Daily GK Update- 28th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tamil Nadu to Set Up India’s First Hornbill Conservation Centre at Anamalai Tiger Reserve: India’s First Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation will be set up at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore district, marking a major initiative by the Tamil Nadu government under the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund, with a sanctioned amount of ₹1 crore.The Centre aims to protect hornbills, known as “farmers of the forest”, which are vital for forest regeneration but face threats from deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change.The Centre will focus on four hornbill species found in the Western Ghats — Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and Indian Grey Hornbill.Conservation activities will include habitat mapping, nest monitoring, climate impact research, and restoration of degraded forest zones by planting native trees like fig and canarium to support hornbill ecology.

 

2. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Hikes Journalists’ Pension to ₹15,000 Monthly: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar announced that under the Bihar Journalist Samman Pension Scheme, eligible journalists will now receive a monthly pension of ₹15,000, up from the earlier ₹6,000.In case of a journalist’s death, their dependent spouse will now get ₹10,000/month, a significant rise from the previous ₹3,000.Nitish Kumar emphasized that journalists are the “fourth pillar of democracy”, and their social security and dignity post-retirement are essential for ensuring independent and impartial journalism.

 

3. India’s Gig Economy Growth: India’s gig economy has expanded rapidly in recent years. By FY 2024–25, gig workers numbered about 12 million, up from 7.7 million in 2020–21. This sector now comprises over 2% of the total workforce. Growth is driven by digital connectivity, urbanisation, and a shift towards flexible work. This change marks a structural shift in India’s labour market. Gig workers are individuals earning income without formal employment benefits. They include cab drivers, food delivery personnel, home cleaners, and other service providers working through digital platforms. Unlike traditional informal workers, gig workers operate in a semi-structured system where tasks and payments are documented. This formalisation brings transparency and some recognition to their work.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Vaishali Nigam Sinha Becomes First Private Sector Leader to Head UN Global Compact Network India for 2025–27 Term: Vaishali Nigam Sinha, Co-Founder and Chairperson – Sustainability at ReNew, has been elected President of the United Nations Global Compact Network India (UNGCNI) for the 2025–27 term.She is the first private sector leader in over two decades to hold this position, which has traditionally been occupied by officials from public sector enterprises like ONGC.Her appointment reflects a strategic shift toward private sector leadership in promoting ESG goals and acknowledges her expertise in corporate strategy and sustainability.

 

2. 28 July – World Nature Conservation Day: World Nature Conservation Day is celebrated every year on 28th July to raise awareness about the importance of protecting nature and conserving natural resources.The day emphasizes the importance of preserving forests, water bodies, wildlife, soil, and all natural ecosystems to maintain ecological balance.

 

3. 28 July – World Hepatitis Day: World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on 28th July.Objective – To raise awareness of viral hepatitis and to promote access to testing, treatment, and prevention services globally.The date commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first hepatitis B vaccine.Theme 2025 – Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down

 

4. What is Hepatitis?: Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by viral infections, but may also result from alcohol use, toxins, medications, or autoimmune diseases.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO Conducts Successful Flight Trials of ULPGM-V3: DRDO has successfully conducted flight trials of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the National Open Area Range (NOAR), Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, marking a major advancement in India’s indigenous defence capabilities.The ULPGM-V3 missile features a high-definition dual-channel seeker, supports day-and-night operations, and is capable of being launched from both plain and high-altitude terrains with a two-way data link for post-launch target updates.The missile is designed with three modular warhead configurations:Anti-armour warhead for targeting advanced armoured vehicles with RHA and ERA,Penetration-cum-blast warhead for anti-bunker operations,Pre-fragmentation warhead for creating a high lethality zone.ULPGM-V3 is a joint development of multiple DRDO laboratories including Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), and others involved in missile, electronics, and materials research.

 

2. India and Singapore Begin 14th Edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘Bold Kurukshetra’ in Jodhpur: The 14th edition of India-Singapore Joint Military Exercise – Bold Kurukshetra began in Jodhpur and will continue till 4th August 2025.The exercise includes a tabletop simulation and computer-based wargame, focusing on validating mechanised warfare operational procedures and will conclude with an equipment display by the Indian Army.Participating units include the 42 Singapore Armoured Regiment (4 Singapore Armoured Brigade) and the Indian Army’s Mechanised Infantry Regiment, highlighting deepening strategic and tactical ties between the two nations.

