Daily GK Update- 12th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CAQM, CSIR-CRRI, SPA sign MoU to reduce dust pollution via urban road redevelopment: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) and School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), New Delhi, to tackle dust pollution through urban road redevelopment.Focus on Dust Pollution Control: The collaboration targets the implementation of a standardized framework for urban road redevelopment, including paving and greening of sidewalks and pathways to reduce dust levels in Delhi-NCR.Project Monitoring Cell Setup: The MoU includes establishing a Project Monitoring Cell (PMC) at CAQM, with facilitation from CSIR-CRRI and SPA, to ensure phased and efficient implementation of road redevelopment strategies across NCR States.

 

2. Covrzy and NammaYatri join forces to provide health coverage to gig workers: Bengaluru-based insurance-tech startup Covrzy has collaborated with Namma Yatri to provide affordable and accessible health insurance to auto and cab drivers and their families across India.Covrzy’s health insurance offerings will be embedded directly into the Namma Yatri driver app, enabling drivers to compare, purchase, and manage insurance policies digitally with ease, including features like claim requests, policy downloads, and network hospital listings.The initiative will initially cover over 3,000 drivers in Bengaluru and is planned to expand to more than 50,000 drivers across multiple cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, and Bhubaneswar within 12–18 months.a

 

3. Andhra Pradesh Govt to Disburse ₹8,745 Crore Under ‘Talliki Vandanam’ Scheme as TDP Marks One Year in Power: The Andhra Pradesh government will disburse ₹8,745 crore under the ‘Talliki Vandanam’ scheme, providing ₹15,000 annually to mothers of school-going children, benefiting around 67 lakh students.The scheme, approved by CM N. Chandrababu Naidu coincides with the TDP-led coalition government’s first anniversary, and is considered a key component of Naidu’s “Super Six” welfare agenda.The benefit will cover students from Class 1 to Intermediate First Year, with the amount credited directly to the mothers’ bank accounts after admission data is finalized.

 

4. Sumit Madan Appointed as MD & CEO of Axis Max Life Insurance: Max Financial Services Ltd has announced the appointment of Sumit Madan as the new Managing Director and CEO of Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd, effective from October 1, 2025, following the retirement of current CEO Prashant Tripathy on September 30, 2025. His appointment is subject to shareholder and IRDAI approval.Sumit Madan, currently the Chief Distribution Officer at Axis Max Life, has over 25 years of experience in the banking and financial services sector. He previously played a key role at IDFC FIRST Bank, where he helped expand the branch network and achieve a CASA ratio of over 50%.

 

5. FSIB Recommends R Doraiswamy as Next CEO & MD of LIC, to Succeed Interim Chief Sat Pal Bhanoo: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended R Doraiswamy as the new CEO and MD of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), after evaluating four candidates on performance, experience, and other criteria.Doraiswamy, who has been serving as MD at LIC since September 1, 2023, brings over 30 years of experience across operations, marketing, technology, and academics; he previously worked at National Insurance Academy and currently holds multiple directorships.He is expected to succeed Sat Pal Bhanoo, the interim CEO & MD (appointed on June 8, 2025), who is set to serve till September 7, 2025, following the tenure of former CEO Siddhartha Mohanty.

 

6. Mohd. Arif Khan Appointed Deputy CEO of SBI General Insurance: Arif Khan has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Dy. CEO) of SBI General Insurance, bringing over two decades of experience in the banking industry.He started his career in 2000 as a probationary officer at State Bank of India (SBI) and has since held senior roles in retail banking, core banking systems, and strategic training.Prior to this appointment, he served as the General Manager, Network-I, at SBI’s Local Head Office in Thiruvananthapuram, showcasing strong leadership in network management.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 10 June – International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations: The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations is observed every year on June 10, with the aim of promoting understanding, tolerance, and open dialogue between cultures, communities, and civilizations around the world.

The day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2001, in response to increasing global tensions and cultural misunderstandings, encouraging nations to replace the “clash of civilizations” with conversations that foster peace and cooperation.

 

2. 12 June – World Day Against Child Labour: World Day Against Child Labour is observed every year on 12 June to raise awareness about the plight of child labourers worldwide and to promote efforts to eliminate child labour in all its forms.Theme 2025 – Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: let’s speed up effortsThe day was established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 to highlight the need for global action against child labour, which deprives children of their childhood, education, and potential.The observance aims to encourage governments, organizations, and individuals to take decisive steps to combat child labour by enforcing laws, improving education access, and supporting families economically.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s 1st Underwater Museum to be Built Around INS Guldar in Maharashtra: India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef will be developed around the decommissioned warship INS Guldar near Nivati Rocks at Vengurla in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra.The initiative, supported by the central government, aims to boost marine conservation and tourism, offering scuba diving and future submarine tours. The Union Tourism Ministry has approved 46.91 crore rupees for the project.The ship, weighing 1,120 tons, was decommissioned in January 2024. It has been officially handed over by the central government to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation for conversion into a submerged museum.

