Beepedia Monthly Current Affairs (Beepedia) July 2025
Beepedia Monthly Current Affairs (Beepedia) July 2025
July 2025
INDEX
National __________________________________________________________ 19
International _____________________________________________________ 25
States____________________________________________________________ 29
Defence __________________________________________________________ 54
Events ___________________________________________________________ 60
Appointments _____________________________________________________ 67
Obituaries_________________________________________________________ 72
Books ___________________________________________________________ 74
Sports ___________________________________________________________ 74
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The Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth despite global economic uncertainties,
supported by strong domestic fundamentals and prudent macroeconomic policies, according to the
RBI’s Financial Stability Report (FSR).
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra noted that growth momentum is sustained by internal drivers, though
external spillovers and weather-related events may pose downside risks.
The inflation outlook is seen as benign, with confidence in aligning it with the RBI’s target.
The domestic financial system is showing increasing resilience, backed by strong capital buffers,
low NPAs, and robust profitability.
Stress tests confirm that banks and NBFCs would remain well-capitalised even under adverse
conditions.
Corporate balance sheets are strong, contributing to macroeconomic stability and supporting financial
conditions.
Monetary policy remains accommodative, with low market volatility, further easing financial conditions.
Geopolitical tensions, capital outflows, and global debt levels are identified as key near-term risks
to domestic financial stability.
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About RBI
Headquarters: Mumbai Established: 1 April 1935 Governor: Sanjay Malhotra
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has advised all banks to adopt the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator
(FRI), developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), to combat cyber-enabled financial
fraud.
The FRI assesses mobile numbers used in financial transactions and classifies them as Medium, High,
or Very High risk, based on data from sources like I4C and financial institutions.
It enables real-time risk assessment and alerts, allowing banks to block, delay, or flag suspicious
transactions, enhancing fraud prevention.
The tool is integrated with leading UPI platforms like PhonePe and Paytm, promoting collaboration
across the financial and telecom sectors.
By offering proactive alerts, FRI helps protect users from financial losses, particularly as UPI usage
grows across India.
This initiative strengthens cybersecurity in the digital financial ecosystem and boosts public trust in digital
payments.
It marks a move towards making risk-based transaction monitoring a standard industry practice.
The DoT’s continued efforts to improve cybersecurity will support safer, more resilient digital finance
infrastructure in the country.
From July 16, 2025, all government payments above ₹75 crore must be processed through the RBI’s
e-Kuber platform.
The move aims to ensure transparency, faster fund transfers, and real-time tracking of high-value
government spending.
Previously, only payments over ₹500 crore used e-Kuber; now, the threshold has been reduced, and may
drop further to ₹50 crore.
The e-Kuber system, developed by the RBI, facilitates quick and secure transactions between the
government and banks.
With this system, account matching will happen within 24 hours, reducing administrative delays and
errors.
The new rule strengthens digital public finance management, especially for sectors like infrastructure,
defense, and welfare.
It also helps prevent misuse or delay in large payments and promotes efficient record-keeping.
This is part of the government’s broader effort to make financial processes more accountable and tech-
driven.
NSDL Payments Bank has been officially included in the Second Schedule of the RBI Act, 1934,
granting it scheduled bank status.
This inclusion, notified on June 19, 2025, allows the bank to access RBI’s borrowing facilities,
clearinghouses, and other regulatory benefits.
Scheduled banks must meet RBI’s conditions related to capital adequacy, governance, and public
interest under Section 42(6)(a).
NSDL Payments Bank, based in Mumbai, focuses on small savings, digital payments, and services for
underbanked and low-income groups.
The RBI’s recognition signals confidence in the bank’s financial stability, compliance, and its role in
financial inclusion.
As a scheduled bank, NSDL can now expand its lending and payment services more effectively within
India’s financial ecosystem.
The move enhances the bank’s operational capability and reputation among regulated financial
institutions.
This step reflects the RBI’s broader effort to strengthen digital banking and support inclusive economic
growth.
The RBI’s Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index) rose to 67 in FY25, up from 64.2 in FY24, reflecting
deeper financial usage and improved service quality.
The index measures progress across three parameters: access (35%), usage (45%), and quality (20%),
with growth seen in all areas.
The FI-Index, introduced in 2021, consolidates data from sectors like banking, insurance, investments,
pensions, and postal services.
The rise highlights India’s shift from just providing access to ensuring meaningful participation and trust
in financial systems.
Initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana have played a key role, with over 558 million accounts opened, 372.6
million in rural/semiurban areas and 311.3 million for female beneficiaries.
The improvement reflects sustained efforts in financial literacy and inclusion, particularly targeting
underserved communities.
Experts view the trend as a sign of growing financial empowerment and a more inclusive economy.
The RBI has introduced the Eligibility Criteria for Business Authorisation (ECBA) framework, replacing
the earlier FSWM norms for urban co-operative banks (UCBs).
ECBA sets clear rules for UCBs to expand branches, ATMs, and processing centres, based on audited
financials of the previous fiscal year.
Banks must maintain capital adequacy, ensure net NPAs under 3%, and report net profits for two
consecutive years with no accumulated losses.
Compliance with CRR and SLR norms, full Core Banking Solutions (CBS) implementation, and
inclusion of at least two professional directors on the board is mandatory.
UCBs must self-assess ECBA compliance annually, get board approval, and report to RBI within 15
days; compliance is valid till 30 September of the next financial year.
Tier 3 and Tier 4 UCBs with net worth over ₹50 crore may expand to two additional states per year
and three districts within their state without prior RBI approval.
Expansion requires capital adequacy for at least five branches per new state; within the home state, full
district expansion needs no RBI nod.
UCBs are classified into four tiers, with Tier 3 holding ₹1,000–10,000 crore in deposits and Tier 4
exceeding ₹10,000 crore, guiding compliance under ECBA.
The RBI has capped investment by Regulated Entities (REs) in any AIF scheme at 20% collectively
and 10% individually, effective January 1, 2026.
If a RE invests over 5% in an AIF with downstream exposure to its own debtor (excluding equity), it must
make 100% provision for that exposure.
Investments made as subordinated units must be fully deducted from the RE’s Tier-1 and Tier-2
capital.
These new directions replace the guidelines from December 2023 and March 2024, aligning with SEBI
norms to improve risk governance.
The guidelines aim to curb misuse of AIFs for evergreening loans and reduce concentration risk by
ensuring wider participation.
Stronger provisioning norms are introduced to discourage risky or indirect financing of stressed assets
through AIF structures.
The REs covered include banks, NBFCs, co-operative banks, and housing finance companies.
India’s gig economy has grown from 7.7 million workers in 2020–21 to around 12 million by FY 2024–
25, now forming over 2% of the workforce.
Gig workers earn through platforms without formal job benefits but with documented tasks and digital
payments, marking a shift from informal to semi-formal work.
Platform-based pricing and digital records improve wage fairness and transparency, making gig work
visible to the formal economy.
Digitised earnings help gig workers access formal credit, but traditional credit scoring models often
exclude them due to income irregularities.
New credit scoring innovations use gig platform data and behavioural analytics, while embedded
finance offers micro-loans and advances.
India’s Account Aggregator framework enables secure data sharing, supporting tailored financial
products for gig workers.
By 2029–30, the gig workforce may reach 23.5 million, contributing 1.25% to GDP and creating up to 90
million jobs long term.
Key challenges include income instability, lack of social security, and safety issues, requiring stronger
labour rights and digital inclusion.
The IMF has raised India’s growth forecast to 6.4% for both 2025-26 and 2026-27, an upgrade of 0.2
and 0.1 percentage points from April projections.
This aligns with a global upgrade, as the IMF now expects world growth at 3% (2025) and 3.1% (2026).
The upward revision reflects stronger front-loading of demand ahead of expected tariffs and lower U.S.
tariff rates than earlier anticipated.
Improved financial conditions, partly due to a weaker U.S. dollar, also contributed to the revised outlook.
Fiscal expansion in several major economies added further support to global and Indian growth
expectations.
The data comes from the IMF’s World Economic Outlook July 2025 update, replacing April’s earlier
estimates.
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About IMF
Formation: 22 July 1944 Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S. MD: Kristalina Georgieva
ADB has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 down to 6.5% (from 6.7%) citing US tariffs and
global policy uncertainty.
Despite the revision, India remains among the fastest-growing major economies, supported by strong
domestic consumption and rural demand revival.
Services and agriculture sectors are expected to lead growth, with agriculture benefiting from above-
normal monsoons.
ADB lowered the inflation forecast for FY26 to 3.8% due to declining food prices, while FY27 inflation
remains unchanged.
RBI projects retail inflation at 3.7% for FY26, indicating easing price pressures.
ADB also trimmed FY27 GDP forecast to 6.7% from 6.8%, though growth may recover with reduced
policy uncertainty and favorable financial conditions.
World Bank maintains India’s FY26 growth at 6.3%, and S&P recently upgraded it to 6.5%, while Ind-Ra
lowered its estimate to 6.3%, citing tariff and investment concerns.
The exchange rate is expected to average ₹86.9/USD, with retail inflation averaging around 3%, as per
Ind-Ra.
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About ADB
Headquarters: Philippines Founded: 19 December 1966 President: Masato Kanda
Net FDI slumps 98% to $40 million in May 2025 as outward flows accelerate
Net FDI in India fell by 98.2% to just $40 million in May 2025, down from $2.2 billion in May 2024, due
to higher repatriation, divestment, and outward investments, as per RBI data.
Gross FDI inflows declined to $7.2 billion in May 2025 from $8.1 billion a year earlier, while
repatriation/divestment rose to $5.0 billion and outward FDI increased to $2.1 billion.
For April–May 2025, net FDI was nearly flat at $3.9 billion, compared to $4.0 billion in the same period
of 2024.
Gross inward FDI in April–May rose to $15.91 billion, indicating continued investor interest, despite
high outflows.
RBI sees the rise in repatriation as a marker of market maturity, allowing smooth entry and exit for
foreign investors.
Outward FDI from India increased to $5.3 billion in April–May 2025 from $3.1 billion in 2024, led by
sectors like transport, communication, manufacturing, and finance.
Key source countries for FDI were Singapore, Mauritius, UAE, and the US, and top recipient sectors
included manufacturing, financial services, and IT.
Major outward destinations were Mauritius, US, and UAE, highlighting strong bilateral investment flows.
The Quick Estimate of IIP will now be released on the 28th of every month (or next working day), with
revisions following as per policy.
IIP growth for June 2025 is 1.5%, an improvement from 1.2% in May 2025; the overall IIP index stands
at 153.3, up from 151.0 in June 2024.
Sector-wise growth for June 2025: Mining (-8.7%), Manufacturing (3.9%), and Electricity (-2.6%).
Within manufacturing, 15 of 23 industry groups showed positive growth, led by basic metals (9.6%),
refined petroleum products (4.2%), and fabricated metal products (15.2%).
Key items contributing to growth include MS slabs, HR coils, diesel, naphtha, and stainless steel
utensils.
Under use-based classification, indices for June 2025: Primary goods (151.3), Capital goods (115.2),
Intermediate goods (167.9), Infrastructure goods (198.3), Consumer durables (130.8), and
Consumer non-durables (144.6).
Growth rates by use: Infrastructure goods (7.2%), Intermediate goods (5.5%), and Capital goods
(3.5%) led the increase; primary goods and consumer non-durables declined.
Final revision of May 2025 indices was done using updated data, with response rates of 93.6% (May) and
89.2% (June).
Detailed data by sector, NIC-2 digit level, and use-based classification is available in Statements I–IV.
The next IIP release for July 2025 will be on 28th August 2025.
India likely to forego ₹4,060 crore in first year of UK trade pact: GTRI
India is projected to lose ₹4,060 crore in customs revenue in the first year of the India-UK Free Trade
Agreement (FTA) due to tariff cuts, as per GTRI.
By the tenth year, the annual loss could rise to ₹6,345 crore, based on current trade volumes and phased
tariff elimination.
India imported USD 8.6 billion worth of goods from the UK in 2024-25, mainly industrial products with
a weighted average tariff of 9.2%.
High-tariff agricultural goods (64.3%) were mostly excluded, except for products like whisky and gin.
India will eliminate tariffs on 64% of UK imports immediately and eventually on 85% of tariff lines, while
reducing tariffs on another 5%.
The UK imported USD 14.5 billion worth of Indian goods and agreed to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian
imports under the CETA.
The UK is expected to lose around ₹3,884 crore annually, and this fiscal impact is likely to grow as
Indian exports rise.
The FTA, signed on July 24, 2025, requires UK parliamentary approval and may take about a year to
implement.
India needs $2.4 trn to build climate-resilient infra by 2050: World Bank
According to the World Bank, India will need over $2.4 trillion by 2050 and $10.9 trillion by 2070 to build
climate-resilient urban infrastructure for its projected 951 million urban population.
The report warns that climate events like heatwaves, floods, and sea-level rise will severely threaten
urban centres if preventive action isn't taken.
A new national urban resilience programme has been proposed, focusing on urban flood risk
management, stormwater systems, and heat mitigation.
Building resilient infrastructure could raise India’s GDP by up to 0.4% and save as many as 130,000 lives
annually by 2050.
Over 50% of the needed infrastructure for 2050 is yet to be built, offering a key opportunity for
sustainable urban development.
The World Bank stresses early investment in energy-efficient housing, urban transport, and waste
management, while involving the private sector for better financing.
Without timely action, climate-related urban losses—already costing up to 2.5% of GDP annually—
could double under a high-emission scenario.
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About World Bank
Established: July 7, 1944 Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S. President: Ajay Banga
India and the UK signed a Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement, aiming to boost trade in sectors
like MSMEs, agriculture, jewellery, engineering goods, and aerospace.
The deal is India’s best trade offer so far and the UK’s biggest since Brexit, expected to benefit British
manufacturing, whisky, and services, while making Indian goods cheaper in the UK.
A new ‘India-UK Vision 2035’ replaces the old Roadmap 2030, focusing on growth, technology,
climate, defence, and multilateral reforms.
Both sides committed to annual reviews of Vision 2035 and more regular PM-level interaction.
A Double Contributions Convention was agreed to simplify social security payments for cross-border
workers.
The UK reaffirmed its support for India’s permanent seat at the UN Security Council.
The two leaders discussed global security, terrorism, and pledged to enhance cooperation on the
extradition of economic offenders.
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About UK
Capital: London Currency: Pound sterling
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) plans to raise its private-sector financing share from
24.6% to 50% and increase total lending to $17–18 billion in the coming years.
Since inception, AIIB has lent nearly $12 billion to India, with $1.8 billion directed to the private sector.
AIIB is focusing on renewables, green energy, mobility, and affordable housing, aiming to help de-
risk private investments through its strong project evaluation and monitoring.
Ajay Bhushan Pandey, AIIB Vice-President, emphasized India’s $1.5 trillion infrastructure need by
2030, which can't be met by the government alone.
AIIB acts as a catalyst and anchor investor, encouraging others to follow by ensuring project quality.
It has held meetings with various government departments and private players to build a sovereign
project pipeline.
AIIB also supports trade finance, offering guarantees during crises like pandemics or national
calamities.
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About AIIB
Formation: 16 January 2016 Headquarters: Beijing President: Jin Liqun
Donald Trump announces 25% tariff on India and unspecified penalties for buying Russian oil
Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting August 1, along with an unspecified
“penalty” for India’s defence and energy imports from Russia.
He criticized India for “obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers” and a massive trade deficit,
highlighting India’s high tariffs and low US exports in return.
India’s Commerce Ministry stated it's studying the implications and emphasized protecting farmers,
MSMEs, and national interest in trade deals.
The US sees this move as pressure on India during ongoing talks for a bilateral trade agreement, with
another negotiation round due on August 25.
Donald Trump framed India’s BRICS membership as an attack on the US dollar, reinforcing his stance
on penalizing countries tied closely to Russia.
The penalty for Russian imports marks the first use of secondary tariffs, triggered by India’s rising
imports of Russian crude oil and defence equipment.
India’s trade surplus with the US stands at $45.7 billion in 2024, with exports dominated by
pharmaceuticals, jewellery, and petroleum products, while imports include oil, coal, and aircraft.
‘New GDP series to be released on Feb. 27, IIP and CPI to follow’
MoSPI will release updated data series for GDP, IIP, and CPI over the next two years, with GDP and IIP
adopting a new base year of 2022–23, and CPI updated to 2024.
The new GDP series will be released on February 27, 2026, while the IIP update will begin from April
2026; the new CPI series will come out in the first quarter of FY 2026–27.
Two new surveys — the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) and Domestic Tourism
Expenditure Survey (DTES) — were launched in July 2025 to assess household spending on travel and
tourism.
NHTS will study travel patterns, transport modes, and price sensitivity of travel demand, while DTES will
capture data on tourism spending, purpose, transport, accommodation, and service use.
A new Annual Survey of Service Sector Enterprises (ASSSE) will start in January 2026 to generate
data on the formal services sector, similar to the Annual Survey of Industries.
The next Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) will be conducted in 2027–28 and will
now be held every three years instead of five.
MoSPI is expanding CPI data collection by using online sources, administrative records, scanner data,
and web scraping, including from e-commerce platforms, to improve price data accuracy.
These updates aim to provide more granular, timely, and representative economic data to support
policymaking and economic analysis.
Key Provisions of the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 to come into effect from 1st August 2025
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025, notified on 15th April 2025, introduces 19 amendments
across five key banking legislations to enhance governance and depositor protection.
Provisions under sections 3, 4, 5, 15–20 came into force on 1st August 2025, as per Gazette Notification
S.O. 3494(E).
The Act redefines ‘substantial interest’ threshold from ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore, a major update since 1968.
In cooperative banks, the maximum tenure for directors (excluding chairperson and whole-time
directors) has been increased from 8 to 10 years, aligning with the 97th Constitutional Amendment.
Public Sector Banks (PSBs) can now transfer unclaimed shares and interest to the Investor
Education and Protection Fund (IEPF), aligning with Companies Act norms.
PSBs are empowered to offer remuneration to statutory auditors, enabling the appointment of high-
quality audit professionals.
The Act aims to improve audit quality, investor safety, and overall governance standards in the
banking sector.
These reforms mark a major regulatory step toward a more transparent, accountable, and investor-
friendly banking environment in India.
EximPe has received in-principle approval from the RBI for a Payment Aggregator – Cross Border
(PA-CB) licence, boosting its role in cross-border e-commerce and B2B trade.
It joins other approved startups like Skydo, BriskPe, PayPal, while full licences have been granted to
players like Adyen India, Amazon Pay, and BillDesk.
With $450 million in transactions processed and over 5,000 SME clients, EximPe plans to grow 10X
by FY26 and strengthen its infrastructure.
The company aims to simplify regulatory and financial processes for businesses operating between
India and emerging Asian markets.
Backed by $3.5 million in funding, EximPe is positioning itself as a leading cross-border payment
solution provider, especially for SMEs.
Its early regulatory clearance gives it a strategic edge in the fast-growing fintech and cross-border
payments sector.
India’s forex reserves fell by $3.064 billion to $696.672 billion for the week ending July 11, as per RBI
data.
This follows a similar drop of $3.049 billion in the previous week, down from the all-time high of $704.885
billion in September 2024.
The decline was mainly due to a fall in foreign currency assets, which dipped by $2.477 billion to
$588.81 billion.
These assets include the valuation effects of non-US currencies like the euro, pound, and yen.
Gold reserves decreased by $498 million, now standing at $84.348 billion.
SDRs fell by $66 million, and India’s IMF reserve position dropped by $24 million to $4.711 billion.
The fall reflects changes in global currency movements and asset valuations impacting India’s external
balance sheet.
India’s outward FDI in June 2024 rose to $5.03 billion, up from $2.9 billion in June 2023 and nearly
doubled from $2.7 billion in May, as per RBI data.
The FDI consists of equity, loans, and guarantees; equity commitments more than tripled to $2.04
billion, while loans rose slightly to $585.55 million.
Guarantees surged to $2.40 billion, significantly higher than both June 2023 and May 2024.
Key contributors include Aster DM Healthcare ($907.6 million) for its Mauritius unit and Indian Oil
Corporation ($294.99 million) for its Netherlands subsidiary.
Integris Health invested $371.5 million in equity, and NSE committed $329.2 million (equity and
guarantee) for its GIFT City subsidiary.
Total outbound FDI for April–June 2024 reached $6.64 billion, with Singapore ($2.21 billion) as the
top destination, followed by Mauritius and the US ($1 billion each).
India’s trade deficit shrank by 9.4% to $20.3 billion in Q1, mainly due to a strong 11% rise in services
exports.
Total exports rose by 6% to $210.3 billion, with services exports hitting $98.1 billion, up from $88.5
billion last year.
Merchandise exports grew only 2% to $112.2 billion, but non-petroleum exports rose 6%, showing
resilience despite falling petroleum prices.
Imports increased by 4.4% to $230.6 billion, with merchandise and services imports up 4.2% and 4.9%
respectively.
The United States remained India's top export market, with exports jumping 22.1% to $25.5 billion.
Other major destinations included the UAE ($9.04B), Netherlands ($5.65B), and China ($4.4B).
Officials expect to surpass last year’s export record of $825 billion if the current trend continues.
CPI-based inflation is projected to average 4% in FY25, down from 4.6% last year, driven by softer food
prices due to an above-normal monsoon forecast by IMD.
Non-food inflation is expected to remain low owing to declining commodity prices, according to Crisil’s
report.
GDP growth is estimated at 6.5%, though downside risks persist due to global and domestic factors.
Repo rate was cut by 50 basis points in June to 5.5%, and another rate cut is likely if inflation stays
soft, followed by a pause.
Bank credit growth remained weak in Q1 FY25, suggesting cautious lending activity.
Crude oil prices rose to $80/barrel, raising concerns over bond yields, rupee stability, and capital flow
volatility.
Despite global headwinds, liquidity conditions are supportive, and adequate monsoon may aid growth
momentum.
CTBC Bank, Taiwan’s largest private bank, has applied to set up an IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) in GIFT
City, following approvals from Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission.
The bank plans to occupy 3100 sq. ft. in Brigade Towers, GIFT SEZ, and already has a presence in India
since 1996.
Taipei Fubon Bank and multiple French and UAE banks like Mashreq Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank
have also sought or received IBU approvals.
GIFT City IBUs now total 31, up from 15 in 2022, with a cumulative asset base of $88.5 billion as of
March 2025.
These IBUs offer services like foreign currency loans, trade finance, and treasury products, aiming to
serve both international and Indian markets.
Sectoral growth in areas like electronics and semiconductors is attracting Taiwanese banks to expand
operations in India.
Major banks like Standard Chartered and Axis Bank have also expanded office space in GIFT IFSC,
showing growing confidence in the hub’s potential.
HSBC, a founding member of the Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), has become the first UK bank to
exit the coalition, signalling a shift in global banking’s climate commitments.
The NZBA, launched in 2021 under UNEP, aimed to align banks with net zero emissions by 2050 and
grew to include 144 banks across 44 countries.
HSBC’s exit follows similar moves by major US and Canadian banks, driven by political, legal, and
strategic pressures.
The bank cited plans to independently update its net zero transition strategy in late 2025, while
reaffirming commitment to science-based targets.
Climate activists and investors criticized the move as a retreat from accountability, with some clients
reconsidering ties with HSBC.
HSBC has delayed interim targets and pushed its 2030 net zero goal to 2050, but remains part of
GFANZ, a broader global climate finance group.
The decision may trigger other UK and European banks to re-evaluate their participation in collective
climate frameworks like the NZBA.
The Index of Eight Core Industries grew by 1.7% in June 2025, down from 5% in June 2024 and far
below the 2024–25 average of 6.3%.
Despite being a three-month high, growth was weak due to five of the eight sectors contracting.
The coal sector saw the sharpest contraction at -6.8%, compared to 2.8% growth in May and 14.8% in
June 2024.
Crude oil and natural gas sectors also declined by 1.2% and 2.8%, respectively.
The electricity sector shrank 2.8%, following a 4.7% contraction in May 2025.
Sectors that grew include steel (9.3%), cement (9.2%), and refinery products (3.4%).
Steel and cement posted the strongest performances, with steel improving over May and last year.
Refinery products recovered from earlier contraction, showing modest growth.
The data was released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, highlighting uneven industrial
momentum.
