Daily GK Update- 27th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IRFC to Provide ₹13,615 Crore Loan for Telangana’s Hyderabad Metro Takeover: Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) will provide a ₹13,615 crore loan to the Telangana government for taking over the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. The Telangana government plans to acquire a 100% equity stake (Phase 1) in Hyderabad Metro Rail from L&T Metro Rail Hyderabad.

 

2. CCIC Launches ‘Soul Threads’ Heritage Collection Showcasing India’s Artisanal Excellence: Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India (CCIC) launched its first heritage designer collection “Soul Threads” under the Ministry of Textiles, highlighting India’s rich artisanal legacy.

The exhibition is being held from April 24 to May 10, 2026 at CCIC’s flagship showroom in Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan, featuring sarees, designer wear, jewellery, and home furnishings. The collection blends traditional Indian textile heritage with modern aesthetics, and was showcased through a fashion show during the inaugural event

 

3. 24 April – National Panchayati Raj Day: National Panchayati Raj Day is observed annually on 24 April to promote grassroots democracy in India. Theme 2026 – Sashakt Panchayat, Sarvangeen Vikas” (Empowered Panchayats, Holistic Development) The day marks the implementation of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which established the Panchayati Raj system. It highlights the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in rural development and local governance.

 

4. Supreme Court Sets Minimum ICU Standards for Hospitals: The Supreme Court-appointed expert committee has framed minimum standards for Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across hospitals in India, creating a uniform benchmark for infrastructure, staffing and patient care. The move aims to ensure that hospitals claiming to have ICU facilities meet essential clinical and safety requirements, especially for critically ill patients. The guidelines were endorsed by the Supreme Court as “practical, implementable and necessary” and are expected to improve intensive care delivery across both urban and rural healthcare systems. The framework requires every ICU to have a dedicated space with easy access to emergency services, operation theatres and laboratory facilities. Hospitals must ensure uninterrupted power backup, sanitation systems and a proper internal layout to support emergency care. Each ICU bed must be equipped with oxygen supply, suction facilities and electrical points. Essential equipment listed includes multiparameter monitors, ventilators, defibrillators, crash carts, infusion pumps, syringe pumps, glucometers and ECG machines. These measures aim to standardise the minimum functional capacity of ICUs across all hospitals.

 

5. Kathua Border Villages Added to Vibrant Village Programme-II: The Central Government has included six border villages in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district under the Vibrant Village Programme-II to improve infrastructure and ensure full delivery of welfare schemes. These villages are located along the International Border and hold strategic importance for border security as well as rural development. The move aims to strengthen connectivity, public services, and socio-economic opportunities for residents living in sensitive frontier areas. The villages identified under the programme are Bobiya, Kadyala, Gajnal, Karol Krishna, Rathua, and Gujjar Chak. These villages lie close to the International Border and often face development challenges due to their remote location and security concerns. Their inclusion under the scheme is expected to improve access to roads, healthcare, education, electricity, and drinking water facilities.

 

6. Ending Live-In Relationship Is Not a Crime: SC: The Supreme Court has observed that quitting a live-in relationship is not a criminal offence if the relationship was consensual. While hearing the plea of a woman who had lived with a man for 15 years and had a child with him, the court said that emotional hardship alone cannot turn a consensual relationship into a criminal case. The woman had sought criminal proceedings against her former partner after he married another woman, alleging sexual exploitation and harassment. A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan stated that since the relationship was voluntary and consensual, criminal charges such as sexual assault or exploitation could not be applied after the man ended the relationship. The court observed that once a person walks out of a consensual live-in relationship, it does not automatically become a criminal offence. The judges said there was no legal binding similar to marriage in such relationships.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IFC Targets $10 Billion Annual Investment in India by 2030: International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private-sector arm of the World Bank Group, aims to increase its annual investments in India to $10 billion by 2030. Currently, IFC’s annual investment in India stands at around $5.4 billion (2024–25), indicating a significant planned expansion.

 

2. Nitu Sarma Appointed Interim CEO of Noida International Airport: Noida International Airport has appointed Nitu Sarma as the interim CEO, replacing Christoph Schnellmann after permission issues for the foreign national. Nitu Sarma, previously the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), will lead the airport until a formal CEO selection process is completed. Christoph Schnellmann, who served as CEO since August 2020, will now join the Board of Directors as Executive Vice Chairman to support the project.

