Daily GK Update- 29th Oct, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary: India’s Only Haven Dedicated to the Elusive Indian Grey Wolf: Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary in Jharkhand’s Latehar district is India’s only wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the Indian grey wolf, a smaller and more elusive species adapted to dry grasslands and open forests.The sanctuary offers a raw, untouched wildlife experience, best visited between October and June, with peak wolf activity during the breeding season (November–February); nearby attractions include Netarhat hill station, Lodh Falls, and Betla National Park.Local tribal communities play a crucial role in conservation through traditional practices like avoiding forest entry during denning season and revering Sal trees, creating natural safe zones that help wolves thrive.

 

2. Ministry of Women and Child Development Launches New Helpline Number 1515 for POSHAN and PMMVY from November 1, 2025: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has announced a new toll-free helpline number 1515 for POSHAN and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), effective from 1st November 2025, replacing the existing number 14408.The change aims to make the helpline easier to remember and improve accessibility for beneficiaries seeking assistance under both nutrition and maternity benefit schemes.During the transition phase, callers facing connectivity issues with the new number 1515 can continue to use the old number 14408 until full integration is completed.

 

3. NBA Releases ₹55 Lakh to Tamil Nadu Farmers for Red Sanders Cultivation: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released ₹55 lakh to 18 farmers and cultivators of Red Sanders in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, under the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) framework—marking India’s first-ever farmer benefit-sharing initiative for biodiversity conservation.This step follows the NBA’s earlier ₹48 crore ABS release to forest departments of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, and aligns with the 2015 Expert Committee recommendations and the 2019 DGFT policy relaxation that allowed export of cultivated Red Sanders.The initiative promotes farm-based conservation and sustainable trade of Red Sanders, an endemic and valuable species of the Eastern Ghats, ensuring community participation, fair compensation, and reduced pressure on wild populations through legally cultivated sources.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Taal Volcano in the Philippines Spews Ash in Minor Eruptions; Alert Level Remains Low: Taal Volcano in the Philippines experienced four minor eruptions, producing steam-driven (phreatic) and steam-and-magma (phreatomagmatic) blasts with ash plumes rising up to 2,100 meters, as reported by PHIVOLCS.Located in Batangas province, about 60 km south of Manila, Taal Volcano sits within a large caldera and is known for its complex, unpredictable, and explosive eruptions, the last major one occurring in 2020.

2. Dame Sarah Mullally Appointed as First Female Archbishop of Canterbury: Dame Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of London, has been appointed as the first-ever female Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Justin Welby, who resigned following a safeguarding scandal.Aged 63, Mullally previously served as Chief Nursing Officer for England, and will officially assume the post in January at Canterbury Cathedral, followed by a formal enthronement ceremony attended by members of the royal family.Her appointment marks a historic moment for the Church of England, being the first selection since women were allowed to become bishops in 2014.

 

3. Xi Jinping Pushes for World AI Cooperation Organisation: Chinese President Xi Jinping used the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit platform to propose a global organisation to regulate and coordinate artificial intelligence (AI) development. The move is seen as Beijing’s attempt to position itself as a global leader in AI governance, offering an alternative to the US-led approach on technology and trade cooperation. Xi Jinping announced that China would push for the creation of a “World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization” during his address to APEC leaders in Gyeongju, South Korea. The proposed body, he said, would aim to establish governance rules, promote responsible innovation, and ensure that AI serves as a “public good for the international community.” According to Chinese officials, the organisation could be headquartered in Shanghai, one of the world’s most dynamic technology and commercial centres.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. BRO’s Project Arunank Marks 18th Raising Day, Strengthening Border Connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh: Project Arunank, a key initiative of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), celebrated its 18th Raising Day at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh on October 24, 2025, marking 17 years of service in tough Himalayan terrains.Since its inception in 2008, the project has constructed and maintained over 696 km of roads and 1.18 km of major bridges, strengthening connectivity to remote valleys and aiding Armed Forces operations in border areas.A major achievement of Project Arunank includes the 278 km Hapoli–Sarli–Huri Road, blacktopped for the first time since Independence, significantly improving access to the Kurung Kumey district in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

2. Indian Army Celebrates 79th Infantry Day Honouring the Courage and Sacrifice of Its Brave Soldiers Across the Nation: Infantry Day 2025 was celebrated by the Indian Army with solemn tributes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, marking 79 years of the Infantry’s unparalleled courage, sacrifice, and service to the nation.Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi led the wreath-laying ceremony at the Amar Chakra to honour the brave Infantry soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.Infantry Day, observed annually on October 27, commemorates the historic 1947 landing of Indian Infantry troops at Srinagar Airport, a decisive move that defended Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan-backed tribal invaders. The day highlights the Infantry’s steadfast commitment to India’s sovereignty and unity, celebrated nationwide with seminars, marathons, felicitation ceremonies, and the release of the “Infantry Magazine.”