ADB Launches Regional Network to Accelerate Universal Health Coverage in Asia and the Pacific
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) launched the UHC PEERS network to accelerate universal health
coverage (UHC) across Asia and the Pacific.
Announced at the INSPIRE Health Forum, it involves over 25 developing countries, including health
ministers from nine nations.
UHC PEERS offers a peer-to-peer learning platform to help countries expand coverage, reach
underserved populations, and share health system innovations.
The network complements the UHC Knowledge Hub in Tokyo and promotes reforms in health
financing, service delivery, and private sector integration.
Over 1 billion people in the region still lack access to basic healthcare, with many pushed into poverty
due to medical costs.
ADB highlighted that every $1 invested in primary healthcare can generate up to $10 in economic
growth, underscoring the economic benefits of UHC.
The initiative also supports pandemic preparedness and health system resilience, drawing lessons
from COVID-19 for future development strategies.
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About ADB
Headquarters: Philippines Founded: 19 December 1966 President: Masato Kanda
India’s retail inflation (CPI) fell to 2.10% in June 2025, down from 2.82% in May, marking the lowest
year-on-year rate since January 2019.
This reflects a 72 basis point drop month-on-month, showing a clear easing in price pressures.
Food inflation saw a sharp decline of 205 basis points compared to June last year.
The fall is attributed to a favourable base effect and reduced prices of vegetables, pulses, cereals,
meat, sugar, milk, and spices.
The data was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
This easing in inflation may influence monetary policy decisions and support consumer spending.
Overall, the trend suggests price stability returning after months of food-driven inflation volatility.
NITI Aayog launches third edition of “Trade Watch Quarterly” in New Delhi
Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member of NITI Aayog, released the Q3 FY25 edition of "Trade Watch Quarterly"
on July 14, 2025, in New Delhi.
The report analyzes India’s trade performance from October to December 2024, showing 3% growth in
merchandise exports ($108.7 bn) and 6.5% rise in imports ($187.5 bn).
A strong services surplus of $52.3 bn, driven by 17% growth in services exports, helped balance the
trade deficit.
Notable export growth included aircraft and spacecraft parts, with over 200% year-on-year increase,
and high-tech exports led by electrical machinery and arms/ammunition.
India was the 5th largest exporter of Digitally Delivered Services (DDS) in 2024, reaching $269 billion.
The thematic focus highlights shifts in US tariff structures and the potential strategic advantage for
Indian exports in pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery.
The report stresses the need for agile trade policies to seize opportunities from realigned global trade
dynamics.
The publication reflects India’s intent to deepen global market engagement amid geopolitical,
technological, and policy shifts.
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About NITI Aayog
Formed: 1 January 2015 Headquarters: New Delhi Chairperson: Narendra Modi
In 2024–25, gross GST collections hit a record ₹22.08 lakh crore, with a 9.4% year-on-year growth,
reflecting improved tax compliance and economic formalisation.
GST’s structure includes four main tax slabs and special rates, governed by the GST Council, which
has played a vital role in rate rationalisation, digital compliance, and sector-specific reforms.
Key features like Input Tax Credit (ITC), threshold exemption, composition scheme, and online
return filing have eased the burden on MSMEs, supporting their growth and financing via platforms like
TReDS.
For consumers, GST has reduced the overall tax burden, made essential goods cheaper, and expanded
the taxpayer base to over 1.51 crore active registrations.
The reform has transformed logistics, cutting transport times by over 33%, eliminating border delays, and
enabling centralised supply chains.
GST’s impact is visible in growing collections, with average monthly revenues rising from ₹95,000 crore
(2020–21) to ₹1.84 lakh crore (2024–25).
Reforms like e-invoicing, e-Way bills, QRMP scheme, and rate cuts on EVs and real estate have made
the system more efficient and inclusive.
A Deloitte GST@8 survey found that 85% of businesses across industries had a positive experience,
citing simplification, digitalisation, and uniformity as key benefits.
As GST enters its ninth year, it remains a cornerstone of India’s economic policy, continuing to evolve
toward ease of doing business, compliance improvement, and inclusive growth.
Gross GST collections in June 2025 stood at ₹1.85 lakh crore, marking a four-month low, though 6.2%
higher than June 2024.
This figure was 8.2% lower than the collections in May 2025.
The growth rate in June 2025 was the lowest in four years, since June 2021.
Net GST collections, after refunds, were ₹1.59 lakh crore, showing a 3.3% annual growth.
The first quarter (April–June 2025) saw total collections of ₹2.07 lakh crore.
Experts note the muted growth is influenced by geopolitical uncertainties and weakened consumer
sentiment.
Despite the overall slowdown, there were strong regional gains in Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura,
Lakshadweep, and Ladakh.
Analysts urge to look beyond headline numbers for a more nuanced economic assessment.
India's FY26 GDP growth likely to be 6.4-6.7% amid strong demand: CII
The Indian economy is projected to grow by 6.4–6.7% in FY 2025-26, driven by strong domestic
demand, according to CII President Rajiv Memani.
Key growth enablers include a favorable monsoon, increased liquidity from the CRR cut, and lower
interest rates.
The RBI’s 100 basis point CRR cut is expected to inject ₹2.5 lakh crore into the banking system,
boosting lending.
The benchmark interest rate was also reduced by 50 basis points to 5.5%, supporting consumption and
investment.
Geopolitical uncertainty and external trade risks pose downside threats to growth.
However, these are seen as balanced by internal economic strength, especially resilient domestic
consumption.
The outlook reflects carefully balanced risks and opportunities for the Indian economy in the coming
fiscal year.
SEBI and FINANCIAL AWARENESS
SEBI opens sandbox to fractional share pitch
Sebi has approved Bengaluru-based startup Xaults to test fractional share trading in its innovation
sandbox, signaling a shift from its earlier 2021 rejection.
Fractional shares allow investors to buy or trade portions of a share, a concept widely used in US
markets.
Xaults’ proposal succeeded due to a custody framework that places fractional shares at the depository
level, not with brokers.
Full-scale testing depends on Sebi moving the project into the regulatory sandbox, with further
collaboration planned on smart contract-based settlements.
The 2021 proposal by Zerodha and StockHissa was rejected due to structural issues and limitations on
brokers holding shares.
Legal experts note that current laws, including the Companies Act, 2013, only allow whole-unit share
ownership.
For implementation, amendments are needed in the Companies Act and possibly the Sebi Act, along
with clarity on KYC, AML, tax treatment, and corporate actions.
Coordination between Sebi, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and tax authorities is essential for
enabling fractional ownership legally and operationally.
Learn Along:
About SEBI
Founded: 12 April 1988 Headquarters: Mumbai Chairperson: Tuhin Kanta Pandey
SEBI bans Jane Street from Indian markets for ₹4,843 crore index manipulation
SEBI has banned U.S.-based Jane Street Group from participating in the Indian securities market for
manipulating stock indices.
The firm allegedly earned ₹4,843 crore unlawfully by influencing Bank Nifty and Nifty 50 through
aggressive trading strategies.
This manipulation affected options pricing, enabling Jane Street to generate substantial profits.
SEBI has directed the group to transfer the profits to an escrow account in a scheduled commercial
bank.
Banks, depositories, and market institutions have been instructed not to allow debit transactions
from Jane Street accounts without SEBI's approval.
The firm has been given 21 days to respond to SEBI’s order.
The action highlights SEBI's focus on maintaining market integrity and protecting investor interests.
Green Climate Fund has approved $200 million for a new Asian Development Bank-led programme in
India
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved $200 million for an ADB-led programme to boost clean
energy investments in India.
The funding supports the India Green Finance Facility (IGFF), a blended finance initiative aimed at
attracting public and private capital for emerging clean energy technologies.
This marks ADB’s first partnership with GCF in India, aiming to enhance the capacity of Indian
development finance institutions (DFIs) to scale climate action.
The IGFF will fund technologies like round-the-clock renewable energy, green hydrogen, compressed
biogas, electric transport in rural areas, and decentralised solutions.
The initiative will help India decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors such as industry, agriculture, and
transportation.
ADB described this as a milestone in supporting India’s goal to reach net zero emissions by 2070.
The programme reflects India's shift from traditional renewables to next-generation clean technologies.
Learn Along:
About ADB
Formation: 19 December 1966 Headquarters: Philippines President: Masato Kanda
The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1-lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme
to encourage private sector investment in basic research.
The scheme aims to translate research into innovative products and technologies with market
potential.
Originally announced in the 2024 interim Budget, the Science and Technology Ministry will manage
the corpus.
An additional ₹20,000 crore has been allocated to the Ministry for 2025–26.
Funding will focus on projects at Technological Readiness Level-4 (TRL-4), which often lack financial
backing.
The goal is to make private sector contributions to research exceed those of the government, as in
technologically advanced nations.
Only projects with a certain level of development and commercial viability will be supported.
Nvidia Corp. became the first company ever to reach a $4 trillion market valuation, with shares rising
2.8% on July 9, 2025, to $164.42.
The stock has surged over 20% in 2025 and more than 1,000% since early 2023, now making up 7.5%
of the S&P 500, near a record influence.
The growth is driven by strong AI demand, with major clients like Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and
Alphabet expected to spend $350 billion on capex, up from $310 billion.
Nvidia’s chips remain central to the AI boom, especially after a sharp rebound from April 2025, following
earlier concerns from DeepSeek’s emergence and Trump’s trade war threats.
Wall Street remains bullish, with 90% of analysts rating it a buy, and the stock trading at 33x forward
earnings, below its 10-year average.
Nvidia’s revenue and earnings growth continue to justify the valuation, with expectations of beating
guidance in the upcoming earnings season.
The company rapidly advanced from a $750 billion valuation in 2022 to $4 trillion in 2025, outpacing
even Apple and Microsoft in market cap growth.
Learn Along:
About Nvidia
Founded: April 5, 1993 Headquarters: California, U.S. President and CEO: Jensen Huang
Liquidity surplus in the banking system surged to ₹4.04 trillion on July 4, 2025, the highest since May
2022, driven by increased government spending and the RBI’s ₹2.69 trillion surplus transfer in May.
In the latest VRRR auction, the RBI received ₹1.7 trillion in bids but accepted only ₹1 trillion at a 5.47%
cut-off rate, showing strong demand for liquidity absorption tools.
The surplus has kept the overnight call rate near the SDF rate (5.25%), below the repo rate (5.50%),
indicating excess funds in the system.
Experts note the spike is due to high government expenditure and moderate GST inflows, easing
typical quarter-end liquidity pressure.
The RBI is expected to use short-term VRRR auctions to manage liquidity without affecting durable
liquidity amid upcoming GST outflows.
With limited tools after a Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut, the central bank is focused on ensuring policy
rate transmission without over-absorbing liquidity.
Market participants are watching whether the RBI will increase VRRR frequency or size to align the
Weighted Average Call Rate (WACR) more closely with the repo rate.
LIC has signed an MoU with the Department of Rural Development to promote the Bima Sakhi Yojana
in rural areas.
The scheme offers a performance-based agency career for women, with a stipend.
Bima Sakhis receive all benefits and privileges available to regular LIC agents.
The initiative aims to empower rural women and expand insurance penetration in remote regions.
Learn Along:
About LIC
Founded: 1 September 1956 Headquarters: Mumbai CEO & MD: R. Doraiswamy
About Bima Sakhi- “Mahila Career Agent (MCA) Scheme”
The Government of India launched Bima Sakhi- “Mahila Career Agent (MCA) Scheme” on 9.12.2024.
LIC has paid Rs 62.36 crore to Bima Sakhis as stipend in FY2024-25.
In the current Financial Year(2025-26), LIC has provided a budget of Rs 520 crore for the scheme, out of which
Rs115.13 crore has been paid up to 14.7.2025.
At present, there are 2,05,896 Bima Sakhis in the country.
NPCI International has added 13 more Indian banks to the UPI–PayNow cross-border payment linkage
with Singapore, bringing the total to 19 participating banks.
The update, effective from July 17, 2025, aims to enhance remittance access and convenience for users
in both countries.
Indian users can now receive funds from Singapore through UPI-enabled apps like BHIM, Google Pay,
PhonePe, and banking apps.
The linkage allows real-time transfers, with money reaching recipients within seconds using UPI IDs,
mobile numbers, or VPAs.
The system is ideal for small, frequent transfers, especially benefiting migrant workers and students
in Singapore.
UPI is also accepted at select retail outlets in Singapore, expanding usage beyond remittances.
NPCI highlights this as the world’s first cloud-based real-time cross-border payment system, offering
secure and cost-effective transactions.
Learn Along:
About NPCI
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and
settlement systems in India, is an initiative of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks' Association
(IBA) under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, for creating a robust Payment &
Settlement Infrastructure in India.
Founded: 19 December 2008 Headquarters: Mumbai Non-Exe Chairman: Ajay Kumar Choudhary
Fino Payments Bank Launched GATI Digital Savings Account To Boost UPI Usage In Rural Bengal
Fino Payments Bank has launched a new digital savings account called “GATI”, aimed at boosting UPI
adoption in semi-urban and rural West Bengal, especially among underserved groups.
GATI is a zero-balance, instant digital account that uses eKYC onboarding, eliminating the need for
branch visits and enabling instant UPI activation via the FinoPay app.
It targets digitally-savvy individuals often excluded by traditional banks, including the elderly, women,
youth, and welfare beneficiaries.
With over 40,000 merchant points in the state, Fino ensures last-mile banking access, supporting Digital
India and financial inclusion goals.
The account features a Rs. 100 one-time setup fee, Rs. 50 quarterly charge, no annual fees, and offers
access to insurance, digital gold, and referral loans.
The launch underscores a growing push for inclusive, low-cost, and accessible digital banking
solutions in regions with limited formal infrastructure.
Centre released ₹9578.4 to 22 states this fiscal as share under SDRF: Govt
The Central Government has released ₹9578.40 crore to 22 states under the State Disaster Response
Fund (SDRF) till July 15, 2025, to aid people affected by natural disasters.
According to Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, this support is meant for relief, not
compensation for losses claimed.
An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) was sent to Himachal Pradesh for damage assessment from
flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, even before receiving a formal memorandum.
As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), state governments hold the primary
responsibility for disaster management and ground-level relief.
Financial aid from SDRF/NDRF is provided for notified calamities like floods and landslides, following
established procedures and norms.
States are expected to utilize the SDRF funds already placed with them to carry out necessary relief
efforts in affected areas.
This funding reflects the Centre’s role in supporting disaster-hit regions, while ensuring states manage
implementation and distribution of aid.
NABARD and AGRICULTURE
11th Edition of the India Maize Summit 2025
Maize, known as the "Queen of Cereals", is a vital crop in India, serving food, feed, and industrial
needs.
Rising domestic demand and government schemes like the National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
and high-yield hybrid research are boosting production.
A recent policy shift promoting maize-based ethanol for biofuel has increased demand, turning India
into a net importer, affecting dependent industries.
The 11th India Maize Summit, organized by FICCI on July 7, 2025, provides a platform for stakeholders,
researchers, and policymakers to shape the sector’s future.
Since 2013, the summit has focused on policy, market trends, and agri-innovation, driving sectoral
collaboration and development.
The 2025 edition aims to promote maize productivity, sustainability, and farmer welfare, aligning with
national food and energy goals.
The summit emphasizes building resilient supply chains and policy frameworks to support India's
evolving maize economy.
TAFE has signed an MoU with ICRISAT to set up a Farm Adaptive Agriculture Research & Extension
Centre at ICRISAT’s Patancheru campus in Hyderabad.
The centre will focus on educating farmers in sustainable agriculture, soil conservation, and efficient
water use.
It aims to promote scale-appropriate mechanisation tailored to small and marginal farmers.
Special emphasis will be placed on crop-residue processing to reduce environmental impact and
improve farm productivity.
The initiative will use dedicated infrastructure to deliver research-based solutions to the farming
community.
This collaboration supports climate-resilient agriculture and aims to enhance technology adoption
among farmers.
Learn Along:
About ICRISAT
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is an international organisation
which conducts agricultural research for rural development, headquartered in Patancheru, Hyderabad, Telangana,
India, with several regional centres (Bamako (Mali), Nairobi (Kenya)) and research stations (Niamey (Niger), Kano
(Nigeria), Lilongwe (Malawi), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Bulawayo (Zimbabwe)).
It was founded in 1972 by a consortium of organisations convened by the Ford- and the Rockefeller- foundations.
Its charter was signed by the FAO and the UNDP.
Gujarat has become India’s top hub for processed potato production, especially for French fries and
wafers, significantly reducing import dependence.
In 2024–25, the state produced 48.59 lakh tonnes of potatoes, with over 25% used for processing,
driving both domestic supply and export growth.
Production of processing-grade potatoes has jumped from under 1 lakh tonnes in 2004–05 to 11.5 lakh
tonnes in 2024–25, supported by high-yield varieties, cold storage, and QSR demand.
Banaskantha led with 18.70 lakh tonnes, followed by Sabarkantha (12.97 lakh tonnes) and Aravalli
(6.99 lakh tonnes), all showing high productivity and infrastructure strength.
The region’s potatoes meet international quality standards due to their high dry matter and low sugar
content, ideal for crispy fries.
Backed by the central and state governments, Gujarat has aligned agriculture with industry, promoting
value-added farming and exports.
Government bodies like the Agriculture Department and GAIC have played key roles in building
scalable, export-ready supply chains.
Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) was launched in Budget 2025–26 to boost
agricultural productivity and promote sustainable farming.
It merges 36 schemes from 11 Ministries with a total outlay of ₹24,000 crore per year for the next six
years, benefiting 1.7 crore farmers.
Focus areas include post-harvest storage, irrigation, and credit access at the panchayat and block
levels.
The scheme will target 100 low-performing districts based on low productivity, cropping intensity,
and credit disbursement.
Each State/UT will have at least one selected district, chosen based on net cropped area and
operational holdings.
Planning and monitoring committees will be set up at district, State, and national levels, including
progressive farmers in district-level planning.
Emphasis will be on crop diversification, soil and water conservation, natural farming, and self-
sufficiency in agriculture.
Experts highlight the need to focus more on net farm income per hectare rather than credit dependence
as a selection criterion.
India and Maldives Sign MoU to Boost Bilateral Cooperation in Fisheries and Aquaculture
India and Maldives signed an MoU on Fisheries and Aquaculture during PM Modi’s state visit on 25
July 2025.
The MoU focuses on sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries, aquaculture development, and eco-
tourism in the fisheries sector.
Key areas include value chain enhancement, mariculture, trade facilitation, and capacity building.
The Maldives will invest in cold storage, hatchery development, and diversification of cultured
species.
The agreement supports training and knowledge exchange in areas like aquatic health, biosecurity,
and farm management.
Technical fields such as refrigeration, mechanical and marine engineering will be strengthened to
boost long-term skills.
The partnership reflects a shared India-Maldives vision for a resilient and sustainable fisheries
sector.
Through ICAR and initiatives like the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform (BRICS-ARP), India
supports joint projects, training, and research on climate-resilient agriculture and precision farming.
A recent MoU between ICAR and Brazil's EMBRAPA (July 2025) aims to develop climate-resilient
soybean varieties.
India promotes agricultural exports through the Agriculture Export Policy, targeting logistics, cold
chain infrastructure, and product diversification.
Efforts include aligning with international SPS standards, adopting e-Phyto certification, and
strengthening traceability and packaging.
India showcases agri-products at global events like BIOFACH, Gulfood, and World Food India to attract
investment and boost international exposure.
Schemes like the Agro-Processing Cluster Scheme and Integrated Cold Chain Scheme support
modernization and competitiveness of Indian agri-products globally.
The 20th installment of the PM-Kisan scheme will be released on August 2 by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in Varanasi, transferring ₹20,500 crore to 9.7 crore farmers.
A high-level meeting chaired by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed preparations to ensure
maximum outreach and participation.
The ₹6,000 annual benefit is transferred to farmers in three equal installments, with each issued every
four months through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ICAR, and agricultural universities attended the meeting virtually to
coordinate national efforts.
The programme will be conducted as a nationwide campaign, blending celebration with awareness
about agricultural schemes and benefits.
Officials were directed to involve grassroots workers like Krishi Sakhis, Drone Didis, and Gram
Panchayat Sarpanches for wide dissemination of information.
Farmers will also be engaged in discussions on Kharif crops, aligning the event with seasonal agricultural
needs.
Since its launch in 2019, the scheme has transferred ₹3.69 lakh crore across 19 installments, making it
a key pillar of rural income support.
Learn Along:
About PM-Kisan scheme
PM-KISAN is a government scheme offering financial support to small and marginal farmers across India.
Under this initiative, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments directly into their bank
accounts.
Fully funded by the Government of India, PM-KISAN ensures timely financial aid to strengthen farmers’
livelihoods and promote agricultural growth.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the success of schemes like Blue Revolution, FIDF, and
PMMSY in boosting the fisheries and livestock sectors in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).
Milk production in J&K has risen by 47%, from 19.5 lakh tonnes in 2014–15 to 28.74 lakh tonnes in
2023–24, with per capita availability at 413 grams/day.
Trout production surged by 266%, aided by the import of 13.4 lakh eyed ova from Denmark, rising from
650 MT in 2020–21 to 2,380 MT in 2023–24.
The Centre has committed ₹300 crore under PMMSY for J&K, out of ₹852 crore for Himalayan and NE
states, to develop infrastructure and employment.
Annual fish production in J&K increased from 20,000 MT in 2013–14 to 29,000 MT in 2024–25, and
trout seed production rose from 9 million to 15.2 million.
The Anantnag Cold-Water Fisheries Cluster was announced, with Kulgam and Shopian as partner
districts, to build a sustainable value chain.
A proposal for a ₹100 crore Integrated Aqua Park under PMMSY Phase-II is under consideration to
promote cold-water aquaculture in the region.
The Minister emphasized youth entrepreneurship, women's participation, and collaboration between
Centre and UT, aiming for self-reliant rural development.
Learn Along:
About Jammu and Kashmir
Capital: Srinagar(Summer), Jammu (Winter)
NATIONAL
Amit Shah lays foundation for India’s first co-op university
Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for India’s first national cooperative university, named Tribhuvan
Sahkari University, in Anand, Gujarat.
The university aims to support PM Modi’s vision by training professionals in cooperative management,
transparency, innovation, and technical skills.
It will offer courses in accounting, marketing, cooperative values, finance, law, and rural
development.
A special course on cooperatives has already been introduced by CBSE for Classes 9 to 12.
The university is named after Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel, a pioneer of the Amul cooperative
movement.
The cooperative sector, started in 1946 under Sardar Patel, has now become an ₹80,000 crore enterprise
involving 36 lakh women.
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Sign MoU with Digital India Corporation to develop MY Bharat
2.0 Platform
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) signed an MoU with Digital India Corporation (DIC)
to develop MY Bharat 2.0, an upgraded national platform for youth engagement.
The new version aims to use AI-driven tools, modular architecture, and a mobile app to improve
accessibility, usability, and scalability for youth across India.
Key features include Smart CV Builder, AI chatbots, geo-tagged opportunities, WhatsApp
integration, and speech-to-text navigation, enhancing digital inclusion.
The platform will support training modules, call centres, cloud infrastructure, and interactive learning
tools to boost continuous learning and digital participation.
MY Bharat 2.0 will integrate with national platforms like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, Bhashini, and MyGov,
ensuring interoperability and data protection compliance.
Dedicated sections such as National Career Services, Mentorship Hub, and Fit India will support career
growth, personal development, and wellness.
With over 1.76 crore youth already registered, MY Bharat 2.0 is set to be a comprehensive digital
gateway for empowering India’s Amrit Peedhi and realising Viksit Bharat 2047.
The platform reflects a strategic fusion of technology, governance, and youth energy, promoting civic
responsibility through values like ‘Seva Bhav’ and ‘Kartavya Bodh’.
The Union Cabinet approved an Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme with an outlay of ₹99,446
crore to boost job creation, mainly in the manufacturing sector.
The scheme provides one month’s wage (up to ₹15,000) for first-time employees and incentives to
employers for up to 2 years, extendable to 4 years in manufacturing.
The scheme aims to generate over 3.5 crore jobs, including 1.92 crore first-time entrants, between
August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027.
Employers will receive up to ₹3,000/month per employee for sustained employment of at least six
months.
