Daily GK Update- 29th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Adds Two More Wetlands in Bihar to Ramsar List, Total Sites Now 93: India has added two more wetlands in Bihar – Gokul Jalashay (Buxar) and Udaipur Jheel (West Champaran) – to the Ramsar list, bringing the country’s total to 93 sites and maintaining its top position in Asia.Gokul Jalashay, an oxbow lake on the southern edge of the Ganga, supports over 50 bird species and provides fishing, farming, and irrigation benefits to nearby communities, while also acting as a flood buffer.Udaipur Jheel, another oxbow lake, hosts over 280 plant species, including an endemic herb, and serves as a wintering ground for about 35 migratory bird species, including the vulnerable common pochard.Ramsar wetlands are crucial for hydrological balance, flood control, water supply, and provision of food, fibre, and raw materials, with India actively participating in global wetland conservation under the Ramsar Convention since 1971.

 

2. Ayush Ministry Inaugurates “Prayas,” First-of-its-Kind Integrated Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre at AIIA Goa: The Ministry of Ayush inaugurated “Prayas,” an Integrated Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, on the occasion of the 10th Ayurveda Day.“Prayas” is one of the first-of-its-kind multidisciplinary centres in India, combining Ayurveda, Physiotherapy, Yoga, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and modern Paediatrics for holistic neuro-rehabilitation, especially for children.Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav stated that the centre reflects the government’s vision of integrating traditional knowledge with modern medicine to improve patients’ quality of life.The initiative is aligned with India’s National Health Policy and global practices in integrated healthcare, while also strengthening research and training in Ayush-based innovations.

 

3. Uttar Pradesh to Organize Statewide Trade Shows from October 9–16: Uttar Pradesh to host eight-day trade shows across all 75 districts from October 9–16, offering free stalls to entrepreneurs to showcase and promote their products.Khadi and Village Industries Minister Rakesh Sachan highlighted the positive impact of GST reforms and announced plans to expand trade shows beyond divisional levels, involving sectors like Khadi, textiles, and ODOP.Efforts are underway to revive Khadi production and showrooms, including proposals to open Khadi outlets in universities, emphasizing Khadi as a natural, safe, and affordable fabric with growing national recognition.

 

4. Mithun Manhas Elected BCCI President, Amita Sharma Named Chairperson of Women’s Selection Panel: Mithun Manhas was elected as the 37th BCCI president, and Amita Sharma was appointed as chairperson of the women’s selection panel during the 94th BCCI AGM.Former India bowlers R.P. Singh and Pragyan Ojha joined the senior men’s selection panel, while S. Sharath was reappointed as junior men’s selection panel chairman.Four new senior women selectors appointed — Amita Sharma (chairperson), Sulakshana Naik, Jaya Sharma, and Sravanthi Naidu — based on recommendations from the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).Other key office-bearer positions: Devajit Saikia retained as secretary, Rajiv Shukla as vice-president, A. Raghuram Bhat as treasurer, and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia reassigned as joint-secretary. Jaydev Shah was elected as a councillor.Committees and development initiatives: WPL Committee led by Jayesh George, Infrastructure Committee led by Rohan Jaitley, and discussions on reintroducing the Talent Resource Development Wing (TRDW) to identify domestic cricket talent.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh Added to UNESCO Global Network: India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh has been included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, announced by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav during the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council.With this addition, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed in the prestigious global network, highlighting the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community-driven sustainable development.The announcement comes shortly after India designated two new Ramsar sites in Bihar—Gokul Jalashay (448 hectares) and Udaipur Jheel (319 hectares)—bringing the total Ramsar wetlands in India to 93, covering 13,60,719 hectares.

 

2. 28 September – International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI): International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) is observed every year on 28 September.It was proclaimed by UNESCO in 2015 and later adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2019.Theme 2025 – Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital AgeThe Day highlights the right to access information as a fundamental human right and a pillar of democracy.

 

3. 29 September – World Heart Day: World Heart Day is observed every year on 29 September to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and promote preventive measures for heart health.It was established by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in the year 1999, with the first celebration held in 2000.Theme 2025 – Don’t Miss a Beat

 

4. India Clinch 9th Asia Cup Title with Thrilling 5-Wicket Win over Pakistan in Dubai Final: India clinched their 9th Asia Cup title by defeating Pakistan by 5 wickets in a thrilling final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.Tilak Varma starred with an unbeaten 69 runs, guiding India in a tense chase of 147 after being reduced to 20/3 early on.Indian spinners dominated, with Kuldeep Yadav (4/30), Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel sharing 8 wickets to trigger Pakistan’s collapse from 113/1 to 146 all out.For Pakistan, Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) gave a strong start, but their batting implosion led to a dramatic defeat.