 

3. India Excludes China, Pakistan and Turkiye from 2026 International Fleet Review: India has decided not to invite China, Pakistan, and Turkiye to the upcoming third International Fleet Review (IFR) scheduled in Visakhapatnam in February 2026. The major maritime event will be reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu and held alongside the Milan multilateral naval exercise and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). So far, 55 nations have confirmed participation, including both the United States and Russia, underscoring India’s growing naval prominence. According to Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, the IFR will host a large number of countries, though the invite list does not include China, Pakistan, or Turkiye. A senior naval official confirmed that Turkiye was excluded for its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, while Pakistan’s omission continues the long-standing policy of excluding adversarial states from Indian defence exercises. India’s cautious approach toward China stems from increasing strategic tensions and its growing presence in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. TEC and IIT Hyderabad Join Hands to Advance Research in 6G, AI, and Next-Gen Telecom Technologies: The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), signed an MoU with IIT Hyderabad to strengthen collaboration in advanced telecom technologies.The partnership will focus on joint studies, research, and technical contributions in areas like 6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs).The MoU aims to develop India-specific standards, create test frameworks, and enhance India’s participation in global standardization activities, especially ITU-T Study Groups.

 

2. Shenzhou-21 – China Launches Youngest Astronaut and Lab Mice to Tiangong Space Station: China successfully has launched the Shenzhou-21 mission to its Tiangong space station, carrying a three-member crew that includes the country’s youngest-ever astronaut and four laboratory mice. The mission marks another stride in China’s rapidly expanding space programme, which aims to send astronauts to the Moon by 2030. The Long March-2F rocket lifted off at 11:44 pm local time (1544 GMT) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China’s Gobi Desert. The spacecraft is expected to dock with the Tiangong space station within three and a half hours of launch. Mission commander Zhang Lu, flight engineer Wu Fei, and payload specialist Zhang Hongzhang form the new crew for the six-month mission. At 32, Wu Fei is China’s youngest astronaut to enter orbit, representing the next generation of its space explorers. In a first for China, the mission carries four lab mice — two male and two female — for in-orbit biological experiments. These studies will examine the effects of microgravity on mammalian physiology and reproduction, forming part of China’s broader effort to prepare for long-duration lunar and interplanetary missions. The crew will also carry out multiple spacewalks, install anti-debris shields, and conduct educational outreach activities designed to inspire interest in science among young students.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Amit Shah Launches Deep-Sea Fishing Project; 200 Trawlers to Boost Coastal Fishermen: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated ‘Deep Sea Fishing Vessels’ under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) at Mazgaon Dock, Mumbai, in the presence of Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, DCMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and MoS Murlidhar Mohol.As part of this project, 200 trawlers will be provided to fishermen in three coastal states, with the first 14 trawlers launched under the cooperative-based fishing model to ensure that profits directly reach fishermen’s households instead of salaried intermediaries.Each deep-sea trawler can stay in the sea for up to 25 days and carry up to 20 tons of fish, with additional support ships planned for coordination and fish transport from the sea to the shore.

 

2. RBI Withdraws 2016 Circular on Lending Cap to Large Corporates, Retains Large Exposure Framework: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has withdrawn its 2016 circular that capped total banking system lending to a single large corporate borrower, aiming to reduce concentration risk.

The large exposure framework (LEF) will remain in place, limiting a bank’s exposure to 20% for a single borrower and 25% for a corporate group of its Tier 1 capital.The withdrawn circular had earlier reduced the lending threshold from ₹25,000 crore (FY18) → ₹15,000 crore (FY19) → ₹10,000 crore (FY20).RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the move follows a 10% decline in corporate share of total banking exposure, indicating lower systemic risk and does not signify any relaxation of financial stability norms.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Indian-Origin Historian Sunil Amrith Wins 2025 British Academy Book Prize for ‘The Burning Earth’: Indian-origin historian Sunil Amrith won the 2025 British Academy Book Prize for his book “The Burning Earth: An Environmental History of the Last 500 Years”, earning a £25,000 award for his outstanding non-fiction work.Currently a Professor of History at Yale University (U.S.), Amrith was born in Kenya, raised in Singapore, and educated at the University of Cambridge.The British Academy Book Prize, established in 2013, honours the world’s best non-fiction works in humanities and social sciences, with shortlisted authors also receiving £1,000 each.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 28th Oct, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Reliance and Meta launch ₹855-crore joint venture to develop enterprise AI products in India: Reliance Industries and Meta have announced a new ₹855-crore joint venture focused on developing enterprise-grade AI products in India. The collaboration aims to create AI solutions tailored for Indian businesses, enhancing automation, analytics, and digital operations.This partnership leverages Reliance’s digital infrastructure and Meta’s AI and cloud technologies to accelerate AI adoption across industries. The venture aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global AI innovation hub, fostering job creation and technological advancement.

