Daily GK Update- 3rd Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tata Electronics partners with Merck to boost India’s semiconductor ecosystem: Tata Electronics Private Limited and Merck signed an MoU for a strategic collaboration to boost India’s semiconductor and electronics manufacturing capabilities, focusing on materials, fabrication infrastructure, and specialty chemicals.Merck will provide high-purity electronic materials, advanced gas and chemical delivery systems, AI-powered Material Intelligence™ solutions, and support Tata Electronics’ upcoming Fab in Dholera, Gujarat.The partnership includes local warehousing, raw material supply chain development, talent cultivation, and industry standards, aligning with the India Semiconductor Mission and Tata Electronics’ Rs 91,000 crore investment in India’s first semiconductor Fab.

 

2. Department of Posts Partners with ESRI India to Strengthen DIGIPIN Initiative with Advanced GIS Solutions: Department of Posts (DoP) signed an MoU with ESRI India to strengthen the DIGIPIN initiative using advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) solutions.The collaboration will allow DoP to use high-resolution imagery, street basemaps, and Esri India’s Living Atlas portal, enhancing accessibility for the larger GIS community.ESRI India will provide technical support for seamless integration, making the DIGIPIN system more robust, efficient, and citizen-friendly.

 

3. Giriraj Singh Launches Kapas Kisan App to Aid Cotton Farmers: Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh launched the Kapas Kisan app to enable seamless cotton procurement from farmers under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme.The app provides self-registration, slot booking, and payment tracking, ensuring transparency, speed, and protection against distress sales for cotton growers.It features a user-friendly interface with support for multiple Indian languages, reducing manual paperwork and saving time at procurement centres.

 

4. Vishakha Mulye Reappointed as MD & CEO of Aditya Birla Capital for Five Years: Vishakha Mulye has been reappointed as Managing Director & CEO of Aditya Birla Capital for a period of five years, effective from September 1, 2025.Under her leadership since 2022, the company expanded across Loans, Investments, Insurance, and Payments, with the vision of ‘One ABC, One P&L’ strategy.The company also appointed Rakesh Singh as Executive Director & CEO (NBFC) for five years, who previously worked with Standard Chartered Bank for 16 years.

 

5. Gandhi Reappointed as Non-Executive Chairman of Yes Bank by RBI: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the reappointment of former Deputy Governor R. Gandhi as non-executive chairman of Yes Bank.His tenure will be from September 20, 2025, to May 13, 2027, with remuneration approved by the RBI.Gandhi served as RBI Deputy Governor from 2014 to 2017 and has 37 years of experience as a seasoned central banker.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Announces 1,000 E-Scholarships for Afghan Students for Academic Year 2025-26 under SSSAN: India has announced 1,000 e-scholarships for Afghan nationals for the academic year 2025-26 under the Special Scholarship Scheme for Afghan Nationals (SSSAN) via ICCR.The scholarships enable Afghan students aged 18–35 years to pursue online undergraduate and postgraduate courses through the e-VidyaBharati (e-VB) i-learn portal.Nine Indian universities, including Jamia Millia Islamia, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Anna University, and Kurukshetra University, are offering a wide range of online programmes under this scheme.

 

2. SMBC’s $1.6 Billion Stake in Yes Bank Gets Approval: India’s competition regulator has approved Japanese company Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation’s stake purchase in Indian lender Yes Bank.SMBC in May had inked a deal to take a 20% stake in Yes Bank for $1.6 billion, making it the largest cross-border merger and acquisition deal in India’s financial sector.

 

3. 3 September – Skyscraper Day: Skyscraper Day is observed every year on September 3 to celebrate the world’s tallest architectural marvels and their creators.The day honors the achievements of architects, engineers, and workers who design and construct skyscrapers, symbolising progress and innovation.It also raises awareness about urbanisation, modern infrastructure, and the impact of tall buildings on city life and the environment.

 

4. SCO Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack: The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) leaders issued a joint declaration in September 2025 strongly condemning terrorism. The statement explicitly mentioned the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people. This marks development as earlier defence minister-level meetings had avoided mentioning the attack. The declaration also condemned terrorist attacks in Pakistan’s Balochistan region. The move reflects evolving geopolitics and China’s tentative shift in its stance towards terrorism-related issues involving India and Pakistan. The SCO leaders’ statement condemned terrorism in all forms. It expressed condolences to victims of the Pahalgam attack. The declaration also mentioned the Jaffer Express hijacking and the Khuzdar school bus bombing in Pakistan. Earlier, India had pushed for explicit references to terrorism and cross-border threats in SCO documents. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had refused to sign the June 2025 defence ministers’ statement due to Pakistan’s objections. The leaders’ summit in Tianjin marked a breakthrough with the clear mention of Pahalgam.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 21st Edition of India–US Joint Exercise Yudh Abhyas Underway in Alaska: 21st edition of India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 is being held at Fort Wainwright, Alaska (USA) from 1st to 14th September 2025, with the Indian Army’s Madras Regiment battalion participating alongside the US 5th Infantry Regiment “Bobcats” of the 11th Airborne Division.The exercise includes heliborne operations, UAV deployment, mountain warfare, artillery-aviation integration, and electronic warfare systems, aimed at enhancing tactical interoperability.Experts from both armies will lead working groups on UAS & Counter-UAS, information warfare, communications, and logistics, culminating in joint tactical manoeuvres, live-fire drills, and high-altitude warfare to strengthen UN peacekeeping and multi-domain preparedness.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Australian Fast Bowler Mitchell Starc Retires from T20Is: Mitchell Starc announced his retirement from T20 International cricket to focus on his Test and ODI career, finishing as Australia’s second-highest T20I wicket-taker.In his 65-match T20I career (2012–2025), Starc claimed 79 wickets with an economy rate of 7.74.He played in five of six T20 World Cups, missing only 2016 due to injury, and was a key member of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup-winning team in Dubai.

