Daily GK Update- 18th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre Releases ₹342 Crore XV Finance Commission Grants for Rural Local Bodies in Tamil Nadu and Assam: The Union Government released Rs. 127.586 crores as the first instalment of untied XV Finance Commission grants for Tamil Nadu in FY 2025–26, covering 2,901 Gram Panchayats, 74 Block Panchayats, and 9 District Panchayats.Assam received Rs. 214.542 crores under FY 2024–25, benefiting all 2192 Gram Panchayats, 156 Block Panchayats, and 27 Zilla Parishads.The grants are recommended by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Jal Shakti, and released by the Ministry of Finance in two installments annually for Rural Local Bodies (RLBs)/ Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).Untied grants can be used for local needs under the 29 subjects of the Eleventh Schedule (excluding salaries/establishment costs), while tied grants focus on sanitation, ODF maintenance, waste management, drinking water supply, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.

 

2. CCI Approves PNC Infratech’s Acquisition of up to 100% Stake in Jaiprakash Associates Limited: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed acquisition of Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) by PNC Infratech Limited.The deal involves acquiring a minimum of 95% and up to 100% stake in JAL, either directly by PNC Infratech or through a special purpose vehicle (SPV) as its wholly owned subsidiary.Jaiprakash Associates Limited is currently undergoing the corporate insolvency resolution process under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

 

3. IRDAI Chairman Launches Bima Sugam India Federation Website to Boost Digital Insurance Infrastructure: Ajay Seth, Chairman of IRDAI, launched the official website of Bima Sugam India Federation (BSIF), marking a major step in building India’s digital public infrastructure for insurance.The initiative aims to empower policyholders, deepen insurance penetration, and ensure transparency & fairness, aligning with the vision of “Insurance for All by 2047” under the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission.Bima Sugam is part of the Bima Trinity Model, which also includes Bima Vistar (affordable all-in-one insurance product) and Bima Vahak (women-led distribution channel).The platform will follow a phased approach with high levels of security, compliance, and scalability, progressively going live with real transactions as insurers and partners integrate into the system.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, ILO Sign MoU to Adopt Global Occupation Classification System and Boost Indian Workers’ Employability: The Union government signed an MoU with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva to advance the International Reference Classification of Occupations (IRCO), aiming to boost the global employability of Indian workers.The agreement was signed by Ambassador Arindam Bagchi and ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, with Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya attending virtually.By adopting the IRCO framework, India seeks to align domestic occupational data with international standards, streamline the skill ecosystem, enable mutual recognition of qualifications, and improve Indian workers’ competitiveness in global job markets.

 

2. India Rises to 38th Rank in Global Innovation Index 2025: India ranks 38th in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025, improving from 39th last year and making a 10-place jump since 2020 (48th); it leads among lower middle-income economies (37) and Central & Southern Asia (10 economies).Strong policy support, rising R&D investment, and a vibrant startup ecosystem have boosted India’s status as a global innovation hub, as captured by the GII’s 80 indicators of innovation inputs and outputs.India performed better in innovation outputs than inputs, with R&D investments falling to 7.8% in 2019–20, but showing a 3.1% rise over 2010–20.Robust digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and government initiatives have accelerated India’s innovation journey, propelling its ranking from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2025.

 

3. 18 September – World Bamboo Day: World Bamboo Day is observed annually on 18 September to raise awareness about the importance of bamboo as a sustainable resource.Theme 2025 – Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and DesignThe day was officially declared in 2009 by the World Bamboo Organisation (WBO) during the 8th World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok, Thailand.Bamboo is called the “Green Gold” as it plays a vital role in combating climate change, promoting biodiversity, and supporting rural economies.India is home to the largest bamboo resources outside China, spread across the North-East, Central, and Southern regions.

 

4. Global Innovation Index 2025: The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 reveals a dynamic shift in global innovation patterns. While advances in AI and quantum computing accelerate, overall R&D growth has slowed sharply. India’s innovation ranking has improved, reflecting its evolving research and technology landscape. Global R&D growth declined to 2.9% in 2024 and is expected to drop further to 2.3% in 2025. This slowdown marks the lowest rate since the 2010 financial crisis. Despite this, innovation hubs in Europe, North America, and Asia continue to lead. Europe dominates with 15 countries in the top 25, including six in the top 10. Switzerland holds the top position, followed by Sweden and the United States. Emerging economies in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania also gain prominence. The top 10 countries in the GII 2025 are Switzerland, Sweden, the USA, South Korea, Singapore, the UK, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and China. China ranks 10th and excels in patent filings and R&D expenditure, surpassing Switzerland in knowledge and technology outputs. These countries lead through strong innovation ecosystems and investment in technology.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Kadmatt Reaches Fiji to Strengthen Maritime Cooperation and Indo-Pacific Friendship: The Indian Naval Ship Kadmatt, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, has reached Suva, Fiji, as part of its overseas deployment. The visit reflects the strong cultural and historical bonds between the two nations.During the visit, the ship’s crew will engage in professional exchanges, cultural activities and community outreach programmes.Joint exercises with the Republic of Fiji Navy are also planned to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation. The three-month deployment underlines the country’s commitment to fostering friendship and security in the Indo-Pacific region while promoting people-to-people ties with Fiji.

