Daily GK Update- 26th June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. C R Patil Chairs 15th Meeting of Empowered Task Force (ETF) on Ganga Conservation: Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil chaired the 15th meeting of the Empowered Task Force on Ganga conservation, where he reviewed the progress made by NMCG and appreciated the accelerated pace of infrastructure implementation. During this period, 10 projects were either inaugurated or had foundation stones laid in Bihar.Shri Patil also launched two new initiatives: Riverathon 1.0, a national hackathon in collaboration with Amity University focused on river rejuvenation solutions, and eight ecological status and trends booklets for key rivers in the Ganga basin, developed with the Wildlife Institute of India.

 

2. East Coast Railways launches ‘ECoR Yatra’ app for Rath Yatra: East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched a dedicated mobile app called ‘ECoR Yatra’ to provide real-time, reliable, and user-friendly railway services for pilgrims traveling to Puri during the Rath Yatra festival.The app serves as a one-stop digital platform offering comprehensive information such as special and regular train schedules, live train and platform updates, ticket counters, booking assistance, lodging, and tourist facilities.Designed specifically for the Rath Yatra, ‘ECoR Yatra’ enhances convenience for passengers by enabling them to plan their journey effectively and stay updated throughout their pilgrimage.CCI approves combination involving acquisition in Aakash Educational Services Limited by

 

3. Manipal Health Systems Private Limited: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a proposed combination involving the acquisition of equity shares in Aakash Educational Services Limited by Manipal Health Systems Pvt Ltd and Manipal Education and Medical Group India Pvt Ltd.Manipal Health Systems Pvt Ltd (Acquirer-1) is an Indian company involved in operating hospitals and delivering healthcare services across the country.Manipal Education and Medical Group India Pvt Ltd (Acquirer-2) provides management consultancy services in India; both acquirers are Indian-owned and controlled entities.

 

4. Amit Shah Chairs 25th Central Zonal Council Meeting in Varanasi: The 25th Central Zonal Council meeting was held in Uttar Pradesh and was chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah; the council discussed 19 key national and regional issues.The Central Zonal Council comprises Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand, and is notable for being the only regional council with no disputes among member states.The meeting was attended by the Chief Ministers of all four member states—Yogi Adityanath (UP), Pushkar Singh Dhami (Uttarakhand), Vishnu Deo Sai (Chhattisgarh), and Dr. Mohan Yadav (MP)—along with senior central and state government officials.The first meeting of the Central Zonal Council was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on 1 May 1957.

 

5. Centre approves ₹417-cr electronics manufacturing cluster under Yamuna Expressway: The Central Government has approved a ₹417-crore Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC 2.0) at Sector 10, Yamuna Expressway, Gautam Budh Nagar, aimed at boosting local electronics production and innovation; the project will be developed by YEIDA on 206.4 acres.Expected to attract ₹2,500 crore in investments and generate around 15,000 jobs, the EMC 2.0 project aligns with PM Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and focuses on Make in India, employment, and infrastructure development.

 

6. Bajaj Consumer Care Appoints Naveen Pandey as Managing Director: Bajaj Consumer Care has appointed Naveen Pandey as its new Managing Director for a five-year term starting July 1, 2025, succeeding Mr. Jaideep Nandi, whose term ends on June 30, 2025.This decision was made during the company’s board meeting, marking a significant leadership transition for the organisation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Govt Demotes Union Bank ED Pankaj Dwivedi to GM Post Over Lack of Vigilance Clearance: The central government has demoted Pankaj Dwivedi, Executive Director (ED) of Union Bank of India, back to his earlier position as General Manager (GM) in Punjab & Sind Bank.The Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, cancelled his ED appointment made on March 27, 2024, citing regulatory violations.The demotion followed a court observation that his appointment lacked proper vigilance clearance, thereby violating appointment norms.

 

2. Zou Jiayi Elected as President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: Zou Jiayi has been elected as the next President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and will assume office on January 16, 2026, succeeding founding President Jin Liqun after his second five-year term ends.A former Chinese Vice Minister of Finance, Zou brings over 30 years of experience in global financial policy, having represented China in top institutions like the World Bank, ADB, New Development Bank, AIIB, and IFAD.Under President Jin’s leadership, AIIB has expanded to 110 members, invested $60 billion in 322 projects across 38 economies, with over 50% of recent investments focused on climate finance, and earned AAA ratings from major credit agencies.

 

3. About the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB): The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank established in 2016, focused on financing sustainable infrastructure and promoting “infrastructure for tomorrow.”AIIB has 110 approved member countries, a total capitalization of USD 100 billion, and holds a AAA credit rating from major international agencies, reflecting its strong financial standing.The Bank works in collaboration with global partners to mobilize capital and invest in infrastructure and productive sectors that support sustainable economic growth and regional connectivity.

 

4. 25 June – Day of the Seafarer: Observed annually on 25th June, the Day of the Seafarer is an initiative by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to recognise the invaluable contributions of seafarers to global trade, the economy, and daily life.The theme for 2025 is “My Harassment‑Free Ship“, focusing on promoting respectful, safe, and inclusive environments at sea by addressing issues of bullying, harassment, and discrimination faced by seafarers.

