matanomadh, the Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE) in Ladakh simulates Mars’ atmospheric and temperature conditions. Recently, two crew members spent 10 days in a Mars habitat replica at 4,500 metres altitude, experiencing low oxygen and sub-zero temperatures. Together, these sites support ISRO’s Mangalyaan-2 mission by providing practical testing grounds for instruments and human factors.

 

2. What is CEREBO?: Recent advances in brain injury diagnosis have introduced CEREBO, a novel hand-held device designed to detect traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) quickly and safely. Developed by leading Indian research institutions, CEREBO offers a portable, non-invasive, and cost-effective alternative to traditional imaging tools. This innovation aims to improve early detection and treatment outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings. CEREBO was created through a partnership involving the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Medical Device & Diagnostics Mission Secretariat (MDMS), AIIMS Bhopal, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Bioscan Research. The device utilises advanced near-infrared spectroscopy combined with machine learning to identify intracranial bleeding and brain swelling. It has undergone rigorous clinical validation and regulatory approval, confirming its accuracy and safety.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SEBI Announces New Rules to Monitor Intraday Positions in Equity Derivatives from October 1, 2025: SEBI issued new rules (September 1, 2025) for monitoring intraday positions in equity derivatives, effective from October 1, 2025.The intraday net position limit has been set at ₹5,000 crore per entity, compared to the earlier end-of-day limit of ₹1,500 crore.Gross intraday exposure has been capped at ₹10,000 crore, applied separately to long and short positions.Stock exchanges will monitor compliance using at least 4 random snapshots, and any breach on the expiry day will attract penalties.

 

2. UPI transactions first time cross 20bn mark in this August: Unified Payments Interface, UPI has achieved a new milestone with first time ever crossing twenty billion transactions in the month of August this year.According to the National Payments Corporation of India, the total number of transactions stood at 20.01 billion, marking a 34 per cent year-on-year increase from 14.9 billion in August last year.UPI has also registered transactions of 24.85 lakh crore rupees in August this year, which represents a 24 per cent increase year-over-year. The average daily transaction count in August has reached 645 million.

 

3. IEPFA Launches “Niveshak Didi – Phase II” to Boost Financial Literacy and Women-Led Empowerment: The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs launched Phase II of “Niveshak Didi” in Hyderabad to promote financial literacy.The initiative focuses on women-led financial empowerment, covering savings, safe investments, fraud prevention, and digital financial awareness.Phase II expands on the first phase with greater outreach, interactive training modules, and collaboration with grassroots organizations to maximize impact.