Daily GK Update- 27th Jan, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Signing of DPIIT MoU with Bhaane Group to promote startup ecosystem in manufacturing sector: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed a MoU with the Bhaane Group, a subsidiary of Shahi Exports Pvt Ltd, the largest manufacturer of apparel.This collaboration will launch incubation programs for startups specialising in manufacturing, along with other production areas and foster relationships with international startup ecosystems.The private firm will support upcoming startups by providing access to market insights. The firm will facilitate them to create a holistic understanding of the workings of foreign markets, along with guidance on operational knowledge throughout the startup lifecycle.This collaboration serves a greater good – to nurture a thriving entrepreneurial spirit and strengthen India’s manufacturing landscape.

 

2. Unused Cess Funds for Construction Workers in India: The issue of unutilised cess funds for construction workers has gained attention following a Right to Information (RTI) response from the Union Labour Ministry. The response revealed that welfare boards across various states have failed to allocate amount of cess collected from employers, amounting to ₹70,744.16 crore. This situation raises concerns regarding the welfare of millions of construction workers in India. The utilisation of cess funds has been alarmingly low. For example, Maharashtra has collected ₹19,489.25 crore in cess over 19 years but has allocated only ₹13,683.18 crore. This discrepancy suggests possible cess evasion by builders and employers. The lack of accurate data on construction projects further complicates the situation.

 

3. Study on Effectiveness of New MGNREGS Wage  Payment System: The Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) has been a focal point of discussion in India since its mandatory implementation for wage payments under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) from January 1, 2024. This system aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in wage disbursement. However, recent studies have raised concerns about its effectiveness compared to traditional bank account methods. A study published in the Indian Journal of Labour Economics analysed over 3 crore MGNREGA transactions. It found no difference in timely wage payments between ABPS and traditional bank methods. About 39% of ABPS payments were processed within seven days, compared to 36% for bank accounts. Payment rejection rates were also similar, with 2.1% for ABPS and 2.85% for traditional accounts.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Increasing Frequency of Multi-Year Droughts Worldwide: Multi-year droughts (MYDs) are increasingly common and severe, as brought into light by a recent 40-year study. The research indicates that these droughts have expanded globally, impacting ecosystems and water supplies. This trend is linked to climate change, which exacerbates drought conditions. The study, conducted by a consortium of researchers from various institutions, analysed data from 1980 to 2018. The research showed that the global land area affected by MYDs has increased by approximately 50,000 square kilometres annually. The most affected regions include temperate grasslands. The study identified the ten most severe MYDs across various continents, with notable occurrences in central Chile, the western United States, and parts of Australia.

 

2. US Immigration Policy and Indian Deportations in 2025: Recently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed irregular immigration with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. This meeting brought into light the ongoing issue of undocumented Indian immigrants in the US. As of late 2024, there were over 20,000 undocumented Indians facing deportation. This article explores the deportation process, appeals, costs, and the increasing trend of deportations of Indian nationals. Non-citizens facing deportation may appeal if they express a fear of persecution or wish to apply for asylum. Asylum provides a legal foothold in the US. If a credible fear is established, the individual enters formal removal proceedings, allowing for a more thorough review.

 

3. Cyanobacteria Research in Lake Victoria’s  Winam Gulf: Recent research has focused on the genetic survey of cyanobacteria in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria, Kenya. This study, published in January 2025, is crucial for understanding harmful algal blooms (cyanoHAB) in freshwater ecosystems. The findings are expected to aid local authorities in tracking these blooms and provide insights applicable to other regions like Lake Erie in the United States. Metagenomic analysis showed that cyanobacteria in the Winam Gulf employ various survival strategies. They utilise biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) to adapt to changing environmental conditions. The diversity of these BGCs in the Gulf is comparable to those found in western Lake Erie, indicating similar adaptive mechanisms.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Sarvekshak Completes Hydrographic Survey in Mauritius: The Indian Navy’s INS Sarvekshak has successfully concluded a major hydrographic survey in Mauritius. This survey covered over 25,000 square nautical miles. The formal handover of the survey results took place on January 23, 2025. High Commissioner of India to Mauritius, Anurag Srivastava, presented the fair sheet and nautical charts to President Dharambeer Gokhool. This event marks milestone in India-Mauritius maritime cooperation. INS Sarvekshak is equipped with advanced hydrographic survey tools. These include sonar systems and various survey boats. The ship also houses a helicopter and a Bofors 40 mm gun. Its operational versatility enhances its role in maritime surveys and security.

 

2. SANJAY Battlefield Surveillance System: The SANJAY system was recently launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025. This Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army. It integrates ground and aerial battlefield sensors to create a comprehensive surveillance picture. This innovation marks advancement in military technology. The induction of SANJAY into the Indian Army will occur in three phases from March to October 2025. It will be deployed across all operational brigades, divisions, and corps. This timeline has been designated as the ‘Year of Reforms’ by the Ministry of Defence. Effective surveillance is crucial for understanding terrain, infrastructure, and troop placements. SANJAY provides a unified platform for data collection and analysis, facilitating rapid response to threats. It transforms how commanders engage with both conventional and sub-conventional operations.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Microplastics Impact Brain Function and Blood Circulation: Recent studies have revealed alarming vital information about the effects of microplastics on brain function. Research published in *Science Advances* indicates that microplastics may obstruct blood circulation, leading to impaired cognitive abilities. These findings stem from experiments conducted on mice, denoting the urgent need to understand the implications for human health. The study used advanced imaging techniques to observe microplastics in the mouse brain. Researchers tracked the movement of these particles in real-time. They found microplastics lodged in the blood vessels of the cerebral cortex, which is crucial for cognitive functions. Immune cells were seen engulfing the microplastics, causing blood vessel obstruction and impairing blood flow.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Kotak Mahindra Bank acquires StanChart’s Rs 3,330-cr personal loan portfolio: Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) has concluded a deal to purchase a personal loan portfolio of Rs 3,330 crore from Standard Chartered Bank, less than Rs 4,100 crore indicated at time of deal announcement in October 2024 as many customers paid-off loans in between.The personal loans are part of unsecured retail advances. The unsecured retail loans including retail microcredit had 10.5 per cent share in net advances of KMB at end of December 2024.