 

5. 26 June – International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed every year on June 26, as designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1987 to strengthen global action against drug abuse and illegal trafficking.Theme 2025 – Break the Cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime”, highlighting the urgent need to disrupt the links between drug abuse and organized criminal networks.The day promotes awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation strategies and calls for international cooperation to address the health, social, and economic impacts

 

6. 26 June – International Day in Support of Victims of Torture: International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed annually on 26 June, marking the day in 1987 when the UN Convention Against Torture came into effect.The day reaffirms that torture is a crime under international law and is absolutely prohibited under all circumstances, including war, threat of terrorism, or political instability.It aims to honor and support victims and survivors of torture, raise awareness about their rights, and promote access to rehabilitation and justice.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. Neeraj Chopra Wins Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 with 85.29m Throw: Neeraj Chopra won the Javelin Throw title at the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025 in the Czech Republic with a best throw of 85.29 metres, defeating South Africa’s Douw Smit (84.12m) and Grenada’s Anderson Peters (83.63m).This win marks Neeraj’s second consecutive gold medal, following his historic 90.23-metre throw at the Paris Diamond League, where he crossed the 90m mark for the first time in his career.Neeraj is now set to compete in the Neeraj Chopra Classic, India’s first global javelin competition, scheduled for July 5th at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Becomes First Indian to Reach ISS Aboard Axiom-4 Mission After 41 Year: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian astronaut to visit NASA’s International Space Station (ISS) and the second Indian ever in space, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission. The Axiom-4 spacecraft, carrying four astronauts, docked with the ISS at 4:30 PM IST.The Axiom-4 mission lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 12:01 PM IST, with a diverse crew including Peggy Whitson (USA), Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary). Shukla is piloting the mission.

Born in Lucknow on 10 October 1985, Group Captain Shukla joined the Indian Air Force in 2006 and has over 2,000 hours of flying experience on various aircraft including MiGs, Sukhois, Dorniers, Jaguars, and Hawks.During the two-week mission, the Ax-4 crew will carry out 60 scientific experiments, including seven from India, focusing on areas like microgravity and space biology. One major experiment will study the impact of spaceflight on six types of crop seeds.

 

2. Salkhan Fossil Park: Salkhan Fossil Park, located in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, has recently been included in UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites. This recognition marks milestone for the region. The park is known for its ancient fossils, some dating back 1.4 billion years. Its inclusion in the tentative list enhances Uttar Pradesh’s profile in geological and paleontological tourism. Salkhan Fossil Park is home to stromatolites, which are layered sedimentary structures formed by ancient cyanobacteria. These microorganisms played important role in the Earth’s early biosphere. The stromatolites found here are older than many well-known sites, such as Shark Bay in Australia. This makes Salkhan an invaluable site for understanding early life on Earth. Geological surveys in the Salkhan region began in the 1930s. The park was officially opened in 2002 after a workshop led by Canadian scientists. Renowned geologist H. J. Hoffman praised the clarity of the fossils. This initial research laid the groundwork for future studies and the park’s eventual nomination to UNESCO.

 

3. Deep-Sea Mining: Recent studies have raised alarms about the potential effects of deep-sea mining on marine ecosystems. The Metals Company, a Canadian firm, seeks permits to mine the Pacific seabed. This area, known as the Clarion Clipperton Zone (CCZ), is crucial for resources needed in the green transition. However, research indicates risks to marine life, particularly cetaceans like whales and dolphins. Two recent studies reveal critical gaps in knowledge about the impact of mining on marine life. The first study brought into light that 65% of taxonomic classes in the CCZ have not been studied for noise pollution effects. Noise from mining activities poses threat to biodiversity, particularly affecting species that rely on sound for communication. Deep-sea mining involves extracting minerals from the ocean floor. The CCZ spans approximately 6 million square kilometres and is rich in resources. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) oversees mining activities in international waters. Currently, 17 exploration contracts have been granted, but commercial mining has yet to commence.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CCI Approves Bain Capital’s Acquisition of Stakes in Manappuram Finance and Asset Finance Arms: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a proposed combination involving the acquisition of Manappuram Finance Ltd. and Manappuram Asset Finance Ltd. by Bain Capital through its investment entities BC Asia Investments XXV Ltd. and BC Asia Investments XIV Ltd.The acquiring entities are indirectly owned and controlled by Bain Capital, a global private equity investment firm engaged in investment activities across various sectors including IT, healthcare, retail, and financial services.Manappuram Finance Ltd., based in Kerala, is a diversified NBFC providing services such as gold loans, vehicle loans, and MSME loans, along with subsidiaries offering housing finance, microfinance, insurance distribution, and IT services.

 

2. EPFO Raises Auto-Settlement Limit for Advance Claims to ₹5 Lakhs: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has increased the auto-settlement limit for advance claims from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakhs, enabling quicker disbursal of funds to members in need.Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the auto-settlement facility now covers claims for illness, education, marriage, and housing, and operates fully automatically without human intervention.In the financial year 2024–25, EPFO processed a record 2.34 crore advance claims through auto-settlement—a 161% increase from the previous year—with 59% of all such claims settled via this mode.With the new ₹5 lakh limit, more claims will now qualify for auto-settlement, ensuring that members receive financial assistance within three days of submission, especially during emergencies.

 

3. S&P Raises India’s FY26 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.5% Citing Strong Domestic Demand and Policy Support: S&P Global Ratings has revised India’s FY26 GDP growth forecast upward to 6.5% (from 6.3%), attributing the boost to resilient domestic demand, expectations of a normal monsoon, income-tax relief, declining crude oil prices, and potential monetary easing.In its Asia-Pacific Economic Outlook, S&P noted that India’s low reliance on goods exports will cushion it from global economic slowdowns, making it relatively insulated from external shocks.