 

3. 24 April – World Day for Animals in Laboratories: World Day for Animals in Laboratories is observed annually on 24 April to raise awareness about the use of animals in scientific research.

The day advocates for humane treatment of laboratory animals and promotes alternatives to animal testing. It highlights the need for ethical practices and stricter regulations in scientific experiments involving animals.

 

4. 19 April – World Liver Day: World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about liver health and related diseases. Theme 2026- Solid Habits, Strong Liver The day highlights the importance of early diagnosis, prevention, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to protect the liver.

 

5. India Submits New Climate Targets to UN: India has formally submitted its new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for the 2031–35 period to the United Nations climate body under the Paris Agreement. The updated pledges focus on increasing clean energy capacity, reducing emissions intensity and expanding carbon sinks through forests and tree cover. Along with these commitments, India clearly stated that achieving these goals will depend on financial support, technology transfer and capacity building from developed countries, as promised under global climate agreements. India pledged to achieve 60% cumulative installed electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy sources by 2035. It also committed to reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 47% by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. Another major target is to create a carbon sink of 3.5 to 4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through increased forest and tree cover by 2035 over the 2005 stock. These goals are aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.

 

6. Symbiosis Launches Asia’s First UNESCO Gender Chair: Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU), Pune, has launched Asia’s first UNESCO Chair on Gender Inclusion and Skill Development. The initiative was announced during the international conference titled “Women Leading the Future of Work”, organised in collaboration with UNESCO. The Chair aims to promote gender equality through skill development, employment opportunities and research, especially for underprivileged girls and women in emerging industries. The UNESCO Chair was formally inaugurated by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Minister of State for Education. The initiative marks a major step in linking education, skilling and gender inclusion at an international level. It is the first UNESCO Chair in Asia dedicated specifically to gender inclusion and skill development, making India a key centre for this global agenda.

 

7. Dinesh Trivedi Appointed Envoy to Bangladesh: Former Union Minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed as India’s next High Commissioner to Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that he is expected to take up the assignment shortly. His appointment comes at a sensitive time as both countries seek to restore stability in bilateral ties. India’s decision to send a senior and experienced political leader to Dhaka highlights the importance New Delhi places on its relationship with Bangladesh. Bilateral ties have faced strain during the tenure of Bangladesh’s interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Issues related to political transitions, diplomatic trust and regional cooperation have required careful handling.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Nireekshak Visits Sri Lanka for Joint Naval Training: INS Nireekshak arrived at Colombo, Sri Lanka, for an operational turnaround and training visit to strengthen India–Sri Lanka maritime cooperation. INS Nireekshak is a diving support and submarine rescue vessel, used for underwater operations, salvage missions, and specialized naval diving tasks.

 

2. Indian Army Raises 16th Bhairav Battalion: The Indian Army has raised its 16th ‘Bhairav’ Battalion at the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre in Belagavi, Karnataka. The new unit strengthens India’s infantry capabilities and reflects the Army’s focus on agile, rapid-response combat formations suited for modern warfare and sensitive border operations. The Bhairav Battalion, also known as the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, is a specialised infantry formation designed to function between conventional infantry and elite Special Forces. These units are built as lean, high-mobility tactical forces capable of rapid deployment, reconnaissance, surprise raids and high-intensity missions in difficult terrains.

 

3. India Becomes Fifth Largest Defence Spender Globally: India ranked as the world’s fifth-largest defence spender in 2025, according to the latest report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). With military expenditure reaching $92.1 billion, India accounted for 3.2% of total global defence spending. This placed the country behind only the United States, China, Russia and Germany. The increase reflects India’s growing focus on military preparedness, border security and defence modernisation amid regional tensions. India’s military expenditure rose by 8.9% compared to 2024, showing a steady rise in strategic investment. The increase was linked to emergency procurements and stronger operational readiness during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Defence forces acquired new systems and equipment to maintain combat preparedness. The revised capital outlay for military aircraft systems also saw a major jump, supporting India’s push for stronger air power and advanced combat capabilities.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India Selected by FIFA for Women’s Development Programme 2026 to Boost Women’s Football: India has been selected among 12 nations by FIFA for the Women’s Development Programme (Commercial Strategy 2026), boosting women’s football. Under this initiative, FIFA will provide customised training and guidance to stakeholders to strengthen women’s football development in the country.

