Daily GK Update- 26th Apr, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tripura Launches Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav 2025 to Celebrate Indigenous Culture: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated the Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav 2025, a two-day cultural celebration held at Swami Vivekananda Maidan in Agartala.Organised by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with local bodies, the festival celebrates the rich cultural traditions of Tripura—particularly the Garia Puja observed by the Tripuri and Reang communities.Garia Puja is a sacred ritual dedicated to Lord Mahadev (Shiva) and is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to the people.

 

2. Action Plan 2025 for the River Cities Alliance: Reently, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has approved a national plan for the River Cities Alliance (RCA). This plan lays out clear steps to be taken throughout the year. It includes training programs, sharing of ideas, creating technical tools, expert advice, and case studies — all aimed at helping India’s cities grow while efficiently managing their rivers. The River Cities Alliance (RCA) is initiative aimed at promoting sustainable urban river management in India. Established in 2021, it is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The RCA currently comprises 145 cities, focusing on integrating river-sensitive urban planning into urban development.

 

3. Krishna River Faces Severe Drought Issues: The river has started drying up earlier than usual, impacting agriculture and drinking water supply in the region. The situation has prompted urgent appeals for water releases from neighbouring Maharashtra. The Krishna River is one of India’s longest rivers, spanning approximately 1,400 kilometres. It plays important role in supporting agriculture and ecosystems across western and southern India. The river’s basin is predominantly agricultural, with 75.86% of the area cultivated. Drought has become a pressing issue, particularly in Kalyan Karnataka. The river’s drying up in April has devastated crops.  Although drinking water is supplied by the government, the agricultural crisis remains dire.

 

4. Similipal National Park: Similipal was initially proposed for national park status in 1980. The area has a rich biodiversity, including numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The region was previously designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975. The long-awaited national park status is seen as a very important moment in Odisha’s conservation history. Similipal is home to 55 species of mammals, 361 species of birds, 62 species of reptiles, and 21 species of amphibians. The park encompasses portion of the Similipal Tiger Reserve, which covers 2,750 square kilometres. The core critical tiger habitat was notified in 2007, covering 1,194.75 square kilometres.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NIFTEM-Kundli hosts the 2nd edition of SUFALAM 2025: The National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM), hosted the second edition of SUFALAM (Start-Up Forum for Aspiring Leaders and Mentors) 2025 on its campus in Kundli, Sonipat, Haryana.The Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Chirag Paswan, inaugurated the 2nd edition of SUFALAM 2025 on 25th April 2025.The SUFALAM conclave aims to strengthen India’s food processing sector through innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration.

 

2. South Asian Tree Shrews: Recent research by the Zoological Survey of India has transformed the understanding of South Asian tree shrews. This study, published in the journal Ecology and Evolution, challenges previous classifications and marks the need for targeted conservation efforts. It uncovered morphological distinctions among these small mammals, which have often been misidentified due to their resemblance to other species. Tree shrews belong to the order Scandentia. They are not true shrews or squirrels. These mammals possess unique features such as elongated snouts and moist nasal pads. Their diet primarily consists of insects and fruits. Tree shrews play a vital role in forest ecosystems as seed dispersers and insect predators.

 

3. Cholistan Canal Project: The Cholistan Canal Project is part of Pakistan’s Green Pakistan Initiative, aimed at transforming the Cholistan Desert into arable land. The project includes the construction of six canals to irrigate over 1.2 million acres in southern Punjab. It is expected to enhance food security, create jobs, and develop agricultural hubs. The project is backed by the Pakistan Army and aims to increase agricultural productivity. The project has faced backlash, particularly from the Sindh province. Sindh leaders argue that the canals violate the 1991 Water Apportionment Accord, which allocates water rights among provinces. The Sindh Assembly has passed resolutions opposing the project, denoting the growing inter-provincial tensions.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Surat Tests MRSAM: The MRSAM is a high-response missile system with a range of approximately 70 km. It employs dual guidance systems, which include command and active radar seeker technologies. The missile is capable of intercepting missiles, aircraft, guided bombs, and helicopters. Its features include a dual pulse solid motor and a proximity fuse for the warhead, ensuring effective engagement of targets. The successful test of the MRSAM by INS Surat marks a milestone in India’s naval capabilities. It marks the country’s progress in indigenous warship design and development. This achievement puts stress on India’s growing prowess in military technology.

 

