Current Affairs Today: August 2025

Current affairs preparation for government exams in August 2025 is crucial for success. Staying updated with national, international, economic, and sports news helps candidates excel in exams like IBPS Clerk and SBI PO. Comprehensive monthly current affairs compilations, along with weekly quizzes and practice tests, sharpen general awareness and boost confidence for competitive exams. Keeping abreast of recent government schemes, awards, and scientific developments is essential. Consistent revision of August 2025 current affairs improves overall exam readiness, helping aspirants secure top scores in various government tests.

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August 22, 2025

UIDAI Onboards Starlink for Aadhaar Authentication 📡

• UIDAI has officially onboarded Starlink Satellite Communication for customer verification
• Aadhaar e-KYC will facilitate seamless user onboarding with regulatory compliance
• Process will be voluntary and ensure paperless, secure customer verification
• Demonstrates India’s digital infrastructure scalability for global satellite providers

IEPFA Launches Three Niveshak Seva Kendras in Hyderabad 💼

• Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority opened three centers in Hyderabad
• Services include direct facilitation of unpaid dividend transfers and KYC updates
• Centers operational from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM starting August 16, 2025
• Two additional centers planned to strengthen investor services in the region
• Locations include KFin Technologies, BSE Hyderabad Office, and NSE office

BVFCL Signs Five-Year Fertilizer Export Deal with Bhutan 🌾

• Bharat Coking Coal Limited signed agreement with Bhutan’s National Seed Centre
• Will supply Urea, Suphala (NPK), SSP, MOP, and Borax to support food security
• Agreement signed on August 18 at Siliguri with dignitaries from both nations
• Reflects BVFCL’s commitment to regional cooperation and agricultural development

EPFO Increases Death Relief Fund to ₹15 Lakh 💰

• Ex-gratia amount under Death Relief Fund increased from ₹8.8 lakh to ₹15 lakh
• Effective from April 1, 2025 for deceased employees’ families
• 5% annual increase starting April 1, 2026 to support growing financial needs
• Decision approved by Central Provident Fund Commissioner on August 19, 2025

India-Eurasian Economic Union FTA Terms Signed 🤝

• Terms of Reference signed to launch Free Trade Agreement negotiations with EAEU
• EAEU includes Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and Russian Federation
• Current trade turnover stands at USD 69 billion in 2024 (7% increase from 2023)
• Combined GDP of USD 6.5 trillion expected to benefit MSMEs significantly

AU SFB Launches UPI for NRE/NRO International Accounts 💳

• AU Small Finance Bank launched UPI services for NRE/NRO account holders
• Covers 12 countries including Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, UAE, UK, USA
• NRIs can now link accounts to UPI without Indian SIM card
• Follows NPCI directive allowing UPI transactions through international mobile numbers

Thomas Cook Partners with Mastercard for Forex Card Payments 💸

• Partnership enables contactless payments on forex cards via Google Pay
• Enhances digital payment solutions for international travelers
• Strengthens Thomas Cook’s fintech capabilities in travel payment solutions

India’s GDP Growth Projected at 6.7% in Q1 FY26 📈

• ICRA estimates GDP growth at 6.7% in Q1 FY2026, higher than RBI’s 6.5% target
• Services sector expected to reach 8.3% growth (eight-quarter high)
• Industrial growth estimated at 4.0% while agriculture projected at 4.5%
• Government capital expenditure surged 52.0% year-on-year to ₹2.8 trillion

MOL, Suzuki, TradeWaltz Sign India-Africa Auto Trade MoU 🚗

• Memorandum of Understanding signed during TICAD 9 in Yokohama
• Focus on digitalisation, decarbonisation, and sustainable supply chain development
• Aims to establish robust automobile trade corridor between India and Africa
• MOL provides logistics, Suzuki brings production expertise, TradeWaltz offers blockchain platform

IRFC Sanctions ₹200 Crore for Surat Transport Hub 🚇

• Indian Railway Finance Corporation approved loan for India’s first multi-modal transport hub
• Surat MMTH will integrate rail, metro, BRTS, buses, and intermediate transport
• Joint venture between Ministry of Railways and Government of Gujarat
• IRFC shares ended 1.56% higher at ₹126.80 on BSE

EIL Partners with NPCIL for Small Modular Reactor Development ⚛️

• Engineers India Ltd signed MoU with Nuclear Power Corporation of India
• Partnership for Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR) development
• Supports Nuclear Energy Mission targeting 100 GW capacity by 2047
• Agreement executed on August 12 at NPCIL Mumbai office

India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-5 Ballistic Missile 🚀

• Nuclear-capable IRBM test-fired from Chandipur, Odisha on August 20, 2025
• Range over 5,000 km with MIRV capability for multiple warheads
• Pakistan expresses concerns through Strategic Vision Institute warnings
• Strengthens India’s credible minimum deterrence posture

NASA Launches Surya AI Model for Solar Weather Prediction 🌞

• Surya Heliophysics Foundational Model trained on 9 years of solar data
• Predicts solar flares up to 2 hours in advance with 16% better accuracy
• Model and code made publicly available on HuggingFace and GitHub
• Developed with IBM and supported by NSF’s NAIRR Pilot

Jalalabad Renamed as Parshurampuri in UP 🏛️

• Home Ministry approval received for name change in Shahjahanpur district
• Union Minister Jitin Prasada expressed gratitude to PM Modi and CM Yogi
• Decision brings honor to Sanatani society and devotees of Lord Parshuram

UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Framework for Cooperative Banks 🏦

• New framework covers 34 State Cooperative Banks and 352 District Central Cooperative Banks
• State Cooperative Banks registered as Authentication User Agencies
• Biometric eKYC and face authentication to enhance rural banking
• Supports digital inclusion and last-mile banking services

SBI Projects India’s FY26 GDP Growth at 6.3% 📊

• SBI Research estimates growth at 6.3%, slightly below RBI’s 6.5% forecast
• Q1 GDP growth estimated at 6.8-7% despite subdued private capex
• Bank loan growth slowed to 10% from 13.7% year earlier
• SME lending rose 21.8% year-on-year, higher than 14.2% previously

AURIC Approves New Industrial Land Allotments 🏭

• Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area approved plots worth ₹200+ crore investment
• Projects expected to create approximately 1,000 jobs
• Mega Project status granted to specialty food and electronics companies
• Zero-discharge facilities planned to minimize environmental impact

Government Boosts Semiconductor Design with DLI Scheme 💾

• 23 chip-design projects sanctioned under Design Linked Incentive Scheme
• 72 companies gained access to Electronic Design Automation tools
• Vervesemi Microelectronics announces advanced IC portfolio for 2026-2027
• Focus on space, defense, industrial, and smart energy applications

National Consumer Helpline Facilitates ₹2.72 Crore Refunds 📞

• NCH resolved 7,256 consumer grievances across 27 sectors in July 2025
• E-commerce sector led with 3,594 cases worth ₹1.34 crore refunds
• Call volumes increased tenfold from 12,553 to 1,55,138 (Dec 2015-2024)
• WhatsApp grievances rose from 3% to 20% (March 2023-2025)

RBI Appoints New MPC Member 🏛️

• Indranil Bhattacharyya appointed as ex-officio MPC member
• Replaces Rajiv Ranjan ahead of October policy meeting
• 28+ years central banking experience with monetary policy expertise
• Will participate in September 29-October 1 MPC meeting

🚀 PM Modi Launches ₹13,000 Crore Development Projects in Bihar

• Multi-district tour: PM Modi visits Gaya, Patna, Begusarai inaugurating development projects worth over ₹13,000 crore
• Power infrastructure: Inaugurates 660 MW Buxar Thermal Power Plant costing ₹6,880 crore to enhance energy security
• Healthcare milestone: Opens Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital at Muzaffarpur with advanced oncology facilities and 24-bed ICU
• Transport connectivity: Inaugurates 8.15 km Aunta-Simaria bridge including 1.86 km six-lane Ganga bridge worth ₹1,870 crore
• Railway boost: Flags off Amrit Bharat Express (Gaya-Delhi) and Buddhist Circuit Train (Vaishali-Koderma)

💰 GoM Approves GST Simplification: Move to 5% and 18% Slabs

• Historic reform: Group of Ministers unanimously accepts Centre’s proposal to scrap 12% and 28% GST slabs
• Simplified structure: 99% items from 12% slab move to 5% while 90% items from 28% shift to 18%
• Special category: 40% slab retained for sin goods and ultra-luxury items including luxury cars
• Health insurance relief: GoM recommends exemption from GST on health and life insurance premiums
• GST Council decision: Final approval awaited from GST Council meeting expected in early September

🎮 Parliament Passes Online Gaming Bill 2025 Amid Opposition Protests

• Digital regulation: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha pass Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025
• Money-based ban: Prohibits operating, facilitating, advertising of money-based online games like Dream11
• Strict penalties: 2 years imprisonment and ₹50 lakh fine for violations with dedicated regulatory authority
• Consumer protection: Addresses gambling addiction, money laundering, financial fraud in gaming sector
• Presidential assent: Bill becomes law after President’s signature completing legislative process

🏭 Eight Core Industries Growth at 2% in July 2025

• Industrial performance: Combined Index shows 2.0% growth in July 2025 compared to July 2024
• Positive sectors: Steel (+12.8%), Cement (+11.7%), Fertilizer (+2.0%), Electricity (+0.5%)
• Declining sectors: Coal (-12.3%), Natural Gas (-3.2%), Crude Oil (-1.3%), Refinery Products (-1.0%)
• Cumulative growth: April-July 2025-26 records 1.6% growth over corresponding period
• IIP significance: Eight core industries constitute 40.27% weight in Industrial Production Index

🚇 PM Modi to Inaugurate Kolkata Metro Extensions Worth ₹5,200 Crore

• Metro expansion: PM Modi inaugurates three new metro stretches adding 13.62 km to Kolkata network
• Route details: Sealdah-Esplanade (2.45 km), Noapara-Jai Hind Bimanbandar (6.77 km), Hemanta Mukhopadhyay-Beleghata (4.39 km)
• Elevated corridor: Foundation stone for 7.2 km Kona Expressway project worth ₹1,200 crore
• Connectivity boost: Improved transport between Howrah-Kolkata and airport connectivity
• Bengal development: ₹5,200 crore projects complement Bihar initiatives in eastern development

🌏 International Updates: US-China Relations and Middle East Tensions

• Boeing-China talks: Boeing in negotiations to sell up to 500 jets to China worth billions
• US-EU trade: Trade deal locked with auto tariff relief expected in coming weeks
• Gaza conflict: Palestinians flee Gaza City as Israel begins assault with 60,000 reservists
• Ukraine war: Russia launches fresh strikes on western Ukraine amid ongoing conflict
• Tibet visit: Chinese President Xi Jinping makes rare visit to Tibet marking 60 years Chinese rule

August 21, 2025

📈 Centum Electronics-BEL Strategic Partnership Boosts Defence Sector 🚀

• Shares surge 6.19% to ₹2,840 on news of BEL collaboration in electronic warfare systems
• MoU combines Centum’s electronics expertise with BEL’s defence manufacturing capabilities
• Strong order book: ₹1,736.4 crore total orders (Q4FY25) underscores robust growth momentum
• Supplies 300–500 components for ISRO space missions, highlighting space sector credentials
• Partnership reinforces Make in India in critical defence technology and expands market reach

✈️ Cabinet Approves ₹62,000 Crore Deal for 97 More Tejas Mk1A Jets

• Major defence milestone: Cabinet Committee on Security clears ₹62,000 crore order for 97 additional LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets from HAL
• Second major order: Adds to previous 83 aircraft contract worth ₹36,400 crore strengthening indigenous fighter fleet
• Delivery timeline: 12 Mk1A aircraft expected by end of FY26 to replace retiring MiG-21 fleet by September 2025
• Engine challenges: HAL missed February 2024 deadline due to delays in F404-IN20 engines from GE Aerospace
• Strategic impact: Fourth-generation multirole fighter developed by Aeronautical Development Agency for IAF modernization

📨 India Post Launches IT 2.0 for Digital Transformation Nationwide

• Digital revolution: India Post rolls out IT 2.0 Advanced Postal Technology across nationwide network
• Indigenous development: System developed by Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology running on MeghRaj 2.0 cloud
• Next-gen features: Unified interface, QR-code payments, OTP-based delivery, 10-digit alphanumeric DIGIPIN
• Infrastructure support: BSNL connectivity enables seamless digital postal services across India
• PM Modi’s vision: Initiative aligns with Digital India goals and postal service modernization

📦 FedEx-IIT Madras Launches SMART Centre with $5 Million Grant

• Innovation partnership: FedEx and IIT Madras inaugurate SMART Centre for sustainable logistics research
• Five-year funding: $5 million grant supports Supply Chain Modelling, Algorithms, Research and Technology Centre
• Research focus: AI-driven solutions, carbon-neutral operations, autonomous delivery systems, EV infrastructure
• National impact: 3,000+ students participation through Shaastra competitions with 6 FedEx experts as judges
• Talent development: 40 top students from 1,500+ applications work on 25+ industry-academic projects

🌍 India Exim Bank Provides $40 Million Credit to ECOWAS

• Africa partnership: ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development secures $40 million credit line from India Exim Bank
• Development focus: Funding supports infrastructure projects in energy, health, transportation, agriculture across West Africa
• Long-term collaboration: Partnership since 2006 with six credit facilities totaling $1.14 billion for Indian exports
• Strategic importance: Agreement signed at India Exim Bank’s London branch by respective CEOs
• Regional impact: Structured long-tenor facility enhances Indian exporters collaboration with regional infrastructure

🛩️ Air India-IOCL Sign MoU for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Supply

• Green aviation: Air India and Indian Oil partner for Sustainable Aviation Fuel supply supporting decarbonization goals
• IATA compliance: MoU advances Air India’s Net Zero by 2050 target and CORSIA obligations
• Production milestone: IOCL becomes first Indian company with ISCC CORSIA certification at Panipat Refinery
• Fleet modernization: 570 new aircraft on order will create one of world’s lowest carbon-emitting fleets
• Industry leadership: 5% SAF blending target by 2030 aligns with India’s green aviation push

🌿 Suzlon Becomes First Indian Energy Company to Commit 100% Renewable by 2030

• Historic commitment: Suzlon Group joins RE100 Initiative as first Indian energy company pledging 100% renewable energy by 2030
• Comprehensive targets: Carbon Neutrality by 2035 (Scope 1&2) and Net Zero by 2040 (Scope 1,2&3)
• Current progress: 92.87% carbon neutrality achieved with Dhule plant powered by 100% renewables
• Emission reduction: 88.51% cut in Scope 1&2 emission intensity with 80.7% increase in renewable consumption
• Global recognition: First Gold Member from India in RE100 initiative with 400+ global companies

⚖️ CCI Approves Multiple Corporate Acquisitions and Mergers

• Regulatory approvals: Competition Commission clears 5 major corporate transactions including international acquisitions
• Skechers deal: 3G Capital Partners acquires Skechers USA Inc with Kakapo Investment participation
• Phoenix Mills: Acquires remaining 49% stake in Island Star Mall Developers from Canada Pension Plan
• Quest Global: CA Plume Investments and Bequest Inc acquire stakes in Singapore-based ER&D services company
• Medical devices: Abu Dhabi Investment Authority through trust acquires 3.06% stake in Micro Life Sciences

📅 Sadbhavana Diwas 2025: Commemorating Rajiv Gandhi’s Vision of Harmony

• Annual observance: August 20 marks Sadbhavana Diwas honoring former PM Rajiv Gandhi’s birth anniversary
• Core values: Day promotes peace, harmony, national integration beyond caste, creed, religion barriers
• Youth focus: Youngest PM at 40 emphasized technological advancement, youth empowerment, communal harmony
• Modern celebrations: Pledge ceremonies, educational events, cultural programs, community service drives
• Enduring relevance: Sadbhavana (goodwill) message remains crucial for diverse India’s unity

🤝 DEPwD Launches Breaking Barriers Fellowship for Disability Rights

• Inclusive governance: Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities partners with Nipman Foundation and YLAC
• Fellowship program: Young professionals placed across DEPwD offices to strengthen policy support
• Legal framework: Initiative advances Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 implementation
• One-year collaboration: MoU emphasizes transparency, merit-based selection, quarterly reporting
• Youth leadership: Program nurtures young leaders for disability empowerment and inclusive governance

📱 Delhi Cabinet Approves Delhi Mitra App for Public Complaints

• Citizen-centric governance: Delhi Cabinet approves Delhi Mitra mobile app for direct complaint registration
• People’s initiative: App idea came from citizens’ letter to CM Rekha Gupta demonstrating participatory governance
• Digital grievance: Seamless online portal enables residents to raise local issues with government
• Nursing stipend hike: Cabinet also increases nursing intern stipend from ₹500 to ₹13,150 after 27 years
• Student welfare: Decision benefits 180 nursing interns from three government hospital nursing colleges

🏦 PNB Becomes First PSU Bank to Migrate to Secure ‘.bank.in’ Domain

• Digital security: Punjab National Bank becomes first public sector bank to adopt secure ‘.bank.in’ domain
• Enhanced protection: New domain provides additional security layers for online banking services
• Industry leadership: PNB’s migration sets precedent for other PSU banks in cybersecurity enhancement
• Customer safety: Secure domain reduces phishing risks and improves trust in digital banking
• Technology upgrade: Initiative demonstrates PNB’s commitment to advanced security standards

🚂 Indian Railways Announces 12,000 Special Trains for Festivals

• Festival preparedness: Indian Railways to run 12,000 special trains for Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrations
• Passenger convenience: Additional trains to handle increased rush during peak festive season
• Route expansion: Special services across multiple sectors to accommodate festival travelers
• Advance planning: Railways gears up for massive passenger movement during October-November period
• Service enhancement: Initiative ensures smooth travel and reduced crowding during festivals

🏆 Sports Updates: Boxing Federation Elections and Cricket Rankings

• Boxing Federation: Elections scheduled after months of governance issues and internal power struggles
• Cricket glitch: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma temporarily disappeared from ICC ODI rankings due to technical error
• Asia Cup Hockey: Tournament begins with India facing China in opening match
• Athletics achievement: Long jumper Murali Sreeshankar confident about World Championships qualifying mark
• Governance approval: National Sports Governance Bill receives President Murmu’s approval

🌍 International Developments: Israel-Gaza and US-Russia Relations

• Middle East conflict: Israel approves plan to conquer Gaza City and calls up 60,000 reservists
• US diplomacy: Trump cancels vacation to focus on Russia-Ukraine peace efforts
• Chinese diplomacy: Xi Jinping visits Lhasa for second trip to Tibet as President
• Regional cooperation: Afghanistan, China, Pakistan hold 6th foreign ministers’ meeting in Kabul
• Social media policy: Trump’s White House launches official TikTok account

💰 Economic Reforms: GST Simplification and Business Updates

• Tax reform: Government considers GST exemption on personal insurance premiums
• Corporate news: Apple to manufacture all iPhone 17 models in India across five factories
• Industrial development: UltraTech Cement to sell 6.5% stake in India Cements
• Trade relations: Russia expects India to continue oil purchases despite US tariffs
• Economic package: PM Modi announces $20 billion reform package to boost consumption

August 20, 2025

🛣️ Cabinet Approves ₹8,307 Crore Capital Region Ring Road in Odisha

• Major infrastructure project: Cabinet approves construction of 6-lane access-controlled Capital Region Ring Road in Odisha spanning 110.875 km
• Strategic connectivity: Project connects 3 major National Highways (NH-55, NH-57, NH-655) and 1 State Highway (SH-65) on Hybrid Annuity Mode
• Economic impact: Will generate 74.43 lakh person-days direct employment and 93.04 lakh person-days indirect employment
• Traffic relief: Designed to divert heavy commercial traffic away from Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha cities
• Multi-modal integration: Connects 10 economic nodes, 4 social nodes, 5 logistics nodes including Bhubaneswar Airport and major ports

🔬 NABL Launches New Medical Application Portal for ISO 15189:2022

• Digital transformation: NABL unveils Medical Application Portal for ISO 15189:2022 applicant laboratories
• Efficiency improvement: Tasks previously taking weeks or months now completed in 2-3 hours
• Enhanced features: Multi-user access, standardized templates, comprehensive pre-registration checklist, and intuitive interface
• Quality ecosystem: Portal offers streamlined application process with improved user experience and reduced timelines
• National impact: Benefits hundreds of medical laboratories across India with transparent and efficient digital platform

🚗 PM Modi Inaugurates ₹11,000 Crore Delhi Highway Projects

• Infrastructure launch: PM Modi inaugurates Dwarka Expressway Delhi section and Urban Extension Road-II worth ₹11,000 crore
• Dwarka Expressway: 10.1 km Delhi section costing ₹5,360 crore with multi-modal connectivity to Yashobhoomi and Metro lines
• UER-II benefits: Alipur to Dichaon Kalan stretch costing ₹5,580 crore will ease traffic on Inner-Outer Ring Roads
• Regional connectivity: New spurs to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat improve industrial connectivity and goods movement
• Urban mobility: Projects designed to decongest Delhi and provide world-class infrastructure enhancing ease of living

💻 IIT Madras Signs ₹1 Crore Deal for Quantum Random Number Generator

• Technology milestone: IIT Madras licenses India’s first Silicon Photonics-based Quantum Random Number Generator to Indrarka Quantum Technologies
• Strategic applications: QRNG has critical uses in military defense, cryptographic algorithms, quantum key distribution, and financial transactions
• Indigenous development: Centre for Programmable Photonic Integrated Circuits develops high-speed QRNG with field deployment capabilities
• Government support: MeitY funding enables establishment of silicon photonics CoE-CPPICS at IIT Madras
• Market readiness: Prototype delivered to DRDO and advanced version deployed at SETS Chennai for quantum security applications

🚁 Assam Rifles Signs MoU with IIT Manipur for Drone Technology

• Defense collaboration: Assam Rifles partners with IIT Manipur to promote drone technology development
• Border security: Initiative aims to enhance surveillance capabilities and operational efficiency in northeastern border regions
• Technology advancement: Collaboration focuses on indigenous drone development and tactical applications
• Strategic partnership: Academic-military cooperation strengthens border management through technological innovation
• Skill development: Partnership promotes research and development in unmanned aerial systems

📰 Press Registrar General Launches Press Sewa Portal

• Media digitization: Registrar of Newspapers launches Press Sewa Portal to simplify newspaper and periodical registration
• Administrative efficiency: Digital platform streamlines registration process for print media establishments
• Transparency enhancement: Online portal provides easy access and faster processing of media registration applications
• Industry support: Initiative reduces bureaucratic hurdles for newspaper and periodical publishers
• Digital governance: Portal represents modernization of media regulation and registration processes

🏥 Nepal Achieves Rubella Elimination: WHO South-East Asia Milestone

• Public health victory: Nepal verified for rubella elimination by WHO South-East Asia Regional Verification Commission
• Regional progress: Six countries now eliminated rubella while four countries achieved measles elimination
• Key strategies: High-coverage campaigns in 2012, 2016, 2020, 2024 including during earthquakes and emergency situations
• Vaccination success: 95% coverage for at least one dose of rubella vaccine creating herd immunity
• Surveillance excellence: Laboratory-supported case-based surveillance since 2004 with robust testing algorithms

💳 Bank of Maharashtra Partners with SBI Card for Credit Card Launch

• Banking collaboration: Bank of Maharashtra joins hands with SBI Card to launch credit cards in 3 variants
• Product diversification: Partnership expands Bank of Maharashtra’s credit card portfolio and customer base
• Market expansion: SBI Card’s expertise combined with Bank of Maharashtra’s network for wider reach
• Customer benefits: Enhanced payment solutions and reward programs through strategic alliance
• Financial inclusion: Collaboration aims to serve diverse customer segments with tailored credit solutions

📈 SEBI Extends Margin Obligations Deadline to October 10

• Market regulation: SEBI extends deadline for margin obligations process implementation to October 10, 2025
• System readiness: Extension follows representations from depositories CDSL and NSDL for system development and end-to-end testing
• Investor protection: New framework ensures clear transaction trail and reduces broker misuse of client securities
• Implementation features: Single instruction for pledge release for pay-in with automatic validation system
• Market stability: Extension ensures smooth implementation without disruption to market players and investors

👑 Miss Universe India 2025: Manika Vishwakarma’s Winning Answer

• Beauty pageant victory: Manika Vishwakarma from Rajasthan crowned Miss Universe India 2025
• Intelligent finale response: Chose women’s education over economic aid stating it would change entire strata of future
• Winning argument: 50% population denied basic amenity that could transform their lives and society
• Global representation: Manika will represent India at 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November
• Other winners: Tanya Sharma (UP) first runner-up, Mehak Dhingra (Haryana) second runner-up

🏆 Microsoft Tops TopBrand 2025 Global Brands List

• Brand ranking: Microsoft ranks first with brand value of USD 1,062.505 billion in TopBrand 2025
• Top technology brands: NVIDIA second (USD 1,046.760 billion), Apple third (USD 997.685 billion)
• Chinese representation: PetroChina ranks 14th as highest-valued Chinese brand
• Brand analysis: China has 130 companies in Fortune 500 but significantly fewer in global brand rankings
• Economic insight: Gap exists between Chinese companies’ economic strength and brand influence globally

🌍 World Humanitarian Day: August 19 Global Observance

• Annual commemoration: August 19 marks World Humanitarian Day honoring humanitarian workers and crisis-affected populations
• Critical challenges: 305.1 million people in 72 countries need humanitarian assistance requiring $47.4 billion funding
• Worker safety crisis: Over 380 humanitarian workers killed in 2024 with Gaza accounting for 200 deaths
• Campaign launch: #ActForHumanity relaunch demands protection, accountability, and action for humanitarian workers
• Global displacement: 122.6 million people forcibly displaced with 90% of Gaza population (1.9 million) displaced

💰 West Bengal Launches Shramshree Scheme for Migrant Workers

• Social welfare initiative: CM Mamata Banerjee launches Shramshree scheme for returning Bengali migrant workers
• Financial support: ₹5,000 monthly for one year or until new employment secured in West Bengal
• Target beneficiaries: 22 lakh migrant workers from West Bengal working in other states
• Cultural protection: Scheme addresses alleged harassment of Bengali speakers in other states
• Cinema mandate: West Bengal orders 365 prime-time Bengali film screenings annually in all cinema halls

🏦 Japan’s SMBC Fund Invests $7 Million in Shivalik Small Finance Bank

• International investment: SMBC Asia Rising Fund acquires 4.99% stake in Shivalik Small Finance Bank for $7 million
• Bank valuation: Investment values Shivalik at enterprise value of approximately ₹1,200 crore
• Growth capital: Total equity raise of ₹100 crore including ₹40 crore from existing investors
• Expansion plans: Funds to strengthen technology stack and expand workforce across product, engineering, operations
• Business scale: Bank serves 900,000+ customers across 79 branches in 11 states with ₹6,700 crore business size

🚇 Indian Overseas Bank Partners with Mumbai Metro One for Ticketing Solutions

• Transportation partnership: IOB signs agreement with Mumbai Metro One for ticketing services on Metro Line 1
• Service coverage: 11.4 km corridor connecting Versova, Andheri, and Ghatkopar serving 4.5 lakh daily passengers
• Payment options: Smart cards, paper tickets, and QR-based ticketing options for regular commuters
• Transaction volume: Over 3 lakh daily ticketing transactions with real-time validation and immediate confirmation
• Technology integration: Solutions linked with Mumbai Metro’s ticketing APIs for seamless operations

🤝 Historic India-China Diplomatic Breakthrough: Direct Flights and Border Progress