 

2. World Junior Champion Pranav Venkatesh Clinches Fujairah Global Superstars Title: World Junior Champion Pranav Venkatesh won the Fujairah Global Superstars chess tournament in the UAE, defeating Grandmaster Alan Pichot of Spain.Pranav scored 7 points out of 9, finishing one point ahead of closest competitors Brandon Jacobson (USA), Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara (Mexico), and Amin Tabatabai (Iran), who all had 6 points.Despite needing only a draw in the final round, Pranav played aggressively with white pieces and secured a resounding victory to claim the top prize.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Jarosite Discovery in Kutch: Recent research has identified the village of Matanomadh in Gujarat’s Kutch district as a key terrestrial analogue for Mars. The discovery of jarosite, a rare iron-rich sulphate mineral, dating back 55 million years, links Earth’s geological past with Martian conditions. This finding opens new avenues for planetary science and future Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) missions, including Mangalyaan-2. ISRO is expanding its planetary research with multiple analogue sites. Alongside Matanomadh, the Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE) in Ladakh simulates Mars’ atmospheric and temperature conditions. Recently, two crew members spent 10 days in a Mars habitat replica at 4,500 metres altitude, experiencing low oxygen and sub-zero temperatures. Together, these sites support ISRO’s Mangalyaan-2 mission by providing practical testing grounds for instruments and human factors.

 

2. What is CEREBO?: Recent advances in brain injury diagnosis have introduced CEREBO, a novel hand-held device designed to detect traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) quickly and safely. Developed by leading Indian research institutions, CEREBO offers a portable, non-invasive, and cost-effective alternative to traditional imaging tools. This innovation aims to improve early detection and treatment outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings. CEREBO was created through a partnership involving the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Medical Device & Diagnostics Mission Secretariat (MDMS), AIIMS Bhopal, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Bioscan Research. The device utilises advanced near-infrared spectroscopy combined with machine learning to identify intracranial bleeding and brain swelling. It has undergone rigorous clinical validation and regulatory approval, confirming its accuracy and safety.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SEBI Announces New Rules to Monitor Intraday Positions in Equity Derivatives from October 1, 2025: SEBI issued new rules (September 1, 2025) for monitoring intraday positions in equity derivatives, effective from October 1, 2025.The intraday net position limit has been set at ₹5,000 crore per entity, compared to the earlier end-of-day limit of ₹1,500 crore.Gross intraday exposure has been capped at ₹10,000 crore, applied separately to long and short positions.Stock exchanges will monitor compliance using at least 4 random snapshots, and any breach on the expiry day will attract penalties.

 

2. UPI transactions first time cross 20bn mark in this August: Unified Payments Interface, UPI has achieved a new milestone with first time ever crossing twenty billion transactions in the month of August this year.According to the National Payments Corporation of India, the total number of transactions stood at 20.01 billion, marking a 34 per cent year-on-year increase from 14.9 billion in August last year.UPI has also registered transactions of 24.85 lakh crore rupees in August this year, which represents a 24 per cent increase year-over-year. The average daily transaction count in August has reached 645 million.

 

3. IEPFA Launches “Niveshak Didi – Phase II” to Boost Financial Literacy and Women-Led Empowerment: The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs launched Phase II of “Niveshak Didi” in Hyderabad to promote financial literacy.The initiative focuses on women-led financial empowerment, covering savings, safe investments, fraud prevention, and digital financial awareness.Phase II expands on the first phase with greater outreach, interactive training modules, and collaboration with grassroots organizations to maximize impact.