 

2. Indian Army Joins 22nd Multinational Khaan Quest Exercise in Mongolia with 40-Member Contingent: A 40-member Indian Army contingent, including personnel from the Kumaon Regiment and three women (one officer and two soldiers), has arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to take part in the 22nd edition of the multinational military exercise Khaan Quest, scheduled from 14 to 28 June 2025.Khaan Quest, co-sponsored by the United States Indo-Pacific Command and the Mongolian Armed Forces, began as a bilateral exercise in 2003 and became a multinational event in 2006, with India participating since then.The exercise aims to enhance interoperability for UN peace operations (Chapter VII) through drills in joint operations, counter-IED tactics, evacuation of civilians, cordon and search, and checkpoint establishment, promoting cooperation among participating nations’ armed forces.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Ocean Darkening: Recent studies reveal alarming trends in ocean health. Research indicates that over 20% of the global ocean has darkened in the past two decades. This phenomenon poses serious threats to marine ecosystems and overall planetary health. Ocean darkening refers to the reduction of light penetration in the photic zones. These zones are vital as they support photosynthesis, which is essential for marine life. The photic layer can extend up to 200 meters deep and is crucial for maintaining biodiversity. The study employed satellite data and advanced modelling techniques. Researchers measured changes in light absorption using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490). Between 2003 and 2022, 21% of the global ocean experienced darkening. Particularly, 9% saw a reduction in photic zone depth exceeding 50 meters.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Razorpay and RateGain Join Forces to Transform Hotel Payments with AI-Driven, Secure Digital Solutions: RateGain Travel Technologies has partnered with Razorpay to revolutionize hotel payments in India by integrating Razorpay’s secure and flexible payment gateway into RateGain’s hotel booking engine, providing guests with a seamless and intelligent digital payment experience.With the Indian travel and hospitality market projected to reach $125 billion by 2027 and over 70% of hotel bookings expected to happen online, the partnership aims to meet the growing demand for secure, frictionless, and automated digital payment solutions in the industry.

Razorpay’s platform, compliant with PCI DSS Level 1 and SOC 3 standards, brings advanced fraud detection and payment security tools, while RateGain leverages AI-driven automation to enhance decision-making and further streamline the guest experience.

 

2. RBI to Discontinue Daily Variable Rate Repo Auctions from June 11 Amid ₹3 Lakh Crore Liquidity Surplus: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will discontinue daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auctions from June 11, 2025, due to a significant liquidity surplus in the banking system, which currently stands at around ₹3 lakh crore.The decision follows weak demand for daily VRR operations, with banks borrowing only ₹3,711 crore and ₹3,853 crore on June 9 and 10 respectively, against a notified ₹25,000 crore—signaling that banks do not need daily support under current surplus conditions.Daily VRR auctions were introduced on January 16, 2025, to manage temporary liquidity tightness caused by tax outflows and forex interventions, but with easing liquidity and declining overnight market rates, the RBI is now focusing on stabilizing money market dynamics.While daily VRRs are being discontinued, the RBI is expected to continue 14-day VRR auctions to handle short-term liquidity needs. This move follows a 100 bps CRR cut to 3.0%, aimed at injecting ₹5 lakh crore into the banking system, aligning with the RBI’s calibrated and neutral policy stance.

 

Daily GK Update- 11th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s First E-Waste Eco Park to Be Built in Delhi’s Holambi Kalan under PPP-DBFOT Model: Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced the development of India’s first electronic waste (e-waste) eco park in Holambi Kalan, North Delhi, to be built on 11.4 acres under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model and the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) approach for a concession period of 15 years.The facility will process up to 51,000 tonnes of e-waste annually, covering all 106 categories listed under the E-Waste Management Rules, 2022, and is expected to generate over ₹350 crore in revenue.The eco park will feature dedicated zones for dismantling, refurbishing, plastic recovery, a second-hand electronics market, and skilling centres aimed at formally training informal workers currently engaged in hazardous e-waste handling.Expected to be completed within 18 months, the project will create over 1,000 green jobs and serve as a symbol of Delhi’s transition to a circular economy, where no resource is wasted and no worker is left behind.

 

2. Assam Considers Expulsion Law for Illegal Migrants: Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced plans to utilise the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act of 1950. This law allows for the direct expulsion of illegal migrants without court involvement. The initiative aims to address ongoing concerns about illegal immigration in Assam, particularly from Bangladesh. The Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act was enacted on 1 March 1950. It emerged in response to the influx of migrants from East Bengal following the Partition of India in 1947. This movement was driven by communal violence and socio-political instability. The Act grants the Central Government the authority to expel individuals deemed harmful to public interest or the rights of Scheduled Tribes.

 

3. Smart Cities Mission SPVs: The initiative aimed to encourage innovation and improve infrastructure in selected cities. By March 2025, the SCM had achieved remarkable progress, with over 93% of its 8,000 projects completed and nearly 99.44% of its ₹48,000 crore budget disbursed. This success is attributed to the establishment of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) in 100 cities. SPVs were created under the Companies Act, 2013. They are joint ventures between State/UT governments and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The SPVs manage the implementation of SCM projects. They have demonstrated agility and innovation in delivering complex urban projects. The collaboration has strengthened institutional capacity in urban management.