 

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DRDO Hands Over AI-Based ‘Prajna’ System to Boost Internal Security: The Ministry of Home Affairs received an indigenous AI-based satellite imaging system, ‘Prajna’, developed by DRDO, to enhance real-time decision-making for security agencies. Developed by DRDO’s CAIR, the system will boost internal security, enabling monitoring of sensitive areas and supporting counter-terrorism operations. Separately, DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully tested the Air Droppable Container (ADC-150), capable of delivering 150 kg payload to assist naval operations and emergency support at sea.

 

2. NASA Unveils Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope to Explore Exoplanets and Map the Universe: NASA has unveiled the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, a next-generation observatory aimed at studying exoplanets, dark matter, and dark energy. The telescope is expected to discover tens of thousands of exoplanets and map billions of galaxies, stars, and cosmic structures across the universe. Named after astronomer Nancy Grace Roman, the project has an estimated cost of over $4 billion.

 

3. Two New Jumping Spider Species Found in India: Researchers have discovered two new species of jumping spiders in India, highlighting the country’s rich but still underexplored biodiversity. The newly identified species, named “Mogrus shushka” and “Mogrus pune”, were found in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra, showing that both dry landscapes and urban green spaces can support unique wildlife. The discovery was confirmed through detailed taxonomic research published in the European Journal of Taxonomy under the study titled “Discoveries of two new Mogrus species (Araneae: Salticidae) and notable records from India.” Scientists closely examined microscopic characteristics, especially reproductive structures, to distinguish these spiders from other closely related species in the genus “Mogrus”.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. EXIM Bank Extends $100 Million Loan to Africa Finance Corporation to Boost Infrastructure Development: Export-Import Bank of India has extended a $100 million (approx ₹830 crore) loan to the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). The loan will support development of critical infrastructure and industrial projects across Africa.

 

2. RBI Imposes ₹41.8 Lakh Penalty on Bandhan Bank for KYC and Compliance Violations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a penalty of ₹41.8 lakh on Bandhan Bank for non-compliance with regulatory norms, including Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines. The bank was found guilty of failing to review risk categorisation of accounts and sanctioning loans related to directors, violating RBI directives.

 

3. RBI Imposes ₹80,000 Penalty on Muthoot Housing Finance for Fair Practice Code Violations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a penalty of ₹80,000 on Muthoot Housing Finance Company for non-compliance with regulatory guidelines. The penalty was due to violations of RBI’s ‘Fair Practice Code’, which ensures transparency and fairness in lending practices.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Alcaraz, Sabalenka Named Laureus Sports Persons of the Year; PSG Wins Best Team Award: Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2026 held in Madrid. Paris Saint-Germain won the Laureus World Team of the Year after securing their first UEFA Champions League title in the 2024–25 season. Nadia Comaneci received the Lifetime Achievement Award and is known for scoring the first perfect 10.0 in Olympic gymnastics.

 

2. Sur Jyotsna Awards Honour Classical Music Legends: The 13th edition of the Sur Jyotsna National Music Awards was held in New Delhi, celebrating excellence in Indian classical music and honouring veteran artists for their lifelong contribution. This year, renowned Hindustani vocalists Sumitra Guha and Pandit Laxman Krishnarao Pandit received the prestigious recognition for their dedication to preserving and promoting India’s classical music traditions. The awards were instituted in memory of Jyotsna Darda, founder of Lokmat Sakhi Manch, to recognise excellence in Indian music and encourage emerging talent. Every year, artists are selected from vocal and instrumental categories, creating a platform that supports both established masters and young musicians. The initiative aims to preserve India’s rich musical heritage while inspiring future generations.

 

Daily GK Update- 26th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. France Allows Visa-Free Airport Transit for Indian Nationals : France has granted permission for Indian citizens traveling through French airports to undertake airport transit without a visa, thereby making international travel even easier. This facility applies only to passengers transiting by air through mainland France; it does not apply to other types of entry or travel.