Daily GK Update- 2nd Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NCW Releases NARI 2025 Report: Kohima, Visakhapatnam & Bhubaneswar Among Safest Cities for Women, Jaipur & Patna Rank Unsafe: The National Commission for Women (NCW), chaired by Vijaya Rahatkar, released the National Annual Report and Index (NARI) 2025 on women’s safety, based on the perceptions of 12,770 women across 31 cities, conceptualized by PValue Analytics.Safest Cities for Women (2025) – Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, and Mumbai emerged as the top seven safest cities for women, due to factors like active policing, community support, and inclusive governance.Most Unsafe Cities for Women (2025) – Jaipur, Patna, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar, and Ranchi were ranked among the least safe cities for women in India.Harassment Trends – Verbal abuse is the most common harassment, with 50% of women reporting harassment in public transport, followed by neighborhoods (19%) and workplaces (13%). Nearly 40% of women took no action after facing harassment.Safety Demands by Women – 45% demanded increased police presence, 39% called for better infrastructure like CCTV and lighting, and 21% emphasized self-defense training as a way to improve safety.

 

2. India’s ED Uses Interpol Purple Notice to Combat Trade-Based Money Laundering: For the first time, India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a Purple Notice through Interpol in a complex case of trade-based money laundering.The investigation revealed an organised network of domestic and foreign shell entities abusing trade and banking systems via under-invoicing, fake duty-free imports, manipulated compliance documents, and circular re-exports.By issuing the Purple Notice, the ED has shared its findings with law enforcement agencies across Interpol’s 196 member countries, alerting them to new money laundering techniques

 

3. PM Modi Inaugurated Semicon India 2025 at Yashobhoomi: PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated Semicon India 2025 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, a three-day conference focused on building a robust and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem.The event will host sessions on Semicon India Programme progress, smart manufacturing, R&D innovations, AI, investment opportunities, and state-level policies.Over 20,000 attendees, including 2,500 delegates from 48+ countries, will join, with country roundtables, pavilions for startups, and workforce development.The conference will highlight Design Linked Incentive scheme, startup ecosystem growth, international cooperation, and India’s semiconductor roadmap.

 

4. GST collections rise 6.5% in August to Rs 1.86 lakh crore: India’s GST collections rose 6.5% YoY to ₹1.86 lakh crore in August 2025, marking the 8th straight month above the ₹1.8 lakh crore mark, reflecting strong domestic consumption.Gross domestic GST revenue grew 9.6% to ₹1.37 lakh crore, while imports dipped 1.2% to ₹49,354 crore; net revenue surged 10.7% to ₹1.67 lakh crore despite a sharp fall in refunds.For April–August FY26, gross GST collections touched ₹10 lakh crore, continuing the upward trend from ₹11.37 lakh crore in FY21 to a record ₹22.08 lakh crore in FY25.

5. C. A. Kalyani Assumes Charge as New Controller General of Accounts (CGA): C. A. Kalyani, a 1991-batch officer of the Indian Civil Accounts Service, has assumed charge as the new Controller General of Accounts (CGA) in the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. She is the 29^thofficer to hold this prestigious position.With 34 years of service, she has held key roles in ministries like Home Affairs, Defence, Telecom, Fertilisers, Finance, Social Justice & Empowerment, and I&B, and was instrumental in launching the DBT scheme for fertiliser subsidy.

An alumna of JNU with an MA in International Politics and MPhil in West European Studies, she is also a gold medallist from Lady Shri Ram College (DU) and has contributed to digital transformation at MTNL and revival of Fertilizer Corporation of India.The CGA, mandated by Article 151 of the Constitution, oversees government accounting standards, reconciliation of Union government finances with RBI, releases fiscal data, and manages pension disbursements for central civil pensioners, freedom fighters, judges, MPs, and ex-presidents.

 

6. 1 – 7 September – National Nutrition Week: National Nutrition Week is observed every year from 1st to 7th September, led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to promote healthy eating and nutrition literacy.The 2025 theme is “Eat right for a better life”, focusing on three everyday staples — sugar, salt, and oil — and the risks of their overconsumption.As per ICMR-NIN, excess intake of sugar, salt, and oil in India is linked to rising cases of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi participated in the SCO Summit 2025 in Tianjin, China: The 25th Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was held on 30–31 August 2025 in Tianjin, China, with the theme “Preserving the Shanghai Spirit: Dynamic SCO”.The summit reviewed 25 years of SCO achievements and adopted a ten-year development strategy for the organization.China hosted the SCO Summit for the fifth time, chaired by President Xi Jinping, with participation from over 20 heads of state and 10 international organizations.PM Narendra Modi attended the summit, marking his first visit to China in seven years, and held bilateral talks with Russia’s Vladimir Putin amid global trade tensions.

