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INDEX
National & States Affairs ......................................................................................................5
International Affairs ……......................................................................................................11
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs …...........................................................15
Defence Affairs ………………………………………......................................................................23
Sports & Games ……………………………………….....................................................................27
Persons in News ……………………………………….....................................................................33
Science & Technology ……...................................................................................................33
Appointments & Resignations …........................................................................................35
Awards, Rewards, Recognitions & Prizes ……....................................................................39
Schemes & Initiatives ……...................................................................................................42
Meetings, Conferences and Summits ………….....................................................................45
Ranks, Reports & Surveys ………………………………..............................................................47
Amount & Agreements ……………..……………………..............................................................49
MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships ...............................................................................51
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National & States Affairs
1. The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, has
launched the “Cruise Bharat Mission” from onboard cruise ship ‘Empress’ at the Mumbai
port to propel India’s cruise tourism industry by doubling cruise passenger traffic within 5
years; i.e. by 2029. The Cruise India Mission will be implemented in 3 phases, beginning from
1 October 2024 up to 31 March 2029. Phase 1 (01.10.2024 - 30.09.2025) will focus on
conducting studies, master planning, and forming cruise alliances with neighbouring
countries. Phase 2 (01.10.2025 - 31.03.2027) will concentrate on developing new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations
to activate high-potential cruise locations and circuits. Phase 3 (01.04.2027 – 31.03.2029) will focus on integrating all cruise
circuits across the Indian Subcontinent, marking the maturity of the cruise ecosystem while continuing the development of
cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations. The number of international cruise terminals will expand from 2 in Phase 1 to
10 by Phase 3, while river cruise terminals will increase from 50 to 100. The Cruise Bharat Mission aims to double the volume
of cruise calls from 254 in 2024 to 500 by 2030 and 1,100 by 2047 and expects a rise in passengers from 4.6 lakh in 2024 to
5 million by 2047. The mission has identified key initiatives across 5 strategic pillars namely (i) Sustainable Infrastructure &
Capital pillar, including the creation of a ‘National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047’; (ii) Operations Including
Technology Enabled pillar; (iii) Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration pillar; (iv) Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy pillar;
and (v) Capacity Building and Economic Research pillar. The Cruise India Mission targets 3 key cruise segments namely the
‘Ocean & Harbour Cruise’ segment, the ‘River & Inland Cruise’ segment and the ‘Island Cruise’ segment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sarbananda Sonowal (MoPSW) – launched “Cruise Bharat Mission” from onboard cruise ship ‘Empress’ at Mumbai port
• To propel India’s cruise tourism industry by doubling cruise passenger traffic within 5 years, i.e., by 2029
• Cruise India Mission – to be implemented in 3 phases, from Oct 1, 2024 to Mar 31, 2029
- Phase 1 (01.10.2024 - 30.09.2025) – focus on conducting studies, master planning & forming cruise alliances with
neighbouring countries
- Phase 2 (01.10.2025 - 31.03.2027) – concentrate on developing new cruise terminals, marinas & destinations to
activate high-potential cruise locations & circuits
- Phase 3 (01.04.2027 – 31.03.2029) – focus on integrating all cruise circuits across Indian Subcontinent
• International cruise terminals – to expand from 2 (Phase 1) to 10 (by Phase 3) | River cruise terminals – from 50 to 100
• Aim: To double volume of cruise calls to 500 by 2030 & 1,100 by 2047, expecting a rise in passengers to 5 mn by 2047
• 5 strategic pillars:
- Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital pillar, including creation of a ‘National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047’
- Operations Including Technology Enabled pillar | Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration pillar
- Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy pillar | Capacity Building & Economic Research pillar
• It targets 3 key cruise segments – ‘Ocean & Harbour Cruise’, ‘River & Inland Cruise’ & ‘Island Cruise’
• Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Sarbananda Sonowal | Constituency – Dibrugarh, Assam
MoS in Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Shantanu Thakur
https:// /#
2. Indian Railways has established a “Rail Rakshak Dal” in the North Western Railway (NWR) zone for the first time as part
of a pilot project. The ‘Rail Rakshak Dal’ is designed to promptly reach accident sites and conduct rescue operations when
needed by the Railways. It will also support the district administration during emergencies. This development follows several
incidents where locomotive pilots have detected dangerous objects on railway tracks, intended to derail trains or endanger
passengers' lives. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Railways – established “Rail Rakshak Dal” in North Western Railway zone for first time as part of a pilot project
• It is designed to promptly reach accident sites & conduct rescue operations when needed by the Railways
• HQs of Indian Railways – New Delhi | Chairman & CEO – Satish Kumar
3. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with the Southern
Command of the Indian Army, organised a two-day national symposium, “Exercise AIKYA”, on
disaster management in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The inaugural session was headed by Lt. Gen. Dhiraj
Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-Chief) Southern Command. ‘Aikya’, meaning
‘Oneness’ in Tamil, reflects the exercise’s aim to integrate India's Disaster Management
community. The exercise will feature simulations, technology discussions, and expert insights into
various roles of disaster management. India loses 2% GDP on average every year owing to national disasters. Tamil Nadu
has been deploying technology in disaster management with the help of apps like ‘TN Smart’ and ‘TN alert’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NDMA + Indian Army (Southern Command) = organised 2-day national symposium, “Exercise AIKYA”, on disaster
management in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Inaugural session was headed by – Lt. Gen. Dhiraj Seth, GOC-in-Chief Southern Command
• Aim: To integrate India's Disaster Management community
• India – loses 2% GDP on average every year owing to national disasters
• Tamil Nadu – deploying technology in disaster management with help of apps like ‘TN Smart’ & ‘TN alert’
• HQs of NDMA – New Delhi | Headed by – PM of India | Established in – 2005 | Functions under – MHA
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Upendra Dwivedi | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani
4. Union Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, recently unveiled a Rs. 75 Commemoratory