 

2. STAR Supersonic Target Missile: India’s indigenous supersonic target missile STAR is transforming military training and readiness. Developed to simulate modern cruise missile threats, STAR flies at speeds between Mach 1.8 and 2.5. It replicates hostile missile attacks with realistic flight profiles, enabling the armed forces to sharpen their reflexes and tactical responses. This missile marks step in India’s self-reliance in defence technology. As of mid-2025, STAR has entered Phase-III of development. Full prototypes are being tested with integrated propulsion, guidance, and control systems. Combat-style flight trials are underway, indicating imminent operational deployment. STAR’s deployment will enhance joint exercises for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, improving their preparedness against supersonic threats. STAR uses a two-stage propulsion system. A solid booster rocket provides rapid lift-off. This is followed by a Liquid Fuel Ramjet (LFRJ) engine that sustains supersonic speeds. It can perform sea-skimming runs at just 12 feet above waves, steep dives from 10 km altitude, and varied ranges from 55 to 175 km. Flight duration ranges from 50 to 200 seconds, offering diverse training scenarios.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates Centre of Excellence for AI and Skill Development at Graphic Era University, Dehradun: Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated a Centre of Excellence for AI, Skill Development, and Innovation at Graphic Era University, Dehradun, spread over 1.5 lakh sq. ft. and housing Uttarakhand’s first NVIDIA AI & HPC hub with a DGX B200 system.Built at a cost of over ₹10 crore, the centre will promote research in healthcare, agriculture, environment, smart cities, and advanced industries, along with an Apple iOS Development Centre set up in collaboration with Apple and Infosys.Graphic Era University, ranked 48th in NIRF 2025 with NAAC A+ accreditation, has become India’s first Generative AI-ready campus powered by AWS, linking academic research with industry and startups.

 

2. Portable Ion Chromatography Aquamonitrix: Recent advances have brought ion chromatography out of expensive laboratories and into the field. Scientists at the University of Tasmania have developed a portable ion chromatograph named Aquamonitrix. This device enables real-time analysis of soil pore water, making environmental monitoring and chemistry education more accessible and practical. Ion chromatography separates ions in a sample by passing it through a column. Traditional systems are costly and require complex equipment. Aquamonitrix simplifies this by using a short column and low-pressure pump. It operates on a sodium chloride solution, which is environmentally friendly. The device uses a UV light absorbance detector to identify nitrate and nitrite ions, which absorb UV light distinctly, allowing clear detection without interference from other ions. Students collect soil pore water using a portable vacuum pump. The water is filtered on-site and injected directly into Aquamonitrix. The device quickly produces chromatograms showing peaks for nitrate and nitrite concentrations. This immediate analysis helps monitor environmental pollutants, as these ions are harmful in excess. Samples are later analysed in the lab using conventional ion chromatography to verify accuracy.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Razorpay Becomes First Indian Payment Aggregator to Integrate Apple Pay for International Transactions: Razorpay has become the first Indian online payment aggregator to enable Apple Pay for international transactions, supporting merchants such as Mokobara, Akasa Air, Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop, Sabyasachi, Nish Hair, and House of Masaba.Early pilots of Apple Pay on Razorpay showed a 58% increase in conversion rates, 45% faster checkout, and a 12% rise in average order value.Apple Pay, with over 500 million global users and acceptance by more than 90% of US merchants, is integrated on Razorpay in compliance with India’s cross-border payment regulations and is available for eligible Indian merchants.

 

2. RBI forms committee for periodic review of regulations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a Regulatory Review Cell (RRC) to strengthen the institutional mechanism for reviewing regulations, ensuring a systematic internal review every 5–7 years.The RRC, effective from October 1, 2025, will function under the Department of Regulation and undertake regulation reviews in a phased manner.Alongside the RRC, an independent Advisory Group on Regulation (AGR) has been formed, comprising external experts to provide industry feedback and strengthen stakeholder engagement.The AGR will initially serve for three years, with the option to extend for two more years, and may also co-opt additional experts as needed.The AGR will be chaired by Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh, MD of SBI, and include eminent members such as T.T. Srinivasaraghavan (Sundaram Finance), Gautam Thakur (Saraswat Co-op Bank), Shyam Srinivasan (Federal Bank), Ravi Duvvur (Jana Small Finance Bank), and N.S. Kannan (ICICI Prudential Life Insurance).

 

3. South Indian Bank Launches UPI-Based GST Payment Facility for Seamless Tax Transactions”: South Indian Bank (SIB) has launched a UPI-based GST payment facility on its portal, allowing taxpayers to pay GST seamlessly using QR codes and VPA IDs.The service enables both customers and non-customers to make secure and convenient GST payments via UPI, enhancing accessibility across India.Authorised as an Agency Bank by RBI and recognised by CBIC for indirect tax collection, South Indian Bank can now facilitate government business transactions effectively.