 

3. 27 July – CRPF Raising Day: CRPF Raising Day is celebrated every year on 27th July, and in 2025, the force marked its 87th Raising Day. It commemorates the formation of the Crown Representative Police in 1939, which later became the CRPF.It was renamed as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in 1949 after the enactment of the CRPF Act, and functions as a key central armed police force under the Ministry of Home Affairs.CRPF plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security, conducting anti-Naxal operations, counter-insurgency, and assisting states and union territories in law and order management.The CRPF is the only paramilitary force in India with six all-women battalions, showcasing its commitment to gender inclusion and the evolving role of women in India’s security forces.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anahat Singh Wins Historic Bronze at World Junior Squash Championships 2025: India’s Anahat Singh won the bronze medal at the World Junior Squash Championships 2025 held in New Cairo, Egypt, ending India’s 15-year medal drought at this prestigious U-19 event.The 17-year-old, seeded second in the women’s singles draw, lost in the semi-finals to Egypt’s Nadien Elhammamy in straight games (11-6, 14-12, 12-10); she is currently ranked 54th in the senior world rankings. A rising star in Indian squash, Anahat has recently won the U-19 Asian title, several PSA Challenger titles, and Asian senior doubles golds, and had earlier debuted at the World Championships in Chicago.

 

2. Shubman Gill Creates History with 4 Centuries in Debut Test Series as Captain Against England: Shubman Gill scored a brilliant century on Day 5 of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, becoming the first-ever batter to score four centuries in his debut Test series as captain. He broke the previous joint record held by Warwick Armstrong, Don Bradman, Greg Chappell, Virat Kohli, and Steven Smith, all of whom had scored three centuries in their debut series as Test captains.With his latest century, Gill now holds the record for the most 100-plus scores by a captain in a Test series against England, joining legends Don Bradman and Sunil Gavaskar who also scored four centuries in a single Test series.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Revamped Mission Vatsalya Portal Launched to Strengthen Child Protection Services with Unified Digital Platform: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched the revamped Mission Vatsalya Portal, an integrated and secure digital platform for all stakeholders involved in child protection services at both State and district levels.The portal brings together previous platforms Khoya-Paya and TrackChild into a single unified system, ensuring elimination of duplication, enhanced monitoring through MIS Dashboards, and efficient resource utilisation.

Key stakeholders using the portal include State Child Protection Society, State Adoption Resource Agency, District Child Protection Unit, Child Welfare Committee, Juvenile Justice Board, and others involved in juvenile and child care services.The Toll-Free Child Helpline (1098) continues to provide 24x7x365 emergency outreach, and is now integrated with ERSS-112 (Ministry of Home Affairs) and Women Helpline (181) for coordinated response to children in distress.

 

2. NASA’s Arsenic Life Claim Retracted After Fifteen Years: Recent developments marked the formal retraction of a controversial 2010 NASA-funded study that claimed discovery of a microbe, GFAJ-1, capable of substituting arsenic for phosphorus in its DNA. The initial announcement suggested a radical revision of biology and hinted at alien-like life chemistry. However, after years of scrutiny and failed replication, the scientific community and the journal *Science* withdrew the paper. This event marks challenges in scientific communication, peer review, and interdisciplinary research. In 2010, researchers studying Mono Lake in California reported finding a bacterium that could incorporate arsenic, a toxic element, instead of phosphorus in its DNA. This claim, if true, would have rewritten fundamental biological principles. The announcement received widespread media attention and sparked excitement about alternative biochemistries and astrobiology.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRDAI Imposes ₹3.39 Crore Penalty on Star Health Insurance for Cyber Security Violations: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has imposed a ₹3.39 crore penalty on Star Health and Allied Insurance for multiple violations of the Information & Cyber Security Guidelines, 2023, and also issued a formal warning to the insurer.Despite regulatory action, Star Health Insurance remains a major player in the sector with a strong distribution network comprising 913 offices, over 14,000 network hospitals, 7.75 lakh+ licensed agents, and 17,000 employees.

 

2. NSDL Payments Bank Added to RBI Second Schedule: NSDL Payments Bank has been officially included in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, after receiving the ‘Scheduled Bank’ status from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through a notification issued on June 19, 2025.The bank is now working towards establishing itself as a ‘capital market bank’ by offering a 3-in-1 account and partnering with brokerage firms that lack the backing of traditional banks.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Panaji Declared Cleanest City in Swachh Survekshan 2024–25: Panaji, the capital of Goa, has been awarded the cleanest city in India in the population category of 20,000 to 50,000 under Swachh Survekshan 2024–25, presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant and Panaji Mayor Rohit Monserrate credited the award to the sanitation workers, women leaders, councillors, and citizens, acknowledging their key role in transforming Panaji’s waste management system.

Daily GK Update- 27th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Post and NPCI International Join Forces to Transform Global Remittances via UPI and Postal Network: The Department of Posts (DoP) and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to collaborate on revolutionising inward remittances to India through a UPI-based system integrated with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Interconnection Platform.The initiative aims to modernise cross-border payment services by offering a secure, seamless, and affordable remittance option for the Indian diaspora, leveraging the strengths of UPI and the trusted global postal network.By combining UPI’s real-time transaction capability with the widespread reach of the postal system, the partnership seeks to expand access to financial services, especially in remote or underserved areas.