 

2. 2 September – World Coconut Day: World Coconut Day is observed every year on 2nd September to promote awareness about the importance and benefits of the coconut tree, often called the “Tree of Life.”Theme 2025 – Uncovering Coconut’s Power, Inspiring Global Action The day was established in 2009 by the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia.India is one of the largest producers of coconuts globally, with major cultivation in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

 

3. China’s Global Governance Initiative at SCO Plus Summit: China’s President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus (SCO Plus) meeting in Tianjin in 2025. The summit included SCO member states, dialogue partners like Türkiye, and observer countries. Xi emphasised the need for a fair and equitable global governance system. The GGI aims to promote sovereign equality, international law, multilateralism, and people-centred policies. The SCO was founded in 2001 to enhance regional security and economic cooperation. It includes major Eurasian countries such as China, Russia, and India. The organisation has expanded to include dialogue partners and observers. SCO Plus meetings bring together these wider members to discuss broader cooperation. The group focuses on combating terrorism, promoting trade, and encouraging political dialogue.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025: The 21st edition of the India–USA joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 commenced in Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Scheduled from 1st to 14th September 2025, this exercise involves troops from the Indian Army’s Madras Regiment and the US 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment Bobcats of the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division. The exercise takes place amid ongoing bilateral trade tensions but marks the continuing strategic defence partnership between the two nations. Troops rehearse a wide array of tactical drills. These include the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for surveillance and counter-UAS operations. The exercise also covers live-fire drills and complex manoeuvres simulating high-altitude warfare conditions. These drills aim to improve combat readiness for multi-domain challenges and United Nations peacekeeping missions.

 

SPORTS

 

1. New Delhi to Host Badminton World Championships 2026 After 17 Years: New Delhi will host the Badminton World Championships in August 2026, marking the tournament’s return to India after 17 years (last held in Hyderabad in 2009).The event will also mark the return of the championships to Asia after 4 years, with the last Asian host being Nanjing, China in 2018.India has a strong history at the event, with PV Sindhu being the most successful, winning 5 medals (1 Gold, 2 Silver, 2 Bronze).Other Indian medalists include Satwiksairaj Rankireddy & Chirag Shetty, H.S. Prannoy, Prakash Padukone, Jwala Gutta, and Ashwini Ponappa.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Odisha Ranks 5th in Green Mobility, Targets 1,000+ Electric Buses in Coming Years: Odisha ranks 5th in India in terms of green mobility adoption, with a focus on expanding its electric bus (e-bus) fleet.The state government has set an ambitious target to increase its e-bus fleet to over 1,000 in the coming years.As per data, 14,329 e-buses operate across India, with Delhi (3,564), Maharashtra (3,296), Karnataka (2,236), and Uttar Pradesh (850) leading.Odisha has surpassed neighbouring states like West Bengal (391), Andhra Pradesh (238), Chhattisgarh (215), and Jharkhand (46) in e-bus adoption.

 

2. India’s First Tempered Glass Manufacturing Facility for Mobile Devices Inaugurated at Noida: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated India’s first Tempered Glass Manufacturing Facility for Mobile Devices at Noida, set up by Optiemus Electronics in collaboration with Corning Inc., USA.The facility, with an initial investment of ₹70 crore, will produce high-quality tempered glass under the brand “Engineered by Corning”, supplying to both domestic and global markets.

Phase 1 capacity: 25 million units annually, generating 600 direct jobs; Phase 2: 200 million units annually with an additional ₹800 crore investment, creating 4,500+ jobs.Optiemus Infracom, with nearly three decades of experience in telecom, technology, and manufacturing, leads this initiative to strengthen India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

 

3. Jyotiraditya Scindia Launches AI-Powered IMC 2025 App with Theme “Innovate to Transform”: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launched the AI-powered India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 mobile app with the theme “Innovate to Transform”.The 9th edition of IMC 2025 will be held from October 8–11, 2025, at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi.The app offers next-gen features like real-time live-streaming of sessions, enabling global participation.A key highlight is IMC Suggests, an AI-powered concierge that personalizes recommendations for sessions, networking, and F&B zones.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Private Sector Capex Set to Rise 21.5% to ₹2.67 Lakh Crore in FY26: RBI Report: Private sector capital investment is projected to rise 21.5% to ₹2.67 lakh crore in FY26, supported by strong macro fundamentals and a 100-bps policy rate cut.Indian corporates entered FY26 with healthier balance sheets, higher cash reserves, better profitability, and wider funding access, despite global uncertainties.Policy push for infrastructure, disinflation, lower interest rates, easy liquidity, and rising capacity utilisation are creating a favourable investment climate.The infrastructure sector, particularly power, continues to attract the largest share of planned capex, with projects estimated at ₹2.67 lakh crore in FY26 vs. ₹2.20 lakh crore in FY25.

 

2. India Post Payments Bank marks 8th foundation day: India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) celebrated its 8th Foundation Day (1 September 2025), reaffirming its mission to deliver inclusive, accessible, and affordable banking services at the last mile.Established in 2018, IPPB has emerged as one of the world’s largest financial inclusion initiatives, leveraging 1.64 lakh post offices and 1.90 lakh Postmen/Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) to serve over 12 crore customers.The Bank has diversified into DBT disbursements, pension payments, credit facilitation, insurance, and investment products, while also rolling out DigiSmart accounts, Aarogya Savings, RuPay virtual debit cards, AePS payments, Bharat BillPay, and cross-border remittances.Chairman Vandita Kaul and MD & CEO R. Viswesvaran underlined IPPB’s role in redefining banking access, empowering rural and underserved citizens, and setting a global benchmark for last-mile financial services.