 

4. Mathura-Vrindavan Railway Project: The Indian Railway Ministry has permanently closed the Mathura-Vrindavan railway line conversion project. This ambitious undertaking aimed to convert the metre gauge line to broad gauge at an estimated cost of Rs 402 crore. The decision was made due to the project being deemed “uneconomical” and facing opposition from local residents. The conversion project was initiated in 2017-18. It aimed to enhance connectivity between Mathura and Vrindavan. The original metre gauge line was over 100 years old and operated a rail bus service twice daily until early 2023. The project involved dismantling the existing tracks and laying new ones on an embankment. The project was expected to incur costs of Rs 402 crore. A contract worth Rs 191 crore was awarded in February 2023 for the conversion work. Another contract for Rs 38 crore was designated for constructing station facilities. Significant financial resources had already been invested before the project’s cancellation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bangladesh Removes Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Image from Banknotes for First Time in 50 Years: For the first time since 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image has been removed from Bangladesh’s banknotes, with the new designs showcasing Hindu and Buddhist temples, national artwork, and cultural landmarks — reflecting a shift from political iconography to heritage-focused imagery.The redesigned currency (Tk 1000, Tk 50, Tk 20) was introduced by the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, following the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina, and aligns with the administration’s aim to depoliticize national symbols.The currency overhaul coincides with heightened political tension, including Sheikh Hasina’s indictment over the 2024 student protest crackdown, her exile to India, and the banning of the Awami League — marking a broader transformation in Bangladesh’s governance and national narrative.

 

2. World Bank Retains India’s FY26 Growth at 6.3% Amid Global Trade Tensions and Slowing Economy: The World Bank has retained India’s FY26 economic growth projection at 6.3%, down from its earlier January estimate of 6.7%, citing rising tariffs and policy uncertainty as significant global headwinds.Despite a strong 7.4% growth in Q4, India’s overall FY25 growth stood at 6.5%, the slowest since the COVID-19 period, due to global trade disruptions and slowing demand.The World Bank lowered its global GDP growth forecast to 2.3%, the weakest pace since 2008 (excluding global recessions), warning that prolonged uncertainty could severely impact living standards worldwide.

 

3. IOB Launches ‘Locate IOB’ Online Tool to Help Customers Find Nearest Branches, ATMs & Offices Easily: Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has launched an online tool called “Locate IOB” to help customers easily find the nearest branches, ATMs etc. The tool provides access to branch addresses, directions, IFSC codes, and even allows users to directly call a branch from the website, enhancing convenience for tech-savvy customers.IOB has also created mini-websites for each branch location, catering to the growing mobile and internet user base in India and improving local banking accessibility.

 

4. Poonawalla Fincorp Launches ‘Business Loan 24/7’ for MSMEs with Fully Digital: Poonawalla Fincorp Ltd (PFL) has launched Business Loan 24/7, a fully digital loan solution aimed at meeting the credit needs of MSMEs through a Straight Through Processing (STP) model, eliminating branch visits and physical paperwork.The product uses advanced analytics and a robust risk assessment framework, relying on direct digitised data like GST info and credit bureau records to improve the credit evaluation of MSMEs and self-employed individuals.

 

5. 11 June – International Day of Play: The International Day of Play is celebrated globally on June 11 to recognize and promote the fundamental right of every child to engage in play for healthy development and well-being.Theme 2025 – Choose Play – EverydayThe day highlights how play contributes to children’s learning, creativity, physical health, emotional strength, and social skills, making it essential in homes, schools, and communities.In 2024, the United Nations officially recognized June 11 as the International Day of Play, following campaigns by organizations like LEGO Foundation, UNICEF, and Save the Children.

 

6. 9 June – World Accreditation Day: World Accreditation Day is observed every year on June 9 to raise awareness about the importance of accreditation in improving quality, safety, and trust across various sectors like healthcare, education, industry, and trade.Theme 2025– Accreditation: Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) The day is jointly established by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) to promote the value of accreditation worldwide.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. DRDO transfers technologies of nine systems to 10 industries: Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, has transferred technologies of nine defence systems to 10 Indian industries.The systems include the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Recce Vehicle, Mounted Gun System, Anti-Terrorist Vehicle, and Vajra-Riot Control Vehicle, among others.The technology transfer ceremony was attended by DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat.​ Speaking on the occasion, Dr Kamat complimented DRDO and the industry for the exceptional performance of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor. VRDE also signed a memorandum of understanding with COEP Technological University, Pune, to collaborate on emerging technologies.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Nicholas Pooran Announces Retirement from International Cricket: Nicholas Pooran, one of West Indies’ most explosive T20 batsmen and record-holders, has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a notable career in the West Indies jersey across formats.Nicholas Pooran has not represented his country in the Tests, but has played 61 ODIs scoring 1,983 runs at an average of 39.66 with three centuries at a strike rate of 99.15.He also has represented in 106 T20 internationals scoring 2275 runs at an average of 26.14 with 98 being his highest score. His strike rate in T20Is is 136.39. He has also taken 6 wickets in ODIs.Representing Lucknow Super Giants in the just concluded IPL, Nicholas Pooran has hit the most number of sixes in the tournamnet viz. 40.