Daily GK Update- 17th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Myntra Launches Premium Ethnic Wear Brand ‘Souragya’ in Collaboration with Sourav Ganguly: Myntra Jabong India Private Ltd (MJIPL) has launched a new premium ethnic wear brand ‘Souragya’ in collaboration with Sourav Ganguly, ahead of the Durga Pujo festivities.Under the licensing agreement, MJIPL will provide its design and brand-building expertise to develop and promote Souragya.The brand aims to blend traditional West Bengal craftsmanship with contemporary design, reflecting Sourav Ganguly’s vision of showcasing authentic ethnic silhouettes.

 

2. National Agriculture Conference – Rabi Abhiyan 2025 Kicks Off in New Delhi: The ‘National Agriculture Conference – Rabi Abhiyan 2025’ began at Pusa, New Delhi, organised by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.The conference, held as a two-day event for the first time, carries the theme ‘One Nation – One Agriculture – One Team’, focusing on coordinated agricultural efforts.Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured that there will be no shortage of food grains, fruits, or vegetables, aiming to make India the food basket of the world.

 

3. ADR Report Reveals 21% of Legislators in India Have Dynastic Backgrounds: An Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) analysis revealed that about 21% of sitting MPs, MLAs, and MLCs in India come from dynastic political backgrounds, with the Lok Sabha having the highest share at 31% and State Assemblies the lowest at 20%.Out of 5,204 legislators studied, 1,107 (21%) belong to established political families, highlighting the strong influence of dynastic politics in India.State-wise data shows Uttar Pradesh leading in absolute numbers with 141 dynastic members (23%), followed by Maharashtra with 129 (32%), Bihar with 96 (27%), and Karnataka with 94 (29%).In terms of proportion, Andhra Pradesh tops with 34% dynastic representation, followed by Maharashtra (32%) and Karnataka (29%), underlining the prevalence of dynastic politics in key States.

 

4. PM Modi Launched ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan’ with Poshan Maah 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan’ along with the 8th edition of Poshan Maah, described as India’s largest women and child health mobilisation drive.

The initiative, led jointly by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD),make  aheadl;ine’ will focus on preventive, promotive, and curative healthcare for women, adolescent girls, and children through over one lakh health camps from September 17 to October 2.The campaign will cover screening for NCDs, cancers, anaemia, TB, sickle cell disease, maternal health, along with nutrition counselling, menstrual hygiene awareness, mental health sessions, and AYUSH-based wellness activities.It will mobilise ASHA, Anganwadi workers, ANMs, SHGs, PRI institutions, and youth volunteers under the MY Bharat initiative, with support from government and private hospitals, converging multiple ministries to boost outreach.

5. Seagram’s Royal Stag Ropes in Sidharth Malhotra, Badshah, Naga Chaitanya, and Gamer Payal Dhare as New Brand Ambassadors: Seagram’s Royal Stag appointed Sidharth Malhotra, Badshah, Naga Chaitanya, and gamer Payal Dhare as new brand ambassadors, joining existing ambassadors Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav.The selection represents Royal Stag’s strategy to connect with young consumers by covering diverse cultural sectors such as cinema, music, gaming, and cricket.The new ambassadors praised the brand’s values of courage, individuality, cultural relevance, and breaking barriers, aligning with their personal philosophies.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 16 September – International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South: International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South is observed on 16 September to highlight the role of science, technology, and innovation in promoting sustainable development in developing countries.The day emphasizes the importance of science and technology in addressing global challenges, including poverty, climate change, and health crises.

It aims to strengthen international cooperation by sharing knowledge, best practices, and technological innovations among countries in the Global South.The observance also encourages investment in research and innovation to build capacity, enhance infrastructure, and foster economic growth in developing nations.

 

2. 16 September – International Day for Interventional Cardiology: International Day for Interventional Cardiology is observed on 16 September each year to raise awareness about minimally invasive cardiovascular treatments.The day highlights the role of interventional cardiology procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, and catheter-based therapies in treating heart diseases.It aims to educate the public about heart health, early detection, preventive care, and the importance of timely intervention in cardiovascular diseases.The day also recognizes and honors cardiologists, nurses, and medical teams, while promoting innovation and research in interventional cardiology.

 

3. 17 September – World Patient Safety Day: World Patient Safety Day is observed every year on 17 September, as declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2019.The day aims to raise awareness about patient safety, reduce risks and harm in healthcare, and promote global solidarity for safer health systems.Theme 2025 – Safe care for every newborn and every child

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Pacific Reach 2025 Exercise: The Indian Navy’s newest indigenously-built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), INS Nistar, is actively participating in the multinational Exercise Pacific Reach 2025 held in Singapore. This biennial exercise sees over 40 countries collaborating on submarine rescue operations and maritime safety. India’s involvement marks its growing role in international naval cooperation and underwater emergency preparedness. INS Nistar was commissioned on 18 July 2025. It is a Diving Support Vessel with more than 80% indigenous components, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance in defence. The vessel operates under the Eastern Naval Command. It is equipped with Side Scan Sonar for seabed mapping, Observation-class Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and advanced deep-sea diving systems. INS Nistar’s primary role is to serve as the mothership for India’s Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs).