• PM Modi meets Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at his residence after 3-year diplomatic hiatus marking significant reset in bilateral relations
• Major outcomes: Both nations agree to resume direct flights, re-open border trade, and facilitate business and cultural exchanges
• Border management: Creation of two new working groups – one for early harvest in boundary delimitation and another for maintaining peace and tranquillity
• SCO Summit invitation: PM Modi accepts Chinese President Xi Jinping’s invitation to attend SCO Summit in Tianjin on August 31-September 1
• Economic relief: China lifts curbs on rare earth and fertiliser exports providing significant relief to Indian industries

🗳️ INDIA Bloc Names Justice B Sudershan Reddy as Vice President Candidate

• Opposition unity: INDIA bloc announces former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy as joint candidate against NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan
• Distinguished career: Born July 8, 1946 in Telangana, served as AP High Court judge, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice, and Supreme Court judge (2007-2011)
• Social justice champion: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge describes him as champion of social and economic justice who favoured poor and protected Constitution
• Election schedule: Nomination filing on August 21, scrutiny on August 22, election on September 9, 2025
• Ideological battle: Opposition frames contest as ideological battle between progressive judicial mind and administrative experience

✈️ Cabinet Approves ₹62,000 Crore Deal for 97 Tejas Fighter Jets

• Major defence milestone: Cabinet Committee on Security clears ₹62,000 crore order for 97 LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets from HAL
• Second major order: Adds to previous contract of 83 aircraft worth ₹36,400 crore strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing
• Market impact: HAL shares surge 3.5% to ₹4,605 following Cabinet approval with strong order book of ₹1.89 lakh crore
• Operational readiness: 12 aircraft delivery expected by end of FY2026 to replace ageing MiG-21 fleet retiring in September 2025
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Advanced Mk1A variant features upgraded avionics, radar systems, and enhanced combat capabilities with indigenous content

⚖️ Government Introduces Bills for Minister Removal on Serious Charges

• Constitutional amendment: Home Minister Amit Shah introduces 3 key bills including 130th Constitutional Amendment for automatic removal of arrested ministers
• 30-day rule: Ministers detained for 30+ consecutive days on serious criminal charges (5+ years imprisonment) face automatic dismissal
• Comprehensive coverage: Provisions apply to Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and ministers across states and Union Territories
• Parliamentary process: Bills referred to Joint Parliamentary Committee for detailed scrutiny and stakeholder consultations
• Governance reforms: Aims to uphold constitutional morality and principles of good governance in elected representatives

🏛️ Government Reveals 1.07 Crore Sterilizations During Emergency

• Historical disclosure: Government data reveals over 1.07 crore people sterilized during Emergency period (1975-77)
• Parliamentary information: Response to Lok Sabha question provides official statistics on forced sterilization program
• Human rights documentation: Unprecedented scale of coercive population control measures during Emergency rule
• Historical record: Official acknowledgment of controversial policies implemented under Indira Gandhi’s Emergency
• Constitutional lessons: Data highlights importance of democratic safeguards and civil liberties protection

🏥 Supreme Court Guidelines on POCSO Act for Consensual Teen Relationships

• Legal clarification: Supreme Court rules POCSO Act shouldn’t be automatically imposed on consensual relationships between teenagers
• Balanced approach: Court emphasizes nuanced application considering age proximity, relationship dynamics, and consent factors
• Child protection: Framework to distinguish between genuine abuse and consensual teenage relationships
• Judicial guidance: Clear parameters for courts and authorities in handling sensitive cases involving adolescents
• Social implications: Prevents criminalization of normal teenage relationships while maintaining child protection

🚂 NCERT Introduces Operation Sindoor in School Curriculum

• Educational initiative: NCERT incorporates Operation Sindoor in classroom curriculum as vow of peace and national unity
• Patriotic education: Students learn about military operations and national security through structured curriculum
• Value education: Operation presented as example of courage, sacrifice, and service to nation
• Curriculum integration: Military history and strategic operations made part of regular education system
• National character building: Initiative aims to instill patriotism and appreciation for armed forces

📊 CSDS Withdraws Voter Surge Data After BJP Criticism

• Data controversy: Centre for the Study of Developing Societies withdraws voter surge statistics following BJP demands for apology
• Political dispute: Data accuracy questioned over electoral trends and demographic analysis
• Research credibility: CSDS faces criticism over methodology and interpretation of voter behavior patterns
• Election integrity: Controversy highlights importance of accurate polling data and research standards
• Academic accountability: Withdrawal demonstrates need for rigorous verification in electoral research

✈️ Cabinet Approves ₹1,507 Crore Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport

• Infrastructure development: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approves AAI proposal for new airport in Rajasthan
• Capacity specifications: 1,000 passenger capacity with 20,000 sq meter terminal for peak-hour traffic management
• Regional connectivity: Strategic location to serve Kota-Bundi region and boost tourism and business travel
• Investment impact: ₹1,507 crore project expected to generate employment and economic activity in region
• Aviation expansion: Part of national aviation infrastructure development under UDAN scheme

August 19, 2025

🏓 ESIC’s Bhavina Patel Creates History at ITTF World Para Championships

• Bhavina Patel, Assistant Director at ESIC Ahmedabad, secures Gold Medal at ITTF World Para Elite event in Spokane, USA (August 9-13, 2025)
• Silver Medal achievement at ITTF World Para Future event (August 6-8, 2025) in Women’s Singles Class 4-5 category
• Historic milestone: Rises to World No. 1 ranking in Women’s Singles (Wheelchair Classes 1-5) para table tennis
• ESIC support system: Organization encourages employee participation in sports with resources, leave, and recognition
• Inspirational achievement showcases para-sports excellence and workplace culture supporting athletic pursuits

🛣️ NHAI Launches FASTag Annual Pass at 1,150 Toll Plazas

• Revolutionary initiative: FASTag Annual Pass available at 1,150 toll plazas nationwide for frequent travelers
• Significant savings: Up to 50% discount on toll charges for regular commuters and commercial vehicles
• Easy access: Available for all vehicle types with valid FASTag accounts through online registration
• Convenience factor: Unlimited passages without per-trip payments for annual pass holders
• Digital infrastructure: Strengthens cashless toll collection and highway efficiency

⚡ NTPC Becomes First PSU to Adopt ISO 22301:2019 Business Continuity Plan

• Historic achievement: NTPC Limited becomes first public sector company in power industry to implement ISO 22301:2019 compliant BCP
• Comprehensive framework: Business Continuity Plan ensures uninterrupted power generation during unexpected disruptions
• Risk management: Includes regular assessments, disaster recovery drills, backup communication systems, and coordinated response protocols
• Global standards: ISO 22301:2019 alignment with international best practices for business continuity management systems
• Operational resilience: Continuous review mechanisms address emerging risks in fast-changing energy sector

🚄 India’s First Hydrogen Train Clears Trials, Ready for Launch

• Breakthrough achievement: India’s first hydrogen trainset successfully passes load tests at Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF)
• World-class specifications: 10-coach train with 2,400 kW power – longest and most powerful hydrogen train globally
• Superior engine: 1,200 horsepower capacity significantly exceeds global standards of 500-600 HP
• Testing route: Field trials on 89-km Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana under Delhi Division Northern Railway
• Green transportation: 35 hydrogen trains planned under “Hydrogen for Heritage” program for hill/heritage routes

🌍 FAITH Conclave 2025 Unveils $3 Trillion Tourism Vision by 2047

• Ambitious target: $3 trillion tourism economy by 2047 with 100 million inbound tourists and 20 billion domestic visits
• Employment generation: 200 million tourism-related jobs supporting doubling GDP contribution from 5% to 10%
• Strategic pillars: Policy reforms, global marketing, infrastructure development, and sustainability adoption
• Industry collaboration: Ten major national associations unite for Tourism Vision 2047 roadmap
• Economic impact: Tourism as highest job multiplier globally with one in four new jobs from tourism, aviation, hospitality

🌞 Indian Railways Commissions First Removable Solar Panel System

• Green innovation: First 70-meter removable solar panel system commissioned at Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi
• Technical specifications: 28 panels with 15KWp capacity installed between railway tracks for sustainable rail transport
• Freight expansion: First industrial salt-loaded rake flagged off Sanosara to Dahej generating ₹31.69 lakh freight earnings
• Electrification milestone: First 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at Nagda-Khachrod section with Scott Transformer technology
• Infrastructure advancement: 100 MVA power transformers ensure efficient electrical load feeding to overhead equipment

🏦 SBI Launches Special Personal Loan Scheme for Agniveers

• Independence Day initiative: Special loan scheme for Agniveers with salary accounts at SBI
• Attractive terms: ₹4 lakh collateral-free loans with complete processing fee waiver
• Competitive rates: 10.50% flat interest rate for all defence personnel until September 30, 2025
• Flexible tenure: Repayment period matches Agnipath recruitment program duration
• Comprehensive benefits: Defence Salary Package includes zero-balance accounts, free international debit cards, ₹50 lakh personal accident insurance

🌐 Kotak Mahindra Secures UAE License for Investment Services

• Historic milestone: First Indian firm to receive investment license from UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA)
• Service expansion: Portfolio management services and UAE-domiciled funds for retail investors
• Market access: India-focused investment strategies for UAE investors by Q4 2025
• Strategic positioning: Reinforces UAE’s role as regional financial hub and cross-border financial services
• Strong performance: 14% advance growth and 14.6% deposit growth in Q1 FY26

💳 UPI Transactions Surge: Daily Value Crosses ₹90,000 Crore

• Record growth: Daily average UPI transactions rise from ₹75,743 crore (January) to ₹90,446 crore (August 2025)
• Volume expansion: Daily transaction volumes increase by 127 million, reaching 675 million in August
• Market leaders: SBI dominates as top remitter with 5.2 billion transactions, Yes Bank leads as beneficiary with 8.0 billion
• Regional adoption: Maharashtra leads with 9.8% share, followed by Karnataka (5.5%) and Uttar Pradesh (5.3%)
• Digital transformation: NPCI releases first-ever state-wise UPI data showing regional penetration patterns

🏭 JSW Steel and POSCO Partner for 6 MTPA Steel Plant

• Strategic collaboration: JSW Steel and South Korean POSCO sign agreement to explore 6 MTPA steel plant in India
• Capacity expansion: Significant addition to India’s steel manufacturing capability through international partnership
• Technology transfer: POSCO’s advanced steelmaking technology combined with JSW’s domestic expertise
• Investment potential: Major industrial project supporting Make in India and steel sector growth
• Market positioning: Strengthens India’s position in global steel production and manufacturing competitiveness

🎯 TCL Appoints Olympic Champion Eileen Gu as Global Brand Ambassador

• Star endorsement: Olympic freestyle skiing champion Eileen Gu becomes TCL’s global brand ambassador
• Brand strategy: Partnership leverages Gu’s international profile and youth appeal for global market expansion
• Marketing reach: Olympic champion’s influence extends TCL’s brand presence in key consumer segments
• Global positioning: Strategic appointment aligns with TCL’s international growth and premium brand positioning

♟️ Vincent Keymer Makes Chess History at Chennai Grand Masters

• Historic victory: German Grandmaster Vincent Keymer secures Chennai Grand Masters title with round to spare
• Chess excellence: Remarkable performance demonstrates strategic brilliance and tournament dominance
• International recognition: Chennai’s chess legacy continues with world-class tournament hosting global talent
• Sporting achievement: Keymer’s victory adds to prestigious chess championship history

🏏 Cricket Legend Bob Simpson Passes Away at 89

• Legendary loss: Former Australian captain and World Cup-winning coach Bob Simpson dies at age 89
• Historic achievements: First World Cup victory (1987) and Frank Worrell Trophy (1995) under his coaching
• Record legacy: Triple century conversion and 61-year standing record later broken by Wiaan Mulder
• Hall of Fame: Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (2006) and ICC Hall of Fame (2013) inductee
• India connection: Consultant for Indian team (1990s) and Rajasthan Ranji team guide (2000s)

🏁 Marc Marquez Wins Austrian GP, Extends MotoGP Championship Lead

• Racing triumph: Marc Marquez secures first-ever Austrian GP victory extending MotoGP championship lead
• Career milestone: Significant victory at Red Bull Ring adds to impressive racing record
• Championship standings: Extended lead strengthens title contention for 2025 season
• Racing excellence: Strategic performance and technical mastery in challenging Austrian circuit

💼 PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana Portal Goes Live for First-Time Employees

• Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launches PMVBRY portal enabling employers and first-time employees to access ₹1 lakh crore scheme
• Portal addresses: pmvbry.epfindia.gov.in and pmvbry.labour.gov.in for one-time employer registration
• Employee benefits: ₹15,000 direct support for first private sector job from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2027
• Employer incentives: ₹3,000 per month for hiring additional staff with EPFO registration mandatory
• Target achievement: 3.5 crore job creation over two years through UAN generation on Umang app with face authentication

⚖️ Jan Vishwas Bill 2025 Tabled in Lok Sabha to Decriminalize 288 Offences

• Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal introduces Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill 2025 for trust-based governance reforms
• Comprehensive decriminalization: 288 provisions across 16 central acts administered by 10 ministries to promote ease of doing business
• Policy shift: From “penalize on first detection” to “warning-correct-penalize” model with improvement notices for first-time violations
• Motor Vehicle reforms: State-wide registration, 30-day grace period for license renewal, 12-month timeline for claims tribunals
• Bill referred to Lok Sabha Select Committee for scrutiny with report due by next parliamentary session

📊 Unemployment Rate Eases to 5.2% in July 2025: Labour Survey

• Periodic Labour Force Survey shows unemployment rate decreased to 5.2% in July 2025 from higher previous levels
• Economic indicator reflects job market improvement amid government employment generation initiatives
• Labor market dynamics show positive trends in employment opportunities across various sectors
• Survey methodology provides reliable data for policy planning and economic assessments
• Government initiatives including PMVBRY expected to further reduce unemployment rates

🏛️ Supreme Court Directs Policy Framework for Injured Training Cadets

• Supreme Court orders Government to frame comprehensive policy for rehabilitation of cadets injured during training
• Judicial intervention addresses gaps in support system for defense training casualties and medical care
• Policy mandate covers financial assistance, medical treatment, and career rehabilitation for injured personnel
• Training safety measures need systematic overhaul to prevent accidents and ensure adequate compensation
• Legal precedent establishes institutional responsibility for trainee welfare and safety protocols

🎓 Centre Challenges Calcutta HC Order on MGNREGA in West Bengal

• Central Government moves Supreme Court challenging Calcutta High Court order on resuming MGNREGA in West Bengal
• Legal dispute over rural employment scheme implementation and state-center coordination issues
• Constitutional questions raised regarding federal structure and scheme administration authority
• Employment guarantee program faces judicial intervention affecting rural livelihood security
• Political implications for state-center relations and welfare scheme delivery mechanisms

📚 Delhi Education Seeks High Court Approval for School Uniform Cash Subsidy

• Directorate of Education Delhi approaches Delhi High Court for approval of cash subsidy scheme for school uniforms
• Financial assistance program aimed at reducing education costs for economically weaker sections
• Direct benefit transfer mechanism proposed for uniform allowance to government school students
• Educational accessibility initiative supports inclusive education and reduces dropout rates
• Court intervention required for policy implementation and budgetary allocation approval

🌾 E-Jagriti Platform Achieves 100% Disposal Rate in Consumer Disputes

• Ten states along with National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission record over 100% disposal rate on E-Jagriti platform in July 2025
• Digital transformation: Ministry of Consumer Affairs initiative launched January 1, 2025 for computerization of consumer commissions
• Transparency enhancement: Online complaint filing, case tracking, and judgment access through unified platform
• Efficiency improvement: Speedy resolution of consumer disputes at national, state, and district levels
• Justice delivery: Network connectivity ensures faster processing and transparent disposal of cases

🍑 Ladakh’s Halman Apricots Exported to Gulf Countries for First Time

• Historic export: 1.5 metric tonnes of premium Halman apricots shipped to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar
• Geographic specialty: Ladakhi variety grown in Sham region including Dha-Hanu, Garkhon, Skurbuchan villages
• Nutritional value: Rich in Vitamin C, E, potassium, magnesium, iron, dietary fiber and antioxidants
• Cultural significance: Century-old variety introduced from China/Central Asia integral to Ladakhi cuisine and rituals
• Economic opportunity: International market expansion for high-altitude agricultural products and farmer income enhancement

August 18, 2025

🌊 Asian Surfing Championships 2025: Star Athletes Shine in Mamallapuram

• Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu hosts the Asian Surfing Championships 2025, attracting top star athletes from Asia.
• Competing nations include Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and India.
• Indian surfers like Ramesh Budihal and Kishore Kumar display outstanding performances.
• Event boosts surf culture recognition and sports tourism in South India.
• Women’s category and junior surfers gain more visibility this year.

☀️ 100 GW Solar PV Manufacturing: India Crosses a Historic Milestone

• India achieves 100 GW solar PV module manufacturing capacity under ALMM.
• Growth from 2.3 GW (2014) to 100 GW (2025) – over 40-fold expansion.
• Central PLI scheme and proactive government policies drive solar growth.
• Supports target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel electricity by 2030.
• Advances energy self-reliance and the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

🛢️ IOCL to Build Green Hydrogen Plant in Mathura

• Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) initiates a green hydrogen plant project in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.
• Facility will produce 10,800 metric tonnes green hydrogen/year at Mathura Refinery.
• Project reduces carbon footprint and supports energy transition goals.
• Integrated with IOCL’s plan for biofuels and renewable energy adoption.

💳 RBI’s Cheque Settlement: Same-day Clearing from October 2025

• Reserve Bank of India to enable cheque clearance within hours from October 4, 2025.
• Continuous settlement system with 7 daily slots between 10 AM – 4 PM.
• Clears cheques in 3 hours (T+3), instead of up to 2 working days currently.
• Expected to accelerate payments and reduce funds settlement risks.

🩺 HDFC ERGO & PhonePe: Affordable Digital Health Insurance Launch

• HDFC ERGO partners with digital platform PhonePe to offer affordable health insurance.
• Coverage up to ₹20 lakh; claims processed digitally without paperwork.
• AI-powered claim processing with seamless, real-time approvals.
• Targets India’s digitally savvy, underinsured population for better inclusion.

🛡️ SBI Life Launches ‘Smart Shield Plus’ Future-ready Term Insurance

• SBI Life unveils Smart Shield Plus, a new customizable term insurance plan.
• Features include accidental death benefit, critical illness cover, and terminal illness support.
• Flexible premium payment and whole-life coverage for evolving consumer needs.
• Option to enhance protection through add-on benefits.

📈 July 2025 Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Data

• WPI inflation turns negative, at -0.58% in July 2025 (compared to July 2024).
• Food items, crude oil, and basic metals saw major price drops.
• Indicates deflationary pressures and lower wholesale price trends affecting economy.

🏛️ SabhaSaar: AI Boost for Panchayats

• Ministry of Panchayati Raj launches AI-powered SabhaSaar for automatic meeting minutes and action point extraction.
• Integrates with Bhashini platform (13 Indian languages).
• Pilot: Tripura’s 1,194 gram panchayats during Special Gram Sabhas on Independence Day.
• Reduces manual work and improves transparency.

💻 NHA & C-DAC: e-Sushrut@Clinic Healthcare MoU

• National Health Authority and C-DAC partner for ‘e-Sushrut@Clinic’ rollout—a digital health records platform.
• Enhances efficiency and transparency in patient data management.
• Integrates with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission for universal digital healthcare.

🏦 Bank of Baroda’s BOB e-PAY: International UPI Features

• Bank of Baroda upgrades its BOB e-PAY app with three new international payment features.
• Enables global money transfer, cross-border bill payments, and international merchant payments.
• Strengthens BOB’s position among public sector banks for digital and international banking.

💳 India’s Credit Rating Upgrade: Investor Confidence Up

• India’s sovereign credit rating upgraded (S&P) to BBB.
• Boosts investor confidence and should increase foreign capital inflows.
• Recognises strong macroeconomic fundamentals and fiscal reforms.
• Expected to make overseas borrowing cheaper for Indian corporates.

🦅 Tamil Nadu Launches ‘HAWK’ Wildlife Crime Management System

• Tamil Nadu government launches ‘HAWK’ digital platform for wildlife crime detection & management.
• Developed with support from WWF, police and IT experts.
• Includes tracking, real-time alerts, and collaborative investigation tools.
• Strengthens conservation enforcement and curbs poaching/illegal trade.

🏑 Olympic Hockey Medallist Vece Paes Passes Away

• Vece Paes, part of India’s 1972 Olympic bronze-winning hockey team and father of tennis legend Leander Paes, passed away.
• Renowned as a sports medicine expert and mentor in India’s sporting ecosystem.

💻 Infosys Acquires 75% Stake in Australian Firm Versent

• Infosys acquires 75% of Versent, an Australian cloud & digital transformation firm, for $153 million.
• Strategic move to expand cloud, AI, and security services in Australia-Pacific.
• Versent brings 650 engineers/advisors, enhancing Infosys’ delivery capability.

🚀 Astrophel Aerospace & IN-SPACe MoU: Reusable Rocket Engine Development

• Astrophel Aerospace signs MoU with IN-SPACe for developing reusable rocket engine technology.
• Collaboration aims at cost reduction for space launches and boosting private sector participation in India’s space sector.

🚀 China Launches 11 Geely ‘G-Space’ Satellites from Sea

• China launches 11 Geely G-Space satellites for IoT and connected vehicle applications.
• Launched from a maritime platform (offshore rocket launch), strengthening commercial satellite capabilities.
• Part of China’s push towards building a global IoT network.

🚢 Indian Navy Ships in Sri Lanka for SLINEX-25

• Indian Naval Ships (INS Rana, INS Jyoti) arrive at Colombo for 12th India-Sri Lanka Navy Exercise (SLINEX-25).
• Bilateral maritime exercise to enhance professional synergy and regional security.

🏅 Khelo India Srinagar Water Sports Mascot Unveiled

• Mascot (Himalayan Kingfisher) and logo for the upcoming Khelo India Water Sports Festival in Srinagar are revealed.
• Festival at Dal Lake (Aug 21–23), more than 400 athletes from 36 states/UTs.

⚡ IBM Partners with Maharashtra Government for Quantum Computing

• IBM to support Maharashtra in building a statewide quantum computing initiative.
• Includes workshops, training, and a client experience centre in Mumbai for AI, cloud, quantum tech.
• Reinforces Maharashtra’s role as a technology innovation hub.

🛰️ ISRO and Muskaan Foundation Launch Space Lab in Arunachal Pradesh

• ISRO & Muskaan Foundation create a space education laboratory in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Focus on STEM learning and space tech for youth in remote areas.

🏭 NSIC’s MSME Credit MoUs with Banks

• National Small Industries Corporation partners with five banks (AU SFB, Axis Bank, Karnataka Bank, IndusInd, Dhanlaxmi) under the MSME credit facilitation programme.
• Enables easier credit access for small and micro enterprises.

🚢 Indian Navy Gets Third Survey Vessel ‘Ikshak’

• India’s third indigenous survey vessel-large (IKSHAK) delivered to the Navy.
• Over 80% indigenous content, builds hydrographic capacity and accommodates women sailors.

🏛️ BJP Names Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as NDA Vice President Candidate

• National Democratic Alliance announces Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan as Vice Presidential candidate for September 9 election
• 67-year-old RSS veteran with 40 years public service experience including former BJP Tamil Nadu president and two-term Lok Sabha MP
• Parliamentary Board meeting chaired by PM Modi unanimously selected OBC Gounder community leader ahead of Tamil Nadu assembly elections
• NDA’s numerical strength of 427 MPs against opposition’s 354 ensures comfortable victory above required 392 votes
• Strategic choice aligns with Mission South approach and strengthens AIADMK alliance prospects in southern states

⚡ UP Inaugurates First Green Hydrogen Plant in Gorakhpur

• CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurates Uttar Pradesh’s first and India’s second green hydrogen plant at Khanipur village, Gorakhpur
• Torrent Group project with 72,000 tonnes annual capacity blends 2% green hydrogen with CNG and PNG for domestic use
• ₹100 crore investment produces hydrogen through electrolysis using renewable energy marking clean fuel innovation milestone
• State targets 1 million tonnes green hydrogen production by 2028 under Green Hydrogen Policy 2024
• Environmental impact: reduces carbon emissions, supports energy transition, and provides cleaner cooking fuel to households

💼 Samsung Begins Laptop Manufacturing in India at Greater Noida

• Samsung Electronics starts laptop production at Greater Noida factory expanding device manufacturing portfolio in India
• Existing facility already produces smartphones, feature phones, tablets, and wearables with laptop addition
• Make in India initiative success demonstrates foreign investment confidence in domestic manufacturing capabilities
• Technology sector growth supports employment generation and export potential from Indian manufacturing base
• Strategic expansion reduces import dependence and strengthens electronics ecosystem

💰 SPIC Reports ₹66.71 Crore Q1 Net Profit Growth

• Southern Petrochemical Industries Corporation posts ₹66.71 crore net profit for Q1 FY2026 compared to ₹62.55 crore previous year
• Operational efficiency and lower input costs drive 6.6% profit growth in petrochemical sector
• FY2025 performance shows ₹155.62 crore annual profit demonstrating consistent business growth
• Chemical industry recovery continues with improved margins and stable demand patterns
• Quarterly results reflect sector resilience amid global economic uncertainties

🎓 Karnataka Study Abroad Expo Attracts 5,000+ Students

• Karnataka Skill Development Corporation organizes international education expo at Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru
• 5,000+ students register for study abroad opportunities with 60 international universities participating
• KVTSDC initiative provides guidance and information on overseas education and scholarship opportunities
• Global education demand increases among Indian students seeking international exposure and career prospects
• Education sector growth supports skill development and international mobility of Indian talent

🏥 Emergency Life Support Conference Inaugurated in Ladakh

• Two-day emergency conference launched at District Hospital Kargil focusing on critical situation medical response
• AIIMS JPNATC, WHO Collaborating Centre, and District Hospital organize emergency care training
• Border area healthcare emphasis on timely medical response in remote harsh conditions
• Trauma and emergency care capabilities strengthened for frontier regions and strategic locations
• Medical preparedness enhancement crucial for border security and civilian safety

🎯 GoM to Meet on Next-Generation GST Reforms Implementation

• Group of Ministers from six states scheduled to review PM Modi’s Independence Day announced GST simplification
• Revenue Department prepares detailed proposals for 4-slab to 2-slab reduction targeting Diwali 2025
• 99% of 12% slab items to move to 5% category while 90% of 28% items shift to 18% bracket
• Tax reform aims to reduce compliance burden, boost consumption, and simplify business operations
• Economic impact expected through lower tax burden on essential goods and MSME sector relief

August 17, 2025

🛣️ PM Modi Inaugurates ₹11,000 Crore Highway Projects in Delhi

• Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Delhi section of Dwarka Expressway and Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II) at 12:30 PM in Rohini
• ₹11,000 crore investment includes 10.1 km Dwarka Expressway at ₹5,360 crore and UER-II stretch at ₹5,580 crore
• Dwarka Expressway connects Yashobhoomi, Delhi Metro Blue-Orange lines, Bijwasan railway station with direct airport tunnel access
• UER-II designed as Delhi’s third Ring Road spanning 76 km with new spurs to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat
• Projects expected to reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion on Inner-Outer Ring Roads and decongest Mukarba Chowk

⚖️ Supreme Court to Hear Presidential Reference on Constitutional Powers on Monday