 

2. Supreme Court Sets Minimum ICU Standards for Hospitals: The Supreme Court-appointed expert committee has framed minimum standards for Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across hospitals in India, creating a uniform benchmark for infrastructure, staffing and patient care. The move aims to ensure that hospitals claiming to have ICU facilities meet essential clinical and safety requirements, especially for critically ill patients. The guidelines were endorsed by the Supreme Court as “practical, implementable and necessary” and are expected to improve intensive care delivery across both urban and rural healthcare systems. The framework requires every ICU to have a dedicated space with easy access to emergency services, operation theatres and laboratory facilities. Hospitals must ensure uninterrupted power backup, sanitation systems and a proper internal layout to support emergency care. Each ICU bed must be equipped with oxygen supply, suction facilities and electrical points. Essential equipment listed includes multiparameter monitors, ventilators, defibrillators, crash carts, infusion pumps, syringe pumps, glucometers and ECG machines. These measures aim to standardise the minimum functional capacity of ICUs across all hospitals.

 

3. Raghu Rai, India’s Iconic Photographer, Dies at 83: Raghu Rai, one of India’s most celebrated photographers and among the finest visual chroniclers of independent India, has passed away at the age of 83. His family announced his death on Sunday, describing him as “our beloved”. Rai’s work documented some of the most defining moments in India’s modern history, preserving national memory through powerful visual storytelling. Born in a village in present-day Pakistan’s Punjab province before the 1947 Partition, Raghu Rai was originally trained as a construction engineer. His journey into photography began after being inspired by his photographer brother. His first published photograph, featuring a donkey looking directly into the camera, appeared in The Times of London and marked the beginning of a remarkable career.

He later entered photojournalism and worked with some of India’s leading media houses during the 1960s and 1970s before choosing to work independently.

 

4. India-New Zealand FTA to Boost Duty-Free Trade: India and New Zealand will sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on April 27, 2026, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The agreement will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, while tariffs on 95% of imports from New Zealand will either be removed or significantly reduced. The deal is expected to improve trade flows, create export opportunities, and deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries. The India-New Zealand FTA is among the quickest trade agreements negotiated by India. Talks were formally announced in March 2025 and concluded by December 2025, completing the process within less than a year. This reflects the strong political commitment on both sides to finalise the pact and expand economic engagement. The agreement is expected to serve as a model for faster future trade negotiations.

 

5. Safe Travel on National Highways Under Article 21: The Supreme Court has held that the right to safe travel on National Highways is part of the fundamental Right to Life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. The ruling highlights that road safety is not merely an administrative concern but a constitutional obligation of the State. The Court emphasised that citizens have the right to travel without facing preventable dangers caused by poor road conditions, illegal parking, or unauthorised roadside structures. A Bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Atul S. Chandurkar observed that National Highways cover only about 2% of India’s total road network, yet they account for nearly 30% of all road accident deaths. The Court stated that highways, especially high-speed expressways, should not become dangerous zones due to negligence or lack of enforcement. It stressed that every avoidable death caused by blackspots, unsafe parking, or encroachments reflects a failure of governance.

 

6. NITI Aayog Gets New Leadership Faces: The Union government is set to appoint former Chief Economic Adviser Ashok Lahiri as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, replacing Suman Bery. Alongside him, Gobardhan Das, Director of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal, is expected to be appointed as a member of the government’s top policy think tank. The appointments come during the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections and are being seen as politically significant. Ashok Lahiri is currently a BJP MLA from Balurghat in West Bengal and is not contesting the 2026 Assembly elections. He has a long academic and administrative career. Lahiri taught at Delhi School of Economics and worked with global institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF before returning to India’s finance ministry in the late 1990s. He later headed the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy and served as Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India.

 

7. Supreme Court Allows Minor’s 31-Week Pregnancy Termination: In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court allowed a 15-year-old girl to medically terminate her 31-week pregnancy, stressing that reproductive autonomy is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court said forcing a minor to continue an unwanted pregnancy would violate her dignity, privacy and personal liberty. A bench of Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan ruled that a woman’s right to make decisions concerning her own body is an essential part of personal liberty. The Court stated that no woman, especially a minor, should be compelled to carry a pregnancy to term against her will.