coin, celebrating the Platinum Jubilee (75th Anniversary) of the Central Silk Board (CSB)
in Mysuru, Karnataka. Union Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margharita, who was
also present, launched a postal cover dedicated to sericulture in India. A Coffee Table
Book titled ‘CSB in the service of the nation since 1949’ was also released. The website
of the Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI) was launched by Rachana Shah, Secretary,
Central Department of Textiles. On this occasion, the Central Tasar Research and
Training Institute (CTRTI), Ranchi, and ICAR’s Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Barrackpore (West Bengal),
signed an MoU on research to produce fish feed from pupae. Several awards were also given on the occasion, including the
Lifetime Achievement Award to former director of Silk Department of Jharkhand, Dhirendra Kumar, and the ‘Best Scientist
Award’ to Jay Prakash Pandey, scientist at CTRTI, Ranchi. The Central Silk Board (CSB) is a Statutory Body, established during
1948, having headquarters at Bengaluru, Karnataka. It functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Textiles.
The Board has established Central Silk Technological Research Institute at Bengaluru. In addition, the CSB has also set up
Silkworm Seed Technology Laboratory in Bengaluru (Karnataka), Central Sericultural Germplasm Resource Centre at Hosur
(Tamil Nadu) and Seri Biotech Research Laboratory at Bengaluru. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Giriraj Singh – unveiled Rs. 75 Commemoratory coin, celebrating Platinum Jubilee (75th Anniversary) of Central Silk Board
• Pabitra Margharita – launched a postal cover dedicated to sericulture in India
• A Coffee Table Book titled ‘CSB in the service of the nation since 1949’ was also released
• Rachana Shah – launched the website of the Silk Mark Organisation of India (SMOI)
• CTRTI (Ranchi) + ICAR-CIFRI (Barrackpore, WB) = an MoU on research to produce fish feed from pupae
• Several awards were also given on the occasion:
- ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ – Dhirendra Kumar | ‘Best Scientist Award’ – Jay Prakash Pandey
• HQs of CSB – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO – P. Sivakumar | Established in – 1948 (under Ministry of Textiles)
5. Shankh Air is set to launch its flight services with a fleet of new Boeing 737-800NG
aircraft. Owned by Shankh Aviation Private Limited, this new airline has received a no
objection certificate (NOC) from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry, allowing it to begin
operations. The NOC is valid for 3 years. It will be the first scheduled airline to launch
from Uttar Pradesh, with hubs in Lucknow and Noida. Before starting flights, Shankh
Air still needs clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the
aviation regulator. Entrepreneur and chairman Sharvan Kumar Vishwakarma leads Shankh Aviation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shankh Air – to launch its flight services with a fleet of new Boeing 737-800NG aircraft
• Owned by – Shankh Aviation Pvt Ltd | Received – NOC from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry for 3 years
• It will be first scheduled airline to launch from UP, with hubs in Lucknow & Noida
• HQs of Shankh Aviation – Lucknow , Uttar Pradesh | Chairman – Sharvan Kumar Vishwakarma
6. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the proposal of India
to become a member country of the “International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)”, a coalition of 95 big
cat range countries, by signing and ratification of the Framework Agreement on the
establishment of the IBCA. So far 4 countries have become members of IBCA including India,
Nicaragua, Eswatini and Somalia. 24 countries (including India) have consented to be members
of IBCA and 9 international organizations have also consented to be partner organizations of IBCA. On the occasion of
commemorating 50 years of India’s ‘Project Tiger’ on April 9, 2023, the Prime Minister launched an IBCA with headquarters
in India with a one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore for a period of 5 years from 2023-24 to 2027-28 to secure the
future of 7 big cats - tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar and the cheetah. Among the 7 big cats, 5 - tiger, lion,
leopard, snow leopard and cheetah - are found in India, excluding puma and jaguar. All member countries of the United
Nations are eligible to become members of IBCA. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved proposal of India to become a member country of “International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)”
• IBCA – coalition of 95 big cat range countries
• So far 4 countries have become members of IBCA – India, Nicaragua, Eswatini & Somalia
• IBCA – launched by PM Modi | One-time budgetary support – Rs 150 Cr | For – 5 years (2023-24 to 2027-28)
- To secure future of 7 big cats – tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar & cheetah
- On – Apr 9, 2023, commemorating 50 years of India’s ‘Project Tiger’
https:// /#
• Among 7 big cats, only 5 are found in India – tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard & cheetah
• HQs of IBCA – India | Interim Head – SP Yadav | Founded in – April 2023
7. The Union Cabinet approved classical language status to ‘Marathi’, ‘Bengali’, ‘Assamese’,
‘Pali’, and ‘Prakrit’. With this, the number of languages under the classification has risen
from 6 to 11. India has had 6 classical languages till now. Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada,
Sanskrit, and Odia. Tamil was the 1st language to be given classical status in 2004 followed
by Sanskrit in 2005, Telugu and Kannada in 2008, Malayalam in 2013 and Odia in 2014.
According to the Union Culture Ministry, the criteria for bestowing classical status was revised by the ‘Linguistics Experts
Committee’ in July 2024. The Linguistics Expert Committee comprises of representatives of the Union Ministries of Home,
Culture, and 4 or 5 linguistic experts at any given time. It is chaired by the President of the Sahitya Akademi. Once a language
is notified as a classical language, the Education Ministry provides certain benefits to promote it. The ‘Eighth Schedule to
the Indian Constitution’ consists of 22 languages, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani,
Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Bodo, Santhali, Maithili and
Dogri. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved classical language status to Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali & Prakrit
• Now, no. of languages – 11 (from 6) | Earlier – Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Sanskrit & Odia
• Languages to be given classical status: 1st – Tamil (2004) | 2nd – Sanskrit (2005) | 3rd & 4th – Telugu & Kannada (2008)
- 5th – Malayalam (2013) | 6th – Odia (2014)
• As per MoC, criteria for bestowing classical status was revised by – ‘Linguistics Experts Committee’ in July 2024
• Linguistics Expert Committee – comprises of representatives of MoH, MoC & 4/5 linguistic experts at any given time
- Chaired by – President of the Sahitya Akademi
• 8th Schedule to Indian Constitution – 22 languages
- Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi
- Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Bodo, Santhali, Maithili & Dogri
8. The 12th “International Film Festival and Forum on Environment and Wildlife”,
known as “CMS Vatavaran”, was inaugurated at Paryavaran Bhawan in New Delhi
under the theme “Wetlands for Life”. CMS Vatavaran is a pioneering international
film festival and forum on the environment and wildlife. Using films as a window to
delve into nature, the festival showcases the best of Indian and International films
and documentaries. It has 2 categories namely (i) competitive editions and (ii)
travelling festival. The ‘competitive editions’ are held in New Delhi every 2 years, and films and documentaries from India
and abroad are awarded followed by the ‘travelling festival’ in which the films and documentaries are screened in different
parts of India. Speaking at the event, the Director General of Forest in the Ministry of Environment, Jitendra Kumar
highlighted that around 6% of Indians are directly dependent on Wetlands for livelihood. Besides, Vice President of India,
Jagdeep Dhankar, presented the 25th “Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence” to Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of
the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development. The award is given on 1 October, the eve of the
birthday of India’s 2nd Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri. The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence, instituted
by Delhi-based Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in memory of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, is an
annual honour given to individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, upholding the
principles of service, integrity, and leadership. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• 12th “International Film Festival & Forum on Environment & Wildlife”, aka “CMS Vatavaran” – inaugurated at Paryavaran
Bhawan in New Delhi
- Theme - “Wetlands for Life”
• It has 2 categories – competitive editions & travelling festival | Competitive editions – held in New Delhi every 2 years
• Around 6% Indians – directly dependent on Wetlands for livelihood
• 25th “Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence” – presented to Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of Aditya Birla
Centre
- For Community Initiatives & Rural Development | Presented by – Jagdeep Dhankar, Vice President of India
- Given on – Oct 1, birthday of India’s 2nd Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri
- Instituted by – Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (Delhi)
9. Telangana has become the first State in India to get a chapter of NITI Aayog’s Women
Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP). So far, WEP remained a scheme operated by the Centre.
It is an initiative to promote and support women entrepreneurs across various sectors by
providing them access to resources, tools and a network for enhancing their business growth.
The WEP Telangana Chapter was launched in Hyderabad by NITI Aayog CEO BVR
Subrahmanyam in the presence of co-chair of WEP Sangeetha Reddy. ‘WE Hub’, a first-of-its-kind incubation centre in India
exclusively for women entrepreneurs, will be the nodal body for the scheme in the State. ‘Iccha Shakti (the power of
motivation)’, ‘Gyaan Shakti (the power of knowledge)’, and ‘Karma Shakti (the power of action)’ are the pillars of the WEP
to empower women entrepreneurs. Principal Economic Advisor to NITI Aayog and WEP mission director Anna Roy said there
are also plans to expand to tier 2 and 3 cities through the WEP in states initiative. Further, ‘WE Bridge’, a single window
platform was also presented for women entrepreneurs across the state. Anna Roy, Principal Economic Advisor to NITI Aayog,
is the Mission Director of WEP. While WE Hub CEO, Sita Pallacholla, will be the Mission Director of the WEP Telangana
Chapter. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Telangana – became 1st State in India to get a chapter of NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
- Nodal body for WEP in Telangana – WE Hub
• Aim: To promote & support women entrepreneurs across various sectors
• Pillars – ‘Iccha Shakti (power of motivation)’, ‘Gyaan Shakti (power of knowledge)’ & ‘Karma Shakti (power of action)’
• ‘WE Bridge’, a single window platform – also presented for women entrepreneurs across the state
• Mission Director of WEP – Anna Roy | Co-chair of WEP – Sangeetha Reddy
- Mission Director of WEP Telangana Chapter – Sita Pallacholla
• HQs of NITI Aayog – New Delhi | CEO – BVR Subrahmanyam | Chair – Narendra Modi | VC – Suman K. Bery
• HQs of WE Hub – Hyderabad, Telangana | CEO – Sita Pallacholla
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Jishnu Dev Varma
https:// /#
10. The Expert Committee, headed by Dr VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, will discuss recommendations for revising
“Ayushman Bharat” package rates and also explore a possible increase in insurance coverage beyond the Rs 5 lakh limit.
There are nearly 1,949 medical procedures that are covered in the scheme and rates of these are fixed for treatment at
empanelled hospitals that include both State-owned and private ones. India’s flagship universal health assurance scheme,
Ayushman Bharat provides coverage to 12.5 crore families, each with a floating insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh. In case the
family has geriatric members, then an additional Rs 5 lakh is added to it. About 33 States, excluding West Bengal and Delhi,
are part of the scheme. The 16-member committee will monitor the progress of Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, focussing on
beneficiary identification, hospitalisation, and modes of implementation. A key task of the committee is to suggest measures
to prevent fraud or misuse of the scheme. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Expert Committee (16-member) – to discuss recommendations for revising “Ayushman Bharat” package rates & explore
a possible increase in insurance coverage beyond Rs 5 lakh limit
- Headed by – Dr VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog | There are nearly 1,949 medical procedures
• Ayushman Bharat – provides coverage to 12.5 crore families, each with a floating insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh
- Additional Rs 5 lakh will be added, in case family has geriatric members
- 33 States & UTs are part of the scheme | Except – West Bengal & Delhi
• HQs of NITI Aayog – New Delhi | CEO – BVR Subrahmanyam | Chair – Narendra Modi | VC – Suman K. Bery
11. The Union Cabinet has approved the 119-km second phase of the Chennai metro project, costing
Rs 63,246 crore. This project, expected to be completed by 2027, will feature 128 stations and 3
corridors - ‘Madhavaram to SIPCOT’, ‘Light House to Poonamallee Bypass’, and ‘Madhavaram to
Sholinganallur’. When fully operational, Chennai will have a total metro network of 173 km. It will be
funded by central and state governments with additional loans from multilateral funding agencies.
While 64% of the corridors will be elevated, 36% will be underground. The design speed of the network will be 80 kmph,
and the scheduled speed will be 32 kmph. Once the approved phase becomes operational, it will create an additional
capacity for 13 lakh passengers per day and will integrate with other modes like suburban rail, inter and intra-city bus
terminus at 21 locations and the 7 locations of Phase-I network. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved 119-km 2nd phase of Chennai metro project | Outlay – Rs 63,246 Cr | To be completed by – 2027
• It will feature 128 stations & 3 corridors – ‘Madhavaram to SIPCOT’, ‘Light House to Poonamallee Bypass’ &
‘Madhavaram to Sholinganallur’
• When fully operational, Chennai will have a total metro network of – 173 km
• Corridors: 64% – elevated | 36% – underground | Design speed of network – 80 kmph | Scheduled speed – 32 kmph
• It will create an additional capacity for – 13 lakh passengers per day
12. Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, has inaugurated
51 rooftop solar power plants of Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL) from Ranchi, Jharkhand,
under the ongoing ‘Special Campaign 4.0’. With a cumulative capacity of 2.428 MW,
these solar installations mark another milestone in BCCL’s commitment to fostering a
greener and more self-reliant India. BCCL, a key subsidiary of Coal India Ltd (CIL) and
India’s largest producer of coking coal, has been pivotal in contributing to the “Mission
Coking Coal” under the Aatmnirbhar Bharat initiative. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Satish Chandra Dubey (MoS for Coal & Mines) – inaugurated 51 rooftop solar power plants of BCCL from Ranchi
- Under – ongoing ‘Special Campaign 4.0’ | Cumulative capacity – 2.428 MW
• HQs of BCCL – Dhanbad, Jharkhand | CMD – Samiran Dutta | Founded in – 1972
• Minister of Coal & Mines: G. Kishan Reddy | Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana
MoS in Ministry of Coal & Mines: Satish Chandra Dubey
International Affairs
13. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will set up a new land command namely
“Multi Corps Land Component Command” in Finland near the Russian border in 2025, tasked
with leading the alliance’s land force operations in northern Europe in the event of a military
conflict. Finland joined NATO as its 31st member in April 2023, in response to neighbouring
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that began in 2022 and is organising the alliance’s
presence on its territory. The centre will operate under the alliance’s U.S.-based Norfolk Joint Force Command and jointly
with Finland’s own land force command which is already located in Mikkeli, near the Finnish-Russian border. The unit would
initially have an annual budget of 8.5 million euros ($9.5 million) and consist of a few dozen international officials. Finland
and neighbouring Sweden, which also joined NATO as its 32nd member in March 2024, said Sweden would coordinate visits
of foreign NATO troops and international drills in northern Finland. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NATO – to set up new land command, “Multi Corps Land Component Command,” in Finland near Russian border in 2025
• It is tasked with leading the alliance’s land force operations in northern Europe in the event of a military conflict
• Finland – joined NATO as 31st member in Apr 2023 | Sweden – joined NATO as 32nd member in Mar 2024
• It will operate under – NATO’s US-based Norfolk Joint Force Command with Finland’s own land force command, located
in Mikkeli, near the Finnish-Russian border
• Initial annual budget of this unit – 8.5 million euros ($9.5 million)
• HQs of NATO – Brussels, Belgium | SG – Mark Rutte | Members – 32 | Founded in – 1949
https:// /#
14. India officially joined the “Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)”. The MSFN is a
new initiative emerging from the ‘Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)’, a framework
established by the United States (US) in 2022. India was inducted into the MSP in June 2023.
The network aims to bring together institutions from the Indo-Pacific region and Europe,
promoting cooperation, information exchange, and co-financing. These minerals, vital for
the production of renewable energy technologies such as electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines, have
become essential components of the global shift towards clean energy. The partnership includes 13 countries, the United
States of America, Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway,
Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the European Union (represented by the European Commission). The partnership with
the US-led network marks a critical step forward for India in its quest to reduce reliance on China for these minerals and
build a robust, self-sustaining supply chain for its green energy initiatives. The MSP grouping is focused on the supply chains
of minerals such as cobalt, nickel, lithium and also the 17 ‘rare earth’ minerals which are classified as light RE elements
(LREE) and heavy RE elements (HREE). Currently, there is an overwhelming dependence on countries such as China for HREE,
which is one of the leading producers of RE with an estimated 70% of the global production. India’s participation in this
initiative is aimed at diversifying and securing its supply of critical minerals from nations like Argentina, Chile, Australia, and
select African countries. Kazakhstan, in Central Asia, is also being explored as a potential source for India’s mineral
requirements. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – officially joined “Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)” | India – inducted into MSP in June 2023
• MSFN – new initiative emerging from ‘Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)’, framework established by US in 2022
• Aim: To bring together institutions from Indo-Pacific region & Europe, promoting cooperation, information exchange &
co-financing
• It includes 13 countries – US, Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea,
Norway, Sweden, UK & EU (represented by European Commission)
• MSP group – focused on supply chains of minerals & also 17 ‘rare earth’ minerals
- Rare earth minerals – classified as light RE elements (LREE) & heavy RE elements (HREE)
• China – 70% of global production of rare earth minerals
• Kazakhstan (Central Asia) – being explored as a potential source for India’s mineral requirements
15. The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a “Pact for the Future”, a
comprehensive agreement designed to reshape global governance for the 21st century
at the ‘Summit of the Future’ held in New York, US. This Pact is the culmination of an
inclusive, years-long process to adapt international cooperation to the realities of
today and the challenges of tomorrow. The Pact covers a broad range of issues
including Peace and Security, Sustainable Development, Climate Change, Digital
Cooperation, Human Rights, Gender, Youth and Future Generations, and the
Transformation of Global Governance. ‘Two annexes of the pact’, the ‘Global Digital Compact’ and the ‘Declaration on Future
Generations’ were also adopted by the UN members. The pact outlines 56 actions, including commitments to multilateralism
and upholding the UN Charter and peacekeeping. It also calls for reforms to international financial institutions and the UN
Security Council, along with renewed efforts to combat climate change, promote disarmament, and guide the development
of artificial intelligence. The President of the General Assembly Philemon Yang noted that the Pact would lay the foundations
for a sustainable, just, and peaceful global order - for all peoples and nations. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• ‘Summit of the Future’ – held in New York, US
• UNGA – adopted “Pact for the Future”, agreement designed to reshape global governance for 21st century
• ‘Two annexes of pact’, ‘Global Digital Compact’ & ‘Declaration on Future Generations’ – also adopted by UN members
• It outlines 56 actions, including commitments to multilateralism & upholding UN Charter & peacekeeping
• HQs of UNGA – New York, US | 79th Session’s President – Philemon Yang (Cameroon) | Members – 193
16. India was elected to the 15-member GlobE Steering Committee of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption
Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network) during its 5th plenary session held in Beijing, China. The GlobE Network is a
vital platform for international cooperation, and India’s participation will strengthen its efforts to combat cross-border
financial crimes and corruption. GloBE Network was an initiative of G-20, supported by India in 2020. The GloBE Network
was officially launched on June 3, 2021, during a special event at the UNGA Special Session against Corruption. It now has
121 member countries and 219 member authorities. The Network has one chair, one vice-chair and 13 members in the
Steering Committee. Ministry of Home Affairs is the central authority for GloBE Network, while the CBI and the Enforcement
Directorate are its member authorities from India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5th Plenary Session of GlobE Network – held in Beijing, China
• India was elected to the 15-member GlobE Steering Committee of GlobE Network
• GloBE Network was officially launched on June 3, 2021 (121 member countries + 219 member authorities)
• The Network has 1 chair, 1 vice-chair & 13 members in the Steering Committee
• Centra Authority for GloBE Network in India – Ministry of Home Affairs
- Member authorities from India – CBI & Enforcement Directorate (ED)
17. India has become an affiliate member of the ‘International Medical Device Regulators
Forum (IMDRF)’ during the 26th Session of IMDRF held in September 2024 at Seattle,
Washington, USA. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), under the
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, applied for affiliate membership in the IMDRF in
2024. As an affiliate member, India will participate in IMDRF open sessions for information
exchange on technical topics with other regulators, to discuss the latest medical device regulatory strategies and trends,
provide feedback on its experience and perspectives and use IMDRF documents in part or in whole as the basis for its
regulatory framework for medical devices. The IMDRF, which was established in 2011, is a group of global medical device
regulators whose aim is to speed up the adoption of international medical device regulatory harmonisation and
convergence. Its members include national regulatory authorities of the US, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan,
the United Kingdom, Brazil, Russia, China, South Korea, Singapore and the World Health Organization (WHO). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 26th Session of ‘International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF)’ – held at Seattle, Washington, USA, in Sep 2024
• India – became an affiliate member of IMDRF | CDSCO – applied for affiliate membership in the IMDRF in 2024
• IMDRF – established in 2011 | Aim: To speed up adoption of international medical device regulatory harmonisation &
convergence
• Members of IMDRF – US, Australia, Canada, EU, Japan, UK, Brazil, Russia, China, South Korea, Singapore & WHO
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18. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the signing of the ‘Letter of Intent’ thus
enabling India to join the “International Energy Efficiency Hub”, a global platform dedicated to fostering collaboration and
promoting energy efficiency worldwide. Established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy
Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), in which India was a member, the Hub brings together governments, international
organizations, and private sector entities to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions. By joining the Hub,
India will gain access to a vast network of experts and resources, enabling it to enhance its domestic energy efficiency
initiatives. As of July 2024, 16 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, European Commission, France,
Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, US and the UK) have joined the Hub. The Bureau of Energy
Efficiency (BEE), the statutory agency, has been designated as the implementing agency for the Hub on behalf of India. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved signing of ‘Letter of Intent,’ enabling India to join “International Energy Efficiency Hub”
• It was established in 2020, as successor of International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC)
• As of July 2024 – 16 countries have joined the Hub
- Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, European Commission, France
- Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, US & UK
• Implementing agency for the Hub on behalf of India – Bureau of Energy Efficiency
19. The United Kingdom (UK) and Mauritius have reached a political agreement under which the
UK will return the Chagos Islands and the atoll of Diego Garcia to Mauritius. Under the agreement,
Mauritius will now assume sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and is free
to implement a programme of resettlement on the islands of the Chagos Archipelago, other than
Diego Garcia. For an initial period of 99 years, the UK will be authorised to exercise with respect
to Diego Garcia the sovereign rights and authorities of Mauritius required to ensure the continued
operation of the base well into the next century. The Chagos archipelago, comprising 58 islands,
lies roughly 500 km to the south of the Maldives archipelago in the Indian Ocean. In 1965, the UK constituted the BIOT, of
which the Chagos Islands were a central part. Chagos was attached to Mauritius for administrative purposes. But when
Mauritius gained independence in 1968, Chagos remained with Britain. Further, the UK will capitalise a new trust fund, as
well as separately provide other support, for the benefit of Chagossians. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UK + Mauritius = a political agreement under which UK will return Chagos Islands & atoll of Diego Garcia to Mauritius
• Mauritius – will now assume sovereignty over British Indian Ocean Territory & is free to implement a programme of
resettlement on the islands of the Chagos Archipelago, other than Diego Garcia
• For initial 99 years, UK will be authorised to exercise with respect to Diego Garcia
• Chagos archipelago (58 islands) – lies roughly 500 km to the south of Maldives archipelago in Indian Ocean
• BIOT – constituted by UK in 1965 | Mauritius gained independence – in 1968
• UK – London – Pound Sterling | PM – Keir Starmer | New King – King Charles lll
• Mauritius – Port Louis – Mauritian Rupee | PM – Pravind Kumar Jugnauth
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Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs
20. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the introduction of a new asset class designed to cater to
high-risk investors. This new asset class aims to bridge the gap between mutual funds and portfolio management services
(PMS) in terms of flexibility in asset construction. Investors will need to invest a minimum of Rs 10 lakh across all investment
strategies of the new product offered by a particular asset management company (AMC). The higher threshold will deter
retail investors from investing in this product while attracting investors with investible funds between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 50
lakh. The new asset class will provide a regulated product with features like SIP (Systematic Investment Plan), higher risk-
taking capability, and a higher ticket size to meet the needs of the emerging category of investors. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – approved the introduction of a new asset class designed to cater to high-risk investors
• Aim: To bridge the gap between Mutual Funds & Portfolio Management Services (PMS) in terms of flexibility
• Investors will need to invest a minimum of Rs 10 lakh across all investment strategies of new product offered by AMC
• It will attract investors with investible funds between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 50 lakh
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992
21. India’s core sector output has slipped by 1.8% annually to a 9-month low in
August 2024, compared with a 6.1% gain in July. Even its year-on-year growth slipped
1.8%, marking the first contraction in 3 and a half years. Six of eight infrastructure
sectors (coal, cement, electricity, natural gas, refinery products, & crude oi)
witnessed a year-on-year contraction in production, while fertilizers and steel output
grew at a milder pace than July. The Index of Core Industries (ICI), which constitutes
about 40% of the broader index of India’s industrial output (IIP), stood at 155.8 in
August, marking a third consecutive month of sequential decline. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India’s core sector output has slipped by 1.8% annually to a 9-month low in Aug 2024 (from 6.1% gain in July)
• Also, year-on-year growth slipped 1.8%, the first contraction in 3 and a half years
• 6 of the 8 infrastructure sectors witnessed contraction, while fertilizers & steel output grew
• The Index of Core Industries (ICI) stood at 155.8 in August 2024
- ICI constitutes about 40% of the broader index of India’s industrial output (IIP)
22. SBI General Insurance has launched its latest offering, “SBIG Health Super Top-Up” policy. The
health insurance top-up plan is designed as an economical and affordable option supplementing over
and above the basic health insurance policy. The new policy comes at a time when medical inflation in
India is surging at approximately 14% annually. The plan has flexible coverage options with sum insured
ranging from 5 lakhs to 4 crores. The policy is particularly beneficial for individuals with group health
or retail health policies needing additional coverage, as well as urban and semi-urban residents with inadequate or no
insurance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI Gen Ins – launched “SBIG Health Super Top-Up” policy, supplementing over & above basic health insurance policy
• Surge in medical inflation in India annually – approximately 14% | Range of sum insured in this policy – 5 lakhs to 4 Cr
• HQs of SBI Gen Ins. – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Naveen Chandra Jha | Tagline – “Suraksha aur Bharosa Dono”
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23. Bajaj Group has emerged as the 3rd-largest financial group in the country by mcap, behind
the HDFC and ICICI groups but ahead of the SBI group. Bajaj Housing Finance, which more
than doubled on listing day of its IPO, added Rs 1.36 trillion to the group’s mcap. The 4 listed
financial companies in the group - Bajaj Holdings, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Finance, and Bajaj
Housing Finance - had a combined mcap of Rs 10.36 trillion on September 23, 2024. HDFC
Group tops the league with a combined mcap of Rs 15.75 trillion, followed by the ICICI group
at Rs 11.95 trillion. The SBI group with its 3 group companies - State Bank of India, SBI Life
Insurance, and SBI Cards & Payment Services - stands 4th with Rs 9.6 trillion mcap. Bajaj Finance, the group’s retail lender, is
the most profitable (absolute profit) non-banking financial company (NBFC) in the country by a wide margin. It is followed
by Shriram Finance. Bajaj Finserv is the holding and promoter company for all of the group’s financial services arms. It holds
a 51.34% stake in Bajaj Finance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bajaj Group – 3rd-largest financial group in country by mcap | Combined mcap of its 4 listed companies – Rs 10.36 tn
- 1st – HDFC Group (Rs 15.75 tn) | 2nd – ICICI Group (Rs 11.95 tn) | 4th – SBI Group (Rs 9.6 tn)
• Bajaj Housing Finance – added Rs 1.36 trillion to group’s mcap
• 4 listed financial companies in Bajaj Group – Bajaj Holdings, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Finance & Bajaj Housing Finance
• 3 listed financial companies in SBI Group – State Bank of India, SBI Life Insurance, and SBI Cards & Payment Services
• Most profitable (absolute profit) NBFC in India: 1st – Bajaj Finance | 2nd – Shriram Finance
• Bajaj Finserv – holding & promoter company for all of the Bajaj group’s financial services arms
- Its stake in Bajaj Finance – 51.34%
• HQs of Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd – Pune, Maharashtra | CEO – Atul Jain | Founded in – 2008
24. Axis Mutual Fund has launched the “Axis CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC Index - June 2027 Fund”, an open-ended Target Maturity
Index Fund. It is the first NBFC Sector-based target maturity mutual fund scheme in India. It invests in the constituents of
the ‘CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC Index - June 2027’, featuring moderate interest rate risk and relatively low credit risk. The scheme’s
maturity date is June 30, 2027. The new fund offer (NFO) for the scheme closed on September 23. The new fund will be
managed by Aditya Pagaria. The minimum investment amount is Rs 5,000, with additional investments in multiples of Rs 1.
There is no exit load. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Axis AMC – launched “Axis CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC Index - June 2027 Fund”, an open-ended Target Maturity Index Fund
- 1st NBFC Sector-based target maturity mutual fund scheme in India | Maturity date – June 30, 2027
• New fund offer (NFO) for this scheme – closed on Sep 23 | New fund will be managed by – Aditya Pagaria
• Min. investment – Rs 5,000 | Additional investments – in multiples of Rs 1 | No exit load
• HQs of Axis AMC – Mumbai, India | MD & CEO – B Gopkumar | Founded in – 2009
25. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has made crucial changes in the “Delisting of Equity Shares Regulations,
2024”, offering promoters with better chances to take their companies private through a fixed price framework. Alongside
the Reverse Book Building (RBB) method, SEBI has introduced a ‘Fixed-Price Process’ enabling promoters to repurchase all
public shares at a minimum of 15% premium to the ‘fair price’. Under the Reverse Book Building (RBB) process, a firm
planning to delist its shares from the stock exchange needs to initiate the process by making a public announcement. The
rules mandated a minimum floor price for the delisting offer. Additionally, SEBI has decreased the threshold for the counter-
offer mechanism to 75% from 90% of public shareholders, provided that at least 50% of public shareholding has been
tendered. Moreover, holding companies (holdcos) must have a minimum of 75% of their fair value in direct investments in
equity shares of other listed companies to be eligible for delisting. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• SEBI – made crucial changes in the “Delisting of Equity Shares Regulations, 2024”
• SEBI has introduced a ‘Fixed-Price Process’ enabling promoters to repurchase all public shares at a minimum of 15%
premium to the ‘fair price’ (alongside the Reverse Book Building (RBB) method)
• SEBI has decreased the threshold for the counter-offer mechanism to 75% from 90% of public shareholders (provided
that at least 50% of public shareholding has been tendered)
• Holdcos must have a minimum of 75% of their fair value in direct investments in equity shares of other listed companies
to be eligible for delisting
26. NPCI International Payments (NIPL) has entered into a strategic partnership with the
Ministry of Digital Transformation (MDT) of Trinidad and Tobago to develop a Unified
Payments Interface (UPI)-like real-time payments platform for the country. With this,
Trinidad and Tobago is the first Caribbean nation to adopt India’s popular instant
payments platform, UPI. This partnership aims to empower Trinidad and Tobago to
establish a reliable and efficient real-time payments platform for both person-to-person (P2P) and person-to-merchant
(P2M) transactions. Countries like Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Singapore, France have already been using India’s UPI. UPI,
developed by NPCI, was officially launched in April 2016 for public use. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NIPL + MDT (Trinidad & Tobago) = a strategic partnership to develop a UPI-like real-time payments platform for country
• Trinidad & Tobago – 1st Caribbean nation to adopt India’s popular instant payments platform, UPI
• Aim: To empower Trinidad & Tobago to establish a reliable & efficient real-time payments platform for both P2P & P2M
transactions
• Countries already using India’s UPI – Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Singapore, France, among others
• UPI – developed by NPCI | Launched in – April 2016
• HQs of NPCI Int. – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Ritesh Shukla
• Trinidad & Tobago – Port of Spain – Trinidad & Tobago dollar | President – Christine Kangaloo | PM – Keith Rowley
27. India has extended budgetary support to the Maldives government in the form of a rollover of the $50 million Treasury
Bill (T-bills) for another year on the Maldivian government’s request. These T-bills have been subscribed by the State Bank
of India (SBI) for a period of one more year. This is the second rollover granted by the Indian government this year, following
the first rollover of a $50 million Treasury Bill in May 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – extended budgetary support to Maldives in form of a rollover of $50 million T-bills for another year
• T-bills have been subscribed by – SBI for one more year
• This is 2nd rollover granted by India this year | 1st – $50 million Treasury Bill in May 2024
• Maldives – Male – Maldivian rufiyaa | President – Mohamed Muizzu
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28. The Central Government has appointed 3 new Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members
namely, Prof. Ram Singh (Director of Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University), Saugata
Bhattacharya, and Dr. Nagesh Kumar (Director of Institute for Studies in Industrial Development,
New Delhi), for a period of 4 years. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act was amended in 2016 to
provide for a flexible inflation-targeting framework in the country. Under Section 45ZB of the
amended RBI Act, 1934, the central government is empowered to constitute a six-member MPC. As per the provisions of
the amended Act, the MPC consists of 3 internal and 3 external members. The internal members are the Governor of the
RBI as the chairperson, the deputy governor in-charge of monetary policy and one officer of the RBI to be nominated by the
Central Board of the RBI. The 3 external members are to be appointed by the central government. Further, Section 45ZB
lays down that the MPC shall determine the Policy Rate required to achieve the inflation target. The amended RBI Act of
1934 also provides for the inflation target (4% +-2%) to be set by the central government, in consultation with the RBI, once
in every five years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Center appointed 3 new MPC members for 4 years
- Prof. Ram Singh (Director of Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University) | Saugata Bhattacharya
- Dr. Nagesh Kumar (Director of Institute for Studies in Industrial Development, New Delhi),
• RBI Act – amended in 2016 to provide for a flexible inflation-targeting framework in India
• Under Section 45ZB of amended RBI Act, 1934 – central government is empowered to constitute a 6-member MPC
• Members of MPC – 3 Internal & 3 External (to be appointed by the central government)
- Internal – Governor of RBI (chairperson), deputy governor in-charge of monetary policy
- 1 officer of RBI to be nominated by Central Board of RBI
• Section 45ZB lays down that MPC shall determine Policy Rate required to achieve inflation target
• It also provides for inflation target (4% +-2%) to be set by center, in consultation with RBI, once in every 5 years
29. Ashwani Kumar, MD & CEO of UCO Bank, has launched “Project Parivartan”, a major transformation
initiative in the existing digital banking facilities offered by the Bank. Key points of Project Parivartan
include close collaboration with Fintechs and technology providers, customer engagement through
personalization, analytics-driven campaigns, and the enhancement of digital journeys for both asset as
well as liability products. This transformation will make UCO Bank more agile, customer-centric, and
ready for the future. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashwani Kumar (MD & CEO of UCO Bank) – launched “Project Parivartan”, initiative in existing digital banking facilities
• HQs of UCO Bank – Kolkata, West Bengal | MD & CEO – Ashwani Kumar | Tagline – “Honours your Trust”
30. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced that Mutual Funds can now sell Credit Default Swaps (CDS)
citing the need to aid liquidity growth in corporate bond market. So far, only buying CDS’s were permitted. Allowing both
purchase and sale of the instrument will improve flexibility for MFs. The move follows RBI’s directive in 2022 to provide
revised regulatory framework for debt derivatives. A credit default swap (CDS) is a financial derivative that allows an investor
to swap or offset their credit risk with that of another investor. SEBI mandated that the exposure of the CDS held by the MFs
should not be more than the debt security exposure. The regulator added that in case MFs sell their debt securities, their
CDS positions should be closed within 15 days of the debt security being sold. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• SEBI announced that Mutual Funds can now sell Credit Default Swaps (CDS) citing need to aid liquidity growth in
corporate bond market
- So far, only buying CDS’s were permitted
• It follows RBI’s directive in 2022 to provide revised regulatory framework for debt derivatives
• CDS – a financial derivative that allows an investor to swap or offset their credit risk with that of another investor
• In case MFs sell their debt securities, their CDS positions should be closed within 15 days of debt security being sold
31. Punjab National Bank (PNB) has launched the “Multi-Currency World Travel Card”
to offer convenience for international travellers. The card allows users to load and
manage multiple currencies on a single card. The PNB Multi-Currency World Travel
Card supports 6 major foreign currencies: US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound
Sterling (GBP), UAE Dirham (AED), Canadian Dollar (CAD), and Singapore Dollar (SGD).
Users can switch between these currencies, making it easier to handle expenses
across different countries. The card is accepted at ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, and for online transactions across
the globe, except in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PNB – launched “Multi-Currency World Travel Card” to offer convenience for international travellers
• It supports 6 major foreign currencies – US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound Sterling (GBP), UAE Dirham (AED)
- Canadian Dollar (CAD) & Singapore Dollar (SGD)
• It is accepted at ATMs, POS terminals & for online transactions across globe | Except – India, Nepal & Bhutan
• HQs of PNB – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Atul Kumar Goel | Tagline – “The Name You Can Bank Upon”
32. Federal Bank signed an MoU with ‘Bhashini’, an AI-Powered Language Translation
Platform, to provide vernacular language support to its AI Virtual Assistant, ‘Feddy’ as a
result of the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH)’s local language effort to promote banking
in vernacular languages. The MoU was signed by Shalini Warrier, Executive Director of
Federal Bank, and Amitabh Nag, CEO of Bhashini. With the addition of Bhashini’s language translation capabilities, Feddy
can now react to user requests in 14 different Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati,
Kannada, Malayalam, Odia, Assamese, Punjabi, Urdu, Manipuri, and Bodo. Rajesh Bansal is the CEO of RBIH. Bhashini,
launched in July 2022 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, by PM Narendra Modi, aims to provide language technology solutions to
bridge the language and digital divide. Bhashini is an abbreviation for “Bhasha Interface for India”. It’s a project of the