 

3. Indian Railways & SBI Sign MoU to Provide Enhanced Insurance Benefits for Railway Employees: Indian Railways and SBI signed an MoU in New Delhi to provide enhanced insurance benefits for railway employees, in the presence of Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and SBI Chairman C.S. Setty.Under the MoU, accidental death insurance for SBI salary account-holding railway employees has been increased to ₹1 crore, compared to earlier coverage of ₹1.2 lakh (Group A), ₹60,000 (Group B), and ₹30,000 (Group C).All railway employees with only an SBI salary account will now be eligible for natural death insurance coverage of ₹10 lakh without paying any premium.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Indore Awarded IGBC Green City Platinum Certification: Indore has emerged as a leading example of sustainable urban development in India. Recently, it became the first city in Madhya Pradesh and one of only three cities in the country to receive the prestigious CII Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Green City Platinum Certification. This certification recognises excellence in environmental management and green urban planning. The IGBC Green City Certification is a rigorous evaluation system developed by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). It assesses cities on multiple sustainability parameters. These include water and energy conservation, solid waste management, green cover expansion, e-governance, and policy frameworks. The certification aims to promote sustainable living and eco-friendly urban growth.

Daily GK Update- 1st Sept, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Tourism Launches ‘Paryatan Mitra/Paryatan Didi’ to Promote Responsible Tourism Across India”: The Ministry of Tourism launched the National Responsible Tourism Initiative – Paryatan Mitra/Paryatan Didi – targeting local service providers like cab/auto drivers, hotel staff, tour guides, vendors, students, and marginalized communities.The initiative aims to provide training on tourism awareness, cleanliness, safety, sustainability, and high standards of hospitality for tourists.Piloted at six destinations – Orchha, Gandikota, Bodh Gaya, Aizawl, Jodhpur, and Shri Vijaya Puram – since August 15, 2024, the program has already trained 4,000+ people, as informed by Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Rajya Sabha.

 

2. Tribal Affairs Ministry to Launch “Adi Vaani”, India’s First AI-Powered Tribal Language Translator: The Tribal Affairs Ministry will soon launch “Adi Vaani”, India’s first AI-powered tribal language translator, developed by IIT Delhi, BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, and IIIT Nava Raipur with Tribal Research Institutes.The app, initially supporting Santali, Bhili, Mundari, and Gondi, will be available on Play Store (iOS version coming soon), with Kui and Garo to be added in the next phase.Adi Vaani uses AI models like NLLB and IndicTrans2 for real-time translation, text-to-speech, speech-to-text, and OCR to preserve endangered tribal languages, digitise folklore, and safeguard cultural heritage.The initiative, aligned with Digital India and PM JANMAN, aims to empower tribal communities by supporting education, healthcare, awareness of government schemes, and inclusive governance in native languages.

 

3. Mahendra Mohan Gupta Elected Chairman of PTI Board: Mahendra Mohan Gupta, of Jagran Prakashan Ltd. (publisher of Dainik Jagran), has been elected as the Chairman of Press Trust of India’s (PTI) Board of Directors, succeeding K.N. Shanth Kumar of The Printers (Mysore) Pvt. Ltd.

V. Shreyams Kumar of the Mathrubhumi group has been elected as the Vice-Chairman of the PTI Board.The election was held during the Board of Directors’ meeting after PTI’s Annual General Meeting at its headquarters in New Delhi.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India–Japan Seal 10-Year Roadmap with ₹60,000 Crore Investment Target: Japan set an ambitious investment target of 10 trillion yen (~₹60,000 crore) in India over the next decade, as part of a 10-year roadmap to strengthen the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.The two countries signed 13 key agreements, covering defence cooperation, economic security, digital public infrastructure, mobility of 50,000 Indian workers to Japan, and supply chain resilience in critical sectors like semiconductors, clean energy, telecom, and minerals.A comprehensive defence framework was agreed upon to address contemporary security challenges, alongside stronger cooperation in space exploration including ISRO–JAXA lunar-polar mission (Chandrayaan-5 collaboration).

2. Global Peace Index 2025: Iceland Tops Again, India Ranked 115th Among 163 Nations: The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), ranked 163 countries, covering 99.7% of the world’s population.Iceland retained the top spot as the most peaceful country in the world, a position it has consistently held since 2008, due to low crime, strong social trust, and absence of an army.India ranked 115th with a GPI score of 2.229, showing a 0.58% improvement in peacefulness compared to last year.The top 10 most peaceful nations are Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, and Slovenia, with Europe dominating the upper rankings.Least peaceful regions include the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa; countries at the bottom are Russia, Ukraine, Sudan, DR Congo, and Yemen, with South Africa also showing a decline.

