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INDEX
National & States Affairs……..…………………………………………………………………………….….…5
International Affairs..………………………………………………………………………………………..….30
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs..………..………………………….……….……..39
Defence Affairs….…………………………………………….….……...………………………………………..80
Sports & Games..…………………………………………….….……...…….……………………….………....90
Persons in News…………………….……………………….….……...…………………………………..……103
Science & Technology………..…………………………………………………….…….…..………….…....104
Appointments & Resignations…………………………….……………………….……..……………......117
Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes ………………………….……………….…………..….…...128
Schemes & Initiatives…………………………….……………………….……..……………....................141
Meetings, Conferences and Summits…………………………….…………………….…..…….….…...151
Ranks, Reports & Surveys…………………………………………………………………..…….…….….…158
Amount & Agreements……………………………………….……………………………….…………..…...179
MoUs, Collaborations & Parterships….………………….…………………………..…………….…....183
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National & States Affairs
1. The Chief Justice of India unveiled the ‘new lady justice’ statue in the Supreme Court premises
that replaced the ‘original lady justice’. The new statue is clothed in a saree, has shed the blindfold
and holds scales on one hand and the Indian Constitution on the other. The new statue is an attempt
at decoloniality, with an aim to shed colonial symbols. The saree replacing the western attire brings
the statue closer to Indian tradition. The removal of the blindfold and having eyes open is significant
in the Indian context. It conveys that the law is not blind and it ‘sees’ everyone equally. The sword
being replaced with the Constitution symbolises the supremacy of the Constitution and its value in
our jurisprudence. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CJI – unveiled ‘new lady justice’ statue in Supreme Court premises replacing ‘original lady justice’
• New statue – clothed in a saree & shed blindfold | Holds – scales on one hand & Indian Constitution on other
• Aim: To shed colonial symbols
• Present CJI of Supreme Court – Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud (50th) | Established on – Jan 28, 1950
- Retirement age: Chief Justices & Judges of HC – 62 years | CJI & judges of the SC – 65 years
- Sanctioned strength of judges in the SC – 34 (including CJI)
2. The 2 Guinness World Records - the most people performing ‘aarti’ simultaneously and
the largest display of oil lamps - were set at the 8th edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya on
October 30, 2024. The 2 records were set on 55 ghats, including Ram ki Paidi on the banks
of the Saryu River in the holy city. Over 25 lakh (25,12,585) earthen lamps (diyas) were lit
together, and 1,121 vedacharyas (teachers of religious texts), performed ‘aarti’
simultaneously. The diyas were counted using drones. For the largest display of oil lamps, the previous record was 22,23,676,
achieved during the Deepotsav in 2023. The scale of Deepotsav has grown over the years with 1.71 lakh diyas being lit in
2017, to 25.12 lakh in 2024. Pravin Patel, the adjudicator at Guinness World Records, visited Ayodhya with Guinness
Consultant Nischal Bharot for verification. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2 Guinness World Records – set at 8th edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya on Oct 30, 2024, on 55 ghats
- 1st – the most people performing ‘aarti’ simultaneously (1,121) | 2nd – the largest display of oil lamps (25,12,585)
• Previous record for largest display of oil lamps – 22,23,676 | Achieved during – Deepotsav in 2023
3. The upcoming ‘Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park’ at Bankhandi in Kangra district of Himachal
Pradesh is set to become India’s 1st zoo to receive certification from the Indian Green Building
Council (IGBC) for its sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives, which will validate the park’s
adherence to high environmental standards. The 1st phase of the zoological park project will cover
an area of 25 hectares with an estimated cost of Rs 230 crore. It is slated to be completed by the
3rd quarter of 2025. The entire project with a total outlay of Rs 619 crore aims to establish the park as a cornerstone for
boosting the tourism sector in Kangra and its nearby districts. The state government has secured permission from the Central
Zoo Authority to establish 34 animal enclosures within the Van Vaibhav Path and Biodiversity Court of Durgesh Aranya
Zoological Park as part of the project’s 1st phase. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park at Bankhandi in Kangra, HP – to become India’s 1st zoo to receive certification from IGBC
for its sustainable & eco-friendly initiatives
• 1st phase of this project – to cover an area of 25 hectares | Cost – Rs 230 Cr | To be completed by – Q3 of 2025
• Entire project aims to establish park as a cornerstone for boosting tourism sector in Kangra & its nearby districts
- Total outlay – Rs 619 Cr
• State government secured permission from Central Zoo Authority to establish 34 animal enclosures under its 1st phase
- 34 animal enclosures are within Van Vaibhav Path & Biodiversity Court of Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park
4. The Maharashtra government has decided to rename the Maharashtra State Skills University after the
late industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata. The varsity will now be called “Padma Vibhushan Ratan
Tata Skills University”. The proposed Udyog Bhavan at Charni Road in Mumbai will also be named after
him, christened as “Ratan Tata Udyog Bhavan”. Earlier, the state government had renamed the Udyog
Ratna Award as the “Ratan Tata Udyog Ratna Award”. Ratan Tata was the first recipient of this award in 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Maharashtra State Skills University – to be renamed as “Padma Vibhushan Ratan Tata Skills University”
• Udyog Bhavan at Charni Road, Mumbai – to be renamed as “Ratan Tata Udyog Bhavan”
• Udyog Ratna Award – earlier renamed as “Ratan Tata Udyog Ratna Award” | 1st recipient – Ratan Tata (2023)
• Maharashtra: Capital – Mumbai | CM – Eknath Shinde | Governor – CP Radhakrishnan
5. Chhattisgarh government launched the “Sugam (convenient) App” to make the property registration process more
transparent and to curb fraud. Since its launch, the App has gained popularity, facilitating over 1,200 property registrations
across the state and marking a significant shift towards online registration. Under the Sugam App, during the process of
registration, the party concerned will physically go to the property which is under the deal and click its pictures from 3
different angles as directed in the App. The photos will automatically be transferred to the registrar’s module for registering
the latitude and longitude of the property. In this way, the actual geographical position of the property will permanently be
recorded in the registry paper. The App will also help in curbing revenue loss to the government. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chhattisgarh – launched “Sugam App” to make property registration process more transparent & to curb fraud
• Chhattisgarh: Capital – Raipur | CM – Vishnu Deo Sai | Governor – Ramen Deka
6. Andhra Pradesh has become the 1st state in India to introduce “Foundation Literacy and Numeracy
(FLN) Training Program” for Grade 1 and Grade 2 teachers in government schools. The six-day FLN
Training Program, organized under the auspices of the School Education Department and Samagra
Shiksha, was inaugurated at the YeS-J Convention Center, Andhra Loyola College campus, by Srinivasa
Rao, State Project Director of Samagra Shiksha. The FLN training, designed in alignment with the ‘National Education Policy’
and ‘Nipun Bharat’, aims to provide quality education to children aged from 3 to 8 years. Under the program, 34,000 teachers
in the Grade 1 and Grade 2 categories across the state would participate in 14 spells. The ‘Foundation Literacy and Numeracy
Modules’ was also unveiled during the event. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Andhra Pradesh – became the 1st state in India to introduce “Foundation Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) Training Program”
• Under the program, 34,000 Govt schools teachers in Grade 1 & 2 across the state would participate in 14 spells
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• It was organized under the auspices of – School Education Department + Samagra Shiksha
• The FLN training to provide quality education to children aged from 3 to 8 years
• Andhra Pradesh: Capital – Amaravati | CM – N Chandra Babu Naidu | Governor – Syed Abdul Nazeer
7. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the infusion of equity of Rs
10,700 crore in Food Corporation of India (FCI) by way of conversion of ‘Ways and Means Advance’
to equity in 2024-25 to bolster the agricultural sector and ensure the welfare of farmers
nationwide. This will be used as working capital for the FCI in this financial year. The FCI, which
started its journey in 1964 with an authorised capital of Rs 100 crore and equity of Rs 4 crore, has an authorised capital of
Rs 21,000 crore and equity of Rs 10,157 crore in FY 2023-24. The FCI, the government’s nodal agency for the procurement
and distribution of foodgrains, plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security by procurement of foodgrains at Minimum
Support Price (MSP), maintenance of strategic foodgrain stocks, distribution of foodgrains for welfare measures and
stabilisation of foodgrain prices in the market. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCEA approved infusion of equity of Rs 10,700 Cr in FCI by way of conversion of ‘Ways & Means Advance’ to equity in
2024-25
- To bolster agricultural sector & ensure welfare of farmers nationwide
- This will be used as working capital for FCI in FY25
• Authorised capital & Equity of FCI: Rs 100 Cr & Rs 4 Cr – in 1964 | Rs 21,000 Cr & Rs 10,157 Cr – in FY24
• HQs of FCI – New Delhi | CMD – Ashok K. K. Meena
8. Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment held a grand opening for the “Shilp Samagam
Mela 2024” at Dilli Haat, New Delhi. The event was organized by the Corporations under the
Ministry - National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National
Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCDFC), and National Safai Karmachari
Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC). The fair, being organized from November 5-15,
would showcase traditional handicrafts from 16 states across 105 stalls. On this occasion, Union
Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment (SJE), Dr. Virendra Kumar, launched ‘TULIP’ (Traditional Artisans’ Upliftment
Livelihood Programme). The goal of TULIP is to empower marginalized artisans by providing them with a platform for global
exposure and sales of their products through e-marketing. Under the TULIP brand, artisans from SC, OBC, sanitation workers,
and persons with disabilities will have an e-platform to market their products. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MSJE – held a grand opening for “Shilp Samagam Mela 2024” at Dilli Haat, New Delhi
• Organized by – Corporations under Ministry - NSFDC, NBCDFC & NSKFDC
• Fair being organized – from Nov 5-15 to showcase traditional handicrafts from 16 states across 105 stalls
• Traditional Artisans’ Upliftment Livelihood Programme (TULIP) – launched by Dr. Virendra Kumar, Minister of MSJE
- Aim: To empower marginalized artisans by providing a platform for global exposure & sales through e-marketing
• Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment: Dr. Virendra Kumar | Constituency – Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment: Ramdas Athawale & B. L. Verma
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9. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has formed an 8-member committee, headed by former SEBI
chairman Ajay Tyagi, to recommend ways of ending monopolies enjoyed by companies engaged in both transportation and
marketing of natural gas and city gas retailing. The panel has been asked to submit its report in 3 months. The committee
will promote competition and provide a level-playing field in gas transmission and distribution businesses. The other
members of the committee include A K Purwaha, former chairman of Engineers India Ltd, Shaleen Sharma, former head of
BG India, and Sanjay Sah of Deloitte. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PNGRB – formed an 8-member committee to recommend ways of ending monopolies enjoyed by companies engaged
in both transportation & marketing of natural gas & city gas retailing
- Headed by – Ajay Tyagi, former SEBI chairman | To submit its report in – 3 months
• Other members – A K Purwaha, former chairman of EIL; Shaleen Sharma, former head of BG India; & Sanjay Sah
• HQs of PNGRB – New Delhi, India | Chairman – Dr. Anil Kumar Jain
10. Railway Protection Force (RPF), under Ministry of Railways, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child
Development, has launched an updated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), a landmark initiative to protect vulnerable
children found on railway premises nationwide. At the event, the RPF urged states such as Assam, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab,
Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh to establish Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) at their railway stations to prevent
trafficking and enhance passenger safety. With over 2.3 crore passengers traveling by rail each day, including 30% women,
there is a pressing need to safeguard vulnerable groups. RPF has rescued 57,564 children in last 5 years from trafficking. Out
of them 18,172 were girls. Under the ‘Operation Nanhe Farishte’, RPF has introduced a series of focused initiatives to secure
safety of children throughout the railway network. Also, RPF’s “Operation AAHT” has also been instrumental in rescuing
over 2,300 children and apprehending 674 traffickers since 2022. The Railways is running, “Operation Meri Saheli” for
protection of single lady travelling in trains. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RPF + MoWCD = launched an updated SOP to protect vulnerable children found on railway premises nationwide
• RPF urged some states to establish Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) at their railway stations to prevent trafficking
- Assam, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh & MP
• RPF – rescued 57,564 children in last 5 years from trafficking | 18,172 (of them) – girls
• RPF’s ‘Operation Nanhe Farishte’ – a series of focused initiatives to secure safety of children throughout railway network
• RPF’s ‘Operation AAHT’ – rescued over 2,300 children & apprehended 674 traffickers since 2022
• Railway’s ‘Operation Meri Saheli’ – for protection of single lady travelling in trains
• HQs of RPF – New Delhi, India | Director General – Manoj Yadava
• Minister of Women & Child Development: Annapurna Devi | Constituency – Kodarma, Jharkhand
MoS in Ministry of Women and Child Development: Savitri Thakur
11. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched “Mission Basundhara 3.0” to provide land rights to indigenous
people. Under MB 3.0, steps will also be taken to digitize various land related services and publish maps for the benefits of
the people of the state as several new rules have been implemented to simplify the process of giving land rights to the
people. The CM also launched the “Project Closed User Group (CUG)” of Assam State Disaster Management Authority
(ASDMA). Under project CUG, government officials of the department will be equipped with specially allocated SIM cards
for critical communications. The Chief Minister also launched the Revenue Department’s “Digidoc”, a digital directory for
non-registrable and optional registrable documents. The directory will streamline services, reduce processing time, and
enhance public convenience. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Himanta Biswa Sarma (CM of Assam) – launched “Mission Basundhara 3.0” to provide land rights to indigenous people
• “Project Closed User Group (CUG)” of Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) – also launched by CM
- Govt officials of department – to be equipped with specially allocated SIM cards for critical communications
• Revenue Dept’s “Digidoc”, a digital directory for non-registrable & optional registrable documents – also launched
• Assam: Capital – Dispur | CM – Himanta Biswa Sarma | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya
12. Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), in collaboration with the Rays of
Wisdom Society and supported by the Ministry of Culture, held the 8th “International Ancient
Arts Festival and Symposium” at IGNCA, New Delhi. The 8th symposium highlighted the
therapeutic essence of ancient arts, uniting diverse cultural expressions to emphasize their
impact on mental and spiritual well-being. This event featured an exhibition titled
‘Metaphysical, Symbolic, and Healing Themes in Visual Arts’, alongside a conference on ‘Art, Religion, and Healing’. The
‘International Ancient Arts Conference’, organized by the Rays of Wisdom Society in collaboration with the Religion,
Consciousness, and Spirituality Group (nurtured by the Foundation for Creative Social Research), gathered esteemed
scholars to examine the healing potential of ancient art forms. The conference included insightful discussions on various
topics such as ‘Art and Conflict Resolution’, ‘Healing in Baul Philosophy’, etc. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IGNCA + Rays of Wisdom Society = held 8th “International Ancient Arts Festival and Symposium” at IGNCA, New Delhi
- Supported by – Ministry of Culture
• ‘International Ancient Arts Conference’ – organized by Rays of Wisdom Society + Religion, Consciousness & Spirituality
Group
• Location of IGNCA – New Delhi | Head – Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi
13. A high-level committee, chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Co-operation Amit Shah, has approved 3
projects worth ₹725.62 crore for the expansion and modernisation of fire services in Chhattisgarh, Odisha and West Bengal
to make these States disaster-resilient. Of the total, the Committee has approved ₹147.76 crore for Chhattisgarh, ₹201.10
crore for Odisha and ₹376.76 crore for West Bengal. The committee is comprised of the Union Finance Minister, Agriculture
Minister and Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog as members. The central government has allocated a total of ₹5,000 crore under
the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for “Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States”. The proposals
from 15 States at a total outlay of ₹2,542.12 crore had already been approved. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• High-level committee approved 3 projects for expansion & modernisation of fire services in Chhattisgarh, Odisha & WB
- Chaired by – Amit Shah, Union Home Minister & Minister of Co-operation
- Aim: To make these States disaster-resilient | Worth (total) – ₹725.62 Cr
- Out of total: ₹147.76 Cr – for Chhattisgarh | ₹201.10 Cr – for Odisha | ₹376.76 Cr – for West Bengal
• Other members of committee – Union Finance Minister, Agriculture Minister & Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog
• Allocation under NDRF for “Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the States” by centre – ₹5,000 Cr
• Chhattisgarh: Capital – Raipur | CM – Vishnu Deo Sai | Governor – Ramen Deka
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Mohan Charan Majhi | Governor – Raghubar Das
• West Bengal: Capital – Kolkata | CM – Mamta Banerjee | Governor – C. V. Ananda Bose
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14. Ministry of Labour and Employment will switch to a ‘Centralised Pension Payment System’ in
2025, allowing retirees to receive monthly payouts from any bank or its branches in any location
throughout the country, for which a large-scale test run was recently carried out. Under the trial
run, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) disbursed pensions worth Rs 11 crore to
over 49,000 accounts on an enhanced information-technology-based financial platform. The new
platform for subscribers of the EPFO will eliminate the need to move payment orders physically from one bank or location
to another in case beneficiaries change their banks or places of residence. It will replace the existing ‘Decentralised Pension
Disbursement System’ of the EPFO. Currently, each regional office of the EPFO maintains separate agreements with only a
handful of banks, tying pensioners to those banks and their home branches. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoLE – to switch to a ‘Centralised Pension Payment System’ in 2025, allowing retirees to receive monthly payouts from
any bank in any location throughout the country
- It will replace existing – ‘Decentralised Pension Disbursement System’ of EPFO
• Under trial run, EPFO disbursed pensions worth Rs 11 Cr to 49,000+ accounts on enhanced IT-based financial platform
• Minister of Labour & Employment: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Porbandar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Labour & Employment: Shobha Karandlaje
15. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has instituted the “Ph.D. Excellence Citation” to recognize
and reward exceptional research annually across various disciplines. This initiative aligns with the goals
of the ‘National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020)’, which emphasizes advancing knowledge
exploration and fostering innovation and a unique approach in the Education sector. The UGC outlined
plans to award 10 citations annually to exceptional Ph.D. scholars in disciplines ranging from Sciences and Engineering to
Social Sciences and Indian Languages. The UGC has proposed a rigorous two-level selection process for the same. Research
scholars who have defended their theses in Indian universities - including state, central, private, and deemed universities -
are eligible to apply. Only institutions accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and
recognized under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act are eligible to participate. Each university may nominate up to 5 theses
annually, 1 from each of the 5 disciplines. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UGC – instituted “Ph.D. Excellence Citation” to reward 10 exceptional research annually across various disciplines
• Eligible research scholars – who defended their theses in Indian universities
• Eligible to participate – Institutions accredited by NAAC & recognized under Section 2(f) of UGC Act
• HQs of UGC – New Delhi | Chairman – M. Jagadesh Kumar | Founded in – 1956
16. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the first all-women battalion of the Central
Industrial Security Force (CISF), comprising 1,025 personnel. The CISF has 12 reserve battalions under its
establishment at present and they have a mix of both men and women personnel. Women personnel
constitute over 7% of the CISF, which has a total strength of 1.77 lakh personnel. The CISF projected a
requirement of having an all-women reserve battalion early this year following the directions of Union
Home Minister Amit Shah during the 53rd Raising Day of the force that was held in March 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MHA – approved 1st all-women battalion of CISF, comprising 1,025 personnel
• CISF – has 12 reserve battalions under at present & they have a mix of both men & women personnel
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• Women personnel – constitute over 7% of CISF (total strength - 1.77 lakh personnel)
• HQs of CISF – New Delhi | DG – Rajwinder Singh Bhatti | Motto – ‘Protection & Security’ | Founded in – 1969
• Minister of Home Affairs: Amit Shah | Constituency – Gandhinagar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Home Affairs: Nityanand Rai & Bandi Sanjay Kumar
17. The 10th Mission Steering Group, under the chairmanship of Union Minister of Textiles, has approved 12 research
projects worth Rs 13.3 Cr under the National Technical Textiles Mission, a flagship scheme of Ministry of Textiles. The
research projects were approved across key strategic areas of geotextiles, sustainable and smart textiles, composites, etc.
The approved projects were proposed by eminent research bodies and institutions including Indian Institutes of Technology
(IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), etc. The total number of
approved research projects under the Mission now stands at 168 with a total value of approx. Rs 509 Cr. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 10th Mission Steering Group – approved 12 research projects under National Technical Textiles Mission
- Group’s chairman – Union Minister of Textiles | Worth – Rs 13.3 Cr
• Now, total number of approved research projects under Mission – 168 | Total value – ~Rs 509 Cr
• Minister of Textiles: Giriraj Singh | Constituency – Begusarai, Bihar
MoS in Ministry of Textiles: Pabitra Margherita
18. The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked e-commerce and quick-commerce
food operators to ensure a minimum shelf life of 30% or at least 45 days before products expire at the
time of delivery. The order follows rising concerns over violations of food safety standards in quick-
commerce and e-commerce. G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of FSSAI, asked online businesses to launch
robust training programmes for delivery staff, ensuring they’re well-versed in critical food safety and hygiene protocols.
FSSAI further asked the platforms to conduct regular health checkups for delivery executives to support Food Safety Training
& Certification (FoSTaC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• FSSAI – ordered e-commerce & quick-commerce food operators to ensure a minimum shelf life of 30% or at least 45
days before products expire at the time of delivery
• HQs of FSSAI – New Delhi | Chairperson – Punya Salila Srivastava | CEO – G Kamala Vardhana Rao
19. Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, Dr V K Paul, will inaugurate the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s Health Pavilion
at the 43rd “India International Trade Fair (IITF)” on 14th November 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. This year’s
pavilion is centered around the theme of “One Health”. The Pavilion will present the Ministry’s major accomplishments in
healthcare from the ‘U-WIN App’ to Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Moreover, the
pavilion will also feature innovative installations like the ‘BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri) Cube’,
a specially curated ‘Kids Zone’, among others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr V K Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog – to inaugurate MHFW’s Health Pavilion
- At – 43rd “India International Trade Fair (IITF)” on Nov 14, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
• Theme of pavilion – “One Health”
• Minister of Health & Family Welfare: Jagat Prakash Nadda | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao & Anupriya Singh Patel
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20. On the occasion of World Post Day, the Department of Posts, Government of India,
recently unveiled a special set of commemorative postage stamps celebrating the 150 th
anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU). The stamps were released by Ms. Vandita
Kaul, Secretary (Posts). Established on October 9, 1874, in Bern, Switzerland, the UPU is a
cornerstone of modern postal cooperation, with India being one of its oldest and most active
members. This year’s observance of World Post Day was particularly meaningful as India
Post marks 170 years of service to the nation. India Post, with the world’s largest postal network, continues to align with the
UPU’s mission, modernizing its services and supporting the development of postal infrastructure worldwide. The UPU, a
specialized agency of the United Nations (UN), has 192 member countries. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DoP unveiled a special set of commemorative postage stamps celebrating 150th anniversary of ‘Universal Postal Union’
• This year, India Post marks 170 years of service to the nation
• HQs of UPU – Bern, Switzerland | DG - Masahiko Metoki | Established in – 1874 | Members – 192 countries
21. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the escalation matrix, “e-Chitha”, land
valuation certificate, and community response portal of Assam State Disaster Management Authority
(ASDMA). A workshop for ‘Mission Basundhara (MB) 3.0’ was also organized on this occasion. With the
help of the escalation matrix, a timeframe will be set for handling and disposing of the matters contained
in the ‘Assam Right to Public Service (ARTPS) Act’. With the help of e-chitha through the ‘Sewa Setu portal’, buyers will get
the facility to get into the history of any piece of land, like the names of its owners in Assam, for the purpose of buying. A
land valuation certificate will enable the buyers and sellers to get valuation information about a piece of land. The Chief
Minister also presented commendations on the performance of Flood Preparedness Score Cards (FPSC), a self-reporting
mechanism in which the districts and line departments are evaluated. Accordingly, among the districts, the 1st position was
awarded to the Morigaon and Nalbari districts together, followed by the Cachar district (2nd), and Golaghat and Majuli
districts (3rd position). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Assam – launched the escalation matrix, “e-Chitha”, a land valuation certificate & community response portal of ASDMA
• With this, a timeframe will be set for handling and disposing of the matters contained in the ‘Assam Right to Public
Service (ARTPS) Act’
• Assam CM also presented commendations on the performance of Flood Preparedness Score Cards (FPSC):
- 1st – Morigaon & Nalbari districts | 2nd – Cachar district | 3rd – Golaghat & Majuli districts
• Assam: Capital – Dispur | CM – Himanta Biswa Sarma | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya
22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the All-India Institute of Medical
Science (AIIMS) in Darbhanga, the 2nd AIIMS facility in Bihar after AIIMS Patna. AIIMS Darbhanga
will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 1,264 crore on 187 acres of land. The PM also inaugurated
several projects related to the road, rail, health, and energy sectors, worth an estimated Rs 12,000
crore. AIIMS Darbhanga will have a super-speciality hospital, an AYUSH block, a medical college, a nursing college, a night
shelter, and residential facilities. The PM also dedicated 18 Jan Aushadhi Kendras at railway stations across the country. He
laid the foundation stones of multiple national highway projects worth around Rs 5,070 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – laid foundation stone of AIIMS in Darbhanga, 2nd AIIMS facility in Bihar after AIIMS Patna
• Estimated cost of construction – Rs 1,264 Cr (on 187 acres of land)
https:// /#
• PM – also inaugurated several projects related to road, rail, health & energy sectors | Worth – Rs 12,000 Cr
• PM – also dedicated 18 Jan Aushadhi Kendras at railway stations across India
• PM – laid foundation stones of multiple national highway projects | Worth – Rs 5,070 Cr
• Bihar: Capital – Patna | CM – Nitish Kumar | Governor – Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
23. The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), under Ministry of Personnel,
Public Grievance & Pensions, has introduced new guidelines concerning the maintenance of records
for family members of government pensioners. The directive specifies that a daughter’s name cannot
be removed from the list of ‘eligible family members’ for a government servant’s family pension. A
daughter remains eligible for the family pension until she gets married, remarries, gains employment,
or experiences a mental or physical disability. Daughters who are unmarried, widowed, or divorced and are over the age of
25 may be eligible to receive a family pension, provided that their siblings are either above the age of 25 or financially
independent. Notably, children with disabilities are given priority entitlement to the pension. As per the ‘Central Civil
Services (Pension) Rules, 2021’, the definition of ‘family’ encompasses unmarried, married, and widowed daughters,
including stepdaughters and adopted daughters. In cases of ongoing divorce or legal proceedings, female employees or
pensioners can apply for family pension benefits for their children in the event of their death. If there are no eligible children
alive at the time of the woman’s death, the family pension will be received by the widower. If all eligible children are no
longer entitled under Rule 50, the widower will receive the family pension until they remarry or pass away. In the Old Pension
Scheme (OPS) for central government employees, the family pension rate is initially set at 30% of the deceased employee’s
final pay. However, if the employee had served for at least 7 years, the family pension may be increased to 50% of the last
drawn pay. This enhanced rate of 50% will be given for a period of 7 years following the employee’s passing or until the
pensioner turns 67, whichever comes first. Beyond this period, the family pension will revert to the standard rate of 30% of
the final pay. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DoPPW – introduced new guidelines concerning maintenance of records for family members of government pensioners
• Daughter’s name cannot be removed from list of ‘eligible family members’ for a Govt servant’s family pension
- Daughter remains eligible until she gets married, remarries, gains employment, or experiences a mental or physical
disability
- Eligible daughters: unmarried, widowed, or divorced & over age of 25, provided that siblings are either above 25 or
financially independent
• As per ‘Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2021’, ‘family’ encompasses – unmarried, married & widowed daughters,
including stepdaughters & adopted daughters
• In cases of ongoing divorce or legal proceedings – female pensioners can apply for family pension benefits for their
children in event of their death
- If there are no eligible children alive – family pension will be received by widower
- If all eligible children are no longer entitled under Rule 50 – widower will receive family pension until they remarry
or pass away
• In Old Pension Scheme (OPS), family pension rate initially set at 30% of deceased employee’s final pay
- If employee served for at least 7 years – family pension may be increased to 50% (for 7 years following employee’s
passing or until pensioner turns 67, whichever comes first)
- Beyond this period of 7 years, family pension will revert to standard rate of 30%
https:// /#
24. Uttar Pradesh is planning to set up floating solar power plants across 7 reservoirs in partnership with the National
Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) to
expand its renewable energy inventory. The state is targeting 14,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power generation by 2027.
The state has already received new and renewable energy investment proposals of Rs 7 trillion, of which Rs 57,000 crore
worth of projects came under the ‘UP State Bio-Energy Policy 2022’. To make UP self-sufficient in energy production within
3 years, the state has set a target to connect 2.5 million households to solar energy under the ‘PM Surya Ghar Yojana’.
