{"id":172461,"date":"2025-09-06T07:06:32","date_gmt":"2025-09-06T01:36:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.practicemock.com\/blog\/?p=172461"},"modified":"2025-09-06T07:06:34","modified_gmt":"2025-09-06T01:36:34","slug":"current-affairs-today-august-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.practicemock.com\/blog\/current-affairs-today-august-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Affairs Today: August 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.practicemock.com\/?ref=13837\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Take Free Mocks of Government\/ Banking Exams<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 22, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UIDAI Onboards Starlink for Aadhaar Authentication \ud83d\udce1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>UIDAI<\/strong>&nbsp;has officially onboarded&nbsp;<strong>Starlink Satellite Communication<\/strong>&nbsp;for customer verification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aadhaar e-KYC<\/strong>&nbsp;will facilitate seamless user onboarding with regulatory compliance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Process will be&nbsp;<strong>voluntary<\/strong>&nbsp;and ensure paperless, secure customer verification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Demonstrates India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>digital infrastructure scalability<\/strong>&nbsp;for global satellite providers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IEPFA Launches Three Niveshak Seva Kendras in Hyderabad \ud83d\udcbc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority<\/strong>&nbsp;opened three centers in&nbsp;<strong>Hyderabad<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Services include&nbsp;<strong>direct facilitation<\/strong>&nbsp;of unpaid dividend transfers and&nbsp;<strong>KYC updates<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers operational from&nbsp;<strong>10:00 AM to 4:00 PM<\/strong>&nbsp;starting August 16, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Two additional centers<\/strong>&nbsp;planned to strengthen investor services in the region<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Locations include&nbsp;<strong>KFin Technologies<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>BSE Hyderabad Office<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>NSE office<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BVFCL Signs Five-Year Fertilizer Export Deal with Bhutan \ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bharat Coking Coal Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;signed agreement with&nbsp;<strong>Bhutan\u2019s National Seed Centre<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will supply&nbsp;<strong>Urea, Suphala (NPK), SSP, MOP, and Borax<\/strong>&nbsp;to support food security<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreement signed on&nbsp;<strong>August 18 at Siliguri<\/strong>&nbsp;with dignitaries from both nations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reflects BVFCL\u2019s commitment to&nbsp;<strong>regional cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;and agricultural development<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EPFO Increases Death Relief Fund to \u20b915 Lakh \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ex-gratia amount<\/strong>&nbsp;under Death Relief Fund increased from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b98.8 lakh to \u20b915 lakh<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Effective from&nbsp;<strong>April 1, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;for deceased employees\u2019 families<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>5% annual increase<\/strong>&nbsp;starting April 1, 2026 to support growing financial needs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decision approved by&nbsp;<strong>Central Provident Fund Commissioner<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 19, 2025<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India-Eurasian Economic Union FTA Terms Signed \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Terms of Reference signed<\/strong>&nbsp;to launch&nbsp;<strong>Free Trade Agreement negotiations<\/strong>&nbsp;with EAEU<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>EAEU includes&nbsp;<strong>Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and Russian Federation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Current trade turnover stands at&nbsp;<strong>USD 69 billion in 2024<\/strong>&nbsp;(7% increase from 2023)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Combined GDP of&nbsp;<strong>USD 6.5 trillion<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to benefit MSMEs significantly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AU SFB Launches UPI for NRE\/NRO International Accounts \ud83d\udcb3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>AU Small Finance Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;launched&nbsp;<strong>UPI services<\/strong>&nbsp;for NRE\/NRO account holders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Covers&nbsp;<strong>12 countries<\/strong>&nbsp;including Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, UAE, UK, USA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NRIs can now&nbsp;<strong>link accounts to UPI<\/strong>&nbsp;without Indian SIM card<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follows&nbsp;<strong>NPCI directive<\/strong>&nbsp;allowing UPI transactions through international mobile numbers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thomas Cook Partners with Mastercard for Forex Card Payments \ud83d\udcb8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Partnership enables&nbsp;<strong>contactless payments<\/strong>&nbsp;on forex cards via&nbsp;<strong>Google Pay<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances digital payment solutions for international travelers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthens Thomas Cook\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>fintech capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;in travel payment solutions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India\u2019s GDP Growth Projected at 6.7% in Q1 FY26 \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ICRA estimates<\/strong>&nbsp;GDP growth at&nbsp;<strong>6.7%<\/strong>&nbsp;in Q1 FY2026, higher than&nbsp;<strong>RBI\u2019s 6.5%<\/strong>&nbsp;target<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Services sector<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to reach&nbsp;<strong>8.3%<\/strong>&nbsp;growth (eight-quarter high)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industrial growth<\/strong>&nbsp;estimated at&nbsp;<strong>4.0%<\/strong>&nbsp;while agriculture projected at&nbsp;<strong>4.5%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Government capital expenditure<\/strong>&nbsp;surged&nbsp;<strong>52.0%<\/strong>&nbsp;year-on-year to \u20b92.8 trillion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MOL, Suzuki, TradeWaltz Sign India-Africa Auto Trade MoU \ud83d\ude97<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Memorandum of Understanding<\/strong>&nbsp;signed during&nbsp;<strong>TICAD 9 in Yokohama<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>digitalisation, decarbonisation<\/strong>, and sustainable supply chain development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to establish&nbsp;<strong>robust automobile trade corridor<\/strong>&nbsp;between India and Africa<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>MOL<\/strong>&nbsp;provides logistics,&nbsp;<strong>Suzuki<\/strong>&nbsp;brings production expertise,&nbsp;<strong>TradeWaltz<\/strong>&nbsp;offers blockchain platform<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IRFC Sanctions \u20b9200 Crore for Surat Transport Hub \ud83d\ude87<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Railway Finance Corporation<\/strong>&nbsp;approved loan for&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first multi-modal transport hub<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Surat MMTH<\/strong>&nbsp;will integrate rail, metro, BRTS, buses, and intermediate transport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Joint venture between&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Railways<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Government of Gujarat<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IRFC shares ended&nbsp;<strong>1.56% higher<\/strong>&nbsp;at \u20b9126.80 on BSE<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EIL Partners with NPCIL for Small Modular Reactor Development \u269b\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Engineers India Ltd<\/strong>&nbsp;signed MoU with&nbsp;<strong>Nuclear Power Corporation of India<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership for&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR)<\/strong>&nbsp;development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports&nbsp;<strong>Nuclear Energy Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;targeting&nbsp;<strong>100 GW capacity by 2047<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreement executed on&nbsp;<strong>August 12<\/strong>&nbsp;at NPCIL Mumbai office<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-5 Ballistic Missile \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nuclear-capable IRBM<\/strong>&nbsp;test-fired from&nbsp;<strong>Chandipur, Odisha<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 20, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Range over 5,000 km<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>MIRV capability<\/strong>&nbsp;for multiple warheads<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pakistan expresses concerns through&nbsp;<strong>Strategic Vision Institute<\/strong>&nbsp;warnings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthens India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>credible minimum deterrence posture<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NASA Launches Surya AI Model for Solar Weather Prediction \ud83c\udf1e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Surya Heliophysics Foundational Model<\/strong>&nbsp;trained on&nbsp;<strong>9 years<\/strong>&nbsp;of solar data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Predicts&nbsp;<strong>solar flares up to 2 hours<\/strong>&nbsp;in advance with&nbsp;<strong>16% better accuracy<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Model and code made&nbsp;<strong>publicly available<\/strong>&nbsp;on HuggingFace and GitHub<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developed with&nbsp;<strong>IBM<\/strong>&nbsp;and supported by&nbsp;<strong>NSF\u2019s NAIRR Pilot<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jalalabad Renamed as Parshurampuri in UP \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Home Ministry approval<\/strong>&nbsp;received for name change in&nbsp;<strong>Shahjahanpur district<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Union Minister Jitin Prasada<\/strong>&nbsp;expressed gratitude to&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>CM Yogi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decision brings&nbsp;<strong>honor to Sanatani society<\/strong>&nbsp;and devotees of&nbsp;<strong>Lord Parshuram<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Framework for Cooperative Banks \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>New framework covers&nbsp;<strong>34 State Cooperative Banks<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>352 District Central Cooperative Banks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State Cooperative Banks<\/strong>&nbsp;registered as&nbsp;<strong>Authentication User Agencies<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Biometric eKYC<\/strong>&nbsp;and face authentication to enhance rural banking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports&nbsp;<strong>digital inclusion<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>last-mile banking<\/strong>&nbsp;services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SBI Projects India\u2019s FY26 GDP Growth at 6.3% \ud83d\udcca<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SBI Research<\/strong>&nbsp;estimates growth at&nbsp;<strong>6.3%<\/strong>, slightly below&nbsp;<strong>RBI\u2019s 6.5%<\/strong>&nbsp;forecast<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Q1 GDP growth<\/strong>&nbsp;estimated at&nbsp;<strong>6.8-7%<\/strong>&nbsp;despite subdued private capex<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bank loan growth<\/strong>&nbsp;slowed to&nbsp;<strong>10%<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>13.7%<\/strong>&nbsp;year earlier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SME lending<\/strong>&nbsp;rose&nbsp;<strong>21.8%<\/strong>&nbsp;year-on-year, higher than&nbsp;<strong>14.2%<\/strong>&nbsp;previously<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AURIC Approves New Industrial Land Allotments \ud83c\udfed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area<\/strong>&nbsp;approved plots worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9200+ crore investment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects expected to create approximately&nbsp;<strong>1,000 jobs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mega Project status<\/strong>&nbsp;granted to specialty food and electronics companies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zero-discharge facilities<\/strong>&nbsp;planned to minimize environmental impact<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government Boosts Semiconductor Design with DLI Scheme \ud83d\udcbe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>23 chip-design projects<\/strong>&nbsp;sanctioned under&nbsp;<strong>Design Linked Incentive Scheme<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>72 companies<\/strong>&nbsp;gained access to&nbsp;<strong>Electronic Design Automation tools<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vervesemi Microelectronics<\/strong>&nbsp;announces advanced IC portfolio for&nbsp;<strong>2026-2027<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>space, defense, industrial<\/strong>, and smart energy applications<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">National Consumer Helpline Facilitates \u20b92.72 Crore Refunds \ud83d\udcde<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>NCH<\/strong>&nbsp;resolved&nbsp;<strong>7,256 consumer grievances<\/strong>&nbsp;across 27 sectors in July 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E-commerce sector<\/strong>&nbsp;led with&nbsp;<strong>3,594 cases<\/strong>&nbsp;worth \u20b91.34 crore refunds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Call volumes<\/strong>&nbsp;increased tenfold from&nbsp;<strong>12,553 to 1,55,138<\/strong>&nbsp;(Dec 2015-2024)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>WhatsApp grievances<\/strong>&nbsp;rose from&nbsp;<strong>3% to 20%<\/strong>&nbsp;(March 2023-2025)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Appoints New MPC Member \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indranil Bhattacharyya<\/strong>&nbsp;appointed as&nbsp;<strong>ex-officio MPC member<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Replaces&nbsp;<strong>Rajiv Ranjan<\/strong>&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;<strong>October policy meeting<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>28+ years<\/strong>&nbsp;central banking experience with&nbsp;<strong>monetary policy expertise<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will participate in&nbsp;<strong>September 29-October 1<\/strong>&nbsp;MPC meeting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 PM Modi Launches \u20b913,000 Crore Development Projects in Bihar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Multi-district tour<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;visits&nbsp;<strong>Gaya, Patna, Begusarai<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurating&nbsp;<strong>development projects<\/strong>&nbsp;worth over&nbsp;<strong>\u20b913,000 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Power infrastructure<\/strong>: Inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>660 MW Buxar Thermal Power Plant<\/strong>&nbsp;costing&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,880 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance&nbsp;<strong>energy security<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthcare milestone<\/strong>: Opens&nbsp;<strong>Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Muzaffarpur<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>advanced oncology facilities<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>24-bed ICU<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transport connectivity<\/strong>: Inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>8.15 km Aunta-Simaria bridge<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>1.86 km six-lane Ganga bridge<\/strong>&nbsp;worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,870 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Railway boost<\/strong>: Flags off&nbsp;<strong>Amrit Bharat Express<\/strong>&nbsp;(Gaya-Delhi) and&nbsp;<strong>Buddhist Circuit Train<\/strong>&nbsp;(Vaishali-Koderma)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 GoM Approves GST Simplification: Move to 5% and 18% Slabs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic reform<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Group of Ministers<\/strong>&nbsp;unanimously accepts&nbsp;<strong>Centre\u2019s proposal<\/strong>&nbsp;to scrap&nbsp;<strong>12% and 28% GST slabs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplified structure<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>99% items<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>12% slab<\/strong>&nbsp;move to&nbsp;<strong>5%<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>90% items<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>28%<\/strong>&nbsp;shift to&nbsp;<strong>18%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Special category<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>40% slab<\/strong>&nbsp;retained for&nbsp;<strong>sin goods<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>ultra-luxury items<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>luxury cars<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Health insurance relief<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>GoM recommends<\/strong>&nbsp;exemption from&nbsp;<strong>GST on health and life insurance<\/strong>&nbsp;premiums<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GST Council decision<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Final approval<\/strong>&nbsp;awaited from&nbsp;<strong>GST Council<\/strong>&nbsp;meeting expected in&nbsp;<strong>early September<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfae Parliament Passes Online Gaming Bill 2025 Amid Opposition Protests<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Digital regulation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha<\/strong>&nbsp;pass&nbsp;<strong>Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Money-based ban<\/strong>: Prohibits&nbsp;<strong>operating, facilitating, advertising<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>money-based online games<\/strong>&nbsp;like&nbsp;<strong>Dream11<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strict penalties<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>2 years imprisonment<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>\u20b950 lakh fine<\/strong>&nbsp;for violations with&nbsp;<strong>dedicated regulatory authority<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consumer protection<\/strong>: Addresses&nbsp;<strong>gambling addiction<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>money laundering<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>financial fraud<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>gaming sector<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Presidential assent<\/strong>: Bill becomes&nbsp;<strong>law<\/strong>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<strong>President\u2019s signature<\/strong>&nbsp;completing&nbsp;<strong>legislative process<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed Eight Core Industries Growth at 2% in July 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Industrial performance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Combined Index<\/strong>&nbsp;shows&nbsp;<strong>2.0% growth<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>July 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;<strong>July 2024<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Positive sectors<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Steel (+12.8%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Cement (+11.7%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Fertilizer (+2.0%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Electricity (+0.5%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Declining sectors<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Coal (-12.3%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Natural Gas (-3.2%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Crude Oil (-1.3%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Refinery Products (-1.0%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cumulative growth<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>April-July 2025-26<\/strong>&nbsp;records&nbsp;<strong>1.6% growth<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>corresponding period<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IIP significance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Eight core industries<\/strong>&nbsp;constitute&nbsp;<strong>40.27% weight<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Industrial Production Index<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude87 PM Modi to Inaugurate Kolkata Metro Extensions Worth \u20b95,200 Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Metro expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>three new metro stretches<\/strong>&nbsp;adding&nbsp;<strong>13.62 km<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Kolkata network<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Route details<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Sealdah-Esplanade (2.45 km)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Noapara-Jai Hind Bimanbandar (6.77 km)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Hemanta Mukhopadhyay-Beleghata (4.39 km)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Elevated corridor<\/strong>: Foundation stone for&nbsp;<strong>7.2 km Kona Expressway<\/strong>&nbsp;project worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,200 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Connectivity boost<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Improved transport<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>Howrah-Kolkata<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>airport connectivity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bengal development<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,200 crore projects<\/strong>&nbsp;complement&nbsp;<strong>Bihar initiatives<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>eastern development<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0f International Updates: US-China Relations and Middle East Tensions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Boeing-China talks<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Boeing<\/strong>&nbsp;in negotiations to sell&nbsp;<strong>up to 500 jets<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>China<\/strong>&nbsp;worth billions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>US-EU trade<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Trade deal locked<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>auto tariff relief<\/strong>&nbsp;expected in&nbsp;<strong>coming weeks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gaza conflict<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Palestinians flee Gaza City<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Israel begins assault<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>60,000 reservists<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ukraine war<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Russia launches fresh strikes<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>western Ukraine<\/strong>&nbsp;amid&nbsp;<strong>ongoing conflict<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tibet visit<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/strong>&nbsp;makes&nbsp;<strong>rare visit<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Tibet<\/strong>&nbsp;marking&nbsp;<strong>60 years Chinese rule<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 21, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc8 Centum Electronics-BEL Strategic Partnership Boosts Defence Sector \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shares surge 6.19%<\/strong>&nbsp;to \u20b92,840 on news of&nbsp;<strong>BEL collaboration<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>electronic warfare systems<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;combines&nbsp;<strong>Centum\u2019s electronics expertise<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>BEL\u2019s defence manufacturing<\/strong>&nbsp;capabilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strong order book<\/strong>: \u20b91,736.4 crore total orders (Q4FY25) underscores&nbsp;<strong>robust growth momentum<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supplies&nbsp;<strong>300\u2013500 components<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>ISRO space missions<\/strong>, highlighting&nbsp;<strong>space sector credentials<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership reinforces&nbsp;<strong>Make in India<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>critical defence technology<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>expands market reach<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2708\ufe0f Cabinet Approves \u20b962,000 Crore Deal for 97 More Tejas Mk1A Jets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major defence milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Cabinet Committee on Security<\/strong>&nbsp;clears&nbsp;<strong>\u20b962,000 crore order<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>97 additional LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>HAL<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second major order<\/strong>: Adds to&nbsp;<strong>previous 83 aircraft contract<\/strong>&nbsp;worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b936,400 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthening&nbsp;<strong>indigenous fighter fleet<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Delivery timeline<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>12 Mk1A aircraft<\/strong>&nbsp;expected by&nbsp;<strong>end of FY26<\/strong>&nbsp;to replace retiring&nbsp;<strong>MiG-21 fleet<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>September 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Engine challenges<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>HAL missed February 2024 deadline<\/strong>&nbsp;due to delays in&nbsp;<strong>F404-IN20 engines<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>GE Aerospace<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic impact<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Fourth-generation multirole fighter<\/strong>&nbsp;developed by&nbsp;<strong>Aeronautical Development Agency<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>IAF modernization<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udce8 India Post Launches IT 2.0 for Digital Transformation Nationwide<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Digital revolution<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>India Post<\/strong>&nbsp;rolls out&nbsp;<strong>IT 2.0 Advanced Postal Technology<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>nationwide network<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous development<\/strong>: System developed by&nbsp;<strong>Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology<\/strong>&nbsp;running on&nbsp;<strong>MeghRaj 2.0 cloud<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Next-gen features<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Unified interface<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>QR-code payments<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>OTP-based delivery<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>10-digit alphanumeric DIGIPIN<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Infrastructure support<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>BSNL connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;enables&nbsp;<strong>seamless digital postal services<\/strong>&nbsp;across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PM Modi\u2019s vision<\/strong>: Initiative aligns with&nbsp;<strong>Digital India<\/strong>&nbsp;goals and&nbsp;<strong>postal service modernization<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udce6 FedEx-IIT Madras Launches SMART Centre with $5 Million Grant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Innovation partnership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>FedEx<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>IIT Madras<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurate&nbsp;<strong>SMART Centre<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>sustainable logistics research<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Five-year funding<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>$5 million grant<\/strong>&nbsp;supports&nbsp;<strong>Supply Chain Modelling, Algorithms, Research and Technology Centre<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Research focus<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>AI-driven solutions<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>carbon-neutral operations<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>autonomous delivery systems<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>EV infrastructure<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National impact<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>3,000+ students<\/strong>&nbsp;participation through&nbsp;<strong>Shaastra competitions<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>6 FedEx experts<\/strong>&nbsp;as judges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Talent development<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>40 top students<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>1,500+ applications<\/strong>&nbsp;work on&nbsp;<strong>25+ industry-academic projects<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d India Exim Bank Provides $40 Million Credit to ECOWAS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Africa partnership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development<\/strong>&nbsp;secures&nbsp;<strong>$40 million credit line<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>India Exim Bank<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Development focus<\/strong>: Funding supports&nbsp;<strong>infrastructure projects<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>energy, health, transportation, agriculture<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>West Africa<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Long-term collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Partnership since 2006<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>six credit facilities<\/strong>&nbsp;totaling&nbsp;<strong>$1.14 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Indian exports<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic importance<\/strong>: Agreement signed at&nbsp;<strong>India Exim Bank\u2019s London branch<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>respective CEOs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional impact<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Structured long-tenor facility<\/strong>&nbsp;enhances&nbsp;<strong>Indian exporters<\/strong>&nbsp;collaboration with&nbsp;<strong>regional infrastructure<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee9\ufe0f Air India-IOCL Sign MoU for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Supply<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Green aviation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Air India<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Indian Oil<\/strong>&nbsp;partner for&nbsp;<strong>Sustainable Aviation Fuel<\/strong>&nbsp;supply supporting&nbsp;<strong>decarbonization goals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IATA compliance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;advances&nbsp;<strong>Air India\u2019s Net Zero by 2050<\/strong>&nbsp;target and&nbsp;<strong>CORSIA obligations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Production milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>IOCL<\/strong>&nbsp;becomes&nbsp;<strong>first Indian company<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>ISCC CORSIA certification<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Panipat Refinery<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fleet modernization<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>570 new aircraft<\/strong>&nbsp;on order will create&nbsp;<strong>one of world\u2019s lowest carbon-emitting fleets<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industry leadership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>5% SAF blending target by 2030<\/strong>&nbsp;aligns with&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s green aviation<\/strong>&nbsp;push<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf3f Suzlon Becomes First Indian Energy Company to Commit 100% Renewable by 2030<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic commitment<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Suzlon Group<\/strong>&nbsp;joins&nbsp;<strong>RE100 Initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>first Indian energy company<\/strong>&nbsp;pledging&nbsp;<strong>100% renewable energy by 2030<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive targets<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Carbon Neutrality by 2035<\/strong>&nbsp;(Scope 1&amp;2) and&nbsp;<strong>Net Zero by 2040<\/strong>&nbsp;(Scope 1,2&amp;3)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Current progress<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>92.87% carbon neutrality<\/strong>&nbsp;achieved with&nbsp;<strong>Dhule plant<\/strong>&nbsp;powered by&nbsp;<strong>100% renewables<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emission reduction<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>88.51% cut<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Scope 1&amp;2 emission intensity<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>80.7% increase<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>renewable consumption<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global recognition<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First Gold Member from India<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>RE100 initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>400+ global companies<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2696\ufe0f CCI Approves Multiple Corporate Acquisitions and Mergers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Regulatory approvals<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Competition Commission<\/strong>&nbsp;clears&nbsp;<strong>5 major corporate transactions<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>international acquisitions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skechers deal<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>3G Capital Partners<\/strong>&nbsp;acquires&nbsp;<strong>Skechers USA Inc<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Kakapo Investment<\/strong>&nbsp;participation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Phoenix Mills<\/strong>: Acquires remaining&nbsp;<strong>49% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Island Star Mall Developers<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>Canada Pension Plan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quest Global<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>CA Plume Investments<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Bequest Inc<\/strong>&nbsp;acquire stakes in&nbsp;<strong>Singapore-based ER&amp;D services<\/strong>&nbsp;company<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medical devices<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Abu Dhabi Investment Authority<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>trust<\/strong>&nbsp;acquires&nbsp;<strong>3.06% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Micro Life Sciences<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc5 Sadbhavana Diwas 2025: Commemorating Rajiv Gandhi\u2019s Vision of Harmony<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Annual observance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>August 20<\/strong>&nbsp;marks&nbsp;<strong>Sadbhavana Diwas<\/strong>&nbsp;honoring&nbsp;<strong>former PM Rajiv Gandhi\u2019s birth anniversary<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Core values<\/strong>: Day promotes&nbsp;<strong>peace, harmony, national integration<\/strong>&nbsp;beyond&nbsp;<strong>caste, creed, religion<\/strong>&nbsp;barriers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Youth focus<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Youngest PM at 40<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasized&nbsp;<strong>technological advancement<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>youth empowerment<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>communal harmony<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Modern celebrations<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Pledge ceremonies<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>educational events<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>cultural programs<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>community service drives<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enduring relevance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Sadbhavana (goodwill)<\/strong>&nbsp;message remains crucial for&nbsp;<strong>diverse India\u2019s unity<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd1d DEPwD Launches Breaking Barriers Fellowship for Disability Rights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inclusive governance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;partners with&nbsp;<strong>Nipman Foundation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>YLAC<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fellowship program<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Young professionals<\/strong>&nbsp;placed across&nbsp;<strong>DEPwD offices<\/strong>&nbsp;to strengthen&nbsp;<strong>policy support<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legal framework<\/strong>: Initiative advances&nbsp;<strong>Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016<\/strong>&nbsp;implementation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>One-year collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasizes&nbsp;<strong>transparency<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>merit-based selection<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>quarterly reporting<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Youth leadership<\/strong>: Program nurtures&nbsp;<strong>young leaders<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>disability empowerment<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>inclusive governance<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcf1 Delhi Cabinet Approves Delhi Mitra App for Public Complaints<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Citizen-centric governance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approves&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Mitra mobile app<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>direct complaint registration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>People\u2019s initiative<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>App idea<\/strong>&nbsp;came from&nbsp;<strong>citizens\u2019 letter<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>CM Rekha Gupta<\/strong>&nbsp;demonstrating&nbsp;<strong>participatory governance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital grievance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Seamless online portal<\/strong>&nbsp;enables&nbsp;<strong>residents<\/strong>&nbsp;to raise&nbsp;<strong>local issues<\/strong>&nbsp;with government<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nursing stipend hike<\/strong>: Cabinet also increases&nbsp;<strong>nursing intern stipend<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9500 to \u20b913,150<\/strong>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<strong>27 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Student welfare<\/strong>: Decision benefits&nbsp;<strong>180 nursing interns<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>three government hospital<\/strong>&nbsp;nursing colleges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 PNB Becomes First PSU Bank to Migrate to Secure \u2018.bank.in\u2019 Domain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Digital security<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Punjab National Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;becomes&nbsp;<strong>first public sector bank<\/strong>&nbsp;to adopt&nbsp;<strong>secure \u2018.bank.in\u2019 domain<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enhanced protection<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>New domain<\/strong>&nbsp;provides&nbsp;<strong>additional security layers<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>online banking services<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industry leadership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PNB\u2019s migration<\/strong>&nbsp;sets&nbsp;<strong>precedent<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>other PSU banks<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>cybersecurity enhancement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Customer safety<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Secure domain<\/strong>&nbsp;reduces&nbsp;<strong>phishing risks<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>improves trust<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>digital banking<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology upgrade<\/strong>: Initiative demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>PNB\u2019s commitment<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>advanced security standards<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude82 Indian Railways Announces 12,000 Special Trains for Festivals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Festival preparedness<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Indian Railways<\/strong>&nbsp;to run&nbsp;<strong>12,000 special trains<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Diwali and Chhath Puja<\/strong>&nbsp;celebrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Passenger convenience<\/strong>: Additional trains to handle&nbsp;<strong>increased rush<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>peak festive season<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Route expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Special services<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>multiple sectors<\/strong>&nbsp;to accommodate&nbsp;<strong>festival travelers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Advance planning<\/strong>: Railways gears up for&nbsp;<strong>massive passenger movement<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>October-November<\/strong>&nbsp;period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Service enhancement<\/strong>: Initiative ensures&nbsp;<strong>smooth travel<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>reduced crowding<\/strong>&nbsp;during festivals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfc6 Sports Updates: Boxing Federation Elections and Cricket Rankings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Boxing Federation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Elections scheduled<\/strong>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<strong>months of governance issues<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>internal power struggles<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cricket glitch<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma<\/strong>&nbsp;temporarily disappeared from&nbsp;<strong>ICC ODI rankings<\/strong>&nbsp;due to&nbsp;<strong>technical error<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asia Cup Hockey<\/strong>: Tournament begins with&nbsp;<strong>India facing China<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>opening match<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Athletics achievement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Long jumper Murali Sreeshankar<\/strong>&nbsp;confident about&nbsp;<strong>World Championships<\/strong>&nbsp;qualifying mark<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Governance approval<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>National Sports Governance Bill<\/strong>&nbsp;receives&nbsp;<strong>President Murmu\u2019s approval<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d International Developments: Israel-Gaza and US-Russia Relations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Middle East conflict<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Israel approves plan<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>conquer Gaza City<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>calls up 60,000 reservists<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>US diplomacy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Trump cancels vacation<\/strong>&nbsp;to focus on&nbsp;<strong>Russia-Ukraine peace efforts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chinese diplomacy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Xi Jinping visits Lhasa<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>second trip<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Tibet as President<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional cooperation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Afghanistan, China, Pakistan<\/strong>&nbsp;hold&nbsp;<strong>6th foreign ministers\u2019 meeting<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Kabul<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Social media policy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Trump\u2019s White House<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>official TikTok account<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Economic Reforms: GST Simplification and Business Updates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tax reform<\/strong>: Government considers&nbsp;<strong>GST exemption<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>personal insurance premiums<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Corporate news<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Apple<\/strong>&nbsp;to manufacture&nbsp;<strong>all iPhone 17 models<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>five factories<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industrial development<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>UltraTech Cement<\/strong>&nbsp;to sell&nbsp;<strong>6.5% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India Cements<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trade relations<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Russia expects<\/strong>&nbsp;India to&nbsp;<strong>continue oil purchases<\/strong>&nbsp;despite&nbsp;<strong>US tariffs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic package<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi announces<\/strong>&nbsp;$20 billion&nbsp;<strong>reform package<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>boost consumption<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 20, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee3\ufe0f Cabinet Approves \u20b98,307 Crore Capital Region Ring Road in Odisha<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major infrastructure project<\/strong>: Cabinet approves construction of&nbsp;<strong>6-lane access-controlled Capital Region Ring Road<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Odisha<\/strong>&nbsp;spanning&nbsp;<strong>110.875 km<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic connectivity<\/strong>: Project connects&nbsp;<strong>3 major National Highways<\/strong>&nbsp;(NH-55, NH-57, NH-655) and&nbsp;<strong>1 State Highway<\/strong>&nbsp;(SH-65) on&nbsp;<strong>Hybrid Annuity Mode<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic impact<\/strong>: Will generate&nbsp;<strong>74.43 lakh person-days direct employment<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>93.04 lakh person-days indirect employment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Traffic relief<\/strong>: Designed to&nbsp;<strong>divert heavy commercial traffic<\/strong>&nbsp;away from&nbsp;<strong>Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha cities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Multi-modal integration<\/strong>: Connects&nbsp;<strong>10 economic nodes<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>4 social nodes<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>5 logistics nodes<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>Bhubaneswar Airport<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>major ports<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udd2c NABL Launches New Medical Application Portal for ISO 15189:2022<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Digital transformation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>NABL<\/strong>&nbsp;unveils&nbsp;<strong>Medical Application Portal<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>ISO 15189:2022 applicant laboratories<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Efficiency improvement<\/strong>: Tasks previously taking&nbsp;<strong>weeks or months<\/strong>&nbsp;now completed in&nbsp;<strong>2-3 hours<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enhanced features<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Multi-user access<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>standardized templates<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>comprehensive pre-registration checklist<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>intuitive interface<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quality ecosystem<\/strong>: Portal offers&nbsp;<strong>streamlined application process<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>improved user experience<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>reduced timelines<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National impact<\/strong>: Benefits&nbsp;<strong>hundreds of medical laboratories<\/strong>&nbsp;across India with&nbsp;<strong>transparent and efficient<\/strong>&nbsp;digital platform<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude97 PM Modi Inaugurates \u20b911,000 Crore Delhi Highway Projects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Infrastructure launch<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>Dwarka Expressway Delhi section<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Urban Extension Road-II<\/strong>&nbsp;worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b911,000 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dwarka Expressway<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>10.1 km Delhi section<\/strong>&nbsp;costing&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,360 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>multi-modal connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Yashobhoomi<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Metro lines<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UER-II benefits<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Alipur to Dichaon Kalan stretch<\/strong>&nbsp;costing&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,580 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;will ease traffic on&nbsp;<strong>Inner-Outer Ring Roads<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional connectivity<\/strong>: New&nbsp;<strong>spurs to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat<\/strong>&nbsp;improve&nbsp;<strong>industrial connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>goods movement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Urban mobility<\/strong>: Projects designed to&nbsp;<strong>decongest Delhi<\/strong>&nbsp;and provide&nbsp;<strong>world-class infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;enhancing&nbsp;<strong>ease of living<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbb IIT Madras Signs \u20b91 Crore Deal for Quantum Random Number Generator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Technology milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>IIT Madras<\/strong>&nbsp;licenses&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first Silicon Photonics-based Quantum Random Number Generator<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Indrarka Quantum Technologies<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic applications<\/strong>: QRNG has critical uses in&nbsp;<strong>military defense<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>cryptographic algorithms<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>quantum key distribution<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>financial transactions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous development<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Centre for Programmable Photonic Integrated Circuits<\/strong>&nbsp;develops&nbsp;<strong>high-speed QRNG<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>field deployment capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Government support<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>MeitY funding<\/strong>&nbsp;enables establishment of&nbsp;<strong>silicon photonics CoE-CPPICS<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>IIT Madras<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market readiness<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Prototype delivered<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>DRDO<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>advanced version deployed<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>SETS Chennai<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>quantum security applications<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude81 Assam Rifles Signs MoU with IIT Manipur for Drone Technology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Defense collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Assam Rifles<\/strong>&nbsp;partners with&nbsp;<strong>IIT Manipur<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>promote drone technology<\/strong>&nbsp;development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Border security<\/strong>: Initiative aims to enhance&nbsp;<strong>surveillance capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>operational efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>northeastern border regions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology advancement<\/strong>: Collaboration focuses on&nbsp;<strong>indigenous drone development<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>tactical applications<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic partnership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Academic-military cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthens&nbsp;<strong>border management<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>technological innovation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skill development<\/strong>: Partnership promotes&nbsp;<strong>research and development<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>unmanned aerial systems<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcf0 Press Registrar General Launches Press Sewa Portal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Media digitization<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Registrar of Newspapers<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>Press Sewa Portal<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>simplify newspaper and periodical registration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Administrative efficiency<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Digital platform<\/strong>&nbsp;streamlines&nbsp;<strong>registration process<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>print media<\/strong>&nbsp;establishments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transparency enhancement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Online portal<\/strong>&nbsp;provides&nbsp;<strong>easy access<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>faster processing<\/strong>&nbsp;of media registration applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industry support<\/strong>: Initiative reduces&nbsp;<strong>bureaucratic hurdles<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>newspaper and periodical<\/strong>&nbsp;publishers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital governance<\/strong>: Portal represents&nbsp;<strong>modernization<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>media regulation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>registration processes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Nepal Achieves Rubella Elimination: WHO South-East Asia Milestone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Public health victory<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Nepal verified<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>rubella elimination<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>WHO South-East Asia Regional Verification Commission<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional progress<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Six countries<\/strong>&nbsp;now eliminated&nbsp;<strong>rubella<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>four countries<\/strong>&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;<strong>measles elimination<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Key strategies<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>High-coverage campaigns<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>2012, 2016, 2020, 2024<\/strong>&nbsp;including during&nbsp;<strong>earthquakes<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>emergency situations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vaccination success<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>95% coverage<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>at least one dose<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>rubella vaccine<\/strong>&nbsp;creating&nbsp;<strong>herd immunity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Surveillance excellence<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Laboratory-supported case-based surveillance<\/strong>&nbsp;since&nbsp;<strong>2004<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>robust testing algorithms<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb3 Bank of Maharashtra Partners with SBI Card for Credit Card Launch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Banking collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Bank of Maharashtra<\/strong>&nbsp;joins hands with&nbsp;<strong>SBI Card<\/strong>&nbsp;to launch&nbsp;<strong>credit cards<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>3 variants<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Product diversification<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;expands&nbsp;<strong>Bank of Maharashtra\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;credit card portfolio and&nbsp;<strong>customer base<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>SBI Card\u2019s expertise<\/strong>&nbsp;combined with&nbsp;<strong>Bank of Maharashtra\u2019s network<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>wider reach<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Customer benefits<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Enhanced payment solutions<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>reward programs<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>strategic alliance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial inclusion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Collaboration<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to serve&nbsp;<strong>diverse customer segments<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>tailored credit solutions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc8 SEBI Extends Margin Obligations Deadline to October 10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Market regulation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>SEBI<\/strong>&nbsp;extends&nbsp;<strong>deadline<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>margin obligations process<\/strong>&nbsp;implementation to&nbsp;<strong>October 10, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>System readiness<\/strong>: Extension follows&nbsp;<strong>representations from depositories<\/strong>&nbsp;CDSL and NSDL for&nbsp;<strong>system development<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>end-to-end testing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Investor protection<\/strong>: New framework ensures&nbsp;<strong>clear transaction trail<\/strong>&nbsp;and reduces&nbsp;<strong>broker misuse<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>client securities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Implementation features<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Single instruction<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>pledge release for pay-in<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>automatic validation<\/strong>&nbsp;system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market stability<\/strong>: Extension ensures&nbsp;<strong>smooth implementation<\/strong>&nbsp;without&nbsp;<strong>disruption<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>market players<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>investors<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc51 Miss Universe India 2025: Manika Vishwakarma\u2019s Winning Answer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Beauty pageant victory<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Manika Vishwakarma<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan<\/strong>&nbsp;crowned&nbsp;<strong>Miss Universe India 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intelligent finale response<\/strong>: Chose&nbsp;<strong>women\u2019s education<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>economic aid<\/strong>&nbsp;stating it would&nbsp;<strong>change entire strata<\/strong>&nbsp;of future<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Winning argument<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>50% population denied basic amenity<\/strong>&nbsp;that could&nbsp;<strong>transform their lives<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>society<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global representation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Manika<\/strong>&nbsp;will represent&nbsp;<strong>India<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>74th Miss Universe pageant<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Thailand<\/strong>&nbsp;this&nbsp;<strong>November<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Other winners<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Tanya Sharma<\/strong>&nbsp;(UP) first runner-up,&nbsp;<strong>Mehak Dhingra<\/strong>&nbsp;(Haryana) second runner-up<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfc6 Microsoft Tops TopBrand 2025 Global Brands List<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Brand ranking<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Microsoft<\/strong>&nbsp;ranks&nbsp;<strong>first<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>brand value<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>USD 1,062.505 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>TopBrand 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Top technology brands<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>NVIDIA second<\/strong>&nbsp;(USD 