 

2. PM Modi Becomes India’s Second-Longest Serving Prime Minister, Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India in consecutive terms, compl0eting 4,078 days in office, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 4,077 days; only Jawaharlal Nehru served longer with 16 years and 286 days.Modi, aged 74, first took office on May 26, 2014, and has now served over 11 years and 60 days as Prime Minister. He is also the first and only PM born after Independence, and the longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister.He is the only non-Congress leader to serve two full terms and be re-elected twice with a clear majority, and the first sitting PM since Indira Gandhi in 1971 to return to power with a full mandate.Narendra Modi has won six consecutive elections as a party leader – three in Gujarat (2002, 2007, 2012) and three Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, 2024), making him the only Indian leader to achieve this across state and national levels.

 

3. Utpal Kumar Singh Appointed as New CEO of Sansad TV: Utpal Kumar Singh, currently serving as Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, has been appointed as the CEO of Sansad TV, replacing Rajit Punhani, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Bihar cadre.Sansad TV is a public broadcaster that telecasts live parliamentary proceedings, and Singh’s appointment comes during the ongoing restructuring of media and communication roles within Parliament.

 

4. Uma Kanjilal Appointed First Woman Vice Chancellor of IGNOU After Four Decades: Professor Uma Kanjilal has become the first woman Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), four decades after its establishment, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history.With over 36 years of experience in Open and Distance Learning (ODL), she brings expertise in digital education, library science, and academic leadership, having previously served as Pro Vice Chancellor and acting Vice Chancellor at IGNOU.

 

5. Anuradha Thakur Appointed as Director on the RBI Central Board: Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs, has been nominated as a Director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) by the Central Government.She replaces Ajay Seth, who has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and Indonesia Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil Production and Policy Alignment: The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (IPOA) signed a 3-year MoU during the IVPA conference in New Delhi to enhance cooperation in the palm oil sector, focusing on productivity, sustainability, and policy alignment.The agreement emphasises joint research, technology transfer, and sharing of best practices to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.A key focus is developing a sustainability roadmap that promotes certified sustainable palm oil, improves traceability, and ensures the inclusion of smallholder farmers.

 

2. 25 July – World Drowning Prevention Day: World Drowning Prevention Day is observed annually on 25 July, following its declaration by the UN General Assembly in April 2021 (Resolution A/RES/75/273), to raise awareness about the devastating impact of drowning and promote preventive actions.Drowning claims an estimated 236,000 lives each year globally, making it a major public health concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries with poor water safety infrastructure.It is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths, accounting for 7% of all such fatalities, and is a top cause of death among children and young people aged 1–24 years.

 

3. 25 July – International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent: The International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent is observed every year on July 25th to recognise and honour their contributions, identity, and rights.Women and girls of African descent often face multiple layers of discrimination—racial, gender-based, and socio-economic—making them one of the most marginalised groups globally.The day highlights the need for inclusive policies, cultural affirmation, and human rights-based approaches to empower and uplift women and girls of African heritage.

 

4. 25 July – International Day on Judicial Well-being: The International Day on Judicial Well-being is observed every year on 25th July to recognise the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of judges and judicial officers.The day highlights the importance of a healthy judicial ecosystem, promoting work-life balance, mental health support, and institutional reforms to reduce stress and burnout in the judiciary.Ensuring judicial well-being is vital for maintaining judicial independence, efficiency, and integrity, as well as upholding the rule of law in a fair and just manner.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. France to Recognise Palestinian State in 2025: France has announced it will officially recognise the State of Palestine in September 2025. This decision marks the first time a G7 nation will grant formal recognition. The announcement is expected to be made during the UN General Assembly session in New York. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised the urgent need to end the war in Gaza, secure humanitarian aid, and achieve a lasting peace in the Middle East. France’s recognition follows escalating conflict in Gaza after Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023. Macron called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and demilitarisation of Hamas. He stressed the importance of rebuilding Gaza and ensuring the viability of a Palestinian state that accepts Israel’s security. Palestinian leaders welcomed the move as support for their right to self-determination. Israel and its key allies, including the US and the UK, strongly opposed the decision.

 

2. India Tests ULPGM-V3: India achieved milestone in defence technology with the successful test-firing of the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3. Conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, this trial marks a major boost to India’s missile capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) led the development and testing, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defence systems. The ULPGM-V3 is a precision-guided missile launched from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is designed for high accuracy strikes on ground targets while minimising risks to personnel. This variant is an extended-range version, building on earlier models like ULPGM-V2. It incorporates advanced technologies such as imaging infrared (IIR) seekers and dual-thrust propulsion systems. The missile suits modern battlefield demands with its lightweight and versatile design.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Launches TRACERS Mission to Study Earth’s Magnetic Shield and Space Weather Impacts: NASA successfully launched the TRACERS mission (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base to study how Earth’s magnetic field shields us from space weather.