• Five-judge Constitution Bench led by CJI BR Gavai begins hearing Presidential Reference on Governor-President powers under Articles 200-201
• 14 questions referred by President Droupadi Murmu following SC’s Tamil Nadu Governor judgment imposing timelines for bill assent
• Tamil Nadu and Kerala filed applications seeking return of Presidential Reference calling it “headless and devoid of merits”
• Constitutional crisis over judicial authority to impose deadlines on Governor-President discretionary powers
• Separation of powers debate intensifies with Centre warning against functional hurdles and constitutional overreach

🏛️ President Appoints Manipur Governor as Additional Charge of Nagaland

• President Droupadi Murmu appoints Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to discharge additional functions as Nagaland Governor
• Appointment follows recent demise of Nagaland Governor La Ganesan at age 80 leaving constitutional post vacant
• Administrative continuity ensured through additional charge mechanism until permanent appointment
• Constitutional provision allows one Governor to handle multiple states during transitional periods
• Bhalla’s dual responsibility covers northeastern states with strategic importance

 External Affairs Minister Holds Bilateral Talks with South Korean Counterpart

• EAM Dr S Jaishankar conducts bilateral meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun in New Delhi
• Productive discussions aimed at advancing bilateral cooperation in trade, technology, and strategic partnerships
• India-South Korea relations strengthening amid global economic uncertainties and regional security challenges
• Enhanced collaboration expected in defense, space technology, and digital innovation sectors
• Strategic dialogue part of India’s Act East Policy and Korean New Southern Policy

📈 India’s Electronics Exports Surge 47% in Q1 FY2026

• Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announces 47% growth in electronics exports during first quarter 2025-26
• Significant increase compared to same quarter 2024-25 reflecting manufacturing sector growth
• PLI scheme success and Make in India initiative driving export competitiveness
• Electronics manufacturing becoming major contributor to India’s export basket
• Global supply chain positioning improved through domestic manufacturing capabilities

🏥 Indian Army Inaugurates Health Centre in Arunachal Pradesh

• Operation Sadbhavana initiative launches “Arogyam Health and Wellness Centre” at DahJhong, Tawang district
• Border area development program providing healthcare services to remote communities
• Military-civilian cooperation strengthens border infrastructure and community welfare
• Strategic location in Tawang enhances healthcare accessibility for border populations
• Comprehensive wellness approach includes preventive and curative healthcare services

August 16, 2025

💰 Bihar CM Reduces Competitive Exam Fees to ₹100

• CM Nitish Kumar announces significant relief for job aspirants in two-tier competitive examinations
• Preliminary test fee reduced to ₹100 while main examinations made completely free
• Police force expansion from 42,000 in 2005 to 1.31 lakh currently with target of 2.23 lakh
• Caste-based headcount reveals 94 lakh families identified as poor across all social groups
• Law and order improvement remains highest priority since 2005 governance

💹 S&P Global Upgrades India Credit Rating After 18 Years

• S&P Global Ratings upgrades India’s long-term sovereign credit rating to ‘BBB’ from ‘BBB-‘ with stable outlook
• First upgrade since January 2007 – after 18 years of remaining at lowest investment grade
• Historic milestone returning to rating level last held 35 years ago in 1990
• Rating reflects economic resilience, sustained fiscal consolidation, and strong growth momentum
• GDP growth averaged 8.8% from FY22-FY24 – highest in Asia-Pacific region

🚀 China’s GSpace Successfully Launches 11 IoT Satellites

• Chinese company GSpace conducts successful test launch of 11 satellites for Internet of Things communication
• 5G communication satellites designed to enhance global connectivity and IoT infrastructure
• Space technology advancement in commercial satellite constellation development
• Strategic implications for global communications and technology competition
• Launch demonstrates China’s growing capabilities in commercial space sector

🏭 Ola Develops Indigenous Cell Technology for Rare Earth Magnets

• Bhavish Aggarwal announces Ola’s development of indigenous cell technology and alternate rare earth magnet solutions
• Strategic move toward technological self-reliance reducing dependence on imports
• Electric vehicle sector advancement with domestic manufacturing capabilities
• Alternative technology development for critical battery components and motor systems
• Initiative aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India objectives

📊 Centre Proposes Reducing GST Slabs from 4 to 2

• Union Government proposes major GST simplification reducing current 4 slabs to 2 main categories
• New structure likely to retain 5% and 18% slabs while phasing out 12% and 28%
• 99% of items currently in 12% slab to move to 5% category
• 90% of goods from 28% bracket to be reclassified under 18%
• Implementation timeline targeting Diwali 2025 as announced by PM Modi

🌟 Nagaland Governor La Ganesan Passes Away at 80

• Nagaland Governor La Ganesan dies at age 80 – described as “devout nationalist” by PM Modi
• Constitutional authority and administrative leader remembered for dedicated service
• Political veteran with extensive experience in governance and public administration
• Condolences from political leaders across party lines acknowledge contributions to nation
• State mourning declared in Nagaland following Governor’s demise

📱 Union Minister Launches Web Portal for Swachhata Campaign 4.0

• Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launches web portal to monitor Special Swachhata Campaign 4.0 progress
• Digital tracking system for cleanliness initiatives across government departments
• Transparency measures in public hygiene programs and waste management
• Real-time monitoring of sanitation activities and performance metrics
• Technology-driven approach to Swachh Bharat Mission implementation

🏥 Cabinet Extends ₹5 Lakh Health Insurance to Senior Citizens

• Union Cabinet approves extension of ₹5 lakh health insurance scheme to senior citizens above 70 years
• Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu welcomes healthcare coverage expansion
• Universal health coverage initiative targeting elderly population healthcare needs
• Financial protection against medical expenses for vulnerable demographic
• Healthcare accessibility improvement through government insurance scheme

🚁 DRDO-Navy Successfully Tests Vertical Launch Missile System

• DRDO and Indian Navy conduct successful flight test of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)
• Indigenous defense capability demonstration in missile technology advancement
• Naval defense system enhancement with advanced missile defense capabilities
• Self-reliance in defense through domestic weapons development programs
• Strategic deterrence strengthening via cutting-edge military technology

🌾 Agriculture Minister Announces Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan

• Shivraj Singh Chouhan chairs key meeting with state ministers announcing “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan” for Rabi crop
• Agricultural transformation initiative targeting farming efficiency and productivity enhancement
• Seasonal crop planning with modern agricultural practices and technology integration
• Farmer welfare measures through comprehensive agricultural development programs
• Food security objectives aligned with sustainable farming methods

August 15, 2025

🏛️ PM Modi Delivers Record-Breaking 103-Minute Independence Day Address

• Prime Minister Modi delivered his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech lasting 103 minutes – the longest in Indian history
• Historic milestone surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 11 consecutive addresses from Red Fort
• Speech focused on Viksit Bharat 2047 with comprehensive vision for developed nation by centenary of independence
• Bold announcements covering defense, economy, technology, employment, and governance reforms
• Second-longest speaker in Independence Day history after Nehru’s 17 speeches

💰 Next-Generation GST Reforms Announced for Diwali 2025

• PM Modi promises to implement next-generation GST reforms by Diwali 2025
• Simplified two-slab structure replacing current 5-28% rates with 5% and 18% slabs
• 40% tax rate maintained for luxury and sin goods while most 12% items move to 5% bracket
• “Double Diwali” celebration with tax relief on essential goods and MSME benefits
• Targeted relief for small traders, consumers, and daily-use items

🏥 Kishtwar Cloudburst Death Toll Rises to 60 with 200+ Missing

• Devastating cloudburst in Chositi village, Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon
• Death toll climbs to 60 with over 200 people still missing and 100+ injured
• Massive rescue operations by NDRF, SDRF, Army, and local volunteers continue for second day
• Machail Mata Yatra pilgrims among victims as flash floods destroyed langar sites and security outposts
• PM Modi speaks with CM Omar Abdullah and LG Manoj Sinha assuring all possible help

💼 ₹1 Lakh Crore Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana for Youth Employment

• PM Modi announces massive ₹1 lakh crore employment scheme effective August 15, 2025
• ₹15,000 direct transfer to first-time private sector employees as one-time support
• 3.5 crore new jobs targeted with companies receiving ₹3,000 per month for additional staff
• Direct Benefit Transfer through Aadhaar Bridge Payment System ensures transparent delivery
• Comprehensive youth empowerment initiative aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 vision

🌟 H.E. Zeenat Kureshi Becomes First Indian Woman GCC Trade Commissioner

• Zeenat Kureshi appointed as first Indian woman to serve as GCC-India Trade Commissioner
• Historic milestone in luxury diplomacy and economic cooperation between India and Gulf nations
• Strategic role in premium industries collaboration and luxury market development
• Cultural exchange promotion through high-value commerce and diplomatic initiatives
• Trailblazing appointment inspiring women in international trade and global relations

🏭 Reform Task Force Launched for $10 Trillion GDP Target

• PM Modi announces creation of dedicated Reform Task Force for next-generation reforms
• Mandate to accelerate economic growth, cut red tape, and achieve $10 trillion GDP
• Streamlined governance and business-friendly policies to boost manufacturing sector
• Economic transformation aligned with developed nation status by 2047
• Systematic approach to regulatory simplification and investment facilitation

⚡ Nuclear Energy Capacity to Grow Tenfold by 2047

• 10 new nuclear reactors currently under construction as part of energy expansion
• Nuclear power capacity to increase tenfold by 2047 for clean energy transition
• Private sector participation in nuclear energy to boost innovation and generation capacity
• Energy independence strategy reducing dependence on imported fuel
• Sustainable development through advanced nuclear technology and safety protocols

🚁 Shubman Gill Returns from International Space Station Mission

• Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla returns from International Space Station assignment
• Historic achievement in India’s space program and astronaut development
• Indigenous space station development on track as part of space expansion
• Gaganyaan mission progress with self-reliance in space technology
• National pride in space exploration and technological advancement

💰 PM Modi Launches ₹1 Lakh Crore Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana

• Prime Minister Modi announces ₹1 lakh crore employment scheme effective August 15, 2025
• First-time private sector employees receive ₹15,000 directly from government as one-time support
• 3.5 crore new jobs expected with 1.92 crore first-time workforce entrants over two years
• Companies hiring additional staff eligible for ₹3,000 per month per employee with extended manufacturing benefits
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) through Aadhaar Bridge Payment System ensures transparent delivery

🛡️ Mission Sudarshan Chakra: Indigenous Defense System by 2035

• PM Modi unveils Sudarshan Chakra Mission – advanced indigenous weapons system inspired by Lord Krishna
• Powerful weapon system to neutralize enemy attacks and hit back multiple times stronger
• Complete indigenous development by Indian youth and talent with research, manufacturing in India
• Precise Target System for accurate strikes with future warfare capabilities
• National security shield for railway platforms, hospitals, religious sites by 2035

⚔️ Operation Sindoor: India’s Strategic Response to Terrorism

• Operation Sindoor launched May 7-8, 2025 after Pahalgam terror attack killing 26 innocent tourists
• Nine terrorist camps targeted in Pakistan and PoK with over 100 terrorists eliminated
• 23-minute precision strikes by Indian Air Force against Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba
• Indigenous defense systems including Akash missiles, BrahMos, SAMAR proved effectiveness
• Tri-services coordination with Air Force, Army, and Navy working in perfect synergy

🌊 India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty Over Security Concerns

• PM Modi declares: “Blood and water will not flow together” amid Pakistan’s nuclear blackmail
• Indus Waters Treaty suspension following Pahalgam attack as national security measure
• Indian farmers suffered 70 years while enemy lands irrigated from Indus River system
• Water resources must serve Indian citizens first rather than supporting terrorism
• Strategic decision against Pakistan’s proxy war and demographic change attempts

👥 High-Power Demography Mission Against Infiltration

• PM Modi announces new mission to counter “well-thought conspiracy” to change India’s demographics
• Infiltrators targeting youth livelihoods and threatening sisters and daughters will not be tolerated
• Border area demographic changes pose serious national security threat
• Tribal land capture by infiltrators through misleading innocent people
• Comprehensive strategy to protect India’s demographic integrity

💸 Next-Generation GST Reforms by Diwali 2025

• Major GST simplification promised by Diwali 2025 for reduced tax burden
• Daily-use items to see significant tax reductions benefiting common citizens
• “Double Diwali” celebration with tax reforms and employment schemes
• Digital tax system improvements for easier compliance and faster processing
• Business-friendly reforms to boost economic growth and manufacturing sector

🚀 Space Achievements: Shubhanshu Shukla Returns from ISS

• Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla returns from International Space Station mission
• India on track to build indigenous space station as part of space program expansion
• Space sector achievements making entire nation proud with international recognition
• Historic milestone in India’s space exploration and astronaut program
• Self-reliance in space technology aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat mission

💻 Made-in-India Semiconductors by Year-End 2025

• Indigenous semiconductor chips to hit market by end of 2025
• 50-60 years lost opportunity now recovered through mission mode approach
• Multiple semiconductor projects approved across Punjab, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh
• ₹4,600 crore investment creating advanced manufacturing capabilities
• Self-reliance in critical technology reducing import dependence

📊 Record-Breaking Independence Day Speech: 103 Minutes

• PM Modi delivers longest-ever Independence Day address at 103 minutes
• 12th consecutive speech surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 11 consecutive addresses
• Second only to Nehru’s 17 speeches in Independence Day address history
• Comprehensive vision covering defense, economy, technology, social welfare
• Historic address from 7:33 AM to 9:16 AM outlining Viksit Bharat roadmap

👩💼 Women Empowerment Through Stree Shakti Schemes

• Andhra Pradesh launches Stree Shakti – free bus travel for women effective August 15
• ₹30 crore Tamil Nadu Thayumanavar Scheme for doorstep ration delivery to 21.7 lakh beneficiaries
• Women-led enterprises getting priority support in startup ecosystem
• Growing economic participation of Nari Shakti in India’s development
• Gender-inclusive policies driving social and economic transformation

🏭 Self-Reliance in Defense Manufacturing Showcased

• Operation Sindoor success proved Made-in-India weapons effectiveness
• Indigenous systems including Akashteer, SAMAR, D4 anti-drone performed excellently
• Defense production reached all-time high with significant private sector participation
• Future warfare readiness through domestic defense technology
• Strategic autonomy in critical defense capabilities against external threats

August 14, 2025

💰 Centre Disburses ₹3,200 Crore Crop Insurance to 30 Lakh Farmers Today

• Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan releases ₹3,200 crore under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
• 30 lakh farmers across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh receive digital transfers
• State-wise allocation: MP ₹1,156 crore, Rajasthan ₹1,121 crore, Chhattisgarh ₹150 crore
• Simplified claims process allows proportionate payments without waiting for state contributions
• 12% penalty imposed on insurance companies and states for delayed payments from Kharif 2025

💰 RBI Allows Vostro Accounts to Invest Entire Surplus in Government Securities

• Central bank permits foreign investors to invest surplus balances in Special Rupee Vostro Accounts
• 123 correspondent banks from 30 trading partners approved to open 156 SRVAs with 26 Indian banks
• Previous 30% cap on securities with residual maturity under one year now removed
• Initiative supports rupee internationalization and bilateral trade in local currencies
• Move aimed at boosting rupee-denominated investment and trade settlements

⚡ Tata Power-Suzlon Develop ₹6,000 Crore Wind Project in Andhra Pradesh

• 700 MW wind power project in Anantapur district with ₹6,000 crore investment
• First wind project in state since 2019 generating 1,840 million units annually
• S144 wind turbine generators manufactured at Suzlon’s refurbished AP facility
• Part of MoU for 7 GW renewable capacity development under Integrated Clean Energy Policy
• State targets 160 GW renewable capacity in 5 years with ₹10 trillion investment potential

⚒️ Hindustan Zinc Becomes First Indian Member of ICMM

• Hindustan Zinc Limited joins International Council on Mining and Metals as 25th global member
• First Indian company and first new member since 2021 following rigorous assessment
• 40 performance expectations covering Environmental, Social, Governance practices
• World’s most sustainable mining company by S&P Global for second consecutive year
• Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar emphasizes global energy transition leadership

🛡️ Adani Defence Acquires 100% Stake in Indamer Technics via Horizon Aero

• Adani Defence Systems through Horizon Aero Solutions acquires Indamer Technics Private Limited
• 50-50 partnership with Prime Aero Services owned by Prajay Patel
• 30-acre greenfield facility at Nagpur MIHAN SEZ with 15 aircraft bay capacity
• DGCA and FAA approved offering comprehensive MRO services to global customers
• Expansion establishes India as premier global MRO destination

🛰️ Pixxel Consortium Wins ₹1,200 Crore EO Satellite Project with Zero Bid

• Pixxel-led consortium wins Earth Observation satellite constellation contract with zero-cost bid
• 12 satellites over 4 years carrying optical, hyperspectral, and SAR sensors
• Private investment of ₹1,200 crore with estimated ₹1,800 crore annual revenue
• India could save ₹9,000 crore over 5 years from reduced foreign data imports
• First satellite launch within 2 years targeting agriculture, security, and global markets

🚀 Arianespace Successfully Launches European Weather Satellite on Ariane 6

• Ariane 6 rocket successfully launches Metop-SGA1 weather satellite from French Guiana
• Third launch and second commercial flight of Europe’s new heavy-lift launcher
• Sun-synchronous orbit at 800 km altitude with spacecraft separation after 1 hour 4 minutes
• First next-generation European polar-orbiting weather satellite with six atmospheric instruments
• Mission provides cutting-edge weather and climate monitoring data for European resilience

🍚 Tamil Nadu Launches Thayumanavar Scheme for Doorstep Ration Delivery

• CM M.K. Stalin launches Chief Minister’s Thayumanavar Scheme for 21.7 lakh beneficiaries
• ₹30.16 crore initiative delivers ration items to elderly over 70 and differently abled
• 34,809 fair price shops participate with monthly delivery on second Saturday and Sunday
• Electronic weighing and e-PoS machines ensure transparency and accuracy
• 20.42 lakh senior citizens and 1.27 lakh differently abled persons benefit from scheme

🎓 MY Bharat Signs Youth Leadership Development MoU with SOUL Foundation

• Ministry of Youth Affairs partners with School of Ultimate Leadership Foundation
• Three-year MoU aims to create 100,000 youth leaders aged 18-29 years
• Programs cover governance, public policy, social entrepreneurship, digital literacy
• Pan-India inclusive approach ensuring rural, urban, tribal, women representation
• Online leadership program to commence in September 2025

🎨 IGNCA Signs MoU with BSIP for India’s First Science-Culture Platform

• Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts partners with Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences
• First initiative in India to integrate science and culture on unified platform
• 11 PG Diploma courses spanning Cultural Informatics to Indian Literature
• Project Mausam collaboration on climate change in maritime history
• Initiative preserves and presents India’s heritage through innovative programs

💰 Union Minister Chouhan Releases ₹3,200 Crore to Farmers Under PMFBY

• Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced digital transfer of ₹3,200 crore to 30 lakh farmers under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
• State-wise distribution: Madhya Pradesh ₹1,156 crore, Rajasthan ₹1,121 crore, Chhattisgarh ₹150 crore
• Simplified claim settlement system allows proportionate payments based on central subsidy without waiting for state contribution
• 12% penalty on insurance companies and state governments for delayed payments from Kharif 2025 season
• Since 2016 launch, PMFBY has disbursed ₹1.83 lakh crore claims against ₹35,864 crore farmer premiums

🏥 Union Health Secretary Launches SHRESTH Initiative for Drug Quality

• Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava launched State Health Regulatory Excellence Index (SHRESTH)
• First-of-its-kind national benchmarking system for state drug regulatory authorities
• 27 indices for Manufacturing States and 23 indices for Primarily Distribution States
• CDSCO-proposed initiative aims to ensure drug safety and quality standards consistently met
• Data submission by 25th of each month with scoring on 1st of following month

🆔 UIDAI Signs 5-Year R&D Agreement with Indian Statistical Institute

• UIDAI signed umbrella agreement with Indian Statistical Institute for joint research and development
• Five-year partnership focuses on fraud detection, biometric liveness tools, and matching algorithms
• Agreement covers high-risk enrollment categories and data-driven innovations for Aadhaar robustness
• CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar emphasized building advanced, secure, and citizen-centric innovation
• ISI’s expertise in statistics, mathematics, computer science strengthens Aadhaar operations

🛂 MHA Tightens OCI Card Registration Rules for Criminal Offenses

• Ministry of Home Affairs issued gazette notification under Section 7D of Citizenship Act, 1955
• OCI registration cancellation for imprisonment of 2+ years or charge-sheeted for 7+ year offenses
• Rules apply regardless of conviction location – India or abroad – if offense recognized under Indian law
• 122 OCI registrations cancelled between 2014-2023, with 57 more in 2024
• Government emphasizes OCI as privilege, not right with stricter legal framework

☁️ Rajasthan Launches India’s First AI-Enabled Drone Cloud Seeding

• Rajasthan Agriculture Department launched India’s first drone-based cloud seeding experiment near Ramgarh Dam, Jaipur
• 60 AI-controlled drones collaboration between Rajasthan Agriculture Department and US-Bengaluru firm GenX AI
• Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena inaugurated artificial rain trial using silver iodide particles
• Received approvals from DGCA, India Meteorological Department, and district authorities
• Previous aircraft-based attempt at Chittorgarh’s Bhaisunda Dam cost ₹10 crore but failed due to low moisture

🚅 Western Railway Commissions India’s First 2×25 kV Traction Substation

• Western Railway successfully commissioned first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at Nagda-Khachrod section
• Two Scott-connected 100 MVA Power Transformers inaugurated by Principal Chief Electrical Engineer Ranjan Srivastava
• Historic milestone under Mission Raftaar initiative to enhance energy efficiency and train operating speeds
• Longest monolithic motor prepared at Solid Propellant Plant, Sriharikota for advanced traction system
• Joint effort by Divisional Electrical Engineering team, Construction Department, and M/s BNC Power Projects Ltd

📉 India’s Retail Inflation Drops to 8-Year Low of 1.55%

• Consumer Price Index inflation declined to 1.55% in July 2025 – lowest since June 2017
• Significant decrease from previous months indicating economic stabilization
• Food price moderation contributed to overall inflation decline
• Positive economic indicator for monetary policy and consumer spending
• RBI’s inflation targeting showing effective results in price stability

🏏 Shubman Gill Named ICC Player of the Month for July

• Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill awarded ICC Player of the Month for July 2025
• Sophia Dunkley from England won women’s category for outstanding performance
• Third Indian player to receive this honor in 2025
• Recognition for exceptional cricket performance during July international matches
• ICC rankings: Shubman Gill tops ODI rankings with 784 points, Rohit Sharma second

🌍 External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to Visit Russia for Bilateral Talks

• EAM S. Jaishankar scheduled to meet Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in Moscow on August 21
• Discussions on bilateral relations, defense cooperation, and strategic partnerships
• Visit amid ongoing global tensions and India-Russia traditional ties
• Strategic dialogue on regional security and economic cooperation
• Meeting follows recent diplomatic engagements between both nations

August 13, 2025

⚔️ India’s Defence Production Soars to All-Time High of ₹1.51 Lakh Crore

• Defence production achieved record high of ₹1,50,590 crore in FY 2024-25 with 18% growth
• 90% increase since FY 2019-20 when production was ₹79,071 crore
• Defence Public Sector Undertakings contributed 77% while private sector contributed 23%
• Defence exports reached record high of ₹23,622 crore with 12.04% growth
• Private sector growth increased 28% reflecting enhanced ease of doing business reforms

💼 DPIIT Signs MoUs with Hero MotoCorp and Zepto to Boost Early-Stage Startups

• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade signs partnerships for startup ecosystem development
• Hero MotoCorp partnership provides access to R&D facilities in Germany and India plus dealership network
• Zepto partnership includes Zepto Nova programme to onboard 100+ startups into supply chain
• Focus on startups from Tier II and Tier III cities and women-led enterprises
• Programs offer paid Proofs of Concept, mentorship, and capacity-building workshops

🔬 NLCIL Partners with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre for Rare Earth Extraction

• NLC India Limited signs MoU with BARC for rare earth elements extraction from fly ash
• Partnership leverages BARC’s advanced extraction technology for sustainable resource utilization
• Initiative supports India’s self-reliance in critical rare earth minerals
• Project aims to convert industrial waste into valuable resources through innovative technology
• Collaboration strengthens India’s strategic mineral security and circular economy initiatives

🤝 India-Zambia Sign Trade Cooperation Pact to Boost Cooperative Exports

• India and Zambia sign trade cooperation agreement to enhance bilateral economic relations
• Focus on cooperative sector exports and agricultural product trade
• Agreement facilitates knowledge sharing and technology transfer between both nations
• Initiative supports rural economic development and farmer income enhancement
• Partnership creates new market opportunities for Indian cooperative enterprises

🏦 RBL Bank Partners with CAMSPay for Next-Generation Payment Gateway

• RBL Bank collaborates with CAMSPay to launch CAMSPay New Payment Gateway
• Real-time transaction processing with secure card processing capabilities and settlement services
• Platform offers real-time analytics, reconciliation features, and open API integration
• Partnership combines CAMSPay’s payment technology with RBL Bank’s banking infrastructure
• Initiative strengthens India’s digital payment ecosystem for enterprise customers

🐟 NABARD and APGB Sign Aquaculture Financing MoU with Aqua Exchange

• National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development and APGB partner with Aqua Exchange Agritech
• IoT-enabled loan model for shrimp farmers with real-time water quality monitoring
• ₹1.25 crore loan sanctions distributed to five farmers along with IoT devices
• ₹346.27 lakh grant sanctioned for tribal development project in 10 villages
• Initiative targets 500 tribal families with sustainable livelihood opportunities

🛰️ Tata’s Nelco Partners with Eutelsat for Satellite Connectivity Expansion

• Nelco signs agreement with Eutelsat for OneWeb LEO satellite services across India
• Low Earth orbit connectivity for land, sea, and air with low-latency services
• Services cater to government and enterprise applications in underserved areas
• Partnership strengthens India’s digital infrastructure and national security communications
• Nelco share price opened 3.62% higher following the announcement

⚛️ LTIMindtree Joins India’s First Quantum Valley Development in Amaravati

• LTIMindtree and L&T partner with Andhra Pradesh government for Amaravati Quantum Valley
• India’s first quantum technology hub featuring IBM Quantum System Two – country’s largest quantum computer
• LTIMindtree Quantum Centre of Excellence drives deep tech research and quantum incubation
• L&T handles infrastructure development including design and construction of quantum facilities
• Project aligns with National Quantum Mission for industrial and societal applications

🎭 Madhuri Dixit Appointed Brand Ambassador for Odisha Handloom Industry

• Odisha Chief Minister appoints actress Madhuri Dixit as handloom industry brand ambassador
• Announcement made on 11th National Handloom Day with EKTA Expo running for 7 days
• Initiative aims to promote 1,30,000 weavers across Odisha state
• Steel sector expansion discussions held with Union Minister for Rourkela Steel Plant
• Focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat and 300 MTPA steel production target by 2030

🚨 Maharashtra Launches Garuda Drishti for Social Media Monitoring

• CM Devendra Fadnavis launches Garuda Drishti cyber intelligence project in Nagpur
• ₹10 crore recovered from cyber financial crimes distributed to fraud victims
• System examined 30,000 social media posts and removed 650 offensive posts
• Intellectual Property Rights owned by Nagpur Police developed through Cyber Hack 2025
• Tool combats communal hatred, fake news, hate speech, and drug trafficking