Moreover, the state has set ambitious targets to expand compressed biogas (CBG) capacity to 1,000 tonnes per day (TPD),
bio-coal to 4,000 TPD, and bio-diesel to 2,000 KLPD (kilo litres per day) to achieve bio-energy self-sufficiency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UP + NTPC + THDC + SJVN = to set up floating solar power plants across 7 reservoirs
• UP – targeting 14,000 MW of solar power generation by 2027
• UP – already received new & renewable energy investment proposals of Rs 7 trillion
- Rs 57,000 Cr – projects came under ‘UP State Bio-Energy Policy 2022’
• UP – to connect 2.5 million households to solar energy under ‘PM Surya Ghar Yojana’
- To make it self-sufficient in energy production within 3 years
• UP will expand various capacities to achieve bio-energy self-sufficiency:
- CBG capacity – 1,000 TPD | Bio-coal – 4,000 TPD | Bio-diesel – 2,000 KLPD (kilo litres per day)
• UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel
25. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has reconstituted the Central
Apprenticeship Council (CAC) to mull over reforms in the existing rules and suggest measures to
increase the uptake of on-the-job training by the industry. The reconstituted CAC will have a tenure
of 3 years and will comprise 54 members consisting of representatives from various industry
associations, public sector undertakings (PSUs), state governments and independent experts. The erstwhile council
constituted in March 2019 had 46 members. MSDE Minister Jayant Chaudhary will be chairing the new council, while Rajya
Sabha member Vikramjit Singh Sahney will be the vice-chairman of the council. The new council has increased
representation from PSUs. Now it has representation from 6 PSUs, namely - BHEL, IOCL, NLC India Ltd, BEL, HAL, and South
Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL). From private sector, the council will have members from TATA Group, Maruti Suzuki,
Reliance Industries, Toyota, and the Indian Banks Association (IBA) among others. The CAC is a statutory body under the
‘Apprenticeship Act, 1961’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MSDE – reconstituted Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) for 3 years with 54 members
- Chairman – Jayant Chaudhary, MSDE Minister | Vice-chairman – Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Rajya Sabha member
• To mull over reforms in existing rules & suggest measures to increase uptake of on-the-job training by industry
• Erstwhile council – constituted in Mar 2019 & had 46 members
• It will have representation from 6 PSUs – BHEL, IOCL, NLC India Ltd, BEL, HAL & SECL
• CAC – a statutory body under ‘Apprenticeship Act, 1961’
• MoS (I/C) in Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship: Jayant Chaudhary | Constituency – Mathura, UP
https:// /#
26. National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has asked the IL&FS (Infrastructure Leasing
and Financial Services) group to complete the debt resolution process for 58 entities by March 31,
2025, and has extended the moratorium until the date. NCLAT also directed IL&FS to take
appropriate steps before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to close the process.
However, IL&FS informed that a debt of Rs 37,700 crores has been resolved as of September 30, 2024, with a resolution of
188 entities out of 302 entities, and only 114 entities remaining to be resolved, out of which moratorium protection is now
only required to be continued for 58 entities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NCLAT – ordered IL&FS (Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services) group to complete debt resolution process for 58
entities by Mar 31, 2025 & extended moratorium too
• NCLAT – directed IL&FS to take appropriate steps before National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to close this process
• Debt of Rs 37,700 Cr – resolved as of Sep 30, 2024, with a resolution of 188 entities out of 302 entities
- 114 entities – remaining to be resolved | Moratorium protection required to be continued for – 58 entities
27. The Centre has launched “Operation Dronagiri”, a pilot project under National Geospatial Policy
2022 to demonstrate the potential applications of geospatial technologies and innovations in
improving the quality of life of citizens and ease of doing business. Secretary of Department of
Science & Technology, Professor Abhay Karandikar, launched the project at Foundation for
Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), IIT Delhi. In the first phase, Operation Dronagiri will be
implemented in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra,
where pilot projects will be run. On this occasion, the Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI) was also unveiled.
The Integrated GDI enables seamless data sharing, access, and analysis for urban planning, environmental monitoring,
disaster management, and more. Dr. Srikant Sastri is the Chairman Geospatial Data Promotion and Development Committee
(GDPDC). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre launched “Operation Dronagiri” to demonstrate potential applications of geospatial technologies & innovations
in improving quality of life of citizens & ease of doing business
- It is a pilot project under – National Geospatial Policy 2022
• Launched at – FITT, IIT Delhi | By – Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST
• Its 1st phase to be implemented in – Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra
• Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI) – also unveiled
- It enables seamless data sharing, access & analysis for urban planning, environmental monitoring, disaster
management & more
• Dr. Srikant Sastri – Chairman of Geospatial Data Promotion and Development Committee (GDPDC)
28. Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has launched the “People’s Plan Campaign (Jan Yojana Abhiyan)” for the preparation
of Panchayat Development Plans (PDPs) for 2025-26. The campaign, themed ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ (Everyone’s Plan,
Everyone’s Development), urges rural citizens to actively participate in shaping the future of their villages. The campaign
started with a special Gram Sabha cum-Orientation/Training Programme in 750 Gram Panchayats across the country. This
year’s campaign sees a significant collaboration with the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), involving over 15,000 students from
Higher Education Institutions. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• MoPR – launched the “People’s Plan Campaign (Jan Yojana Abhiyan)” for the preparation of Panchayat Development
Plans (PDPs) for 2025-26
• The campaign is themed – ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ (Everyone’s Plan, Everyone’s Development)
• The campaign started with a special Gram Sabha cum-Orientation/Training Programme in 750 Gram Panchayats
• Minister of Panchayati Raj: Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) | Constituency – Munger, Bihar
Mos in Ministry of Panchayati Raj: S. P. Singh Baghel
29. PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth around Rs
6,640 crore during an event in Jamui, Bihar. The event also marked the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations
of Birsa Munda on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. To honour the tribal leader, PM Modi unveiled a commemorative coin and postal
stamp. The PM participated in the ‘Grih Pravesh’ ceremony for 11,000 houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati
Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN). He also launched 23 mobile medical units (MMUs) under PM-JANMAN and 30
MMUs under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) to improve healthcare access in tribal areas. Also,
300 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) were inaugurated to promote tribal entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities. 10
Eklavya Model Residential Schools with a combined investment of Rs 450 crore were also dedicated to tribal students. Modi
virtually inaugurated 2 Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums in Chhindwara and Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, as well as 2 Tribal
Research Institutes in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir and Gangtok in Sikkim. The PM also sanctioned various development
projects that include 25,000 new Awas under the PM JANMAN worth around Rs 500 crore, and 1.16 lakh Awas under
DAJGUA worth over Rs 1,960 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Narendra Modi – inaugurated & laid the foundation stone for Rs 6,640 Cr development projects in Jamui, Bihar
• To honour the tribal leader Birsa Munda, PM Modi unveiled a commemorative coin and postal stamp
• PM Modi participated in the ‘Grih Pravesh’ ceremony for 11,000 houses constructed under PM-JANMAN
• PM Modi launched 23 mobile medical units (MMUs) under PM-JANMAN & 30 MMUs under DAJGUA
- Aim: To improve healthcare access in tribal areas
• 300 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) – inaugurated to promote tribal entrepreneurship & livelihood opportunities
• 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools dedicated to tribal students (investment - Rs 450 Cr)
• PM Modi inaugurated 2 Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums in Chhindwara & Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh)
• PM Modi inaugurated 2 Tribal Research Institutes in Srinagar (J&K) and Gangtok (Sikkim)
• PM Modi also sanctioned 25,000 new Awas under the PM JANMAN & and 1.16 lakh Awas under DAJGUA
https:// /#
30. NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy, has launched the “ASSET” platform (Accelerating Sustainable Solutions for
Energy Transition) to support states in accelerating their green transition. The platform will
assist in formulating state energy transition blueprints along with aiding in its implementation,
preparing a pipeline of bankable projects, showcasing best practices across states as well as
upcoming technology and innovations in critical sectors like BESS, green hydrogen, energy
efficiency, e-mobility, offshore wind, etc. At a symposium on the “Green Transition in States”, organized by NITI Aayog, and
ISEG Foundation as a knowledge partner, the Aayog has 3 key steps to help states in green transition - (i) preparing
comprehensive energy transition blueprints; (ii) developing investible projects and ensuring their effective implementation;
and (iii) fostering innovation in emerging technologies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NITI Aayog + MoP + MoNRE = launched the “ASSET” platform to support states in accelerating their green transition
- ASSET – Accelerating Sustainable Solutions for Energy Transition
• “Symposium on the Green Transition in States” – organized by NITI Aayog + ISEG Foundation
• NITI Aayog has 3 key steps to help states in green transition
- preparing comprehensive energy transition blueprints
- developing investible projects & ensuring their effective implementation
- fostering innovation in emerging technologies
• HQs of NITI Aayog – New Delhi | CEO – BVR Subrahmanyam | Chair – Narendra Modi | VC – Suman K. Bery
31. In financial year 2024-25 (FY25), the government’s procurement through the Government e-
Marketplace (GeM) portal has crossed Rs 3 lakh crore (Rs 3 trillion) so far. Higher buying activities
by various ministries and departments have helped in reaching the figure. In 2023-24, the portal
handled procurement of Rs 4 lakh crore. The Government e-Market (GeM) portal was launched
on August 9, 2016, for online purchases of goods and services by all central government ministries
and departments. In October, the GeM signed an MoU with Sikkim to facilitate procurement by the state on the platform.
South Korea’s KONEPS is the largest such platform in the world. GeM stands at the second position, followed by Singapore’s
GeBIZ. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Government’s procurement through GeM portal – crossed Rs 3 lakh crore in FY25
- It handled procurement of Rs 4 lakh crore in FY24 | GeM portal – launched on Aug 9, 2016
• GeM + Sikkim = an MoU to facilitate procurement by state on this platform in Oct 2024
• Largest such platform in world: 1st – KONEPS (South Korea) | 2nd – GeM (India) | 3rd – GeBIZ (Singapore)
• HQs of GeM – New Delhi | CEO – L Satya Srinivas (additional charge) | Established in – 2016
32. The Central Government aims to make Andaman & Nicobar Islands a hub of tuna fish export. The
global tuna market is worth $41.94 billion and the Indian Ocean is considered the second largest tuna
region, producing 21% of world’s tuna. The Pacific Ocean, the largest tuna region, currently produces
about 2.5 million tonnes, or 64% of all the world's annual tuna. India exported 51,626 tonnes of tuna in 2023-24 worth
$87.96 million, representing a hike of 31.83%. The Union Fisheries Department’s estimates suggest a total potential yield of
64,500 tonnes of tuna annually. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Center aims to make Andaman & Nicobar Islands a hub of tuna fish export
• Global tuna market – $41.94 billion
• World’s largest tuna region with production: 1st – Pacific Ocean (2.5 million tonnes or 64% of global production)
- 2nd – Indian Ocean (21% of global production)
• Export of tuna by India – 51,626 tonnes in 2023-24 (hike of 31.83%) | Worth – $87.96 million
• As per Union Fisheries Department’s estimates, total potential yield of tuna annually – 64,500 tonnes
33. Telangana government has announced providing 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees for all types of
Electric Vehicles (EV) purchased and registered in the state for the initial period of 2 years up to December 31, 2026. Under
the Government Order (GO) 41, the new EV policy comes into place from November 18. This is aimed at making Hyderabad
pollution-free. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Telangana – to provide 100% exemption from road tax & registration fees for all types of EV purchased & registered for
2 years (up to Dec 31, 2026)
• Aim: To make Hyderabad pollution-free
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Jishnu Dev Varma
34. The Centre has decided to boost the helicopter segment in the country via the creation of a
dedicated cell, called “Directorate for Helicopters” that will make helicopter operations more
efficient and smoother. The dedicated cell will be formed under the auspices of the aviation
regulator DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). The ‘DoH’ will be manned by the top
experts and specialists in this field. The decision was taken at the ‘Heli Summit 2024’, which is
being organised in Shillong, Meghalaya. The ‘DoH’ will promote the usage of helicopters for public service such as Helicopter
Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) and last-mile connectivity in far-flung regions of the country. Recently, Union Civil
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu proposed the creation of over 50 HEMS units along national highways and expressways
be set up. In October, Dinesh Chand Sharma was appointed as the interim Director General of the Directorate General of
Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India, following the transfer of Vikram Dev Dutt to the Ministry of Coal. Sharma, who is currently
serving as the Joint Director General at the DGCA, will oversee the agency for 3 months or until further orders. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre has decided to form “Directorate for Helicopters (DoH)” to boost helicopter segment in India, under DGCA
• ‘Heli Summit 2024’ – being organised in Shillong, Meghalaya
• Ram Mohan Naidu, Civil Aviation Minister – proposed to create 50+ HEMS units along national highways & expressways
• Dinesh Chand Sharma – appointed as the interim Director General of DGCA (succeeding - Vikram Dev Dutt)
• HQs of DGCA – New Delhi | Director General – Dinesh Chand Sharma (interim)
https:// /#
35. Indian government has notified “Guru Ghasidas - Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve”, as the 56th
Tiger Reserve of the country. It is located across Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea,
Surajpur and Balrampur districts of Chhattisgarh. It encompasses a total area of 2829.38 sq.
km, including a core tiger habitat of 2049.2 sq. km, comprising the Guru Ghasidas National Park
and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary, with a buffer of 780.15 sq. km. It is going to be the 3 rd
largest in the country, after Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (3,728 sq. km) in Andhra Pradesh and Manas Tiger
Reserve (2,837.1 sq. km) in Assam. Also, it will be the 4th Tiger Reserve in the state, after Indravati Tiger Reserve (Bijapur),
Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (Gariaband) and Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (Mungeli). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Guru Ghasidas - Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve” – notified as 56th Tiger Reserve of the country
- Location – across Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur & Balrampur districts of Chhattisgarh
• Total area – 2829.38 sq. km, including a core tiger habitat of 2049.2 sq. km | Buffer – 780.15 sq. km
- Comprises – Guru Ghasidas National Park & Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary
• It would be 3rd largest in country | 1st – Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (3,728 sq. km) in Andhra Pradesh
- 2nd – Manas Tiger Reserve (2,837.1 sq. km) in Assam
• 4th Tiger Reserve in state | Others – Indravati TR (Bijapur), Udanti-Sitanadi TR (Gariaband) & Achanakmar TR (Mungeli)
36. The “Bharat National Cyber Security Exercise (Bharat NCX 2024)”, a landmark initiative
to fortify India’s cybersecurity resilience, was organized by the National Security Council
Secretariat (NSCS) in collaboration with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) in New Delhi.
The 12-day exercise is a critical step in preparing India’s cybersecurity professionals and
leadership to tackle evolving threats with advanced cyber defense, incident response
capabilities, and strategic decision-making. On the sidelines, the Bharat Cybersecurity
Startup Exhibition will showcase innovative solutions from Indian startups. The event is open from November 18 to
November 29, 2024. Dr Bimal N. Patel is the Vice Chancellor of RRU. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bharat National Cyber Security Exercise (Bharat NCX 2024) – organized by NSCS & RRU in New Delhi
• Vice Chancellor of RRU – Dr Bimal N. Patel
37. Karnataka government has launched India’s first dedicated “Global Capability Centre (GCC)” policy, aimed at
empowering and supporting these centres. The GCC Policy 2024-2029 will aim to solidify the state as a premier destination
for innovation and technological excellence. The policy targets the establishment of 500 new GCCs by 2029, creating 3.5
lakh jobs and generating $50 billion in economic output. The GCC policy will emphasise a “Beyond Bengaluru” initiative to
promote development across tier-2 and tier-3 cities such as Mysuru, Mangaluru, Shivamogga, and Hubballi-Dharwad. 3
dedicated global innovation districts will be established in Bengaluru, Mysuru and Belagavi. ‘GCC Immersive Hubs’ will also
be developed as a public-private-partnership (PPP) model to showcase Karnataka’s R&D capabilities. Besides, under this
policy, 50% reimbursement of domestic patent filing fees, up to Rs 2 lakh, will be given. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka – launched India’s 1st dedicated “Global Capability Centre (GCC)” policy, to empower & support these centres
• Target: To establish 500 new GCCs by 2029, creating 3.5 lakh jobs & generating $50 billion in economic output
• 3 dedicated global innovation districts – to be established in Bengaluru, Mysuru & Belagavi
• ‘GCC Immersive Hubs’ – to be developed as a PPP model to showcase Karnataka’s R&D capabilities
https:// /#
• Under this policy, 50% reimbursement of domestic patent filing fees, up to Rs 2 lakh, will be given
• Karnataka: Capital – Bangalore | CM – Siddaramaiah | Governor – Thaawarchand Gehlot
38. 24 coastal villages in Odisha were recognised by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic

Commission of UNESCO as ‘Tsunami Ready’. The recognition was given during the 2nd ‘Global
Tsunami Symposium’ held in Indonesia. These villages are located in Balasore, Bhadrak,
Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Ganjam districts. Besides, the Tsunami Ready
Recognition Certificates were renewed for two villages in the state. These villages are
Noliasahi in Jagatsinghpur district and Venkatraipur in Ganjam district. They were recognised as ‘Tsunami Ready’ in 2020.
The government has identified 381 villages in the state as tsunami-prone. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd ‘Global Tsunami Symposium’ – held in Indonesia
• 24 coastal villages (Odisha) – recognised by Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO) as ‘Tsunami
Ready’
- Located in – Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Puri & Ganjam districts
• Tsunami Ready Recognition Certificates – renewed for 2 villages, Noliasahi (Jagatsinghpur) & Venkatraipur (Ganjam)
- Earlier recognition was given in – 2020
• 381 villages in Odisha – identified as tsunami-prone
39. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Nigeria, becoming the first Indian leader to visit the West
African nation in 17 years. During the visit, PM Modi gifted the magnificent “Silofar Panchamrit Kalash” to
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A beautifully crafted Panchamrit Kalash is a handcrafted pot. It is
made from high-quality silver and features intricate engravings, floral patterns and depictions of deities,
showcasing the renowned metalwork of the Kolhapur region, Maharashtra. The handle of the ‘kalash’ and
the lid are crafted to provide ease of use during religious ceremonies, where ‘Panchamrit’ - a sacred mixture of milk, curd,
ghee, honey and sugar - is served. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – became 1st Indian leader to visit Nigeria in 17 years
• “Silofar Panchamrit Kalash” (handcrafted pot) – gifted by PM Modi to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- It showcased renowned metalwork of Kolhapur region, Maharashtra
• Nigeria – Abuja – Naira | President – Bola Ahmed Tinubu
40. Minister of Jal Shakti, C. R. Paatil, has digitally launched the newly developed “Bhu-
Neer” portal, during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024. The “Bhu-Neer”
is an advanced portal developed by Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), under the
Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), for
improved groundwater regulation across the country. This portal will serve as a one-stop
platform for managing and regulating groundwater resources, aimed at ensuring
transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in groundwater usage. The portal is now live for public use. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• C. R. Paatil (Minister of Jal Shakti) – launched “Bhu-Neer” portal, during concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024
• “Bhu-Neer” developed by = Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) & National Informatics Centre (NIC)
• Aim: To ensure transparency, efficiency & sustainability in groundwater usage
• Minister of Jal Shakti: C R Patil | Constituency – Navsari, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Jal Shakti – V. Somanna & Raj Bhushan Choudhary
41. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 213.14 crore on Meta
for abusing its dominant position in the market. This fine relates to how WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy
policy was implemented and how user data was collected and shared with other Meta companies.
The commission specifically highlighted 2 markets where WhatsApp was abusing its dominant
position - OTT (over-the-top) messaging apps through smartphones in India, and online display advertising in India. Further,
the 2021 policy update by WhatsApp compels all users to accept expanded data collection terms and sharing of data within
Meta Group, including Facebook and Instagram, without any opt-out. The CCI had begun a probe into Meta in March 2021.
WhatsApp has been asked to refrain from sharing user data with other applications, owned by Meta, for advertising
purposes for a period of 5 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCI – imposed a penalty of Rs 213.14 Cr on Meta for abusing its dominant position in market
• Related to – WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy & user data collection and sharing with other Meta companies
• 2 markets where WhatsApp was abusing its dominant position – OTT messaging apps & online display advertising
• WhatsApp – asked to refrain from sharing user data with other Meta applications, for advertising for 5 years
• HQs of CCI – New Delhi | Chairperson – Ravneet Kaur | DG – Ansuman Pattnaik | Established in – 2003
• HQs of Meta – California, US | CEO – Mark Zuckerberg | Founded in – 2004
42. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has launched the “Delhi Solar Portal” as a single-window
solution for installing rooftop solar panels by people in the national capital. Delhiites can
now become 'prosumers' (power consumers who generate extra solar power) by installing
rooftop solar panels with the help of the portal. The rooftop solar panels will not only render
power bills zero but also help earn Rs 700-Rs 900 per month. It will help achieve the target
of 750 MW rooftop solar power generation, as per the solar policy of the AAP government. The portal will provide all
information required for installation of rooftop panels. A national-level subsidy of Rs 78,000 is provided for installation of 3
KW solar plant. The Delhi government provides an additional subsidy of Rs 2,000 per KW for up to 5 KW. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Atishi (Delhi CM) – launched “Delhi Solar Portal” as a single-window solution for installing rooftop solar panels by people
in Delhi
• Rooftop solar panels – help Delhiites to earn Rs 700-Rs 900 per month
• As per solar policy of AAP government, target is to generate 750 MW rooftop solar power
• National-level subsidy provided for installation of 3 KW solar plant – Rs 78,000
- Additional subsidy by Delhi government – Rs 2,000 per KW for up to 5 KW
• Delhi: CM – Atishi | Lt. Governor – Vinai Kumar Saxena | Chief Secretary – Dharmendra
https:// /#
43. Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, has launched its own over-the-top (OTT) platform, called
“Waves”, which is marketed as ‘Waves - Family Entertainment Ki Nayi Lehar’, at the 55th International Film
Festival of India (IFFI), Goa. The platform offers around 40 live channels, along with major news outlets.
Additionally, all channels from Doordarshan and Akashvani are included. Meanwhile, the Non-feature film
category in the 55th IFFI opened with the 1st film from Ladakh in Ladakhi language, ‘Ghar Jaisa Kuch’, a short film directed by
an independent director, Harsh Sangani. The non-feature film category in IFFI is dedicated to emerging as well as established
filmmakers trying to showcase their works through documentaries and short films. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prasar Bharati – launched its own OTT platform, “Waves”
• Marketed as – ‘Waves - Family Entertainment Ki Nayi Lehar’, at 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa
• Non-feature film category in 55th IFFI opened with – 1st film from Ladakh in Ladakhi language, ‘Ghar Jaisa Kuch’
- Directed by – Harsh Sangani
• HQs of Prasar Bharati – New Delhi | CEO – Gaurav Dwivedi | Chairman – Navneet Kumar Sehgal
44. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has inaugurated the “Viksit Bharat Initiative for Student
Innovation and Outreach Network (VISION)”, aimed at nurturing education, skill development,
and innovation among underprivileged children. VISION seeks to bridge the gap for students in
rural and underserved areas, offering them mentorship, training, and exposure to cutting-edge
fields such as biotechnology, space technology, and agricultural innovation. The Minister reflected on India’s remarkable
growth in the startup sector, which has expanded from just 350 to 400 startups in 2014 to over 1.67 lakh today, making the
country the 3rd largest startup ecosystem globally. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Jitendra Singh – inaugurated “Viksit Bharat Initiative for Student Innovation and Outreach Network (VISION)”
• Aim: To nurture education, skill development & innovation among underprivileged children
• India – 3rd largest startup ecosystem globally | Startups in India – 1.67 lakh today (from 350-400 in 2014)
• MoS (I/C) in the Ministry of Science & Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh | Constituency – Udhampur, J&K
45. The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, has marked a significant milestone
with the formal recognition of its 4th cohort of ‘Community Innovator Fellows (CIFs)’ with
the support of Capgemini India to empower local innovators, enabling them to address
community-specific challenges through creative and sustainable solutions. AIM, through
its Atal Community Innovation Centers (ACIC) program, has envisaged to serve the
unserved/underserved areas of the country and provide support to every grassroots innovator and work towards
accelerating the pathway to reach SDGs 2030. The CIF Program is a one-year intensive initiative designed to provide aspiring
innovators from all socio-economic backgrounds with the infrastructure, training, and mentorship necessary to scale their
ideas and build sustainable businesses. Each Fellow is hosted at an ACIC where they receive entrepreneurial, SDG-focused,
and life skills training while working on solutions tailored to their community’s unique challenges. Capgemini India is
supporting this cohort by providing grants of Rs 1 lakh each to 15 CIFs, helping them scale their innovative solutions. SRF
Foundation is leading the program’s implementation in collaboration with AIM and Capgemini. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AIM, NITI Aayog – formally recognize 4th cohort of ‘Community Innovator Fellows (CIFs)’ with support of Capgemini India
to empower local innovators
https:// /#
• CIF Program – 1-year intensive initiative to provide aspiring innovators from all socio-economic backgrounds with
infrastructure, training & mentorship necessary to scale their ideas & build sustainable businesses
• Capgemini India – providing grants of Rs 1 lakh each to 15 CIFs
• Program’s implementation led by = SRF Foundation + AIM + Capgemini
• HQs of AIM – New Delhi | Director – Chintan Vaishnav | Launched in – 2016 (a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog)
46. Air India has received the Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the Directorate General of Civil
Aviation (DGCA), designated as CAR 21 approval, to modify the interiors of its aircraft in-house,
becoming the 1st Indian airline to achieve this. The approval by DGCA was handed over to Air India’s MD
& CEO Campbell Wilson by D. C. Sharma, Director General of DGCA. Besides, Tata-owned Air India has
launched a $400 million refurbishment programme to overhaul 67 of its older aircraft while it seeks to grow into a world-
class airline. Air India previously teamed up with Tata Technologies to improve the interiors of its aircraft in line with CAR
21 approval for modifications. This comes at a time when the merger of the 2 Tata Group-owned airlines - Air India and
Vistara - comes closer with Singapore Airlines (SIA) getting approval from the Indian government for acquiring a 25.1% stake
in the erstwhile state-run carrier. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Air India – became 1st airline to receive Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from DGCA, designated as CAR 21 approval
- To modify interiors of its aircraft in-house
• Air India – launched a $400 million refurbishment programme to overhaul 67 of its older aircraft
• Air India + Tata Technologies = to improve interiors of aircraft in line with CAR 21 approval for modifications, earlier
• Singapore Airlines – got approval from Indian government to acquire a 25.1% stake in erstwhile state-run carrier
• HQs of Air India – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Campbell Wilson (subsidiary of Tata Group)
47. The Gujarat government has launched India’s first semiconductor policy by any state, called
“Gujarat Semiconductor Policy 2022-2027”. To ensure the effective implementation of this
landmark policy, the state government has also established the ‘Gujarat State Electronics
Mission,’ a dedicated institution aimed at advancing the state’s leadership in semiconductor self-
reliance. As part of the Gujarat Semiconductor Policy, the state offers a 100% one-time refund of
stamp duty and registration fees. The policy also includes a range of incentives, such as a Rs 2 per unit subsidy on high-
quality electricity supply at globally competitive rates, a Rs 12 per cubic metre rate for quality water, and an exemption from
electricity duty. To accelerate the development of Dholera as a premier ‘Semicon City’, the Gujarat government is providing
attractive incentives for semiconductor units setting up operations in the region, including a subsidy of up to 75% on land
acquisition for fabrication projects. In Dholera’s ‘Semicon City’, Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) and Taiwan’s PSMC
are set to establish India’s 1st commercial Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled semiconductor fabrication facility, with an
investment exceeding Rs 91,000 crore. Dholera is also being developed as India’s 1st Greenfield Smart City. The Government
of India launched the ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ in 2021, with a substantial budget of Rs 76,000 crore allocated to this
mission. India’s semiconductor market, valued at $15 billion in 2020, is on a remarkable growth trajectory and is projected
to exceed $63 billion by 2026-reflecting a growth of over 400%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Gujarat – launched India’s first semiconductor policy by any state, called “Gujarat Semiconductor Policy 2022-2027”
• ‘Gujarat State Electronics Mission’ – established to advance the state’s leadership in semiconductor self-reliance
• As part of this policy, Gujarat offers a 100% one-time refund of stamp duty & registration fees
https:// /#
• It includes incentives:
- Rs 2 per unit subsidy – on high-quality electricity supply at globally competitive rates
- Rs 12 per cubic metre rate – for quality water | Exemption from electricity duty
• TEPL + PSMC (Taiwan) = to establish India’s 1st commercial AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera
- Investment – >Rs 91,000 Cr
• Dholera – being developed as India’s 1st Greenfield Smart City
• ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ – launched in 2021 | Budget – Rs 76,000 Cr
• India’s semiconductor market – $15 billion in 2020 | To exceed – $63 billion by 2026 (growth of over 400%)
• Gujarat: Capital – Gandhinagar | CM – Bhupendra Patel | Governor – Acharya Dev Vrat
48. President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the adoption
of the Constitution of India as “Samvidhan Diwas” at the old Parliament Building, officially known
as ‘Samvidhan Sadan’. On this occasion, she released a Rs 75 commemorative coin and postage
stamp dedicated to the milestone. She unveiled the 1st Sanskrit copy of the Constitution and its
Maithili version. She also released 2 books titled “Making of the Constitution of India: A Glimpse” and “Making of the
Constitution of India & Its Glorious Journey.” The President launched a year-long campaign titled “Hamara Samvidhan,
Hamara Swabhimaan” on 25 November 2024 as a part of the 75 th-anniversary celebrations. The Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment on 19th November, 2015, notified the decision of the Government of India to celebrate 26 November as
‘Constitution Day’, also known as National Law Day. The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on
November 26, 1949, and it officially came into force on January 26, 1950. The Constitution of India is the longest-written
constitution of any sovereign country in the world. Originally, the Constitution of India was written in English and Hindi. The
Constitution of India was handwritten by Prem Behari Narain Raizada in a calligraphy font. The framing of the Constitution
took over 2 years, 11 months and 18 days. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Droupadi Murmu – inaugurated 75th-anniversary celebrations of adoption of Constitution of India as “Samvidhan Diwas”
- At – old Parliament Building, officially known as ‘Samvidhan Sadan’
• She released a Rs 75 commemorative coin & postage stamp dedicated to this milestone
• She unveiled 1st Sanskrit copy of Constitution & its Maithili version
• She released 2 books – “Making of the Constitution of India: A Glimpse” & “Making of the Constitution of India & Its
Glorious Journey”
• “Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhimaan,” a year-long campaign – launched on Nov 25, 2024
• MSJE on Nov 19, 2015 – notified decision of GoI to celebrate Nov 26 as ‘Constitution Day’, aka National Law Day
• Constitution of India – adopted on Nov 26, 1949 | Officially came into force on – Jan 26, 1950
• Facts about Constitution of India: longest-written constitution of any sovereign country in the world
- Originally, it was written in – English & Hindi | Handwritten by – Prem Behari Narain Raizada in a calligraphy font
- Framing took – over 2 years, 11 months & 18 days
https:// /#
49. The Central Government has set up a Coordination Committee for Air Quality Management in the Indo-Gangetic Plain
(IGP) region. The 10-member panel will work on comprehensive mitigation measures to check air pollution across 8 states
and union territories (UTs) - Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Uttar
Pradesh will be the first state to co-chair the panel in 2024-25. The position will rotate annually among the 8 states and UTs.