The scheme is part of the ₹2 lakh crore budget for five youth-focused schemes announced in the 2024-
25 Union Budget.
Employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh will be eligible for the scheme’s benefits.
The new National Sports Policy was approved by the Union Cabinet to promote excellence, economic
growth, and social progress through sports.
It aims to build a robust sports ecosystem for long-term success, developed through consultations with
diverse stakeholders.
The policy promotes sports for all and mass physical activity, integrating sports with education for
holistic societal development.
It aspires to make India a sports power and boost sports tourism by hosting international events.
Corporate and public sector resources will be utilized to strengthen the sports environment, including
sports goods manufacturing.
A regulatory framework for better sports governance will be established, ensuring transparency and
professional management.
National Sports Federations will be empowered for efficient, athlete-centric operations with enhanced
monitoring and financial sustainability.
Sports will be driven as a people’s movement, promoting mass participation and launching fitness
indices in schools, colleges, and workplaces.
The policy ensures universal access to sports facilities, aiming to create a culture of fitness and
competition.
The Coal Ministry will launch RECLAIM, a community engagement and development framework, on
4th July 2025 by Union Minister G Kishan Reddy.
Developed by the Coal Controller Organisation in collaboration with the Heartfulness Institute, it
focuses on mine closures.
The framework addresses the social and ecological impacts of mine closures, ensuring a just and
sustainable transition for affected communities.
RECLAIM provides a step-by-step guide for inclusive community participation during and after the
closure process.
It includes tools, templates, and field-tested methods tailored to India, with emphasis on gender
inclusivity, vulnerable groups, and Panchayati Raj alignment.
The goal is a resilient transition that promotes trust, ecological restoration, and long-term socio-
economic well-being.
NIPCCD renamed as Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development
The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) has been renamed
as the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development, honoring the legacy of
Savitribai Phule.
The change reflects a renewed focus on region-specific and mission-driven support for women and child
development under Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi.
A new Regional Centre in Ranchi, Jharkhand will be inaugurated on 4 July 2025 to support Mission
Shakti, Mission Vatsalya, and Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.
This Centre will cater to the Eastern states—Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal—which earlier
faced logistical issues due to distant centres.
It will offer specialized training, research, and the Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance and
Counselling, benefiting over 7 lakh functionaries across 115 districts.
The Centre aims to strengthen grassroots implementation, facilitate customized interventions, and
enhance resource utilization in the region.
The Institute now has its headquarters in New Delhi with regional centres in Bangalore, Guwahati,
Lucknow, Indore, and Mohali.
It continues to be the apex body for training and research in women and child development, supporting
policy delivery through online and physical training programmes.
The Government of India has launched “Kalaa Setu – Real-Time Language Tech for Bharat”, inviting
AI startups to create scalable solutions for automated content generation in multiple Indian
languages.
The challenge focuses on text-to-video, text-to-graphics, and text-to-audio generation, enabling real-
time, localized, and emotionally expressive public communication.
It aims to deliver regionally relevant information like weather alerts, exam updates, and healthcare
schemes in citizens’ own languages, bridging the digital language divide.
Startups must submit a Minimum Viable Concept (MVC) by July 30, 2025, with winners receiving support
from AIR, DD, and PIB, and incubation under the WAVEX Innovation Platform.
Another initiative, “Bhasha Setu”, launched on June 30, 2025, focuses on real-time language
translation, with applications open until July 22, 2025.
These challenges promote AI-based, inclusive governance by transforming official content into audio-
visual formats, enhancing last-mile communication.
Both initiatives highlight the government's push for indigenous innovation, making digital communication
more accessible and culturally resonant across India.
MOUs / Agreements :
MoU on setting up of Entrepreneurship Development Center in Namibia
MoU on Cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine
Announcements :
Namibia submitted letter of acceptance for joining CDRI (Coalition for Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure)
Namibia submitted letter of acceptance for joining of Global Biofuels Alliance
Namibia becomes the first country globally to sign licensing agreement to adopt UPI technology
Learn Along:
About Namibia
Capital: Windhoek Currency: Namibian Dollar
NESTS, in collaboration with UNICEF, launched the TALASH programme to support 1.38 lakh tribal
students in 470+ Eklavya schools with psychometric assessments, career counselling, and life-skills
training.
TALASH stands for Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills, and Self-Esteem Hub, a digital platform aimed at
promoting self-awareness, career planning, and emotional development.
A common aptitude test will generate a career card for each student, recommending suitable career
paths, along with access to structured life-skills training.
Teachers will be trained and given access to a mentoring portal to help guide students both
academically and personally.
NESTS also partnered with Tata Motors and the Ex-Navodayan Foundation to offer coaching for
competitive exams like IIT-JEE and NEET.
The initiative aims to bridge educational gaps and help tribal students realise their full potential as
future leaders.
Learn Along:
About UNICEF
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was established in 1946, in the aftermath of
World War II.
Headquarters: New York City, U.S. Executive Director: Catherine M. Russell
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurates India’s second longest cable-stayed sigandur bridge in
Karnataka
Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the Sigandur Bridge, India’s second-longest cable-stayed bridge, spanning
2.44 km across Sharavathi backwaters in Shivamogga, Karnataka.
Built at a cost of ₹470 crore, the bridge connects Sagara and Marakutika, reducing travel time to
Sigandur's Chowdeshwari temple and restoring connectivity lost after the Linganamakki dam
construction.
The bridge has been named after Goddess Chowdeshwari Devi and is expected to boost regional access
and tourism.
The length of National Highways in Karnataka has increased from 6,707 km in 2014 to 9,424 km
currently, with ₹5 lakh crore worth of road projects underway.
Key projects include Belagavi-Hungund-Raichur, Hassan-Raichur, Tumkuru-Shivamogga, Mysuru-
Madakeri, and Chitradurga-Shimoga, all set to complete by 2028.
Nationally, the Ladakh-Leh road via Zojila tunnel and Surat-Chennai highway are expected to be
completed by next year.
The Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway will be finished in six months, cutting travel time from eight hours
to two.
These projects reflect a push toward faster connectivity, reduced travel times, and regional
development through infrastructure expansion.
India welcomed the US designation of The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
(FTO)
India welcomed the US designation of The Resistance Front (TRF) as a Foreign Terrorist
Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) after sustained diplomatic
efforts post the Pahalgam attack.
TRF, formed in 2019 after the abrogation of Article 370, is a Pakistan-based proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba
(LeT), designed to give terror in Kashmir an “indigenous” face.
TRF operates mainly through social media, engaging in recruitment, propaganda, arms smuggling,
and cross-border infiltration into Jammu and Kashmir.
India designated TRF a terrorist group under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 in
2023.
LeT, TRF’s parent group, was behind major attacks including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and is banned
internationally.
UAPA empowers authorities to proscribe organizations and individuals, with 45 terrorist groups
currently listed and provisions to prevent rebranding.
The NIA Act, 2008 provides for central investigation of terror offenses, supporting India’s counter-terror
framework.
The Ministry of Tourism has issued guidelines for the SASCI scheme to develop iconic tourist centres
at a global standard with strong branding and marketing.
The initiative focuses on end-to-end tourist experience, funding support, sustainable operations, and
improving all aspects of the tourist value chain.
Projects are selected based on State Government proposals evaluated for connectivity, eco-system,
sustainability, and overall tourism impact.
Implementation is the responsibility of the State Governments, with a 2-year development window, and
central funding available till 31 March 2026.
Emphasis is placed on using quality expertise for design, planning, and sustainable maintenance of the
sites.
The Ministry continues to promote these and other destinations in international and domestic markets
through social media, websites, and events.
This scheme aims to elevate India’s tourism sector by creating globally competitive tourist hubs.
India tests first hydrogen train coach, boosts green rail push
Indian Railways successfully tested the country’s first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach
Factory (ICF), Chennai, marking a major leap in clean transport technology.
The coach is part of a plan to roll out 35 hydrogen-powered trains under the “Hydrogen for Heritage”
initiative for hill and heritage routes.
Each hydrogen train is estimated to cost ₹80 crore, with an additional ₹70 crore for supporting
infrastructure per route.
A pilot project is underway to retrofit a DEMU train with hydrogen fuel cells on the Jind–Sonipat section,
costing ₹111.83 crore.
India is developing a 1,200 HP hydrogen train, aiming to join global leaders in this emerging technology.
While initial running costs are high, they are expected to fall with scale; the environmental advantage
is significant with zero carbon emissions.
India’s hydrogen push also includes other sectors—a hydrogen-fuelled bus was presented by Indian Oil
during the Bhutan PM’s visit in 2024.
This initiative aligns with India's broader strategy to promote green hydrogen and reduce fossil fuel
dependence.
The National Cooperative Policy 2025 replaces the 2002 policy and aims to create a modern, inclusive,
and resilient cooperative ecosystem, targeting a threefold increase in GDP contribution by 2034.
It focuses on non-traditional sectors like tourism, taxi services, insurance, and green energy, with
profits directed to rural PACS to promote local development.
Built on six pillars—strengthening foundations, vibrancy, future-readiness, inclusivity, outreach, and
youth engagement—the policy seeks to expand cooperatives and drive innovation.
Goals include increasing cooperative societies from 8.3 lakh to 10.7 lakh, bringing 50 crore inactive
people into the system, and establishing 2 lakh PACS by February 2026.
The policy proposes legal reforms, better regulation under the Banking Act, and the creation of
Tribhuvan Sahkari University to enhance governance and training.
It was shaped through a consultative process involving 648 stakeholder inputs, under a 48-member
committee chaired by Suresh Prabhu.
The policy ensures government support, but stresses the need for internal strengthening and
adaptability within cooperatives for long-term success.
By expanding into emerging sectors, it aims to generate employment, income, and rural
empowerment through a revitalised cooperative framework.
India has achieved 20% ethanol blending in petrol in 2025, five years ahead of its 2030 target, marking
a major step in clean energy transition.
Ethanol blending has increased from 1.5% in 2014 to 20% in 2025, with ethanol production rising from
38 crore litres to 661.1 crore litres.
This shift has saved India around ₹1.36 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing dependence on
imported crude oil.
Payments of ₹1.96 lakh crore to distilleries and ₹1.18 lakh crore to farmers have boosted the domestic
biofuel sector and rural incomes.
The initiative has significantly supported Indian agriculture, with ethanol primarily sourced from
sugarcane and related crops.
Carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by 698 lakh tonnes, aligning with India’s climate and
sustainability goals.
The government recently approved a price hike for ethanol from molasses, further incentivizing
production.
Narendra Modi Becomes 2nd Longest Serving PM, Breaks Indira Gandhi's Record
PM Narendra Modi has completed 4,078 consecutive days in office as of July 25, 2025, surpassing
Indira Gandhi's uninterrupted tenure of 4,077 days.
He now becomes the second longest consecutively serving Prime Minister in Indian history, after
Jawaharlal Nehru.
Narendra Modi is the first post-Independence born PM, the longest-serving non-Congress PM, and
the longest-serving PM from a non-Hindi-speaking state.
He is the only non-Congress leader to complete two full terms and win three consecutive Lok Sabha
elections with a clear majority.
Narendra Modi has won six consecutive elections as a party leader—three in Gujarat (2002, 2007,
2012) and three national (2014, 2019, 2024).
He matches Nehru in leading his party to three back-to-back national wins and is the first since Indira
Gandhi (1971) to return with a full majority.
Prime Minister Modi announced a ₹4,850 crore ($565 million) line of credit to the Maldives after talks
with President Mohamed Muizzu, aiming to boost trade, defence, and infrastructure ties.
The visit marks a major turnaround in India-Maldives relations, which had seen tension after Muizzu
came to power with an India Out campaign.
Both countries agreed to work on a bilateral investment treaty, and free trade agreement negotiations
have begun.
The visit signals a shift from past friction and aims to stabilize strategic ties despite China’s growing
influence in the region.
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About Maldives
Capital: Malé Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa
NALSA launches Veer Parivaar Sahayata Yojana to aid defence personnel, families
NALSA launched the Veer Parivaar Sahayata Yojana 2025 to strengthen legal aid for defence
personnel and their families, addressing their unique legal challenges.
The scheme was introduced at a regional conference in Kashmir in collaboration with the J&K High
Court and J&K Legal Services Authority.
The yojana supports national integration and honours the armed forces’ sacrifices.
The scheme is built on three pillars: legal services clinics at Sainik Boards, trained legal aid personnel
(including ex-servicemen), and digital platforms like e-Lok Adalats.
It ensures speedy redressal of issues such as land disputes, service entitlements, and matrimonial
matters, respecting the limited leave time of defence personnel.
The initiative aligns with the government’s vision of inclusive justice and digital empowerment,
reinforcing NALSA’s motto: Access to Justice for All.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the 'Gyan Bharatam Mission', aimed at digitising over one
crore ancient manuscripts and creating a National Digital Repository for global access.
The mission, introduced in the 2025 Union Budget, received a major financial boost from ₹3.5 crore to
₹60 crore, reflecting its national priority.
It seeks to preserve, conserve, and disseminate India's traditional knowledge systems, aligning with
the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision.
PM Narendra Modi described the manuscripts as “chapters of India’s soul”, essential for educating
future generations.
The initiative supports civilizational pride, language revitalisation, and digital accessibility of India’s
heritage.
INTERNATIONAL
Colombia and Uzbekistan join NDB ahead of 17th BRICS Summit
Colombia and Uzbekistan have officially joined the New Development Bank (NDB), raising its total
membership to 11 countries.
Established in 2015 by BRICS nations, the NDB focuses on funding infrastructure and sustainable
development in emerging economies.
The bank is headquartered in Shanghai and has approved over 120 projects in areas like clean energy,
transport, sanitation, and digital infrastructure.
Current members include India, Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Bangladesh, UAE, Egypt,
Algeria, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
NDB President Dilma Rousseff reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the Global South, emphasizing
support for innovation, science, and technology.
The bank aims to help nations adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution through strategic investments.
The announcement comes ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit, highlighting the growing role of multilateral
development banks in global cooperation.
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About New Development Bank
Formation: July 2014 (Treaty signed); July 2015; 10 years ago (Treaty in force)
Headquarters: Shanghai, China President: K.V. Kamath
BRICS chamber launches WE WISE initiative to enable women take leadership role in technology
The BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Women Empowerment Vertical launched the WE
WISE (Women in Innovation, Science and Entrepreneurship) initiative to promote women leadership
in technology, especially AI.
The initiative was unveiled during the BRICS Women Business Alliance Annual Plenary Meeting in
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
An MoU was signed between BRICS CCI WE and the WBA Brazilian Chapter to advance sustainable
economic development and gender equity.
WE WISE brings together global mentors, experts, and innovators to form a collaborative community
supporting inclusive growth and innovation.
The programme aims to break barriers and encourage women to reshape the innovation landscape
through inclusive leadership.
With its multi-dimensional, international approach, the platform seeks to become a catalyst for
sustainable change across BRICS+ economies.
The initiative reinforces the goal of enabling women to lead with purpose, power, and progress in
building a sustainable global economy.
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About BRICS
BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa,
Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Formation: 16 June 2009
Three African sites removed from the Unesco world heritage 'in danger' list
UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee removed three African sites — Rainforests of the Atsinanana
(Madagascar), Abu Mena (Egypt), and Old Town of Ghadams (Libya) — from the List of World
Heritage in Danger on July 9, 2025.
The decision was taken during the 47th WHC session in Paris, recognizing successful restoration
and threat mitigation efforts by the respective countries with UNESCO’s support.
The Atsinanana Rainforests were removed after curbing illegal logging and wood trafficking that
threatened biodiversity, especially lemur species.
Abu Mena, an early Christian pilgrimage site, was restored following action against water table rise and
structural collapse.
The Old Town of Ghadams, affected by conflict, wildfires, and floods, was stabilized, preserving its
cultural heritage.
The removal reflects UNESCO’s broader strategy to support African heritage preservation, with similar
efforts succeeding in DR Congo, Uganda, and Senegal since 2021.
The danger list mobilizes global support and offers technical and financial assistance to protect
threatened world heritage sites.
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About UNESCO
Founded: 16 November 1945 Headquarters: Paris, France Director-General: Audrey Azoulay
The Killing Fields execution site and two former Khmer Rouge prisons added to Unesco heritage list
UNESCO has added three former Khmer Rouge torture and execution sites in Cambodia to its World
Heritage list, marking 50 years since the regime's rise to power.
These include the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) in Phnom Penh, M-13 prison in Kampong
Chhnang, and Choeung Ek killing fields, depicted in the film The Killing Fields.
From 1975 to 1979, the Khmer Rouge caused the deaths of 1.7 million Cambodians through starvation,
torture, and executions.
The listing coincides with a national call by PM Hun Manet to beat drums in remembrance and defend
peace.
The sites, once symbols of violence, are now seen as tools for education, remembrance, and healing
from genocide.
Youk Chhang of Cambodia’s Documentation Centre emphasized their importance in confronting painful
history and teaching future generations.
The recognition places these sites alongside global landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of
China.
This repeats Trump’s 2017 decision, which was reversed by President Biden in 2023; the US has had
a long, uneasy relationship with UNESCO since first withdrawing in 1984.
The decision aligns with Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, prioritizing national sovereignty over
multilateral engagement.
One major trigger remains UNESCO’s 2011 recognition of Palestine as a full member, which the US
and Israel strongly oppose.
The US government accuses UNESCO of promoting globalist and divisive ideologies that clash with
American interests.
Although the US provides around 8% of UNESCO’s funding, the financial impact is minimal, but the
symbolic damage to global cooperation is significant.
The move may undermine efforts in education, cultural preservation, and Holocaust education, and
potentially increase China’s influence within the organization.
Pakistan Assumes UN Security Council Presidency For July, To Convene Two Events
Pakistan has assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council for July 2025, marking
its first term since 2013.
It will host two key events: an open debate on multilateralism and peaceful dispute resolution on July
22, and a briefing on UN cooperation with regional bodies on July 24, chaired by Deputy PM Ishaq
Dar.
The development comes amid renewed tensions over the Indus Waters Treaty, which India put in
abeyance in April 2024 after a terror attack in Pahalgam.
Pakistan has urged India to resume the treaty’s normal functioning, citing a June 27 ruling by the
Permanent Court of Arbitration in its favor.
India has rejected the court’s ruling, maintaining it does not recognize the arbitration framework under
the treaty.
The dispute involves design objections raised by Pakistan to India's Kishenganga and Ratle
hydropower projects.
India views Pakistan’s claims and arbitration attempts as a politically motivated charade, dismissing the
latest supplemental award.
The developments highlight ongoing India-Pakistan tensions over water sharing and regional security,
even as Pakistan takes a prominent global diplomatic role.
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About Pakistan
Capital: Islamabad Currency: Pakistani rupee
Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the eurozone,
after meeting strict EU and ECB conditions.
The exchange rate has been set at 1.95583 Bulgarian lev per euro, marking a major step nearly 19
years after EU membership.
While EU leaders hailed the move as economically beneficial and geopolitically strategic, there is public
skepticism in Bulgaria due to inflation and price concerns.
The country’s transition follows a politically unstable period with seven elections in three years, but
the Bulgarian parliament rejected calls for a referendum.
Bulgaria joins the eurozone after Croatia (2023), and is part of a gradual expansion that began in 2002
with 12 countries and grew based on economic convergence.
The euro's growing global strength and protection from geopolitical pressures are seen as added
incentives for Bulgaria’s integration.
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About Bulgaria
Capital: Sofia President: Rumen Radev
Gita Gopinath, the First Deputy Managing Director of the IMF, will step down in August 2025, more
than a year before her term ends.
She joined the IMF in 2019 as Chief Economist, becoming the first woman in that role, and was
promoted to the No. 2 position in 2022.
Gopinath is leaving to return to Harvard University as the inaugural Gregory and Ania Coffey
Professor of Economics, resuming her academic career.
Her exit allows US President Donald Trump to nominate a successor, potentially influencing IMF
leadership.
Born in India and now a US citizen, Gopinath is widely recognized for her expertise in international
finance and macroeconomics.
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About IMF
Formation: 22 July 1944 Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S. Managing Director: Kristalina Georgieva
Turkey has developed two advanced aircraft bombs — Gazap and Hayalet — boosting its military strike
capabilities, as unveiled at the 17th International Defence Industry Fair.
The Gazap bomb is a 2,000-pound MK-84 variant with 10,000 controlled fragments, offering three times
the impact of standard bombs and a one-kilometre blast radius.
The Hayalet bomb, also known as NEB-1/NEB-2, is a next-gen bunker buster capable of penetrating
up to 90 meters through rock, reinforced concrete, and steel.
Both bombs have cleared qualification and certification and are compatible with Turkish F-16 and F-4
fighter jets, with future plans for drone deployment.
Hayalet has been tested successfully against C50 concrete, steel cages, and sand barriers, showing
exceptional real-world destructive power.
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About Turkey
Capital: Ankara Currency: Turkish lira
French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to formally recognise Palestinian statehood,
making France the first major Western power to do so, despite opposition from Israel and the U.S.
The move comes amid global concern over starvation and devastation in Gaza, with Macron aiming to
revive the idea of a two-state solution and influence other nations at the upcoming UN General
Assembly.
Israel strongly condemned the decision, warning of possible diplomatic fallout and calling it a threat to
national security; the U.S. also rejected the move as harmful to peace efforts.
France’s action could push countries like Britain, Canada, and Australia to follow suit, even as some like
Germany prefer focusing on diplomatic progress over formal recognition.
As of now, 144 UN member states recognise Palestine, including China, Russia, India, and several EU
and Global South countries, while the UN GA granted non-member state status in 2012.
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About France
Capital: Paris President: Emmanuel Macron Currency: Euro, CFP franc
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai has crossed the $1 billion net worth mark, with Bloomberg estimating his
fortune at $1.1 billion, driven by Alphabet's 120% stock surge since early 2023.
Sundar Pichai owns only 0.02% of Alphabet stock, worth around $440 million, and has sold over $650
million in shares over the past decade.
Unlike company founders, Pichai built his wealth as an executive, having joined Google in 2004, and
becoming Alphabet CEO in 2019 after leading major projects like Chrome and Android.
He is now Alphabet’s longest-serving CEO, completing nearly a decade in leadership, and is credited
with shifting the company’s focus to artificial intelligence.
Alphabet has significantly expanded its AI investments, including the $400 million acquisition of
DeepMind in 2014 and $50 billion spent on AI infrastructure in 2024 alone.
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About Alphabet Inc.
Founded: October 2, 2015 Headquarters: California, United States Chairman: John L. Henness
Over 800 million people globally suffer from vision problems without access to eye care, according
to Dr. Yutaro Setoya of WHO India.
The event was organized by WHO and Drishti, an NGO founded by Amity student Sanjana Chauhan.
Vision issues in children aged 5 to 15 impact education, productivity, and well-being, especially due to
refractive errors.
WHO has launched Global Specs 2030, a global initiative to provide affordable eye care by 2030.
Youth ambassadors are being promoted as key agents in advancing awareness and access to vision
care.
The initiative underlines the importance of preventive eye health and empowering young
changemakers.
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About WHO
Formation: 7 April 1948 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Director-General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
STATES
Chhattisgarh govt unveils draft policy to boost logistics and exports
The Chhattisgarh State Logistics Policy, 2025 aims to strengthen the state’s logistics and export
infrastructure, attracting investments from domestic and multinational companies.
The policy will boost warehousing capacity, promote dry ports and inland container depots, benefiting
industries, MSMEs, and farmers.
It focuses on expanding cold storage and general warehousing to reduce post-harvest losses,
especially in resource-rich areas like Bastar and Surguja.
Local producers will gain better access to export markets for items like medicinal plants, handicrafts,
and non-timber forest produce.
The policy promotes fuel-efficient transport, eco-friendly packaging, and digital tracking systems to
support sustainable development.
It is expected to generate thousands of job opportunities, both direct and indirect, across logistics and
allied sectors.
The policy aligns with broader goals of inclusive growth, rural development, and green infrastructure.
It marks a strategic step in making Chhattisgarh a logistics and export hub in central India.
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About Chhattisgarh
Capital: Raipur Governor: Ramen Deka Chief minister: Vishnu Deo Sai
Kerala’s first skin bank is set to open at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College on July
15, aligning with World Plastic Surgery Day.
Approved by K-SOTTO, the bank will receive skin donations through organ donation and has been built
at a cost of Rs 6.75 crore.