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Venkataramani Re-Appointed as Attorney General of India for Two-Year Term: Venkataramani re-appointed as Attorney General of India for a two-year term, effective from October 1, 2025, after completing his current three-year tenure on September 30.He succeeded K.K. Venugopal as the AG in September 2022 and has decades of experience practicing constitutional law, human rights, indirect taxes, civil and criminal law, and more.The Attorney General is a constitutional position, appointed by the President on the Union government’s recommendation, with the right to appear in any court and advise the government on complex legal matters.

 

SPORTS

 

1. FIFA Unveils Mascots for 2026 World Cup: Clutch, Maple & Zayu Represent USA, Canada, Mexico: FIFA Unveils 2026 World Cup Mascots: Clutch the Bald Eagle, Maple the Moose, and Zayu the Jaguar Represent Host Nations USA, Canada, and MexicoFIFA unveiled the official mascots for the 2026 World Cup – Clutch the Bald Eagle (USA), Maple the Moose (Canada), and Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico) – symbolising the three host nations.Maple the Moose represents Canada as a creative, resilient, and stylish character, embodying leadership, artistry, and flair on and off the field.Zayu the Jaguar symbolizes Mexico with unity, strength, and joy, celebrating Mexican culture through dance, food, traditions, and even paying tribute to the animated film Coco.

 

2. Ravichandran Ashwin Becomes First Indian Male Cricketer to Join Big Bash League: Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been signed by Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL), marking his debut in the Australian T20 competition.Ashwin, at 39, will become the first male cricketer from India’s national team to feature in the BBL, creating history with this move.The BCCI generally restricts active Indian male players from participating in overseas T20 leagues, unlike Indian women cricketers who have regularly played in foreign leagues such as the WBBL.Ashwin became eligible to play abroad after retiring from international cricket and the IPL, joining a very small group of Indian players competing outside the IPL.

 

3. India Clinches Seventh SAFF U17 Championship, Beats Bangladesh 4-1 in Penalty Shootout: India won their seventh SAFF U17 Championship, defeating Bangladesh 4-1 in a tense penalty shootout in Colombo.India had led 2-1 at half-time with goals from Dallamuon Gangte and Azlaan Shah KH, but Bangladesh equalized late through Ihsan Habib Riduan, taking the match to penalties.The penalty shootout showcased India’s composure and maturity beyond their age at the Racecourse International Stadium.

 

4. India Clinches Seven Medals at Para World Archery Championships: India won a total of seven medals at the Para World Archery Championships in Gwangju, South Korea, including three gold, one silver, and three bronze.Historic gold for Sheetal Devi, who became the first woman armless archer to win a world championship gold in the compound individual category.Toman Kumar followed with gold in the men’s compound individual event, giving India two individual compound golds on the final day.The championship highlighted India’s growing strength in para-archery, with both male and female archers achieving historic victories.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Ground-Level Ozone Pollution in India’s Major Cities: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recently reported alarming levels of ground-level ozone pollution in India’s urban regions. The National Capital Region (NCR) faces the highest ozone concentrations, followed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This has raised concerns due to ozone’s harmful effects on health and the environment. Ground-level ozone is a toxic air pollutant formed by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These reactions are intensified by sunlight. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, surface ozone harms respiratory health and vegetation. CPCB analysed ozone data from 10 major Indian regions during 2023 and early 2024. NCR recorded the highest exceedances, with 25 of 57 monitoring stations surpassing the national eight-hour ozone limit of 100 micrograms per cubic metre by over 2%. MMR followed with 22 of 45 stations exceeding the same limit. Other cities like Pune, Chennai, and Bengaluru showed comparatively lower but notable ozone levels.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Sets Rs 50,000 Crore WMA Limit for Central Government for H2 FY 2025-26: RBI sets Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limit for the central government at Rs 50,000 crore for the second half of FY 2025-26 to manage temporary mismatches in receipts and payments.WMA limit decided in consultation with the Government of India, with RBI retaining the flexibility to revise the limit based on prevailing circumstances.Interest rates on WMA will follow the prevailing repo rate, while overdrafts will attract 2% above the repo rate; RBI may trigger fresh market loan floatation once 75% of the WMA limit is utilised.Central government’s total borrowing for FY 2025-26 is estimated at Rs 14.72 lakh crore, reduced from the Budget estimate of Rs 14.82 lakh crore, with H2 borrowing planned at Rs 6.77 lakh crore.

 

Daily GK Update- 28th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Anand Piramal Appointed Chairman of Piramal Finance Following Merger: Anand Piramal has been appointed Chairman of Piramal Finance, succeeding his father, Ajay Piramal, following the merger of Piramal Enterprises into the company.The board approved Anand Piramal’s appointment at its first meeting post-merger, while Ajay Piramal and Swati A Piramal resigned as non-executive chairman and director, respectively; Ajay will continue to chair the Piramal Group.

Jairam Sridharan has been appointed as MD & CEO of the merged Piramal Finance.