The establishment of the panel is also expected to sharpen the focus on IGP under the National Clean Air Programme, which
aims to achieve reduction in PM10 levels up to 40% or achievement of national ambient air quality standards (60 micrograms
per cubic metre) by 2025-26. Identifying 38 hotspot districts across the region, the highest emission source in the IGP is
industrial emissions with 48% of total PM 2.5 emissions at 1128 Gg per year, with UP alone contributing 492 Gg, followed
by Bihar and West Bengal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre set up a 10-member Coordination Committee for Air Quality Management in Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) region
• It will work on comprehensive mitigation measures to check air pollution across 8 states & UTs
- Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh & West Bengal
• Uttar Pradesh – 1st state to co-chair the panel in 2024-25
• Aim (NCAP): To achieve reduction in PM10 levels up to 40% or achievement of national ambient air quality standards by
2025-26
• Highest emission source in IGP – industrial emissions (48% of total PM 2.5 emissions at 1128 Gg per year)
- 2nd – UP (492 Gg) | 3rd – Bihar | 4th – West Bengal
50. Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan has launched the “The Teacher App”, an
innovative digital platform designed to empower teachers with future-ready skills. It is by Bharti
Airtel Foundation. The app offers over 260 hours of high-quality, interactive digital resources, to
support diverse teaching methods. The platform also provides teaching kits, live expert sessions,
and tools to help educators thrive in dynamic classrooms. Aligned with India’s National Education
Policy (NEP 2020), The Teacher App is aimed at enhancing pedagogical practices, student engagement, and overall teacher
development. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dharmendra Pradhan – launched “The Teacher App”, a digital platform to empower teachers with future-ready skills
- By – Bharti Airtel Foundation
• It offers 260+ hours of high-quality, interactive digital resources, to support diverse teaching methods
• Aim: To enhance pedagogical practices, student engagement & overall teacher development
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Sambalpur, Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Education: Jayant Chaudhary & Sukanta Majumdar
51. Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi has launched an online
learning platform for the Indian Army, namely as “Eklavya”. This initiative aligns with the
Indian Army propelling itself into the “Decade of Transformation” as envisioned by the
COAS and also with Indian Army’s theme for 2024 as the “Year of Technology
Absorption”. The Eklavya software platform has been developed under the aegis of
Headquarters Army Training Command with Army War College as the sponsor agency.
The platform has been developed at zero cost through Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and
Geoinformatics (BISAG-N), Gandhinagar, along with support from Directorate General of Information Systems (DGIS). This
platform has been hosted on the ‘Army Data Network’ and features a scalable architecture. A total of 96 courses by 17
Category ‘A’ Training Establishments of the Indian Army have already been hosted on the platform. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• General Upendra Dwivedi – launched an online learning platform for the Indian Army, “Eklavya”
• ‘Eklavya’ software is developed at zero cost through – BISAG-N (with support from DGIS)
• It is developed under the aegis of – Headquarters Army Training Command | Sponsor Agency – Army War College
• Indian Army’s theme for 2024 – “Year of Technology Absorption”
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Upendra Dwivedi | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani
52. Amara Raja Infra, part of the $2 billion Amara Raja Group, has commissioned India’s 1st green
hydrogen fuelling station, with a capacity of producing green hydrogen of 80kg per day, in Leh, Ladakh
for NTPC Ltd. The fuelling station was inaugurated by Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power. With the
completion of the project, NTPC will now operationalise 5 hydrogen fuel cell buses in the region. The
scope of the project includes designing, engineering, supplying, construction, erection, testing and commissioning of the
hydrogen station. The project would serve as a precursor to large-scale green hydrogen mobility and storage projects that
would come up In India as part of the ‘National Hydrogen Energy Mission.’ {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Amara Raja Infra – commissioned India’s 1st green hydrogen fuelling station, in Leh, Ladakh for NTPC Ltd
- Capacity – 80kg per day | Inaugurated by – Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power
• NTPC will now operationalise – 5 hydrogen fuel cell buses in the region
• HQs of Amara Raja Group – Hyderabad, Telangana | Co-founder & Chairman – Jayadev Galla
53. Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) has allocated Rs 3417.68
crore for 90 projects under the ‘North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme
(NESIDS)’ from 2021-2022 to the current financial year 2024-2025. Of the total fund, Assam
has received Rs 1,392.43 crore (the highest among all NE states) of which Rs 848.69 crore are
for roads, followed by Arunachal Pradesh (Rs 603.91 crore). A total of Rs 1813.99 crore has
been granted for roads across the 8 states of the region. The scheme, encompassing road and other infrastructure projects,
is monitored by both state governments and the MDoNER. The NESIDS scheme includes 2 components: ‘NESIDS (Roads)’,
focused on roads/bridges and auxiliary infrastructure, and ‘NESIDS (OTRI)’, covering infrastructure for healthcare, education,
water supply, waste management, industrial development, sports, telecom, and more, for projects between Rs 5 crore and
Rs 50 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MDoNER – allocated Rs 3417.68 Cr for 90 projects under ‘North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme’
• Highest amount received by – Assam (Rs 1,392.43 Cr, including Rs 848.69 Cr for roads) | 2nd – Arunachal (Rs 603.91 Cr)
• Total Rs 1813.99 Cr – granted for roads across 8 states of the region
• It includes 2 components – ‘NESIDS (Roads)’ & ‘NESIDS (OTRI)’
• Minister of Communications & DoNER: Jyotiraditya M. Scindia | Constituency – Guna, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of DoNER – Sukanta Majumdar
https:// /#
54. The Indian Railways has launched “Sanraksha”, a mobile application specially designed for
safety training and capacity building for its frontline employees. The innovative app was
introduced by the South East Central Railway (SECR) to provide critical operational training to
thousands of employees, giving instant evaluation of the learning and ensuring on-demand
access to resources. The app has been developed under the guidance of the senior divisional
commercial manager of Nagpur SECR. The app will help railway employees in meeting their training demands and will also
ensure an intelligent scalable system with the help of artificial intelligence. The app also comprises smart learning techniques
blended with real-time feedback and monitoring systems. The multi-level feedback mechanisms will assist in enhancing
performance instantly and will work as a tool that will boost skill development. The efficiency level will increase with this
app and it will ensure the safety of the operations across the railway network. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Railways – launched “Sanraksha”, a mobile app for safety training & capacity building for its frontline employees
• Introduced by – South East Central Railway (SECR)
• Developed under guidance of – senior divisional commercial manager of Nagpur SECR
• HQs of Indian Railways – New Delhi | Chairman & CEO – Satish Kumar
55. The Inter-State Council (ISC) has been reconstituted with PM Narendra Modi as its Chairman,
all Chief Ministers and 9 Union Ministers as members, and 13 Union Ministers as permanent
invitees. Members of the ISC include Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Jagat Prakash
Nadda, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, Manohar Lal Khattar, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias
Lalan Singh, Virendra Kumar and Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu. Permanent invitees of the council
are Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, H D Kumaraswamy, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Jitan
Ram Manjhi, Jual Oram, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Bhupender Yadav, Kiren Rijiju, G Kishan Reddy, Chirag Paswan and C R Patil. The
ISC was established under Article 263 of the Constitution, which empowers the President of India to establish an ISC for
better coordination between States. The Sarkaria Commission (1988) recommended making the ISC a permanent body,
leading to its formal establishment in 1990 through a Presidential Order. The Inter-State Council Secretariat (ISCS) in New
Delhi was established in 1991 and is headed by a Secretary to the Government of India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Inter-State Council (ISC) – reconstituted with PM Narendra Modi as its Chairman
- all CMs & 9 Union Ministers as members + 13 Union Ministers as permanent invitees
• ISC was established under Article 263 of the Constitution
• The Sarkaria Commission (1988) recommended making the ISC a permanent body
• Inter-State Council Secretariat (ISCS) – New Delhi (established in 1991)
56. The Government of Meghalaya has launched “EasyLottery”, India’s 1st fully digital lottery in
the presence of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. With the 1st Winner Prize of Rs 50
crore, the initiative is expected to yield significant revenue for Meghalaya through GST (Goods
and Services Tax) collection. With its ‘non-transferable ticket’ policy, the platform will ensure the
rightful owner receives the prize, preventing money laundering and ensuring a secure experience.
Further, with the main aim of responsible lottery, the EasyLottery systems are programmed in such a way that it can detect
a person on a losing streak, but who is continually purchasing more tickets; and automatically suspend their account
temporarily. MSN Marak is the Director of Meghalaya State Lottery. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Meghalaya – launched “EasyLottery”, India’s 1st fully digital lottery with 1st Winner Prize of Rs 50 Cr
• MSN Marak – Director of Meghalaya State Lottery
• Meghalaya: Capital – Shillong | CM – Conrad Kongkal Sangma | Governor – CH Vijayashankar
57. The 10th India International Science Festival (IISF) kicked off at IIT Guwahati and will run
until December 4. This marks the 1st time the festival is hosted in northeast India. The theme
of the event is “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub.” The
festival is being organised by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology and the Union
Ministry of Earth Science in association with Vijnana Bharati. The Council of Scientific and
Industrial Research (CSIR), with coordination by its National Institute for Interdisciplinary
Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), leads this year’s festival. IISF was initiated in 2015 and the 1st IISF was organized at IIT
Delhi. The key highlights of the event include the ‘Chandrayaan - Museum of the Moon’ and a ‘Mega Science and Technology
Exhibition’ displaying cutting-edge innovations in STEM fields. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 10th India International Science Festival (IISF) – kicked off at IIT Guwahati
- For the 1st time, the festival is being hosted in northeast India
- Organised by = Ministry of S&T + Ministry of Earth Science + Vijnana Bharati
• Theme – “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub”
• CSIR-NIIST leads this year’s festival
• IISF was initiated in 2015 and the 1st IISF was organized at IIT Delhi
• Director of IIT Guwahati – Devendra Jalihal
58. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions saw a 7% drop in volume to 15.48
billion and an 8% fall in value to Rs 21.55 trillion in November 2024 compared to
October 2024, according to data from the National Payments Corporation of India
(NPCI). In October 2024, UPI recorded 16.58 billion transactions worth Rs 23.5
trillion, the highest since the digital system became operational in April 2016. Immediate Payment Service (IMPS)
transactions were down 13% to 408 million and 11% fall in value terms to Rs 5.58 trillion in November 2024 compared to
October 2024. FASTag transactions grew by 4% in volume to 359 million, and the value was down marginally by nearly 1%
per cent to Rs 6,070 crore in November 2024 compared to October 2024. Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS)
transactions plunged 27% to 92 million and the value of transactions fell 27% to Rs 23,844 crore in November 2024 compared
to October 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data from NPCI, comparison to October 2024:
• UPI transactions – dropped 7% in volume to 15.48 billion & 8% fall in value to Rs 21.55 trillion in Nov 2024
• In October 2024, UPI recorded 16.58 billion transactions worth Rs 23.5 trillion, highest since it became operational
• IMPS transactions – down 13% to 408 million & 11% fall in value terms to Rs 5.58 trillion in Nov 2024
• FASTag transactions – grew by 4% in volume to 359 million & value was down marginally by nearly 1% to Rs 6,070 Cr
• AePS transactions – plunged 27% to 92 million & value of transactions fell 27% to Rs 23,844 Cr in Nov 2024
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Ajay Kumar Choudhary | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008
https:// /#
59. Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav has declared 2025 as the “Year of Industry and Employment” to promote industrial
development in Madhya Pradesh. Under this initiative, the biennial flagship event, “Invest Madhya Pradesh - Global
Investors Summit 2025,” will be organized in Bhopal, in February 2025. After successful regional industry conferences across
the state and interactive sessions in major cities across the country including Mumbai, Coimbatore, Bengaluru and Kolkata,
the Madhya Pradesh delegation concluded the six-day journey under the leadership of CM Dr Yadav to the United Kingdom
(UK) and Germany to promote the industrial development of the state and attract foreign investment. He also extended a
warm invitation to the UK to join Madhya Pradesh as a partner country for the upcoming Global Investors Summit. Vikram
Doraiswami is the Indian High Commissioner to the UK. Baroness Verma is the President of the All-Party Parliamentary Group
on India (Trade and Investment). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2025 – declared as “Year of Industry & Employment” by Mohan Yadav (CM) to promote industrial development in MP
• Biennial event, “Invest Madhya Pradesh - Global Investors Summit 2025” – to be organized in Bhopal, in Feb 2025
• UK – invited to join MP as a partner country for upcoming Global Investors Summit
- Vikram Doraiswami – Indian High Commissioner to UK
• Baroness Verma – President of All-Party Parliamentary Group on India (Trade & Investment)
• Madhya Pradesh: Capital – Bhopal | CM – Mohan Yadav | Governor – Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
60. The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the “Karnataka State Rural Development and
Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Draft Bill 2024” to replace the governor with the chief minister
as the chancellor of Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University. It will
become a law once it is tabled and passed in the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council
in the upcoming Winter Session and gets the governor’s assent. After this amendment, the
chief minister will be the chancellor of the university. Meanwhile, the cabinet also approved the ‘Chanakya University
Amendment Bill’ to have a government nominee as a member of the university’s Board of Governors, in line with the
provisions of government representation on the board of private universities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka – approved “Karnataka State Rural Development & Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Draft Bill 2024”
- To replace governor with CM as chancellor of Karnataka State Rural Development & Panchayat Raj University
• Cabinet also approved ‘Chanakya University Amendment Bill’
- To have a government nominee as a member of the university’s Board of Governors
https:// /#
International Affairs
1. India has been re-elected as the President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for
another two-year term from 2024 to 2026, during the 7th session of the ISA Assembly.
India was re-elected unopposed as the President of the ISA, while France was elected as
the Co-President, defeating Grenada. Besides, the Assembly also elected established a
diverse leadership structure with 8 Vice Presidents representing various regions. Ghana
and Seychelles were appointed as Vice Presidents for Africa, while Australia and Sri Lanka
took the positions for Asia and the Pacific. Germany and Italy will represent Europe and the Others region, with Grenada
and Suriname representing Latin America and the Caribbean. Moreover, Ashish Khanna of India was chosen as the 3 rd
Director General for a 4-year term. He will succeed another Indian, Dr Ajay Mathur. The ISA, established in 2015, is a joint
effort of India and France. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – re-elected as President of ISA for 2-year term (2024 to 2026) | During – 7th session of ISA Assembly
• Co-President – France | Defeated – Grenada
• 8 Vice Presidents representing various regions:
- Ghana & Seychelles – for Africa | Australia & Sri Lanka – for Asia & Pacific
- Germany & Italy – for Europe | Grenada & Suriname – for Latin America & the Caribbean
• Ashish Khanna (India) – 3rd DG for 4 years (succeeding - Dr Ajay Mathur)
• HQs of ISA – Gurugram | DG – Ashish Khanna | President – R. K. Singh | Members – 103 | Signatory Countries – 17
2. Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has inaugurated India’s new consulate in the Australian
city of Brisbane, Queensland’s state capital. The consulate in Brisbane will be headed by consul
general Neetu Bhagotia. Besides Brisbane, India has consulates in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
Brisbane, the city of Ipswich and Hyderabad have been tripartite sister cities since 2010.
Queensland is home to almost 1,00,000 out of the nearly 1 million people of Indian origin living in Australia, and India is the
state’s second-largest export market. India is Australia’s sixth largest trading partner. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• S Jaishankar – inaugurated India’s new consulate in Brisbane, Queensland’s state capital in Australia
- Headed by – consul general Neetu Bhagotia
• India has consulates in – Melbourne, Perth & Sydney
• Brisbane + Ipswich + Hyderabad = tripartite sister cities since 2010
• Queensland – home to almost 1,00,000 out of nearly 1 million people of Indian origin living in Australia
• India – Queensland’s 2nd-largest export market | India – Australia’s 6th-largest trading partner
• Australia – Canberra – Australian Dollar | PM – Anthony Albanese
3. India and Pakistan have agreed to renew their agreement to operate the Kartarpur Corridor to
facilitate pilgrims from India to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara for another 5 years, until 2029. The
Agreement, originally signed on 24 October 2019 to facilitate the visit of pilgrims from India to Gurdwara
Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Narowal, Pakistan through the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, was valid for a period
of 5 years. It facilitates visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib. This site
is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and first of the 10 Sikh gurus. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• India & Pakistan – to renew agreement to operate Kartarpur Corridor for another 5 years, until 2029
- To facilitate pilgrims from India to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara | Originally signed on – Oct 24, 2019
• It facilitates visit of pilgrims from India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Narowal, Pakistan through this Corridor
• It is final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, founder of Sikhism & first of 10 Sikh gurus
• Pakistan – Islamabad – Pakistani Rupee | PM – Shehbaz Sharif | President – Asif Ali Zardari
4. In a world-first move, the Australian government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will ban children under
the age of 16 from using social media. Australia is testing a new age-verification system aimed at preventing children from
accessing social media platforms. The new legislation, which is expected to be introduced this year, is a direct response to
the increasing harm social media platforms are believed to inflict on children and teenagers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Australia – 1st in the world to introduce legislation to ban children under age of 16 from using social media
• Aim: To prevent children from accessing social media platforms
5. India aims to reach an ambitious trade target of $100 billion by 2030 with Russia, from its
current $60 billion, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said during the ‘India-Russia Business
Forum’ in Mumbai, which was organized by the Business Council for Cooperation with India and
the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). Further, the Minister also
underlined opportunities for deeper economic engagement, aiming for a Comprehensive
Economic Partnership by 2030. He emphasized the continued development of the 3 major
connectivity corridors - the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime
Corridor, and the Northern Maritime Route - which are vital for enhancing logistical networks between the 2 nations.
Moreover, India and Russia co-chaired the ‘Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and
Cultural Cooperation (IGC-TEC)’ meeting in New Delhi on November 12, 2024. Established in 1992, the IGC-TEC oversees
bilateral economic cooperation and monitors progress in trade and economic cooperation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘India-Russia Business Forum’ – held in Mumbai | Organized by – Business Council for Cooperation with India + FICCI
• Trade target between India & Russia – $100 billion by 2030 (from $60 billion currently)
• 3 major connectivity corridors between India & Russia:
- International North-South Transport Corridor, Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor & Northern Maritime Route
• ‘Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical & Cultural Cooperation (IGC-TEC)’ meeting:
- Co-chaired by – India & Russia in New Delhi (Nov 12, 2024) | IGC-TEC – established in 1992
• Russia – Moscow – Russian Ruble | PM – Mikhail Mishustin | President – Vladimir Putin
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6. The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the “Global Strategic
Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan (SPRP)” to tackle dengue and other Aedes-
borne arboviruses by fostering a global coordinated response. The SPRP will be
implemented over 1 year until September 2025 and requires $55 million to support
health preparedness, readiness and response efforts. It is aligned with the ‘Global
Vector Control Response 2017-2030’, a global strategy to strengthen vector control
worldwide, and the ‘Global Arbovirus Initiative’, launched in 2022, which focuses on
tackling mosquito-borne arboviruses with epidemic potential. The SPRP comprises 5 key components essential for a
successful outbreak response. These are (i) Emergency coordination which requires the establishment of leadership and
coordination activities; (ii) Collaborative surveillance through the development and using tools for early detection and
control of dengue and other Aedes-borne outbreaks; (iii) Community protection by engaging communities through active
dialogue and local adaptation of prevention and response measures; (iv) Safe and scalable care through effective clinical
management and resilient health services to ensure patients can receive adequate care and prevent illness and death; and
(v) Access to countermeasures by promoting research and innovation for improved treatments and effective vaccines
against these diseases. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – launched “Global Strategic Preparedness, Readiness & Response Plan (SPRP)”
- To tackle dengue & other Aedes-borne arboviruses
• SPRP – to be implemented until Sep 2025 | Require – $55 million to support health preparedness, readiness & response
efforts
• ‘Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030’ – a global strategy to strengthen vector control worldwide
• ‘Global Arbovirus Initiative’ – launched in 2022 to focus on tackling mosquito-borne arboviruses with epidemic potential
• SPRP comprises 5 key components essential for a successful outbreak response:
- Emergency coordination | Collaborative surveillance | Community protection
- Safe and scalable care | Access to countermeasures
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948
7. The “Global Framework on Chemicals” has launched its 1st call for projects targeting the safe and sustainable management
of chemicals and waste. Selected projects will receive $3,00,000 to $8,00,000 for up to 3 years to support transformative
change to prevent and minimize harm from chemicals and waste and to protect the environment and human health. Such
projects will need to have co-financing and in-kind contributions of at least 25%. The fund aims for medium-scale projects
that strengthen national and regional capacities on chemicals and waste management. Priority will be given to projects that
ensure their long-term sustainability beyond the Fund’s 3-year funding. The Framework outlines a set of 28 targets to
address chemicals, including the phase-out of highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035. The fund has received
initial support of around $27 million, primarily from Germany, as well as the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and
the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA). The framework was adopted at the 5 th ‘International Conference
on Chemicals Management’, held in September 2023 in Bonn. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Framework on Chemicals” – launched its 1st call for projects targeting safe & sustainable management of
chemicals & waste
• Selected projects – to receive $3,00,000 to $8,00,000 for up to 3 years
- To support transformative change to prevent & minimize harm from chemicals & waste and to protect environment
& human health
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• Such projects will need to have co-financing & in-kind contributions of – at least 25%
• Framework outlines 28 targets to address chemicals, including phase-out of hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035
• Fund received initial support of around $27 million, from – Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, UK & ICCA
• Framework – adopted at 5th ‘International Conference on Chemicals Management’, held in Sep 2023 in Bonn
8. India, represented by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), has been included in the Steering
Committee of the Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP), a prominent
multi-agency network dedicated to tackling the proceeds of crime in the Asia-Pacific region and
a member of the Global CARIN Network. This new role will enable India to contribute to ARIN-
AP’s decision-making and administrative responsibilities, furthering its mission to combat
economic crimes and support asset recovery at a global scale. India will assume the presidency
of the ARIN-AP and host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2026. ARIN-AP, based in Seoul, South Korea, was established
in 2013 to facilitate cross-border collaboration on asset tracing, freezing, and confiscation. It includes 28 member
jurisdictions and 9 observers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Steering Committee of Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP) – India represented by ED
• India – to assume presidency of ARIN-AP & host Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2026
• HQs of ARIN-AP – Seoul, South Korea | Established in – 2013 | Member countries – 28 | Observer countries – 9
9. Ministry of External Affairs announced that India will contribute $5 million towards the joint cooperative activities for the
development of tourism in the ASEAN nations. Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East), Jaideep Mazumdar, informed
that year 2025 will be celebrated as the year of the “ASEAN-India Year of Tourism”. Notably, 2024 also marks a decade of
India’s ‘Act East Policy’. All these initiatives were included in a 10-point special plan announced by PM Modi during the 21st
ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MEA – India will contribute $5 million towards joint cooperative activities for development of tourism in ASEAN nations
• 2025 – to be celebrated as year of “ASEAN-India Year of Tourism”
• Minister of External Affairs: S. Jaishankar | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of External Affairs: Kirtivardhan Singh & Pabitra Margherita
10. Collins Dictionary has named “brat” its word of the year for 2024, defining it as ‘someone
characterized by a confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude’. ‘Brat’ was the name of British
singer Charli XCX’s album that hit No. 1 in her native UK and No. 3 in the US. This word was also adopted
by supporters of U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Other words shortlisted this year were -
‘delulu’, ‘looksmaxxing’, ‘rawdogging’, ‘anti-tourism’, ‘Brainrot’, ‘Romantasy’, ‘Yapping’,
‘supermajority’, and ‘Era’. Last year, the dictionary named “AI” as its word of the year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Brat” – word of year for 2024 by Collins Dictionary
- Definition – ‘someone characterized by a confident, independent & hedonistic attitude’
• ‘Brat’ – name of British singer Charli XCX’s album that hit No. 1 in UK & No. 3 in US
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• Other shortlisted words – ‘delulu’, ‘looksmaxxing’, ‘rawdogging’, ‘anti-tourism’, ‘Brainrot’, ‘Romantasy’, ‘Yapping’,
‘supermajority’ & ‘Era’
• Collins Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2023 – “AI”
11. The UAE has unveiled an ambitious initiative to establish the “Global Energy Efficiency
Alliance” during COP29, hosted in Azerbaijan. This move aims to double global energy
efficiency rates by 2030 and contribute to significant emission reductions. The initiative builds
on the ‘UAE Consensus’ from COP28, a commitment that brought together countries,
organizations, and corporations to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable resource
management. The UAE plans to lead the alliance by sharing its expertise in energy efficiency,
fostering knowledge transfer, and building effective partnership models with the private sector. The alliance will focus on
compiling and disseminating best practices, with a particular emphasis on assisting African nations. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UAE – unveiled an initiative to establish “Global Energy Efficiency Alliance” during COP29 (hosted in Azerbaijan)
• Aim: To double global energy efficiency rates by 2030 & contribute to significant emission reductions
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
12. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended condolences to the people of Nigeria for the loss
of lives due to the devastating floods that hit the country in October, and he also announced to
send 20 tons of humanitarian aid package to support the relief efforts. Notably, PM Modi met
with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on November 17.
During the meet, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, presented
PM Modi with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of
Nigeria. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – to send 20 tons of humanitarian aid package to support relief efforts in Nigeria after floods
13. The “Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor” has become operational

and is carrying oil, food and machines. India aims to be the best maritime nation
in the world in all indices, outlining a ‘maritime vision 2047’, Minister of Ports,
Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on the sidelines of the 1st
edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ thought leadership summit,
organised by the Ministry in partnership with Observer Research Foundation
(ORF). The Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor primarily connects India’s
southeastern coast to Russia’s Far East. Although considered as a costly route, the
5,600 nautical miles (10,300 km) route is expected to reduce travel time between the two countries by 50%. The time taken
will come down to 24 days compared to more than 40 that it currently takes to transport goods from India to Far East Russia
via Europe. Vladivostok is the largest Russian port on the Pacific Ocean, and it is located about 50 kilometres from the China-
Russia border. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor” – became operational & is carrying oil, food & machines
• 1st edition of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ thought leadership summit – organised by MoPS&W & ORF
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• It connects India’s southeastern coast to Russia’s Far East | Length – 10,300 km (5,600 nautical miles)
• Vladivostok – largest Russian port on Pacific Ocean & located about 50 km from China-Russia border
• Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Sarbananda Sonowal | Constituency – Dibrugarh, Assam
MoS in Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways: Shantanu Thakur
14. Cambridge Dictionary has declared “manifest” as its ‘Word of the Year for 2024’,
highlighting the growing influence of the concept in popular culture and beyond. This world
was widely embraced by celebrities such as singer Dua Lipa and Olympic gymnast Simone
Biles. The word “manifest” refers to the practice of using methods such as visualisation and
affirmation to imagine achieving something you desire, believing this will increase the
likelihood of it happening. Historically, the word “manifest” was taken from Latin and
French, originally meaning ‘easily noticed or obvious’. Over time, its meaning evolved. In
2023, ‘Hallucinate’ was chosen as the “Word of the Year 2023” by Cambridge Dictionary. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Manifest” – declared as ‘Word of the Year for 2024’ by Cambridge Dictionary
- It refers to practice of using methods such as visualisation & affirmation to imagine achieving something you desire,
believing this will increase likelihood of it happening
• It was taken from – Latin & French | Original meaning – easily noticed or obvious
• ‘Hallucinate’ – “Word of the Year 2023” by Cambridge Dictionary
15. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing
them of war crimes and crimes against humanity over their 13-month war in Gaza,
Palestine. The ICC also issued a warrant for Mohammed Deif, one of the leaders of Hamas,
over the October 2023 attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Mr Netanyahu’s
office rejected the ICC decision describing them as “anti-Semitic”. The ICC is a court of last resort that only prosecutes cases
when domestic law enforcement authorities cannot or will not investigate. The court itself has no police to enforce warrants,
instead relying on cooperation from its member states. The case at the ICC is separate from another legal battle Israel is
waging at the top U.N. court, the International Court of Justice, in which South Africa accuses Israel of genocide.