Skin banks store donated skin to treat burn victims, reducing pain and risk of infection by providing
temporary cover.
The stored skin is preserved at a specific temperature for medical use when the patient’s own skin can’t
be used.
A second skin bank is being planned at Kottayam Government Medical College.
For better burn care, burn centres, plastic surgery units, and Burns ICUs have been established in
Alappuzha, Kollam, and Kannur medical colleges.
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About Kerala
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan Governor: Rajendra Arlekar
The Madhya Pradesh government launched the Mukhyamantri Vrindavan Gram Yojana to develop
model sustainable villages that integrate traditional values with modern practices for self-reliance
and environmental sustainability.
One village per assembly constituency (with 2,000+ population and 500+ bovines) will be transformed,
focusing on cow rearing, organic farming, solar energy, and rural entrepreneurship.
Key infrastructure includes gaushalas, schools, health centres, biogas plants, solar street lighting,
and e-Panchayat services to build self-sustaining rural communities.
Employment will be promoted through dairy cooperatives, agro-based industries, skill centres, and
rural tourism via homestays.
The scheme prioritizes natural farming, water conservation, cleanliness, and preservation of
religious sites, with goals like 100% e-KYC and updated land records.
The Cabinet also approved ₹4,572 crore to rebuild 1,766 bridges, a Rashtriya Raksha University
campus in Bhopal, and ₹31 crore for hostel mess services for backward class students.
New Tribal and SC Coordinators’ offices will be set up in three districts, with 48 posts and ₹3.81 crore
annual funding to enhance community welfare and governance.
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About Madhya Pradesh
Capital: Bhopal Governor: Mangubhai C. Patel Chief minister: Mohan Yadav
Madhya Pradesh will provide a monthly stipend of ₹6,000 for women and ₹5,000 for men youth joining
internships in registered industries, announced CM Dr. Mohan Yadav.
Ladli Behna Yojana beneficiaries will receive ₹1,500/month after Diwali, increasing to ₹3,000 by 2028,
with special festive bonuses also planned.
The Acharpura Industrial Area near Bhopal is being developed as a special industrial hub, with six
new units worth ₹416 crore laid out.
These units, covering textiles, healthcare, agriculture, and garments, are expected to create over
1,600 local jobs.
The state is conducting investment roadshows in cities across India and abroad to boost industrial
growth and youth employment.
This initiative follows a previous urban job scheme started in 2019 by former CM Kamal Nath, which was
later discontinued.
Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, will host India’s first Hindi-medium medical college, where MBBS
education will be taught entirely in Hindi.
The proposal was approved by the Madhya Pradesh Medical University’s executive council, and a
Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be submitted to the state government for clearance.
The college will start with 50 MBBS seats in the 2027–28 academic session, using the existing
government hospital for clinical training.
All MBBS textbooks have already been translated into Hindi, ensuring a smooth academic transition.
The initiative may later expand to include MD and MS programmes in Hindi as well.
Final approval from the National Medical Commission (NMC) will be sought after state clearance.
This move marks a significant step in promoting regional language education in India's medical field.
The Rajasthan government launched the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Poverty-Free Village Scheme
to empower rural BPL families through economic support and skill development.
In its first phase, the scheme covers 5,000 villages with a ₹300 crore budget, aiming to promote self-
reliance and reduce rural poverty.
Eligible families receive up to ₹1 lakh for starting income-generating activities, while women in SHGs get
₹15,000 per family to enhance earnings.
Families that overcome poverty independently are rewarded with ₹21,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) and are issued Atmanirbhar Parivar Cards.
Over 30,000 BPL families have been identified using updated surveys, and verification of 61,000+ new
applications is ongoing.
Villages will get customised action plans linking families with state schemes on skill development,
employment, and financial inclusion.
The scheme focuses on empowering women, strengthening SHGs, and ensuring transparent fund
disbursal under the Antyodaya Sambal Fortnight initiative.
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About Rajasthan
Capital: Jaipur Chief minister: Bhajan Lal Sharma Governor: Haribhau Bagade
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a mission to revive 75 small rivers and tributaries
through a technology-driven and multi-departmental initiative.
The campaign is being executed under the guidance of CM Yogi Adityanath and involves 10 key
departments working in coordination at the district level.
Premier technical institutes like IIT Kanpur, IIT BHU, IIT Roorkee, and BBAU Lucknow are providing
river-specific plans based on ecological and social studies.
Initially started in 2018 under MGNREGA, the effort has evolved into a structured mission involving
stream cleaning, rainwater harvesting, and plantation drives.
Divisional-level committees led by divisional commissioners are monitoring the implementation and
quality of work.
District Ganga Committees are promoting local monitoring and community participation to ensure
the initiative’s long-term sustainability.
The initiative reflects a strong push for environmental restoration and grassroots engagement in water
conservation across the state.
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About UP
Capital: Lucknow Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath Governor: Anandiben Patel
Haryana is developing Asia’s largest jungle safari in the Aravalli Hills, spanning around 10,000 acres,
to boost eco-tourism and wildlife conservation.
The project aims to attract domestic and international tourists while promoting green infrastructure
and sustainable tourism practices.
It will preserve a wide variety of animals, birds, and biodiversity, using modern technology with an
emphasis on eco-friendly development.
The safari is expected to create employment opportunities for local youth in tourism, hospitality, and
conservation sectors.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is personally overseeing the project, ensuring it remains
environmentally sustainable and impactful.
The Forest and Environment Department will collaborate with the Tourism Department to position
Haryana as a leader in eco-tourism.
The safari is envisioned as a model of environmental protection, tourism development, and climate
resilience, inspiring future generations.
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About Haryana
Capital: Chandigarh Chief minister: Nayab Singh Saini Governor: Bandaru Dattatraya
The Andhra Pradesh government launched the ‘Digi-Lakshmi’ scheme to set up 9,034 Common
Service Centres (CSCs) across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
The initiative supports digital inclusion and promotes women-led entrepreneurship, aligning with the
‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ (OF-OE) vision.
These CSCs will be run exclusively by Self-Help Group (SHG) women, enabling their transition into Small
and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Each centre, designed as a standardized ‘ATOM Kiosk’, will offer around 250 public services to citizens.
Eligible SHG women (aged 21–40, graduates, with 3+ years of SHG membership) will operate the centres.
The Mission Director of MEPMA will oversee implementation, including training and financial support.
Women operators will receive loans of ₹2–2.5 lakh, and CSC e-Governance Services will provide
hands-on operational training.
The scheme marks a significant move toward urban digital empowerment and sustainable women-led
livelihoods.
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About Andhra Pradesh
Capital: Amaravati Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
The Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Vidyarthi Mitra Kits scheme, launched by the Andhra Pradesh
government in 2025, provides free school kits to over 35 lakh students from Classes 1 to 10.
Named after Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the scheme promotes educational equality and avoids
political branding.
Kits include uniforms, shoes, school bags, and educational materials like textbooks, workbooks, and
dictionaries in multiple languages.
The project is funded with Rs 953.71 crore, and each kit costs approximately Rs 2,279, with state and
central contributions.
Quality Council of India ensured three-level quality checks and ‘Quality Walls’ were set up for
transparency at distribution points.
An e-procurement system saved Rs 63.80 crore, and uniforms are provided ready-to-wear, with
stitching costs covered by the government.
The scheme aims to create a neutral, inclusive learning environment, enhance student confidence,
and support linguistic diversity.
Maratha Military Landscapes have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the
47th World Heritage Committee session in Paris.
This recognition came under the 2024–25 nomination cycle, marking a major cultural milestone for India.
The landscapes showcase the advanced fortification and military strategy developed by Maratha
rulers.
The inscription includes 12 forts, mainly in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu (Gingee Fort).
Notable forts include Raigad, Rajgad, Shivneri, Lohgad, Sindhudurg, and Pratapgad, among others.
The recognition highlights the historical, architectural, and strategic significance of Maratha military
heritage.
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About UNESCO
Founded: 16 November 1945 Headquarters: Paris, France Director-General: Audrey Azoulay
Kavinder Gupta, former Deputy CM of J&K and BJP leader, has been appointed Lieutenant-Governor
of Ladakh, replacing B.D. Mishra, who resigned.
Ashok Gajapathi Raju, senior TDP leader and former Civil Aviation Minister, has been appointed
Governor of Goa, succeeding P.S. Sreedharan Pillai.
Ashim Kumar Ghosh, veteran BJP leader from West Bengal, will be the new Governor of Haryana,
replacing Bandaru Dattatreya.
Ghosh has held key roles in the BJP, including State President (1999–2002) and National Executive
Member (2004–2006).
These appointments will take effect from the dates the new appointees assume charge, as per the
President’s Secretariat.
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About Goa
Governor: Ashok Gajapathi Raju Chief minister: Pramod Sawant Capital: Panaji
About Haryana
Capital: Chandigarh Chief minister: Nayab Singh Saini Governor: Ashim Kumar Ghosh
About Ladakh
Capitals: Leh; Kargil Lieutenant Governor: Kavinder Gupta
The first-ever Ladakh Astro Tourism Festival was held in Leh, jointly organised by the Tourism
Department and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore.
The two-day event aimed to promote science-driven tourism by showcasing Ladakh as an ideal
destination for astro tourism due to its high altitude, dry weather, and minimal light pollution.
The festival featured expert talks by scientists from ISRO, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, and
Kashmir University, offering educational insights.
Night Sky Observations were conducted at Ladakh University, including constellation spotting,
planet viewing, and deep-sky telescope sessions.
Tourists and astronomy enthusiasts also visited the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, known for its pristine
stargazing conditions.
The initiative positions Ladakh as a premier astro tourism hub in India, encouraging scientific curiosity
and educational travel.
The festival supports India’s broader goal of promoting innovative and sustainable tourism models.
It also contributes to raising awareness about astronomy, space science, and dark sky preservation
among the public.
Yakten village in Sikkim’s Pakyong district has been declared India’s first digital nomad village on
July 15, 2025, under the project ‘Nomad Sikkim’.
The initiative offers broadband-equipped homestays for remote workers and provides steady income
to local families, reducing their dependence on seasonal tourism.
Jointly developed by the Pakyong district administration and NGO Sarvahitey, it addresses income
gaps during tourist off-seasons from April to October.
Yakten has been upgraded with dual internet lines, village-wide Wi-Fi, power backup, and ongoing
improvements in water supply under Jal Jeevan Mission.
Homestays offer a cultural experience with local food, folk music, traditional dance, and proximity to
monasteries and nature trails.
The village is easily accessible by road and close to Pakyong Airport, making it a practical hub for
remote work.
This model promotes sustainable rural development and may serve as a replicable template for digital
integration in other villages across India.
Learn Along:
About Sikkim
Capital: Gangtok Chief minister: Prem Singh Tamang Governor: Om Prakash Mathur
Gujarat becomes first State to join Cruise Bharat Mission, eyes coastal tourism boom
Gujarat has become the first state in India to officially align with the Cruise Bharat Mission, aiming to
lead the country’s maritime tourism growth.
Backed by its 2,340 km coastline and rivers like Sabarmati and Narmada, Gujarat plans to transform
into a global cruise tourism hub.
Despite its long coastline, Gujarat lacked a dedicated cruise terminal, but the new initiative addresses
this infrastructure gap.
The state has proposed multiple cruise circuits centered on destinations like Diu, Dwarka, Porbandar,
Veraval, and Padala Island.
Coastal routes are divided into three tourism clusters, connecting religious, cultural, and natural
attractions within 100 km radius.
The Cruise Bharat Mission, launched in September 2024, targets a tenfold increase in sea cruise
traffic by 2029.
Gujarat’s move sets a precedent for other states, placing it at the forefront of India’s coastal tourism
transformation.
Learn Along:
About Gujarat
Capital: Gandhinagar Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel Governor: Acharya Devvrat
Odisha Government has launched a new programme called Shaktishree to ensure the safety of girl
students in higher education institutions.
It is a response to the increasing crimes against female students in colleges and universities.
Announced by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, the initiative aims to create a secure academic
environment.
The scheme will cover all 16 universities and 730 government and aided colleges under the State's
Higher Education Department.
Shaktishree is structured around eight key components targeting safety and empowerment.
A major feature of the programme is providing self-defence training to girl students.
The programme reflects a proactive step toward crime prevention and student protection.
It emphasizes the State's commitment to female student welfare in academic spaces.
Learn Along:
About Odisha
Capital: Bhubaneswar Governor: Kambhampati Hari Babu Chief minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
Uttarakhand has launched India’s first systematic plant reintroduction programme to revive 14
critically endangered species, led by the Forest Department’s Research Wing.
The initiative began in July 2025, aligning with the monsoon, and involves scientific propagation and
habitat mapping across alpine and deciduous ecosystems.
Targeted plants like Himalayan Gentian, Indian Spikenard, and White Himalayan Lily are vital for
medicine, ecology, and cultural heritage.
Nurseries used species-specific methods such as seeds and rhizomes, while GPS-tagged
reintroduction sites were protected from grazing and deforestation.
The plants face threats from climate change, overharvesting, and poor regeneration, making their
restoration key to biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
The programme emphasizes monitoring, fencing, and community involvement, supported by state
research centres and conservation teams.
It serves as a national model for integrating plant conservation into broader biodiversity and
sustainable development goals.
Learn Along:
About Uttarakhand
Capitals: Dehradun (Winter), Bhararisen (Summer) Chief minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami
Governor: Gurmit Singh
Gujarat has launched India’s first Tribal Genome Sequencing Project to enhance healthcare in tribal
communities.
It will sequence the genomes of 2,000 individuals across 17 districts as part of the 2025–26 State
Budget.
The project, led by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), aims to detect and treat
genetic disorders like sickle cell anaemia, thalassaemia, and hereditary cancers.
It focuses on early diagnosis and targeted treatment tailored to tribal populations.
The data will help identify natural immunity markers and support personalised healthcare strategies.
Advanced infrastructure will be used for sample collection, sequencing, and genetic data analysis.
Learn Along:
About Gujarat
Capital: Gandhinagar Chief minister: Bhupendra Patel Governor: Acharya Devvrat
Google will invest $6 billion to build a 1-gigawatt data centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh—
its first such project in India.
The investment includes $2 billion in renewable energy, making it the largest data centre project in
Asia by capacity and value.
This move is part of Alphabet’s multi-billion-dollar expansion across Asia, including Singapore,
Malaysia, and Thailand.
Andhra Pradesh aims to attract investment post its 2014 split from Telangana, to offset financial strain
and debt.
The state has finalized 1.6 GW in data centre capacity so far and targets 6 GW in five years.
Andhra Pradesh anticipates needing 10 GW of power for data centres, focusing mostly on green energy,
but some will be coal-based for reliability.
Learn Along:
About Google
Founded: September 4, 1998 Headquarters: California, U.S. CEO: Sundar Pichai
About Andhra Pradesh
Capital: Amaravati Chief minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu Governor: Syed Abdul Nazeer
The Andhra Pradesh government launched the Green Hydrogen Valley Declaration 2025 to position
the state as a leader in green hydrogen production and innovation.
The declaration targets 5 GW of electrolyser manufacturing and 1.5 million metric tonnes of annual
green hydrogen production by 2029, with plans to cut costs to ₹160–170/kg.
It aims to build an indigenous supply chain, with 60% of electrolyser components and storage
solutions made locally by 2030.
A 25 GW Green Energy Corridor will transmit solar and wind energy to hydrogen production units,
leveraging the state’s renewable energy potential and coastline.
The initiative promotes domestic manufacturing, R&D, and global collaboration through partnerships
with academia and industry.
The Green Hydrogen Summit at SRM University brought together 600+ delegates to shape policy and
innovation frameworks.
The declaration aligns with India’s national decarbonization goals, integrating sustainability and
governance for long-term clean energy leadership.
Andhra Pradesh plans to establish at least three production units and drive local industrial growth
while reducing import dependence.
The Rajasthan Assembly will set up a ‘Kargil Shaurya Vatika’ to honour soldiers who died in the 1999
Kargil War.
On Hariyali Amavasya, 1100 saplings will be planted in the garden within the Assembly premises.
Speaker Vasudev Devnani will inaugurate the Vatika by planting a Sindoor sapling.
To mark 26 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, 21 Veeranganas (war widows) will participate in the plantation
ceremony.
The initiative symbolizes respect and remembrance for the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
Learn Along:
About Rajasthan
Capital: Jaipur Chief minister: Bhajan Lal Sharma Governor: Haribhau Bagade
Maharashtra Unveils First Glass Skywalk Over Napne Waterfall: A New Tourist Attraction In Konkan
Maharashtra has inaugurated its first glass skywalk over the Napne Waterfall in Nadhavade village,
Sindhudurg, with a project cost of INR 99.63 lakh.
The structure offers panoramic views and aims to boost eco-tourism in the Konkan region, known for
its scenic beauty and underexplored potential.
Built with reinforced glass and steel supports, the skywalk provides both thrill and safety, becoming a
key attraction, especially during monsoon.
The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is enhancing nearby facilities like
parking, food stalls, and rest spaces to support tourism growth.
The skywalk is part of a broader Konkan tourism development initiative to establish the region as a
major travel destination.
Learn Along:
About Maharashtra
Capital: Mumbai Chief minister: Devendra Fadnavis Governor: C. P. Radhakrishnan
REPORTS AND INDEXES
NITI Aayog releases second edition of the North Eastern Region District SDG Index (2023-24)
NITI Aayog, in collaboration with MoDoNER and UNDP, released the second edition of the NER District
SDG Index 2023–24, covering 121 districts across eight northeastern states.
The Index measures district-level progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves
as a tool for evidence-based planning and monitoring.
Mizoram's Hnahthial scored highest (81.43), while Longding in Arunachal Pradesh scored the lowest
(58.71); districts were classified as Achiever, Front Runner, Performer, or Aspirant.
All districts in Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura fall under the Front Runner category, showing no districts
in either Achiever or Aspirant categories.
Sikkim showed the most consistent performance, while Nagaland and Mizoram exhibited higher
score variation between districts.
Leaders like Suman Bery and B.V.R. Subrahmanyam emphasized the role of the Index in achieving
SDG targets by 2030 and India's vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
The report highlights the importance of cooperative federalism, data-driven action, and localisation of
national flagship schemes for regional development.
The Index also helps in identifying gaps, guiding interventions, and ensuring no district is left behind
in the pursuit of sustainable development.
Tripura and Sikkim had minimal intra-state score variations, while Arunachal Pradesh and Assam
showed wider disparities in district performances.
The initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of promoting inclusive, balanced growth in the Northeast
through targeted support and policy innovation.
The findings reflect progress influenced by programs like the Aspirational Districts Programme, driving
improvement in critical social and economic indicators.
UNDP’s Angela Lusigi stressed the need for every data point to lead to real, impactful change in human
development outcomes across the region.
The Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) of 2022–23 and 2023–24 collected data
on food consumption and estimated calorie, protein, and fat intake at multiple levels such as state,
sector, and MPCE classes.
The report titled ‘Nutritional Intake in India’ continues NSO’s practice of publishing detailed estimates of
per capita nutrient intake for use by policymakers and researchers.
In 2022–23, rural calorie intake was 2233 Kcal and urban 2250 Kcal; in 2023–24, rural dropped to 2212
Kcal while urban intake was 2240 Kcal.
Bottom fractile classes showed an increase in average calorie intake from 2022–23 to 2023–24, and
calorie intake rises with MPCE in both rural and urban sectors.
Wide inter-state variation was noted in nutrient intake levels, and a narrowing of the gap between
bottom and top MPCE classes was observed in 2023–24.
A marginal increase in per capita intake of calories and proteins is evident from 2009–10 to 2023–24,
across rural and urban India.
Cereals remain the primary source of protein but their share declined by 14% in rural and 12% in urban
areas since 2009–10, offset by increased intake from egg, fish, meat, and milk products.
Adjusted nutrient intake values, which account for food served to non-household members and guests,
were found to be slightly lower than unadjusted figures in both years.
In 2023–24, average adjusted daily intake per capita was 2191 Kcal (rural) and 2225 Kcal (urban) for
calories, and 61.2 gm (rural) and 62.9 gm (urban) for protein.
The pattern of nutrient intake remained similar across the two years, with only minor variations in
averages at national level.
The survey strengthens understanding of nutritional trends, aiding efforts to design effective nutrition
and social security policies.
The data also reinforces the importance of economic status in determining dietary quality and nutrient
access across Indian households.
Highlights:
Elevated economic and trade policy uncertainties are testing the resilience of the global economy
and the financial system.
Financial markets remain volatile, especially core government bond markets, driven by shifting policy
and geopolitical environment. Alongside, existing vulnerabilities such as soaring public debt levels
and elevated asset valuations have the potential to amplify fresh shocks.
Despite an uncertain and challenging global economic backdrop, the Indian economy remains a key
driver of global growth, underpinned by sound macroeconomic fundamentals and prudent
macroeconomic policies.
The domestic financial system is exhibiting resilience fortified by healthy balance sheets of banks
and non-banks. Financial conditions have eased supported by accommodative monetary policy and
low volatility in financial markets. The strength of the corporate balance sheets also lends support to
overall macroeconomic stability.
The soundness and resilience of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) are bolstered by robust
capital buffers, multi-decadal low non-performing loans ratio and strong earnings.
Results of macro stress tests affirm that most SCBs have adequate capital buffers relative to the
regulatory minimum even under adverse stress scenarios. Stress tests also validate the resilience
of mutual funds and clearing corporations.
Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) remain healthy with sizable capital buffers, robust
earnings and improving asset quality.
The consolidated solvency ratio of the insurance sector also remains above the minimum threshold
limit.
Learn Along:
About RBI
Headquarters: Mumbai Established: 1 April 1935 Governor: Sanjay Malhotra
India has achieved a 78% decline in the under-five mortality rate, outperforming the global average
of 61%, as per the UN child mortality estimation 2024 report.
The Neonatal Mortality Rate in India has also dropped by 70%, compared to the global reduction of
54%.
The Union Health Ministry attributed this progress to a strong focus on vaccine coverage and reaching
underserved populations.
Vaccination is recognised as a powerful and cost-effective public health tool in India’s strategy.
The Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) provides free vaccines annually to 2.9 crore pregnant
women and 2.6 crore infants.
India’s efforts include proactive outreach, inclusivity, and regular vaccination drives to improve health
outcomes.
The percentage of zero-dose children (those who received no vaccination) declined from 0.11% in 2023
to 0.06% in 2024.
The UIP plays a key role in addressing infant and child mortality by ensuring equitable immunization
access.
India’s sustained immunization efforts reflect its commitment to universal health coverage and child
survival goals.
These achievements underscore the country’s progress toward SDG health targets, especially in
maternal and child health.
Gini Index
Inequality in India has significantly reduced between 2011-12 and 2022-23, making it the fourth-most
equal country globally, as per a World Bank report.
Extreme poverty has also dropped sharply from 16.2% to 2.3% during the same period.
The Gini Index for India stands at 25.5, indicating moderately low inequality.
Only Slovak Republic, Slovenia, and Belarus rank better in equality than India.
The Gini Index measures income, wealth, or consumption distribution, ranging from 0 (equality) to 100
(inequality).
A lower Gini score signifies more equal distribution; India’s score is far lower than China (35.7) and the
USA (41.8).
The World Bank data covers 167 countries, placing India in the moderately low inequality group.
India is close to entering the low inequality category (Gini score below 25), indicating sustained progress.
The government credits its welfare schemes and initiatives over the last decade for these improvements.
Learn Along:
About World Bank
Established: July 7, 1944 Headquarters: Washington, D.C., U.S. President: Ajay Banga
Urban migration has accelerated globally, increasing the focus on building liveable cities that are
sustainable, inclusive, and rich in essential services.
The Global Liveability Index 2025 by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) maintained a global
average score of 76.1/100 across 173 cities.
While there were improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, stability scores declined
due to geopolitical tensions and the global housing crisis.
Copenhagen topped the list in 2025, ending Vienna’s three-year reign, with perfect scores in stability,
education, and infrastructure.
Cities in Western Europe and the Asia-Pacific dominated the top rankings, while Vancouver represented
North America.
Middle Eastern and African cities ranked lower but saw modest gains, with Saudi Arabia’s Al Khobar
notably rising due to investments under Vision 2030.
The index reflects growing efforts to enhance urban quality of life despite global challenges.