🏢 Karnataka Unveils KATALYST to Accelerate GCC Expansion

• Government of Karnataka launches KATALYST – dedicated Ease of Doing Business cell for Global Capability Centres
• Ambitious plan to double GCC count and add 500 new GCCs by 2029
• Initiative targets 350,000 new jobs and $50 billion economic output
• Beyond Bengaluru strategy promotes GCCs in Mysuru, Mangaluru, Tumakuru, and other regions
• Three Global Innovation Districts planned including one in Bengaluru and two outside

🚇 Cabinet Approves Lucknow Metro Phase-1B Project Worth ₹5,801 Crore

• Union Cabinet approves Phase-1B of Lucknow Metro with 11.165 km corridor and 12 stations
• 7 underground and 5 elevated stations to create 34 km active metro network
• Project enhances connectivity in oldest and densely populated areas of Lucknow
• Seamless integration of Old Lucknow zones with improved urban mobility
• Initiative promises economic growth, reduced traffic congestion, and environmental benefits

⚡ Cabinet Approves ₹8,146 Crore Tato-II Hydro Project in Arunachal Pradesh

• Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approves 700 MW Tato-II Hydro Electric Project
• ₹8,146.21 crore investment with 72-month completion period in Shi Yomi District
• Joint venture between NEEPCO and Government of Arunachal Pradesh
• Central financial assistance of ₹436.13 crore towards state equity share
• State benefits from 12% free power and 1% Local Area Development Fund

🏛️ Union Cabinet Approves 4 New Semiconductor Projects Worth ₹4,594 Crore

• PM Modi-led Cabinet approved four semiconductor manufacturing projects across Punjab, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh
• Total investment of ₹4,594 crore under India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) framework
• Projects include India’s first commercial compound fabrication facility and advanced glass-based substrate packaging unit
• 3D Glass Solutions facility in Odisha backed by Intel, Lockheed Martin, and Applied Materials with ₹1,943 crore investment
• Silicon Carbide plant by SiCsem in Bhubaneswar worth ₹2,066 crore for defense and aerospace applications
• CDIL project in Punjab with ₹117 crore investment and 15.8 crore units annual capacity

🏠 Centre Allocates 4.12 Crore Houses Under PM Awas Yojana-Gramin

• Union government allocated 4.12 crore houses to States and UTs under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin
• Scheme aims to provide affordable housing to rural families across India
• Significant push towards achieving Housing for All mission in rural areas
• State governments to implement housing projects with central government support

💳 Paytm Payments Services Gets RBI In-Principle Approval

• Reserve Bank of India grants in-principle approval to Paytm Payments Services to operate as online payment aggregator
• Major regulatory milestone for digital payments company after recent restrictions
• Approval subject to fulfilling additional conditions set by RBI
• Positive development for India’s digital payments ecosystem

🏏 Shubman Gill Named ICC Player of the Month for July

• Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill awarded ICC Player of the Month for July 2025
• Sophia Dunkley from England won the women’s category
• Recognition for outstanding cricket performance during the month
• Third Indian player to receive this honor in 2025

August 12, 2025

🏛️ Government e-Marketplace Celebrates 9th Foundation Day with ₹5.4 Lakh Cr GMV

• GeM recorded ₹5.4 lakh crore GMV in FY 2024-25, marking its 9th Foundation Day on theme of Ease, Access and Inclusion
• Platform has onboarded 1.5 lakh women-led enterprises along with startups, self-help groups (SHGs), artisans and MSEs
• Key reforms announced include elimination of caution money for sellers, rationalization of vendor assessment fees and reduction in transaction charges
• GeM uses AI-powered tools and multilingual Learning Management System to facilitate access to public procurement
• The platform supports paperless, real-time transactions and has expanded into new service verticals such as insurance and manpower

💊 IndiaAI and National Cancer Grid Launch CATCH Grant Program for AI Innovation

• CATCH Grant Program launched to support AI solutions in cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment support
• Program will provide up to ₹50 lakh per project to selected teams comprising technology innovators and clinical institutions
• Successful pilot projects may be eligible for additional scale-up grant of up to ₹1 crore for wider deployment
• Total of up to 10 proposals will be selected for piloting under this round
• Application deadline is September 2, 2025

💼 NITI Aayog Launches ‘Work for Viksit Bharat’ Portal for Recruitment

• NITI Aayog officially launched ‘Work for Viksit Bharat’ portal for recruitment of consultants and young professionals
• Four position categories: Young Professional, Consultant Grade 1, Consultant Grade 2, and Senior Consultant
• Young Professionals start at ₹70,000 monthly with 1-year minimum experience required
• Senior Consultants earn ₹2.65-3.30 lakh monthly with 15+ years experience requirement
• Portal offers real-time notifications, recruitment analytics, and role-based access controls

🤝 DARPG Collaborates with RTS Commissioners to Enhance E-Service Delivery

• DARPG held meeting with RTS Commissioners from 8 states including Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra
• Currently States/UTs are reporting more than 22,000 e-Services under the NeSDA framework
• API linkage of CPGRAMS portal with RTS Commissions websites under completion for real-time data sharing
• RTS Commissioners will collaborate in four key sectors: land, labour, finance, and environment
• Study examining impact of RTS Commissions on public service delivery undertaken by NCGG

🏦 RBI Imposes ₹75 Lakh Penalty on ICICI Bank for Compliance Breaches

• RBI imposed monetary penalty of ₹75 lakh on ICICI Bank for violating regulatory directions
• Bank failed to conduct property valuations through independent valuers in certain mortgage loans
• ICICI Bank also opened or maintained current accounts in breach of regulatory norms
• Action taken on account of deficiencies in regulatory compliance and does not question validity of customer transactions
• Penalty does not preclude further action against the bank

🚀 ISRO Successfully Tests KALAM 1200 Solid Motor for Vikram-1 Launch Vehicle

• First Static Test of KALAM 1200 Motor accomplished successfully at SDSC Sriharikota on August 8, 2025
• Motor is 11m long, 1.7m diameter monolithic composite motor with 30-tonne propellant mass
• Test supports M/s Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 Launch Vehicle configuration and realization
• Initiative aligns with Government’s Space Policy 2023 for providing technical infrastructure to private sector
• Longest monolithic motor prepared at Solid Propellant Plant, Sriharikota

📚 Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Releases Debut Book on Constitution

• Former CJI DY Chandrachud’s debut book ‘Why the Constitution Matters’ expected by August-end
• Book seeks to connect constitutional ideals with lived experiences of everyday Indians
• Written with clarity of explaining complex principles to help citizens understand constitutional values
• Not a legal treatise but an “invocation to every citizen” to engage in realizing Constitution’s potential
• Publisher describes Constitution as “essence of democracy, beacon of hope, and guiding light”

⚡ Chhattisgarh Signs Agreement with NHPC for 1800 MW Pumped Storage Projects

• Chhattisgarh government signed deal with NHPC for developing two pumped storage projects totaling 1800 MW
• Projects include Hasdeo Bango (800 MW) in Korba district with ₹3,417 crore investment
• Kurund project (1000 MW) will attract investment of ₹6,000 crore
• Agreement signed on August 8 with Chhattisgarh government and CSPGCL
• Projects aimed at enhancing renewable energy storage capacity in the state

🧬 India’s First Animal Stem Cell Biobank Inaugurated in Hyderabad

• Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first animal stem cell biobank at NIAB, Gachibowli
• Facility will store and preserve high-quality stem cells from various animal species
• Biobank will provide quality-controlled animal stem cells and indigenous cell culture media
• Will accelerate advances in veterinary medicine, regenerative therapies, and animal cell-based protein production
• Minister highlighted alignment with BioE3 Policy focusing on economy, employment, and environment

🚇 PM Modi Inaugurates ₹22,800 Crore Metro Projects in Bengaluru

• PM inaugurated Yellow Line worth ₹7,160 crore and laid foundation stone for Phase-3 project worth ₹15,610 crore
• Yellow Line spans over 19 km with 16 stations from RV Road to Bommasandra
• Phase-3 Orange Line will facilitate daily travel for 25 lakh passengers once operational
• PM flagged off three Vande Bharat Express trains connecting different parts of country
• Projects will make travel smoother, faster and more convenient while boosting economic growth

🎓 BSNL Partners with Global Tech Giants for Digital Skilling Initiative

• BSNL signed MoUs with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia for digital skilling at BRBRAITT Jabalpur
• Initiative aims to train over 2,000 students annually with Phase 1 investments exceeding ₹1 crore
• Training programs will cover 5G, AI/ML, networking, and digital technologies
• Part of broader plan to establish Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC)
• Courses range from short two-week modules to intensive 84-hour programs

🚄 India’s Longest Vande Bharat Among 3 New Trains Flagged Off by PM

• PM Modi flagged off three new Vande Bharat Express trains from KSR Bengaluru railway station
• Ajni (Nagpur)-Pune service becomes India’s longest-running Vande Bharat covering 881km
• Belagavi-Bengaluru service will cover 611km journey in 8 hours 20 minutes
• Maharashtra gets its 12th Vande Bharat train with Ajni-Pune service
• Trains will benefit businessmen, students and employees while boosting tourism and trade

📈 SEBI Proposes Single Window Gateway for Low-Risk Foreign Investors

• SEBI proposed SWAGAT-FI framework for streamlined access to Indian securities market
• Framework targets government-owned funds, central banks, sovereign wealth funds
• Will provide unified registration process for both FPIs and FVCIs
• Review cycle extended to 10 years from current 3-5 year periods
• Single demat account option for holding all investments

💰 KSFE Becomes First Miscellaneous NBFC to Cross ₹1 Lakh Crore Turnover

• Kerala State Financial Enterprises achieved ₹1 lakh crore business turnover
• Company doubled business from ₹50,000 crore in just four years
• KSFE posted profit of ₹512 crore in 2024-25 fiscal year
• Provided ₹504 crore financial assistance through interest waivers in last four years
• New tagline unveiled: “KSFE: The Courage of Kerala”

🚊 BEML Wins First International Rail-Metro Contract from Malaysia

• BEML Limited secured maiden overseas contract in Rail & Metro segment from Malaysia
• Contract valued at USD 1 million for retrofit and reconditioning of Mass Rapid Transport System
• Marks BEML’s entry into global rail and metro services market
• Contract received on August 9, 2025 and showcases company’s advanced engineering capabilities
• BEML views this as stepping stone towards securing more export orders

🏆 Guwahati Airport Wins International Architecture Award for Heritage Design

• Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport won International Architectural Award 2025
• Terminal 2 design inspired by resilience of bamboo and grace of foxtail orchids
• Award presented by Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design
• Terminal features sustainable design with skylights, indoor gardens, and vertical green walls
• Can handle 10 million passengers annually and places among seven worldwide airports honored

💼 JM Financial Sells 2.1% Stake in Home Loan Subsidiary to Bajaj Allianz Life

• JM Financial Credit Solutions to sell 2.1% stake in home loans arm for ₹65.5 crore
• Transaction involves 1.36 crore equity shares at ₹48 per share to Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance
• Deal scheduled for completion by August 31, 2025
• JMFHLL contributed 8.27% to JM Financial’s consolidated income and 8.24% to net worth
• Transaction does not constitute related-party transaction

🏹 Rishabh Yadav Wins India’s First Medal at World Games 2025

• Rishabh Yadav won bronze in men’s individual compound archery at World Games 2025 in Chengdu
• Defeated compatriot Abhishek Verma 149-147 in all-Indian bronze medal match
• This is India’s first individual archery medal at World Games and second overall in the sport
• 17-member Indian contingent sent to Chengdu competing in billiards, racquetball, roller sports, and wushu
• Achievement marks historic milestone for Indian archery on world stage

🥇 Annu Rani Wins Gold in Women’s Javelin Throw at Indian Open 2025

• Annu Rani dominated women’s javelin throw with best throw of 62.01 metres
• Only competitor to cross 60-metre mark twice at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
• Sri Lanka’s NDL Hatarabag won silver with 56.27m and Deepika bronze with 54.20m
• Event was part of World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meet
• Annu’s performance strengthens her position for World Championships qualification

🛡️ Top 10 Safest and Most Unsafe Indian Cities in 2025 Rankings

• Mangalore ranked India’s safest city with safety index of 74.2, globally ranked 49th
• Gujarat cities dominate: Vadodara (2nd, 69.2), Ahmedabad (3rd, 68.2), Surat (4th, 66.6)
• Delhi ranked among most unsafe cities with safety index of 40.9 (314th globally)
• Ghaziabad and Noida also rank poorly in safety with indices of 41.6 and 44.9 respectively
• Abu Dhabi, UAE tops global list with highest safety score of 88.8

International Youth Day 2025 Observed with Focus on Local SDG Actions 🌍

• International Youth Day celebrated on August 12, 2025 with theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond”
• Global observance held in Nairobi, Kenya in partnership with UN-Habitat and UN DESA
• Commonwealth Secretariat highlighted 50+ years of empowering youth through Commonwealth Youth Programme
• Theme emphasizes youth as catalysts for translating global SDGs into local realities
• Marks 10 years since adoption of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

Indian Navy Set to Commission Two Advanced Stealth Frigates on Aug 26 ⚓

• INS Udaygiri (F35) and INS Himgiri (F34) to be commissioned simultaneously on August 26 at Visakhapatnam
• First-ever joint commissioning of major warships from two different Indian shipyards
• Project 17A frigates built by MDL Mumbai and GRSE Kolkata respectively
• INS Udaygiri marks 100th ship designed by Navy’s Warship Design Bureau
• Ships displace 6,700 tonnes with advanced stealth technology and supersonic missile systems

Supreme Court Orders Immediate Capture of Delhi’s Stray Dogs 🐕

• Supreme Court directed Delhi authorities to capture all stray dogs and shift to shelters
• Banned release of dogs back to localities and warned of legal action against obstruction
• Order aims to control rising dog bite incidents and rabies transmission risks
• Court emphasized public safety concerns amid increasing urban stray dog population
• Municipal authorities directed to implement comprehensive dog management strategy

Finance Minister Introduces Revised Income Tax Bill in Lok Sabha 💰

• FM Nirmala Sitharaman presented updated Income Tax Bill incorporating Select Committee recommendations
• Bill replaces earlier withdrawn 2025 version and updates outdated tax legislation
• Rajya Sabha had returned earlier bill for comprehensive review and amendments
• Modernization effort aimed at simplifying tax compliance and improving governance
• Expected to bring significant changes to India’s tax administration framework

World Elephant Day 2025 to be Celebrated in Coimbatore on August 12 🐘

• World Elephant Day 2025 observed with special focus on conservation efforts
• Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu chosen as celebration venue for national-level programs
• Ministry of Environment highlighting Project Elephant success stories
• Asian elephant population showing gradual recovery due to conservation measures
• Events include awareness campaigns and habitat protection initiatives

SIP Inflows Hit Record ₹28,464 Crore in July 2025 📈

• Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) contributions reached all-time high of ₹28,464 crore in July
• Second consecutive month of record-breaking SIP inflows in mutual funds
• Equity mutual funds recorded ₹42,702 crore net inflows driven by 30 new fund offers
• ₹30,416 crore mobilization from NFOs set new industry record
• Reflects growing retail investor confidence in Indian equity markets

18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics Begins in Mumbai 🌟

• 18th IOAA commenced in Mumbai with participation from 50+ countries
• Young astronomers and astrophysics enthusiasts competing in theoretical and observational rounds
• India hosting the prestigious international science olympiad for first time
• Mumbai’s clear skies and advanced facilities providing ideal competition environment
• HBCSE Mumbai and international astronomy community collaborating for successful event

August 11, 2025

National Sports Governance Bill and Anti-Doping Amendment Passed 🏅

• Lok Sabha passed the National Sports Governance Bill and National Anti-Doping Amendment Bill
• Bills aim to strengthen sports administration and enhance anti-doping measures
• New governance framework for sports federations and athlete welfare
• Stricter anti-doping protocols aligned with international standards
• Expected to improve India’s performance in international sports competitions
• Reform measures to ensure transparency in sports management

Nagasaki Day 2025 Observed on August 9 to Remember Atomic Bombing ☮️

• Nagasaki Day observed on August 9, 2025 commemorating 1945 atomic bombing
• Second atomic bomb dropped by US on Nagasaki three days after Hiroshima
• Peace memorial ceremonies held to remember victims and promote nuclear disarmament
• Global call for nuclear weapon elimination and world peace
• Japan continues advocating for nuclear-free world through diplomatic efforts
• Day serves as reminder of devastating consequences of nuclear warfare

Australia Announces Recognition of Palestine State Under PM Albanese 

• Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced Australia will recognize Palestine state
• Three countries – France, Canada, and UK had earlier threatened similar recognition
• Decision linked to Israel’s continued actions against Palestinian territories
• International pressure mounting on Israel for ceasefire and peace negotiations
• Global diplomatic shift toward Palestinian statehood recognition gaining momentum
• Australia joins growing list of nations supporting two-state solution

Kakori Train Conspiracy Completes 100 Years, UP Renames It ⚡

• PM Modi paid tributes to Kakori Train Conspiracy patriots on 100th anniversary
• Uttar Pradesh government renamed “Kakori Kand” to remove negative connotations
• Historical event occurred on August 9, 1925 during Indian freedom movement
• Revolutionaries had targeted government treasury being transported via train
• Event marked significant milestone in India’s revolutionary independence struggle
• 100-year commemoration highlighted patriotic sacrifices of freedom fighters

Parliament Passes Historic Merchant Shipping Bill 2025 Amid Opposition 🚢

• Parliament approved the Merchant Shipping Bill 2025 with Rajya Sabha passing it via voice vote on August 11
• Lok Sabha had passed the bill on August 6, 2025 amid strong opposition protests
• Bill replaces outdated Merchant Shipping Act 1958 with 16 parts and 325 clauses
• Expands eligibility criteria for ownership of merchant shipping vessels and enhances safety at sea
• Aligns India’s maritime legal framework with international conventions and global standards
• Empowers central government to detain vessels without nationality in Indian waters

World Lion Day 2025: PM Modi’s Project Lion Shows Conservation Success 🦁

• World Lion Day celebrated on August 10, 2025 with Gujarat CM inaugurating ₹179 crore projects
• Asiatic lion population increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025 under Project Lion
• Lion territory expanded from 3 districts to 11 districts in Gujarat over 25 years
• Safari park development in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary after lions naturally settled after 143 years
• Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized eco-centrism and man-lion coexistence in Gir
• International Big Cat Alliance launched by PM Modi for global wildlife conservation

Myanmar’s Acting President Myint Swe Dies at 74 After Long Illness 

• Myanmar’s acting president Myint Swe passed away at age 74 on Thursday morning at 8:28 AM local time
• Died at military hospital in Naypyitaw following prolonged illness caused by neurological and neurodegenerative disorders
• Had been on medical leave for over a year, with Senior Gen Min Aung Hlaing handling presidential duties since July 2024
• Became acting president on February 1, 2021 hours after military coup that detained President Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi
• His appointment allowed military-dominated National Defense and Security Council to declare state of emergency
• US Treasury sanctioned Myint Swe along with other senior military officials for undermining Myanmar’s democratic transition
• Funeral will be held with state honors though date not yet announced

Satnavri Becomes India’s First Smart Intelligent Village Under CM’s Vision 🏘️

• Satnavri village in rural Nagpur with 1,800 residents selected as India’s first “Smart Intelligent Village”
• CM Devendra Fadnavis approved the pilot project initiated by Voice of Indian Communication Technology Enterprises (VOICE)
• Will integrate cutting-edge technologies including drone-assisted farming, smart irrigation, mobile banking
• Features digitized schools, advanced surveillance systems, and satellite technology integration
• High-level team led by divisional commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari will visit on August 8 for on-site review
• Project could become replicable template for rural transformation nationwide if successful
• Aims to merge information and satellite technologies for holistic rural development

J&K-Maharashtra Complete First Interstate Agricultural Trade via eNAM 🌾

• First-ever interstate trade under National Agriculture Market (eNAM) between Jammu & Kashmir and Maharashtra
• 11 metric tonnes of apples and pears from Kashmir valley reached Gultekdi APMC in Pune
• Maharashtra has 133 APMCs connected to the eNAM platform for transparent digital trading
• Apple merchant Suyog Zende called eNAM a “game-changer for farmers and traders”
• Platform enables bypassing traditional barriers, middlemen, and inefficiencies in agricultural markets
• eNAM aims to create unified national market for agricultural commodities with transparent price discovery
• Initiative saves travel costs and time for merchants while ensuring government-verified transactions

Cabinet Approves ₹12,000 Crore PMUY Subsidy Extension for FY 2025-26 🔥

• Union Cabinet approved ₹300 targeted subsidy per 14.2 kg cylinder for PMUY beneficiaries
• Covers up to 9 refills per year (reduced from previous 12 refills) for 10.33 crore connections
• Average Per Capita Consumption improved from 3 refills in 2019-20 to 4.47 during FY 2024-25
• India imports about 60% of its LPG requirement, making subsidy crucial for price stability
• PMUY launched in May 2016 to provide deposit-free LPG connections to women from poor households
• All beneficiaries receive free first refill and stove under existing Ujjwala 2.0 modalities

Cabinet Approves ₹4,200 Crore MERITE Scheme for Technical Education 🎓

• Union Cabinet approved Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme
• ₹4,200 crore outlay for period 2025-26 to 2029-30 with ₹2,100 crore external assistance from World Bank
• Will support 275 technical institutions comprising 175 engineering institutions and 100 polytechnics
• About 7.5 lakh students expected to benefit from the scheme interventions
• Aligned with National Education Policy 2020 to improve quality, equity, and governance in technical education
• Includes NITs, State Engineering Institutions, Polytechnics, and Affiliating Technical Universities
• Focus on enhancing employability, internship opportunities, and industry-aligned curricula

Cabinet Approves ₹4,250 Crore Development Push for Assam and Tripura 🌸

• Union Cabinet approved four new components under Special Development Packages for Assam and Tripura
• ₹4,000 crore for Assam over five years (2025-26 to 2029-30) and ₹250 crore for Tripura
• ₹500 crore for Adivasi-inhabited villages development as per 2022 MoS
• ₹3,000 crore for infrastructure development under ULFA groups MoS signed in 2023
• ₹500 crore for North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council area development
• ₹250 crore for tribal community welfare in Tripura under 2024 MoS with NLFT and ATTF
• Total projected outlay ₹7,250 crore with ₹3,000 crore contribution from Assam state government

Ministry Extends PM E-DRIVE Scheme Tenure by Two Years Until 2028 🚗

• Ministry of Heavy Industries extended PM E-DRIVE scheme tenure from March 2026 to March 2028
• ₹10,900 crore outlay remains same but implementation period doubled from two years to four years
• Terminal dates unchanged for e-2W, e-rickshaws, e-carts, and e-3W (L5) at March 31, 2026
• Extension needed for e-trucks, e-buses, and testing agencies due to specific development challenges
• ₹4,391 crore allocation for deploying 14,028 e-bus units with 18-month milestone-based disbursements
• Fund-limited scheme – will close if ₹10,900 crore exhausted before terminal date
• Aims to accelerate EV adoption, establish charging infrastructure, and strengthen EV manufacturing ecosystem

AIM and Bhashini Partner to Boost Vernacular Innovation Across India 🗣️

• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and Bhashini (Digital India Bhashini Division, MeitY) have signed a Statement of Intent in New Delhi.
• The partnership will foster language inclusivity and drive vernacular innovation, making cutting-edge tech accessible to non-English speakers.
• WIPO Academy learning resources will be translated into multiple Indian languages using Bhashini’s tools.
• Plans include future gamification of learning content and providing AIM startups access to language technology sandboxes.
• Atal Incubation Centres (AICs) and Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs), plus new LIPI centres, will help grassroots innovators leverage Bhashini for skilling and capacity building.

FSSAI to Launch Custom Payment Platform with Bank of Baroda 💳

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) signed an MoU with Bank of Baroda to launch a tailored, web-based payment solution.
• The ‘FSSAI Payment Solution’ will streamline, simplify, and automate digital payments for stakeholders, enabling easier grant disbursement and vendor payments.
• The platform will also strengthen MIS functionalities, promote ease of doing business, and enhance financial oversight.
• It aims to improve transparency and fund flow management across state and district accounts.

Paras Defence Partners with Germany’s HPS to Make Satellite Antenna Tech 🚀

• Paras Defence & Space Technologies signed an agreement with Germany’s HPS GmbH to co-develop deployable antenna reflector systems for satellites in India.
• The deal covers unfurlable reflectors for applications like satellite internet, Earth imaging, disaster response, and military communications.
• Paras Defence will provide local customer interface, while HPS contributes design and manufacturing know-how.
• The project aims to reduce India’s import dependence and strengthen its self-sufficiency in space technology.
• Key components include reflector assemblies, deployment electronics, and thermal hardware, supporting India’s space ambitions.

Antfin to Exit Eternal in $612 Million Block Deal 💰

• Antfin Singapore Holding Pte. Ltd. (an Ant Group affiliate) is set to sell its entire stake in Eternal (parent of Zomato, Blinkit) via a block deal valued at ₹5,370 crore ($612 million).
• The deal, managed by Morgan Stanley and BofA Securities, will see about 18.85 crore shares sold at a floor price of ₹285 per share.
• This marks Antfin’s second major exit from Indian firms in recent days, following a Paytm stake sale.
• Eternal’s revenue grew 70% YoY while net profit fell sharply; sale reflects Antfin’s broader pullback from India investments.

Berhampur University Researchers Discover New Roundworm Species in Chilika 🌊

• Berhampur University researchers, aided by experts from New Zealand, discovered a new marine nematode (roundworm) species—Admirandus odishaensis—in Chilika Lake, Odisha.
• The species marks the first report of its genus in the northern Indian Ocean; previously, this genus was only found near Africa.
• Six specimens were collected and studied in November 2023; findings published in the Journal of Natural History.
• Marine nematodes are key bio-indicators for ecosystem health and play important roles in benthic environments.
• The discovery expands the recognized diversity of nematodes in Indian coastal waters.