The twin TRACERS satellites will fly in tandem, just 10 seconds apart, through the polar cusp — an open region of Earth’s magnetic field near the North Pole — to investigate magnetic reconnection, a powerful process where magnetic field lines from the Sun and Earth snap and realign, releasing energy.Over the next year, TRACERS will collect a record 3,000 measurements, helping scientists better understand how solar wind impacts Earth’s space environment and providing insights that could improve protection for satellites, astronauts, and power grids.Launched alongside TRACERS were NASA’s Athena, PExT, and REAL missions, which aim to demonstrate new space technologies and gather valuable scientific data, with all satellites successfully deployed and undergoing initial contact and commissioning procedures.

2. Global Tobacco Epidemic: The global tobacco epidemic continues to pose a severe health threat in 2025. Despite decades of awareness, tobacco use claims millions of lives annually. Women face unique health challenges linked to tobacco. New nicotine products complicate control efforts. Effective policies remain crucial to curb tobacco-related deaths worldwide. Tobacco use causes around 7.3 million deaths yearly. Over the past 30 years, tobacco-related deaths have reached 200 million. Smoking is a leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. Many of these diseases are preventable. The tobacco industry still aggressively markets products, increasing the global health burden.

 

3. Mycorrhizal Fungi Hotspots: Recent studies reveal that over 90 per cent of mycorrhizal fungi hotspots lie outside protected areas. These fungi are crucial for nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration and plant health. Despite their importance, they have been largely ignored in climate and conservation policies. The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) has created a digital atlas to map their global distribution. This effort aims to raise awareness and promote the inclusion of mycorrhizal fungi in environmental agendas. Mycorrhizal fungi live symbiotically with more than 80 per cent of plant species. They help plants absorb nutrients such as phosphorus from the soil. They also capture carbon dioxide released by plant roots, storing about 13 billion tonnes of CO2 annually. This amount equals roughly one-third of global fossil fuel emissions. These fungi support soil health, plant growth and ecosystem stability.

 

4. NASA’s TRACERS Mission: NASA’s TRACERS mission recently launched to study how Earth’s magnetic shield protects the planet from space weather effects. The twin satellites aim to understand magnetic reconnection, a key process in space weather that influences phenomena such as the aurora and satellite disruptions. TRACERS will operate in low Earth orbit, passing through the polar cusps where solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetosphere. TRACERS was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Along with TRACERS, three small NASA satellites—Athena EPIC, PExT, and REAL—were deployed to test new technologies and collect scientific data. Communication with both TRACERS satellites was established within hours after deployment. The mission entered a four-week commissioning phase to check instruments and systems before starting its main scientific operations.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Direct Benefit Transfer in Fertilizer Subsidy System: The Government of India continues to implement the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for fertilizer subsidies as of 2025. This system ensures that subsidies reach farmers directly through fertiliser companies based on actual sales verified by Aadhaar authentication at retail points. The scheme guarantees subsidised fertiliser supply to all farmers without discrimination. Under the DBT system, fertiliser companies receive 100% subsidy on various fertiliser grades based on actual sales to farmers. Sales are authenticated through Point of Sale (PoS) devices linked to the beneficiaries’ Aadhaar numbers. This method prevents diversion and ensures transparency. All farmers, irrespective of size, access fertilisers at subsidised rates. The scheme operates on a no-denial basis, meaning any Aadhaar-verified farmer can purchase fertilisers with subsidy benefits.

 

2. PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana: The Government of India has introduced the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), a major employment-linked incentive scheme starting from 1 August 2025. The scheme aims to generate over 3.5 crore new jobs in two years. It focuses on inclusive and sustainable employment, especially in the manufacturing sector. With a budget of Rs 99,446 crore, the scheme targets first-time workers and supports employers to boost job creation. PM-VBRY is designed to accelerate economic growth through job-led development. It incentivises both employees and employers to create and sustain employment. The scheme runs from August 2025 to July 2027. It is divided into two parts – Part A for first-time employees and Part B for employers generating additional jobs.

Daily GK Update- 26th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. National Expert Committee Reviews Safety of Key Ayurvedic Herbs at AIIA Goa Meeting: The National Expert Committee Meeting on Herb Safety Dossiers was held at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, co-chaired by Dr. A. Raghu and Dr. J. B. Gupta, with participation from senior scientists and experts from reputed institutions.The Ministry of Ayush is actively developing safety dossiers for four key Ayush herbs—Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Chandrashura (Lepidium sativum)—to strengthen the scientific evidence base of traditional medicine.The committee conducted a comprehensive review involving Ayurvedic classical texts, pharmacological and toxicology data, preclinical studies, and clinical literature to ensure the safety and credibility of these herbs.