1,046.760 billion),&nbsp;<strong>Apple third<\/strong>&nbsp;(USD 997.685 billion)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chinese representation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PetroChina<\/strong>&nbsp;ranks&nbsp;<strong>14th<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>highest-valued Chinese brand<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brand analysis<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>China has 130 companies<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Fortune 500<\/strong>&nbsp;but&nbsp;<strong>significantly fewer<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>global brand rankings<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic insight<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Gap exists<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>Chinese companies\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;economic strength and&nbsp;<strong>brand influence<\/strong>&nbsp;globally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d World Humanitarian Day: August 19 Global Observance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Annual commemoration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>August 19<\/strong>&nbsp;marks&nbsp;<strong>World Humanitarian Day<\/strong>&nbsp;honoring&nbsp;<strong>humanitarian workers<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>crisis-affected populations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Critical challenges<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>305.1 million people<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>72 countries<\/strong>&nbsp;need&nbsp;<strong>humanitarian assistance<\/strong>&nbsp;requiring&nbsp;<strong>$47.4 billion funding<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Worker safety crisis<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Over 380 humanitarian workers<\/strong>&nbsp;killed in&nbsp;<strong>2024<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Gaza<\/strong>&nbsp;accounting for&nbsp;<strong>200 deaths<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Campaign launch<\/strong>: #ActForHumanity relaunch demands&nbsp;<strong>protection, accountability, and action<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>humanitarian workers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global displacement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>122.6 million people<\/strong>&nbsp;forcibly displaced with&nbsp;<strong>90% of Gaza population<\/strong>&nbsp;(1.9 million) displaced<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 West Bengal Launches Shramshree Scheme for Migrant Workers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Social welfare initiative<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>CM Mamata Banerjee<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>Shramshree scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>returning Bengali migrant workers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial support<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,000 monthly<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>one year<\/strong>&nbsp;or until&nbsp;<strong>new employment<\/strong>&nbsp;secured in&nbsp;<strong>West Bengal<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Target beneficiaries<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>22 lakh migrant workers<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>West Bengal<\/strong>&nbsp;working in&nbsp;<strong>other states<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural protection<\/strong>: Scheme addresses&nbsp;<strong>alleged harassment<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Bengali speakers<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>other states<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cinema mandate<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>West Bengal<\/strong>&nbsp;orders&nbsp;<strong>365 prime-time Bengali film<\/strong>&nbsp;screenings annually in&nbsp;<strong>all cinema halls<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 Japan\u2019s SMBC Fund Invests $7 Million in Shivalik Small Finance Bank<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>International investment<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>SMBC Asia Rising Fund<\/strong>&nbsp;acquires&nbsp;<strong>4.99% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Shivalik Small Finance Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>$7 million<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bank valuation<\/strong>: Investment values&nbsp;<strong>Shivalik<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>enterprise value<\/strong>&nbsp;of approximately&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,200 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Growth capital<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Total equity raise<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9100 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>\u20b940 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>existing investors<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expansion plans<\/strong>: Funds to strengthen&nbsp;<strong>technology stack<\/strong>&nbsp;and expand&nbsp;<strong>workforce<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>product, engineering, operations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Business scale<\/strong>: Bank serves&nbsp;<strong>900,000+ customers<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>79 branches<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>11 states<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,700 crore business size<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude87 Indian Overseas Bank Partners with Mumbai Metro One for Ticketing Solutions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Transportation partnership<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>IOB<\/strong>&nbsp;signs agreement with&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai Metro One<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>ticketing services<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Metro Line 1<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Service coverage<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>11.4 km corridor<\/strong>&nbsp;connecting&nbsp;<strong>Versova, Andheri, and Ghatkopar<\/strong>&nbsp;serving&nbsp;<strong>4.5 lakh daily passengers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payment options<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Smart cards<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>paper tickets<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>QR-based ticketing<\/strong>&nbsp;options for&nbsp;<strong>regular commuters<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transaction volume<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Over 3 lakh daily<\/strong>&nbsp;ticketing transactions with&nbsp;<strong>real-time validation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>immediate confirmation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology integration<\/strong>: Solutions linked with&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai Metro\u2019s ticketing APIs<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>seamless operations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd1d Historic India-China Diplomatic Breakthrough: Direct Flights and Border Progress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi meets Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi<\/strong>&nbsp;at his residence after&nbsp;<strong>3-year diplomatic hiatus<\/strong>&nbsp;marking&nbsp;<strong>significant reset in bilateral relations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Major outcomes<\/strong>: Both nations agree to&nbsp;<strong>resume direct flights<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>re-open border trade<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>facilitate business and cultural exchanges<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Border management<\/strong>: Creation of&nbsp;<strong>two new working groups<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 one for&nbsp;<strong>early harvest in boundary delimitation<\/strong>&nbsp;and another for&nbsp;<strong>maintaining peace and tranquillity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SCO Summit invitation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi accepts<\/strong>&nbsp;Chinese President&nbsp;<strong>Xi Jinping\u2019s invitation<\/strong>&nbsp;to attend&nbsp;<strong>SCO Summit in Tianjin<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 31-September 1<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic relief<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>China lifts curbs<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>rare earth and fertiliser exports<\/strong>&nbsp;providing&nbsp;<strong>significant relief<\/strong>&nbsp;to Indian industries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\uddf3\ufe0f INDIA Bloc Names Justice B Sudershan Reddy as Vice President Candidate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Opposition unity<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>INDIA bloc<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>former Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>joint candidate<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>NDA\u2019s CP Radhakrishnan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Distinguished career<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Born July 8, 1946<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Telangana<\/strong>, served as&nbsp;<strong>AP High Court judge<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Gauhati High Court Chief Justice<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Supreme Court judge (2007-2011)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Social justice champion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge<\/strong>&nbsp;describes him as&nbsp;<strong>champion of social and economic justice<\/strong>&nbsp;who&nbsp;<strong>favoured poor<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>protected Constitution<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Election schedule<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Nomination filing<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 21<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>scrutiny<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 22<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>election<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>September 9, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ideological battle<\/strong>: Opposition frames contest as&nbsp;<strong>ideological battle<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>progressive judicial mind<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>administrative experience<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2708\ufe0f Cabinet Approves \u20b962,000 Crore Deal for 97 Tejas Fighter Jets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major defence milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Cabinet Committee on Security<\/strong>&nbsp;clears&nbsp;<strong>\u20b962,000 crore order<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>97 LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>HAL<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second major order<\/strong>: Adds to&nbsp;<strong>previous contract<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>83 aircraft<\/strong>&nbsp;worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b936,400 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthening&nbsp;<strong>indigenous defence manufacturing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market impact<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>HAL shares surge 3.5%<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b94,605<\/strong>&nbsp;following&nbsp;<strong>Cabinet approval<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>strong order book<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91.89 lakh crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Operational readiness<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>12 aircraft delivery<\/strong>&nbsp;expected by&nbsp;<strong>end of FY2026<\/strong>&nbsp;to replace&nbsp;<strong>ageing MiG-21 fleet<\/strong>&nbsp;retiring in&nbsp;<strong>September 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Advanced Mk1A variant<\/strong>&nbsp;features&nbsp;<strong>upgraded avionics<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>radar systems<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>enhanced combat capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>indigenous content<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2696\ufe0f Government Introduces Bills for Minister Removal on Serious Charges<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Constitutional amendment<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Home Minister Amit Shah<\/strong>&nbsp;introduces&nbsp;<strong>3 key bills<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>130th Constitutional Amendment<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>automatic removal<\/strong>&nbsp;of arrested ministers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>30-day rule<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Ministers detained<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>30+ consecutive days<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>serious criminal charges<\/strong>&nbsp;(5+ years imprisonment) face&nbsp;<strong>automatic dismissal<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive coverage<\/strong>: Provisions apply to&nbsp;<strong>Prime Minister<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Chief Ministers<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>ministers<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>states and Union Territories<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parliamentary process<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Bills referred<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Joint Parliamentary Committee<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>detailed scrutiny<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>stakeholder consultations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Governance reforms<\/strong>: Aims to&nbsp;<strong>uphold constitutional morality<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>principles of good governance<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>elected representatives<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Government Reveals 1.07 Crore Sterilizations During Emergency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historical disclosure<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Government data<\/strong>&nbsp;reveals&nbsp;<strong>over 1.07 crore people sterilized<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>Emergency period (1975-77)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parliamentary information<\/strong>: Response to&nbsp;<strong>Lok Sabha question<\/strong>&nbsp;provides&nbsp;<strong>official statistics<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>forced sterilization<\/strong>&nbsp;program<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Human rights documentation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Unprecedented scale<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>coercive population control<\/strong>&nbsp;measures during&nbsp;<strong>Emergency rule<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historical record<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Official acknowledgment<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>controversial policies<\/strong>&nbsp;implemented under&nbsp;<strong>Indira Gandhi\u2019s Emergency<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional lessons<\/strong>: Data highlights&nbsp;<strong>importance<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>democratic safeguards<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>civil liberties protection<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Supreme Court Guidelines on POCSO Act for Consensual Teen Relationships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Legal clarification<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Supreme Court<\/strong>&nbsp;rules&nbsp;<strong>POCSO Act<\/strong>&nbsp;shouldn\u2019t be&nbsp;<strong>automatically imposed<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>consensual relationships<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>teenagers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Balanced approach<\/strong>: Court emphasizes&nbsp;<strong>nuanced application<\/strong>&nbsp;considering&nbsp;<strong>age proximity<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>relationship dynamics<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>consent factors<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Child protection<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Framework<\/strong>&nbsp;to distinguish between&nbsp;<strong>genuine abuse<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>consensual teenage relationships<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Judicial guidance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Clear parameters<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>courts and authorities<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>handling sensitive cases<\/strong>&nbsp;involving&nbsp;<strong>adolescents<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Social implications<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Prevents criminalization<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>normal teenage relationships<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>maintaining child protection<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude82 NCERT Introduces Operation Sindoor in School Curriculum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Educational initiative<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>NCERT<\/strong>&nbsp;incorporates&nbsp;<strong>Operation Sindoor<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>classroom curriculum<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>vow of peace<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>national unity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Patriotic education<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Students<\/strong>&nbsp;learn about&nbsp;<strong>military operations<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>national security<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>structured curriculum<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Value education<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Operation<\/strong>&nbsp;presented as&nbsp;<strong>example<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>courage<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>sacrifice<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>service<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>nation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Curriculum integration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Military history<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>strategic operations<\/strong>&nbsp;made&nbsp;<strong>part<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>regular education<\/strong>&nbsp;system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National character building<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to&nbsp;<strong>instill patriotism<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>appreciation<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>armed forces<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcca CSDS Withdraws Voter Surge Data After BJP Criticism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Data controversy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Centre for the Study of Developing Societies<\/strong>&nbsp;withdraws&nbsp;<strong>voter surge statistics<\/strong>&nbsp;following&nbsp;<strong>BJP demands<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>apology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Political dispute<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Data accuracy<\/strong>&nbsp;questioned over&nbsp;<strong>electoral trends<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>demographic analysis<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Research credibility<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>CSDS<\/strong>&nbsp;faces&nbsp;<strong>criticism<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>methodology<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>interpretation<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>voter behavior<\/strong>&nbsp;patterns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Election integrity<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Controversy<\/strong>&nbsp;highlights&nbsp;<strong>importance<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>accurate polling data<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>research standards<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Academic accountability<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Withdrawal<\/strong>&nbsp;demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>need<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>rigorous verification<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>electoral research<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2708\ufe0f Cabinet Approves \u20b91,507 Crore Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Infrastructure development<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;approves&nbsp;<strong>AAI proposal<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>new airport<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capacity specifications<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>1,000 passenger capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>20,000 sq meter terminal<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>peak-hour traffic management<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional connectivity<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Strategic location<\/strong>&nbsp;to serve&nbsp;<strong>Kota-Bundi region<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>boost tourism<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>business travel<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Investment impact<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,507 crore project<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to&nbsp;<strong>generate employment<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>economic activity<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>region<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aviation expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Part<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>national aviation<\/strong>&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;<strong>development<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>UDAN scheme<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 19, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfd3 ESIC\u2019s Bhavina Patel Creates History at ITTF World Para Championships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bhavina Patel<\/strong>, Assistant Director at&nbsp;<strong>ESIC Ahmedabad<\/strong>, secures&nbsp;<strong>Gold Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>ITTF World Para Elite event<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Spokane, USA<\/strong>&nbsp;(August 9-13, 2025)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Silver Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;achievement at&nbsp;<strong>ITTF World Para Future event<\/strong>&nbsp;(August 6-8, 2025) in&nbsp;<strong>Women\u2019s Singles Class 4-5 category<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>: Rises to&nbsp;<strong>World No. 1 ranking<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Women\u2019s Singles (Wheelchair Classes 1-5)<\/strong>&nbsp;para table tennis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ESIC support system<\/strong>: Organization encourages&nbsp;<strong>employee participation<\/strong>&nbsp;in sports with&nbsp;<strong>resources, leave, and recognition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inspirational achievement<\/strong>&nbsp;showcases&nbsp;<strong>para-sports excellence<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>workplace culture<\/strong>&nbsp;supporting athletic pursuits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee3\ufe0f NHAI Launches FASTag Annual Pass at 1,150 Toll Plazas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Revolutionary initiative<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>FASTag Annual Pass<\/strong>&nbsp;available at&nbsp;<strong>1,150 toll plazas nationwide<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>frequent travelers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant savings<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Up to 50% discount<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>toll charges<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>regular commuters<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>commercial vehicles<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easy access<\/strong>: Available for&nbsp;<strong>all vehicle types<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>valid FASTag accounts<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>online registration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Convenience factor<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Unlimited passages<\/strong>&nbsp;without&nbsp;<strong>per-trip payments<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>annual pass holders<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital infrastructure<\/strong>: Strengthens&nbsp;<strong>cashless toll collection<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>highway efficiency<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 NTPC Becomes First PSU to Adopt ISO 22301:2019 Business Continuity Plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic achievement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>NTPC Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;becomes&nbsp;<strong>first public sector company<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>power industry<\/strong>&nbsp;to implement&nbsp;<strong>ISO 22301:2019 compliant BCP<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive framework<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Business Continuity Plan<\/strong>&nbsp;ensures&nbsp;<strong>uninterrupted power generation<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>unexpected disruptions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risk management<\/strong>: Includes&nbsp;<strong>regular assessments<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>disaster recovery drills<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>backup communication systems<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>coordinated response protocols<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global standards<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>ISO 22301:2019<\/strong>&nbsp;alignment with&nbsp;<strong>international best practices<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>business continuity management systems<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Operational resilience<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Continuous review mechanisms<\/strong>&nbsp;address&nbsp;<strong>emerging risks<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>fast-changing energy sector<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude84 India\u2019s First Hydrogen Train Clears Trials, Ready for Launch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Breakthrough achievement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first hydrogen trainset<\/strong>&nbsp;successfully passes&nbsp;<strong>load tests<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Chennai\u2019s Integral Coach Factory (ICF)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>World-class specifications<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>10-coach train<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>2,400 kW power<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>longest and most powerful<\/strong>&nbsp;hydrogen train globally<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Superior engine<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>1,200 horsepower capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;significantly exceeds&nbsp;<strong>global standards of 500-600 HP<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Testing route<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Field trials<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>89-km Jind-Sonipat section<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Haryana<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Division Northern Railway<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Green transportation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>35 hydrogen trains<\/strong>&nbsp;planned under&nbsp;<strong>\u201cHydrogen for Heritage\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;program for&nbsp;<strong>hill\/heritage routes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d FAITH Conclave 2025 Unveils $3 Trillion Tourism Vision by 2047<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ambitious target<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>$3 trillion tourism economy<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>2047<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>100 million inbound tourists<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>20 billion domestic visits<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employment generation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>200 million tourism-related jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;supporting&nbsp;<strong>doubling GDP contribution from 5% to 10%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic pillars<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Policy reforms<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>global marketing<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>infrastructure development<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>sustainability adoption<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industry collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Ten major national associations<\/strong>&nbsp;unite for&nbsp;<strong>Tourism Vision 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;roadmap<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic impact<\/strong>: Tourism as&nbsp;<strong>highest job multiplier<\/strong>&nbsp;globally with&nbsp;<strong>one in four new jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>tourism, aviation, hospitality<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf1e Indian Railways Commissions First Removable Solar Panel System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Green innovation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First 70-meter removable solar panel system<\/strong>&nbsp;commissioned at&nbsp;<strong>Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technical specifications<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>28 panels with 15KWp capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;installed&nbsp;<strong>between railway tracks<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>sustainable rail transport<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Freight expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First industrial salt-loaded rake<\/strong>&nbsp;flagged off&nbsp;<strong>Sanosara to Dahej<\/strong>&nbsp;generating&nbsp;<strong>\u20b931.69 lakh freight earnings<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electrification milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First 2\u00d725 kV Electric Traction System<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Nagda-Khachrod section<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Scott Transformer technology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Infrastructure advancement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>100 MVA power transformers<\/strong>&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;<strong>efficient electrical load feeding<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>overhead equipment<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 SBI Launches Special Personal Loan Scheme for Agniveers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Independence Day initiative<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Special loan scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Agniveers<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>salary accounts<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>SBI<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Attractive terms<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b94 lakh collateral-free loans<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>complete processing fee waiver<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Competitive rates<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>10.50% flat interest rate<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>all defence personnel<\/strong>&nbsp;until&nbsp;<strong>September 30, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flexible tenure<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Repayment period<\/strong>&nbsp;matches&nbsp;<strong>Agnipath recruitment program duration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive benefits<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Defence Salary Package<\/strong>&nbsp;includes&nbsp;<strong>zero-balance accounts<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>free international debit cards<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>\u20b950 lakh personal accident insurance<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf10 Kotak Mahindra Secures UAE License for Investment Services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First Indian firm<\/strong>&nbsp;to receive&nbsp;<strong>investment license<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>UAE\u2019s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Service expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Portfolio management services<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>UAE-domiciled funds<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>retail investors<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market access<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>India-focused investment strategies<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>UAE investors<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Q4 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic positioning<\/strong>: Reinforces&nbsp;<strong>UAE\u2019s role<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>regional financial hub<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>cross-border financial services<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strong performance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>14% advance growth<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>14.6% deposit growth<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Q1 FY26<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb3 UPI Transactions Surge: Daily Value Crosses \u20b990,000 Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Record growth<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Daily average UPI transactions<\/strong>&nbsp;rise from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b975,743 crore (January)<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b990,446 crore (August 2025)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Volume expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Daily transaction volumes<\/strong>&nbsp;increase by&nbsp;<strong>127 million<\/strong>, reaching&nbsp;<strong>675 million in August<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market leaders<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>SBI dominates<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>top remitter<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>5.2 billion transactions<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Yes Bank leads<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>beneficiary<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>8.0 billion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional adoption<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Maharashtra leads<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>9.8% share<\/strong>, followed by&nbsp;<strong>Karnataka (5.5%)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Uttar Pradesh (5.3%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital transformation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>NPCI releases<\/strong>&nbsp;first-ever&nbsp;<strong>state-wise UPI data<\/strong>&nbsp;showing&nbsp;<strong>regional penetration patterns<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed JSW Steel and POSCO Partner for 6 MTPA Steel Plant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Strategic collaboration<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>JSW Steel<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>South Korean POSCO<\/strong>&nbsp;sign&nbsp;<strong>agreement<\/strong>&nbsp;to explore&nbsp;<strong>6 MTPA steel plant<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capacity expansion<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Significant addition<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s steel manufacturing<\/strong>&nbsp;capability through&nbsp;<strong>international partnership<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology transfer<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>POSCO\u2019s advanced steelmaking technology<\/strong>&nbsp;combined with&nbsp;<strong>JSW\u2019s domestic expertise<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Investment potential<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Major industrial project<\/strong>&nbsp;supporting&nbsp;<strong>Make in India<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>steel sector growth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Market positioning<\/strong>: Strengthens&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s position<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>global steel production<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>manufacturing competitiveness<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfaf TCL Appoints Olympic Champion Eileen Gu as Global Brand Ambassador<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Star endorsement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Olympic freestyle skiing champion Eileen Gu<\/strong>&nbsp;becomes&nbsp;<strong>TCL\u2019s global brand ambassador<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brand strategy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Partnership leverages<\/strong>&nbsp;Gu\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>international profile<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>youth appeal<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>global market expansion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marketing reach<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Olympic champion\u2019s influence<\/strong>&nbsp;extends&nbsp;<strong>TCL\u2019s brand presence<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>key consumer segments<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global positioning<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Strategic appointment<\/strong>&nbsp;aligns with&nbsp;<strong>TCL\u2019s international growth<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>premium brand positioning<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u265f\ufe0f Vincent Keymer Makes Chess History at Chennai Grand Masters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic victory<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>German Grandmaster Vincent Keymer<\/strong>&nbsp;secures&nbsp;<strong>Chennai Grand Masters title<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>round to spare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chess excellence<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Remarkable performance<\/strong>&nbsp;demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>strategic brilliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>tournament dominance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International recognition<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Chennai\u2019s chess legacy<\/strong>&nbsp;continues with&nbsp;<strong>world-class tournament<\/strong>&nbsp;hosting&nbsp;<strong>global talent<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sporting achievement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Keymer\u2019s victory<\/strong>&nbsp;adds to&nbsp;<strong>prestigious chess championship<\/strong>&nbsp;history<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfcf Cricket Legend Bob Simpson Passes Away at 89<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Legendary loss<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Former Australian captain<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>World Cup-winning coach<\/strong>&nbsp;Bob Simpson dies at&nbsp;<strong>age 89<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic achievements<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>First World Cup victory (1987)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Frank Worrell Trophy (1995)<\/strong>&nbsp;under his&nbsp;<strong>coaching<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Record legacy<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Triple century conversion<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>61-year standing record<\/strong>&nbsp;later broken by&nbsp;<strong>Wiaan Mulder<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hall of Fame<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (2006)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>ICC Hall of Fame (2013)<\/strong>&nbsp;inductee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India connection<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Consultant for Indian team (1990s)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan Ranji team guide (2000s)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfc1 Marc Marquez Wins Austrian GP, Extends MotoGP Championship Lead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Racing triumph<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Marc Marquez<\/strong>&nbsp;secures&nbsp;<strong>first-ever Austrian GP victory<\/strong>&nbsp;extending&nbsp;<strong>MotoGP championship lead<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Career milestone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Significant victory<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Red Bull Ring<\/strong>&nbsp;adds to&nbsp;<strong>impressive racing record<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Championship standings<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Extended lead<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthens&nbsp;<strong>title contention<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>2025 season<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Racing excellence<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Strategic performance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>technical mastery<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>challenging Austrian circuit<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana Portal Goes Live for First-Time Employees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>PMVBRY portal<\/strong>&nbsp;enabling&nbsp;<strong>employers and first-time employees<\/strong>&nbsp;to access&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91 lakh crore scheme<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Portal addresses<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>pmvbry.epfindia.gov.in<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>pmvbry.labour.gov.in<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>one-time employer registration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employee benefits<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b915,000 direct support<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>first private sector job<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>August 1, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>July 31, 2027<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employer incentives<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,000 per month<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>hiring additional staff<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>EPFO registration mandatory<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Target achievement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>3.5 crore job creation<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>two years<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>UAN generation<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Umang app<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>face authentication<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2696\ufe0f Jan Vishwas Bill 2025 Tabled in Lok Sabha to Decriminalize 288 Offences<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal<\/strong>&nbsp;introduces&nbsp;<strong>Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>trust-based governance<\/strong>&nbsp;reforms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive decriminalization<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>288 provisions across 16 central acts<\/strong>&nbsp;administered by&nbsp;<strong>10 ministries<\/strong>&nbsp;to promote&nbsp;<strong>ease of doing business<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policy shift<\/strong>: From&nbsp;<strong>\u201cpenalize on first detection\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u201cwarning-correct-penalize\u201d model<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>improvement notices<\/strong>&nbsp;for first-time violations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Motor Vehicle reforms<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>State-wide registration<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>30-day grace period<\/strong>&nbsp;for license renewal,&nbsp;<strong>12-month timeline<\/strong>&nbsp;for claims tribunals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bill referred<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Lok Sabha Select Committee<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>scrutiny<\/strong>&nbsp;with report due by&nbsp;<strong>next parliamentary session<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcca Unemployment Rate Eases to 5.2% in July 2025: Labour Survey<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Periodic Labour Force Survey<\/strong>&nbsp;shows&nbsp;<strong>unemployment rate<\/strong>&nbsp;decreased to&nbsp;<strong>5.2% in July 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;from higher previous levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic indicator<\/strong>&nbsp;reflects&nbsp;<strong>job market improvement<\/strong>&nbsp;amid&nbsp;<strong>government employment generation initiatives<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Labor market dynamics<\/strong>&nbsp;show&nbsp;<strong>positive trends<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>employment opportunities<\/strong>&nbsp;across various sectors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Survey methodology<\/strong>&nbsp;provides&nbsp;<strong>reliable data<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>policy planning<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>economic assessments<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Government initiatives<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>PMVBRY<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to further&nbsp;<strong>reduce unemployment<\/strong>&nbsp;rates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Supreme Court Directs Policy Framework for Injured Training Cadets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Supreme Court<\/strong>&nbsp;orders&nbsp;<strong>Government<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>frame comprehensive policy<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>rehabilitation of cadets injured during training<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Judicial intervention<\/strong>&nbsp;addresses&nbsp;<strong>gaps in support system<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>defense training casualties<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>medical care<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policy mandate<\/strong>&nbsp;covers&nbsp;<strong>financial assistance<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>medical treatment<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>career rehabilitation<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>injured personnel<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Training safety<\/strong>&nbsp;measures need&nbsp;<strong>systematic overhaul<\/strong>&nbsp;to prevent&nbsp;<strong>accidents<\/strong>&nbsp;and ensure&nbsp;<strong>adequate compensation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legal precedent<\/strong>&nbsp;establishes&nbsp;<strong>institutional responsibility<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>trainee welfare<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>safety protocols<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf93 Centre Challenges Calcutta HC Order on MGNREGA in West Bengal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Central Government<\/strong>&nbsp;moves&nbsp;<strong>Supreme Court<\/strong>&nbsp;challenging&nbsp;<strong>Calcutta High Court<\/strong>&nbsp;order on&nbsp;<strong>resuming MGNREGA<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>West Bengal<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legal dispute<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>rural employment scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;implementation and&nbsp;<strong>state-center coordination<\/strong>&nbsp;issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional questions<\/strong>&nbsp;raised regarding&nbsp;<strong>federal structure<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>scheme administration<\/strong>&nbsp;authority<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employment guarantee<\/strong>&nbsp;program faces&nbsp;<strong>judicial intervention<\/strong>&nbsp;affecting&nbsp;<strong>rural livelihood<\/strong>&nbsp;security<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Political implications<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>state-center relations<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>welfare scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;delivery mechanisms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcda Delhi Education Seeks High Court Approval for School Uniform Cash Subsidy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Directorate of Education Delhi<\/strong>&nbsp;approaches&nbsp;<strong>Delhi High Court<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>approval<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>cash subsidy scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>school uniforms<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial assistance<\/strong>&nbsp;program aimed at&nbsp;<strong>reducing education costs<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>economically weaker sections<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Direct benefit transfer<\/strong>&nbsp;mechanism proposed for&nbsp;<strong>uniform allowance<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>government school students<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Educational accessibility<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative supports&nbsp;<strong>inclusive education<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>reduces dropout rates<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Court intervention<\/strong>&nbsp;required for&nbsp;<strong>policy implementation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>budgetary allocation<\/strong>&nbsp;approval<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf3e E-Jagriti Platform Achieves 100% Disposal Rate in Consumer Disputes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ten states<\/strong>&nbsp;along with&nbsp;<strong>National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission<\/strong>&nbsp;record&nbsp;<strong>over 100% disposal rate<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>E-Jagriti platform<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>July 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital transformation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Consumer Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative launched&nbsp;<strong>January 1, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>computerization of consumer commissions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transparency enhancement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Online complaint filing<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>case tracking<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>judgment access<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>unified platform<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Efficiency improvement<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Speedy resolution<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>consumer disputes<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>national, state, and district levels<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Justice delivery<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Network connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;ensures&nbsp;<strong>faster processing<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>transparent<\/strong>&nbsp;disposal of cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf51 Ladakh\u2019s Halman Apricots Exported to Gulf Countries for First Time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Historic export<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>1.5 metric tonnes<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>premium Halman apricots<\/strong>&nbsp;shipped to&nbsp;<strong>Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Geographic specialty<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Ladakhi variety<\/strong>&nbsp;grown in&nbsp;<strong>Sham region<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>Dha-Hanu, Garkhon, Skurbuchan<\/strong>&nbsp;villages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nutritional value<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Rich in Vitamin C, E, potassium, magnesium, iron, dietary fiber<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>antioxidants<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural significance<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Century-old variety<\/strong>&nbsp;introduced from&nbsp;<strong>China\/Central Asia<\/strong>&nbsp;integral to&nbsp;<strong>Ladakhi cuisine<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>rituals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic opportunity<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>International market<\/strong>&nbsp;expansion for&nbsp;<strong>high-altitude agricultural products<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>farmer income enhancement<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 18, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0a Asian Surfing Championships 2025: Star Athletes Shine in Mamallapuram<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu<\/strong>&nbsp;hosts the&nbsp;<strong>Asian Surfing Championships 2025<\/strong>, attracting&nbsp;<strong>top star athletes<\/strong>&nbsp;from Asia.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Competing nations<\/strong>&nbsp;include&nbsp;<strong>Japan<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Thailand<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Indonesia<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>India<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indian surfers<\/strong>&nbsp;like&nbsp;<strong>Ramesh Budihal<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Kishore Kumar<\/strong>&nbsp;display&nbsp;<strong>outstanding performances<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event boosts&nbsp;<strong>surf culture<\/strong>&nbsp;recognition and&nbsp;<strong>sports tourism<\/strong>&nbsp;in South India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Women\u2019s category<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>junior surfers<\/strong>&nbsp;gain more visibility this year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2600\ufe0f 100 GW Solar PV Manufacturing: India Crosses a Historic Milestone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>India<\/strong>&nbsp;achieves&nbsp;<strong>100 GW solar PV module manufacturing capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>ALMM<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Growth from&nbsp;<strong>2.3 GW (2014)<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>100 GW (2025)<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 over&nbsp;<strong>40-fold expansion<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central PLI scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;and proactive&nbsp;<strong>government policies<\/strong>&nbsp;drive solar growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports target of&nbsp;<strong>500 GW non-fossil fuel electricity by 2030<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advances&nbsp;<strong>energy self-reliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;vision.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee2\ufe0f IOCL to Build Green Hydrogen Plant in Mathura<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL)<\/strong>&nbsp;initiates a&nbsp;<strong>green hydrogen plant project in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Facility will produce&nbsp;<strong>10,800 metric tonnes green hydrogen\/year<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Mathura Refinery<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project reduces&nbsp;<strong>carbon footprint<\/strong>&nbsp;and supports&nbsp;<strong>energy transition<\/strong>&nbsp;goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrated with IOCL\u2019s plan for&nbsp;<strong>biofuels and renewable energy<\/strong>&nbsp;adoption.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb3 RBI\u2019s Cheque Settlement: Same-day Clearing from October 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reserve Bank of India<\/strong>&nbsp;to enable&nbsp;<strong>cheque clearance within hours<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>October 4, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Continuous settlement system<\/strong>&nbsp;with 7 daily slots between 10 AM \u2013 4 PM.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clears cheques in&nbsp;<strong>3 hours (T+3)<\/strong>, instead of up to 2 working days currently.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to&nbsp;<strong>accelerate payments<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>reduce funds settlement risks<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\ude7a HDFC ERGO &amp; PhonePe: Affordable Digital Health Insurance Launch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>HDFC ERGO partners with digital platform PhonePe<\/strong>&nbsp;to offer&nbsp;<strong>affordable health insurance<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coverage up to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b920 lakh<\/strong>; claims processed digitally without paperwork.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AI-powered claim processing<\/strong>&nbsp;with seamless,&nbsp;<strong>real-time approvals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Targets India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>digitally savvy, underinsured population<\/strong>&nbsp;for better inclusion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f SBI Life Launches \u2018Smart Shield Plus\u2019 Future-ready Term Insurance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SBI Life<\/strong>&nbsp;unveils&nbsp;<strong>Smart Shield Plus<\/strong>, a new&nbsp;<strong>customizable term insurance plan<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Features include&nbsp;<strong>accidental death benefit<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>critical illness cover<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>terminal illness support<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flexible premium payment and&nbsp;<strong>whole-life coverage<\/strong>&nbsp;for evolving consumer needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Option to&nbsp;<strong>enhance protection<\/strong>&nbsp;through add-on benefits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc8 July 2025 Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Data<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>WPI inflation turns negative<\/strong>, at&nbsp;<strong>-0.58% in July 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;(compared to July 2024).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food items<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>crude oil<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>basic metals<\/strong>&nbsp;saw major price drops.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indicates&nbsp;<strong>deflationary pressures<\/strong>&nbsp;and lower wholesale price trends affecting economy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f SabhaSaar: AI Boost for Panchayats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ministry of Panchayati Raj<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>AI-powered SabhaSaar<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>automatic meeting minutes<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>action point extraction<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrates with&nbsp;<strong>Bhashini platform<\/strong>&nbsp;(13 Indian languages).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pilot: Tripura\u2019s 1,194 gram panchayats<\/strong>&nbsp;during Special Gram Sabhas on Independence Day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces manual work and&nbsp;<strong>improves transparency<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbb NHA &amp; C-DAC: e-Sushrut@Clinic Healthcare MoU<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>National Health Authority and C-DAC<\/strong>&nbsp;partner for&nbsp;<strong>\u2018e-Sushrut@Clinic\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;rollout\u2014a digital health records platform.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances&nbsp;<strong>efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>transparency<\/strong>&nbsp;in patient data management.