 

2. IDFC FIRST Bank Launches all new FIRST EARN RuPay Credit Card: IDFC FIRST Bank, in partnership with RuPay, a global card payment network from India, has launched the UPI enabled RuPay Credit Card called – FIRST EARN .This credit card is backed by Fixed Deposit and hence everyone is eligible to instantly avail this unique credit card, online. It also offers cashback on UPI payments thus making the product rewarding for users.This UPI-enabled virtual credit card is designed to make transactions both convenient and highly rewarding for cardholders.

 

3. Tata AIA Life Insurance launches ‘Shubh Muhurat’ to meet wedding expenses: Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched ‘Shubh Muhurat,’ a life insurance solution designed to help families prepare financially for weddings, a major life milestone in India.The plan aims to address the rising costs of weddings by combining disciplined savings, wealth creation, and financial security.

India’s wedding industry, the second largest globally, hosted over 80 lakh weddings in 2024, with expenditures exceeding ₹10.7 lakh crore, according to a report by Jefferies. The average wedding cost of ₹12.5 lakh often surpasses expenses on education.Recognising this financial burden, Tata AIA’s new offering targets parents aged 31-50 years with children between 1-20 years, encouraging long-term financial planning.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Recent Award: 

· Gates-Cambridge Impact Prize 2025 – Prof Urbasi Sinha

· Singapore’ Honorary Citizen Award – Tarun Das (Former DG of Confederation of Indian Industry)

· 14th PSE Excellence Awards by ICC – Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA)

· Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi’ award for leadership – External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar

· Bhutan’s royal honour – Renowned Indian educationist Arun Kapur

 

 

Daily GK Update- 26th Jan, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Unused Cess Funds for Construction Workers in India: The issue of unutilised cess funds for construction workers has gained attention following a Right to Information (RTI) response from the Union Labour Ministry. The response revealed that welfare boards across various states have failed to allocate amount of cess collected from employers, amounting to ₹70,744.16 crore. This situation raises concerns regarding the welfare of millions of construction workers in India. The utilisation of cess funds has been alarmingly low. For example, Maharashtra has collected ₹19,489.25 crore in cess over 19 years but has allocated only ₹13,683.18 crore. This discrepancy suggests possible cess evasion by builders and employers. The lack of accurate data on construction projects further complicates the situation.

 

Forest Fires in India: Forest fires in India have reached alarming levels. Recent data reveals that over five fire seasons, the country faced more than 1.1 million incidents. The period from November to June sees a surge in these fires, impacting ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities. As global attention shifts to wildfires in places like Los Angeles, India grapples with its own silent crisis. Several factors contribute to the increasing frequency of forest fires. Unsustainable exploitation of resources and rising human activities are threats. The collection of tendu leaves and mahua flowers in central and eastern India is a major cause. Shifting cultivation practices also affect around 4.35 million hectares of forest land. While fire can play a natural role in forest regeneration, the negative consequences often overshadow these benefits.

 

India Faces Water Storage Decline: Recent reports indicate decline in water storage across major reservoirs in India. The Central Water Commission (CWC) has brought into light that water levels have decreased for the twelfth consecutive week. This decline is attributed to deficient post-monsoon and winter rainfall affecting a large portion of the country. Current data shows that the total storage in 155 major reservoirs has fallen to 66 per cent of their total capacity. This situation raises concerns about water availability for various sectors. As of now, the water storage in the major reservoirs stands at 119.505 billion cubic metres (BCM) out of a total capacity of 180.852 BCM. This figure is higher than last year’s storage levels and the average of the past decade. However, the ongoing deficiency in rainfall poses a serious threat to future water supply.

 

Madhya Pradesh Enforces Liquor Ban in Religious Towns: Madhya Pradesh has recently taken step towards prohibition by banning liquor sales in 17 religious towns. This decision, announced by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, coincides with the 300th birth anniversary of the revered Maratha ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The towns affected include Ujjain, Orchha, and Maheshwar, among others. This move aims to address long-standing concerns regarding alcohol consumption in holy areas while navigating the complex socio-economic landscape of the state. Madhya Pradesh is home to traditional brewing practices, particularly among tribal communities. Many view prohibition as an infringement on their cultural identity and livelihood. This resistance poses a challenge to the state’s efforts to enforce a blanket ban on alcohol sales. Political leaders must balance the cultural significance of local practices with the objectives of public health and safety.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Increasing Frequency of Multi-Year Droughts Worldwide: Multi-year droughts (MYDs) are increasingly common and severe, as brought into light by a recent 40-year study. The research indicates that these droughts have expanded globally, impacting ecosystems and water supplies. This trend is linked to climate change, which exacerbates drought conditions. The study, conducted by a consortium of researchers from various institutions, analysed data from 1980 to 2018. The research showed that the global land area affected by MYDs has increased by approximately 50,000 square kilometres annually. The most affected regions include temperate grasslands. The study identified the ten most severe MYDs across various continents, with notable occurrences in central Chile, the western United States, and parts of Australia.