2. India’s 5-Point Action Plan Post Pahalgam Terror Attack: In response to a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India has initiated retaliatory actions against Pakistan. The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including a foreign national, and has been linked to militant groups operating from Pakistan. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened to address the situation and announced a five-point action plan targeting Pakistan’s diplomatic and military presence. CCS meetings have been convened during critical events in India’s history, including wars and terrorist incidents. For instance, meetings were held during the Kargil conflict and the hijacking of IC 814. Such meetings are typically confidential, with details emerging later through memoirs and writings.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Lunar Nuclear Power Plant: China and Russia are collaborating on an ambitious project to establish a nuclear power plant on the Moon. This initiative aims to support the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a joint lunar research base. The ILRS is designed to enhance lunar exploration and facilitate long-term human presence on the Moon. Power supply is crucial for the ILRS. China and Russia are exploring various energy sources. Solar energy, radioisotope generators, and nuclear power are all potential options. Russia’s expertise in nuclear technology gives it a competitive edge. Plans include building a nuclear reactor on the Moon’s surface by 2035. This reactor will ensure a reliable energy source for the research station.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Sunil Mittal included in World Bank’s Private Sector Investment Lab: Chairperson of Bharti Enterprises, Sunil Bharti Mittal, has been included in the World Bank’s Private Sector Investment Lab initiative.The inclusion of Sunil Bharti Mittal and three other private sector chief executive officers (CEO) was announced by the World Bank at its meeting of the Private Sector Investment Lab in Washington, D.C.Bharti Enterprises becomes the second Indian company to be included in the Private Sector Initiative after Tata Sons.

 

2. World Bank lowers India’s FY26 growth forecast to 6.3%: The World Bank has lowered India’s growth forecast for the current fiscal by 4 percentage points to 6.3% amid global economic weakness and policy uncertainty.In its previous estimate, the World Bank had projected India’s growth at 6.7% for the fiscal year 2025-26.In India, growth in FY24/25 disappointed because of slower growth in private investment and public capital expenditures that did not meet government targets, the World Bank said in its twice-yearly regional outlook.

 

3. Finance Ministry Brings I4C Under PMLA: The Revenue Department, under the Ministry of Finance, has brought I4C under Section 66 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. This move will enable I4C to exchange information with the Enforcement Directorate and other law enforcement agencies, helping to trace and identify the masterminds behind cyber frauds. This partnership is vital for tracking money trails linked to cyber fraud. The ED can now initiate actions against offenders under the anti-money laundering law. This step is crucial as cyber frauds often involve complex financial networks.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dr K Kasturirangan: Born on October 24, 1940, in Ernakulam, Kerala, Dr Kasturirangan completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Physics from Bombay University. He earned his Doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy in 1971 from the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for his illustrious career in astrophysics. Dr Kasturirangan received numerous accolades for his contributions to science and education. He was awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India’s prestigious civilian honours.

 

Daily GK Update- 25th Apr, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi launches development works worth over Rs 13,480 crore in Madhubani: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated, laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 13,480 crore in Madhubani, Bihar on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day.PM laid the foundation stone of an LPG bottling plant with a rail unloading facility at Hathua in Gopalganj District of Bihar worth around Rs 340 crore.This will help in streamlining the supply chain and improving the efficiency of bulk LPG transportation.Boosting power infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 1,170 crore and also inaugurated multiple projects worth over Rs 5,030 crore in the power sector in Bihar under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme.

 

2. J P Nadda launches National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda has launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025–26, reaffirming India’s goal to eliminate both diseases by 2026, with multilingual awareness materials released across States and UTs.India currently has 93.7% first-dose and 92.2% second-dose MR vaccine coverage; 332 districts reported zero measles cases, and 487 districts reported zero rubella cases between Jan–Mar 2025, earning global recognition with the Measles and Rubella Champion Award in 2024.The campaign emphasises over 95% MR vaccine coverage in all districts, rapid outbreak response, robust surveillance through IDSP, and inter-departmental coordination with a strong focus on public awareness to counter vaccine hesitancy.

 

3. AIIMS Raipur successfully performs first swap kidney transplant: AIIMS Raipur has successfully performed its first Swap Kidney Transplant, also known as a Kidney Paired Transplant.With this achievement, AIIMS Raipur became the first among the newer AIIMS institutions and the first government hospital in Chhattisgarh to carry out this complex and life-saving procedure.This significant milestone underscores the institute’s commitment to advancing healthcare and providing innovative treatment solutions for patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease. It is estimated that Swap Kidney Transplant lead to a 15 per cent increase in the number of transplants.Recognising its potential, the National Organisation and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) has recommended for the implementation of Swap donor transplantation to all the states and Union Territories, which could increase the number of donors.

 

4. CCI Approves Bharat Forge’s 100% Acquisition of AAM India with Modifications, Including e-Axle Asset Transfer: The Competition Commission of India approved the acquisition of 100% equity shareholding of AAM India Manufacturing Corporation Pvt. Ltd. (AAMCPL) by Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), subject to voluntary modifications offered by the parties.BFL is a global manufacturer of forged components and critical solutions for sectors like automotive, defence, aerospace, oil & gas, and more. Its promoters (BNK Family) also have stakes in joint ventures with Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems (now part of Cummins Inc.).AAMCPL is engaged in the manufacture and sale of axles for commercial vehicles in India. Before the acquisition, certain business divisions (like the Pune IT office and export components business) will be hived off to affiliates of its parent company, AAM Holdco (USA).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India decides to suspend visa services to Pak nationals with immediate effect and more: Immediate suspension of visa services for Pakistani nationals: India has halted all visa services to Pakistanis and has asked those currently in India to leave within 48 hours.SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme suspended: The 1992 scheme that allowed special visas for 24 categories of dignitaries from SAARC countries, including Pakistan, has been suspended for Pakistani nationals.