Daily GK Update- 25th June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NITI Aayog Unveils ‘India’s Data Imperative’ Report to Strengthen Digital Governance Through Quality Data: NITI Aayog released the third edition of its quarterly insights series, Future Front, titled “India’s Data Imperative: The Pivot Towards Quality,” emphasizing the need to improve data quality for better digital governance and public trust.The report introduces two key tools — a Data-Quality Scorecard to evaluate data attributes and a Data-Quality Maturity Framework for self-assessment and roadmap development — to enhance data practices across public systems.At the launch event, senior officials including B.V.R. Subrahmanyam (CEO, NITI Aayog), Dr. Saurabh Garg (Secretary, MoSPI), and Debjani Ghosh (Distinguished Fellow) highlighted the urgency of building robust data foundations for India’s digital future.Experts, officials, and stakeholders present at the event agreed that high-quality data is essential for effective governance and that aligning with global data standards is key for informed policy-making and service delivery.

 

2. Govt to launch ‘NAVYA’ to empower adolescent girls through vocational training: The Central Government has launched NAVYA (Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational Training for Young Adolescent Girls) in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh, under the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision. It is a joint pilot initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to empower girls aged 16–18 through vocational training in non-traditional job roles.NAVYA will initially be implemented in 27 districts across 19 states, with a focus on aspirational and North-Eastern districts. The program seeks to enhance employability, boost confidence, and create pathways for young girls to participate in emerging sectors of the Indian economy.The initiative promotes institutional convergence by aligning with national schemes like PMKVY and PM Vishwakarma, ensuring integrated, high-quality skill development. The launch event included certificate distribution and interaction with participating trainees.

 

3. Tripura Becomes India’s Third Fully Literate State with 95.6% Literacy Rate: Tripura has become the third Indian state to achieve full literacy, surpassing the 95% benchmark set by the Ministry of Education, following Mizoram and Goa. The state now has a literacy rate of 95.6%.This achievement was made possible through the successful implementation of the ‘ULLAS – New India Literacy Programme’, which helped reduce the number of non-literate individuals significantly from earlier surveys.As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023–24, Tripura’s literacy rate was 93.7%, which has now improved further. The state had just 23,184 non-literate people before this literacy push.Tripura has shown consistent improvement in literacy over decades, rising from just 20.24% in 1961 to 87.22% in 2011. It is also the second-highest northeastern state in terms of per capita income and GDP, according to CM Manik Saha.

 

4. National Conference of Estimates Committees Concludes in Mumbai: The National Conference of Estimates Committees of Parliament and State/UT Legislative Bodies was held at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhawan, Mumbai, on 23-24 June 2025, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Lok Sabha’s Estimates Committee.The conference saw participation from the Chairman and members of the Estimates Committees of Parliament and all states with legislative bodies; among UTs, only Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi, and Puducherry have legislative assemblies.The Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, inaugurated the conference, while the Maharashtra Governor, C.P. Radhakrishnan, delivered the valedictory address, highlighting the conference theme focused on efficient monitoring and review of budget estimates.The Estimates Committee, one of the three key financial committees in the Indian legislature, consists of 30 Lok Sabha members elected by their peers, chaired by a member appointed by the Lok Sabha Speaker, with a tenure of one year.

 

5. UGRO Capital Appoints Anuj Pandey as CEO Amid Major Growth Milestones: UGRO Capital Limited has appointed Anuj Pandey as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from July 1, 2025. He has been associated with the company since its inception, previously serving as Chief Risk Officer.His elevation to CEO comes as UGRO Capital achieves key milestones, including surpassing ₹12,000 crore in AUM, expanding to over 300 branches, acquiring Profectus Capital, and completing a major capital raise.

 

6. 25 June – Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas: Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas is observed every year on 25th June to remember the day in 1975 when the Indian Constitution was severely undermined during the Emergency period, and to pay homage to those who suffered due to its excesses.On 25th June 1975, President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed declared a state of Emergency under Article 352, citing internal disturbances amid political unrest and judicial challenges to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s government.During the Emergency, key constitutional safeguards were suspended, including the suspension of fundamental rights like freedom of speech, expression, assembly, and movement; courts were barred from hearing related cases, and media censorship was imposed, with the Press Council of India being abolished.Constitutional amendments during the Emergency prevented courts from questioning the President’s Emergency proclamation and excluded the elections of the Prime Minister and Lok Sabha Speaker from judicial review, consolidating central authority.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Hardeep Singh Puri Attends 40th Anniversary of Kanishka Bombing in Ireland: Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri attended the 40th anniversary memorial service of the Air India Flight 182 (Kanishka) bombing at Ahakista Memorial in Cork, Ireland, joined by representatives from India, Ireland, and Canada.The tragic bombing in 1985 was carried out by Canada-based Khalistani terrorists, killing all 329 passengers on board when the plane exploded mid-air near the Irish coast.During the memorial, Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized the need for enhanced India-Canada cooperation in counter-terrorism through intelligence sharing, counter-radicalization, and disruption of terror financing.

 

2. India Breaks Into Top 100 in Global SDG Rankings for the First Time, Secures 99th Position in 2025 Report: India has ranked 99th out of 167 countries on the 2025 SDG Index, making it the first time India has entered the top 100 in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) rankings. It scored 67 points, a notable improvement from its 2024 rank of 109 and 2023 rank of 112, reflecting consistent progress in development indicators.The rankings are part of the 10th Sustainable Development Report released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, led by economist Jeffrey Sachs. The report uses a 0–100 scale to measure progress on all 17 SDGs, with 100 indicating full achievement. However, globally, only 17% of SDG targets are on track to be met by 2030.