 

UNICEF Report on Climate-Related School Disruptions: Recently, the United Nations Children’s Agency, UNICEF, released report titled “Learning Interrupted – Global Snapshot of Climate-Related School Disruptions in 2024.” This report marks that at least 242 million students globally faced disruptions in their  education due to climate events throughout 2024. This figure is considered conservative due to data limitations. The report spans 85 countries and identifies 119 distinct climate hazards that led to these disruptions. UNICEF’s report stresses that children are particularly vulnerable to weather-related crises. Approximately one billion children live in countries facing extremely high risks from climate and environmental shocks. The report puts stress on the urgent need for action to protect children’s education from the escalating impacts of climate change.

 

Tamil Nadu’s Iron Age Discovery Reshapes Global Metallurgical History: Recent archaeological findings have reshaped our understanding of the Iron Age in India. A new study indicates that iron technology in Tamil Nadu dates back to the early 4th millennium BCE. This discovery challenges previous beliefs that placed the onset of the Iron Age in India between 1500 and 2000 BCE. Traditionally, the origins of iron technology have been attributed to the Hittite Empire around 1300 BCE. The Tamil Nadu findings challenge this notion, indicating that advanced iron smelting occurred much earlier in South India. Experts believe this could lead to a reassessment of other archaeological sites, including those from the Harappan civilization.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

INS Sarvekshak Completes Hydrographic Survey in Mauritius: The Indian Navy’s INS Sarvekshak has successfully concluded a major hydrographic survey in Mauritius. This survey covered over 25,000 square nautical miles. The formal handover of the survey results took place on January 23, 2025. High Commissioner of India to Mauritius, Anurag Srivastava, presented the fair sheet and nautical charts to President Dharambeer Gokhool. This event marks milestone in India-Mauritius maritime cooperation. INS Sarvekshak is equipped with advanced hydrographic survey tools. These include sonar systems and various survey boats. The ship also houses a helicopter and a Bofors 40 mm gun. Its operational versatility enhances its role in maritime surveys and security.

 

SANJAY Battlefield Surveillance System: The SANJAY system was recently launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025. This Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army. It integrates ground and aerial battlefield sensors to create a comprehensive surveillance picture. This innovation marks advancement in military technology. Effective surveillance is crucial for understanding terrain, infrastructure, and troop placements. SANJAY provides a unified platform for data collection and analysis, facilitating rapid response to threats. It transforms how commanders engage with both conventional and sub-conventional operations.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

Microplastics Impact Brain Function and Blood Circulation: Recent studies have revealed alarming vital information about the effects of microplastics on brain function. Research published in *Science Advances* indicates that microplastics may obstruct blood circulation, leading to impaired cognitive abilities. These findings stem from experiments conducted on mice, denoting the urgent need to understand the implications for human health. The study used advanced imaging techniques to observe microplastics in the mouse brain. Researchers tracked the movement of these particles in real-time. They found microplastics lodged in the blood vessels of the cerebral cortex, which is crucial for cognitive functions. Immune cells were seen engulfing the microplastics, causing blood vessel obstruction and impairing blood flow.

 

ISRO’s 100th Launch: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to mark milestone with its 100th launch. Scheduled for January 29, 2025, the GSLV-F15 mission will deploy the NVS-02 satellite from the  Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This mission enhances India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), an independent regional navigation satellite system. The initial IRNSS satellites faced issues, including malfunctioning atomic clocks. These challenges necessitated replacements before the end of their operational life. The new generation of satellites aims to address these issues. They are designed for a longer lifespan of 12 years. Despite criticisms regarding underutilisation of NavIC services, recent advancements have been made. The development of user receivers has progressed since 2017. New mobile devices are now capable of receiving NavIC signals, expanding its practical applications.

 

India To Launch First Human Underwater Submersible: Recently, India announced the launch of its first human underwater submersible by the end of 2025. This initiative aims to enhance the blue economy and is aligned with the country’s broader goals in space exploration, particularly the Gaganyaan mission. The submersible will initially operate at depths of up to 500 metres, with plans to reach 6,000 metres by the following year. While the mission faced delays due to the pandemic, there is optimism about its progress. The initiative reflects India’s determination and innovative spirit, positioning the nation as a leader in scientific exploration.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

Unified Lending Interface (ULI) Pilot: The Unified Lending Interface (ULI) was launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to streamline the lending process. Since its pilot inception in August 2023, ULI has facilitated the disbursement of ₹38,000 crore across 7.5 lakh loans. This platform aims to revolutionise credit delivery by connecting lenders with diverse data sources through a single interface. India’s embrace of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) facilitates transparency and efficiency across various sectors. ULI is important component of this infrastructure, aiming to break down data silos that hinder effective credit delivery. By integrating diverse data sources, ULI enhances the overall digital ecosystem for financial transactions.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 25th Jan, 2025

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Unused Cess Funds for Construction Workers in India: The issue of unutilised cess funds for construction workers has gained attention following a Right to Information (RTI) response from the Union Labour Ministry. The response revealed that welfare boards across various states have failed to allocate amount of cess collected from employers, amounting to ₹70,744.16 crore. This situation raises concerns regarding the welfare of millions of construction workers in India. The utilisation of cess funds has been alarmingly low. For example, Maharashtra has collected ₹19,489.25 crore in cess over 19 years but has allocated only ₹13,683.18 crore. This discrepancy suggests possible cess evasion by builders and employers. The lack of accurate data on construction projects further complicates the situation.