 

8. Noida Airport Appoints Nitu Sarma as Interim CEO: Noida International Airport has appointed Nitu Sarma as its interim Chief Executive Officer following directions from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The change comes as airport CEO positions in India are required to be held by Indian nationals. Nitu Sarma, who has been serving as the Chief Financial Officer since October 2021, has now taken charge as interim CEO with immediate effect. She will lead the airport until the Board of Directors completes the formal process of selecting a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Allows Ethanol Blending in Aviation Fuel; Sets SAF Targets for International Flights: Government of India has allowed blending of ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to promote cleaner aviation fuel.SAF blending targets: 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030; currently applicable only to international flights.Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is made from non-petroleum sources like ethanol and helps reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

 

2. 24 – 30 April – World Immunisation Week: World Immunisation Week is observed from 24 to 30 April every year to promote vaccination awareness.It aims to highlight the importance of vaccines in protecting people of all ages from diseases.Theme 2026 – For every generation, vaccines workThe World Health Organisation (WHO) works with countries to raise awareness and support effective immunisation programmes.

 

3. WHO Approves First Malaria Drug for Newborns: The World Health Organization (WHO) has granted prequalification approval to the first malaria treatment specifically designed for newborns and infants. The medicine, artemether-lumefantrine, marks a major step in reducing malaria deaths among the youngest and most vulnerable children, especially in Africa where the disease remains a major public health challenge. Artemether-lumefantrine is the first antimalarial formulation created specifically for newborns and infants. Until now, babies were treated using medicines designed for older children, which increased the risk of dosage mistakes, side effects, and toxicity. The new formulation is expected to improve treatment safety and effectiveness for infants suffering from malaria.

 

4. Rajnath Singh to Attend SCO Defence Meet: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on April 27–28 to participate in the Defence Ministers’ meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The high-level gathering is expected to focus on regional security challenges, terrorism, extremism, and the changing geopolitical environment across Eurasia and Asia. Rajnath Singh will head the Indian delegation at the meeting, which will include defence ministers from all SCO member states. The forum serves as an important platform for strategic dialogue among member countries, especially at a time of growing uncertainty in global politics. India is expected to underline its commitment to regional peace, stability, and collective security.

 

India’s Forex Reserves Rise to $703.3 Billion: India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $2.36 billion to reach $703.31 billion for the week ended April 17, 2026, according to the latest data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The rise reflects stronger foreign currency assets and continued external sector stability. The latest increase follows a previous rise of $3.825 billion in the week ended April 10, when reserves had reached $700.946 billion. This shows a consistent recovery in India’s reserve position over recent weeks after temporary declines caused by global uncertainties.

 

China to Send Giant Pandas to Atlanta Again: China has announced that it will send two giant pandas to Zoo Atlanta in the United States, continuing its long-standing panda diplomacy programme. The move comes despite ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing and ahead of a planned visit by US President Donald Trump to China in May 2026. The China Wildlife Conservation Association said male panda Ping Ping and female panda Fu Shuang from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding will begin a ten-year conservation partnership with Zoo Atlanta. The agreement was signed in 2025 and aims to strengthen wildlife conservation cooperation between the two countries.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Kathua Border Villages Added to Vibrant Village Programme-II: The Central Government has included six border villages in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district under the Vibrant Village Programme-II to improve infrastructure and ensure full delivery of welfare schemes. These villages are located along the International Border and hold strategic importance for border security as well as rural development. The move aims to strengthen connectivity, public services, and socio-economic opportunities for residents living in sensitive frontier areas. The selection of these villages was finalised during a review meeting chaired by Kathua Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma. He directed officials to ensure timely implementation of development plans through regular monitoring and better coordination among departments. He stressed that infrastructure projects and welfare measures should be completed without delay to achieve visible improvement on the ground.