Sarnath Inches Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Recognition Status 🏛️

• Uttar Pradesh tourism department intensified efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for Sarnath
• High-level joint meeting between state tourism and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) held in Lucknow
• India officially nominated Sarnath for inclusion under the 2025-26 UNESCO World Heritage nomination cycle
• Sarnath is revered as the site where Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment
• Currently on UNESCO’s tentative list with September review scheduled
• Would become Uttar Pradesh’s fourth UNESCO site and first outside Agra

Sonowal Launches Digital Maritime Revolution at IT Conclave 2025 🚢

• Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal unveiled digital transformation initiatives at IT Conclave 2025
• Event hosted by Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) in collaboration with Company of Master Mariners
• Launch of e-Samudra platform Phase-1 to unify over 60 maritime services under one digital roof
• Revamped DG Shipping website now GIGW 3.0-compliant with multilingual interface
• AI-based digital examination system piloted at MMD Noida
• Aligns with Digital India, Maritime India Vision 2030, and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047

AU Small Finance Bank Becomes First SFB to Get Universal Bank Approval 🏦

• AU Small Finance Bank received RBI’s in-principle approval for universal banking license
• First Small Finance Bank to get approval after 11 years of operations
• Mandatory transfer of 22% promoter stake to Non-Operative Financial Holding Company (NOHC)
• 18-month window provided for complete transition to universal bank
• Corporate headquarters to shift from Jaipur to Mumbai
• Total business worth ₹2.40 trillion with 40% market share among all SFBs

IFC Invests $150 Million in HDFC’s Green Housing Initiative 🏠

• IFC committed USD 150 million as anchor investment in H-DREAM Fund managed by HDFC Capital
• Fund targets USD 1 billion corpus to promote green, affordable housing
• Expected to mobilize USD 850 million from institutional investors
• Will enable development of at least 25,000 green housing units
• Implements EDGE green building framework aligned with global sustainability standards

DSP Mutual Fund Launches India’s First Flexicap Index Fund 📈

• DSP Nifty500 Flexicap Quality 30 Index Fund launched as India’s first flexicap index fund
• NFO period from August 8-22, 2025 with quality stock selection strategy
• Fund replicates index identifying 30 fundamentally strong companies across market caps
• Dynamic allocation between large-cap and small/mid-cap segments based on momentum
• 18.1% CAGR delivered since October 2009 vs 13.0% for Nifty 500 TRI

BEML Establishes ₹1,800 Crore Train Coach Manufacturing Hub in MP 🚄

• BEML to set up train coach manufacturing facility in Umaria village, Raisen district
• ₹1,800 crore investment for BRAHMA (BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing) project
• Will manufacture Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and metro train coaches
• Foundation stone laid by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 10, 2025
• Expected to generate 5,000 direct and indirect jobs across 148 acres

PM Modi Inaugurates M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference 👨🌾

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Bharat Ratna Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Centenary Conference
• Three-day conference held from August 7-9, 2025 at Pusa campus, New Delhi
• Theme: “Evergreen Revolution – The Path to Bio-Happiness”
• 2,170 scientific teams reached 64,000+ villages under Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan
• Teams directly engaged with over 1 crore farmers across the country
• First M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace presented by PM Modi

Cabinet Approves ₹12,000 Crore PMUY Subsidy Extension for FY26 💰

• Union Cabinet approved continuation of ₹300 LPG subsidy for PMUY beneficiaries
• ₹12,000 crore expenditure for FY 2025-26 covering 10.33 crore connections
• Subsidy for up to 9 refills per year (reduced from 12 refills earlier)
• Average per capita consumption improved from 3 refills (2019-20) to 4.47 refills (2024-25)
• India imports 60% of LPG requirement, making subsidy crucial for price stability

Government Approves ₹30,000 Crore Compensation for Oil Companies 🛢️

• Cabinet approved ₹30,000 crore compensation for three public sector OMCs
• IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL to receive compensation for domestic LPG losses in FY25
• Amount will be distributed in 12 tranches by Ministry of Petroleum
• Compensation helps companies meet crude procurement, debt servicing, and capital expenditure
• Ensures continued availability of clean cooking fuel to households

Cabinet Clears ₹4,250 Crore Special Development Package for Northeast 🌄

• Cabinet approved four new components under Special Development Packages
• ₹500 crore for Adivasi-inhabited areas in Assam
• ₹3,000 crore for infrastructure development under ULFA agreements
• ₹500 crore for North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council areas
• ₹250 crore for tribal development in Tripura
• Assam government to contribute additional ₹3,000 crore from own resources

MERITE Scheme Gets ₹4,200 Crore Allocation for Technical Education 🎓

• Cabinet approved ‘Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education’ scheme
• ₹4,200 crore outlay for 2025-26 to 2029-30 period
• Will support 175 engineering institutions and 100 polytechnics
• 7.5 lakh students expected to benefit from interventions
• Includes ₹2,100 crore external assistance from World Bank
• Aligned with National Education Policy 2020

Tamil Nadu Gets ₹2,157 Crore Highway Project Approval 🛣️

• Cabinet approved construction of 4-lane Marakkanam-Puducherry highway
• 46-kilometer stretch under Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)
• Total cost ₹2,157 crore including ₹1,118 crore construction and ₹442 crore land acquisition
• Part of Chennai-Kanyakumari Economic Corridor
• Will connect two airports, two railway stations, and Cuddalore minor port

GeM Celebrates 9th Foundation Day with Record Achievements 🖥️

• Government e-Marketplace (GeM) marked 9th Foundation Day on August 9, 2025
• Platform under Ministry of Commerce and Industry transforms public procurement
• Aligns with “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” vision
• Connects sellers and service providers across the country through transparent digital platform

International Day of World’s Indigenous Peoples Observed 🌍

• International Day of World’s Indigenous Peoples observed on August 9, 2025
• Focus on protecting rights and preserving cultures of indigenous communities
• Highlights need for sustainable development while respecting traditional knowledge

World Sanskrit Day 2025 Celebrated on August 9 📜

• World Sanskrit Day observed on August 9, 2025
• Promotes preservation and propagation of Sanskrit language
• Recognizes Sanskrit’s contribution to Indian culture, literature, and philosophy

Quit India Movement Day Commemorated 

• Quit India Movement Day observed on August 8, 2025
• Commemorates Gandhi’s “Do or Die” call launched in 1942
• Marks decisive phase of India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule

August 8, 2025

India-Russia Deepen Industrial Ties in Aluminium, Railways & Rare Earth 🤝

• India and Russia signed a Protocol at the 11th Working Group session on Modernisation and Industrial Cooperation in New Delhi
• Enhanced cooperation in aluminium, fertilizers, railway transport, and mining technology
• Key focus areas include aerospace science, wind tunnel facility, and small aircraft piston engines
• Both sides explored rare earth and critical minerals extraction, underground coal gasification, and modern industrial infrastructure
• Meeting involved 80 delegates from both countries including senior officials and industry experts
• Protocol signed amid US imposing additional 25% tariffs on Indian goods over Russia trade ties

Gujarat, UP & MP Lead India’s Export Growth Despite Global Challenges 📈

• Gujarat recorded highest exports totaling ₹9.38 lakh crore in FY25, maintaining its leadership position
• Uttar Pradesh broke into top 5 export states with significant growth in merchandise exports
• Madhya Pradesh also showed strong export gains despite global headwinds and trade uncertainties
• FIEO data reveals resilience of Indian exporters in challenging international market conditions
• States demonstrated diversified export portfolios across multiple sectors and destinations

RBI Mandates 10% Loan Retention in New Co-Lending Rules from January 2026 🏦

• RBI issued final co-lending guidelines effective from January 1, 2026 for banks and NBFCs
• Minimum 10% loan retention mandatory for all regulated entities in co-lending arrangements
• Default loss guarantee capped at 5% of outstanding loans under the arrangement
• Uniform asset classification required – if one lender tags loan as NPA, partner must follow
• Blended interest rates to be charged based on weighted average of each entity’s internal rate
• All transactions must be routed through escrow accounts for transparency

IDFC First Bank Launches Digital Remittance Platform for NRIs 💸

• RemitFIRST2India digital platform launched for Non-Resident Indians in Singapore and Hong Kong
• Zero transfer fees and competitive forex rates with real-time transaction tracking
• Developed in partnership with SingX, a Singapore-based licensed remittance provider
• Existing customers can use mobile banking app while new customers onboard via web portal
• Platform offers paperless transfers to any Indian bank account with guaranteed rates

Malta to Host Commonwealth Youth Games 2027 with 8 Sports 🏅

• Malta selected to host the eighth Commonwealth Youth Games in late 2027
• Over 1,150 athletes aged 14-18 from 74 Commonwealth nations will participate
• Eight sports including athletics, netball, squash, swimming, triathlon, weightlifting, and debut sports sailing and water polo
• Most extensive Para-sport program in Commonwealth Youth Games history with para-swimming debut
• Competition spread across Malta and Gozo Islands using existing world-class facilities

FIEO Partners with Amazon India to Boost MSME E-Commerce Exports 🛒

• FIEO and Amazon India signed MoU to establish e-commerce export task force
• Partnership aims to support MSMEs including artisans, weavers, and manufacturers
• Amazon targets $80 billion cumulative exports from India by 2030
• Focus on key segments like home textiles, personal care, handicrafts, and packaged foods
• Initiative supports India’s vision of achieving $200-300 billion in e-commerce exports by 2030

Goldman Sachs Cuts India’s Growth Forecast Due to US Tariff Concerns 📉

• Goldman Sachs lowered India’s GDP forecast to 6.5% for 2025 and 6.4% for 2026
• Trump’s additional 25% tariffs expected to reduce India’s growth by 0.4-0.6 percentage points
• Trade uncertainty and protectionism main concerns beyond direct tariff impact
• India’s GDP exposure to US exports stands at approximately 4% of total GDP
• Some tariffs likely to be negotiated lower over time according to Goldman Sachs analysis

Jensen Huang Tops Fortune’s 100 Most Powerful People in Business 2025 🏆

• Jensen Huang, NVIDIA CEO, ranked #1 on Fortune’s Most Powerful People list
• Top 10 includes Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Mark Zuckerberg (Meta), Elon Musk (Tesla/SpaceX)
• 19 women leaders featured among the 100, including Lisa Su (AMD) and Jane Fraser (Citigroup)
• List covers 28 industries worldwide with 62 US-based companies and 17 from Asia
• NVIDIA recently became first company to surpass $4 trillion market cap

Indian Army Inducts Indigenous MMME Mk-II Minefield Marker Equipment 🛡️

• Indian Army inducted BEML-DRDO developed Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment Mark-II
• Semi-automatic system built on TATRA 6×6 chassis for desert and plain terrain operations
• Equipment can place 500 pickets in one run, fencing about 1.2 kilometers per hour
• Four-member crew operates the system with minimal human involvement in hazardous tasks
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative with indigenous defense technology development

New Narrow-Banded Rain Snake Species Discovered in Mizoram Forests 🐍

• Mizoram University researchers discovered Smithophis leptofasciatus (narrow-banded rain snake)
• Found in humid montane forests between 900-1,200 meters altitude near streams
• Distinguished by narrow creamish-white bands on shiny black body from related species
• Semi-aquatic, nocturnal lifestyle revealed through field observations during monsoon
• Gravid female laid six eggs providing rare reproductive data for this snake group

ICMR Conducts Nationwide Science Outreach for 13,000 School Students 🔬

• ICMR-SHINE Initiative engaged over 13,000 students from Classes 9-12 across India
• Science and Health Innovation for Nextgen Explorers program held on August 7-8, 2025
• 300+ schools from 39 districts in 16 states participated in the nationwide event
• Activities included laboratory tours, research exhibitions, and live demonstrations
• Aligned with PM Modi’s vision of students spending “One Day as a Scientist”

August Kranti Day 2025: Commemorating Quit India Movement Legacy 

• August Kranti Day observed on August 9 to commemorate the Quit India Movement launched in 1942
• Mahatma Gandhi launched the movement with the famous “Do or Die” call at Gowalia Tank
• Movement marked decisive phase of India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule
• Mass civil disobedience and protests spread across the country despite arrest of leaders
• Day serves as reminder of sacrifice and determination of freedom fighters

Annu Rani Wins Javelin Gold with Season-Best 62.59m Throw in Poland ⚡

• Indian javelin thrower Annu Rani won gold at competition in Poland with impressive performance
• Achieved season-best throw of 62.59 meters to secure victory
• Performance demonstrates consistent improvement in India’s javelin throwing standards
• Victory adds to India’s growing reputation in international athletics competitions
• Annu Rani continues to be a key athlete for India in javelin throw events

Parliament Passes Coastal Shipping Bill 2025 to Boost Marine Trade 🚢

• Coastal Shipping Bill 2025 was passed by Parliament after Rajya Sabha’s approval.
• Law will modernize coastal shipping regulations and create a national framework.
• Target: Increase India’s cargo traffic to 230 million tonnes by 2030.
• Updates and replaces provisions from the Merchant Shipping Act 1958.
• Expected to unlock potential of the country’s 11,098 km coastline for trade and development.

Russia-India Ties Deepen as Putin Plans 2025 Visit 

• Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit India by end of 2025.
• Announcement confirmed by NSA Ajit Doval during Moscow visit.
• Visit will be Putin’s first since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022.
• Comes amid US imposing 25% additional tariffs on Indian imports, blaming Russian oil purchases.
• India and Russia signed a protocol to deepen industrial and technological cooperation.

Business Confidence Index Climbs, Shows Optimism for FY26 📈

• Business Confidence Index (BCI) rose to 149.4 in Q1 FY26 (April–June 2025), per NCAER.
• Reflects growing optimism among Indian businesses about economic prospects.
• Rise driven by better investment climate and demand outlook.
• Contrasts with some global uncertainties and trade tensions.

Gujarat Leads India’s Exports, New Data Base Year Proposed 📦

• Gujarat recorded the highest exports, totaling ₹9.38 lakh crore in FY25, says FIEO.
• MoSPI suggested updating the base year for key economic indicators (GDP, IIP, CPI).
• Highlights Gujarat’s continued dominance in foreign trade and focus on updated statistics for policy planning.

RBI Issues Final Co-Lending Norms to Boost Banking-NBFC Collaboration 🤝

• RBI released final co-lending guidelines for banks and NBFCs.
• Makes minimum 10% risk retention mandatory for co-lending deals.
• Norms effective from January 1, 2026.
• Intended to improve risk-sharing, expand credit access, and ensure financial inclusion.

New Doorstep KYC & Claims Reforms Announced for Jan Dhan Accounts 🏦

• RBI, along with public sector banks (PSBs), is organizing doorstep re-KYC camps in rural areas.
• Jan Dhan account holders have until September 30, 2025 for KYC updation.
• Claims settlement for accounts and lockers to be standardized.
• Allows investment in government securities through SIPs by regular investors.

August 7, 2025

SAP Labs India Launches €194M Bengaluru Innovation Park to Host 15,000 🚀

• Inaugurated on August 5 by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, alongside Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and SAP leaders Thomas Saueressig and Sindhu Gangadharan.
• Located near Bengaluru International Airport in Devanahalli, the Innovation Park will focus on product engineering, customer service, and enterprise AI development.
• Backed by a €194 million investment, the campus ranks among SAP’s largest R&D facilities worldwide.
• Designed to accommodate 15,000 professionals, expanding Bengaluru’s SAP headcount from 14,000 to 29,000.
• SAP announced academic and research collaborations, including a €100,000 training program for 400 underserved youth with EduBridge and an IIT Madras partnership for AI-driven brain research.
• Reinforces India’s role as a global technology powerhouse, aligning with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and showcasing global confidence in Indian talent.
• Campus to serve as a “global innovation hub” enabling customers to “move from insight to action” through India-built enterprise-grade AI and data solutions

India Shortlists 18 EV Component R&D Proposals to Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing 🚗

• Centre shortlists 18 proposals for R&D of electric vehicle subsystems to reduce import dependence and boost local production.
• Projects span EV wireless chargers, powertrain systems, and traction motors to develop critical EV components.
• Selected proposals will be executed through partnerships with academia, industry, and government stakeholders.
• A vetting panel from the Ministry of Heavy Industries and MeitY will review submissions before final approval.
• Only technologies at TRL 7 or above, indicating near-manufacturing readiness, will qualify for support.
• Collaborations must operate in consortium mode with a minimum 20% cash contribution from industry partners.
• Priority will go to projects that deliver prototypes with strong commercialization potential.
• Developed technologies will be available on a non-exclusive basis, with exclusive rights granted only if industry contribution exceeds 50%.

Canada’s First August Express Entry Draw Sends 225 Residency Invitations 

• On August 6, 2025, Express Entry draw no. 358 issued 225 invitations to foreign nationals, with the lowest-ranked candidate needing a CRS score of 739 to qualify.
• The round took place at 14:38:42 UTC, and the tie-break rule prioritized profiles submitted on or before April 23, 2025, at 06:35:51 UTC for candidates with equal scores.
• Under the Provincial Nominee Program, the previous draw on July 21 invited 202 applicants, requiring a CRS cut-off of 788—a 49-point drop from that threshold.
• Canada’s Comprehensive Ranking System ranks candidates by factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, with thresholds adjusted for each draw.
• On March 25, 2025, Canada removed job offer points from the CRS, affecting positions in senior management (200 points) and other skilled occupations (50 points).
• Candidates with qualifying job offers lost their associated CRS points, and new offers no longer earn extra points after that date.
• Express Entry manages skilled immigrant streams including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Provincial Nominee Program.

NASA to Build Nuclear Reactor on the Moon by 2030 to Power Permanent Base 🌕

• NASA aims to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030 to power a permanent lunar base.
• Acting NASA head Sean Duffy called for commercial proposals for a reactor capable of generating at least 100 kilowatts of power.
• China and Russia have announced plans to deploy an automated nuclear station on the Moon by 2035, intensifying the international space race.
• Reliance on solar arrays is challenged by the Moon’s two-week day-night cycle, making continuous power a significant hurdle.
• Experts warn of safety concerns and logistical hurdles in launching radioactive material through Earth’s atmosphere.
• Critics argue the reactor initiative reflects geopolitical rivalry rather than collaborative scientific exploration.
• Uncertainty over Artemis missions and recent funding cuts clouds the prospect of aligning power infrastructure with crewed landings.

US Introduces 5 Major Visa Rule Changes Impacting Tourists, Students & Immigrants ✈️

• A pilot bond requirement of $5,000–$15,000 for tourists/business visas from high-overstay countries
• Introduction of a $250 Visa Integrity Fee for non-immigrant visas, refundable upon timely departure
• Stricter USCIS rules for marriage-based green cards with enhanced documentation and interviews
• Introduction of non-waivable fees ($24 I-94, $13 ESTA, $30 EVUS), boosting overall visa costs
• Rollback of interview waivers: nearly all applicants, including children and seniors, face mandatory interviews
• For Indian applicants, tourism/business visa expenses could nearly triple, impacting affordability

India Hosts WHO-IRCH Herbal Regulation Workshop to Harmonize Global Standards 🌿

• From August 6–8, India will host the WHO-IRCH workshop on herbal medicine regulation, organized by the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the World Health Organization.
• Supported by the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy, the three-day event brings together regulatory authorities and experts from multiple continents, fostering technical exchange and cooperation.
• The agenda covers five key objectives: fostering collaboration, enhancing safety and efficacy mechanisms, supporting regulatory convergence, and empowering traditional medicine systems.
• Sessions will review working groups on safety, regulation, efficacy, and intended use, featuring case studies such as Ashwagandha research.
• Hands-on training at PCIM&H laboratories will include herbal drug identification, heavy metal analysis, and chemo-profiling using HPTLC technology.
• Delegates will visit the National Institute of Unani Medicine in Ghaziabad and the All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi to explore India’s integrative health ecosystem.
• The workshop will launch the Ayush Suraksha pharmacovigilance program to strengthen safety monitoring of traditional medicines.
• The event is expected to play a pivotal role in harmonizing global standards and integrating traditional medicine into mainstream public health.

India Signs MoU with Russia to Deepen Industrial Cooperation Amid US Threats 🤝

• India and Russia signed a protocol at the 11th India-Russia Working Group on Modernisation & Industrial Cooperation to expand collaboration.
• The pact targets sectors including aluminium, fertilisers, railways, and mining technology.
• This step reaffirmed the strategic partnership amid US threats to penalise India over its Russian trade.
• Convened on August 6 at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi under the Intergovernmental Commission, it reviewed progress since the 10th session.
• Co-chaired by DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia and Russian Deputy Minister Alexey Gruzdev, the meeting saw high-level engagement.
• Discussions included modernisation, mining, fertiliser, and railway transport sub-groups, alongside emerging collaboration areas.
• Both sides explored aerospace and science & technology projects, like a modernised wind tunnel facility and small aircraft piston engines.
• They also discussed carbon fibre development, additive manufacturing, rare earth extraction, underground coal gasification, and modern industrial infrastructure.

Government Saves ₹1,500 Crore Annually with New Kartavya Bhavan Complex 🏢

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan in New Delhi, a newly developed administrative complex.
• The government was spending around ₹1,500 crore annually on rent for scattered ministry offices.
• The new complex brings together several key ministries like Home Affairs, External Affairs, Rural Development, Petroleum, and MSME in one place.
• Kartavya Bhavan has modern amenities including multiple conference rooms, a yoga room, medical center, and parking for 600 vehicles.
• The building aligns with India’s Amrit Kaal vision and the country’s move toward self-reliance and efficient governance.
• It features green infrastructure with solar panels, reflecting India’s commitment to sustainability.

IIT Palakkad Launches Free 12-Week AI Course for Students & Professionals 🤖

• IIT Palakkad offers a free online course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) called “Applied Accelerated AI.”
• The course spans 12 weeks and covers fundamentals and applications in healthcare and smart city domains.
• Participants learn about computational capabilities and system software for implementing AI solutions.
• Delivered by IIT Palakkad faculty and industry experts from NVIDIA and other institutions.
• Certification is available for those who clear an exam with a nominal fee.
• The course is targeted at students familiar with computer engineering, machine learning, and deep learning.

Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025 Enforces Reforms from August 1 🏦

• The Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 came into effect on August 1, 2025 with 19 amendments across key banking legislations.
• It targets improved governance, better depositor protection, and enhanced audit quality in public sector and cooperative banks.
• The definition of ‘substantial interest’ was raised from ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore.
• Tenure for directors in cooperative banks has increased from 8 to 10 years.
• PSBs can transfer unclaimed shares and interest to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).
• Statutory auditors in PSBs can now be remunerated to enhance audit independence.

Bengaluru Ranks 26th Globally in AI City Index, Leading in India 🌐

• Bengaluru secured the 26th position globally in the Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) City Index 2025, making it India’s top AI hub.
• The city is recognized for a strong AI R&D ecosystem, data centers, and startups.
• Other Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata are growing in AI adoption, particularly in traffic and public security AI applications.
• The report urges India to build stronger AI policy frameworks and regulatory support.
• Top global AI cities include Singapore, Seoul, Beijing, and San Francisco.

India and Philippines Conduct First Joint Naval Drill in South China Sea 🚢

• India and the Philippines held their first-ever joint naval exercises in the contested South China Sea.
• The two-day drill featured Indian ships like the INS Delhi and Philippine frigates Miguelvar and Joseizal.
• Exercises took place within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone despite China’s territorial claims.
• The drill coincided with Philippine President Marcos’s India visit to strengthen ties in defense, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.
• Both nations stressed commitment to international maritime law (UNCLOS) and regional security.

New Banking Laws Effective August 1 to Boost Governance & Depositor Safety 🏦

• The Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 is now in force, introducing governance reforms in Indian banks.
• Improvements include increased auditor autonomy, better deposit protection, and alignment with constitutional governance norms.
• Several provisions target public sector banks, cooperative banks, and regulatory frameworks.
• This legislative update represents India’s move towards modern banking practices and better financial stability.

RBI Reforms Improve Claims, Jan Dhan KYC & Allow SIP Investment 🚀

• RBI announced reforms including re-KYC camps for PM Jan Dhan account holders till September 30, 2025.
• Public sector banks are conducting doorstep re-KYC camps in rural areas to facilitate account updation.
• RBI will standardize claims settlement for accounts and locker articles of deceased customers.
• Investors can now buy Indian government securities through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), aiding retail participation.

RBI Eases Special Rupee Vostro Accounts Norms to Boost INR Global Trade 💱

• RBI removed the prior approval requirement for opening Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) by foreign banks.
• These accounts facilitate trade settlement in Indian Rupees (INR), aiming to reduce dependence on foreign currencies.
• The move enables faster and more stable cross-border transactions and boost Indian exports.
• Banks acting as Authorised Dealers (ADs) can now open SRVAs at their discretion without RBI approval.
• This policy supports India’s goal to promote rupee-based global trade.

Bank of Baroda Launches Digital Retail Forex Platform ‘BoB FXone’ 💻

• Bank of Baroda unveiled BoB FXone, a digital platform for retail foreign exchange services.
• The platform offers real-time rates, user-friendly interfaces, and easier forex transaction management.
• It aims to enhance transparency and convenience for individual and SME customers.
• BoB FXone is part of the bank’s push to digitize customer banking experiences and improve cross-border forex accessibility.

IRCTC Gets RBI Nod to Operate as Online Payment Aggregator, Shares Surge 📈

• The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has received RBI approval to function as an Online Payment Aggregator (OPA).
• This authorization allows IRCTC to facilitate payments from multiple payment instruments on its platform.
• The development is expected to enhance customer payment experience and boost IRCTC’s business growth.
• IRCTC’s shares rose following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence.

Axis Bank Introduces Lock FD Feature to Protect Term Deposits from Digital Frauds 🔒

• Axis Bank launched an industry-first Lock FD feature to safeguard fixed deposits from unauthorized digital withdrawals.
• The feature adds an additional layer of security by blocking online withdrawal requests unless the deposit holder unlocks it.
• This innovation aims to reduce digital fraud risks targeting term deposit holders.
• It reflects Axis Bank’s commitment to bolstering customer security in retail banking products.

Tata AIA Launches ‘Shubh Shakti’ – Women-Focused Term Insurance Plan 👩🦰

• Tata AIA introduced Shubh Shakti, a term insurance plan tailored for women.
• The plan offers comprehensive life coverage along with added benefits designed to support women’s unique needs.
• It aims to promote financial independence and security for women policyholders.
• The product is part of Tata AIA’s broader strategy to provide inclusive insurance solutions.

ISRO Launches ‘Mission Hope’ in Ladakh to Boost Regional Development 🚀

• ISRO launched Mission Hope in Ladakh, focusing on developmental and scientific outreach in the region.
• The mission supports initiatives in telecommunication, remote sensing, and environmental monitoring.
• It aims to enhance connectivity and promote the use of space technology for regional growth and disaster management.

India’s Business Confidence Index Rises to 149.4 in April-June 2025 Quarter 📊

• The National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) reported an increase in India’s Business Confidence Index (BCI) to 149.4 for Q1 2025-26.
• The rise reflects improved optimism among businesses concerning economic conditions, investment climate, and demand prospects.
• This growth signals stronger economic momentum despite some global uncertainties.

August 6, 2025

India Launches Four Projects Under India-UN Global Capacity Building for Global South 🌍

• India kicked off the India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative, aiming to help Global South nations achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
• The first phase, launched by MEA Secretary Tanmaya Lal, comprises four targeted development projects.
• Partnership with WFP will support rice fortification and strengthen supply chain management in Nepal.
• UNDP collaboration will create digital health platforms for Zambia and Lao PDR to modernize healthcare delivery.
• UNFPA will train officials in census preparedness across Belize, Barbados, St Kitts & Nevis, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago.
• UNESCO-backed vocational training programmes will equip youth in South Sudan with employable skills.
• All courses are set to begin in September 2025 through Indian training institutes under the ITEC framework.

Ministry of Textiles Unveils ‘Haat on Wheels’ for 11th National Handloom Day 🛍️

• Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Exclusive Handloom Expo and the “Haat on Wheels” mobile retail initiative at Handloom Haat, Janpath.
• The “Haat on Wheels” showcases 116 distinct weaves from across India, under the theme “My Handloom, My Pride; My Product, My Pride.”
• Developed in collaboration with the National Handloom Development Corporation, the mobile marketplace will travel through Delhi NCR’s markets, residential societies, and art zones.
• The initiative aims to bridge the gap between artisans and urban consumers, bolstering artisan incomes while promoting sustainable fashion and “vocal for local.”
• The on-site Handloom Expo runs until 10 August, featuring live weaving demonstrations and region-specific handloom products.

Moldova Joins International Solar Alliance as 107th Member 🌞

• On August 4, the Ministry of External Affairs announced that the Republic of Moldova has become the 107th member of the International Solar Alliance.
• The ISA was launched in 2015 by India and France at COP21 in Paris to foster global solar energy collaboration.
• Moldovan Ambassador to India Ana Taban handed over the Instrument of Ratification to P. S. Gangadhar, JS (Economic Diplomacy) and ISA Depository Head.
• MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the accession news on X, underscoring ISA’s mission to accelerate solar power deployment.
• Moldova’s membership underscores its commitment to renewable energy growth and sustainable development objectives.