 

2. India’s Forest Environmental Accounting Advances in 2025: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the 8th issue of Environmental Accounting on Forest2025 on 25th September 2025. The publication aligns with the UN System of Environmental Economic Accounts (SEEA) framework. It offers a detailed view of India’s forest ecosystem accounts at national and state levels. This marks the first dedicated forest accounting report under SEEA. The report was revealed during the 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organizations (CoCSSO) in Chandigarh. The report is divided into two volumes. Volume I explains the methodology and presents national data. It includes Physical Asset Accounts, Extent Accounts, Condition Accounts, and Service Accounts. Volume II covers state and Union Territory data, showing decadal changes. The report uses India State of Forest Report (ISFR) as a key data source. Other sources include Forestry Statistics 2021 by ICFRE, SEEA Central and Ecosystem frameworks, NCAVES report, and National Accounts statistics.

 

3. India’s Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project: The foundation stone for the Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (MBRAPP) was recently laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This major nuclear power plant in Rajasthan marks step in India’s energy sector. The project is expected to enhance clean energy production and support economic growth in the region. MBRAPP involves an investment of around ₹42,000 crore. It will be one of India’s largest nuclear power plants. The plant will have four indigenous 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) with advanced safety features. These reactors are known as IPHWR 700 and have been designed by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). The project aims to supply reliable base-load power to Rajasthan and neighbouring states.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 29th COCSSO 2025 Inaugurated in Chandigarh to Strengthen Local Level Governance: The 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organizations (COCSSO) 2025 was inaugurated in Chandigarh on 25–26 September, organized by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).The conference, themed “Strengthening Local Level Governance”, aims to enhance Centre–State coordination for producing reliable, timely, and credible statistics to support evidence-based decision-making.Around 350 participants from 30+ States/UTs, Central Ministries, ISI, IASRI, ICAR, World Bank, UN agencies, and other stakeholders attended to deliberate on strengthening statistical systems for Viksit Bharat.

 

2. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy Sentenced to 5 Years: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy (2007–2012) was sentenced to five years in prison for criminal conspiracy linked to alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 campaign, making him the first post-war French president to face imprisonment.Sarkozy, who called the verdict “scandalous” and maintains his innocence, was acquitted of corruption and illegal campaign financing, but the Paris court ruled he allowed aides to seek funds from Libya under Muammar Gaddafi’s regime between 2005–2007.The prison sentence is enforceable immediately; Sarkozy is expected to be summoned by October 13 to begin serving his term, possibly at Paris’s La Santé prison.

 

3. 28 September – World Rabies Day: World Rabies Day is observed annually on 28 September to raise awareness about rabies prevention and control.The day highlights that rabies is a fatal but preventable disease, mainly transmitted through the bite of infected animals, especially dogs.

Theme 2025 – Act now: You, Me, CommunityObservances aim to educate communities, strengthen public health initiatives, and achieve the global goal of zero human rabies deaths by 2030.

 

4. 28 September 2025 – World Rivers Day: World Rivers Day is observed annually on the fourth Sunday of September to raise awareness about the importance of rivers and the need for their conservation.India is home to several scenic and culturally significant rivers, which are also popular travel destinations.Famous rivers include the Ganga (Varanasi) for spiritual experiences, the Brahmaputra (Assam) for wildlife and Majuli island, and the Teesta (Sikkim & West Bengal) for adventure activities like river rafting.Other notable rivers are the Mandovi (Goa) for cruises and vibrant culture, and the Narmada (Madhya Pradesh) for spectacular sights like Dhuandhar Falls and marble cliff boat rides.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s Role in Palestine Statehood Recognition: India’s position on Palestinian statehood remains crucial in global diplomacy. Over 150 UN member states now recognise Palestine. India was an early supporter, recognising Palestine in 1988. Since then, India has balanced its support for Palestine with diplomatic ties to Israel. Recent conflicts in 2023 have challenged India’s stance and raised questions about its ethical and foreign policy priorities. India recognised the Palestine Liberation Organisation in 1974. It formally recognised Palestinian statehood in 1988. This was a moral decision reflecting India’s anti-colonial values and support for self-determination. India has backed many UN resolutions supporting Palestinian rights and condemning Israeli settlements. It has also provided humanitarian aid and educational support to Palestinians.

 

2. China’s New K Visa Challenges US H-1B Tech Talent: The introduction of China’s K visa in 2025 marks shift in the global competition for science and technology talent. This move comes amid tightened US restrictions on the H-1B visa, which has traditionally allowed American tech firms to hire skilled foreign workers. China’s new visa policy aims to attract young foreign professionals in STEM fields, potentially altering the global landscape of innovation and research. The US government imposed stricter rules on the H-1B visa programme to address domestic political pressures. These changes include higher fees and prioritising higher-paid workers. While intended to protect American jobs, such curbs risk harming the US technology sector by limiting access to global talent. Countries like India, which supply many H-1B applicants, face challenges due to these restrictions.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Deepens Ties With Central American Integration System: India’s engagement with the Central American Integration System (SICA) has gained momentum in 2025. At the India-SICA Foreign Minister’s Meeting in New York, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar brought into light expanding cooperation in trade, digital payments, and sustainable development. Indian firms are increasingly interested in investing in agriculture, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and IT sectors across SICA economies. The meeting reaffirmed India’s commitment to South-South cooperation with Central America. India’s economic ties with SICA countries have strengthened over the past decade. Indian companies are exploring opportunities in key sectors like agriculture and renewable energy, which align with the development priorities of Central America. This growing partnership is supported by high-level visits and diplomatic exchanges, reflecting mutual interest in encouraging sustainable growth.