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrates with&nbsp;<strong>Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>universal digital healthcare<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 Bank of Baroda\u2019s BOB e-PAY: International UPI Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bank of Baroda upgrades its BOB e-PAY app<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>three new international payment features<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enables&nbsp;<strong>global money transfer<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>cross-border bill payments<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>international merchant payments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthens BOB\u2019s position among public sector banks for&nbsp;<strong>digital and international banking<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb3 India\u2019s Credit Rating Upgrade: Investor Confidence Up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>India\u2019s sovereign credit rating upgraded<\/strong>&nbsp;(S&amp;P) to&nbsp;<strong>BBB<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boosts&nbsp;<strong>investor confidence<\/strong>&nbsp;and should&nbsp;<strong>increase foreign capital inflows<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognises strong&nbsp;<strong>macroeconomic fundamentals<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>fiscal reforms<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to make&nbsp;<strong>overseas borrowing cheaper<\/strong>&nbsp;for Indian corporates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd85 Tamil Nadu Launches \u2018HAWK\u2019 Wildlife Crime Management System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tamil Nadu government<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>\u2018HAWK\u2019 digital platform<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>wildlife crime detection &amp; management<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developed with support from&nbsp;<strong>WWF, police and IT experts<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes&nbsp;<strong>tracking, real-time alerts<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>collaborative investigation tools<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthens conservation enforcement and&nbsp;<strong>curbs poaching\/illegal trade<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfd1 Olympic Hockey Medallist Vece Paes Passes Away<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Vece Paes<\/strong>, part of India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>1972 Olympic bronze-winning hockey team<\/strong>&nbsp;and father of tennis legend&nbsp;<strong>Leander Paes<\/strong>, passed away.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renowned as a&nbsp;<strong>sports medicine expert<\/strong>&nbsp;and mentor in India\u2019s sporting ecosystem.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbb Infosys Acquires 75% Stake in Australian Firm Versent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Infosys acquires 75% of Versent<\/strong>, an Australian cloud &amp; digital transformation firm, for&nbsp;<strong>$153 million<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strategic move to&nbsp;<strong>expand cloud, AI, and security services<\/strong>&nbsp;in Australia-Pacific.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Versent<\/strong>&nbsp;brings 650 engineers\/advisors, enhancing Infosys\u2019 delivery capability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 Astrophel Aerospace &amp; IN-SPACe MoU: Reusable Rocket Engine Development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Astrophel Aerospace<\/strong>&nbsp;signs MoU with&nbsp;<strong>IN-SPACe<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>developing reusable rocket engine technology<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration aims at&nbsp;<strong>cost reduction<\/strong>&nbsp;for space launches and&nbsp;<strong>boosting private sector participation<\/strong>&nbsp;in India\u2019s space sector.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 China Launches 11 Geely \u2018G-Space\u2019 Satellites from Sea<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>China launches 11 Geely G-Space satellites<\/strong>&nbsp;for IoT and connected vehicle applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launched from a&nbsp;<strong>maritime platform (offshore rocket launch)<\/strong>, strengthening commercial satellite capabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Part of China\u2019s push<\/strong>&nbsp;towards building a&nbsp;<strong>global IoT network<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udea2 Indian Navy Ships in Sri Lanka for SLINEX-25<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Naval Ships<\/strong>&nbsp;(INS Rana, INS Jyoti) arrive at Colombo for&nbsp;<strong>12th India-Sri Lanka Navy Exercise (SLINEX-25)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bilateral maritime exercise<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance professional synergy and regional security.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfc5 Khelo India Srinagar Water Sports Mascot Unveiled<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mascot (Himalayan Kingfisher) and logo<\/strong>&nbsp;for the upcoming&nbsp;<strong>Khelo India Water Sports Festival<\/strong>&nbsp;in Srinagar are revealed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Festival at Dal Lake<\/strong>&nbsp;(Aug 21\u201323), more than&nbsp;<strong>400 athletes<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>36 states\/UTs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 IBM Partners with Maharashtra Government for Quantum Computing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>IBM to support Maharashtra<\/strong>&nbsp;in building a&nbsp;<strong>statewide quantum computing initiative<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes&nbsp;<strong>workshops<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>training<\/strong>, and a&nbsp;<strong>client experience centre<\/strong>&nbsp;in Mumbai for&nbsp;<strong>AI, cloud, quantum tech<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reinforces Maharashtra\u2019s role as a&nbsp;<strong>technology innovation hub<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udef0\ufe0f ISRO and Muskaan Foundation Launch Space Lab in Arunachal Pradesh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ISRO &amp; Muskaan Foundation<\/strong>&nbsp;create a&nbsp;<strong>space education laboratory<\/strong>&nbsp;in Arunachal Pradesh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>STEM learning and space tech<\/strong>&nbsp;for youth in remote areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed NSIC\u2019s MSME Credit MoUs with Banks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>National Small Industries Corporation<\/strong>&nbsp;partners with&nbsp;<strong>five banks<\/strong>&nbsp;(AU SFB, Axis Bank, Karnataka Bank, IndusInd, Dhanlaxmi) under the&nbsp;<strong>MSME credit facilitation programme<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enables easier credit access for&nbsp;<strong>small and micro enterprises<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udea2 Indian Navy Gets Third Survey Vessel \u2018Ikshak\u2019<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>third indigenous survey vessel-large (IKSHAK)<\/strong>&nbsp;delivered to the Navy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Over 80% indigenous content<\/strong>, builds hydrographic capacity and accommodates&nbsp;<strong>women sailors<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f BJP Names Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as NDA Vice President Candidate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>National Democratic Alliance<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Vice Presidential candidate<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>September 9 election<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>67-year-old RSS veteran<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>40 years public service<\/strong>&nbsp;experience including&nbsp;<strong>former BJP Tamil Nadu president<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>two-term Lok Sabha MP<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parliamentary Board meeting<\/strong>&nbsp;chaired by&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;unanimously selected&nbsp;<strong>OBC Gounder community<\/strong>&nbsp;leader ahead of&nbsp;<strong>Tamil Nadu assembly elections<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NDA\u2019s numerical strength<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>427 MPs<\/strong>&nbsp;against opposition\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>354<\/strong>&nbsp;ensures&nbsp;<strong>comfortable victory<\/strong>&nbsp;above required&nbsp;<strong>392 votes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic choice<\/strong>&nbsp;aligns with&nbsp;<strong>Mission South<\/strong>&nbsp;approach and strengthens&nbsp;<strong>AIADMK alliance<\/strong>&nbsp;prospects in&nbsp;<strong>southern states<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 UP Inaugurates First Green Hydrogen Plant in Gorakhpur<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CM Yogi Adityanath<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>Uttar Pradesh\u2019s first<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s second green hydrogen plant<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Khanipur village, Gorakhpur<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Torrent Group project<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>72,000 tonnes annual capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;blends&nbsp;<strong>2% green hydrogen<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>CNG and PNG<\/strong>&nbsp;for domestic use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9100 crore investment<\/strong>&nbsp;produces hydrogen through&nbsp;<strong>electrolysis using renewable energy<\/strong>&nbsp;marking&nbsp;<strong>clean fuel innovation milestone<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State targets<\/strong>&nbsp;1 million tonnes&nbsp;<strong>green hydrogen production<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>2028<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Green Hydrogen Policy 2024<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Environmental impact<\/strong>: reduces&nbsp;<strong>carbon emissions<\/strong>, supports&nbsp;<strong>energy transition<\/strong>, and provides&nbsp;<strong>cleaner cooking fuel<\/strong>&nbsp;to households<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc Samsung Begins Laptop Manufacturing in India at Greater Noida<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Samsung Electronics<\/strong>&nbsp;starts&nbsp;<strong>laptop production<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Greater Noida factory<\/strong>&nbsp;expanding&nbsp;<strong>device manufacturing portfolio<\/strong>&nbsp;in India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Existing facility<\/strong>&nbsp;already produces&nbsp;<strong>smartphones<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>feature phones<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>tablets<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>wearables<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>laptop addition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Make in India initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;success demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>foreign investment confidence<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>domestic manufacturing capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology sector growth<\/strong>&nbsp;supports&nbsp;<strong>employment generation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>export potential<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>Indian manufacturing base<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic expansion<\/strong>&nbsp;reduces&nbsp;<strong>import dependence<\/strong>&nbsp;and strengthens&nbsp;<strong>electronics ecosystem<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 SPIC Reports \u20b966.71 Crore Q1 Net Profit Growth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Southern Petrochemical Industries Corporation<\/strong>&nbsp;posts&nbsp;<strong>\u20b966.71 crore net profit<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Q1 FY2026<\/strong>&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b962.55 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;previous year<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Operational efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>lower input costs<\/strong>&nbsp;drive&nbsp;<strong>6.6% profit growth<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>petrochemical sector<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>FY2025 performance<\/strong>&nbsp;shows&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9155.62 crore annual profit<\/strong>&nbsp;demonstrating&nbsp;<strong>consistent business growth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chemical industry<\/strong>&nbsp;recovery continues with&nbsp;<strong>improved margins<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>stable demand patterns<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Quarterly results<\/strong>&nbsp;reflect&nbsp;<strong>sector resilience<\/strong>&nbsp;amid&nbsp;<strong>global economic uncertainties<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf93 Karnataka Study Abroad Expo Attracts 5,000+ Students<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Karnataka Skill Development Corporation<\/strong>&nbsp;organizes&nbsp;<strong>international education expo<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>5,000+ students register<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>study abroad opportunities<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>60 international universities<\/strong>&nbsp;participating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>KVTSDC initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;provides&nbsp;<strong>guidance and information<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>overseas education<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>scholarship opportunities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global education<\/strong>&nbsp;demand increases among&nbsp;<strong>Indian students<\/strong>&nbsp;seeking&nbsp;<strong>international exposure<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>career prospects<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Education sector<\/strong>&nbsp;growth supports&nbsp;<strong>skill development<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>international mobility<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Indian talent<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Emergency Life Support Conference Inaugurated in Ladakh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Two-day emergency conference<\/strong>&nbsp;launched at&nbsp;<strong>District Hospital Kargil<\/strong>&nbsp;focusing on&nbsp;<strong>critical situation medical response<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AIIMS JPNATC<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>WHO Collaborating Centre<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>District Hospital<\/strong>&nbsp;organize&nbsp;<strong>emergency care training<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Border area healthcare<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasis on&nbsp;<strong>timely medical response<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>remote harsh conditions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trauma and emergency care<\/strong>&nbsp;capabilities strengthened for&nbsp;<strong>frontier regions<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>strategic locations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medical preparedness<\/strong>&nbsp;enhancement crucial for&nbsp;<strong>border security<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>civilian safety<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfaf GoM to Meet on Next-Generation GST Reforms Implementation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Group of Ministers<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>six states<\/strong>&nbsp;scheduled to review&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi\u2019s Independence Day<\/strong>&nbsp;announced&nbsp;<strong>GST simplification<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Revenue Department<\/strong>&nbsp;prepares&nbsp;<strong>detailed proposals<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>4-slab to 2-slab reduction<\/strong>&nbsp;targeting&nbsp;<strong>Diwali 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>99% of 12% slab items<\/strong>&nbsp;to move to&nbsp;<strong>5% category<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>90% of 28% items<\/strong>&nbsp;shift to&nbsp;<strong>18% bracket<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tax reform<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to&nbsp;<strong>reduce compliance burden<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>boost consumption<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>simplify business operations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic impact<\/strong>&nbsp;expected through&nbsp;<strong>lower tax burden<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>essential goods<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>MSME sector relief<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 17, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee3\ufe0f PM Modi Inaugurates \u20b911,000 Crore Highway Projects in Delhi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurates&nbsp;<strong>Delhi section<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Dwarka Expressway<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II)<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>12:30 PM in Rohini<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b911,000 crore investment<\/strong>&nbsp;includes&nbsp;<strong>10.1 km Dwarka Expressway<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,360 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>UER-II stretch<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,580 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dwarka Expressway<\/strong>&nbsp;connects&nbsp;<strong>Yashobhoomi<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Metro Blue-Orange lines<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Bijwasan railway station<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>direct airport tunnel access<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UER-II designed<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Delhi\u2019s third Ring Road<\/strong>&nbsp;spanning&nbsp;<strong>76 km<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>new spurs to Bahadurgarh and Sonipat<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects expected to&nbsp;<strong>reduce travel time<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>ease traffic congestion<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Inner-Outer Ring Roads<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>decongest Mukarba Chowk<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2696\ufe0f Supreme Court to Hear Presidential Reference on Constitutional Powers on Monday<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Five-judge Constitution Bench<\/strong>&nbsp;led by&nbsp;<strong>CJI BR Gavai<\/strong>&nbsp;begins hearing&nbsp;<strong>Presidential Reference<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Governor-President powers<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Articles 200-201<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>14 questions<\/strong>&nbsp;referred by&nbsp;<strong>President Droupadi Murmu<\/strong>&nbsp;following SC\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Tamil Nadu Governor judgment<\/strong>&nbsp;imposing&nbsp;<strong>timelines for bill assent<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tamil Nadu and Kerala<\/strong>&nbsp;filed applications seeking&nbsp;<strong>return of Presidential Reference<\/strong>&nbsp;calling it&nbsp;<strong>\u201cheadless and devoid of merits\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional crisis<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>judicial authority<\/strong>&nbsp;to impose&nbsp;<strong>deadlines<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Governor-President discretionary powers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Separation of powers<\/strong>&nbsp;debate intensifies with&nbsp;<strong>Centre warning<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>functional hurdles<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>constitutional overreach<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f President Appoints Manipur Governor as Additional Charge of Nagaland<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>President Droupadi Murmu<\/strong>&nbsp;appoints&nbsp;<strong>Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla<\/strong>&nbsp;to discharge&nbsp;<strong>additional functions<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Nagaland Governor<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Appointment follows<\/strong>&nbsp;recent demise of&nbsp;<strong>Nagaland Governor La Ganesan<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>age 80<\/strong>&nbsp;leaving&nbsp;<strong>constitutional post vacant<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Administrative continuity<\/strong>&nbsp;ensured through&nbsp;<strong>additional charge mechanism<\/strong>&nbsp;until&nbsp;<strong>permanent appointment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional provision<\/strong>&nbsp;allows&nbsp;<strong>one Governor<\/strong>&nbsp;to handle&nbsp;<strong>multiple states<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>transitional periods<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bhalla\u2019s dual responsibility<\/strong>&nbsp;covers&nbsp;<strong>northeastern states<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>strategic importance<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\uddf0\ud83c\uddf7\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1f0-1f1f7.svg\">&nbsp;External Affairs Minister Holds Bilateral Talks with South Korean Counterpart<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>EAM Dr S Jaishankar<\/strong>&nbsp;conducts&nbsp;<strong>bilateral meeting<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>New Delhi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Productive discussions<\/strong>&nbsp;aimed at&nbsp;<strong>advancing bilateral cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>trade, technology, and strategic partnerships<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India-South Korea relations<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthening amid&nbsp;<strong>global economic uncertainties<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>regional security challenges<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enhanced collaboration<\/strong>&nbsp;expected in&nbsp;<strong>defense, space technology, and digital innovation<\/strong>&nbsp;sectors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic dialogue<\/strong>&nbsp;part of&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s Act East Policy<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Korean New Southern Policy<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc8 India\u2019s Electronics Exports Surge 47% in Q1 FY2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>47% growth<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>electronics exports<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>first quarter 2025-26<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant increase<\/strong>&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;<strong>same quarter 2024-25<\/strong>&nbsp;reflecting&nbsp;<strong>manufacturing sector growth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PLI scheme success<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Make in India initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;driving&nbsp;<strong>export competitiveness<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electronics manufacturing<\/strong>&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;<strong>major contributor<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s export basket<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global supply chain<\/strong>&nbsp;positioning improved through&nbsp;<strong>domestic manufacturing capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Indian Army Inaugurates Health Centre in Arunachal Pradesh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Operation Sadbhavana initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>\u201cArogyam Health and Wellness Centre\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>DahJhong, Tawang district<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Border area development<\/strong>&nbsp;program providing&nbsp;<strong>healthcare services<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>remote communities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Military-civilian cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthens&nbsp;<strong>border infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>community welfare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic location<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Tawang<\/strong>&nbsp;enhances&nbsp;<strong>healthcare accessibility<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>border populations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive wellness approach<\/strong>&nbsp;includes&nbsp;<strong>preventive and curative healthcare<\/strong>&nbsp;services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 16, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Bihar CM Reduces Competitive Exam Fees to \u20b9100<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CM Nitish Kumar<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>significant relief<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>job aspirants<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>two-tier competitive examinations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preliminary test fee<\/strong>&nbsp;reduced to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9100<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>main examinations<\/strong>&nbsp;made&nbsp;<strong>completely free<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Police force expansion<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>42,000 in 2005<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>1.31 lakh currently<\/strong>&nbsp;with target of&nbsp;<strong>2.23 lakh<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Caste-based headcount<\/strong>&nbsp;reveals&nbsp;<strong>94 lakh families<\/strong>&nbsp;identified as&nbsp;<strong>poor across all social groups<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Law and order improvement<\/strong>&nbsp;remains&nbsp;<strong>highest priority<\/strong>&nbsp;since&nbsp;<strong>2005 governance<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb9 S&amp;P Global Upgrades India Credit Rating After 18 Years<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>S&amp;P Global Ratings<\/strong>&nbsp;upgrades India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>long-term sovereign credit rating<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u2018BBB\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>\u2018BBB-\u2018<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>stable outlook<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First upgrade since January 2007<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 after&nbsp;<strong>18 years<\/strong>&nbsp;of remaining at&nbsp;<strong>lowest investment grade<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;returning to&nbsp;<strong>rating level<\/strong>&nbsp;last held&nbsp;<strong>35 years ago<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>1990<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rating reflects&nbsp;<strong>economic resilience<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>sustained fiscal consolidation<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>strong growth momentum<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GDP growth<\/strong>&nbsp;averaged&nbsp;<strong>8.8% from FY22-FY24<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>highest in Asia-Pacific region<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 China\u2019s GSpace Successfully Launches 11 IoT Satellites<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Chinese company GSpace<\/strong>&nbsp;conducts&nbsp;<strong>successful test launch<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>11 satellites<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Internet of Things communication<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>5G communication satellites<\/strong>&nbsp;designed to enhance&nbsp;<strong>global connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>IoT infrastructure<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Space technology advancement<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>commercial satellite constellation<\/strong>&nbsp;development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic implications<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>global communications<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>technology competition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launch demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>China\u2019s growing capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>commercial space sector<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed Ola Develops Indigenous Cell Technology for Rare Earth Magnets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bhavish Aggarwal<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>Ola\u2019s development<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>indigenous cell technology<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>alternate rare earth magnet solutions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic move<\/strong>&nbsp;toward&nbsp;<strong>technological self-reliance<\/strong>&nbsp;reducing&nbsp;<strong>dependence on imports<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electric vehicle sector<\/strong>&nbsp;advancement with&nbsp;<strong>domestic manufacturing capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alternative technology development<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>critical battery components<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>motor systems<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative aligned with&nbsp;<strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Make in India<\/strong>&nbsp;objectives<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcca Centre Proposes Reducing GST Slabs from 4 to 2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Government<\/strong>&nbsp;proposes&nbsp;<strong>major GST simplification<\/strong>&nbsp;reducing&nbsp;<strong>current 4 slabs to 2 main categories<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>New structure<\/strong>&nbsp;likely to retain&nbsp;<strong>5% and 18% slabs<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>phasing out 12% and 28%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>99% of items<\/strong>&nbsp;currently in&nbsp;<strong>12% slab<\/strong>&nbsp;to move to&nbsp;<strong>5% category<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>90% of goods<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>28% bracket<\/strong>&nbsp;to be&nbsp;<strong>reclassified under 18%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Implementation timeline<\/strong>&nbsp;targeting&nbsp;<strong>Diwali 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;as announced by&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf1f Nagaland Governor La Ganesan Passes Away at 80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nagaland Governor La Ganesan<\/strong>&nbsp;dies at&nbsp;<strong>age 80<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 described as&nbsp;<strong>\u201cdevout nationalist\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional authority<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>administrative leader<\/strong>&nbsp;remembered for&nbsp;<strong>dedicated service<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Political veteran<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>extensive experience<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>governance and public administration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Condolences<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>political leaders<\/strong>&nbsp;across party lines acknowledge&nbsp;<strong>contributions to nation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State mourning<\/strong>&nbsp;declared in&nbsp;<strong>Nagaland<\/strong>&nbsp;following&nbsp;<strong>Governor\u2019s demise<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcf1 Union Minister Launches Web Portal for Swachhata Campaign 4.0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>web portal<\/strong>&nbsp;to monitor&nbsp;<strong>Special Swachhata Campaign 4.0<\/strong>&nbsp;progress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital tracking system<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>cleanliness initiatives<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>government departments<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transparency measures<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>public hygiene programs<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>waste management<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Real-time monitoring<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>sanitation activities<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>performance metrics<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology-driven approach<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Swachh Bharat Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;implementation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Cabinet Extends \u20b95 Lakh Health Insurance to Senior Citizens<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approves&nbsp;<strong>extension<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95 lakh health insurance scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>senior citizens above 70 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu<\/strong>&nbsp;welcomes&nbsp;<strong>healthcare coverage expansion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Universal health coverage<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative targeting&nbsp;<strong>elderly population<\/strong>&nbsp;healthcare needs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial protection<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>medical expenses<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>vulnerable demographic<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthcare accessibility<\/strong>&nbsp;improvement through&nbsp;<strong>government insurance scheme<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude81 DRDO-Navy Successfully Tests Vertical Launch Missile System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DRDO and Indian Navy<\/strong>&nbsp;conduct&nbsp;<strong>successful flight test<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous defense capability<\/strong>&nbsp;demonstration in&nbsp;<strong>missile technology<\/strong>&nbsp;advancement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Naval defense system<\/strong>&nbsp;enhancement with&nbsp;<strong>advanced missile defense<\/strong>&nbsp;capabilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Self-reliance in defense<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>domestic weapons development<\/strong>&nbsp;programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic deterrence<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthening via&nbsp;<strong>cutting-edge military technology<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf3e Agriculture Minister Announces Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shivraj Singh Chouhan<\/strong>&nbsp;chairs&nbsp;<strong>key meeting<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>state ministers<\/strong>&nbsp;announcing&nbsp;<strong>\u201cViksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Rabi crop<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agricultural transformation<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative targeting&nbsp;<strong>farming efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>productivity enhancement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seasonal crop planning<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>modern agricultural practices<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>technology integration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Farmer welfare measures<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>comprehensive agricultural development<\/strong>&nbsp;programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food security<\/strong>&nbsp;objectives aligned with&nbsp;<strong>sustainable farming<\/strong>&nbsp;methods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 15, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f PM Modi Delivers Record-Breaking 103-Minute Independence Day Address<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;delivered his&nbsp;<strong>12th consecutive Independence Day speech<\/strong>&nbsp;lasting&nbsp;<strong>103 minutes<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 the&nbsp;<strong>longest in Indian history<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;surpassing&nbsp;<strong>Indira Gandhi\u2019s record<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>11 consecutive addresses<\/strong>&nbsp;from Red Fort<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Speech focused on&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;with comprehensive vision for&nbsp;<strong>developed nation<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>centenary of independence<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bold announcements<\/strong>&nbsp;covering&nbsp;<strong>defense, economy, technology, employment, and governance reforms<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second-longest speaker<\/strong>&nbsp;in Independence Day history after&nbsp;<strong>Nehru\u2019s 17 speeches<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Next-Generation GST Reforms Announced for Diwali 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi promises<\/strong>&nbsp;to implement&nbsp;<strong>next-generation GST reforms<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Diwali 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplified two-slab structure<\/strong>&nbsp;replacing current&nbsp;<strong>5-28% rates<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>5% and 18% slabs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>40% tax rate<\/strong>&nbsp;maintained for&nbsp;<strong>luxury and sin goods<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>most 12% items<\/strong>&nbsp;move to&nbsp;<strong>5% bracket<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cDouble Diwali\u201d celebration<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>tax relief on essential goods<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>MSME benefits<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Targeted relief<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>small traders, consumers, and daily-use items<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Kishtwar Cloudburst Death Toll Rises to 60 with 200+ Missing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Devastating cloudburst<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Chositi village, Kishtwar district<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Thursday afternoon<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Death toll climbs to 60<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>over 200 people still missing<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>100+ injured<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Massive rescue operations<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>NDRF, SDRF, Army, and local volunteers<\/strong>&nbsp;continue for&nbsp;<strong>second day<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Machail Mata Yatra pilgrims<\/strong>&nbsp;among victims as&nbsp;<strong>flash floods<\/strong>&nbsp;destroyed&nbsp;<strong>langar sites<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>security outposts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PM Modi speaks<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>CM Omar Abdullah<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>LG Manoj Sinha<\/strong>&nbsp;assuring&nbsp;<strong>all possible help<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc \u20b91 Lakh Crore Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana for Youth Employment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi announces<\/strong>&nbsp;massive&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91 lakh crore employment scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;effective&nbsp;<strong>August 15, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b915,000 direct transfer<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>first-time private sector employees<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>one-time support<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3.5 crore new jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;targeted with&nbsp;<strong>companies receiving \u20b93,000 per month<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>additional staff<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Direct Benefit Transfer<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar Bridge Payment System<\/strong>&nbsp;ensures&nbsp;<strong>transparent delivery<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive youth empowerment<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative aligned with&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;vision<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf1f H.E. Zeenat Kureshi Becomes First Indian Woman GCC Trade Commissioner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Zeenat Kureshi<\/strong>&nbsp;appointed as&nbsp;<strong>first Indian woman<\/strong>&nbsp;to serve as&nbsp;<strong>GCC-India Trade Commissioner<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>luxury diplomacy<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>economic cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>India and Gulf nations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic role<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>premium industries collaboration<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>luxury market development<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultural exchange<\/strong>&nbsp;promotion through&nbsp;<strong>high-value commerce<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>diplomatic initiatives<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trailblazing appointment<\/strong>&nbsp;inspiring&nbsp;<strong>women in international trade<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>global relations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed Reform Task Force Launched for $10 Trillion GDP Target<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi announces<\/strong>&nbsp;creation of&nbsp;<strong>dedicated Reform Task Force<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>next-generation reforms<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mandate to accelerate<\/strong>&nbsp;economic growth,&nbsp;<strong>cut red tape<\/strong>, and achieve&nbsp;<strong>$10 trillion GDP<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Streamlined governance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>business-friendly policies<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost&nbsp;<strong>manufacturing sector<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Economic transformation<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with&nbsp;<strong>developed nation status<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>2047<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Systematic approach<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>regulatory simplification<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>investment facilitation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 Nuclear Energy Capacity to Grow Tenfold by 2047<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>10 new nuclear reactors<\/strong>&nbsp;currently under construction as part of&nbsp;<strong>energy expansion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nuclear power capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;to increase&nbsp;<strong>tenfold by 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>clean energy transition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Private sector participation<\/strong>&nbsp;in nuclear energy to&nbsp;<strong>boost innovation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>generation capacity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Energy independence<\/strong>&nbsp;strategy reducing&nbsp;<strong>dependence on imported fuel<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sustainable development<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>advanced nuclear technology<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>safety protocols<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude81 Shubman Gill Returns from International Space Station Mission<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla<\/strong>&nbsp;returns from&nbsp;<strong>International Space Station<\/strong>&nbsp;assignment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic achievement<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s space program<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>astronaut development<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous space station<\/strong>&nbsp;development on track as part of&nbsp;<strong>space expansion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gaganyaan mission<\/strong>&nbsp;progress with&nbsp;<strong>self-reliance in space technology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National pride<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>space exploration<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>technological advancement<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 PM Modi Launches \u20b91 Lakh Crore Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;announces&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91 lakh crore employment scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;effective&nbsp;<strong>August 15, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First-time private sector employees<\/strong>&nbsp;receive&nbsp;<strong>\u20b915,000 directly from government<\/strong>&nbsp;as one-time support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3.5 crore new jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;expected with&nbsp;<strong>1.92 crore first-time workforce entrants<\/strong>&nbsp;over two years<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Companies hiring additional staff<\/strong>&nbsp;eligible for&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,000 per month per employee<\/strong>&nbsp;with extended manufacturing benefits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar Bridge Payment System<\/strong>&nbsp;ensures transparent delivery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f Mission Sudarshan Chakra: Indigenous Defense System by 2035<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi unveils Sudarshan Chakra Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 advanced&nbsp;<strong>indigenous weapons system<\/strong>&nbsp;inspired by&nbsp;<strong>Lord Krishna<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Powerful weapon system<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>neutralize enemy attacks<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>hit back multiple times stronger<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complete indigenous development<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Indian youth and talent<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>research, manufacturing in India<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Precise Target System<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>accurate strikes<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>future warfare capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National security shield<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>railway platforms, hospitals, religious sites<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>2035<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2694\ufe0f Operation Sindoor: India\u2019s Strategic Response to Terrorism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Operation Sindoor launched May 7-8, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<strong>Pahalgam terror attack<\/strong>&nbsp;killing&nbsp;<strong>26 innocent tourists<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nine terrorist camps targeted<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Pakistan and PoK<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>over 100 terrorists eliminated<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>23-minute precision strikes<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Indian Air Force<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous defense systems<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>Akash missiles, BrahMos, SAMAR<\/strong>&nbsp;proved effectiveness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tri-services coordination<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Air Force, Army, and Navy<\/strong>&nbsp;working in perfect synergy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0a India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty Over Security Concerns<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi declares<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>\u201cBlood and water will not flow together\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;amid Pakistan\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>nuclear blackmail<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indus Waters Treaty suspension<\/strong>&nbsp;following&nbsp;<strong>Pahalgam attack<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>national security measure<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indian farmers suffered 70 years<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>enemy lands irrigated<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>Indus River system<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water resources<\/strong>&nbsp;must serve&nbsp;<strong>Indian citizens first<\/strong>&nbsp;rather than&nbsp;<strong>supporting terrorism<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic decision<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>Pakistan\u2019s proxy war<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>demographic change attempts<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc65 High-Power Demography Mission Against Infiltration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi announces<\/strong>&nbsp;new mission to counter&nbsp;<strong>\u201cwell-thought conspiracy\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>change India\u2019s demographics<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Infiltrators targeting youth livelihoods<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>threatening sisters and daughters<\/strong>&nbsp;will&nbsp;<strong>not be tolerated<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Border area demographic changes<\/strong>&nbsp;pose&nbsp;<strong>serious national security threat<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tribal land capture<\/strong>&nbsp;by infiltrators through&nbsp;<strong>misleading innocent people<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive strategy<\/strong>&nbsp;to protect&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s demographic integrity<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb8 Next-Generation GST Reforms by Diwali 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Major GST simplification<\/strong>&nbsp;promised by&nbsp;<strong>Diwali 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>reduced tax burden<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Daily-use items<\/strong>&nbsp;to see&nbsp;<strong>significant tax reductions<\/strong>&nbsp;benefiting common citizens<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u201cDouble Diwali\u201d celebration<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>tax reforms<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>employment schemes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital tax system<\/strong>&nbsp;improvements for&nbsp;<strong>easier compliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>faster processing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Business-friendly reforms<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost&nbsp;<strong>economic growth<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>manufacturing sector<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 Space Achievements: Shubhanshu Shukla Returns from ISS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla<\/strong>&nbsp;returns from&nbsp;<strong>International Space Station<\/strong>&nbsp;mission<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India on track<\/strong>&nbsp;to build&nbsp;<strong>indigenous space station<\/strong>&nbsp;as part of&nbsp;<strong>space program expansion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Space sector achievements<\/strong>&nbsp;making&nbsp;<strong>entire nation proud<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>international recognition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s space exploration<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>astronaut program<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Self-reliance in space technology<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with&nbsp;<strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;mission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbb Made-in-India Semiconductors by Year-End 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indigenous semiconductor chips<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>hit market<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>end of 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>50-60 years lost opportunity<\/strong>&nbsp;now recovered through&nbsp;<strong>mission mode approach<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Multiple semiconductor projects<\/strong>&nbsp;approved across&nbsp;<strong>Punjab, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b94,600 crore investment<\/strong>&nbsp;creating&nbsp;<strong>advanced manufacturing capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Self-reliance in critical technology<\/strong>&nbsp;reducing&nbsp;<strong>import dependence<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcca Record-Breaking Independence Day Speech: 103 Minutes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi delivers longest-ever Independence Day address<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>103 minutes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12th consecutive speech<\/strong>&nbsp;surpassing&nbsp;<strong>Indira Gandhi\u2019s record<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>11 consecutive addresses<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second only to Nehru\u2019s 17 speeches<\/strong>&nbsp;in Independence Day address history<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive vision<\/strong>&nbsp;covering&nbsp;<strong>defense, economy, technology, social welfare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historic address<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>7:33 AM to 9:16 AM<\/strong>&nbsp;outlining&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat roadmap<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc69\ud83d\udcbc Women Empowerment Through Stree Shakti Schemes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Andhra Pradesh launches Stree Shakti<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>free bus travel<\/strong>&nbsp;for women effective&nbsp;<strong>August 15<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b930 crore Tamil Nadu Thayumanavar Scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>doorstep ration delivery<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>21.7 lakh beneficiaries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Women-led enterprises<\/strong>&nbsp;getting&nbsp;<strong>priority support<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>startup ecosystem<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Growing economic participation<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Nari Shakti<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s development<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gender-inclusive policies<\/strong>&nbsp;driving&nbsp;<strong>social and economic transformation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfed Self-Reliance in Defense Manufacturing Showcased<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Operation Sindoor success<\/strong>&nbsp;proved&nbsp;<strong>Made-in-India weapons<\/strong>&nbsp;effectiveness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indigenous systems<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>Akashteer, SAMAR, D4 anti-drone<\/strong>&nbsp;performed excellently<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Defense production<\/strong>&nbsp;reached&nbsp;<strong>all-time high<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>significant private sector participation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Future warfare readiness<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>domestic defense technology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic autonomy<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>critical defense capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>external threats<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 14, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Centre Disburses \u20b93,200 Crore Crop Insurance to 30 Lakh Farmers Today<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan<\/strong>&nbsp;releases&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,200 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>30 lakh farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh<\/strong>&nbsp;receive&nbsp;<strong>digital transfers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State-wise allocation<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>MP \u20b91,156 crore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan \u20b91,121 crore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Chhattisgarh \u20b9150 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplified claims process<\/strong>&nbsp;allows&nbsp;<strong>proportionate payments<\/strong>&nbsp;without waiting for state contributions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12% penalty<\/strong>&nbsp;imposed on&nbsp;<strong>insurance companies<\/strong>&nbsp;and states for delayed payments from&nbsp;<strong>Kharif 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 RBI Allows Vostro Accounts to Invest Entire Surplus in Government Securities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Central bank<\/strong>&nbsp;permits&nbsp;<strong>foreign investors<\/strong>&nbsp;to invest&nbsp;<strong>surplus balances<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Special Rupee Vostro Accounts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>123 correspondent banks<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>30 trading partners<\/strong>&nbsp;approved to open&nbsp;<strong>156 SRVAs<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>26 Indian banks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Previous&nbsp;<strong>30% cap on securities<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>residual maturity under one year<\/strong>&nbsp;now removed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative supports&nbsp;<strong>rupee internationalization<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>bilateral trade<\/strong>&nbsp;in local currencies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move aimed at boosting&nbsp;<strong>rupee-denominated investment<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>trade settlements<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 Tata Power-Suzlon Develop \u20b96,000 Crore Wind Project in Andhra Pradesh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>700 MW wind power project<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Anantapur district<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,000 crore investment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First wind project<\/strong>&nbsp;in state since&nbsp;<strong>2019<\/strong>&nbsp;generating&nbsp;<strong>1,840 million units annually<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>S144 wind turbine generators<\/strong>&nbsp;manufactured at&nbsp;<strong>Suzlon\u2019s refurbished AP facility<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part of&nbsp;<strong>MoU for 7 GW renewable capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;development under&nbsp;<strong>Integrated Clean Energy Policy<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>State targets&nbsp;<strong>160 GW renewable capacity<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>5 years<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b910 trillion investment potential<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2692\ufe0f Hindustan Zinc Becomes First Indian Member of ICMM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hindustan Zinc Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;joins&nbsp;<strong>International Council on Mining and Metals<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>25th global member<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First Indian company<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>first new member since 2021<\/strong>&nbsp;following&nbsp;<strong>rigorous assessment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>40 performance expectations<\/strong>&nbsp;covering&nbsp;<strong>Environmental, Social, Governance practices<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>World\u2019s most sustainable mining company<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>S&amp;P Global<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>second consecutive year<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasizes&nbsp;<strong>global energy transition leadership<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f Adani Defence Acquires 100% Stake in Indamer Technics via Horizon Aero<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Adani Defence Systems<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>Horizon Aero Solutions<\/strong>&nbsp;acquires&nbsp;<strong>Indamer Technics Private Limited<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>50-50 partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Prime Aero Services<\/strong>&nbsp;owned by&nbsp;<strong>Prajay Patel<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>30-acre greenfield facility<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Nagpur MIHAN SEZ<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>15 aircraft bay capacity<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DGCA and FAA approved<\/strong>&nbsp;offering&nbsp;<strong>comprehensive MRO services<\/strong>&nbsp;to global customers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expansion establishes&nbsp;<strong>India as premier global MRO destination<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udef0\ufe0f Pixxel Consortium Wins \u20b91,200 Crore EO Satellite Project with Zero Bid<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pixxel-led consortium<\/strong>&nbsp;wins&nbsp;<strong>Earth Observation satellite constellation<\/strong>&nbsp;contract with&nbsp;<strong>zero-cost bid<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12 satellites over 4 years<\/strong>&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;<strong>optical, hyperspectral, and SAR sensors<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Private investment of \u20b91,200 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>estimated \u20b91,800 crore annual revenue<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India could save \u20b99,000 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;over 5 years from reduced foreign data imports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First satellite launch within 2 years<\/strong>&nbsp;targeting&nbsp;<strong>agriculture, security, and global markets<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 Arianespace Successfully Launches European Weather Satellite on Ariane 6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ariane 6 rocket<\/strong>&nbsp;successfully launches&nbsp;<strong>Metop-SGA1<\/strong>&nbsp;weather satellite from&nbsp;<strong>French Guiana<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Third launch<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>second commercial flight<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Europe\u2019s new heavy-lift launcher<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sun-synchronous orbit<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>800 km