Smart Points:
• ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu & former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant
- Accused of war crimes & crimes against humanity over their 13-month war in Gaza, Palestine
• ICC – also issued a warrant for Mohammed Deif, one of the leaders of Hamas
- Over October 2023 attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in Gaza
• HQs of ICC – The Hague, Netherlands | President – Judge Tomoko Akane | Established in – 2002
16. The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, concluded with wealthy
nations committing $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing countries combat the
escalating climate crisis. However, the $300 billion pledge falls significantly short of the $1.3
trillion economists estimate is required annually to address the climate crisis in developing
countries. However, developing nations pushed for a larger share of grants rather than loans to
avoid debt burdens. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Wealthy nations – committed $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing countries combat climate crisis
- 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) – concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan
• As per economists, to address climate crisis in developing countries – $1.3 trillion are required
17. Indian Navy has gifted two water-jet propelled Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) to Mozambique as
part of capacity-building engagements with friendly foreign nations in the Indian Ocean Region
(IOR). The FICs were transshipped from India by INS Gharial. The Handing Over Ceremony was
attended by the High Commissioner of India in Mozambique Robert Shetkintong. These water-jet-
propelled boats have a top speed of 45 knots, range of 200 nautical miles at 12 knots. Earlier, India had gifted two large
Interceptor vessels in 2019, followed by two FICs of the same class in January 2022. India also gifted an Infantry weapons
training simulator to Mozambique in November 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Navy – gifted 2 water-jet propelled Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) to Mozambique
- Transshipped from India – by INS Gharial | Top speed – 45 knots | Range – 200 nautical miles at 12 knots
• India – gifted 2 large Interceptor vessels in 2019 & 2 FICs of same class in Jan 2022
• India – gifted an Infantry weapons training simulator to Mozambique in Nov 2023
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi | Vice Chief – Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan
• Mozambique – Maputo – Mozambican Metical | President – Filipe Nyusi
18. The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced 10 projects that will receive about $2
million in the 1st round of grants towards improving pathogen genomic surveillance and
understanding disease threats. This includes India’s 3 projects - Ashoka University, the
International Foundation for Research and Education, and the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research’s (CSIR) “Quantitative mapping of environmental to clinical AMR via DNA barcoding” project. The fund was
established by the International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) to support partners from low- and middle-income
countries (LMICs) to build their capacities in pathogen genomic analysis. The IPSN is a global network of pathogen genomic
actors brought together by the WHO Pandemic Hub. The fund is hosted by the United Nations Foundation and supported
by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation and Wellcome. A 2nd round of funds will be made
available to IPSN members in 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – announced 10 projects towards improving pathogen genomic surveillance & understanding disease threats
- They will receive $2 million in 1st round of grants
• It includes India’s 3 projects
- Ashoka University | International Foundation for Research & Education
- CSIR’s “Quantitative mapping of environmental to clinical AMR via DNA barcoding” project
• Fund established by – International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN)
- To support partners from low-& middle-income countries to build their capacities in pathogen genomic analysis
- Hosted by – UN Foundation | Supported by – Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation &
Wellcome
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• IPSN – a global network of pathogen genomic actors brought together by WHO Pandemic Hub
• 2nd round of funds – to be made available to IPSN members in 2025
19. The US sent a ‘THAAD’ defence battery system to Israel. THAAD stands for ‘Terminal High-
Altitude Area Defence’, and the battery is used to intercept and destroy enemy missiles. A
THAAD battery consists of 95 soldiers, six truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors (eight per
launcher), radar surveillance and radar, and a tactical fire component. THAAD provides a rapidly
deployable capability against short-range (up to 1,000 km), medium-range (1,000-3,000 km),
and limited intermediate-range (3,000-5,000 km) ballistic missile threats inside or outside the atmosphere during their final
(terminal) phase of flight. Employing “hit-to-kill” technology to destroy threat missiles, the THAAD can defend a larger area
than the older Patriot Air and Missile Defense System. It can cover a wide area, engaging targets at distances between 150-
200 kilometres (93-124 miles). It has been developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation, North Bethesda, Maryland, US.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• US – sent a ‘Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD)’ defence battery system to Israel
• A THAAD battery consists – 95 soldiers, 6 truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors (8 per launcher), radar surveillance
& radar, and a tactical fire component
• Deployable capability against: Short-range – up to 1,000 km | Medium-range – 1,000-3,000 km
- Limited intermediate-range – 3,000-5,000 km
• Can cover wide area, engaging targets at distances between – 150-200 km
• Developed by – Lockheed Martin Corporation, North Bethesda, Maryland, US
• US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris
• Israel – Jerusalem – Israeli Shekel | President – Isaac Herzog | PM – Benjamin Netanyahu
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A GLIMPSE OF SOME GENUINE TESTIMONIALS
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Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs
1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has widened direct access to its “Negotiated Dealing System-
Order Matching (NDS-OM)” electronic trading platform to a broader set of regulated entities (REs)
including Regional Rural Banks, Local Area Banks, Non-Banking Finance Companies (including
Housing Finance Companies), Provident Funds, Pension Funds, and Regulated Market
Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs). Direct access means access to NDS-OM wherein an entity that is party to a transaction
directly executes/reports the transaction on/to the platform and such transactions are settled in its own Subsidiary General
Ledger (SGL) account. The aforementioned move comes in the backdrop of increased trading in Government Securities (G-
Secs) after their inclusion in JPMorgan Chase’s benchmark Emerging Markets Bond Index Global Diversified (GBI-EM GD)
index. Entities that are eligible to seek direct access to NDS-OM need to have an SGL (securities general ledger) account and
a current account with the Reserve Bank or a Designated Settlement Bank; and membership of the securities settlement
segment of Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL). Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), and Corporates will continue
to have indirect access to NDS-OM. Indirect access means access to NDS-OM wherein an entity undertakes its transactions
through another entity that has direct access to NDS-OM. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI widened direct access to its “Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching (NDS-OM)” electronic trading platform to
a broader set of regulated entities (REs)
- including RRBs, Local Area Banks, NBFCs, Provident Funds, Pension Funds & Regulated MIIs
• Entities eligible to seek direct access to NDS-OM need to have:
- an SGL (securities general ledger) account & a current account with Reserve Bank or a Designated Settlement Bank
- membership of securities settlement segment of Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL)
• Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) & Corporates – continue to have indirect access to NDS-OM
• 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
2. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has approved the creation of a Chief General Manager post
(CGM), below board level, in 5 more nationalized banks including Bank of Maharashtra (BoM),
Central Bank of India (CBoI), Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), Punjab and Sind Bank, and UCO Bank. Prior
to this, CGM posts were available in 6 out of 11 nationalized banks. The finance minister has also
approved the increase in the existing number of CGMs in the banks that already have CGM-level
posts to enhance the administrative structure and the operational efficiency of banks. CGM post acts as an administrative
and functional layer between the GM and the Executive Director (board-level post) in the Nationalized Banks. The number
of posts has been revised based on the business mix of the banks as on March 31, 2023, with the ratio of one CGM for every
4 GMs. With the revision, the number of CGM posts in all the 11 Nationalised Banks has been increased from 80 to 144.
Accordingly, the number of GM posts has been revised from 440 to 576, the number of Deputy General Manager (DGM)
posts from 1,320 to 1,728 and the number of Assistant General Manager (AGM) posts from 3,960 to 5,184. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nirmala Sitharaman – approved creation of ‘Chief General Manager’ post, below board level, in 5 nationalized banks
- Bank of Maharashtra, Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, and UCO Bank
• Prior to this, CGM posts – available in 6 out of 11 nationalized banks
• CGM – acts as an administrative & functional layer between GM & Executive Director in Nationalized Banks
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• Number of CGM posts in all 11 Nationalised Banks – increased to 144 (from 80)
• Minister of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaudhary
3. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has extended the deadline for the implementation
of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS 17) regulations to the Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27). This move will give
sufficient time to both bank-sponsored and non-bank-sponsored insurance companies to implement IFRS 17 regulations.
IFRS 17 is an accounting standard that provides a framework for reporting insurance contracts. It states the classification of
assets and liabilities of companies operating in the insurance sector and provides consistent principles for insurance
contracts. Developed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), IFRS 17 became effective on January 1, 2023.
The insurance regulator IRDAI has also reconstituted an Expert Committee on the implementation of Ind AS 117 or IFRS 17
headed by the Member (Finance and Investment) F&I of IRDAI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IRDAI – extended deadline for implementation of International Financial Reporting Standard regulations to FY27
• IFRS 17 – an accounting standard that provides a framework for reporting insurance contracts
• IFRS 17 – became effective on Jan 1, 2023 | Developed by – International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)
• IRDAI – reconstituted an Expert Committee on implementation of Ind AS 117 or IFRS 17
- Headed by – Member (Finance and Investment) F&I of IRDAI
• HQs of IRDAI – Hyderabad, Telangana | Chairman – Debasish Panda | Established in – 1999
4. Public sector Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has launched the “Mahila Shaksham” scheme designed
to finance individual Women Self-Help Group (SHG) members under the Centre’s ‘Deendayal
Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)’ initiative. The scheme is in line
with the Ministry of Rural Development’s ‘Lakhpati Didi Yojana’ scheme which is designed to
improve the financial standing of women SHG members, including a sustainable annual income of at least Rs 1 lakh per
household. Some of the key features of the scheme include - financing for individual women SHG members to foster
entrepreneurship, credit support of up to Rs 10 lakh to individual members of DAY-NRLM among others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IOB – launched “Mahila Shaksham” scheme to finance individual Women SHG members under DAY-NRLM initiative
- DAY-NRLM – Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission
• Some key features include:
- Financing for individual women SHG members to foster entrepreneurship
- Credit support of up to Rs 10 lakh to individual members of DAY-NRLM
• It is a part of MoRD’s ‘Lakhpati Didi Yojana’ – to improve financial standing of women SHG members
- including a sustainable annual income of – at least Rs 1 lakh per household
• HQs of IOB – Chennai, TN | MD & CEO – Ajay Kumar Srivastava | Tagline – “Good people to grow with”
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5. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced on October 29, 2024, that it has transported an extra 102
tonnes of gold from the Bank of England to secure storage facilities in India. The RBI held 854.73 metric
tonnes of gold in total from both domestic and overseas storage facilities, according to its report titled,
43rd “Half Yearly Report on Management of Foreign Exchange Reserves (April - September 2024)”. Out
of this, 510.46 metric tonnes were held domestically and 324.01 metric tonnes of gold were kept in the
custody of the Bank of England and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). 20.26 metric tonnes were also held in the
form of gold deposits. This means that about 214 tonnes were brought back to India since September 2022. In May, around
100 tonnes were brought back from the Bank of England. This is also because the share of gold in India’s total foreign
exchange reserves increased from 8.15% at the end of March 2024 to about 9.32% at the end of September 2024. The RBI
stores gold in England primarily due to the immediate access to the London bullion market. The Bank of England still remains
the world’s second-largest custodian of gold after the New York Federal Reserve. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI announced to transport an extra 102 tonnes of gold from Bank of England to secure storage facilities in India
• As per the 43rd “Half Yearly Report on Management of Foreign Exchange Reserves (April - September 2024)”
- RBI held 854.73 metric tonnes of gold in total from both domestic & overseas storage facilities
- 510.46 metric tonnes – held domestically | 324.01 metric tonnes – kept in custody of Bank of England & BIS
- 20.26 metric tonnes – held in form of gold deposits
• Gold brought back to India since Sep 2022 – 214 tonnes | 100 tonnes – brought back from Bank of England in May
• Share of gold in India’s total foreign exchange reserves – increased to 9.32% till Sept 2024 (from 8.15% till Mar 2024)
• Bank of England – world’s second-largest custodian of gold | 1st – New York Federal Reserve
6. According to data shared by the National Payments Corporation of India

(NPCI), Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has set a new record in October 2024.
There were 16.58 billion UPI transactions worth Rs 23.5 trillion in October, the
highest numbers for the digital system since it became operational in April 2016.
UPI’s previous peak was 15.04 billion in volume terms in September 2024 and Rs
20.64 trillion in value in July 2024. Data from previous months shows that the
growth in transactions is driven by person to merchant transactions. Daily UPI transactions in October crossed 535 million
in volume and Rs 75,801 crore in value. There were 467 million Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) transactions in October,
up 9%. The number of FASTag transactions increased 8% in October to 345 million. There were 126 million transactions on
the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) in October, up 26%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data shared by NPCI – UPI set a new record in Oct 2024
• 16.58 billion UPI transactions recorded – highest since it became operational in Apr 2016 | Worth – Rs 23.5 trillion
• Previous peaks: 15.04 billion (in volume terms) – in Sep 2024 | Rs 20.64 trillion (in value) – in July 2024
• Daily UPI transactions in October – crossed 535 million (in volume) & Rs 75,801 Cr (in value)
• Various transactions in October:
- Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) – 467 million (up by 9%) | FASTag – increased 8% to 345 million
- Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) – 126 million (up by 26%)
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7. Mintoak and Axis Bank announced a partnership to boost financial inclusion and expand the
adoption of digital payments within the digital ecosystem. The partnership aims to enable Small
and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) with a host of merchant payments and business solutions.
Through this collaboration, Axis Bank will utilise Mintoak’s white-labelled mobile SaaS platform,
enabling SMEs to accept payments, access transaction reports and submit service requests directly through the app. HDFC
Bank, State Bank of India, Axis Bank, YES Bank in India, and globally Absa, and Burgan Bank are among the merchant acquirers
that have already implemented Mintoak’s merchant payment and commerce enablement solutions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mintoak + Axis Bank = to boost financial inclusion & expand adoption of digital payments within digital ecosystem
• Aim: To enable SMEs with a host of merchant payments & business solutions
• Merchant acquirers that have already implemented Mintoak’s merchant payment & commerce enablement solutions
- HDFC Bank, SBI, Axis Bank, YES Bank in India & globally Absa, and Burgan Bank
• HQs of Axis Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Amitabh Chaudhry | Tagline – “Badhti ka Naam Zindagi”
• HQs of Mintoak – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Co-founder & CEO – Raman Khanduja
8. Punjab & Sind Bank (PSB), a public sector bank, has launched an “e-Bank Guarantee (e-
BG)” facility in partnership with National e-Governance Services Ltd (NeSL) to replace paper-
based BG issuance process with stamping and signatures. As per Swarup Kumar Saha, MD &
CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank, it will not only reduce the TAT (turnaround time) but also will be a game changer to curb the
fraud and inconvenience caused by the physical movement of documents. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Punjab & Sind Bank + NeSL = launched an “e-Bank Guarantee (e-BG)” facility
- To replace paper-based BG issuance process with stamping & signatures
• HQs of Punjab & Sind Bank – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Swarup Kumar Saha
• HQs of NeSL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri
9. The United States of America has taken the top spot yet again, and is predicted to be the fastest growing economy in the
world in FY2025 with the country’s GDP to be an estimated $29,840 billion, according to the recently published International
Monetary Fund (IMF) report. Despite its economic setbacks and sanctions by Western nations, China will follow close behind
rival America in FY2025 with the country’s GDP to be estimated at $19,790 billion. Germany is projected to be the third
largest economy in the world in FY2025 with the country’s GDP to be estimated at $4,591 billion. India is now expected to
takeover Japan’s position to clinch the title of the world’s 4th largest economy in FY2025. India’s GDP will rise to come at
$4,340 billion next fiscal year. Japan is expected to face an economic downhill, with the country projected to take the 5th
spot among the fastest growing global economies in 2025 the country’s GDP to be estimated at $4,310 billion. The UK,
France, Brazil, Italy & Canada are among the top 10 predicted countries, as per the IMF report. Moreover, Principality of
Liechtenstein has become IMF’s 191st member recently. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per the recently published International Monetary Fund (IMF) report
• Predictions for fastest growing economy in world in FY25 with GDP – US ($29,840 billion) | 2nd – China ($19,790 billion)
- 3rd – Germany ($4,591 billion) | 4th – India ($4,340 billion) | 5th – Japan ($4,310 billion)
- 6th – UK | 7th – France | 8th – Brazil | 9th – Italy | 10th – Canada
• Principality of Liechtenstein – became 191st member of IMF
• HQs of IMF – Washington, D.C., USA | MD & Chairperson – Kristalina Georgieva | Member countries – 191
https:// /#
10. Public sector banks (PSBs) and Financial Institutions (FIs) like NABARD, SIDBI, EXIM Bank, NHB,
IIFCL etc., have realised Rs 4.5 crore through scrap disposal during a month-long “Special Campaign
4.0” with a special focus on minimising pendency and institutionalising Swachhata from October
02-31, 2024. The Department of Financial Services (DFS) launched the campaign with special
impetus on better space management, customer-centric initiatives, making the environment clean and green, record
management and disposal of scrap. The DFS achieved 100% disposal of all identified Public Grievances, Public Appeals, PMO
references and MP references. As much as 11.79 lakh square feet of space has been freed and revenue of Rs 4.50 crore has
been earned through scrap disposal. During the campaign period, 12 PSBs and 43 Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) organised
‘Pension Grievances Weeks’. With regard to financial literacy, camps were organised in more than 510 locations across the
country, and 79.97 lakh dormant accounts were activated. Life Insurance Corporation of India settled 12.77 lakh unclaimed
policies and settled claims of more than 10,742 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PSBs & FIs realised Rs 4.5 Cr through scrap disposal during a month-long “Special Campaign 4.0”
• Special Campaign 4.0 – launched by Department of Financial Services (DFS)
• DFS – achieved 100% disposal of all identified Public Grievances, Public Appeals, PMO references & MP references
• 11.79 lakh square feet of space – freed | Rs 4.50 Cr – Revenue earned through scrap disposal
• 12 PSBs & 43 RRBs – organised ‘Pension Grievances Weeks’
• LIC settled: 12.77 lakh – unclaimed policies | 10,742+ Cr – claims
11. Israel has joined the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as its 69th member and 20th non-regional member. Israel formally
submitted its application for ADB membership in January 2022. The ADB Board of Governors approved Israel’s membership
on 14 April 2022 through Resolution no. 414: Membership of Israel and Increase in Authorized Capital Stock. Established in
1966, it is now owned by 69 members, 49 from the region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Israel – joined ADB as its 69th member & 20th non-regional member
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 69
12. SBI Mutual Fund (SBI MF), the country’s largest asset management company (AMC), became
the 1st fund house in India to surpass Rs 10 lakh crore in Assets Under Management (AUM),
reaching Rs 10.99 lakh crore in the September 2024 quarter, up from Rs 9.88 lakh crore in June
2024. SBI MF’s assets were 30% and 45% higher than those of 2nd and 3rd placed ICICI MF and HDFC
MF at Rs 8.41 lakh crore and Rs 7.59 lakh crore, respectively. The SBI Innovative Opportunities Fund, launched in August,
currently has an AUM of Rs 8,174 crore. The industry’s AUM jumped 12% to Rs 66.22 lakh crore in the September quarter,
against Rs 58.96 lakh crore logged in the June quarter. Of the 40 fund houses in operation, 16 had AUM of over Rs 1 lakh
crore as of September end. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI MF – became 1st fund house in India to surpass Rs 10 lakh Cr in Assets Under Management (AUM)
- Reached – Rs 10.99 lakh Cr in Sep 2024 quarter (from Rs 9.88 lakh Cr in Jun 2024)
• 2nd – ICICI MF (Rs 8.41 lakh Cr) | 3rd – HDFC MF (Rs 7.59 lakh Cr)
• SBI Innovative Opportunities Fund (launched in Aug) – has an AUM of Rs 8,174 Cr
• Industry’s AUM – jumped 12% to Rs 66.22 lakh Cr in Sep quarter (from Rs 58.96 lakh Cr in Jun quarter)
• Of 40 fund houses in operation, AUM of over Rs 1 lakh Cr as of September end – 16
• HQs of SBI Mutual Fund – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Shamsher Singh
https:// /#
13. In October 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has added 13 entities/platforms/websites to the Alert List of
unauthorised Forex trading platforms. These include - Ranger Capital, TDFX, Inefex, YorkerFX, Growline, Think Markets,
Smart Prop Trader, FundedNext, Weltrade, FreshForex, FX Road, DBG Markets, and Plusonetrade. Following this update, the
total number of entities on the list now stands at 88. The Alert List also contains names of entities/platforms/websites which
appear to be promoting unauthorised entities/ETPs. Furthermore, the central bank cautioned that an entity not appearing
on the list should not be assumed to have authorisation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – added 13 entities/platforms/websites to Alert List of unauthorised Forex trading platforms
- Ranger Capital, TDFX, Inefex, YorkerFX, Growline, Think Markets, Smart Prop Trader
- FundedNext, Weltrade, FreshForex, FX Road, DBG Markets, Plusonetrade
• Now, total number of entities on list –88
14. Private lender HDFC Bank has inaugurated its first branch in Singapore to provide banking services. HDFC Bank has been
granted a wholesale banking license by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This allows the Bank to offer a wide
range of financial products and services to residents of Singapore. The branch was inaugurated by Rakesh Singh, Group Head
- International Banking, Investment Banking, Private Banking, Digital Ecosystems and BaaS, HDFC Bank. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank – inaugurated its first branch in Singapore to provide banking services
• HQs of HDFC Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan | Tagline – “We understand your World”
• Singapore – Singapore – Dollar | PM – Lawrence Wong | President – Tharman Shanmugaratnam
15. Canara HSBC Life Insurance has announced the launch of “Promise4Future,” a non-linked
participating plan, designed to offer policyholders a unique combination of long-term
protection with wealth creation and customizable savings and income solutions. The plan is
being offered in 2 variants - ‘Savings4Future’ and ‘Income4Future’. ‘Savings4Future’ will enable
the policyholder to grow their savings while staying protected at every stage of life. In case of death, the nominee will receive
the higher of the sum assured on death and bonuses (if any) or 105% of premiums paid. At the end of the policy term, the
policyholder will be entitled to a Guaranteed Sum Assured plus bonuses. While ‘Income4Future’ will enable a steady income
stream, and a lump-sum benefit to meet the interim financial needs of the policyholder. Moreover, Promise4Future includes
an option for policyholders to revive their lapsed or paid-up policies, within 5 years of the first unpaid premium, subject to
underwriting approval. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Canara HSBC Life Insurance – to launch “Promise4Future,” a non-linked participating plan
• To offer policyholders a unique combination of long-term protection with wealth creation & customizable savings &
income solutions
• It is being offered in 2 variants – ‘Savings4Future’ & ‘Income4Future’
• ‘Savings4Future’ – enable policyholder to grow their savings while staying protected at every stage of life
- In case of death, nominee will receive higher of – sum assured on death & bonuses or 105% of premiums paid
• ‘Income4Future’ – enable a steady income stream & a lump-sum benefit to meet interim financial needs of policyholder
• HQs of Canara HSBC Life Insurance – Gurugram, Haryana | MD & CEO – Anuj Mathur
https:// /#
16. Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) has been assigned an ‘A1+’ rating for its short-term fixed deposits
aggregating ₹12,000 crore and an ‘AA’ rating (Stable) for its fixed deposits by CARE Ratings.
According to CARE Ratings, securities with an ‘A1’ rating are considered to have a very strong
degree of safety regarding the timely payment of financial obligations. Such securities carry
the lowest credit risk. The “+” modifier reflects the comparative standing within the category. Further, securities with an
“AA” rating are considered to have a high degree of safety regarding the timely servicing of financial obligations. Such
securities carry very low credit risk. A ‘Stable’ outlook indicates the expected stability (or retention) of the credit ratings in
the medium term on account of the stable credit risk profile of the entity in the medium term. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karur Vysya Bank – got ‘A1+’ rating for its short-term fixed deposits & ‘AA’ rating (Stable) for fixed deposits
- Short-term fixed deposits – ₹12,000 Cr | Ratings are given by – CARE Ratings
• HQs of Karur Vysya Bank – Karur, Tamil Nadu | MD & CEO – B Ramesh Babu | Founded in – 1916
17. IDFC First Bank, in association with Swift, has become the first Indian bank to offer a real-
time tracking service for cross-border money transfers. This marks a significant milestone in
the Indian banking industry. In India, customers are used to digital payments through UPI or
IMPS with real-time status updates, but similar services were not available for international
money transfers. IDFC First Bank has pioneered in providing the same. The service is available for customers using the
Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) for various purposes. Under the LRS, a resident Indian is allowed to remit up to
$2,50,000 per financial year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IDFC First Bank + Swift = became 1st Indian bank to offer a real-time tracking service for cross-border money transfers
• This service is available for – customers using Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) for various purposes
• Under LRS, a resident Indian is allowed to remit up to $2,50,000 per financial year
• HQs of IDFC First Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – V. Vaidyanathan | Established in – 2018
• HQs of Swift – La Hulpe, Belgium | CEO & Regional Head – Kiran Shetty
18. State Bank of India (SBI) has launched “SBI Innovation Hub” in partnership with APIX, a global collaborative innovation
platform for financial institutions and fintechs. SBI Innovation Hub provides a dedicated space for fintechs, startups, and
innovators worldwide to design next-generation financial solutions tailored to meet the digital needs of SBI’s diverse
customer base. The Hub allows participants to leverage SBI’s 250+ financial service APIs to develop and customize solutions
within a secure Sandbox environment. The initiative is aimed at driving financial innovation and digital transformation as
well as advancing financial inclusion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI + APIX = launched “SBI Innovation Hub” for financial institutions & fintechs
• Aim: To drive financial innovation & digital transformation as well as advancing financial inclusion
• HQs of APIX – Singapore | CEO – Umang Moondra
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
MDs – Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse
https:// /#
19. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has guided Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs), especially
upper-layer NBFCs, to maintain at least 25% of their overall borrowings from capital market
instruments such as commercial papers, non-convertible debentures (NCDs), external commercial
borrowings (ECBs), among others. Currently, the majority of NBFCs have a higher share of bank
borrowing. The RBI in November 2023 hiked the risk weight on bank loans to NBFCs by 25% over and above the risk weight
associated with the given external rating in all cases where the risk weight as per the external rating of NBFCs is below 100%.