 

2. Freedom Edge Exercise: The trilateral military exercise “Freedom Edge” began on 15 September 2025. South Korea, the United States, and Japan are conducting the five-day drills in international waters near Jeju Island. This marks the third round of these joint exercises, following previous sessions in June and November of the prior year. The exercise aims to enhance trilateral interoperability and demonstrate a shared commitment to regional peace and stability. The “Freedom Edge” drills focus on multi-domain operations, involving air, sea, and missile defence training. Key activities include ballistic missile defence, air defence exercises, maritime interdiction, and medical evacuation training. These exercises represent the most advanced demonstration of trilateral defence cooperation to date. The drills help the three countries prepare for potential threats and improve their ability to respond collectively.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anandkumar Velkumar Wins India’s First-Ever Gold at Speed Skating World Championships: Anandkumar Velkumar, 22, created history by winning India’s first-ever gold medal at the Speed Skating World Championships in China, clinching the senior men’s 1000m sprint title with a timing of 1:24.924s.His gold came a day after he secured India’s first senior World medal by winning bronze in the 500m sprint (43.072s) at the same championships in Beidaihe, China.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Startup India-DPIIT Partners with CarDekho Group to Boost Startup Ecosystem in Mobility, Fintech, and Emerging Tech Sectors: Startup India-DPIIT signed an MoU with CarDekho Group to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem in mobility, fintech, insurtech, and emerging technologies.

The collaboration will support DPIIT-recognised startups with mentorship, market access, technology infrastructure, and funding opportunities.Startups will benefit from CarDekho’s wide platforms, including CarDekho, InsuranceDekho, Rupyy, BikeDekho, ZigWheels, PowerDrift, Revv, CollegeDekho, and Crack-ED for collaboration and customer outreach.The partnership will also organise innovation challenges under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, offering domain-specific guidance and co-investment support via the Girnar Vision Fund (GVF).

 

2. Muzaffarpur Leads in Student Innovation: The district of Muzaffarpur in Bihar has emerged as the top contributor in the INSPIRE Award Standard Scheme in 2025. With 7,403 student submissions, it surpassed traditional educational hubs nationwide. This marks milestone in promoting creativity among young learners in the region. The INSPIRE Award is a government initiative by the Department of Science and Technology. It aims to nurture creativity and innovation among students from classes 6 to 10. Participants submit original ideas that are novel, practical and socially useful. Ideas are evaluated at district, state and national levels. Top innovations receive financial support and national recognition. Muzaffarpur led the nation with 7,403 ideas submitted by students from both government and private schools. This figure outpaced Bengaluru Urban (7,306) and Bagalkot (6,826). The district’s success reflects strong engagement from schools and teachers. District Education Officer Kumar Arvind Sinha credited this achievement to active participation and encouragement at the grassroots level.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UCO Bank Gets Government Nod to Facilitate Trade Payments for Sanctioned Nayara Energy: UCO Bank has received government approval to facilitate trade payments for Nayara Energy Ltd, which was sanctioned by the European Union in July.Since being blacklisted, Nayara has requested advance payments or letters of credit before fuel shipments and has reduced operational run rates, with ships diverting from its terminal. Rosneft owns just over 49% of Nayara, which contributes around 8% of India’s refining capacity and 7% of its retail fuel network, while other banks like SBI have stopped processing its transactions.

Daily GK Update- 16th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Jal Shakti Ministry Hosts ‘Sarpanch Samvaad’ Conclave: The Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, organised the Sarpanch Samvaad National Quality Conclave in New Delhi, themed ‘Viksit Gram se Viksit Bharat’, with 75 sarpanchs from 22 states discussing Localised Sustainable Development Goals.The conclave announced a 100-Day Good Governance Challenge on the Sarpanch Samvaad app, running from September 17 to December 25 (Good Governance Day), to mobilise Sarpanch-led campaigns across the country.

 

2. India Hosts BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit in Guwahati to Foster Inclusive Leadership and Regional Cooperation: India hosted the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit in Guwahati, bringing together over 80 participants from all member countries to discuss inclusive leadership and cross-cultural collaboration.The summit, organized with Bharat Scouts & Guides and inaugurated by Assam Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya, featured sessions on entrepreneurship, design thinking, sustainable solutions, and cultural exchanges to foster mutual understanding.The event highlighted India’s North East as a strategic land bridge in the Bay of Bengal region and is part of the 21-point action plan announced by PM Modi at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, aligning with India’s ‘Neighborhood First’, ‘Act East’ and ‘MAHASAGAR’ visions.