 

2. Kerala Joins PM SHRI Scheme After Months of Debate, Secures ₹1,500 Crore Central Aid for School Development: Kerala signed an MoU with the Central Government to join the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, marking a major policy shift after months of political debate and hesitation.The state had earlier opposed the scheme, fearing it might indirectly introduce the National Education Policy (NEP) in Kerala, but later decided to proceed despite objections from the Communist Party of India (CPI).Under the PM SHRI scheme, the Centre plans to upgrade two schools per block nationwide, providing each selected school ₹1 crore annually for five years to improve infrastructure and quality.Kerala’s Education Minister V. Sivankutty confirmed the move, stating it was essential to secure the Centre’s pending ₹1,500 crore for the state’s various educational programmes.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India rises to 9th rank globally in forest area, maintains 3rd position in annual forest gain: FAO report: India improved its global forest area rank to 9th position in the 2025 Global Forest Resource Assessment (GFRA) by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), up from 10th earlier, while retaining the 3rd spot in annual net forest gain.The GFRA 2025, released in Bali, found that global deforestation, though slowed, still occurs at an alarming rate of 10.9 million hectares per year, with fire, insects, and weather damaging millions of hectares annually.India’s forest cover stands at 72.7 million hectares (about 2% of the world’s total), with Asia being the only region to record an increase in forest area between 1990 and 2025—mainly due to gains in China and India.According to India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, the country’s forest cover stands at 71.5 million hectares. Globally, Russia has the highest forest cover (832.6 million hectares) followed by Brazil (486 million hectares), Canada (368.8 million hectares), the USA (308.8 million hectares), China (227 million hectares), Congo (139 million hectares), Australia (133.5 million hectares), Indonesia (96 million hectares), India (72.7 million hectares) and Peru (67 million hectares).

 

2. Saudi Arabia Abolishes 50-Year-Old Kafala System: Saudi Arabia has officially abolished its 50-year-old Kafala (sponsorship) system, a major labour reform announced in June 2025, impacting nearly 13 million migrant workers—mainly from South and Southeast Asia.The Kafala system, introduced in the 1950s, tied workers’ residency and employment to their employers (kafeel), often leading to exploitation, abuse, and restricted job mobility, as workers required employer consent for job changes or travel.Under the new contractual employment model, workers can change employers without approval, leave the country without exit visas, and gain legal protections, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda to modernize its economy and labor rights framework.The reform is hailed as a historic step in advancing labor rights in the Gulf region, expected to reduce exploitation, improve working conditions, and empower migrant workers with greater freedom, fairness, and dignity.

 

3. Timor-Leste Joins ASEAN as 11th Member at 47th Summit in Kuala Lumpur: Timor-Leste officially became the 11th member of ASEAN during the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, marking the bloc’s first expansion since 1999.The inclusion was confirmed through a formal signing ceremony attended by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and ASEAN leaders, symbolizing the nation’s entry into the regional alliance.ASEAN, established in 1967 in Bangkok, originally had five founding members — Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand — and now focuses on the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” under Malaysia’s 2025 chairmanship.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Manish Gupta Appointed as India’s Next Ambassador to Ireland, Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Manish Gupta, currently serving as India’s High Commissioner to Ghana, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Ireland and is expected to take up the assignment shortly.India-Ireland relations have deep historical roots, with formal diplomatic ties established in 1947 and India opening its Embassy in Dublin in 1951; a significant Indian community of around 80,000 people resides in Ireland, contributing to healthcare, IT, engineering, and management sectors.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra Chosen as Torch-Bearer for Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra has been selected as a torch-bearer for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled from February 6–22, 2026, in Italy.Bindra, who won gold in the 10m air rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, expressed his honour and excitement on social media, highlighting the Olympic flame as a symbol of dreams, perseverance, and unity.The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games will be the fourth Winter Olympics hosted by Italy, featuring 116 medal events across 16 disciplines, which is an increase from Beijing 2022.

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Cyclone Montha likely to intensify into a severe storm: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Cyclone Montha is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28, bringing heavy rainfall across Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.The name ‘Montha’, meaning a beautiful or fragrant flower, was contributed by Thailand, and names are selected from a rotating list of neutral, non-political, and culturally sensitive names given by 13 member countries under the WMO/ESCAP Panel.IMD, one of the six Regional Specialised Meteorological Centres (RSMCs) worldwide, provides cyclone and storm surge advisories to 13 countries including India, Bangladesh, Oman, and UAE. The next cyclones after Montha will be named Senyar (UAE), Ditwah (Yemen), Arnab (Bangladesh), and Murasu (India).