Copenhagen,
1 98 100 95.8 95.4 100 100
Denmark
Vienna,
2 97.1 95 100 93.5 100 100
Austria
Zurich,
2 97.1 95 100 96.3 100 96.4
Switzerland
Melbourne,
4 97 95 100 95.8 100 96.4
Australia
Geneva,
5 96.8 95 100 94.9 100 96.4
Switzerland
Sydney,
6 96.6 95 100 94.4 100 96.4
Australia
Osaka,
7 96 100 100 86.8 100 96.4
Japan
Auckland,
7 96 95 95.8 97.9 100 92.9
New Zealand
Adelaide,
9 95.9 95 100 91.4 100 96.4
Australia
Vancouver,
10 95.8 95 95.8 97.2 100 92.9
Canada
Damascus,
1 30.7 20 29.2 40.5 33.3 32.1
Syria
Tripoli,
2 40.1 30 45.8 37.5 58.3 41.1
Libya
Dhaka,
2 41.7 45 41.7 40.5 66.7 26.8
Bangladesh
Karachi,
4 42.7 20 54.2 35.9 75 51.8
Pakistan
Algiers,
5 42.8 35 54.2 45.4 58.3 30.4
Algeria
Lagos,
6 43.5 30 37.5 54.4 41.7 53.6
Nigeria
Harare,
7 43.8 40 29.2 56.7 66.7 35.7
Zimbabwe
Port
Moresby,
7 44.1 30 41.7 52.5 58.3 46.4
Papua New
Guinea
Kyiv,
9 44.5 40 41.7 53.2 75 26.8
Ukraine
Caracas,
10 44.9 35 37.5 45.1 66.7 53.6
Venezuela
Global trade grew $300 billion in the first half of 2025, led by US imports and EU exports
Global trade expanded by $300 billion in the first half of 2025, growing 1.5% in Q1 and projected to reach
2% in Q2, driven mainly by a 9% rise in services trade over the past year.
Price increases rather than volume growth (only 1%) contributed significantly to the trade value surge.
Developed economies led trade growth, with US imports up 14% and EU exports up 6%, while
developing countries’ imports fell 2%.
South-South trade stagnated, though Africa showed resilience with 5% export growth and 16% rise
in intraregional trade.
Global trade imbalances widened, with the US posting a growing deficit and China and the EU
recording rising surpluses.
The US ran large bilateral deficits with China ($360B), EU ($276B), and Vietnam ($116B).
The UNCTAD report flags geopolitical tensions, policy uncertainty, and new US tariffs as risks for
trade stability in the second half of 2025.
Rising domestic subsidies and protectionist industrial policies could further fragment global trade,
especially in high-tech sectors.
These moves threaten integrated production networks, raising the risk of supply chain disruptions
across regions.
Still, there are signs of resilience, including a rebound in freight indices and strengthening regional
integration.
Continued global trade recovery depends on policy clarity, geoeconomic stability, and supply chain
adaptability, according to UNCTAD.
The outlook remains uncertain, as economic growth slows and unilateral trade actions threaten global
cooperation.
The UNEP’s 7th Frontiers report (2025), The Weight of Time, highlights rising threats from extreme heat
and toxic pollution to the ageing global population, especially in urban and low-income regions.
Heat-related deaths in those aged 65+ have increased by 85% since the 1990s, and could rise 370% by
2050 with a 2°C temperature increase.
Urban ageing adds vulnerability due to heat islands and pollution, prompting calls for age-friendly,
greener cities to protect the elderly.
Floods can release legacy pollutants like lead, cadmium, and pesticide residues from sediments,
spreading toxins through water, soil, and food chains.
These pollutants cause cancer, neurotoxicity, reproductive harm, and ecosystem damage, with past
cases seen in Texas, the Niger Delta, and Pakistan.
Cadmium, a known carcinogen, affects kidneys, bones, endocrine function, and is especially harmful
during pregnancy.
UNEP stresses the need for research and monitoring of polluted sediments, especially with increasing
rainfall and flood frequency.
Solutions include the 15-minute city model, wetland restoration, and river basin management blending
infrastructure and nature-based methods.
Community involvement and adaptive planning are crucial for managing the remobilisation of
contaminants during climate-related disasters.
Learn Along:
About UNEP
Founded: 5 June 1972, Nairobi, Kenya Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya Executive Director: Inger Andersen
According to the 2025 OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook, by 2034, only 40% of cereals will be used for
human consumption, while animal feed will account for 33% and biofuel/industrial uses will rise to
27%.
Biofuel demand is projected to grow at 0.9% annually, led by India, Brazil, and Indonesia, with most
production relying on food-based cereals due to limited adoption of advanced feedstocks.
Cereal production will grow by 1.1% per year, mostly through yield improvements, while the expansion
of farmland will slow to 0.14% annually.
India and Southeast Asia will drive 39% of the increase in cereal demand; China’s share will drop
significantly from 32% to 13%, indicating dietary shifts.
Meat, dairy, and egg consumption will grow 17% by 2034, driven by rising incomes in middle-income
countries and a 7% increase in livestock inventory.
Per capita calorie intake from animal products will rise by 6% globally, and 24% in lower-middle-
income nations, though nutritional gaps will persist in poorer countries.
Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions will rise by 6%, but emission intensity per unit of output will
decline due to better farming practices.
This points to progress in sustainable agriculture, despite overall increases in environmental pressure
from expanding livestock and cropland.
Regional demand shifts, especially the decline in China’s cereal share and the rise in India and
Southeast Asia, will reshape global agricultural trade.
The growing competition between food, feed, and fuel sectors will continue to define global cereal
markets and policy choices in the coming decade.
The 2025 UN SDG Report warns that 35% of SDG targets are stagnating or regressing, with major
setbacks in Zero Hunger (SDG2), Quality Education (SDG4), and Clean Water (SDG6).
Over 2.3 billion people faced food insecurity in 2023, with hunger worsening due to conflict, climate
change, and economic instability, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
SDG8 (Decent Work) shows poor performance, with 57.8% of global workers in informal jobs and youth
unemployment still triple the adult rate.
Environmental goals like Life Below Water (SDG14) are underfunded, while marine ecosystems and
fish stocks continue to decline.
Health targets (SDG3) show stagnation in maternal mortality and universal health coverage,
worsened by post-pandemic strain and funding gaps.
Climate change poses rising threats, with 2024 being the hottest year on record, amplifying pressure
on vulnerable populations.
Despite challenges, there’s progress: HIV infections down 40% since 2010, malaria deaths reduced,
and social protection now covers over half the global population.
Still, 800 million people live in extreme poverty, and billions lack access to safe water, sanitation, and
hygiene.
Development aid fell by 7.1% in 2024, deepening the crisis for low-income nations.
The report urges global financial reform, debt relief, and multilateral cooperation to revive SDG
progress, with a focus on digital access, education, climate action, and social protection.
Hurun U30: Zepto, Perplexity, Svatantra founders top 2025 list of under-30 entrepreneurs
Zepto founders, Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha, both 22, top the first Avendus Wealth–Hurun India
U30 List 2025 for their rapid success in 10-minute grocery delivery.
The list features 79 entrepreneurs under 30 leading ventures valued over $25M (first-gen) or $50M (next-
gen), across tech, fintech, AI, healthcare, retail, and space.
Notable names include Arjun Deshpande (Generic Aadhaar), Rahul Rawat (Digantara), and Devika
Gholap (OptraSCAN)—the youngest woman on the list at 28.
Other women founders include Devanshi Kejriwal, Vrushali Prasade, and Ananyashree Birla,
highlighting increasing female presence in high-impact sectors.
Mumbai led with 15 honourees, followed by Bengaluru (7) and Delhi/Jaipur (4 each); Maharashtra
topped among states with 21 entrepreneurs.
Software and services (21 entries) dominated, followed by consumer goods (12) and financial
services (9), showing the pull of digital-led innovation.
66 out of 79 are first-generation founders, underscoring India’s rising culture of self-made success
in the startup space.
Startups featured have raised $5.2 billion in equity and created over 64,000 jobs; Svatantra Microfin
alone employs 23,000+ people.
Institutions like BITS Pilani, IIT Roorkee, and IIT Delhi produced many honourees, with an average age
of 28 among the listed entrepreneurs.
The list reflects how India’s young founders are not just chasing valuation but building sustainable,
socially impactful ventures with global relevance.
Category Details
Top-ranked founders Aadit Palicha & Kaivalya Vohra (Zepto)
Youngest on list Kaivalya Vohra (22)
Most represented city Mumbai (15 entrepreneurs)
Leading sectors Software (21), Consumer Goods (12), Financial Services (9)
Jobs created 64,175
Total equity raised $5.2 billion
Top women leaders Devika Gholap, Ananyashree Birla, Romita Mazumdar
Top funded startup Zepto ($1.95 billion raised)
Top university BITS Pilani (8 alumni featured)
Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in Current Weekly Status (CWS) among persons of age 15 years
and above was 54.2 % during June 2025 as compared to 54.8% during May, 2025. LFPR in rural areas
was 56.1% and LFPR in urban areas was 50.4% during June, 2025 for persons of the same age group.
LFPR in CWS for male of age 15 years and above in rural and urban areas were respectively 78.1% and
75.0% during June, 2025 which marked a marginal decline from the corresponding LFPR estimates of
78.3% and 75.1% respectively for rural and urban areas during May, 2025.
LFPR among female of age 15 years and above for rural areas was 35.2% during June, 2025.
Worker Population Ratio (WPR) in CWS in rural areas among persons of age 15 years and above was
53.3% during June, 2025. WPR in urban areas among persons of the same age group was 46.8% in June
2025 with the overall WPR at the country level observed as 51.2% during June, 2025 as compared to
51.7% observed during May, 2025.
WPR for female of age 15 years and above for rural and urban areas were respectively 33.6% and 22.9%
in June, 2025 and the overall female WPR of the same age group at the country level was observed as
30.2%.
Unemployment Rate (UR) in CWS among persons of age 15 years and above has remained same as
5.6% in May, 2025 and June, 2025.
Inflation in India is below the RBI’s 4% target, with the Finance Ministry projecting it will stay under the
3.7% FY26 forecast, giving room for monetary easing.
The RBI has already cut rates by 100 basis points between February and June 2025; further rate cuts
are expected in the August MPC meeting to spur growth.
Credit growth slowed to 10.4% in June 2025, down from 13.9% a year earlier, reflecting risk aversion
among both banks and borrowers despite supportive conditions.
Corporates prefer bond markets over bank loans due to lower borrowing costs, with commercial
papers gaining traction.
Private investment remains weak, prompting the government to push schemes like Employment Linked
Incentives to revive capital expenditure.
External risks like the global slowdown and uncertain US tariffs could hurt India’s export
performance, making the trade outlook cautious.
Despite challenges, domestic fundamentals remain strong, supported by healthy monsoons and
resilient supply-demand dynamics in Q1 FY26.
FDI and FPI inflows are recovering in FY26, with a 5% rise in gross FDI in April-May 2025, mainly in
digital infrastructure and manufacturing.
India is positioning itself in critical sectors like semiconductors and rare earths, requiring strategic
investment to benefit from global supply chain realignments.
The 26th NeSDA Way Forward Report (June 2025) by DARPG highlights progress in e-service delivery
across Indian States and UTs, reflecting improvements in digital governance.
A total of 22,478 e-services are available nationwide, with 1,416 added in June 2025; 79% of 2,124
mandatory e-services are operational across 36 States/UTs.
Nine States, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, UP, MP, TN, and Himachal Pradesh, have
achieved 100% saturation, ensuring full compliance with digital service mandates.
States like Assam, J&K, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, and Uttarakhand use unified service delivery
portals (e.g., Seva Sindhu, Apuni Sarkar) to simplify citizen access.
Maharashtra’s Right to Service Commission and Tripura’s SWAAGAT portal are noted for innovative
practices enhancing transparency and citizen satisfaction.
City portals in Surat and Shimla show the success of municipal-level digitalisation, offering services
like tax payments, project tracking, and citizen charters.
The AAKLAN assessment tool evaluated Northeastern and Hilly States, identifying gaps and
opportunities for improving regional digital inclusion.
The report underlines the importance of digital platforms in improving public service delivery,
governance efficiency, and citizen engagement.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) ranked 9th globally in Travel + Leisure
World's Best Awards 2025, with a reader score of 84.23, and is the only Indian airport in the list for
the third consecutive year.
The rankings were led by Istanbul, Changi, and Hamad International Airports, with strong presence
from Asia and the Middle East.
The survey involved nearly 180,000 global readers casting over 650,000 votes, focusing on design,
experience, and convenience, beyond basic logistics.
CSMIA handles 55.12 million passengers annually, making it India’s second busiest and the world’s
busiest single-runway airport, with connections to 54 international and 67 domestic destinations.
Recent upgrades include biometric travel (DigiYatra, FTI-TTP), 68 e-gates, self check-in kiosks,
digital payments, and a new Airport Operations Control Centre.
CSMIA earned Level 5 Airport Customer Experience accreditation, becoming the first in India and
third globally to do so.
It was also voted Best Airport Over 40 Million Passengers in Asia-Pacific for the eighth consecutive
year.
The airport is operated by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), a joint venture between Adani
Airport Holdings (74%) and Airports Authority of India (26%).
The Adani Group is currently India's largest private airport operator, reflecting its growing dominance
in aviation infrastructure.
A World Bank report, Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India, highlights that 70% of new jobs
will come from urban areas by 2030, making cities key drivers of economic growth.
With India’s urban population expected to double to 951 million by 2050, over 144 million new homes
will be needed by 2070.
Rising heatwaves, urban heat islands, and reduced stormwater absorption are making cities more
vulnerable to floods and extreme weather events.
Timely adaptation could avert annual losses of $5 billion by 2030 and $30 billion by 2070, and save
over 130,000 lives from heat-related impacts by 2050.
Over 50% of urban infrastructure for 2050 is yet to be built, offering a critical window for resilient, low-
carbon development.
The report urges investments in green infrastructure, flood-resilient transport, cool roofs, solid waste
management, and early warning systems.
It estimates that over $2.4 trillion will be needed by 2050, stressing a key role for the private sector in
financing.
Cities like Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Indore, and Chennai are already implementing heat action plans,
flood forecasting, green jobs, and climate adaptation measures.
Supported by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), the report
encourages scaling local innovations to ensure safe, livable, and economically vibrant cities.
India’s passport jumped 8 places to rank 77th on the Henley Passport Index 2025, its highest-ever
rise, with access to 59 visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations, up from 57 last year.
Newly added countries offering visa-free entry include Philippines and Sri Lanka, while popular
destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, and Maldives remain accessible.
India now ranks ahead of Pakistan and Bangladesh, reflecting a significant improvement in global
mobility and diplomatic influence.
Singapore tops the index with access to 193 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea (190),
while several European nations dominate the top 5 spots.
The UK and US have slipped in rankings, now at 6th and 10th respectively, showing a decline in travel
freedom.
Saudi Arabia recorded the biggest gain in this update, while China has improved 34 places since 2015,
now ranking 60th.
At the bottom, Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq offer access to just 25–30 countries, revealing a 168-
country mobility gap from the top ranks.
According to Henley & Partners, a passport now symbolizes diplomatic strength, global integration,
and plays a growing role in strategic citizenship planning.
The index is compiled using IATA data, updated quarterly, and is considered a key indicator of
international relations and travel freedom.
MSMEs in manufacturing and services have shown improved capacity utilisation in the first quarter
of 2025–26 compared to the previous quarter.
The data comes from the third edition of the MSME Outlook Survey by SIDBI, covering 1,200 MSMEs
across manufacturing, services, and trading sectors.
About 20% of the respondents reported above-normal capacity utilisation levels in both manufacturing
and services.
The improvement signals increased operational efficiency and revival in demand among small and
medium enterprises.
Trading sector trends were also captured, though detailed findings focus on manufacturing and services.
The positive trend is expected to continue, with 29% of MSMEs projecting further capacity growth
in the coming year.
This reflects growing confidence in the MSME sector and potential for higher output and employment.
The survey indicates that capacity expansion and utilization will be key drivers for MSME performance
in the near future.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
New Garcinia species found in Assam named after botanist’s
mother
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted NPCIL a five-year licence to operate Units
3 and 4 of the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat.
These are indigenously developed 700 MWe pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs), the first of
their kind in India.
KAPS-3 was cleared for full power operation in August 2023, and KAPS-4 received the same approval
in August 2024.
The licensing process included rigorous multi-tiered safety reviews spanning the entire reactor life
cycle, including design, siting, construction, and commissioning.
The review process took nearly 15 years, involving experts from AERB and other technical support
organisations.
The licence is seen as a major boost to NPCIL’s plan to construct 10 more 700 MWe PHWRs in fleet
mode.
This development marks a significant milestone in India's push for self-reliance in nuclear energy.
Learn Along:
About NPCIL
Founded: September 1987 Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra Chairman & MD: B. C. Pathak
Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates 'National Biobank' and India's own Longitudinal Population Data study
at CSIR-IGIB
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Phenome India National Biobank at CSIR-IGIB,
marking a major step toward personalised healthcare and building a longitudinal health database in
India.
The Biobank will collect genomic, lifestyle, and clinical data from 10,000 individuals, capturing India’s
ethnic and geographic diversity, inspired by the UK Biobank model.
It aims to support early diagnosis, targeted therapies, and research on diseases like diabetes, cancer,
and rare genetic disorders, tailored to Indian-specific health challenges.
The project promotes collaboration between research institutions, government bodies, and industry,
stressing the need to translate research into real-world benefits.
Ongoing research also includes women-centric health studies, breast cancer genomics, space
biology, and AI-based pilot fitness systems with the Indian Air Force.
The European Commission has proposed a 2040 climate target to reduce net greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions by 90% from 1990 levels, building on the legally binding 2030 target of 55%.
The proposal aims to enhance investment certainty, industrial leadership, and energy security, while
reflecting the urgency of the Paris Agreement and growing public support for climate action.
It introduces flexible mechanisms, including high-quality international credits (post-2036) and
domestic carbon removals, to make the transition cost-effective and socially fair.
The new target supports the Clean Industrial Deal, with measures like a State Aid Framework, simplified
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and tax incentives to accelerate clean energy
investments.
The strategy aligns with broader EU goals such as the Competitiveness Compass and Affordable
Energy Action Plan, emphasizing a just and inclusive transition.
A key focus is on promoting responsible innovation, scaling up renewables, securing supply chains,
and preparing for the post-2030 legislative framework.
The proposal, based on scientific advice and stakeholder consultations, will now be discussed by the
European Parliament and Council under the ordinary legislative procedure.
This move positions the EU as a global climate leader, ahead of COP30, reaffirming its commitment to
the Paris Agreement and guiding future climate policy.
Learn along:
About European Union
The European Union (EU) is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states that are located
primarily in Europe.
Currency: Euro Founded: 1 November 1993
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for inclusive public participation in India’s biotechnology
mission during World Bioproduct Day celebrations.
The government aims to achieve a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030, supported by the newly launched
BioE3 Policy promoting sustainable biomanufacturing.
The event featured a unique national dialogue series across Indian cities on themes like marine
biomass and agri-residue innovations, showcasing regional strengths.
He stressed that biotechnology must link to livelihoods, not just academics, with focus on startups,
industry support, and policy backing.
India has grown from around 50 biotech startups to nearly 11,000 in a decade, driven by institutional
partnerships and policy reforms.
A new butterfly species, Zographetus mathewi, has been discovered in the low-elevation forests of
Kerala, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Identified through detailed morphological studies, it was initially mistaken for Zographetus ogygia
before wing patterns and genital structures confirmed it as a new species.
It is the 15th species in the Zographetus genus and the fifth recorded in India, named after entomologist
George Mathew and commonly called the Sahyadri Spotted Flitter.
The butterfly features distinctive traits like yellow-ochre scaling, a basal hair tuft, and swollen forewing
veins in males, aiding its identification.
Endemic to Kerala, its larvae feed on Aganope thyrsiflora, and it has been found in areas like Kallar,
Shendurney, Edamalayar, and Nilambur.
The discovery underlines the importance of conserving low-elevation forests and the role of field-based
taxonomy in uncovering India’s hidden biodiversity.
The findings were published in the journal Entomon by researchers from TNHS, ZSI, and other ecological
institutes.
The Great Hornbill was unusually spotted in the coastal region of Kakkampara
The Great Hornbill (Malamuzhakki Vezhambal), Kerala’s State bird, was unusually spotted in the
coastal region of Kakkampara, Kannur, far from its typical forest habitats.
First seen on May 24 on a fig tree, it later flew toward the Ezhimala Naval Academy and remained in the
area for nearly two weeks.
The bird, a male, was confirmed by birdwatchers including Manoj Karingamathil, P. Jameela, and
Abhinav Jeevan, a forestry student.
It fed on fruit-bearing trees and moved around neighbouring regions, with initial sightings made by local
residents who shared its images unknowingly.
Normally seen in evergreen forests like Silent Valley, its presence in a coastal zone is rare and
considered an ecological indicator.
Listed as Endangered by IUCN and protected under the Indian Wildlife Act, the sighting has led to
renewed conservation efforts and recognition of the area’s biodiversity richness.
Microsoft has launched BioEmu, an advanced AI system that predicts protein movements and
structures within hours—work that typically takes years of molecular simulations.
Developed by Microsoft Research’s AI for Science team, BioEmu models conformational changes in
proteins, key to understanding disease mechanisms and drug design.
Trained on over 200 ms of molecular dynamics data and 500,000 protein stability experiments,
BioEmu achieves high prediction accuracy with errors under 1 kcal/mol.
It can detect elusive features like “cryptic” binding pockets, which are potential targets for new drugs,
and replicate complex domain shifts and unfolding.
BioEmu delivers millisecond-level simulation results in real-time, dramatically reducing the
computational time and cost involved.
Published in Science, BioEmu is positioned to transform drug discovery, disease research, and
synthetic biology, accelerating therapeutic breakthroughs.
Learn Along:
About Microsoft
Founded: April 4, 1975 Headquarters: Washington, U.S. Chairman & CEO: Satya Nadella
The World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever technical brief on AI in Traditional
Medicine, highlighting India’s leadership in integrating AI with Ayush systems.
The brief was developed following India’s proposal and recognizes innovations like Ayurgenomics, which
combines genomics and Ayurveda to personalize health through AI.
AI applications in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Sowa Rigpa, and Homoeopathy include diagnosis tools
integrating traditional assessments with machine learning and deep neural networks.
The WHO document praises India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) and AI-driven tools
for digitizing and analyzing ancient medical texts.
AI is also being used to study herbal formulations, identify drug action pathways, and develop
chemical sensors to measure traditional properties like Rasa, Guna, and Virya.
India's initiatives align with the vision of ‘AI for all’, promoting inclusive growth and digital health
innovation globally.
The Ministry of Ayush sees this recognition as a step forward in modernizing traditional medicine and
building global collaborations in digital healthcare.
Learn Along:
About WHO
Formation: 7 April 1948 Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland Director-General: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
China Builds World's Lightest Mind-Controller That Turns Bees Into Military Cyborgs
Chinese scientists have developed cyborg bees by inserting a 74-milligram brain controller into bees
to remotely control their flight for military and covert operations.
The device, created by the Beijing Institute of Technology, uses electronic pulses to guide bees in
directions like left, right, forward, and back, with a 90% success rate.
The controller is the lightest of its kind, using polymer film circuits and includes chips like infrared
remotes, all while maintaining insect-level agility.
These cyborg insects offer advantages like superior mobility, stealth, and environmental
adaptability, making them useful in urban combat, counterterrorism, and disaster relief.
The design was inspired by earlier cyborg beetle and cockroach tech from Singapore but significantly
reduced in weight.
Challenges remain, especially with battery life—larger batteries would be too heavy, and the same device
cannot be universally applied to all insects.
Future research aims to optimize control signals and improve the precision and repeatability of insect
responses.
This project marks a significant advance in bio-robotics with potential applications in defense,
surveillance, and emergency response.
NASA, along with international scientists, is using SNIFS (Solar EruptioN Integral Field Spectrograph) to
study the Sun’s chromosphere, a key layer in solar energy transfer.
The chromosphere lies between the photosphere and corona, with temperatures ranging from 6,000°C
to over a million degrees, and is critical to understanding coronal heating.