This led to a sharp slowdown in bank loans to NBFCs. According to the RBI’s latest sectoral credit deployment data, banks’
loans to NBFCs grew by 12% year-on-year (y-o-y) to Rs 15.22 lakh crore as of August 23, sharply lower than the 21% y-o-y
growth seen in the same period last year. Currently, some NBFCs have upwards of the 40 banks in their bank borrowing
base, making it hard for banks to monitor the portfolio of NBFCs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – guided NBFCs to maintain at least 25% of their overall borrowings from capital market instruments
• RBI – hiked risk weight on bank loans to NBFCs by 25% over in Nov 2023
• According to RBI’s latest sectoral credit deployment data:
- Banks’ loans to NBFCs – grew by 12% y-o-y to Rs 15.22 lakh Cr as of Aug 2023 (from 21% y-o-y growth in Aug 2022)
20. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the list of specified Government securities (G-Secs) that non-residents can
invest in under the Fully Accessible Route (FAR) by including 10-year Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs). The central bank has
decided to designate SGrBs of 10-year tenor to be issued by the Government in the second half (H2) of FY25. This comes in
the wake of Indian Government Securities (G-Secs) being included in JPMorgan Chase’s benchmark Emerging Markets Bond
Index Global Diversified (GBI-EM GD) index starting June 28, 2024. Further, the G-Secs will be included in the Bloomberg EM
Local Currency Government indices, starting January 2025. Also, FTSE Russell will add G-Secs to the FTSE Emerging Markets
Government Bond Index (EMGBI), starting in September 2025. The RBI, in consultation with the Government, had introduced
a separate channel, FAR, in 2020 to enable non-residents to invest in specified G-Secs. These investors include Foreign
Portfolio Investors (FPIs), Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) and other entities permitted to
invest in G-Secs under the Debt Regulations. The Government will raise ₹6.61 lakh crore for H2 FY25. Out of this, the
Government will mop up ₹20,000 crore via four SGrB issuances of Rs 5,000 crore each (two of 10-years tenor and two of 30-
years tenor). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – expanded list of specified Government securities (G-Secs) that non-residents can invest in under Fully Accessible
Route (FAR) by including 10-year SGrBs
• RBI – to designate SGrBs of 10-year tenor to be issued by Government in second half (H2) of FY25
• G-Secs – will be included in Bloomberg EM Local Currency Government indices, starting Jan 2025
• FTSE Russell – will add G-Secs to FTSE Emerging Markets Government Bond Index (EMGBI), starting in Sep 2025
• RBI – introduced a separate channel, FAR, in 2020 to enable non-residents to invest in specified G-Secs
- Investors include – FPIs, NRIs, OCIs & other entities permitted to invest in G-Secs under Debt Regulations
• Government – to raise ₹6.61 lakh Cr for H2 FY25
- Out of this, it will mop up – ₹20,000 Cr via 4 SGrB issuances of Rs 5,000 Cr each (2 of 10-years tenor & 2 of 30-years)
https:// /#
21. GenWise has launched UPI payments on its app for senior citizens. This is the industry’s first-ever
introduction of UPI for elders, offering a simple user interface, enhanced security, and cyber fraud
awareness. GenWise UPI has been developed in collaboration with Axis Bank, which is acting as the sponsor
bank for facilitating transactions. Over the years, UPI has become an integral part of everyday transactions,
with over 400 million unique users. However, over 250 million Indian elders have remained less connected to this
transformation due to fear of the unknown and the complex interfaces of other apps. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GenWise – launched UPI payments on its app for senior citizens | 1st-ever introduction of UPI for elders
• GenWise UPI – developed in collaboration with Axis Bank | Axis Bank – sponsor bank
• HQs of GenWise – New Delhi | Co-founder & CEO – Nehul Malhotra
22. Swiggy, Nykaa, Bookmyshow, Redbus, Zepto, Nature’s Basket, and Vedantu among others have
tied up with payments gateway Cashfree Payments to tap international customers. Cashfree, which
has received the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) cross-border payments licence, has launched a pilot
with select merchants that will tap customers who are based outside India and want to make
payments in the country. The biggest beneficiaries will be users who solely transact using the RuPay credit and debit card
platforms and the UPI systems. Cashfree was the first company to secure the payment aggregator-cross border licence (PA-
CB). The other companies are BillDesk, Amazon Pay, and global payments major Adyen. As per Economic Survey 2024, India
is expected to receive $129 billion worth of remittances by 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cashfree – launched a pilot with select merchants to tap customers based outside India & want to make payments here
- Companies tying up for this – Swiggy, Nykaa, Bookmyshow, Redbus, Zepto, Nature’s Basket & Vedantu among others
• Cashfree – 1st company to secure payment aggregator-cross border licence (PA-CB)
- Other companies – BillDesk, Amazon Pay & Adyen
• As per Economic Survey 2024 – India is expected to receive $129 billion worth of remittances by 2025
• HQs of Cashfree Payments – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO & Co-founder – Akash Sinha
23. Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman has launched the “National MSME Cluster
Outreach Programme”, organised jointly by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, and Small
Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). Around 150 MSME Clusters were connected virtually for the launch. The Union
Finance Minister also virtually inaugurated six new SIDBI Branches in Karnataka, located at Tumakuru, Raichur, Shivamogga,
Kalaburagi, Mangaluru and Vijayapura. She also inaugurated four Nari Shakti Branches of Union Bank of India at Bengaluru,
Chennai, Jaipur and Vishakhapatnam, with the goal of empowering women entrepreneurs. She also launched the Learning
Centre of Canara Bank at Bagaluru, Bengaluru. The Union Finance Minister set the target for all Scheduled Commercial Banks
(SCBs) and NBFCs for providing additional MSME credit of Rs 1.54 lakh crore in the current financial year. Thus the banks
and NBFCs should aim at total credit growth of Rs 5.75 lakh crore, Rs 6.21 lakh crore and Rs 7 lakh crore to MSMEs in FY25,
FY26 and FY27 respectively. During the event, SIDBI signed an MoU with the Peenya Industries Association strengthening
the collaboration to support MSMEs through capacity building, credit facilities, and knowledge-sharing. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nirmala Sitharaman – launched “National MSME Cluster Outreach Programme” | Organised jointly by – DFS & SIDBI
- ~150 MSME Clusters – connected virtually for launch
• Nirmala Sitharaman – inaugurated 6 new SIDBI Branches in Karnataka
https:// /#
- At – Tumakuru, Raichur, Shivamogga, Kalaburagi, Mangaluru & Vijayapura
• 4 Nari Shakti Branches of Union Bank of India – also inaugurated at Bengaluru, Chennai, Jaipur & Vishakhapatnam
- Aim: To empower women entrepreneurs
• Learning Centre of Canara Bank – also launched at Bagaluru, Bengaluru
• Target for all SCBs & NBFCs – set for providing additional MSME credit of Rs 1.54 lakh Cr in FY25
• Total credit growth by banks & NBFCs for: FY25 – Rs 5.75 lakh Cr | FY26 – Rs 6.21 lakh Cr | FY27 – Rs 7 lakh Cr
• SIDBI + Peenya Industries = an MoU to support MSMEs through capacity building, credit facilities & knowledge-sharing
• Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
MoS in Ministry of Corporate Affairs: Harsh Malhotra
24. IndiaP2P has launched a new version of its offering, called the “Monthly Income Plan-Plus”, which
adheres to the RBI’s updated, faster settlement guidelines for P2P lending. Lenders on the platform can
earn up to 18% per annum interest (net of fees) with monthly payouts, including both principal and
interest. Borrowers, meanwhile, gain access to market-competitive rates. P2P platforms enable lenders
to earn interest income, though with the risk of delay or default by borrowers. Under the RBI’s new guidelines, lenders can
continue lending up to Rs 50 lakh, a cumulative amount that they can allocate across all P2P platforms to multiple borrowers.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• IndiaP2P – launched new version of its offering, “Monthly Income Plan-Plus” to adhere to RBI’s updated, faster
settlement guidelines for P2P lending
• Lenders can earn up to – 18% per annum interest with monthly payouts, including both principal & interest
• Borrowers – gain access to market-competitive rates
• Under RBI’s new guidelines, lenders can continue lending up to Rs 50 lakh, that can be allocated across all P2P platforms
to multiple borrowers
• HQs of IndiaP2P – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Neha Juneja
25. Markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has allowed mutual funds to
invest in overseas mutual funds (MFs) or unit trusts (UTs) that invest a specific portion of their
assets in Indian securities. At the time of making investments (both fresh and subsequent),
Indian MF schemes will have to ensure that the underlying overseas MFs/UTs do not have more
than 25% exposure to Indian securities. The MF schemes are required to ensure that all
investors’ contributions to an overseas MF/UT are combined into a single investment vehicle without any side vehicles. The
corpus of an overseas MF/UT should be a blind pool with no segregated portfolios, ensuring all investors have equal and
proportionate rights in the fund. The regulator has barred advisory agreements between Indian MFs and the underlying
overseas MFs to prevent conflicts of interest. Subsequent to the investment, if the exposure breaches the threshold, an
observance period of 6 months from the date of publicly available information of such breach would be permitted to Indian
MF schemes for monitoring of any portfolio rebalancing activity by the underlying overseas MF/UT. During the observance
period, the Indian MF scheme would not undertake any fresh investment in such overseas MF/UT and can resume their
investments in such overseas MF/UT in case the exposure to Indian securities by such overseas MF/UT falls below the limit
of 25%. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• SEBI allowed mutual funds to invest in overseas MFs or UTs that invest some portion of their assets in Indian securities
• At time of making investments, underlying overseas MFs/UTs do not have more than 25% exposure to Indian securities
• Corpus of an overseas MF/UT – should be a blind pool with no segregated portfolios
• SEBI – barred advisory agreements between Indian MFs & underlying overseas MFs to prevent conflicts of interest
• Observance period of 6 months from date of publicly available information of breach – would be permitted to Indian
MF schemes
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992
26. The research report titled “How Tax Simplification has given a necessary fillip to ITR Filing” from the Economic
Department of the State Bank of India (SBI), which analysed the income disparity curves of assessment years (AY) 2014-
2015/FY2014 and AY2024/FY2023, observed that there has been a cumulative 74.2% decline in income disparity coverage
for those earning up to Rs 5 lakh annually between fiscal years 2013-2014 and 2022-2023. A comparison of disparity in
income during AY15 and AY24 shows that there is a clear rightward shift in the income distribution curve, signifying people
in lower income brackets are increasing their income to converge towards their share of the population. For people with
income up to Rs 3.5 lakh, the share in income disparity has reduced from 31.8% in FY2014 to 12.8% in FY2021. The lower
income group (less than Rs 5.5 lakh) has registered a positive growth rate for all years in the last decade. According to the
research report, states such as Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat and Karnataka, which have been traditional leaders in income
tax base, are nearing saturation in Income Tax Return (ITR) filing and their share in the overall tax file base is decreasing
continuously. Uttar Pradesh is the leader in increasing its share in the income tax file base, followed by Bihar, Andhra
Pradesh, Punjab and Rajasthan. Moreover, the contribution of direct taxes to total tax revenue reached 56.7% in AY2024
(54.6% in AY2023), the highest in 14 years. Direct taxes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio inched up to 6.64% in AY2024,
the highest since 2000-2001, vindicating the results of improving tax compliance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Research report “How Tax Simplification has given a necessary fillip to ITR Filing” – released by Economic Dept of SBI
• Income disparity coverage for those earning up to Rs 5 lakh annually between FY14-FY23 – declined 74.2%
• Shift in income distribution curve – rightward, signifying people in lower income brackets are increasing their income to
converge towards their share of population
• For people with income up to Rs 3.5 lakh, share in income disparity – reduced to 12.8% in FY21 (from 31.8% in FY14)
• Lower income group (less than Rs 5.5 lakh) – positive growth rate for all years in last decade
• States, which have been traditional leaders in income tax base – nearing saturation in ITR filing & share in overall tax file
base is decreasing continuously
- Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat & Karnataka
• Top states in increasing its share in income tax file base – UP | Followed by – Bihar, Andhra, Punjab & Rajasthan
• Contribution of direct taxes to total tax revenue – 56.7% in AY2024 (from 54.6% in AY2023), highest in 14 years
• Direct taxes to GDP ratio – inched up to 6.64% in AY2024, highest since FY01
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27. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has imposed a fine of Rs 54 lakh on the Union Bank of India for failing to report
suspicious transaction reports and for not undertaking due diligence under the anti-money laundering law for certain
accounts at one of its branches in Mumbai. The federal agency issued the penalty notice under section 13 of the Prevention
of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on October 1 as it observed that the charges against the lender were substantiated. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) – imposed a fine of Rs 54 lakh on Union Bank of India
• Penalty notice was issued under – section 13 of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
• HQs of UBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – A. Manimekhalai | Tagline – “Good People to Bank With”
28. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has mandated all qualified stockbrokers to
provide their clients with a Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for blocking funds or a 3-in-1 trading
system to trade in the secondary markets from 1 February 2025. A UPI block mechanism enables
investors to set aside funds in their bank accounts for stock trading, rather than transferring the
funds to a trading member. It was introduced by SEBI in January 2019 for the primary market, and in January 2024 for the
secondary market. Currently, the use of this mechanism is optional for trading members. The 3-in-1 account facility
combines an investor’s trading, demat, and bank accounts into one integrated platform. It automatically blocks the required
funds for buy orders and blocks securities in the demat account for sell orders. If the trade is not executed, the funds and
securities are promptly released. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – mandated all qualified stockbrokers to provide their clients with an UPI for blocking funds or a 3-in-1 trading
system to trade in secondary markets from Feb 1, 2025
• UPI block mechanism – enables investors to set aside funds in their bank accounts for stock trading, rather than
transferring funds to a trading member
- Introduced by SEBI for: Primary market – in Jan 2019 | For secondary market – in Jan 2024
• 3-in-1 account facility – combines an investor’s trading, demat & bank accounts into one integrated platform
29. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to obtain
necessary approvals from the government and concurrence from the investee companies when
their equity holdings go beyond the prescribed limits and they reclassify the holdings as foreign
direct investment (FDI). The ‘Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019’
or ‘FEM (NDI) Rules, 2019’, prescribe that investment made by the FPI should be less than 10% of the total paid-up equity
capital on a fully diluted basis. Any FPI investing in breach of the prescribed limit should have the option of divesting their
holdings or reclassifying such holdings as FDI within 5 trading days from the date of settlement of the trades causing the
breach. According to the RBI, the FPI should have the concurrence of the Indian investee company concerned for
reclassification of the investment to FDI to enable such company to ensure compliance with conditions pertaining to sectors
prohibited for FDI, sectoral caps and government approvals, wherever applicable, under the rules. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – directed FPIs to obtain necessary approvals from govt & concurrence from investee companies
- when their equity holdings go beyond prescribed limits & they reclassify holdings as FDI
• ‘Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019’ prescribe that investment made by FPI should be
less than 10% of total paid-up equity capital on a fully diluted basis
https:// /#
• Any FPI investing in breach of prescribed limit should have option of divesting their holdings or reclassifying such
holdings as FDI within 5 trading days from date of settlement of trades causing breach
30. Star India will make a web series of 5 episodes on the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 90-year-
long journey to help people have a better understanding of the central bank’s vital role in the
country’s fast-growing economy and to provide an in-depth exploration of the RBI functions and
operations. The RBI, which was set up in 1935 in accordance with the provisions of the ‘Reserve
Bank of India Act, 1934’, completed 90 years in April 2024. Star India has been awarded the tender for Rs 6.5 crore to make
the web series. The series also aims to make complex financial concepts accessible and interesting to a broad audience,
thereby, contributing to financial literacy. The 1st Governor of the RBI was Sir Osborne Smith (1935-37), while the 1st Indian
Governor of the RBI was C.D. Deshmukh (1943-49). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Star India – awarded a tender of Rs 6.5 Cr to make a web series of 5 episodes on RBI’s 90-year-long journey
• RBI – set up in accordance with provisions of ‘Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934’
• Aim: To make complex financial concepts accessible & interesting to a broad audience, contributing to financial literacy
• 1st Governor of RBI – Sir Osborne Smith (1935-37) | 1st Indian Governor of RBI – C.D. Deshmukh (1943-49)
31. Shriram Mutual Fund (MF) has launched the industry-first multi-sector rotation fund, which will
take concentrated sectoral bets through a quantamental approach. The scheme will invest in 3-6
sectors that are likely to outperform in the near-to-long term. The fund will move in and out of sectors
based on their relative momentum and other factors. The sectors will be selected based on Shriram
Asset Management Company’s (AMC) proprietary Enhanced Quantamental Investment (EQI) framework. The fund will be
market-cap agnostic, with the share of large, midcap, and smallcap stocks in the portfolio depending on the size of
companies operational in the selected sectors. One of the key advantages is tax efficiency for the investor, as there is no
capital gains tax implication when the fund manager rebalances across sectors within the scheme. The scheme will be
launched on November 18. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shriram MF – launched industry-first multi-sector rotation fund to take concentrated sectoral bets through a
quantamental approach
• Scheme will invest in – 3-6 sectors, to be selected based on Shriram AMC’s proprietary EQI framework
• Scheme – to be launched on Nov 18, 2024
• HQs of Shriram AMC – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Ramamurthy Vaidyanathan | MD & CEO – Kartik L Jain
https:// /#
32. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) based inflation reached a 14-month high of 6.21% in October
2024, up from 5.49% in September 2024, according to the data revealed by the National Statistics
Office (NSO), under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The data shows
higher inflation in rural areas at 6.68%, compared to 5.62% in urban regions. The Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) aims to keep inflation within a range of 2-6%, with a medium-term target of 4%. The
Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded a significant year-on-year (Y-o-Y) inflation rate of 10.87%. In September, food
inflation stood at 9.24%. Housing inflation also rose, with October 2024 recording a rate of 2.81%, slightly up from
September’s 2.72%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data revealed by National Statistics Office (NSO), under MoSPI
• CPI based inflation – reached 14-month high of 6.21% in Oct 2024 (from 5.49% in Sep 2024)
• Inflation in: Rural areas – 6.68% | Urban areas – 5.62% | Inflation target by RBI – 4% (deviation - 2%)
• Food inflation (by CFPI) – recorded an y-o-y inflation rate of 10.87% (from 9.24% in Sep 2024)
• Housing inflation – rose to 2.81% in Oct 2024 (from 2.72% in Sep 2024)
• HQs of NSO – New Delhi | Chairperson – Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar
• MoS I/C of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation: Rao Inderjit Singh | Constituency – Gurgaon, Haryana
33. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has issued its 1st biodiversity and nature theme bond
to finance a pool of eligible projects across Asia and the Pacific under its ‘Theme Bonds for
Sustainable Development’ program. The $100 million (A$150 million), 10-year issue was
purchased by the Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company Limited of Japan and arranged by Credit
Agricole CIB. ADB’s Theme Bonds for Sustainable Development act as a key vehicle to
mobilize private capital in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and the Kunming-
Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, while offering investors with a safe and attractive investment opportunity through
ADB’s AAA credit rating. ADB is a founding partner of the ‘Coral Triangle Initiative’ established in 2009, safeguarding one of
the world’s most critical marine ecosystems. The ADB’s biodiversity and nature bond was announced at the 16th Conference
of the Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16 - CBD) in Cali, Colombia. ADB will soon launch its
“Environment Action Plan 2024-2030: Towards a Nature Positive Asia and the Pacific” to create a road map for its activities
to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient,
and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned
by 69 members - 49 from the region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – issued its 1st biodiversity & nature theme bond to finance a pool of eligible projects across Asia & the Pacific
- Under its – ‘Theme Bonds for Sustainable Development’ program | Issue – $100 million (A$150 million) for 10 yrs
• Purchased by – Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company Ltd of Japan | Arranged by – Credit Agricole CIB
• ADB – founding partner of ‘Coral Triangle Initiative,’ established in 2009
• ADB’s biodiversity & nature bond – announced at ‘COP 16 - CBD’ in Cali, Colombia
• ADB – to launch “Environment Action Plan 2024-2030: Towards a Nature Positive Asia and the Pacific”
- To create a road map for its activities to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss & pollution
https:// /#
34. According to the Finance Ministry, Public Sector Banks (PSBs) have shown robust performance
in the 1st half of the current fiscal year (H1 FY25) with a 26% growth in net profit, an increase in
business and a decline in non-performing assets (NPAs). The aggregate business of 12 PSBs - State
Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, Union
Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Punjab & Sindh Bank, and UCO Bank -
stood at Rs 236.04 lakh crore during the April-September 2024 period, registering an 11% year-on-year (YoY) growth. During
the first 6 months of FY2025, the credit and deposit portfolio grew 12.9% and 9.5% YoY, and stood at Rs 102.29 lakh crore
and Rs 133.75 lakh crore, respectively. The operating and net profit during the period was Rs 1,50,023 crore (14.4% YoY
growth) and Rs 85,520 crore (25.6% YoY growth). The gross and net NPA stood at 3.12% and 0.63%, respectively, in
September 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per Finance Ministry, PSBs – have a 26% growth in net profit in 1st half of FY25 (H1 FY25)
• Aggregate business of 12 PSBs – Rs 236.04 lakh Cr during Apr-Sep 2024, an 11% YoY growth
- 12 PSBs – SBI, PNB, BoB, BoI, BoM, UBI, Canara Bank, CBoI, Indian Bank, IOB, Punjab & Sindh Bank, and UCO Bank
• Growth during 1st 6 months of FY25: Credit – 12.9% YoY (Rs 102.29 lakh Cr) | Deposit – 9.5% YoY (Rs 133.75 lakh Cr)
• Operating profit – Rs 1,50,023 Cr (14.4% YoY growth) | Net profit – Rs 85,520 Cr (25.6% YoY growth)
• In September 2024: Gross NPA – 3.12% | Net NPA – 0.63%
35. Alliance Network has announced its entry into the Indian market through a partnership with Axis Bank for the Point of
Sale (POS) aggregation to enhance India’s digital payment landscape. This partnership aims to promote digital
transformation and growth in payments and merchant services in India. This joint venture claims to create an interconnected
digital economy through technology-driven payment solutions that ensure secure and efficient transactions while enhancing
the overall customer experience. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Alliance Network (Bahrain) + Axis Bank = partnership for POS aggregation to enhance India’s digital payment landscape
• HQs of Axis Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Amitabh Chaudhry | Tagline – “Badhti ka Naam Zindagi”
36. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has published its 43rd Half-yearly Report from April to September 2024 on Management
of Foreign Exchange Reserves (MFER). As per the report, India’s foreign exchange reserves position, as on October 18, 2024,
was estimated at $688.27 billion. This includes Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) of $598.24 billion, Gold worth $67.44 billion,
Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) of $18.27 billion and Reserve Tranche Position (RTP) of $4.32 billion. The Department of
External Investments and Operations (DEIO), under the RBI, publishes this half-yearly report. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 43rd Half-yearly Report from Apr to Sep 2024 on Management of Foreign Exchange Reserves (MFER) – published by DEIO
• As on Oct 18, 2024, India’s foreign exchange reserves position – estimated at $688.27 billion, including:
- Foreign Currency Assets – $598.24 billion | Gold – $67.44 billion
- Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) – $18.27 billion | Reserve Tranche Position (RTP) – $4.32 billion
https:// /#
37. The Union Government has released tax devolution of Rs 1,78,173 crore to State Governments, as against the normal
monthly devolution of Rs 89,086.50 crore. It includes one advance instalment, in addition to the regular instalment due in
October, 2024. Uttar Pradesh received the highest amount of Rs 31,962 crore, followed by Bihar (Rs 17,921 crore), Madhya
Pradesh (Rs 13,987 crore), West Bengal (Rs 13,404 crore), and Maharashtra (Rs 11,255 crore). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Government released tax devolution of Rs 1,78,173 Cr to State Governments
- against the normal monthly devolution of Rs 89,086.50 Cr
• Uttar Pradesh – received the highest amount of Rs 31,962 Cr
- Followed by Bihar (Rs 17,921 Cr), MP (Rs 13,987 Cr), West Bengal (Rs 13,404 Cr), Maharashtra (Rs 11,255 Cr)
38. Razorpay has launched the “Razorpay Venture Investment Programme” in collaboration with
venture capital (VC) firms, Peak XV, and Lightspeed, to invest in over 50 early-stage business-to-
business (B2B) companies. The company and its VC partners will invest in 10-15 early-stage
startups every year, providing funding, technology, and leadership support to B2B startups across
various stages of development. Early-stage ventures could see potential fundraising of up to $1
million as part of the programme. Early-stage fintech companies will have access to Razorpay’s API (Application Programming
Interface) stack and sandbox environments. Vishnu Acharya will lead the programme for the startups. Meanwhile, companies
will have access to the ‘Razorpay Rize community’ of more than 3,000 founders and businesses. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Razorpay + Peak XV + Lightspeed = launched “Razorpay Venture Investment Programme” to invest in 50+ early-stage
B2B companies
• Early-stage ventures could see potential fundraising of – up to $1 million as part of the programme
• Vishnu Acharya – to lead programme for the startups
• HQs of Razorpay – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO – Harshil Mathur | Co-founders – Harshil Mathur & Shashank Kumar
39. The first report by the ‘UPI for Her’ initiative - which is a collaborative effort by the National Payments Corporation of
India (NPCI) and the Women’s World Banking (WWB) - states that women’s micro businesses are largely undiscovered by
merchant aggregators as they operate in semi-urban and rural areas. The survey data shows that 57% of the 2,500 women
entrepreneurs surveyed, as part of a pilot, were not aware of UPI-based offerings. The survey was conducted in partnership
with MobiKwik and PhonePe. About 15% of the women surveyed said they were unclear about the payments and charges
by the merchant aggregator. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per the first report/survey by the ‘UPI for Her’ initiative:
- women’s micro businesses are largely undiscovered by merchant aggregators
- 57% of the 2,500 women entrepreneurs surveyed were not aware of UPI-based offerings
- 15% of the women surveyed said they were unclear about the payments and charges
• Survey was conducted in partnership with = MobiKwik + PhonePe
• ‘UPI for Her’ initiative is a collaborative effort by = NPCI + Women’s World Banking (WWB)
• HQs of WWB – New York, US | President & CEO – Mary Ellen Iskenderian
https:// /#
40. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) classified the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, and
ICICI Bank as domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs), with SBI and HDFC Bank
required to maintain additional capital buffers starting April 2025. From April 1, 2025, SBI’s
additional capital requirement will increase by 20 basis points (bps) to 0.80% of its risk-
weighted assets from the current 0.60%. Similarly, HDFC Bank’s additional capital
requirement will increase by the same quantum to 0.40% of its risk-weighted assets from 0.20% currently. Systemically
important banks are those considered ‘too big to fail’ due to their size, cross-jurisdictional activities, complexity, lack of
substitutability, and interconnectedness. The disorderly failure of these banks has the potential to cause significant
disruption to the essential services they provide to the banking system, and in turn, to the overall economic activity. RBI had
classified SBI and ICICI Bank as D-SIBs in 2015 and 2016, respectively. In 2017, HDFC Bank was also classified as a D-SIB. The
D-SIB framework was issued by RBI in 2014. Based on their Systemic Importance Scores (SISs) in ascending order, banks are
plotted into 4 different buckets and are required to have additional Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (CET1) requirements
ranging from 0.20% to 0.80% of risk-weighted assets (RWA). CET1 is the highest quality of regulatory capital, as it absorbs
losses immediately when they occur. In case a foreign bank having a branch presence in India is a Global Systemically
Important Bank (G-SIB), it has to maintain additional CET1 capital surcharge in India as applicable to it as a G-SIB,
proportionate to its RWAs in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – classified SBI, HDFC Bank & ICICI Bank as domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs)
• SBI & HDFC Bank – required to maintain additional capital buffers starting April 2025
• Additional capital requirement to increase from Apr 1, 2025:
- SBI – by 20 bps to 0.80% (from 0.60%) | HDFC Bank – by 20 bps to 0.40% (from 0.20%)
• Systemically important banks – considered ‘too big to fail’ due to size, cross-jurisdictional activities, complexity, etc.
• Classification as D-SIBs by RBI: SBI – 2015 | ICICI Bank – 201 | HDFC Bank – 2017
• D-SIB framework – issued by RBI in 2014
• Based on SISs, banks are required to have additional CET1 requirements from 0.20-0.80% of risk-weighted assets (RWA)
• Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (CET1) – highest quality of regulatory capital (absorbs losses immediately when they occur)
• HQs of ICICI Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sandeep Bakhshi | Taglines – “Hum Hain Na!” & “Khayal Apka”
41. Tata AIG General Insurance Company has launched 5 new products - Mental Wellbeing, EmpowerHer, OPD Care,
CanCare, and Flexi Shield - to enhance the flexibility and comprehensiveness of its retail health insurance products. As
medical costs continue to rise and healthcare needs evolve, these products are designed to provide customised protection,
addressing emerging health concerns and lifestyle changes. The company aims to enhance its health insurance operations
over the next two years, targeting an expansion of its agent base from 92,000 to over 1,50,000 as part of its broader strategy.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata AIG Gen Ins Co. – launched 5 products to enhance flexibility & comprehensiveness of its health insurance products
- Mental Wellbeing, EmpowerHer, OPD Care, CanCare & Flexi Shield
• Aim (Tata AIG): To enhance its health insurance operations over next two years
- Target – expansion base to over 1,50,000 (from 92,000)
• HQs of Tata AIG Gen Ins – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Neelesh Garg
https:// /#
42. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched a UPI (Unified Payments
Interface) safety awareness campaign, “Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon”. It is conceptualised by Ogilvy
to empower citizens with the skills to counter common risks and threats from scammers. As the
campaign’s brand ambassador, renowned actor Pankaj Tripathi will star in a series of 6 ad films
in 11 Indian languages. These films will highlight common tactics used by scammers and
fraudsters to deceive people. Two films in the series, ‘Moongfaliwala’ and ‘Paanwala’, featuring Pankaj Tripathi in roles
matching the titles, have already been released. The 360-degree media campaign, comprising a mix of television, print,
radio, OTT, cinema, digital and social media, aims to increase user education and reduce online scams, thereby boosting
confidence in digital payments. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NPCI – launched a UPI safety awareness campaign, “Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon”
• Conceptualised by Ogilvy to empower citizens with skills to counter common risks & threats from scammers
• Campaign’s brand ambassador – Pankaj Tripathi | To star in a series of 6 ad films in 11 Indian languages
- 2 films, ‘Moongfaliwala’ & ‘Paanwala’ – already been released
• Aim: To increase user education & reduce online scams, thereby boosting confidence in digital payments
• HQs of Ogilvy – New York, US | CEO (Global) – Devika Bulchandani | Chief Advisor (India) – Piyush Pandey
43. PhonePe has announced the launch of contributions to NPS (National Pension System) as a new savings category under
Bharat Connect (earlier known as BBPS), on its platform. With this launch, PhonePe enables millions of users to now make
seamless, secure and easy contributions to their NPS account through the PhonePe app. NPS is a highly effective tax saving
instrument for personal retirement planning. This scheme not only provides significant tax savings but also comes in handy
as a retirement corpus. The launch of this feature will allow users to contribute conveniently using the PhonePe app.