 

2. Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales unite to create a leading European space company: Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales have announced a major joint venture to merge their satellite and space operations, aiming to build a “leading European player in space” and offer a homegrown alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink.The new entity will combine complementary technologies and employ around 25,000 people across Europe, with Airbus holding a 35% stake and Leonardo and Thales owning 32.5% each; space launcher development will not be part of its operations.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Blackstone to invest ₹6,196 crore in Federal Bank: Blackstone, through its affiliate Asia II Topco XIII Pte Ltd, will invest ₹6,196.51 crore in Federal Bank via a preferential issue on a private placement basis, making it the largest shareholder.The bank will issue 272.97 million warrants, each convertible into one equity share at ₹227 per share, which will give Blackstone a 9.99% stake post-conversion, subject to approval.Blackstone will initially pay 25% of the issue price, with the remaining 75% payable upon conversion, and will gain the right to nominate one non-executive director if it maintains at least a 5% stake.

 

2. PNB sells 10% stake in Canara HSBC Life Insurance for ₹1,007 crore: Punjab National Bank (PNB) has divested 10% of its stake in Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Ltd, reducing its shareholding from 23% to 13%, through an Offer for Sale (OFS) during the insurer’s IPO.The sale generated approximately ₹1,007 crore for PNB from the sale of 9.5 crore shares at ₹106 per share, with buyers being public investors, not related parties.This divestment is part of PNB’s capital optimization strategy, aimed at unlocking value in non-core assets while retaining a strategic presence in financial services; the bank recently reported a 14% YoY profit rise to ₹4,904 crore for the September quarter.

 

 

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Nilgiris Scientist Dr Ashokkumar Veeramuthu Named Among World’s Top Scientists for Third Consecutive Year: Dr Ashokkumar Veeramuthu from Nilgiris has been listed among the World’s Top Scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier Publishers for the third consecutive year (2023, 2024, and 2025).His research focuses on linking science with society, addressing issues like environmental protection, waste management, and human health through sustainable solutions.

Ashokkumar has developed microalgae-based clean fuels, plastic-to-useable material technologies, and received the “Brain Pool: Visiting Global Scientist Award” from the National Research Foundation of Korea for his global contributions to sustainable research.

 

Daily GK Update- 27th Oct, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Chennai Becomes First Indian City with Real-Time Flood Forecasting and Decision Support System: Chennai becomes the first Indian city to launch a fully operational Real-Time Flood Forecasting and Spatial Decision Support System (RTFF & SDSS), aimed at minimising flood damage and saving lives.The system, costing around Rs 107.2 crore, covers lakes, rivers, storm water drains, and the sea, providing river, tank, and street-level flood forecasts for vulnerable areas like Pulianthope, Nungambakkam, Velachery, and Mudichur.The RTFF & SDSS monitors an area of approximately 4,974 sq km, including Chennai and surrounding districts, focusing on major river sub-basins such as Adyar, Cooum, Kosasthalaiyar, and Kovalam Rivers.Equipped with Automatic Rain Gauges, Weather Stations, Water Level Recorders, and Gate Sensors, the system gathers high-resolution hydrometeorological data, funded by the World Bank and implemented by TNUIFSL.

 

2. PM Modi Unveils ‘Pratibha Setu’ to Harness UPSC Talent for Public and Private Sector Jobs: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Pratibha Setu Portal’ to connect UPSC candidates who reached the final stages but did not qualify with employment opportunities in private and public institutions.The initiative aims to optimally utilise youth talent, allowing institutions to directly engage with highly capable individuals, ensuring their efforts do not go in vain.

 

3. Aurangabad Railway Station Renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Station in Maharashtra: Aurangabad railway station in Maharashtra has been officially renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar station through a gazette notification by the state government.The renaming honours Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Sambhaji and follows the city’s rechristening nearly three years ago, previously named after Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.The station, opened in 1900 by the 7th Nizam of Hyderabad, is part of the Kacheguda–Manmad section under the Nanded division of South Central Railway, serving a city famous for Ajanta and Ellora Caves and its historical gates.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Unveils First Indigenous Antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin’ and Achieves Breakthrough in Gene Therapy for Hemophilia: India has developed its first indigenously discovered antibiotic, Nafithromycin, effective against resistant respiratory infections, especially in cancer patients and those with uncontrolled diabetes, marking a major step toward pharmaceutical self-reliance.A successful indigenous clinical trial for gene therapy in Hemophilia was conducted at Christian Medical College, Vellore, achieving a 60–70% correction rate with zero bleeding episodes, and the results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.India has sequenced over 10,000 human genomes and aims to reach one million, while AI-based hybrid mobile clinics are helping deliver quality healthcare to rural and remote areas, reflecting the nation’s drive toward a self-sustainable and innovative scientific ecosystem.