 

2. India Marks 166th Income Tax Day: India celebrates the 166th Income Tax Day on 24 July 2025, marking the introduction of income tax in 1860 by Sir James Wilson and recognising the evolution of India’s tax system from the Income Tax Act of 1922 to the proposed Income Tax Bill, 2025.Major technological reforms—including PAN, TIN, CPC Bengaluru, Faceless Assessment, and Project Insight—have transformed tax administration into a fully digital and citizen-friendly system, enhancing compliance and transparency.The Finance Act 2025 has extended the time to file updated returns from 24 to 48 months, raised the zero-tax income threshold to ₹12 lakh, and introduced several middle-class relief measures, including full tax exemption for NSS withdrawals after August 29, 2024.

 

3. PM Modi Becomes India’s Second-Longest Serving Prime Minister, Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India in consecutive terms, compl0eting 4,078 days in office, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 4,077 days; only Jawaharlal Nehru served longer with 16 years and 286 days.Modi, aged 74, first took office on May 26, 2014, and has now served over 11 years and 60 days as Prime Minister. He is also the first and only PM born after Independence, and the longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister.He is the only non-Congress leader to serve two full terms and be re-elected twice with a clear majority, and the first sitting PM since Indira Gandhi in 1971 to return to power with a full mandate.Narendra Modi has won six consecutive elections as a party leader – three in Gujarat (2002, 2007, 2012) and three Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, 2024), making him the only Indian leader to achieve this across state and national levels.

 

4. India Successfully Tests First Hydrogen-Powered Rail Coach: India successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, marking a major step in green rail mobility.The coach is part of a project to develop a 1,200-horsepower hydrogen train, which will place India among the global leaders in hydrogen-powered train technology.Under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative, Indian Railways plans to run 35 hydrogen-powered trains on heritage and hill routes, with an estimated cost of ₹80 crore per train and ₹70 crore per route for necessary infrastructure.A pilot project worth ₹111.83 crore has been awarded for retrofitting a hydrogen fuel cell on an existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake, to operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of the Northern Railway.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Post and NPCI International Join Forces to Transform Global Remittances via UPI and Postal Network: The Department of Posts (DoP) and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to collaborate on revolutionising inward remittances to India through a UPI-based system integrated with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Interconnection Platform.The initiative aims to modernise cross-border payment services by offering a secure, seamless, and affordable remittance option for the Indian diaspora, leveraging the strengths of UPI and the trusted global postal network.By combining UPI’s real-time transaction capability with the widespread reach of the postal system, the partnership seeks to expand access to financial services, especially in remote or underserved areas.

 

2. India-Maldives Boost Strategic Ties with 6 MoUs, ₹4,850 Cr Credit Line, and Major Infrastructure Inauguration: India and Maldives signed six MoUs covering key areas like fisheries, aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure (including UPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia, and a ₹4,850 crore Line of Credit to support infrastructure and development in the island nation.

India and Maldives exchanged an Amendatory Agreement reducing Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40% (from $51 million to $29 million) and began Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations to boost economic ties.PM Modi and President Muizzu jointly inaugurated key infrastructure projects, including Maldives’ new Defence Ministry building, Addu City’s 111 km road & 106 km drainage system, 6 community projects, and handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles.

 

3. India and Indonesia Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil Production and Policy Alignment: The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (IPOA) signed a 3-year MoU during the IVPA conference in New Delhi to enhance cooperation in the palm oil sector, focusing on productivity, sustainability, and policy alignment.The agreement emphasises joint research, technology transfer, and sharing of best practices to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.A key focus is developing a sustainability roadmap that promotes certified sustainable palm oil, improves traceability, and ensures the inclusion of smallholder farmers.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Thailand-Cambodia Border Conflict: The Thailand-Cambodia border conflict intensified in July 2025, with military strikes and deadly clashes resulting in civilian casualties and diplomatic strain. Both nations accuse each other of sovereignty violations amid ongoing disputes over territory and historic temples. The situation remains volatile with military engagements and political repercussions. In late July 2025, Thailand’s army launched air strikes targeting Cambodian military positions along their disputed border. Thailand deployed F-16 fighter jets and claimed to have destroyed Cambodian regional support units. Fighting occurred at six locations, prompting evacuation of Thai border residents. Cambodia accused Thailand of excessive force while Thailand condemned Cambodian landmine placements injuring Thai soldiers. The conflict centres on a border spanning over 800 kilometres, rooted in colonial-era maps from 1907. Both countries claim sovereignty over areas including the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple near Surin province and the Preah Vihear temple on the Cambodia-Thailand border. These sites hold religious and cultural significance and have been flashpoints for decades.