 

2. India’s First Electric Heavy Truck Fleet Launched: India has taken a major step in green logistics with the launch of its first fleet of electric heavy trucks at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). The initiative, flagged off by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, marks move towards sustainable port operations. The fleet currently includes 50 electric trucks with swappable batteries and will expand to 80 by the end of 2025. This effort supports India’s broader goal of decarbonising the logistics sector and promoting clean energy. JNPA introduced India’s first fleet of electric heavy trucks designed for port logistics. These trucks use swappable batteries to reduce downtime and enhance operational efficiency. The fleet currently operates 50 trucks and plans to increase to 80 within the year. This makes JNPA home to the largest electric truck fleet at any Indian port.

 

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RCPL Signs Rs 40,000-Crore MoU with Food Processing Ministry to Establish Integrated Food Manufacturing Facilities Across India: Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL) signed a Rs 40,000-crore MoU with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries at the World Food India 2025 event to establish integrated food manufacturing facilities across India.RCPL will invest over Rs 1,500 crore to set up state-of-the-art production units in Katol, Nagpur (Maharashtra) and Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), incorporating AI-driven automation, robotics, and sustainable technologies.Since becoming a direct subsidiary of Reliance Industries, RCPL has grown rapidly into one of India’s fastest-growing FMCG companies, generating revenue of over Rs 11,000 crore in just three years.RCPL has expanded its brand portfolio by acquiring Tagz Foods and launching house brands like Campa, Independence, Alan’s, Enzo, and Ravalgaon, while aiming to achieve Rs 1 lakh crore revenue in five years and build a global presence.

 

2. Bank of Baroda Gets IFSCA Approval to Operate as Trading-Cum-Clearing Member on India International Bullion Exchange at GIFT City: Bank of Baroda has received approval from IFSCA to operate as a Trading-Cum-Clearing Member (TCM) on the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) at GIFT City.As a TCM, the bank will execute, clear, and settle bullion trades, enhancing liquidity and efficiency in India’s bullion market.The bank’s International Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City will act as a strategic hub for bullion trading, leveraging its expertise in treasury, trade finance, and capital markets.Bank of Baroda aims to support the transformation of India’s bullion market into a transparent, efficient, and globally competitive platform, strengthening India’s position as a key market maker in global bullion trade.

 

3. RBI Imposes Rs 2.7 Lakh Penalty on Muthoot FinCorp for Non-Compliance with Internal Ombudsman Norms: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 2.7 lakh on Muthoot FinCorp Limited for non-compliance with norms related to the Internal Ombudsman.

The penalty follows a statutory inspection of the company based on its financial position as of March 31, 2024.RBI issued a show cause notice to Muthoot FinCorp for failing to comply with its directions, and considered the company’s written and oral submissions before imposing the penalty.The non-compliance involved failure to establish an auto-escalation system for complaints partly or wholly rejected by the company’s internal grievance redress mechanism to the Internal Ombudsman.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. President Droupadi Murmu Confers National Geoscience Awards 2024: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Geoscience Awards 2024 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, honouring outstanding contributions in geosciences.20 geoscientists received awards across three categories: Lifetime Achievement (Prof. Shyam Sundar Rai), National Young Geoscientist Award (Shri Susobhan Neogi), and 10 other awards recognising excellence in mineral exploration, applied geosciences, and allied fields.The awards reinforce innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement in geosciences, encouraging geoscientists to contribute to India’s mineral and energy security while minimising environmental impact.

Daily GK Update- 27th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kiran Desai Returns to Booker Prize 2025 Shortlist with “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny”: Kiran Desai, Booker Prize-winning author, returned to the Booker Prize 2025 shortlist with her novel “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny”, described as a “vast and immersive” story about two young Indians in America.The 53-year-old Delhi-born author, who previously won the Booker Prize in 2006 for “The Inheritance of Loss”, spent nearly 20 years writing her latest 667-page novel published by Hamish Hamilton.If Desai wins, she would become the fifth double winner in the prize’s 56-year history, and India would achieve a clean sweep of 2025 Booker Prizes, following the International Booker win of Banu Mushtaq and translator Deepa Bhasthi.The Booker Prize 2025 winner will be announced on November 10, 2025, at Old Billingsgate in London, with the winner receiving GBP 50,000 and each shortlisted author awarded GBP 2,500 plus a specially bound edition of their book.