 

2. India and US Sign Landmark 10-Year Defence Framework Agreement: India and the United States have signed a landmark 10-year Defence Framework Agreement in Kuala Lumpur, marking a major step forward in deepening strategic and military cooperation between the two nations. The accord underscores their shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. The agreement was exchanged between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting. Both leaders described the pact as a significant milestone in bilateral ties, setting the stage for enhanced coordination, information sharing, and defence technology collaboration. Hegseth said that the agreement would serve as a “cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence,” emphasising that US-India defence relations “have never been stronger.”

 

3. India Achieves Three Guinness World Records for Swasth Nari Campaign: India has achieved global recognition by securing three Guinness World Records under the “Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan” (SNSPA), a nationwide initiative promoting women’s health and preventive care. The campaign, launched between September 17 and October 2, 2025, has been hailed as a landmark in India’s public health outreach and women-centric healthcare policy. The Union Health Ministry announced that India set records for the most people registering on a healthcare platform in a month (3.21 crore), the most people signing up for breast cancer screening online in a week (9.94 lakh), and the most participants in online vital signs screening at the state level in one week (1.25 lakh). These achievements underline the scale and efficiency of India’s digital health infrastructure and its ability to mobilise citizens for preventive healthcare.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Sahyadri Participates in JAIMEX-25, Strengthening India-Japan Naval Cooperation in Indo-Pacific: INS Sahyadri, an indigenously built Shivalik-class stealth frigate, participated in JAIMEX-25 (Japan-India Maritime Exercise), conducting advanced anti-submarine warfare and missile defence drills with JMSDF ships.During the harbour phase at Yokosuka Port, crews engaged in professional and cultural exchanges, including cross-deck visits, joint operational planning, sharing best practices, and even a yoga session.Commissioned in 2012, INS Sahyadri reflects India’s indigenous defence capabilities under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and continues its Long Range Deployment in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening India-Japan naval cooperation.

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Kavach 4.0: Nova Control Tecnologix and Tata Elxsi Collaborate to Enhance Indian Railways Safety: Nova Control Tecnologix, a deep-tech subsidiary of e2E Transportation, has partnered with Tata Elxsi to develop Kavach 4.0, the next-generation Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system for Indian Railways.The collaboration aims to enhance train safety using SIL4-certified engineering and deploy the system across the national railway network, marking a significant private sector entry into critical rail safety infrastructure.Tata Elxsi brings expertise in digital railway solutions, including AI-powered drone inspections, obstacle detection technologies, and IoT-enabled asset management, with production of Kavach 4.0 set for the Bengaluru facility.

 

2. Southwest Airlines to Set Up Global Innovation Centre in Hyderabad: Southwest Airlines announced plans to set up a Global Innovation Centre in Hyderabad, India, following discussions with Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.The meeting included Southwest Airlines’ senior management, such as CIO Lauren Woods and CTO Tom Merritt, along with HEX Advisory Group representatives.CM Reddy welcomed the decision, stating it aligns with Telangana’s “Rising 2047” vision to achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2034 and $3 trillion by 2047.

 

3. Ola Electric Enters India’s ₹1 Trillion Battery Storage Market with Launch of Ola Shakti Residential Solution: Ola Electric launches Ola Shakti, its first residential battery energy storage system (BESS) in India, marking the company’s entry into the ₹1 trillion BESS market and leveraging its 4680 cell technology and Gigafactory capabilities.Ola Shakti is fully indigenously designed and offers features like instant power switching, smart energy management, voltage protection, automotive-grade safety, IP67 weatherproofing, and advanced functions including Time-of-Day charging, remote diagnostics, and OTA updates.The product is available in 1.5 kWh, 3 kWh, 5.2 kWh, and 9.1 kWh variants, with introductory prices ranging from ₹29,999 to ₹159,999 for the first 10,000 units, aiming to scale India’s energy storage capacity and promote clean, efficient home energy use.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India’s Core Infrastructure Output Rises 3% in September; Steel Leads with 14.1% Growth: India’s infrastructure output, measured by the Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI), grew by 3% in September 2025 compared to the same month last year, with August’s growth revised upward to 6.5%.Among the eight core sectors, steel (14.1%), cement (5.3%), electricity (2.1%), and fertilizers (1.6%) recorded positive growth in September.However, natural gas (-3.8%), petroleum refinery products (-3.7%), crude oil (-1.3%), and coal (-1.2%) witnessed a decline in production during the same period.The cumulative growth of the Eight Core Industries during April–September 2025 stood at 2.9% provisionally, compared to the corresponding period of the previous year.

 

2. ADB Signs $3 Billion Exposure Exchange Agreement with World Bank to Boost Lending Capacity: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $3 billion sovereign exposure exchange agreement (EEA) with the World Bank to enhance its lending capacity for developing member countries.This marks ADB’s first EEA with the World Bank and sixth overall with multilateral development banks since 2020, raising the total exchanged amount to $9 billion.The EEA helps reduce concentration risk, optimize capital usage, and expand support to member nations through improved risk management.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Anil Malik Honoured by President for Outstanding Contribution to PM-JANMAN Tribal Welfare Initiative: Shri Anil Malik, Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), received an award from the President of India for his outstanding contribution to Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN).The felicitation was held at the National Conclave on ‘Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan’ at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.Under PM-JANMAN, more than 2,000 Anganwadi Centres have been made functional in Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) areas, aiming to improve nutrition, education, and child care services for tribal communities.