 

2. Indus Water Treaty suspended: India has suspended the 1960 Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, demanding an end to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism.Closure of Attari Integrated Check Post (ICP): India has closed the Attari Land Port, the only land trade and movement route between India and Pakistan, halting bilateral trade and cross-border movement.Reduction in Pakistan High Commission staff: India will reduce the Pakistani diplomatic staff strength from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025. No Indian High Commissioner has been posted in Pakistan since 2019.

 

3. 24-30 April – World Immunization Week: World Immunization Week is observed globally from April 24th to 30th each year to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination in preventing deadly diseases.Theme 2025 – Immunization for All is Humanly PossibleThe goal of this week is to highlight the role of immunization in protecting people of all ages from preventable diseases and to encourage the use of vaccines to save lives.

 

4. 24 April 2025 – International Girls in ICT Day 2025: International Girls in ICT Day is observed every fourth Thursday of April, and in 2025, it falls on April 24.The day is celebrated to encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). It aims to bridge the gender digital divide and promote greater female participation in STEM fields.Theme 2025 – Girls in ICT for inclusive digital transformation

 

5. 24 April – International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace: International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is observed every year on 24 April.The day was designated by the UN General Assembly through resolution A/RES/73/127 in 2018, with the first observance on April 24, 2019.

 

6. 25 April – World Malaria Day: World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25th.Objective: To raise awareness about the global efforts to control and eliminate malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted through the bites of infected femaleAnopheles mosquitoes.Theme for 2025: Malaria ends with us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. M4 Carbine Assault Rifles: Recent events in Kashmir have brought into light the alarming use of M4 carbine assault rifles by terrorists. This pattern raises concerns regarding security in the region. The recent attack in Pahalgam, where gunmen armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s targeted tourists, has drawn attention to the origins of these American-made weapons. The M4 carbine is a lightweight, gas-operated firearm. It is a shorter and lighter version of the M16A2 rifle. The M4 has been in military service since 1994. It can fire between 700 and 950 rounds per minute, with an effective range of 500 to 600 metres. Its maximum range extends to 3,600 metres. This versatility makes it a preferred choice for modern military operations.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Mansukh Mandaviya Launches Issuance of Sports Certificates via DigiLocker: Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has launched digital issuance of sports certificates through DigiLocker, empowering athletes with easy and secure access to their achievements.The National Centre for Sports Science and Research (NCSSR) was inaugurated to become a hub for elite athlete performance research and innovation, supporting India’s long-term sporting goals.The DigiLocker initiative will integrate with the National Sports Repository System (NSRS) to enable Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of rewards without delay or paperwork for medal-winning athletes.

 

2. 2nd Asian Yogasana Championships to begin in New Delhi: The 2nd Asian Yogasana Championships began at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.The 3-day event by Yogasana Bharat, over 170 athletes from 21 Asian countries will participate, along with several technical officials and team managers and coaches.Yoga is all about connecting with yourself, and it plays an important part in creating balance in everyone’s life.

 

3. Indian Chess Grandmaster Koneru Humpy wins Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix: Indian Chess Grandmaster Koneru Humpy won the Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix with 7/9 points, defeating Nurgyul Salimova in the final round.Chinese Grandmaster Zhu Jiner also scored 7/9 points but finished 2nd due to tiebreaks, sharing Grand Prix points and prize money with Humpy.India’s International Master Divya Deshmukh drew with Alina Kashlinskaya, securing 3rd place with 5.5/9 points.

 

4.Golf: Inaugural India Championship joins 2025 race to Dubai: The DP World India Championship will debut at the historic Delhi Golf Club from October 16 to 19, 2025, co-sanctioned with the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), and will be part of the ‘Back 9’ series in the 2025 Race to Dubai.With a USD 4 million prize purse, the India Championship becomes the richest golf tournament ever held in India, highlighting the country’s rising prominence in global golf.The tournament will take place at the Lodhi Course at Delhi Golf Club, a course steeped in history, designed by Peter Thomson in 1977 and enhanced by Gary Player Design in 2019. It has hosted the inaugural Indian Open in 1964.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. South Asian Tree Shrews: Recent research by the Zoological Survey of India has transformed the understanding of South Asian tree shrews. This study, published in the journal Ecology and Evolution, challenges previous classifications and marks the need for targeted conservation efforts. It uncovered morphological distinctions among these small mammals, which have often been misidentified due to their resemblance to other species. Tree shrews belong to the order Scandentia. They are not true shrews or squirrels. These mammals possess unique features such as elongated snouts and moist nasal pads. Their diet primarily consists of insects and fruits. Tree shrews play a vital role in forest ecosystems as seed dispersers and insect predators.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NABARD buys 10% stake in 24×7 Moneyworks to boost rural credit digitization: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has acquired a 10 per cent stake in agri fintech startup 24×7 Moneyworks Consulting Pvt Ltd.This marks Nabard’s first-ever investment in a bootstrapped startup, reinforcing its commitment to digital transformation in rural India.24×7 Moneyworks Consulting Pvt. Ltd’s flagship platform, eKisanCredit (eKCC), is a fully digital loan origination system designed for Cooperative Banks, PACS and RRBs.The eKCC platform integrates seamlessly with land records, Aadhaar, eKYC, core banking systems and ePACS, enabling end-to-end automation of the rural credit lifecycle.eKCC has demonstrated the potential to improve access, transparency, and efficiency in dispensing agricultural credit. This strategic collaboration will help Cooperative Banks, PACS, and RRBs deliver faster, transparent, and more inclusive credit services to small and marginal farmers.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. AI Kiran Initiative: As the nation’s AI market is projected to reach $17 billion by 2027, the initiative aims to address the gender disparity in this rapidly evolving field. It is co-led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, Verix (Blockchain-powered credentialing platform) and INK Women. AI Kiran shines a spotlight on over 250 prominent women in AI across various sectors such as education, healthcare, and sustainability. By celebrating their contributions, the initiative aims to amplify their voices and inspire future generations of female technologists.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 24th Apr, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. MeitY Launches ‘I Am Circular’ Coffee Table Book: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, hosted the release of the ‘I Am Circular’ Coffee Table Book, curetted by the International Council for Circular Economy (ICCE).The book is a vibrant celebration of India’s innovative spirit in driving the circular economy forward.This Coffee Table Book features 30 of India’s most promising innovations identified through the nationwide ‘I Am Circular’ Challenge, an initiative designed to discover and amplify breakthrough solutions rooted in the principles of the circular economy.The selected innovations are based on three key themes: Design to Last, Work with Nature, and Use Existing Resources.