 

2. 29th COCSSO 2025 Inaugurated in Chandigarh to Strengthen Local Level Governance: The 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organizations (COCSSO) 2025 was inaugurated in Chandigarh on 25–26 September, organized by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).The conference, themed “Strengthening Local Level Governance”, aims to enhance Centre–State coordination for producing reliable, timely, and credible statistics to support evidence-based decision-making.Around 350 participants from 30+ States/UTs, Central Ministries, ISI, IASRI, ICAR, World Bank, UN agencies, and other stakeholders attended to deliberate on strengthening statistical systems for Viksit Bharat.

 

3. RCPL Signs Rs 40,000-Crore MoU with Food Processing Ministry to Establish Integrated Food Manufacturing Facilities Across India: Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL) signed a Rs 40,000-crore MoU with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries at the World Food India 2025 event to establish integrated food manufacturing facilities across India.RCPL will invest over Rs 1,500 crore to set up state-of-the-art production units in Katol, Nagpur (Maharashtra) and Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), incorporating AI-driven automation, robotics, and sustainable technologies.Since becoming a direct subsidiary of Reliance Industries, RCPL has grown rapidly into one of India’s fastest-growing FMCG companies, generating revenue of over Rs 11,000 crore in just three years.RCPL has expanded its brand portfolio by acquiring Tagz Foods and launching house brands like Campa, Independence, Alan’s, Enzo, and Ravalgaon, while aiming to achieve Rs 1 lakh crore revenue in five years and build a global presence.

 

4. Tata Motors Appoints Shailesh Chandra as MD & CEO for Three-Year Term: Tata Motors appointed Shailesh Chandra as Additional Director, MD & CEO for a three-year term effective October 1, 2025; he will also continue to lead Tata Passenger Electric Mobility.The appointment follows the resignation of P B Balaji as Group CEO; Balaji will assume charge as CEO of JLR Automotive in the UK from the same date.Tata Motors announced restructuring: its commercial vehicles business will be housed in one entity, while passenger vehicles, EVs, JLR, and related investments will form another.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy Sentenced to 5 Years: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy (2007–2012) was sentenced to five years in prison for criminal conspiracy linked to alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 campaign, making him the first post-war French president to face imprisonment.Sarkozy, who called the verdict “scandalous” and maintains his innocence, was acquitted of corruption and illegal campaign financing, but the Paris court ruled he allowed aides to seek funds from Libya under Muammar Gaddafi’s regime between 2005–2007.The prison sentence is enforceable immediately; Sarkozy is expected to be summoned by October 13 to begin serving his term, possibly at Paris’s La Santé prison.

 

2. 26 September – International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons: International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons is observed every year on 26 September, highlighting global efforts toward a world free of nuclear arms.The United Nations General Assembly established the day in 2013 (Resolution 68/32) to promote awareness and education on nuclear disarmament.The day emphasizes the urgent need to implement treaties like the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

 

3. 27 September – World Tourism Day: World Tourism Day is observed annually on 27 September to highlight the importance of tourism and its contributions to society, culture, and the economy.Theme 2025 – Tourism and Sustainable TransformationThe day emphasizes tourism’s role in job creation, cultural exchange, environmental conservation, and economic growth.

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact Alters Regional Security Dynamics: Recent developments in 2025 have seen Saudi Arabia Pakistan formalise a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement. This pact states that any aggression against one will be treated as aggression against both. The deal has caused concern in New Delhi, given India’s tense relations with Pakistan. The agreement emerges amid heightened military and diplomatic tensions in South Asia and shifting alliances in West Asia. The pact was signed after a major terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in April 2025, which led to intense military exchanges between India and Pakistan. India sought global support to isolate Pakistan but faced limitations. The Saudi-Pakistan deal strengthens Islamabad’s position internationally. It also comes as India and Saudi Arabia maintain a complex diplomatic relationship, with recent high-level meetings attempting to manage rising tensions. The pact reflects broader shifts in West Asia, especially after the 2023 Hamas-Israel conflict. Saudi Arabia’s strategic calculations now focus on autonomy and multipolarity. Riyadh is realigning away from reliance on the United States and revisiting traditional alliances. Pakistan’s nuclear capability and military expertise remain valuable to Saudi security concerns, especially amid regional conflicts like Yemen and tensions with Iran.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India’s First Dugong Conservation Reserve Recognised Globally: India’s Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay has received formal recognition from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The motion was adopted at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 held in Abu Dhabi. This marks global endorsement of India’s marine conservation efforts. The resolution received overwhelming support from governments, NGOs, and research bodies worldwide. Tamil Nadu’s initiative is now seen as a model for dugong protection and marine ecosystem restoration. The Dugong Conservation Reserve was established by the Tamil Nadu government on 21 September 2022. It covers 448.34 square kilometres in northern Palk Bay. The area includes over 12,250 hectares of seagrass meadows. These meadows are critical feeding grounds for dugongs (Dugong dugon), a species classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The reserve is vital not only for dugongs but also for many other marine species dependent on seagrass habitats.