SNIFS is the first ultraviolet integral field spectrograph used on the Sun, capturing a 3D spectral
dataset in real time for every pixel.
It focuses on the hydrogen Lyman-alpha line, helping calculate plasma temperatures, velocities, and
densities.
The chromosphere’s complex plasma and magnetic interactions make it hard to model; SNIFS aims to
improve scientific understanding.
The mission is a collaboration between NASA, the University of Colorado, and Queen’s University
Belfast, using a sounding rocket for a short but high-value data-gathering flight.
This research may help solve one of solar physics' biggest questions—why the Sun’s corona is hotter
than its surface.
The National Zoological Park, New Delhi celebrated World Snake Day on 16th July 2025 with a public
awareness programme on the ecological importance of snakes.
Over 100 visitors, including students and families, participated in interactive sessions on global snake
diversity, with focus on venomous Indian species.
The event addressed and debunked myths about snakes, highlighting their role in controlling rodent
populations and ensuring agricultural balance and food security.
Visitors were educated on snakebite response, stressing timely medical help and the dangers of
traditional remedies.
The initiative supports wildlife conservation by encouraging coexistence and awareness, aiming to
reduce fear and misinformation.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, part of the Axiom-4 mission, spent 18 days aboard the
International Space Station, completing 288 orbits before returning on 15th July.
He conducted 7 microgravity experiments, contributing to India’s advancement in space research
and human spaceflight.
Key studies included space microalgae, cyanobacteria, and tardigrades, aimed at supporting life
support systems, food production, and biofuel generation for future space missions.
The Myogenesis study explored muscle cell behavior in space, offering potential for both space
missions and medical treatments on Earth.
He germinated methi and moong seeds under microgravity and extreme cold, to assess changes in
genetics and nutritional profiles across generations.
Health-focused experiments involved radiation exposure, neuromuscular stimulation, heat transfer,
and mental and cardiac monitoring in space.
He also studied muscle atrophy using the Life Sciences Glovebox and irrigated crop seeds to support
sustainable space agriculture.
The tardigrade experiment aimed to identify genes behind their extreme resilience to harsh conditions,
relevant for space biology.
In the Voyager Display study, Shukla examined how screen interactions in microgravity affect
cognitive fatigue and stress.
He tested seed resilience using rice, sesame, brinjal, tomato, and cowpea, to develop climate-
resilient crops for Earth and space.
Learn Along:
The Axiom-4 mission, launched on 25th June 2025, included astronauts from India, USA, Poland, and Hungary,
and was operated by Axiom Space using SpaceX Falcon 9.
The mission marks a significant step in international collaboration and India’s growing presence in human
spaceflight and space science.
Indian scientists discovered a new lichen species, Allographa effusosoredica, in the Western Ghats,
highlighting symbiosis, evolution, and ecological importance.
Lichens are composite organisms formed by a fungus and photobiont (like algae), crucial for soil
formation, insect nutrition, and as bioindicators.
The study by MACS-Agharkar Research Institute used molecular tools and classical taxonomy,
setting a benchmark for the genus in India.
This species contains norstictic acid, a rare chemical, and forms a symbiotic relationship with
Trentepohlia algae, revealing photobiont diversity.
DNA analysis placed it close to Allographa xanthospora, though it morphologically mimics Graphis
glaucescens, raising evolutionary questions.
It is the first Indian Allographa species sequenced with molecular data and is the 53rd species of its
genus reported from India.
Funded by ANRF, the research highlights the need for molecular studies on Indian lichens, especially in
biodiversity hotspots.
A new gecko species, Cnemaspis brahmaputra, has been discovered near Dirgheswari Temple on
the Brahmaputra River's northern bank in Assam.
Unlike most geckos in the region, it is diurnal and belongs to the Cnemaspis podihuna clade, previously
known only from Sri Lanka.
The species is genetically and morphologically distinct, with features like larger body size, fewer
scale rows, and unique thigh scales.
Its discovery reveals ancient biogeographic links between northeast India and Sri Lanka, highlighting
long-term evolutionary divergence.
This is the second Cnemaspis species found in the Brahmaputra valley, after Cnemaspis assamensis,
described from the opposite riverbank in 2000.
The Brahmaputra River acts as both a barrier and corridor for species evolution, influencing regional
biodiversity patterns.
Naming the species after the Brahmaputra acknowledges the river's ecological and cultural
importance to northeast India.
The discovery underlines the need to conserve riverine ecosystems that sustain endemic and unique
species.
It also highlights the importance of biodiversity research in unexplored or culturally significant natural
habitats.
The find adds to our understanding of reptile evolution in the Indian subcontinent, especially in
biodiversity-rich regions like Assam.
Tamil Nadu has launched India’s first Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation at Anamalai
Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Coimbatore, funded with ₹1 crore under the Endangered Species
Conservation Corpus Fund.
The Centre focuses on conserving four hornbill species of the Western Ghats through research, habitat
restoration, and community engagement.
Hornbills play a crucial ecological role as seed dispersers, aiding in forest regeneration and
biodiversity maintenance, but face threats from habitat loss and climate change.
The targeted species include the Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and
Indian Grey Hornbill, each needing specific conservation strategies.
ATR was selected due to its biodiversity, conservation success, and infrastructure supporting scientific
research and monitoring.
Conservation activities will include habitat mapping, nest monitoring, climate impact studies, and native
tree plantation.
Local communities will be engaged through nest adoption, livelihood programmes, and educational
initiatives for students and forest staff.
The initiative will collaborate with organisations like WII, SACON, NCF, and IUCN, with plans to expand
to other tiger reserves and Kanyakumari district.
The NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite was successfully launched aboard the GSLV-F16 rocket from
Sriharikota, placing the 2,392 kg payload into a sun-synchronous orbit.
NISAR is the first joint Earth observation mission by NASA and ISRO, with a planned mission life of
five years.
It uses dual-frequency SAR technology (NASA’s L-band and ISRO’s S-band) and a 12-metre mesh
reflector antenna to provide high-resolution, all-weather, day-night data.
NISAR will observe Earth at 12-day intervals with a 242 km swathe, enabling precise monitoring of
ground deformation, ice movement, vegetation, and soil moisture.
It supports critical applications like disaster response, farmland mapping, ship detection, and
shoreline monitoring.
The satellite’s construction was a joint effort, with NASA developing the radar system and ISRO
contributing the satellite bus and launch.
After the launch phase, a multistage antenna deployment will begin on day 10, followed by
commissioning and then full science operations.
Learn Along:
About NASA
Formed: July 29, 1958 Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
About ISRO
Formed: 15 August 1969 Headquarters: Bengaluru Chairperson: K. Sivan
ISRO signs MoU with NIOT for submersible spherical vessel MATSYA-6000
ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and the National Institute of Ocean Technology
(NIOT) have signed an MoU to develop MATSYA-6000, a human-occupied submersible under the
Samudrayaan project of the Deep Ocean Mission.
The Titanium alloy sphere, with a diameter of 2.26m and wall thickness of 80mm, can carry three
crew members to a depth of 6 kilometers, enduring 600 bar pressure and -3°C temperatures.
MATSYA-6000 represents India’s first 4th-generation deep-ocean scientific submersible, showcasing
indigenous advancement in ocean exploration technology.
The vessel includes ballast systems, thrusters, a battery bank, syntactic foam for buoyancy, and
advanced navigation and communication systems.
It supports acoustic modem, underwater telephone, VHF, GPS, and acoustic positioning for precise
tracking and communication.
Inside the hull, systems include life support, environmental monitoring, navigation controls, and
oceanographic sensors, along with lighting and cameras.
All subsystems have been designed in India and are currently undergoing integration and qualification
testing.
This initiative marks a major step in India’s deep-sea scientific missions and boosts self-reliance in
underwater technology development.
NASA’s TRACERS mission has launched to study how Earth’s magnetic field protects the planet from
space weather caused by the solar wind.
The mission involves twin satellites operating in low Earth orbit, passing through polar cusps where
magnetic reconnection occurs.
TRACERS aims to observe thousands of magnetic reconnection events, a process that causes
auroras and satellite disruptions.
It was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, along with three small
satellites testing new tech.
The satellites will measure magnetic and electric field changes to study the dynamics of reconnection
over time.
TRACERS will collaborate with other missions like MMS, PUNCH, and EZIE to create a comprehensive
view of solar-terrestrial interactions.
The mission is led by David Miles (University of Iowa) and managed by the Southwest Research
Institute, with key instruments developed by UCLA and UC Berkeley.
India’s resolution to the Ramsar Contracting Parties on ‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the
Wise Use of Wetlands’, adopted at Ramsar CoP15 in Zimbabwe
At the 15th Ramsar CoP in Zimbabwe, India introduced and secured adoption of a resolution on
‘Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles for the Wise Use of Wetlands’ on July 30, 2025.
The resolution received overwhelming support from 172 contracting parties, international partners, and
observers, emphasizing the role of individual and societal choices in wetland conservation.
It aligns with earlier global resolutions on sustainable production and consumption and encourages
voluntary integration of sustainable lifestyle interventions into wetland policies and investments.
The resolution promotes a ‘whole-of-society’ approach, calling for public-private collaboration,
education, and awareness campaigns to support wise wetland use.
Sustainable lifestyles, as defined in the resolution, aim to reduce environmental degradation, ensure
equitable development, and improve quality of life.
The resolution builds on UNEA Resolution 6/8 and strengthens efforts for evidence-based behavioural
change and informed consumer choices.
India’s Mission LiFE, launched by PM Narendra Modi, is central to its environmental efforts and wetlands
conservation strategy.
Initiatives like Mission Sahbhagita and the ‘Save Wetlands’ Campaign have mobilized over 2 million
volunteers, mapped 170,000+ wetlands, and demarcated boundaries for 120,000 wetlands in the past
3 years.
ZSI researchers have discovered a new spider species, Piratula acuminata, on Sagar Island in the
Sundarbans, marking the first record of the genus Piratula in India.
The species belongs to the wolf spider family Lycosidae, known for being ground hunters rather than
web-builders.
The spider is medium-sized (8–10 mm), with distinct creamy-white and brown markings, and was
identified through detailed morphological analysis.
This discovery highlights the underexplored biodiversity of the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, and its importance in ecological research.
The presence of Piratula expands knowledge of Asian arachnid diversity and reinforces the Sundarbans’
status as a biodiversity hotspot.
The study was conducted by ZSI Kolkata and Sacred Heart College, Cochin, and published in the peer-
reviewed journal Zootaxa, lending it scientific credibility.
Chamaegastrodia reiekensis
A new orchid species, Chamaegastrodia reiekensis, has been discovered near Reiek Peak in Mizoram
by scientists from Mizoram and Manipur Universities.
This holomycotrophic orchid lacks chlorophyll and leaves, depending entirely on symbiotic fungi for
nutrients, making it incapable of photosynthesis.
Found at 1,500 metres elevation, it grows in moist, humus-rich soil near bamboo clumps and flowers
briefly from August to September.
The species is the first record of the genus Chamaegastrodia in Mizoram and adds to the eight known
species of this genus globally.
The Reiek forest, part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, provides an ideal habitat with its tropical
climate and rich plant diversity.
Due to its rare and specialised habitat, the orchid is classified as Critically Endangered under IUCN
criteria, vulnerable to environmental changes.
The discovery highlights the ecological uniqueness of Northeast India, especially Mizoram, which is
home to 273 orchid species across 74 genera.
Conservation and further research are vital to protect such species and understand the region's botanical
richness and ecosystem balance.
Kaziranga in Assam records third-highest tiger density in India after Bandipur, Corbett
Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) in Assam now has the third-highest tiger density in India, after
Bandipur and Corbett.
The 2024 report recorded 148 tigers across KTR’s 1,307.49 sq. km, marking a notable rise due to first-
time sampling in Biswanath Wildlife Division.
Tiger numbers in the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division increased from 104 (2022) to 115 (2024), while
Nagaon maintained a count of six.
KTR’s tiger density stands at 18.65 per 100 sq. km, just behind Bandipur’s 19.83 and Corbett’s 19.56.
The survey used camera traps and the spatially explicit capture-recapture method under NTCA and
WII guidelines.
DEFENCE
Coast Guard cooperation initiative launched by QUAD nations
The QUAD nations — India, Japan, the U.S., and Australia — have initiated the QUAD at Sea Ship
Observer Mission to enhance maritime ties in the Indo-Pacific.
This is a first-of-its-kind observer-at-sea collaboration among the coast guards and border forces of the
four countries.
The mission is based on the Wilmington Declaration from the QUAD Leaders’ Summit held in
September 2024.
It aims to promote a free, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
The initiative boosts joint maritime readiness by improving interoperability, domain awareness, and
coordination.
Learn Along:
About Quad
Known as the 'Quadrilateral Security Dialogue' (QSD), the Quad is an informal strategic forum comprising four
nations, namely -- United States of America (USA), India, Australia and Japan.
One of the primary objectives of the Quad is to work for a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific
region.
The group met for the first time in 2007 on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).
It is considered an alliance of maritime democracies, and the forum is maintained by meetings, semi-regular
summits, information exchanges and military drills of all the member countries.
Establishment: 2007
The eighth edition of the Indo-French Army exercise ‘Shakti 2025’ concluded in France on July 1,
having started on June 18.
Over 500 French personnel from the Army, Navy, Air and Space Force, and Foreign Legion
participated.
The Indian contingent included 90 personnel, primarily from the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, along
with members from other services.
The exercise aimed to enhance joint operational preparedness and military cooperation between the
two nations.
Exercise Shakti serves as a platform for interoperability and strategic coordination.
It reflects the growing defence ties and mutual trust between India and France.
Tamal is the eighth ship under Project 1135.6 (Talwar class) and the second Tushil-class frigate,
strengthening the Navy’s Western Fleet.
The ship aligns with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India push, signaling a shift towards
indigenous warship production.
INS Tamal is equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and can handle threats in air, surface,
sub-surface, and electronic warfare.
The vessel is commanded by Captain Sridhar Tata, an expert in gunnery and missile warfare.
The commissioning reflects the 65-year Indo-Russian defence partnership, with 51 ships built under
this collaboration.
It represents a significant step in boosting India’s maritime defence capability and strategic ties with
Russia.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved 10 capital acquisition proposals worth ₹1.05 lakh
crore through indigenous sourcing.
This was the first DAC meeting after Operation Sindoor, focusing on boosting armed forces capabilities.
Approvals include procurement of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems,
Integrated Inventory Management Systems, and Surface-to-Air Missiles.
The agenda emphasized enhancing air defence along the Pakistan border.
Indigenous Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) systems worth ₹30,000 crore were
approved for the Indian Army.
AoNs were also granted for Moored Mines, Mine Counter Measure Vessels, Super Rapid Gun Mounts,
and Submersible Autonomous Vessels.
These acquisitions aim to reduce risks to Naval and Merchant Vessels.
All AoNs fall under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category to encourage indigenous design and development.
DRDO & IAF conduct successful flight-test of Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air missile with
indigenous Radio Frequency Seeker from Su-30 Mk-I
DRDO and IAF successfully conducted the flight-test of Astra, an indigenous Beyond Visual Range
Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), on July 11, 2025, off the coast of Odisha.
The test involved two launches from a Su-30 Mk-I platform targeting high-speed unmanned aerial
targets at varied conditions.
The missile, equipped with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, demonstrated pin-point
accuracy and flawless subsystem performance.
The RF seeker, designed by DRDO, marks a key step in indigenising critical defence technology.
Astra has a range of over 100 km and features advanced guidance and navigation systems.
Over 50 public and private industries, including HAL, contributed to its development.
Learn Along:
About DRDO
Formed: 1958 Headquarters: Delhi, India Chairman: Samir V. Kamat
DRDO & AIIMS Bibinagar unveil first Make-in-India cost-effective advanced Carbon Fibre Foot
Prosthesis
The first Make-in-India advanced Carbon Fibre Foot Prosthesis, called ADIDOC, was launched on
July 14, 2025, at AIIMS Bibinagar, Telangana.
It was indigenously developed by DRDO’s DRDL and AIIMS Bibinagar under the Aatmanirbhar
Bharat initiative.
ADIDOC is biomechanically tested for loads up to 125 kg and comes in three variants to suit different
patient needs.
It offers international-level performance at a significantly lower cost, with production expenses under
Rs 20,000, compared to Rs 2 lakh for imported models.
This innovation aims to make high-quality prosthetics more accessible to low-income amputees in
India.
It also reduces dependency on imports and promotes social and economic inclusion for people with
disabilities.
DRDO successfully test fires drone launched precision guided missile in Andhra Pradesh
DRDO has successfully test-fired the ULPGM-V3, a drone-launched precision-guided missile, at the
Kurnool test range in Andhra Pradesh, marking a major leap in India's defence technology.
The ULPGM-V3 (also called ULM-ER) was developed with support from Defence Capital Procurement
Partners (DcPPs), MSMEs, and startups, showcasing strong industry collaboration.
The missile features a passive infrared seeker, allowing day and night targeting with fire-and-forget
capability.
Weighing 12.5 kg, it uses a dual-thrust solid propulsion unit and can strike targets up to 4 km in the
day and 2.5 km at night.
It is equipped with a two-way datalink and supports multiple warhead configurations to hit both static
and moving targets.
This successful trial significantly enhances India’s UAV-based precision strike capabilities.
The development reflects India's growing capacity to design, develop, and produce critical military
technologies domestically.
DRDO successfully conducted back-to-back test flights of the Pralay missile from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Island, Odisha.
The tests were part of user evaluation trials to verify the missile’s maximum and minimum range
capabilities.
The missile demonstrated pinpoint accuracy, following the planned trajectory and achieving all test goals.
Pralay is a solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile with advanced guidance and navigation systems.
It can carry multiple types of warheads and strike various targets with high precision.
The tests were observed by DRDO scientists, representatives from the Indian Air Force, Indian Army,
and defence industry.
‘Nistar’, the first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel, was delivered to the Indian
Navy by Hindustan Shipyard Limited on 08 July 2025.
Designed as per Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards, the ship is capable of Deep Sea Diving
and Rescue Operations.
The ship features state-of-the-art Diving Equipment and can perform Saturation Diving up to 300 m
and regular dives up to 75 m.
‘Nistar’ also acts as a Mother Ship for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), aiding submarine
rescue missions.
It is equipped with Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) for monitoring and salvage operations up to
1000 m depth.
With nearly 75% indigenous content, it reflects the goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in
India initiative.
The ship’s name, ‘Nistar’, means liberation, rescue, or salvation in Sanskrit, symbolizing its mission.
India has successfully completed trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR)
from INS Kavaratti between June 23 and July 7, 2025, boosting its maritime defence capabilities.
Developed indigenously by DRDO's ARDE, with support from other defence labs, ERASR is tailored for
the Indian Navy’s rocket launchers to target enemy submarines.
The rocket features a twin-rocket motor and an indigenous Electronic Time Fuze, ensuring high
accuracy and operational efficiency across various ranges.
Trials involved testing 17 rockets, all meeting performance goals, including range and warhead
functionality, ensuring system reliability.
Bharat Dynamics Ltd. and Solar Defence & Aerospace Ltd. will support mass production,
strengthening India’s defence manufacturing sector.
The ERASR’s success is seen as a milestone in India's push for indigenous innovation under its broader
strategic defence initiatives.
India participates in Australia's largest bilateral military exercise, Talisman Sabre, for first time
India has participated for the first time in Exercise Talisman Sabre, Australia's largest bilateral military
exercise, marking a key moment in India-Australia defence ties in the Indo-Pacific.
The 2025 edition is the 11th iteration of the drill, involving over 35,000 troops from 19 nations, including
the US, Japan, France, UK, and others, with Malaysia and Vietnam as observers.
The exercise began with an opening ceremony on HMAS Adelaide and activities will be spread across
multiple Australian regions and Papua New Guinea for the first time.
It features live-fire drills, amphibious landings, air combat, ground force manoeuvres, and maritime
operations.
India’s inclusion was confirmed by Australia’s High Commissioner to India, calling it a significant step
in bilateral cooperation.
New technologies like UH-60M Black Hawks and Precision Strike Missiles will be showcased during
the drills.
The event reflects growing military interoperability and strategic alignment among Indo-Pacific
democracies.
Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir
The Indian Army has launched Operation SHIVA 2025, a high-intensity security exercise to ensure the
safe conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra amid increased threats from Pakistan-backed groups.
Over 8,500 troops have been deployed along the northern and southern routes, supported by a multi-
layered counter-terror grid and advanced surveillance systems.
A dedicated Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) grid with 50+ systems, UAV surveillance, and
electronic warfare assets is in place to counter drone threats.
The operation underscores the Army's focus on devotee safety, real-time threat monitoring, and a swift
coordinated response throughout the pilgrimage.
India has formally requested the co-production of Javelin anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) with the
United States.
This move supports the “Make in India” initiative and aims to enhance self-reliance in defence
manufacturing.
The proposal is in an advanced stage of discussion, according to senior defence officials.
The Javelin is a third-generation, highly advanced shoulder-fired missile, effective in difficult terrain.
Co-production would improve operational readiness and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
The system is seen as critical to countering threats from Pakistan and China.
India seeks to strengthen its anti-tank warfare capability with portable, high-precision weapons.
This aligns with India’s broader strategy of building a resilient and modern defence ecosystem.
INS SANDHAYAK, THE FIRST INDIGENOUS SURVEY VESSEL LARGE (SVL), VISITS PORT KLANG
INS Sandhayak, an indigenously designed Survey Vessel Large (SVL), made its maiden port call at
Port Klang, Malaysia from 16–19 July 2025.
The visit was aimed at boosting hydrographic cooperation under the Indian Naval Hydrographic
Department (INHD) and National Hydrographic Office.
Commissioned in February 2024, INS Sandhayak is the first of its class, capable of coastal and deep-
water surveys, oceanographic data collection, and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
The ship also supports helicopter operations and has onboard hospital facilities for humanitarian
missions.
The visit focused on technical exchanges, sharing of survey technologies, and building institutional
ties with regional partners.
Activities included knowledge-sharing sessions, official receptions, and events promoting India’s
MAHASAGAR vision.
This engagement underlines India’s role in regional maritime cooperation and capacity building.
It also reflects India’s commitment to security and growth across Indo-Pacific regions.
Four Indian warships—INS Delhi, INS Satpura, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti—have reached Singapore
to participate in the 32nd SIMBEX exercise.
These indigenous ships are part of the Eastern Naval Fleet, led by Rear Admiral Sushil Menon.
SIMBEX, launched in 1994 (originally called the Lion King Exercise), is an annual naval drill between
India and Singapore.
The exercise has two phases: Harbour Phase (planning, discussions, cultural exchange) and Sea Phase
(joint naval operations, SAR, surveillance).
It aims to enhance mutual trust, operational coordination, and maritime capabilities between both
navies.
SIMBEX focuses on maritime security and tackling threats like piracy, smuggling, and terrorism in the
Indo-Pacific.
The drill supports maintaining free, rule-based sea routes and promotes regional stability and
cooperation.
The Indian Army successfully conducted high-altitude trials of the indigenously developed Akash
Prime air defence system in eastern Ladakh at over 15,000 feet.
Conducted jointly by the Army Air Defence Corps and DRDO, the system achieved two direct hits on
fast-moving aerial targets.
Akash Prime will be deployed as part of the third and fourth regiments of the Akash air defence units
in the Army.
It is a medium-range, surface-to-air missile designed to counter aerial threats in difficult terrain.
The Ministry of Defence also confirmed the successful test-firing of Prithvi-II and Agni-I ballistic missiles
from Chandipur, Odisha.
These launches, overseen by the Strategic Forces Command, validated all technical and operational
parameters.
87th Foundation Day of CRPF Celebrated in befitting manner at Group Centre, CRPF, Pune
The 87th Foundation Day of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was celebrated on 27th July at
Group Centre, Pune with enthusiasm and patriotic spirit.
Originally raised in 1939 as the Crown Representative’s Police, CRPF became the world’s largest
paramilitary force, key to India’s internal security.
MoD inks Rs 2,000 crore contract with BEL for Air Defence Fire Control Radars for Indian Army
Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth Rs 2,000 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited
(BEL) for Air Defence Fire Control Radars for the Indian Army.
The deal falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, focusing on indigenously designed, developed,
and manufactured systems.