 

3. Former Bureaucrat Amit Khare Appointed as Secretary to Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan: The government has appointed former bureaucrat Amit Khare as Secretary to the new Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, with a tenure of three years from the date of assuming charge.Khare has been serving as Advisor to the Prime Minister since October 2021, handling social sector matters, and was part of the core team behind the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.A 1985-batch IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre, Khare is an alumnus of St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and holds an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad.He is widely known for his role in exposing the Bihar fodder scam and has previously served as Secretary, Information & Broadcasting, and Secretary, Higher Education.

 

4. Government Appoints L. Satya Srinivas as India’s Executive Director at ADB: The government has appointed Satya Srinivas, Special Secretary in the Commerce Ministry and a 1991-batch IRS officer, as Executive Director (ED), India at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a three-year term.Srinivas will succeed Vikas Sheel and, as India’s ED, will also represent Bangladesh, Bhutan, Laos, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan on the ADB Board of Directors.He is scheduled to retire from government service in February 2026, but will continue in the role on a contract basis under terms applicable to re-employed central government officers.

 

5. Justice M. Sundar Sworn In as 10th Chief Justice of Manipur High Court: Justice M. Sundar was sworn in as the 10th Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administering the oath at Raj Bhavan.He was appointed Chief Justice, succeeding Justice Kempaiah Somashekar upon his superannuation. Prior to this, Justice Sundar served as a judge of the Madras High Court, and the ceremony was attended by political leaders, judges, senior officials, and bar representatives.

 

6. Professor Pradeep Kumar Prajapati Assumes Charge as Director of All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA): Professor Pradeep Kumar Prajapati formally took charge as the new Director of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, at a ceremony marked by traditional rituals and warm welcomes.Before this role, he served as Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, and earlier contributed extensively to Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, besides starting his career at NIA, Jaipur.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India to Host 89th International Electrotechnical Commission General Meeting in New Delhi: India will host the 89th IEC General Meeting in New Delhi from September 15–19, with over 2,000 experts from 100+ countries; Pralhad Joshi will inaugurate, and Piyush Goyal will unveil the IEC GM Exhibition.This is the fourth time India is hosting the IEC General Meeting (earlier in 1960, 1997, and 2013), with focus on standards for a “sustainable, all-electric and connected world” through 150+ committee meetings and workshops on AI, e-mobility, and inclusivity.India will serve as the Global Secretariat for LVDC standardisation, strengthening clean energy technology efforts; IEC leaders hailed India as a “sustainability champion” with strong global public support for green solutions.

 

2. 16 September – World Ozone Day: World Ozone Day, also known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is observed every year on 16 September.It commemorates the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS).Theme 2025 – From science to global action.The ozone layer is crucial as it shields Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and harm ecosystems.In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 September as World Ozone Day.

 

3. 5th Coast Guard Global Summit 2027: The Indian city of Chennai will host the 5th Coast Guard Global Summit (CGGS) in 2027. This event will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Indian Coast Guard. The summit aims to strengthen international maritime cooperation and tackle emerging challenges at sea. The decision was made unanimously at the 4th CGGS held in Rome in 2025, which saw participation from 115 countries and international organisations. The CGGS is a biennial event that brings together coast guards worldwide. It serves as a platform for dialogue on maritime security, safety, and environmental protection. The 2027 summit will feature an International Coast Guard Fleet Review and a World Coast Guard Seminar. These activities will show global unity in addressing maritime challenges. The summit will focus on maritime search and rescue, marine pollution response, and countering transnational maritime crimes. Other areas include information sharing, capacity building, training, and technical assistance. These themes reflect the need for collective action in safeguarding the maritime domain.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy Receives 2nd Indigenously Built Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship ‘Androth’ from GRSE: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), Kolkata, handed over the 2nd Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ANDROTH) to the Indian Navy, boosting its anti-submarine and coastal surveillance capabilities.‘Androth’, the second of eight ASW-SWC ships, is indigenously built with ~77-metre length, diesel engine-waterjet propulsion, lightweight torpedoes, and indigenous anti-submarine rockets, reflecting India’s push for defence self-reliance.The ship’s name is derived from Androth Island in Lakshadweep, symbolizing strategic maritime significance, and represents over 80% indigenous content, supporting the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

 

2. INS Nistar Joins Multinational Exercise Pacific Reach 2025 in Singapore: INS Nistar, the Indian Navy’s latest indigenously designed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), is participating in the multinational Exercise Pacific Reach 2025 in Singapore, which includes over 40 nations.Serving as the mothership for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles, INS Nistar will take part in submarine rescue exercises and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE) with other participating countries.

The exercise is conducted in two phases – harbour and sea, with the harbour phase covering discussions, medical symposiums, and cross-deck visits, while the sea phase involves rescue operations in the South China Sea with the Submarine Rescue Unit (E).