Established in 2017, NBBL’s Bharat Bill Payments System (BBPS) was initially envisaged as a bill payment solution but has
now extended operations to over 25 categories of payments. The platform currently processes more than 200 million
transactions per month and aims for 1 billion monthly transactions in 2-3 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PhonePe – to launch contributions to NPS as a new savings category under Bharat Connect (earlier known as BBPS)
• NBBL’s Bharat Bill Payments System – Established in 2017 | Now extended operations to 25+ categories of payments
• BBPS – currently processes >200 million transactions per month & aims for 1 billion monthly transactions in 2-3 years
• HQs of PhonePe – Bangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Sameer Nigam | Founded in – 2015
• HQs of NBBL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Noopur Chaturvedi
44. Businesses with more than Rs 250 crore turnover, from earlier Rs 500 crore, and all central public sector enterprises
(CPSEs) will now be required to onboard the invoice discounting platform ‘Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS)’
by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as per the latest notification issued by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises
(MSME). According to the notification, the onboarding process on the TReDS platform (which includes RXIL, M1xchange,
Invoicemart, and C2treds) is to be completed by 31st March, 2025. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Union Budget
2024-2025 announced reduced turnover criteria to Rs 250 crore from Rs 500 crore for buyers to get on TReDS. Moreover,
she had also announced that medium enterprises (with turnover between Rs 50 crore and Rs 250 crore) will also be included
in the scope of the suppliers. TReDS had financed 41.6 lakh invoices involving Rs 1.38 lakh crore during FY2024. The RBI
undertook the TReDS initiative in 2014 to enable MSME suppliers to discount their invoices and receive payments before
their due date by ensuring the conversion of their bills into liquid funds in a short period. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• As per latest notification issued by Ministry of MSME:
• Businesses with >Rs 250 Cr turnover & all CPSEs – required to onboard invoice discounting platform ‘TReDS’ by RBI
• Onboarding process on TReDS platform – to be completed by Mar 31, 2025
- TReDS platform includes – RXIL, M1xchange, Invoicemart & C2treds
• Union Budget 2024-25 – announced reduced turnover criteria to Rs 250 Cr for buyers to get on TReDS (from Rs 500 Cr)
• TReDS – financed 41.6 lakh invoices involving Rs 1.38 lakh Cr during FY24
• Minister of MSME: Jitan Ram Manjhi | Constituency – Gaya, Bihar
MoS in Ministry of MSME: Shobha Karandlaje
45. Mastercard has launched “Mastercard Pay Local”, a global service that seamlessly connects
consumers and merchants by allowing consumers to make card-based payments using local digital
wallets. With this ‘Pay Local’ service, digital wallet providers will gain access to more than 2 billion
Mastercard payment cards. Leading wallets in the Asia Pacific, such as ‘DANA’ in Indonesia, ‘Touch ‘n
Go’ in Malaysia, ‘Bakong’ in Cambodia, and ‘LankaPay’ in Sri Lanka, will leverage Mastercard Pay Local to allow consumers
to make payments at more than 35 million merchants that accept these wallets. Mastercard Pay Local builds upon existing
partnerships with leading wallet providers, including ‘Alipay’ and ‘Weixin Pay’ in the Chinese Mainland and ‘Octopus’ in
Hong Kong SAR, to offer a convenient way for international visitors to pay like a local when traveling to these destinations,
regardless of where in the world their Mastercard card was issued. Today, a range of digital wallets already accept
Mastercard to fund digital wallets domestically and pay at merchant locations that accept these wallets, including ‘GrabPay’
in Southeast Asia, ‘Maya’ in the Philippines, ‘ShopBack’ in Singapore, ‘TrueMoney’ in Thailand, and ‘Mercado Pago’ in
Argentina. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mastercard – launched “Mastercard Pay Local”, a global service that connects consumers & merchants
- by allowing consumers to make card-based payments using local digital wallets
• Wallets in Asia Pacific to leverage Mastercard Pay Local – ‘DANA’ in Indonesia, ‘Touch ‘n Go’ in Malaysia
- ‘Bakong’ in Cambodia & ‘LankaPay’ in Sri Lanka
• HQs of Mastercard – New York, US | CEO – Michael Miebach | Founded in – 1966
46. Venture Capital entity, BlueGreen Ventures, has launched a maiden fund for investment in
early-stage startups in India, as well as IPO-bound companies. BlueGreen Ventures, a new VC firm
co-founded by Rajeev Suri and Anup Jain, targets a $75 million (about Rs 633 crore) corpus with a
green shoe option. The new fund claims to be backed by Global CEOs and CXOs from Fortune 500
companies, along with successful startup founders from India. BlueGreen Venture fund will prioritise investment in sectors
like climate and sustainability, fintech solutions tailored for the new India, and consumer-driven B2C businesses reflecting
post-COVID consumption shifts. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• BlueGreen Ventures – launched a maiden $75 million fund for investment in early-stage startups
- Launched by – Rajeev Suri & Anup Jain
• HQs of BlueGreen Ventures – Oklahoma, US | Co-founders – Rajeev Suri & Anup Jain
https:// /#
47. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 11.64 lakh on 5 cooperative banks for non-compliance with the
directions issued by the banking regulator. The highest penalty of Rs 6.34 lakh has been imposed on Jaynagar Mozilpur
People’s Cooperative Bank Ltd, West Bengal. Other banks penalised by RBI are Nawanagar Cooperative Bank Ltd, Jamnagar,
Gujarat (Rs 2.50 lakh), Vijapur Nagarik Sahakari Bank Ltd, Mehsana, Gujarat (Rs 1 lakh) and Lalbaug Cooperative Bank Ltd,
Vadodara, Gujarat (Rs 1 lakh) and Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank Ltd, Assam (Rs 80,000). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – imposed a penalty of Rs 11.64 lakh on 5 cooperative banks for non-compliance with directions issued by regulator
- Jaynagar Mozilpur People’s Cooperative Bank Ltd, West Bengal – Rs 6.34 lakh
- Nawanagar Cooperative Bank Ltd, Jamnagar, Gujarat – Rs 2.50 lakh
- Vijapur Nagarik Sahakari Bank Ltd, Mehsana, Gujarat – Rs 1 lakh
- Lalbaug Cooperative Bank Ltd, Vadodara, Gujarat – Rs 1 lakh
- Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank Ltd, Assam – Rs 80,000
48. India’s outward foreign direct investment (FDI) commitments rose to $3.24 billion in October 2024, up from $2.55 billion
in October 2023, according to data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). However, they declined from $3.77 billion in
September 2024. Outbound FDI, expressed as a financial commitment, comprises 3 components: Equity, Loans, and
Guarantees. Equity commitments fell to $655.84 million, debt (loan) commitments rose sharply to $1.24 billion, while
guarantees for overseas units remained flat at $1.33 billion in October 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data from RBI, India’s outward FDI commitments – rose to $3.24 bn in Oct 2024 (from $2.55 bn in Oct 2023)
- Declined – from $3.77 billion in Sep 2024
• Outbound FDI, expressed as a financial commitment, comprises 3 components – Equity, Loans & Guarantees
• In Oct 2024, various commitments: Equity – fell to $655.84 million | Debt (loan) – rose to $1.24 billion
- Guarantees for overseas units – remained same at $1.33 billion
49. Galaxy Health Insurance has introduced its first product, “Galaxy Promise”, offering
coverage ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The Premium Promise feature keeps rates
fixed until age 55 or until a claim is made, encouraging continuous coverage. Available in 4
variants - Signature, Elite, Premier, and Enhanced Optional covers - the maiden plan targets
families seeking comprehensive and affordable health coverage. The new offerings aim to
address the rising healthcare costs in India, which are growing by 10-15% annually due to inflation, advanced medical
treatments, and increasing demand for specialized care. The policy is designed with women-centric benefits, covering
assisted reproduction treatments, in-utero foetal surgery, delivery costs, and newborn care. The company, promoted by the
TVS family received its IRDAI license earlier this year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Galaxy Health Insurance – introduced its first product, “Galaxy Promise”, offering coverage from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 1 Cr
• It targets families seeking comprehensive & affordable health coverage
https:// /#
- Available in 4 variants – Signature, Elite, Premier & Enhanced Optional covers
• Aim: To address rising healthcare costs in India, which are growing by 10-15% annually
• HQs of Galaxy Health Insurance – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | MD & CEO – G Srinivasan
50. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) based inflation surged to a 4-month high of 2.36% in October
2024, up from 1.84% in September, largely due to increased costs for food items, vegetables, food
manufacturing, according to an official data released on November 14, 2024. The food index,
which holds a weightage of 24.38%, saw wholesale inflation climb to 11.59% in October, up from
9.47% in September. Food item inflation surged to 13.54% in October from 11.53% in September. The WPI for November
2024 is scheduled for release on December 16. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per official data released on Nov 14, WPI based inflation – surged to 2.36% in Oct 2024 (from 1.84% in Sep 2024)
• Food index (holds weightage of 24.38%) – saw wholesale inflation climb to 11.59% in Oct’24 (from 9.47% in Sep’24)
• Food item inflation – surged to 13.54% in Oct 2024 (from 11.53% in Sep 2024)
• WPI for Nov 2024 – to release on Dec 16
51. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a Scholarship Scheme for faculty members from academic institutions.
Under the scheme, full-time faculty members teaching economics or finance at any University Grants Commission (UGC) or
All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)-recognized universities or colleges in India are eligible to apply for short-
term research. The areas included for the scholarship are monetary and financial economics, banking, real sector issues and
other topics of interest to RBI. Under the scheme, monthly allowance of Rs 50,000 will be paid for the duration of the project
(not more than 3 months), along with a Rs 2,00,000 honorarium upon project completion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – announced a Scholarship Scheme for faculty members from academic institutions
• Eligible for short-term research – full-time faculty members teaching economics or finance at any UGC or AICTE-
recognized universities
• Areas included for scholarship – monetary & financial economics, banking, real sector issues & others
• Monthly allowance of Rs 50,000 – to be paid for duration of project (not >3 months)
- Along with – Rs 2,00,000 honorarium upon project completion
52. Matrimony.com, the company known for its leading matchmaking services, has announced the launch of
“WeddingLoan.com”, a fintech platform designed specifically to offer wedding loans. This new initiative fills a critical gap in
the market by creating a dedicated category for financing weddings, helping couples plan their big day without financial
strain. The company has partnered with leading financial institutions such as IDFC, Tata Capital, L&T Finance, to offer a
comprehensive loan solution. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Matrimony.com – to launch “WeddingLoan.com”, a fintech platform designed specifically to offer wedding loans
• It partnered with financial institutions such as IDFC, Tata Capital, L&T Finance, to offer a comprehensive loan solution
• HQs of Matrimony.com – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | CEO – Murugavel Janakiraman
https:// /#
53. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to create a data repository, namely “Reserve Bank -
Climate Risk Information System (RB-CRIS)”, in two parts, to bridge the gap in climate-related data that
is currently available in a fragmented manner. The first part will be a web-based directory, listing various
data sources such as meteorological and geospatial, which would be publicly accessible on the RBI’s
website. The second part will be a data portal comprising datasets (processed data in standardised
formats). The access to this data portal would be made available only to regulated entities in a phased manner. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – to create a data repository, “Reserve Bank - Climate Risk Information System (RB-CRIS)”, in 2 parts
- To bridge gap in climate-related data that is currently available in a fragmented manner
• 1st part – a web-based directory, listing various data sources, which would be publicly accessible on RBI’s website
• 2nd part – a data portal comprising datasets (processed data in standardised formats)
54. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has imposed a fine of Rs 26 crore
on Reliance Big Entertainment Pvt Ltd (now known as Rbep Entertainment Pvt Ltd) for
failing to clear penalties imposed by the regulator in a case pertaining to illegal diversion
of funds. The notice was issued after the entity (Reliance Big Entertainment) failed to
pay the Rs 25 crore fine imposed by the regulator in August this year. The SEBI had also barred industrialist Anil Ambani and
24 others from the securities market for 5 years on charges of diversion of funds from Reliance Home Finance Ltd (RHFL).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI imposed a fine of Rs 26 crore on Reliance Big Entertainment (aka Rbep Entertainment)
• Reason: For failing to pay Rs 25 crore fine imposed by SEBI in Aug’24 for illegal diversion of funds from RHFL
• SEBI had also barred industrialist Anil Ambani and 24 others from the securities market for 5 years
55. State Bank of India (SBI) is negotiating a $1.25 billion dollar-denominated 5-year loan with an
interest rate margin of 92.5 basis points over the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) from
CTBC Bank, HSBC Holdings Plc, and Taipei Fubon Bank. This is a landmark move as it would be the
largest overseas borrowing by India’s financial sector this year. The loan, initiated through SBI’s
Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) branch, will be used for general corporate needs. Besides SBI,
Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Company also aimed for a $300 million syndicated loan. Union Bank of India’s Sydney
branch is arranging a 3-year A$125 million loan, and Bank of Baroda is set to raise $750 million. Despite this activity, India’s
total dollar-denominated loan volume has seen a 27% drop to $14.2 billion in 2023, attributed to a pullback in large
corporate borrowings. This loan announcement also aligns with the RBI’s recent reaffirmation of SBI as a Domestic
Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB). SBI remains in the top D-SIB category (bucket 4), which mandates an extra 0.80% in
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) by April 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI – negotiating a $1.25 billion dollar 5-year loan with an interest rate margin of 92.5 basis points over SOFR
- From – CTBC Bank, HSBC Holdings Plc & Taipei Fubon Bank
- Largest overseas borrowing by India’s financial sector in 2024
https:// /#
• Initiated through – SBI’s Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) branch
• Other loans by Indian banks:
- Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Company – aiming for a $300 million syndicated loan
- Union Bank of India’s Sydney branch – arranging a 3-year A$125 million loan | BoB – to raise $750 million
• India’s total dollar-denominated loan volume – dropped 27% to $14.2 billion in 2023
• SBI remains in top D-SIB category (bucket 4), which mandates an extra 0.80% in CET1 by April 2025
56. Canara Bank has classified the loan accounts of Anil Ambani’s bankrupt telecom venture, Reliance
Communications, and its subsidiary as “fraudulent”, alleging the misappropriation of Rs 1,050 crore
loaned in 2017. These loans were initially intended for capital expenditure and debt repayment. The
bank claimed the accounts were classified as fraudulent due to the non-utilization of funds as per the
sanctioned terms and inter-company transactions used to settle other debts. Reliance Communications went bankrupt in
2018. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Canara Bank – classified loan accounts of Anil Ambani’s venture, Reliance Comm., & its subsidiary as “fraudulent”
- Alleged misappropriation of – Rs 1,050 Cr loaned in 2017
• Reliance Communications – went bankrupt in 2018
• HQs of Canara Bank – Bengaluru | MD & CEO – K. Satyanarayana Raju | Non-Ex Chairman – Vijay Srirangam
57. The latest retail inflation data for October 2024 released by the National Statistical
Office (NSO) showed that Chhattisgarh has recorded the highest inflation rate among
states and Union territories (UTs) with an inflation rate of 8.8%, followed by Bihar (7.8%),
Odisha (7.5%), Uttar Pradesh (7.4%) and Madhya Pradesh (7%). According to the latest
data, retail inflation surged to a 14-month high of 6.2% in October, led by soaring food
prices - particularly vegetables. Out of the 22 states and UTs for which data is available, half of them recorded an inflation
rate above 6% - an upper tolerance band of RBI. Delhi had the lowest inflation rate of 4%, followed by West Bengal (4.6%)
and Maharashtra (5.4%). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Latest retail inflation data for Oct 2024 – released by National Statistical Office (NSO)
• Highest inflation rate among states & UTs: 1st – Chhattisgarh (8.8%) | 2nd – Bihar (7.8%) | 3rd – Odisha (7.5%)
- 4th – Uttar Pradesh (7.4%) | 5th – Madhya Pradesh (7%)
• Retail inflation – surged to 6.2% in Oct 2024 (a 14-month high)
• Lowest inflation rate: 1st – Delhi (4%) | 2nd – West Bengal (4.6%) | 3rd – Maharashtra (5.4%)
• HQs of NSO – New Delhi | Chairperson – Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar
58. Punjab National Bank (PNB), a public sector bank, has launched “Palaash Debit Card”, a new Debit Card variant made
from recycled PVC plastic (rPVC) as part of their sustainability initiative. This eco-friendly card uses materials that would
otherwise end up in landfills, thereby reducing environmental harm. The PNB Palaash debit card offers all the features of
the existing RuPay Platinum Debit Card variant. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• PNB – launched “Palaash Debit Card”, a new Debit Card variant made from recycled PVC plastic (rPVC)
• HQs of PNB – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Atul Kumar Goel | Tagline – “The Name You Can Bank Upon”
59. To create financial literacy awareness among the tribal population, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI),
Odisha office, has prepared 5 specific booklets in the Santali (Ol Chik) language (a.k.a. Santal or Santhali)
for school children, farmers, entrepreneurs, self-help groups and senior citizens to create awareness
about financial products and services, good financial practices, going digital and consumer protection.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi released the booklets at ‘Bali Jatra’ in Cuttack. The booklets were prepared to
commemorate 90 years of RBI’s operation in the country. The booklets will also be distributed in other states like Jharkhand,
Bihar, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura where a sizeable Santali-speaking population live. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI, Odisha office – prepared 5 specific booklets in Santali (Ol Chik) language for school children, farmers, entrepreneurs,
SHGs & senior citizens
• To create awareness about financial products & services, good financial practices, going digital & consumer protection
• Released by – Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha CM, at ‘Bali Jatra’ in Cuttack
60. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) are set to launch a new ‘Credit Risk Assessment Model’ for micro,
small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) seeking loans between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 5 crore. Bank of
India (BoI), Punjab & Sind Bank, Canara Bank, and Indian Bank plan to roll out the model on
November 25, while 6 other PSBs, including Bank of Baroda (BoB), Union Bank of India, UCO Bank,
and Punjab National Bank, aim to launch it by November 30. Indian Bank and State Bank of India (SBI) will assess loans up
to Rs 5 crore through this model. Initially, 9 PSBs, including BoB, Canara Bank, and Bank of Maharashtra, will offer loans up
to Rs 25 lakh, while BoI will provide loans up to Rs 1 crore. This model aims to be a significant improvement over traditional
methods, which focus on asset or turnover criteria. MSMEs play a crucial role in India’s economy, contributing over 30% of
the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and nearly 50% of its exports. This model will use digital data and other factors
to assess loan eligibility, making it more accurate than traditional models that only look at assets or turnover. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PSBs – to launch a new ‘Credit Risk Assessment Model’ for MSMEs seeking loans between Rs 25 lakh & Rs 5 Cr
• BoI, Punjab & Sind Bank, Canara Bank & Indian Bank – plan to roll out the model on Nov 25
• 6 other PSBs (including BoB, UBI, UCO Bank & PNB) – plan to roll out the model on Nov 30
• Indian Bank & SBI – to assess loans up to Rs 5 Cr through this model
• Initially, 9 PSBs (including BoB, Canara Bank & BoM) – to offer loans up to Rs 25 lakh | BoI – to offer loans up to Rs 1 Cr
• Aim: To be a significant improvement over traditional methods, which focus on asset or turnover criteria
• MSMEs – contribute over 30% of national GDP & nearly 50% of exports
https:// /#
61. The urban unemployment rate among persons of age 15 years and above
has come down to 6.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter (Q2 FY25),
compared to 6.6% in April-June quarter (Q1 FY25), according to the “Periodic
Labour Force Survey (PLFS) - Quarterly Bulletin of July - September 2024 (Q2
FY25)” released by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), under Ministry
of Statistics and Program Implementation (MoSPI). This is the lowest
unemployment rate recorded in the recent past. The report shows urban
unemployment among men has come down to 5.7%, while that among women has come down to 8.4% during Q2. Out of
22 States and Union Territories, 14 have higher UR than national average, while 8 has lower than that. Jammu & Kashmir
recorded highest UR with 11.8%, followed by Odisha (10.6%) & Kerala (10.1%). Delhi recorded lowest UR at 2.6%. The
unemployment rate is defined as the percentage of persons unemployed among the persons in the labour force. The labour
force participation rate (LFPR) has also improved to 50.4% during Q2 (75% among male & 25.5% among female). LFPR is
defined as the percentage of persons in labour force in the population. The worker population rate (WPR) in urban areas
was 47.2% in July-September 2024 for persons of age 15 years in above (70.7% among male & 23.4% among female). WPR
is defined as the percentage of employed persons in the population. NSSO launched PLFS in April 2017. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) - Quarterly Bulletin of Jul - Sep 2024 (Q2 FY25)” – released by NSSO, under MoSPI
• Urban unemployment rate among persons of age 15 years & above – 6.4% (from 6.6% in Q1 FY25)
- Men – 5.7% | Women – 8.4%
- Highest UR – J&K (11.8%) | Lowest UR – Delhi (2.6%)
- Unemployment rate – percentage of persons unemployed among the persons in the labour force
• Labour force participation rate (LFPR) – improved to 50.4% | Male – 75% | Female – 25.5%
- LFPR – percentage of persons in labour force in the population
• Worker population rate (WPR): Urban – 47.2% | Male – 70.7% | Female – 23.4%
- WPR – percentage of employed persons in the population
• PLFS – launched in April 2017 by NSSO
• MoS I/C of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation: Rao Inderjit Singh | Constituency – Gurgaon, Haryana
62. Karnataka Bank Ltd (KBL) has launched 2 financial products - ‘KBL Peak’ & ‘KBL Genius’. ‘KBL Peak’ is an education loan
to students pursuing higher education in India and abroad with financing of up to Rs 2 crore and comprehensive coverage,
including credit life insurance for both the student and the parent. While ‘KBL Genius’ is a student savings account scheme
with 2 variants - ‘KBL Genius Signature’ and ‘KBL Genius Advantage’ - featuring free cyber insurance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka Bank Ltd – launched 2 financial products, ‘KBL Peak’ & ‘KBL Genius’
• ‘KBL Peak’ – education loan to students pursuing higher education in India & abroad with financing of up to Rs 2 Cr
• ‘KBL Genius’ – student savings account scheme with 2 variants, ‘KBL Genius Signature’ & ‘KBL Genius Advantage’
• HQs of Karnataka Bank – Mangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Srikrishnan Harihara Sarma | Founded – 1924
https:// /#
63. HDFC Bank has launched the “Stay Safe, Stay Vigil” campaign with ‘Vigil Aunty’, an HDFC
Bank social media influencer who helps people be aware and informed about the most
common and innovative cyber frauds. At the ‘Cyber Security Summit’, organized by HDFC
Bank in collaboration with Times Of India (TOI) in New Delhi, Vigil Aunty spoke about the
role she seeks to play in this important initiative. Vigil Aunty urged people to join her
WhatsApp ‘Vigil Army’ which has over 8 lakhs of followers. With an agenda to ‘Stay Safe, Stay Vigil’, the Vigil Army helps you
stay up-to-date with the latest financial frauds and their modus operandi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank – launched “Stay Safe, Stay Vigil” campaign with ‘Vigil Aunty’, an HDFC Bank social media influencer
• ‘Cyber Security Summit’ – held in New Delhi | Organized by = HDFC Bank + TOI
64. India’s central bank, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has announced to launch a pilot programme in 2025 offering local cloud
data storage to financial firms at affordable prices. The cloud platform will use local IT firms, pitting it against the likes of
Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud and IBM Cloud, in a first-of-its-kind initiative from a major global
central bank. The burgeoning cloud services market in Asia’s third largest economy, India, was estimated at $8.3 billion in
2023 and is expected to grow to $24.2 billion by 2028, according to a report by International Data Corporation (IDC). Initial
work on the cloud is being driven by the research wing of the central bank, called the Indian Financial Technology and Allied
Services. Consultancy firm, EY (Ernst & Young), has been appointed as an advisor to the project. The project will initially be
funded by the central bank’s asset development fund of Rs 229.74 billion ($2.72 billion). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – to launch a pilot programme in 2025 offering local cloud data storage to financial firms at affordable prices
• It will use local IT firms, pitting it against likes of AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud & IBM Cloud
• As per a report by International Data Corporation (IDC), estimation of cloud services market in India:
- $8.3 billion – in 2023 | $24.2 billion – by 2028
• Advisor to the project – Ernst & Young, Consultancy firm
• It will initially be funded by – RBI’s asset development fund of Rs 229.74 billion
65. State Bank of India (SBI) has partnered with Jagriti Yatra 2024, a transformative 8,000-km, 15-
day entrepreneurial journey across India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions. This initiative will support 500
young aspirants in exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, receiving expert mentorship, and
engaging in practical learning experiences. Through this collaboration, SBI aims to nurture future
innovators, advancing India’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. SBI continues to
empower individuals through skill development and financial inclusion. The bank has established 152 Rural Self Employment
Training Institutes (RSETIs), which have successfully trained over 11.5 lakh rural candidates, enabling 74% of them to become
self-employed. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI + Jagriti Yatra 2024 = partnered to support 500 young aspirants in exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, receiving
expert mentorship & engaging in practical learning experiences
• Jagriti Yatra 2024 – a transformative 8,000-km, 15-day entrepreneurial journey across India’s Tier 2 & Tier 3 regions
https:// /#
• SBI established 152 RSETIs & trained over 11.5 lakh rural candidates | 74% of them – became self-employed
66. The State Bank of India (SBI) celebrated 100 years of its historic Horniman Circle Branch in
Mumbai with the release of a Rs 100 commemorative coin. The coin was unveiled by Union
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Alongside the coin launch, she also unveiled the 5th volume
of “The Evolution of the State Bank of India”, chronicling a transformative era in the bank’s journey
between 1981 and 1996. The Horniman Circle Branch, originally part of the Bank of Bombay established in 1863, has been
a cornerstone of India’s banking history. SBI commands a 25% share in debit card spending, 22% in mobile banking
transactions, and a 29% ATM footprint. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI – celebrated 100 years of its Horniman Circle Branch in Mumbai & released a Rs 100 commemorative coin
• Nirmala Sitharaman – unveiled coin & 5th volume of “The Evolution of the State Bank of India”
• Horniman Circle Branch – established in 1863 & was originally part of Bank of Bombay
• SBI commanded shares: 25% – in debit card spending | 22% – in mobile banking transactions | 29% – in ATM footprint
67. IndusInd Bank Ltd (IBL) and Bharat Financial Inclusion Ltd (BFIL), a wholly owned subsidiary of IBL, has announced a
collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoAFW), to launch the “Bharat Sanjeevani Krishi
Utthan” initiative. This initiative aims to support the government’s flagship program, formation and promotion of 10,000
farmer producer organizations (FPOs) providing a robust framework to empower FPOs across the country. This collaboration
driven through BFIL and IBL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aims to enhance agricultural productivity,
promote sustainable farming practices, and improve farmers’ income consistently, across 11 states: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Under
this initiative, BFIL and IBL will set up a Centralized Project Management Unit (CPMU) at the national level and in 11 target
states to effectively monitor, support, and guide the implementation of FPO projects. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IndusInd Bank + BFIL + MoAFW = collaborated to launch “Bharat Sanjeevani Krishi Utthan” initiative
• Aim (initiative): To support government’s flagship program, formation & promotion of 10,000 FPOs
• Aim (collaboration): To enhance agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming practices & improve farmers’
income consistently, across 11 states
- Andhra, Bihar, Jharkhand, Karnataka, MP, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Telangana, UP & WB
• HQs of IndusInd Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Sumant Kathpalia | Tagline – “We Make You Feel Richer”
• HQs of BFIL – Hyderabad, Telangana | Executive Vice-Chairman – J Sridharan
• Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Shivraj Singh Chouhan | Constituency – Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Ram Nath Thakur & Bhagirath Choudhary
https:// /#
68. The Central government is considering selling minority stakes in 4 state-run banks - Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank,
UCO Bank, and Punjab and Sind Bank - to comply with public shareholding norms mandated by the country’s markets
regulator, SEBI. The Central government owns more than 93% in Central Bank of India, 96.4% in Indian Overseas Bank, 95.4%
in UCO Bank and 98.3% in Punjab and Sind Bank as of end-September 2024. The Securities and Exchange Board of India
(SEBI) requires listed companies to maintain a 25% public shareholding, but has exempted government-owned firms from
meeting these norms till August 2026. In the past, Public Sector Banks (PSBs) have launched Qualified Institutional
Placements (QIP) to raise capital which has in turn lowered the government’s stake in state-run banks. Punjab National Bank
raised ₹5,000 crore through a QIP in September, while Bank of Maharashtra raised ₹3,500 crore in October. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre – considering selling minority stakes in 4 govt banks to comply with public shareholding norms mandated by SEBI
- Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, UCO Bank, and Punjab & Sind Bank
• As of end-Sep 2024, stake of Center in: CBoI – 93% | IOB – 96.4% | UCO Bank – 95.4% | Punjab & Sind Bank – 98.3%
• SEBI requires listed companies to maintain a 25% public shareholding, but exempted govt-owned firms till Aug 2026
• Amount raised by some banks through Qualified Institutional Placements (QIP), launched by SEBI:
- PNB – ₹5,000 Cr in September | Bank of Maharashtra – ₹3,500 Cr in October
69. Sachin Bansal-owned Navi has climbed the UPI leaderboard to become the 4th largest player in the
ecosystem. Navi processed 157.51 million transactions, covering 0.95% UPI market share, in October
2024, overtaking Bengaluru-based Cred, which recorded 152.28 million transactions in the same
month. PhonePe, Google Pay and Paytm dominate the UPI market. As of October, PhonePe’s market
share on UPI was pegged at 47.67%, followed by Google Pay and Paytm with 37.39% and 7.02% share,
respectively. Flipkart-backed Super.money is also growing at a breakneck pace. Super.money, which
launched operations in July, processed 49.68 million transactions in October. This was twice the
number of transactions in September. The company’s Founder & CEO, Prakash Sikaria, said the firm plans to be among the
top 5 companies on UPI by the end of the year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Navi – became 4th largest player in UPI market share in Oct’24 with 157.51 million transactions (0.95% UPI market share)
• In UPI market, top players with market share: 1st – PhonePe (47.67%) | 2nd – Google Pay (37.39%) | 3rd – Paytm (7.02%)
• Super.money (backed by Flipkart) – processed 49.68 million transactions (twice from September)
• HQs of Navi – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Founder & CEO – Sachin Bansal
70. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has signed up with 3 countries - Namibia,
Trinidad and Tobago, and Peru - to introduce the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and RuPay.
Currently, UPI is available in 7 countries - France, the UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Sri Lanka,
Mauritius and Nepal. At present, over 400 million people in the country use UPI for real-time
payments. The average daily UPI transaction count crossed 500 million in September 2024.
The payment ecosystem is looking at moving small payments to UPI Lite. UPI Lite allows users to make low-value transactions
without the need for a UPI pin. In October, the RBI increased the UPI Lite wallet limits, doubling the per-transaction cap
from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 and raising the overall wallet limit from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NPCI – signed up with 3 countries (Namibia, Trinidad & Tobago, and Peru) to introduce UPI & RuPay
• Currently, UPI is available in 7 countries – France, UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Mauritius & Nepal
https:// /#
• 400+ million people in country – use UPI for real-time payments at present
• Average daily UPI transaction count – crossed 500 million in Sep 2024
• UPI Lite – allows users to make low-value transactions without need for a UPI pin
• In October, RBI increased UPI Lite wallet limits with per-transaction cap – to Rs 1,000 (from Rs 500)
- Overall wallet limit – to Rs 5,000 (from Rs 2,000)
71. Ministry of Finance has brought in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) classified as non-
banking financial companies (NBFCs) under the minimum annual dividend payout norm of 30% of
profit after tax (PAT) or 4% of the net worth, whichever is higher. Issuing the revised guidelines, the
Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) said, the revision is aligned to
reflect the evolution in the capital market conditions and financial/capital restructuring of CPSEs.