 

2. Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel: Brazil is preparing to formally join South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The case, filed in 2023, alleges that Israel’s military actions extend beyond targeting Hamas militants and involve attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Brazil’s move reflects growing international concern over alleged violations of international law in the conflict. South Africa filed a lawsuit at the ICJ under the 1948 Genocide Convention. It claims Israel’s military strikes in Gaza violate its obligations by targeting civilian areas such as schools, hospitals, and shelters. The case argues that these actions constitute acts of genocide against Palestinians. Israel denies these allegations, stating its operations focus solely on Hamas militants.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA Launches TRACERS Mission to Study Earth’s Magnetic Shield and Space Weather Impacts: NASA successfully launched the TRACERS mission (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base to study how Earth’s magnetic field shields us from space weather.

The twin TRACERS satellites will fly in tandem, just 10 seconds apart, through the polar cusp — an open region of Earth’s magnetic field near the North Pole — to investigate magnetic reconnection, a powerful process where magnetic field lines from the Sun and Earth snap and realign, releasing energy.Over the next year, TRACERS will collect a record 3,000 measurements, helping scientists better understand how solar wind impacts Earth’s space environment and providing insights that could improve protection for satellites, astronauts, and power grids.Launched alongside TRACERS were NASA’s Athena, PExT, and REAL missions, which aim to demonstrate new space technologies and gather valuable scientific data, with all satellites successfully deployed and undergoing initial contact and commissioning procedures.

 

2. India’s Satellite Instructional Television Experiment: India’s space journey in 2025 continues to inspire with renewed focus on practical applications. The 50th anniversary of the Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) marks India’s pioneering role in using space technology for social benefit. SITE was a landmark project that brought educational television to rural India through satellite broadcasting. It set the foundation for India’s space programme to prioritise societal development alongside scientific advancement. Launched on 1 August 1975, SITE was a collaboration between India and the United States. It used NASA’s ATS-6 satellite to beam educational and development programmes to 2,400 remote villages across six diverse state of Indias. The project targeted backward districts, including unelectrified villages. TV sets were installed in community centres, schools, and panchayat ghars for free public viewing, transcending caste and class barriers. SITE was the first large-scale direct-to-home satellite broadcasting experiment, bringing television to rural India long before urban areas had widespread access.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Federal Bank Launches India’s First Biometric Authentication for E-Commerce Transactions with M2P and MinkasuPay: Federal Bank, in partnership with M2P and MinkasuPay, has launched India’s first biometric authentication solution for e-commerce card transactions, enabling users to approve payments using fingerprint or face ID.This innovation eliminates the need for traditional OTPs, reducing transaction time to just 3–4 seconds, while offering enhanced security and a smoother user experience.The biometric solution aims to simplify and secure online shopping, marking a significant leap in digital payment technology and user convenience.

 

2. Russian Rouble’s Sharp Rise: The Russian rouble has surged by 45% against the US dollar since early 2025. This makes it one of the best performing currencies worldwide this year. The rise is mainly due to Russia’s tight monetary policy and optimism following US-Russia peace talks in February. However, the strong rouble presents mixed effects for Russia’s economy, especially under heavy sanctions. The Russian central bank’s high interest rates, exceeding 20%, attract savers and speculators seeking yield. This reduces demand for foreign currencies as borrowing costs remain high. The weak US dollar, down 6.6% since April 2025, also supports the rouble’s rise. Although the exchange rate floats freely, the central bank intervenes by selling Chinese yuan to maintain rouble stability and prevent arbitrage. A strong rouble reduces the rouble value of dollar-denominated energy exports. This lowers government revenues, as the 2025 budget is based on a rate of 94.3 roubles per dollar, but the current rate is near 78. Analysts estimate a potential 2.4% revenue loss this year. Exporters face difficulties as their goods become costlier for foreign buyers, shrinking income in dollar terms. Many Russian officials favour a weaker rouble around 100 per dollar to support trade and budget.

Daily GK Update- 25th July, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. JSW Energy Signs 25-Year Power Pact with BESCOM for 100 MW Solar Project with Battery Storage in Karnataka: JSW Renew Energy Forty Five, a step-down subsidiary of JSW Energy, has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with BESCOM for a 100 MW grid-connected solar project integrated with a 100 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at a tariff of ₹4.31/kWh.The project will be developed on a designated site and connected to the 220/400 kV KPTCL Firozabad substation in Kalaburagi district, enhancing grid reliability and renewable power integration.Following this deal, JSW Energy’s total committed energy storage capacity has reached 29.4 GWh, including 3.0 GWh from BESS and 26.4 GWh from Pumped Hydro Storage.

 

2. Ajay Seth Appointed as New IRDAI Chairman for Three-Year Term: The government appointed former Finance and Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth as the Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).His appointment is for a period of three years, or until he turns 65, or until further orders—whichever comes earlier.A 1987-batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, Ajay Seth succeeds Debasish Panda, whose term ended in March 2025, leaving the IRDAI post vacant since then.