 

3. Freedom Edge Exercise: The trilateral military exercise “Freedom Edge” began on 15 September 2025. South Korea, the United States, and Japan are conducting the five-day drills in international waters near Jeju Island. This marks the third round of these joint exercises, following previous sessions in June and November of the prior year. The exercise aims to enhance trilateral interoperability and demonstrate a shared commitment to regional peace and stability. The “Freedom Edge” drills focus on multi-domain operations, involving air, sea, and missile defence training. Key activities include ballistic missile defence, air defence exercises, maritime interdiction, and medical evacuation training. These exercises represent the most advanced demonstration of trilateral defence cooperation to date. The drills help the three countries prepare for potential threats and improve their ability to respond collectively. The exercise puts stress on the strategic alignment of South Korea, the US, and Japan amid rising security challenges in the Asia-Pacific. It aims to counter growing nuclear and missile threats, particularly from North Korea. The drills also send a clear message of deterrence and solidarity. They strengthen military ties and interoperability, which are crucial for maintaining regional security and peace.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. AIIMS Delhi Becomes First Govt Medical College in India to Train Doctors on da Vinci Robotic Surgery System: AIIMS Delhi has become the first government medical college in India to install Intuitive Surgical’s da Vinci robotic system for training doctors in robotic-assisted surgery at its SET (skills, e-learning, and telemedicine) facility.This is the second robotic platform at the SET centre, making AIIMS the only institute in the country with two robots exclusively dedicated to medical training.The facility already supports medical students, residents, nurses, and faculty through simulators and mannequins for hands-on practice.The da Vinci system will enable exposure to multiple specialities, including urology, gynaecology, general surgery, oncology, and head & neck surgery; older models of the robot cost between ₹8–20 crore, excluding service fees.

 

2. Pink Tax: The Pink Tax remains a pressing issue in 2025, denoting how women often pay more for similar products or services than men. This subtle form of gender-based price discrimination impacts household budgets globally. Awareness and consumer action are key to challenging this unfair practice. Pink Tax is not an official tax but a pricing pattern. It means women pay higher prices for products or services designed for them. Items like haircuts, toys, personal care products, and clothing often cost more for women. Companies benefit from this extra revenue without contributing additional taxes to governments. The term Pink Tax originated in California in 1994. Studies show women’s personal care products cost around 13% more than men’s in the U.S. Women’s clothing and accessories also have higher prices by 7-8%. Dry cleaning women’s shirts can be nearly double the price of men’s. In the U.K., women’s deodorants and moisturisers are priced higher than men’s. The United Nations has urged countries to eliminate this gender-based pricing to promote economic equality.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Raises Auto-Sweep (MOD) Threshold to ₹50,000: SBI has increased the auto-sweep (Multi Option Deposit – MOD) threshold from ₹35,000 to ₹50,000, meaning customers must now maintain a minimum of ₹50,000 in their savings account before surplus funds are converted into fixed deposits.Under the facility, surplus funds above the threshold are transferred into fixed deposits in multiples of ₹1,000, earning higher interest at prevailing term deposit rates.The scheme ensures easy liquidity through a reverse sweep, where funds are automatically moved back from MOD deposits if the savings balance falls short.Interest on MOD deposits is compounded quarterly and payable at maturity; premature withdrawal is allowed with a small penalty, while senior citizens enjoy additional interest benefits.The revision will mainly affect customers with balances just above ₹35,000, while those maintaining higher balances will still benefit from better returns with liquidity through the MOD facility.

 

2. NABARD to Launch Centralised Digital Lending Platform for Regional Rural Banks: NABARD is developing a centralised digital lending platform (CDCI) for Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) to enhance their competitiveness against NBFCs and microfinance institutions, streamlining end-to-end credit delivery.Following the One State-One RRB policy, the number of RRBs has reduced from 43 to 28 through amalgamation, aiming to achieve scale efficiencies, cost rationalisation, and operational effectiveness.The CDCI platform is designed to digitise, automate, and streamline credit processing, offering more agile and efficient solutions than current loan origination systems, with rollout expected by end of September 2025. RRBs operate 22,158 branches across 26 states and 3 UTs, with 92% in rural or semi-urban areas; NABARD plans to support them in innovative loan products like housing loans with default guarantees and MSME financing to deepen financial inclusion.

Daily GK Update- 15th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Narendra Modi to Inaugurate 4th Edition of World Food India 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi: The 4th edition of World Food India (WFI) 2025, a global mega food event, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25th September 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in the presence of Union Minister Chirag Paswan.Organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), the event will take place from 25–28 September 2025 with the aim of positioning India as the “Food Hub of the World” through collaboration, innovation, and investments in the food processing sector.Building on the success of its previous editions, the 4th edition will serve as a premier global platform, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers to promote growth in the food processing value chain.

New Zealand and Saudi Arabia have been designated as Partner Countries, while Japan, UAE, Vietnam, and Russia will join as Focus Countries, enhancing bilateral cooperation, trade, and knowledge exchange in the sector.