 

Forest Fires in India: Forest fires in India have reached alarming levels. Recent data reveals that over five fire seasons, the country faced more than 1.1 million incidents. The period from November to June sees a surge in these fires, impacting ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities. As global attention shifts to wildfires in places like Los Angeles, India grapples with its own silent crisis. Several factors contribute to the increasing frequency of forest fires. Unsustainable exploitation of resources and rising human activities are threats. The collection of tendu leaves and mahua flowers in central and eastern India is a major cause. Shifting cultivation practices also affect around 4.35 million hectares of forest land. While fire can play a natural role in forest regeneration, the negative consequences often overshadow these benefits.

 

India Faces Water Storage Decline: Recent reports indicate decline in water storage across major reservoirs in India. The Central Water Commission (CWC) has brought into light that water levels have decreased for the twelfth consecutive week. This decline is attributed to deficient post-monsoon and winter rainfall affecting a large portion of the country. Current data shows that the total storage in 155 major reservoirs has fallen to 66 per cent of their total capacity. This situation raises concerns about water availability for various sectors. As of now, the water storage in the major reservoirs stands at 119.505 billion cubic metres (BCM) out of a total capacity of 180.852 BCM. This figure is higher than last year’s storage levels and the average of the past decade. However, the ongoing deficiency in rainfall poses a serious threat to future water supply.

 

Madhya Pradesh Enforces Liquor Ban in Religious Towns: Madhya Pradesh has recently taken step towards prohibition by banning liquor sales in 17 religious towns. This decision, announced by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, coincides with the 300th birth anniversary of the revered Maratha ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The towns affected include Ujjain, Orchha, and Maheshwar, among others. This move aims to address long-standing concerns regarding alcohol consumption in holy areas while navigating the complex socio-economic landscape of the state. Madhya Pradesh is home to traditional brewing practices, particularly among tribal communities. Many view prohibition as an infringement on their cultural identity and livelihood. This resistance poses a challenge to the state’s efforts to enforce a blanket ban on alcohol sales. Political leaders must balance the cultural significance of local practices with the objectives of public health and safety.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Increasing Frequency of Multi-Year Droughts Worldwide: Multi-year droughts (MYDs) are increasingly common and severe, as brought into light by a recent 40-year study. The research indicates that these droughts have expanded globally, impacting ecosystems and water supplies. This trend is linked to climate change, which exacerbates drought conditions. The study, conducted by a consortium of researchers from various institutions, analysed data from 1980 to 2018. The research showed that the global land area affected by MYDs has increased by approximately 50,000 square kilometres annually. The most affected regions include temperate grasslands. The study identified the ten most severe MYDs across various continents, with notable occurrences in central Chile, the western United States, and parts of Australia.

 

UNICEF Report on Climate-Related School Disruptions: Recently, the United Nations Children’s Agency, UNICEF, released report titled “Learning Interrupted – Global Snapshot of Climate-Related School Disruptions in 2024.” This report marks that at least 242 million students globally faced disruptions in their  education due to climate events throughout 2024. This figure is considered conservative due to data limitations. The report spans 85 countries and identifies 119 distinct climate hazards that led to these disruptions. UNICEF’s report stresses that children are particularly vulnerable to weather-related crises. Approximately one billion children live in countries facing extremely high risks from climate and environmental shocks. The report puts stress on the urgent need for action to protect children’s education from the escalating impacts of climate change.

 

Tamil Nadu’s Iron Age Discovery Reshapes Global Metallurgical History: Recent archaeological findings have reshaped our understanding of the Iron Age in India. A new study indicates that iron technology in Tamil Nadu dates back to the early 4th millennium BCE. This discovery challenges previous beliefs that placed the onset of the Iron Age in India between 1500 and 2000 BCE. Traditionally, the origins of iron technology have been attributed to the Hittite Empire around 1300 BCE. The Tamil Nadu findings challenge this notion, indicating that advanced iron smelting occurred much earlier in South India. Experts believe this could lead to a reassessment of other archaeological sites, including those from the Harappan civilization.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

INS Sarvekshak Completes Hydrographic Survey in Mauritius: The Indian Navy’s INS Sarvekshak has successfully concluded a major hydrographic survey in Mauritius. This survey covered over 25,000 square nautical miles. The formal handover of the survey results took place on January 23, 2025. High Commissioner of India to Mauritius, Anurag Srivastava, presented the fair sheet and nautical charts to President Dharambeer Gokhool. This event marks milestone in India-Mauritius maritime cooperation. INS Sarvekshak is equipped with advanced hydrographic survey tools. These include sonar systems and various survey boats. The ship also houses a helicopter and a Bofors 40 mm gun. Its operational versatility enhances its role in maritime surveys and security.