The contract was finalized on July 25, 2025, in New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh
Kumar Singh.
The radars will have over 70% indigenous content and can detect fighter jets, attack helicopters, and
drones.
This move boosts air defence capabilities and significantly strengthens the operational readiness of
the Indian Army.
It supports the modernisation of Air Defence Regiments, aligning with long-term national defence goals.
The deal also promotes Indian MSMEs by involving them in the manufacture of components and
supply of raw materials.
The 14th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 between India and Singapore began in Jodhpur
and will run till 4 August 2025.
It involves the 42 Singapore Armoured Regiment and Indian Army’s Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
The exercise is a Table Top and Computer-Based Wargame, focused on mechanised warfare
procedures and UN-mandated joint training.
It aims to boost interoperability and bilateral defence cooperation between both armies.
A symbolic handover of the Regimental Flag marks the temporary command transfer to the Indian
contingent.
The Indian Army received its first batch of three Apache AH-64E helicopters from the U.S. at the
Hindon airbase.
These advanced combat helicopters will significantly enhance operational capabilities, especially
along the Western Border and in high-altitude areas.
The helicopters will be deployed in Jodhpur with the Army Aviation Corps after undergoing a Joint
Receipt Inspection.
The Apache AH-64E is a state-of-the-art platform known for its versatility and precision in combat
operations.
The induction marks a major milestone in the Indian Army’s push for aviation modernisation.
Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prachet’ for ICG launched by GSL
‘Samudra Prachet’, the second and final indigenous Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built by Goa
Shipyard Ltd, was launched for the Indian Coast Guard on July 23, 2025.
The vessel has 72% indigenous content, supporting Aatmanirbhar Bharat, with strong involvement of
local industry and MSMEs in construction.
Designed for oil spill response in the Exclusive Economic Zone, it features state-of-the-art response
equipment, side-sweeping arms, and a modern radar system for oil slick detection.
It can recover oil of all viscosity levels, analyze and separate pollutants, and store recovered oil in
dedicated tanks.
The ship is 114.5 m long, displaces 4,170 tonnes, and will be operated by 14 officers and 115 sailors.
DGICG Paramesh Sivamani praised the project’s role in indigenous shipbuilding and maritime
environmental safety.
The first PCV was launched on August 29, 2024, and its delivery is expected soon.
Learn Along:
About Indian Coast Guard
Founded: 1 February 1977 Headquarters: New Delhi Director General: Paramesh Sivamani
EVENTS
List of Outcomes: State Visit of Prime Minister to Ghana
I. Announcement
· Elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership
II. List of MoUs
· MoU on Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP): To promote greater cultural understanding and
exchanges in art, music, dance, literature, and heritage.
· MoU between Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) & Ghana Standards Authority (GSA): Aimed at
enhancing cooperation in standardization, certification, and conformity assessment.
· MoU between Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine (ITAM), Ghana and Institute of
Teaching & Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), India: To collaborate in traditional medicine education,
training, and research.
· MoU on Joint Commission Meeting: To institutionalize high-level dialogue and review bilateral
cooperation mechanisms on a regular basis.
Learn Along:
About Ghana
Capital: Accra Currency: Ghanaian Cedi
An agreement was signed to reduce the Maldives' annual debt repayment burden on Indian-funded
LoCs.
Both countries agreed to launch negotiations for the India-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (IMFTA).
A joint commemorative stamp was issued marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
Inaugurations / Handing-over:
3,300 social housing units in Hulhumale were handed over under India’s Buyers’ Credit.
The Roads and Drainage project in Addu city was inaugurated.
Six High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) were inaugurated.
India handed over 72 vehicles and essential equipment to Maldives.
Two BHISHM Health Cube sets were gifted to enhance emergency medical services.
The new Ministry of Defence building in Malé was inaugurated.
India hosts first ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue to boost regional maritime connectivity and tourism
India will collaborate with ASEAN countries to develop cruise tourism circuits in the Bay of Bengal
and Indian Ocean, as announced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The announcement was made at the first-ever ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue, held aboard the MV
Empress at Chennai Port.
The initiative aims to create an integrated cruise network, connecting Indian ports with ASEAN
destinations, using modern terminals and real-time tracking.
Over 30 delegates from ASEAN nations, including Timor Leste, attended the meet.
India also plans to professionalise 5,000 km of navigable waterways to boost cruise connectivity.
The dialogue focuses on maritime cooperation, sustainable tourism, and regulatory alignment in the
Indo-Pacific.
A proposed ASEAN-India Cruise Tourism Corridor will help link cultural and commercial centres
across the region.
Learn Along:
About ASEAN
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand,
with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the Founding Fathers of ASEAN: Indonesia,
Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
Brunei Darussalam joined ASEAN on 7 January 1984, followed by Viet Nam on 28 July 1995, Lao PDR and
Myanmar on 23 July 1997, and Cambodia on 30 April 1999, making up what is today the ten Member States of
ASEAN.
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) approved SPREE 2025 during its 196th meeting
chaired by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya in Shimla.
SPREE 2025 is a special initiative to expand social security coverage under the ESI Act, active from
1st July to 31st December 2025.
It offers a one-time opportunity for unregistered employers and employees—including contractual and
temporary workers—to register without facing inspections or demands for past dues.
Registrations can be done through the ESIC portal, Shram Suvidha, and MCA portal, and will be valid
from the date declared by the employer.
The scheme ensures no retrospective contributions or benefits, and no inspection or demand for
past records will be made.
It encourages voluntary compliance by eliminating fear of retrospective penalties and simplifying the
process.
SPREE 2025 aims to bring left-out establishments and workers under ESI, strengthening social
protection.
ESIC’s move supports a welfare-centric labour ecosystem by promoting inclusive and accessible
social security for all.
Prime Minister participates in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 6–7 July
2025, addressing key global issues like governance reform, peace and security, and Artificial
Intelligence.
He reaffirmed India’s support for the Global South, urging more access to climate finance and
technology for developing nations.
He emphasized or Underlined :
The urgent need to reform global institutions like the UNSC, IMF, World Bank, and WTO to reflect
21st-century realities.
India’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts across West Asia and Europe.
BRICS' relevance in a changing world order and offered four suggestions, including strengthening
the BRICS New Development Bank, creating a Science & Research repository, securing critical
mineral supply chains, and promoting responsible AI.
multipolarity and diversity are BRICS’ strengths in shaping a stable global future.
The summit concluded with the adoption of the ‘Rio de Janeiro Declaration’, reflecting consensus on
major global issues.
Learn Along:
About BRICS
BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China, South
Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.
Formation: 16 June 2009
The event is titled “Reclaiming India’s knowledge legacy through manuscript heritage” and coincides
with Swami Vivekananda’s 1893 Chicago address.
It marks the launch of the Gyan Bharatam Mission, announced in the Union Budget 2025–26, aiming to
revive the National Mission for Manuscripts (2003).
The mission focuses on preserving, digitising, and integrating manuscript knowledge with modern
technologies.
The conference will bring together global scholars, cultural custodians, and Indian dignitaries for
keynotes, workshops, and exhibitions.
Side events will include displays of UNESCO-listed manuscripts, live demonstrations, and start-up
showcases.
The Ministry of Culture has invited research papers, case studies, and conceptual frameworks on
relevant themes.
The event aims to revive India’s manuscript legacy and build a new scholarly ecosystem around it.
Shalyacon 2025, the 3rd National Conference on Shalya Tantra, was inaugurated by Minister Prataprao
Jadhav at AIIA, New Delhi, on Sushruta Jayanti.
The event, part of the 25th Annual Conference of the National Sushruta Association, gathered over
500 participants from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The Minister emphasized advancing Ayurvedic research and highlighted the Government’s approval for
Ayurvedic surgeons to perform 39 surgical procedures and 19 operations.
Live demos of laparoscopic and anorectal surgeries were conducted, along with scientific sessions and
expert panels on standardization and innovation in Ayurvedic surgery.
AI integration in Ayurveda was showcased, with India contributing to global governance through the
WHO-ITU AI for Health initiative.
AIIA now handles 2000+ patients daily, with its Shalya Tantra department performing a wide range of
surgeries, reinforcing Ayurveda’s clinical relevance.
The conference theme, "Innovation, Integration, and Inspiration", reflects India’s push for global
leadership in integrative healthcare.
Learn Along:
About AIIA
The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), inaugurated on 17th October 2017, is the first of its kind, modeled on
AIIMS and focused on Ayurveda tertiary care.
It is a NABH-accredited hospital and a premier centre for postgraduate education and research under the
Ministry of Ayush.
AIIA follows a holistic and integrated approach to patient care, combining traditional and modern practices.
Since its launch, the institute has provided treatment to over 30 lakh patients, establishing itself as a key player in
public healthcare.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces ‘Youth Spiritual Summit’ in Varanasi
Youth Spiritual Summit themed ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ was announced by Union Minister
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to tackle drug abuse among youth and promote national development.
The three-day summit along the Ghats of River Ganga will bring together 500 youth delegates from
100 spiritual organisations to craft strategies for a drug-free India.
Key sessions will address addiction awareness, breaking drug networks, outreach efforts, and a
national action plan for Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2047.
The summit will culminate in the Kashi Declaration, outlining a united national roadmap to fight substance
abuse.
This initiative is part of a broader Jan Andolan movement involving NGOs, institutions, and spiritual bodies
for grassroots action.
Over 65% of India’s population under 35, the youth must lead as changemakers, not just beneficiaries.
A special Padyatra in Kargil on 26 July (Vijay Diwas) will also be held to honor martyrs and promote the
Fit India movement.
The Department of Legal Affairs launched Mahila Aarogyam Kaksh, a wellness space for women
employees, at Shastri Bhawan.
Inaugurated by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the facility aims to promote health, fitness, and
mental well-being.
The space, carved out of a former garage, includes gym equipment and a private lactation room for
nursing mothers.
The initiative aligns with the ‘Hum Fit Toh India Fit’ campaign and promotes work-life balance for women
in government service.
This is a first-of-its-kind effort to institutionalize wellness in government offices, reimagining them as
human-centered workplaces.
The initiative supports the broader vision of Fit India and Viksit Bharat, placing dignity, health, and
inclusion at the core.
The Government launched the IndiaAI Mission to democratize AI development and use, focusing on
real-world impact across sectors like health, education, agriculture, and governance.
India is developing indigenous Large and Small Language Models using local datasets, with support
to startups like Sarvam AI and Soket AI; all models will be open source.
The IndiaAI Compute Portal provides access to 34,381 GPUs at subsidized rates to support AI research
for academia, startups, MSMEs, and government bodies.
The AIKosh platform offers over 1000 India-specific datasets and 208 AI models, including Text-to-
Speech models in Indian languages and health/agri data.
30 AI-based applications are being funded to solve public interest problems using ethical AI, and
global exposure is offered through the IndiaAI Startups Global Program.
The Government is building AI safety tools and frameworks through the IndiaAI Safety Institute, with
projects in bias mitigation, AI governance, and deepfake detection.
A comprehensive legal framework under IT Act 2000, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita 2023, and Digital
Personal Data Protection Act 2023 addresses AI-related risks like misinformation, deepfakes, and
data misuse.
India’s techno-legal approach integrates legal safeguards with R&D in AI tools, ensuring safe, ethical,
and innovative AI development without stifling innovation.
The Ministry of DoNER organized the Rising Northeast Investors Summit 2025 to boost trade and
investment in the North Eastern Region.
The Summit and its roadshows attracted investment interests worth ₹4.48 lakh crore through MoUs,
letters of intent, and leads from both public and private sectors.
Key investment sectors included Energy and Agri Food Processing & Allied sectors, drawing maximum
proposals.
The UNNATI Scheme aims to enhance industrialization in the region through capital incentives, interest
subvention, and manufacturing-linked incentives.
State Governments are engaging investors and facilitating investment through single window systems,
land banks, and promotion agencies.
MDoNER is actively coordinating with States and stakeholders to ensure implementation of investment
proposals.
Emphasis is placed on low-carbon technologies and green industries to protect the ecological
sensitivity of the region.
Projects with minimal environmental impact are given priority to ensure sustainable economic growth.
India and the UK have launched the India-UK Vision 2035, a strategic roadmap to deepen cooperation
across key sectors like trade, technology, defence, education, climate, and innovation.
It builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and aims to drive mutual growth, sustainable
development, and global leadership by setting clear milestones and goals.
The Vision includes an ambitious trade agenda, anchored by the India-UK Comprehensive Economic
and Trade Agreement (CETA), with further goals like a Bilateral Investment Treaty, stronger capital
market ties, and supply chain resilience in critical sectors.
Both countries will collaborate on technology and innovation, including AI, quantum tech,
semiconductors, biotechnology, and space exploration, while ensuring secure supply chains and
cybersecurity cooperation.
In defence and security, they’ve agreed to a 10-year Industrial Roadmap, joint development of
advanced weapons, expanded military exercises, and deeper coordination on Indo-Pacific maritime
security, counterterrorism, and cyber threats.
The climate and energy partnership targets joint work on clean energy, climate finance, green
hydrogen, and nature conservation, with a focus on scalable innovations and strengthening disaster
preparedness.
Education collaboration will see UK universities opening campuses in India, joint degrees, green skills
training, and expanded youth and student exchanges, aligned with India’s NEP 2020.
Both countries will uphold a rules-based international order, work to reform global institutions like the
UN, WTO, IMF, and promote multilateralism that reflects current global realities.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav led the Indian delegation at the 15th Ramsar COP (2025) in Victoria
Falls, Zimbabwe, highlighting India’s wetland conservation and global cooperation efforts.
India has 91 Ramsar sites covering 1.36 million hectares, the largest in Asia and third largest
globally, with a 250% increase in the last 10 years.
Udaipur and Indore have received global recognition as “Wetland Cities” for the first time, underlining
India’s urban ecological progress.
India emphasized themes of “Oneness with Nature” and “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, reflecting its
ecological philosophy at the High-Level Session.
Initiatives like ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ and Mission LiFE integrate community participation and
sustainable living into environmental policy.
The Ramsar Convention (1971) aims at the wise use of wetlands; India joined in 1982 and selects
Ramsar sites based on ecological importance.
Bilateral talks were held with heads of CITES, CMS, and the Ramsar Convention, including discussions
with Zimbabwe on wetland restoration.
CITES (1975) regulates global trade in endangered species; India joined in 1976 and implements it through
the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
CMS (1983), also called the Bonn Convention, protects migratory species like sea turtles and Gangetic
dolphins, with India as a key member since 1983.
AWARDS AND REWARDS
Recipient Award/Honor Country/Organization Notable Detail
Order of the Republic of First foreign leader to receive
Narendra Modi Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago this highest national honor
APPOINTMENTS
Organization Name News Learn Along
Military Institute of Rear Admiral V Ganapathy has taken over as the Commandant of the Founded:
Technology Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune, under the Integrated 1952
Defence Staff.
He brings extensive experience through various operational, staff, and
instructional roles in the Indian Navy.
His appointment comes during a period of technological
transformation and institutional integration in the Armed Forces.
Securities and Sunil Jayawant Kadam has been appointed as the Executive Director Founded:
Exchange Board of of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI. 12 April 1988
India Headquarters
: Mumbai
Chairperson :
Tuhin Kanta
Pandey
Google Cloud India Sashikumar Sreedharan has been appointed as the new Managing ---
Director of Google Cloud India, succeeding Bikram Singh Bedi, who
will now focus on regional strategic initiatives.
The company aims to support AI-driven transformation across India's
industries and public sector.
Central Board of The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the re- ---
Direct Taxes appointment of Ravi Agrawal as Chairman of the Central Board of
Direct Taxes (CBDT) for one year from 01.07.2025 to 30.06.2026.
His re-appointment is on a contract basis, following the standard terms
for re-employed Central Government officers, with relaxation of
recruitment rules.
IndiGo Amitabh Kant, former NITI Aayog CEO and G20 Sherpa, has been ---
appointed as a non-executive director on the IndiGo board.
A retired IAS officer, Kant played a key role in drafting the New Delhi
Leaders’ Declaration during India’s G20 presidency.
Kho Kho Federation The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has announced its newly Founded:
of India elected Governing Body following successful elections in New Delhi. 1955
Sudhanshu Mittal was re-elected as President, and Upkar Singh Virk
was elected General Secretary, alongside several other office bearers.
Athletes Ashwini Bipin Patil and Monika will represent the Athletes
Commission in the new body.
The sport is currently played in 58 countries, with a goal to expand to 90
countries by the end of the year.
KKFI is hopeful about Kho Kho’s inclusion in the 2030 Asian Games and
the 2032 Olympics, marking a major step for Indian indigenous sports.
ICC Sanjog Gupta has been appointed as the new CEO of the ICC, replacing Headquarters
Geoff Allardice, who resigned due to personal reasons. : Dubai, United
He becomes the seventh CEO in ICC’s history. Arab Emirates
Founded:
15 June 1909
Chairman:
Jay Shah
National Medical Dr Abhijat Sheth has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Formation:
Commission National Medical Commission (NMC), the top regulatory body for 25 September
medical education in India. 2020
He currently heads the National Board of Examinations in Medical
Sciences (NBEMS) and will continue in that role until the NEET-PG
exam in August.
Dr Abhijat Sheth replaces Dr B N Gangadhar, who resigned in October
but continued due to the lack of a suitable replacement.
Hindustan Unilever Priya Nair has been appointed as the new CEO and MD of Hindustan Founded:
Limited Unilever Limited (HUL), effective August 1, becoming the first woman 1933
to hold the post. Headquarter:
She is currently President, Beauty and Well-being at Unilever and will Mumbai,
also join the HUL Board, pending approvals. Maharashtra,
Rohit Jawa will step down as CEO and MD on July 31, while Nair India
continues on the Unilever Leadership Executive. CEO:
Rohit Jawa
LIC R. Doraiswamy has been appointed as the new MD & CEO of LIC for a Founded:
tenure of three years or until he turns 62, whichever is earlier. 1 September
He succeeds Siddhartha Mohanty and replaces Sat Pal Bhanoo, who 1956
held interim charge until July 14, 2025. Headquarter:
Mumbai,
Maharashtra,
India
GIFT City Company Sanjay Kaul, a 2001-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, has been ---
Ltd appointed as the MD and CEO of GIFT City Company Ltd.,
Gandhinagar, on deputation.
He is currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Union Ministry of
Culture, overseeing portfolios like UNESCO, international cultural
relations, and intangible heritage.
His deputation term at GIFT City will last three years or until further
orders, as per the Gujarat government’s notification.
GIFT City is India’s first International Financial Services Centre
(IFSC) and a strategic initiative in financial sector reforms.
Karnataka Bank Raghavendra Srinivas Bhat has been appointed as the interim MD & Founded:
CEO of Karnataka Bank starting 16 July 2025, following a leadership 18 February
crisis. 1924
Raghavendra Srinivas Bhat, who joined the bank in 1981 as a clerk, Headquarter:
became COO in 2019 and was reappointed on 1 July 2025, just before Mangalore,
taking over as interim CEO. Karnataka,
The change comes after Srikrishnan Hari Hara Sarma resigned as MD India
& CEO on 29 June 2025 for personal reasons, with his term ending 15
July.
Hindustan Hindustan Aeronautics announced that based on the Ministry of Founded:
Aeronautics Defence, Department of Defence Production, Government of India Letter 23 December
No dated 15 July 2025, the Board of Directors of the Company has 1940,
appointed Ajay Kumar Shrivastava, Executive Director (ARDC) of the Bengaluru
Company as Director (Engineering and Research & Development) of the
Company w.e.f. 15 July 2025, subject to the approval of shareholders in
General Meeting.
Atal Innovation Deepak Bagla has taken charge as the new Mission Director of the ---
Mission Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog. Deepak Bagla has
represented India in key forums, including as President of WAIPA, and
served on several high-level government committees. AIM, with its
renewed mandate, aims to scale impact-driven innovation initiatives
aligned with national priorities.
Goa Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju was sworn in as the 22nd Governor Capital:
of Goa, succeeding P.S. Sreedharan Pillai. Chief Justice Alok Aradhe Panaji
of the Bombay High Court administered the oath. Pusapati Ashok Chief
Gajapathi Raju is a senior leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) minister:
IMPORTANT DAYS
Day/Week Observance Significance
1st July Chartered Accountants' The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) observes
Day Chartered Accountants' Day (CA Day) on July 1st every year,
marking the foundation of the institute in [Link] day recognises
the vital contributions of chartered accountants in shaping India's
financial growth and ensuring economic integrity across [Link]
day honours the commitment, knowledge, and moral principles
maintained by chartered accountants, who are essential to
maintaining financial openness, legal compliance, and economic
expansion.
World Zoonoses Day World Zoonoses Day 2025 is observed on July 6 to raise awareness
about zoonotic diseases—those that spread between animals and
humans. This day commemorates the pioneering achievement of
Louis Pasteur, who administered the first successful rabies vaccine
July 6 in 1885.
10th July National Fish Farmers National Fish Farmers Day 2025 honors the crucial role of fish
2025 Day 2025 farmers in ensuring food security, boosting fish-based protein
supply, and promoting rural employment.
It commemorates Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi for
their 1957 breakthrough in induced breeding of Indian Major Carps,
revolutionizing inland aquaculture.
The day recognizes contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs,
and fishermen in advancing sustainable fisheries and the Blue
Economy.
11 July World Population Day World Population Day is celebrated annually on 11 July to focus
attention on the urgency and importance of population issues.
The UN Development Programme (UNDP) established World
Population Day in 1989, an outgrowth of the interest generated by
the Day of Five Billion, which was observed on 11 July 1987. In
1990, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) decided to continue
observing World Population Day to enhance awareness of
population issues, including their relations to the environment and
development (Resolution 45/216).
July 12 Malala Day Malala Day, celebrated on July 12, honours the bravery of Malala
Yousafzai who has become a symbol of the fight for girls’ education.
Her fight began when she stood up against the Taliban in Pakistan
and advocated for girls’ right to education. A Taliban gunman shot her
on October 9, 2012, for not following restrictions on girls’ education.
15 July World Youth Skills Day World Youth Skills Day, observed annually on July 15, raises
awareness of the value of equipping youth with the skills necessary to
thrive in a world that is always changing. This UN-supported program
has been promoting discussions about employment, entrepreneurship,
and personal development since its launch in 2014.
The first World Youth Skills Day was celebrated on July 15, 2015.
This year, it falls on July 15, 2025, marking the 10th anniversary of
the global observance.
The theme of the World Youth Skills Day 2025 is 'Youth
Empowerment Through AI and Digital Skills'.
15th July World Youth Skills Day Every year on July 15, the world comes together to observe World
Youth Skills Day. This day raises awareness about the importance
of helping young people gain the skills they need for employment,
entrepreneurship, and personal development.
Indian Council of Every year 16th of July is celebrated as the Indian Council of
Agricultural Research Agricultural Research (ICAR) Foundation Day. This year ICAR will
(ICAR) Foundation Day celebrate its 97th Foundation Day. On this day achievements of the
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are highlighted for
OBITUARIES
Name of Person Field Points to Remember
Kota Srinivasa Rao Actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, veteran Telugu actor known for redefining
villainous and comedic roles, passed away at 83 in Hyderabad.
He served as a BJP MLA (1999–2004) but returned to films after
realising politics wasn't for him. Awarded the Padma Shri in
2015, his contribution to Telugu cinema is widely regarded as
groundbreaking.
Anand Singh Politics Anand Singh, born on January 4, 1939, belonged to the royal
family of Mankapur and was the son of former MLA Raja
Raghvendra Pratap [Link] had a long political career, being
elected to the UP Assembly in the 1960s and to the Lok Sabha
multiple times as a Congress leader, starting in [Link] as
the “UP Tiger”, he held considerable political influence in
eastern UP, especially in Gonda, where parties gave him blank
nomination [Link] served as Agriculture Minister in the
Akhilesh Yadav government after winning the 2012 Assembly
election from Gaura
B. Saroja Devi Actor B. Saroja Devi, legendary actress and the first female superstar
of Kannada cinema, passed away at [Link] received prestigious
honours including the Padma Shri (1969) and Padma Bhushan
(1992).
Alan Bergman Lyricist Alan Bergman, the Oscar-winning lyricist, died at 99 in Los
Angeles after suffering from respiratory issues but continued
writing till the end.