 

3. India’s neighbours showed mixed performances: Bhutan ranked 74th (70.5 points), Nepal 85th (68.6), Sri Lanka 93rd, Bangladesh 114th (63.9), and Pakistan lagging at 140th (57). China, with a score of 74.4, ranked 49th, and the U.S. stood at 44th with 75.2 points.East and South Asia have been the fastest-growing regions in SDG progress since 2015, with countries like Nepal (+11.1), Cambodia (+10), Bangladesh (+8.3), and the Philippines (+8.6) registering strong score improvements due to rapid socio-economic development.Despite overall progress, the report warns that global SDG progress is stalling, with serious setbacks in targets like press freedom (SDG 16), obesity (SDG 2), nitrogen sustainability (SDG 2), biodiversity (SDG 15), and corruption perceptions (SDG 16), largely due to geopolitical conflicts, fiscal limitations, and systemic vulnerabilities.

 

4. Sona Comstar appoints Jeffrey Mark Overly as Chairman: Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (Sona Comstar) has appointed Jeffrey Mark Overly as its new Chairman, following a board meeting held on June 23, 2025. Overly has been an independent director on the company’s board since February 12, 2021.His appointment follows the passing of former Chairman Sunjay Kapur, marking a leadership transition within the company during a significant period.Jeffrey Overly brings strong academic and professional credentials, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management from the University of Cincinnati and a Master’s degree in Business from Central Michigan University, with nearly 5 years of board-level experience at Sona Comstar.

 

5. Kangana Ranaut Named Brand Ambassador for New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships: Actor and newly elected MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut has been named the brand ambassador for the World Para Athletics Championships 2025, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from September 26 to October 5.The event will witness participation from over 100 countries, showcasing global para-athletic talent and aiming to promote inclusivity and resilience through sport.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s Indus Waters Treaty Dispute with Pakistan: India requested a pause in proceedings regarding the Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects, which are under dispute with Pakistan. This request was made to Michel Lino, the neutral expert appointed by the World Bank to oversee the disputes. The Government of India’s decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance has intensified tensions between the two nations. The IWT governs water sharing from the Indus River system, which is vital for both countries. The Indus Water Treaty was signed in 1960. It allocates the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan. The treaty grants India control over the eastern rivers—Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi—while Pakistan has rights to the western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. This framework aims to prevent water disputes and ensure cooperative management of shared water resources. The Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects are located in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan alleges that these projects violate the IWT, particularly concerning minimum water flow requirements. India argues that the projects conform to the treaty’s stipulations. The disputes have been ongoing since 2022, with Lino tasked to evaluate the compliance of the projects with treaty provisions.

 

2. DRDO Offers 28 Weapon Systems for Emergency Procurement: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India has made move to enhance the capabilities of the armed forces. It has offered 28 existing weapon systems for emergency procurement. This initiative aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The emergency procurement allows the Army, Navy, and Air Force to acquire new weapon systems or replenish existing ones as needed. Emergency procurement is a process that enables the armed forces to quickly acquire essential weaponry. This is crucial during times of heightened security threats. The DRDO’s offer includes various weapons such as rockets, missiles, grenades, and anti-drone systems. This flexibility ensures that the forces can respond effectively to evolving military needs.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. New Gecko Species Discovered in Coonoor Hills: Researchers announced the discovery of a new gecko species, Dravidogecko coonoor, in the Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu. This finding adds to the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, a hotspot for endemic species. The discovery was detailed in a paper published in the journal ‘Bionomina’. The lead author, Mr. A. Abinesh, explained that this gecko was previously misclassified as part of another species, Hemidactylus anamallensis. Intensive surveys revealed eight other species of Dravidogecko, bringing the total to nine. The new species was identified through extensive field surveys across the Western Ghats. The researchers noted that Dravidogecko coonoor inhabits both urban and natural environments. This includes walls of buildings, branches of plants, and tree bark. The habitat is primarily characterised by montane forests and monoculture plantations, often influenced by human activities.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bajaj Markets Joins ONDC to Expand Digital Commerce Offerings Across Electronics and Financial Services: Bajaj Markets, a digital marketplace under Bajaj Finserv Ltd., has joined the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) as a buyer network participant, expanding its role in India’s growing digital commerce ecosystem.With this integration, over 16 million users of the Bajaj Markets App and website can now access and purchase 1.5 lakh+ premium electronics and appliances, in addition to its existing suite of financial products and services.This move marks Bajaj Markets’ transformation from a pure fintech platform to a comprehensive digital marketplace, enhancing customer convenience and offering competitive pricing across multiple product categories.

 

2. Odisha Government Delists HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Banks from State Transactions Over Underperformance: The Odisha government has removed HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank from its list of approved banks, citing underperformance in implementing key government schemes and failure to meet general banking targets over the past two financial years.A directive issued by the Finance Department instructed all state departments, PSUs, agencies, societies, and universities to immediately close their savings, current, or any other operational accounts with these three banks and transfer the funds to other approved banks.Fixed or term deposits with the delisted banks are not required to be closed prematurely, but upon maturity, the principal and interest must be shifted to an approved bank to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.The government warned of strict action for non-compliance, directing all departments to ensure that the new banking guidelines are communicated and enforced across all subordinate institutions.