altitude<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>spacecraft separation<\/strong>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<strong>1 hour 4 minutes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First next-generation European polar-orbiting weather satellite<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>six atmospheric instruments<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mission provides&nbsp;<strong>cutting-edge weather and climate monitoring data<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>European resilience<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf5a Tamil Nadu Launches Thayumanavar Scheme for Doorstep Ration Delivery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CM M.K. Stalin<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>Chief Minister\u2019s Thayumanavar Scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>21.7 lakh beneficiaries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b930.16 crore initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;delivers&nbsp;<strong>ration items<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>elderly over 70<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>differently abled<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>34,809 fair price shops<\/strong>&nbsp;participate with&nbsp;<strong>monthly delivery<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>second Saturday and Sunday<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electronic weighing<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>e-PoS machines<\/strong>&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;<strong>transparency and accuracy<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>20.42 lakh senior citizens<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>1.27 lakh differently abled<\/strong>&nbsp;persons benefit from scheme<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf93 MY Bharat Signs Youth Leadership Development MoU with SOUL Foundation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ministry of Youth Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;partners with&nbsp;<strong>School of Ultimate Leadership Foundation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Three-year MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to create&nbsp;<strong>100,000 youth leaders<\/strong>&nbsp;aged&nbsp;<strong>18-29 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Programs cover governance, public policy, social entrepreneurship, digital literacy<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pan-India inclusive approach<\/strong>&nbsp;ensuring&nbsp;<strong>rural, urban, tribal, women<\/strong>&nbsp;representation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Online leadership program<\/strong>&nbsp;to commence in&nbsp;<strong>September 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfa8 IGNCA Signs MoU with BSIP for India\u2019s First Science-Culture Platform<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts<\/strong>&nbsp;partners with&nbsp;<strong>Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;in India to&nbsp;<strong>integrate science and culture<\/strong>&nbsp;on unified platform<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>11 PG Diploma courses<\/strong>&nbsp;spanning&nbsp;<strong>Cultural Informatics to Indian Literature<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Project Mausam collaboration<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>climate change in maritime history<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative preserves and presents&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s heritage<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>innovative programs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 Union Minister Chouhan Releases \u20b93,200 Crore to Farmers Under PMFBY<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan<\/strong>&nbsp;announced&nbsp;<strong>digital transfer of \u20b93,200 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>30 lakh farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State-wise distribution<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Madhya Pradesh \u20b91,156 crore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan \u20b91,121 crore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Chhattisgarh \u20b9150 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplified claim settlement<\/strong>&nbsp;system allows&nbsp;<strong>proportionate payments<\/strong>&nbsp;based on&nbsp;<strong>central subsidy<\/strong>&nbsp;without waiting for state contribution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12% penalty<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>insurance companies<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>state governments<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>delayed payments<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>Kharif 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;season<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Since&nbsp;<strong>2016 launch<\/strong>, PMFBY has disbursed&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91.83 lakh crore claims<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>\u20b935,864 crore farmer premiums<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe5 Union Health Secretary Launches SHRESTH Initiative for Drug Quality<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava<\/strong>&nbsp;launched&nbsp;<strong>State Health Regulatory Excellence Index (SHRESTH)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First-of-its-kind national benchmarking system<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>state drug regulatory authorities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>27 indices for Manufacturing States<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>23 indices for Primarily Distribution States<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CDSCO-proposed initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to ensure&nbsp;<strong>drug safety and quality standards<\/strong>&nbsp;consistently met<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Data submission by&nbsp;<strong>25th of each month<\/strong>&nbsp;with scoring on&nbsp;<strong>1st of following month<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udd94 UIDAI Signs 5-Year R&amp;D Agreement with Indian Statistical Institute<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>UIDAI<\/strong>&nbsp;signed&nbsp;<strong>umbrella agreement<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Indian Statistical Institute<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>joint research and development<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Five-year partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;focuses on&nbsp;<strong>fraud detection<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>biometric liveness tools<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>matching algorithms<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreement covers&nbsp;<strong>high-risk enrollment categories<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>data-driven innovations<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar robustness<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasized building&nbsp;<strong>advanced, secure, and citizen-centric innovation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ISI\u2019s expertise<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>statistics, mathematics, computer science<\/strong>&nbsp;strengthens Aadhaar operations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udec2 MHA Tightens OCI Card Registration Rules for Criminal Offenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ministry of Home Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;issued&nbsp;<strong>gazette notification<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Section 7D of Citizenship Act, 1955<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>OCI registration cancellation<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>imprisonment of 2+ years<\/strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>charge-sheeted for 7+ year offenses<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rules apply&nbsp;<strong>regardless of conviction location<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 India or abroad \u2013 if offense recognized under&nbsp;<strong>Indian law<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>122 OCI registrations cancelled<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>2014-2023<\/strong>, with&nbsp;<strong>57 more in 2024<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Government emphasizes&nbsp;<strong>OCI as privilege, not right<\/strong>&nbsp;with stricter&nbsp;<strong>legal framework<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2601\ufe0f Rajasthan Launches India\u2019s First AI-Enabled Drone Cloud Seeding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Rajasthan Agriculture Department<\/strong>&nbsp;launched&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first drone-based cloud seeding experiment<\/strong>&nbsp;near&nbsp;<strong>Ramgarh Dam, Jaipur<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>60 AI-controlled drones<\/strong>&nbsp;collaboration between&nbsp;<strong>Rajasthan Agriculture Department<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>US-Bengaluru firm GenX AI<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated&nbsp;<strong>artificial rain trial<\/strong>&nbsp;using&nbsp;<strong>silver iodide particles<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Received approvals from&nbsp;<strong>DGCA<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>India Meteorological Department<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>district authorities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Previous aircraft-based attempt<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Chittorgarh\u2019s Bhaisunda Dam<\/strong>&nbsp;cost&nbsp;<strong>\u20b910 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;but failed due to&nbsp;<strong>low moisture<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude85 Western Railway Commissions India\u2019s First 2\u00d725 kV Traction Substation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Western Railway<\/strong>&nbsp;successfully commissioned&nbsp;<strong>first 2\u00d725 kV Electric Traction System<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Nagda-Khachrod section<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Two Scott-connected 100 MVA Power Transformers<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated by&nbsp;<strong>Principal Chief Electrical Engineer Ranjan Srivastava<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Historic milestone under&nbsp;<strong>Mission Raftaar initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance&nbsp;<strong>energy efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>train operating speeds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Longest monolithic motor<\/strong>&nbsp;prepared at&nbsp;<strong>Solid Propellant Plant, Sriharikota<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>advanced traction system<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Joint effort by&nbsp;<strong>Divisional Electrical Engineering team<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Construction Department<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>M\/s BNC Power Projects Ltd<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc9 India\u2019s Retail Inflation Drops to 8-Year Low of 1.55%<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Consumer Price Index inflation<\/strong>&nbsp;declined to&nbsp;<strong>1.55% in July 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>lowest since June 2017<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant decrease<\/strong>&nbsp;from previous months indicating&nbsp;<strong>economic stabilization<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food price moderation<\/strong>&nbsp;contributed to&nbsp;<strong>overall inflation decline<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Positive economic indicator<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>monetary policy<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>consumer spending<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>RBI\u2019s inflation targeting<\/strong>&nbsp;showing&nbsp;<strong>effective results<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>price stability<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfcf Shubman Gill Named ICC Player of the Month for July<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill<\/strong>&nbsp;awarded&nbsp;<strong>ICC Player of the Month<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>July 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sophia Dunkley<\/strong>&nbsp;from England won&nbsp;<strong>women\u2019s category<\/strong>&nbsp;for outstanding performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Third Indian player<\/strong>&nbsp;to receive this honor in 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognition for&nbsp;<strong>exceptional cricket performance<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>July international matches<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ICC rankings<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Shubman Gill tops ODI rankings<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>784 points<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Rohit Sharma second<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to Visit Russia for Bilateral Talks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>EAM S. Jaishankar<\/strong>&nbsp;scheduled to meet&nbsp;<strong>Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Moscow on August 21<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discussions on&nbsp;<strong>bilateral relations<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>defense cooperation<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>strategic partnerships<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visit amid&nbsp;<strong>ongoing global tensions<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>India-Russia traditional ties<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic dialogue<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>regional security<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>economic cooperation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meeting follows&nbsp;<strong>recent diplomatic engagements<\/strong>&nbsp;between both nations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 13, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2694\ufe0f India\u2019s Defence Production Soars to All-Time High of \u20b91.51 Lakh Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Defence production<\/strong>&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;<strong>record high of \u20b91,50,590 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>FY 2024-25<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>18% growth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>90% increase<\/strong>&nbsp;since&nbsp;<strong>FY 2019-20<\/strong>&nbsp;when production was&nbsp;<strong>\u20b979,071 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Defence Public Sector Undertakings<\/strong>&nbsp;contributed&nbsp;<strong>77%<\/strong>&nbsp;while&nbsp;<strong>private sector<\/strong>&nbsp;contributed&nbsp;<strong>23%<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Defence exports<\/strong>&nbsp;reached&nbsp;<strong>record high of \u20b923,622 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>12.04% growth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Private sector growth<\/strong>&nbsp;increased&nbsp;<strong>28%<\/strong>&nbsp;reflecting enhanced&nbsp;<strong>ease of doing business<\/strong>&nbsp;reforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc DPIIT Signs MoUs with Hero MotoCorp and Zepto to Boost Early-Stage Startups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade<\/strong>&nbsp;signs partnerships for&nbsp;<strong>startup ecosystem development<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hero MotoCorp partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;provides access to&nbsp;<strong>R&amp;D facilities in Germany and India<\/strong>&nbsp;plus&nbsp;<strong>dealership network<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zepto partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;includes&nbsp;<strong>Zepto Nova programme<\/strong>&nbsp;to onboard&nbsp;<strong>100+ startups<\/strong>&nbsp;into supply chain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>startups from Tier II and Tier III cities<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>women-led enterprises<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Programs offer&nbsp;<strong>paid Proofs of Concept<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>mentorship<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>capacity-building workshops<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udd2c NLCIL Partners with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre for Rare Earth Extraction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>NLC India Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;signs&nbsp;<strong>MoU with BARC<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>rare earth elements extraction<\/strong>&nbsp;from fly ash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership leverages&nbsp;<strong>BARC\u2019s advanced extraction technology<\/strong>&nbsp;for sustainable resource utilization<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative supports&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s self-reliance<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>critical rare earth minerals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project aims to convert&nbsp;<strong>industrial waste into valuable resources<\/strong>&nbsp;through innovative technology<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration strengthens&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s strategic mineral security<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>circular economy initiatives<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd1d India-Zambia Sign Trade Cooperation Pact to Boost Cooperative Exports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>India and Zambia<\/strong>&nbsp;sign&nbsp;<strong>trade cooperation agreement<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance&nbsp;<strong>bilateral economic relations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>cooperative sector exports<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>agricultural product trade<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreement facilitates&nbsp;<strong>knowledge sharing<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>technology transfer<\/strong>&nbsp;between both nations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative supports&nbsp;<strong>rural economic development<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>farmer income enhancement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership creates&nbsp;<strong>new market opportunities<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Indian cooperative enterprises<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 RBL Bank Partners with CAMSPay for Next-Generation Payment Gateway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>RBL Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;collaborates with&nbsp;<strong>CAMSPay<\/strong>&nbsp;to launch&nbsp;<strong>CAMSPay New Payment Gateway<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Real-time transaction processing<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>secure card processing capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>settlement services<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Platform offers&nbsp;<strong>real-time analytics<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>reconciliation features<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>open API integration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership combines&nbsp;<strong>CAMSPay\u2019s payment technology<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>RBL Bank\u2019s banking infrastructure<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative strengthens&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s digital payment ecosystem<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>enterprise customers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc1f NABARD and APGB Sign Aquaculture Financing MoU with Aqua Exchange<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>APGB<\/strong>&nbsp;partner with&nbsp;<strong>Aqua Exchange Agritech<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IoT-enabled loan model<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>shrimp farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>real-time water quality monitoring<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b91.25 crore loan sanctions<\/strong>&nbsp;distributed to&nbsp;<strong>five farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;along with&nbsp;<strong>IoT devices<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9346.27 lakh grant<\/strong>&nbsp;sanctioned for&nbsp;<strong>tribal development project<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>10 villages<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative targets&nbsp;<strong>500 tribal families<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>sustainable livelihood opportunities<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udef0\ufe0f Tata\u2019s Nelco Partners with Eutelsat for Satellite Connectivity Expansion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nelco signs agreement<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Eutelsat<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>OneWeb LEO satellite services<\/strong>&nbsp;across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Low Earth orbit connectivity<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>land, sea, and air<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>low-latency services<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Services cater to&nbsp;<strong>government and enterprise applications<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>underserved areas<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership strengthens&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s digital infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>national security communications<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nelco share price<\/strong>&nbsp;opened&nbsp;<strong>3.62% higher<\/strong>&nbsp;following the announcement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u269b\ufe0f LTIMindtree Joins India\u2019s First Quantum Valley Development in Amaravati<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>LTIMindtree and L&amp;T<\/strong>&nbsp;partner with&nbsp;<strong>Andhra Pradesh government<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Amaravati Quantum Valley<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India\u2019s first quantum technology hub<\/strong>&nbsp;featuring&nbsp;<strong>IBM Quantum System Two<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 country\u2019s largest quantum computer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>LTIMindtree Quantum Centre of Excellence<\/strong>&nbsp;drives&nbsp;<strong>deep tech research<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>quantum incubation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>L&amp;T handles infrastructure development<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>design and construction<\/strong>&nbsp;of quantum facilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project aligns with&nbsp;<strong>National Quantum Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>industrial and societal applications<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfad Madhuri Dixit Appointed Brand Ambassador for Odisha Handloom Industry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Odisha Chief Minister<\/strong>&nbsp;appoints&nbsp;<strong>actress Madhuri Dixit<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>handloom industry brand ambassador<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Announcement made on&nbsp;<strong>11th National Handloom Day<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>EKTA Expo<\/strong>&nbsp;running for&nbsp;<strong>7 days<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative aims to promote&nbsp;<strong>1,30,000 weavers<\/strong>&nbsp;across Odisha state<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Steel sector expansion<\/strong>&nbsp;discussions held with&nbsp;<strong>Union Minister<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Rourkela Steel Plant<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>Aatmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>300 MTPA steel production<\/strong>&nbsp;target by&nbsp;<strong>2030<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udea8 Maharashtra Launches Garuda Drishti for Social Media Monitoring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CM Devendra Fadnavis<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>Garuda Drishti<\/strong>&nbsp;cyber intelligence project in&nbsp;<strong>Nagpur<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b910 crore recovered<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>cyber financial crimes<\/strong>&nbsp;distributed to&nbsp;<strong>fraud victims<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>System examined&nbsp;<strong>30,000 social media posts<\/strong>&nbsp;and removed&nbsp;<strong>650 offensive posts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intellectual Property Rights<\/strong>&nbsp;owned by&nbsp;<strong>Nagpur Police<\/strong>&nbsp;developed through&nbsp;<strong>Cyber Hack 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tool combats&nbsp;<strong>communal hatred<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>fake news<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>hate speech<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>drug trafficking<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe2 Karnataka Unveils KATALYST to Accelerate GCC Expansion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Government of Karnataka<\/strong>&nbsp;launches&nbsp;<strong>KATALYST<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 dedicated&nbsp;<strong>Ease of Doing Business cell<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Global Capability Centres<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ambitious plan<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>double GCC count<\/strong>&nbsp;and add&nbsp;<strong>500 new GCCs by 2029<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative targets&nbsp;<strong>350,000 new jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>$50 billion economic output<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beyond Bengaluru strategy<\/strong>&nbsp;promotes GCCs in&nbsp;<strong>Mysuru, Mangaluru, Tumakuru<\/strong>, and other regions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Three Global Innovation Districts<\/strong>&nbsp;planned including&nbsp;<strong>one in Bengaluru<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>two outside<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude87 Cabinet Approves Lucknow Metro Phase-1B Project Worth \u20b95,801 Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approves&nbsp;<strong>Phase-1B of Lucknow Metro<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>11.165 km corridor<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>12 stations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>7 underground<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>5 elevated stations<\/strong>&nbsp;to create&nbsp;<strong>34 km active metro network<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project enhances connectivity in&nbsp;<strong>oldest and densely populated areas<\/strong>&nbsp;of Lucknow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seamless integration<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Old Lucknow zones<\/strong>&nbsp;with improved&nbsp;<strong>urban mobility<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative promises&nbsp;<strong>economic growth<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>reduced traffic congestion<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>environmental benefits<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 Cabinet Approves \u20b98,146 Crore Tato-II Hydro Project in Arunachal Pradesh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;approves&nbsp;<strong>700 MW Tato-II Hydro Electric Project<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b98,146.21 crore investment<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>72-month completion period<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Shi Yomi District<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Joint venture<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>NEEPCO<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Government of Arunachal Pradesh<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Central financial assistance<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9436.13 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;towards state equity share<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>State benefits from&nbsp;<strong>12% free power<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>1% Local Area Development Fund<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Union Cabinet Approves 4 New Semiconductor Projects Worth \u20b94,594 Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi-led Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approved&nbsp;<strong>four semiconductor manufacturing projects<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>Punjab, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total investment of \u20b94,594 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)<\/strong>&nbsp;framework<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects include&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first commercial compound fabrication facility<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>advanced glass-based substrate packaging unit<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3D Glass Solutions facility<\/strong>&nbsp;in Odisha backed by&nbsp;<strong>Intel, Lockheed Martin, and Applied Materials<\/strong>&nbsp;with \u20b91,943 crore investment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Silicon Carbide plant<\/strong>&nbsp;by SiCsem in&nbsp;<strong>Bhubaneswar<\/strong>&nbsp;worth \u20b92,066 crore for&nbsp;<strong>defense and aerospace applications<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CDIL project in Punjab<\/strong>&nbsp;with \u20b9117 crore investment and&nbsp;<strong>15.8 crore units annual capacity<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe0 Centre Allocates 4.12 Crore Houses Under PM Awas Yojana-Gramin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union government<\/strong>&nbsp;allocated&nbsp;<strong>4.12 crore houses<\/strong>&nbsp;to States and UTs under&nbsp;<strong>Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana \u2013 Gramin<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scheme aims to provide&nbsp;<strong>affordable housing<\/strong>&nbsp;to rural families across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant push<\/strong>&nbsp;towards achieving&nbsp;<strong>Housing for All<\/strong>&nbsp;mission in rural areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State governments<\/strong>&nbsp;to implement housing projects with central government support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb3 Paytm Payments Services Gets RBI In-Principle Approval<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reserve Bank of India<\/strong>&nbsp;grants&nbsp;<strong>in-principle approval<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Paytm Payments Services<\/strong>&nbsp;to operate as&nbsp;<strong>online payment aggregator<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Major regulatory milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;for digital payments company after recent restrictions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Approval subject<\/strong>&nbsp;to fulfilling additional conditions set by RBI<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Positive development<\/strong>&nbsp;for India\u2019s digital payments ecosystem<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfcf Shubman Gill Named ICC Player of the Month for July<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill<\/strong>&nbsp;awarded&nbsp;<strong>ICC Player of the Month<\/strong>&nbsp;for July 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sophia Dunkley<\/strong>&nbsp;from England won the&nbsp;<strong>women\u2019s category<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognition for&nbsp;<strong>outstanding cricket performance<\/strong>&nbsp;during the month<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Third Indian player<\/strong>&nbsp;to receive this honor in 2025<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 12, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Government e-Marketplace Celebrates 9th Foundation Day with \u20b95.4 Lakh Cr GMV<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>GeM<\/strong>&nbsp;recorded&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95.4 lakh crore GMV<\/strong>&nbsp;in FY 2024-25, marking its&nbsp;<strong>9th Foundation Day<\/strong>&nbsp;on theme of&nbsp;<strong>Ease, Access and Inclusion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Platform has&nbsp;<strong>onboarded 1.5 lakh women-led enterprises<\/strong>&nbsp;along with startups, self-help groups (SHGs), artisans and MSEs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key reforms announced include&nbsp;<strong>elimination of caution money<\/strong>&nbsp;for sellers, rationalization of vendor assessment fees and reduction in transaction charges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GeM uses&nbsp;<strong>AI-powered tools<\/strong>&nbsp;and multilingual Learning Management System to facilitate access to public procurement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The platform supports&nbsp;<strong>paperless, real-time transactions<\/strong>&nbsp;and has expanded into new service verticals such as insurance and manpower<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc8a IndiaAI and National Cancer Grid Launch CATCH Grant Program for AI Innovation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>CATCH Grant Program<\/strong>&nbsp;launched to support&nbsp;<strong>AI solutions<\/strong>&nbsp;in cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Program will provide&nbsp;<strong>up to \u20b950 lakh per project<\/strong>&nbsp;to selected teams comprising technology innovators and clinical institutions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Successful pilot projects<\/strong>&nbsp;may be eligible for additional&nbsp;<strong>scale-up grant of up to \u20b91 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;for wider deployment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total of&nbsp;<strong>up to 10 proposals<\/strong>&nbsp;will be selected for piloting under this round<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Application deadline<\/strong>&nbsp;is&nbsp;<strong>September 2, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc NITI Aayog Launches \u2018Work for Viksit Bharat\u2019 Portal for Recruitment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>NITI Aayog officially launched&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Work for Viksit Bharat\u2019 portal<\/strong>&nbsp;for recruitment of consultants and young professionals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Four position categories<\/strong>: Young Professional, Consultant Grade 1, Consultant Grade 2, and Senior Consultant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Young Professionals<\/strong>&nbsp;start at&nbsp;<strong>\u20b970,000<\/strong>&nbsp;monthly with&nbsp;<strong>1-year minimum experience<\/strong>&nbsp;required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Senior Consultants<\/strong>&nbsp;earn&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92.65-3.30 lakh<\/strong>&nbsp;monthly with&nbsp;<strong>15+ years experience<\/strong>&nbsp;requirement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Portal offers&nbsp;<strong>real-time notifications<\/strong>, recruitment analytics, and&nbsp;<strong>role-based access controls<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd1d DARPG Collaborates with RTS Commissioners to Enhance E-Service Delivery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DARPG<\/strong>&nbsp;held meeting with&nbsp;<strong>RTS Commissioners<\/strong>&nbsp;from 8 states including Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently&nbsp;<strong>States\/UTs<\/strong>&nbsp;are reporting more than&nbsp;<strong>22,000 e-Services<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>NeSDA framework<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>API linkage<\/strong>&nbsp;of CPGRAMS portal with RTS Commissions websites under completion for&nbsp;<strong>real-time data sharing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RTS Commissioners will collaborate in&nbsp;<strong>four key sectors<\/strong>: land, labour, finance, and environment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Study examining&nbsp;<strong>impact of RTS Commissions<\/strong>&nbsp;on public service delivery undertaken by NCGG<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfe6 RBI Imposes \u20b975 Lakh Penalty on ICICI Bank for Compliance Breaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>RBI imposed&nbsp;<strong>monetary penalty of \u20b975 lakh<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>ICICI Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;for violating regulatory directions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank failed to conduct&nbsp;<strong>property valuations through independent valuers<\/strong>&nbsp;in certain mortgage loans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICICI Bank also&nbsp;<strong>opened or maintained current accounts<\/strong>&nbsp;in breach of regulatory norms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Action taken on account of&nbsp;<strong>deficiencies in regulatory compliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and does not question validity of customer transactions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Penalty does&nbsp;<strong>not preclude further action<\/strong>&nbsp;against the bank<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude80 ISRO Successfully Tests KALAM 1200 Solid Motor for Vikram-1 Launch Vehicle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>First Static Test<\/strong>&nbsp;of KALAM 1200 Motor accomplished successfully at&nbsp;<strong>SDSC Sriharikota<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 8, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Motor is&nbsp;<strong>11m long, 1.7m diameter<\/strong>&nbsp;monolithic composite motor with&nbsp;<strong>30-tonne propellant mass<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test supports&nbsp;<strong>M\/s Skyroot Aerospace\u2019s Vikram-1 Launch Vehicle<\/strong>&nbsp;configuration and realization<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative aligns with&nbsp;<strong>Government\u2019s Space Policy 2023<\/strong>&nbsp;for providing technical infrastructure to private sector<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Longest monolithic motor<\/strong>&nbsp;prepared at Solid Propellant Plant, Sriharikota<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcda Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Releases Debut Book on Constitution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Former&nbsp;<strong>CJI DY Chandrachud\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;debut book&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Why the Constitution Matters\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;expected by August-end<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Book seeks to connect&nbsp;<strong>constitutional ideals<\/strong>&nbsp;with lived experiences of everyday Indians<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Written with&nbsp;<strong>clarity of explaining complex principles<\/strong>&nbsp;to help citizens understand constitutional values<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Not a legal treatise but an&nbsp;<strong>\u201cinvocation to every citizen\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;to engage in realizing Constitution\u2019s potential<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publisher describes Constitution as&nbsp;<strong>\u201cessence of democracy, beacon of hope, and guiding light\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a1 Chhattisgarh Signs Agreement with NHPC for 1800 MW Pumped Storage Projects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chhattisgarh government signed deal with&nbsp;<strong>NHPC<\/strong>&nbsp;for developing&nbsp;<strong>two pumped storage projects<\/strong>&nbsp;totaling&nbsp;<strong>1800 MW<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects include&nbsp;<strong>Hasdeo Bango (800 MW)<\/strong>&nbsp;in Korba district with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,417 crore investment<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kurund project (1000 MW)<\/strong>&nbsp;will attract investment of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,000 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agreement signed on&nbsp;<strong>August 8<\/strong>&nbsp;with Chhattisgarh government and&nbsp;<strong>CSPGCL<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects aimed at&nbsp;<strong>enhancing renewable energy storage<\/strong>&nbsp;capacity in the state<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\uddec India\u2019s First Animal Stem Cell Biobank Inaugurated in Hyderabad<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Minister&nbsp;<strong>Dr Jitendra Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first animal stem cell biobank<\/strong>&nbsp;at NIAB, Gachibowli<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Facility will store and preserve&nbsp;<strong>high-quality stem cells<\/strong>&nbsp;from various animal species<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Biobank will provide&nbsp;<strong>quality-controlled animal stem cells<\/strong>&nbsp;and indigenous cell culture media<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will accelerate advances in&nbsp;<strong>veterinary medicine, regenerative therapies<\/strong>, and animal cell-based protein production<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minister highlighted alignment with&nbsp;<strong>BioE3 Policy<\/strong>&nbsp;focusing on economy, employment, and environment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude87 PM Modi Inaugurates \u20b922,800 Crore Metro Projects in Bengaluru<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PM inaugurated&nbsp;<strong>Yellow Line<\/strong>&nbsp;worth \u20b97,160 crore and laid foundation stone for&nbsp;<strong>Phase-3 project<\/strong>&nbsp;worth \u20b915,610 crore<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Yellow Line<\/strong>&nbsp;spans over&nbsp;<strong>19 km with 16 stations<\/strong>&nbsp;from RV Road to Bommasandra<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Phase-3 Orange Line<\/strong>&nbsp;will facilitate daily travel for&nbsp;<strong>25 lakh passengers<\/strong>&nbsp;once operational<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PM flagged off&nbsp;<strong>three Vande Bharat Express trains<\/strong>&nbsp;connecting different parts of country<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects will make travel&nbsp;<strong>smoother, faster and more convenient<\/strong>&nbsp;while boosting economic growth<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf93 BSNL Partners with Global Tech Giants for Digital Skilling Initiative<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>BSNL signed&nbsp;<strong>MoUs with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia<\/strong>&nbsp;for digital skilling at&nbsp;<strong>BRBRAITT Jabalpur<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative aims to train&nbsp;<strong>over 2,000 students annually<\/strong>&nbsp;with Phase 1 investments exceeding&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Training programs will cover&nbsp;<strong>5G, AI\/ML, networking<\/strong>, and digital technologies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part of broader plan to establish&nbsp;<strong>Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Courses range from&nbsp;<strong>short two-week modules to intensive 84-hour programs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude84 India\u2019s Longest Vande Bharat Among 3 New Trains Flagged Off by PM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PM Modi flagged off&nbsp;<strong>three new Vande Bharat Express trains<\/strong>&nbsp;from KSR Bengaluru railway station<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ajni (Nagpur)-Pune<\/strong>&nbsp;service becomes&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s longest-running Vande Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;covering&nbsp;<strong>881km<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Belagavi-Bengaluru<\/strong>&nbsp;service will cover&nbsp;<strong>611km journey in 8 hours 20 minutes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maharashtra gets its&nbsp;<strong>12th Vande Bharat train<\/strong>&nbsp;with Ajni-Pune service<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trains will benefit&nbsp;<strong>businessmen, students and employees<\/strong>&nbsp;while boosting tourism and trade<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcc8 SEBI Proposes Single Window Gateway for Low-Risk Foreign Investors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>SEBI proposed&nbsp;<strong>SWAGAT-FI framework<\/strong>&nbsp;for streamlined access to Indian securities market<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Framework targets&nbsp;<strong>government-owned funds, central banks, sovereign wealth funds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will provide&nbsp;<strong>unified registration process<\/strong>&nbsp;for both FPIs and FVCIs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review cycle extended to 10 years<\/strong>&nbsp;from current 3-5 year periods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Single demat account<\/strong>&nbsp;option for holding all investments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcb0 KSFE Becomes First Miscellaneous NBFC to Cross \u20b91 Lakh Crore Turnover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kerala State Financial Enterprises<\/strong>&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91 lakh crore business turnover<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Company&nbsp;<strong>doubled business<\/strong>&nbsp;from \u20b950,000 crore in just&nbsp;<strong>four years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>KSFE posted&nbsp;<strong>profit of \u20b9512 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2024-25 fiscal year<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provided&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9504 crore financial assistance<\/strong>&nbsp;through interest waivers in last four years<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New tagline unveiled:&nbsp;<strong>\u201cKSFE: The Courage of Kerala\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\ude8a BEML Wins First International Rail-Metro Contract from Malaysia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>BEML Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;secured&nbsp;<strong>maiden overseas contract<\/strong>&nbsp;in Rail &amp; Metro segment from Malaysia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contract valued at&nbsp;<strong>USD 1 million<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>retrofit and reconditioning<\/strong>&nbsp;of Mass Rapid Transport System<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marks BEML\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>entry into global rail and metro services<\/strong>&nbsp;market<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contract received on&nbsp;<strong>August 9, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;and showcases company\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>advanced engineering capabilities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BEML views this as&nbsp;<strong>stepping stone<\/strong>&nbsp;towards securing more export orders<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udfc6 Guwahati Airport Wins International Architecture Award for Heritage Design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport<\/strong>&nbsp;won&nbsp;<strong>International Architectural Award 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Terminal 2 design inspired by&nbsp;<strong>resilience of bamboo<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>grace of foxtail orchids<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Award presented by&nbsp;<strong>Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Terminal features&nbsp;<strong>sustainable design<\/strong>&nbsp;with skylights, indoor gardens, and vertical green walls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can handle&nbsp;<strong>10 million passengers annually<\/strong>&nbsp;and places among&nbsp;<strong>seven worldwide airports<\/strong>&nbsp;honored<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcbc JM Financial Sells 2.1% Stake in Home Loan Subsidiary to Bajaj Allianz Life<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>JM Financial Credit Solutions<\/strong>&nbsp;to sell&nbsp;<strong>2.1% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in home loans arm for&nbsp;<strong>\u20b965.5 crore<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transaction involves&nbsp;<strong>1.36 crore equity shares<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>\u20b948 per share<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deal scheduled for completion by&nbsp;<strong>August 31, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>JMFHLL contributed&nbsp;<strong>8.27% to JM Financial\u2019s consolidated income<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>8.24% to net worth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transaction&nbsp;<strong>does not constitute related-party transaction<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udff9 Rishabh Yadav Wins India\u2019s First Medal at World Games 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Rishabh Yadav<\/strong>&nbsp;won&nbsp;<strong>bronze in men\u2019s individual compound archery<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>World Games 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;in Chengdu<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Defeated compatriot&nbsp;<strong>Abhishek Verma 149-147<\/strong>&nbsp;in all-Indian bronze medal match<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This is&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first individual archery medal<\/strong>&nbsp;at World Games and&nbsp;<strong>second overall<\/strong>&nbsp;in the sport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>17-member Indian contingent<\/strong>&nbsp;sent to Chengdu competing in billiards, racquetball, roller sports, and wushu<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Achievement marks&nbsp;<strong>historic milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;for Indian archery on world stage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd47 Annu Rani Wins Gold in Women\u2019s Javelin Throw at Indian Open 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Annu Rani<\/strong>&nbsp;dominated women\u2019s javelin throw with&nbsp;<strong>best throw of 62.01 metres<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only competitor to&nbsp;<strong>cross 60-metre mark twice<\/strong>&nbsp;at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sri Lanka\u2019s NDL Hatarabag<\/strong>&nbsp;won silver with&nbsp;<strong>56.27m<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Deepika<\/strong>&nbsp;bronze with&nbsp;<strong>54.20m<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event was part of&nbsp;<strong>World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meet<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Annu\u2019s performance strengthens her position for&nbsp;<strong>World Championships qualification<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f Top 10 Safest and Most Unsafe Indian Cities in 2025 Rankings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mangalore<\/strong>&nbsp;ranked&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s safest city<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>safety index of 74.2<\/strong>, globally ranked&nbsp;<strong>49th<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gujarat cities dominate<\/strong>: Vadodara (2nd, 69.2), Ahmedabad (3rd, 68.2), Surat (4th, 66.6)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Delhi<\/strong>&nbsp;ranked among&nbsp;<strong>most unsafe cities<\/strong>&nbsp;with safety index of&nbsp;<strong>40.9<\/strong>&nbsp;(314th globally)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ghaziabad and Noida<\/strong>&nbsp;also rank poorly in safety with indices of&nbsp;<strong>41.6<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>44.9<\/strong>&nbsp;respectively<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Abu Dhabi, UAE<\/strong>&nbsp;tops global list with highest safety score of&nbsp;<strong>88.8<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">International Youth Day 2025 Observed with Focus on Local SDG Actions \ud83c\udf0d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>International Youth Day<\/strong>&nbsp;celebrated on&nbsp;<strong>August 12, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;with theme&nbsp;<strong>\u201cLocal Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global observance held in Nairobi, Kenya<\/strong>&nbsp;in partnership with&nbsp;<strong>UN-Habitat and UN DESA<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Commonwealth Secretariat<\/strong>&nbsp;highlighted&nbsp;<strong>50+ years<\/strong>&nbsp;of empowering youth through&nbsp;<strong>Commonwealth Youth Programme<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theme emphasizes&nbsp;<strong>youth as catalysts<\/strong>&nbsp;for translating&nbsp;<strong>global SDGs into local realities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marks&nbsp;<strong>10 years<\/strong>&nbsp;since adoption of&nbsp;<strong>2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indian Navy Set to Commission Two Advanced Stealth Frigates on Aug 26 \u2693<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>INS Udaygiri (F35)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>INS Himgiri (F34)<\/strong>&nbsp;to be commissioned&nbsp;<strong>simultaneously on August 26<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Visakhapatnam<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First-ever joint commissioning<\/strong>&nbsp;of major warships from&nbsp;<strong>two different Indian shipyards<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Project 17A frigates<\/strong>&nbsp;built by&nbsp;<strong>MDL Mumbai<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>GRSE Kolkata<\/strong>&nbsp;respectively<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>INS Udaygiri<\/strong>&nbsp;marks&nbsp;<strong>100th ship designed<\/strong>&nbsp;by Navy\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Warship Design Bureau<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ships displace&nbsp;<strong>6,700 tonnes<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>advanced stealth technology<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>supersonic missile systems<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Supreme Court Orders Immediate Capture of Delhi\u2019s Stray Dogs \ud83d\udc15<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Supreme Court directed Delhi authorities<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>capture all stray dogs<\/strong>&nbsp;and shift to shelters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Banned release<\/strong>&nbsp;of dogs back to localities and&nbsp;<strong>warned of legal action<\/strong>&nbsp;against obstruction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Order aims to control&nbsp;<strong>rising dog bite incidents<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>rabies transmission risks<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Court emphasized&nbsp;<strong>public safety concerns<\/strong>&nbsp;amid increasing urban stray dog population<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Municipal authorities<\/strong>&nbsp;directed to implement comprehensive&nbsp;<strong>dog management strategy<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finance Minister Introduces Revised Income Tax Bill in Lok Sabha \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>FM Nirmala Sitharaman<\/strong>&nbsp;presented&nbsp;<strong>updated Income Tax Bill<\/strong>&nbsp;incorporating&nbsp;<strong>Select Committee recommendations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bill&nbsp;<strong>replaces earlier withdrawn 2025 version<\/strong>&nbsp;and updates&nbsp;<strong>outdated tax legislation<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rajya Sabha had returned<\/strong>&nbsp;earlier bill for&nbsp;<strong>comprehensive review<\/strong>&nbsp;and amendments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Modernization effort<\/strong>&nbsp;aimed at&nbsp;<strong>simplifying tax compliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>improving governance<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to bring&nbsp;<strong>significant changes<\/strong>&nbsp;to India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>tax administration framework<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Elephant Day 2025 to be Celebrated in Coimbatore on August 12 \ud83d\udc18<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>World Elephant Day 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;observed with&nbsp;<strong>special focus on conservation efforts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu<\/strong>&nbsp;chosen as&nbsp;<strong>celebration venue<\/strong>&nbsp;for national-level programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ministry of Environment<\/strong>&nbsp;highlighting&nbsp;<strong>Project Elephant<\/strong>&nbsp;success stories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asian elephant population<\/strong>&nbsp;showing&nbsp;<strong>gradual recovery<\/strong>&nbsp;due to&nbsp;<strong>conservation measures<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Events include&nbsp;<strong>awareness campaigns<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>habitat protection initiatives<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIP Inflows Hit Record \u20b928,464 Crore in July 2025 \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) contributions<\/strong>&nbsp;reached&nbsp;<strong>all-time high<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b928,464 crore in July<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second consecutive month<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>record-breaking SIP inflows<\/strong>&nbsp;in mutual funds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Equity mutual funds<\/strong>&nbsp;recorded&nbsp;<strong>\u20b942,702 crore net inflows<\/strong>&nbsp;driven by&nbsp;<strong>30 new fund offers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b930,416 crore mobilization<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>NFOs set new industry record<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reflects&nbsp;<strong>growing retail investor confidence<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Indian equity markets<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics Begins in Mumbai \ud83c\udf1f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>18th IOAA<\/strong>&nbsp;commenced in&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>participation from 50+ countries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Young astronomers and astrophysics enthusiasts<\/strong>&nbsp;competing in&nbsp;<strong>theoretical and observational rounds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India hosting<\/strong>&nbsp;the prestigious&nbsp;<strong>international science olympiad<\/strong>&nbsp;for first time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mumbai\u2019s clear skies<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>advanced facilities<\/strong>&nbsp;providing ideal competition environment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>HBCSE Mumbai<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>international astronomy community<\/strong>&nbsp;collaborating for successful event<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 11, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">National Sports Governance Bill and Anti-Doping Amendment Passed \ud83c\udfc5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lok Sabha passed<\/strong>&nbsp;the&nbsp;<strong>National Sports Governance Bill<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>National Anti-Doping Amendment Bill<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bills aim to&nbsp;<strong>strengthen sports administration<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>enhance anti-doping measures<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>New governance framework<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>sports federations<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>athlete welfare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stricter anti-doping protocols<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with&nbsp;<strong>international standards<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to&nbsp;<strong>improve India\u2019s performance<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>international sports competitions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reform measures<\/strong>&nbsp;to ensure&nbsp;<strong>transparency<\/strong>&nbsp;in sports management<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Nagasaki Day 2025 Observed on August 9 to Remember Atomic Bombing \u262e\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nagasaki Day observed<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 9, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;commemorating&nbsp;<strong>1945 atomic bombing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Second atomic bomb<\/strong>&nbsp;dropped by&nbsp;<strong>US on Nagasaki<\/strong>&nbsp;three days after&nbsp;<strong>Hiroshima<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peace memorial ceremonies<\/strong>&nbsp;held to remember&nbsp;<strong>victims and promote nuclear disarmament<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global call<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>nuclear weapon elimination<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>world peace<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Japan continues<\/strong>&nbsp;advocating for&nbsp;<strong>nuclear-free world<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>diplomatic efforts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day serves as&nbsp;<strong>reminder<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>devastating consequences<\/strong>&nbsp;of nuclear warfare<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Australia Announces Recognition of Palestine State Under PM Albanese&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddfa\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1e6-1f1fa.