 

2. Sovereign Mobility Cloud: A Sovereign Mobility Cloud is a cloud-based infrastructure tailored specifically for mobility, autonomous transport, and intelligent transportation systems (ITS), designed to ensure that data and operations remain under the the jurisdictional control of a sovereign state (i.e. a nation). Such a cloud environment combines mobility-oriented services (such as mapping, telematics, traffic management, digital twins, fleet operations) with the principles of data sovereignty, regulatory compliance, and secure local operations. With the rise of autonomous vehicles, connected mobility, smart cities, and large-scale transportation digitisation, massive volumes of mobility data are generated (sensor data, vehicle telemetry, mapping updates, etc.). Many governments seek to avoid the risks of foreign control or cross-border data dependencies. Thus, a Sovereign Mobility Cloud attempts to strike a balance: it enables innovation in mobility and autonomous systems while keeping critical infrastructure, data residency, and regulatory oversight within national boundaries.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IndiGo, SBI Card Launch Co-Branded Premium Credit Card to Reward Frequent Flyers: IndiGo, in collaboration with SBI Card, launched a co-branded premium credit card under the IndiGo BluChip loyalty program, available in two variants: IndiGo SBI Card and IndiGo SBI Card ELITE.The card offers rewards on all spends within IndiGo’s ecosystem, as well as on hotel and travel bookings, aiming to enhance travel experiences for frequent flyers.SBI Card and IndiGo executives highlighted that the card is designed to provide value, convenience, and rewarding experiences, catering to tech-savvy customers with growing disposable incomes seeking holistic travel benefits.

 

2. Standard Chartered, CCIL & IFSCA to Launch Dollar Clearing Facility at GIFT City: Standard Chartered Bank, in collaboration with Clearing Corporation of India Ltd (CCIL) and International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA), will launch a dollar clearing facility at GIFT City on October 7, 2025, allowing both Indian and foreign banks to participate.CEO P.D. Singh highlighted that the bank is focusing on multi-product relationships with clients, offering direct credit, syndication facilities, and private banking, rather than single-product relationships, to drive business growth.Standard Chartered is also working on settlements in Indian rupees, particularly targeting transactions along the Middle Eastern corridor, while noting sector-specific corporate loan slowdowns and moderate trade reduction effects.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Diljit Dosanjh Bags International Emmy 2025 Nomination for Amar Singh Chamkila: Diljit Dosanjh earned a nomination at the International Emmy Awards 2025 in the Best Performance by an Actor category for his role in Imtiaz Ali’s biopic “Amar Singh Chamkila”.The film also received a nomination in the TV Movie/Mini-Series category, making it the only Indian entry at the awards.Dosanjh will compete with David Mitchell (UK), Oriol Pla (Spain), and Diego Vasquez (Colombia), while the film will compete with entries from Germany, the UK, and Chile.The 53rd International Emmy Awards gala will be held in New York City on November 24, 2025, featuring 64 nominees across 16 categories from 26 countries.

Daily GK Update- 26th Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Virat Kohli Tops Kroll 2024 List as Most Valued Indian Celebrity with $231.1 Million Brand Worth**: Virat Kohli retained his position as the most valued Indian celebrity with a brand value of $231.1 million, driven by his mass influence and strong social media engagement.Ranveer Singh ranked second ($170.7 million), Shah Rukh Khan third ($145.7 million, 21% surge), and Alia Bhatt emerged as the most valued female celebrity ($116.4 million, fourth position). Sachin Tendulkar rose to fifth ($112.2 million).The combined brand value of the top 25 Indian celebrities reached $2 billion in 2024, an increase of 8.6%, with stronger social media presence boosting individual valuations.Bollywood stars contributed 65%, sports stars 28.4%, and Tollywood stars 6.6% of the overall brand value, reflecting the dominance of film and sports personalities in India’s celebrity endorsement market.

 

2. Uttar Pradesh to Host 19th National Jamboree of Bharat Scouts and Guides in Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh to host the 19th National Jamboree of the Bharat Scouts and Guides in Lucknow’s Vrindavan Scheme from November 23-29, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event on November 24.The state government, under CM Yogi Adityanath, is creating a gated Tent City with world-class facilities for 35,000 participants, promoting safety, comfort, and global brotherhood.The Jamboree will feature adventure sports, science, and cultural activities, fostering discipline, teamwork, self-reliance, and leadership, with over 32,000 youth participants expected.