 

3. Bandhan Bank Expands Footprint with 18 New Branches Across 4 States: Bandhan Bank has opened 18 new branches across four Indian states, with 7 in Jharkhand, 5 in Andhra Pradesh, and 3 each in Bihar and Odisha, as part of its effort to expand banking access in semi-urban and rural regions.With this addition, Bandhan Bank’s total number of banking outlets has reached 6,300, further strengthening its presence across India, especially in underserved and emerging markets.

Bandhan Bank now operates in 35 out of the 36 states and Union Territories, showcasing its near-complete national footprint and commitment to inclusive financial growth.MD & CEO of Bandhan Bank – Partha Pratim Sengupta

 

4. RBI Imposes ₹29.60 Lakh Penalty on Fino Payments Bank for Licensing Norm Violations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹60 lakh on Fino Payments Bank Limited for non-compliance with specific directions under the ‘Licensing of Payments Banks’ framework.The penalty was imposed through an order dated June 6, 2025, under the powers granted to RBI by Section 47A(1)(c) read with Section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

The action follows RBI’s Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE 2024), conducted to assess the bank’s compliance status as of the financial position dated March 31, 2024.

Daily GK Update- 24th June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. About Rashtrapati Tapovan: It is a 19-acre forest area that is adjacent to the Rashtrapati Niketan. It has been developed as a forest area in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Forest Department.The Tapovan is rich in native vegetation, featuring natural bamboo groves and undisturbed woodland ecosystems. Around 117 plant species, 52 butterflies, 41 bird species, and 7 wild mammals are found here.The Tapovan has been designed to be a place of quiet and meditation with  silent zones, forest trails, meditation huts.

 

2. Google Launches First Asia-Pacific Safety Engineering Centre in Hyderabad to Boost Cybersecurity and AI Safety: Google has established its first Asia-Pacific Safety Engineering Centre (GSEC) in Hyderabad, Telangana, making it the fourth such centre globally after Munich (Germany), Malaga (Spain), and Dublin (Ireland); it was inaugurated by Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy.The Hyderabad GSEC will serve as a strategic hub for cybersecurity and end-user safety, focusing on preventing online fraud, securing enterprise and government infrastructure, and promoting responsible AI across the Asia-Pacific region.The centre will leverage AI and large language models to enable real-time scam alerts through Gemini Nano on Android, improve fraud detection on Google Pay, Gmail, and Search, and strengthen protections like Google Play Protect.

 

3. Shaktipeeth Expressway: The Shaktipeeth Expressway is infrastructure project in Maharashtra. Approved by the Maharashtra Cabinet on June 24, 2025, it aims to connect 12 districts from Pawnar in Wardha to Patradevi on the Maharashtra-Goa border. The project has a budget of ₹20,787 crore, with ₹12,000 crore earmarked for land acquisition. However, it faces strong opposition from farmers in the proposed corridor. The Shaktipeeth Expressway spans 802 kilometres. It is designed to reduce travel time between Nagpur and Goa from 18 hours to 8 hours. The expressway will connect key pilgrimage sites known as Shakti Peethas, enhancing religious tourism. It will link 18 religious shrines across Maharashtra and Goa. The Maharashtra Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is responsible for implementing the project. A substantial loan of ₹12,000 crore will be sourced from the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO). The total estimated cost of the project is over ₹84,000 crore. The project is modelled after the Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Mahamarg, an access-controlled highway.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 23 June – United Nations Public Service Day: United Nations Public Service Day is observed every year on 23rd June to recognize the value and virtue of public service in the community and to highlight the contribution of public servants in the development process.The day aims to promote professionalism, innovation, and integrity in public administration and encourages youth to pursue careers in the public sector.It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 (Resolution A/RES/57/277), acknowledging that an efficient, accountable, and inclusive public administration is vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

2. India’s Progress Towards SDG 3: India has made strides in health under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3). This goal focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages. Recent reports indicate that India is on track to achieve several health targets. Key indicators show improvements in maternal and child health, immunisation rates, and disease control. India’s Human Development Index (HDI) has risen by over 53 per cent since 1990. This increase surpasses both global and South Asian averages. Economic growth and welfare initiatives like the National Rural Health Mission and Ayushman Bharat have driven this progress. As of 2023, life expectancy in India reached 72 years, the highest recorded since the HDI’s inception. According to the NITI Aayog SDG Index, India’s score rose from 52 in 2018 to 77 in 2023. Several states have emerged as “front-runners” in health outcomes. Maternal mortality has decreased to 97 per 100,000 live births. States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already met the 2030 target of 70.

 

3. India’s SDG Ranking in 2025: India achieved milestone by securing a position among the top 100 countries in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Index. This ranking is part of the Sustainable Development Report, which evaluates the progress of nations in achieving the 17 SDGs established in 2015. India ranks 99th out of 193 countries, scoring 67 points. This marks a notable improvement in its commitment to sustainable development. The SDG Index measures countries based on their performance across various sustainable development indicators. The index includes metrics related to poverty, education, health, and environmental sustainability. The report is produced by the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network, with renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs leading the analysis.