 

2. Priyanka Goswami Wins Gold at Austrian Racewalking Championships: Priyanka Goswami clinched gold in the women’s 10km race at the Austrian Racewalking Championships in Innsbruck with a time of 47:54, marking her first win of the seasonIn the men’s 35km event, Sandeep Kumar won silver with a time of 2:38:45, while Ram Baboo secured bronze with 2:41:47; the gold was taken by Jaromír Morávek (Czech Republic).Sandeep Kumar, a Tokyo Olympian and national 50km record holder, and Ram Baboo, India’s 35km record holder, continue to establish India’s strength in international racewalking.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Nuclear Fusion Breakthrough in Germany: Scientists in Germany have recently made strides in this field. The Wendelstein 7-X reactor in Greifswald has set a new record by sustaining a fusion plasma for 43 seconds. This achievement is a notable leap towards harnessing fusion as a viable energy source. Nuclear fusion is the process where light atomic nuclei combine to form heavier nuclei, releasing vast energy. This reaction powers the Sun and has the potential to provide clean, limitless energy on Earth. Unlike nuclear fission, which splits heavy atoms and produces harmful waste, fusion promises minimal environmental impact. The Wendelstein 7-X is the world’s largest operational stellarator. It utilises powerful external magnets to confine superheated plasma. The reactor achieved temperatures exceeding 20 million degrees Celsius, peaking at 30 million. This performance led to a record high triple product, important measure of fusion efficiency.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Pays ₹8,076.84 Crore Dividend to Govt for FY25: The State Bank of India (SBI) has paid a dividend of ₹8,076.84 crore to the Government of India for the financial year 2024-25, marking a significant increase from last year’s ₹6,959.29 crore. The dividend cheque was formally handed over to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman by SBI Chairman C.S. Setty.For FY 2024-25, SBI declared a dividend of ₹90 per share, which is higher than the ₹13.70 per share dividend announced for the previous year, reflecting the bank’s improved financial performance and shareholder returns.SBI reported a record net profit of ₹70,901 crore in FY25, up from ₹61,077 crore in FY24, registering a 16% year-on-year growth, making it one of the most profitable years in the bank’s history.

 

Daily GK Update- 10th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. AIIA Launches Three-Day Iyengar Yoga Workshop ‘Yoga Samavesh’: The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) is hosting a three-day Iyengar Yoga Workshop titled Yoga Samavesh from 9 to 11 June, as part of International Day of Yoga celebrations, with sessions held daily from 2 PM to 3 PM IST.The workshop is led by renowned Iyengar Yoga teacher Amit Sharma from Lifeyoga Centre, focusing on precise body alignment techniques and mental wellness in line with Iyengar tradition.The event is open to AIIA scholars and yoga enthusiasts, who can register by emailing Dr. Ramavtar Sharma; AIIA emphasizes making yoga accessible, therapeutic, and inclusive ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21.

 

2. Tamil Nadu Boosts Conservation with New Flamingo Sanctuary and Green Initiatives: Tamil Nadu has established a 7-hectare sanctuary at Dhanushkodi to protect migratory bird habitats and enhance biodiversity as part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.Dhanushkodi lies along the Central Asian Flyway and supports 128 species of wetland birds, including flamingos, herons, and sandpipers; its mangroves help prevent coastal erosion and serve as breeding grounds.The sanctuary is expected to boost ecotourism and local jobs, with initiatives such as Blue Flag certification for beaches, CNG conversion of buses, and improved forest roads to support sustainable development.

 

3. NHAI Launches First Asset Monetisation Strategy to Boost Road Sector Financing and Private Investment: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) released its first-ever Asset Monetisation Strategy for the road sector, offering a structured framework to raise capital through Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and securitisation models.Under the National Monetisation Pipeline, NHAI has already raised over ₹4 lakh crore by monetising more than 6,100 km of national highways using these innovative financing methods.

The strategy is built on three key pillars: value maximisation of government road assets, transparency and information sharing for investors, and deepening market participation to ensure long-term financial sustainability and private sector involvement

 

4. RBI Deputy Governor T Rabi Sankar Appointed as Part-Time Member of Sixteenth Finance Commission: T Rabi Sankar, Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has been appointed as a part-time Member of the Sixteenth Finance Commission (XVIFC).His appointment comes following the resignation of Ajay Narayan Jha, a full-time Member of the Commission, who stepped down due to personal reasons.The appointment was made under Article 280 of the Constitution and the Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, as notified by the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.Sankar will serve as a part-time Member either until the Commission submits its report or till 31 October 2025, whichever is earlier.