 

3. Cabinet Approves 78-Day Productivity Linked Bonus Worth ₹1865.68 Crore for 10.91 Lakh Railway Employees: The Union Cabinet approved Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) of 78 days for 2025, amounting to ₹1865.68 crore for 10.91 lakh non-gazetted railway employees.The PLB, paid annually before Durga Puja/Dussehra, serves as an incentive to boost railway performance and employee motivation.The maximum payable PLB amount is ₹17,951 per employee, covering staff like Track Maintainers, Loco Pilots, Guards, Station Masters, Technicians, Supervisors, and other Group ‘C’ employees.

 

4. Cabinet Approves ₹2277 Crore CSIR Scheme for Capacity Building & Human Resource Development in R&D Sector: The Union Cabinet approved the DSIR/CSIR “Capacity Building and Human Resource Development” Scheme with an outlay of ₹2277.397 crore for the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26).The scheme will cover R&D institutions, national laboratories, Institutes of National Importance, Eminence, and universities, providing a platform for young researchers in STEMM fields under the guidance of eminent scientists.The umbrella scheme includes four sub-schemes: (i) Doctoral & Postdoctoral Fellowships, (ii) Extramural Research, Emeritus Scientist & Bhatnagar Fellowship, (iii) Awards for Excellence, and (iv) Travel & Symposia Grants.India’s R&D ecosystem has strengthened, improving its Global Innovation Index rank to 39 (2024) and placing India among the top 3 nations in scientific paper publications, with CSIR marking 84 years of service.

5. Union Ministry of Environment Recommends Clearance for 2,220 MW Oju Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh: The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Union Ministry of Environment has recommended environmental clearance for the 2,220 MW Oju Hydroelectric Project on the Subansiri River in Taksing, Arunachal Pradesh, near the China border.The project will be constructed by Oju Subansiri Hydro Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd., located about 5 km downstream from Redi village in Upper Subansiri.The primary powerhouse is designed for 2,100 MW, with an additional 120 MW generated from a dam-toe station, totaling 2,220 MW.The Subansiri basin hosts several other proposed hydroelectric projects including Nyare, Naba, Nalo, Dengser, Upper Subansiri, and Lower Subansiri, with basin studies finalized in 2014.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UIBC Signs Three Strategic Agreements to Strengthen UAE-India CEPA, Trade, and Investment Ties: UAE-India Business Council (UIBC) signed three strategic agreements to boost trade, investment, and industry engagements under the UAE-India CEPA framework.UIBC and UAE-India CEPA Council (UICC) agreed to closer institutional collaboration for advancing CEPA objectives and strengthening the bilateral economic partnership.UIBC and Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) partnered to deepen cooperation in key services sectors like logistics, healthcare, IT/ITES, education, tourism, and engineering, while addressing market access challenges.UIBC also signed agreements with regional chambers of commerce (Bombay Industries Association, Calicut CCI, Gujarat CCI) to expand industry participation, strengthen state-level linkages, and institutionalise CEPA facilitation at the grassroots.

 

2. India Elected to INTERPOL Asian Committee, Strengthening Role in Regional Law Enforcement: India has been elected to the INTERPOL Asian Committee after a multi-stage voting process during the 25th Asian Regional Conference in Singapore.The committee identifies strategic priorities and operational challenges in tackling organized crime, cybercrime, terrorism, human trafficking, and drug trafficking in the region.India has a strong record of representation at INTERPOL, including CBI Special Director Praveen Sinha’s election in 2021 as Delegate for Asia on INTERPOL’s Executive Committee.At the Singapore conference, India was represented by a CBI delegation, strengthening its influence in regional law enforcement priorities.

 

3. Dubai Announces 15-km Dedicated Corridor For Driverless Vehicles & Marine Transport: Dubai launches the Dubai Autonomous Zone (DAZ), a 15-kilometre corridor for driverless vehicles and marine transport, set to become operational in early 2026, supporting the goal of 25% autonomous trips by 2030.The zone will connect Al Jaddaf Metro Station, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Dubai Festival City, offering autonomous options including Metro, RoboTaxis, RoboBuses, shuttles, delivery robots, and autonomous abras.Trials for RoboTaxis start by end of 2025, aiming for 1,000 vehicles by 2028, with Uber collaborating with RTA and WeRide for pilot autonomous car services.The initiative emphasizes safety, accessibility, cost reduction, emission cuts, and intermodal efficiency, with expansion plans and future integration into hyperloop and flying taxi networks under consideration.

 

4. China to Launch K-Visa for Global Young STEM Professionals from October 2025: China to launch the K-Visa from October 1, 2025, targeting global young STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) professionals, providing flexible work rights without local sponsorship.The K-Visa aims to attract talent amid tightening U.S. H-1B visa restrictions, including the $100,000 application fee announced by former President Donald TrumpThis visa category promotes academic, cultural, entrepreneurial, and research exchanges, allowing independent applications without employer sponsorship.K-Visa holders can engage in research, entrepreneurship, academic programs, cultural activities, and business ventures, distinguishing it from traditional work visas.