 

Daily GK Update- 26th Oct, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. DPIIT signs MoUs with Primus Partners and Kotak Mahindra Bank to strengthen India’s startup and innovation ecosystem: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Commerce and Industry Ministry signed an MoU with Primus Partners Pvt. Ltd. to boost collaboration for strengthening India’s startup and innovation ecosystem, focusing on capacity building, mentorship, market access, and policy awareness.DPIIT also signed a separate MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. to enhance financial and non-financial support for startups, including customised banking solutions, credit access, digital infrastructure, and startup-focused programs.These partnerships aim to foster an innovation-led and self-reliant economy, empowering startups through structured engagement, technology integration, and inclusive growth to position India as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

2. NBA releases ₹1.36 crore to local communities in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh for biodiversity conservation and benefit sharing: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released ₹1.36 crore to local communities in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, promoting fair benefit sharing and biodiversity conservation.The funds will be distributed through State Biodiversity Boards to three Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) — Sakharwadi (Satara), Kunjirwadi (Pune), and Kasganj (Etah), each receiving ₹45.50 lakh.The release represents an Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) payment from a commercial entity that utilized microorganisms for producing Fructo-oligosaccharides products.This initiative supports India’s National Biodiversity Target 13 under the NBSAP 2024–2030, aligning with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (CoP-15) to ensure conservation and community prosperity.

 

3. Tarun Kumar Pithode appointed as new full-time Member Secretary of CAQM: IAS officer Tarun Kumar Pithode (2009 batch, Madhya Pradesh cadre) has taken charge as the new full-time Member Secretary of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas.He previously served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and has been appointed to this post for a five-year tenure till 8 September 2029, or until further orders.Pithode succeeds Arvind Kumar Nautiyal (IRSME, 1992 batch) as the new Member Secretary of CAQM, which plays a key role in tackling air pollution in the National Capital Region.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of COP10 Bureau, Reaffirms Commitment to Clean Sport: India actively participated in the 10th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP10) to the International Convention against Doping in Sport held from 20–22 October 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, marking the 20th anniversary of the Convention.During the meeting, India was re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of the COP10 Bureau for the Asia-Pacific (Group IV) for the term 2025–2027, reaffirming its commitment to promoting integrity and eliminating doping in sport.The Indian delegation, led by Shri Hari Ranjan Rao (Secretary, Sports) and Shri Anant Kumar (DG, NADA), engaged with delegates from over 190 States Parties, as well as representatives from the African Union, International Olympic Committee, WADA, and other international organizations.

 

2. 24 October – World Development Information Day: World Development Information Day is observed annually on 24 October to raise awareness about global development issues and the role of information and communication in promoting development.The day emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and information to support sustainable development, economic growth, and international cooperation.

 

3. 24–31 October – Global Media and Information Literacy Week: Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week is observed annually from 24th to 31st October to promote the responsible use and understanding of media and information worldwide.The week emphasises developing critical skills to access, evaluate, and create information, fostering media literacy, digital literacy, and ethical information practices.Theme 2025 – Minds Over AI – MIL in Digital Spaces

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rajnath Singh Proposes India-Asean Defence Think Tank Forum: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for the creation of a dedicated forum linking India and ASEAN defence think tanks to boost strategic cooperation and tackle emerging security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The proposal was made during the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. Singh proposed an institutionalised dialogue platform to promote collaboration among defence experts, academics, and policy researchers from India and ASEAN nations. He said the initiative would enhance mutual understanding, drive capacity-building, and stimulate innovative policy ideas for regional security. ASEAN partners were invited to nominate leading defence institutions and experts for the proposed forum. Emphasising the Indo-Pacific’s strategic significance, Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN’s central role in ensuring peace and stability. He said the ASEAN-India partnership would continue to act as a “strong pillar of stability” amid global uncertainties. Singh highlighted shared economic progress and urged the early conclusion of the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement to deepen economic ties.