 

4. Global Tobacco Epidemic Report: India has emerged as a leader in tobacco control, as brought into light by the World Health Organisation’s Global Tobacco Epidemic report. The report identifies India’s graphic health warnings on tobacco products as among the most effective globally. This reflects commitment to public health and the fight against tobacco-related illnesses. The WHO’s MPOWER framework outlines six essential measures to combat tobacco use. These include monitoring tobacco use, protecting people from tobacco smoke, offering help to quit, warning about the dangers of tobacco, enforcing bans on advertising, and raising taxes on tobacco products. India has made notable progress in several of these areas. Graphic health warnings are crucial in informing consumers about the dangers of tobacco. India mandates that 85% of cigarette packaging must display these warnings. This is one of the largest requirements globally. The size and prominence of these warnings have increased since 2007, contributing to greater awareness among the population.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Operation Midnight Hammer: US Launches Massive Airstrikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites in Largest Middle East Campaign Since 2003: The United States launched Operation Midnight Hammer, targeting Iran’s three most fortified nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—marking the largest American air campaign in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq War.The strike involved over 125 aircraft, including seven B-2 stealth bombers and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles. For the first time in combat, the GBU-57 bunker-busting bomb was used to hit deeply buried nuclear sites.The U.S. strike followed Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, launched to stop Iran’s alleged nuclear advancements.Operation Midnight Hammer now joins a growing list of high-profile Middle East military actions, including Operation True Promise (Iran), Operation Rising Lion and Iron Wall (Israel), and Operation Poseidon Archer (US-UK coalition), all escalating tensions in the region.

 

2. Indian Navy to Commission Stealth Frigate ‘Tamal’ in Russia on 1st July 2025: The Indian Navy will commission the stealth multi-role frigate Tamal on 01 July 2025 in Kaliningrad, Russia, with Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh presiding over the ceremony, alongside top Indian and Russian defence officials.Tamal is the eighth Krivak-class frigate acquired from Russia and the second in the upgraded Tushil-class, following the Talwar and Teg classes, each of which had three ships.As part of the Tushil-class project, India is also constructing two similar frigates (Triput-class) at Goa Shipyard Limited with Russian technology support, aiming to operate ten ships with common weapons and sensors.Built at Yantar Shipyard, Tamal features 26% indigenous content, including the BrahMos missile, and comes equipped with modern armaments such as vertical-launch SAMs, advanced radars, EW systems, torpedoes, and support for multi-role helicopters.

 

3. India’s Indus Waters Treaty Dispute with Pakistan: India requested a pause in proceedings regarding the Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects, which are under dispute with Pakistan. This request was made to Michel Lino, the neutral expert appointed by the World Bank to oversee the disputes. The Government of India’s decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance has intensified tensions between the two nations. The IWT governs water sharing from the Indus River system, which is vital for both countries. The Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects are located in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan alleges that these projects violate the IWT, particularly concerning minimum water flow requirements. India argues that the projects conform to the treaty’s stipulations. The disputes have been ongoing since 2022, with Lino tasked to evaluate the compliance of the projects with treaty provisions.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India scripts historic finish at U23 Asian Wrestling Championships with double team titles: India’s young wrestlers delivered a stellar performance on the final day of the Under-23 Asian Wrestling Championships in Vung Tau, Vietnam, winning six medals in men’s freestyle. Five wrestlers, Nikhil, Sujeet, Jaideep, Chander Mohan, and Sachin, clinched gold.India also topped the team rankings in men’s freestyle and won the women’s freestyle team title, marking a historic finish at the continental event.Indian women wrestlers won the team title at the Under-23 Asian Championship by winning a medal in each of the 10 categories, including four gold and five silver in Vung Tau, Vietnam.Priyanshi Prajapat in 50kg category, Reena in 55kg category, Shrishti in 68kg and Priya in 76kg category sealed the top podium places. Five Indian women wrestlers settled for runner-up finishes.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Adani Commissions India’s First Off-Grid 5 MW Green Hydrogen Plant in Gujarat, Advancing Clean Energy Goals: Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL) has commissioned India’s first off-grid 5 MW green hydrogen pilot plant in Kutch, Gujarat, powered entirely by solar energy and integrated with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), marking a significant step toward the National Green Hydrogen Mission.The plant uses a fully automated, closed-loop electrolyser system that dynamically adjusts to renewable energy inputs, showcasing technological feasibility, operational flexibility, and efficiency in managing solar power variability.This 100% green-powered facility produces hydrogen without any carbon emissions and serves as a proof of concept ahead of ANIL’s upcoming large-scale Green Hydrogen Hub in Mundra, Gujarat.The project strengthens India’s position in the global green hydrogen economy, aiming to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors like fertilisers, refineries, and heavy transport, while supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and reducing dependence on energy imports.

 

2. Favipiravir Shows Promise Against Chandipura Virus: Recent studies have brought into light the potential of Favipiravir as a treatment for the Chandipura virus (CHPV). Conducted by the National Institute of Virology in Pune, these preclinical trials indicate that Favipiravir can reduce viral load and improve survival rates in infected animals. The Chandipura virus is endemic to central India and primarily affects children, leading to severe symptoms such as high fever and seizures. The Chandipura virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted by sandflies. It was first identified in 1965 in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The virus causes encephalitis, leading to inflammation of the brain. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, altered consciousness, and convulsions. CHPV is primarily transmitted by female Phlebotomine sandflies, which are most active during the early monsoon season. Studies have indicated that certain mosquito species, particularly Aedes aegypti, could also transmit the virus under laboratory conditions. However, no direct isolation from mosquitoes has been confirmed.0

 