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Australian PM Anthony Albanese<\/strong>&nbsp;announced&nbsp;<strong>Australia will recognize Palestine state<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Three countries<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;<strong>France, Canada, and UK<\/strong>&nbsp;had earlier&nbsp;<strong>threatened similar recognition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decision linked to&nbsp;<strong>Israel\u2019s continued actions<\/strong>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<strong>Palestinian territories<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International pressure mounting<\/strong>&nbsp;on Israel for&nbsp;<strong>ceasefire and peace negotiations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Global diplomatic shift<\/strong>&nbsp;toward&nbsp;<strong>Palestinian statehood recognition<\/strong>&nbsp;gaining momentum<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Australia joins&nbsp;<strong>growing list<\/strong>&nbsp;of nations supporting&nbsp;<strong>two-state solution<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kakori Train Conspiracy Completes 100 Years, UP Renames It \u26a1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PM Modi paid tributes<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Kakori Train Conspiracy patriots<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>100th anniversary<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uttar Pradesh government<\/strong>&nbsp;renamed&nbsp;<strong>\u201cKakori Kand\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;to remove negative connotations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historical event occurred<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 9, 1925<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>Indian freedom movement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Revolutionaries had&nbsp;<strong>targeted government treasury<\/strong>&nbsp;being transported via train<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event marked&nbsp;<strong>significant milestone<\/strong>&nbsp;in India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>revolutionary independence struggle<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>100-year commemoration<\/strong>&nbsp;highlighted&nbsp;<strong>patriotic sacrifices<\/strong>&nbsp;of freedom fighters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Parliament Passes Historic Merchant Shipping Bill 2025 Amid Opposition \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Parliament approved<\/strong>&nbsp;the Merchant Shipping Bill 2025 with&nbsp;<strong>Rajya Sabha passing it via voice vote<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 11<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lok Sabha had passed<\/strong>&nbsp;the bill on&nbsp;<strong>August 6, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;amid strong opposition protests<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bill&nbsp;<strong>replaces outdated Merchant Shipping Act 1958<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>16 parts and 325 clauses<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expands eligibility criteria<\/strong>&nbsp;for ownership of merchant shipping vessels and enhances&nbsp;<strong>safety at sea<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligns India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>maritime legal framework<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>international conventions<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>global standards<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empowers&nbsp;<strong>central government<\/strong>&nbsp;to detain vessels without nationality in&nbsp;<strong>Indian waters<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Lion Day 2025: PM Modi\u2019s Project Lion Shows Conservation Success \ud83e\udd81<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>World Lion Day celebrated<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 10, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Gujarat CM inaugurating \u20b9179 crore projects<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asiatic lion population<\/strong>&nbsp;increased from&nbsp;<strong>674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Project Lion<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lion territory expanded<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>3 districts to 11 districts<\/strong>&nbsp;in Gujarat over&nbsp;<strong>25 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Safari park development<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Barda Wildlife Sanctuary<\/strong>&nbsp;after lions naturally settled after&nbsp;<strong>143 years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Union Minister Bhupender Yadav<\/strong>&nbsp;emphasized&nbsp;<strong>eco-centrism<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>man-lion coexistence<\/strong>&nbsp;in Gir<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International Big Cat Alliance<\/strong>&nbsp;launched by&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;for global&nbsp;<strong>wildlife conservation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Myanmar\u2019s Acting President Myint Swe Dies at 74 After Long Illness&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddf2\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1f2-1f1f2.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Myanmar\u2019s acting president Myint Swe<\/strong>&nbsp;passed away at age 74 on&nbsp;<strong>Thursday morning at 8:28 AM local time<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Died at&nbsp;<strong>military hospital in Naypyitaw<\/strong>&nbsp;following prolonged illness caused by&nbsp;<strong>neurological and neurodegenerative disorders<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Had been on&nbsp;<strong>medical leave for over a year<\/strong>, with&nbsp;<strong>Senior Gen Min Aung Hlaing<\/strong>&nbsp;handling presidential duties since&nbsp;<strong>July 2024<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Became&nbsp;<strong>acting president on February 1, 2021<\/strong>&nbsp;hours after military coup that detained&nbsp;<strong>President Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His appointment allowed&nbsp;<strong>military-dominated National Defense and Security Council<\/strong>&nbsp;to declare state of emergency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>US Treasury sanctioned<\/strong>&nbsp;Myint Swe along with other senior military officials for undermining&nbsp;<strong>Myanmar\u2019s democratic transition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funeral will be held with&nbsp;<strong>state honors<\/strong>&nbsp;though date not yet announced<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Satnavri Becomes India\u2019s First Smart Intelligent Village Under CM\u2019s Vision \ud83c\udfd8\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Satnavri village<\/strong>&nbsp;in rural Nagpur with&nbsp;<strong>1,800 residents<\/strong>&nbsp;selected as India\u2019s first&nbsp;<strong>\u201cSmart Intelligent Village\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CM Devendra Fadnavis<\/strong>&nbsp;approved the pilot project initiated by&nbsp;<strong>Voice of Indian Communication Technology Enterprises (VOICE)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will integrate&nbsp;<strong>cutting-edge technologies<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>drone-assisted farming, smart irrigation, mobile banking<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Features&nbsp;<strong>digitized schools, advanced surveillance systems<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>satellite technology integration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High-level team<\/strong>&nbsp;led by&nbsp;<strong>divisional commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari<\/strong>&nbsp;will visit on&nbsp;<strong>August 8 for on-site review<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project could become&nbsp;<strong>replicable template<\/strong>&nbsp;for rural transformation nationwide if successful<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to merge&nbsp;<strong>information and satellite technologies<\/strong>&nbsp;for holistic rural development<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">J&amp;K-Maharashtra Complete First Interstate Agricultural Trade via eNAM \ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>First-ever interstate trade<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>National Agriculture Market (eNAM)<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Maharashtra<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>11 metric tonnes of apples and pears<\/strong>&nbsp;from Kashmir valley reached&nbsp;<strong>Gultekdi APMC in Pune<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maharashtra has 133 APMCs connected<\/strong>&nbsp;to the eNAM platform for transparent digital trading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Apple merchant Suyog Zende<\/strong>&nbsp;called eNAM a&nbsp;<strong>\u201cgame-changer for farmers and traders\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Platform enables&nbsp;<strong>bypassing traditional barriers, middlemen,<\/strong>&nbsp;and inefficiencies in agricultural markets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>eNAM aims to create unified national market<\/strong>&nbsp;for agricultural commodities with transparent price discovery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative saves&nbsp;<strong>travel costs and time<\/strong>&nbsp;for merchants while ensuring&nbsp;<strong>government-verified transactions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b912,000 Crore PMUY Subsidy Extension for FY 2025-26 \ud83d\udd25<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approved&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9300 targeted subsidy per 14.2 kg cylinder<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>PMUY beneficiaries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Covers&nbsp;<strong>up to 9 refills per year<\/strong>&nbsp;(reduced from previous 12 refills) for&nbsp;<strong>10.33 crore connections<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average Per Capita Consumption<\/strong>&nbsp;improved from&nbsp;<strong>3 refills in 2019-20<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>4.47 during FY 2024-25<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India imports about&nbsp;<strong>60% of its LPG requirement<\/strong>, making subsidy crucial for price stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PMUY launched in May 2016<\/strong>&nbsp;to provide&nbsp;<strong>deposit-free LPG connections<\/strong>&nbsp;to women from poor households<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All beneficiaries receive&nbsp;<strong>free first refill and stove<\/strong>&nbsp;under existing&nbsp;<strong>Ujjwala 2.0<\/strong>&nbsp;modalities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b94,200 Crore MERITE Scheme for Technical Education \ud83c\udf93<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approved&nbsp;<strong>Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b94,200 crore outlay<\/strong>&nbsp;for period&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 to 2029-30<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,100 crore external assistance from World Bank<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will support&nbsp;<strong>275 technical institutions<\/strong>&nbsp;comprising&nbsp;<strong>175 engineering institutions and 100 polytechnics<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>About 7.5 lakh students<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to benefit from the scheme interventions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligned with&nbsp;<strong>National Education Policy 2020<\/strong>&nbsp;to improve&nbsp;<strong>quality, equity, and governance<\/strong>&nbsp;in technical education<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes&nbsp;<strong>NITs, State Engineering Institutions, Polytechnics,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Affiliating Technical Universities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on&nbsp;<strong>enhancing employability, internship opportunities,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>industry-aligned curricula<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b94,250 Crore Development Push for Assam and Tripura \ud83c\udf38<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;approved&nbsp;<strong>four new components<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Special Development Packages<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Assam and Tripura<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b94,000 crore for Assam<\/strong>&nbsp;over&nbsp;<strong>five years (2025-26 to 2029-30)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9250 crore for Tripura<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9500 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Adivasi-inhabited villages<\/strong>&nbsp;development as per&nbsp;<strong>2022 MoS<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b93,000 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>infrastructure development<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>ULFA groups MoS signed in 2023<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9500 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council<\/strong>&nbsp;area development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9250 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>tribal community welfare<\/strong>&nbsp;in Tripura under&nbsp;<strong>2024 MoS with NLFT and ATTF<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total projected outlay \u20b97,250 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,000 crore contribution from Assam state government<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ministry Extends PM E-DRIVE Scheme Tenure by Two Years Until 2028 \ud83d\ude97<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ministry of Heavy Industries<\/strong>&nbsp;extended&nbsp;<strong>PM E-DRIVE scheme tenure<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>March 2026 to March 2028<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b910,900 crore outlay<\/strong>&nbsp;remains same but implementation period doubled from&nbsp;<strong>two years to four years<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Terminal dates unchanged<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>e-2W, e-rickshaws, e-carts,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>e-3W (L5)<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>March 31, 2026<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extension needed for&nbsp;<strong>e-trucks, e-buses,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>testing agencies<\/strong>&nbsp;due to specific development challenges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b94,391 crore allocation<\/strong>&nbsp;for deploying&nbsp;<strong>14,028 e-bus units<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>18-month milestone-based disbursements<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fund-limited scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 will close if&nbsp;<strong>\u20b910,900 crore exhausted<\/strong>&nbsp;before terminal date<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to&nbsp;<strong>accelerate EV adoption, establish charging infrastructure,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>strengthen EV manufacturing ecosystem<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AIM and Bhashini Partner to Boost Vernacular Innovation Across India \ud83d\udde3\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)<\/strong>, NITI Aayog, and&nbsp;<strong>Bhashini<\/strong>&nbsp;(Digital India Bhashini Division, MeitY) have signed a&nbsp;<strong>Statement of Intent<\/strong>&nbsp;in New Delhi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The partnership will&nbsp;<strong>foster language inclusivity<\/strong>&nbsp;and drive&nbsp;<strong>vernacular innovation<\/strong>, making cutting-edge tech accessible to non-English speakers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>WIPO Academy learning resources<\/strong>&nbsp;will be translated into multiple Indian languages using Bhashini\u2019s tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plans include future&nbsp;<strong>gamification of learning content<\/strong>&nbsp;and providing AIM startups access to language technology sandboxes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Atal Incubation Centres (AICs)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs)<\/strong>, plus new&nbsp;<strong>LIPI centres<\/strong>, will help grassroots innovators leverage Bhashini for&nbsp;<strong>skilling and capacity building<\/strong>.<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2153704\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FSSAI to Launch Custom Payment Platform with Bank of Baroda \ud83d\udcb3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)<\/strong>&nbsp;signed an&nbsp;<strong>MoU with Bank of Baroda<\/strong>&nbsp;to launch a tailored, web-based payment solution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The \u2018<strong>FSSAI Payment Solution<\/strong>\u2019 will&nbsp;<strong>streamline, simplify, and automate digital payments<\/strong>&nbsp;for stakeholders, enabling easier grant disbursement and vendor payments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The platform will also strengthen MIS functionalities, promote&nbsp;<strong>ease of doing business<\/strong>, and enhance financial oversight.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to improve transparency and fund flow management across&nbsp;<strong>state and district accounts<\/strong>.<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/government.economictimes.indiatimes.com\/news\/digital-india\/fssai-to-launch-its-payment-platform-with-bob\/123044479\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Paras Defence Partners with Germany\u2019s HPS to Make Satellite Antenna Tech \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Paras Defence &amp; Space Technologies<\/strong>&nbsp;signed an agreement with Germany\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>HPS GmbH<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>co-develop deployable antenna reflector systems<\/strong>&nbsp;for satellites in India.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The deal covers&nbsp;<strong>unfurlable reflectors<\/strong>&nbsp;for applications like&nbsp;<strong>satellite internet, Earth imaging, disaster response, and military communications<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paras Defence will provide local customer interface, while&nbsp;<strong>HPS contributes design and manufacturing know-how<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The project aims to&nbsp;<strong>reduce India\u2019s import dependence<\/strong>&nbsp;and strengthen its&nbsp;<strong>self-sufficiency in space technology<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key components include reflector assemblies, deployment electronics, and thermal hardware, supporting India\u2019s space ambitions.<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/scanx.trade\/stock-market-news\/orders-deals\/paras-defence-partners-with-german-firm-to-develop-satellite-antenna-systems\/16185461\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Antfin to Exit Eternal in $612 Million Block Deal \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Antfin Singapore Holding Pte. Ltd.<\/strong>&nbsp;(an Ant Group affiliate) is set to sell its&nbsp;<strong>entire stake in Eternal<\/strong>&nbsp;(parent of Zomato, Blinkit) via a&nbsp;<strong>block deal valued at \u20b95,370 crore ($612 million)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The deal, managed by Morgan Stanley and BofA Securities, will see about&nbsp;<strong>18.85 crore shares sold at a floor price of \u20b9285 per share<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This marks Antfin\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>second major exit<\/strong>&nbsp;from Indian firms in recent days, following a Paytm stake sale.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eternal\u2019s revenue grew&nbsp;<strong>70% YoY<\/strong>&nbsp;while net profit fell sharply; sale reflects Antfin\u2019s broader pullback from India investments.<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.angelone.in\/news\/market-updates\/eternal-share-price-in-focus-as-antfin-likely-to-exit-with-5370-crore-rs-block-deal\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Berhampur University Researchers Discover New Roundworm Species in Chilika \ud83c\udf0a<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Berhampur University<\/strong>&nbsp;researchers, aided by experts from New Zealand, discovered a new marine&nbsp;<strong>nematode (roundworm) species<\/strong>\u2014<strong>Admirandus odishaensis<\/strong>\u2014in&nbsp;<strong>Chilika Lake, Odisha<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The species marks the&nbsp;<strong>first report of its genus in the northern Indian Ocean<\/strong>; previously, this genus was only found near Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Six specimens were collected and studied in November 2023; findings published in the&nbsp;<strong>Journal of Natural History<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marine nematodes<\/strong>&nbsp;are key bio-indicators for ecosystem health and play important roles in benthic environments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The discovery expands the recognized diversity of nematodes in Indian coastal waters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sarnath Inches Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Recognition Status \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Uttar Pradesh tourism department<\/strong>&nbsp;intensified efforts to secure&nbsp;<strong>UNESCO World Heritage status<\/strong>&nbsp;for Sarnath<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High-level&nbsp;<strong>joint meeting<\/strong>&nbsp;between state tourism and&nbsp;<strong>Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)<\/strong>&nbsp;held in Lucknow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India officially&nbsp;<strong>nominated Sarnath<\/strong>&nbsp;for inclusion under the&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 UNESCO World Heritage<\/strong>&nbsp;nomination cycle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sarnath is revered<\/strong>&nbsp;as the site where&nbsp;<strong>Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon<\/strong>&nbsp;after attaining enlightenment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently on&nbsp;<strong>UNESCO\u2019s tentative list<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>September review scheduled<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Would become&nbsp;<strong>Uttar Pradesh\u2019s fourth UNESCO site<\/strong>&nbsp;and first outside Agra<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sonowal Launches Digital Maritime Revolution at IT Conclave 2025 \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal<\/strong>&nbsp;unveiled&nbsp;<strong>digital transformation initiatives<\/strong>&nbsp;at IT Conclave 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event hosted by&nbsp;<strong>Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)<\/strong>&nbsp;in collaboration with&nbsp;<strong>Company of Master Mariners<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launch of&nbsp;<strong>e-Samudra platform Phase-1<\/strong>&nbsp;to unify&nbsp;<strong>over 60 maritime services<\/strong>&nbsp;under one digital roof<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Revamped DG Shipping website<\/strong>&nbsp;now&nbsp;<strong>GIGW 3.0-compliant<\/strong>&nbsp;with multilingual interface<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AI-based digital examination system<\/strong>&nbsp;piloted at&nbsp;<strong>MMD Noida<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligns with&nbsp;<strong>Digital India, Maritime India Vision 2030,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Amrit Kaal Vision 2047<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AU Small Finance Bank Becomes First SFB to Get Universal Bank Approval \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>AU Small Finance Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;received&nbsp;<strong>RBI\u2019s in-principle approval<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>universal banking license<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First Small Finance Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;to get approval after&nbsp;<strong>11 years of operations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mandatory transfer<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>22% promoter stake<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>Non-Operative Financial Holding Company (NOHC)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>18-month window<\/strong>&nbsp;provided for complete transition to universal bank<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Corporate headquarters<\/strong>&nbsp;to shift from&nbsp;<strong>Jaipur to Mumbai<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total business worth \u20b92.40 trillion<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>40% market share<\/strong>&nbsp;among all SFBs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IFC Invests $150 Million in HDFC\u2019s Green Housing Initiative \ud83c\udfe0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>IFC committed USD 150 million<\/strong>&nbsp;as anchor investment in&nbsp;<strong>H-DREAM Fund<\/strong>&nbsp;managed by&nbsp;<strong>HDFC Capital<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fund targets&nbsp;<strong>USD 1 billion corpus<\/strong>&nbsp;to promote&nbsp;<strong>green, affordable housing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to&nbsp;<strong>mobilize USD 850 million<\/strong>&nbsp;from institutional investors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will enable development of&nbsp;<strong>at least 25,000 green housing units<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Implements&nbsp;<strong>EDGE green building framework<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with&nbsp;<strong>global sustainability standards<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DSP Mutual Fund Launches India\u2019s First Flexicap Index Fund \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DSP Nifty500 Flexicap Quality 30 Index Fund<\/strong>&nbsp;launched as&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s first flexicap index fund<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NFO period<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>August 8-22, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>quality stock selection<\/strong>&nbsp;strategy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fund replicates index identifying&nbsp;<strong>30 fundamentally strong companies<\/strong>&nbsp;across market caps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dynamic allocation<\/strong>&nbsp;between large-cap and&nbsp;<strong>small\/mid-cap segments<\/strong>&nbsp;based on momentum<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>18.1% CAGR delivered<\/strong>&nbsp;since October 2009 vs&nbsp;<strong>13.0% for Nifty 500 TRI<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEML Establishes \u20b91,800 Crore Train Coach Manufacturing Hub in MP \ud83d\ude84<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>BEML to set up<\/strong>&nbsp;train coach manufacturing facility in&nbsp;<strong>Umaria village, Raisen district<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b91,800 crore investment<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>BRAHMA (BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing)<\/strong>&nbsp;project<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will manufacture&nbsp;<strong>Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>metro train coaches<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Foundation stone laid<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 10, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to generate&nbsp;<strong>5,000 direct and indirect jobs<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>148 acres<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PM Modi Inaugurates M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference \ud83d\udc68\ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Narendra Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Ratna Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Centenary Conference<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Three-day conference<\/strong>&nbsp;held from&nbsp;<strong>August 7-9, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Pusa campus, New Delhi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theme:&nbsp;<strong>\u201cEvergreen Revolution \u2013 The Path to Bio-Happiness\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>2,170 scientific teams<\/strong>&nbsp;reached&nbsp;<strong>64,000+ villages<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Teams directly engaged with&nbsp;<strong>over 1 crore farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;across the country<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>First M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace<\/strong>&nbsp;presented by PM Modi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b912,000 Crore PMUY Subsidy Extension for FY26 \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet approved<\/strong>&nbsp;continuation of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9300 LPG subsidy<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>PMUY beneficiaries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b912,000 crore expenditure<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>FY 2025-26<\/strong>&nbsp;covering&nbsp;<strong>10.33 crore connections<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subsidy for&nbsp;<strong>up to 9 refills per year<\/strong>&nbsp;(reduced from 12 refills earlier)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average per capita consumption<\/strong>&nbsp;improved from&nbsp;<strong>3 refills (2019-20)<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>4.47 refills (2024-25)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India imports&nbsp;<strong>60% of LPG requirement<\/strong>, making subsidy crucial for price stability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government Approves \u20b930,000 Crore Compensation for Oil Companies \ud83d\udee2\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cabinet approved \u20b930,000 crore compensation<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>three public sector OMCs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL<\/strong>&nbsp;to receive compensation for&nbsp;<strong>domestic LPG losses in FY25<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amount will be distributed in&nbsp;<strong>12 tranches<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Petroleum<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compensation helps companies meet&nbsp;<strong>crude procurement, debt servicing,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>capital expenditure<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensures continued availability of&nbsp;<strong>clean cooking fuel<\/strong>&nbsp;to households<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Clears \u20b94,250 Crore Special Development Package for Northeast \ud83c\udf04<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cabinet approved four new components<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Special Development Packages<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9500 crore for Adivasi-inhabited areas<\/strong>&nbsp;in Assam<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b93,000 crore for infrastructure development<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>ULFA agreements<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9500 crore for North Cachar Hills<\/strong>&nbsp;Autonomous Council areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b9250 crore for tribal development<\/strong>&nbsp;in Tripura<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Assam government<\/strong>&nbsp;to contribute additional&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,000 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;from own resources<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MERITE Scheme Gets \u20b94,200 Crore Allocation for Technical Education \ud83c\udf93<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cabinet approved<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2018Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education\u2019 scheme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u20b94,200 crore outlay<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>2025-26 to 2029-30<\/strong>&nbsp;period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will support&nbsp;<strong>175 engineering institutions<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>100 polytechnics<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>7.5 lakh students<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to benefit from interventions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,100 crore external assistance<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>World Bank<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligned with&nbsp;<strong>National Education Policy 2020<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tamil Nadu Gets \u20b92,157 Crore Highway Project Approval \ud83d\udee3\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cabinet approved construction<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>4-lane Marakkanam-Puducherry highway<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>46-kilometer stretch<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total cost \u20b92,157 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,118 crore construction<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9442 crore land acquisition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part of&nbsp;<strong>Chennai-Kanyakumari Economic Corridor<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will connect&nbsp;<strong>two airports, two railway stations,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Cuddalore minor port<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GeM Celebrates 9th Foundation Day with Record Achievements \ud83d\udda5\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Government e-Marketplace (GeM)<\/strong>&nbsp;marked&nbsp;<strong>9th Foundation Day<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 9, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Platform under&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Commerce and Industry<\/strong>&nbsp;transforms&nbsp;<strong>public procurement<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligns with&nbsp;<strong>\u201cMinimum Government, Maximum Governance\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;vision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Connects sellers and service providers across the country through&nbsp;<strong>transparent digital platform<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">International Day of World\u2019s Indigenous Peoples Observed \ud83c\udf0d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>International Day of World\u2019s Indigenous Peoples<\/strong>&nbsp;observed on&nbsp;<strong>August 9, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on protecting rights and preserving cultures of&nbsp;<strong>indigenous communities<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlights need for&nbsp;<strong>sustainable development<\/strong>&nbsp;while respecting&nbsp;<strong>traditional knowledge<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Sanskrit Day 2025 Celebrated on August 9 \ud83d\udcdc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>World Sanskrit Day<\/strong>&nbsp;observed on&nbsp;<strong>August 9, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promotes preservation and propagation of&nbsp;<strong>Sanskrit language<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognizes Sanskrit\u2019s contribution to&nbsp;<strong>Indian culture, literature,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>philosophy<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quit India Movement Day Commemorated&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddf3\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1ee-1f1f3.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quit India Movement Day<\/strong>&nbsp;observed on&nbsp;<strong>August 8, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commemorates&nbsp;<strong>Gandhi\u2019s \u201cDo or Die\u201d call<\/strong>&nbsp;launched in 1942<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marks&nbsp;<strong>decisive phase<\/strong>&nbsp;of India\u2019s freedom struggle against&nbsp;<strong>British colonial rule<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 8, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India-Russia Deepen Industrial Ties in Aluminium, Railways &amp; Rare Earth \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>India and Russia signed a Protocol<\/strong>&nbsp;at the 11th Working Group session on Modernisation and Industrial Cooperation in New Delhi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhanced cooperation in&nbsp;<strong>aluminium, fertilizers, railway transport<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>mining technology<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key focus areas include&nbsp;<strong>aerospace science, wind tunnel facility<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>small aircraft piston engines<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both sides explored&nbsp;<strong>rare earth and critical minerals extraction<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>underground coal gasification<\/strong>, and modern industrial infrastructure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meeting involved&nbsp;<strong>80 delegates<\/strong>&nbsp;from both countries including senior officials and industry experts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protocol signed amid&nbsp;<strong>US imposing additional 25% tariffs<\/strong>&nbsp;on Indian goods over Russia trade ties<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gujarat, UP &amp; MP Lead India\u2019s Export Growth Despite Global Challenges \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gujarat recorded highest exports<\/strong>&nbsp;totaling&nbsp;<strong>\u20b99.38 lakh crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in FY25, maintaining its leadership position<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uttar Pradesh broke into top 5<\/strong>&nbsp;export states with significant growth in merchandise exports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Madhya Pradesh also showed strong export gains<\/strong>&nbsp;despite global headwinds and trade uncertainties<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>FIEO data reveals<\/strong>&nbsp;resilience of Indian exporters in challenging international market conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>States demonstrated&nbsp;<strong>diversified export portfolios<\/strong>&nbsp;across multiple sectors and destinations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Mandates 10% Loan Retention in New Co-Lending Rules from January 2026 \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>RBI issued final co-lending guidelines<\/strong>&nbsp;effective from&nbsp;<strong>January 1, 2026<\/strong>&nbsp;for banks and NBFCs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Minimum 10% loan retention<\/strong>&nbsp;mandatory for all regulated entities in co-lending arrangements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Default loss guarantee capped at 5%<\/strong>&nbsp;of outstanding loans under the arrangement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uniform asset classification<\/strong>&nbsp;required \u2013 if one lender tags loan as NPA, partner must follow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Blended interest rates<\/strong>&nbsp;to be charged based on weighted average of each entity\u2019s internal rate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All transactions must be routed through&nbsp;<strong>escrow accounts<\/strong>&nbsp;for transparency<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IDFC First Bank Launches Digital Remittance Platform for NRIs \ud83d\udcb8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>RemitFIRST2India<\/strong>&nbsp;digital platform launched for&nbsp;<strong>Non-Resident Indians<\/strong>&nbsp;in Singapore and Hong Kong<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zero transfer fees<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>competitive forex rates<\/strong>&nbsp;with real-time transaction tracking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developed in partnership with&nbsp;<strong>SingX<\/strong>, a Singapore-based licensed remittance provider<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Existing customers<\/strong>&nbsp;can use mobile banking app while&nbsp;<strong>new customers<\/strong>&nbsp;onboard via web portal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Platform offers&nbsp;<strong>paperless transfers<\/strong>&nbsp;to any Indian bank account with guaranteed rates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Malta to Host Commonwealth Youth Games 2027 with 8 Sports \ud83c\udfc5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Malta selected to host<\/strong>&nbsp;the eighth&nbsp;<strong>Commonwealth Youth Games<\/strong>&nbsp;in late 2027<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Over 1,150 athletes aged 14-18<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>74 Commonwealth nations<\/strong>&nbsp;will participate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eight sports<\/strong>&nbsp;including athletics, netball, squash, swimming, triathlon, weightlifting, and&nbsp;<strong>debut sports sailing and water polo<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Most extensive Para-sport program<\/strong>&nbsp;in Commonwealth Youth Games history with para-swimming debut<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Competition spread across&nbsp;<strong>Malta and Gozo Islands<\/strong>&nbsp;using existing world-class facilities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FIEO Partners with Amazon India to Boost MSME E-Commerce Exports \ud83d\uded2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>FIEO and Amazon India signed MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;to establish&nbsp;<strong>e-commerce export task force<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership aims to support&nbsp;<strong>MSMEs including artisans, weavers, and manufacturers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Amazon targets $80 billion cumulative exports<\/strong>&nbsp;from India by 2030<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on key segments like&nbsp;<strong>home textiles, personal care, handicrafts<\/strong>, and packaged foods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative supports India\u2019s vision of achieving&nbsp;<strong>$200-300 billion in e-commerce exports<\/strong>&nbsp;by 2030<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Goldman Sachs Cuts India\u2019s Growth Forecast Due to US Tariff Concerns \ud83d\udcc9<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Goldman Sachs lowered India\u2019s GDP forecast<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>6.5% for 2025 and 6.4% for 2026<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trump\u2019s additional 25% tariffs<\/strong>&nbsp;expected to reduce India\u2019s growth by&nbsp;<strong>0.4-0.6 percentage points<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trade uncertainty<\/strong>&nbsp;and protectionism main concerns beyond direct tariff impact<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>GDP exposure to US exports<\/strong>&nbsp;stands at approximately&nbsp;<strong>4% of total GDP<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some tariffs likely to be&nbsp;<strong>negotiated lower over time<\/strong>&nbsp;according to Goldman Sachs analysis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jensen Huang Tops Fortune\u2019s 100 Most Powerful People in Business 2025 \ud83c\udfc6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Jensen Huang, NVIDIA CEO<\/strong>, ranked #1 on Fortune\u2019s Most Powerful People list<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Top 10 includes&nbsp;<strong>Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Mark Zuckerberg (Meta), Elon Musk (Tesla\/SpaceX)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>19 women leaders<\/strong>&nbsp;featured among the 100, including&nbsp;<strong>Lisa Su (AMD)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Jane Fraser (Citigroup)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>List covers&nbsp;<strong>28 industries worldwide<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>62 US-based companies<\/strong>&nbsp;and 17 from Asia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NVIDIA recently became first company<\/strong>&nbsp;to surpass&nbsp;<strong>$4 trillion market cap<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indian Army Inducts Indigenous MMME Mk-II Minefield Marker Equipment \ud83d\udee1\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Army inducted<\/strong>&nbsp;BEML-DRDO developed&nbsp;<strong>Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment Mark-II<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Semi-automatic system<\/strong>&nbsp;built on&nbsp;<strong>TATRA 6\u00d76 chassis<\/strong>&nbsp;for desert and plain terrain operations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Equipment can&nbsp;<strong>place 500 pickets<\/strong>&nbsp;in one run, fencing about&nbsp;<strong>1.2 kilometers per hour<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Four-member crew<\/strong>&nbsp;operates the system with&nbsp;<strong>minimal human involvement<\/strong>&nbsp;in hazardous tasks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports&nbsp;<strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;initiative with&nbsp;<strong>indigenous defense technology<\/strong>&nbsp;development<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Narrow-Banded Rain Snake Species Discovered in Mizoram Forests \ud83d\udc0d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mizoram University researchers<\/strong>&nbsp;discovered&nbsp;<strong>Smithophis leptofasciatus<\/strong>&nbsp;(narrow-banded rain snake)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Found in&nbsp;<strong>humid montane forests<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>900-1,200 meters altitude<\/strong>&nbsp;near streams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distinguished by&nbsp;<strong>narrow creamish-white bands<\/strong>&nbsp;on shiny black body from related species<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Semi-aquatic, nocturnal lifestyle<\/strong>&nbsp;revealed through&nbsp;<strong>field observations during monsoon<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gravid female laid six eggs<\/strong>&nbsp;providing rare reproductive data for this snake group<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ICMR Conducts Nationwide Science Outreach for 13,000 School Students \ud83d\udd2c<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ICMR-SHINE Initiative<\/strong>&nbsp;engaged&nbsp;<strong>over 13,000 students<\/strong>&nbsp;from Classes 9-12 across India<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Science and Health Innovation for Nextgen Explorers<\/strong>&nbsp;program held on&nbsp;<strong>August 7-8, 2025<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>300+ schools<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>39 districts in 16 states<\/strong>&nbsp;participated in the nationwide event<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Activities included&nbsp;<strong>laboratory tours, research exhibitions<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>live demonstrations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligned with&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi\u2019s vision<\/strong>&nbsp;of students spending&nbsp;<strong>\u201cOne Day as a Scientist\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August Kranti Day 2025: Commemorating Quit India Movement Legacy&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddf3\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1ee-1f1f3.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>August Kranti Day observed on August 9<\/strong>&nbsp;to commemorate the&nbsp;<strong>Quit India Movement<\/strong>&nbsp;launched in 1942<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mahatma Gandhi<\/strong>&nbsp;launched the movement with the famous&nbsp;<strong>\u201cDo or Die\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;call at Gowalia Tank<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Movement marked&nbsp;<strong>decisive phase<\/strong>&nbsp;of India\u2019s freedom struggle against&nbsp;<strong>British colonial rule<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mass civil disobedience<\/strong>&nbsp;and protests spread across the country despite&nbsp;<strong>arrest of leaders<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Day serves as reminder of&nbsp;<strong>sacrifice and determination<\/strong>&nbsp;of freedom fighters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Annu Rani Wins Javelin Gold with Season-Best 62.59m Throw in Poland \u26a1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian javelin thrower Annu Rani<\/strong>&nbsp;won gold at competition in&nbsp;<strong>Poland<\/strong>&nbsp;with impressive performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Achieved&nbsp;<strong>season-best throw of 62.59 meters<\/strong>&nbsp;to secure victory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Performance demonstrates&nbsp;<strong>consistent improvement<\/strong>&nbsp;in India\u2019s javelin throwing standards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Victory adds to&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s growing reputation<\/strong>&nbsp;in international athletics competitions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Annu Rani continues<\/strong>&nbsp;to be a key athlete for India in&nbsp;<strong>javelin throw events<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Parliament Passes Coastal Shipping Bill 2025 to Boost Marine Trade \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Coastal Shipping Bill 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;was passed by Parliament after Rajya Sabha\u2019s approval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Law will&nbsp;<strong>modernize coastal shipping regulations<\/strong>&nbsp;and create a national framework.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Target:&nbsp;<strong>Increase India\u2019s cargo traffic<\/strong>&nbsp;to 230 million tonnes by 2030.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Updates and replaces provisions from the&nbsp;<strong>Merchant Shipping Act 1958<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to unlock potential of the country\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>11,098 km coastline<\/strong>&nbsp;for trade and development.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Russia-India Ties Deepen as Putin Plans 2025 Visit&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\uddf7\ud83c\uddfa\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1f7-1f1fa.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Russian President Vladimir Putin<\/strong>&nbsp;to visit&nbsp;<strong>India<\/strong>&nbsp;by end of 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Announcement confirmed by&nbsp;<strong>NSA Ajit Doval<\/strong>&nbsp;during Moscow visit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visit will be Putin\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>first since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Comes amid&nbsp;<strong>US imposing 25% additional tariffs on Indian imports<\/strong>, blaming Russian oil purchases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India and Russia signed a protocol to&nbsp;<strong>deepen industrial and technological cooperation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Business Confidence Index Climbs, Shows Optimism for FY26 \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Business Confidence Index (BCI)<\/strong>&nbsp;rose to&nbsp;<strong>149.4<\/strong>&nbsp;in Q1 FY26 (April\u2013June 2025), per NCAER.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reflects growing&nbsp;<strong>optimism among Indian businesses<\/strong>&nbsp;about economic prospects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rise driven by&nbsp;<strong>better investment climate and demand outlook<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contrasts with some global uncertainties and trade tensions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gujarat Leads India\u2019s Exports, New Data Base Year Proposed \ud83d\udce6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gujarat recorded the highest exports<\/strong>, totaling&nbsp;<strong>\u20b99.38 lakh crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in FY25, says FIEO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>MoSPI suggested updating the base year<\/strong>&nbsp;for key economic indicators (GDP, IIP, CPI).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlights Gujarat\u2019s continued dominance in&nbsp;<strong>foreign trade<\/strong>&nbsp;and focus on updated statistics for policy planning.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Issues Final Co-Lending Norms to Boost Banking-NBFC Collaboration \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>RBI released final co-lending guidelines for banks and NBFCs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Makes&nbsp;<strong>minimum 10% risk retention mandatory<\/strong>&nbsp;for co-lending deals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Norms effective from&nbsp;<strong>January 1, 2026<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Intended to improve&nbsp;<strong>risk-sharing<\/strong>, expand credit access, and ensure financial inclusion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Doorstep KYC &amp; Claims Reforms Announced for Jan Dhan Accounts \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>RBI, along with public sector banks (PSBs)<\/strong>, is organizing&nbsp;<strong>doorstep re-KYC camps<\/strong>&nbsp;in rural areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jan Dhan account holders have until&nbsp;<strong>September 30, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;for KYC updation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Claims settlement for accounts and lockers<\/strong>&nbsp;to be standardized.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allows investment in&nbsp;<strong>government securities through SIPs<\/strong>&nbsp;by regular investors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 7, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SAP Labs India Launches \u20ac194M Bengaluru Innovation Park to Host 15,000 \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Inaugurated on August 5 by Karnataka CM&nbsp;<strong>Siddaramaiah<\/strong>, alongside Union Minister&nbsp;<strong>Ashwini Vaishnaw<\/strong>, and SAP leaders&nbsp;<strong>Thomas Saueressig<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Sindhu Gangadharan<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Located near&nbsp;<strong>Bengaluru International Airport<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Devanahalli<\/strong>, the&nbsp;<strong>Innovation Park<\/strong>&nbsp;will focus on&nbsp;<strong>product engineering<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>customer service<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>enterprise AI<\/strong>&nbsp;development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Backed by a&nbsp;<strong>\u20ac194 million<\/strong>&nbsp;investment, the campus ranks among SAP\u2019s largest R&amp;D facilities worldwide.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designed to accommodate&nbsp;<strong>15,000 professionals<\/strong>, expanding Bengaluru\u2019s SAP headcount from&nbsp;<strong>14,000<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>29,000<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SAP announced&nbsp;<strong>academic and research collaborations<\/strong>, including a \u20ac100,000 training program for 400 underserved youth with&nbsp;<strong>EduBridge<\/strong>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<strong>IIT Madras<\/strong>&nbsp;partnership for AI-driven brain research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reinforces India\u2019s role as a&nbsp;<strong>global technology powerhouse<\/strong>, aligning with the&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;vision and showcasing&nbsp;<strong>global confidence<\/strong>&nbsp;in Indian talent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Campus to serve as a \u201cglobal innovation hub\u201d enabling customers to \u201cmove from insight to action\u201d through India-built enterprise-grade AI and data solutions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Shortlists 18 EV Component R&amp;D Proposals to Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing \ud83d\ude97<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Centre shortlists&nbsp;<strong>18 proposals<\/strong>&nbsp;for R&amp;D of electric vehicle subsystems to reduce import dependence and boost local production.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects span&nbsp;<strong>EV wireless chargers<\/strong>, powertrain systems, and traction motors to develop critical EV components.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Selected proposals will be executed through partnerships with academia, industry, and government stakeholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A vetting panel from the Ministry of Heavy Industries and MeitY will review submissions before final approval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only technologies at&nbsp;<strong>TRL 7<\/strong>&nbsp;or above, indicating near-manufacturing readiness, will qualify for support.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaborations must operate in consortium mode with a minimum 20% cash contribution from industry partners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Priority will go to projects that deliver prototypes with strong commercialization potential.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developed technologies will be available on a non-exclusive basis, with exclusive rights granted only if industry contribution exceeds 50%.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Canada\u2019s First August Express Entry Draw Sends 225 Residency Invitations&nbsp;<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udde6\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1e8-1f1e6.svg\"><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On August 6, 2025,&nbsp;<strong>Express Entry draw no. 358<\/strong>&nbsp;issued&nbsp;<strong>225 invitations<\/strong>&nbsp;to foreign nationals, with the lowest-ranked candidate needing a&nbsp;<strong>CRS score of 739<\/strong>&nbsp;to qualify.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The round took place at 14:38:42 UTC, and the&nbsp;<strong>tie-break rule<\/strong>&nbsp;prioritized profiles submitted on or before April 23, 2025, at 06:35:51 UTC for candidates with equal scores.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under the&nbsp;<strong>Provincial Nominee Program<\/strong>, the previous draw on July 21 invited 202 applicants, requiring a CRS cut-off of 788\u2014a&nbsp;<strong>49-point drop<\/strong>&nbsp;from that threshold.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canada\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Comprehensive Ranking System<\/strong>&nbsp;ranks candidates by factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, with thresholds adjusted for each draw.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>On March 25, 2025, Canada removed&nbsp;<strong>job offer points<\/strong>&nbsp;from the CRS, affecting positions in senior management (200 points) and other skilled occupations (50 points).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Candidates with&nbsp;<strong>qualifying job offers<\/strong>&nbsp;lost their associated&nbsp;<strong>CRS points<\/strong>, and new offers no longer earn extra points after that date.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Express Entry manages skilled immigrant streams including the&nbsp;<strong>Federal Skilled Worker Program<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Canadian Experience Class<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Federal Skilled Trades Program<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Provincial Nominee Program<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NASA to Build Nuclear Reactor on the Moon by 2030 to Power Permanent Base \ud83c\udf15<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>NASA aims to build a&nbsp;<strong>nuclear reactor<\/strong>&nbsp;on the Moon by&nbsp;<strong>2030<\/strong>&nbsp;to power a&nbsp;<strong>permanent lunar base<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acting NASA head Sean Duffy called for commercial proposals for a reactor capable of generating at least&nbsp;<strong>100 kilowatts<\/strong>&nbsp;of power.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>China and Russia have announced plans to deploy an&nbsp;<strong>automated nuclear station<\/strong>&nbsp;on the Moon by&nbsp;<strong>2035<\/strong>, intensifying the international space race.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reliance on solar arrays is challenged by the Moon\u2019s two-week day-night cycle, making&nbsp;<strong>continuous power<\/strong>&nbsp;a significant hurdle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experts warn of&nbsp;<strong>safety concerns<\/strong>&nbsp;and logistical hurdles in launching radioactive material through Earth\u2019s atmosphere.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Critics argue the reactor initiative reflects&nbsp;<strong>geopolitical rivalry<\/strong>&nbsp;rather than collaborative scientific exploration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uncertainty over&nbsp;<strong>Artemis missions<\/strong>&nbsp;and recent&nbsp;<strong>funding cuts<\/strong>&nbsp;clouds the prospect of aligning power infrastructure with crewed landings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">US Introduces 5 Major Visa Rule Changes Impacting Tourists, Students &amp; Immigrants \u2708\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A pilot bond requirement of&nbsp;<strong>$5,000\u2013$15,000<\/strong>&nbsp;for tourists\/business visas from high-overstay countries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduction of a&nbsp;<strong>$250 Visa Integrity Fee<\/strong>&nbsp;for non-immigrant visas, refundable upon timely departure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stricter USCIS rules for&nbsp;<strong>marriage-based green cards<\/strong>&nbsp;with enhanced documentation and interviews<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduction of&nbsp;<strong>non-waivable fees<\/strong>&nbsp;($24 I-94, $13 ESTA, $30 EVUS), boosting overall visa costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rollback of interview waivers: nearly all applicants, including children and seniors, face&nbsp;<strong>mandatory interviews<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For Indian applicants, tourism\/business visa expenses could&nbsp;<strong>nearly triple<\/strong>, impacting affordability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Hosts WHO-IRCH Herbal Regulation Workshop to Harmonize Global Standards \ud83c\udf3f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>From August 6\u20138, India will host the&nbsp;<strong>WHO-IRCH<\/strong>&nbsp;workshop on herbal medicine regulation, organized by the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the World Health Organization.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supported by the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine &amp; Homoeopathy, the three-day event brings together regulatory authorities and experts from multiple continents, fostering technical exchange and cooperation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The agenda covers five key objectives: fostering collaboration, enhancing safety and efficacy mechanisms, supporting regulatory convergence, and empowering traditional medicine systems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sessions will review working groups on safety, regulation, efficacy, and intended use, featuring case studies such as Ashwagandha research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hands-on training at PCIM&amp;H laboratories will include herbal drug identification, heavy metal analysis, and chemo-profiling using HPTLC technology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delegates will visit the National Institute of Unani Medicine in Ghaziabad and the All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi to explore India\u2019s integrative health ecosystem.