 

2. IIT Madras Hybrid-Rocket VTOL Soft-Landing Breakthrough: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have reported a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) milestone using hybrid rocket thrusters. By coupling a live hybrid motor to a real-time simulation, the team demonstrated controlled descent and soft-landing conditions—an essential capability for planetary probes, VTOL aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. Hybrid rockets pair a solid fuel grain with a liquid or gaseous oxidiser. This architecture offers throttleability, restart, and rapid shutdown with simpler plumbing than liquid engines and greater safety than solids. The study positions hybrids as an alternative VTOL descent solution where precise thrust modulation near the ground is crucial yet system complexity must remain low. A hardware-in-the-loop framework linked a working hybrid thruster to a high-fidelity vehicle and environment model. Control algorithms varied thrust to track target descent rates and reduce touchdown velocity. Tests showed stable throttle response, repeatable deceleration profiles, and terminal speeds within soft-landing envelopes. The setup validated key dynamics—time lag, thrust ramp rates, and attitude-coupled descent control—required for safe vertical landings.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India’s Drug Watchdog Launches Digital Tracker for High-Risk Cough Syrup Ingredients: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has launched a digital monitoring system on the ONDLS portal to oversee the production, movement, and quality of high-risk ingredients used in drug formulations, particularly cough syrups.The system aims to track the supply chain, quality checks, and testing of high-risk solvents to ensure safer manufacturing and regulatory compliance across all states and union territories.High-risk ingredients monitored under this initiative include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, maltitol, and ethyl alcohol, among others.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ICICI Bank Pledges Rs 625 Crore for Cancer Care: ICICI Bank, India’s second-largest private sector lender, announced a donation of Rs 625 crore to build an 11-storey building at Tata Memorial Centre’s (TMC) Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, as part of its Rs 1,800 crore commitment to construct three facilities nationwide.The new building will cover 3.4 lakh sq. ft., house 12 Linear Accelerators (LINACs) and other advanced equipment, enabling precise radiation therapy that minimizes damage to healthy tissues. It will serve 7,200 patients annually and provide over two lakh radiation sessions, along with OPD consultations and diagnostics for 25,000 new patients each year.The facility is expected to be operational by 2027.

 

2. SBI Raises ₹7,500 Crore Through Basel III Compliant Tier 2 Bonds at 6.93% Coupon Rate: The State Bank of India (SBI) raised ₹7,500 crore through Basel III-compliant Tier 2 bonds at a coupon rate of 6.93%, marking its first bond issuance of FY26 with a 10-year tenor and call option after 5 years.The issue saw bids worth 3 times the base issue size of ₹5,000 crore, with 101 bids received from a diverse group of institutional investors such as provident funds, pension funds, mutual funds, and banks, showcasing high investor confidence in SBI.In FY26, SBI has also raised ₹25,000 crore via QIP and $500 million through senior unsecured fixed-rate notes (5-year maturity, 4.50% coupon), reflecting its strategic approach to strengthen capital adequacy and global funding profile.

 

3. SBI Wins “World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025” and “Best Bank in India 2025” Titles from Global Finance, New York: State Bank of India (SBI) has been honoured with two prestigious titles — “World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025” and “Best Bank in India 2025” — by Global Finance, New York, at the Global Finance Award Ceremony held during the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings 2025.These dual awards reaffirm SBI’s status as a global banking leader, recognised for its innovation, financial inclusion, customer-centric services, and technological advancement across India’s vast geographical landscape.SBI Chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty highlighted that serving 520 million customers and adding 65,000 new customers daily reflects the bank’s continuous investment in digitalisation and advanced technology to enhance customer experience.

 

Daily GK Update- 25th Oct, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government to Issue ₹200 Commemorative Coin Marking 200th Anniversary of Rani Channamma’s Victory at Kittur: The Government of India will issue a ₹200 commemorative coin marking the 200th anniversary of Rani Channamma’s Victory at Kittur (1824–2024) — one of the earliest armed resistances against the British East India Company, predating the 1857 revolt.The circular coin, with a 44 mm diameter and 200 serrations, will be made of a quaternary alloy — silver (50%), copper (40%), nickel (5%), and zinc (5%). The obverse side features the Lion Capital of Ashoka, “Satyamev Jayate,” “Bharat,” “India,” and the denomination “₹200.”The reverse side of the coin will depict Rani Channamma’s image with the years 1824 and 2024 on either side. The upper periphery will read “200th Anniversary of Rani Channamma’s Victory at Kittur” in Devanagari, and the lower periphery in English.Rani Channamma of Kittur (born 1778, died 1829) fought bravely against the British East India Company after it denied the legitimacy of her adopted son under the Doctrine of Lapse. Her initial victory in 1824 became a symbol of early Indian resistance to colonial rule.

 

2. India’s Drug Watchdog Launches Digital Tracker for High-Risk Cough Syrup Ingredients: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has launched a digital monitoring system on the ONDLS portal to oversee the production, movement, and quality of high-risk ingredients used in drug formulations, particularly cough syrups.The system aims to track the supply chain, quality checks, and testing of high-risk solvents to ensure safer manufacturing and regulatory compliance across all states and union territories.High-risk ingredients monitored under this initiative include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, maltitol, and ethyl alcohol, among others.