 

2. CGHS launched modernised Health Management Information System: The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has launched a next-generation Health Management Information System (HMIS), developed by C-DAC.The revamped HMIS will offer faster, transparent, and user-friendly services like PAN-based beneficiary identification, digital verification, contribution tracking, online card modification, and real-time tracking of applications.Beneficiaries will receive SMS and email alerts at every stage of application processing, ensuring greater transparency and minimising the need for physical follow-ups.

 

3. ASI host 38th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology: The 38th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology was hosted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in New Delhi. The meeting was hosted by the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, Yadubir Singh.The 37th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology was held on 14 June 2022 in New Delhi.The Central Advisory Board of Archaeology was constituted by the government of India in 1945. The Board is constituted by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, after every three years.

 

24 April – National Panchayati Raj Day: National Panchayati Raj Day is marked every year on April 24 in India. The day is observed to commemorate the historic occasion of April 24, 1993, when the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992, came into force.It celebrates the importance of grassroots democracy, strengthens local governance and helps empower rural communities. The Panchayati Raj system is a three-tier structure where local bodies or Gram Panchayats are given the authority to govern themselves and make decisions for their community’s development.The first National Panchayati Raj Day, also called Panchayati Raj Diwas, was celebrated in 2010. It was officially declared by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CCI approves the proposed acquisition of the Target Business by Kandhari Global Beverages Private Limited: The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed acquisition of the Target Business by Kandhari Global Beverages Private Limited.Kandhari Global Beverages Private Limited (Acquirer) is an authorized bottler of The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) and Schweppes Holdings Limited (SHL), and is engaged in the business of supplying and distributing non-alcoholic beverage (NAB) products in Rajasthan.The Target Business comprise of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Limited’s business of preparing, packaging, supplying and distributing NAB products in North Gujarat and the Union Territory of Diu (Target Business).

 

2. India’s largest International Cruise Terminal launched in Mumbai: India’s largest international cruise terminal in Mumbai commenced its operation recently with the flagging of a cruise ship by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbanand Sonowal.Among all the international cruise terminals in India, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) is the largest.The MICT, developed as per Cruise Bharat Mission, was developed as per latest global standards and is expected to take a pioneering role in developing cruise tourism in India.Spread over a built-up area of over 4.15 lakh square feet, the MICT has been developed at Ballard Pier. The total investment in the MICT project is ₹556 crore.MICT is India’s largest world-class cruise terminal equipped with 72 check-in and immigration counters spread over an area of 2.07 lakh square feet on the first two floors while the other two floors are developed as commercial floors.

 

3. India and Saudi Arabia Sign Four MoUs to Strengthen Strategic Partnership During PM Modi’s Visit: India and Saudi Arabia signed four MoUs and agreed to expand the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council to include two new committees.This was agreed by the top leadership of both countries during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia.These MoUs are – Cooperation in the field of Space by the space agencies of both countries, Cooperation in the field of Health. Agreement between NADA and the Saudi anti-doping agency for cooperation in the field of Anti-Doping. Cooperation in the Inward Surface Parcel between the postal authorities of the countries. This was Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third visit to Saudi Arabia as the Prime Minister of India. He first visited Saudi Arabia in 2016 and again in 2019.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Operation Tikka: Indian Army Foils Infiltration Attempt: The Indian Army successfully foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Baramulla district, killing two terrorists during “Operation Tikka” on April 23, 2025. The terrorists were attempting to cross into India from the Sarjeevan area of Uri Nala.During the operation, heavy exchange of fire took place between the security forces and terrorists. A large quantity of weapons, ammunition, and war-like stores were recovered from the terrorists, who were neutralized during the firefight.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Jasprit Bumrah & Smriti Mandhana named Wisden’s Leading Cricketers: India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and star batter Smriti Mandhana have been honoured as the Leading Men’s and Women’s Cricketers in the World, respectively, in the prestigious Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack 2025 edition, celebrating their exceptional performances in 2024.Bumrah, 31, had a phenomenal year across formats, particularly in Test cricket. He claimed a staggering 71 wickets in Tests in 2024, averaging just 14.92, the best for any bowler in a single calendar year with that volume of wickets.On the women’s side, Smriti Mandhana had a year to remember. The elegant left-hander scored 1659 runs across formats in 2024, making her the highest run-scorer in international women’s cricket that year. Her run tally included four centuries in ODIs, setting a new record in women’s cricket.