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The workshop will launch the&nbsp;<strong>Ayush Suraksha<\/strong>&nbsp;pharmacovigilance program to strengthen safety monitoring of traditional medicines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The event is expected to play a pivotal role in harmonizing global standards and integrating traditional medicine into mainstream public health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Signs MoU with Russia to Deepen Industrial Cooperation Amid US Threats \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India and Russia signed a&nbsp;<strong>protocol<\/strong>&nbsp;at the 11th India-Russia Working Group on Modernisation &amp; Industrial Cooperation to expand collaboration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The pact targets sectors including aluminium, fertilisers, railways, and mining technology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This step reaffirmed the&nbsp;<strong>strategic partnership<\/strong>&nbsp;amid US threats to penalise India over its Russian trade.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Convened on August 6 at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi under the Intergovernmental Commission, it reviewed progress since the 10th session.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Co-chaired by DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia and Russian Deputy Minister Alexey Gruzdev, the meeting saw high-level engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discussions included modernisation, mining, fertiliser, and railway transport sub-groups, alongside emerging collaboration areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both sides explored aerospace and science &amp; technology projects, like a modernised wind tunnel facility and small aircraft piston engines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They also discussed carbon fibre development, additive manufacturing, rare earth extraction, underground coal gasification, and modern industrial infrastructure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government Saves \u20b91,500 Crore Annually with New Kartavya Bhavan Complex \ud83c\udfe2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prime Minister Narendra Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated&nbsp;<strong>Kartavya Bhavan<\/strong>&nbsp;in New Delhi, a newly developed administrative complex.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The government was spending around&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,500 crore annually<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>rent for scattered ministry offices<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The new complex brings together several key ministries like&nbsp;<strong>Home Affairs, External Affairs, Rural Development, Petroleum<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>MSME<\/strong>&nbsp;in one place.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kartavya Bhavan has&nbsp;<strong>modern amenities<\/strong>&nbsp;including multiple conference rooms, a yoga room, medical center, and parking for 600 vehicles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The building aligns with India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Amrit Kaal vision<\/strong>&nbsp;and the country\u2019s move toward&nbsp;<strong>self-reliance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>efficient governance<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It features&nbsp;<strong>green infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;with solar panels, reflecting India\u2019s commitment to&nbsp;<strong>sustainability<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IIT Palakkad Launches Free 12-Week AI Course for Students &amp; Professionals \ud83e\udd16<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>IIT Palakkad offers a&nbsp;<strong>free online course<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>Artificial Intelligence<\/strong>&nbsp;(AI) called \u201cApplied Accelerated AI.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The course spans&nbsp;<strong>12 weeks<\/strong>&nbsp;and covers fundamentals and applications in&nbsp;<strong>healthcare<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>smart city<\/strong>&nbsp;domains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Participants learn about&nbsp;<strong>computational capabilities<\/strong>&nbsp;and system software for implementing AI solutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delivered by IIT Palakkad faculty and industry experts from&nbsp;<strong>NVIDIA<\/strong>&nbsp;and other institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certification is available for those who clear an exam with a nominal fee.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The course is targeted at students familiar with&nbsp;<strong>computer engineering, machine learning, and deep learning<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Banking Laws (Amendment) Act 2025 Enforces Reforms from August 1 \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;came into effect on&nbsp;<strong>August 1, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;with 19 amendments across key banking legislations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It targets&nbsp;<strong>improved governance<\/strong>, better&nbsp;<strong>depositor protection<\/strong>, and enhanced&nbsp;<strong>audit quality<\/strong>&nbsp;in public sector and cooperative banks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The definition of&nbsp;<strong>\u2018substantial interest\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;was raised from \u20b95 lakh to \u20b92 crore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tenure for directors in cooperative banks has increased from 8 to&nbsp;<strong>10 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PSBs can transfer unclaimed shares and interest to the&nbsp;<strong>Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statutory auditors in PSBs can now be remunerated to enhance audit independence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bengaluru Ranks 26th Globally in AI City Index, Leading in India \ud83c\udf10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bengaluru secured the&nbsp;<strong>26th position globally<\/strong>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<strong>Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) City Index 2025<\/strong>, making it India\u2019s top AI hub.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The city is recognized for a strong&nbsp;<strong>AI R&amp;D ecosystem<\/strong>, data centers, and startups.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other Indian cities like&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata<\/strong>&nbsp;are growing in AI adoption, particularly in&nbsp;<strong>traffic<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>public security<\/strong>&nbsp;AI applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The report urges India to build stronger&nbsp;<strong>AI policy frameworks<\/strong>&nbsp;and regulatory support.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Top global AI cities include&nbsp;<strong>Singapore, Seoul, Beijing<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>San Francisco<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India and Philippines Conduct First Joint Naval Drill in South China Sea \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India and the Philippines held their first-ever&nbsp;<strong>joint naval exercises<\/strong>&nbsp;in the contested&nbsp;<strong>South China Sea<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The two-day drill featured Indian ships like the&nbsp;<strong>INS Delhi<\/strong>&nbsp;and Philippine frigates&nbsp;<strong>Miguelvar and Joseizal<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exercises took place within the Philippines\u2019&nbsp;<strong>exclusive economic zone<\/strong>&nbsp;despite China\u2019s territorial claims.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The drill coincided with Philippine President Marcos\u2019s India visit to strengthen ties in&nbsp;<strong>defense, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both nations stressed commitment to&nbsp;<strong>international maritime law (UNCLOS)<\/strong>&nbsp;and regional security.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Banking Laws Effective August 1 to Boost Governance &amp; Depositor Safety \ud83c\udfe6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;is now in force, introducing governance reforms in Indian banks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improvements include increased&nbsp;<strong>auditor autonomy<\/strong>, better deposit protection, and alignment with&nbsp;<strong>constitutional governance norms<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Several provisions target&nbsp;<strong>public sector banks<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>cooperative banks<\/strong>, and regulatory frameworks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This legislative update represents India\u2019s move towards&nbsp;<strong>modern banking practices<\/strong>&nbsp;and better&nbsp;<strong>financial stability<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Reforms Improve Claims, Jan Dhan KYC &amp; Allow SIP Investment \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>RBI announced reforms including&nbsp;<strong>re-KYC camps<\/strong>&nbsp;for PM Jan Dhan account holders till&nbsp;<strong>September 30, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public sector banks are conducting&nbsp;<strong>doorstep re-KYC camps<\/strong>&nbsp;in rural areas to facilitate account updation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RBI will&nbsp;<strong>standardize claims settlement<\/strong>&nbsp;for accounts and locker articles of deceased customers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Investors can now buy&nbsp;<strong>Indian government securities<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)<\/strong>, aiding retail participation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Eases Special Rupee Vostro Accounts Norms to Boost INR Global Trade \ud83d\udcb1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>RBI removed the prior approval requirement for opening&nbsp;<strong>Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs)<\/strong>&nbsp;by foreign banks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These accounts facilitate trade settlement in Indian Rupees (INR), aiming to reduce dependence on foreign currencies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The move enables faster and more stable cross-border transactions and boost Indian exports.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banks acting as&nbsp;<strong>Authorised Dealers (ADs)<\/strong>&nbsp;can now open SRVAs at their discretion without RBI approval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This policy supports India\u2019s goal to promote&nbsp;<strong>rupee-based global trade<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bank of Baroda Launches Digital Retail Forex Platform \u2018BoB FXone\u2019 \ud83d\udcbb<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bank of Baroda unveiled&nbsp;<strong>BoB FXone<\/strong>, a digital platform for retail foreign exchange services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The platform offers&nbsp;<strong>real-time rates<\/strong>, user-friendly interfaces, and easier forex transaction management.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to enhance transparency and convenience for individual and SME customers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BoB FXone is part of the bank\u2019s push to&nbsp;<strong>digitize customer banking experiences<\/strong>&nbsp;and improve cross-border forex accessibility.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IRCTC Gets RBI Nod to Operate as Online Payment Aggregator, Shares Surge \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)<\/strong>&nbsp;has received RBI approval to function as an&nbsp;<strong>Online Payment Aggregator (OPA)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This authorization allows IRCTC to facilitate payments from multiple payment instruments on its platform.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The development is expected to enhance customer payment experience and boost IRCTC\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>business growth<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IRCTC\u2019s shares rose following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Axis Bank Introduces Lock FD Feature to Protect Term Deposits from Digital Frauds \ud83d\udd12<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Axis Bank launched an&nbsp;<strong>industry-first Lock FD feature<\/strong>&nbsp;to safeguard fixed deposits from unauthorized digital withdrawals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The feature adds an additional layer of security by blocking online withdrawal requests unless the deposit holder unlocks it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This innovation aims to reduce&nbsp;<strong>digital fraud risks<\/strong>&nbsp;targeting term deposit holders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It reflects Axis Bank\u2019s commitment to bolstering&nbsp;<strong>customer security<\/strong>&nbsp;in retail banking products.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tata AIA Launches \u2018Shubh Shakti\u2019 \u2013 Women-Focused Term Insurance Plan \ud83d\udc69\ud83e\uddb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tata AIA introduced&nbsp;<strong>Shubh Shakti<\/strong>, a&nbsp;<strong>term insurance plan tailored for women<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The plan offers&nbsp;<strong>comprehensive life coverage<\/strong>&nbsp;along with added benefits designed to support women\u2019s unique needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to promote&nbsp;<strong>financial independence and security<\/strong>&nbsp;for women policyholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The product is part of Tata AIA\u2019s broader strategy to provide&nbsp;<strong>inclusive insurance solutions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ISRO Launches \u2018Mission Hope\u2019 in Ladakh to Boost Regional Development \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ISRO launched&nbsp;<strong>Mission Hope<\/strong>&nbsp;in Ladakh, focusing on developmental and scientific outreach in the region.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The mission supports initiatives in&nbsp;<strong>telecommunication, remote sensing, and environmental monitoring<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to enhance connectivity and promote the use of space technology for&nbsp;<strong>regional growth<\/strong>&nbsp;and disaster management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India\u2019s Business Confidence Index Rises to 149.4 in April-June 2025 Quarter \ud83d\udcca<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER)<\/strong>&nbsp;reported an increase in India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Business Confidence Index (BCI)<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>149.4<\/strong>&nbsp;for Q1 2025-26.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The rise reflects improved optimism among businesses concerning&nbsp;<strong>economic conditions<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>investment climate<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>demand prospects<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This growth signals stronger economic momentum despite some global uncertainties.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 6, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Launches Four Projects Under India-UN Global Capacity Building for Global South \ud83c\udf0d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India kicked off the&nbsp;<strong>India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative<\/strong>, aiming to help&nbsp;<strong>Global South<\/strong>&nbsp;nations achieve Sustainable Development Goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The first phase, launched by MEA Secretary&nbsp;<strong>Tanmaya Lal<\/strong>, comprises four targeted development projects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership with&nbsp;<strong>WFP<\/strong>&nbsp;will support&nbsp;<strong>rice fortification<\/strong>&nbsp;and strengthen supply chain management in Nepal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UNDP collaboration will create&nbsp;<strong>digital health platforms<\/strong>&nbsp;for Zambia and Lao PDR to modernize healthcare delivery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UNFPA will train officials in&nbsp;<strong>census preparedness<\/strong>&nbsp;across Belize, Barbados, St Kitts &amp; Nevis, Suriname, and Trinidad &amp; Tobago.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UNESCO-backed vocational training programmes will equip youth in South Sudan with employable skills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All courses are set to begin in&nbsp;<strong>September 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;through Indian training institutes under the&nbsp;<strong>ITEC framework<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ministry of Textiles Unveils \u2018Haat on Wheels\u2019 for 11th National Handloom Day \ud83d\udecd\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Exclusive Handloom Expo and the \u201cHaat on Wheels\u201d mobile retail initiative at Handloom Haat, Janpath.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The \u201cHaat on Wheels\u201d showcases 116 distinct weaves from across India, under the theme \u201cMy Handloom, My Pride; My Product, My Pride.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developed in collaboration with the National Handloom Development Corporation, the mobile marketplace will travel through Delhi NCR\u2019s markets, residential societies, and art zones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative aims to bridge the gap between artisans and urban consumers, bolstering artisan incomes while promoting sustainable fashion and \u201cvocal for local.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The on-site Handloom Expo runs until 10 August, featuring live weaving demonstrations and region-specific handloom products.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Moldova Joins International Solar Alliance as 107th Member \ud83c\udf1e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On August 4, the Ministry of External Affairs announced that the Republic of Moldova has become the 107th member of the International Solar Alliance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ISA was launched in 2015 by India and France at COP21 in Paris to foster global solar energy collaboration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moldovan Ambassador to India Ana Taban handed over the Instrument of Ratification to P. S. Gangadhar, JS (Economic Diplomacy) and ISA Depository Head.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the accession news on X, underscoring ISA\u2019s mission to accelerate solar power deployment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moldova\u2019s membership underscores its commitment to renewable energy growth and sustainable development objectives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modi\u2019s Pariksha Pe Charcha Sets Guinness Record with 3.53 Crore Sign-ups in a Month \ud83c\udfc6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Pariksha Pe Charcha<\/strong>&nbsp;programme received the&nbsp;<strong>Guinness World Record<\/strong>&nbsp;for the highest registrations on a citizen engagement platform in one month.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Over&nbsp;<strong>3.53 Crore registrations<\/strong>&nbsp;were recorded during its eighth edition on the MyGov platform.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly interacts with students, teachers, and parents through this unique educational forum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The record certificate was presented in New Delhi, attended by Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative turned exam stress into a festival of learning, drawing over 21 Crore viewers across media platforms in 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It emphasizes stress-free learning and highlights diverse career opportunities in the nation\u2019s Amrit Kaal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Delhi, Maharashtra &amp; Chandigarh Lead in NITI Aayog\u2019s Electric Mobility Index 2024 \ud83d\ude97<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Delhi<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Maharashtra<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Chandigarh<\/strong>&nbsp;topped the inaugural&nbsp;<strong>India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI) 2024<\/strong>, marking them as&nbsp;<strong>frontrunners<\/strong>&nbsp;in the country\u2019s transition to electric vehicles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>IEMI 2024<\/strong>&nbsp;assessed 30 states and UTs across&nbsp;<strong>16 indicators<\/strong>&nbsp;under three themes:&nbsp;<strong>EV adoption<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>charging infrastructure readiness<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>EV technology and innovation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As of June 2025, over&nbsp;<strong>6.5 million EVs<\/strong>&nbsp;operate on Indian roads, up from just&nbsp;<strong>0.5%<\/strong>&nbsp;of vehicle sales in 2018 to&nbsp;<strong>7.7%<\/strong>&nbsp;by 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India had installed&nbsp;<strong>25,000 public charging stations<\/strong>&nbsp;by October 2024, with&nbsp;<strong>Karnataka<\/strong>&nbsp;leading installations and&nbsp;<strong>Haryana<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Karnataka<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Ladakh<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Himachal Pradesh<\/strong>&nbsp;excelling in charging readiness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>29 states and UTs<\/strong>&nbsp;have notified dedicated&nbsp;<strong>EV policies<\/strong>, with another four in draft, driving localized incentives and regulatory support.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In 2024, over&nbsp;<strong>12 lakh EVs<\/strong>&nbsp;were registered, and private&nbsp;<strong>electric two-wheelers<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>cars<\/strong>&nbsp;reached a&nbsp;<strong>5.3% market share<\/strong>, reflecting a sharp rise in consumer adoption.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">P B Balaji to Helm Jaguar Land Rover as CEO in Nov 2025: Tata Taps Veteran CFO \ud83d\ude97<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) announces the appointment of&nbsp;<strong>P B Balaji<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Chief Executive Officer<\/strong>, effective&nbsp;<strong>November 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He succeeds&nbsp;<strong>Adrian Mardell<\/strong>, who is retiring after&nbsp;<strong>3 years<\/strong>&nbsp;as CEO and&nbsp;<strong>35 years<\/strong>&nbsp;with the company.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>N. Chandrasekaran<\/strong>, Chairman of Jaguar Land Rover PLC, Tata Motors, and Tata Sons, praised Mardell\u2019s turnaround and highlighted Balaji\u2019s fit for the&nbsp;<strong>Reimagine JLR<\/strong>&nbsp;journey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Balaji has served as Group&nbsp;<strong>Chief Financial Officer<\/strong>&nbsp;at Tata Motors since&nbsp;<strong>November 2017<\/strong>, bringing&nbsp;<strong>32 years<\/strong>&nbsp;of global experience in the&nbsp;<strong>automotive<\/strong>&nbsp;and consumer goods sectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He has led multicultural teams across&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>London<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Singapore<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Switzerland<\/strong>, driving finance and&nbsp;<strong>supply chain<\/strong>&nbsp;transformations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Balaji holds a&nbsp;<strong>B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>IIT Chennai<\/strong>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<strong>Post Graduate Diploma in Management<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>IIM Kolkata<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Govt Unveils \u2018Apna Ghar\u2019 Highway Rest Facilities for Truckers: 368 Units &amp; 4,611 Beds \ud83c\udfe0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas<\/strong>&nbsp;launched&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Apna Ghar\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost the&nbsp;<strong>well-being<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>truck drivers<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>long-haul journeys<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public sector&nbsp;<strong>OMCs<\/strong>&nbsp;have established&nbsp;<strong>368 units<\/strong>&nbsp;with a total of&nbsp;<strong>4,611 beds<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>retail fuel outlets<\/strong>&nbsp;along national and state highways.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Each facility offers&nbsp;<strong>dormitory accommodations<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>restaurants\/dhabas<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>clean toilets<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>dedicated bathing areas<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>self-cooking spaces<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Truckers also gain access to&nbsp;<strong>purified drinking water<\/strong>, ensuring higher&nbsp;<strong>comfort<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>hygiene<\/strong>&nbsp;on the road.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Apna Ghar\u2019 mobile app<\/strong>&nbsp;has recorded rising&nbsp;<strong>bookings<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>downloads<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>user registrations<\/strong>, signaling strong&nbsp;<strong>community uptake<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Positive&nbsp;<strong>feedback<\/strong>&nbsp;from drivers highlights the programme\u2019s impact on improving&nbsp;<strong>rest quality<\/strong>&nbsp;and overall&nbsp;<strong>road safety<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Details shared by&nbsp;<strong>MoS Suresh Gopi<\/strong>&nbsp;in a&nbsp;<strong>Lok Sabha<\/strong>&nbsp;response underline the government\u2019s commitment to enhancing the&nbsp;<strong>truck workforce\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;infrastructure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Punjab Empanels Sign Language Experts Under Juvenile Justice Act for Inclusion \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Punjab becomes the first state to empanel&nbsp;<strong>sign language interpreters<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>Juvenile Justice Act, 2015<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative, announced by&nbsp;<strong>Dr Baljit Kaur<\/strong>, aims to ensure accessible and sensitive justice for children with hearing and speech impairments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empaneled experts will be deployed&nbsp;<strong>district-wise<\/strong>&nbsp;to provide support during legal proceedings, education, and daily interactions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Led by&nbsp;<strong>Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann<\/strong>, the move empowers children by eliminating communication barriers in official settings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligned with the&nbsp;<strong>POCSO Act, 2012<\/strong>, these professionals will assist in cases involving sexual offences against minors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Punjab already broadcasts its Vidhan Sabha proceedings in&nbsp;<strong>sign language<\/strong>, demonstrating its commitment to transparency.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This landmark step reinforces the state\u2019s pledge to build an&nbsp;<strong>inclusive society<\/strong>&nbsp;where every child feels heard, understood, and protected.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival \u2018SaptaSur\u2019 Unites Nations in New Delhi \ud83c\udfb6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The inaugural&nbsp;<strong>BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival<\/strong>&nbsp;was held at&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Mandapam<\/strong>&nbsp;in New Delhi on 4 August 2025, marking the first large-scale cultural event of the grouping.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It was inaugurated by External Affairs Minister&nbsp;<strong>Dr S Jaishankar<\/strong>, who highlighted music as both a bridge between nations and a powerful expression of societal identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organised by the&nbsp;<strong>Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)<\/strong>, the festival titled&nbsp;<strong>\u2018SaptaSur\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;(Seven Nations, One Melody) showcased traditional music, instrumental, and folk performances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Artists from&nbsp;<strong>Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka,<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Thailand<\/strong>&nbsp;presented their distinct musical heritages, reflecting deep-rooted South and Southeast Asian linkages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The event fulfilled Prime Minister&nbsp;<strong>Narendra Modi\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;commitment made at the&nbsp;<strong>6th BIMSTEC Summit<\/strong>&nbsp;in Thailand in April 2025 to deepen people-to-people contacts through cultural exchange.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>By celebrating the region\u2019s rich cultural diversity, the festival reinforced mutual respect, dialogue, and unity among the seven member countries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Emerges as 5th Largest Aviation Market with 241M Passengers in 2024 \u2708\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India emerged as the&nbsp;<strong>5th largest aviation market<\/strong>, handling 241 million total passengers in 2024, including 211 million domestic flyers (up 11.1%).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Global rankings were topped by&nbsp;<strong>US (876M)<\/strong>&nbsp;passengers, followed by China (741M), the UK (261M), Spain (241M), and Japan (205M, 18.6% growth).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai\u2013Delhi<\/strong>&nbsp;route ranked 7th among busiest airport pairs, carrying 5.9 million travellers in 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asia-Pacific<\/strong>&nbsp;dominated the top 10 busiest routes, with Jeju\u2013Seoul leading at 13.2 million passengers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Premium class travel<\/strong>&nbsp;grew 11.8%, outpacing 11.5% economy growth, reaching 116.9 million international flyers (6% share).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Asia-Pacific recorded&nbsp;<strong>22.8%<\/strong>&nbsp;premium-segment growth, while economy class soared 28.6% to 500.8 million travellers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Europe<\/strong>&nbsp;remained the largest market for premium travel with 39.3 million passengers, as the Middle East held the highest premium share at 14.7%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boeing 737<\/strong>&nbsp;led narrow-body capacity with 10 million flights and 2.4 trillion Available Seat Kilometres in 2024.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IDFC FIRST Bank and IndiGo Launch Dual Credit Card with Mastercard &amp; RuPay Duo \ud83d\udeeb<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cardholders receive two physical cards\u2014<strong>Mastercard<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>RuPay<\/strong>\u2014sharing a single&nbsp;<strong>credit limit<\/strong>&nbsp;and statement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose between a \u20b94,999 + GST&nbsp;<strong>joining fee<\/strong>&nbsp;or an&nbsp;<strong>FD-backed variant<\/strong>&nbsp;(\u20b91 lakh deposit) for zero upfront fees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set separate PINs and transaction preferences for each card while enjoying one consolidated billing cycle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Earn&nbsp;<strong>IndiGo BluChips<\/strong>&nbsp;on every spend: 6 per \u20b9100 on flights, 3 per \u20b9100 on other purchases, 0.5 per \u20b9100 on UPI\/utilities\/wallets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Welcome perks for fee-paying applicants include a voucher of&nbsp;<strong>5,000 BluChips<\/strong>&nbsp;and a complimentary IndiGo meal voucher.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spend \u20b91 lakh within 90 days to unlock an extra&nbsp;<strong>3,000 BluChips<\/strong>&nbsp;voucher for future bookings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>One-time benefits feature 3-month&nbsp;<strong>EasyDiner Prime membership<\/strong>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<strong>Postcard hotels<\/strong>&nbsp;stay voucher worth \u20b93,000.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Travel protections include a&nbsp;<strong>1.49% forex markup<\/strong>, trip-cancellation cover up to \u20b925,000,&nbsp;<strong>air accident insurance \u20b91 cr<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>personal accident cover \u20b910 lakh<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A single e-statement and payment streamline your finances across both networks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IndusInd Bank Appoints&nbsp;<strong>Rajiv Anand<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>MD &amp; CEO<\/strong>&nbsp;for Three-Year Term from&nbsp;<strong>Aug 25, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;\ud83d\udcbc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>board<\/strong>&nbsp;approved veteran banker&nbsp;<strong>Rajiv Anand<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Managing Director &amp; CEO<\/strong>, effective&nbsp;<strong>August 25, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appointment received&nbsp;<strong>RBI approval<\/strong>&nbsp;and awaits&nbsp;<strong>shareholder endorsement<\/strong>&nbsp;following the&nbsp;<strong>August 4, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;board meeting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anand succeeds&nbsp;<strong>Sumant Kathpalia<\/strong>, who resigned amid a&nbsp;<strong>Rs 1,960 crore misaccounting crisis<\/strong>&nbsp;in the derivatives book.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He brings&nbsp;<strong>32 years<\/strong>&nbsp;of leadership experience, including roles as&nbsp;<strong>Deputy Managing Director at Axis Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;and founding&nbsp;<strong>MD &amp; CEO of Axis Asset Management<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under&nbsp;<strong>interim executive management<\/strong>, the bank navigated its largest-ever loss but reported a&nbsp;<strong>Q1FY26 net profit of Rs 604 crore<\/strong>, marking a&nbsp;<strong>return to profitability<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His&nbsp;<strong>global stints<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>Mumbai<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>London<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Singapore<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Switzerland<\/strong>&nbsp;highlight expertise in&nbsp;<strong>finance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>supply chain transformations<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As an&nbsp;<strong>Additional Director<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Key Managerial Personnel<\/strong>, Anand is set to drive IndusInd\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>strategic turnaround<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>governance reforms<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Former J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik Dies at 79 in New Delhi \ud83d\udd4a\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Satya Pal Malik passed away at the age of&nbsp;<strong>79<\/strong>&nbsp;after a&nbsp;<strong>prolonged illness<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 5, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He was receiving medical treatment at&nbsp;<strong>Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital<\/strong>&nbsp;in New Delhi at the time of his death<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Malik served as the Governor of&nbsp;<strong>Jammu &amp; Kashmir<\/strong>, overseeing the region during pivotal constitutional changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He also held gubernatorial posts in&nbsp;<strong>Goa<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Meghalaya<\/strong>, bringing decades of administrative experience to each role<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pratyaya Amrit Appointed Bihar Chief Secretary From Sept 2025: Roads to Health \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pratyaya Amrit,&nbsp;<strong>Development Commissioner<\/strong>, will take charge as&nbsp;<strong>Bihar Chief Secretary<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>1 September 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He succeeds&nbsp;<strong>Amrit Lal Meena<\/strong>, retiring on&nbsp;<strong>31 August 2025<\/strong>, per the notification by&nbsp;<strong>Additional Chief Secretary B Rajinder<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As&nbsp;<strong>Road Construction Secretary<\/strong>, he oversaw flagship projects like the&nbsp;<strong>Ganga Path<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>AIIMS-Digha flyover<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leading the&nbsp;<strong>Energy Department<\/strong>, he strengthened&nbsp;<strong>power supply<\/strong>&nbsp;to the village level before the&nbsp;<strong>2015 Assembly polls<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recipient of the&nbsp;<strong>Prime Minister\u2019s Award for Excellence in Public Administration<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>2011<\/strong>, honored individually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>During the&nbsp;<strong>Covid-19 second wave<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2021, he served as&nbsp;<strong>Principal Secretary, Health<\/strong>, curbing case surges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His appointment is pivotal as Bihar heads into&nbsp;<strong>year-end polls<\/strong>, emphasizing governance and infrastructure overhaul.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RBI Holds Policy Repo Rate Steady, Sees 6.5% Growth &amp; 3.1% Inflation in FY26 \ud83d\udcca<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>policy repo rate<\/strong>&nbsp;was kept unchanged, and the&nbsp;<strong>neutral stance<\/strong>&nbsp;was unanimously maintained by the MPC.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Headline inflation dipped to 2.1% in June, driven by food deflation, while core inflation edged up to 4.4%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Real GDP growth<\/strong>&nbsp;for 2025-26 is projected at 6.5%, supported by a robust monsoon, strong government capex, and resilient rural demand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CPI inflation<\/strong>&nbsp;is forecast at 3.1% for FY26, with expectations of it rising above 4% in Q4 due to base-effect and demand-side pressures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The current account deficit narrowed to 0.6% of GDP in 2024-25, buoyed by healthy services exports and remittance inflows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>System liquidity remained in surplus, averaging a net LAF surplus of Rs 3 lakh crore daily, which bolstered monetary transmission.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>forex reserves<\/strong>&nbsp;stood at US$ 688.9 billion, covering over 11 months of imports and underscoring external-sector resilience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The RBI flagged global trade uncertainties and pledged to closely monitor incoming data to calibrate future policy moves.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pratyaya Amrit Appointed Bihar Chief Secretary From September 1, 2025 \ud83c\udfaf<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>General Administration Department<\/strong>&nbsp;notified that&nbsp;<strong>Pratyaya Amrit<\/strong>, a 1991-batch IAS officer from&nbsp;<strong>Muzaffarpur<\/strong>, will assume charge as&nbsp;<strong>Chief Secretary<\/strong>&nbsp;of Bihar on&nbsp;<strong>September 1, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He will succeed&nbsp;<strong>Amrit Lal Meena<\/strong>&nbsp;(1989 batch), who is set to retire on&nbsp;<strong>August 31, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently the&nbsp;<strong>Development Commissioner<\/strong>&nbsp;and holding additional charge as&nbsp;<strong>Additional Chief Secretary of Health and Disaster Management<\/strong>, he served as&nbsp;<strong>Officer on Special Duty<\/strong>&nbsp;in the Chief Secretary\u2019s office until Meena\u2019s superannuation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A native of&nbsp;<strong>Muzaffarpur, Bihar<\/strong>, Pratyaya is considered a close aide to&nbsp;<strong>Chief Minister Nitish Kumar<\/strong>, highlighting the political importance ahead of the&nbsp;<strong>assembly elections<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His appointment ensures that the 2025&nbsp;<strong>state elections<\/strong>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<strong>election-bound<\/strong>&nbsp;state will be overseen under his administrative leadership.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MK Stalin Unveils TN Rising Conclave to Drive Investments &amp; Jobs in Tamil Nadu \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chief Minister&nbsp;<strong>M K Stalin<\/strong>&nbsp;inaugurated the&nbsp;<strong>TN Rising Investors Conclave<\/strong>&nbsp;in Thoothukudi on August 4 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Tamil Nadu government is systematically attracting huge&nbsp;<strong>investments<\/strong>&nbsp;and generating&nbsp;<strong>employment<\/strong>&nbsp;to transform the state\u2019s economy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiatives ensure industrially backward southern districts are equipped to match the pace of the state\u2019s industrial development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Priority sectors highlighted include&nbsp;<strong>semiconductor manufacturing<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>electric vehicle manufacturing<\/strong>, solar cells, green hydrogen production, and information data centers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aimed at fostering inclusive growth, the conclave encourages partnerships across public and private stakeholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These efforts bolster Tamil Nadu\u2019s position as a premier&nbsp;<strong>investment hub<\/strong>, driving sustainable regional progress.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SAP &amp; Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya Join Forces to Skill India\u2019s Logistics Workforce<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SAP<\/strong>, Europe\u2019s largest software maker, signed an&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The partnership aims to&nbsp;<strong>digitally skill professionals<\/strong>&nbsp;in India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>logistics and transport sector<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative will help build a&nbsp;<strong>future-ready workforce<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with industry needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd39&nbsp;<strong>Three Pillars of the MoU<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employment enablement<\/strong>&nbsp;for GSV-trained graduates and postgraduates through&nbsp;<strong>industry-relevant skills<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Curriculum enhancement<\/strong>&nbsp;to better reflect&nbsp;<strong>real-world logistics challenges<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capacity building<\/strong>&nbsp;for students and&nbsp;<strong>government professionals<\/strong>&nbsp;to bridge the skill gap.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 5, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SpaceX Crew-11 Launch: NASA, Russian &amp; Japanese Astronauts to ISS for 8 Months \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>International four-person&nbsp;<strong>Crew-11<\/strong>&nbsp;blasted off from&nbsp;<strong>Kennedy Space Center<\/strong>&nbsp;aboard SpaceX\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Falcon 9<\/strong>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;<strong>Dragon<\/strong>&nbsp;capsule, overcoming adverse weather.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Team comprises two&nbsp;<strong>NASA<\/strong>&nbsp;astronauts (Zena Cardman, Michael Fincke), a Russian&nbsp;<strong>cosmonaut<\/strong>&nbsp;(Oleg Platonov) and a Japanese&nbsp;<strong>astronaut<\/strong>&nbsp;(Kimiya Yui).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After a roughly&nbsp;<strong>16-hour<\/strong>&nbsp;transit, the crew will dock at the&nbsp;<strong>ISS<\/strong>&nbsp;at 0700 GMT Saturday for an&nbsp;<strong>eight-month<\/strong>&nbsp;stay to better align U.S. and&nbsp;<strong>Russian<\/strong>&nbsp;mission schedules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NASA will continuously monitor the Dragon capsule\u2019s health before committing to the full mission duration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launch occurred alongside the first face-to-face NASA-Roscosmos talks since 2018, reinforcing&nbsp;<strong>cooperation<\/strong>&nbsp;amid strained&nbsp;<strong>US-Russia<\/strong>&nbsp;ties post-Ukraine invasion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fitch cuts India\u2019s FY26 GDP forecast to 6.3%, flags limited tariff impact \ud83c\udf10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fitch trims FY26 growth estimate to&nbsp;<strong>6.3%<\/strong>, down from&nbsp;<strong>6.4%<\/strong>&nbsp;back in April.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strong&nbsp;<strong>infrastructure spending<\/strong>&nbsp;seen underpinning demand in core sectors like&nbsp;<strong>cement<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>steel<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anticipates&nbsp;<strong>limited impact<\/strong>&nbsp;from upcoming&nbsp;<strong>US tariffs<\/strong>&nbsp;as most rated firms have low export exposure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warns of&nbsp;<strong>second-order risks<\/strong>&nbsp;from potential&nbsp;<strong>excess supply<\/strong>, urging companies to&nbsp;<strong>diversify exports<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects domestically-focused industries (oil &amp; gas, utilities) to remain&nbsp;<strong>insulated<\/strong>, while&nbsp;<strong>export-dependent sectors<\/strong>&nbsp;face headwinds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indian Men &amp; Women Table Tennis Teams Earn Spots at London 2026 WTTC \ud83c\udfd3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Both squads secured qualification with an undefeated run at the 2025 South Asia Regional Championships in Kathmandu.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They claimed one of only four direct Asian quota spots per gender out of 16 available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The five-nation round-robin format saw India reaffirm its regional supremacy by winning every match.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Qualification paves the way for focused training and international exposure ahead of the London championships.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Magnus Carlsen Wins First Chess Esports World Cup in Riyadh with Dominant Run \u265f\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Carlsen representing Team Liquid wins inaugural&nbsp;<strong>Chess Esports World Cup<\/strong>, defeating Alireza Firouzja 4-2-1.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Competition begins with&nbsp;<strong>group stage<\/strong>&nbsp;double-elimination, moving into&nbsp;<strong>playoffs<\/strong>&nbsp;with single-elimination best-of-three matches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carlsen secures early&nbsp;<strong>lead<\/strong>&nbsp;with win and draws, showcasing his opening&nbsp;<strong>precision<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Despite a rook blunder leading to his only&nbsp;<strong>loss<\/strong>, he recovers to clinch the final in&nbsp;<strong>two sets<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pre-match banter sees Carlsen declaring he has his&nbsp;<strong>\u201cbow and arrow ready\u201d<\/strong>, underscoring his fierce&nbsp;<strong>confidence<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Victory awards Carlsen&nbsp;<strong>$250,000<\/strong>, one of the largest prizes in competitive&nbsp;<strong>chess<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Team Liquid gains&nbsp;<strong>1,000 Club Championship points<\/strong>, boosting their standings in the club&nbsp;<strong>race<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Firouzja\u2019s runner-up finish nets&nbsp;<strong>$190,000<\/strong>, while Nakamura and Erigaisi secure third and fourth with&nbsp;<strong>$145,000<\/strong>&nbsp;and $115,000 respectively.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Union Ministers Launch \u2018Matri Van\u2019 750-Acre Urban Forest in Gurugram for NCR \ud83c\udf33<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Ministers Shri Bhupender Yadav and Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the \u2018Matri Van\u2019 under the \u2018Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam\u2019 programme during Van Mahotsav 2025 in Gurugram.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>750-acre<\/strong>&nbsp;urban forest in the Aravalli hills is designed as a theme-based green cover to act as the \u201cheart and lung\u201d of Delhi NCR.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A multi-stakeholder collaboration will involve CSR partners, RWAs, NGOs, MNCs, schoolchildren, and government bodies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Invasive species like&nbsp;<strong>Prosopis juliflora<\/strong>&nbsp;will be removed and replaced with native trees including Bargad, Peepal, Neem, Bamboo, and various Aravalli species.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Matri Van will include nature trails, cycle tracks, gazebos, yoga zones, water bodies, treated-water irrigation systems, and parking facilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ministers emphasized tackling carbon emissions, noting that India\u2019s non-fossil fuel energy now accounts for over 50 percent of the overall power mix.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Citizens were encouraged to adopt tree-planting practices and become&nbsp;<strong>Van Mitras<\/strong>&nbsp;to support ecological conservation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooperatives Launch \u2018Bharat\u2019 Taxi Service to Rival Ola &amp; Uber; App by December \ud83d\ude96<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Launching \u201cBharat\u201d taxi service by December 2025 to challenge Ola and Uber.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative backed by&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9300 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;authorised capital pooled from eight major cooperatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multi-State Sahakari Taxi Cooperative Ltd formally registered on June 6.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coalition includes NCDC, IFFCO, GCMMF, NABARD, NDDB, NCEL, KRIBHCO, and NAFED.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Onboarded&nbsp;<strong>200 drivers<\/strong>&nbsp;across Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Single nationwide app will power ride-hailing, with a tender out for a tech partner.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration with IIM-Bangalore and a technology consultant for pan-India marketing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cooperative pricing model aims to boost driver earnings while keeping fares low.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Membership drives underway to deepen the network and expand state-wise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operates without any government stake to ensure autonomy and driver-led governance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FSSAI &amp; Ayush unveil Category A Ayurveda Aahara list for holistic wellness \ud83d\udcdc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>FSSAI<\/strong>, in consultation with the&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Ayush<\/strong>, released a definitive list of&nbsp;<strong>Category A<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong>Ayurveda Aahara<\/strong>&nbsp;products under the 2022 regulations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The list draws exclusively from&nbsp;<strong>Classical Ayurvedic Texts<\/strong>&nbsp;listed in Schedule A, ensuring authenticity and traditional compliance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It clarifies formulations for Food Business Operators, aligning safety standards with centuries-old recipes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A formal process now allows FBOs to request additions of unlisted products, backed by authoritative references from Schedule A texts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav highlighted adoption of&nbsp;<strong>preventive healthcare<\/strong>&nbsp;through balanced, sustainable dietary practices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha emphasized that the initiative strengthens&nbsp;<strong>consumer trust<\/strong>&nbsp;in Ayurveda-based nutrition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA)<\/strong>&nbsp;curated and validated the compendium, bridging traditional wisdom with modern regulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ayurveda Aahara promotes overall well-being by emphasizing balance, seasonal suitability, and natural ingredients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First AI-Powered Anganwadi in India Narrows Rural Digital Divide with VR &amp; AI \ud83e\udd16<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Launched under&nbsp;<strong>Mission Bal Bharari<\/strong>, the pilot&nbsp;<strong>AI-powered Anganwadi<\/strong>&nbsp;in Waddhamna village uses VR headsets and AI-enabled smart boards to teach poems, songs, and foundational concepts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attendance jumped from 10 to over&nbsp;<strong>25 children<\/strong>, filling the classroom with excitement and curiosity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The centre is equipped with&nbsp;<strong>VR headsets<\/strong>, tablets, interactive digital content, Wi-Fi, and CCTV for transparency and engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anganwadi worker Saroj Kukde received structured three-month training by&nbsp;<strong>Qolaba<\/strong>&nbsp;to seamlessly integrate technology without overwhelming staff.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The AI system tracks each child\u2019s response time and accuracy, adapting difficulty levels for personalized,&nbsp;<strong>gamified learning<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plans are underway to expand the model to&nbsp;<strong>40 more anganwadis<\/strong>&nbsp;and use AI tools for nutrition tracking via the Poshan Tracker.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ministry of Mines Names Seven CoEs under National Critical Mineral Mission \ud83d\udd2c<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ministry of Mines recognized seven institutes as&nbsp;<strong>Centers of Excellence<\/strong>&nbsp;under the National Critical Mineral Mission.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approval granted by the PAAC on July 31, 2025, co-chaired by Secretaries of Mines and DST.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to strengthen R&amp;D across the critical mineral value chain for clean energy, mobility, electronics, defense, and space sectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on advancing technologies to reach higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL 7\/8) through pilot plants and pre-commercial demonstrations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CoEs will undertake innovative research to bolster India\u2019s science and technology capabilities in critical minerals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funding will come on a project basis from government R&amp;D schemes, industry partners, and venture investors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recognized CoEs include IIT Bombay, IIT Hyderabad, IIT-ISM Dhanbad, IIT Roorkee, CSIR-IMMT Bhubaneswar, CSIR-NML Jamshedpur, and NFTDC Hyderabad.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Each CoE will operate a&nbsp;<strong>Hub &amp; Spoke model<\/strong>, partnering with at least two industry and two academic\/R&amp;D entities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The seven CoEs have collectively attracted around 80 industry and academic spokes to their consortia.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Institutes were selected through a call for proposals followed by an elaborate two-tier evaluation process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India\u2019s Marine Fish Landings Fall 2% in 2024, Gujarat Leads While West Coast Declines \ud83c\udfa3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total marine fish landings at&nbsp;<strong>3.47 million tonnes<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2024, down&nbsp;<strong>2%<\/strong>&nbsp;from 2023.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gujarat<\/strong>&nbsp;retained top position with&nbsp;<strong>7.54 lakh tonnes<\/strong>, followed by&nbsp;<strong>Tamil Nadu<\/strong>&nbsp;(6.79 lakh) and&nbsp;<strong>Kerala<\/strong>&nbsp;(6.10 lakh).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indian mackerel<\/strong>&nbsp;remained the most landed species at&nbsp;<strong>2.63 lakh tonnes<\/strong>, with&nbsp;<strong>oil sardine<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>2.41 lakh tonnes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Declines observed for species like&nbsp;<strong>threadfin breams<\/strong>, ribbonfish, non-penaeid shrimps, and cephalopods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increases in landings of&nbsp;<strong>lesser sardines<\/strong>, penaeid shrimps, anchovies, and tunnies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>West coast saw overall decrease, while the east coast recorded gains except in&nbsp;<strong>Maharashtra<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Andhra Pradesh<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maharashtra<\/strong>&nbsp;posted the highest growth at&nbsp;<strong>47%<\/strong>, with West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha up&nbsp;<strong>35%<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>20%<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>18%<\/strong>&nbsp;respectively.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Significant declines noted in&nbsp;<strong>Karnataka<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Goa<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Daman &amp; Diu<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitoring covered about&nbsp;<strong>2.5 lakh fishing trips<\/strong>&nbsp;to assess landing estimates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BIAL Raises Rs 9,000 Crore via India\u2019s Largest Unlisted Airport Sector NCD Issue \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) completed India\u2019s largest&nbsp;<strong>unlisted private placement<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Non-Convertible Debentures<\/strong>, raising&nbsp;<strong>Rs 9,000 crore<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The issuance was structured in two&nbsp;<strong>tranches<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Rs 4,362 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;closed on July 25, 2025, and&nbsp;<strong>Rs 4,638 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;scheduled for early October 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SBICAP acted as the sole arranger, leveraging its market expertise to syndicate the offering efficiently.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The NCDs carry a&nbsp;<strong>15-year tenure<\/strong>, enabling BIAL to refinance existing debt, conserve capital, and channel resources toward future&nbsp;<strong>expansion plans<\/strong>&nbsp;at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A shift from&nbsp;<strong>MCLR-linked<\/strong>&nbsp;pricing to a&nbsp;<strong>fixed interest rate<\/strong>, combined with BIAL\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>AAA<\/strong>&nbsp;credit rating, is expected to yield significant&nbsp;<strong>borrowing cost savings<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proceeds will underwrite infrastructure upgrades, capacity enhancements, and sustainability initiatives at one of India\u2019s busiest&nbsp;<strong>aviation hubs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The deal underscores investor confidence in India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>airport sector<\/strong>&nbsp;and sets a new benchmark for large-scale corporate bond financing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ICAI and IAGES Forge MoU to Elevate Gold Industry Standards and Accreditation \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ICAI signed a&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;with IAGES to strengthen accreditation processes in the gold industry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aimed at deploying a robust&nbsp;<strong>accreditation framework<\/strong>&nbsp;for about six lakh value-chain partners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Formal commitment exchanged between CA Charanjot Singh Nanda and IAGES CEO Shri Kaushlendra Sinha in the presence of Minister Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration honors Dr. B.R. Ambedkar\u2019s vision for structured, regulated gold standards and will accelerate economic growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative introduces a comprehensive&nbsp;<strong>code of conduct<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with global best practices for industry stakeholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Professional Development Committee<\/strong>&nbsp;will drive awareness among members and empanel CA firms for accreditation tasks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to generate meaningful professional opportunities for ICAI members and enhance governance in the gold sector.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICAI, established under the Chartered Accountants Act of 1949, functions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs with over 14.5 lakh members.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The institute boasts a global network of regional councils, branches, overseas chapters, and representative offices.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Union Minister Gadkari Receives 43rd Lokmanya Tilak National Award in Pune \ud83c\udfc6<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Union Minister Nitin Gadkari honoured with the 43rd Lokmanya Tilak National Award at a ceremony in Pune.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The award, presented by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust, recognizes significant contributions to national progress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gadkari emphasized transforming Lokmanya Tilak\u2019s vision of&nbsp;<strong>Swarajya into Surajya<\/strong>&nbsp;through good governance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He highlighted India\u2019s potential to become a global leader powered by its&nbsp;<strong>skilled youth and technocrats<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ceremony underscored the enduring legacy of Tilak\u2019s principles in shaping modern governance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gadkari urged citizens to uphold Tilak\u2019s ideals and drive India\u2019s progress through innovation and leadership.