 

2. NIFT Patna and ABFRL Sign MoU to Train and Empower Rural Women of Jeevika SHGs in Bihar: NIFT Patna and Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Limited (ABFRL) signed an MoU in the presence of Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh to empower rural women of Bihar’s self-help group (SHG) Jeevika.Under this initiative, Jeevika Didis will receive training at NIFT Patna in garment manufacturing, quality control, and machinery operation, preparing them for jobs at ABFRL’s upcoming textile unit in Begusarai.The collaboration creates a structured pathway from skill development to employment, strengthening the Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society’s Jeevika programme, supported by the Government of India and the World Bank.

 

3. PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Bamboo-Based Ethanol Plant in Assam: PM Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first bamboo-based ethanol plant in Golaghat, Assam, a ₹5,000-crore “zero-waste” facility, and also laid the foundation stone of a ₹7,230-crore polypropylene plant at Numaligarh Refinery.The bioethanol plant will benefit farmers and tribal communities, sourcing five lakh tonnes of green bamboo annually from four northeastern States to produce ethanol, acetic acid, furfural, and food-grade carbon dioxide.Built as a joint venture between NRL, Finland’s Fortum, and Chempolis OY, the plant is expected to boost Assam’s rural economy by ₹200 crore and reflects the government’s decision to remove the ban on bamboo cutting.

 

4. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Inaugurates National Conference on Women’s Empowerment in Tirupati: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated a two-day National Conference on the Parliamentary and Legislative Committee on Empowerment of Women in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, along with an exhibition and a souvenir release.He emphasized that nation’s progress is possible only with equal participation of women, highlighting the government’s initiatives to support women’s development.Om Birla underlined that a law ensuring 33% reservation for women in legislatures has already been enacted, marking a major step towards women’s empowerment.

5. Ministry of Ayush Joins ‘Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan’ to Promote Women’s Health and Holistic Well-being: The Ministry of Ayush is participating in the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan, a 16-day national health campaign launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to promote women’s health and well-being.The campaign will include health check-ups and screening camps for non-communicable diseases such as cancers, anaemia, tuberculosis, and sickle cell disease, along with lifestyle counselling, yoga sessions, and Prakriti Pareekshan.It will also address corporate burnout through Ayurveda-inspired wellness programs and yoga-based mindfulness practices, and promote women’s well-being by distributing home remedies, nutrition kits, and herbal teas.The initiative aims to ensure comprehensive healthcare for women from pregnancy to palliative care, supported by daily Ayush health tips and holistic well-being practices.

 

6. 14 September – Hindi Diwas: Hindi Diwas, observed annually on September 14, celebrates Hindi as India’s official language and emphasises its role in promoting national unity, cultural identity, and linguistic heritage.The day marks the adoption of Hindi in the Devanagari script as the official language by the Constituent Assembly on September 14, 1949, with the first Hindi Diwas celebrated in 1953.

 

7. 15 September – Engineer’s Day: Engineer’s Day in India is observed on 15th September to honour the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya (1861–1962), one of the nation’s most eminent engineers.The day highlights the contribution of engineers in nation-building, technological advancement, and infrastructure development.Theme 2025 – Engineering solutions for a sustainable worldSir M. Visvesvaraya is celebrated for his innovative irrigation systems, flood control techniques, and the design of the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam in Karnataka.Engineer’s Day was first celebrated in 1968, and since then it has served as a tribute to engineers who drive India’s growth and modernization.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 18th Inclusion International World Congress “We Are Inclusion” Kicks Off in Sharjah: The 18th Inclusion International World Congress, themed “We Are Inclusion,” was held at Expo Centre Sharjah, marking its first-ever edition in the MENA region and bringing together over 850 participants from 74 countries.Organised by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services in collaboration with Inclusion International, the three-day congress will feature 59 discussion panels with 152 speakers, including UN representatives, government ministers, academics, and self-advocates.The event will focus on inclusive education, employment, healthcare, legal frameworks, and self-advocacy, aiming to generate actionable recommendations for equitable and inclusive policies worldwide.

 

2. 15 September – International Day of Democracy: International Day of Democracy is observed on 15th September every year to promote and uphold the principles of democracy worldwide.The United Nations General Assembly established the day in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen democratic values and practices.Theme 2025 – Ensuring effective governance of AI at all levelsThe day emphasises human rights, freedom, the rule of law, and citizens’ participation in governance as key pillars of democracy.

 

3. World’s First Koala Vaccine: The Australian veterinary regulator recently approved the world’s first vaccine to protect koalas from chlamydia infections. This breakthrough comes after over a decade of research by the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. The vaccine is a single-dose treatment that reduces disease symptoms and mortality in wild koala populations by at least 65%. It is now authorised for use in wildlife hospitals, veterinary clinics, and field conservation efforts. Chlamydia causes urinary tract infections, infertility, blindness, and death in koalas. The disease severely affects breeding-age animals and contributes to roughly half of all koala deaths in the wild. Infection rates in some colonies, especially in southeast Queensland and New South Wales, reach 50 to 70%. Antibiotic treatments disrupt koalas’ digestion of eucalyptus leaves, their sole food source, often resulting in starvation. The vaccine was developed under the guidance of Professor Peter Timms. It is a single-dose vaccine requiring no booster shots. Trials showed reductions in disease symptoms and mortality. The vaccine’s approval allows widespread use to protect vulnerable koala populations and slow the disease’s rapid spread.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Finish Runners-Up in Women’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025: India finished as runners-up in the Women’s Hockey Asia Cup after losing 1-4 to China in the final at Hangzhou, with Navneet Kaur scoring the only goal for India.China’s Zixia Ou, Hong Li, Meirong Zou, and Jiaqi Zhong netted goals to secure the title victory.With this win, China qualified directly for the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, while India will have to play qualifiers.