 

3. Nirmal Minda Appointed as New President of ASSOCHAM: Nirmal K. Minda, Executive Chairman of Uno Minda, has been appointed as the new President of ASSOCHAM, succeeding Sanjay Nayar.Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank, is set to become the Vice-President of ASSOCHAM, subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).The appointments aim to combine manufacturing expertise and financial leadership to advance ASSOCHAM’s goals of sustainable growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

 

4. India’s Gig Economy Growth: India’s gig economy has expanded rapidly in recent years. By FY 2024–25, gig workers numbered about 12 million, up from 7.7 million in 2020–21. This sector now comprises over 2% of the total workforce. Growth is driven by digital connectivity, urbanisation, and a shift towards flexible work. This change marks a structural shift in India’s labour market. Gig workers are individuals earning income without formal employment benefits. They include cab drivers, food delivery personnel, home cleaners, and other service providers working through digital platforms. Unlike traditional informal workers, gig workers operate in a semi-structured system where tasks and payments are documented. This formalisation brings transparency and some recognition to their work.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Assam Launches ₹1.5 Lakh Scholarship Scheme for Japanese Language Training to Boost Overseas Employment: The Assam Government has launched a scheme named Chief Minister’s Foreign Language Initiative for Global Human Talent (CM-FLIGHT) to promote Japanese language learning and facilitate overseas employment for Assamese youth under Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa programme.Under the scheme, the government will provide a scholarship of ₹1.5 lakh per student pursuing Japanese language training (up to JLPT N2 level), helping youth qualify for global employment opportunities.A pilot project will be implemented in the current financial year through three designated agencies that will provide language training and assist in overseas placements, especially in Japan.3,000 youth will be selected in the first phase of the programme. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted that with Japan’s aging population (average age 48) and Assam’s younger demographic (average age 22), there is huge potential for employment, with a minimum salary of ₹2.5 lakh/month in Japan.

 

2. India Set to Become World’s 3rd Largest Economy by 2028: Morgan Stanley: India is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028 and could double its GDP to $10.6 trillion by 2035, according to Morgan Stanley.States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka are expected to individually approach the $1 trillion mark by 2035, ranking among the top 20 global economies.Over the last decade, infrastructure investment has surged, with highway networks expanding by 60%, airports doubling, and metro systems quadrupling. Central schemes like PM Gati Shakti, Bharatmala, and UDAN have driven this growth.

 

3. 4th Edition of World Food India 2025 to be Held in New Delhi: The 4th edition of World Food India will be held in New Delhi from 25–28 September 2025, showcasing India’s food culture and investment opportunities in the food processing sector.The 2025 edition will be the largest ever, with participation from over 90 countries and 2,000+ exhibitors and stakeholders across the food value chain.The event is organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, co-organised by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), with FICCI as the National Partner and Ernst & Young as the Knowledge Partner.The theme of World Food India 2025 is “Processing for Prosperity”, aiming to boost collaboration and growth in the global food processing ecosystem.

World Food India aims to promote India as a promising global hub for food processing, manufacturing, and cold chain logistics.

 

4. India Rises 8 Spots to 77th Rank on Henley Passport Index 2025, Gains Visa-Free Access to 59 Countries: India has improved its position on the Henley Passport Index 2025, climbing 8 spots to rank 77th, compared to 85th in 2024, despite a modest increase in visa-free access from 57 to 59 countries.The Henley Passport Index, based on International Air Transport Association (IATA) data, ranks passports by the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Singapore holds the top spot with visa-free access to 193 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place (190 destinations), and seven EU countries (Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain) in third place (189 destinations).Traditionally strong passports like the U.S. and U.K. have declined in ranking — the U.S. dropped to 10th place (182 destinations), and the U.K. fell to 6th (186 destinations).The Philippines and Sri Lanka are the two new additions to India’s visa-free access list in 2025, contributing to its improved global ranking.

 

5. Trump Unveils Aggressive AI Action Plan to Make U.S. a Global AI Export Powerhouse: The Trump administration has introduced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan titled “Winning the Race“, aimed at transforming the U.S. into a global AI export powerhouse.The plan includes three executive orders focusing on cutting environmental regulations for faster construction of AI supercomputers, promoting the sale of U.S.-made AI technologies, and streamlining permits for data center infrastructure.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prachet’ Launched by Goa Shipyard for Indian Coast Guard: ‘Samudra Prachet’, the second and final indigenous Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), was launched for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), with 72% indigenous content, promoting local industry, MSMEs, and national skill development.The vessel is 114.5 meters long, 16.5 meters wide, with a displacement of 4,170 tonnes, and will be operated by 14 officers and 115 sailors; it features state-of-the-art oil spill response systems, including side-sweeping arms and advanced radar for detecting oil slicks.‘Samudra Prachet’ is capable of recovering oil across all viscosity levels, pumping contaminated water, analyzing and separating pollutants, and storing recovered oil in dedicated onboard tanks, ensuring rapid and efficient response to maritime pollution incidents.