 

SANJAY Battlefield Surveillance System: The SANJAY system was recently launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 24, 2025. This Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army. It integrates ground and aerial battlefield sensors to create a comprehensive surveillance picture. This innovation marks advancement in military technology. Effective surveillance is crucial for understanding terrain, infrastructure, and troop placements. SANJAY provides a unified platform for data collection and analysis, facilitating rapid response to threats. It transforms how commanders engage with both conventional and sub-conventional operations.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

Microplastics Impact Brain Function and Blood Circulation: Recent studies have revealed alarming vital information about the effects of microplastics on brain function. Research published in *Science Advances* indicates that microplastics may obstruct blood circulation, leading to impaired cognitive abilities. These findings stem from experiments conducted on mice, denoting the urgent need to understand the implications for human health. The study used advanced imaging techniques to observe microplastics in the mouse brain. Researchers tracked the movement of these particles in real-time. They found microplastics lodged in the blood vessels of the cerebral cortex, which is crucial for cognitive functions. Immune cells were seen engulfing the microplastics, causing blood vessel obstruction and impairing blood flow.

 

ISRO’s 100th Launch: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to mark milestone with its 100th launch. Scheduled for January 29, 2025, the GSLV-F15 mission will deploy the NVS-02 satellite from the  Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This mission enhances India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), an independent regional navigation satellite system. The initial IRNSS satellites faced issues, including malfunctioning atomic clocks. These challenges necessitated replacements before the end of their operational life. The new generation of satellites aims to address these issues. They are designed for a longer lifespan of 12 years. Despite criticisms regarding underutilisation of NavIC services, recent advancements have been made. The development of user receivers has progressed since 2017. New mobile devices are now capable of receiving NavIC signals, expanding its practical applications.

 

India To Launch First Human Underwater Submersible: Recently, India announced the launch of its first human underwater submersible by the end of 2025. This initiative aims to enhance the blue economy and is aligned with the country’s broader goals in space exploration, particularly the Gaganyaan mission. The submersible will initially operate at depths of up to 500 metres, with plans to reach 6,000 metres by the following year. While the mission faced delays due to the pandemic, there is optimism about its progress. The initiative reflects India’s determination and innovative spirit, positioning the nation as a leader in scientific exploration.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

Unified Lending Interface (ULI) Pilot: The Unified Lending Interface (ULI) was launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to streamline the lending process. Since its pilot inception in August 2023, ULI has facilitated the disbursement of ₹38,000 crore across 7.5 lakh loans. This platform aims to revolutionise credit delivery by connecting lenders with diverse data sources through a single interface. India’s embrace of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) facilitates transparency and efficiency across various sectors. ULI is important component of this infrastructure, aiming to break down data silos that hinder effective credit delivery. By integrating diverse data sources, ULI enhances the overall digital ecosystem for financial transactions.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 24th Jan, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 18th edition of Jaipur Literature Festival to begin from January 30: The 18th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the world’s largest literary event, will be held from 30 January to 3 February 2025.One of the key highlights of the festival is the prestigious Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Award for Poetry, which will honor eminent Hindi poet Badri Narayan. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2022 for his collection Tumdi ke Shabd.The 2025 edition will also explore the theme “Fractured World,” with sessions addressing current geopolitics, war and conflict, alongside topics like theatre, dance, music, cinema, sports, food, and climate change.

 

2. Cabinet approves MSP for Raw Jute for 2025-26 Season: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) of Raw Jute for Marketing season 2025-26.The MSP of Raw Jute (TD-3 grade) has been fixed at Rs.5,650/- per quintal for the 2025-26 seaso This would ensure a return of 66.8 per cent over the all-India weighted average cost of production.The approved MSP of raw jute for Marketing season 2025-26 is in line with the principle of fixing MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times all India weighted average cost of production as announced by the Government in the Budget 2018-19.

The MSP of Raw Jute for Marketing season 2025-26 is an increase of Rs.315/- per quintal over the previous Marketing season 2024-25.Government of India has increased MSP of Raw jute from Rs.2400 /-per quintal in 2014-15 to Rs.5,650/- per quintal in 2025-26, registering an increase of Rs. 3250/- per quintal (2.35 times).

 

3. ICSI elects Dhananjay Shukla as president for 2025: The Institute of Comapny Secretaries of India (ICSI) has elected Dhananjay Shukla as the president for 2025.He is a commerce and law graduate and a fellow of ICSI and is a practising company secretary in Gurugram.On the other hand, Pawan G Chandak has been appointed as the vice president for this, and he has a specialization in labour laws and labour welfare.

 

4. Reliance Power appoints Neeraj Parakh as CEO for three years: Reliance Power has appointed Neeraj Parakh as Chief Executive Officer. His appointment is effective for a period of three years.Parakh joined the Reliance Group in June 2004 as an additional manager in the Central Technical Services team at Reliance Infrastructure (Reliance Infra).

 

5. 23 January – Parakram Diwas: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, also known as ‘Parakram Diwas’ or Courage Day, is celebrated annually on 23 January to honour one of India’s most prominent freedom fighters, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. This year marks the 128th birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose.From establishing and leading the Indian National Army to forming alliances against the British during World War II, Netaji was among the key figures to lay the foundation for the modern Indian state.Born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhas Chandra Bose was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. Growing up, he was a bright student who completed his BA in Philosophy from the Presidency College in Calcutta (today known as Kolkata). His father also sent him to England to appear for the Civil Services Examination. He scored the highest marks in English and placed fourth overall.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Maharashtra secures 54 MoUs worth ₹15.70 lakh crore at WEF Davos 2025: Maharashtra government has signed 54 MoUs worth 15.70 lakh crore rupees during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos.These agreements are expected to generate approximately 16 lakh jobs across various sectors. One of the key agreements involves MSN Holdings Ltd, which plans to establish an advanced lithium battery and cell manufacturing project under the state’s ‘Ultra Mega Project’ initiative.The project, requiring an investment of 14,652 crore rupees, aims to create 8,760 direct and indirect jobs, with a focus on development in the Vidarbha region.The largest MoU signed is with Reliance Group, which has committed 3.05 lakh crore rupees for investments across petrochemicals, polyester, renewable energy, bioenergy, green hydrogen, retail, telecommunications, data centres, hospitality, and real estate.