3. EMM-Negative Blood Group System: The International Society of Blood Transfusion officially recognised a new blood group system named EMM-negative, also known as Gwada negative. This designation emerged from the unique case of a woman from Guadeloupe who is the only known individual to possess this rare blood type. The discovery puts stress on advancements in transfusion medicine and genetic research. Gwada negative refers to the EMM-negative blood group system, identified by the absence of the EMM antigen on red blood cells. This antigen is a high-incidence antigen, present in almost all humans. The lack of such a common antigen is medically and has led to the classification of this blood type as the 48th globally recognised system in transfusion science.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Centre and RBI Push for Unified Lending Interface (ULI) to Revolutionize Credit Delivery Across India: The Department of Financial Services (DFS) and RBI co-chaired a high-level meeting in New Delhi to discuss scaling up Unified Lending Interface (ULI) — a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) aimed at streamlining and democratizing credit access across India.ULI is envisioned as a transformative platform that integrates technology, data, and policy to deliver seamless, data-driven, and inclusive credit, particularly benefiting underserved borrowers by leveraging trusted government datasets.RBI Deputy Governor T. Rabi Sankar emphasized ULI’s potential to surpass the impact of UPI, urging ministries and states to view it as a collaborative, two-way innovation and contribute relevant datasets to unlock its full potential.The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to digitally integrate government datasets, nominate nodal officers, digitise land and property records, and align other credit initiatives with ULI to build a unified national lending ecosystem.

Daily GK Update- 23rd June, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. President Murmu Inaugurates Rashtrapati Tapovan & Niketan in Dehradun: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the opening of the Rashtrapati Tapovan and Rashtrapati Niketan in Dehradun to the public on the occasion of her 67th birthday on 20 June 2025. She also laid the foundation stone of the Rashtrapati Udyan, which will be built as a net-zero public park in Dehradun.The Presidential Estate, later renamed Rashtrapati Ashiana and now Rashtrapati Niketan, is spread over a 21-acre area in the Himalayan foothills of Dehradun, Uttarakhand.The Presidential Estate was built in 1838 as a summer camp for the Governor General of India’s Bodyguard.In 1976, the Presidential Retreat was renamed Rashtrapati Ashiana, and the President of India occasionally spends a few days here in the summer season.

 

2. Bhupendra Yadav Launches Gharial Conservation Programme at Katarniaghat: Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav launched the Gharial Species Conservation Programme by releasing seven one-year-old gharial hatchlings into the Gerua River at Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh.The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, is endemic to India and found primarily in the Chambal, Gerua (Girwa), and Rapti-Narayani river systems.The National Chambal Sanctuary holds about 77% of the global gharial population, while Katarniaghat Sanctuary serves as a key captive breeding ground for gharial conservation in Uttar Pradesh.

 

3. PM Modi Flags Off First Made-in-Bihar Locomotive for Export to Guinea: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the export of the first made-in-Bihar diesel locomotive to Guinea, from the Marhowrah Diesel Locomotive Plant in Saran district, marking India’s entry into the global locomotive export market from Bihar.The Wabtec Diesel Locomotive Plant, a joint venture between Wabtec (75%) and Indian Railways (25%), signed a deal to export 150 locomotives to Guinea over three years for the Simandou iron ore project, one of the world’s largest; the exported engines include modern features like AC cabins, refrigerators, microwaves, and waterless toilets.

 

4. Adani Commissions India’s First Off-Grid 5 MW Green Hydrogen Plant in Gujarat, Advancing Clean Energy Goals: Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL) has commissioned India’s first off-grid 5 MW green hydrogen pilot plant in Kutch, Gujarat, powered entirely by solar energy and integrated with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), marking a significant step toward the National Green Hydrogen Mission.The plant uses a fully automated, closed-loop electrolyser system that dynamically adjusts to renewable energy inputs, showcasing technological feasibility, operational flexibility, and efficiency in managing solar power variability.This 100% green-powered facility produces hydrogen without any carbon emissions and serves as a proof of concept ahead of ANIL’s upcoming large-scale Green Hydrogen Hub in Mundra, Gujarat.The project strengthens India’s position in the global green hydrogen economy, aiming to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors like fertilisers, refineries, and heavy transport, while supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and reducing dependence on energy imports.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Launches Operation Sindhu to Evacuate Citizens from Conflict-Hit Iran: India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals, including students and pilgrims, stranded in Iran amid the escalating Iran–Israel conflict.As of now, nearly 2,295 individuals, including one Sri Lankan national, have been successfully evacuated through multiple special flights from Mashhad, Iran, to Delhi.The operation continues with additional evacuation flights planned, showcasing India’s strong commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens during geopolitical crises.

 

2. 23 June – United Nations Public Service Day: United Nations Public Service Day is observed every year on 23rd June to recognize the value and virtue of public service in the community and to highlight the contribution of public servants in the development process.The day aims to promote professionalism, innovation, and integrity in public administration and encourages youth to pursue careers in the public sector.It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 (Resolution A/RES/57/277), acknowledging that an efficient, accountable, and inclusive public administration is vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

3. 23 June – International Widows’ Day: International Widows’ Day is observed every year on 23rd June to raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows across the world and to advocate for their rights, dignity, and social inclusion.Theme 2025 – Empowering Widows: Building Resilience, Restoring Dignity Proclaimed by the United Nations in 2010, International Widows’ Day addresses the social stigmas, economic hardships, and human rights violations experienced by millions of widows globally.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Operation Midnight Hammer: US Launches Massive Airstrikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites in Largest Middle East Campaign Since 2003: The United States launched Operation Midnight Hammer, targeting Iran’s three most fortified nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—marking the largest American air campaign in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq War.The strike involved over 125 aircraft, including seven B-2 stealth bombers and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles. For the first time in combat, the GBU-57 bunker-busting bomb was used to hit deeply buried nuclear sites.The U.S. strike followed Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, launched to stop Iran’s alleged nuclear advancements.Operation Midnight Hammer now joins a growing list of high-profile Middle East military actions, including Operation True Promise (Iran), Operation Rising Lion and Iron Wall (Israel), and Operation Poseidon Archer (US-UK coalition), all escalating tensions in the region.