Modi’s Pariksha Pe Charcha Sets Guinness Record with 3.53 Crore Sign-ups in a Month 🏆

• The Pariksha Pe Charcha programme received the Guinness World Record for the highest registrations on a citizen engagement platform in one month.
• Over 3.53 Crore registrations were recorded during its eighth edition on the MyGov platform.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly interacts with students, teachers, and parents through this unique educational forum.
• The record certificate was presented in New Delhi, attended by Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw.
• The initiative turned exam stress into a festival of learning, drawing over 21 Crore viewers across media platforms in 2025.
• It emphasizes stress-free learning and highlights diverse career opportunities in the nation’s Amrit Kaal.

Delhi, Maharashtra & Chandigarh Lead in NITI Aayog’s Electric Mobility Index 2024 🚗

• Delhi, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh topped the inaugural India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI) 2024, marking them as frontrunners in the country’s transition to electric vehicles.
• The IEMI 2024 assessed 30 states and UTs across 16 indicators under three themes: EV adoption, charging infrastructure readiness, and EV technology and innovation.
• As of June 2025, over 6.5 million EVs operate on Indian roads, up from just 0.5% of vehicle sales in 2018 to 7.7% by 2024.
• India had installed 25,000 public charging stations by October 2024, with Karnataka leading installations and Haryana, Karnataka, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh excelling in charging readiness.
• 29 states and UTs have notified dedicated EV policies, with another four in draft, driving localized incentives and regulatory support.
• In 2024, over 12 lakh EVs were registered, and private electric two-wheelers and cars reached a 5.3% market share, reflecting a sharp rise in consumer adoption.

P B Balaji to Helm Jaguar Land Rover as CEO in Nov 2025: Tata Taps Veteran CFO 🚗

• Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) announces the appointment of P B Balaji as Chief Executive Officer, effective November 2025.
• He succeeds Adrian Mardell, who is retiring after 3 years as CEO and 35 years with the company.
• N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Jaguar Land Rover PLC, Tata Motors, and Tata Sons, praised Mardell’s turnaround and highlighted Balaji’s fit for the Reimagine JLR journey.
• Balaji has served as Group Chief Financial Officer at Tata Motors since November 2017, bringing 32 years of global experience in the automotive and consumer goods sectors.
• He has led multicultural teams across Mumbai, London, Singapore, and Switzerland, driving finance and supply chain transformations.
• Balaji holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Chennai and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from IIM Kolkata.

Govt Unveils ‘Apna Ghar’ Highway Rest Facilities for Truckers: 368 Units & 4,611 Beds 🏠

• The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas launched ‘Apna Ghar’ to boost the well-being of truck drivers during long-haul journeys.
• Public sector OMCs have established 368 units with a total of 4,611 beds at retail fuel outlets along national and state highways.
• Each facility offers dormitory accommodations, restaurants/dhabas, clean toilets, dedicated bathing areas, and self-cooking spaces.
• Truckers also gain access to purified drinking water, ensuring higher comfort and hygiene on the road.
• The ‘Apna Ghar’ mobile app has recorded rising bookings, downloads, and user registrations, signaling strong community uptake.
• Positive feedback from drivers highlights the programme’s impact on improving rest quality and overall road safety.
• Details shared by MoS Suresh Gopi in a Lok Sabha response underline the government’s commitment to enhancing the truck workforce’s infrastructure.

Punjab Empanels Sign Language Experts Under Juvenile Justice Act for Inclusion 🤝

• Punjab becomes the first state to empanel sign language interpreters under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
• The initiative, announced by Dr Baljit Kaur, aims to ensure accessible and sensitive justice for children with hearing and speech impairments.
• Empaneled experts will be deployed district-wise to provide support during legal proceedings, education, and daily interactions.
• Led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the move empowers children by eliminating communication barriers in official settings.
• Aligned with the POCSO Act, 2012, these professionals will assist in cases involving sexual offences against minors.
• Punjab already broadcasts its Vidhan Sabha proceedings in sign language, demonstrating its commitment to transparency.
• This landmark step reinforces the state’s pledge to build an inclusive society where every child feels heard, understood, and protected.

First BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival ‘SaptaSur’ Unites Nations in New Delhi 🎶

• The inaugural BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 4 August 2025, marking the first large-scale cultural event of the grouping.
• It was inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who highlighted music as both a bridge between nations and a powerful expression of societal identity.
• Organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the festival titled ‘SaptaSur’ (Seven Nations, One Melody) showcased traditional music, instrumental, and folk performances.
• Artists from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand presented their distinct musical heritages, reflecting deep-rooted South and Southeast Asian linkages.
• The event fulfilled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment made at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand in April 2025 to deepen people-to-people contacts through cultural exchange.
• By celebrating the region’s rich cultural diversity, the festival reinforced mutual respect, dialogue, and unity among the seven member countries.

India Emerges as 5th Largest Aviation Market with 241M Passengers in 2024 ✈️

• India emerged as the 5th largest aviation market, handling 241 million total passengers in 2024, including 211 million domestic flyers (up 11.1%).
• Global rankings were topped by US (876M) passengers, followed by China (741M), the UK (261M), Spain (241M), and Japan (205M, 18.6% growth).
• The Mumbai–Delhi route ranked 7th among busiest airport pairs, carrying 5.9 million travellers in 2024.
• Asia-Pacific dominated the top 10 busiest routes, with Jeju–Seoul leading at 13.2 million passengers.
• Premium class travel grew 11.8%, outpacing 11.5% economy growth, reaching 116.9 million international flyers (6% share).
• Asia-Pacific recorded 22.8% premium-segment growth, while economy class soared 28.6% to 500.8 million travellers.
• Europe remained the largest market for premium travel with 39.3 million passengers, as the Middle East held the highest premium share at 14.7%.
• Boeing 737 led narrow-body capacity with 10 million flights and 2.4 trillion Available Seat Kilometres in 2024.

IDFC FIRST Bank and IndiGo Launch Dual Credit Card with Mastercard & RuPay Duo 🛫

• Cardholders receive two physical cards—Mastercard and RuPay—sharing a single credit limit and statement.
• Choose between a ₹4,999 + GST joining fee or an FD-backed variant (₹1 lakh deposit) for zero upfront fees.
• Set separate PINs and transaction preferences for each card while enjoying one consolidated billing cycle.
• Earn IndiGo BluChips on every spend: 6 per ₹100 on flights, 3 per ₹100 on other purchases, 0.5 per ₹100 on UPI/utilities/wallets.
• Welcome perks for fee-paying applicants include a voucher of 5,000 BluChips and a complimentary IndiGo meal voucher.
• Spend ₹1 lakh within 90 days to unlock an extra 3,000 BluChips voucher for future bookings.
• One-time benefits feature 3-month EasyDiner Prime membership and a Postcard hotels stay voucher worth ₹3,000.
• Travel protections include a 1.49% forex markup, trip-cancellation cover up to ₹25,000, air accident insurance ₹1 cr, and personal accident cover ₹10 lakh.
• A single e-statement and payment streamline your finances across both networks.

IndusInd Bank Appoints Rajiv Anand as MD & CEO for Three-Year Term from Aug 25, 2025 💼

• The board approved veteran banker Rajiv Anand as Managing Director & CEO, effective August 25, 2025.
• Appointment received RBI approval and awaits shareholder endorsement following the August 4, 2025 board meeting.
• Anand succeeds Sumant Kathpalia, who resigned amid a Rs 1,960 crore misaccounting crisis in the derivatives book.
• He brings 32 years of leadership experience, including roles as Deputy Managing Director at Axis Bank and founding MD & CEO of Axis Asset Management.
• Under interim executive management, the bank navigated its largest-ever loss but reported a Q1FY26 net profit of Rs 604 crore, marking a return to profitability.
• His global stints across Mumbai, London, Singapore, and Switzerland highlight expertise in finance and supply chain transformations.
• As an Additional Director and Key Managerial Personnel, Anand is set to drive IndusInd’s strategic turnaround and governance reforms.

Former J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik Dies at 79 in New Delhi 🕊️

• Satya Pal Malik passed away at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness on August 5, 2025
• He was receiving medical treatment at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi at the time of his death
• Malik served as the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, overseeing the region during pivotal constitutional changes
• He also held gubernatorial posts in Goa and Meghalaya, bringing decades of administrative experience to each role

Pratyaya Amrit Appointed Bihar Chief Secretary From Sept 2025: Roads to Health 🏛️

• Pratyaya Amrit, Development Commissioner, will take charge as Bihar Chief Secretary on 1 September 2025.
• He succeeds Amrit Lal Meena, retiring on 31 August 2025, per the notification by Additional Chief Secretary B Rajinder.
• As Road Construction Secretary, he oversaw flagship projects like the Ganga Path and AIIMS-Digha flyover.
• Leading the Energy Department, he strengthened power supply to the village level before the 2015 Assembly polls.
• Recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2011, honored individually.
• During the Covid-19 second wave in 2021, he served as Principal Secretary, Health, curbing case surges.
• His appointment is pivotal as Bihar heads into year-end polls, emphasizing governance and infrastructure overhaul.

RBI Holds Policy Repo Rate Steady, Sees 6.5% Growth & 3.1% Inflation in FY26 📊

• The policy repo rate was kept unchanged, and the neutral stance was unanimously maintained by the MPC.
• Headline inflation dipped to 2.1% in June, driven by food deflation, while core inflation edged up to 4.4%.
• Real GDP growth for 2025-26 is projected at 6.5%, supported by a robust monsoon, strong government capex, and resilient rural demand.
• CPI inflation is forecast at 3.1% for FY26, with expectations of it rising above 4% in Q4 due to base-effect and demand-side pressures.
• The current account deficit narrowed to 0.6% of GDP in 2024-25, buoyed by healthy services exports and remittance inflows.
• System liquidity remained in surplus, averaging a net LAF surplus of Rs 3 lakh crore daily, which bolstered monetary transmission.
• India’s forex reserves stood at US$ 688.9 billion, covering over 11 months of imports and underscoring external-sector resilience.
• The RBI flagged global trade uncertainties and pledged to closely monitor incoming data to calibrate future policy moves.

Pratyaya Amrit Appointed Bihar Chief Secretary From September 1, 2025 🎯

• The General Administration Department notified that Pratyaya Amrit, a 1991-batch IAS officer from Muzaffarpur, will assume charge as Chief Secretary of Bihar on September 1, 2025.
• He will succeed Amrit Lal Meena (1989 batch), who is set to retire on August 31, 2025.
• Currently the Development Commissioner and holding additional charge as Additional Chief Secretary of Health and Disaster Management, he served as Officer on Special Duty in the Chief Secretary’s office until Meena’s superannuation.
• A native of Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Pratyaya is considered a close aide to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, highlighting the political importance ahead of the assembly elections.
• His appointment ensures that the 2025 state elections in the election-bound state will be overseen under his administrative leadership.

MK Stalin Unveils TN Rising Conclave to Drive Investments & Jobs in Tamil Nadu 🚀

• Chief Minister M K Stalin inaugurated the TN Rising Investors Conclave in Thoothukudi on August 4 2025.
• The Tamil Nadu government is systematically attracting huge investments and generating employment to transform the state’s economy.
• Initiatives ensure industrially backward southern districts are equipped to match the pace of the state’s industrial development.
• Priority sectors highlighted include semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicle manufacturing, solar cells, green hydrogen production, and information data centers.
• Aimed at fostering inclusive growth, the conclave encourages partnerships across public and private stakeholders.
• These efforts bolster Tamil Nadu’s position as a premier investment hub, driving sustainable regional progress.

SAP & Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya Join Forces to Skill India’s Logistics Workforce

• SAP, Europe’s largest software maker, signed an MoU with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV).
• The partnership aims to digitally skill professionals in India’s logistics and transport sector.
• The initiative will help build a future-ready workforce aligned with industry needs.
• 🔹 Three Pillars of the MoU
• Employment enablement for GSV-trained graduates and postgraduates through industry-relevant skills.
• Curriculum enhancement to better reflect real-world logistics challenges.
• Capacity building for students and government professionals to bridge the skill gap.

August 5, 2025

SpaceX Crew-11 Launch: NASA, Russian & Japanese Astronauts to ISS for 8 Months 🚀

• International four-person Crew-11 blasted off from Kennedy Space Center aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 with the Dragon capsule, overcoming adverse weather.
• Team comprises two NASA astronauts (Zena Cardman, Michael Fincke), a Russian cosmonaut (Oleg Platonov) and a Japanese astronaut (Kimiya Yui).
• After a roughly 16-hour transit, the crew will dock at the ISS at 0700 GMT Saturday for an eight-month stay to better align U.S. and Russian mission schedules.
• NASA will continuously monitor the Dragon capsule’s health before committing to the full mission duration.
• Launch occurred alongside the first face-to-face NASA-Roscosmos talks since 2018, reinforcing cooperation amid strained US-Russia ties post-Ukraine invasion.

Fitch cuts India’s FY26 GDP forecast to 6.3%, flags limited tariff impact 🌐

• Fitch trims FY26 growth estimate to 6.3%, down from 6.4% back in April.
• Strong infrastructure spending seen underpinning demand in core sectors like cement and steel.
• Anticipates limited impact from upcoming US tariffs as most rated firms have low export exposure.
• Warns of second-order risks from potential excess supply, urging companies to diversify exports.
• Projects domestically-focused industries (oil & gas, utilities) to remain insulated, while export-dependent sectors face headwinds.

Indian Men & Women Table Tennis Teams Earn Spots at London 2026 WTTC 🏓

• Both squads secured qualification with an undefeated run at the 2025 South Asia Regional Championships in Kathmandu.
• They claimed one of only four direct Asian quota spots per gender out of 16 available.
• The five-nation round-robin format saw India reaffirm its regional supremacy by winning every match.
• Qualification paves the way for focused training and international exposure ahead of the London championships.

Magnus Carlsen Wins First Chess Esports World Cup in Riyadh with Dominant Run ♟️

• Carlsen representing Team Liquid wins inaugural Chess Esports World Cup, defeating Alireza Firouzja 4-2-1.
• Competition begins with group stage double-elimination, moving into playoffs with single-elimination best-of-three matches.
• Carlsen secures early lead with win and draws, showcasing his opening precision.
• Despite a rook blunder leading to his only loss, he recovers to clinch the final in two sets.
• Pre-match banter sees Carlsen declaring he has his “bow and arrow ready”, underscoring his fierce confidence.
• Victory awards Carlsen $250,000, one of the largest prizes in competitive chess.
• Team Liquid gains 1,000 Club Championship points, boosting their standings in the club race.
• Firouzja’s runner-up finish nets $190,000, while Nakamura and Erigaisi secure third and fourth with $145,000 and $115,000 respectively.

Union Ministers Launch ‘Matri Van’ 750-Acre Urban Forest in Gurugram for NCR 🌳

• Union Ministers Shri Bhupender Yadav and Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the ‘Matri Van’ under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ programme during Van Mahotsav 2025 in Gurugram.
• The 750-acre urban forest in the Aravalli hills is designed as a theme-based green cover to act as the “heart and lung” of Delhi NCR.
• A multi-stakeholder collaboration will involve CSR partners, RWAs, NGOs, MNCs, schoolchildren, and government bodies.
• Invasive species like Prosopis juliflora will be removed and replaced with native trees including Bargad, Peepal, Neem, Bamboo, and various Aravalli species.
• Theme-based groves will feature Bodhi Vatika, Bamboosetum, Aravalli Arboretum, Pushp Vatika, Sugandh Vatika, Medicinal Plant Grove, Nakshtra Vatika, Rashi Vatika, Cactus Garden, and Butterfly Garden.
• The Matri Van will include nature trails, cycle tracks, gazebos, yoga zones, water bodies, treated-water irrigation systems, and parking facilities.
• Ministers emphasized tackling carbon emissions, noting that India’s non-fossil fuel energy now accounts for over 50 percent of the overall power mix.
• Citizens were encouraged to adopt tree-planting practices and become Van Mitras to support ecological conservation.

Cooperatives Launch ‘Bharat’ Taxi Service to Rival Ola & Uber; App by December 🚖

• Launching “Bharat” taxi service by December 2025 to challenge Ola and Uber.
• Initiative backed by ₹300 crore authorised capital pooled from eight major cooperatives.
• Multi-State Sahakari Taxi Cooperative Ltd formally registered on June 6.
• Coalition includes NCDC, IFFCO, GCMMF, NABARD, NDDB, NCEL, KRIBHCO, and NAFED.
• Onboarded 200 drivers across Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
• Single nationwide app will power ride-hailing, with a tender out for a tech partner.
• Collaboration with IIM-Bangalore and a technology consultant for pan-India marketing.
• Cooperative pricing model aims to boost driver earnings while keeping fares low.
• Membership drives underway to deepen the network and expand state-wise.
• Operates without any government stake to ensure autonomy and driver-led governance.

FSSAI & Ayush unveil Category A Ayurveda Aahara list for holistic wellness 📜

• The FSSAI, in consultation with the Ministry of Ayush, released a definitive list of Category A Ayurveda Aahara products under the 2022 regulations
• The list draws exclusively from Classical Ayurvedic Texts listed in Schedule A, ensuring authenticity and traditional compliance
• It clarifies formulations for Food Business Operators, aligning safety standards with centuries-old recipes
• A formal process now allows FBOs to request additions of unlisted products, backed by authoritative references from Schedule A texts
• Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav highlighted adoption of preventive healthcare through balanced, sustainable dietary practices
• Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha emphasized that the initiative strengthens consumer trust in Ayurveda-based nutrition
• The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) curated and validated the compendium, bridging traditional wisdom with modern regulation
• Ayurveda Aahara promotes overall well-being by emphasizing balance, seasonal suitability, and natural ingredients

First AI-Powered Anganwadi in India Narrows Rural Digital Divide with VR & AI 🤖

• Launched under Mission Bal Bharari, the pilot AI-powered Anganwadi in Waddhamna village uses VR headsets and AI-enabled smart boards to teach poems, songs, and foundational concepts.
• Attendance jumped from 10 to over 25 children, filling the classroom with excitement and curiosity.
• The centre is equipped with VR headsets, tablets, interactive digital content, Wi-Fi, and CCTV for transparency and engagement.
• Anganwadi worker Saroj Kukde received structured three-month training by Qolaba to seamlessly integrate technology without overwhelming staff.
• The AI system tracks each child’s response time and accuracy, adapting difficulty levels for personalized, gamified learning.
• Plans are underway to expand the model to 40 more anganwadis and use AI tools for nutrition tracking via the Poshan Tracker.

Ministry of Mines Names Seven CoEs under National Critical Mineral Mission 🔬

• Ministry of Mines recognized seven institutes as Centers of Excellence under the National Critical Mineral Mission.
• Approval granted by the PAAC on July 31, 2025, co-chaired by Secretaries of Mines and DST.
• Aims to strengthen R&D across the critical mineral value chain for clean energy, mobility, electronics, defense, and space sectors.
• Focus on advancing technologies to reach higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL 7/8) through pilot plants and pre-commercial demonstrations.
• CoEs will undertake innovative research to bolster India’s science and technology capabilities in critical minerals.
• Funding will come on a project basis from government R&D schemes, industry partners, and venture investors.
• Recognized CoEs include IIT Bombay, IIT Hyderabad, IIT-ISM Dhanbad, IIT Roorkee, CSIR-IMMT Bhubaneswar, CSIR-NML Jamshedpur, and NFTDC Hyderabad.
• Each CoE will operate a Hub & Spoke model, partnering with at least two industry and two academic/R&D entities.
• The seven CoEs have collectively attracted around 80 industry and academic spokes to their consortia.
• Institutes were selected through a call for proposals followed by an elaborate two-tier evaluation process.

India’s Marine Fish Landings Fall 2% in 2024, Gujarat Leads While West Coast Declines 🎣

• Total marine fish landings at 3.47 million tonnes in 2024, down 2% from 2023.
• Gujarat retained top position with 7.54 lakh tonnes, followed by Tamil Nadu (6.79 lakh) and Kerala (6.10 lakh).
• Indian mackerel remained the most landed species at 2.63 lakh tonnes, with oil sardine at 2.41 lakh tonnes.
• Declines observed for species like threadfin breams, ribbonfish, non-penaeid shrimps, and cephalopods.
• Increases in landings of lesser sardines, penaeid shrimps, anchovies, and tunnies.
• West coast saw overall decrease, while the east coast recorded gains except in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.
• Maharashtra posted the highest growth at 47%, with West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha up 35%, 20%, and 18% respectively.
• Significant declines noted in Karnataka, Goa, and Daman & Diu.
• Monitoring covered about 2.5 lakh fishing trips to assess landing estimates.

BIAL Raises Rs 9,000 Crore via India’s Largest Unlisted Airport Sector NCD Issue 📈

• Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) completed India’s largest unlisted private placement of Non-Convertible Debentures, raising Rs 9,000 crore.
• The issuance was structured in two tranches: Rs 4,362 crore closed on July 25, 2025, and Rs 4,638 crore scheduled for early October 2025.
• SBICAP acted as the sole arranger, leveraging its market expertise to syndicate the offering efficiently.
• The NCDs carry a 15-year tenure, enabling BIAL to refinance existing debt, conserve capital, and channel resources toward future expansion plans at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru.
• A shift from MCLR-linked pricing to a fixed interest rate, combined with BIAL’s AAA credit rating, is expected to yield significant borrowing cost savings.
• Proceeds will underwrite infrastructure upgrades, capacity enhancements, and sustainability initiatives at one of India’s busiest aviation hubs.
• The deal underscores investor confidence in India’s airport sector and sets a new benchmark for large-scale corporate bond financing.

ICAI and IAGES Forge MoU to Elevate Gold Industry Standards and Accreditation 🤝

• ICAI signed a MoU with IAGES to strengthen accreditation processes in the gold industry.
• Aimed at deploying a robust accreditation framework for about six lakh value-chain partners.
• Formal commitment exchanged between CA Charanjot Singh Nanda and IAGES CEO Shri Kaushlendra Sinha in the presence of Minister Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.
• Collaboration honors Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision for structured, regulated gold standards and will accelerate economic growth.
• Initiative introduces a comprehensive code of conduct aligned with global best practices for industry stakeholders.
• The Professional Development Committee will drive awareness among members and empanel CA firms for accreditation tasks.
• Expected to generate meaningful professional opportunities for ICAI members and enhance governance in the gold sector.
• ICAI, established under the Chartered Accountants Act of 1949, functions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs with over 14.5 lakh members.
• The institute boasts a global network of regional councils, branches, overseas chapters, and representative offices.

Union Minister Gadkari Receives 43rd Lokmanya Tilak National Award in Pune 🏆

• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari honoured with the 43rd Lokmanya Tilak National Award at a ceremony in Pune.
• The award, presented by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust, recognizes significant contributions to national progress.
• Gadkari emphasized transforming Lokmanya Tilak’s vision of Swarajya into Surajya through good governance.
• He highlighted India’s potential to become a global leader powered by its skilled youth and technocrats.
• The ceremony underscored the enduring legacy of Tilak’s principles in shaping modern governance.
• Gadkari urged citizens to uphold Tilak’s ideals and drive India’s progress through innovation and leadership.

PM Modi and Leaders Pay Tribute as Tribal Icon Shibu Soren Passes Away at 81 🕊️

• Veteran tribal leader Shibu Soren, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, died at 81 after battling kidney-related ailments
• He was on life support since June 19 and passed away peacefully at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital on August 4, 2025
• PM Modi visited the hospital to pay homage, met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and family, and expressed deep condolences
• President Droupadi Murmu and Governor Santosh Gangwar also paid their respects, honoring his lifelong fight for tribal rights
• Jharkhand Assembly adjourned sine die and the state government declared a three-day mourning period
• His body will be taken to Ranchi Assembly for public homage before proceeding to his native village Nemra
• Affectionately known as “Dishom Guru”, Soren’s legacy as a grassroots crusader for social justice will endure in tribal welfare movements

Annadata Sukhibhava Empowers 2.05 Lakh Farmers with ₹138.16 Crore in Chittoor 🚜

• The first phase of the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme was launched at Rompicharla in Chittoor district by Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy and District Collector Sumit Kumar on August 2, 2025.
• A total of ₹138.16 crore was disbursed directly into the bank accounts of 2.05 lakh farmers, with each farmer receiving ₹7,000 in the first instalment to provide immediate relief during the kharif season.
• The scheme is part of the “Super Six” promises made ahead of the 2024 elections and aims to strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s agrarian economy through transparent, direct financial assistance.
• Two more instalments are scheduled for October and January, ensuring ongoing support for farmers throughout the cropping cycle.
• Tenant farmers are included under the scheme, reflecting a commitment to inclusive coverage and equitable subsidy distribution.
• A dedicated ₹135 crore subsidy will be credited to mango farmers supplying Totapuri stocks to pulp industries, reinforcing value chains in the horticulture sector.
• Officials emphasized the government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and boosting agricultural productivity as key pillars of Annadata Sukhibhava.

Ayush Ministry’s NMPB Signs Two MoUs to Boost Medicinal Plant Conservation & Awareness 🌿

• The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) under the Ministry of Ayush signed two strategic MoUs at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi, presided over by Shri Prataprao Jadhav.
• The first pact with IshVed-Bioplants Venture focuses on conserving germplasm of rare, endangered and threatened (RET) medicinal plants via tissue culture methods, ensuring a steady supply for the Ayush industry.
• The second tripartite MoU among NMPB, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and AIIMS will establish a national level medicinal plants garden on the AIIMS New Delhi campus to foster public awareness among patients, students and visitors.
• Both agreements pool the expertise and resources of government bodies and private partners to drive evidence-based conservation, research and cultivation protocols.
• These milestones align with the Prime Minister’s vision for a healthier, self-reliant India by 2047 through the integration of traditional knowledge and modern science.
• The ceremony was attended by senior officials from NMPB, AIIA, AIIMS and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, marking a landmark advance in preserving India’s rich medicinal plant heritage.

PFRDA CONNECT: Revamped Pension Website Boosts Digital Engagement and Accessibility 🌐

• PFRDA launched a modernized website under PFRDA CONNECT, enhancing user experience in the pension sector.
• Unveiled by PFRDA Chairperson S. Ramann in New Delhi, the platform marks a leap in digital transformation for pension services.
• Designed following GIGW and WCAG guidelines to ensure inclusiveness and accessibility for all stakeholders.
• Features include streamlined content structure, dynamic and responsive layouts, and improved navigation.
• Offers centralized access to regulatory updates, circulars, and pension schemes, integrated with other regulatory platforms.
• The initiative underscores PFRDA’s commitment to stakeholder engagement and digital empowerment, now live at www.pfrda.org.in.

August 4, 2025

Choice AMC Secures SEBI Nod to Launch Passive Funds: Index & ETF Debut 🚀

• Choice AMC has received final approval from SEBI to begin operations as a full-fledged Asset Management Company.
• Choice International will roll out its AMC in phases, initially focusing on passive investment products.
• First offerings include index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) designed for stable, scalable portfolios.
• CEO Arun Poddar describes the approval as a “significant milestone” in delivering accessible investment solutions.
• The new platform prioritizes a professionally managed, governance-driven model aligned with regulatory standards.

Quant Mutual Fund Secures SEBI Nod for India’s First SIF: QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund 🚀

• Quant Mutual Fund has become the first AMC in India to receive SEBI approval for a Specialized Investment Fund (SIF).
• The inaugural offering, QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund, employs both long and short strategies across equity, debt, and hybrid assets.
• By betting on rising stocks and hedging against declining ones, the fund seeks to dampen volatility and potentially deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.
• SIFs enable AMCs to launch advanced strategies in open-ended, close-ended, and interval formats, enriching the country’s asset management landscape.
• Investors need to commit a minimum of ₹10 lakh; SEBI mandates a 30-day cure period for threshold breaches, after which non-compliant holdings may be frozen or auto-redeemed.
• The QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund is slated for launch in August 2025.