 

2. Wisden Trophy for the Year’s Outstanding Performance: New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner was named the Wisden Trophy for the Year’s Outstanding Performance.He took a match-winning 13-wicket haul against India at the Pune Test in 2024 to help New Zealand take a 2-0 lead in the Test Series. New Zealand won the Test series 3-0.

 

3. Vithya, Yashas win 400 m hurdles titles in National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2025: Olympian Vithya Ramraj won gold in the women’s 400-meter hurdles at the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition in Kochi, clocking 56.04 seconds to qualify for the Asian Championships 2025. Her time also set a new meet record, surpassing Saritaben Gayakwad’s 2019 mark of 57.21 seconds.Anu R finished second with 58.26 seconds, while Ashwini R took third with 1 minute 2.41 seconds.In the men’s 400-meter hurdles, Yashas Palaksha claimed gold with a personal best of 49.32 seconds.In the men’s hammer throw, Damneet Singh won gold with a 68.30-meter effort, while Praveen Kumar took silver and Gurdev Singh got bronze.In the women’s triple jump, Niharika Vashisht secured gold with a 13.49-meter leap.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Coal Black Tree Snake: Recently, a remarkable discovery was made in the lush rainforests of Papua New Guinea. Herpetologist Fred Kraus identified a new species of snake known as Dendrelaphis anthracina, or the coal black tree snake. This 4-foot, 8-inch reptile was found on Sudest Island, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region. Kraus’s research also revealed three additional snake species endemic to other islands in the Louisiade Archipelago. Fred Kraus’s expedition aimed to explore the Dendrelaphis genus of tree-dwelling snakes. His observations revealed a poorly understood group of reptiles. The coal black tree snake was notably found in a dramatic encounter with a goshawk, denoting its defensive behaviour.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI asks banks to complete migration to bank.in domain by October 31, 2025: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a circular directing all banks to migrate their existing domains to the exclusive ‘bank.in’ domain by October 31, 2025.The migration process will be facilitated through the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), which has been authorised by the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI).This move aims to address the rising concerns over cybersecurity threats, particularly in digital payments, by providing banks with a secure and trusted domain for online banking operations.Banks can initiate the registration process by contacting IDRBT at sahyog@idrbt.ac.in, where they will receive support for the application and migration to the new domain.A similar domain, ‘fin.in’, is also planned for non-bank financial entities to enhance security and trust in digital financial services.

 

2. Bank of Baroda aims to achieve net-zero target by 2057: Bank of Baroda unveiled its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy on Earth Day 2025, setting a goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2057.The bank has planted over 30,000 trees in 2025 under its ‘Plant a Tree’ program, linked to auto and home loan disbursements, emphasizing its commitment to a greener planet.In line with the Earth Day 2025 theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” the bank will prioritize renewable energy financing and offer products like green deposits, residential rooftop solar loans, and a green hydrogen financing scheme.To further its sustainability goals, the bank launched a ‘BOB Earth’ online platform and initiated green financing training workshops for staff to build awareness and capacity in ESG practices.

 

3. RBI provides export relaxations through warehouses in Bharat Mart in UAE: The RBI has relaxed regulations to enable Indian exporters to use warehouses in Bharat Mart, a UAE-based multimodal logistics hub, to access global markets more efficiently.Banks are now allowed to permit exporters to realize and repatriate full export proceeds within nine months from the date of sale of goods from Bharat Mart warehouses.Indian exporters with a valid Importer Exporter Code (IEC) can now open or hire warehouses in Bharat Mart without prior conditions, and remit funds for setup and operations, subject to basic verifications.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj Unveils Special Category National Panchayat Awards–2025: For the first time, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj introduces the Special Category National Panchayat Awards–2025, presented during the National Panchayati Raj Day celebration at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat, Madhubani, Bihar. These awards recognize outstanding contributions by Gram Panchayats in advancing national priorities such as Climate Action and Atmanirbharta (Self-Reliance) through enhanced Own Source Revenue (OSR).

 

Daily GK Update- 23rd Apr, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Centre imposes 12% safeguard duty to shield Indian steel sector: The Centre has imposed a 12 per cent safeguard duty on the import of certain non-alloy and alloy steel flat products with a view to shielding the Indian steel sector.This measure is a timely and necessary step to protect domestic steel manufacturers from the adverse impact of import surges and to ensure fair competition in the market.This move will provide critical relief to domestic producers, especially small and medium-scale enterprises, who have faced immense pressure from rising imports of steel. The safeguard duty will help restore market stability and reinforce the confidence of the domestic industry.