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PM Modi and Leaders Pay Tribute as Tribal Icon Shibu Soren Passes Away at 81 \ud83d\udd4a\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Veteran tribal leader&nbsp;<strong>Shibu Soren<\/strong>, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, died at&nbsp;<strong>81<\/strong>&nbsp;after battling&nbsp;<strong>kidney-related ailments<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He was on life support since June 19 and passed away peacefully at&nbsp;<strong>Sir Ganga Ram Hospital<\/strong>&nbsp;on August 4, 2025<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PM Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;visited the hospital to pay homage, met Chief Minister&nbsp;<strong>Hemant Soren<\/strong>&nbsp;and family, and expressed deep condolences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>President Droupadi&nbsp;<strong>Murmu<\/strong>&nbsp;and Governor Santosh&nbsp;<strong>Gangwar<\/strong>&nbsp;also paid their respects, honoring his lifelong fight for&nbsp;<strong>tribal rights<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jharkhand Assembly adjourned sine die and the state government declared a&nbsp;<strong>three-day mourning<\/strong>&nbsp;period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His body will be taken to Ranchi Assembly for public homage before proceeding to his native village&nbsp;<strong>Nemra<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Affectionately known as&nbsp;<strong>\u201cDishom Guru\u201d<\/strong>, Soren\u2019s legacy as a grassroots crusader for social justice will endure in tribal welfare movements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Annadata Sukhibhava Empowers 2.05 Lakh Farmers with \u20b9138.16 Crore in Chittoor \ud83d\ude9c<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A total of \u20b9138.16 crore was disbursed directly into the bank accounts of 2.05 lakh farmers, with each farmer receiving \u20b97,000 in the first instalment to provide immediate relief during the kharif season.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The scheme is part of the \u201cSuper Six\u201d promises made ahead of the 2024 elections and aims to strengthen Andhra Pradesh\u2019s agrarian economy through transparent, direct financial assistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two more instalments are scheduled for October and January, ensuring ongoing support for farmers throughout the cropping cycle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tenant farmers are included under the scheme, reflecting a commitment to inclusive coverage and equitable subsidy distribution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A dedicated \u20b9135 crore subsidy will be credited to mango farmers supplying Totapuri stocks to pulp industries, reinforcing value chains in the horticulture sector.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Officials emphasized the government\u2019s dedication to transparency, accountability, and boosting agricultural productivity as key pillars of Annadata Sukhibhava.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ayush Ministry\u2019s NMPB Signs Two MoUs to Boost Medicinal Plant Conservation &amp; Awareness \ud83c\udf3f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)<\/strong>&nbsp;under the Ministry of Ayush signed two strategic MoUs at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi, presided over by Shri Prataprao Jadhav.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The first pact with IshVed-Bioplants Venture focuses on conserving germplasm of&nbsp;<strong>rare, endangered and threatened (RET) medicinal plants<\/strong>&nbsp;via&nbsp;<strong>tissue culture methods<\/strong>, ensuring a steady supply for the Ayush industry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The second tripartite MoU among NMPB, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and AIIMS will establish a&nbsp;<strong>national level medicinal plants garden<\/strong>&nbsp;on the AIIMS New Delhi campus to foster public awareness among patients, students and visitors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both agreements pool the expertise and resources of government bodies and private partners to drive evidence-based conservation, research and cultivation protocols.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These milestones align with the Prime Minister\u2019s vision for a healthier, self-reliant India by 2047 through the integration of traditional knowledge and modern science.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ceremony was attended by senior officials from NMPB, AIIA, AIIMS and the Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare, marking a landmark advance in preserving India\u2019s rich medicinal plant heritage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PFRDA CONNECT: Revamped Pension Website Boosts Digital Engagement and Accessibility \ud83c\udf10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PFRDA launched a&nbsp;<strong>modernized website<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>PFRDA CONNECT<\/strong>, enhancing user experience in the pension sector.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unveiled by PFRDA Chairperson S. Ramann in New Delhi, the platform marks a leap in&nbsp;<strong>digital transformation<\/strong>&nbsp;for pension services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designed following&nbsp;<strong>GIGW<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>WCAG<\/strong>&nbsp;guidelines to ensure inclusiveness and accessibility for all stakeholders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Features include streamlined content structure, dynamic and responsive layouts, and improved navigation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offers centralized access to regulatory updates, circulars, and pension schemes, integrated with other regulatory platforms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative underscores PFRDA\u2019s commitment to stakeholder engagement and digital empowerment, now live at www.pfrda.org.in.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 4, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choice AMC Secures SEBI Nod to Launch Passive Funds: Index &amp; ETF Debut \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choice AMC<\/strong>&nbsp;has received final approval from&nbsp;<strong>SEBI<\/strong>&nbsp;to begin operations as a full-fledged Asset Management Company.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Choice International<\/strong>&nbsp;will roll out its AMC in phases, initially focusing on&nbsp;<strong>passive investment<\/strong>&nbsp;products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First offerings include&nbsp;<strong>index funds<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>exchange-traded funds (ETFs)<\/strong>&nbsp;designed for stable, scalable portfolios.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CEO&nbsp;<strong>Arun Poddar<\/strong>&nbsp;describes the approval as a \u201csignificant milestone\u201d in delivering&nbsp;<strong>accessible investment<\/strong>&nbsp;solutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The new platform prioritizes a&nbsp;<strong>professionally managed<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>governance-driven<\/strong>&nbsp;model aligned with regulatory standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Quant Mutual Fund Secures SEBI Nod for India\u2019s First SIF: QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund \ud83d\ude80<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quant Mutual Fund has become the first AMC in India to receive SEBI approval for a Specialized Investment Fund (SIF).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The inaugural offering, QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund, employs both long and short strategies across equity, debt, and hybrid assets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>By betting on rising stocks and hedging against declining ones, the fund seeks to dampen volatility and potentially deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SIFs enable AMCs to launch advanced strategies in open-ended, close-ended, and interval formats, enriching the country\u2019s asset management landscape.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Investors need to commit a minimum of \u20b910 lakh; SEBI mandates a 30-day cure period for threshold breaches, after which non-compliant holdings may be frozen or auto-redeemed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund is slated for launch in August 2025.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>RBI Greenlights Amalgamation of New India Co-operative Bank with Saraswat Co-operative Bank \ud83d\ude80<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reserve Bank of India sanctioned the voluntary amalgamation under Section 44A and Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The move aims to bolster cooperative banking resilience and streamline services for customers across Maharashtra and beyond.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">VSSC Appoints A Rajarajan as Director: Leading India\u2019s Next Launch \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A Rajarajan, Distinguished Scientist, assumed charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre on August 1, 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>At VSSC, he served as Deputy Director across three core divisions, specializing in launch vehicle and spacecraft composite systems\u2014pioneering carbon\u2013carbon composites and niche propulsion technologies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under his SDSC-SHAR tenure, he expanded launch infrastructure, configured an exclusive SSLV complex, and aligned ISRO\u2019s capabilities with the new space policy and emerging commercial space industry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Honored with ISRO Merit and Team Excellence Awards, along with an honorary doctorate from Sathyabama University for his transformative contributions to space applications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">71st National Film Awards 2023: Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra\u2019s 12th Fail Triumph \ud83c\udf1f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vidhu Vinod Chopra\u2019s 12th Fail clinched Best Feature Film, earning a Swarna Kamal and a \u20b93,00,000 cash prize.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flowering Man won Best Non-Feature Film, while God Vulture and Human secured Best Documentary\u2014each marking their first National Award triumphs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey (12th Fail), highlighting SRK\u2019s first career National Film Award.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rani Mukerji garnered Best Actress for her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway, also her inaugural National Award victory.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vijayaraghavan &amp; Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar won Best Supporting Actor, and Urvashi &amp; Janki Bodiwala took home Best Supporting Actress honours.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IPPB Launches Aadhaar-Based Face Authentication for Seamless, Inclusive Banking \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>India Post Payments Bank rolled out a nationwide Aadhaar-based face authentication feature for customer transactions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Built under the UIDAI framework, it lets users authenticate via facial recognition\u2014eliminating reliance on fingerprints or OTPs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designed to empower the elderly, differently-abled, and those with worn fingerprints by enabling secure, contactless banking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Covers all core services: account opening, balance inquiries, fund transfers, and utility payments through a presence-less model.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>MD &amp; CEO R Viswesvaran calls it a step toward dignified financial inclusion, aligned with India\u2019s Digital India and Financial Inclusion missions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b92,000 Cr Grant to Strengthen Cooperatives \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved a Rs. 2,000 crore Central Sector Scheme for NCDC over 2025-26 to 2028-29 (\u20b9500 crore annually).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This infusion enables NCDC to raise \u20b920,000 crore from the open market to fund cooperative loans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funds will finance long-term credit and working capital for ~13,288 cooperatives across dairy, livestock, fisheries, sugar, textiles, food processing, storage and more\u2014benefiting about 2.9 crore members.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>NCDC will execute the scheme\u2014disbursing loans via state governments or directly, monitoring project implementation, and ensuring recovery under its guidelines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhanced liquidity will drive capacity expansion, modernization, technology upgradation, and infrastructure development, boosting productivity, income generation, and employment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BSNL Unveils \u2018Freedom Plan\u2019: \u20b91 for One Month of Free 4G Services \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>BSNL<\/strong>&nbsp;launches the&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Freedom Plan\u2019<\/strong>, offering&nbsp;<strong>one month of free 4G mobile services<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91<\/strong>&nbsp;to mark&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s Independence Day<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Users can experience&nbsp;<strong>BSNL\u2019s indigenously developed 4G network<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Atmanirbhar Bharat\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;mission.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BSNL is deploying&nbsp;<strong>100,000 4G sites<\/strong>&nbsp;using&nbsp;<strong>Make-in-India technology<\/strong>&nbsp;for secure, high-quality, and affordable connectivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Citizens can activate the offer at the&nbsp;<strong>nearest BSNL centre<\/strong>, retailer, or by calling&nbsp;<strong>1800-180-1503<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The plan aims to promote&nbsp;<strong>digital empowerment<\/strong>&nbsp;and showcase India\u2019s progress in&nbsp;<strong>homegrown telecom solutions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ITBPF and DBT Forge Biomedical Research MoU to Boost Force Health &amp; Innovation \ud83e\uddec<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>MoU between&nbsp;<strong>ITBPF<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>DBT<\/strong>&nbsp;to advance joint biomedical research and training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leverages specialized medical facilities and&nbsp;<strong>DBT<\/strong>\u2019s robust&nbsp;<strong>research ecosystem<\/strong>&nbsp;for innovation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus areas include&nbsp;<strong>human adaptability<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>high altitudes<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>prosthetics<\/strong>, biosecurity, and food biotechnology.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to boost&nbsp;<strong>translational research<\/strong>&nbsp;aligned with the&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat by 2047<\/strong>&nbsp;vision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances&nbsp;<strong>health<\/strong>, resilience, and&nbsp;<strong>operational readiness<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>paramilitary forces<\/strong>&nbsp;in extreme terrains.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DPIIT &amp; HDFC Capital MoU to Boost Affordable Housing and PropTech Innovation \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DPIIT<\/strong>&nbsp;signed a MoU with&nbsp;<strong>HDFC Capital Advisors Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;to foster innovation and support startups in affordable housing and PropTech.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership introduces the&nbsp;<strong>H@ART Programme<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance efficiency and cut costs across the residential real estate cycle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative links affordable housing developers, invests in emerging PropTech firms, and offers mentorship via accelerators and academic partners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligns with&nbsp;<strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat@2047<\/strong>&nbsp;visions by building an inclusive, innovation-driven ecosystem.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Formal signing by DPIIT Director Mohammad Isharar Ali and HDFC Capital CEO Vipul Roongta marks a milestone in public-private collaboration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ICRISAT Launches AI-Powered Climate Advisory to Empower Smallholder Farmers at Scale \ud83c\udf31<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supported by the Government of India\u2019s Monsoon Mission III, the initiative upgrades the&nbsp;<strong>iSAT<\/strong>&nbsp;platform for personalized, real-time weather and crop recommendations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smallholder farmers in Maharashtra will access&nbsp;<strong>hyper-local<\/strong>&nbsp;weather and agronomic insights through user-friendly digital channels, including an AI-powered WhatsApp bot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advisories guide critical farm decisions\u2014sowing, irrigation, and pest management\u2014strengthening resilience against climate variability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learnings from the Maharashtra pilot will shape a national rollout and feed into the development of MausamGPT for broader climate advisory services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PM Modi Hails First Port-Based Make-in-India 1 MW Green Hydrogen Plant at Kandla \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Commissioning of India\u2019s first&nbsp;<strong>Make-in-India Green Hydrogen Plant<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>Deendayal Port<\/strong>, Kandla, Gujarat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>1 MW module<\/strong>, part of a larger 10 MW project announced by PM Modi, will produce around&nbsp;<strong>140 metric tonnes<\/strong>&nbsp;of green hydrogen annually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Executed in just&nbsp;<strong>four months<\/strong>&nbsp;by Indian engineers and L&amp;T, showcasing&nbsp;<strong>Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat<\/strong>&nbsp;in clean energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inaugurated by Union Minister&nbsp;<strong>Sarbananda Sonowal<\/strong>, underscoring India\u2019s drive toward its&nbsp;<strong>Net-Zero vision<\/strong>&nbsp;in maritime operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sets a benchmark for decarbonizing port operations, following the deployment of India\u2019s first Make-in-India&nbsp;<strong>electric green tug<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>decarbonizing port operations<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">German Bank Funds \u20ac38 Million for CEF Biogas to Advance India\u2019s Circular Economy \ud83c\udf31<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>CEF Group secures&nbsp;<strong>\u20ac38 million<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>German Export Finance Bank<\/strong>&nbsp;to fund two&nbsp;<strong>CBG plants<\/strong>&nbsp;under its plan for 22 facilities nationwide.2<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>equity and debt financing<\/strong>&nbsp;will convert&nbsp;<strong>municipal, agricultural, and agro-industrial waste<\/strong>&nbsp;into clean fuel, promoting a&nbsp;<strong>circular economy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Founded in&nbsp;<strong>2018<\/strong>, CEF Group operates under India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>SATAT scheme<\/strong>, aiming to empower&nbsp;<strong>rural economies<\/strong>&nbsp;and advance&nbsp;<strong>energy independence<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects managed by&nbsp;<strong>Rieckermann<\/strong>&nbsp;include two new plants processing up to&nbsp;<strong>850 tonnes\/day<\/strong>&nbsp;of waste, yielding&nbsp;<strong>CBG<\/strong>, organic manure, and refuse-derived fuel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This investment underscores India\u2019s push to reduce&nbsp;<strong>fossil fuel dependence<\/strong>, bolster its&nbsp;<strong>renewable energy sector<\/strong>, and meet&nbsp;<strong>sustainability goals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shashi Prakash Goyal Becomes UP Chief Secretary, Sparking Bureaucratic Shake-up \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Senior IAS officer&nbsp;<strong>Shashi Prakash Goyal<\/strong>&nbsp;was appointed as Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;<strong>Chief Secretary<\/strong>&nbsp;on July 31, 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He previously served as Additional Chief Secretary in the&nbsp;<strong>Chief Minister\u2019s Office<\/strong>, overseeing&nbsp;<strong>Civil Aviation<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Estate<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Protocol<\/strong>&nbsp;departments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After Goyal\u2019s elevation,&nbsp;<strong>Sanjay Prasad<\/strong>, Principal Secretary to the CM, took charge of Civil Aviation, Estate, Protocol, and Additional Resident Commissioner portfolios.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Goyal also assumes key roles as Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner (IIDC), Chairman of PICUP, and CEO of&nbsp;<strong>UPEIDA<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BSNL &amp; NRL Deploy India\u2019s First 5G CNPN in Refinery Sector \ud83d\udce1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>BSNL<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>NRL<\/strong>&nbsp;ink a landmark&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;at the Industry 4.0 Workshop in Guwahati.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They will deploy India\u2019s first&nbsp;<strong>5G CNPN<\/strong>&nbsp;within refinery operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This network aims to boost&nbsp;<strong>operational efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;and enable&nbsp;<strong>real-time monitoring<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership supports&nbsp;<strong>Digital Twins<\/strong>&nbsp;for simulation and optimizes critical processes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approach exemplifies \u201cWhole of Government\u201d collaboration with plans for broader rollouts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman DG of RPF, Modernizing Rail Security \ud83d\ude86<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ms. Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer, assumed charge as&nbsp;<strong>Director General (DG)<\/strong>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<strong>Railway Protection Force<\/strong>, becoming the&nbsp;<strong>first woman<\/strong>&nbsp;in its 143-year history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appointed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet until October 31, 2026, she brings over three decades of&nbsp;<strong>distinguished service<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Her prior assignments include&nbsp;<strong>Additional DG<\/strong>&nbsp;(Selection\/Recruitment), leading the Police Training &amp; Research Institute, and heading the Madhya Pradesh Police Academy in&nbsp;<strong>Bhopal<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mishra\u2019s resume spans the&nbsp;<strong>CBI<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>BSF<\/strong>, and a UN Peacekeeping mission in Kosovo; she\u2019s been honored with the&nbsp;<strong>President\u2019s Police Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As DG, she will drive&nbsp;<strong>modernization<\/strong>, harness&nbsp;<strong>cutting-edge technology<\/strong>, strengthen capacity building, and tackle&nbsp;<strong>human trafficking<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost passenger safety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Lung Cancer Day: Beyond Smoking\u2014Symptoms, Causes &amp; Screening Tips \ud83d\udead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On&nbsp;<strong>World Lung Cancer Day<\/strong>&nbsp;(August 1), experts warn lung cancer increasingly affects&nbsp;<strong>non-smokers<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>women<\/strong>, and those without direct&nbsp;<strong>tobacco<\/strong>&nbsp;exposure, shattering outdated risk assumptions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Early&nbsp;<strong>symptoms<\/strong>\u2014persistent&nbsp;<strong>cough<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>hemoptysis<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>weight loss<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>fatigue<\/strong>\u2014often mimic benign issues, delaying&nbsp;<strong>diagnosis<\/strong>&nbsp;and underscoring the need for&nbsp;<strong>vigilance<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beyond smoking, risks include&nbsp;<strong>air pollution<\/strong>, second-hand smoke, occupational toxins, and&nbsp;<strong>genetic mutations<\/strong>&nbsp;(EGFR, ALK). The&nbsp;<strong>WHO<\/strong>&nbsp;urges expanded&nbsp;<strong>screening<\/strong>, improved&nbsp;<strong>air quality<\/strong>, and prompt symptom evaluation even in non-smokers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>World Breastfeeding Week 2025: Invest in Breastfeeding, Invest in the Future \ud83d\udc97<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Marked every first week of August since 1992,&nbsp;<strong>World Breastfeeding Week<\/strong>&nbsp;is endorsed by WHO and UNICEF to highlight that breastfeeding underpins&nbsp;<strong>lifelong health<\/strong>&nbsp;and development.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The 2025 theme, \u201c<strong>Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future<\/strong>,\u201d highlights the need for&nbsp;<strong>skilled support<\/strong>&nbsp;from pregnancy through early childhood, ensuring mothers have timely&nbsp;<strong>information<\/strong>&nbsp;and assistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health systems must back breastfeeding with robust&nbsp;<strong>policies<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>laws<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>programmes<\/strong>, while communities create environments that&nbsp;<strong>prioritize<\/strong>&nbsp;breastfeeding over commercial interests.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Breastfeeding delivers essential nutrition and protective&nbsp;<strong>antibodies<\/strong>&nbsp;against illnesses like diarrhoea and pneumonia; boosting exclusive rates can cut healthcare costs and foster&nbsp;<strong>cognitive development<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strict enforcement of the&nbsp;<strong>International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes<\/strong>, enhanced&nbsp;<strong>maternity<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>paternity leave<\/strong>, and sustained funding for breastfeeding initiatives are critical investments in healthy beginnings and stronger&nbsp;<strong>economies<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Indian Army Signs \u20b9223.95 Crore Deal for 212 Next-Gen Tank Transporter Trailers \ud83d\ude9a<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Indian Army<\/strong>&nbsp;inked a&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9223.95 crore deal<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>Axiscades Aerospace<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>212 next-gen 50-ton Tank Transporter Trailers<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These trailers feature&nbsp;<strong>hydraulic &amp; pneumatic loading ramps<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>steerable &amp; liftable axles<\/strong>&nbsp;to speed up heavy-tank logistics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Buy (Indian-IDDM)<\/strong>&nbsp;contract supports&nbsp;<strong>Aatmnirbhar Bharat<\/strong>, boosting&nbsp;<strong>indigenous defense manufacturing<\/strong>&nbsp;and domestic sector growth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to enhance&nbsp;<strong>operational mobility<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>logistical efficiency<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>field units<\/strong>&nbsp;over challenging terrain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reflects India\u2019s defense production soaring to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91.46 lakh crore<\/strong>&nbsp;and record exports of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b924,000 crore<\/strong>, empowering&nbsp;<strong>MSMEs<\/strong>&nbsp;and job creation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">August 1, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan Assumes Charge as 47th VCNS, Bolstering India\u2019s Navy \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vice Admiral&nbsp;<strong>Sanjay Vatsayan<\/strong>, AVSM, NM, assumed charge as the 47th&nbsp;<strong>Vice Chief of Naval Staff<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>1 August 2025<\/strong>, laying a wreath at the&nbsp;<strong>National War Memorial<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alumnus of the&nbsp;<strong>71st NDA course<\/strong>, he was commissioned on&nbsp;<strong>1 January 1988<\/strong>&nbsp;and specializes in&nbsp;<strong>Gunnery &amp; Missile Systems<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Served in commissioning crews of Guided Missile Destroyer&nbsp;<strong>INS Mysore<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>INS Nishank<\/strong>, and on pre-commissioning crew of&nbsp;<strong>ICGS Sangram<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commanded Coast Guard ship&nbsp;<strong>C-05<\/strong>, missile vessels&nbsp;<strong>INS Vibhuti<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>INS Nashak<\/strong>, missile corvette&nbsp;<strong>INS Kuthar<\/strong>, and frigate&nbsp;<strong>INS Sahyadri<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As Flag Officer Commanding&nbsp;<strong>Eastern Fleet<\/strong>&nbsp;from February 2020, led key deployments during heightened maritime activity post-Galwan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A graduate of&nbsp;<strong>Defence Services Staff College<\/strong>, Wellington;&nbsp;<strong>Naval War College<\/strong>, Goa; and&nbsp;<strong>National Defence College<\/strong>, New Delhi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Held Naval HQ roles as Joint Director &amp; Director (Personnel Policy), Director (Perspective Planning), and Principal Director Naval Plans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promoted to Flag Rank in February 2018 as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy &amp; Plans) before taking Eastern Fleet command.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Awarded the&nbsp;<strong>Ati Vishisht Seva Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2021 for exemplary leadership and service of a very high order.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Later roles include Deputy Commandant of&nbsp;<strong>NDA<\/strong>, Chief of Staff ENC, and DCIDS (Operations &amp; Policy, Plans &amp; Force Development).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh Appointed Vice Chief of Army Staff Effective August 1 \ud83c\udf96\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<strong>Parachute Regiment<\/strong>&nbsp;named new Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) from&nbsp;<strong>1 August 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He succeeds&nbsp;<strong>Lt Gen N.S. Raja Subramani<\/strong>, who assumed office in&nbsp;<strong>July 2024<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commissioned into the&nbsp;<strong>4 Para Special Forces<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>1987<\/strong>, Singh brings over&nbsp;<strong>35 years<\/strong>&nbsp;of service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operational experience spans&nbsp;<strong>Pawan<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Meghdoot<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Rakshak<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Orchid<\/strong>&nbsp;missions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Served in&nbsp;<strong>UN Peacekeeping<\/strong>&nbsp;operations in&nbsp;<strong>Lebanon<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Sri Lanka<\/strong>, showcasing&nbsp;<strong>global combat exposure<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Command roles include General Officer Commanding of the&nbsp;<strong>Rising Star Corps<\/strong>&nbsp;since&nbsp;<strong>April 2022<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decorated with the&nbsp;<strong>Ati Vishisht Seva Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Sena Medal<\/strong>&nbsp;(twice) for&nbsp;<strong>exceptional service<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alumnus of the&nbsp;<strong>Indian Military Academy<\/strong>, bolstering his&nbsp;<strong>strategic leadership<\/strong>&nbsp;credentials.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reliance Industries Tops India, Ranks 88th in Fortune Global 500 for 22nd Year \ud83c\udf0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL)<\/strong>&nbsp;retained its status as India\u2019s highest-ranked company, securing the&nbsp;<strong>88th<\/strong>&nbsp;position in the&nbsp;<strong>Fortune Global 500<\/strong>&nbsp;list for 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This marks the&nbsp;<strong>22nd consecutive year<\/strong>&nbsp;on the list, with RIL climbing&nbsp;<strong>67 places<\/strong>&nbsp;since 2021.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ranking is based on&nbsp;<strong>total revenue<\/strong>&nbsp;for the fiscal year ended&nbsp;<strong>March 31, 2025<\/strong>, with nine Indian firms represented.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RIL reported a&nbsp;<strong>record-high consolidated gross revenue<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,071,174 crore<\/strong>, a&nbsp;<strong>7.1% year-on-year<\/strong>&nbsp;increase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>EBITDA<\/strong>&nbsp;rose by&nbsp;<strong>2.9%<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9183,422 crore<\/strong>, driven by robust growth across&nbsp;<strong>O2C<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Oil &amp; Gas<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Retail<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Digital Services<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>depreciation<\/strong>&nbsp;of the Indian rupee from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b983.35<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b985.45<\/strong>&nbsp;per dollar weighed on dollar-denominated revenues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other Indian companies on the list include LIC, Indian Oil Corporation, State Bank of India, ONGC, HDFC Bank, Tata Motors, BPCL, and ICICI Bank.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u2018The Man Who Became Cinema\u2019: Dilip Kumar\u2019s Method Acting Deconstructed \ud83c\udfa5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Man Who Became Cinema<\/strong>, written by&nbsp;<strong>Ashok Chopra<\/strong>, dissects the legendary actor\u2019s on-screen enigma and unique approach to character portrayal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credits Dilip Kumar with introducing&nbsp;<strong>method acting<\/strong>&nbsp;to Indian cinema, tracing its roots to&nbsp;<strong>Stanislavski<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Lee Strasberg<\/strong>&nbsp;influence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Showcases classics like&nbsp;<strong>Devdas (1955)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Gunga Jamuna (1961)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Mughal-e-Azam (1960)<\/strong>, revealing the layers of emotion and the power of&nbsp;<strong>silence<\/strong>&nbsp;in performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlights how he built his technique as an antithesis to classical methods, infusing roles with strong&nbsp;<strong>social bearing<\/strong>&nbsp;and earning the moniker&nbsp;<strong>\u2018tragedy king\u2019<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explores the psychological toll of his deep immersion, prompting a switch to&nbsp;<strong>comedy<\/strong>&nbsp;where he shone in&nbsp;<strong>Ram aur Shyam (1967)<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Gopi (1970)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Breaks down&nbsp;<strong>57 films<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>six categories<\/strong>, analyzing each work film-by-film and frame-by-frame to uncover his capacity for&nbsp;<strong>innovation<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>improvisation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduces the concept of&nbsp;<strong>visual verbal personality composite<\/strong>, detailing how he blended dialogue modulation and visual cues for richer emotional impact.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Published by&nbsp;<strong>Penguin Random House<\/strong>, this in-depth volume is a must-read for cinephiles and actors studying nuanced&nbsp;<strong>characterization<\/strong>&nbsp;and film craft.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Biathlon Legend Laura Dahlmeier Dies at 31 in Pakistan Mountaineering Accident \ud83d\ude22<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>German double Olympic&nbsp;<strong>biathlon champion<\/strong>&nbsp;Laura Dahlmeier (31) died in a&nbsp;<strong>mountaineering accident<\/strong>&nbsp;on Laila Peak in Pakistan\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>Karakoram<\/strong>&nbsp;range.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The experienced and certified&nbsp;<strong>mountaineer<\/strong>&nbsp;was struck by a&nbsp;<strong>rockfall<\/strong>&nbsp;at around noon on 28 July at an altitude of ~5,700 metres.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rescue operations were hampered by the&nbsp;<strong>remote location<\/strong>; a helicopter reached the site only the morning after the accident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dahlmeier claimed two golds at&nbsp;<strong>PyeongChang 2018<\/strong>, becoming the first female&nbsp;<strong>biathlete<\/strong>&nbsp;to win both sprint and pursuit at a single&nbsp;<strong>Olympics<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>She amassed seven&nbsp;<strong>world championship<\/strong>&nbsp;titles, including five golds at the 2017&nbsp;<strong>Hochfilzen<\/strong>&nbsp;championships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After a stellar&nbsp;<strong>2016-17 season<\/strong>&nbsp;that saw her top the World Cup standings, she retired from biathlon in May&nbsp;<strong>2019<\/strong>&nbsp;to pursue&nbsp;<strong>mountaineering<\/strong>&nbsp;full-time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tributes poured in from global sports figures, including IOC President&nbsp;<strong>Kirsty Coventry<\/strong>&nbsp;and fellow German champion&nbsp;<strong>Magdalena Neuner<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The International Biathlon Union praised her as one of the \u201cgreatest athletes to grace&nbsp;<strong>biathlon<\/strong>,\u201d mourning the loss to the winter sports community.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Google Commits $6B for Asia\u2019s Largest 1GW Data Centre in Andhra Pradesh \ud83c\udf10<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reported by Reuters,&nbsp;<strong>Google<\/strong>&nbsp;will invest&nbsp;<strong>$6 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;to develop a&nbsp;<strong>1-gigawatt<\/strong>&nbsp;data centre in&nbsp;<strong>Visakhapatnam<\/strong>, Andhra Pradesh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The project includes a&nbsp;<strong>$2 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;allocation for&nbsp;<strong>renewable energy<\/strong>&nbsp;capacity to power the facility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This marks Google\u2019s largest data centre investment in&nbsp;<strong>Asia<\/strong>&nbsp;by both capacity and investment size.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Part of Google\u2019s broader plan to expand its data centre portfolio across&nbsp;<strong>Singapore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Malaysia<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Thailand<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alphabet reaffirmed a commitment to spend&nbsp;<strong>$75 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;globally on building data centre capacity in 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Andhra Pradesh<\/strong>&nbsp;government aims to build&nbsp;<strong>6 GW<\/strong>&nbsp;of data centre capacity over the next five years, with&nbsp;<strong>1.6 GW<\/strong>&nbsp;finalised for operation within 24 months.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plans include establishing&nbsp;<strong>three new cable landing stations<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Visakhapatnam<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost global connectivity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ICAI Signs MoUs with IVCA &amp; NSE IX to Elevate Investor Education and Alt Capital \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>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).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration with IVCA aims to strengthen India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>alternative capital ecosystem<\/strong>&nbsp;through joint expert groups, standardized&nbsp;<strong>financial reporting frameworks<\/strong>, and policy advocacy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partnership with NSE IX, the GIFT City\u2013based IFSC exchange, focuses on advancing&nbsp;<strong>investor education<\/strong>, co-hosting seminars, and boosting global investment flows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both agreements include co-branded educational initiatives, international outreach programmes, and workshops on derivative instruments and financial innovation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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 &amp; CEO Balasubramaniam Venkataramani.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These strategic alliances reinforce ICAI\u2019s commitment to high-quality reporting, greater transparency, and India\u2019s vision of a developed and empowered Bharat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sebi Pushes Back Nomination Framework Deadlines to Ease Implementation Hiccups \ud83d\udcdc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On&nbsp;<strong>July 30<\/strong>, market regulator&nbsp;<strong>Sebi<\/strong>&nbsp;extended timelines for&nbsp;<strong>Phase II<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Phase III<\/strong>&nbsp;of its nomination framework in the securities market citing&nbsp;<strong>operational challenges<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deadline for&nbsp;<strong>Phase II<\/strong>&nbsp;shifted from&nbsp;<strong>June 1<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>August 8<\/strong>, while&nbsp;<strong>Phase III<\/strong>&nbsp;was deferred from&nbsp;<strong>September 1<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>December 15<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The extension follows representations from depositories&nbsp;<strong>CDSL<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>NSDL<\/strong>, as well as industry associations&nbsp;<strong>ANMI<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>CPAI<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This move aims to give stakeholders more time to align processes and ensure smooth rollout of the&nbsp;<strong>nomination framework<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">INS Satpura at SIMBEX-25: India-Singapore Naval Drills Forge Strategic Synergy \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Naval Ship INS Satpura<\/strong>&nbsp;arrived in&nbsp;<strong>Singapore<\/strong>&nbsp;to participate in the 32nd edition of&nbsp;<strong>SIMBEX-25<\/strong>, reinforcing bilateral maritime cooperation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Harbour Phase activities included&nbsp;<strong>Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs)<\/strong>, professional interactions, and deck familiarisation visits aboard&nbsp;<strong>RSN Vigilant<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>RSN Supreme<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The exercise\u2019s official Opening Ceremony and a pre-sail conference set the stage for an intensive&nbsp;<strong>Sea Phase<\/strong>&nbsp;of operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sea Phase will feature air defence exercises, cross-deck&nbsp;<strong>helicopter operations<\/strong>, precision targeting, complex manoeuvring drills, and&nbsp;<strong>VBSS<\/strong>&nbsp;operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These drills aim to enhance&nbsp;<strong>interoperability<\/strong>&nbsp;and operational coordination, while supporting a&nbsp;<strong>rules-based maritime order<\/strong>&nbsp;in the Indo-Pacific.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SIMBEX-25 underscores growing&nbsp;<strong>strategic trust<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>naval synergy<\/strong>, aligned with India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>MAHASAGAR vision<\/strong>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<strong>Act East Policy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The bilateral exercise reaffirms a shared commitment to&nbsp;<strong>regional stability<\/strong>&nbsp;and maritime security in the&nbsp;<strong>Indo-Pacific<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Saksham Niveshak: 100-Day Drive for Dividend Claims &amp; KYC Updates \ud83d\udcbc<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Launched by the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on 28 July 2025, the&nbsp;<strong>\u201cSaksham Niveshak\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;campaign runs for&nbsp;<strong>100 days<\/strong>&nbsp;until 6 November 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to empower shareholders by raising awareness about&nbsp;<strong>unclaimed dividends<\/strong>&nbsp;held by companies and guiding the process of&nbsp;<strong>KYC<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>nomination updates<\/strong>&nbsp;to reclaim dividends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourages companies to proactively reach out to shareholders, facilitating the resolution of unclaimed dividend cases and ensuring direct dividend payouts to the rightful investors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seeks to prevent transfer of dividends and underlying shares to the IEPFA by highlighting the importance of&nbsp;<strong>timely action<\/strong>&nbsp;by shareholders in updating records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Core objectives:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Facilitate resolution of unclaimed dividend cases with companies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support shareholder&nbsp;<strong>KYC<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>nomination<\/strong>&nbsp;updates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure direct dividend payouts post-record updates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IEPFA, established under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, focuses on&nbsp;<strong>financial literacy<\/strong>, safeguarding investor interests, and protecting unclaimed dividends and shares.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complementary initiatives by IEPFA include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Niveshak Didi<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Niveshak Panchayat<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Niveshak Shivir<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PM Approves \u20b911,169 Cr Multitracking to Boost Rail Freight &amp; Connectivity \ud83d\ude86<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Government approved four&nbsp;<strong>multitracking projects<\/strong>&nbsp;worth&nbsp;<strong>\u20b911,169 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;to expand capacity by&nbsp;<strong>574 km<\/strong>, spanning 13 districts across six states<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The initiative, cleared by the&nbsp;<strong>Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)<\/strong>&nbsp;chaired by&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi<\/strong>, aims to increase freight capacity by&nbsp;<strong>95.91 million tonnes<\/strong>&nbsp;annually<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Projects include adding a fourth line on the&nbsp;<strong>Itarsi\u2013Nagpur<\/strong>&nbsp;section (\u20b95,451 crore) within the high-density&nbsp;<strong>Delhi\u2013Chennai corridor<\/strong>, speeding up both passenger and goods movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New lines between&nbsp;<strong>Dangoaposi\u2013Jaroli<\/strong>&nbsp;will enhance&nbsp;<strong>iron ore<\/strong>&nbsp;transport to steel production units, supporting India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>300 MT steel output<\/strong>&nbsp;target<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An estimated&nbsp;<strong>\u20b911,509 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>logistics cost savings<\/strong>, while connectivity improves for&nbsp;<strong>2,309 villages<\/strong>&nbsp;housing&nbsp;<strong>4.36 million<\/strong>&nbsp;people<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligned with the&nbsp;<strong>PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan<\/strong>, integrating multimodal connectivity across economic zones through coordinated infrastructure planning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabinet Approves \u20b96,520 Cr for PM Kisan Sampada Yojana in 15th FCC Cycle \ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Union Cabinet<\/strong>&nbsp;chaired by&nbsp;<strong>Prime Minister Modi<\/strong>&nbsp;approves a total outlay of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,520 crore<\/strong>, including&nbsp;<strong>additional \u20b91,920 crore<\/strong>, for&nbsp;<strong>Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana<\/strong>&nbsp;during the&nbsp;<strong>15th Finance Commission Cycle (2021\u201326)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allocation includes&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,000 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;to establish&nbsp;<strong>50 Multi Product Food Irradiation Units<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>ICCVAI<\/strong>&nbsp;component and set up&nbsp;<strong>100 Food Testing Labs<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>NABL accreditation<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>FSQAI<\/strong>&nbsp;scheme.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An additional&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9920 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;has been earmarked to sanction various ongoing projects under&nbsp;<strong>PMKSY\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;component schemes during the 15th FCC.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both&nbsp;<strong>ICCVAI<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>FSQAI<\/strong>&nbsp;operate on a demand-driven basis, with&nbsp;<strong>EOIs<\/strong>&nbsp;floated nationwide to invite proposals from eligible entities, to be approved per existing guidelines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The proposed irradiation units are expected to deliver a preservation capacity of&nbsp;<strong>20 to 30 LMT per annum<\/strong>, based on the food product mix processed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Launching&nbsp;<strong>100<\/strong>&nbsp;private-sector&nbsp;<strong>NABL-accredited labs<\/strong>&nbsp;aims to build advanced testing infrastructure, ensuring compliance with food safety standards and enhancing the supply of safe foods.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India and UAE Strengthen Defence Ties at 13th JDCC with AI &amp; Naval Security \ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>India<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>UAE<\/strong>&nbsp;reaffirmed commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation at the 13th India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting in&nbsp;<strong>New Delhi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The session was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UAE\u2019s Under Secretary of Defence Lieutenant General Ibrahim Nasser Alawi, leading a high-level delegation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Both sides agreed to enhance&nbsp;<strong>military training<\/strong>&nbsp;cooperation, offering customized courses tailored to UAE requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They committed to boosting naval and&nbsp;<strong>maritime security<\/strong>&nbsp;through real-time information sharing across critical waterways.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discussions included co-developing next-gen defence technologies, with emphasis on&nbsp;<strong>AI<\/strong>&nbsp;applications and joint R&amp;D.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration opportunities in shipbuilding, platform refits, upgrades, and maintenance were explored to deepen industrial ties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The JDCC outcome aims to match defence ties with growing momentum in trade, investment, and social relations between the two nations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam 2025 Inaugurated to Mark Five Years of NEP 2020<\/strong>&nbsp;\ud83c\udf93\ud83d\udcda<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Inaugurated on 29 July 2025 by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan,&nbsp;<strong>ABSS 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;commemorates five years of&nbsp;<strong>NEP 2020<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The conclave convened policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and state ministers to review progress and chart the next phase toward&nbsp;<strong>Viksit Bharat 2047<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dignitaries paid floral tribute to Dr. K Kasturirangan; Kendriya Vidyalaya students performed; Prime Minister\u2019s message was read by Jayant Chaudhary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Department of School Education &amp; Literacy launched a new CBSE regional office in Patna, inaugurated multiple NVS and KVS campuses, and laid the NCERT building foundation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under the&nbsp;<strong>PM-JANMAN<\/strong>&nbsp;scheme, 492 PVTG hostels (\u20b91,234.58 cr) were sanctioned and 75 foundations laid; under DAJGUA, 692 hostels (\u20b92,512.03 cr) approved with 309 foundations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The School Excellence drive identified 613 PM SHRI schools and 22 KVS projects for dedication under NEP\u2019s saturation model.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Digital tools unleashed include the&nbsp;<strong>TARA App<\/strong>&nbsp;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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduced the&nbsp;<strong>SHVR<\/strong>&nbsp;rating: a five-star evaluation across 60 indicators like water, sanitation, behavior change, and Mission LiFE.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Department of Higher Education launched a Local Language Proficiency Test Portal (182,480 items in 22 languages) and AI apprenticeships under NATS.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kavach 4.0 Commissioned on Mathura-Kota Section of Delhi-Mumbai Route \ud83d\ude86\ud83d\udd12<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Indian Railways<\/strong>&nbsp;has commissioned its indigenously developed train protection system,&nbsp;<strong>Kavach 4.0<\/strong>, on the busy Mathura-Kota section of the Delhi-Mumbai route.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Approval &amp; Standards:<\/strong>&nbsp;Approved by&nbsp;<strong>RDSO<\/strong>&nbsp;in July 2024 at&nbsp;<strong>SIL-4<\/strong>&nbsp;safety integrity level, Kavach 4.0 continuously monitors speed and automatically applies brakes to prevent collisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rapid Deployment:<\/strong>&nbsp;Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the system\u2019s telecom-grade infrastructure\u2014including RFID tags every 1 km, optical fiber, and dedicated towers\u2014was installed in record time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>System Components:<\/strong>&nbsp;The setup includes&nbsp;<strong>Loco Kavach<\/strong>&nbsp;units on locomotives (integrated with braking),&nbsp;<strong>Station Kavach<\/strong>&nbsp;controllers, trackside RFID tags, optical-fibre links, and upgraded signalling interfaces.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Deployment Stats:<\/strong>&nbsp;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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Training &amp; Education:<\/strong>&nbsp;Over 30,000 railway personnel trained, and Kavach modules are integrated into BTech curricula at 17 AICTE-approved institutions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Future Rollout:<\/strong>&nbsp;Indian Railways aims for nationwide Kavach 4.0 coverage within six years, backed by a \u20b91 lakh crore annual safety investment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SBK Singh Gets Additional Charge as Delhi Police Commissioner After Arora\u2019s Exit \ud83d\udc6e\u200d\u2642\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>SBK Singh<\/strong>, IPS officer and current&nbsp;<strong>Director General of Home Guards<\/strong>, has been given&nbsp;<strong>additional charge<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Police Commissioner<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He replaces&nbsp;<strong>Sanjay Arora<\/strong>, who retired on&nbsp;<strong>July 31, 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Singh\u2019s appointment is effective from&nbsp;<strong>August 1, 2025<\/strong>, and will continue&nbsp;<strong>until further orders<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The decision was approved by the&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Home Affairs<\/strong>&nbsp;and communicated via an official order.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Singh is a&nbsp;<strong>1988-batch IPS officer<\/strong>&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<strong>AGMUT cadre<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His previous roles include&nbsp;<strong>DGP of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh<\/strong>, and various senior positions in&nbsp;<strong>Delhi Police<\/strong>, including&nbsp;<strong>Special Commissioner of Intelligence and Security<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IMF Raises India\u2019s FY26 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.4%, Citing Resilience and Global Tailwinds \ud83d\udcc8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>International Monetary Fund (IMF)<\/strong>&nbsp;has revised India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>FY26 GDP growth forecast<\/strong>&nbsp;upward to&nbsp;<strong>6.4%<\/strong>, from its earlier estimate of&nbsp;<strong>6.2%<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>FY27 forecast<\/strong>&nbsp;has also been set at&nbsp;<strong>6.4%<\/strong>, reflecting sustained domestic strength and a more favorable global environment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The IMF maintained its&nbsp;<strong>FY25 growth estimate<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>6.5%<\/strong>, highlighting India\u2019s resilience despite global headwinds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The revision comes amid easing financial conditions globally and stronger fiscal support across major economies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risks remain: escalating&nbsp;<strong>US tariffs<\/strong>&nbsp;post-August 1 could shrink global output and dampen recovery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>Reserve Bank of India<\/strong>&nbsp;had earlier projected&nbsp;<strong>6.7%<\/strong>&nbsp;growth for FY26, later trimming it to&nbsp;<strong>6.5%<\/strong>&nbsp;due to rising trade risks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other forecasts:<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Moody\u2019s and S&amp;P<\/strong>: 6.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Finance Ministry<\/strong>: 6.3\u20136.8%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ADB<\/strong>: 6.5% (down from 6.7%)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India\u2019s growth is being driven by&nbsp;<strong>public capital expenditure<\/strong>, with \u20b911.21 trillion allocated in the FY26 Union Budget.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inflation<\/strong>&nbsp;is easing, with&nbsp;<strong>CPI at 2.10% in June<\/strong>, prompting the RBI to cut repo rates by&nbsp;<strong>100 basis points<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fiscal tweaks like&nbsp;<strong>GST changes<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>income tax relief<\/strong>&nbsp;may further boost consumption and investment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Athletics Introduces SRY Gene Test for Female Category Eligibility \ud83e\uddec\ud83c\udfc3\u200d\u2640\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Effective 1 September 2025, all athletes entering the female category must undergo a once-in-a-lifetime SRY gene test.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The test (via cheek swab or blood sample) serves as a reliable proxy for biological sex determination.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Member Federations will oversee testing ahead of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 (from 13 September).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>World Athletics President Sebastian Coe stated: \u201cGender cannot trump biology.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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 &amp; DSD athletes satisfying transitional provisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transgender women are not currently competing at elite international level under these rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>World Athletics will uphold athlete dignity, privacy, data confidentiality, and will not require any surgical interventions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">July 31, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ICICI Bank to Levy UPI Transaction Fees on Payment Aggregators from August 1 \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ICICI Bank will begin charging a&nbsp;<strong>transaction handling fee<\/strong>&nbsp;on payment aggregators for UPI transactions from August 1.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aggregators with an ICICI Bank escrow account pay&nbsp;<strong>2 basis points<\/strong>&nbsp;per transaction (capped at \u20b96).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Those without an escrow relationship face&nbsp;<strong>4 basis points<\/strong>&nbsp;per transaction (capped at \u20b910).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merchants using ICICI Bank remain exempt from these charges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fees cover costs payable to the National Payments Corporation of India for routing UPI payments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that UPI\u2019s long-term sustainability requires stakeholders to bear infrastructure expenses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yes Bank and Axis Bank have already imposed similar aggregator charges over the past 8\u201310 months.