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and is developed under the National Language Translation
Mission (NLTM). Bhashini’s services include: Technology translation services, Multilingual voice, Education, and Health.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Federal Bank + Bhashini = an MoU to provide vernacular language support to its AI Virtual Assistant, ‘Feddy’
- For RBIH’s local language effort to promote banking in vernacular languages
• Feddy can now react to user requests in 14 different Indian languages – Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati
- Kannada, Malayalam, Odia, Assamese, Punjabi, Urdu, Manipuri & Bodo
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• Bhashini – launched in July 2022 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat by PM Modi | Bhashini – ‘Bhasha Interface for India’
- Aim: To provide language technology solutions to bridge the language & digital divide
- Project of – MeitY | Developed under – National Language Translation Mission (NLTM)
- Services – Technology translation services, Multilingual voice, Education & Health
• HQs of Federal Bank – Aluva, Kerala | MD & CEO – Krishnan Venkat Subramanian | Tagline – “Your Perfect Banking
Partner”
• CEO of RBIH – Rajesh Bansal | CDO of RBIH – Rakesh Ranjan
• HQs of Bhashini – New Delhi | CEO – Amitabh Nag
33. India’s foreign exchange reserves crossed the $700 billion mark for the first time ever in September 2024, according to
data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The reserves currently stand at $704.885 billion. This also makes India, the
fourth country in the entire world to cross $700 billion in foreign exchange reserves. China, Japan, and Switzerland currently
precede India. This growth in the reserves is attributed to multiple factors including $30 billion in foreign inflows so far this
year, led mainly by investments in local bonds. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• According to data released by RBI:
• India’s foreign exchange reserves – crossed $700 bn mark for 1st time in Sep 2024 | Current reserves – $704.885 bn
• India – 4th country to cross $700 billion in foreign exchange reserves | Other 3 – China Japan & Switzerland
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao
34. ICICI Bank has partnered with MakeMyTrip to launch a ‘premium’ co-branded credit card, especially curated for the
‘aspirational travellers’ of the country. The card offers myCash (MakeMyTrip’s reward currency), where 1 myCash is worth
Rs 1 in spendable money. The co-branded credit card also offers complimentary MMTBLACK Gold membership, providing
offers across hotels, flights, and holiday packages. The card is issued as a dual offering, one each powered by Mastercard
and RuPay. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICICI Bank + MakeMyTrip = to launch a ‘premium’ co-branded credit card, curated for ‘aspirational travellers’ of India
• It offers myCash (MakeMyTrip’s reward currency), where 1 myCash is worth Rs 1 in spendable money
• It also offers complimentary MMTBLACK Gold membership, providing offers across hotels, flights & holiday packages
• It is issued as a dual offering, one each powered by – Mastercard & RuPay
• HQs of ICICI Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sandeep Bakhshi | Taglines – “Hum Hain Na!” & “Khayal Apka”
• HQs of MakeMyTrip – Gurugram | Co-founder & group CEO – Rajesh Magow
35. The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) and Airtel Payments Bank launched
co-branded ‘National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC)’. Launched at NCRTC’s corporate office by
Shalabh Goel, MD of NCRTC, and Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, COO of Airtel Payments Bank, the
cards offer multiple payment options including Debit, Prepaid, and Prepaid Payment Instruments
for Mass Transit Solutions (PPI-MTS). Exclusively issued by Airtel Payments Bank, the NCMC cards, equipped with tap-and-
pay technology, are designed to simplify travel across various modes of transport, such as metros, railways, and buses, by
offering a unified payment solution. This eliminates the need for multiple tickets or cards. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• NCRTC + Airtel Payments Bank = launched co-branded ‘National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC)’
• To simplify travel across various modes of transport by offering a unified payment solution
• HQs of NCRTC – New Delhi | MD – Shalabh Goel
• HQs of Airtel Payments Bank – Gurugram, Haryana | Chairman – Sunil Bharti Mittal | COO – Ganesh Ananthanarayanan
36. Axis Bank has launched a “Corporate Credit Card Suite” for startups under its New Economy Group (NEG). The cards aim
to streamline travel, official expenses, and vendor payments. The suite includes two cards: Executive Corporate Credit Card
for founders and a Purchase Reward Credit card for expense management. Axis Bank’s New Economy Group (NEG) banks
67% of unicorns and over 40% of Series A and above funded start-ups in the country. Additionally, NEG has also announced
its strategic partnership with the Tech Entrepreneurs Association of Mumbai (TEAM), a non-profit, independent industry
association. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Axis Bank – launched a “Corporate Credit Card Suite” for startups, under its New Economy Group (NEG)
• Aim: To streamline travel, official expenses & vendor payments
• Includes 2 cards: Exe. Corporate Credit Card – for founders | Purchase Reward Credit Card – for expense management
• NEG – banks 67% of unicorns & over 40% of Series A & above funded start-ups in the country
• HQs of Axis Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Amitabh Chaudhry | Tagline – “Badhti ka Naam Zindagi”
37. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reconstituted Monetary Policy Committee
(MPC). The government has appointed Ram Singh, Saugata Bhattacharya and Nagesh
Kumar as new external members to the MPC. Mr Ram is director of the prestigious
Delhi School of Economics. Mr Saugata is a senior fellow at the Centre for Policy
Research (CPR). The third member Nagesh Kumar is the Director and Chief Executive
of the Institute for Studies in Industrial Development (ISID). The MPC is a committee
constituted under the ‘Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934’ by the Central Government and led by the Governor of RBI. Apart
from the MPC Chairman, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, the other internal members are RBI Deputy Governor Michael
Debabrata Patra who is In-charge of Monetary Policy, and Rajiv Ranjan who is Executive Director Monetary Policy
Department of RBI. These 3 members are appointed by the RBI. While, 3 members are appointed by the central government.
Thus, the MPC consists of 6 members in total. Newly reconstituted MPC with its 3 new external members (appointed by the
government) will commence its maiden meeting on October 7. It is widely anticipated that the MPC will keep interest rate
unchanged despite. This would be 10th time in a row when the RBI will maintain status quo as far as policy rate is concerned.
The MPC last revised interest rate in February 2023, when it was hiked to 6.5%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – reconstituted MPC with Ram Singh, Saugata Bhattacharya & Nagesh Kumar as new external members to it
- Ram Singh – Director of Delhi School of Economics
- Saugata Bhattacharya – Senior fellow at Centre for Policy Research (CPR)
- Nagesh Kumar – Director & Chief Executive of Institute for Studies in Industrial Development (ISID)
• MPC – committee constituted under ‘Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934’ by Center | Led by – Governor of RBI
- 6 members | 3 – to be appointed by RBI | 3 – to be appointed by central government
• 3 members of MPC, appointed by RBI:
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- Chairman – RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das | In-charge – RBI Deputy Governor Michael Debabrata Patra
- Executive Director of Monetary Policy Department of RBI – Rajiv Ranjan
• MPC last revised interest rate in Feb 2023 | Hiked to – 6.5%
38. Arka Fincap Limited, a subsidiary of Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited (KOEL), has introduced a new
product called “Uday”, offering ‘Small Ticket Loans Against Property (STLAP)’. Targeted at micro,
small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners, these loans will range from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh.
The company aims to address the growing credit demands of small businesses in Tier II, III, and IV
cities, providing crucial financial backing for their growth and expansion. Uday is designed for a
specific segment of MSMEs who own property but lack access to structured credit with lower interest rates and longer
tenures because the MSME sector facing a $530 million credit gap and struggling with formal credit access due to insufficient
documentation or collateral. Uday would be rolled out, initially, in 5 key locations in Tamil Nadu viz. Salem, Vellore, Tirupur,
Porur, and Coimbatore, this launch marks the beginning of a broader, pan-India expansion deeper into Bharat. Vimal
Bhandari, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Arka Fincap. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arka Fincap Ltd (KOEL) – introduced a new product, “Uday”, offering ‘Small Ticket Loans Against Property (STLAP)’
• Range of loans – Rs 10-30 lakh | Targeting – MSME owners | MSME sector – faces $530 million credit gap
• Aim: To address growing credit demands of small businesses in Tier II, III & IV cities, providing crucial financial backing
• Uday would initially be rolled out in 5 key locations in Tamil Nadu – Salem, Vellore, Tirupur, Porur & Coimbatore
• Hqs of Arka Fincap Ltd – Mumbai, MH | Executive Vice Chairman & CEO – Vimal Bhandari | Subsidiary of – KOEL
39.. Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company Ltd has launched a new deferred annuity plan,
“Nishchit Pension”, designed to ensure a guaranteed lifelong income, enabling customers to
streamline their retirement income and safeguard against any decline in long term interest
rates. RNL Nischit Pension addresses key retirement-related challenges such as ensuring
lifetime income guarantee, assured income for the last surviving couple and legacy for the next generation. As per the
Economic Survey, by 2041, 15.9% of India’s population is estimated to be above 60 years of age (up from 9.7% in 2021).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Reliance Nippon Life Ins – launched deferred annuity plan, “Nishchit Pension,” to ensure a guaranteed lifelong income
• It will enable customers to streamline retirement income & safeguard against any decline in long term interest rates
• As per Economic Survey, India’s population above 60 years of age – 15.9% by 2041 (from 9.7% in 2021)
• HQs of Reliance Nippon Life Insurance – Mumbai, MH | CEO – Ashish Vohra
https:// /#
Defence Affairs
40. The Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), a leading laboratory
under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over critical
high-altitude sustenance technologies to the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL)
during an orientation workshop at PGCIL’s regional headquarters in Jammu. This workshop
was organised to prepare employees for high-altitude operations as part of the 5000 MW
Pang-Kaithal High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Project which is located at an altitude of
15,760 feet in Ladakh. The Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project is crucial for energy security in Ladakh and the wider integration of
solar power into India’s national grid. DIPAS, known for its pioneering work in high-altitude research, has previously
formulated acclimatisation protocols for the Indian Army in the Himalayan region. The laboratory has developed a range of
solutions for high-altitude conditions, including nutritional ration scales, protective clothing, non-conventional energy-based
shelters, and cold-injury prevention creams. Amit Sharma (i/c) is the Chief General Manager of the Pang-Kaithal HVDC
Project, PGCIL. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DIPAS – handed over critical high-altitude sustenance technologies to PGCIL during an orientation workshop in Jammu
• It was organised to prepare employees for high-altitude operations as part of 5000 MW Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project
- Located at – altitude of 15,760 feet in Ladakh | Amit Sharma (i/c) – CGM of Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project, PGCIL
• Location of DIPAS – New Delhi | Director – Dr Rajeev Varshney
• HQs of PGCIL – Gurgaon, Haryana | CMD – R. K. Tyagi
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958
41. The 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise, “KAZIND-2024”, commenced at
the Surya Foreign Training Node in Auli, Uttarakhand. This joint exercise will run from September
30 to October 13, 2024. The Indian Armed Forces are represented by 120 personnel, primarily from
a battalion of the KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army along with additional personnel from other
arms and services. On the Kazakh side, the contingent mainly consists of personnel from the
Kazakhstan Land Forces and Airborne Assault Troopers. KAZIND has been an annual exercise since its inception in 2016,
serving as a key platform for both nations to share tactical knowledge, improve coordination, and build stronger ties
between their military forces. The previous edition of KAZIND took place in Otar, Kazakhstan, from October 30 to November
11, 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 8th “KAZIND-2024”, India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Ex. – commenced at Surya Foreign Training Node in Auli, Uttarakhand
- Date – Sep 30-Oct 13, 2024 | KAZIND – started in 2016 | 7th edition – Otar, Kazakhstan (Oct 30-Nov 11, 2023)
• Representation:
- India – 120 personnel, from battalion of KUMAON Regiment of Indian Army
- Kazakhstan – personnel from the Kazakhstan Land Forces & Airborne Assault Troopers
• Kazakhstan – Astana – Tenge | President – Kassym-Jomart Tokayev | PM – Olzhas Bektenov
https:// /#
42. Russia and China conducted a series of naval exercises, known as “Beibu/Interaction -
2024”, in the Sea of Okhotsk. The Sea of Okhotsk lies between Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula in
the east, the Kuril Islands in the southeast and Japan’s island of Hokkaido to the south. The
exercises will include anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons. Russia and China practised
missile and artillery firing recently as part of Ocean-2024 naval drills. This is the third joint
military drill in this location between the two countries, after initially held in 2017 and the second in 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Russia + China = conducted a series of naval exercises, “Beibu/Interaction - 2024”, in Sea of Okhotsk
• Sea of Okhotsk – lies between Kamchatka Peninsula (Russia) in east, Kuril Islands in southeast & Hokkaido Island (Japan)
to south
• Russia & China – practised missile & artillery firing, as part of Ocean-2024 naval drills
• This is 3rd joint military drill in this location between two countries | 1st – in 2017 | 2nd – in 2022
• Russia – Moscow – Russian Ruble | PM – Mikhail Mishustin | President – Vladimir Putin
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang
43. Navratna defence PSU, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI),
Israel’s leading aerospace and defence company, have announced the establishment of a joint
venture company (JVC), which has been incorporated in the name of ‘BEL IAI AeroSystems Private
Ltd’. The JVC with its registered office in Delhi shall be the single point of contact (SPOC) for
extending long-term product support to the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) systems
of India’s defence forces. MRSAM is an advanced, path-breaking air and missile defence system that
provides protection against a variety of aerial threats. It was jointly developed by IAI and DRDO for India’s defence forces
and is currently used by the Indian Air Force, Indian Army, Indian Navy and also Israeli defence forces. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• BEL + IAI (Israel) = to establish a JVC, incorporated in name of ‘BEL IAI AeroSystems Private Ltd’
• Registered office – in Delhi
• It will be SPOC for extending long-term product support to MRSAM systems of India’s defence forces
• MRSAM – an advanced, path-breaking air & missile defence system providing protection against variety of aerial threats
• Developed by = IAI + DRDO | For India’s defence forces & is currently used by IAF, IA, IN & also Israeli defence forces
• Israel – Jerusalem – Israeli Shekel | President – Isaac Herzog | PM – Benjamin Netanyahu
• HQs of BEL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CMD – Manoj Jain
44. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted 3 flight
tests of the 4th Generation, technically-advanced miniaturised “Very Short Range Air Defence
System (VSHORADS)” at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The tests were carried out
against high-speed targets, demonstrating very critical parameters of maximum range and
maximum altitude interception, including repeatability of the hit-to-kill capability of the weapon
system. The development of VSHORADS missiles has been completed and 2 production agencies have been engaged in the
‘Development cum Production Partner (DcPP)’ mode. VSHORADS is a man-portable air defence system designed and
developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and DcPPs. The three
Services have been associated with the project right from the beginning and participated during the developmental trials.
{Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• DRDO – conducted 3 flight tests of 4th Generation, technically-advanced miniaturised “Very Short Range Air Defence
System (VSHORADS)” at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan
• 2 production agencies engaged in ‘Development cum Production Partner (DcPP)’ mode of VSHORADS missiles
• VSHORADS – a man-portable air defence system
• Designed & developed by – Research Centre Imarat (RCI) + other DRDO laboratories + DcPPs
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958
45. The Kingdom of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL)
have announced a strategic partnership to build 150 Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP)
armoured vehicles for Morocco. This will be Morocco’s first large defence manufacturing
plant, and the first defence manufacturing plant by an Indian defence OEM situated outside
India. The production facility is expected to be operational over the next 12 months, and the
delivery will be completed over a period of 3 years. The TASL platform 8x8 has been developed jointly by Tata Advanced
Systems and Tata Motors in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces + TASL = to build 150 Wheeled Armoured Platform armoured vehicles for Morocco
• This will be: Morocco’s 1st large defence manufacturing plant
- 1st defence manufacturing plant by an Indian defence OEM situated outside India
• Expected to be operational over – next 12 months | Delivery will be completed over – 3 years
• TASL platform 8x8 – developed jointly by Tata Advanced Systems & Tata Motors with DRDO
• HQs of Tata Advanced Systems – Hyderabad | MD & CEO – Sukaran Singh | Chairman – Banmali Agrawala
• Morocco – Rabat – Moroccan Dirham | Prime Minister – Aziz Akhannouch
46. India will host the annual joint naval exercise of Quad nations “Exercise Malabar 2024”
from October 8 to 18, beginning with the Harbour Phase in Visakhapatnam, followed by the
sea phase with a focus on expanding cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The Malabar
exercise began in 1992 as a bilateral naval drill between the US and Indian Navy. Japan and
Australia first participated in 2007, and since 2014, India, the US and Japan have participated
in the exercise every year. In 2020, for the first time, the exercise saw the participation of all 4 Quad members. During the
6th ‘Quad Summit’ which was held in September 2024 in the United States, the leaders decided to conduct joint Coast Guard
operations under which a first-ever ‘Quad-at-Sea’ ship observer mission will be launched in 2025. The leaders also
announced a new regional ‘Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI)’, to enable partners to maximize
tools provided through ‘Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA)’ and other Quad initiatives. Quad or Quadrilateral
Security Dialogue, a diplomatic partnership among Australia, India, Japan, and the US, was formally established in 2007 by
the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. However, it was revived in 2017 after dormancy amid shifting regional attitudes
toward China’s influence, culminating in its 1st formal summit in 2021. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Exercise Malabar 2024,” annual joint naval exercise of Quad nations – to be hosted by India | From – Oct 8-18, 2024
• It will begin with – Harbour Phase in Visakhapatnam, followed by sea phase
• Malabar exercise – began in 1992 as a bilateral naval drill between US & India
https:// /#
- Japan & Australia – first participated in 2007 | Since 2014 – India, US & Japan have participated
- In 2020 – all 4 Quad nations participated (1st time)
• 6th ‘Quad Summit’ – held in Sep 2024 in US | 1st-ever ‘Quad-at-Sea’ ship observer mission – to be launched in 2025
• Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) – to enable partners to maximize tools provided through
‘Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA)’ & other Quad initiatives
• Quad – established in 2007 | By – Shinzo Abe (Japan PM) | Members – Australia, India, Japan & US
- 1st formal summit – in 2021
47. Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh launched the 2nd edition of “Acing Development of
Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI 2.0)” challenges and the 12th edition of “Defence
India Start-up Challenges (DISC 12)” during ‘DefConnect 4.0’ at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi
Cantt. DefConnect 4.0 is being organized by ‘Innovations for Defence Excellence - Defence
Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO)’. ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges from the Armed
Forces and allied agencies, with a grant of up to Rs 25 crore to iDEX winners. DISC 12
presents 41 challenges across key technology domains, with grants up to Rs 1.50 crore. Notably, it introduces the ‘Medical
Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA)’ initiative, featuring 9 challenges aimed at fostering the development of
medical technologies to meet the medical demands of the Armed Forces. To provide momentum to the iDEX initiative, DISC
was launched in partnership with NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) to create prototypes in the area of national
defence and security. Raksha Mantri also appreciated the ‘SIDBI iDEX Partner Incubator Fund’. SIDBI (Small Industries
Development Bank of India) will allocate Rs 50 crore to 10 leading partner incubators to fund iDEX winners in advancing
critical defence technologies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘DefConnect 4.0’ – held at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt. | Organised by – iDEX-DIO (Defence Innovation Org.)
• Rajnath Singh – launched 2nd edition of “Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI 2.0)” challenges
& 12th edition of “Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 12)”
• ADITI 2.0 features – 19 challenges from Armed Forces & allied agencies | Grant up to – Rs 25 Cr to iDEX winners
• DISC 12 presents – 41 challenges across key technology domains | Grants up to – Rs 1.50 Cr
• Medical Innovations & Research Advancement (MIRA) initiative – introduced featuring 9 challenges
- To foster development of medical technologies to meet medical demands of Armed Forces
• DISC – launched with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) to create prototypes in area of national defence & security
• SIDBI – to allocate Rs 50 Cr to 10 leading partner incubators to fund iDEX winners in advancing critical defence
technologies
• Minister of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Sanjay Seth
https:// /#
Sports & Games
48. Sangram Singh has emerged victorious in his debut MMA fight at the “Gama International Fighting
Championship” at Tbilisi, Georgia, making a significant impact in the world of mixed martial arts. The
Commonwealth Heavyweight wrestling champion, Sangram, secured a swift victory against Ali Raza
Nasir, a Pakistani fighter. This achievement marks Sangram as the first Indian male wrestler to triumph
in an MMA fight. Sangram's win is the quickest recorded by an Indian fighter in the 93 kg category. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Gama International Fighting Championship” – held at Tbilisi, Georgia
• Sangram Singh – first Indian male wrestler to won MMA fight | Defeated – Ali Raza Nasir (Pakistan)
• His win is the quickest recorded by an Indian fighter in the 93 kg category
49. Team Europe has defeated Team World to win the “Laver Cup 2024”, after 4-
time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain overcame Taylor Fritz of the US.
Team Europe was captained by Swedish tennis player Bjorn Borg. This marks the 5th
win of Team Europe. Laver Cup 2024 was the 7th edition of the annual men’s tennis
tournament between Teams from Europe and the rest of the world, held in Berlin,
Germany. A total prize money pool of $2.25 million was shared between 12 main
players representing the two teams. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 7th edition of annual men’s tennis tournament – held in Berlin, Germany
• Team Europe – won “Laver Cup 2024” | Defeated – Team World | Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) – overcame Taylor Fritz (US)
• Team Europe was captained by – Bjorn Borg (Sweden) | It is 5th win of Team Europe
• Prize money pool – $2.25 million | To be shared between 12 main players representing the two teams
50. Nazira Banoo, a talented athlete from Ladakh, has clinched a gold medal in the individual Poomsae under-
30 category at the 1st “Khelo India Women’s Taekwondo League Phase 1”, held in Vadodara, Gujarat. The
tournament, organised by the Taekwondo Federation of India in collaboration with Khelo India, hosted
hundreds of participants from different states and union territories across the country. Nazira’s gold-medal
performance earned her a spot in the upcoming Khelo India Women’s League Nationals Phase-III, scheduled
to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Gulzar Hussain Munshi is the President of the Ladakh Taekwondo Association. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• 1st “Khelo India Women’s Taekwondo League Phase 1” – held in Vadodara, Gujarat
- Organised by – Taekwondo Federation of India + Khelo India
• Nazira Banoo (Ladakh) – gold medal in individual Poomsae under-30 category
• This medal earned her a spot in Khelo India Women’s League Nationals Phase-III, to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
• Gulzar Hussain Munshi – President of the Ladakh Taekwondo Association
• HQs of Taekwondo Federation of India – Mumbai, MH | President – Jimmy Jakhtani | Established in – 1976
https:// /#
51. India won the 2024 “Men’s SAFF Under-17 championship” by defeating
Bangladesh 2-0 in the final of the 2024 edition at the Changlimithang Stadium in
Thimphu, Bhutan. The Indian boy’s football team led by Ngamgouhou Mate, also
famously known as ‘Blue Colts’, remained undefeated throughout the tournament.
India and Bangladesh have met 5 times in the SAFF Men’s age group tournament
finals. India has won 4 times - U18 in 2019, U20 in 2022, U16 in 2023 and U17 in 2024.
Bangladesh has won once in U16 in 2015. A total of 7 teams, India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan
participated in the 2024 Men’s SAAF U17 Championships. Mohammed Arbash of India was awarded the Player of the
Tournament while Aheibam Suraj Singh was the Goalkeeper of the Tournament. The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF)
was founded in 1997 by Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan later joined the Federation.
Besides, the Indian men’s cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, also won the Test series 2-0 by defeating Bangladesh with a 7-
wicket victory in the 2nd test match in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and maintained their leadership at the World Test
Championship table. India won the 1st test match by 280 runs in Chennai. Ravichandran Ashwin was named ‘Player of the
Series’. He tied Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan for most player of the series awards in test cricket - 11. Yashasvi Jaiswal
was named the ‘Player of the Match’. With the win in Chennai, India became the 5th country in the world to have won more
Test matches than lost (179 wins & 178 losses), after Australia (414 wins & 232 losses), England (397 wins & 325 losses),
Pakistan (148 wins & 144 losses), and South Africa (179 wins & 161 losses). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Men’s SAFF Under-17 championship” – held at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan
• India – won in final of 2024 edition | Defeated – Bangladesh
• Indian boy’s football team – led by Ngamgouhou Mate | It remained undefeated throughout the tournament
• India won 4 times defeating Bangladesh in this event (out of 5) – U18 (2019), U20 (2022), U16 (2023) & U17 (2024)
- Bangladesh – won once in U16 (2015)
• Total participants in 2024 Men’s SAAF U17 Championships – India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka & Pakistan
• Player of the Tournament – Mohammed Arbash (India) | Goalkeeper of the Tournament – Aheibam Suraj Singh
• South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) – founded in 1997 by Bangladesh
• Indian men’s cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma – won Test series in 2nd test match in Kanpur, UP
- Defeated – Bangladesh
• India won 1st test match – in Chennai | Defeated – Sri Lanka
- Player of the Series – Ravichandran Ashwin | Player of the Match – Yashasvi Jaiswal
• India – became 5th country to have won more Test matches than lost (179 wins & 178 losses), with win in Chennai
- 1st – Australia (414 wins & 232 losses) | 2nd – England (397 wins & 325 losses)
- 3rd – Pakistan (148 wins & 144 losses) | 4th – South Africa (179 wins & 161 losses)
• HQs of SAFF – Dhaka, Bangladesh | President – Kazi Md. Salahuddin
https:// /#
52. India’s Gulveer Singh broke his national record in the men’s 5000m event by clocking 13:11.82 to win
gold in the ‘Yogibo Athletics Challenge Cup 2024 meet’ at the “World Athletics Continental Tour bronze-
level competition” at the Denka Big Swan Stadium in Niigata, Japan. In the race, Gulveer Singh, a bronze
medal winner from the Hangzhou Asian Games, emerged the winner with a just under two-second gap
over Japan’s Mebuki Suzuki, who took 2nd place with a personal best of 13:13.80. Another Japanese
runner, Kotaro Shinohara, took 3rd place in the 19-man field with a time of 13:15.70. Gulveer, who also holds India’s men’s
10,000m national mark of 27:41.81, won the gold medal in the 5000m at the ‘National Open Athletics Championships’ in
Bengaluru in September 2024. Gulveer, in June 2024, had broken Avinash Sable’s record at the ‘2024 Portland Track Festival’
by clocking 13:18.92 in the United States. In March 2024, Gulveer broke the men’s 10,000m at ‘The Ten track meet’ in
California, finishing with a time of 27:41.81 seconds. This achievement shattered the long-standing record of 28:02.89
seconds set by Surender Singh in 2008. All national records are subject to ratification by the Athletics Federation of India
(AFI). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Athletics Continental Tour bronze-level competition” – held at Denka Big Swan Stadium in Niigata, Japan
• Gulveer Singh (India) – broke his national record in men’s 5000m event by clocking 13:11.82 & won gold in ‘Yogibo
Athletics Challenge Cup 2024 meet’
- Defeated – Mebuki Suzuki (Japan) with 13:13.80 | 3rd – Kotaro Shinohara (Japan) 13:15.70
• Gulveer – holds India’s men’s 10,000m national mark of 27:41.81
• His other achievements:
- Sep 2024 – won Gold in 5000m at ‘National Open Athletics Championships’ in Bengaluru
- Jun 2024 – broke Avinash Sable’s record at ‘2024 Portland Track Festival’ by clocking 13:18.92 in US
- Mar 2024 – broke earlier record in men’s 10,000m at ‘The Ten track meet’ in California, finishing in 27:41.81 seconds
- Earlier record – 28:02.89 seconds | By – Surender Singh in 2008
• HQs of AFI – New Delhi | President – Adille J. Sumariwalla | Secretary General – Ravinder Chaudhry
53. Lay’s, a wholly owned subsidiary of PepsiCo, has become an official sponsor of both the ‘FIFA World
Cup 2026’ and ‘FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027’. FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the 1 st edition to feature
48 teams. Canada, Mexico and the USA are hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026, while Brazil will host the
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, bringing the women’s football World Cup to South America for the first
time. Family of brands of Lay’s include - Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, Ruffles, Cracker Jack, PopCorners,
Quaker, and Gamesa. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lay’s – become an official sponsor of both ‘FIFA World Cup 2026’ & ‘FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027’
• FIFA World Cup 2026 – will be 1st edition to feature 48 teams
• Host countries: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Canada, Mexico & USA | FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 – Brazil
- Brazil will bring women’s football World Cup to South America for the first time
• Family of brands of Lay’s include – Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, Ruffles, Cracker Jack, PopCorners, Quaker, and Gamesa
• HQs of FIFA – Zurich, Switzerland | President – Gianni Infantino
https:// /#
54. World No. 1 Test all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja became the 3rd Indian cricketer after former
Indian captain Kapil Dev and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to achieve the remarkable feat of
scoring 3,000 runs and taking 300 wickets in Test cricket. Jadeja reached this milestone
during the 2nd Test match against Bangladesh at Green Park in Kanpur, where he dismissed
Khaled Ahmed, marking his 300th wicket. Kapil Dev was the 1st to reach this landmark,
finishing his career with 5,248 runs and 434 wickets in 131 matches. Ashwin followed suit in December 2022, accumulating
3,422 runs and 523 wickets in 102 matches played so far. Jadeja’s milestone is particularly significant as he also became the
1st Indian left-arm spinner to achieve 300 Test wickets. He is now the 7th bowler overall to take 300 or more wickets for India
in the five-day format. The record for the most Test wickets for India remains with Anil Kumble (619 wickets in 132 matches)
which is followed by Ashwin, Kapil Dev, Harbhajan Singh (417 wickets in 103 Tests), Zaheer Khan (311 wickets in 92 matches)
and Ishant Sharma (311 wickets in 105 matches). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ravindra Jadeja – became 3rd Indian cricketer to score 3,000 runs & taking 300 wickets in Test cricket
- 1st – Kapil Dev | 2nd – Ravichandran Ashwin
• He reached this milestone during – 2nd Test match against Bangladesh at Green Park in Kanpur
- He dismissed Khaled Ahmed, marking his 300th wicket
• Kapil Dev – finished his career with 5,248 runs & 434 wickets in 131 matches
• Ashwin – finished with 3,422 runs & 523 wickets in 102 matches played
• Jadeja – became 1st Indian left-arm spinner to achieve 300 Test wickets
• Jadeja – 7th bowler overall to take 300 or more wickets for India in the five-day format
• Record for most Test wickets for India: 1st – Anil Kumble (619 wickets in 132 matches) | 2nd – Ashwin
- 3rd – Kapil Dev | 4th – Harbhajan Singh (417 wickets in 103 Tests) | 5th – Zaheer Khan (311 wickets in 92 matches)
- 6th – Ishant Sharma (311 wickets in 105 matches)
55. India’s padel team has finished third in the “Asia Pacific Padel Cup” in Bali, Indonesia.
India managed to defeat Malaysia 3-0 in the bronze medal match. It was India’s first-ever
tournament appearance, also the first-ever competition of its kind in the Asia Pacific region.
The Indian team was led by the Spanish head coach Victor Perez. Indonesia won gold medal
defeating Philippines which won silver medal. Padel is a racquet sport with Mexican origin
that is played in an enclosed court, like squash. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Asia Pacific Padel Cup” – held in Bali, Indonesia | 1st-ever competition of its kind in the Asia Pacific region
• India (first-ever tournament appearance) – won bronze | Defeated – Malaysia | Gold – Indonesia | Silver – Philippines
• Indian team led by – Spanish head coach Victor Perez
• Padel – a racquet sport with Mexican origin, played in an enclosed court (like squash)
56. No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain has defeated No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy to capture his 4th
title of the season and 16th ATP Tour title at the “China Open 2024” in Beijing. The three-hour,
21-minute battle was the longest match in the history of the ATP 500 tournament. With the win,
he becomes the first player to win ATP 500 titles on all three surfaces since the series was
launched in 2009. Both men shared all four grand slam titles this year - Sinner winning the
Australian Open and US Open, while Alcaraz won Wimbledon and the French Open. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• “China Open 2024” – held in Beijing, China
• No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) – won his 4th title of the season & 16th ATP Tour title
- Defeated – No. 1 Jannik Sinner (Italy)
• It was the longest match in the history of the ATP 500 tournament – 3hr 21 min
• He became the first player to win ATP 500 titles on all three surfaces since launch of series in 2009
• In 2024: Sinner – won Australian & US Open | Alcaraz – won Wimbledon & French Open
57. Indian pistol shooter Divanshi secured her 2nd individual gold in the women’s 25m standard pistol
event, leading the first-ever clean sweep in the event at the “ISSF Junior World Championship” in Lima,
Peru. India won 21 medals to remain at the top of the standings - 13 gold, 2 silver and 6 bronze. Norway
remained a distant 2nd with 10 medals – 4 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze - while China occupied 3rd place
with 3 gold and 1 silver. Divanshi tallied 564 out of 600 in the junior women’s standard pistol to finish
ahead of teammate Parisha Gupta, who shot 559 for silver. Manvi Jain completed the first-ever Indian
sweep with a bronze-winning score of 557. India also bagged 4th place as Shikha Chaudhary’s 554 put her a point ahead of
Marja Kirss of Estonia. In the corresponding junior men’s event, Suraj Sharma claimed gold with a score of 571, edging out
Poland’s Ivan Rakistski, who shot 568 for silver. Mukesh Nelavalli, who already has 4 gold medals in the championship, shot
568 but settled for bronze after a countback. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “ISSF Junior World Championship” – held in Lima, Peru
• Divanshi – secured her 2nd individual gold in women’s 25m standard pistol event | She tallied 564 out of 600
- 2nd – Parisha Gupta with 559 shot | 3rd – Manvi Jain (1st-ever Indian sweep with score 557)
- 4th – Shikha Chaudhary with 554 | 5th – Marja Kirss (Estonia)
• Junior men’s event: Gold – Suraj Sharma with score 571 | Silver – Ivan Rakistski (Poland) with score 568
- Bronze – Mukesh Nelavalli with score 568
• Top country: India with 21 medals (13 gold, 2 silver, 6 bronze) | 2nd – Norway with 10 medals (4 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze)
- 3rd – China with 4 medals (3 gold & 1 silver)
58. Coco Gauff of the United States won the “2024 WTA China Open Tennis” tournament after
defeating Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchová 6-1 6-3. This victory makes the 20-year-old Coco
Gauff the youngest China Open champion in 14 years and the 2nd American to win the
tournament since Serena Williams back in 2004 and 2013. She now has 8 WTA titles to her name.
Coco Gauff also became the 1st woman to win her first seven hard-court finals in the Open era.
The Italian pair Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini defeated Chan Hao-Ching of Taiwan and Russian Veronika Kudermetova pair in
the doubles final 6-4, 6-4 to win the China Open doubles title. This victory is the Italian pair’s 3rd Hologic WTA Tour team title of
the season and 5th overall. The China Open was a WTA 1000 event held in Beijing, China. The Women’s Tennis Association
(WTA) is the world’s governing body of professional women's tennis tournaments. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 WTA China Open Tennis” tournament – held in Beijing, China
• Coco Gauff (US) – won | Defeated – Karolina Muchová (Czech Republic)
• Coco Gauff – became youngest China Open champion in 14 years & 2nd American | 1st – Serena Williams (2004 & 2013)
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• Coco Gauff – became 1st woman to win her first seven hard-court finals in Open era | She now has 8 WTA titles
• Doubles title – Sara Errani & Jasmine Paolini (Italy) | Defeated – Chan Hao-Ching (Taiwan) & Veronika Kudermetova
(Russia)
- Sara Errani & Jasmine Paolini – 3rd Hologic WTA Tour team title of the season & 5th overall
• Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) – world’s governing body of professional women's tennis tournaments
59. The record 42-time and 2023-24 Ranji Trophy champions Mumbai, led by Ajinkye Rahane,
won the 62nd “Irani Cup” edition after defeating the Rest of India (RoI), led by Ruturaj Gaikwad
at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Sarfraz Khan of Mumbai was declared
the ‘Player of the match’ for his unbeaten knock of 222. Mumbai won the trophy after 27 years,
having won the trophy in the 1997-98 season. Hosted as an annual red-ball match between the
Ranji Trophy winners and a RoI team, the Irani Cup was first held in the 1959-60 domestic season as a one-off contest to
commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Ranji Trophy. While the RoI side has clinched the title 30 times across 62
appearances, Mumbai remains the most successful Ranji Trophy team to earn the prestigious title. Mumbai recorded their
15th title in the Irani Cup this season, across 30 appearances. Mumbai last lifted the title in the 1997-98 season. Karnataka
are the second-most successful domestic team in the Irani Cup, winning 6 titles from 8 editions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 62nd edition of “Irani Cup” – final held at Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, UP
• Mumbai – won after 27 years | Led by – Ajinkye Rahane | Defeated – Rest of India (led by Ruturaj Gaikwad)
• Player of the match – Sarfraz Khan (Mumbai) for his unbeaten knock of 222
• Irani Cup – 1st held in 1959-60 domestic season as one-off contest to commemorate 25th anniversary of Ranji Trophy
- Hosted as – annual red-ball match between Ranji Trophy winners & a RoI team
• Mumbai – most successful Ranji Trophy team | This is 15th title in 30 appearances | Last – 1997-98 season
• Karnataka – second-most successful domestic team | Won – 6 titles from 8 editions
60. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has unveiled the logo and mascot for the “Women’s
Asian Champions Trophy-2024”, which will be held at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey
Stadium from November 11-20. The mascot, named ‘Gudiya’, is inspired by the state bird
of Bihar, Sparrow. The Women’s Asian Champions Trophy-2024 is a joint venture of Hockey
India and the Bihar government. The state cabinet recently sanctioned Rs 10 crore to
Hockey India for the purpose. 6 countries, including India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, South
Korea and Japan, are participating in the championship. The hockey stick in Gudiya’s hand is the symbol of the hockey
competition and the goalkeeper’s glove in the hand and the defensive posture reflect the strategic qualities of alertness. A
ball kept nearby for the whole team reflects the necessity of playing together with sportsmanship. The Bodhi tree and hockey
stick have been kept in the logo. The Bodhi tree in Bihar is a symbol of knowledge, power, harmony, tolerance and
development. The hockey stick is the symbol of India’s national sport hockey. The Indian women’s hockey team will be led
by Salima Tete with Navneet Kaur being her deputy. Ravindran Shankaran is the Director General of Bihar State Sports
Authority. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nitish Kumar (Bihar CM) – unveiled logo & mascot for “Women’s Asian Champions Trophy-2024”
- To be held at – Rajgir Hockey Stadium | From – Nov 11-20, 2024 | JV of Hockey India & Bihar govt
• Mascot – ‘Gudiya’, inspired by state bird of Bihar, Sparrow | Bodhi tree – also been kept
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• Bihar sanctioned Rs 10 Cr to Hockey India | Ravindran Shankaran – DG of Bihar State Sports Authority
• Participating countries – India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea & Japan
• Indian women’s hockey team led by – Salima Tete (Navneet Kaur – deputy)
• HQs of Hockey India – New Delhi | President – Dilip Tirkey | Secretary General – Bhola Nath | Established – 2009
Persons in News
61. Squadron Leader Mohana Singh has become the first woman fighter pilot to join the elite 18 ‘Flying
Bullets’ squadron, which operates India’s indigenously developed LCA Tejas fighter jet’s squadron. Sqn
Ldr Mohana Singh was part of the first group of three women who became fighter pilots in the Indian
Air Force. She was also part of the recent exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti’ in Jodhpur, where she was part of
the historic flight by three Vice Chiefs of the three forces. Up until recently, she was flying the MiG-
21s. Currently, the IAF has around 20 women fighter pilots after the government opened the fighter stream for women in
2016. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Squadron Leader Mohana Singh – become 1st woman fighter pilot to join the elite 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ squadron
• This squadron operates India’s indigenously developed LCA ‘Tejas’ fighter jet’s squadron
• Currently, the IAF has around 20 women fighter pilots | Govt opened the fighter stream for women in 2016
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | Vice Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh
Science & Technology