 

2. 33,000 Indian WWI Soldiers Added to Basra Memorial: The names of 33,000 Indian Army soldiers who died during the First World War but were missing from the Basra Memorial in Iraq have now been commemorated through new digital panels. The initiative by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) aims to correct a long-standing historical omission and restore recognition to Indian soldiers who served and died in the Mesopotamia Campaign. The Basra Memorial in Iraq honours Commonwealth personnel who died during the Mesopotamia Campaign, one of the British Empire’s largest military operations outside Europe in the early twentieth century. However, nearly 33,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives were not individually named on the memorial. Their sacrifice was often recorded only numerically or through registers rather than by name, creating a major inequality in remembrance.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Pakistan Exit SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: The 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, scheduled to be hosted by India in Goa, will now be played with six teams after Pakistan officially withdrew from the tournament. The Pakistan Football Federation confirmed the decision on April 23, reducing the expected participation from seven member nations. The event remains one of South Asia’s key women’s football competitions and will run from May 25 to June 6 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao. The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) had earlier announced that all seven member associations would participate, strengthening the tournament’s regional importance. However, Pakistan’s withdrawal has changed the competition structure. The Pakistan women’s team had been seeking more international exposure after facing administrative disruptions and limited match opportunities in recent years.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Maharashtra CM Inaugurates Heat Resilience Centre at IIM Nagpur to Combat Climate Change: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Heat Resilience and Sustainable Cooling (COE-HRSC) at IIM Nagpur to tackle climate change and heatwaves. The centre has been developed in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to promote sustainable cooling solutions.

 

2. Sperm Whales May Use Human-Like Language Patterns: A new scientific study has suggested that sperm whales may use communication structures similar to human language. Researchers studying their vocal sounds, known as codas, found organised patterns and variations that indicate a more complex communication system than previously understood. Sperm whales communicate through rapid bursts of clicks called codas. These clicks are produced in repeated patterns and are mainly recorded when whales come to the ocean surface to breathe. Scientists have observed that these codas may contain rhythm and spacing variations similar to vowel-like sounds in human speech.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Cancels Paytm Payments Bank Licence; Assures Full Repayment to Depositors : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank Limited, prohibiting it from conducting any business with immediate effect.The action follows earlier restrictions imposed in March 2022 and 2024, including a ban on onboarding new customers and accepting deposits or credits.RBI has assured that the bank has sufficient liquidity to repay all depositors during the winding-up process.

 

2. Government Extends Tenure of Bank of Baroda & Bank of India MDs by 3 Years: The Government of India has approved a 3-year extension for Debadatta Chand as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda, ensuring leadership continuity.Rajneesh Karnatak, MD of Bank of India, has also received a 3-year tenure extension from the government.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Guntur Municipal Corporation Wins UNIDO GEM Award: Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) has won the 4th Gender Equality Mobilisation (GEM) Award presented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna. The recognition was given during the International Day of Women in Industry 2026 celebrations for GMC’s work in combining women’s empowerment with sustainable waste management. The award was given for GMC’s initiative of deploying more than 200 women as electric auto drivers for door-to-door garbage collection. These women were earlier engaged in informal waste collection and were identified, trained and formally employed under the programme.

 

2. General Upendra Dwivedi Gets US Hall of Fame Honour : Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has been inducted into the International Hall of Fame of the US Army War College in Pennsylvania. He became only the third Indian Army chief to receive this distinction, highlighting the growing defence cooperation between India and the United States. The International Hall of Fame honours military leaders who have made outstanding contributions to national security and global military cooperation. General Dwivedi, an alumnus of the institution, received the honour during his official visit to the United States, making the event both professional and personally significant.

 

Daily GK Update- 25th April, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government Notifies New Recruitment Rules for DCGI: The Government of India has notified new recruitment rules for the post of Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). The upper age limit has been increased from 56 to 58 years, with a maximum tenure of 5 years. The DCGI serves as the head of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

 

2. India Allows Ethanol Blending in Aviation Fuel; Sets SAF Targets for International Flights: Government of India has allowed blending of ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to promote cleaner aviation fuel. SAF blending targets: 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030; currently applicable only to international flights. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is made from non-petroleum sources like ethanol and helps reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

 

3. Maharashtra CM Inaugurates Heat Resilience Centre at IIM Nagpur to Combat Climate Change: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Heat Resilience and Sustainable Cooling (COE-HRSC) at IIM Nagpur to tackle climate change and heatwaves. The centre has been developed in collaboration with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to promote sustainable cooling solutions.

 

4. Government Extends Tenure of Bank of Baroda & Bank of India MDs by 3 Years: The Government of India has approved a 3-year extension for Debadatta Chand as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda, ensuring leadership continuity. Rajneesh Karnatak, MD of Bank of India, has also received a 3-year tenure extension from the government.