 

3. India to Launch First Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) Tolling System at Choryasi Plaza on NH-48: IHMCL (Indian Highways Management Company Limited), promoted by NHAI, signed an agreement with ICICI Bank to implement India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling system at Choryasi Fee Plaza, Gujarat (NH-48), making it the country’s first barrier-free toll plaza.

An additional agreement was signed for MLFF implementation at Gharaunda Fee Plaza, Haryana (NH-44), expanding the project beyond Gujarat.NHAI plans to roll out MLFF tolling at 25 National Highway fee plazas during the current financial year, with identification of locations underway.

NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav stated that MLFF will bring efficient, transparent, and user-friendly tolling, leveraging technology for a modern, seamless FASTag-based ecosystem nationwide.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Kadmatt Joins Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Day: INS Kadmatt reached Port Moresby to participate in Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Day celebrations, showcasing India–PNG friendship and maritime partnership.The visit includes participation in the Independence Day Parade, cultural events, and naval cooperation with the PNG Defence Force in areas like maritime security and disaster relief.This goodwill visit follows PM Modi’s 2023 PNG visit, reaffirming India’s Act East Policy and commitment to Indo-Pacific peace, stability, and defence cooperation.

 

SPORTS

 

1. India to Send First-Ever National Team to Pickleball World Cup: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, concluded its two-day national selection trials at the IPA Centre of Excellence in Ahmedabad.Over 140 top players from across India competed for spots on the national pickleball team, with selections in Open, Under-16, and 50+ categories.For the first time, India will send an official national pickleball team to the Pickleball World Cup in Florida, USA, from October 27 to November 2, sanctioned by the Global Pickleball Federation.Selected players will undergo focused training under the IPA’s high-performance team before the international event, marking a historic milestone for Indian pickleball.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NeGD Integrates 1,938 e-Government Services on DigiLocker and e-District Platforms: National e-Governance Division (NeGD) under MeitY has integrated 1,938 e-Government services on DigiLocker and e-District platforms, achieving a major Digital India milestone.Citizens across all 36 states and union territories can now access certificates, welfare schemes, utility payments, and other services seamlessly, ensuring transparency and convenience.Maharashtra leads with 254 services, followed by Delhi (123), Karnataka (113), Assam (102), and Uttar Pradesh (86).NeGD plans to further expand e-services by leveraging emerging technologies through an AI-driven approach.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Jio Payments Bank plans India’s 1st auto-investing savings account: Jio Payments Bank (JPB) plans to launch “Savings Pro”, India’s first product that will automatically invest idle savings account deposits into overnight mutual funds for better returns.Currently, Jio Payments Bank offers only 2.5% savings interest (since June 2025), while overnight mutual funds typically provide 5–6% annualized returns with next-day liquidity.The product aims to help customers earn higher returns seamlessly, without manually transferring money between savings accounts and mutual funds.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Educate Girls Becomes First Indian Organisation to Win 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award: Foundation to Educate Girls Globally, an Indian non-profit founded in 2007 by Safeena Husain in Rajasthan, has been named a 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, becoming the first Indian organisation to receive this prestigious honor.The organisation focuses on mobilising community and government resources to bring out-of-school girls into classrooms, ensuring their retention and progress towards higher education and employment.Other 2025 awardees include Shaahina Ali (Maldives) for environmental work and Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva (Philippines), with the award ceremony scheduled for November 7, 2025, in Manila.Educate Girls’ motto “one girl at a time” reflects its mission to break the cycle of illiteracy and poverty through grassroots efforts, community partnerships, and government collaboration.

Daily GK Update- 31st Aug, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UNDP Report on Forest Rights Act Progress: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released a report in 2025 analysing the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) in India. The report marks the need for a consensus on a sunset clause to set an end date for recognising and vesting rights under the FRA. It also recommends measures for improved governance and management after rights are granted. The FRA, enacted in 2006, aims to recognise rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers over forest land and resources. The FRA recognises individual and community rights over forest land. So far, titles have been distributed over 2.32 crore acres, with 1.88 crore acres under community rights. However, this is only about 18% of the estimated 9.88 crore acres potentially eligible for community rights. The slow uptake is attributed to historical conflicts, policy gaps, and jurisdictional issues.

 

2. Uttarakhand Forest Clearance Sparks Environmental Concerns: Uttarakhand’s forest department approved the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) plan to build the Netala bypass. This road is part of the larger Char Dham infrastructure project. The approval allows the use of 17.5 hectares of forest land in the fragile Bhagirathi eco-sensitive zone. The decision has caused widespread protests from environmentalists and local communities. They claim the project violates Supreme Court orders and expert committee recommendations. The concern centres on the felling of thousands of deodar trees and the increased risk of landslides. The Netala bypass is an 8.07-kilometre road stretch between Hina and Tekhla on National Highway 34. It aims to improve connectivity under the Char Dham project. The project is managed by the BRO, a government agency responsible for road construction in difficult terrains. The bypass is designed to widen existing roads to 10 metres. However, the Supreme Court had previously limited road width to 5.5 metres in this eco-sensitive zone.