As per the latest guidelines, CPSEs, whose market price of the share has been less than the book value consistently for the
last 6 months, and have a net-worth of at least Rs 3,000 crore and cash & bank balance of over Rs 1,500 crore may consider
the option to buy-back their shares. Further, every CPSE may consider the issue of bonus shares when its defined reserves
and surplus are equal to or more than 20 times of its paid-up equity share capital. The Ministry of Finance further said that
the revised guidelines on capital restructuring of CPSEs will be duly reviewed not later than 3 years to align the policy with
advancements in the Capital Market/regulatory and sectoral changes and to address any other concerns of CPSEs. In the
current fiscal year, the government has budgeted to collect Rs 56,260 crore as dividends from public sector enterprises, up
from Rs 50,000 crore in the 2023-24 fiscal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoF brought in CPSEs classified as NBFCs under minimum annual dividend payout norm of – 30% of profit after tax
(PAT) or 4% of net worth, whichever is higher
• CPSEs that may consider option to buy-back their shares, should have:
- Market price of share – less than book value consistently for last 6 months
- Net-worth – at least Rs 3,000 Cr | Cash & bank balance – over Rs 1,500 Cr
• Every CPSE may consider issue of bonus shares when its defined reserves & surplus are ≥20 times of its paid-up equity
share capital
• In FY25, govt budgeted to collect Rs 56,260 Cr as dividends from PSEs (from Rs 50,000 Cr in FY24)
72. One97 Communications (OCL), owner of Paytm, announced that Paytm users will be able to make UPI
payments at select international locations, including popular spots in six countries - UAE, Singapore, France,
Mauritius, Bhutan, and Nepal. The move allows users to conveniently pay for all use cases including
shopping, dining, and local experiences abroad using UPI through their Paytm app. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paytm users will be able to make UPI payments at select international locations – announced by One97 Communications
- Including popular spots in six countries – UAE, Singapore, France, Mauritius, Bhutan & Nepal
• HQs of One97 Communications – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | CEO – Vijay Shekhar Sharma
https:// /#
73. According to a consultation paper released by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the
capital market regulator has proposed to at double the minimum subscription amount for initial public
offerings (IPO) of small and medium enterprises (SME) from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh, as participation of retail
investors in these offers has been rising. Also, higher size will limit participation by smaller investors and
shall attract investors with risk taking appetite. In one of the other proposals, SEBI even suggested to
increase the amount to ₹4 lakh. The paper is open for public comments until 4 December. To tighten eligibility criteria, SEBI
proposed that SME companies seeking listing should have an operating profit (earnings before interest and tax) of at least ₹3
crore in 2 of the last 3 financial years. The SEBI also proposed extending the applicability of related-party transaction (RPT)
norms from SEBI’s Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements Regulations (LODR) to SME listed entities. The exception is
companies with a paid-up capital of less than ₹10 crore and a net worth of less than ₹25 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per a consultation paper released by SEBI, it proposed to at double minimum subscription amount for initial public
offerings (IPO) of SMEs from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh
• SEBI suggested to increase amount to ₹4 lakh | Paper is open for public comments – until Dec 4, 2024
• To tighten eligibility criteria, SEBI proposed that SME companies seeking listing should have an operating profit of at
least ₹3 crore in 2 of last 3 FYs
• SEBI proposed extending applicability of RPT norms from SEBI’s LODR to SME listed entities
- Exception – companies with a paid-up capital of <₹10 Cr & net worth of <₹25 Cr
74. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has revised the eligibility criteria for stocks listed on other exchanges to get directly
listed on its mainboard platform. The exchange has raised minimum net worth of such companies to Rs 75 crore for each of the
3 previous years, from the existing Rs 10 crore. If not, the security should have a market capitalisation of over Rs 1,500 crore
for 6 months prior to filing an application for listing on NSE. The NSE also said that a company should either have Rs 1,000 crore
in revenues or be EBITDA positive for each of the 3 previous years. The new norms will come into effect from December 1, 2024.
The existing norm for paid-up capital has been eased. As per the current norms, a company needs to have a minimum paid-up
capital of Rs 10 crore for three consecutive years. Now, a company will only need to have a minimum paid-up capital of Rs 10
crore at the time of filing the application for direct listing. The exchange has also increased the minimum number of public
shareholders on the date of application to 1,000 from the current 500. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSE – revised eligibility criteria for stocks listed on other exchanges to get directly listed on its mainboard platform
- W.e.f. – Dec 1, 2024
• Minimum net worth of such companies – raised to Rs 75 Cr for each of 3 previous years (from Rs 10 Cr)
• If not listed, security should have a market capitalisation of over Rs 1,500 Cr for 6 months prior to filing an application
for listing on NSE
• A company should either have Rs 1,000 Cr in revenues or be EBITDA positive for each of 3 previous years
- EBITDA - earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization
• A company will only need to have a minimum paid-up capital of Rs 10 Cr at time of filing application for direct listing
• Minimum number of public shareholders on date of application – increased to 1,000 (from 500)
• HQs of NSE – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Girish Chandra Chaturvedi | MD & CEO – Ashishkumar Chauhan
https:// /#
75. Yes Bank has announced a partnership with Vegapay, a technology innovator in the banking software industry, to launch
a hyper-configurable platform called ‘Credit Line on UPI’. The platform includes a user-friendly dashboard and a
customisable app. Through this platform, Yes Bank can create customised credit programmes that suit customers’ needs.
The collaboration aims to redefine credit access across India, empowering banking institutions to deliver a modern credit
experience to millions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Yes Bank + Vegapay = partnered to launch a hyper-configurable platform called ‘Credit Line on UPI’
• Aim: To redefine credit access across India, empowering banking institutions to deliver a modern credit experience
• HQs of Yes Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Prashant Kumar | Tagline – “Experience our Expertise”
• HQs of Vegapay – Gurugram, Haryana | CEO – Gaurav Mittal
76. State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced a customised vehicle loan product for Uber’s
fleet partners to support the growth of the ride-hailing industry. This loan enables low-cost,
tailored financing solutions as well as hassle free loan disbursement to Uber’s fleet partners.
Prabhjeet Singh is the President of Uber India & South Asia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI – introduced a customised vehicle loan product for Uber’s fleet partners to support their growth
• President of Uber India & South Asia – Prabhjeet Singh
77. Delegates from 18 countries, including central bank governors, deputy governors and other central bank officials from
the Global South, attended a 2-day “High-Level Policy Conference of Central Banks from the Global South”, organised by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Mumbai, Maharashtra. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das inaugurated the conference. The theme
of the conference was “Building Synergies”. This was the third international conference to be organised by RBI under its
‘RBI@90’ celebration. The first two conferences were organised in Bengaluru and New Delhi, respectively. ‘Global South’
term was first time used by Carl Oglesby, a political activist, in 1969. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Delegates from 18 countries – attended a 2-day “High-Level Policy Conference of Central Banks from the Global South”
• It was organised by RBI in Mumbai, Maharashtra | Theme – “Building Synergies”
• This was 3rd international conference to be organised by RBI under its ‘RBI@90’ celebration
78. The Central Bank of India (CBI) has received Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval for its proposed foray into the life and
non-life insurance business through a joint venture with the Generali group under Future Generali India Insurance Company
(FGIICL) and Future Generali India Life Insurance Company (FGILICL). In October, the Competition Commission of India (CCI)
had approved the proposed combination. In October, the bank received the CCI approval to acquire 25.18% of equity shares
in the life insurance division of Future Generali and 24.91% in the non-life. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CBI – received RBI’s approval for its proposed foray into life & non-life insurance business through a JV
• JV with – Generali group under Future Generali India Ins. Com. (FGIICL) & Future Generali India Life Ins. Com. (FGILICL)
https:// /#
• CBI – received CCI approval to acquire 25.18% of equity shares in life insurance division of Future Generali & 24.91% in non-
life
• HQs of Central Bank of India – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Matam Venkata Rao
79. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a fine of ₹61.4 lakh on RBL Bank for violating its ‘Know Your Customer’ or
KYC directions. The lender did not obtain officially valid documents (OVDs) while opening certain credit card accounts and
was found allotting multiple customer identification codes to certain customers instead of a unique customer identification
code (UCIC) for each customer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI imposed a fine of ₹61.4 lakh on RBL Bank for violating its ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) directions
• HQs of RBL Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – R. Subramaniakumar | Chairman – Prakash Chandra
80. IndusInd Bank has announced a strategic partnership with UNICEF (United Nations Children’s
Fund) to strengthen climate risk management and community resilience across 5 Indian districts.
The collaboration, formalised through a Statement of Intent, will focus on developing disaster-
resilient communities in Dharashiv (Maharashtra), Begusarai (Bihar), Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu),
Baran (Rajasthan), and Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh). The initiative is part of the bank’s Holistic Rural Development program’s
‘Climate Action’ segment. Key objectives include creating real-time monitoring systems, establishing early warning
mechanisms, and providing advisory services to mitigate climate risks like droughts, floods, and heatwaves. The program
will involve multiple stakeholders, including the CSR Trust for SDGs in India (CTSI), IIT Gandhinagar, Gorakhpur Environment
Action Group, and Mission Samriddhi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IndusInd Bank + UNICEF = partnered to strengthen climate risk management & community resilience in 5 Indian districts
- Dharashiv (Maharashtra), Begusarai (Bihar), Virudhunagar (TN), Baran (Rajasthan) & Bahraich (UP)
• Part of – IndusInd bank’s Holistic Rural Development program’s ‘Climate Action’ segment
• HQs of IndusInd Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sumant Kathpalia | Tagline – “We Make You Feel Richer”
• HQs of UNICEF – New York, US | Executive Director – Catherine Russell | Established in – 1946
81. India’s digital payments provider, Paytm, has launched the automatic top-up feature for its
UPI LITE service, enabling PIN-less transactions for payments under Rs 500. The new feature,
currently available for select Yes Bank and Axis Bank users, automatically recharges the UPI LITE
balance when it falls below a predetermined limit. The service allows daily transactions up to Rs
2,000. The company has also introduced a ‘UPI Statement Download’ feature, allowing users to track their transactions,
including those made through UPI LITE. Paytm’s UPI service operates in partnership with major Indian banks, including the
SBI, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, and Yes Bank. The platform has expanded internationally, supporting UPI payments in several
countries, including the UAE, Singapore, France, Mauritius, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. UPI Lite was introduced by the
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in September 2022 for small value transactions from a user’s on-device wallet
without directly accessing the main bank account and without OTP or PIN. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paytm – launched automatic top-up feature for UPI LITE, enabling PIN-less transactions for payments under Rs 500
• Currently available for select users of – Yes Bank & Axis Bank | It allows daily transactions up to – Rs 2,000
• Paytm – also introduced a ‘UPI Statement Download’ feature
https:// /#
• Paytm’s UPI service – operates in partnership with major Indian banks, including SBI, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank & Yes Bank
• Paytm’s UPI service – expanded internationally, including UAE, Singapore, France, Mauritius, Bhutan, Sri Lanka & Nepal
• UPI Lite – introduced by NPCI in Sep 2022 for small value transactions without OTP or PIN
• HQs of Paytm – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | MD & CEO – Vijay Sekhar Sharma | Founded in – 2010
82. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) has announced a collaboration with the Indian Banks’ Association
(IBA) to facilitate the auction of assets through the “eBKray” platform. The eBKray is a centralized platform offering detailed
information on corporate debtor assets, including photographs, videos, and geographical coordinates. The platform aims to
increase bidder participation, streamline operations, and maximize returns for creditors. The platform is currently owned
and managed by PSB Alliance Private Limited, a consortium of 12 public sector banks (PSBs). The circular is effective from
November 1, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IBBI + IBA = a collaboration to facilitate the auction of assets through the “eBKray” platform
• This platform offers detailed information on corporate debtor assets & aims to maximize returns for creditors
• The platform is currently owned & managed by – PSB Alliance Pvt Ltd (a consortium of 12 PSBs)
• HQs of IBBI – New Delhi | Chairperson – Ravi Mital | Members – 10
• HQs of IBA – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Umar Kremlev
83. The capital requirement for the insurance regulator IRDAI’s ambitious project, “Bima Sugam”, an online marketplace to
buy, service, and sell insurance products, has increased to Rs 500 crore from the previously envisaged Rs 100-200 crore.
During the two-day ‘Bima Manthan’ held in Hyderabad, insurance companies were informed of the revised capital
requirement for Bima Sugam, amounting to Rs 500 crore over 4-5 years. Of this, Rs 330 crore must be provided immediately,
with the remaining Rs 170 crore to be contributed after two years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Capital requirement for “Bima Sugam” – increased to Rs 500 Cr over 4-5 years (from Rs 100-200 Cr)
- Rs 330 Cr – must be provided immediately | Remaining Rs 170 Cr – to be contributed after 2 years
• Bima Sugam – project of IRDAI | It is an online marketplace to buy, service & sell insurance products
• 2-day ‘Bima Manthan’ – held in Hyderabad
84. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
has given its approval for the “PAN 2.0 Project” of the Income Tax Department with a financial
outlay of Rs 1,435 crore to make the permanent account number (PAN) a common business
identifier for all digital systems of government agencies. The PAN 2.0 Project enables technology-
driven transformation of taxpayer registration services and is aimed at ease of access and speedy service delivery with
improved quality. PAN cards will now feature an embedded QR code for enhanced functionality and security. Currently,
about 78 crore PANs have been issued, of which 98% are to individuals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCEA – approved “PAN 2.0 Project” of IT Dept to make PAN a common business identifier for all digital systems of govt
agencies
- Financial outlay – Rs 1,435 Cr
https:// /#
• Aim: To ease access and speedy service delivery with improved quality
• Currently, issued PANs – 78 Cr (of which 98% are to individuals)
85. CSB Bank has unveiled the “SME Turbo Loan” to streamline the lending process and provide access to credit for MSMEs
across various sectors. With loan amounts of up to ₹5 crores, it provides various financing options, including overdraft (OD),
term loan (TL), and trade facilities. It also has instant in-principle sanction, allowing businesses to access funds quickly. This
product also aligns with the bank’s, ‘Sustain, Build, Scale 2030’ goal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CSB Bank – unveiled the “SME Turbo Loan” to streamline the lending process & provide access to credit for MSMEs
• Loan amount – up to ₹5 Cr | It aligns with the bank’s, ‘Sustain, Build, Scale 2030’ goal
• HQs of CSB Bank – Thrissur, Kerala | MD & CEO – Pralay Mondal
86. Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (Mahindra Finance) has launched its first co-
branded credit card in association with RBL Bank Limited. The co-branded card will target Mahindra
Finance’s diverse customer base and provide benefits, loyalty programs, and milestone rewards.
Through this co-brand partnership, Mahindra Finance aims to increase growth opportunities by
aligning with the rise of e-commerce and technological advancements in non-metro areas. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mahindra Finance + RBL Bank = launched first co-branded credit card of Mahindra Finance
• Aim: To increase growth opportunities by aligning with rise of e-commerce & technological advancements in non-metro
areas
• HQs of Mahindra Finance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Raul Rebello
• HQs of RBL Bank – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – R. Subramaniakumar | Chairman – Prakash Chandra
87. According to the official data shared by the Finance Ministry for the top 10 banks in terms
of the highest amount of loans written off in the financial year 2023-2024 (F24), the loan
write-offs by Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) reduced by 18.2%, amounting to ₹1.70
lakh crore, in the FY2024. As per the data, 6 out of the top 10 banks - Punjab National Bank,
Canara Bank, HDFC Bank, Bank of India, Indian Bank and Axis Bank - recorded an increase in
the loan write-offs during FY24. Punjab National Bank registered the highest amount of loan write-offs among 77 scheduled
commercial banks (SCBs), with a 10.5% year-on-year increase in the loan write-off amount to Rs 18,317 crore. It was followed
by Canara Bank, which saw its loan write-off amount increase by 164.5% to Rs 11,827 crore, and HDFC Bank by 2.4% to Rs
11,030 crore. Bank of India’s loan write-off amount increased by 13.8% year-on-year to Rs 9,897 crore, while Indian Bank
and Axis Bank registered an increase of 9.8% and 33.6%, respectively, to Rs 8,734 crore and 8,346 crore in FY24. The rest of
the top 10 banks bucked this trend, with Union Bank of India registering a 4.8% decrease in the amount of loan write-offs
to Rs 18,264 crore in FY2024, followed by State Bank of India with a 32.8% decrease in the loan write-off amount to Rs
16,161 crore, and Bank of Baroda to Rs 10,518 crore, down 41.6% from the previous year, while the same for the Central
Bank of India reduced by 2.5% to Rs 10,001 crore. The total amount of loan write-offs has been Rs 9.90 lakh crore during the
last 5 financial years 2019-2020 to 2023-2024. A bank writes off a loan after the borrower has defaulted on the loan
repayment and there is a very low chance of recovery. A loan becomes a Non-Performing Asset (NPA) when the principal or
interest payment remains overdue for 90 days. Separately, data shared by the Finance Ministry for 64 banks showed that
gross NPAs stood at Rs 4.81 lakh crore as on March 31, 2024, with the highest amount of gross NPAs reported by the State
Bank of India at Rs 84,276 crore, followed by Punjab National Bank at Rs 56,343 crore. Total Gross NPAs had stood at Rs 5.72
lakh crore at the end of March 2023. The amount recovered by SCBs including recovery from written-off loans stood at a 3-
year low of Rs 1.23 lakh crore in FY24. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• As per official data shared by MoF for top 10 banks in terms of highest amount of loans written off in FY24:
• Loan write-offs by SCBs – reduced by 18.2%, amounting to ₹1.70 lakh Cr in FY24
• 6 out of top 10 banks recorded an increase in loan write-offs
- PNB, Canara Bank, HDFC Bank, Bank of India, Indian Bank & Axis Bank
• Highest amount of loan write-offs among 77 SCBs – PNB (10.5% y-o-y increase amount to Rs 18,317 Cr)
- 2nd – Canara Bank (164.5% to Rs 11,827 Cr) | 3rd – HDFC Bank (2.4% to Rs 11,030 Cr)
- 4th – BoI (13.8% to Rs 9,897 Cr) | 5th – Indian Bank (9.8% to Rs 8,734 Cr) | 6th – Axis Bank (33.6% to Rs 8,346 Cr)
• Rest of top 10 banks – registered a decrease in the amount of loan write-offs in FY24
- Union Bank of India – 4.8% to Rs 18,264 Cr | SBI – 32.8% to Rs 16,161 Cr
- Bank of Baroda – 41.6% to Rs 10,518 Cr | Central Bank of India – 2.5% to Rs 10,001 Cr
• Total amount of loan write-offs – Rs 9.90 lakh Cr during last 5 financial years FY20 to FY24
• Loan becomes a Non-Performing Asset (NPA) when principal or interest payment remains overdue for 90 days
• Gross NPAs – stood at Rs 4.81 lakh Cr as on Mar 31, 2024 (from Rs 5.72 lakh Cr at end of Mar 2023)
- Highest amount of gross NPAs reported by – SBI (Rs 84,276 Cr) | 2nd – PNB (Rs 56,343 Cr)
• Amount recovered by SCBs including recovery from written-off loans in FY24– stood at Rs 1.23 lakh Cr
88. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has relaxed norms regarding the definition of an inactive trading account. The period
for marking an account as inactive has been changed from 12 to 24 months. Earlier, only trading in equity, F&O, commodities
and currencies was considered for allowing the account to be considered as active. The NSE circular now allows trades in
IPO, mutual funds, sovereign gold bonds, OFS and buybacks to be considered as well. Existing clients who are inactive as per
earlier guidelines, but are active as per revised guidelines, may be considered as active for trading after updating their
details. Any account once marked inactive, can be activated by the broker only after doing an in-person verification either
physically or in digital mode. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSE – relaxed norms regarding the definition of an inactive trading account
• Period for marking an account as inactive – changed to 24 months (from 12)
• NSE circular now allows trades in IPO, mutual funds, sovereign gold bonds, OFS & buybacks to be considered
89. Cashfree Payments has received the Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) licence from the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI). With the PPI licence, the Bengaluru-based payment aggregator can
offer digital payment solutions such as mobile wallets, prepaid cards and vouchers, which
customers can load with funds and use for transactions. With this, RBI has so far issued the PPI
licences to 46 entities. In December 2023, the company was authorised to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA). It was one
of the first non-banks to receive the PA-CB licence. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Cashfree Payments – received Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) licence from RBI
• Now, it can offer digital payment solutions which customers can load with funds & use for transactions
• RBI – issued PPI licences to 46 entities (including this)
• Cashfree Payments – authorised to operate as a Payment Aggregator in Dec 2023
• HQs of Cashfree Payments – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO & Co-founder – Akash Sinha
90. HDFC Bank has launched “Pragati” savings account, targeting semi-urban and rural (SURU) people pan-India, as the
lender enhances focus on deposit mobilisation. With 51% of its branches in semi-urban and rural areas, HDFC Bank continues
to support rural economies and drive financial inclusion. The Pragati Savings Account aims to build a comprehensive banking
ecosystem for India’s agricultural sector, including farmers, self-employed individuals, rural residents, self-help groups, and
cooperatives. The new product has industry-first features, such as a partnership with BigHaat, aiding 17 million farmers with
discounts and access to farming resources for improved productivity. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank – launched “Pragati” savings account, targeting semi-urban & rural (SURU) people pan-India
• Aim: To build a comprehensive banking ecosystem for India’s agricultural sector
91. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced the interoperability of stock exchanges to ensure
business continuity in the face of a technical glitch or an outage. The interoperability for cash, derivatives, currency
derivatives, and interest rate derivatives will be effective from April 1, 2025. Stock exchanges have been directed to issue a
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding it in the next two months. According to the mandate, in case of an outage,
the exchanges would have to intimate SEBI within 75 minutes of the occurrence and invoke the business continuity plan.
The alternative trading venue would be invoked within 15 minutes of such intimation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – announced the interoperability of stock exchanges to ensure business continuity, in case of tech glitch or outage
• Interoperability for cash, derivatives, currency derivatives, & interest rate derivatives will be effective from April 1, 2025
• In case of an outage, the exchanges would have to intimate SEBI within 75 minutes of the occurrence
• Alternative trading venue would be invoked within 15 minutes of such intimation
92. The Union Finance Ministry has released a consultation paper proposing to raise the
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%, and
enabling an insurer to carry on one or more classes of insurance business, as well as
activities related or incidental to insurance. The FDI limit in the insurance sector was
previously increased from 49% to 74% in February 2021. The proposal further mentioned
that the requirement of Net Owned Funds for foreign reinsurers is also proposed to be
reduced from Rs 5,000 crore to Rs 1,000 crore. Additionally, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India
(IRDAI) is being empowered to specify lower entry capital (not less than Rs 50 crore) for underserved or unserved segments
on a special-case basis. According to the IRDAI Chairman, Debasish Panda, the insurance sector needs to infuse
approximately Rs 50,000 crore annually to double insurance penetration in the country. Insurance penetration refers to the
ratio of insurance premiums written in a particular year to the gross domestic product (GDP). {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• MoF – released a consultation paper proposing to raise FDI limit in insurance sector to 100% (from 74%)
- Also enabling an insurer to carry on one or more classes of insurance business & activities related to insurance
• FDI limit in insurance sector – previously increased to 74% in February 2021 (from 49%)
• Requirement of Net Owned Funds for foreign reinsurers – to be reduced to Rs 1,000 Cr (from Rs 5,000 Cr)
• IRDAI – being empowered to specify lower entry capital (not <Rs 50 Cr) for underserved segments on a special-case basis
• Insurance sector – needs to infuse approx. Rs 50,000 Cr annually to double insurance penetration in the country
• Insurance penetration – ratio of insurance premiums written in a particular year to GDP
93. Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a
meeting to review the performance of 8 Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) of the Eastern Region
covering the 4 states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal in Patna. The RRB review
meeting focused on business performance, upgrading digital technology services, and
fostering business growth in activities allied to agriculture and micro and small industries.
The Union Finance Minister also directed these RRBs to increase credit disbursement with
a special focus on allied agriculture activities like dairy, animal husbandry, fisheries etc. RRBs in the Eastern Region have
posted a consolidated profit of Rs 625 crore during FY2024 against a net loss of Rs. 690 crore in FY 2023. On the
recommendation of the ‘Working Group on Rural Banks’, headed by M. Narasimham, RRBs were established in India in 1975
to provide banking facilities and cheap credit to people in rural areas. The Regional Rural Bank Act was enacted in 1976 and
was further amended in 2015. The RRBs are owned by the central government, the state government and the sponsoring
banks. The 1st 5 RRBs were established on 2 October 1975 through an ordinance issued by the Indian President. The 1st RRB,
Prathama Bank, was established in Moradabad (UP) and sponsored by Syndicate Bank. There are 43 RRBs in the country,
sponsored by 11 Public sector banks and 1 private sector bank, Jammu and Kashmir Bank. Only 2 states - Sikkim and Goa -
have no RRB. Punjab and Sindh Bank is the only public sector bank that has never sponsored any RRB. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nirmala Sitharaman – chaired a meeting to review performance of 8 RRBs of Eastern Region in Patna
- 8 RRBs of Eastern Region cover – 4 states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha & West Bengal
• These RRBs – posted a profit of Rs 625 Cr during FY24 (from a net loss of Rs. 690 Cr in FY 23)
• RRBs – established in India in 1975 | Recommended by – ‘Working Group on Rural Banks’, headed by M. Narasimham
• Regional Rural Bank Act – enacted in 1976 & amended in 2015
• 1st 5 RRBs – established on Oct 2, 1975 through an ordinance issued by Indian President
• 1st RRB, Prathama Bank – established in Moradabad, UP | Sponsored by – Syndicate Bank
• Now, there are 43 RRBs in India | Sponsored by – 11 PSBs & 1 private sector bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank
• States with no RRB – Sikkim and& Goa | Only PSB that has never sponsored any RRB – Punjab & Sindh Bank
https:// /#
94. AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) and Bharti AXA Life Insurance have announced a bancassurance partnership to provide
AU SFB’s customers with comprehensive life insurance and financial security solutions, featuring life insurance, term
insurance, ULIP plans, savings plans, child education plans and retirement plans. This partnership is expected to significantly
enhance AU SFB’s offerings in Southern India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AU SFB + Bharti AXA Life Insurance = bancassurance partnership to provide AU SFB’s customers with life insurance &
financial security solutions
• HQs of AU SFB – Jaipur, Rajasthan | MD & CEO – Sanjay Agarwal | Executive Director & Deputy CEO – Uttam Tibrewal
• HQs of Bharti AXA Life Insurance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Parag Raja | Chairman – Akhil Gupta
95. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to expand the reporting requirement of forex
transactions and include foreign exchange spot (including value cash and value TOM) deals to ensure
completeness of transaction data in the trade repository (TR) of the Clearing Corporation of India
Limited (CCIL). Currently, authorised dealers report all over-the-counter (OTC) foreign exchange
derivative contracts and foreign currency interest rate derivative contracts undertaken by them
directly or through their overseas entities to the TR of CCIL. Accordingly, transactions in foreign
exchange cash; foreign exchange tom; and foreign exchange spot, involving the rupee or otherwise shall now be reported
to the TR. However, money-changing transactions are not in the scope of the latest directions. Authorised dealers have been
asked to report all inter-bank foreign exchange contracts undertaken by them to the TR of CCIL with effect from February
10, 2025, as per defined timelines. The RBI also said there would be no requirement to match transactions with overseas
counterparties and client transactions in the TR as the overseas counterparties and clients are not required to
report/confirm the transaction details. An authorised dealer would be responsible for ensuring the accuracy with respect to
transactions reported. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – to expand reporting requirement of forex transactions & include foreign exchange spot deals to ensure
completeness of transaction data in trade repository (TR) of CCIL
• Currently, authorised dealers report all OTC foreign exchange derivative contracts & foreign currency interest rate
derivative contracts to TR of CCIL
• Now, transactions in foreign exchange cash; foreign exchange tom; & foreign exchange spot – to be reported to TR
- Money-changing transactions – not in scope of latest directions
• Authorised dealers are asked to report all inter-bank foreign exchange contracts undertaken by them to TR of CCIL
- W.e.f. – February 10, 2025, as per defined timelines
https:// /#
96. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed business restrictions on 4 non-banking finance
companies (NBFCs) - Asirvad Micro Finance Ltd, Arohan Financial Services Ltd, DMI Finance Pvt Ltd
and Navi Finserv Ltd, asking them to cease and desist from sanction and disbursal of loans. The
action, which is effective from the close of business on October 21, is based on material supervisory
concerns observed in the pricing policy of these companies in terms of their Weighted Average Lending Rate (WALR) and
the interest spread charged over their cost of funds, which were found to be excessive. Further, their pricing policy is not in
adherence with the regulations as laid down in the Master Direction (MD) relating to regulatory framework for microfinance
loans and MD relating to NBFC-scale based regulation. The pricing policy was also found to be not in conformity with the
provisions laid down under Fair Practices Code issued by the Reserve Bank. These business restrictions do not preclude these
companies from servicing their existing customers and carrying out collection and recovery processes in accordance with
the extant regulatory guidelines. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – imposed business restrictions on 4 NBFCs, asking them to cease & desist from sanction & disbursal of loans
- Asirvad Micro Finance Ltd, Arohan Financial Services Ltd, DMI Finance Pvt Ltd & Navi Finserv Ltd
• Effective from – close of business on Oct 21
97. As of October 2024, India’s total exports of $73.22 billion (Merchandise $39.20
billion + Services $34.02 billion) registered a positive growth of 19.08% vis-à-vis
October 2023, while India’s total imports of $83.34 billion (Merchandise $66.34
billion + Services $17 billion) registered a positive growth of 7.77% vis-à-vis
October 2023. Overall, India’s total exports during April-October 2024 (H1 FY25)
are estimated at $468.26 billion (Merchandise $252.28 billion + Services $215.98
billion) and registered a positive growth of 7.28%, while total imports during April-October 2024 are estimated at $531.50
billion (Merchandise $416.93 billion + Services $114.57 billion) and registered a growth of 7.05%. The merchandise trade
deficit during April-October 2024 was $164.65 billion, as compared to $149.67 billion during April-October 2023. The
estimated value of services export for October 2024 is $34.02 billion as compared to $28.05 billion in October 2023, while
the overall estimated value of service exports during April-October 2024 is $215.98 billion as compared to $191.97 billion in
April-October 2023. The estimated value of services imports for October 2024 is $17 billion as compared to $13.46 billion in
October 2023, while the overall estimated value of service imports during April-October 2024 is $114.57 billion as compared
to $102.32 billion in April-October 2023. The services trade surplus for April-October 2024 is $101.41 billion as compared to
$89.64 billion in April-October 2023. Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in
October 2024 vis a vis October 2023 are Singapore (197.39%), UAE (43.32%), USA (11.47%), UK (42.12%) and Australia
(60.41%). While the Top 5 import sources are UAE (70.37%), Russia (25.98%), Taiwan (82.76%), Peru (142.69%) and Angola
(425.33%). Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in April-October 2024 (H1 FY25)
vis a vis April-October 2023 are Netherland (32.92%), UAE (15.86%), USA (6.31%), Singapore (20.78%) and UK (16.23%).