 

5. 25 September – World Maritime Day: World Maritime Day is observed annually on 25th September to recognize the importance of shipping and maritime industries in global trade, economy, and sustainable development.Theme 2025 – Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our OpportunityThe day is designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating shipping.

 

6. 26 September – European Day of Languages: The European Day of Languages is celebrated every year on 26 September, initiated by the Council of Europe in 2001 in collaboration with the European Union.It aims to promote language learning across all ages, encourage multilingualism, and highlight the cultural and linguistic diversity of Europe.Theme 2025 – Languages: your bridge to the futureThe day emphasises the importance of intercultural understanding, lifelong learning of languages, and strengthening cooperation among European nations.With over 200 languages spoken in Europe, the observance also raises awareness about preserving linguistic heritage while supporting mobility, employment, and global competitiveness.

 

7. 26 September – World Environmental Health Day: World Environmental Health Day is observed every year on 26 September, established in 2011 by the International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH).Theme 2025 –Clean Air, Healthy PeopleThe day highlights the vital connection between the environment and human health, focusing on safe food, clean air, safe water, sanitation, and healthy living conditions.

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Defence ministry signs ₹62,370 crore deal with HAL for fighter aircraft: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract worth over ₹62,370 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A for the Indian Air Force (IAF).The order includes 68 fighter jets and 29 twin-seater aircraft, along with associated equipment. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027–28 and will be completed over a period of six years.The aircraft will have an indigenous content of more than 64%, with 67 additional items integrated compared to the earlier LCA Mk1A contract signed in January 2021. These upgrades include advanced indigenous systems such as the UTTAM Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach, and control surface actuators.The acquisition has been undertaken under the ‘Buy (India-IDDM)’ category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. Officials said the deal is in line with the government’s push for indigenisation in defence manufacturing.

 

2. India Tests Agni-Prime Missile From Rail Launcher: India recently achieved milestone by successfully test-launching the Agni-Prime intermediate-range ballistic missile from a rail-based mobile launcher system. This launch is the first of its kind in the country and marks India’s advancing strategic deterrence capabilities. The Agni-Prime missile was launched from a specially designed mobile platform integrated with India’s national railway network. This innovation enables the missile to move across the country without restrictions. It offers cross-country mobility, faster reaction times, and reduced visibility, enhancing strategic flexibility and survivability. Agni-Prime is a next-generation missile with a strike range of up to 2,000 kilometres. It is solid-fuelled and three-staged, which allows for quicker launch readiness and better control. The missile uses a canister launch system, improving storage, handling, and rapid deployment.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Jerome Boateng Announces Retirement from Professional Football: Jerome Boateng, 2014 World Cup winner with Germany, announces retirement from professional football at age 37, ending a career spanning top clubs and international appearances.Club career highlights include 10 years at Bayern Munich with nine Bundesliga titles, two Champions League trophies, and stints at Manchester City, Olympique Lyonnais, Salernitana, Hamburg SV, and most recently LASK Linz.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. New Finless Snake Eel Species Discovered Off Colachel Coast: The National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR), Kochi, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, has recently identified a new species of finless snake eel. Named *Apterichtus kanniyakumari*, this discovery marks the rich marine biodiversity of the Arabian Sea near the Colachel coast. The finding was published in the international journal *Zootaxa* and honours the cultural and geographical significance of Kanniyakumari district. Researchers collected two specimens off the Colachel coast during deep-sea trawling at a depth of 100 metres. Fishermen had previously reported catches of this eel. The team conducted detailed morphological studies, vertebral counts, and DNA-based molecular analysis. These confirmed the eel as a new species within the genus *Apterichtus*.The new species is characterised by specific body proportions – head length is 9.6-9.7% of total length (TL), tail length 1.8-1.9% of TL, and body depth at gill openings ranges from 42.1% to 54.8% of TL. It has three preopercular and nine supratemporal pores. The teeth are conical and uniserial on jaws and vomer. Its body displays a distinct golden-yellow colour with a pale white ventral head marked by yellow lines along the lower jaw. Three black blotches appear behind the eyes, at the rictus, and behind the origin of rictus.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Finance Minister Launches GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) to Strengthen Indirect Tax Dispute Resolution Framework: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) in New Delhi, marking a significant step in strengthening the institutional framework for indirect tax dispute resolution.GSTAT as part of “Next-Gen GST Reforms,” focusing on simplicity, jargon-free decisions, digital filings, and timely resolution to ease compliance and improve taxpayer confidence.Transparency & Trust Building: Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary emphasized that GSTAT will provide a uniform, transparent, and reliable dispute resolution platform, instilling trust among citizens, MSMEs, and investors.

Specialised Forum with 3S Model: Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava underlined GSTAT’s design based on Structure, Scale, and Synergy, ensuring nationwide consistency, efficiency through state benches, and integration of technology with judicial expertise.