 

2. Accenture, TCS, Infosys, HCLTech top 2025 Brand Finance IT Services ranking: India has secured the second position, contributing 36 per cent of the total brand value, a significant achievement fuelled by a 14 per cent increase in brand value, according to Brand Finance 2025 ranking. India follows the US, which maintains its dominant position in IT services brand value, holding 40 per cent of the total brand value.The collective brand value of the top 25 IT Services brands stands at $163 billion in 2025. 15 out of the top 25 brands have seen an increase in their brand values, underscoring the continued importance of IT services in the ever-evolving digital landscape.While Accenture leads the list, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) retains its position as the world’s second most valuable IT services brand for the fourth consecutive year. Its brand value rose 11 per cent to $21.3 billion.Accenture’s brand value soared 2 per cent to $41.5 billion, as it led as the world’s most valuable IT services brand for the seventh year running.

 

3. India ranked 4th on the Global Firepower Index 2025: India has been ranked as having the 4th most powerful military in the world after the United States of America, Russia and China by the Global Firepower Index 2025.Bhutan was ranked at the bottom of the index at 145th position. Pakistan which was ranked 9th in 2024 dropped to 12th position in the 2025 ranking.The Global Firepower Index has been released by a website Globalfirepower.com annually since 2006.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Mahesh Kr Aggarwal appointed as DG of Border Security Force: Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal has been appointed as the Director general of Border Security Force (BSF).The 1994-Batch IPS officer belonging to the Tamil Nadu cadre will be posted as Additional Director-General of Police, BSF, for four years.As ADGP, Mr Aggarwal had served as Commissioner of Police, Chennai, and headed the Operations, Enforcement Bureau and Armed Police units where he launched various schemes, including Drive Against Drugs and Kaaval Karangal. He had also launched a slew of police welfare schemes.

 

2. SSB chief Amrit Mohan to hold additional charge as BCAS DG: The Central government has entrusted Amrit Mohan Prasad, the Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), with the additional charge of Director General, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).The charge was given to Prasad months after BCAS DG Zulfiqar Hasan retired on October 31 last year.Prasad, a 1989-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, has been given the additional charge for six months with effect from November 1, 2024, or till the joining of the regular incumbent or until further orders, whichever is the earliest.Reorganised into an independent department on April 1, 1987, under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, BCAS is the regulatory authority for civil aviation security in India.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Gujarat to host 1st Olympic Research Conference: India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympics has taken a significant step forward, as officials from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and experts from diverse fields gather in Gujarat for a pivotal four-day event.The event will be held at Gandhinagar-based Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) campus.This meeting, organized in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, focuses on developing strategies and innovative economic models to build sustainable sports infrastructure, essential for positioning India as a strong contender for hosting the prestigious global event.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DPIIT partners with Apna to boost startup talent and create job opportunities for youth: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Apna, the country’s jobs and professional networking platform, have entered into an alliance for a talent hunt to equip DPIIT-registered startups with highly skilled manpower thus creating new job opportunities for the unemployed youth.The partnership formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), brings a monetary value of Rs 2000 per entity registered on the Bharat Startup Registry (Bhaskar) platform in hiring credits on Apna’s platform for each of the 7,00,000 entities. This is currently going to be valued at Rs 140 crore.In the country, currently, there are over 1.59 lakh startups recognised by the DPIIT as of January 15, 2025, India has firmly established itself as the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. As per government data, this vibrant ecosystem, driven by over 100 unicorns, continues to redefine innovation and entrepreneurship on the global stage.

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. TATA AIG Introduces CyberEdge, A Cyber Insurance Solution for Businesses: TATA AIG General Insurance Company has unveiled CyberEdge, a cutting-edge cyber insurance solution designed to protect Indian businesses from the growing threat of cyberattacks.Catering to organizations of all sizes, the policy provides financial and operational support, covering areas such as forensic investigations, legal expenses, data recovery, extortion payments, and business interruption losses.With the cyber insurance market rapidly expanding, TATA AIG aims to capture a 25% market share within five years. The launch comes in response to the alarming rise in cyber incidents; a report by Prahar revealed 79 million cyberattacks in India in 2023, with predictions of a surge to 1 trillion annually by 2033.

 

2. Indian economy projected to grow in range of 6.5-6.8% in FY25: Deloitte: Deloitte India has projected India’s GDP to grow at 6.5-6.8 per cent in the current fiscal and said India will have to adapt to the evolving global landscape and harness its domestic strengths to drive sustainable growth.In its Economic Outlook report, Deloitte India also said the country needs to decouple from global uncertainties and harness its domestic potential.

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 23rd Jan, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre launches ‘Entity Locker’ for efficient business document management: Building on the success of DigiLocker, the government has introduced ‘Entity Locker,’ a new digital platform aimed at streamlining the management and verification of business and organizational documents.Developed by the National eGovernance Division (NeGD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), this secure, cloud-based platform caters to a diverse range of entities, including corporations, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), trusts, startups, and societies.Entity Locker leverages advanced technology to seamlessly integrate with various government and regulatory systems. Key features include real-time access to government databases, consent-based mechanisms for secure information sharing, Aadhaar-authenticated role-based access, and legally valid digital signatures. Users are also provided with 10 GB of encrypted cloud storage for secure document handling.