RBI Greenlights Amalgamation of New India Co-operative Bank with Saraswat Co-operative Bank 🚀

• Reserve Bank of India sanctioned the voluntary amalgamation under Section 44A and Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
• The merger takes effect from August 04, 2025, with all New India Co-operative Bank branches rebranded as Saraswat Co-operative Bank outlets from that date.
• The move aims to bolster cooperative banking resilience and streamline services for customers across Maharashtra and beyond.

VSSC Appoints A Rajarajan as Director: Leading India’s Next Launch 🚀

• A Rajarajan, Distinguished Scientist, assumed charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre on August 1, 2025.
• Former Director of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC SHAR), he led multidisciplinary teams for major missions: Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1, SSLV, LVM3 M2/OneWebIndia-1, Vikram-S (first privately built rocket), and Gaganyaan experimental flights.
• At VSSC, he served as Deputy Director across three core divisions, specializing in launch vehicle and spacecraft composite systems—pioneering carbon–carbon composites and niche propulsion technologies.
• Under his SDSC-SHAR tenure, he expanded launch infrastructure, configured an exclusive SSLV complex, and aligned ISRO’s capabilities with the new space policy and emerging commercial space industry.
• He has authored multiple international journal and conference papers, holds a patent in Film-Boiling CVI technology, and serves as President of ISAMPE India since November 2023.
• Honored with ISRO Merit and Team Excellence Awards, along with an honorary doctorate from Sathyabama University for his transformative contributions to space applications.

71st National Film Awards 2023: Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail Triumph 🌟

• The 71st National Film Awards honoured films certified between January 1 and December 31, 2023, with juries evaluating 332 feature and 115 non-feature entries.
• Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail clinched Best Feature Film, earning a Swarna Kamal and a ₹3,00,000 cash prize.
• Flowering Man won Best Non-Feature Film, while God Vulture and Human secured Best Documentary—each marking their first National Award triumphs.
• Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey (12th Fail), highlighting SRK’s first career National Film Award.
• Rani Mukerji garnered Best Actress for her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway, also her inaugural National Award victory.
• Vijayaraghavan & Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar won Best Supporting Actor, and Urvashi & Janki Bodiwala took home Best Supporting Actress honours.

IPPB Launches Aadhaar-Based Face Authentication for Seamless, Inclusive Banking 🚀

• India Post Payments Bank rolled out a nationwide Aadhaar-based face authentication feature for customer transactions.
• Built under the UIDAI framework, it lets users authenticate via facial recognition—eliminating reliance on fingerprints or OTPs.
• Designed to empower the elderly, differently-abled, and those with worn fingerprints by enabling secure, contactless banking.
• Covers all core services: account opening, balance inquiries, fund transfers, and utility payments through a presence-less model.
• MD & CEO R Viswesvaran calls it a step toward dignified financial inclusion, aligned with India’s Digital India and Financial Inclusion missions.

Cabinet Approves ₹2,000 Cr Grant to Strengthen Cooperatives 🚀

• Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved a Rs. 2,000 crore Central Sector Scheme for NCDC over 2025-26 to 2028-29 (₹500 crore annually).
• This infusion enables NCDC to raise ₹20,000 crore from the open market to fund cooperative loans.
• Funds will finance long-term credit and working capital for ~13,288 cooperatives across dairy, livestock, fisheries, sugar, textiles, food processing, storage and more—benefiting about 2.9 crore members.
• NCDC will execute the scheme—disbursing loans via state governments or directly, monitoring project implementation, and ensuring recovery under its guidelines.
• Enhanced liquidity will drive capacity expansion, modernization, technology upgradation, and infrastructure development, boosting productivity, income generation, and employment.

BSNL Unveils ‘Freedom Plan’: ₹1 for One Month of Free 4G Services 🚀

• BSNL launches the ‘Freedom Plan’, offering one month of free 4G mobile services for ₹1 to mark India’s Independence Day.
• Users can experience BSNL’s indigenously developed 4G network under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission.
• BSNL is deploying 100,000 4G sites using Make-in-India technology for secure, high-quality, and affordable connectivity.
• Citizens can activate the offer at the nearest BSNL centre, retailer, or by calling 1800-180-1503.
• The plan aims to promote digital empowerment and showcase India’s progress in homegrown telecom solutions.

ITBPF and DBT Forge Biomedical Research MoU to Boost Force Health & Innovation 🧬

• MoU between ITBPF and DBT to advance joint biomedical research and training.
• Leverages specialized medical facilities and DBT’s robust research ecosystem for innovation.
• Focus areas include human adaptability, high altitudes, prosthetics, biosecurity, and food biotechnology.
• Aims to boost translational research aligned with the Viksit Bharat by 2047 vision.
• Enhances health, resilience, and operational readiness of paramilitary forces in extreme terrains.

DPIIT & HDFC Capital MoU to Boost Affordable Housing and PropTech Innovation 🤝

• DPIIT signed a MoU with HDFC Capital Advisors Limited to foster innovation and support startups in affordable housing and PropTech.
• Partnership introduces the H@ART Programme to enhance efficiency and cut costs across the residential real estate cycle.
• Initiative links affordable housing developers, invests in emerging PropTech firms, and offers mentorship via accelerators and academic partners.
• Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat@2047 visions by building an inclusive, innovation-driven ecosystem.
• Formal signing by DPIIT Director Mohammad Isharar Ali and HDFC Capital CEO Vipul Roongta marks a milestone in public-private collaboration.

ICRISAT Launches AI-Powered Climate Advisory to Empower Smallholder Farmers at Scale 🌱

• The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) partners with ICAR, ILRI, IITM, IMD, and IISc to deliver AI-driven climate advisories to farmers.
• Supported by the Government of India’s Monsoon Mission III, the initiative upgrades the iSAT platform for personalized, real-time weather and crop recommendations.
• Smallholder farmers in Maharashtra will access hyper-local weather and agronomic insights through user-friendly digital channels, including an AI-powered WhatsApp bot.
• Advisories guide critical farm decisions—sowing, irrigation, and pest management—strengthening resilience against climate variability.
• Learnings from the Maharashtra pilot will shape a national rollout and feed into the development of MausamGPT for broader climate advisory services.

PM Modi Hails First Port-Based Make-in-India 1 MW Green Hydrogen Plant at Kandla 🚢

• Commissioning of India’s first Make-in-India Green Hydrogen Plant at Deendayal Port, Kandla, Gujarat.
• The 1 MW module, part of a larger 10 MW project announced by PM Modi, will produce around 140 metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually.
• Executed in just four months by Indian engineers and L&T, showcasing Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat in clean energy.
• Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, underscoring India’s drive toward its Net-Zero vision in maritime operations.
• Sets a benchmark for decarbonizing port operations, following the deployment of India’s first Make-in-India electric green tug and decarbonizing port operations.

German Bank Funds €38 Million for CEF Biogas to Advance India’s Circular Economy 🌱

• CEF Group secures €38 million from German Export Finance Bank to fund two CBG plants under its plan for 22 facilities nationwide.2
• The equity and debt financing will convert municipal, agricultural, and agro-industrial waste into clean fuel, promoting a circular economy.
• Founded in 2018, CEF Group operates under India’s SATAT scheme, aiming to empower rural economies and advance energy independence.
• Projects managed by Rieckermann include two new plants processing up to 850 tonnes/day of waste, yielding CBG, organic manure, and refuse-derived fuel.
• This investment underscores India’s push to reduce fossil fuel dependence, bolster its renewable energy sector, and meet sustainability goals.

Shashi Prakash Goyal Becomes UP Chief Secretary, Sparking Bureaucratic Shake-up 🏛️

• Senior IAS officer Shashi Prakash Goyal was appointed as Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary on July 31, 2025.
• He previously served as Additional Chief Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Office, overseeing Civil Aviation, Estate, and Protocol departments.
• After Goyal’s elevation, Sanjay Prasad, Principal Secretary to the CM, took charge of Civil Aviation, Estate, Protocol, and Additional Resident Commissioner portfolios.
• Goyal also assumes key roles as Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner (IIDC), Chairman of PICUP, and CEO of UPEIDA.

BSNL & NRL Deploy India’s First 5G CNPN in Refinery Sector 📡

• BSNL and NRL ink a landmark MoU at the Industry 4.0 Workshop in Guwahati.
• They will deploy India’s first 5G CNPN within refinery operations.
• This network aims to boost operational efficiency and enable real-time monitoring.
• Partnership supports Digital Twins for simulation and optimizes critical processes.
• Approach exemplifies “Whole of Government” collaboration with plans for broader rollouts.

Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman DG of RPF, Modernizing Rail Security 🚆

• Ms. Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer, assumed charge as Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force, becoming the first woman in its 143-year history.
• Appointed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet until October 31, 2026, she brings over three decades of distinguished service.
• Her prior assignments include Additional DG (Selection/Recruitment), leading the Police Training & Research Institute, and heading the Madhya Pradesh Police Academy in Bhopal.
• Mishra’s resume spans the CBI, BSF, and a UN Peacekeeping mission in Kosovo; she’s been honored with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
• As DG, she will drive modernization, harness cutting-edge technology, strengthen capacity building, and tackle human trafficking to boost passenger safety.

World Lung Cancer Day: Beyond Smoking—Symptoms, Causes & Screening Tips 🚭

• On World Lung Cancer Day (August 1), experts warn lung cancer increasingly affects non-smokers, women, and those without direct tobacco exposure, shattering outdated risk assumptions.
• Early symptoms—persistent cough, hemoptysis, weight loss, and fatigue—often mimic benign issues, delaying diagnosis and underscoring the need for vigilance.
• Beyond smoking, risks include air pollution, second-hand smoke, occupational toxins, and genetic mutations (EGFR, ALK). The WHO urges expanded screening, improved air quality, and prompt symptom evaluation even in non-smokers.

World Breastfeeding Week 2025: Invest in Breastfeeding, Invest in the Future 💗

• Marked every first week of August since 1992, World Breastfeeding Week is endorsed by WHO and UNICEF to highlight that breastfeeding underpins lifelong health and development.
• The 2025 theme, “Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future,” highlights the need for skilled support from pregnancy through early childhood, ensuring mothers have timely information and assistance.
• Health systems must back breastfeeding with robust policies, laws, and programmes, while communities create environments that prioritize breastfeeding over commercial interests.
• Breastfeeding delivers essential nutrition and protective antibodies against illnesses like diarrhoea and pneumonia; boosting exclusive rates can cut healthcare costs and foster cognitive development.
• Strict enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes, enhanced maternity and paternity leave, and sustained funding for breastfeeding initiatives are critical investments in healthy beginnings and stronger economies.

Indian Army Signs ₹223.95 Crore Deal for 212 Next-Gen Tank Transporter Trailers 🚚

• The Indian Army inked a ₹223.95 crore deal with Axiscades Aerospace for 212 next-gen 50-ton Tank Transporter Trailers.
• These trailers feature hydraulic & pneumatic loading ramps and steerable & liftable axles to speed up heavy-tank logistics.
• The Buy (Indian-IDDM) contract supports Aatmnirbhar Bharat, boosting indigenous defense manufacturing and domestic sector growth.
• Expected to enhance operational mobility and logistical efficiency for field units over challenging terrain.
• Reflects India’s defense production soaring to ₹1.46 lakh crore and record exports of ₹24,000 crore, empowering MSMEs and job creation.

August 1, 2025

Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan Assumes Charge as 47th VCNS, Bolstering India’s Navy 🚢

• Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, AVSM, NM, assumed charge as the 47th Vice Chief of Naval Staff on 1 August 2025, laying a wreath at the National War Memorial.
• Alumnus of the 71st NDA course, he was commissioned on 1 January 1988 and specializes in Gunnery & Missile Systems.
• Served in commissioning crews of Guided Missile Destroyer INS Mysore and INS Nishank, and on pre-commissioning crew of ICGS Sangram.
• Commanded Coast Guard ship C-05, missile vessels INS Vibhuti and INS Nashak, missile corvette INS Kuthar, and frigate INS Sahyadri.
• As Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet from February 2020, led key deployments during heightened maritime activity post-Galwan.
• A graduate of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington; Naval War College, Goa; and National Defence College, New Delhi.
• Held Naval HQ roles as Joint Director & Director (Personnel Policy), Director (Perspective Planning), and Principal Director Naval Plans.
• Promoted to Flag Rank in February 2018 as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy & Plans) before taking Eastern Fleet command.
• Awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2021 for exemplary leadership and service of a very high order.
• Later roles include Deputy Commandant of NDA, Chief of Staff ENC, and DCIDS (Operations & Policy, Plans & Force Development).

Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh Appointed Vice Chief of Army Staff Effective August 1 🎖️

• Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh of the Parachute Regiment named new Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from 1 August 2025.
• He succeeds Lt Gen N.S. Raja Subramani, who assumed office in July 2024.
• Commissioned into the 4 Para Special Forces in 1987, Singh brings over 35 years of service.
• Operational experience spans Pawan, Meghdoot, Rakshak, and Orchid missions.
• Served in UN Peacekeeping operations in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, showcasing global combat exposure.
• Command roles include General Officer Commanding of the Rising Star Corps since April 2022.
• Decorated with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Sena Medal (twice) for exceptional service.
• Alumnus of the Indian Military Academy, bolstering his strategic leadership credentials.

Reliance Industries Tops India, Ranks 88th in Fortune Global 500 for 22nd Year 🌏

• Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) retained its status as India’s highest-ranked company, securing the 88th position in the Fortune Global 500 list for 2025.
• This marks the 22nd consecutive year on the list, with RIL climbing 67 places since 2021.
• The ranking is based on total revenue for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, with nine Indian firms represented.
• RIL reported a record-high consolidated gross revenue of ₹1,071,174 crore, a 7.1% year-on-year increase.
• EBITDA rose by 2.9% to ₹183,422 crore, driven by robust growth across O2C, Oil & Gas, Retail, and Digital Services.
• The depreciation of the Indian rupee from ₹83.35 to ₹85.45 per dollar weighed on dollar-denominated revenues.
• Other Indian companies on the list include LIC, Indian Oil Corporation, State Bank of India, ONGC, HDFC Bank, Tata Motors, BPCL, and ICICI Bank.

‘The Man Who Became Cinema’: Dilip Kumar’s Method Acting Deconstructed 🎥

• The Man Who Became Cinema, written by Ashok Chopra, dissects the legendary actor’s on-screen enigma and unique approach to character portrayal.
• Credits Dilip Kumar with introducing method acting to Indian cinema, tracing its roots to Stanislavski and Lee Strasberg influence.
• Showcases classics like Devdas (1955), Gunga Jamuna (1961) and Mughal-e-Azam (1960), revealing the layers of emotion and the power of silence in performance.
• Highlights how he built his technique as an antithesis to classical methods, infusing roles with strong social bearing and earning the moniker ‘tragedy king’.
• Explores the psychological toll of his deep immersion, prompting a switch to comedy where he shone in Ram aur Shyam (1967) and Gopi (1970).
• Breaks down 57 films across six categories, analyzing each work film-by-film and frame-by-frame to uncover his capacity for innovation and improvisation.
• Introduces the concept of visual verbal personality composite, detailing how he blended dialogue modulation and visual cues for richer emotional impact.
• Published by Penguin Random House, this in-depth volume is a must-read for cinephiles and actors studying nuanced characterization and film craft.

Biathlon Legend Laura Dahlmeier Dies at 31 in Pakistan Mountaineering Accident 😢

• German double Olympic biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier (31) died in a mountaineering accident on Laila Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram range.
• The experienced and certified mountaineer was struck by a rockfall at around noon on 28 July at an altitude of ~5,700 metres.
• Rescue operations were hampered by the remote location; a helicopter reached the site only the morning after the accident.
• Dahlmeier claimed two golds at PyeongChang 2018, becoming the first female biathlete to win both sprint and pursuit at a single Olympics.
• She amassed seven world championship titles, including five golds at the 2017 Hochfilzen championships.
• After a stellar 2016-17 season that saw her top the World Cup standings, she retired from biathlon in May 2019 to pursue mountaineering full-time.
• Tributes poured in from global sports figures, including IOC President Kirsty Coventry and fellow German champion Magdalena Neuner.
• The International Biathlon Union praised her as one of the “greatest athletes to grace biathlon,” mourning the loss to the winter sports community.

Google Commits $6B for Asia’s Largest 1GW Data Centre in Andhra Pradesh 🌐

• Reported by Reuters, Google will invest $6 billion to develop a 1-gigawatt data centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• The project includes a $2 billion allocation for renewable energy capacity to power the facility.
• This marks Google’s largest data centre investment in Asia by both capacity and investment size.
• Part of Google’s broader plan to expand its data centre portfolio across Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
• Alphabet reaffirmed a commitment to spend $75 billion globally on building data centre capacity in 2025.
• The Andhra Pradesh government aims to build 6 GW of data centre capacity over the next five years, with 1.6 GW finalised for operation within 24 months.
• Plans include establishing three new cable landing stations in Visakhapatnam to boost global connectivity.

ICAI Signs MoUs with IVCA & NSE IX to Elevate Investor Education and Alt Capital 🤝

• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) inked landmark MoUs with the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) and NSE IFSC Limited (NSE IX).
• Collaboration with IVCA aims to strengthen India’s alternative capital ecosystem through joint expert groups, standardized financial reporting frameworks, and policy advocacy.
• Partnership with NSE IX, the GIFT City–based IFSC exchange, focuses on advancing investor education, co-hosting seminars, and boosting global investment flows.
• Both agreements include co-branded educational initiatives, international outreach programmes, and workshops on derivative instruments and financial innovation.
• The MoUs were signed by ICAI President CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, Vice-President CA. Prasanna Kumar D, IVCA Chairperson CA. Ashley Menezes, and NSE IX MD & CEO Balasubramaniam Venkataramani.
• These strategic alliances reinforce ICAI’s commitment to high-quality reporting, greater transparency, and India’s vision of a developed and empowered Bharat.

Sebi Pushes Back Nomination Framework Deadlines to Ease Implementation Hiccups 📜

• On July 30, market regulator Sebi extended timelines for Phase II and Phase III of its nomination framework in the securities market citing operational challenges.
• Deadline for Phase II shifted from June 1 to August 8, while Phase III was deferred from September 1 to December 15.
• The extension follows representations from depositories CDSL and NSDL, as well as industry associations ANMI and CPAI.
• This move aims to give stakeholders more time to align processes and ensure smooth rollout of the nomination framework.

INS Satpura at SIMBEX-25: India-Singapore Naval Drills Forge Strategic Synergy 🚢

• Indian Naval Ship INS Satpura arrived in Singapore to participate in the 32nd edition of SIMBEX-25, reinforcing bilateral maritime cooperation.
• Harbour Phase activities included Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), professional interactions, and deck familiarisation visits aboard RSN Vigilant and RSN Supreme.
• The exercise’s official Opening Ceremony and a pre-sail conference set the stage for an intensive Sea Phase of operations.
• Sea Phase will feature air defence exercises, cross-deck helicopter operations, precision targeting, complex manoeuvring drills, and VBSS operations.
• These drills aim to enhance interoperability and operational coordination, while supporting a rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific.
• SIMBEX-25 underscores growing strategic trust and naval synergy, aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision and the Act East Policy.
• The bilateral exercise reaffirms a shared commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.

Saksham Niveshak: 100-Day Drive for Dividend Claims & KYC Updates 💼

• Launched by the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on 28 July 2025, the “Saksham Niveshak” campaign runs for 100 days until 6 November 2025.
• Aims to empower shareholders by raising awareness about unclaimed dividends held by companies and guiding the process of KYC and nomination updates to reclaim dividends.
• Encourages companies to proactively reach out to shareholders, facilitating the resolution of unclaimed dividend cases and ensuring direct dividend payouts to the rightful investors.
• Seeks to prevent transfer of dividends and underlying shares to the IEPFA by highlighting the importance of timely action by shareholders in updating records.
• Core objectives:
  • Facilitate resolution of unclaimed dividend cases with companies.
  • Support shareholder KYC and nomination updates.
  • Ensure direct dividend payouts post-record updates.
• IEPFA, established under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, focuses on financial literacy, safeguarding investor interests, and protecting unclaimed dividends and shares.
• Complementary initiatives by IEPFA include:
  • Niveshak Didi
  • Niveshak Panchayat
  • Niveshak Shivir.

PM Approves ₹11,169 Cr Multitracking to Boost Rail Freight & Connectivity 🚆

• Government approved four multitracking projects worth ₹11,169 crore to expand capacity by 574 km, spanning 13 districts across six states
• The initiative, cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by PM Modi, aims to increase freight capacity by 95.91 million tonnes annually
• Projects include adding a fourth line on the Itarsi–Nagpur section (₹5,451 crore) within the high-density Delhi–Chennai corridor, speeding up both passenger and goods movement
• New lines between Dangoaposi–Jaroli will enhance iron ore transport to steel production units, supporting India’s 300 MT steel output target
• An estimated ₹11,509 crore in logistics cost savings, while connectivity improves for 2,309 villages housing 4.36 million people
• Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, integrating multimodal connectivity across economic zones through coordinated infrastructure planning

Cabinet Approves ₹6,520 Cr for PM Kisan Sampada Yojana in 15th FCC Cycle 🌾

• Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Modi approves a total outlay of ₹6,520 crore, including additional ₹1,920 crore, for Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle (2021–26).
• Allocation includes ₹1,000 crore to establish 50 Multi Product Food Irradiation Units under the ICCVAI component and set up 100 Food Testing Labs with NABL accreditation under the FSQAI scheme.
• An additional ₹920 crore has been earmarked to sanction various ongoing projects under PMKSY’s component schemes during the 15th FCC.
• Both ICCVAI and FSQAI operate on a demand-driven basis, with EOIs floated nationwide to invite proposals from eligible entities, to be approved per existing guidelines.
• The proposed irradiation units are expected to deliver a preservation capacity of 20 to 30 LMT per annum, based on the food product mix processed.
• Launching 100 private-sector NABL-accredited labs aims to build advanced testing infrastructure, ensuring compliance with food safety standards and enhancing the supply of safe foods.

India and UAE Strengthen Defence Ties at 13th JDCC with AI & Naval Security 🤝

• India and UAE reaffirmed commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation at the 13th India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting in New Delhi.
• The session was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UAE’s Under Secretary of Defence Lieutenant General Ibrahim Nasser Alawi, leading a high-level delegation.
• Both sides agreed to enhance military training cooperation, offering customized courses tailored to UAE requirements.
• They committed to boosting naval and maritime security through real-time information sharing across critical waterways.
• Discussions included co-developing next-gen defence technologies, with emphasis on AI applications and joint R&D.
• Collaboration opportunities in shipbuilding, platform refits, upgrades, and maintenance were explored to deepen industrial ties.
• The JDCC outcome aims to match defence ties with growing momentum in trade, investment, and social relations between the two nations.

Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam 2025 Inaugurated to Mark Five Years of NEP 2020 🎓📚

• Inaugurated on 29 July 2025 by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, ABSS 2025 commemorates five years of NEP 2020.
• The conclave convened policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and state ministers to review progress and chart the next phase toward Viksit Bharat 2047.
• Dignitaries paid floral tribute to Dr. K Kasturirangan; Kendriya Vidyalaya students performed; Prime Minister’s message was read by Jayant Chaudhary.
• Department of School Education & Literacy launched a new CBSE regional office in Patna, inaugurated multiple NVS and KVS campuses, and laid the NCERT building foundation.
• Under the PM-JANMAN scheme, 492 PVTG hostels (₹1,234.58 cr) were sanctioned and 75 foundations laid; under DAJGUA, 692 hostels (₹2,512.03 cr) approved with 309 foundations.
• The School Excellence drive identified 613 PM SHRI schools and 22 KVS projects for dedication under NEP’s saturation model.
• Digital tools unleashed include the TARA App for reading-fluency assessment across 1,200 Kendriya Vidyalayas (7 lakh students) and the My Career Advisor App with 1,000+ AI-driven career pathways.
• Introduced the SHVR rating: a five-star evaluation across 60 indicators like water, sanitation, behavior change, and Mission LiFE.
• Department of Higher Education launched a Local Language Proficiency Test Portal (182,480 items in 22 languages) and AI apprenticeships under NATS.

Kavach 4.0 Commissioned on Mathura-Kota Section of Delhi-Mumbai Route 🚆🔒

• Indian Railways has commissioned its indigenously developed train protection system, Kavach 4.0, on the busy Mathura-Kota section of the Delhi-Mumbai route.
• Approval & Standards: Approved by RDSO in July 2024 at SIL-4 safety integrity level, Kavach 4.0 continuously monitors speed and automatically applies brakes to prevent collisions.
• Rapid Deployment: Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the system’s telecom-grade infrastructure—including RFID tags every 1 km, optical fiber, and dedicated towers—was installed in record time.
• System Components: The setup includes Loco Kavach units on locomotives (integrated with braking), Station Kavach controllers, trackside RFID tags, optical-fibre links, and upgraded signalling interfaces.
• Deployment Stats: To date, 5,856 km of optical fibre laid; 619 telecom towers installed; Kavach at 708 stations; 1,107 locomotives equipped; 4,001 RKM of trackside equipment installed.
• Training & Education: Over 30,000 railway personnel trained, and Kavach modules are integrated into BTech curricula at 17 AICTE-approved institutions.
• Future Rollout: Indian Railways aims for nationwide Kavach 4.0 coverage within six years, backed by a ₹1 lakh crore annual safety investment.

SBK Singh Gets Additional Charge as Delhi Police Commissioner After Arora’s Exit 👮‍♂️

• SBK Singh, IPS officer and current Director General of Home Guards, has been given additional charge as Delhi Police Commissioner.
• He replaces Sanjay Arora, who retired on July 31, 2025.
• Singh’s appointment is effective from August 1, 2025, and will continue until further orders.
• The decision was approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs and communicated via an official order.
• Singh is a 1988-batch IPS officer from the AGMUT cadre.
• His previous roles include DGP of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh, and various senior positions in Delhi Police, including Special Commissioner of Intelligence and Security.

IMF Raises India’s FY26 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.4%, Citing Resilience and Global Tailwinds 📈

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s FY26 GDP growth forecast upward to 6.4%, from its earlier estimate of 6.2%.
• The FY27 forecast has also been set at 6.4%, reflecting sustained domestic strength and a more favorable global environment.
• The IMF maintained its FY25 growth estimate at 6.5%, highlighting India’s resilience despite global headwinds.
• The revision comes amid easing financial conditions globally and stronger fiscal support across major economies.
• Risks remain: escalating US tariffs post-August 1 could shrink global output and dampen recovery.
• The Reserve Bank of India had earlier projected 6.7% growth for FY26, later trimming it to 6.5% due to rising trade risks.
• Other forecasts:
• Moody’s and S&P: 6.5%
• Finance Ministry: 6.3–6.8%
• ADB: 6.5% (down from 6.7%)
• India’s growth is being driven by public capital expenditure, with ₹11.21 trillion allocated in the FY26 Union Budget.
• Inflation is easing, with CPI at 2.10% in June, prompting the RBI to cut repo rates by 100 basis points in 2025.
• Fiscal tweaks like GST changes and income tax relief may further boost consumption and investment.