 

2. Union Health Ministry observes Pan-India ‘Fire Safety Week’ from 21st to 25th April: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the Fire Safety Week in collaboration with all States/UTs as well as relevant central Ministries/Departments from 21st to 25th April, 2025.Over 3,000 participants from public and private health facilities virtually joined the pledge ceremony and webinar on “Emergency evacuation and patient safety strategies” and “Fire prevention in high-risk areas of healthcare facilities”.Various activities have been planned throughout the country during the Fire Safety Week in order to raise awareness regarding importance of prevention and mitigation of fire hazards in all healthcare facilities across the country.

 

3. Maharashtra launches Pink E Rickshaw Scheme with Kinetic Green : The Maharashtra government has launched the Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme to empower women and make them financially independent.The Pink E Rickshaw Scheme was officially launched by the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, at a function in Pune, where electric three-wheelers were distributed to selected beneficiaries.The Pink E Rickshaw Scheme is being administered by the state government’s Women & Child Development Department.The Kinetic Green Energy company is a partner with the state government in this initiative. The Kinetic Green company will provide the electric three-wheeler to the beneficiaries.

 

4. Under the initiative, 10,000 e-rickshaws will be distributed in eight districts: Nagpur, Ahmednagar, Solapur, Kolhapur, Amravati, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Pune, and Nashik of Maharashtra.Bihar CM Nitish Kumar launches ‘Mahila Samvad’ campaign targeting women empowerment: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has launched the Mahila Samvad campaign—an ambitious, statewide drive to connect women with welfare schemes and elevate their voices in governance.The campaign is a state-wide outreach programme that aims to engaging with over two crore women across 70,000 locations in Bihar.A total of 600 ‘Mahila Samvad raths’ will eventually cover all the 38 disctricts and 48,000 villages of Bihar.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Amaravati to be world’s first fully renewable-powered city: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh’s planned capital city, aims to become the world’s first city powered entirely by renewable energy, targeting a 2,700 MW capacity through sources like solar, wind, and hydropower.The foundation stone for the capital city is expected to be laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi this month, with the project covering 217 square kilometers, a part of the larger 8,352 sq km Andhra Pradesh Capital Region.Amaravati will serve as a global model for urban sustainability, showcasing India’s leadership in clean energy while setting a benchmark for future cities in the green urban planning domain.

 

2. 23 April – World Book and Copyright Day: World Book and Copyright Day is observed every year on 23 April.This global event, organised by UNESCO, aims to promote the importance of reading, encourage lifelong learning, and highlight the value of literature.Established by UNESCO in 1995, the day honors authors, encourages literacy, and highlights the importance of books in fostering knowledge and creativity.

 

3. What is copyright?: Copyright is a legal term that grants exclusive rights to the original works of authors, including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works.Copyright is a type of intellectual property that protects the rights of creators of original works of authorship. It gives them exclusive rights to control how their work is used.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Rohit, Kohli retain top BCCI annual contract as Iyer, Kishan return: Indian team stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have retained their A+ category contracts despite retiring from the T20I format, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the annual player retainership for the men’s team for the 2024–25 season.New additions to the central contracts list—all placed in Grade C—include Nitish Kumar Reddy, Dhruv Jurel, Abhishek Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, Akash Deep, Varun Chakravarthy, and Harshit Rana.Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma, KS Bharat, and Avesh Khan—who were part of the C category last season—have been excluded from the contract list altogether.A total of 34 players have been awarded annual retainerships for the 2024–25 season, covering the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.Grade A+: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra JadejaGrade A: Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Rishabh Pant

 

2. India finishes 2025 ISSF World Cup Lima Campaign with 7 medals: Indian shooters concluded their campaign at the ISSF World Cup Lima 2025 with seven medals – two gold, four silver, and one bronze – to finish third behind China and the USA on the medal tally.The ISSF World Cup/Rifle/Shotgun was held at the Peruvian capital city of Lima from 13-22 April 2022. It was the second World Cup of the 2025 ISSF calendar, with the first World Cup being held at Buenos Aires, Argentina from 1-10 April 2025.At the Buenos Aires event, the Indian shooting contingent won eight medals —four gold, two silver, and two bronze—to finish second behind China.Medal winners for IndiaIndia won 7 medals – two gold, four silver, and one bronze medal at the Lima event.

 

3. Neeraj Chopra Clinches Gold with 84.52 m at NWU Potch Invitational: Neeraj Chopra, the two-time Olympic medallist, started his 2025 season by winning the gold medal at the NWU Potch Invitational in South Africa with an impressive throw of 84.52m.His throw of 84.52m secured the top spot, placing him ahead of South Africa’s Douw Smit (82.44m) and Duncan Robertson (71.22m).