62. India has launched “BharatGen”, an initiative in generative AI designed to revolutionize
public service delivery and boost citizen engagement through developing a suite of foundational
models in language, speech and computer vision. Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State
(Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, termed the initiative the world’s 1st
government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model project. Spearheaded by IIT Bombay
under the ‘National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS)’, of the
Department of Science and Technology (DST), the initiative will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality
text and multimodal content in various Indian languages. The implementation of the project is by the Technology Innovation
Hub (TIH) Foundation for Internet of Things (IoT) and Internet of Everything (IoE) at IIT Bombay with academic partners from
other premier academic Institutes that include IIT Bombay, IIIT Hyderabad, IIT Mandi, IIT Kanpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIM Indore,
and IIT Madras will undertake the execution of the project. The 4 key distinguishing features of BharatGen are the (i)
multilingual and multimodal nature of foundation models; (ii) Bhartiya data set-based building, and training; (iii) open-source
platform and (iv) development of an ecosystem of generative AI research in the country. The project is expected to be
completed in 2 years along with plans to benefit government, private, educational, and research institutions. BharatGen’s
roadmap outlines key milestones up to July 2026 including extensive AI model development, experimentation, and the
establishment of AI benchmarks tailored to India’s needs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – launched “BharatGen” to revolutionize public service delivery & boost citizen engagement
• It is world’s 1st government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model project
• Spearheaded by – IIT Bombay under ‘National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS)’ of DST
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• It will create generative AI systems that can generate high-quality text & multimodal content in various Indian languages
• Implementation by – Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) Foundation for IoT & IoE at IIT Bombay
• Execution will be undertaken by – various institutes including IIT Bombay, IIIT Hyderabad, IIT Mandi, IIT Kanpur, etc.
• 4 key distinguishing features of BharatGen:
- Multilingual & multimodal nature of foundation models | Bhartiya data set-based building & training
- Open-source platform | Development of an ecosystem of generative AI research in the country
• It is expected to be completed in – 2 years
• Director of IIT Bombay – Prof. Shireesh Kedare
63. Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, an autonomous Institute under the
Department of Science & Technology (DST), has signed an MoU with the ‘Navaratna’ Defence PSU, Bharat Electronics Limited
(BEL), to collaborate on space technologies, particularly focusing on Space Situational Awareness (SSA). SSA is required for
predicting, warning and avoiding any potential collisions between objects in space. As part of the MoU, ARIES and BEL will
utilize observations from ARIES’s state-of-the-art telescopes such as the 4m International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT) for
this purpose. The two organizations will jointly develop image processing techniques and software for data analytics
solutions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ARIES + BEL = an MoU to collaborate on space technologies, particularly focusing on Space Situational Awareness
• They will utilize observations from ARIES’s state-of-the-art telescopes, such as 4m ILMT, for this purpose
• They will jointly develop image processing techniques & software for data analytics solutions
• Location of ARIES – Nainital, Uttarakhand | Director – Dipankar Banerjee
• HQs of BEL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CMD – Manoj Jain
64. Bharti Airtel has launched India’s first network-based AI-powered spam detection solution to
address the issue of spam calls and messages for its customers. The tool will alert customers in real-
time to all suspected spam calls and SMSs. The solution is free of cost and will get auto-activated for
all Airtel customers. The solution is designed as a dual-layer protection. It has two filters - one at the
network layer and the second at the IT systems layer. The solution has been able to successfully
identify 100 million potential spam calls and 3 million spam SMSs originating every day. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bharti Airtel – launched India’s first network-based AI-powered spam detection solution to address issue of spam calls
& messages
• It will alert customers in real-time to all suspected spam calls & SMSs
• It is free of cost & will get auto-activated for all Airtel customers
• It has two filters – one at network layer & other at IT systems layer
• HQs of Bharti Airtel – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Gopal Vittal | Chairman – Sunil Bharti Mittal
65. China has successfully launched 6 new satellites, namely “Jilin-1 Kuanfu 02B”, into space from the Taiyuan Satellite
Launch Center in north China’s Shanxi Province. The satellites were launched aboard a Long March-2D carrier rocket. The
launch marks the 536th flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• China – launched 6 new satellites, “Jilin-1 Kuanfu 02B”, into space | Aboard – Long March-2D carrier rocket
• From – Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China’s Shanxi Province
• It marks 536th flight mission of Long March carrier rocket series
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang
Appointments & Resignations