 

2. 3rd National Mining Ministers Conference in Konark, Odisha: The third National Mining Ministers Conference concluded in Konark, Odisha, focusing on critical minerals mining. Rajasthan won the award for outstanding contribution in conducting the highest number of auctions in 2023-24.The main aim of the Conference was to bring together the central government, state government, and the industry related to the mining sector to discuss ways to make India self-sufficient in the mineral sector, especially critical minerals, and promote sustainable mining in the country.The first National Mining Ministers Conference was held in Hyderabad, Telangana in September 2022, and the 2nd National Mining Ministers Conference was held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh in January 2024.The National Mining Ministers Conference was organised by the Union Ministry of Mines in collaboration with the Odisha state government.

 

3. National Broadband Mission 2.0 aims to expand fiber to 2.7 lakh villages by 2030: The Department of Telecommunications launched the vision document for the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, a follow-up to the previous NBM released in December 2019.The growth of broadband subscriptions “serves as the fulcrum, the foundation, and the basis for the launch of NBM 2.0”.The goals of the new NBM include improved fiberisation in rural areas, faster-fixed internet speeds, and improving right-of-way for telecom infrastructure.The Mission aims to expand “operational” fiber connectivity to 2.7 lakh villages by 2030, from 50,000 now. 90% of “anchor institutions” like schools, anganwadis, public health centres, and panchayat offices should be connected through fiber by then as well, the Mission says. The share of rural Indians who are subscribers should also grow from 45% to 60% by then.

 

4. Chhattisgarh CM launches scheme to provide Rs 10K annual aid to labourers: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has launched ‘Deendayal Upadhyay Bhoomiheen Krishi Majdoor Kalyana Yojana’ in Raipur.Under this scheme, more than 5.62 lakh landless agricultural labourers, Baigas and Gunias of the state will be given financial assistance of Rs 10,000 annually.Under this, an amount of more than Rs 562 crores was released to the beneficiaries of the scheme.The Chief Minister also participated in the ‘Nagar Vikas Ke Sopan’ program in Raipur and laid the foundation stone of 813 works worth Rs 155.38 crore.

 

5. Alok Kumar Agarwal appointed CEO of Zurich Kotak General Insurance: Zurich Kotak General Insurance has appointed Alok Kumar Agarwal as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the company.He succeeds Suresh Agarwal.Agarwal brings over two decades of experience from ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company, where he held multiple leadership roles across corporate, SME, crop, and retail business segments during his 22-year tenure.The development follows Zurich Insurance Group’s strategic acquisition of a majority stake in Kotak Mahindra General Insurance Company in June 2024.

 

6. Tripura, Meghalaya, Manipur celebrate 53rd Statehood Day: Every year on January 21, the northeastern states of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura celebrate their Statehood Day, marking the historic moment they attained full statehood under the North Eastern Region (Reorganization) Act of 1971. This momentous occasion reflects the evolution of these regions into integral and empowered states within the Union of India.This day is not just a commemoration of their statehood but also a reflection of their rich history, cultural vibrancy, and contributions to India’s identity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India ranks 7th in global coffee production as exports hit $1.29 billion: India has emerged as the world’s seventh-largest coffee producer, with exports reaching $1.29 billion in FY 2023-24, almost double the $719.42 million recorded in 2020-21, according to the Commerce Ministry.In the first half of January 2025, India exported over 9,300 tonnes of coffee with top buyers including Italy, Belgium, and Russia. Approximately three-fourths of India’s coffee production consists of Arabica and Robusta beans. These are primarily exported as unroasted beans. However, there is a growing demand for value-added products like roasted and instant coffee, further fueling the export boom.Domestic consumption has increased from 84,000 tonnes in 2012 to 91,000 tonnes in 2023. India’s coffee is primarily grown in the ecologically rich Western and Eastern Ghats, areas famous for their biodiversity.

 

2. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates International Seminar: Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated a two-day international seminar on “Formalization and Social Security Coverage for Workers in the Informal Sector: Challenges and Innovations” in New Delhi.He also launched the coffee table book “Social Protection in India” which highlights India’s journey in ensuring social protection for its citizens through various social welfare schemes.This international dialogue was organized by the Ministry of Labour and Employment of India, in collaboration with the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and International Social Security Association (ISSA) at the Yashobhoomi – India International Convention and Expo Center.

3. Odisha, Singapore sign MoU to establish FinTech hub in Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha’s Electronics and IT Department and Singapore’s Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) signed an MoU to establish a Global Competency Centre in Bhubaneshwar to foster FinTech collaboration, with a focus on developing an inclusive and sustainable InsureTech and related areas.The initiative marks another positive step commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore in 2025.Odisha aims to leverage global expertise and resources to drive innovation and create tailored Fintech solutions. It is establishing incubation centres, promoting collaborations with academia and industry, and enhancing financial accessibility.

 

4. Trump orders US exit from World Health Organization: United States President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on his very first day in office.The order said the reasons for withdrawing were WHO’s “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic”, “failure to adopt urgently needed reforms”, “inability to demonstrate independence from the inappropriate political influence of WHO member states”, and for continued demand of “unfairly onerous payments from the United States.”During the 2024-25 budget cycle, US contributions came to $662 million, or 19% of the agency’s total revenue, according to the WHO.The WHO is a UN body working on global health. It works with countries to strengthen their primary health care, its guidelines help prepare government policies, and it helps organise programmes to tackle specific diseases.