 

5. Mathura-Vrindavan Railway Project: The Indian Railway Ministry has permanently closed the Mathura-Vrindavan railway line conversion project. This ambitious undertaking aimed to convert the metre gauge line to broad gauge at an estimated cost of Rs 402 crore. The decision was made due to the project being deemed “uneconomical” and facing opposition from local residents. The conversion project was initiated in 2017-18. It aimed to enhance connectivity between Mathura and Vrindavan. The original metre gauge line was over 100 years old and operated a rail bus service twice daily until early 2023. The project involved dismantling the existing tracks and laying new ones on an embankment.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 8 June – World Brain Tumour Day: World Brain Tumour Day is observed every year on 8th June to raise awareness about brain tumours, support patients and their families, and promote early detection and treatment.Theme 2025 – Brain Health for All AgesThe day was first observed in 2000 by the German Brain Tumour Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe) to honour brain tumour patients and advocate for research and care initiatives.Brain tumours can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can affect people of all ages. Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, vision problems, and memory loss.

 

2. High Seas Treaty: This treaty, adopted in June 2023, aims to protect and sustainably use biodiversity in international waters. It is step towards achieving the “30×30” biodiversity target, which seeks to conserve 30 per cent of the oceans and lands by 2030. The recent ratifications occurred during the third United Nations Ocean Conference held in Nice, France. The High Seas Treaty was established to address the urgent need for conservation in international waters. These waters, which fall outside any national jurisdiction, cover over 60 per cent of the ocean but currently only 1.2 per cent is protected. The treaty sets out frameworks for sustainable use and conservation measures. At the UN Ocean Conference, countries such as Albania, Fiji, and Vietnam deposited their instruments of ratification. This marks a collective effort to enhance global biodiversity governance. The treaty will enter into force once 60 countries have ratified it, with 120 days required for implementation after that milestone.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai Appointed Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy): Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai has been appointed as the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy) while continuing to serve as the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO); he had earlier led ceasefire talks with Pakistan’s DGMO after Operation Sindoor.The newly created Deputy Chief (Strategy) position will oversee key verticals like Operations and Intelligence Directorates, making it one of the most pivotal roles in the Indian Army, according to the Ministry of Defence.Lt Gen Ghai was honoured with the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) on June 4, 2025, for his distinguished service, and had earlier praised the Indian Armed Forces’ preparedness during a press briefing on May 12 following the ceasefire announcement.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff Shine at Historic 2025 French Open Finals: Carlos Alcaraz of Spain defeated world No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy in a five-hour and 29-minute marathon final to win the 2025 French Open men’s singles title, coming back from two sets down. It was the longest French Open final ever and marked Alcaraz’s fifth Grand Slam title.Coco Gauff of the United States beat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus to win her first French Open women’s singles title. This was her second Grand Slam win, following her US Open victory in 2023.The 124th edition of the French Open was held from 19 May to 8 June 2025 at Stade Roland Garros in Paris. Played on clay courts, the finals were hosted on Philippe Chatrier Court, with the event taking place after the Australian Open.

 

2. Anahat Singh shines with double honours at PSA Awards 2024-25: India’s 17-year-old squash sensation Anahat Singh won two major honours at the PSA Awards 2024–25: the Women’s Challenger Player of the Season and the Women’s Young Player of the Season (shared with Egypt’s Amina Orfi), marking a standout year on the professional circuit.Throughout the season, Anahat claimed 9 titles in 11 tournaments, including 8 Challenger-level victories across various tiers (3k to 15k). Her impressive run included a 29-match unbeaten streak and a memorable win over veteran Joshna Chinappa at the Indian Open (15k-level).She won the U-17 British Junior Open, secured bronze for India at the Asian Junior Team Championships, and made a stunning senior World Championship debut by defeating World No. 29 Marina Stefanoni. She is now ranked World No. 56, the highest for any Indian female squash player.

 

3. Former India captain MS Dhoni inducted into ICC Hall of Fame: MS Dhoni has been inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, joining six other global cricket legends including Matthew Hayden and Hashim Amla.He scored 17,266 international runs, effected 829 dismissals, played 538 matches, and led India to three major ICC titles — 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy.The International Cricket Council announced that Dhoni was among seven cricketers honoured this year, which included greats like Matthew Hayden (Australia) and Hashim Amla (South Africa).Dhoni holds several ODI records, including most stumpings (123) and highest score by a wicketkeeper (183*), and continues to play in the IPL even after retiring from international cricket in 2020.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Indian Railways Partners with BHASHINI to Launch Multilingual AI Services for Enhanced Passenger Experience: Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD) and the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) signed an MoU to integrate AI-driven multilingual technologies—such as ASR, OCR, TTS, and translation—into major railway platforms like NTES and RailMadad, enabling access in 22 Indian languages.The collaboration aims to develop multilingual chatbots, voice assistants, and over-the-counter interfaces, ensuring real-time, speech-based interaction and enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and transparency in public-facing railway services.The partnership includes scaling BHASHINI’s AI capabilities across websites, mobile apps, kiosks, and call centers, supported by cloud/on-premise infrastructure and a series of joint technical workshops and pilot projects in the coming months.