66. Ajit Kumar Saxena, CMD of Manganese Ore (India) Limited (MOIL), has assumed additional charge
of the post of CMD at Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL), the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel
Plant. S Sakthimani has already been selected for the CMD post at RINL and he is to take the charge
after the retirement of present incumbent Atul Bhatt who is on leave. He will retire on 30 November,
2024. Till that date, AK Saxena will hold the additional charge. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ajit Kumar Saxena (CMD of MOIL) – additional charge of CMD at RINL until Nov 30, 2024 (succeeding - Atul Bhatt)
• RINL – corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant
• HQs of RINL – Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | CMD – AK Saxena (addi. charge) (From Dec’24 - S Sakthimani)
67. The Public Enterprise Selection Board (PESB) has selected Brijendra Pratap Singh for the post of
Chairman-cum-Managing Director, National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO); a Schedule ‘A’ Central
PSU. Subject to requisite clearances and ACC approval, he will replace Sridhar Patra who is scheduled to
retire on October 31, 2024. Sridhar Patra has been serving as the CMD of NALCO since 2019. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Brijendra Pratap Singh – selected as CMD of NALCO, a Schedule ‘A’ Central PSU (replacing - Sridhar Patra)
• HQs of NALCO – Bhubaneswar, Odisha | CMD – Sridhar Patra (From Nov 1, 2024 - Brijendra Pratap Singh)
68. Shigeru Ishiba, head of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is officially elected as the
102nd Prime Minister of Japan, as the former PM Fumio Kishida stepped down after a successful vote
by lawmakers on the first day of an extraordinary session of Parliament. The former defence minister,
Shigeru, will be announcing his new cabinet after his formal appointment by Emperor Naruhito at the
Imperial Palace. Ishiba was chosen as the LDP leader, replacing Fumio Kishida. Kishida, who took office
in 2021, stepped down to allow his party a fresh start after his administration was plagued by scandals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shigeru Ishiba (LDP) – elected as 102nd PM of Japan (succeeding - Fumio Kishida)
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Shigeru Ishiba
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69. The board of directors of private sector lender, IndusInd Bank, has approved the re-appointment of
Sumant Kathpalia as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD&CEO) of the bank for a period
of 3 years. The re-appointment will be effective from March 24, 2025 up to March 23, 2028. Kathpalia has
been the MD&CEO of the company since March 24, 2020. Previously, the RBI approved a two-year
extension to Kathpalia in March 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sumant Kathpalia – reappointed as MD & CEO of IndusInd Bank for 3 years w.e.f. Mar 23, 2028
• He got earlier extension for the same post in March 2023
• HQs of IndusInd Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Sumant Kathpalia | Tagline – “We Make You Feel Richer”
70. Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin has taken over as the Director General of the Armed Forces
Medical Services (DGAFMS), the first woman doctor to hold the position. She has had 45
predecessors, all men. Sarin will head AFMS for two years. She has the rare distinction of serving
in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. Also, Sarin was recently appointed as a
member of the national task force constituted on the Supreme Court’s directions to formulate
safe working conditions and protocols for medical professionals. The development comes two
months after Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair took over as the Director General Medical Services (Army), the first
woman officer to be appointed to the position. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• VAdm Arti Sarin – took over as DG of Armed Forces Medical Services for 2 years (1st woman doctor to hold this position)
• Recently, LG Sadhna Saxena Nair – took over as DG Medical Services (Army) (1st woman officer to hold this position)
• Sarin was recently appointed as a member of National Task Force constituted on SC’s directions to formulate safe
working conditions & protocols for medical professionals
• HQs of AFMS – Pune, Maharashtra | DG – Arti Sarin
71. The World Bank has announced Ibrahima Cheikh Diong as the first Director of The Fund for responding
to Loss and Damage. Mr Ibrahima a finance expert from Senegal and a dual citizen of the US. Created in
2022, this fund aims to assist countries impacted by climate-driven disasters. With $800 million pledged
at COP28, it seeks to offer tangible financial support for those disproportionately affected. The next round
of climate talks, COP29, will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, starting in November 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ibrahima Cheikh Diong (Senegal & dual citizen of US) – 1st Director of The Fund for responding to Loss & Damage
• Announced by – World Bank | Fund pledged $800 million at COP28 to offer tangible financial support
• Fund – created in 2022 | Aim: To assist countries impacted by climate-driven disasters
• COP29 – to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan | From – Nov 2024
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189
72. Non-banking finance company, Axis Finance Limited (AFL), has appointed Sai Giridhar as Managing
Director and CEO-designate, subject to regulatory approvals. Giridhar brings over 28 years of experience
in the banking domain. He will take over from Bipin Saraf, who started his career with Axis Bank in 2003
and was entrusted to lead the Axis Finance team in 2013. Mr Saraf will be moving back to Axis Bank to
lead its ‘Bharat Banking’ initiative. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Sai Giridhar – appointed as MD & CEO of Axis Finance Limited (succeeding - Bipin Saraf)
• Bipin Saraf – will lead ‘Bharat Banking’ initiative of Axis Bank
• HQs of AFL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Sai Giridhar
73. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Aviral Jain as Executive Director (ED) with
effect from October 1, 2024. Prior to being promoted to ED, Jain was serving as Regional Director
for Maharashtra. As Executive Director, Jain will look after the Legal Department, Premises
Department and Right to Information Act (First Appellate Authority). The RBI’s affairs are
governed by a central board of directors (21 members). The board comprises Official Directors
(the Governor and not more than 4 Deputy Governors) and Non-Official Directors (10 Directors
nominated by the government of India from various fields, 2 government officials, and 4 Directors representing the 4 local
boards of the RBI in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Aviral Jain – appointed as Executive Director (ED) of RBI w.e.f. Oct 1, 2024
• RBI’s affairs – governed by a central board of directors (21 members), comprising:
- Official Directors – Governor & not more than 4 Deputy Governors
- Non-Official Directors – 10 nominated by GoI, 2 government officials & 4 representing 4 local boards of RBI in
Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai & Delhi
74. M V Shreyams Kumar of Mathrubhumi was elected as the President of the Indian Newspaper
Society (INS), an apex body of publishers of newspapers, magazines and periodicals in the country.
He will succeed Rakesh Sharma of Aaj Samaj. Vivek Gupta of Sanmarg was elected the Deputy
President and Karan Rajendra Darda of Lokmat the Vice President. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• M V Shreyams Kumar (Mathrubhumi) – elected as President of INS (succeeding - Rakesh Sharma of Aaj Samaj)
• Deputy President – Vivek Gupta (Sanmarg) | Vice President – Karan Rajendra Darda (Lokmat)
• HQs of Indian Newspaper Society – New Delhi | President – M V Shreyams Kumar
75. Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel has appointed Prakash Man Singh Raut as the new Chief Justice
of Nepal. Mr. Paudel administered the oath of office and secrecy to Chief Justice Raut at a special
ceremony, which was attended by high-ranking officials, including Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav
and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. His appointment comes after the retirement of outgoing Chief Justice
Bishowambhar Prasad Shrestha, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 65. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prakash Man Singh Raut – appointed as new Chief Justice of Nepal (succeeding - Bishowambhar Prasad Shrestha)
• Oath administered by – Ramchandra Paudel, President of Nepal
• Nepal – Kathmandu – Nepalese Rupee | President – Ram Chandra Poudel | PM – K. P. Sharma Oli
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76. Retired IPS officer Sharad Kumar, who headed anti-terror organisation NIA for 4 years,
has been appointed as the new Chief of the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), bringing
extensive experience to the role. He will take over from KK Mishra. BCCI’s ACU head is
appointed for a 3-year term. Mr Kumar’s name was finalised in the BCCI’s Annual General
Meeting on September 29, 2024. After serving in the NIA, Kumar was appointed as the
Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission from June 2018 to April 2020. His contribution to law
enforcement has been recognised with the President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Services in 1996 and the President’s
Police Medal for Distinguished Services in 2004. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sharad Kumar – appointed as new Chief of BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit for 3 years (succeeding - KK Mishra)
• He received: President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Services – in 1996
- President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Services – in 2004
• HQs of BCCI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | President – Roger Binny | Secretary – Jay Shah | Founded in – 1928
77. India’s Minister of Health, JP Nadda, has been elected as the Chairperson of the 77th Session of the
Regional Committee for Southeast Asia of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in New Delhi. The 77 th
Session is the annual governing body meeting of WHO in the Region. The member nations include
Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, the Maldives,
Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste. One of the 6 WHO Regions, WHO South-East Asia
is home to over a quarter of the world’s population (nearly 2 billion people). The WHO is working with the 11 Member States
to address persisting and emerging epidemiological and demographic challenges. Razia Pendse is the Chef de Cabinet of the
WHO. Saima Wazed is the WHO’s Regional Director for Southeast Asia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• JP Nadda – elected as Chairperson of 77th Session of Regional Committee for Southeast Asia of WHO in New Delhi
• Members – Bangladesh, Bhutan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand & Timor-
Leste
• WHO South-East Asia (1 of 6 WHO Regions) – home to over a quarter of world’s population (nearly 2 billion)
• WHO – working with 11 Member States to address persisting & emerging epidemiological & demographic challenges
• Chef de Cabinet of WHO – Razia Pendse | WHO’s Regional Director for Southeast Asia – Saima Wazed
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948
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Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes
78. The Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that veteran
film actor and three-time National Award winner Mithun Chakraborty has been named as the
recipient of the “Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2022”. He will be the 54 th
recipient of the Dada Saheb Phalke Award, which was instituted in 1969 in honour of Dadasaheb
Phalke, who is known as the father of Indian cinema and directed India’s first feature film ‘Raja
Harishchandra’ in 1913. In 2023, Waheeda Rehman received the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2021.
Mithun Chakraborty will be conferred the award at the 70th National Film Festival award ceremony, which will be held on 8
October 2024. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest award in the field of cinema. It is presented annually at the
National Film Awards ceremony by the Directorate of Film Festivals. Actress Devika Rani was the 1 st recipient of the
Dadasaheb Phalke Award. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mithun Chakraborty – 54th recipient of “Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2022”
• Dada Saheb Phalke Award – instituted in 1969 in honour of Dadasaheb Phalke | It is India’s highest award in cinema
- Dadasaheb Phalke – Father of Indian cinema | He directed India’s first feature film – ‘Raja Harishchandra’ in 1913
• Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2021 – Waheeda Rehman
• He will be conferred at – 70th National Film Festival award ceremony, to be held on Oct 8, 2024
• 1st recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award – Devika Rani
79. Young actress Anushka Sen has received a prestigious award for her outstanding
contributions to strengthening the relationship between Korea and India. As the Honorary
Ambassador of Korean Tourism, Anushka has played a key role in bridging the cultural gap
between the two nations, earning her global recognition. She received the award from Hyun
Woo Kim, CEO of SBA (Seoul Business Agency). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anushka Sen (Actress) – received an award for her contributions to strengthening relationship between Korea & India
• She is the Honorary Ambassador of Korean Tourism | Received award from – Hyun Woo Kim, CEO of SBA
• South Korea – Seoul – Korean Republic won | President – Yoon Suk-yeol
80. Film star Chiranjeevi Konidela was honoured with the award of the ‘Most Prolific Film Star in
Indian Cinema’ in the actor/dancer category by the Guinness World Records in a special ceremony
held in Hyderabad on September 22, which coincides with the day he made his big screen debut
in 1978. Over 45 years, the veteran actor has performed more than 24,000 dance moves in 537
songs in 156 films. His dancing repertoire is diverse, encompassing pop, rock, jazz, hip hop,
western and Indian classical, demonstrating his versatility and grace. In his career spanning 45 years, Chiranjeevi has
received 9 Filmfare Awards, 3 Nandi Awards and several Government honours including the prestigious Padma Bhushan,
the third-highest civilian award, in 2006 and Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, in 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chiranjeevi Konidela – honoured with award of ‘Most Prolific Film Star in Indian Cinema’ in actor/dancer category
• By – Guinness World Records | Ceremony in – Hyderabad | On – Sep 22, 2024 | His big screen debut – Sep 22, 1978
• He performed more than 24,000 dance moves in 537 songs in 156 films
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• He received – 9 Filmfare Awards, 3 Nandi Awards & several Government honours including:
- Padma Bhushan – 2006 | Padma Vibhushan– 2024
81. Gujarat, also the host state, won the maximum number of awards during the 4 th
“Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet and Expo (RE-INVEST)”, held at the
Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This is the 1st time the meet was organised
outside Delhi under the central theme “Mission 500 GW”, which underscores India’s
strategic goal to expand its renewable energy capacity significantly by 2030. While
Gujarat was ranked on top under overall renewable energy capacity achieved and
overall wind power capacity achieved categories, it was ranked 2nd under overall solar power capacity achieved as Rajasthan
pipped Gujarat to be at the top. Other top-ranked states under these categories were Rajasthan (bagged two awards), Tamil
Nadu (two) and Karnataka (two), Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand one each under the overall hydropower capacity
achievers category. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said that renewable energy accounts for 54% of the state’s installed
energy capacity of more than 50,000 MW. The CM also launched ‘Mission 100 GW of Renewable Energy in Gujarat’ and
released ‘Gujarat Energy Vision 2047’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 4th “Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet & Expo (RE-INVEST)” – held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• Central theme – “Mission 500 GW” | 1st time meet was organised outside Delhi | Max no. of awards won by – Gujarat
• Gujarat – ranked among top 3 states in multiple categories
• In overall solar power capacity achieved: 1st – Rajasthan | 2nd – Gujarat
• Renewable energy accounts for – 54% of Gujarat’s installed energy capacity of more than 50,000 MW
• Bhupendra Patel – launched ‘Mission 100 GW of Renewable Energy in Gujarat’ & released ‘Gujarat Energy Vision 2047’
• Gujarat: Capital – Gandhinagar | CM – Bhupendra Patel | Governor – Acharya Dev Vrat
82. The 25th “International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA)” will be held in Jaipur from
March 7 to March 9, 2025. The announcement was made during the 24th ‘IIFA Awards’, held
in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi for the 3rd consecutive year. An MoU was signed between the
Rajasthan Tourism Department and the IIFA for the silver jubilee celebrations of the IIFA
Awards, to be held in Jaipur in 2025 in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan
Diya Kumari. Commissioner Tourism VP Singh signed on behalf of the Tourism Department
and Vice President STJ Global Entertainment and Media Suresh Iyer signed on behalf of the academy. The 2025 ceremony
will also host the inaugural ‘IIFA Digital Awards’ that will honour the best performances in digital entertainment, films and
Over-the-top (OTT) content. IIFA is a globally recognised platform for the promotion of Indian cinema among the
international and Indian community worldwide and commands a global following from audiences who have an interest in
Indian cinema. The 1st IIFA Awards were held in 2000 in London. Since then, the IIFAs have been held annually across
different geographies covering 14 different countries and 18 distinct cities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 25th “International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA)” – will be held in Jaipur | From – Mar 7-9, 2025
• Announcement was made during – 24th ‘IIFA Awards’ | Held in – Yas Island, Abu Dhabi (3rd consecutive year)
• Rajasthan Tourism Department + IIFA = an MoU for silver jubilee celebrations of IIFA Awards to be held in Jaipur (2025)
• It will also host inaugural ‘IIFA Digital Awards’ to honour best performances in digital entertainment, films & OTT content
• 1st IIFA Awards – held in London (2000)
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83. The “SASTRA-RAMANUJAN Award” for 2024 has been awarded to Dr. Alexander Dunn of the
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), USA, for his significant breakthroughs in the study of
modular forms, half-integral weight forms, metaplectic forms, and their relationships with prime
numbers and integer partitions. The annual $10,000 Prize, established in 2005, is awarded to
mathematicians aged 32 or below for exceptional contributions, particularly in areas inspired by the
work of Srinivasa Ramanujan in his brief life of 32 years. It is given by the Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research
Academy (SASTRA) University, Tamil Nadu. The prize will be awarded at an International Conference in Number Theory
during December 20-22, 2024, at the Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre of SASTRA University in Kumbakonam. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr. Alexander Dunn (Georgia Institute of Technology, USA) – “SASTRA-RAMANUJAN Award” for 2024
• For his study of modular forms, half-integral weight forms, metaplectic forms & their relationships with prime numbers
& integer partitions
• Prize amount – $10,000 | Award – established in 2005 | Awarded to – mathematicians aged 32 or below
• Given by – Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) University, Tamil Nadu
• It will be awarded at – International Conference in Number Theory during Dec 20-22, 2024
- At – Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre of SASTRA University in Kumbakonam
84. Visionary industrialist and leader, Deepak C Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director
of Deepak Nitrite Limited, has been conferred the prestigious ‘ICC Lifetime Achievement
Award’ by the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) at the 59th ICC Annual Awards Function in
Mumbai. This distinguished accolade recognizes Mehta’s remarkable and sustained
contribution to India’s chemical manufacturing sector over several decades. The award was
presented by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, a globally renowned scientist
and researcher in polymer science and engineering. Moreover, the ‘ICC Award for
Excellence in Energy Conservation and Management’ was conferred to Reliance Industries Limited’s Manufacturing Division
DTA Refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat. While, the ‘ICC Aditya Birla Award for the Best Responsible Care Committed Company’
was awarded to Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd (GSFC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 59th Indian Chemical Council (ICC) Annual Awards Function – held in Mumbai
• Deepak C Mehta (CMD of Deepak Nitrite Ltd) – conferred ‘ICC Lifetime Achievement Award’ by the ICC
- Presented by – Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar
- It recognizes his remarkable & sustained contribution to India’s chemical manufacturing sector over several decades
• ‘ICC Award for Excellence in Energy Conservation & Management’ – Reliance Industries Ltd’s Manufacturing Division
DTA Refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat
• ‘ICC Aditya Birla Award for the Best Responsible Care Committed Company’ – Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd
• HQs of Indian Chemical Council – Mumbai | Director General – Sothi Selvam D | Secretary General – S. Jaikumar
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Schemes & Initiatives
85. In a significant move to engage India’s youth and bolster healthcare services, the Department of
Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has launched the “Seva Se Seekhen”, nationwide
volunteering initiative, under the ‘MY Bharat’ initiative to provide hands-on learning experiences for
young people while offering crucial assistance to patients in hospitals. As part of the program, MY
Bharat volunteers are being deployed across 700 locations, including both government hospitals and
those empanelled under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)’. With each hospital hosting 10-20 volunteers, the
initiative targets not only to improve patient services but also to raise awareness of the ‘Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri
Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)’. Volunteers assist with a variety of tasks, from helping patients access basic healthcare
services to managing outpatient department (OPD) counters, operating information desks, and supporting PM-JAY
documentation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dept of Youth Affairs – launched “Seva Se Seekhen”, nationwide volunteering initiative, under ‘MY Bharat’ initiative
• To provide hands-on learning experiences for young people while offering crucial assistance to patients in hospitals
• Volunteers – being deployed across 700 locations, including both govt hospitals & those empanelled under PM-JAY
• Each hospital will host 10-20 volunteers & they will raise awareness of ‘AB-PMJAY’
- AB-PMJAY – Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
• Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Porbandar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports: Raksha Nikhil Khadse
86. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh
Abhiyan (DAJGUA)”, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
(October 2), from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand with a total outlay of Rs 79,156 crores (Central
Share: Rs 56,333 crore and State Share: Rs 22,823 crore). DAJGUA is based on the
learning and success of ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-
JANMAN)’, which was launched by the Prime Minister on ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ on
15th November, 2023. The DAJGUA will cover around 63,843 villages benefitting more than 5 crore tribal people in 549
districts and 2,911 blocks spread across all tribal majority villages and aspirational blocks in 30 States/UTs. It envisions
saturation of critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood, through 25 interventions implemented
by 17-line ministries of the government of India by convergence and outreach. The Prime Minister also inaugurated 40
‘Eklavya schools’ and laid the foundation stone of 25 new ‘Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs)’ amounting to around
Rs 2,834 cr. Under the scheme, each block with 50% or more ST population and 20,000 or more tribal persons will have an
EMRS, to be at par with Navodaya Vidyalayas. With 288 schools already sanctioned, a total of 728 schools will be set up by
2026. He also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of projects worth Rs 1,365 cr under the ‘PM-JANMAN’, including
1387 km of roads, 120 Anganwadis, 250 Multi-Purpose Centres and 10 school hostels. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – launched “Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA)”, on Oct 2, from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand
• Outlay – Rs 79,156 Cr | Central Share – Rs 56,333 Cr | State Share – Rs 22,823 Cr
• DAJGUA is based on learning & success of ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)’
- PM-JANMAN – launched by PM on ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ on Nov 15, 2023
• It will cover 63,843 villages benefitting 5+ crore tribal people in 549 districts & 2,911 blocks in 30 States/UTs
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• PM inaugurated 40 ‘Eklavya schools’ & laid foundation stone of 25 new ‘EMRSs’ | Amount – Rs 2,834 Cr
• Under this scheme, each block with 50% or more ST population & 20,000 or more tribal persons will have an EMRS
• Total schools to be set up by 2026 – 728 | Already sanctioned – 288
• PM also inaugurated & laid foundation stone of projects under ‘PM-JANMAN’ | Worth – Rs 1,365 Cr
- It includes 1387 km of roads, 120 Anganwadis, 250 Multi-Purpose Centres & 10 school hostels
87. The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the
“National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds)” to boost domestic oilseed
production. The Mission will be implemented from 2024-25 to 2030-31, with a financial outlay
of Rs 10,103 crore, and will focus on enhancing the production of key primary oilseed crops
such as Rapeseed-Mustard, Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, and Sesamum, as well as
increasing collection and extraction efficiency from secondary sources like Cottonseed, Rice
Bran, and Tree Borne Oils. The mission aims to increase primary oilseed production from 39
million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. Together with ‘NMEO-OP (Oil
Palm)’, which was launched in 2021 with an outlay of Rs 11,040 crore, the Mission targets to
increase domestic edible oil production to 25.45 million tonnes by 2030-31, meeting around
72% of domestic requirement. It also seeks to extend oilseed cultivation by an additional 40 lakh hectares. Further, to ensure
the timely availability of quality seeds, the Mission will introduce an online 5-year rolling seed plan through the ‘Seed
Authentication, Traceability & Holistic Inventory (SATHI)’ Portal, and 65 new seed hubs and 50 seed storage units will be set up
in the public sector to improve the seed production infrastructure. Additionally, over 600 Value Chain Clusters will be
developed across 347 unique districts, covering more than 10 lakh hectares annually. Furthermore, the Mission will promote
awareness of recommended dietary guidelines for edible oils through an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC)
campaign. India is heavily reliant on imports which account for 57% of its domestic demand for edible oils. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved “National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds)” to boost domestic oilseed production
• Implemented from – 2024-25 to 2030-31 | Outlay – Rs 10,103 Cr
• Aim: To increase primary oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31
• NMEO-OP (Oil Palm) – launched in 2021 | Outlay – Rs 11,040 Cr
• NMEO-OP + NMEO-Oilseeds = to increase domestic edible oil production to 25.45 million tonnes by 2030-31
- Meeting around 72% of domestic requirement
• It also seeks to extend oilseed cultivation by an additional 40 lakh hectares
• It will introduce an online 5-year rolling seed plan through ‘Seed Authentication, Traceability & Holistic Inventory (SATHI)’
Portal
- 65 new seed hubs & 50 seed storage units – to be set up in public sector to improve seed production infrastructure
• Over 600 Value Chain Clusters – to be developed across 347 unique districts, covering 10+ lakh hectares annually
• India’s imports for edible oils – 57% of its domestic demand
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88. The Union Cabinet approved the proposal from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
(DA&FW) to rationalise all Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) under the Ministry of Agriculture and
Farmers’ Welfare into 2 umbrella initiatives, the “Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-
RKVY)” and the “Krishonnati Yojana (KY),” with a total proposed expenditure of Rs 1,01,321.61 crore
(Rs 69,088.98 crore from the Centre and Rs 32,232.63 crore from states). This includes Rs 57,074.72
crore for PM-RKVY and Rs 44,246.89 crore for KY. The PM-RKVY aims to promote sustainable
agriculture, while the KY will focus on achieving agricultural self-sufficiency and addressing food
security challenges. The PM-RKVY encompasses a range of initiatives, including (i) Soil Health
Management, (ii) Rainfed Area Development, (iii) Agro Forestry, (iv) Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, (v) Agricultural
Mechanization, including Crop Residue Management, (vi) Per Drop More Crop, (vii) Crop Diversification Programme, (viii) RKVY
DPR component and (ix) Accelerator Fund for Agri Startups. By streamlining these schemes, state governments will have the
opportunity to develop a Comprehensive Strategic Document for their agricultural sectors. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved proposal from DA&FW to rationalise all Centrally Sponsored Schemes under MAFW into 2 umbrella
initiatives
- “Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY)” & “Krishonnati Yojana (KY)”
- Proposed expenditure – Rs 1,01,321.61 Cr | Centre – Rs 69,088.98 Cr | State – Rs 32,232.63 Cr
- This includes: Rs 57,074.72 Cr – for PM-RKVY | Rs 44,246.89 Cr – for KY
• Aim (PM-RKVY): To promote sustainable agriculture
• Aim (KY): To focus on achieving agricultural self-sufficiency & addressing food security challenges
• PM-RKVY encompasses a range of initiatives, including:
- Soil Health Management | Rainfed Area Development | Agro Forestry | Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
- Agricultural Mechanization, including Crop Residue Management | Per Drop More Crop
- Crop Diversification Programme | RKVY DPR component | Accelerator Fund for Agri Startups
89. The Government of India has notified the “National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025”. The Scheme is the watershed
moment in the history of the ‘Anubhav Portal’ as for the 1st time, apart from the employees of the Central Government,
employees of Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), including Public Sector Banks, will also be eligible for submitting
their write-ups. Further, the existing time limit of one year of the retirement within which, the pensioners could submit the
write-ups, has now been extended up to three years. To streamline the assessment process, a new marking system for
various pay levels has been introduced. The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare launched an online platform
named ‘Anubhav’ in March 2015 to enable eligible retiring/retired government employees to share their experiences of
working with the Government. Thereafter, an Annual Awards Scheme was devised in 2015 to incentivize and encourage the
submission of the experiences through write-ups. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI notified “National Anubhav Awards Scheme, 2025”
• Now, employees of CPSUs, including Public Sector Banks, will also be eligible for submitting their write-ups
• Time limit of retirement within which, pensioners could submit write-ups – increased to 3 years | Existing – 1 year
• Anubhav platform – launched by DPPW in Mar 2015 to enable eligible retiring/retired govt employees to share their
experiences of working with govt
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90. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda, has announced several key initiatives aimed at enhancing
nutrition support for TB patients and their household contacts. Nutrition support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) has
been increased from existing Rs 500 per month/patient to Rs 1,000/month/patient for entire duration of the treatment. All
TB patients will now receive a nutritional support of Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 6,000 under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY).
Enhancement of NPY support will benefit all 25 lakh TB patients in a year, while introduction of Energy Dense Nutritional
Supplementation (EDNS) would cover approximately 12 lakh underweight patients (BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2 at the time of
diagnosis). This move will cost the Government of India approximately an additional Rs. 1,040 crores to be shared between
the centre and states on 60:40 basis. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include ending the TB
epidemic by 2030 under Goal 3. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• J P Nadda – announced several initiatives to enhance nutrition support for TB patients & their household contacts
• Nutrition support under Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana – increased to Rs 1,000/month/patient for entire duration of treatment
- Current – Rs 500/month/patient
• All TB patients will receive nutritional support of Rs. 3,000-6,000 under NPY | It will benefit all 25 lakh TB patients in a
year
• Energy Dense Nutritional Supplementation (EDNS) – introduced to cover approx. 12 lakh underweight patients
- BMI less than 18.5 kg/m2 at the time of diagnosis
• Cost – Rs. 1,040 Cr (share between Centre and states - 60:40) | UN SDG 3 – end TB epidemic by 2030
• Minister of Health & Family Welfare: Jagat Prakash Nadda | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao & Anupriya Singh Patel
Meetings, Conferences and Summits

91. Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, has inaugurated and addressed “National Conference
on the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA)” at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. This
National Conference aimed at enhancing governance and development in Scheduled Areas across the country. More than
500 participants from 10 PESA States attended the Conference, highlighting a nationwide commitment to the effective
implementation of the PESA Act. The conference witnessed the launch of 'PESA - GPDP' portal and 7 specialized Training
Modules. These resources are designed to enhance the effectiveness of Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) and
training initiatives. The transformative steps taken by the Government of India was also discussed, which include the Janjati
Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) and the recently approved Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel – inaugurated & addressed “National Conference on Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas)
Act, 1996 (PESA)” at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi
• Aim: To enhance governance & development in Scheduled Areas across the country
• 'PESA - GPDP' portal & 7 specialized Training Modules – also launched in the conference
• These resources are designed to enhance effectiveness of Gram Panchayat Development Plans & training initiatives
• Minister of Panchayati Raj: Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) | Constituency – Munger, Bihar
Mos in Ministry of Panchayati Raj: S. P. Singh Baghel
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92. Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), Dr Devesh
Chaturvedi, chaired the 1st Meeting of the ‘Country Programme Advisory Committee
(CPAC)’ to review the implementation of the ‘Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027’
with representatives of the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP) and
members from concerned Ministries/Departments. To address the national priorities in
food security and nutrition through capacity building and technical support, an MoU was
signed between the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the UN WFP. Under the MoU, the CSP 2023-27
addresses 4 strategic outcomes which include (i) more effective and efficient national food-based social protection systems;
(ii) increasing consumption of diverse, nutritious, and fortified foods; (iii) enhancing the social and financial mobility of
women; and (iv) strengthening the adaptive capacity to build climate-resilient livelihoods and food systems. To coordinate
and review the progress on initiatives under the CSP, a CPAC has been constituted under the chairperson of Dr Devesh
Chaturvedi and Joint Secretaries of concerned Ministries and NITI Aayog as its members. The committee meets at least
annually. The Country Director of WFP Elizabeth Faure informed the committee about the status of various targeted
outcomes of the CSP which include transforming agriculture and enhancing food security for smallholder farmers in states
like Assam, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh; nationwide efforts for mainstreaming millets; building resilience in
fishing communities through the ‘Secure Fishing’ App; initiative for optimizing the Public Distribution System (PDS);
Annapurti initiative provides grain ATMs; school nutri-gardens; andrice fortification etc. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Devesh Chaturvedi (Secretary, DA&FW) – chaired 1st Meeting of ‘Country Programme Advisory Committee (CPAC)’
• To review implementation of ‘Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027’
• DA&FW + UN WFP = an MoU to address national priorities in food security & nutrition
• Under MoU, CSP 2023-27 addresses 4 strategic outcomes:
- More effective & efficient national food-based social protection systems
- Increasing consumption of diverse, nutritious & fortified foods | Enhancing social & financial mobility of women
- Strengthening adaptive capacity to build climate-resilient livelihoods & food systems
• A CPAC has been constituted under chairperson Dr Devesh Chaturvedi & Joint Secretaries of concerned Ministries & NITI
Aayog as its members
- To coordinate & review progress on initiatives under CSP
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Ranks, Reports & Surveys
93. The average annual exponential growth of India’s population is on a downward trajectory and is expected to decline
from 2.20% in 1971 to 1% in 2024, placing the national population in the range of 138-142 crore in 2024, according to SBI’s
Economic Research Department’s (ERD) report, “Precursor to Census 2024: The Fine Prints of a Rapidly Changing Nation”.
While the median age of India is expected to increase from 24 years in 2021 to 28-29 years in 2023/24, it remains one of the
youngest nations in the world and is still below the global median age of 30.6 years. China’s median age is now 39.5 years.
Moreover, the working age population (15-59) is likely to increase to 65.2% in the 2031 census. Interestingly, in 2024, the
proportion of children in the age group of 0-14 years is projected to be 24.3%, whereas it was 30.9% in 2011. On the other
hand, the proportion of elderly persons has been steadily increasing since 1951 and is projected to reach 10.7% in 2024. The
ERD estimated that in 2024, the elderly population will cross 15 crore (Female: 7.7 crore; Male: 7.3 crore), with a growth of
4.6 crore during 2011-2024. Kerala has the highest proportion of elderly people in its population (16.5%), followed by Tamil
Nadu (13.6%), & Himachal Pradesh (13.1%). On the contrary, elderly proportion is lowest in Bihar (7.7%), followed by Uttar
Pradesh (8.1%) and Assam (8.2%). According to the 2011 census, India’s urban population was 31.1% of the total population,
which is expected to increase to 35-37% in the 2024 census. Apart from the Union Territories, Goa and Kerala are highly
urbanised. Among the major states, Tamil Nadu continues to be the most urbanised State, with 54% of the population living
in urban areas, followed by Maharashtra (48.8%). {Read more}.
Smart Points:
• “Precursor to Census 2024: The Fine Prints of a Rapidly Changing Nation” report – released by Economic Research
Department, SBI
• Average annual exponential growth of India’s population – to decline to 1% in 2024 (from 2.20% in 1971)
- It placed national population in range of – 138-142 crore in 2024
• Median age of India – to increase to 28-29 years in 2023/24 (from 24 years in 2021)
- Still, India remains one of the youngest nations in the world & is below global median age of 30.6 years
- China’s median age – 39.5 years
• Working age population (15-59) – to increase to 65.2% in the 2031 census
• Proportion of children in age group of 0-14 years – to be 24.3% in 2024 (from 30.9% in 2011)
• Proportion of elderly persons – to reach 10.7% in 2024
• In 2024, elderly population – to cross 15 crore with growth of 4.6 Cr during 2011-2024 (Female - 7.7 Cr & Male - 7.3 Cr)
- Highest proportion of elderly people: 1st – Kerala (16.5%) | 2nd – Tamil Nadu (13.6%) | 3rd – HP (13.1%)
- Lowest proportion of elderly people: 1st – Bihar (7.7%) | 2nd – Uttar Pradesh (8.1%) | 3rd – Assam (8.2%)
• As per 2011 census, India’s urban population – 31.1% of total & will increase to 35-37% in 2024 census
• Highly urbanised: Apart from UTs – Goa & Kerala | Major states: 1st – Tamil Nadu (54%) | 2nd – Maharashtra (48.8%)
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94. According to “Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index”, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, has officially reached
a new financial milestone of $201 billion, making him the 4th-richest person in the world. He is now
positioned just behind Amazon founder Jeff Bezos ($211 billion), LVMH Chairman Bernard Arnault ($207
billion), and Tesla’s Elon Musk, who holds the title of the world’s richest person with a staggering $272
billion. The bulk of Zuckerberg’s wealth stems from his 13% stake in Meta, amounting to approximately
345.5 million shares. This year alone, his fortune has grown by an impressive $73.4 billion, driven by a
sharp rise in Meta’s stock price. Zuckerberg’s rise to the $200 billion mark puts him among a growing number of tech leaders
who have seen their fortunes expand dramatically in 2024. Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, saw his net worth jump by $62.2
billion, while Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison gained $58.6 billion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index”
• Mark Zuckerberg (CEO of Meta) – reached new financial milestone of $201 billion, 4th-richest person in the world
• 1st – Elon Musk ($272 bn) | 2nd – Jeff Bezos ($211 bn) | 3rd – Bernard Arnault ($207 bn)
• In 2024, Zuckerberg’s fortune has grown by – $73.4 billion
• Net worth jump: Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang – $62.2 billion | Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison – $58.6 billion
95. Fourteen Indian MBA programmes found a spot in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS)
Global MBA Rankings 2025. In the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, IIM Bangalore (53rd) has
once again emerged as the best performer from India. However, it has dropped out of the
world’s top 50 rankings. Along with IIM Bangalore, 3 other institutes - IIM Ahmedabad
(60th), IIM Calcutta (65th), and the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad (86th) secured
positions in the top 100. Moreover, there are three new entries - IIM Kozhikode makes its
debut in the 151-200 band, the Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad, and
Somaiya Vidyavihar University feature in the 251+ band. Globally, Stanford Graduate
School of Business in the United States has retained its number-one position for the 5th
consecutive year. Penn (Wharton) and Harvard Business School have been ranked at the
2nd and 3rd, respectively. The best MBA school outside the USA is London Business School.
The ranking is given after analysing 340 best global MBAs and a series of specialised high-
demand Business Master’s Rankings, which include Management, Finance, Marketing,
Business Analytics, and Supply Chain Management, spanning over 58 countries and territories. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Global MBA Rankings 2025 | Indian MBA programmes included this year – 14
• Best performer from India: 1st – IIM Bangalore (53rd) | 2nd – IIM Ahmedabad (60th) | 3rd – IIM Calcutta (65th)
- 4th – Indian School of Business, Hyderabad (86th)
• 3 new entries – IIM Kozhikode (in 151-200 band), Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad & Somaiya Vidyavihar
University (in 251+ band)
• Globally, top universities: 1st – Stanford Graduate School of Business, US (5th consecutive year)
- 2nd – Penn (Wharton) | 3rd – Harvard Business School
• Best MBA school outside USA – London Business School
• HQs of QS – London, UK | CEO – Jessica Turner | Founded in – 1990
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96. The Union Health Ministry released the “National Health Account (NHA) Estimates for India
for 2020-21 and 2021-22”. These estimates are the 8th and 9th in the series of reports released
annually by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The NHA estimates are based on the
globally accepted framework of ‘A System of Health Accounts (SHA), 2011’ which facilitates
inter-country comparisons. The NHA estimates for 2021-22 show that government expenditure
for healthcare continues to increase in the country, highlighting the efforts of the government to increase public investments
in the health sector. The share of Government Health Expenditure (GHE) in the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the
country has increased from 1.13% in 2014-15 to 1.84% in 2021-22. In terms of share in the General Government Expenditure
(GGE), it has increased from 3.94% in 2014-15 to 6.12% in 2021-22. In per capita terms, GHE has tripled, from Rs. 1,108 to
Rs. 3,169 between 2014-15 to 2021-22. The government spending on health between 2019-20 and 2020-21 increased by
16.6%, while between 2020-21 and 2021-22, it grew by an unprecedented rate of 37%, highlighting the proactive role played
by the government in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in government spending on health has an important
implication for the reduction of financial hardship endured by households. In the Total Health Expenditure (THE) of the
country between 2014-15 and 2021-22, the share of GHE has increased from 29% to 48%. During the same period, the share
of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) in THE declined from 62.6% to 39.4%. Another positive trend in the country’s health
financing space is the increase in Social Security Expenditure (SSE) on healthcare. This increase in social security has a direct
impact on reducing out-of-pocket payments. The share of SSE on health, which includes government-funded health
insurance, medical reimbursement to government employees, and social health insurance programs, in THE, has increased
from 5.7% in 2014-15 to 8.7% in 2021-22. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoHFW – released 8th & 9th “National Health Account (NHA) Estimates for India for 2020-21 & 2021-22”
• Share of Govt Health Expenditure (GHE) in overall – increased to 1.84% in 2021-22 (from 1.13% in 2014-15)
• Share in General Government Expenditure (GGE) – increased to 6.12% in 2021-22 (from 3.94% in 2014-15)
• In per capita terms, GHE – tripled to Rs. 3,169 in 2021-22 (from Rs. 1,108 in 2014-15)
• Increase in govt spending on health between: 2019-20 & 2020-21 – 16.6% | 2020-21 & 2021-22 – 37%
• In Total Health Expenditure (THE) between 2014-15 & 2021-22, share of GHE – increased to 48% (from 29%)
- Share of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) in THE – declined to 39.4% (from 62.6%)
• Share of Social Security Expenditure (SSE) on health – increased to 8.7% in 2021-22 (from 5.7% in 2014-15)
• Minister of Health & Family Welfare: Jagat Prakash Nadda | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao & Anupriya Singh Patel
Amount & Agreements