 

5. Trump Withdraws US from Paris Agreement: The United States will once again withdraw from the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change after Donald Trump assumed office for his second term as President.Trump had pulled the US out of the Paris Agreement during his first term as well, but his successor Joe Biden had got back in four years later.Adopted in 2015, the Paris Agreement is a global accord aimed at limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C.The agreement encourages countries to set and achieve their own emission reduction targets, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).The US is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions. Its decision to extract, use and export more fossil fuels could negate even this 2 per cent reduction.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Inaugurates Bailey Bridges Over Shyok River: The Indian Army has recently inaugurated two bailey bridges over the Shyok River in Ladakh. This development enhances connectivity between the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The inauguration took place near Shatse Taknak in the Diskit sub-division of Leh, under the supervision of Brigadier V S Salaria. The bridges, constructed by the Fire and Fury Corps Engineers, aim to improve access for local communities, especially during harsh winter months. The Shyok Valley widens at the confluence with the Nubra River but narrows into a gorge near Yagulung. It continues through various villages before crossing into Baltistan. The valley’s geography, including its junction with the Saltoro River, adds to its significance in the region.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Eritrea’s Berhane Tesfay, and Kenya’s Joyce Chepkemoi Tele win Mumbai Marathon 2025: Eritrea’s Berhane Tesfay and Kenya’s Joyce Chepkemoi Tele won the men’s and women’s elite races, respectively, at the Mumbai Marathon 2025.Berhane Tesfay claimed his maiden international full marathon title after clocking 2:11:44 to win the men’s race while Joyce Chepkemoi Tele finished with a time of 2:24:56 to bag the women’s elite crown.In fact, runners from Eritrea claimed the top two spots in the men’s elite race. Merhawi Kesete (2:11:50) finished second behind compatriot Tesfay while Ethiopia’s Tesfaye Demeke (2:11:56s) came in third.In the women’s elite race, Bahrain’s Shitaye Eshete finished in second spot behind Tele with atime of 2:25:29. Ethiopia’s Medina Deme Armino was third after crossing the finish line in 2:27:58.

 

2. Kochi hosts 7th edition of India Boat & Marine Show: The 7th edition of the India Boat & Marine Show (IBMS) was held at Bolgatty Palace Event Centre, Kochi.The event is supported and endorsed by K-BIP of the Kerala government, NSIC, Kochi Water Metro, Kerala Tourism, Indian Coast Guard, Southern Naval Command, Kerala Maritime Board, CIFT and Fisheries Department.

Kochi has become a hub for ship repair and shipbuilding with the new projects being commissioned at CSL. The projects will not only boost infrastructure but will also provide employment and support MSMEs.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Gaganyaan: LPSC Delivers Crew Module’s Liquid Propulsion System: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is advancing its Gaganyaan project, which aims to establish human spaceflight capabilities. As of January 22, 2025, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) has successfully integrated the Crew Module’s liquid propulsion system and dispatched it for the first uncrewed mission, Gaganyaan (G1). This mission is a critical step towards sending a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km orbit for a three-day mission. Before the crewed mission, ISRO plans several precursor missions to test and validate technologies. These include the Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT) and Pad Abort Test (PAT). Safety and reliability will be proven through unmanned missions, ensuring all systems are robust before human involvement.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI announces Standing External Advisory Committee for evaluating Applications forUniversal Banks and Small Finance Banks: The Reserve Bank of India has announced the names of the members of the Standing External Advisory Committee (SEAC) for evaluating applications for Universal Banks as well as Small Finance Banks. The tenure of the SEAC will be for three years.K. Jain, former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, will be the Chairperson of the committee. Revathy Iyer, Director, Central Board, RBI, Parvathy V. Sundaram, former Executive Director, RBI, Hemant G. Contractor, former MD, SBI and former Chairman, PFRDA and N. S. Kannan, former MD & CEO, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd will be the members of the SEAC.The secretarial support to the committee would be provided by the Department of Regulation, Reserve Bank of India.

 

2. Bajaj Finance, Airtel collab to launch digital financial services platform: Bajaj Finance has entered into a partnership with Bharti Airtel to create a digital platform for financial services.With this pact, the telecom company will progressively offer most of the non-banking financial company’s (NBFC’s) retail financial offerings to all its 370 million customers.The platform will service 375 million customers and the over 1.2 million strong distribution network of Airtel through Bajaj Finance’s diversified suite of 27 product lines. It will use the distribution heft of more than 5,000 branches and 70,000 field agents.Airtel will initially offer Bajaj Finance’s retail financial products on its Airtel Thanks App. This is for seamless and secure customer experience, and later through its nationwide network of stores.

 

3. Recent MoUs Signed in Banking Sector: PNB MetLife partners with Saraswat Co-operative Bank to offer insurance solutionsSuryoday Small Finance Bank partnered with Tata Digital to extend its fixed deposit (FD) offerings via the Tata Neu platform.PhonePe partners with ICICI Lombard to offer Maha Kumbh Mela insuranceTata Power, Canara Bank partner to offer loans for rooftop solar systemsM2P Fintech Collaborates with SBI to Revolutionise Prepaid Payment Solutions Magma HDI General Insurance Partners with IndoStar Capital Finance to Expand Insurance Accessibility