 

3. India Re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of COP10 Bureau, Reaffirms Commitment to Clean Sport: India actively participated in the 10th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP10) to the International Convention against Doping in Sport held from 20–22 October 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, marking the 20th anniversary of the Convention.During the meeting, India was re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of the COP10 Bureau for the Asia-Pacific (Group IV) for the term 2025–2027, reaffirming its commitment to promoting integrity and eliminating doping in sport.The Indian delegation, led by Shri Hari Ranjan Rao (Secretary, Sports) and Shri Anant Kumar (DG, NADA), engaged with delegates from over 190 States Parties, as well as representatives from the African Union, International Olympic Committee, WADA, and other international organizations.

 

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 24–30 October – Disarmament Week: Disarmament Week is observed annually from 24th to 30th October to raise awareness about the importance of peace, disarmament, and the reduction of weapons globally.The week emphasises the need for nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the responsible use of technology to ensure global security.Organized under the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), it encourages nations to cooperate internationally to prevent conflicts and promote peaceful conflict resolution.

 

2. 24–31 October – Global Media and Information Literacy Week: Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week is observed annually from 24th to 31st October to promote the responsible use and understanding of media and information worldwide.The week emphasises developing critical skills to access, evaluate, and create information, fostering media literacy, digital literacy, and ethical information practices.Theme 2025 – Minds Over AI – MIL in Digital Spaces

 

3. 24 October – World Development Information Day: World Development Information Day is observed annually on 24 October to raise awareness about global development issues and the role of information and communication in promoting development.The day emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and information to support sustainable development, economic growth, and international cooperation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 14th India-Bhutan Border Management and Security Meeting held in Thimphu: The 14th India-Bhutan Meeting on Border Management and Security was held in Thimphu, Bhutan, with the Indian delegation led by Dr. Rajendra Kumar, Secretary, Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.The Indian delegation included officials from Sashastra Seema Bal, Land Ports Authority of India, Department of Telecommunications, Narcotics Control Bureau, Survey of India, Customs, and representatives from Assam, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, while Bhutan was represented by Mr. Sonam Wangyel, Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Brightens Rapidly near Perihelion: Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS brightened markedly as it swung behind the sun, with researchers and skilled amateurs using multiple spacecraft to follow its progress up to perihelion on Thursday, 29 October. Though out of direct terrestrial view while near the sun, the object’s activity was captured in coronagraph imagery and heliophysics missions designed to monitor the solar environment. Observers leveraged space-based assets to overcome the comet’s solar glare. With 3I/ATLAS hidden from ground-based telescopes, coronagraphs and wide-field imagers traced its motion across the inner heliosphere. The behind-the-sun geometry temporarily prevented visual follow-up from Earth, but spacecraft vantage points provided continuous coverage until it moved out of instrument fields of view.

 

2. Atlas Moth Recorded in Karnataka: A rare Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas), among the world’s largest moths, has been recorded from the Karwar region of coastal Karnataka, highlighting rich monsoon biodiversity across the Western Ghats. The species is native to Asian tropical forests and occurs in India, including the Western Ghats belt. The observation from coastal Karnataka aligns with the Atlas Moth’s known Indian range, which includes humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests where host plants are plentiful. Similar Western Ghats records have been documented by Indian naturalists, indicating sporadic but recurring presence during the rainy season. Such sightings often follow heavy showers when adults emerge and rest on trunks, walls or shrubs. Attacus atlas is famed for sheer size. Females commonly span about 25–27 cm across, and exceptional individuals approach 30 cm. Its total wing area is among the largest in Lepidoptera. The rust-brown wings carry bold white and black markings, while the forewing tips resemble snake heads, a likely predator deterrent. Females tend to be larger and heavier; males are slightly smaller but appear broader-winged in flight.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. DPIIT signs MoUs with Primus Partners and Kotak Mahindra Bank to strengthen India’s startup and innovation ecosystem: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Commerce and Industry Ministry signed an MoU with Primus Partners Pvt. Ltd. to boost collaboration for strengthening India’s startup and innovation ecosystem, focusing on capacity building, mentorship, market access, and policy awareness.DPIIT also signed a separate MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. to enhance financial and non-financial support for startups, including customised banking solutions, credit access, digital infrastructure, and startup-focused programs.These partnerships aim to foster an innovation-led and self-reliant economy, empowering startups through structured engagement, technology integration, and inclusive growth to position India as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

2. NBA releases ₹1.36 crore to local communities in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh for biodiversity conservation and benefit sharing: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released ₹1.36 crore to local communities in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, promoting fair benefit sharing and biodiversity conservation.The funds will be distributed through State Biodiversity Boards to three Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) — Sakharwadi (Satara), Kunjirwadi (Pune), and Kasganj (Etah), each receiving ₹45.50 lakh.The release represents an Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) payment from a commercial entity that utilized microorganisms for producing Fructo-oligosaccharides products. This initiative supports India’s National Biodiversity Target 13 under the NBSAP 2024–2030, aligning with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (CoP-15) to ensure conservation and community prosperity.