 

2. New SARS-CoV-2 Variant XFG: The emergence of the XFG variant of SARS-CoV-2 has raised concerns in India. As of June 2025, 163 cases have been reported, primarily in Maharashtra. The total number of active COVID-19 cases in India stands at 6,815, with three deaths recorded in the last 24 hours. The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium has confirmed the presence of this new variant. The XFG variant is a recombinant strain. It results from the merging of two earlier strains, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. This variant carries four mutations in the spike protein. It has shown rapid global spread since its initial detection in Canada. The variant is a descendant of the Omicron sub-variant. Maharashtra has reported the highest number of cases at 89. Other states with notable cases include Tamil Nadu (16), Kerala (15), Gujarat (11), and Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal (six each). A new case has also been confirmed in Telangana.

 

3. Spathaspina Noohi: Spathaspina noohi belongs to the weevil family, Curculionidae. This family includes over 60,000 species globally. Weevils are for their role in ecosystems. They help control invasive plant species. The new genus name is derived from Latin words – ‘spatha’ meaning sword and ‘spina’ meaning spine. This reflects the beetle’s prominent anatomical feature. Weevils play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance. Some species are agricultural pests. However, many contribute positively by controlling plant dynamics. The new species, Spathaspina noohi, is part of the subfamily Ceutorhynchinae. This group includes over 1,300 species worldwide. They are primarily found in Europe and parts of Asia. Beetles in the Ceutorhynchinae subfamily are recognised for their compact bodies. They typically retract their snouts between their legs when resting. The visibility of their mesanepimera is another identifying trait. Exceptions exist in some genera, such as Cyphosenus and Ceutorhynchoides.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Raises LTV Ratio for Small Gold Loans to Boost Credit Access and Ease Borrowing Norm: RBI has increased the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio for gold-backed loans to provide relief to small borrowers — setting it at 85% for loans up to ₹5 lakh, 80% for loans between ₹2.5–5 lakh, while loans above ₹5 lakh will continue at 75% LTV.No credit appraisal required for small-ticket gold loans (below ₹5 lakh), and end-use monitoring will only apply when these loans are considered under priority sector lending, easing access for small and rural borrowers.The move addresses concerns raised during the draft guideline phase, where NBFCs and the Department of Financial Services had warned that stricter norms might push women, rural borrowers, and small traders towards the informal credit sector.

 

2. Wise Gets RBI Approval to Operate as Cross-Border Payment Aggregator in India: Wise, a global fintech company, has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a cross-border payment aggregator in the country.With this license, Wise can now facilitate international money transfers for Indian customers and businesses, enhancing ease and transparency in global payments.The approval allows Wise to strengthen its presence in India by offering cheaper and faster cross-border remittance services compared to traditional banking channels.

 

3. RBI Launches ₹1.25 Lakh Prize Scheme to Promote Original Hindi Books on Economics, Banking, and Finance: To promote original research and writing in Hindi on Economics, Banking, and Financial topics, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a scheme for the year 2024–25, offering awards to authors of original Hindi books in these fields.Under this scheme, three prizes of ₹1,25,000 each will be awarded to working or retired professors (including Assistant/Associate Professors) from UGC-recognized Indian universities for writing original books in Hindi. Interested participants must submit their nominations and book copies in the prescribed format to the Chief General Manager, RBI, Rajbhasha Department, Mumbai, by 5:00 PM on June 30, 2025.

 

Daily GK Update- 9th June, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Puducherry Assembly Goes Paperless with Launch of NeVA by Union Minister L. Murugan: Union Minister L. Murugan has inaugurated the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) in the Puducherry Legislative Assembly, aiming to digitize legislative proceedings.With the implementation of NeVA, the Puducherry Assembly will function paperlessly, promoting efficiency and environmental sustainability.The platform is part of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs’ (MoPA) initiative to introduce ‘One Nation – One Application’ across all 37 State and UT legislatures in India.A trial run was successfully conducted during the 6th assembly session, and hands-on training is being provided to both MLAs and government officials for smooth adoption.

 

2. Kiren Rijiju Launches UMEED Central Portal to Digitize and Reform Waqf Property Management Across India: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched the UMEED Central Portal in New Delhi, aimed at transforming the management of Waqf properties in India by introducing digital transparency, real-time monitoring, and public accountability.The portal—named after Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act, 1995—enables geo-tagging, digital inventory, online grievance redressal, and GIS-based mapping to ensure efficient and transparent Waqf governance.The initiative is intended to uplift underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, especially women and children, by ensuring proper utilization of community-owned Waqf assets for education, healthcare, and livelihood.

 

3. Amit Shah Launches Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag to Empower Local Languages: Home Minister Amit Shah has launched Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag in New Delhi, emphasizing its role as a milestone to free administration from the dominance of foreign languages.The initiative aims to provide a strong, organized platform for all Indian languages, promoting linguistic diversity while encouraging the use of technology that preserves the spirit and richness of these languages.