 

2. India Tests ULPGM-V3: India achieved milestone in defence technology with the successful test-firing of the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3. Conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, this trial marks a major boost to India’s missile capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) led the development and testing, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defence systems. The ULPGM-V3 is a precision-guided missile launched from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is designed for high accuracy strikes on ground targets while minimising risks to personnel. This variant is an extended-range version, building on earlier models like ULPGM-V2. It incorporates advanced technologies such as imaging infrared (IIR) seekers and dual-thrust propulsion systems. The missile suits modern battlefield demands with its lightweight and versatile design.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Divya Deshmukh Creates History as First Indian to Reach FIDE Women’s World Cup Final: Divya Deshmukh created history by becoming the first Indian to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, after defeating China’s Tan Zhongyi in the semifinal held in Batumi, Georgia, with a 1.5-0.5 score.With this win, the 19-year-old not only entered the final but also secured a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament and achieved her first Grandmaster norm, marking a major milestone in her chess career.In the final, Divya will face the winner of the other semifinal match between China’s Lei Tingjie (top seed) and India’s No. 1 Koneru Humpy, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

 

2. Vikramaditya Chaufla to Lead India at World Racketlon Championship 2025 in Netherlands: Vikramaditya Chaufla has been appointed captain of the Indian squad for the World Racketlon Championship 2025, scheduled from July 30 to August 3 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.Racketlon is a multi-racket sport involving four disciplines: table tennis, badminton, squash, and tennis. Chaufla, a former badminton player, had previously led the team and secured a silver medal in the 2022 edition.The Indian men’s squad includes Krishna B Kotak, Prashant Sen, Nihit Kumar Singh, Suhail Kapur, with Raghav Jatia as a reserve, while Nidhi Tiwari is India’s only representative in the women’s category.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA’s TRACERS Mission: NASA’s TRACERS mission recently launched to study how Earth’s magnetic shield protects the planet from space weather effects. The twin satellites aim to understand magnetic reconnection, a key process in space weather that influences phenomena such as the aurora and satellite disruptions. TRACERS will operate in low Earth orbit, passing through the polar cusps where solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetosphere. TRACERS was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Along with TRACERS, three small NASA satellites—Athena EPIC, PExT, and REAL—were deployed to test new technologies and collect scientific data. Communication with both TRACERS satellites was established within hours after deployment. The mission entered a four-week commissioning phase to check instruments and systems before starting its main scientific operations.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Approves Warburg Pincus Arm Currant Sea to Acquire 9.99% Stake in IDFC First Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Currant Sea Investments B.V., an arm of Warburg Pincus, to acquire up to 9.99% stake in IDFC First Bank.This approval follows an earlier clearance by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on June 3, despite shareholders recently rejecting the appointment of a non-retiring Currant Sea board member due to insufficient support (only 64.1% votes, below the 75% threshold).As part of the deal, IDFC First Bank will issue 81.26 crore preference shares to Currant Sea and 43.71 crore shares to ADIA-backed Platinum Invictus, both priced at ₹60 per share.

 

2. IRDAI Proposes Internal Ombudsman Scheme to Strengthen Complaint Resolution for Insurance Claims up to ₹50 Lakh: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has released draft norms proposing an Internal Insurance Ombudsman Scheme for insurers to handle complaints related to claims up to ₹50 lakh.The proposed framework mandates an independent and impartial review mechanism, where the internal ombudsman will report directly to the board or its committee and will have decision-making authority for eligible complaints.The scheme will be applicable to all insurers (except reinsurers) with more than three years of operations, making it mandatory to appoint an internal insurance ombudsman. This mechanism aims to enhance grievance redressal quality and boost consumer confidence in the insurance sector by ensuring faster and more transparent complaint resolution.

 

3. Angel One to Invest ₹400 Crore in Digital-First Life Insurance JV with Singapore’s Livwell: Angel One has announced an investment of ₹400 crore in a life insurance joint venture with Singapore-based Livwell Holding Company, aiming to launch a digital-first life insurance company in India.In the JV, Angel One will hold a 26% stake, while Livwell will hold the remaining 74%; the initiative targets India’s underpenetrated life insurance market.Livwell is backed by private equity firm Olympus Capital, which has previously invested in notable institutions like HDFC Bank, CreditAccess Grameen, Karur Vysya Bank, and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank.

 

4. Fino Payments Bank Launches “GATI” Digital Savings Account: Fino Payments Bank has launched “GATI” (which means “speed” in many Indian languages), a zero-balance digital savings account aimed at expanding UPI adoption in semi-urban and rural West Bengal, especially among digitally-savvy individuals underserved by traditional banks.With over 40,000 merchant points, Fino leverages its merchant-led model to provide last-mile access to banking services, enabling instant onboarding through eKYC and immediate UPI activation without the need for physical bank visits.