The Bergmans won 3 Oscars, 2 Grammys, 4 Emmys, and had
16 Oscar nominations, becoming one of the most celebrated
songwriting duos.
Fauja Singh Sports Fauja Singh, the 114-year-old marathon legend, passed away
after being hit by an unidentified vehicle in his native village
Beas Pind, [Link] ran prestigious marathons in London,
New York, and Hong Kong, setting inspiring records for a man of
his age. He served as a torch-bearer in the 2012 London
Olympics, symbolizing perseverance and spirit. Queen Elizabeth
II honoured him for his contributions to sport and charity,
cementing his legacy.
V.S. Politician V.S. Achuthanandan, former Kerala Chief Minister and a veteran
Achuthanandan communist leader, passed away at the age of 101 due to cardiac
arrest.
A founding member of CPI(M) in 1964, he held key roles including
Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, often clashing with
party leadership over principles.
Tara Murali Architect Tara Murali, 75, noted architect passed away in [Link]
had a four-decade-long architectural career and was involved
in town planning, heritage conservation, and consumer
[Link] was a Trustee of CAG, member of the Broadcast
Complaints Council and INTACH, and led table tennis
associations in Tamil Nadu.A secular, modern thinker, she also
translated a Tamil book on Veerapandiya Kattabomman into
English.
Joey Jones Sports Joey Jones, former Liverpool and Wales defender, passed away
at the age of 70.
He played 100 matches for Liverpool (1975–78), winning two
European Cups, a UEFA Cup, and a league title.
He became a fan legend, celebrated by a famous banner at the
1977 European Cup final.
Ratan Thiyam Theatre Artist Ratan Thiyam, a pioneer of Indian theatre, passed away at 77; he
was known for merging traditional Manipuri art with modern
theatre. He received the Padma Shri (1989), Sangeet Natak
Akademi Award (1987), La Grande Medaille (1997), and the
John D. Rockefeller Award (2008), but later returned his Padma
Shri in protest.
Dr. P. Doctor Dr. P. Namperumalsamy, chairman emeritus of Aravind Eye
Namperumalsamy Hospital, passed away at 85 in Madurai.
Known as Dr. Nam, he was India’s first retina specialist and a
pioneer in ophthalmology.
He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2007 and received
multiple accolades for his service.
Tom Lehrer A Mathematical Tom Lehrer, a mathematical prodigy and legendary musical
prodigy and satirist, died at 97 in Cambridge on July 26, 2025, leaving a legacy
legendary musical of dark wit and academic brilliance.
satirist His legacy continued through works like Tomfoolery, the Rhino
Records box set, and educational writing for PBS’s The Electric
Company.
Vijai Sharma Architect of the 1997 Vijai Sharma, a 1974-batch IAS officer, played a key role in
Kyoto Protocol shaping India’s climate policy and was a major architect of the
1997 Kyoto Protocol, advocating for the rights of developing
countries.
He served as India’s chief climate negotiator from 1995 to 2001
and helped bring the COP8 climate summit to Delhi in 2002.
Meghnad Desai Economist Meghnad Desai, Indian-born British economist and thinker,
passed away at the age of 85 on July 29, 2025. In 1991, he was
appointed to the House of Lords as a Labour Party peer. He was
awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Indian government in 2008
for his contributions.
BOOKS
Book Title Author/s About the book
Confessions of a V.S. Ravi Retired IPS officer V.S. Ravi launched his book "Confessions
Shakespeare Addict of a Shakespeare Addict" in Hyderabad on July 7, celebrating
his lifelong passion for William Shakespeare.
The event drew a distinguished audience of former
bureaucrats, scholars, and literature lovers, and was
moderated by ex-IPS officer B. Krishna Rao.
The book was praised as both scholarly and personal, with Mr.
Ravi described as someone who "inhales and exhales
Shakespeare", showcasing deep engagement with the Bard’s
works.
Lores of Love and Lalu Prasad Yadav Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nalin Verma have co-authored Lores of
Saint Gorakhnath and Love and Saint Gorakhnath, an anthology of four ancient folk
Nalin Verma tales rooted in Gorakhnath’s philosophy.
The stories—"Sorthi-Brijbhar", "Bharthari-Pingla", "Heer-
Ranjha", and "Saranga-Sadabrij"—were once sung by
itinerant yogis with sarangi accompaniment.
These ballads, filled with genies, sages, and mystical
elements, reflect themes of resistance, spiritual inquiry, and
marginalized voices.
The book explores the inclusive and humanist worldview of
the Gorakhnath tradition, influential in Sufi and Bhakti
movements.
Published by Penguin Random House India, the anthology
blends historical sensitivity with magical realism to highlight
enduring cultural values.
SPORTS
Harikrishnan becomes India’s 87th GM
Harikrishnan A. Ra., after remaining an International Master for seven years, has finally become India’s
87th Grandmaster.
He earned his final GM-norm at the La Plagne International Chess Festival in France by drawing with
P. Iniyan in the last round.
He got his first GM-norm in Biel, Switzerland (2023) and the second in Lince Andujar, Spain (June
2025).
Full list of FIFA Club World Cup 2025 champions: Chelsea becomes first English side to win title twice
Chelsea won the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife
Stadium, New Jersey.
Cole Palmer scored two goals and assisted Joao Pedro for the third, all within the first half.
The match showcased Chelsea's dominance and exposed PSG's defensive lapses.
This edition featured an expanded format with 32 teams, held over a month in the United States.
Take a look at the full list of winners since the tournament’s inception in 2000:
Jannik Sinner stuns defending champion Carlos Alcaraz to win maiden Wimbledon title
Jannik Sinner defeated defending champion Carlos Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 to win his first Wimbledon
title and fourth Grand Slam overall.
The 23-year-old world number one had earlier won the Australian Open 2025 and defeated Novak
Djokovic in the semifinals.
Alcaraz, aiming for a Wimbledon hat-trick, fell short of his sixth major title in a high-stakes final.
Iga Swiatek, world No. 4, won her maiden Wimbledon title with a dominant 6-0, 6-0 victory over Amanda
Anisimova in just 57 minutes.
This is the first-ever women’s final in the Open Era won without the champion dropping a single game.
The win marks Swiatek’s sixth Grand Slam title and her 100th Grand Slam match victory.
She also becomes the first Polish player to win a Wimbledon singles title, making it a historic
achievement.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the new season of the ASMITA League at the
Weightlifting Warriors Academy, Modinagar.
The two-day event will feature 42 girls competing in eight weight categories, aiming to identify and
groom young talent.
Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu and her coach Vijay Sharma were present at the launch,
inspiring participants.
The Minister highlighted the government’s focus on creating sporting opportunities and building a
pipeline of athletes from the grassroots level.
In the current financial year, 852 league competitions are planned across 15 sports, targeting around
70,000 female athletes.
This marks a significant increase from last year’s 550 events involving 53,000 women athletes, reflecting
the expansion of women’s sports infrastructure.
Magnus Carlsen won the Grand Chess Tour SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz 2025 with 22.5/36 points,
clinching the title with a round to spare after drawing against R Praggnanandhaa.
He defeated Ivan Saric in the final round, while Wesley So finished second with 20/36, scoring 5.5/9 on
the last day of Blitz.
World Champion D Gukesh made a strong comeback in Blitz, scoring 4/9 in the second half and finishing
third with 19.5/36 overall.
Gukesh led the Rapid section despite faster formats not being his traditional strength, showcasing clear
improvement.
Carlsen played a Berlin draw against Gukesh in their Blitz rematch, securing his lead.
The next Grand Chess Tour event will be the Saint Louis Rapid and Blitz, held from 10–16 August 2025
in Missouri, USA.
Indian men's football team drops six places to 133rd in FIFA rankings, worst in nine years
The Indian men's football team dropped to 133rd in the FIFA rankings on July 10, 2025, its lowest
position in nine years, following losses to Thailand and Hong Kong in June.
The defeat to lower-ranked Hong Kong in an Asian Cup qualifier led to the exit of head coach Manolo
Marquez from the AIFF.
India’s current rating points are 1113.22, down from 1132.03, placing it 24th among 46 Asian teams,
with Japan (17th) leading the continent.
The team has managed just one win in its last eight matches, with the sole victory coming against
Maldives in March.
Despite the return of Sunil Chhetri, the team’s performance has not improved significantly in 2025, with
just one win out of four matches so far.
India’s next match is scheduled against Singapore in October, a crucial fixture for Asian Cup 2027
qualification.
Argentina tops the global FIFA rankings, followed by Spain, France, and England.
Learn Along:
About FIFA
President: Gianni Infantino Headquarters: Zürich, Switzerland Founded: 21 May 1904
RCB dethrones CSK to become IPL's most valuable franchise at $269 million
India confirmed as host of ISSF World Cup 2027 and Junior Worlds 2028
India has been confirmed as the host for major international shooting competitions from 2025 to
2028, marking a major boost ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Events include the ISSF Junior World Cup (2025), Asian Rifle/Pistol Cup (2026), ISSF World Cup
(2027), and ISSF Junior World Championship (2028).
The country will also launch the first-ever Shooting League of India (SLI) in November 2025, aimed at
professionalising the sport domestically.
These developments position India as a key destination on the global shooting calendar, supporting
long-term athlete development.
Hockey Jharkhand won the 15th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2025,
defeating Odisha 1-0 in the final.
The match took place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh AstroTurf Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
Jirn Soy Munda scored the only goal, securing the championship for Jharkhand on their home ground.
This marks Jharkhand’s fifth consecutive title win in the tournament.
Hockey Haryana claimed the bronze medal after a 3-3 draw against Hockey Mizoram in the third-place
match.
Neeraj Chopra, Olympic gold medallist, won the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, a World
Athletics Gold-level event held in Bengaluru.
He clinched the title with a best throw of 86.18 metres, achieved in his third attempt.
Kenya’s Julius Yego finished second with 84.51 metres, and Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage secured
third with 84.34 metres.
Neeraj Chopra took the lead in his second attempt with 82.99 metres, followed by the event’s longest
throw in his third.
His other valid throws were 84.07 metres (fifth attempt) and 82.22 metres (sixth), with one foul in the
fourth round.
Ayush Shetty, a rising Indian shuttler, clinched his first BWF World Tour title by defeating Canada’s
Brian Yang in straight games at the US Open Super 300.
The 20-year-old won the men’s singles final 21-18, 21-13 in 47 minutes, ending India’s title drought this
season.
This was Ayush’s third win over Yang in 2024 and came after an impressive semifinal victory over top
seed Chou Tien Chen.
In women’s singles, 16-year-old Tanvi Sharma finished runner-up after a close three-game battle
against top seed Beiwen Zhang of the U.S.
Divyanshi Bhowmick, seeded second, won the under-15 girls’ singles title at the 29th Asian Youth
Table Tennis Championships in Tashkent.
She defeated China’s Zhu Qihui in a six-set final, marking her second win over a Chinese player in
the knockout stage.
Divyanshi’s win was a major highlight of India’s campaign in the tournament.
India finished with a total of four medals — one gold, one silver, and two bronze.
The result reflects India’s rising strength in youth table tennis at the Asian level.
The Equestrian Champions League will take place in Coimbatore from July 4 for three days.
A total of six teams will compete: Chennai Bulls, Pegasus Sports, Bengaluru Knights, Golconda
Chargers, Quantum Reigns, and Elite Equestrians.
The teams represent Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Goa, and West Bengal respectively.
The competition will be conducted in two categories: Showjumping 110cm and Showjumping 120cm.
The first Khelo India Water Sports Festival will be held at Dal Lake, Srinagar, from August 21–23,
2025, featuring five events including kayaking, rowing, and shikara race.
Announced by Union Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, the festival is part of the expanding
Khelo India calendar after the recent Beach Games in Diu.
The event aims to broaden sports inclusion and provide national-level opportunities for athletes
across India.
Over 400 athletes from 36 States and UTs are expected to compete, with selections made by the
National Sports Federation based on merit.
The festival will promote India’s water sports potential, preparing emerging talent for international
competitions.
India’s modern water sports infrastructure and expert coaching will be utilized to foster excellence.
This is the fifth Khelo India event in 2025, following Winter, Para, Youth, and Beach Games across
different regions.
R. Praggnanandhaa became India’s top-ranked chess player and World No. 4 in live ratings (2778.3)
after winning the UzChess Cup Masters 2025 in Tashkent.
The 19-year-old grandmaster surpassed World Champion D. Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, who slipped
to World No. 6.
He secured the title after a crucial win over Nodirbek Abdusattorov and prevailing in two tiebreak
rounds against Abdusattorov and Javokhir Sindarov.
This marks his third major title in 2025, after victories at the Tata Steel Tournament and Grand Chess
Tour Superbet Classic.
Praggnanandhaa also finished as runner-up at the Stepan Avagyan Memorial earlier this year.
With this win, Praggnanandhaa strengthens his position as a rising global chess star and India’s
highest-rated player.
Chennai Bulls secured the top spot with 109 points in the inaugural Equestrian Champions League
held in Coimbatore.
The event was organised by Equine Sports India Federation and Indigenous Horse Society, Tamil
Nadu.
Bulls earned a prize of ₹15 lakh, followed by Pegasus Sports (₹10 lakh) and Golconda Chargers (₹5
lakh).
The top three teams were: Chennai Bulls, Pegasus Sports, and Golconda Chargers.
Mexico defeated USA 2-1 in the final to win the CONCACAF Gold Cup for a record 10th time.
The match saw a comeback victory for Mexico, sealed by an Edson Alvarez header in the 77th minute.
Lando Norris wins thrilling British Grand Prix in the rain to cut Oscar Piastri’s F1 lead
Lando Norris won the 2025 British Grand Prix, fulfilling a childhood dream inspired by Lewis Hamilton’s
2008 win at Silverstone.
Norris started third, overtook Verstappen, regained position after Verstappen spun out, and took the
lead when teammate Oscar Piastri served a 10-second penalty.
The win marked McLaren’s first Silverstone victory since 2008, and Hamilton finished fourth in the
race.
Piastri, who finished second, questioned the fairness of his penalty and suggested a position swap, which
McLaren declined.
Nico Hülkenberg finished third from 19th on the grid, securing his first podium in his 239th race, and
Sauber’s first since 2012.
Verstappen, who started on pole, finished fifth and now trails Piastri by 69 points, denting his title hopes.
ECB awarded hosting rights for the next three WTC Finals
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will host the next three World Test Championship (WTC)
Finals in 2027, 2029, and 2031, following the success of hosting the 2021, 2023, and 2025 finals.
The 2025 final was held at Lord’s, where South Africa defeated Australia by five wickets to win the
championship.
Key performers in the 2025 final included Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada, helping South Africa claim
the WTC mace.
All three previous WTC finals were hosted at different venues in England, showcasing the country’s strong
capability in staging major cricket events.
The decision to continue hosting in England was confirmed at the ICC’s annual conference held in
Singapore.
The ICC also discussed important issues like the Afghanistan women’s cricket initiative and the status
of USA Cricket.
Two new Members were added to the ICC, signaling its ongoing global expansion efforts.
These developments reflect the ICC’s focus on both strengthening traditional formats and broadening
cricket’s international reach.
India Shines at IMO 2025 with 3 Golds, Ranks 7th Globally with Record Score
India won 3 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze at the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2025
held in Australia.
Kanav Talwar, Arav Gupta, and Aditya Mangudi won gold, while Abel George Mathew and Adish Jain
took silver, and Archit Manas secured bronze.
A total of 630 students, including 69 females, participated in the competition.
This is only the second time since 1998 that India has bagged three golds at the IMO.
India ranked 7th globally, scoring a record 193 out of 252 points—its highest score to date.
Since its debut in 1989, India has won 23 golds, with 12 between 2019 and 2025, including 9 in the last
three years.
Mamallapuram will host the 4th ASF Asian Surfing Championships from August 3 to 12, featuring
surfers from 20 Asian nations.
The event includes four shortboard categories: Open Men & Women and Under-18 Boys & Girls.
It will serve as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, adding major competitive value.
Tamil Nadu dominates the National team, contributing 8 out of 12 surfers, reflecting strong grassroots
and elite training.
The event will inspire young surfers across the country.
Deepika, striker of the Indian women’s hockey team, won the Poligras Magic Skill Award for her goal
against the Netherlands in the 2024-25 FIH Pro League.
The award recognises the most creative and skilful play, selected through global fan voting.
The 21-year-old scored in the 35th minute with a stunning solo effort that broke through the World No.1
Dutch defence.
The men’s award was bagged by Belgium’s Victor Wegnez.
Andre Russell, West Indies’ star all-rounder, is set to retire from international cricket after playing his
final two T20Is on July 20 and 22 at Sabina Park.
He has been named in the 16-member squad for the first two matches of the 5-match T20I series against
Australia.
Russell has represented West Indies for over a decade, earning fame for his explosive batting and
powerful finishing.
His retirement marks the end of an era for one of T20 cricket’s most impactful players from the
Caribbean.
Bihar won both the U18 Boys’ and Girls’ titles at the 10th Junior National Rugby 7s Championship
2025, repeating their 2022 double victory.
In the boys' final, Bihar defeated defending champions Odisha 17-15 with a last-minute try by Goldan
Kumar.
Bihar remained undefeated, beating teams like Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, West Bengal, and
Maharashtra.
Maharashtra secured third place with a golden try by Saurabh Sanjay Rajput, edging past Delhi, who
improved from 7th place in 2024 to 4th.
Indian Rugby President Rahul Bose called the tournament a key platform for spotting future senior
team talent.
The top four teams—Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Delhi—mirrored their Khelo India Youth Games
2025 standings, showing consistent performance.
The event was held at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun, showcasing high-level competition
in junior rugby.
Deepika, a 21-year-old Indian women’s hockey forward, became the first Indian to win the Poligras
Magic Skill Award, voted by fans worldwide.
She earned the award for a solo goal against the Netherlands during the 2024–25 FIH Hockey Pro
League, helping India draw 2-2 and win in the shootout.
Her goal involved a brilliant dribble along the baseline, lifting the ball over a defender’s stick and finishing
past the goalkeeper.
Deepika dedicated the award to Indian hockey, thanking her teammates, coaches, and supporters for
the achievement.
The award celebrates the most creative and skilful moments in the Pro League; Deepika’s goal outshone
entries from Spain and Australia.
Deepika has been part of India’s hockey setup since 2018, with standout performances at the Youth
Olympics, Junior World Cup, and Junior Asia Cup.
She hails from Hisar, Haryana, where she first gained recognition by scoring 16 goals in the Sub-Junior
Nationals, earning the title of Best Player.
India will host the 2025 FIDE World Cup from 30 October to 27 November, marking its first time since
2002, when Viswanathan Anand won the title.
The host city is yet to be announced, and the event will feature 206 players in a knockout format, with
three spots for the 2026 Candidates Tournament up for grabs.
The format includes three-day rounds: two for classical games and one for tiebreaks if needed; top 50
seeds get a bye in round one.
Notable participants include D Gukesh (world champion), R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and
Magnus Carlsen, the 2023 champion.
The event is one of the most prestigious tournaments in world chess and a key step toward the World
Chess Championship.
Sahil Rajesh Jadhav won India’s second gold at the FISU World University Games 2025 in men’s
individual compound archery, defeating Ajay Scott (GBR) 149-148.
He reached the final after a shoot-off win over fellow Indian Kushal Dalal, who later lost the bronze
match to Poland’s Przemysław Konecki.
In the women’s compound final, Parneet Kaur won silver, narrowly losing 147-146 to Moon Yeeun
(South Korea).
India now has five archery medals: gold (men's individual, mixed team), silver (men's team, women's
individual), and bronze (women's team).
Compound archery will debut at the LA 2028 Olympics with only the mixed team event as a medal
category.
India’s overall medal tally at the Games is seven, including bronzes in badminton mixed team and
women’s tennis singles.
The 32nd FISU Games (July 16–27) are being held across six German cities, with 300 Indian athletes
participating.
India’s best performance was in Chengdu 2023 with 26 medals (11 gold), but shooting—a major
contributor—is not included in 2025.
The third Chennai Grand Masters chess tournament will be held from August 6 to 15, offering a ₹1
crore prize pool.
It features 20 players across two categories — Masters and Challengers.
The top three in Masters will receive ₹25 lakh, ₹15 lakh, and ₹10 lakh, with the winner earning 24.5
FIDE Circuit points toward 2026 Candidates.
In case of a tie, winners share points: 22.3 for joint 1st, 17.8 for 2nd, and 15.6 for 3rd.
The Challengers winner gets ₹7 lakh and a guaranteed Masters spot in 2026.
Top names in the Masters include Anish Giri, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin, and others.
The Challengers section features emerging Indian talents like R. Vaishali, D. Harika, and B. Adhiban,
serving as a key proving ground.
Divya Deshmukh Creates History: Becomes First Indian to Reach FIDE Women’s World Cup Final
Divya Deshmukh (19) beat China’s Tan Zhongyi in Game 2 to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025
semifinal 1.5–0.5 in Batumi, Georgia.
She becomes the first Indian to reach the Women’s World Cup final, a historic milestone for Indian
chess.
The victory also secures her a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament and her first Grandmaster
(GM) norm.
She will face the winner of Koneru Humpy (India No. 1) vs Lei Tingjie (top seed, China), whose match
has gone to tiebreaks.
The FIDE Women’s World Cup is a key event in the World Championship cycle, offering three spots
for the Candidates.
The Asia Cup 2025 will proceed as planned and be hosted by the BCCI in the UAE in September.
Eight teams, including India and Pakistan, are expected to participate, but the final schedule is yet to
be announced.
Vikramaditya Chaufla has been appointed captain of the Indian team for the World Racketlon
Championship to be held in Rotterdam, Netherlands, from July 30 to August 3.
Racketlon combines four racket sports: table tennis, badminton, tennis, and squash, testing all-round
racket skills.
Vikramaditya Chaufla, a former badminton player, also led the Indian team last year and won silver in
the 2022 individual category.
The Indian men’s squad includes Krishna B Kotak, Prashant Sen, Nihit Kumar Singh, and Suhail
Kapur, with Raghav Jatia as reserve.
Nidhi Tiwari will be the only Indian competing in the women’s event at the championship.
The team was announced by the Racketlon India Sports Association, underlining growing Indian
participation in multi-discipline global sports.
England won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, defeating Spain in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw
in regular and extra time, securing their second European title.
England's coach Sarina Wiegman claimed her third Euro title, having previously won with the
Netherlands in 2017.
England now looks ahead to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, possibly facing top-ranked teams
like the United States.
Nat Sciver-Brunt reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC women’s ODI batting rankings, overtaking Smriti
Mandhana.
She scored a series-high 160 runs in three ODIs against India, helping her regain the top rank.
Smriti Mandhana slipped to second, having scored 115 runs in the same series.
Sciver-Brunt now has 731 rating points, narrowly ahead of Smriti’s 728.
Hardeep, a 16-year-old from Bamnoli village in Haryana, won gold in the Greco Roman 110kg category
at the World U-17 Wrestling Championships in Athens.
He became India’s first U-17 champion in the heaviest Greco Roman weight class, joining past
winners like Vinod Kumar (1980) and Suraj (2022).
Hardeep defeated wrestlers from Kazakhstan, Poland, Ukraine, Turkey, and beat Iran’s Yazdan Reza
Delrouz on criteria in the final.
He trains in both freestyle and Greco Roman, and his strong upper body gives him an edge in Greco
Roman style.
The Cycling Federation of India (CFI) signed an MoU with Manav Rachna International Institute
(MRIIRS) to create educational and career pathways for cyclists.
The collaboration allows cyclists to pursue higher education while continuing professional training in
the sport.
A joint Cycling Coaching Academy will be set up to offer UCI-aligned coaching certification, along
with diploma courses in cycling coaching and sports sciences.
The initiative aims to nurture world-class talent by combining academic knowledge with professional
cycling expertise.
CFI and MRIIRS seek to establish a benchmark in cycling education and capacity building in India.
The program blends CFI’s technical expertise and global ties with MRIIRS’s academic and sports
science infrastructure.
This will help build a structured, professional environment for young cyclists and aspiring sports
professionals.
The partnership emphasizes scientific training, coaching excellence, and long-term athlete
development.
Learn Along:
About Cycling Federation of India
The Cycling Federation of India is the national governing body of cycle racing in India.
It is a member of the Union Cycliste Internationale and the Asian Cycling Confederation.
Founded: 1946
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