 

4. Tamil Nadu, Tripura & Delhi Lead in Adult Literacy Certification: FLNAT 2025 Report: According to the Foundational Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) data, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, and Delhi rank among the top performers in adult literacy certification, while Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh lag behind.FLNAT is a nationwide assessment that evaluates foundational literacy and numeracy skills—reading, writing, and numeracy—of registered non-literate adult learners, with each subject scored out of 50 marks (total 150).The assessment was conducted in phases from July 2024 to March 2025, testing over 1.77 crore adult learners across India; however, only about 34.31 lakh learners (approximately 19.4%) were officially certified by May 2025.Tamil Nadu achieved a 100% certification success rate by certifying all 5,09,694 learners tested; Tripura followed closely with a 98.1% success rate, certifying 13,909 out of 14,179 learners, while Delhi had a 99.3% certification rate.States like Uttarakhand (85.7%), Gujarat (87.1%), and Himachal Pradesh (88.3%) recorded comparatively lower certification rates despite moderate learner participation, indicating challenges in adult literacy certification.

5. Asirvad Microfinance Appoints Roy Varghese as CEO: Kerala-based Asirvad Microfinance, a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance, has appointed Roy Varghese as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Unnikrishnan Janardanan as Chief Operating Officer (COO).Roy Varghese brings vast experience in retail and corporate banking, foreign exchange, and financial inclusion, having held leadership roles at Axis Bank, IDBI Bank, Jana Small Finance Bank, and CSB Bank.

 

6. PhonePe appoints former CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Zarin Daruwala: PhonePe has appointed Zarin Daruwala, former CEO of Standard Chartered Bank with over 30 years of banking experience, to its board ahead of its potential IPO.The company, India’s largest mobile payment platform with nearly 50% market share, began preparatory steps for listing on Indian stock exchanges in February 2025.

 

7. Ashwani Lohani Appointed Director of Prime Minister’s Museum and Library: Former Railway Board Chairman and ex-Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani has been appointed as the Director of the Prime Minister’s Museum and Library (PMML) for a three-year term on a contractual basis, with the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.Lohani, a 1980-batch officer of the Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineering (IRSME), is celebrated for his turnaround expertise and leadership roles in major public sector undertakings.

 

8. Sat Pal Bhanoo Given Interim Charge as LIC MD & CEO for Three Months: The central government has entrusted Sat Pal Bhanoo, Managing Director at LIC, with the financial and administrative powers of the MD & CEO position after Siddhartha Mohanty’s term ended.Interim tenure duration: Bhanoo will hold the interim charge for three months—from 8 June to 7 September 2025—or until a new permanent MD & CEO is appointed, whichever comes first.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 8 June – World Oceans Day: World Oceans Day is celebrated every year on 8 June to raise awareness about the crucial role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth and to promote their sustainable management.Theme 2025- Wonder: Sustaining what sustains usThe day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008, although it was first proposed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.Oceans cover over 70% of the planet’s surface, generate at least 50% of the oxygen we breathe, and are home to most of the Earth’s biodiversity.

 

2. Genetic Legacy of North Africa in Iberia: Recent studies highlight the deep-rooted genetic connections between Iberia and North Africa. This relationship persisted for centuries until event in history altered it. Researchers analysed ancient DNA from individuals in eastern Spain to understand this genetic lineage, particularly during the periods of Al-Andalus and the Reconquista. The study involved DNA analysis from 12 individuals across three burial sites in Valencia. These samples spanned over a millennium, covering pre-Islamic, Islamic, and post-Reconquista periods. The findings revealed North African genetic markers in all samples, indicating a longstanding connection between the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. The Islamic conquest intensified the cultural and genetic intermingling between North Africa and Iberia. The researchers noted that the presence of Romance languages in North Africa facilitated this rapid conquest. The genetic data showed that this relationship was not a one-time event but had existed long before 711 CE.

 

3. Growth of Gig Workforce in India by 2047: This will represent about 15 per cent of the total non-agricultural workforce. Technological advancements and changing labour preferences are key drivers of this growth. The VV Giri National Labour Institute conducted a study using data from a 2022 NITI Aayog report. This study indicates doubling of gig workers in the coming years. The gig economy in India began with sectors like ride-sharing and food delivery. It has now expanded into healthcare, education, creative services, and professional consulting. In 2020, over 3 million workers were employed by around 11 platform companies. By 2030, this number is expected to grow to 23 million, making up 7 per cent of the non-agricultural workforce. The VVGNLI study suggests a compounding growth pattern. Under optimistic conditions, the gig workforce could reach 90.8 million jobs by 2047. However, external factors such as technological disruptions and economic shocks could limit growth to 32.5 million. This uncertainty marks the volatility of the gig economy.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. IAF’s Indigenous I-STAR Aircraft: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to enhance its operational capabilities with the upcoming acquisition of I-STAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) aircraft. This Rs 10,000 crore project is set to be approved by the Defence Ministry amidst rising tensions and ongoing military operations. The I-STAR aircraft will empower the IAF to conduct precise strikes on critical enemy targets from safe distances. The I-STAR project involves procuring three advanced aircraft from leading international manufacturers such as Boeing or Bombardier. These aircraft will be equipped with indigenous sensor and electronic systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The integration of these systems is expected to be swift due to their successful testing. The I-STAR system combines airborne and ground-based components. It is designed to operate at high altitudes from stand-off ranges. This design minimizes risk while enabling the identification and engagement of high-value targets deep within enemy territory. The system’s intelligence, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities will enhance India’s military effectiveness.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. MS Dhoni Becomes Brand Ambassador for Dettol’s ‘Icy Cool’ Range: Cricket legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Dettol’s new ‘Icy Cool’ product range, strengthening the brand’s presence in the hygiene and personal care segment.The ‘Icy Cool’ range is designed to provide a refreshing experience and includes hygiene products aimed at offering cooling relief during hot and humid conditions.