 

2. Indian Navy to Commission Stealth Frigate ‘Tamal’ in Russia on 1st July 2025: The Indian Navy will commission the stealth multi-role frigate Tamal on 01 July 2025 in Kaliningrad, Russia, with Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh presiding over the ceremony, alongside top Indian and Russian defence officials.Tamal is the eighth Krivak-class frigate acquired from Russia and the second in the upgraded Tushil-class, following the Talwar and Teg classes, each of which had three ships.As part of the Tushil-class project, India is also constructing two similar frigates (Triput-class) at Goa Shipyard Limited with Russian technology support, aiming to operate ten ships with common weapons and sensors.Built at Yantar Shipyard, Tamal features 26% indigenous content, including the BrahMos missile, and comes equipped with modern armaments such as vertical-launch SAMs, advanced radars, EW systems, torpedoes, and support for multi-role helicopters.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India Tops Archery Asia Cup 2025 Singapore Leg 2 with Nine Medals: India’s young archers continued their strong performance, finishing at the top of the medal table at the Archery Asia Cup 2025 – Singapore Leg 2 with a total of 9 medals – 2 gold, 6 silver, and 1 bronze.In the first leg held in Bangkok, Thailand, Indian archers had also topped the medal tally with 8 medals, showing consistent dominance across both legs of the tournament.The Singapore leg witnessed participation from over 200 archers representing 21 countries, with India qualifying for five out of six team finals and two of four individual gold medal matches, though they converted only two finals into victories.

 

2. India’s Maaya Rajeshwaran clinches women’s single ITF J200 Gladbeck title in Germany: In Tennis, India’s Maaya Rajeshwaran has clinched the women’s singles ITF J200 Gladbeck title in Germany.The 16-year-old defeated Switzerland’s Noelia Manta 6-2, 6-4 in the final. This triumph marks Maaya’s maiden ITF Junior title on European clay.Earlier in the semifinals, she defeated Daphnee Mpetshi Perricard of France 6-2, 6-1. It is Maaya’s seventh ITF Junior title overall. Her earlier titles include victories at J100 and J300 events.The J signifies Junior, and the number indicates the tournament’s grade, with higher numbers generally representing higher levels of competition and more ranking points.

 

3. India scripts historic finish at U23 Asian Wrestling Championships with double team titles: India’s young wrestlers delivered a stellar performance on the final day of the Under-23 Asian Wrestling Championships in Vung Tau, Vietnam, winning six medals in men’s freestyle. Five wrestlers, Nikhil, Sujeet, Jaideep, Chander Mohan, and Sachin, clinched gold.India also topped the team rankings in men’s freestyle and won the women’s freestyle team title, marking a historic finish at the continental event.Indian women wrestlers won the team title at the Under-23 Asian Championship by winning a medal in each of the 10 categories, including four gold and five silver in Vung Tau, Vietnam.Priyanshi Prajapat in 50kg category, Reena in 55kg category, Shrishti in 68kg and Priya in 76kg category sealed the top podium places. Five Indian women wrestlers settled for runner-up finishes.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Google Launches First Asia-Pacific Safety Engineering Centre in Hyderabad to Boost Cybersecurity and AI Safety: Google has established its first Asia-Pacific Safety Engineering Centre (GSEC) in Hyderabad, Telangana, making it the fourth such centre globally after Munich (Germany), Malaga (Spain), and Dublin (Ireland); it was inaugurated by Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy.The Hyderabad GSEC will serve as a strategic hub for cybersecurity and end-user safety, focusing on preventing online fraud, securing enterprise and government infrastructure, and promoting responsible AI across the Asia-Pacific region.The centre will leverage AI and large language models to enable real-time scam alerts through Gemini Nano on Android, improve fraud detection on Google Pay, Gmail, and Search, and strengthen protections like Google Play Protect.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UGRO Capital to Acquire Profectus for ₹1,400 Crore in Landmark All-Cash Deal to Boost MSME Lending: UGRO Capital has announced the 100% equity acquisition of Profectus Capital for ₹1,400 crore in an all-cash deal, funded through its recent equity raise and pending regulatory approvals including from the RBI.Post-acquisition, Profectus Capital will become a wholly-owned subsidiary, enabling UGRO to strengthen its MSME-focused lending strategy and expand its secured lending portfolio.With this deal, UGRO Capital will gain access to Profectus’s ₹3,468 crore AUM, a 28-branch network, and a low NPA base, resulting in a 29% boost in UGRO’s total assets under management (AUM).

 

2. Centre and RBI Push for Unified Lending Interface (ULI) to Revolutionize Credit Delivery Across India: The Department of Financial Services (DFS) and RBI co-chaired a high-level meeting in New Delhi to discuss scaling up Unified Lending Interface (ULI) — a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) aimed at streamlining and democratizing credit access across India.ULI is envisioned as a transformative platform that integrates technology, data, and policy to deliver seamless, data-driven, and inclusive credit, particularly benefiting underserved borrowers by leveraging trusted government datasets.RBI Deputy Governor T. Rabi Sankar emphasized ULI’s potential to surpass the impact of UPI, urging ministries and states to view it as a collaborative, two-way innovation and contribute relevant datasets to unlock its full potential.The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to digitally integrate government datasets, nominate nodal officers, digitise land and property records, and align other credit initiatives with ULI to build a unified national lending ecosystem.