World Athletics Introduces SRY Gene Test for Female Category Eligibility 🧬🏃‍♀️

• Effective 1 September 2025, all athletes entering the female category must undergo a once-in-a-lifetime SRY gene test.
• The test (via cheek swab or blood sample) serves as a reliable proxy for biological sex determination.
• Member Federations will oversee testing ahead of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 (from 13 September).
• World Athletics President Sebastian Coe stated: “Gender cannot trump biology.”
• The new regulations merge previous DSD and Transgender rules and specify that only these athletes may compete in the female category: Biological females, Biological females who used testosterone under a Therapeutic Use Exemption, after a minimum four-year washout period, Biological males with Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome & DSD athletes satisfying transitional provisions.
• Transgender women are not currently competing at elite international level under these rules.
• World Athletics will uphold athlete dignity, privacy, data confidentiality, and will not require any surgical interventions.

July 31, 2025

ICICI Bank to Levy UPI Transaction Fees on Payment Aggregators from August 1 💰

• ICICI Bank will begin charging a transaction handling fee on payment aggregators for UPI transactions from August 1.
• Aggregators with an ICICI Bank escrow account pay 2 basis points per transaction (capped at ₹6).
• Those without an escrow relationship face 4 basis points per transaction (capped at ₹10).
• Merchants using ICICI Bank remain exempt from these charges.
• Fees cover costs payable to the National Payments Corporation of India for routing UPI payments.
• RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that UPI’s long-term sustainability requires stakeholders to bear infrastructure expenses.
• Yes Bank and Axis Bank have already imposed similar aggregator charges over the past 8–10 months.

SEBI Overhauls ESM Framework to Shield Profitable Smallcaps and Curb Speculation 📊

• SEBI overhauled the ESM framework to include valuation-based filters for small and microcaps.
• Applies to companies with market caps below Rs 1,000 crore, sparing financially sound firms from blanket surveillance.
• Only stocks in Stage I with a P/E ratio ≤ 0 or exceeding twice the Nifty 500’s P/E will move to Stage II.
• Stage II brings tighter trading restrictions for stocks exhibiting clear valuation red flags.
• Aims to curb speculative trading without imposing undue compliance burdens on quality smallcaps.
• These changes take effect on July 28.
• Market experts welcome the balanced approach between regulation and genuine growth support.

🚩 IPS Officer Sanjay Singhal Appointed New SSB Director General from Sept 2025

• The Centre appointed Sanjay Singhal, a 1993-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer, as the new Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
• Singhal is currently serving as Special Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF).
• He will assume charge on September 1, 2025, succeeding Amrit Mohan Prasad, who retires on August 31, 2025.
• His tenure will run until December 31, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
• The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet following a proposal from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The SSB is tasked with guarding India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan.

🌐 Bharat Bhatia Elected Vice Chairman of APG-27 Advancing Spectrum Governance

• The ITU-APT Foundation of India (IAFI) President, Bharat Bhatia, has been appointed vice chairman and editorial committee chair of the APG-27, the Conference Preparatory Group for WRC-27.
• His nomination by the APG-27 Chairman was unanimously endorsed by heads of delegation from 30 Asian countries during the plenary session on July 28, 2025.
• The second meeting of APG-27 ran from July 28 to August 1, coordinating Asia-Pacific consensus on 25 spectrum agenda items for the World Radiocommunication Conference-2027.
• Key focus areas include spectrum regulations for 6G and Direct-to-Device satellite services, alongside other critical broadband and connectivity technologies.
• Bhatia described the role as a deep honour reflecting India’s technical excellence, collaborative spirit, and commitment to global spectrum governance.
• APG-27’s resolutions will shape regional proposals at WRC-27, influencing the future of radiocommunication and digital connectivity worldwide.

🌟 M.S. Dhoni Invests in Acko, Becomes Brand Ambassador to Simplify Insurance

• Cricket legend M.S. Dhoni invests in tech-led insurer Acko through his family office, Midas Deals.
• Dhoni joins as the brand ambassador to front Acko’s next wave of marketing campaigns.
• The partnership is built on a shared mission to make motor and health insurance simpler and more intuitive for urban Indians.
• Acko, founded in 2016, has emerged as a leading direct-to-consumer insurer with over 100 million users.
• Dhoni highlights Acko’s tech-first, customer-centric approach for bringing clarity to a traditionally complex industry.
• Founder Varun Dua describes the alliance as “a meeting of mindsets” reflecting trust and innovation.
• The collaboration is set to boost Acko’s visibility and credibility in India’s competitive insurance market.

ACC Approves MTNL CMD Extension for A Robert J Ravi, Ensuring PSU Leadership 📡

• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approves extension of additional charge as CMD of MTNL to A Robert J Ravi.
• Ravi, currently CMD of BSNL, will juggle both roles during this period.
• The extension runs from July 15 to October 14, 2025, or until a new incumbent assumes charge.
• The Department of Telecommunications issued the notification on July 25.
• The move ensures leadership continuity amid strategic transitions at state-run telecom PSUs.
• MTNL is grappling with defaulted bank loans totalling Rs 8,585 crore.

GSL Launches ICGS ATAL: Sixth Indigenous FPV to Enhance Maritime Security 🚢

• Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched ICGS ATAL (Yard 1275), the sixth in a series of eight indigenously designed Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard.
• The 52-metre-long vessel with an 8-metre beam and 320-tonne displacement is built for coastal patrols, island security, offshore asset protection, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations.
• Designed in-house at GSL, these FPVs bolster India’s maritime domain awareness and national security, embodying the spirit of Aatmanirbharta in defence shipbuilding.
• Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman & Managing Director of GSL, hailed the launch as proof of the yard’s commitment to indigenisation, innovation, and excellence despite global supply challenges.
• Shri Rozy Agarwal, Principal Internal Financial Advisor (PIFA) at Coast Guard Headquarters, praised GSL’s execution capabilities and its pivotal role in strengthening national maritime security.
• The launch ceremony at Vasco-da-Gama, Goa, was attended by senior officials from the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence, and key industry partners.

AIFF Okays Benevolence & Pension Funds, Opens Accounts at July Meeting

• The AIFF Finance Committee met on July 29, 2025, to open new bank accounts for two welfare initiatives.
• Creation of the Benevolence Fund to offer one-time medical grants to ex-players, coaches, referees, match officials, support staff, and journalists.
• Initial corpus of ₹7,00,002 raised through AIFF’s ₹5,00,000 contribution and matched personal donations by the President and Vice President.
• Proposal for the Pension Fund to benefit AIFF employees with 20+ years of service who retire at or after age 60.
• A dedicated committee—comprising Finance, Medical, Technical, and Treasurer’s office members—will review all applications.
• Reviewed the 2024-25 financial accounts and forwarded them for statutory audit.
• Drafted a new procurement policy, to be submitted to the Executive Committee for final approval.

Former ICAI President and Padma Shri T N Manoharan Dies Suddenly in Mumbai

• T N Manoharan, past head of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), passed away on July 30, 2025, in Mumbai due to a heart attack.
• Ex-MP Suresh Prabhu announced the news on X, lauding Manoharan’s integrity and national contributions.
• ICAI member Dinesh Wagerah expressed condolences, highlighting Manoharan’s influence on the chartered accountancy fraternity.
• Served as ICAI President in 2006–07 and chaired its Accounting Research Foundation and the CII’s National Committee on Accounting Standards.
• Held key roles on the IRDAI Board and advisory committees for the RBI, SEBI, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, CAG, and Central Board of Direct Taxes.
• Honored with the Padma Shri in 2010 for his distinguished service to the profession and the nation.

Maharashtra to Mark Aug 7 as Sustainable Agriculture Day for Dr. Swaminathan 🌾

• Maharashtra government declares August 7 annually as Sustainable Agriculture Day to honour the birth centenary of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan.
• State Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate announced the decision as a tribute to Swaminathan’s pivotal role in India’s Green Revolution.
• Swaminathan’s research boosting wheat and rice productivity helped India achieve food self-sufficiency and economic stability.
• Government of India awarded him the Bharat Ratna in 2024, and the United Nations hailed him as the “father of the economic environment.”
• Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Bio-Happiness Centres will be set up at all state agricultural universities to advance sustainable-farming research.
• Plans include statewide seminars, farmer-interaction events, and awards to commemorate his legacy and promote climate-resilient agriculture.

Maharashtra Declares August 7 as Sustainable Agriculture Day Honouring Dr. Swaminathan 🌱

• Maharashtra government designates August 7 as Sustainable Agriculture Day annually.
• Celebration marks the birth centenary of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, architect of India’s Green Revolution.
• Establishment of Bio-Happiness Centres at all state agricultural universities for cutting-edge research.
• Plans include statewide seminars, farmer-interaction events, and prestigious legacy awards.
• Dr. Swaminathan was awarded the Bharat Ratna 2024 and hailed as a global environmental pioneer.
• Initiative aims to advance climate-resilient farming and strengthen national food security.

Grassland Bird Census in Kaziranga Leverages Acoustic Monitoring for Species 🎧

• Between March 18 and May 25, the first-ever grassland bird census was carried out in Kaziranga National Park by forest officials, scientists, and conservationists.
• The survey relied on passive acoustic monitoring, placing recording devices near grasslands during the birds’ breeding season to capture elusive calls.
• Researchers recorded 43 species, including one Critically Endangered, two Endangered, and six Vulnerable birds on the IUCN Red List.
• The project targeted 10 flagship species such as Finn’s Weaver, Bengal Florican, and Black-breasted Parrotbill endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplains.
• Audio data were processed using Birdnet AI and spectrograms to identify species by their unique songs.
• Surveyors discovered over 85 nests of the endangered Finn’s Weaver, revealing previously unknown breeding sites in the park.
• Findings underscore threats from habitat loss, overgrazing, and climate change, alongside natural ecological succession reducing grassland cover.

July 30, 2025

🌏 Empowering India’s Climate Resilience: MoES Unveils 14 New Tools & Services

• 🏛️ At the 19th Foundation Day, Dr. Jitendra Singh showcased the Ministry’s decade-long transformation into a citizen-centric science hub.
• 📲 New mobile-friendly services include live weather alerts, cyclone warnings, air-quality updates, and ocean forecasts for all.
• 🛠️ Fourteen major launches cover rainfall monitoring & crop calendars, Bharat Forecast System – Extended Range Prediction, high-res rainfall datasets, updated wave atlases & seabed charts, air-quality forecasting, marine biodiversity reports, and city-wise seismic microzonation.
• 🎥 The India Meteorological Department released the documentary “Life Saving Impact”, highlighting real-world benefits of these tools.
• 🌐 Infrastructure has surged: Doppler radars rose from 15 to 41, while seismic/weather stations, upper-air systems, lightning networks, and rain gauges more than doubled.
• ⏱️ Earthquake alerts now reach the public within 2–3 minutes; high demand briefly crashed servers during a recent Delhi tremor.
• 🌪️ Cyclone forecasting lead times extended to 10 days, drastically reducing casualties compared to the 1999 Odisha super-cyclone.
• 🚜 Over 700,000 farmers use the Meghdoot app for sowing, irrigation, and harvest advice; fishermen get daily SMS on safe, fuel-efficient zones.
• 🚰 Lakshadweep’s six OTEC desalination plants now deliver 150,000 L of potable water daily, ending centuries-long freshwater scarcity.
• 🌊 The Deep Ocean Mission (Samudrayaan) is positioned as India’s underwater counterpart to the Gaganyaan space mission.
• 💰 Ministry budget jumped from ₹1,281 cr (2014) to ₹3,658 cr (2024), funding advanced research and ambitious projects.
• 🤝 Emphasis on clearer communication and inter-ministerial coordination to boost public awareness of science-driven services.

₹400 Cr Defence Testing Facility in TN 🚀🔧

• 🖋️ MoD and TIDCO signed an MoU to build a state-of-the-art Mechanical & Material testing facility in Tiruchirappalli under DTIS.
• 💸 The Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme offers 75% government grant-in-aid; the remaining 25% is funded by an SPV led by Micro Labs, with TIDCO, BEML, HAL & Vaidheswaran Industries.
• 🔬 Once complete, the facility will deliver advanced testing equipment and services for both public and private defence sectors, boosting Aatmanirbharta in indigenous production.
• 📈 With an outlay of ₹400 crore, DTIS was launched by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh to reduce defence imports through collaboration between industry and government.
• 🏭 Seven DTIS facilities approved across Defence Industrial Corridors—four in Tamil Nadu and three in Uttar Pradesh—to propel defence and aerospace growth.

AI-Driven Road Safety Rollout in UP 🚦🤖

• 🚀 Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Uttar Pradesh’s AI-powered Road Safety pilot project, confirming compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, without any financial liability for the Centre.
• 💸 The state government allocated ₹10 crore in this year’s budget, executed at zero cost by ITI Limited in partnership with mLogica.
• 🔍 The proof-of-concept phase will run for six weeks, integrating data on accident reports, weather patterns, vehicle telematics, driver profiles, and road infrastructure to train AI models.
• 🎯 Objectives include identifying root causes of accidents, predicting black spots, and developing real-time policy dashboards to guide scientific enforcement and enhance service transparency.
• 🔒 Continuous audits will monitor data privacy, legal compliance, and cybersecurity standards, with a detailed report submitted to MoRTH upon completion.
• 📈 Upon success, the AI engine will scale to core transport services like faceless licence and permit systems, e-challan, Vahan-Sarathi, and revenue collection, enabling automated decision-making, fraud detection, and predictive violation monitoring.
• 🌐 By extending AI beyond road safety, Uttar Pradesh aims to become a national pioneer in data-driven governance, offering transparent, swift, and scientific transport services for all citizens

LIC’s $1 B Hedge Deal with Wall Street 💰🤝

• 🛡️ Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) entered $1 billion in bond forward rate agreements (FRAs) with JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Bank of America Corp. to hedge its liabilities.
• 📈 LIC’s recent FRA trades account for 38% of the $2.6 billion total volume since May on the Clearing Corp. of India, highlighting India’s market sophistication.
• 💡 Forward rate agreements let LIC lock in future bond yields, shielding its income from falling interest rates, while banks assume bond price risk for a premium.
• 📊 To offset this risk, Wall Street banks buy long-term government bonds, boosting demand and driving record bid-to-cover ratios at recent auctions.
• 🌐 This marks LIC’s deeper foray into the bond derivatives market, reflecting the evolution of India’s financial ecosystem and growing appetite for diverse hedging instruments.
• 🤫 LIC and its counterparties declined to comment, underscoring the insurer’s $630 billion asset base and its push toward advanced risk management.

Digital Payment Revolution: Worldline & Cosmos Bank 🤝💳

• 🏦 Worldline partnered with Cosmos Co-operative Bank Ltd., one of India’s oldest urban co-operative banks, to drive next-gen digital payment solutions.
• ⚙️ The collaboration equips Cosmos Bank with a future-ready digital payment stack, tackling legacy systems and reaching underserved segments.
• 💳 Core offerings include integrated payment acceptance solutions, tailored payment & non-payment use cases, and 360-degree data analytics for real-time portfolio health.
• 📈 Focus on scalability and operational efficiency, with a suite of value-added services (VAS) and a dedicated sales, relationship & service team.
• 🤝 Sheik Mohideen of Worldline and Arti Dhole of Cosmos Bank emphasized a shared vision of innovation, financial inclusion, and customer-centric growth.
• 🌐 This alliance paves the way for a resilient, future-ready banking ecosystem, serving over 20 lakh customers across 183 branches in 7 states.
• 💡 With 26 years in India and €4.6 billion revenue (2024), Worldline solidifies its role as a global payments leader, powering over 1 million businesses worldwide.

Digital Payments Surge to 493.22 in March 2025 🚀💳

• 🚀 RBI-DPI surged to 493.22 in March 2025, up from 465.33 in September 2024, marking robust digital payment growth.
• 📜 The Digital Payments Index has been published semi-annually since January 2021, with its base period in March 2018 set at 100.
• 🔢 Since inception, the DPI has climbed nearly fivefold, from 153.47 in March 2019 to 493.22 in March 2025.
• 🛠️ Key drivers include enhanced payment infrastructure, wider merchant acceptance, QR code adoption, and the booming UPI ecosystem.
• 🌐 Digital India initiatives, increased smartphone penetration, and fintech innovations have accelerated uptake across urban and rural regions.
• 🗓️ Semi-annual updates in March and September capture the extent of digitisation in India’s payment systems.
• 📊 The DPI comprises five parameters: Payment enablers (25%), Demand-side infrastructure (10%), Supply-side infrastructure (10%), Payment performance (45%), and Consumer centricity (5%).
• 🔮 The index serves as a policy benchmark, reinforcing India’s standing as a global leader in digital payments.

PEN Translates Honour for ‘Once Elephants Lived Here’ 📖🏆

• 🏆 Geetanjali Shree, International Booker Prize–winning Hindi author, wins the PEN Translates award for her novel ‘Once Elephants Lived Here’.
• 📚 The book was translated from Hindi to English by acclaimed translator Daisy Rockwell.
• 🌐 English PEN chose 14 titles in 13 languages from 11 regions as part of its PEN Translates x SALT collaboration.
• 📖 Among other winners is ‘Eyes, Eyes, Eyes’ by Pakistani poet Sara Shagufta, translated from Urdu by Javeria Hasnain.
• 🎉 This accolade underscores the rising international recognition of Indian literature in translation.

Divya Deshmukh’s Historic Tiebreak Triumph 🏆

• 🧒 19-year-old International Master Divya Deshmukh from Nagpur defeated GM Humpy Koneru 1.5–0.5 in two rapid tiebreak games to claim the 2025 Women’s World Cup title.
• 👑 She becomes the third-ever Women’s World Cup Champion, following in the footsteps of Alexandra Kosteniuk (2021) and Aleksandra Goryachkina (2023).
• ⏱️ Demonstrated resilience and precision: after a drawn first tiebreak, she seized control in the second when her opponent slipped under time pressure, clinching the crown.
• 💰 Earned the USD 50,000 first prize and automatically secured the Grandmaster (GM) title, one of the few players to do so via a single FIDE event rather than the usual norms and 2500 rating.
• 🎟️ With this victory, she also qualifies for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, alongside Humpy Koneru and former champion Tan Zhongyi.

Food Security Under Fire: Tackling Global Nutrition in 2025 🌍🍽️

• 🌍 Annual global monitoring report for SDG 2 (targets 2.1 & 2.2)
• 📊 Latest data on hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, plus new estimates on healthy diet affordability
• 🌾 Major drivers include economic shocks, extreme weather events, the COVID-19 pandemic, and conflict
• 💸 Food price inflation has slowed recovery; this edition examines its impact across food groups and diet affordability
• 🛡️ Country policy analyses highlight successful interventions that mitigate inflation’s impact on food security and nutrition
• 🌐 Regional disparities persist, underscoring the need for resilience-building through sustained investments and strong policy coordination
• 🔧 Key recommendations: increase transparency, prioritize nutritious diets, and pursue ongoing institutional innovation

ERP Revolutionizes PACS: ₹2,925 Crore Digital Overhaul 💻🌾

• 💰 ₹2,925.39 crore project to computerize 73,492 PACS under the Ministry of Cooperation.
• 🌐 Deployment of ERP-based common national software, linking Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) with NABARD, StCBs, and DCCBs.
• 🔄 Software captures both credit and non-credit functionalities, fully customizable for state-specific needs.
• 🏗️ Multi-layered governance via NLMIC, SLIMC, DLIMC, SCDC, and DCDC to ensure ongoing monitoring and coordination.
• ⚙️ Core features include a Common Accounting System (CAS), Management Information System (MIS), membership management, financial services, procurement, PDS, warehousing, and HR management.
• 👨‍🌾 NABARD-led training and handholding empowers small and marginal farmers, including those digitally illiterate.
• 🔗 Integration with national platforms—PMKSK, CSCs, PMBJK, Kisan Rin Portal, RuPay, and KCC—for seamless financial transactions.
• 🤝 PACS evolve into multi-service hubs, delivering agri schemes, fertilizer & seed distribution, LPG outlets, custom hiring, and more.

ISRO-NASA NISAR Satellite Launch LIVE: All-Weather Earth Observation Mission 🚀🌍

• 🚀 GSLV-F16 rocket set to lift off from Sriharikota at 5:40 PM IST carrying the NISAR satellite.
• 🛰️ NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) weighs 2,392 kg and will enter a 743 km sun-synchronous orbit.
• 🌐 Delivers all-weather, day-night scanning every 12 days, producing high-resolution data for disaster management, land deformation, and ecosystem monitoring.
• 🤝 First joint satellite mission between ISRO and NASA, marking one of the costliest and most advanced Earth-observation collaborations.
• ⏱️ Countdown began on July 29, 2025, with orbital injection expected 19 minutes post-lift-off.
• 👨‍🔬 Experts call it a historic collaboration, set to generate a massive daily data stream for scientists, policymakers, and disaster managers.
• 🌊 Applications span ice-sheet monitoring, agriculture health, flood forecasting, volcano tracking, and oceanography.
• 🎯 Underscores India’s rise as a global space partner, showcasing homegrown launch prowess and international scientific synergy.

650% Surge: Govt Considers Raising EPS-95 Minimum Pension from ₹1,000 to ₹7,500

• 🎯 Pensioners, unions, and public representatives demand a 650% hike in the minimum pension under EPS-95, boosting it from ₹1,000 to ₹7,500.
• 🏛️ On July 24, 2025, the Ministry of Labour & Employment informed the Rajya Sabha it has received multiple representations to revise the minimum monthly pension under EPS-95.
• 📑 EPS-95 operates as a Defined Contribution–Defined Benefit social security scheme, funded by 8.33% employer and 1.16% government contributions, but an actuarial deficit was recorded as of March 31, 2019.
• 💸 Despite the shortfall, the government continues to maintain the ₹1,000 minimum pension via extra budgetary support, over and above statutory contributions.
• 📈 Stakeholders argue a higher pension is essential to keep pace with inflation, rising medical costs, and living expenses, after even a proposal for ₹2,000 was previously rejected.
• ⚖️ Any final decision must weigh actuarial valuations, corpus health, and fiscal constraints, with speculation on timing around Diwali or the 2026 general elections.
• 👵👴 If approved, the enhanced minimum pension could uplift over 75 lakh EPS-95 pensioners, strengthening their financial security in retirement.

UPI Rules Overhauled: Caps on Balance Checks and Scheduled Payments from August 1

• NPCI will implement new rules on UPI starting August 1, 2025 to enhance transaction stability and efficiency.
• Users can check their bank balance only 50 times per day on each UPI app to reduce API load during peak hours.
• After every successful UPI transaction, the available account balance will be displayed regardless of balance-check limits.
• Scheduled auto-payments to merchants, OTT subscriptions, EMIs, and mutual fund investments must process during off-peak hours—before 10 am or after 9:30 pm to ease daytime traffic.
• Retrieving linked bank account details by mobile number will be limited to 25 attempts per day per user.
• Status checks for pending transactions are capped at three attempts per transaction, with a mandatory 90-second gap between each inquiry.

PSU Bank QIPs: Merchant Bankers Hunt for Foreign Funds in ₹20,000 Crore Drive

• Merchant bankers for five PSU banks have been tasked by DIPAM to rope in foreign investors during domestic and overseas roadshows, targeting a ₹20,000 crore raise through QIPs.
• The banks involved are Bank of Maharashtra, Indian Overseas Bank, UCO Bank, Central Bank of India, and Punjab & Sind Bank, aiming to shrink government stake and broaden the shareholder base.
• Under the Banking Regulation Act, foreign portfolio investment in PSU banks is capped at 20%, while the government must retain at least a 51% stake.
• As of June 30, 2025, FPIs hold 1.89% in BoM, 0.08% in IOB, 0.13% in UCO Bank, 0.97% in Central Bank of India, and 0.25% in Punjab & Sind Bank, indicating ample headroom for foreign inflows.
• Bank of Maharashtra stands out as a turnaround story, trading at a 1.28× price-to-book ratio with NIM of 3.95%, ROA of 1.80%, and ROE of 23%—on par with mid-sized private banks.
• Merchant bankers will also solicit investor feedback on governance and operational improvements to boost the appeal of PSU banks to both domestic and foreign buyers.
• The success of SBI’s ₹25,000 crore QIP—oversubscribed 4.5× with 64.3% foreign participation—has set lofty expectations for these smaller bank fundraises.
• Alongside QIPs, the government plans partial divestment via Offer for Sale (OFS) in these five banks as part of its broader disinvestment strategy.

Schneider Electric to Buy Temasek’s 35% India Stake for €5.5 B, Securing Full Ownership

• 💼 Schneider Electric will acquire Temasek’s 35% stake in its Indian joint venture for €5.5 billion ($6.4 billion).
• 🎯 This deal grants full ownership of Schneider Electric India, its third-largest market and a key node in its multi-hub strategy.
• 🏭 India serves as one of the company’s four global hubs, featuring 31 factories and 31 distribution centres.
• 🚀 Plans call for capacity expansion by 2.5–3×, targeting double-digit organic sales growth on a CAGR basis.
• 💶 In 2024, Indian revenues hit €2.5 billion, representing 7% of group sales.
• 🤝 Schneider initially bought 65% from L&T in 2020, marking its largest India acquisition to date.
• 🔍 Full control aims to streamline decision-making and accelerate domestic growth in a high-potential market.

PM Kisan 20th Installment of ₹2,000 to Be Released on August 2, 2025

• 📅 Release Date: PM Modi will disburse the 20th installment of ₹2,000 under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme on August 2, 2025, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
• 👨‍🌾 Beneficiaries: Over 9.7 crore eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each.
• 🛑 Compliance Requirements: Farmers must complete Aadhaar-based payment, e-KYC, and land seeding or face suspension until they fulfill these criteria.
• 🔍 Check Status: Visit pmkisan.gov.in, click “Know Your Status”, and enter your registration number or Aadhaar number to verify eligibility.
• 📱 e-KYC Methods: Complete OTP-based, biometric, or facial authentication e-KYC—mandatory for all beneficiaries to avoid payment failure.
• 🆕 New Registration: New farmers can register at pmkisan.gov.in by entering their Aadhaar number, filling out the form, and submitting for approval.

Australia to Restrict YouTube for Under-16s to Shield Kids from Predatory Algorithms

•  Australian ban bars under-16s from YouTube, aiming to curb predatory algorithms.
• 🤳 Builds on last year’s prohibition of Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and X from December 10.
• 🗣️ Prime Minister Anthony Albanese vows to protect young people from social media harm.
• 📊 Communications Minister Anika Wells reveals 40% of children have encountered harmful content on YouTube.
• 🚫 Under-16s prohibited from holding accounts on major platforms—parents assured of government support.
• 💰 Platforms face an A$49.5 million fine if they fail to block underage users under the new rules.
• 📹 YouTube labels itself “a video-sharing platform,” calling the move a jarring U-turn by the government.

India-born Shailesh Jejurikar to Lead Procter & Gamble as CEO from January 2026 🚀

• 🔔 Shailesh Jejurikar will replace Jon Moeller as President and CEO of Procter & Gamble, effective January 1, 2026.
• 🏷️ Joined P&G in 1989 as an assistant brand manager, rising through multiple leadership roles over 35+ years.
• ⚙️ Serving as Chief Operating Officer for the past six years and also a board member of Otis Elevator Co..
• 🌐 Helped build P&G’s global Fabric Care and Home Care businesses across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
• 🏭 P&G’s India portfolio features brands like Ariel, Tide, Whisper, Olay, and Gillette.
• 🎓 An IIM Lucknow alumnus, Jejurikar joins an elite league of India-born executives leading global giants.
• 👑 The Board has nominated him for election as a Director at the October 2025 annual shareholders’ meeting.