 

2. Magnus Carlsen Clinches Seventh Norway Chess Title; Anna Muzychuk Wins Women’s Event: Magnus Carlsen, the Norwegian grandmaster and world No. 1, won his seventh Norway Chess tournament title in Stavanger by finishing with 16 points after a crucial draw against Arjun Erigaisi in the final round.American Grandmaster Fabiano Caruana secured second place with 15.5 points, following a key victory over Indian player D. Gukesh, who finished third with 14.5 points—matching his performance from the 2023 edition.In the Women’s event, Anna Muzychuk from Ukraine won the title, with China’s Lei Tingjie finishing second and India’s Koneru Humpy securing third place.

 

3. Indian Grandmaster Aravindh Chithambaram Clinches Title at 6th Stepan Avagyan Memorial Chess Tournament: Indian Grandmaster Aravindh Chithambaram won the 6th Stepan Avagyan Memorial chess tournament held in Jermuk, Armenia, finishing with 6.5 points from 9 rounds and remaining unbeaten throughout the event.He tied on points with fellow Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa but clinched the title by winning on tie-breaks after scoring four wins and five draws in the 10-player round-robin format.In the final round, Aravindh, playing with the black pieces, defeated Armenia’s Aram Hakobyan, while Praggnanandhaa also won his game, marking a strong finish for both Indian players.

 

4. India-England Test Series Renamed as Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy to Honour Cricket Legends: The ECB and BCCI have renamed the India-England Test series as the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, replacing the Pataudi Trophy (used in England) and the Anthony de Mello Trophy (used in India).The trophy honours James Anderson (188 Tests, England’s highest Test wicket-taker) and Sachin Tendulkar (200 Tests, the most-capped Test cricketer in history).The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will be unveiled on June 11, 2025, at Lord’s during the World Test Championship Final, ahead of the five-Test India-England series starting on June 20 at Headingley.

 

5. Muhammad Waseem and Chloe Tryon Named ICC Players of the Month for May 2025: UAE batter Muhammad Waseem and South African all-rounder Chloe Tryon were awarded the ICC Men’s and Women’s Players of the Month for May 2025 for their outstanding performances.Waseem scored 169 runs in five ODIs during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 and led UAE to a 2-1 T20I series win against Bangladesh, earning Player of the Series honors; this is his second time winning the award.Chloe Tryon scored 176 runs with a strike rate of 131.34 and took six wickets, including a five-wicket haul with a hat-trick against Sri Lanka in the Tri-Nation ODI tournament featuring India and Sri Lanka.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Zudpi Jungle Lands: This decision followed decades of legal disputes regarding the status of approximately 86,000 hectares of these unique shrub forests. The court’s ruling clarified the conditions under which these lands could be used, establishing that prior approval from the central government is necessary for any conversion. Zudpi jungle lands are characterised by bushy growth and are not typically utilised for agriculture. These lands are primarily found in six districts of eastern Vidarbha – Nagpur, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Bhandara, Wardha, and Gondia. Traditionally, they have been used for grazing and other non-forest purposes. The status of Zudpi lands has been contentious for decades. Initially classified as Gairan under the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code of 1966, their designation changed over time due to various government orders and legal interpretations. The Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 imposed restrictions on the diversion of forest lands, complicating the legal landscape further.

 

2. Climate Change Projections and Global Warming Thresholds: The 1.5ºC and 2ºC thresholds are not scientifically definitive but are based on economic considerations and political negotiations. The original 2ºC limit stems from a 1970s economic model by William Nordhaus. The implications of exceeding these thresholds are complex and uncertain. Current climate models struggle to provide accurate long-term predictions due to the unpredictability of future greenhouse gas emissions. Climate models are essential for projecting future warming scenarios. These models rely on assumptions about energy consumption, population dynamics, and policy decisions. The inherent uncertainties in these projections complicate our understanding of potential warming. As a result, predictions beyond 2050 are fraught with speculation.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI rejects universal bank licence application of Annapurna Finance: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rejected the universal bank licence application filed by Annapurna Finance. Annapurna Finance was established in 2009 and is now one of the top ten NBFC-MFIs (non-banking finance company-micro finance institution) in the country, according to its website.Currently, Fino Payments Bank has applied for a small finance bank licence, while AU Small Finance Bank (SFB) was the first to file the application for conversion to a universal bank and Ujjivan SFB’s board has approved applying for a universal SFB licence. As on March end, the MFI had Rs. 11,034 crore of loans, 2.9 million clients and 1,636 branches.