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. MSDE and Microsoft Launch ‘AI Careers for Women’ Initiative to Empower Women in Emerging Tech: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Microsoft have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch AI Careers for Women—a pioneering skilling initiative aimed at empowering women in higher education institutions to pursue careers in Artificial Intelligence (AI).This strategic collaboration seeks to bridge the gender gap in emerging tech by equipping women with industry-aligned AI skills, enabling them to participate meaningfully in the digital economy and become active contributors to India’s innovation-led growth.As part of this collaboration, Microsoft will provide 240-hours training curriculum under AI skilling and Innovation framework for women, aligned to the industry standards, and developed in consultation with the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET).

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI permits minors above 10 years to operate bank accounts independently: The Reserve Bank of India permitted banks to allow minors above the age of 10 years to open and operate savings/term deposit accounts independently.Minors of any age may be allowed to open and operate savings and term deposit accounts through his/her natural or legal guardian, the RBI said in a circular addressed to commercial banks and cooperative banks. They may also be allowed to open such accounts with their mother as guardian.Minors above such an age limit not less than 10 years and up to such amount and such terms as may be fixed by the banks keeping in view their risk management policy, may be allowed to open and operate savings/term deposit accounts independently, if they so desire, and such terms shall be duly conveyed to the account holder.Further, on attaining the age of majority, fresh operating instructions and specimen signature of the account holder should be obtained and kept on record.

 

2. Poonawalla Fincorp and MobiKwik Collaborate to Revolutionise Instant Personal Loans: Poonawalla Fincorp, a leading NBFC backed by the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, has joined forces with MobiKwik to launch instant personal loans through the fintech platform’s ZIP EMI service.This partnership enables users across India, including Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, to access loans ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹15 lakh, significantly expanding MobiKwik’s previous loan limits of up to ₹2 lakh offered via other NBFC partnerships.The collaboration integrates Poonawalla Fincorp’s lending expertise with MobiKwik’s digital reach, allowing borrowers to secure funds within minutes through a fully digital process.Users can select flexible repayment tenures spanning 6 to 36 months, a notable extension from MobiKwik’s earlier 3–24-month options. The initiative targets diverse financial needs, including education, healthcare, and travel, while promoting credit score improvement through timely repayments.

 

3. Financial Intelligence Unit imposes ₹37 lakh penalty on Union Bank of India: The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has slapped a ₹37 lakh penalty on Union Bank of India for discrepancies in reporting suspicious transactions for 2011-2014.Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) in its order dated April 15 imposed a penalty of ₹37 lakh for “discrepancies observed in a matter for the year 2011 to 2014 in reporting of suspicious transaction”.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Achyuta Samanta Conferred Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award 2025: Achyuta Samanta, the visionary founder of KIIT and KISS, was honored with the prestigious Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award 2025 in Kokrajhar, Assam.The award, instituted by the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Trust, celebrates individuals who have made substantial contributions to society, especially in the fields of education and social empowerment.This recognition comes on the occasion of the 166th birth anniversary of Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma, a revered social reformer and spiritual leader of the Bodo community.As part of the honour, Dr Samanta received a citation, a memento, and a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh. In a noble gesture, Dr Samanta donated the entire award money back to the Trust for its development.

 

Daily GK Update- 22nd Apr, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Arunachal CM inaugurates International Conclave on ‘Buddha Dhamma & Culture of North-East India’: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein inaugurated the International Conclave on the theme Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North-East India” in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh.The two-day conference is being organised by the International Buddhist Confederation in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Buddhist monks and scholars from India and several other countries, including Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Bhutan, are participating in the two-day conference.

 

2.Former SC judge Dinesh Maheshwari appointed law commission chairperson: Dinesh Maheshwari has been appointed as the chairperson of the 23rd Law Commission of India, with approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The 23rd Law Commission was established on September 3, 2023, for a three-year term, with Hitesh Jain and Prof. D P Verma appointed as full-time members.The commission will examine important issues, including the potential introduction of a uniform civil code in India.Justice Dinesh Maheshwari retired from the Supreme Court in May 2023, and has previously served in various high court positions, including Chief Justice of Meghalaya and Karnataka High Courts.

 

3. Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Cities’ Resilience: A recent report by the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) advocates for these strategies to enhance urban resilience. The report marks the urgent need for sustainable urban planning in response to environmental degradation and vulnerabilities. Nature-based solutions leverage natural processes to address urban challenges. They include strategies like wetland restoration, rooftop greening, and permeable pavements. These methods aim to restore ecosystems while providing practical benefits such as flood mitigation and improved biodiversity.

 

4. Pink E-Rickshaw Initiative: The Pink E-Rickshaw initiative launched in Maharashtra aims to empower women by providing them with eco-friendly transportation options. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently announced the distribution of these electric rickshaws as feeder services at metro stations, airports, and tourist destinations. Following a successful pilot in Pune, the scheme is set to expand to other cities in the state. The initiative plans to distribute 10,000 pink e-rickshaws across eight districts. The primary objective is to financially and socially empower women. The scheme focuses on women aged 20 to 50, particularly targeting widows, divorcees, and those from low-income backgrounds.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi to inaugurate Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on May 2, 2025.This port will be India’s first semi-automated deep-water international container transhipment port, marking a historic development in maritime infrastructure.Vizhinjam port is the first Greenfield port project in India, initiated by a state government with an investment exceeding ₹18,000 crore.Developed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode, it stands as one of the largest initiatives in the country’s port sector.The project was allotted to APSEZ after the Government of Kerala and Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd. (AVPPL) agreed to a concession agreement in 2015.