 

2. Sarvesh Kushare Becomes First Indian High Jumper to Reach World Championships Final: Sarvesh Kushare becomes the first Indian high jumper to reach the finals at the World Athletics Championships.In Tokyo, he cleared the mark of 2.25m to finish in the top 12 of the men’s high jump qualification round. This is his maiden entry in the final.

 

3. Amit Shah Inaugurates India’s Largest Sports Complex in Ahmedabad’s Naranpura: Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated India’s largest and most modern sports complex at Naranpura, Ahmedabad.Built at a cost of 825 crore rupees, the complex features a world-class aquatic complex and state-of-the-art facilities for indoor and outdoor sports, along with training and residential amenities for athletes.

 

4. Minakshi Hooda and Jaismine Lamboria Win Gold at 2025 World Boxing Championships: India’s Minakshi Hooda (48kg) and Jaismine Lamboria (57kg) won gold medals at the World Boxing Championships 2025 in Liverpool, defeating Nazym Kyzaibay and Julia Szeremeta, respectively.

With their victories, they joined India’s elite list of world boxing champions, which includes Mary Kom, Nikhat Zareen, Sarita Devi, Jenny RL, Lekha KC, Nitu Ghanghas, Lovlina Borgohain, and Saweety Boora; India recorded its best-ever overseas performance with four medals.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis remains a complex inflammatory disease affecting multiple organs. Recent research marks its variable course and the critical role of early diagnosis. This knowledge base page summarises key facts and insights for better understanding of sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is an immune disorder where clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas form in organs. The lungs are most commonly affected. The exact cause is unknown but involves genetic factors, immune overactivity, and environmental triggers. Granulomas disrupt normal organ function and may lead to complications. Symptoms depend on the organs involved. Lung sarcoidosis causes cough, breathlessness, and chest discomfort. Skin symptoms include rashes and nodules. Eye involvement can lead to redness and blurred vision. Some patients show no symptoms and are diagnosed incidentally. Fatigue and weight loss are also common signs.

 

2. Supreme Court Issues Uniform DNA Evidence Guidelines: The Supreme Court of India recently issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure the integrity of DNA samples in criminal investigations. This move aims to standardise procedures across all states to prevent contamination and delays in forensic analysis. The guidelines were prompted by a case involving serious crimes where lapses in sample handling compromised the investigation. The court found delays and unexplained gaps in sending vaginal swab samples to forensic laboratories. The chain of custody was not maintained, raising the risk of contamination. Although states manage police and public order, the Supreme Court intervened to create uniform protocols for DNA evidence handling across India. The court has emphasised that DNA profiles are reliable only if proper procedures are followed both in the laboratory and during collection and transport. Past rulings have rejected DNA evidence due to contamination risks or improper storage. Courts have also noted that DNA evidence is opinion evidence under the Indian Evidence Act and its probative value depends on scientific and procedural rigour.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Launches Interactive Microsite to Educate Public on Indian Banknotes and Security Features: The portal provides detailed insights into design and security features of banknotes, including a unique 360-degree view to distinguish genuine notes from counterfeit ones.It incorporates multimedia tools like videos, audio guides, animations, and interactive games to make learning about currency more accessible and enjoyable.A dedicated section explains the process for exchanging old, damaged, or withdrawn notes, ensuring clarity for the public and strengthening financial literacy.

 

2. India’s Agrochemical Exports Triple to $3.3 Billion in a Decade, Becomes Third-Largest Exporter Globally: India’s agrochemical exports almost tripled in a decade, rising from $1.3 billion in FY15 to $3.3 billion in FY25, making the country the third-largest exporter after China and the US, according to a report by ACFI and Deloitte.To sustain growth, the Agro-Chemicals Federation of India (ACFI) has urged the government to introduce a PLI scheme, tax holidays, and manufacturing hubs, reducing import dependence on key molecules.The Indian agrochemical market is valued at around ₹69,000 crore in FY24, with exports contributing 51% by value. It is dominated by insecticides (41%), herbicides (22%), and fungicides (21%), with herbicides being the fastest-growing segment.Key crop segments like rice, cotton, wheat, soybean, chillies, grapes, sugarcane, and gram contribute 65% of the domestic market, while Maharashtra-Goa and Andhra Pradesh-Telangana clusters lead state-wise sales, together accounting for 43%.