 

5. Srikanth Velamakanni Appointed as NASSCOM Chairperson: NASSCOM has appointed Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder & Group CEO of Fractal, as its new Chairperson. He succeeds Sindhu Gangadharan, whose tenure as NASSCOM Chairperson ended in April. Kishor Patil, Co-founder, CEO & MD of KPIT, appointed as Vice Chairperson.

 

6. RBI Approves Vivek Tripathi as Whole-time Director of AU Small Finance Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Vivek Tripathi’s appointment as Whole-time Director (Executive Director) of AU Small Finance Bank for a 3-year term. Currently serving as Chief Credit Officer, Tripathi has been associated with the bank since 2014 and will join the board during its next growth phase.

 

7. Ashok Lahiri Appointed NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman : Economist Ashok Lahiri will become the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, while scientist Gobardhan Das will be appointed as a member.

Ashok Lahiri is a former Chief Economic Advisor and has also served as a member of the 15th Finance Commission.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. France Allows Visa-Free Airport Transit for Indian Nationals: France has granted permission for Indian citizens traveling through French airports to undertake airport transit without a visa, thereby making international travel even easier. This facility applies only to passengers transiting by air through mainland France; it does not apply to other types of entry or travel.

 

2. China Selects First Foreign Astronauts from Pakistan for Tiangong Mission: China has selected Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud of Pakistan as part of its first batch of foreign astronauts. As per the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), they will undergo training in China as reserve astronauts. One of them will join a mission to the Tiangong space station as a payload specialist, making Pakistan the first country to send a citizen onboard Tiangong.

 

3. 23 April – International Girls in ICT Day : International Girls in ICT Day is observed every year on 23rd April to promote gender equality in the tech sector. Theme 2026 – Al for Development: Girls shaping the digital future The day encourages girls and young women to pursue careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

 

4. 24 – 30 April – World Immunisation Week: World Immunisation Week is observed from 24 to 30 April every year to promote vaccination awareness. It aims to highlight the importance of vaccines in protecting people of all ages from diseases. Theme 2026 – For every generation, vaccines work The World Health Organisation (WHO) works with countries to raise awareness and support effective immunisation programmes.

 

5. 24 April – International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace: International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is observed on 24 April to promote the peaceful resolution of global issues through cooperation. Established by the United Nations in 2018 (Resolution A/RES/73/127), it encourages multilateral decision-making over unilateral actions.

 

6. India-Japan Data Pact for AI Smart Cities: The partnership will help cities use construction data in AI-based planning systems and digital twins. This can improve decision-making in transport, utilities and urban services. Both organisations also plan to explore joint AI applications and international funding opportunities for wider global adoption. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the inaugural Japan-India AI Strategic Dialogue, a bilateral platform created to expand cooperation in AI and digital infrastructure. The event highlighted the growing focus on trusted data systems and technology partnerships between the two countries.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Defence Ministry Signs ₹975 Crore Tank Equipment Deals: The Defence Ministry has signed contracts worth nearly ₹975 crore to strengthen the Indian Army’s minefield breaching capability for its T-72 and T-90 tanks. The procurement focuses on TRAWL assemblies, a specialised system designed to help tanks safely cross minefields laid with anti-tank mines. The move is aimed at improving battlefield mobility and enhancing operational readiness along sensitive frontiers. TRAWL assembly is a critical minefield breaching equipment developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is mounted on T-72 and T-90 tanks and helps create safe lanes for armoured vehicles by neutralising anti-tank mines, including those fitted with proximity magnetic fuses. This significantly improves the Army’s ability to conduct offensive and defensive operations in mined zones.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. ICC Confirms Trial Against Rodrigo Duterte: Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will stand trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) after judges confirmed charges of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial “war on drugs.” The case is considered one of the most significant international criminal proceedings involving a former Asian head of state in recent years. Duterte is accused of extrajudicial killings carried out between 2011 and 2019, during his tenure as mayor and later as president of the Philippines. Prosecutors allege that thousands of people were killed as part of his anti-drug campaign, which human rights groups describe as systematic and unlawful. The ICC’s pre-trial judges stated that there were “substantial grounds” to believe Duterte committed crimes against humanity. More than 500 victims have been authorised to participate in the proceedings.