 

3. Delhi Heat Crisis: Delhi has been experiencing severe heat stress in recent years. The year 2025 recorded the hottest February and March on record. Summers have remained scorching with temperatures soaring above 45°C for multiple days. The India Meteorological Department issued several heatwave alerts, signalling an urgent public health and infrastructure challenge. A decade-long study from 2015 to 2024 shows Delhi’s summer temperatures have consistently exceeded normal levels. This prolonged heat impacts health, livelihoods, productivity, and the environment across the city. Certain groups suffer disproportionately from extreme heat. Children, elderly people, women, the poor, homeless, and outdoor workers such as construction labourers and street vendors face higher risks. About 80% of Delhi’s workforce is informal, lacking access to cooling or healthcare facilities. A ward-level vulnerability assessment shows many dense wards with little green cover are hotspots for heat stress. Nearly half the city’s population lives in wards with over 90% area under heat stress. These vulnerable zones require priority in heat action planning.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions Rise Despite Power Sector Decline: Recent data from 2025 reveals a complex picture of global greenhouse gas emissions. While some countries like India and China have reduced emissions in their power sectors, overall global emissions have increased. The main driver remains the continued heavy reliance on fossil fuels, especially in the United States. This trend poses serious challenges for meeting international climate targets and marks the urgent need for a global energy transition. Between January and June 2025, global greenhouse gas emissions reached 31 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent. This represents a 0.13 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. June alone saw emissions rise by 0.29 per cent year-on-year. Methane emissions also increased by 0.49 per cent in June, indicating growing concerns beyond carbon dioxide. The power sector saw a global emissions drop of over 60 million tonnes CO2-equivalent. China led this decline with a 1.7 per cent reduction, followed by India with a 0.8 per cent decrease. These reductions reflect progress in renewable energy adoption and efficiency improvements. However, these gains are insufficient to counterbalance overall emission increases.

 

2. Impact of US De Minimis Rule on India-US Trade: The United States ended its century-old De Minimis exemption on 29 August 2025. This rule allowed shipments valued under $800 per person per day to enter the US without duty or tax. The change has disrupted postal and e-commerce trade between India and the US. India Post suspended most mail services to the US from 25 August 2025. The new regulations require stricter customs checks and duties on all shipments, affecting businesses and consumers alike. The De Minimis exemption allowed low-value shipments to enter the US duty-free. It applied to goods valued below $800 per person per day. This rule simplified customs for small parcels and boosted cross-border e-commerce. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processed over 1.36 billion such shipments in fiscal year 2024. The exemption helped reduce compliance costs for exporters and facilitated faster delivery.

 

3. Daruma Doll: The Daruma doll is cultural symbol in Japan, recently brought into light during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the country. Presented by Rev Seishi Hirose, chief priest of Daruma-ji temple, the doll embodies perseverance, good luck and goal-setting. Rooted in history and spirituality, the Daruma doll connects Japan’s Zen Buddhist traditions with Indian origins. The Daruma doll is modelled after Bodhidharma, a 5th-century Indian monk from Kancheepuram. Known in Japan as Daruma Daishi, he founded Zen Buddhism. Bodhidharma is famed for meditating nine years facing a wall in China after travelling from India. His intense meditation inspired the doll’s design – rounded shape, no limbs and blank eyes. The name Daruma derives from the Sanskrit word Dharma, meaning cosmic law or duty, reflecting its spiritual roots. Made of papier-mâché, Daruma dolls range from a few inches to several feet tall. Their rounded bottom allows them to return upright when tilted, symbolising resilience. The phrase Fall seven times, stand up eight is linked to this feature. Traditionally, one eye is coloured when setting a goal. The other eye is filled in upon achieving that goal. This ritual encourages persistence and focus on personal ambitions.

 

4. Japan Releases AI Video Showing Mount Fuji Eruption: Japan has recently released an AI-generated video simulating an eruption of Mount Fuji. The video depicts ash clouds covering Tokyo, disrupting transport and communication, and causing power outages. It advises residents to prepare by stocking food and wearing protective gear. The release coincides with Volcano Disaster Prevention Day, as part of Japan’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about volcanic hazards despite no immediate eruption threat. Mount Fuji is an active volcano, last erupting in 1707. Though currently quiet, it remains capable of erupting in the future. Active volcanoes have a magma supply beneath the surface. Dormant volcanoes have not erupted for centuries but can still awaken. Extinct volcanoes no longer connect to magma stores. Japan’s authorities use such occasions to remind people of preparedness measures.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Myanmar Military Labels Karen National Union Terrorist: The Myanmar military government declared the Karen National Union (KNU) a terrorist organisation in August 2025. This move criminalises nearly all activities linked to the KNU, including contact by third parties. The KNU is a major ethnic rebel group that has fought for autonomy since Myanmar’s independence in 1948. The designation comes amid ongoing civil war and political unrest following the 2021 military coup. The KNU represents the Karen ethnic minority in Myanmar’s southeast. It has waged intermittent armed struggle for self-rule since 1948. The group signed a ceasefire in 2015 with the then quasi-civilian government but resumed resistance after the 2021 military takeover. The KNU’s armed wing, the Karen National Liberation Army, has trained urban activists for combat. The group opposes military dominance and demands federal democracy and international mediation.