97. iBUS Network and Infrastructure, a digital infrastructure solutions provider, has
secured an investment of Rs 280 crore ($34 million) from the International Finance
Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, for a minority stake in the
company. This investment will bolster iBUS’s plans for both domestic and international
growth, enhancing its ability to deliver solutions for in-building connectivity, outdoor small cells (a radio access point),
managed Wi-Fi services, and intelligent Internet of Things (IoT). This is IFC’s first investment in Infratech in the Asia-Pacific
region. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• iBUS Network & Infrastructure – secured investment of Rs 280 Cr from IFC for a minority stake in the company
• This is IFC’s first investment in Infratech in the Asia-Pacific region
• iBUS Network & Infrastructure – Bengaluru, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Ram Sellaratnam
• HQs of IFC – Washington, U.S. | MD – Makhtar Diop | IFC India’s Head – Wendy Werner (an arm of World Bank)
98. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $162 million loan to support sustainable and inclusive tourism
development projects in Himachal Pradesh. This project will enhance the state’s tourism potential by upgrading and
preserving heritage and cultural sites, establishing new facilities, and strengthening the tourism sector. This project will
promote heritage and cultural centers in the districts of Mandi and Hamirpur, restore the Naggar Castle in Kullu,
beautification of public spaces and modern tourist facilities, and construction of convention center and facilities in Kangra,
improved wayside amenities in Kullu, Hamirpur, and Kangra. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – approved $162 million loan to support sustainable & inclusive tourism development projects in Himachal Pradesh
• It will promote heritage & cultural centers in Mandi & Hamirpur, restore Naggar Castle in Kullu
- beautification of public spaces & modern tourist facilities & construction of convention center & facilities in Kangra
- improved wayside amenities in Kullu, Hamirpur & Kangra
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 69
• HP: Capital – Shimla & Dharamshala | CM – Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu | Governor – Shiv Pratap Shukla
99. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has entered into a Currency Swap Agreement with the Maldives Monetary Authority
(MMA) under the ‘SAARC Currency Swap Framework 2024-27’ in New Delhi. Under the agreement, the MMA is eligible for
financing support from the RBI amounting to $400 million under the U.S. Dollar/ Euro Swap Window and Rs. 30 billion under
the INR Swap Window. The agreement would be valid till June 18, 2027. The SAARC Currency Swap Framework came into
operation on November 15, 2012, to provide a backstop line of funding for short term foreign exchange liquidity
requirements or short-term balance of payments stress till longer term arrangements are made. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI + Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) = Currency Swap Agreement in New Delhi | Valid till – Jun 18, 2027
- Under – ‘SAARC Currency Swap Framework 2024-27’
• MMA is now eligible for financing support from RBI amounting to:
- $400 million – under U.S. Dollar/ Euro Swap Window | Rs. 30 billion – under INR Swap Window
• SAARC Currency Swap Framework – came into operation on Nov 15, 2012
- To provide funding for short term foreign exchange liquidity requirements or balance of payments stress
• Maldives – Male – Maldivian rufiyaa | President – Mohamed Muizzu
https:// /#
MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships
100. Ministry of Rural Development has signed an MoU with SAKSHI, a non-profit organization, to enhance legal literacy in
rural India. This partnership aims to bolster legal literacy among Self-Help Group (SHG) women under the ambit of the
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) by developing awareness and educational
materials on legal remedies available to women. SAKSHI will also be providing training to Resource Persons, further
enhancing the capacities and functioning of Gender Resource Centres (GRCs) established at the block level. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoRD + SAKSHI, a non-profit organization = an MoU to enhance legal literacy in rural India
• Aim: To bolster legal literacy among SHG women under DAY-NRLM by developing awareness & educational materials
• SAKSHI – will provide training to Resource Persons, enhancing capacities & functioning of GRCs at block level
• HQs of SAKSHI – New Delhi | President – Smita Bharti
101. The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-
NIScPR) has signed an MoU with the Gurugram University to collaborate and serve society
through science. The key areas of this MoU are science communication, STI policy
research, traditional knowledge and many more. Ranjana Aggarwal is the Director of CSIR-
NIScPR, while Prof Dinesh Kumar is the Vice Chancellor of Gurugram University. On
November 13-14, 2024, CSIR-NIScPR in collaboration with Gurugram University is going to organise an “International
Conference on Communication and Dissemination of Traditional Knowledge (CDTK-2024)”. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CSIR-NIScPR + Gurugram University = an MoU to collaborate & serve society through science
• “International Conference on Communication and Dissemination of Traditional Knowledge (CDTK-2024)” – Nov 13-14
- To be organised by – CSIR-NIScPR & Gurugram University
• Location of CSIR-NIScPR – New Delhi | Director – Ranjana Aggarwal
• Location of Gurugram University – Gurugram, Haryana | Vice Chancellor – Prof Dinesh Kumar
102. Adani Group and Google announced a collaboration to advance the companies’
collective sustainability goals and add more clean energy to the country’s grid. The
partnership will enable Adani to supply clean energy from a new solar-wind hybrid project
located in the world’s largest renewable energy plant at Khavda, Gujarat. This new project
is expected to start commercial operations in the third quarter of 2025. This innovative
collaboration will help advance Google’s 24/7 carbon-free energy goal by ensuring cloud services and operations in India
are supported by clean energy. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Adani Group + Google = to advance companies’ collective sustainability goals & add more clean energy to country’s grid
• It will enable Adani to supply clean energy from a new solar-wind hybrid project located in world’s largest renewable
energy plant at Khavda, Gujarat
• It is expected to start commercial operations in Q3 of 2025 | It will help advance Google’s 24/7 carbon-free energy goal
• HQs of Adani Group – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Chairman – Gautam Adani | MD – Rajesh Adani
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998
https:// /#
103. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved payment of Productivity-
Linked Bonus (PLB) of 78 days, amounting to Rs 2,028.57 crore, to 11,72,240 railway employees.
The payment of PLB acts as an incentive to motivate the railway employees for working towards
improvement in the performance of the Railways. The maximum amount payable per eligible
railway employee is Rs 17,951 for 78 days. The Cabinet also approved modification of the existing
Productivity Linked Reward (PLR) Scheme for all Major Port Authorities and Dock Labour Board
employees/workers. The modified PLR scheme, applicable from 2020-21 to 2025-26, will benefit about 20,704 employees
of Major Port Authorities and Dock Labour Board Employees/workers with an outlay of about Rs 200 crore. The PLR has
been calculated on the wage ceiling for the calculation of the bonus at Rs 7,000 per month. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved payment of PLB of 78 days to 11,72,240 railway employees | Amounting to – Rs 2,028.57 Cr
• PLB acts as an incentive to motivate railway employees for working towards improvement in performance of Railways
• Max amount payable per eligible railway employee – Rs 17,951 for 78 days
• Cabinet also approved modification of existing Productivity Linked Reward (PLR) Scheme for all Major Port Authorities
& Dock Labour Board employees/workers
- Applicable from – 2020-21 to 2025-26 | Outlay – Rs 200 Cr
- It will benefit about 20,704 employees of Major Port Authorities & Dock Labour Board Employees/workers
• PLR – calculated on wage ceiling for calculation of bonus at Rs 7,000 per month
104. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has signed an MoU with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam
(NVVN) to promote sustainable energy within India’s healthcare and research sectors. The partnership
is aimed at harnessing solar power for ICMR institutes across the country, supporting India’s push
towards renewable energy and sustainability. Under this agreement, NVVN will supply, install, test,
commission, and maintain rooftop solar panels at 15 ICMR institutes with a combined capacity of 4,559
KW. The project also includes a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for grid-connected solar projects, offering a fixed solar
tariff for the next 25 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICMR + NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam = an MoU to promote sustainable energy within India’s healthcare & research sectors
• Aim: To harness solar power for ICMR institutes across the country
• NVVN will supply, install, test, commission & maintain rooftop solar panels at 15 ICMR institutes
- Combined capacity – 4,559 KW
• It includes a PPA for grid-connected solar projects, offering a fixed solar tariff for next 25 years
• HQs of ICMR – New Delhi, India | Director General – Rajiv Bahl | Established in – 1911
105. Reliance Group, led by Anil Ambani, has entered into a strategic partnership with Druk Holding
and Investments Ltd (DHI), the commercial arm of Bhutan’s government, to develop significant
renewable energy projects, including Bhutan’s largest 500 MW solar plant, to be built in Gelephu
Mindfulness City in two 250 MW phases over the next 2 years, and a 770 MW Chamkharchhu-1
run-of-the-river hydro project. To spearhead these initiatives, Reliance Group has established Reliance Enterprises, which is
jointly promoted by Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. and Reliance Power Ltd. The partnership marks one of the largest foreign
direct investments in Bhutan’s renewable energy sector by an Indian private company. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Reliance Group + DHI (Bhutan) = to develop renewable energy projects to be built in Gelephu Mindfulness City
- In two 250 MW phases over next 2 years | Including Bhutan’s largest 500 MW solar plant
- Also a 770 MW Chamkharchhu-1 run-of-the-river hydro project
• For this, Reliance Group – established Reliance Enterprises | Jointly promoted by – Reliance Infrastructure Ltd &
Reliance Power Ltd
• HQs of DHI – Thimphu, Bhutan | Chairman – Dasho Karma Y. Raydi | CEO – Ujjwal Deep Dahal
106. Nepal, India and Bangladesh have signed a tripartite agreement to facilitate cross-
border electricity trade. As per the agreement, Nepal will export its surplus electricity to
Bangladesh via India from June 15 to November 15 every year. India will make arrangements
to supply electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh. In the first phase, Nepal will export 40 MW
of hydroelectricity to Bangladesh via Indian territory. The rate per unit of electricity has been
fixed at 6.4 cents. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nepal + India + Bangladesh = a tripartite agreement to facilitate cross-border electricity trade
• Nepal – will export its surplus electricity to Bangladesh via India from Jun 15 to Nov 15 every year
• In 1st phase, Nepal will export 40 MW of hydroelectricity to Bangladesh | Rate per unit of electricity – 6.4 cents
• Bangladesh – Dhaka – Taka | President – Mohammed Shahabuddin
• Nepal – Kathmandu – Nepalese Rupee | President – Ram Chandra Poudel | PM – K. P. Sharma Oli
❖ Important Obituaries in October 2024:

• Keki N Daruwalla – a Renowned Poet & Former IPS Officer
(He received Sahitya Akademi award in 1984.)
• Maggie Smith – Acting legend of ‘Harry Potter’ & ‘Downton Abbey’
(She won Academy Awards or Oscars in 1969 & 1978, and 4 Emmy Awards.)
❖ Important Species found in October 2024:

• “Exostoma sentiyonoae”, a new species of glyptosternine catfish — discovered in the Dzuleke River in Nagaland
❖ Important Acquisitions & Mergers in October 2024:

• The CCI has approved Mankind Pharma’s ₹13,630-crore acquisition of 100% stake in Bharat Serums and Vaccines.
• The CCI has granted a nod to Singapore-based TIGA Investments’ proposal to acquire a stake in Dream11’s parent
company, Dream Sports Inc. The transaction pertains to the purchase by Tiga Acquisition Corp III (Tiga) of certain
preferred stock of Dream Sports Inc (DSI). The US-based Dream Sports conducts its operations through its subsidiary
in India, Sporta Technologies Pvt Ltd. DSI, a sports tech company, owns a portfolio of leading brands like Dream11
and FanCode.
https:// /#
❖ Festivals / Dances in October 2024:
• Hornbill Festival (25th anniversary) – Nagaland
❖ National Parks / Wildlife Sanctuaries / Tiger Reserves in October 2024:

Bison National Park Tripura
Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary West Bengal
❖ Other Miscellaneous News & Current Static GK in October 2024:

National Centre of Excellence for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics
Mumbai, Maharashtra
and Extended Reality
Bilkin Industrial Area (dedicated by PM Modi to the nation) Maharashtra
BCCI’s Centre of Excellence Bengaluru
Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav (for NE states) New Delhi
Nowgam Railway Station Srinagar, J & K
Mankidia community Odisha
Tsangyang Gyatso Peak Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
MAPCIS (a massive impact crater) Australia
Gingee Fort Tamil Nadu
GAIL’s 1st CBG Plant (capacity - 12,500 m³/day) Ranchi, Jharkhand
10th India International Science Festival (1st time in Northeast)
IIT Guwahati, Assam
(Theme - “Transforming India into an S&T driven Global Manufacturing Hub”)
Banjara Museum Washim, Maharashtra
1st Adi Gaurav Samman Samaroh Banswara, Rajasthan
SAI’s new National Centre of Sports Excellence (37 acres) Mumbai
Important Books & Authors

Anil Raturi (Former DGP,
“Khaki Mein Sthitapragya-Ek IPS Adhikari ki Smiritiyan avam Anubhav”
Uttarakhand)
“Sri Rama in Tamilagam - An Inseparable Bond” Dr. DK Hari & Dr. DK Hema Hari
“Jalandhar Peeth Ka Rahsya” & “Mushtarka Khata”
Ajay Parashar
(Launched by - Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, CM of HP)
“Mother Mary Comes to Me” (1st memoir) Arundhati Roy
(Published by - Penguin Random House) (1997 Booker Prize winner)
Important Days
International Coffee Day
October 1 (Theme - “Coffee, Your Daily Ritual, Our Shared Journey.”)
International Day of Older Persons
https:// /#
(Theme - “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for
Older Persons Worldwide”)
World Vegetarian Day
(Theme - “Mix It Up”)
10th Anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission (initiated in 2014)
(The day marks 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.)
October 2
(Theme for Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 - “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata”)
International Day of Non-Violence (155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi)
World Space Week
October 4-10
(Theme - “Space & Climate Change”)
World Animal Day
October 4
(Theme - “The World is Their Home Too”)
World Teachers Day
October 5
(Theme - “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education”)
World Cerebral Palsy Day
October 6
(Theme - “Uniquely CP”)
UN World Habitat Day (1st Monday of Oct)
October 7
(Theme - “Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future.”)
➢ Latest GDP Predictions (updated till October 2024)

Organisations FY24 FY25 FY26
ADB 6.7% 7% 7.2%
OECD 7.8% 6.7% 6.8%
World Bank 7.5% 7% 6.7%
Nomura - 6.7% -
Moody’s 6.7% 7.2% 6.6%
Bloomberg Economic - 6.8% -
SBI 8% 7% -
IMF 7.8% 7% 6.5%
India Ratings & Research 6.7% 7.5% -
NCAER - 7.5% -
S&P Global Ratings 7.4% 6.8% 6.9%
Fitch Ratings 7.8% 7.2% 6.5%
Goldman Sachs 6.3% 6.8% -
RBI 7% 7.2% -
Morgan Stanley 7.9% 6.8% 6.5%
UN - 6.9% 6.6%
PHDCCI - 8-8.3% -
UNCTAD 6.3% 6.5% -
UBS Securities India 7.6% 7% 6.8%
CRISIL 7.6% 6.8% -
Bank of Baroda 6.8% 6.75-6.8% -
UN-DESA 6.2% 6.6% -
ICRA 6.5% - -
CII 6.8% 7% -
https:// /#

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4. Union Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, recently unveiled a Rs. 75 Commemoratory

Science & Technology

Appointments & Resignations

Meetings, Conferences and Summits

Amount & Agreements

❖ Important Obituaries in October 2024:

❖ Important Species found in October 2024:

❖ Important Acquisitions & Mergers in October 2024:

❖ National Parks / Wildlife Sanctuaries / Tiger Reserves in October 2024:

❖ Other Miscellaneous News & Current Static GK in October 2024:

Important Books & Authors

➢ Latest GDP Predictions (updated till October 2024)

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