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEBI Overhauls ESM Framework to Shield Profitable Smallcaps and Curb Speculation \ud83d\udcca<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>SEBI overhauled the&nbsp;<strong>ESM framework<\/strong>&nbsp;to include valuation-based filters for small and microcaps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applies to companies with market caps below&nbsp;<strong>Rs 1,000 crore<\/strong>, sparing financially sound firms from blanket surveillance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only stocks in Stage I with a&nbsp;<strong>P\/E ratio<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2264 0 or exceeding twice the Nifty 500\u2019s P\/E will move to Stage II.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stage II brings tighter trading restrictions for stocks exhibiting clear valuation red flags.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aims to curb speculative trading without imposing undue compliance burdens on quality smallcaps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>These changes take effect on July 28.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Market experts welcome the balanced approach between regulation and genuine growth support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udea9 IPS Officer Sanjay Singhal Appointed New SSB Director General from Sept 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Centre appointed&nbsp;<strong>Sanjay Singhal<\/strong>, a 1993-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer, as the new Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Singhal is currently serving as Special Director General of the&nbsp;<strong>Border Security Force<\/strong>&nbsp;(BSF).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>He will assume charge on&nbsp;<strong>September 1, 2025<\/strong>, succeeding Amrit Mohan Prasad, who retires on August 31, 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His tenure will run until&nbsp;<strong>December 31, 2028<\/strong>, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet following a proposal from the Ministry of Home Affairs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The SSB is tasked with guarding India\u2019s borders with&nbsp;<strong>Nepal and Bhutan<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf10 Bharat Bhatia Elected Vice Chairman of APG-27 Advancing Spectrum Governance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>ITU-APT Foundation of India (IAFI)<\/strong>&nbsp;President, Bharat Bhatia, has been appointed vice chairman and editorial committee chair of the&nbsp;<strong>APG-27<\/strong>, the Conference Preparatory Group for WRC-27.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>His nomination by the APG-27 Chairman was unanimously endorsed by heads of delegation from&nbsp;<strong>30 Asian countries<\/strong>&nbsp;during the plenary session on July 28, 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The second meeting of APG-27 ran from July 28 to August 1, coordinating Asia-Pacific consensus on 25 spectrum agenda items for the&nbsp;<strong>World Radiocommunication Conference-2027.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key focus areas include spectrum regulations for 6G and Direct-to-Device satellite services, alongside other critical broadband and connectivity technologies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bhatia described the role as a deep honour reflecting India\u2019s technical excellence, collaborative spirit, and commitment to global spectrum governance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>APG-27\u2019s resolutions will shape regional proposals at WRC-27, influencing the future of radiocommunication and digital connectivity worldwide.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf1f M.S. Dhoni Invests in Acko, Becomes Brand Ambassador to Simplify Insurance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cricket legend&nbsp;<strong>M.S. Dhoni<\/strong>&nbsp;invests in tech-led insurer&nbsp;<strong>Acko<\/strong>&nbsp;through his family office, Midas Deals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dhoni joins as the brand ambassador to front Acko\u2019s next wave of marketing campaigns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The partnership is built on a shared mission to make motor and health insurance simpler and more intuitive for urban Indians.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acko, founded in&nbsp;<strong>2016<\/strong>, has emerged as a leading direct-to-consumer insurer with over&nbsp;<strong>100 million users<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dhoni highlights Acko\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>tech-first, customer-centric<\/strong>&nbsp;approach for bringing clarity to a traditionally complex industry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Founder&nbsp;<strong>Varun Dua<\/strong>&nbsp;describes the alliance as \u201ca meeting of mindsets\u201d reflecting trust and innovation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The collaboration is set to boost Acko\u2019s visibility and credibility in India\u2019s competitive insurance market.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ACC Approves MTNL CMD Extension for A Robert J Ravi, Ensuring PSU Leadership \ud83d\udce1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approves&nbsp;<strong>extension of additional charge as CMD of MTNL<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>A Robert J Ravi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ravi, currently<strong>&nbsp;CMD of BSNL<\/strong>, will juggle both roles during this period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The extension runs from July 15 to October 14, 2025, or until a new incumbent assumes charge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Department of Telecommunications issued the notification on July 25.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The move ensures leadership continuity amid strategic transitions at state-run telecom PSUs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>MTNL is grappling with defaulted bank loans totalling Rs 8,585 crore.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GSL Launches ICGS ATAL: Sixth Indigenous FPV to Enhance Maritime Security \ud83d\udea2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched&nbsp;<strong>ICGS ATAL (Yard 1275)<\/strong>, the sixth in a series of eight indigenously designed&nbsp;<strong>Fast Patrol Vessels<\/strong>&nbsp;for the Indian Coast Guard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designed in-house at GSL, these FPVs bolster India\u2019s maritime domain awareness and national security, embodying the spirit of&nbsp;<strong>Aatmanirbharta<\/strong>&nbsp;in defence shipbuilding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman &amp; Managing Director of GSL<\/strong>, hailed the launch as proof of the yard\u2019s commitment to indigenisation, innovation, and excellence despite global supply challenges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shri Rozy Agarwal, Principal Internal Financial Advisor (PIFA) at Coast Guard Headquarters, praised GSL\u2019s execution capabilities and its pivotal role in strengthening national maritime security.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The launch ceremony at&nbsp;<strong>Vasco-da-Gama, Goa<\/strong>, was attended by senior officials from the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence, and key industry partners.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AIFF Okays Benevolence &amp; Pension Funds, Opens Accounts at July Meeting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The&nbsp;<strong>AIFF Finance Committee<\/strong>&nbsp;met on July 29, 2025, to open new bank accounts for two welfare initiatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creation of the&nbsp;<strong>Benevolence Fund<\/strong>&nbsp;to offer one-time medical grants to ex-players, coaches, referees, match officials, support staff, and journalists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Initial corpus of \u20b97,00,002<\/strong>&nbsp;raised through AIFF\u2019s \u20b95,00,000 contribution and matched personal donations by the President and Vice President.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proposal for the&nbsp;<strong>Pension Fund<\/strong>&nbsp;to benefit AIFF employees with 20+ years of service who retire at or after age 60.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A dedicated committee\u2014comprising Finance, Medical, Technical, and Treasurer\u2019s office members\u2014will review all applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reviewed the 2024-25 financial accounts and forwarded them for statutory audit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drafted a new procurement policy, to be submitted to the Executive Committee for final approval.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Former ICAI President and Padma Shri T N Manoharan Dies Suddenly in Mumbai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ex-MP Suresh Prabhu announced the news on X, lauding Manoharan\u2019s integrity and national contributions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICAI member Dinesh Wagerah expressed condolences, highlighting Manoharan\u2019s influence on the chartered accountancy fraternity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Served as ICAI President in 2006\u201307 and chaired its Accounting Research Foundation and the CII\u2019s National Committee on Accounting Standards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Honored with the&nbsp;<strong>Padma Shri<\/strong>&nbsp;in 2010 for his distinguished service to the profession and the nation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maharashtra to Mark Aug 7 as Sustainable Agriculture Day for Dr. Swaminathan \ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maharashtra government declares&nbsp;<strong>August 7<\/strong>&nbsp;annually as&nbsp;<strong>Sustainable Agriculture Day<\/strong>&nbsp;to honour the birth centenary of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>State Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate announced the decision as a tribute to Swaminathan\u2019s pivotal role in India\u2019s Green Revolution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swaminathan\u2019s research boosting wheat and rice productivity helped India achieve food self-sufficiency and economic stability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Government of India awarded him the&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Ratna in 2024<\/strong>, and the United Nations hailed him as the \u201c<strong>father of the economic environment<\/strong>.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Bio-Happiness Centres will be set up at all state agricultural universities to advance sustainable-farming research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plans include statewide seminars, farmer-interaction events, and awards to commemorate his legacy and promote climate-resilient agriculture.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maharashtra Declares August 7 as Sustainable Agriculture Day Honouring Dr. Swaminathan \ud83c\udf31<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maharashtra government designates&nbsp;<strong>August 7<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>Sustainable Agriculture Day<\/strong>&nbsp;annually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Celebration marks the&nbsp;<strong>birth centenary<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Dr. M.S. Swaminathan<\/strong>, architect of India\u2019s Green Revolution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Establishment of&nbsp;<strong>Bio-Happiness Centres<\/strong>&nbsp;at all state agricultural universities for cutting-edge research.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plans include statewide&nbsp;<strong>seminars<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>farmer-interaction events<\/strong>, and prestigious legacy&nbsp;<strong>awards<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dr. Swaminathan was awarded the&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Ratna 2024<\/strong>&nbsp;and hailed as a global&nbsp;<strong>environmental pioneer<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Initiative aims to advance&nbsp;<strong>climate-resilient<\/strong>&nbsp;farming and strengthen national&nbsp;<strong>food security<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Grassland Bird Census in Kaziranga Leverages Acoustic Monitoring for Species \ud83c\udfa7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Between March 18 and May 25, the first-ever&nbsp;<strong>grassland bird census<\/strong>&nbsp;was carried out in Kaziranga National Park by forest officials, scientists, and conservationists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The survey relied on&nbsp;<strong>passive acoustic monitoring<\/strong>, placing recording devices near grasslands during the birds\u2019 breeding season to capture elusive calls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Researchers recorded&nbsp;<strong>43 species<\/strong>, including one Critically Endangered, two Endangered, and six Vulnerable birds on the IUCN Red List.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The project targeted 10&nbsp;<strong>flagship species<\/strong>&nbsp;such as&nbsp;<strong>Finn\u2019s Weaver<\/strong>, Bengal Florican, and Black-breasted Parrotbill endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Audio data were processed using&nbsp;<strong>Birdnet<\/strong>&nbsp;AI and&nbsp;<strong>spectrograms<\/strong>&nbsp;to identify species by their unique songs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Surveyors discovered over&nbsp;<strong>85 nests<\/strong>&nbsp;of the endangered Finn\u2019s Weaver, revealing previously unknown breeding sites in the park.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Findings underscore threats from&nbsp;<strong>habitat loss<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>overgrazing<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>climate change<\/strong>, alongside natural ecological succession reducing grassland cover.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">July 30, 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0f Empowering India\u2019s Climate Resilience: MoES Unveils 14 New Tools &amp; Services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f At the&nbsp;<strong>19th Foundation Day<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Dr. Jitendra Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;showcased the Ministry\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>decade-long transformation<\/strong>&nbsp;into a&nbsp;<strong>citizen-centric science hub<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcf2&nbsp;<strong>New mobile-friendly services<\/strong>&nbsp;include&nbsp;<strong>live weather alerts<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>cyclone warnings<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>air-quality updates<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>ocean forecasts<\/strong>&nbsp;for all.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udee0\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Fourteen major launches<\/strong>&nbsp;cover&nbsp;<strong>rainfall monitoring &amp; crop calendars<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Bharat Forecast System \u2013 Extended Range Prediction<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>high-res rainfall datasets<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>updated wave atlases &amp; seabed charts<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>air-quality forecasting<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>marine biodiversity reports<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>city-wise seismic microzonation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfa5 The&nbsp;<strong>India Meteorological Department<\/strong>&nbsp;released the&nbsp;<strong>documentary \u201cLife Saving Impact\u201d<\/strong>, highlighting&nbsp;<strong>real-world benefits<\/strong>&nbsp;of these tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10&nbsp;<strong>Infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;has surged:&nbsp;<strong>Doppler radars<\/strong>&nbsp;rose from&nbsp;<strong>15 to 41<\/strong>, while&nbsp;<strong>seismic\/weather stations<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>upper-air systems<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>lightning networks<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>rain gauges<\/strong>&nbsp;more than doubled.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u23f1\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Earthquake alerts<\/strong>&nbsp;now reach the public within&nbsp;<strong>2\u20133 minutes<\/strong>;&nbsp;<strong>high demand<\/strong>&nbsp;briefly crashed&nbsp;<strong>servers<\/strong>&nbsp;during a recent&nbsp;<strong>Delhi tremor<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf2a\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Cyclone forecasting<\/strong>&nbsp;lead times extended to&nbsp;<strong>10 days<\/strong>, drastically reducing&nbsp;<strong>casualties<\/strong>&nbsp;compared to the&nbsp;<strong>1999 Odisha super-cyclone<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\ude9c Over&nbsp;<strong>700,000 farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;use the&nbsp;<strong>Meghdoot app<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>sowing, irrigation, and harvest advice<\/strong>;&nbsp;<strong>fishermen<\/strong>&nbsp;get&nbsp;<strong>daily SMS<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>safe, fuel-efficient zones<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udeb0&nbsp;<strong>Lakshadweep\u2019s six OTEC desalination plants<\/strong>&nbsp;now deliver&nbsp;<strong>150,000 L of potable water daily<\/strong>, ending&nbsp;<strong>centuries-long freshwater scarcity<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf0a The&nbsp;<strong>Deep Ocean Mission (Samudrayaan)<\/strong>&nbsp;is positioned as&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s underwater counterpart<\/strong>&nbsp;to the&nbsp;<strong>Gaganyaan space mission<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb0 Ministry&nbsp;<strong>budget<\/strong>&nbsp;jumped from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,281 cr (2014)<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,658 cr (2024)<\/strong>, funding&nbsp;<strong>advanced research<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>ambitious projects<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d Emphasis on&nbsp;<strong>clearer communication<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>inter-ministerial coordination<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost&nbsp;<strong>public awareness<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>science-driven services<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u20b9400 Cr Defence Testing Facility in TN \ud83d\ude80\ud83d\udd27<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd8b\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>MoD<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>TIDCO<\/strong>&nbsp;signed an&nbsp;<strong>MoU<\/strong>&nbsp;to build a&nbsp;<strong>state-of-the-art Mechanical &amp; Material testing facility<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Tiruchirappalli<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>DTIS<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb8 The&nbsp;<strong>Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;offers&nbsp;<strong>75% government grant-in-aid<\/strong>; the remaining&nbsp;<strong>25%<\/strong>&nbsp;is funded by an&nbsp;<strong>SPV<\/strong>&nbsp;led by&nbsp;<strong>Micro Labs<\/strong>, with&nbsp;<strong>TIDCO<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>BEML<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>HAL<\/strong>&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;<strong>Vaidheswaran Industries<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd2c Once complete, the facility will deliver&nbsp;<strong>advanced testing equipment and services<\/strong>&nbsp;for both&nbsp;<strong>public and private defence sectors<\/strong>, boosting&nbsp;<strong>Aatmanirbharta<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>indigenous production<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 With an outlay of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b9400 crore<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>DTIS<\/strong>&nbsp;was launched by&nbsp;<strong>Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>reduce defence imports<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>collaboration between industry and government<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfed&nbsp;<strong>Seven DTIS facilities<\/strong>&nbsp;approved across&nbsp;<strong>Defence Industrial Corridors<\/strong>\u2014<strong>four in Tamil Nadu<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>three in Uttar Pradesh<\/strong>\u2014to propel&nbsp;<strong>defence and aerospace growth<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>AI-Driven Road Safety Rollout in UP \ud83d\udea6\ud83e\udd16<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\ude80&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)<\/strong>&nbsp;granted a&nbsp;<strong>No Objection Certificate (NOC)<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>Uttar Pradesh\u2019s AI-powered Road Safety pilot project<\/strong>, confirming compliance with the&nbsp;<strong>Motor Vehicles Act, 1988<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989<\/strong>, without any&nbsp;<strong>financial liability<\/strong>&nbsp;for the Centre.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb8 The&nbsp;<strong>state government<\/strong>&nbsp;allocated&nbsp;<strong>\u20b910 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;in this year\u2019s budget, executed at&nbsp;<strong>zero cost<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>ITI Limited<\/strong>&nbsp;in partnership with&nbsp;<strong>mLogica<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd0d The&nbsp;<strong>proof-of-concept phase<\/strong>&nbsp;will run for&nbsp;<strong>six weeks<\/strong>, integrating data on&nbsp;<strong>accident reports<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>weather patterns<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>vehicle telematics<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>driver profiles<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>road infrastructure<\/strong>&nbsp;to train&nbsp;<strong>AI models<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfaf Objectives include identifying&nbsp;<strong>root causes of accidents<\/strong>, predicting&nbsp;<strong>black spots<\/strong>, and developing&nbsp;<strong>real-time policy dashboards<\/strong>&nbsp;to guide&nbsp;<strong>scientific enforcement<\/strong>&nbsp;and enhance&nbsp;<strong>service transparency<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd12 Continuous audits will monitor&nbsp;<strong>data privacy<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>legal compliance<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>cybersecurity standards<\/strong>, with a&nbsp;<strong>detailed report<\/strong>&nbsp;submitted to&nbsp;<strong>MoRTH<\/strong>&nbsp;upon completion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 Upon success, the&nbsp;<strong>AI engine<\/strong>&nbsp;will scale to core transport services like&nbsp;<strong>faceless licence and permit systems<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>e-challan<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Vahan-Sarathi<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>revenue collection<\/strong>, enabling&nbsp;<strong>automated decision-making<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>fraud detection<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>predictive violation monitoring<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 By extending AI beyond road safety, Uttar Pradesh aims to become a&nbsp;<strong>national pioneer in data-driven governance<\/strong>, offering&nbsp;<strong>transparent<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>swift<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>scientific transport services<\/strong>&nbsp;for all citizens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>LIC\u2019s $1 B Hedge Deal with Wall Street<\/strong>&nbsp;\ud83d\udcb0\ud83e\udd1d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)<\/strong>&nbsp;entered&nbsp;<strong>$1 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>bond forward rate agreements (FRAs)<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co.<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Bank of America Corp.<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>hedge its liabilities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 LIC\u2019s recent&nbsp;<strong>FRA trades<\/strong>&nbsp;account for&nbsp;<strong>38%<\/strong>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<strong>$2.6 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;total volume since May on the&nbsp;<strong>Clearing Corp. of India<\/strong>, highlighting&nbsp;<strong>India\u2019s market sophistication<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udca1&nbsp;<strong>Forward rate agreements<\/strong>&nbsp;let LIC&nbsp;<strong>lock in future bond yields<\/strong>, shielding its&nbsp;<strong>income from falling interest rates<\/strong>, while banks assume&nbsp;<strong>bond price risk<\/strong>&nbsp;for a&nbsp;<strong>premium<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcca To offset this risk,&nbsp;<strong>Wall Street banks<\/strong>&nbsp;buy&nbsp;<strong>long-term government bonds<\/strong>, boosting&nbsp;<strong>demand<\/strong>&nbsp;and driving&nbsp;<strong>record bid-to-cover ratios<\/strong>&nbsp;at recent auctions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 This marks LIC\u2019s deeper foray into the&nbsp;<strong>bond derivatives market<\/strong>, reflecting the&nbsp;<strong>evolution of India\u2019s financial ecosystem<\/strong>&nbsp;and growing appetite for&nbsp;<strong>diverse hedging instruments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd2b LIC and its counterparties&nbsp;<strong>declined to comment<\/strong>, underscoring the insurer\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>$630 billion asset base<\/strong>&nbsp;and its push toward&nbsp;<strong>advanced risk management<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Digital Payment Revolution: Worldline &amp; Cosmos Bank \ud83e\udd1d\ud83d\udcb3<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfe6&nbsp;<strong>Worldline<\/strong>&nbsp;partnered with&nbsp;<strong>Cosmos Co-operative Bank Ltd.<\/strong>, one of India\u2019s oldest urban co-operative banks, to drive&nbsp;<strong>next-gen digital payment solutions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2699\ufe0f The collaboration equips Cosmos Bank with a&nbsp;<strong>future-ready digital payment stack<\/strong>, tackling&nbsp;<strong>legacy systems<\/strong>&nbsp;and reaching&nbsp;<strong>underserved segments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb3 Core offerings include&nbsp;<strong>integrated payment acceptance solutions<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>tailored payment &amp; non-payment use cases<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>360-degree data analytics<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>real-time portfolio health<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 Focus on&nbsp;<strong>scalability<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>operational efficiency<\/strong>, with a suite of&nbsp;<strong>value-added services (VAS)<\/strong>&nbsp;and a dedicated&nbsp;<strong>sales, relationship &amp; service team<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d Sheik Mohideen of Worldline and Arti Dhole of Cosmos Bank emphasized a shared vision of&nbsp;<strong>innovation<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>financial inclusion<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>customer-centric growth<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 This alliance paves the way for a&nbsp;<strong>resilient, future-ready banking ecosystem<\/strong>, serving over&nbsp;<strong>20 lakh customers<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>183 branches<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>7 states<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udca1 With 26 years in India and \u20ac4.6 billion revenue (2024), Worldline solidifies its role as a&nbsp;<strong>global payments leader<\/strong>, powering over&nbsp;<strong>1 million businesses<\/strong>&nbsp;worldwide.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Digital Payments Surge to 493.22 in March 2025 \ud83d\ude80\ud83d\udcb3<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\ude80&nbsp;<strong>RBI-DPI<\/strong>&nbsp;surged to&nbsp;<strong>493.22<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>March 2025<\/strong>, up from&nbsp;<strong>465.33<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>September 2024<\/strong>, marking&nbsp;<strong>robust digital payment growth<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcdc The&nbsp;<strong>Digital Payments Index<\/strong>&nbsp;has been published&nbsp;<strong>semi-annually<\/strong>&nbsp;since&nbsp;<strong>January 2021<\/strong>, with its&nbsp;<strong>base period<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>March 2018<\/strong>&nbsp;set at&nbsp;<strong>100<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd22 Since inception, the&nbsp;<strong>DPI<\/strong>&nbsp;has climbed&nbsp;<strong>nearly fivefold<\/strong>, from&nbsp;<strong>153.47<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>March 2019<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>493.22<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>March 2025<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udee0\ufe0f Key drivers include&nbsp;<strong>enhanced payment infrastructure<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>wider merchant acceptance<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>QR code adoption<\/strong>, and the&nbsp;<strong>booming UPI ecosystem<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10&nbsp;<strong>Digital India initiatives<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>increased smartphone penetration<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>fintech innovations<\/strong>&nbsp;have accelerated uptake across&nbsp;<strong>urban and rural<\/strong>&nbsp;regions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\uddd3\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Semi-annual updates<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>March and September<\/strong>&nbsp;capture the&nbsp;<strong>extent of digitisation<\/strong>&nbsp;in India\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>payment systems<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcca The&nbsp;<strong>DPI<\/strong>&nbsp;comprises&nbsp;<strong>five parameters<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>Payment enablers (25%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Demand-side infrastructure (10%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Supply-side infrastructure (10%)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Payment performance (45%)<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Consumer centricity (5%)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd2e The index serves as a&nbsp;<strong>policy benchmark<\/strong>, reinforcing India\u2019s standing as a&nbsp;<strong>global leader<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>digital payments<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>PEN Translates Honour for \u2018Once Elephants Lived Here\u2019 \ud83d\udcd6\ud83c\udfc6<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfc6&nbsp;<strong>Geetanjali Shree<\/strong>, International Booker Prize\u2013winning Hindi author, wins the&nbsp;<strong>PEN Translates award<\/strong>&nbsp;for her novel&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Once Elephants Lived Here\u2019<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcda The book was translated from Hindi to English by acclaimed translator&nbsp;<strong>Daisy Rockwell<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10&nbsp;<strong>English PEN<\/strong>&nbsp;chose&nbsp;<strong>14 titles<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>13 languages<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>11 regions<\/strong>&nbsp;as part of its&nbsp;<strong>PEN Translates x SALT collaboration<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcd6 Among other winners is&nbsp;<strong>\u2018Eyes, Eyes, Eyes\u2019<\/strong>&nbsp;by Pakistani poet&nbsp;<strong>Sara Shagufta<\/strong>, translated from Urdu by&nbsp;<strong>Javeria Hasnain<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf89 This accolade underscores the rising international recognition of&nbsp;<strong>Indian literature in translation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Divya Deshmukh\u2019s Historic Tiebreak Triumph \ud83c\udfc6<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83e\uddd2&nbsp;<strong>19-year-old International Master Divya Deshmukh<\/strong>&nbsp;from Nagpur defeated&nbsp;<strong>GM Humpy Koneru 1.5\u20130.5<\/strong>&nbsp;in two rapid tiebreak games to claim the&nbsp;<strong>2025 Women\u2019s World Cup<\/strong>&nbsp;title.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc51 She becomes the&nbsp;<strong>third-ever Women\u2019s World Cup Champion<\/strong>, following in the footsteps of&nbsp;<strong>Alexandra Kosteniuk<\/strong>&nbsp;(2021) and&nbsp;<strong>Aleksandra Goryachkina<\/strong>&nbsp;(2023).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u23f1\ufe0f Demonstrated&nbsp;<strong>resilience and precision<\/strong>: after a drawn first tiebreak, she seized control in the second when her opponent&nbsp;<strong>slipped under time pressure<\/strong>, clinching the crown.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb0 Earned the&nbsp;<strong>USD 50,000 first prize<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>automatically secured the Grandmaster (GM) title<\/strong>, one of the few players to do so via a single FIDE event rather than the usual norms and 2500 rating.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf9f\ufe0f With this victory, she also&nbsp;<strong>qualifies for the 2026 Candidates Tournament<\/strong>, alongside&nbsp;<strong>Humpy Koneru<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>former champion Tan Zhongyi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Food Security Under Fire: Tackling Global Nutrition in 2025 \ud83c\udf0d\ud83c\udf7d\ufe0f<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udf0d&nbsp;<strong>Annual global monitoring report for SDG 2 (targets 2.1 &amp; 2.2)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcca&nbsp;<strong>Latest data on hunger<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>food insecurity<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>malnutrition<\/strong>, plus&nbsp;<strong>new estimates on healthy diet affordability<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf3e&nbsp;<strong>Major drivers<\/strong>&nbsp;include&nbsp;<strong>economic shocks<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>extreme weather events<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>the COVID-19 pandemic<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>conflict<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb8&nbsp;<strong>Food price inflation<\/strong>&nbsp;has&nbsp;<strong>slowed recovery<\/strong>; this edition examines its&nbsp;<strong>impact across food groups<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>diet affordability<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udee1\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Country policy analyses<\/strong>&nbsp;highlight&nbsp;<strong>successful interventions<\/strong>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<strong>mitigate inflation\u2019s impact<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>food security and nutrition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10&nbsp;<strong>Regional disparities<\/strong>&nbsp;persist, underscoring the need for&nbsp;<strong>resilience-building<\/strong>&nbsp;through&nbsp;<strong>sustained investments<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>strong policy coordination<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd27&nbsp;<strong>Key recommendations<\/strong>:&nbsp;<strong>increase transparency<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>prioritize nutritious diets<\/strong>, and pursue&nbsp;<strong>ongoing institutional innovation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>ERP Revolutionizes PACS: \u20b92,925 Crore Digital Overhaul<\/strong>&nbsp;\ud83d\udcbb\ud83c\udf3e<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udcb0&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,925.39 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;project to computerize&nbsp;<strong>73,492 PACS<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Cooperation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 Deployment of&nbsp;<strong>ERP-based common national software<\/strong>, linking&nbsp;<strong>Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>NABARD<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>StCBs<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>DCCBs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd04 Software captures both&nbsp;<strong>credit and non-credit functionalities<\/strong>, fully&nbsp;<strong>customizable for state-specific needs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfd7\ufe0f Multi-layered governance via&nbsp;<strong>NLMIC<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>SLIMC<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>DLIMC<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>SCDC<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>DCDC<\/strong>&nbsp;to ensure ongoing&nbsp;<strong>monitoring<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>coordination<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2699\ufe0f Core features include a&nbsp;<strong>Common Accounting System (CAS)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Management Information System (MIS)<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>membership management<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>financial services<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>procurement<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>PDS<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>warehousing<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>HR management<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc68\u200d\ud83c\udf3e&nbsp;<strong>NABARD-led training and handholding<\/strong>&nbsp;empowers&nbsp;<strong>small and marginal farmers<\/strong>, including those&nbsp;<strong>digitally illiterate<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd17 Integration with national platforms\u2014<strong>PMKSK<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>CSCs<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>PMBJK<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Kisan Rin Portal<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>RuPay<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>KCC<\/strong>\u2014for&nbsp;<strong>seamless financial transactions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d PACS evolve into&nbsp;<strong>multi-service hubs<\/strong>, delivering&nbsp;<strong>agri schemes<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>fertilizer &amp; seed distribution<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>LPG outlets<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>custom hiring<\/strong>, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>ISRO-NASA NISAR Satellite Launch LIVE: All-Weather Earth Observation Mission<\/strong>&nbsp;\ud83d\ude80\ud83c\udf0d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\ude80&nbsp;<strong>GSLV-F16 rocket<\/strong>&nbsp;set to lift off from&nbsp;<strong>Sriharikota<\/strong>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<strong>5:40 PM IST<\/strong>&nbsp;carrying the&nbsp;<strong>NISAR satellite<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udef0\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>NISAR<\/strong>&nbsp;(NASA-ISRO&nbsp;<strong>Synthetic Aperture Radar<\/strong>) weighs&nbsp;<strong>2,392 kg<\/strong>&nbsp;and will enter a&nbsp;<strong>743 km sun-synchronous orbit<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 Delivers&nbsp;<strong>all-weather, day-night scanning<\/strong>&nbsp;every&nbsp;<strong>12 days<\/strong>, producing&nbsp;<strong>high-resolution data<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>disaster management<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>land deformation<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>ecosystem monitoring<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d First&nbsp;<strong>joint satellite mission<\/strong>&nbsp;between&nbsp;<strong>ISRO<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>NASA<\/strong>, marking one of the&nbsp;<strong>costliest<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>most advanced<\/strong>&nbsp;Earth-observation collaborations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u23f1\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Countdown<\/strong>&nbsp;began on&nbsp;<strong>July 29, 2025<\/strong>, with&nbsp;<strong>orbital injection<\/strong>&nbsp;expected&nbsp;<strong>19 minutes<\/strong>&nbsp;post-lift-off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc68\u200d\ud83d\udd2c Experts call it a&nbsp;<strong>historic collaboration<\/strong>, set to generate a&nbsp;<strong>massive daily data stream<\/strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<strong>scientists<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>policymakers<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>disaster managers<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf0a Applications span&nbsp;<strong>ice-sheet monitoring<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>agriculture health<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>flood forecasting<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>volcano tracking<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>oceanography<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfaf Underscores India\u2019s rise as a&nbsp;<strong>global space partner<\/strong>, showcasing&nbsp;<strong>homegrown launch prowess<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>international scientific synergy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">650% Surge: Govt Considers Raising EPS-95 Minimum Pension from \u20b91,000 to \u20b97,500<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfaf Pensioners, unions, and public representatives demand a&nbsp;<strong>650% hike<\/strong>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<strong>minimum pension<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>EPS-95<\/strong>, boosting it from&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,000<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b97,500<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f On July 24, 2025, the&nbsp;<strong>Ministry of Labour &amp; Employment<\/strong>&nbsp;informed the&nbsp;<strong>Rajya Sabha<\/strong>&nbsp;it has received multiple&nbsp;<strong>representations<\/strong>&nbsp;to revise the&nbsp;<strong>minimum monthly pension<\/strong>&nbsp;under&nbsp;<strong>EPS-95<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcd1 EPS-95 operates as a&nbsp;<strong>Defined Contribution\u2013Defined Benefit<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong>social security scheme<\/strong>, funded by&nbsp;<strong>8.33% employer<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>1.16% government<\/strong>&nbsp;contributions, but an&nbsp;<strong>actuarial deficit<\/strong>&nbsp;was recorded as of March 31, 2019.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb8 Despite the shortfall, the&nbsp;<strong>government continues<\/strong>&nbsp;to maintain the&nbsp;<strong>\u20b91,000 minimum pension<\/strong>&nbsp;via extra&nbsp;<strong>budgetary support<\/strong>, over and above statutory contributions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 Stakeholders argue a higher pension is essential to keep pace with&nbsp;<strong>inflation<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>rising medical costs<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>living expenses<\/strong>, after even a proposal for&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,000<\/strong>&nbsp;was previously rejected.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2696\ufe0f Any final decision must weigh&nbsp;<strong>actuarial valuations<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>corpus health<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>fiscal constraints<\/strong>, with speculation on timing around&nbsp;<strong>Diwali<\/strong>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<strong>2026 general elections<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc75\ud83d\udc74 If approved, the&nbsp;<strong>enhanced minimum pension<\/strong>&nbsp;could uplift&nbsp;<strong>over 75 lakh EPS-95 pensioners<\/strong>, strengthening their&nbsp;<strong>financial security<\/strong>&nbsp;in retirement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UPI Rules Overhauled: Caps on Balance Checks and Scheduled Payments from August 1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>NPCI<\/strong>&nbsp;will implement&nbsp;<strong>new rules<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>UPI<\/strong>&nbsp;starting&nbsp;<strong>August 1, 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;to enhance&nbsp;<strong>transaction stability and efficiency<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Users can&nbsp;<strong>check their bank balance<\/strong>&nbsp;only&nbsp;<strong>50 times per day<\/strong>&nbsp;on each&nbsp;<strong>UPI app<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>reduce API load<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>peak hours<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After every successful&nbsp;<strong>UPI transaction<\/strong>, the&nbsp;<strong>available account balance<\/strong>&nbsp;will be displayed regardless of&nbsp;<strong>balance-check limits<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scheduled auto-payments<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>merchants<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>OTT subscriptions<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>EMIs<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>mutual fund investments<\/strong>&nbsp;must process during&nbsp;<strong>off-peak hours\u2014before 10 am or after 9:30 pm<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>ease daytime traffic<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Retrieving linked bank account details<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>mobile number<\/strong>&nbsp;will be limited to&nbsp;<strong>25 attempts per day per user<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Status checks for pending transactions<\/strong>&nbsp;are&nbsp;<strong>capped at three attempts per transaction<\/strong>, with a&nbsp;<strong>mandatory 90-second gap<\/strong>&nbsp;between each inquiry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PSU Bank QIPs: Merchant Bankers Hunt for Foreign Funds in \u20b920,000 Crore Drive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Merchant bankers for five&nbsp;<strong>PSU banks<\/strong>&nbsp;have been tasked by&nbsp;<strong>DIPAM<\/strong>&nbsp;to rope in&nbsp;<strong>foreign investors<\/strong>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<strong>domestic and overseas roadshows<\/strong>, targeting a&nbsp;<strong>\u20b920,000 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;raise through&nbsp;<strong>QIPs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The banks involved are&nbsp;<strong>Bank of Maharashtra<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Indian Overseas Bank<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>UCO Bank<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Central Bank of India<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Punjab &amp; Sind Bank<\/strong>, aiming to shrink&nbsp;<strong>government stake<\/strong>&nbsp;and broaden the&nbsp;<strong>shareholder base<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under the&nbsp;<strong>Banking Regulation Act<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>foreign portfolio investment<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>PSU banks<\/strong>&nbsp;is capped at&nbsp;<strong>20%<\/strong>, while the&nbsp;<strong>government<\/strong>&nbsp;must retain at least a&nbsp;<strong>51% stake<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As of&nbsp;<strong>June 30, 2025<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>FPIs<\/strong>&nbsp;hold&nbsp;<strong>1.89%<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>BoM<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>0.08%<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>IOB<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>0.13%<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>UCO Bank<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>0.97%<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Central Bank of India<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>0.25%<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>Punjab &amp; Sind Bank<\/strong>, indicating ample headroom for&nbsp;<strong>foreign inflows<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bank of Maharashtra<\/strong>&nbsp;stands out as a turnaround story, trading at a&nbsp;<strong>1.28\u00d7 price-to-book ratio<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>NIM<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>3.95%<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>ROA<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>1.80%<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>ROE<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>23%<\/strong>\u2014on par with&nbsp;<strong>mid-sized private banks<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merchant bankers will also solicit&nbsp;<strong>investor feedback<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>governance<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>operational improvements<\/strong>&nbsp;to boost the&nbsp;<strong>appeal<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>PSU banks<\/strong>&nbsp;to both&nbsp;<strong>domestic<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>foreign buyers<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The success of&nbsp;<strong>SBI\u2019s \u20b925,000 crore QIP<\/strong>\u2014oversubscribed&nbsp;<strong>4.5\u00d7<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>64.3% foreign participation<\/strong>\u2014has set lofty expectations for these smaller bank fundraises.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alongside&nbsp;<strong>QIPs<\/strong>, the&nbsp;<strong>government<\/strong>&nbsp;plans partial divestment via&nbsp;<strong>Offer for Sale (OFS)<\/strong>&nbsp;in these five banks as part of its broader&nbsp;<strong>disinvestment strategy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Schneider Electric to Buy Temasek\u2019s 35% India Stake for \u20ac5.5 B, Securing Full Ownership<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udcbc&nbsp;<strong>Schneider Electric<\/strong>&nbsp;will acquire&nbsp;<strong>Temasek\u2019s 35% stake<\/strong>&nbsp;in its Indian joint venture for&nbsp;<strong>\u20ac5.5 billion<\/strong>&nbsp;($6.4 billion).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfaf This deal grants&nbsp;<strong>full ownership<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Schneider Electric India<\/strong>, its&nbsp;<strong>third-largest market<\/strong>&nbsp;and a key node in its&nbsp;<strong>multi-hub strategy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfed India serves as one of the company\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>four global hubs<\/strong>, featuring&nbsp;<strong>31 factories<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>31 distribution centres<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\ude80 Plans call for&nbsp;<strong>capacity expansion<\/strong>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<strong>2.5\u20133\u00d7<\/strong>, targeting&nbsp;<strong>double-digit organic sales growth<\/strong>&nbsp;on a CAGR basis.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb6 In 2024,&nbsp;<strong>Indian revenues<\/strong>&nbsp;hit&nbsp;<strong>\u20ac2.5 billion<\/strong>, representing&nbsp;<strong>7% of group sales<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d Schneider initially bought&nbsp;<strong>65% from L&amp;T in 2020<\/strong>, marking its largest India acquisition to date.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd0d Full control aims to&nbsp;<strong>streamline decision-making<\/strong>&nbsp;and accelerate&nbsp;<strong>domestic growth<\/strong>&nbsp;in a high-potential market.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PM Kisan 20th Installment of \u20b92,000 to Be Released on August 2, 2025<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udcc5&nbsp;<strong>Release Date<\/strong>: PM Modi will disburse the&nbsp;<strong>20th installment<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,000<\/strong>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;<strong>PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme<\/strong>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<strong>August 2, 2025<\/strong>, in&nbsp;<strong>Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc68\u200d\ud83c\udf3e&nbsp;<strong>Beneficiaries<\/strong>: Over&nbsp;<strong>9.7 crore eligible farmers<\/strong>&nbsp;receive&nbsp;<strong>\u20b96,000 annually<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>three equal installments<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>\u20b92,000<\/strong>&nbsp;each.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\uded1&nbsp;<strong>Compliance Requirements<\/strong>: Farmers must complete&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar-based payment<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>e-KYC<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>land seeding<\/strong>&nbsp;or face suspension until they fulfill these criteria.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd0d&nbsp;<strong>Check Status<\/strong>: Visit&nbsp;<strong>pmkisan.gov.in<\/strong>, click&nbsp;<strong>\u201cKnow Your Status\u201d<\/strong>, and enter your&nbsp;<strong>registration number<\/strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar number<\/strong>&nbsp;to verify eligibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcf1&nbsp;<strong>e-KYC Methods<\/strong>: Complete&nbsp;<strong>OTP-based<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>biometric<\/strong>, or&nbsp;<strong>facial authentication<\/strong>&nbsp;e-KYC\u2014mandatory for all beneficiaries to avoid payment failure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udd95&nbsp;<strong>New Registration<\/strong>: New farmers can register at&nbsp;<strong>pmkisan.gov.in<\/strong>&nbsp;by entering their&nbsp;<strong>Aadhaar number<\/strong>, filling out the form, and submitting for approval.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Australia to Restrict YouTube for Under-16s to Shield Kids from Predatory Algorithms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddfa\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/svg\/1f1e6-1f1fa.svg\">&nbsp;<strong>Australian ban<\/strong>&nbsp;bars&nbsp;<strong>under-16s from YouTube<\/strong>, aiming to curb&nbsp;<strong>predatory algorithms<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd33 Builds on last year\u2019s prohibition of&nbsp;<strong>Facebook<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Instagram<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Snapchat<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>TikTok<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>X<\/strong>&nbsp;from December 10.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udde3\ufe0f Prime Minister&nbsp;<strong>Anthony Albanese<\/strong>&nbsp;vows to&nbsp;<strong>protect young people<\/strong>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<strong>social media harm<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcca Communications Minister&nbsp;<strong>Anika Wells<\/strong>&nbsp;reveals&nbsp;<strong>40% of children<\/strong>&nbsp;have encountered&nbsp;<strong>harmful content<\/strong>&nbsp;on YouTube.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udeab Under-16s prohibited from holding&nbsp;<strong>accounts<\/strong>&nbsp;on major platforms\u2014parents assured of&nbsp;<strong>government support<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb0 Platforms face an&nbsp;<strong>A$49.5 million fine<\/strong>&nbsp;if they fail to block underage users under the new rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcf9 YouTube labels itself \u201ca video-sharing platform,\u201d calling the move a&nbsp;<strong>jarring U-turn<\/strong>&nbsp;by the government.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India-born Shailesh Jejurikar to Lead Procter &amp; Gamble as CEO from January 2026 \ud83d\ude80<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd14&nbsp;<strong>Shailesh Jejurikar<\/strong>&nbsp;will replace&nbsp;<strong>Jon Moeller<\/strong>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<strong>President and CEO of Procter &amp; Gamble<\/strong>, effective&nbsp;<strong>January 1, 2026<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udff7\ufe0f Joined&nbsp;<strong>P&amp;G<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>1989<\/strong>&nbsp;as an&nbsp;<strong>assistant brand manager<\/strong>, rising through multiple leadership roles over&nbsp;<strong>35+ years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2699\ufe0f Serving as&nbsp;<strong>Chief Operating Officer<\/strong>&nbsp;for the past&nbsp;<strong>six years<\/strong>&nbsp;and also a&nbsp;<strong>board member<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>Otis Elevator Co.<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 Helped build&nbsp;<strong>P&amp;G\u2019s global Fabric Care and Home Care businesses<\/strong>&nbsp;across&nbsp;<strong>North America<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Europe<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Asia<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Latin America<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfed P&amp;G\u2019s India portfolio features brands like&nbsp;<strong>Ariel<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Tide<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Whisper<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>Olay<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Gillette<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf93 An&nbsp;<strong>IIM Lucknow alumnus<\/strong>, Jejurikar joins an elite league of&nbsp;<strong>India-born<\/strong>&nbsp;executives leading global giants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc51 The&nbsp;<strong>Board<\/strong>&nbsp;has nominated him for election as a&nbsp;<strong>Director<\/strong>&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<strong>October 2025<\/strong>&nbsp;annual shareholders\u2019 meeting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India\u2019s L&amp;T Secures Ultra-Mega Offshore Hydrocarbon Order Worth \u20b915,000+ Crore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2693&nbsp;<strong>Ultra-mega order<\/strong>&nbsp;valued at&nbsp;<strong>\u20b915,000 crore+<\/strong>&nbsp;secured by&nbsp;<strong>L&amp;T Energy Hydrocarbon Offshore<\/strong>&nbsp;from a&nbsp;<strong>Middle Eastern client<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udfed Scope includes&nbsp;<strong>engineering<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>procurement<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>construction<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>installation<\/strong>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<strong>offshore structures<\/strong>, plus&nbsp;<strong>upgradation of existing facilities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10 Order spans&nbsp;<strong>multiple offshore packages<\/strong>, highlighting L&amp;T\u2019s&nbsp;<strong>EPCIC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, Commissioning)<\/strong>&nbsp;expertise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd12 Classified under the&nbsp;<strong>\u2018ultra-mega\u2019 category<\/strong>&nbsp;(orders exceeding&nbsp;<strong>\u20b915,000 crore<\/strong>), reaffirming its&nbsp;<strong>global EPCIC capabilities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\ude80 Underscores L&amp;T\u2019s ability to deliver&nbsp;<strong>complex offshore projects<\/strong>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<strong>speed<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>precision<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>world-class safety practices<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcc8 In&nbsp;<strong>Q4 FY25<\/strong>, L&amp;T posted a&nbsp;<strong>25% rise<\/strong>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<strong>consolidated PAT<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b95,497 crore<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>revenue growth<\/strong>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<strong>\u20b974,392 crore<\/strong>, reflecting&nbsp;<strong>strong financial momentum<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb9 L&amp;T shares traded around&nbsp;<strong>\u20b93,417<\/strong>&nbsp;on the&nbsp;<strong>BSE<\/strong>, signaling&nbsp;<strong>market confidence<\/strong>&nbsp;in its&nbsp;<strong>offshore ventures<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">India Finds Rare Earth Elements in MP Coalfields Amid China Export Curbs \ud83d\udd0d\u26cf\ufe0f<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd0d&nbsp;<strong>Discovery Location and Context<\/strong>: Rare earth elements (REE) identified in the&nbsp;<strong>Singaruli coalfields<\/strong>&nbsp;of Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant addition to India\u2019s critical minerals reserves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcca&nbsp;<strong>Concentration Levels<\/strong>: Enrichment reaches around&nbsp;<strong>250 ppm in coal samples<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>400 ppm in non-coal samples<\/strong>, indicating&nbsp;<strong>promising reserves<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udee0\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Technological Focus<\/strong>: Emphasis on developing&nbsp;<strong>indigenous extraction technologies<\/strong>&nbsp;to achieve&nbsp;<strong>economic viability<\/strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>economies of scale<\/strong>&nbsp;in REE recovery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd1d&nbsp;<strong>Research Collaborations<\/strong>: Memoranda of understanding signed with&nbsp;<strong>IMMT Bhubaneswar<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>NFTDC Hyderabad<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>IIT Hyderabad<\/strong>&nbsp;to drive advanced R&amp;D.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83c\udf10&nbsp;<strong>Strategic Implications<\/strong>: Aims to reduce dependence on&nbsp;<strong>imported rare earths<\/strong>, especially from China, which has imposed&nbsp;<strong>export restrictions<\/strong>&nbsp;affecting Indian manufacturing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f&nbsp;<strong>Regional Variations<\/strong>: Northeast coalfields show&nbsp;<strong>lower total REE content<\/strong>&nbsp;but a&nbsp;<strong>higher proportion of heavy REEs<\/strong>, prompting targeted extraction studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd0b\u00a0<strong>Application Potential<\/strong>: REEs are vital for\u00a0<strong>clean energy<\/strong>,\u00a0<strong>electronics<\/strong>,\u00a0<strong>electric vehicles<\/strong>, and other\u00a0<strong>advanced technologies<\/strong>, boosting India\u2019s industrial competitiveness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.practicemock.com\/blog\/current-affairs-today\/\">Read Other Months&#8217; Current Affairs<\/a><\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Stay exam\u2011ready with August 2025 Current Affairs. Cover key national, international, economic &#038; sports updates for IBPS Clerk, SBI PO &#038; more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":164467,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-172461","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-current-affairs"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Current Affairs Today: August 2025 - Practicemock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Stay exam\u2011ready with August 2025 Current Affairs. 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