 

2. Exercise Achook Prahar 2025: The Indian Army’s Spear Corps and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) conducted a major joint firepower exercise named Achook Prahar in central Arunachal Pradesh from 25 to 28 August 2025. This drill tested their combat readiness and operational synergy under simulated battlefield conditions. The exercise demonstrated integrated use of mortars, machine guns, rockets, and grenades, denoting the forces’ ability to operate cohesively in high-altitude terrain. The ITBP was established in 1962 following the Sino-Indian War to guard India’s border with Tibet. Initially part of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), it became an independent central armed police force under the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2004. Its motto is Shaurya-Dridhata-Karma Nishtha meaning Valour, Determination, and Devotion to Duty. The ITBP is specialised in mountain warfare and operates across a 3,488 km border with China at altitudes from 9,000 to 18,750 feet.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recently authorised eight agencies as Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs). This move follows the implementation of the “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024”. The registrations are valid for five years from August 27, 2025. These agencies will assess and rate properties based on their digital connectivity, helping stakeholders make informed decisions. Recently, TRAI released a draft manual to rate properties for digital connectivity. This was followed by the official Manual for Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity in August 2025. The regulations set the first standardised framework in India to evaluate how buildings support high-speed and reliable digital access. The eight authorised DCRAs include Ardom Towergen Private Limited and TUV SUD South Asia Private Limited among others. They assess properties using a uniform methodology defined in the manual. Their evaluations result in a ‘Star Rating’ that reflects the quality of digital connectivity within buildings.

 

2. Crocothemis Erythraea: Recent research has confirmed the presence of the rare dragonfly species Crocothemis erythraea in the high-elevation areas of the southern Western Ghats. Earlier, this species was often confused with the widespread lowland species Crocothemis servilia. This rediscovery marks the significance of detailed field studies and modern scientific methods in biodiversity documentation. The genus Crocothemis in India includes two species – Crocothemis servilia and Crocothemis erythraea. C. servilia is common in lowland regions. C. erythraea, however, prefers cooler, high-altitude habitats. It is known from parts of Europe, Asia, and the Himalayas. The presence of C. erythraea in the Western Ghats was uncertain due to misidentification and lack of physical evidence. Between 2019 and 2023, multiple field expeditions were conducted in high-altitude sites such as Wagamon, Rajakumari, Pampadum Shola, and Parambikulam. Specimens were collected for detailed study. Identification used both morphological traits and DNA barcoding. Key features included the male genitalia, especially the hamule structure. Molecular analysis confirmed that the Western Ghats specimens matched C. erythraea from the Himalayas.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Extension of ECHS Benefits: The Union government has recently approved the extension of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) benefits to officer cadets who are medically invalidated during training due to disabilities caused or worsened by military training. This decision aims to provide much-needed medical support and financial relief to cadets who are currently ineligible for such benefits as they do not hold ex-servicemen status. The scheme will cover both current and future cases of medically boarded-out cadets from premier defence training institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Military Academy (IMA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Officer cadets often face physical and medical challenges during rigorous military training. Those invalidated on medical grounds have not been entitled to ECHS benefits as they lack ex-servicemen status. The government’s recent approval changes this by allowing these cadets to access ECHS healthcare facilities. The move recognises the lifelong impact of disabilities acquired during training and seeks to reduce the financial and emotional strain on affected families.

 

2. Export Promotion Mission: India is set to launch a Rs 25,000 crore Export Promotion Mission (EPM) from 2025 to 2031. This flagship initiative aims to support exporters amid rising global trade challenges, including the recent hike in US tariffs on Indian goods. The mission focuses on easing credit access and enhancing export capabilities, especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The EPM was announced in the Union Budget 2025-26 to ensure broad-based, inclusive, and sustainable export growth. It seeks to address key bottlenecks that Indian exporters face. The mission intends to shield exporters from uncertainties such as the US doubling tariffs on Indian imports to 50% from August 2025. This tariff hike affects sectors like textiles, chemicals, leather, and footwear. The mission will operate through two main sub-schemes – Niryat Protsahan and Niryat Disha. Niryat Protsahan, with over Rs 10,000 crore, focuses on financial support, including interest equalisation and alternative trade finance. It also plans to introduce a credit card for e-commerce exporters. Niryat Disha, with over Rs 14,500 crore, aims at export quality compliance, overseas market development, branding, warehousing, logistics, and capacity building.