 

2. Pakistan Exit SAFF Women’s Championship 2026: The 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, scheduled to be hosted by India in Goa, will now be played with six teams after Pakistan officially withdrew from the tournament. The Pakistan Football Federation confirmed the decision on April 23, reducing the expected participation from seven member nations. The event remains one of South Asia’s key women’s football competitions and will run from May 25 to June 6 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao. The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) had earlier announced that all seven member associations would participate, strengthening the tournament’s regional importance. However, Pakistan’s withdrawal has changed the competition structure. The Pakistan women’s team had been seeking more international exposure after facing administrative disruptions and limited match opportunities in recent years.

 

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Rajasthan Recalls Seven Substandard Medicines Immediately: The Rajasthan health department has ordered the immediate withdrawal of seven medicines after laboratory testing found them to be substandard. The action was taken by the Commissionerate of Food Safety and Drugs Control to protect public health and prevent the use of poor-quality medicines that could lead to treatment failure and serious health risks. The recalled medicines include Cefixime Oral Suspension IP sold as Loraxim dry syrup, commonly used for bacterial infections such as throat, ear, bronchitis and urinary tract infections. Albendazole tablets, used to treat worm infestations and parasitic diseases, were also flagged. Other medicines include Istocuf-LS drops containing Ambroxol Hydrochloride, Levosalbutamol and Guaifenesin for cough treatment; Methylprednisolone tablets sold as Methyloactive-4 for inflammation control; Okuff-DX syrup used for cough relief; Cefuroxime Axetil tablets for bacterial infections; and Ciprofloxacin tablets used as a broad-spectrum antibiotic.

 

2. China Finds Rare Moon Mineral for Advanced LED Technology: Chinese researchers have discovered a new lunar mineral named Cerium–Magnesium Changesite, marking the 11th known mineral identified from the Moon. The finding was announced by the China Geological Survey and is considered a major development in extraterrestrial geology. Scientists believe the mineral could help improve high-efficiency LED technology and deepen understanding of lunar formation. The mineral was identified from a 44-gram solid spherical Moon meteorite recovered in China. The meteorite had a dark molten shell, indicating its intense journey through Earth’s atmosphere. Researchers found that the mineral is colourless, transparent and brittle, with crystal grains smaller than 10 micrometres. Its unusual structure and composition suggest that it formed under geological conditions very different from those found on Earth, making it valuable for studying lunar and planetary processes.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Jio Financial Services Partners with Allianz for Insurance JV; Reinsurance Arm Begins Operations : Jio Financial Services has partnered with Germany-based Allianz to form a 50:50 joint venture for expanding insurance business in India, covering general and health insurance. A separate reinsurance joint venture, Allianz Jio Reinsurance Ltd, has already begun operations after receiving approval from IRDAI.

 

2. RBI Cancels Paytm Payments Bank Licence; Assures Full Repayment to Depositors: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the banking licence of Paytm Payments Bank Limited, prohibiting it from conducting any business with immediate effect. The action follows earlier restrictions imposed in March 2022 and 2024, including a ban on onboarding new customers and accepting deposits or credits. RBI has assured that the bank has sufficient liquidity to repay all depositors during the winding-up process.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Padma Shri Awardee Bhagwandas Raikwar Dies: Renowned martial arts expert and Padma Shri awardee Bhagwandas Raikwar, popularly known as ‘Dau’, passed away. He was known for preserving Bundeli Martial Arts, specifically the ‘Akhada’ style.

 

2. Bagalkot University to Honour Nambi Narayanan with Doctorate: Bagalkot University in Karnataka will confer honorary doctorates on noted space scientist S. Nambi Narayanan, religious leader Sri Gurumahanth Swami of Chittaragi Shri Vijaya Mahantesha Samsthana Math, and tech entrepreneur-philanthropist Mahesh Bellad. The honours will be awarded during the university’s first convocation ceremony, marking an important milestone for the young institution established in 2023. The university’s maiden convocation will be held at Darbar Hall on the BLDE Association campus in Jamkhandi, Bagalkot district. The event is scheduled for Friday at 11:30 a.m. and symbolises the formal academic beginning of the university’s journey after its first batch of students graduated in 2025. The institution currently has 72 affiliated colleges and offers postgraduate programmes along with professional courses such as B.Ed and BP.Ed.