 

2. Ananya Panday Becomes Chanel’s First-Ever Brand Ambassador from India: French luxury brand Chanel has appointed Ananya Panday as its first-ever brand ambassador from India, following her appearance at the Chanel Spring/Summer 2025 show in Paris.Ananya Panday, known for her roles in Gehraiyaan, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, CTRL, and Call Me Bae, has emerged as a Gen Z fashion icon, with 25.9 million Instagram followers showcasing her Chanel looks.Ananya represents a generation with evolving tastes and independent identities, aligning well with the brand’s values and image.

 

3. 21 April – World Creativity and Innovation Day: World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID) is celebrated every year on April 21 to raise awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation in problem-solving and driving sustainable development across the globe.

Theme 2025 – Step out and innovate

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. IAF Surya Kiran team to begin aerobatic airshow in Patna: In Bihar, the Surya Kiran team of the Indian Air Force begins its aerobatic air show atThe two-day programme will comprise a splendid show and manoeuvre of IAF Surya Kiran aircraft between 10 am to 11 am over the Ganga River in Patna.The programme is being organised on the occasion of Vijayotsav of Babu Kunwar Singh, the freedom fighter of the 1857 revolution in Bhojpur in Bihar.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Simranpreet Kaur wins maiden senior international medal with silver in 25m pistol: In Shooting, India’s Simranpreet Kaur Brar has clinched her maiden senior international medal with a silver in the women’s 25m pistol event at the International Shooting Sport Federation, ISSF World Cup in Lima, Peru.The Indian shooter shot a total of 33 hits in the 10-series of five rapid-fire shots final, finishing one hit behind China’s Sun Yujie, who won back-to-back World Cup golds in the event.A second Chinese, Yao Qianxun, won bronze with 29 hits to her name. Meanwhile, Paris Olympics double medallist Manu Bhaker finished fourth.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. 22 April – Earth Day: Earth Day is observed every year on 22 April to raise awareness about environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and conservation, inspiring individuals and communities to take action.Theme 2025 – Our Power, Our Plane The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, when industries were releasing smoke and sludge without much concern about the legal or public repercussions.

 

2. India’s First Quantum Computing Village: Recently, the Government of Andhra Pradesh made strides towards establishing India’s first Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati. This initiative aims to create a pioneering ecosystem for quantum computing research and collaboration. The project is backed by the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) and is set to occupy 50 acres of land. The facility will serve as a hub for institutions and companies to access advanced quantum computing resources. The Quantum Computing Village will feature an Iconic Building designed by IBM. This building will house advanced quantum systems and a dedicated data centre for high-performance computing. Collaboration with industry leaders like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and L&T will be essential for finalising infrastructure specifications. The project aims to support the IBM Quantum System Two, marking step in India’s quantum computing capabilities.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI to Deploy ‘Grahak Mitras’ at 4,500 Branches to Promote Alternate Banking Channels: State Bank of India will deploy personnel from its subsidiary SBOSS as ‘Grahak Mitras’ to guide customers towards alternate banking channels.These Grahak Mitras will offer first-level assistance and promote the use of self-service options like ATMs, kiosks, YONO app, and WhatsApp banking.They will be stationed at around 4,500 SBI branches, covering roughly 20% of the bank’s total 22,740 branches across India.The move aims to reduce overcrowding in branches that handle government salary accounts, pensions, and direct benefit transfers.

 

2. LIC hikes its stake in Bank of Baroda to 7.05%: Insurance behemoth LIC has increased its stake in state-owned Bank of Baroda (BoB) by nearly 2 per cent to 7.05 per cent.The life insurance company has acquired additional 10.45 crore shares from open market over a period of one-and-a-half year.With the acquisition done between November 20, 2023 and April 16, 2025, LIC’s stake in the Mumbai-based bank has increased from 5.03 per cent to 7.05 per cent.

 

3. Mirae Asset launches $200M global investment fund targeting AI & semicon: Mirae Asset has launched a new fund, Mirae Asset Global Allocation Fund IFSC, to help Indian investors gain exposure to international markets and high-growth sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors.The fund, launched through the company’s IFSC branch at GIFT City, aims to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing in a portfolio of global equity exchange-traded funds (ETFs).These ETFs will be based on broad market indices and high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors.The fund will allocate 90–100 per cent of its net asset value (NAV) to global ETFs across developed markets like the US and China.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Laureus Awards 2025: Andrade beats Rishabh Pant to win Comeback of the Year: The 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards celebrated its 25th anniversary with a grand ceremony in Madrid, honoring outstanding athletes and teams for their exceptional performances over the past year.

The Laureus World Sports Awards, often dubbed the “Oscars of Sports”, celebrated the most remarkable athletes and sporting achievements of the past year.Held in the vibrant city of Madrid, the 2025 edition of the event brought together legends, rising stars, and game-changers across various disciplines.