While, the Top 5 import sources during this period are UAE (55.12%), China (9.8%), Russia (8.85%), Taiwan (45.45%) and
Angola (99.84%). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India’s total trade during October 2024:
https:// /#
• Trade during April-October 2024 (H1 FY25):
• Merchandise trade deficit during Apr-Oct 2024 – $164.65 billion (from $149.67 billion during Apr-Oct 2023)
• Services trade surplus for Apr-Oct 2024 – $101.41 billion (from $89.64 billion in Apr-Oct 2023)
• Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in Oct 2024:
- 1st – Singapore (197.39%) | 2nd – UAE (43.32%) | 3rd – USA (11.47%) | 4th – UK (42.12%) | 5th – Australia (60.41%)
• Top 5 import sources: 1st – UAE (70.37%) | 2nd – Russia (25.98%) | 3rd – Taiwan (82.76%)
- 4th – Peru (142.69%) | 5th – Angola (425.33%)
• Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in Apr-Oct 2024 (H1 FY25):
- 1st – Netherland (32.92%) | 2nd – UAE (15.86%) | 3rd – USA (6.31%) | 4th – Singapore (20.78%) | 5th – UK (16.23%)
• Top 5 import sources: 1st – UAE (55.12%) | 2nd – China (9.8%) | 3rd – Russia (8.85%)
- 4th – Taiwan (45.45%) | 5th – Angola (99.84%)
https:// /#
98. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has asked banks and ATM operators to implement the cassette
swap mechanism for cash replenishment in ATMs by March 31, 2025. The RBI has exempted cash
recycler machines (CRMs) from the cassette swap requirement for cash replenishment. Additionally,
this exemption applies when banks don’t engage outsourced agencies for cash replenishment in ATMs. In 2018, the RBI had
asked banks to implement the cassette swap mechanism by March 31, 2021. However, the implementation has been tardy.
Under the cassette swap mechanism, lockable cassettes filled with banknotes are used in ATMs that are swapped at the
time of cash replenishment. As per estimates, each ATM will require 3 sets of 5 cassettes – 1 set in the ATM, 1 in transit, and
another at the branch/cash-in-transit (CIT) company (ready for loading the next day). The cost of each cassette is in the
range of Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000. As of August 2024, there were 2.55 lakh ATMs in the country. Of these, 2.20 lakh were
bank-owned ATMs, and 35,000 were owned by White Label ATM Operators. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – asked banks & ATM operators to implement cassette swap mechanism for cash replenishment in ATMs by Mar 31,
2025
• Exempted – cash recycler machines (CRMs) from cassette swap requirement for cash replenishment
- This exemption applies when banks don’t engage outsourced agencies for cash replenishment in ATMs
• RBI – asked banks to implement cassette swap mechanism by March 31, 2021 in 2018
- Lockable cassettes filled with banknotes are used in ATMs that are swapped at time of cash replenishment
• Each ATM will require 3 sets of 5 cassettes – 1 set in ATM, 1 in transit, & another at branch/cash-in-transit (CIT) company
- Cost of each cassette – Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000
• As of August 2024, there were 2.55 lakh ATMs in the country with ownership:
- 2.20 lakh – bank-owned | 35,000 – owned by White Label ATM Operators
https:// /#
Defence Affairs
1. The Indian Army special contingent of 25 personnel is participating in the 9th edition of the India - Indonesia joint exercise
“Garud Shakti”, which is scheduled to be conducted from November 1st to 12th in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Indian contingent
is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Indonesian contingent of 40 personnel
is being represented by Indonesian Special Forces Kopassus. The joint exercise aims to familiarise both sides with each
other’s operating procedures and enhance mutual understanding, cooperation and interoperability between the Special
Forces of both armies. Moreover, the exercises will also involve practising Jungle Forces Operations in jungle terrain. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• 9th edition of India - Indonesia joint exercise “Garud Shakti” – to be conducted from Nov 1-12 in Jakarta, Indonesia
• Representation: India – by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
- Indonesia – contingent of 40 personnel by Indonesian Special Forces Kopassus
• Aim: To get familiarise with each other’s operating procedures & enhance mutual understanding between Special Forces
• Indonesia – Jakarta – Indonesian Rupiah | President – Prabowo Subianto
2. The Indian Army contingent of 45 personnel from the Special Forces Units is participating in the 15th
edition of India - US joint Special Forces Exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR”. The exercise is scheduled to be
conducted from 2nd to 22nd November 2024 at Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, the US. The last
edition of the exercise was conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya in December 2023. This is the 2nd exercise of
the year between the Indian and the US Army, the previous being Exercise ‘YUDH ABHYAS 2024’,
conducted in Rajasthan in September 2024. The exercise will enhance combined capabilities in executing joint Special Forces
Operations in a desert/ semi-desert environment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 15th edition of India - US joint Special Forces Exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR” – to be conducted from Nov 2-22, 2024
- At – Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, US
• 14th edition of Vajra Prahar – conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya in Dec 2023
• 2nd exercise of year between Indian & US Army | 1st – Exercise ‘YUDH ABHYAS 2024’ in Rajasthan in Sep 2024
3. The 5th edition of Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” commenced at
Ambala. The exercise will be held from November 4 to 23 at Ambala and Chandimandir in
Haryana. This edition marks a significant increase in the scope with Bi Service level
participation for the first time by personnel of Army and Air Force from both the countries.
The Indian Army contingent comprising 47 personnel is being represented by a Regiment of
the Corps of Engineers. The aim of VINBAX-2024 is to enhance joint military capability of both sides in employment and
deployment of engineer company and medical teams to undertake engineering tasks as part of United Nation Contingent in
Peace Keeping Operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• 5th edition of Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” – commenced at Ambala & Chandimandir, Haryana
- To be held from – Nov 4-23, 2024
• Indian Army contingent – represented by a Regiment of Corps of Engineers & comprises 47 personnel
• Aim: To enhance military capability of both sides in employment & deployment of engineer company & medical teams
• Vietnam – Hanoi – Vietnamese dong | PM – Pham Minh Chinh | President – Luong Cuong
4. The 3rd edition of the high-level virtual interaction “MAHASAGAR” was conducted by the Indian
Navy on November 5, 2024, during which Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff
interacted with Heads of Navies/ Maritime Agencies and Senior Leadership from Indian Ocean
Region littorals viz., Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique,
Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Tanzania. The interaction’s theme was “Training Cooperation to Mitigate
Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR”. MAHASAGAR is the Indian Navy’s flagship
outreach for high-level virtual interaction between “Maritime Heads for Active Security and
Growth for All in the Region”. The initiative, started by the Indian Navy, is conducted bi-annually. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Navy – conducted the 3rd edition of the high-level virtual interaction “MAHASAGAR”
• Admiral DK Tripathi – interacted with Heads of Navies/ Maritime Agencies & Senior Leadership from IOR littorals
- viz. Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka & Tanzania
• MAHASAGAR – Maritime Heads for Active Security and Growth for All in the Region (conducted bi-annually)
5. The United States (US), France, and Armenia have emerged as the top 3 destinations for
Indian defence exports, with Armenia, in particular, being the biggest client of finished Indian
weapons and equipment (like 155mm artillery guns and the Akash air defence missile and
Pinaka multi-launch rocket systems). This comes at a time when India’s defence exports have
touched a record Rs 21,083 crore (approximately $2.63 billion) in the financial year 2023-2024
(FY24), amounting to a growth of 32.5% over Rs 15,920 crore in FY23. India’s annual defence production hit a record high of
almost Rs 1.27 trillion in FY24, up 16.7% over Rs 1.09 trillion in FY23. The government has set an ambitious target for it to
touch Rs 3 lakh crore by 2028-29, along with arms exports of Rs 50,000 crore. India’s defence-industrial base, apart from the
16 defence PSUs, has now expanded to over 430 licenced companies and 16,000 MSMEs. The private sector’s contribution
amounts to 21% of this. India continued to be the world’s largest arms importer, accounting for 9.8% of total global imports,
in the 2019-2023 period. Armenia has become the 1st foreign customer for the indigenously developed Akash air defence
missiles, which have an interception range of 25 km. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Top destinations for Indian defence exports: 1st – US | 2nd – France | 3rd – Armenia
- Armenia – biggest client of finished Indian weapons & equipment
• India’s defence exports – reached Rs 21,083 Cr in FY24 | Growth of – 32.5% over Rs 15,920 Cr in FY23
• India’s annual defence production – Rs 1.27 trillion in FY24 (up by 16.7% over Rs 1.09 trillion in FY23)
• Target for India’s annual defence production – Rs 3 lakh Cr by 2028-29 | With arms exports of – Rs 50,000 Cr
• India’s defence-industrial base, apart from 16 defence PSUs – expanded to 430+ licenced companies & 16,000 MSMEs
https:// /#
- Private sector’s contribution – 21%
• India – continued to be world’s largest arms importer with 9.8% of total global imports in 2019-2023 period
• Armenia – became 1st foreign customer for indigenously developed Akash air defence missiles
- Interception range – 25 km
6. The contingents of the Indian and Australian military began the 3rd edition of the joint
military exercise “AUSTRAHIND” in Pune, Maharashtra. The exercise focuses on
interoperability in multi-domain operations. Indian contingent comprises troops from 9
Dogra Infantry Battalion of the 72 Infantry Brigade of 36 Rapid Strike and Indian Air Force
Garud Commandos. Exercise ‘Austrahind’ was instituted in 2022 and the first edition was
conducted in the Mahajan Field Ranges in Rajasthan and the 2nd edition at Perth in Australia in December 2023. The joint
exercise is planned to be an annual training event to be conducted alternatively in India and Australia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 3rd edition of India-Australia joint military exercise “AUSTRAHIND” – began in Pune, Maharashtra
• Indian contingent comprises – troops from 9 Dogra Infantry Battalion of 72 Infantry Brigade of 36 Rapid Strike & Indian
Air Force Garud Commandos
• ‘Austrahind’ – instituted in 2022 | 1st edition – Mahajan Field Ranges, Rajasthan | 2nd edition – Perth, Australia (Dec’23)
7. Third 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, “Ashva” (Yard 337), was launched by Cmde Ajay Yadav at
M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited, Kolkata. Contract for construction and delivery of six 25T
BP Tug was concluded with M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) in consonance with
“Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative of the Government of India. The availability of Tugs will provide
impetus to Operational commitments of Indian Navy by facilitating assistance to Naval ships
and submarines during berthing and un-berthing, turning and manoeuvring in confined waters. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 3rd 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, “Ashva” (Yard 337) – launched by Cmde Ajay Yadav at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd, Kolkata
• Contract for construction & delivery of six 25T BP Tug – concluded with M/s TRSL
8. The 3rd edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO)
Seminar, “Swavlamban 2024”, was recently held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event
showcased the remarkable innovation and indigenisation efforts of the armed forces,
innovation partners and the Indian industry. The theme for Swavlamban 2024 was “Strength
and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation”. At Swavalamban 2024, Big Bang Boom
Solutions (BBBS) presented the innovative “Vajra Shot”, a lightweight, handheld anti-drone jammer gun, which garnered
notable attention from Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. The Vajra Shot, also known as the Vajra Sentinel System,
is a handheld anti-drone gun weighing just 3.5 kilograms. The Vajra Shot can detect and jam drone signals at a distance of
up to 4 km. It is specifically created for use by the Indian Army and Air Force. During Swavlamban 3.0, Rajnath Singh, Ministry
of Defence, also launched two significant initiatives - 3rd edition of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies (ADITI
3.0) challenge, and the 13th Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 13) - aimed at bolstering indigenous defence
technologies. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• 3rd edition of Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation & Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) Seminar, “Swavlamban 2024” – held
at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
• Theme – “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation”
• “Vajra Shot”, a lightweight, handheld anti-drone jammer gun – presented by Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS)
- Aka Vajra Sentinel System – a handheld anti-drone gun weighing just 3.5 kg
- It can detect & jam drone signals at a distance of up to 4 km | Specifically created for Indian Army & Air Force
• At Swavlamban 3.0, Rajnath Singh launched two significant initiatives:
- 3rd edition of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies (ADITI 3.0) challenge
- 13th Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 13)
9. The Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force will conduct a joint Tri-services exercise titled
“Poorvi Prahar” in the eastern theatre (along the India-China border) from November 10 to 18 with
the aim to develop a more refined common operating picture in mountainous terrain and optimise
devices that rely on satellite communications and AI-driven analytics. Troops will also refine their skills
and leverage cutting-edge technologies like Swarm drones, first-person view (FPV) drones and loiter
munitions, which have significantly transformed modern warfare by improving situational awareness,
precision and speed. Advanced fighter aircraft, reconnaissance planes, helicopters like Chinook and the advanced light
helicopter (Rudra), as well as the newly inducted M777 ultra-light howitzers, will be deployed throughout the 9-day exercise.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Army + Navy + IAF = will conduct a joint Tri-services exercise titled “Poorvi Prahar” in the eastern theatre
• Aim: To develop a more refined common operating picture in mountainous terrain
• Chinook & Rudra helicopters + M777 ultra-light howitzers = will be deployed throughout the 9-day exercise
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh | Vice Chief – Air Marshal SP Dharkar
10. “Antariksha Abhyas - 2024”, a 3-day first-of-its-kind exercise to war-game the growing
threats from and to Space-Based Assets and Services, is being conducted by the Defence
Space Agency (DSA) of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) from 11 - 13 November
2024, to help secure national strategic objectives in space and integrate India’s space
capability in military operations. In addition, it intends to identify vulnerabilities in the
conduct of operations in the event of denial or disruptions of space-based services. It will have participants from the Defence
Space Agency and its allied units along with personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force. Specialist branches under
Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff viz Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency and Strategic Forces
Command would also be active participants in the conduct of the exercise. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Antariksha Abhyas - 2024”, 3-day first-of-its-kind exercise – conducted by Defence Space Agency (DSA) of HQs IDS
- From – Nov 11-13, 2024
https:// /#
- To help secure national strategic objectives in space & integrate India’s space capability in military operations
• HQs of IDS – New Delhi | Chief – General Anil Chauhan | Vice-Chief – Lt Gen JP Mathew
11. Zen Technologies Ltd, in collaboration with its subsidiary AI Turing Technologies, has launched 4
remote-controlled weapon and surveillance (RCWS) systems to strengthen India’s defence
capabilities. The newly launched systems include RCWS - 7.62 x 51 MMG (Parashu), Tank Mounted
RCWS - 12.7 x 108 HMG (Fanish), Naval RCWS – 12.7 x 99 HMG (Sharur), and Artillery Rugged Camera
(Durgam). Parashu is a versatile remote-controlled weapon system featuring advanced thermal
imaging and anti-drone capabilities. While, Fanish boosts the firepower of T-72 and T-90 tanks with its sophisticated thermal
targeting system. Sharur excels in engaging both surface and aerial threats at distances of up to 2 kms. Additionally, Durgam
(Artillery Rugged Camera) offers all-weather reliability with its military-grade, day/night vision capabilities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Zen Technologies Ltd + AI Turing Technologies = launched 4 remote-controlled weapon & surveillance (RCWS) systems
- RCWS - 7.62 x 51 MMG (Parashu) | Tank Mounted RCWS - 12.7 x 108 HMG (Fanish)
- Naval RCWS – 12.7 x 99 HMG (Sharur) | Artillery Rugged Camera (Durgam)
• ‘Parashu’ – a versatile remote-controlled weapon system featuring advanced thermal imaging & anti-drone capabilities
• ‘Fanish’ – boosts firepower of T-72 & T-90 tanks with its thermal targeting system
• ‘Sharur’ – excels in engaging both surface & aerial threats at distances of up to 2 kms
• ‘Durgam’ – offers all-weather reliability with its military-grade, day/night vision capabilities
• HQs of Zen Technologies Ltd – Hyderabad, Telangana | CMD – Ashok Atluri | Fromed in – 1993
• HQs of AI Turing Technologies – Pune, Maharashtra | Director & CEO – Komal Bhangale
12. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the
maiden flight test of its “Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)” from the Integrated Test
Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. The LRLACM is equipped with state-of-the-art
avionics and software that enhances its performance and reliability. Developed by DRDO’s
Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, the LRLACM is the result of
collaboration between various DRDO laboratories and Indian industries. The LRLACM is designed to be launched from both
mobile ground-based systems and frontline ships, using a universal vertical launch module, further enhancing its operational
flexibility. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru served as the
Development-Cum-Production Partners. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – conducted maiden flight test of its “Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)”
- From – Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha
• Developed by – DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru
• It is designed to be launched from both mobile ground-based systems & frontline ships
• Development-Cum-Production Partners – BDL (Hyderabad) & BEL (Bengaluru)
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958
https:// /#
13. The Defence and Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has launched a first-of-its-kind initiative that will
remodel its research programme towards emerging technologies for military usage. The DRDO is funding 5 high-value deep
tech innovation projects, with each project having been allotted a maximum of ₹50 crore to promote indigenisation of
defence products having long-term positive impact on national security. The primary focus of DRDO’s programme is to
propel research in futuristic and disruptive technologies in the sphere, including quantum, block chain and artificial
intelligence. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – launched first-of-its-kind initiative to remodel its research programme towards emerging technologies for
military usage
• DRDO – funding 5 high-value deep tech innovation projects to promote indigenisation of defence products
- Each project having been allotted a maximum of – ₹50 Cr
• Aim: To propel research in futuristic & disruptive technologies in sphere, including quantum, block chain & AI
14. India marks another milestone in its defence export as it shipped the 1st Akash weapon
system battery to Armenia. In 2022, Armenia signed a deal with India to procure 15 Akash
missile systems worth around Rs 6,000 crore. Armenia has become the 1st foreign country
to buy this missile system. This is the 2nd missile system to have been exported. In 2022, India
had announced another major defence export deal with the Philippines for the supply of the
BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, making it the country’s 1st major defence export order. The Akash system, developed by
the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is a surface-to-air missile (SAM) which can hit targets like
fighter jets, missiles (cruise, air-to-surface), drones and other aerial assets to a range of 25km. These missiles are being
manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The missile was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2014 and into the
Indian Army in 2015. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – shipped 1st Akash weapon system battery to Armenia (1st foreign country to buy this missile system)
- It is 2nd missile system to have been exported | 1st – BrahMos supersonic cruise missile to Philippines (deal in 2022)
• Armenia + India = signed deal to procure 15 Akash missile systems in 2022 | Worth – Rs 6,000 Cr
• Akash system – a surface-to-air missile which can hit targets to a range of 25km | Developed by – DRDO
- Being manufactured by – Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
- Inducted in: Indian Air Force – in 2014 | Indian Army – in 2015
• Armenia – Yerevan – Dram | PM – Nikol Pashinyan | President – Vahagn Khachaturyan
15. The Indian Navy is set to conduct the 4th edition of the pan-India Coastal Defence Exercise “Sea Vigil-24” on November
20-21, 2024. The 4th edition of Ex Sea Vigil will span an unprecedented scale, both in terms of geographical reach and the
magnitude of participation, with involvement of 6 ministries and 21 organisations/ agencies. The Coastal Defence & Security
Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) phase of the exercise is being conducted by Naval Officers-in-Charge of all coastal states and
UTs. This year, National Security Council Secretariat officials will also be part of Indian Navy led CDSRE teams for the first
time. The exercise will focus on strengthening the security of coastal assets like ports, oil rigs, single point moorings, cable
landing points and critical coastal infrastructure including the coastal population. This exercise also serves as a precursor to
the Theatre Level Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX). {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Indian Navy – to conduct 4th edition of pan-India Coastal Defence Exercise “Sea Vigil-24” on Nov 20-21, 2024
- It will involve 6 ministries & 21 organisations/ agencies
• ‘Coastal Defence & Security Readiness Evaluation’ phase – conducted by Naval Officers-in-Charge of all coastal states &
UTs
• For the 1st time, National Security Council Secretariat officials – also be part of CDSRE teams
16. The 9th edition of the Joint Special Forces “Exercise Garuda Shakti”, conducted between India
and Indonesia, concluded at Cijantung, Jakarta, Indonesia on November 12. The closing ceremony
was attended by Sandeep Chakravorty, Ambassador of India to Indonesia. Exercise Garud Shakti
has enabled both the contingents to enhance their capabilities to conduct joint military operations
in Counter Terrorism environment in sub conventional domain. The Indian contingent was
represented by the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces). The year 2024 is significant as both countries celebrate 75 years of
diplomatic relations and mark a decade of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, of which Indonesia is an important pillar. Also, 2024 is
declared as the “Year of Tech Absorption” by the Indian Army. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 9th edition of Joint Special Forces “Exercise Garuda Shakti” – conducted between India & Indonesia
- Concluded at – Cijantung, Jakarta, Indonesia on Nov 12
• Indian contingent represented by – Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
• Indian Army declared 2024 as – “Year of Tech Absorption”
• Indonesia – Jakarta – Indonesian Rupiah | President – Prabowo Subianto
17. Indian Army has rolled out its first overhauled T-90 ‘Bhishma’ Mk-3 tank, a step towards
ensuring the operational readiness of its armoured formations. The T-90 tanks have been built
under licence from Russia at the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) at Avadi near Chennai. The army,
which ordered a total of 1,657 T-90 tanks, currently operates around 1,300 such tanks. A Russian-
origin main battle tank, the T-90 Bhishma falls within the 50-ton class, boasting a maximum speed
of 60 kilometers (37 miles) per hour and an operational range of up to 550 kilometers (341 miles). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Army – rolled out its first overhauled T-90 ‘Bhishma’ Mk-3 tank
• T-90 tanks have been built under licence from Russia at the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) at Avadi near Chennai, TN
• Maximum speed of T-90 tanks – 60 kms (37 miles) per hour | Operational range – 550 kms (341 miles)
18. The Southern Naval Command is coordinating the 4th edition of the Coastal Defence
Exercise “Sea Vigil 2024” in Kerala and Lakshadweep. The exercise was overseen by Vice
Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Southern Naval
Command and Commander-in-Chief of Coastal Defence (South). The exercise will be conducted
by the Indian Navy with the participation and support of 16 Central and State agencies.
Notably, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) is participating in the exercise for the 1st time. The biennial exercise, which began
in 2009 in the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, aims to validate the efficacy of the coastal defence response
across the Indian coastline against threats arising from the sea. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Southern Naval Command – coordinating 4th Coastal Defence Exercise “Sea Vigil 2024” in Kerala & Lakshadweep
- NCC – participating for the 1st time
• Overseen by – VAdm V. Srinivas, FOC-in-C of Southern Naval Command & C-in-C of Coastal Defence (South)
• To be conducted by – Indian Navy with participation & support of 16 Central & State agencies
• Sea Vigil (biennial exercise) – began in 2009 aftermath of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks
- Aim: To validate efficacy of coastal defence response across Indian coastline against threats arising from sea
19. Indian Army has successfully conducted the Multilateral Annual Joint
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, “Sanyukt Vimochan
2024” in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad and Porbandar districts on 18-19 November 2024.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff attended this significant event
which showcased India’s disaster response readiness. The exercise was conducted
by the Konark Corps of Southern Command of Indian Army. The inaugural event of
the exercise at Ahmedabad featured a Table Top Exercise, focusing on the theme of
‘Cyclone in Coastal Region of Gujarat’. The second day witnessed Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration held at Chowpatty
Beach at Porbandar. This event highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Airforce, Indian
Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force & other Central & State Agencies in
addressing natural disasters. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Multilateral Annual Joint HADR Exercise, “Sanyukt Vimochan 2024” – conducted on Nov 18-19, 2024
- in Ahmedabad & Porbandar districts of Gujarat
- Conducted by – Konark Corps of Southern Command of Indian Army
• Inaugural event of exercise – held in Ahmedabad | Theme – ‘Cyclone in Coastal Region of Gujarat’
• Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration – held at Chowpatty Beach at Porbandar
20. The 11th edition of Indian Coast Guard’s “National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise &
Workshop (SAREX-24)” will be conducted under the aegis of National Maritime Search and
Rescue Board in Kochi, Kerala, on November 28-29, 2024. The event will be inaugurated by
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The theme will be “Enhancing Search and Rescue
capabilities through Regional collaboration”. It signifies ICG’s commitment to provide succour
during large-scale contingencies regardless of location, nationality or circumstances in the Indian Search & Rescue Region
and beyond. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 11th “National Maritime Search & Rescue Exercise & Workshop (SAREX-24)” – conducted by ICG in Kochi, Kerala
• Theme – “Enhancing Search and Rescue Capabilities through Regional Collaboration”
• Inaugurated by – Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary
• HQs of ICG – New Delhi | DG – S Paramesh | Founded in – 1977
https:// /#
21. Four battalions of the Army’s Mechanised Infantry - 26th & 27th Battalions of Mechanised
Infantry Regiment, and 20th & 22nd Battalions of Brigade of The Guards - were presented
President’s Colours by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi during a ceremony at the
Mechanised Infantry Centre and School, Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. Since its inception in
1979, the Mechanised Infantry demonstrated exceptional operational proficiency in key
operations such as ‘Operation Pawan’, ‘Operation Vijay’, ‘Operation Rakshak’ and ‘Operation Snow Leopard’ as well as in
United Nations peacekeeping missions. The President’s Colours is one of the highest honours awarded to a military unit in
the Army. The Colours, a ceremonial flag bearing the unit’s insignia and motto, are presented to units upon completing
specified meritorious service to recognise their contributions in operations and peacetime. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Four battalions of Army’s Mechanised Infantry – presented President’s Colours by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi
- 26th & 27th Battalions of Mechanised Infantry Regiment, and 20th & 22nd Battalions of Brigade of The Guards
• During a ceremony at – Mechanised Infantry Centre & School, Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra
• President’s Colours includes – a ceremonial flag bearing unit’s insignia & motto
22. India has tested a nuclear-capable “K4” ballistic missile with a range of around 3,500 km from
a nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal, in a major boost to its nuclear
deterrence. With the test, India became part of a small group of nations - Russia, China and the US
- having the capability to fire a nuclear missile from land, air and undersea. It was the 1st test of the
submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from a submarine. Recently, India successfully flight-tested a long-range
hypersonic missile off the coast of Odisha. Generally, hypersonic missiles, capable of carrying conventional explosives or
nuclear warheads, can fly in the range of 5 times the speed of sound (Mach 5 which is roughly 1,220 km) per hour at sea
level. However, some advanced versions of hypersonic missiles can even fly at the speed of over Mach 15. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – tested a nuclear-capable “K4” ballistic missile from nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat in Bay of Bengal
- Range – around 3,500 km
• Now, India became part of a small group of nations having capability to fire a nuclear missile from land, air & undersea
- Group includes – Russia, China & US
• 1st test of submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from a submarine
• India – recently flight-tested a long-range hypersonic missile off the coast of Odisha
23. The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), a Kochi-based research and development laboratory of the
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has signed a contract worth Rs 490.98 crore with Garden Reach
Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited, Kolkata, for the design and construction of an acoustic research ship. Duvvuri
Seshagiri, Director of NPOL, and Cdr. Shantanu Bose, Director (Shipbuilding) of GRSE, signed the contract. The NPOL is
involved in the development of technologies for underwater surveillance systems and oceanographic research for Anti-
Submarine Warfare (ASW) applications for the Indian Navy. The ship will be delivered by GRSE in three years. The ship will
be designed as acoustically silent with minimum underwater radiated noise and this is the first time a silent class ship is
being built in the country. The ship will have a dynamic positioning system and be capable of achieving a speed of 12 knots.
At its top speed, it will have an endurance of 30 days or 4,500 nautical miles in a single mission. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NPOL + GRSE Ltd = a contract for design & construction of an acoustic research ship | Worth – Rs 490.98 Cr
https:// /#
- To be delivered in 3 years | 1st time a silent class ship is being built in the country | Speed – 12 knots
• NPOL – involved in development of technologies for underwater surveillance systems & oceanographic research for
ASW applications for Indian Navy
• At its top speed, it will have an endurance of – 30 days or 4,500 nautical miles in a single mission
• HQs of GRSE – Kolkata, West Bengal | Chairman & MD – P. R. Hari | Founded in – 1884
• HQs of NPOL – Kochi, Kerala | Director – Duvvuri Seshagiri | Works under – DRDO
24. The 13th edition of Joint Military Exercise “AGNI WARRIOR (XAW-2024)”, a bilateral exercise
between the Indian Army and Singapore Armed Forces, concluded at Field Firing Ranges, Devlali
(Maharashtra). The three-day exercise conducted from 28th to 30th November 2024, witnessed
participation by the Singapore Armed Forces contingent comprising 182 personnel from the
Singapore Artillery and the Indian Army contingent comprising 114 personnel from the Regiment of
Artillery. The aim of XAW-2024 was to maximise mutual understanding of drills and procedures to achieve jointness as a
multinational force under the United Nations Charter. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 13th Joint Military Exercise “AGNI WARRIOR (XAW-2024)” – concluded at Field Firing Ranges, Devlali (Maharashtra)
- It is a bilateral exercise between Indian Army & Singapore Armed Forces | Conducted from – Nov 28-30, 2024
• Armed Forces contingent comprises personnel: Singapore – 182 | India – 114 (from Regiment of Artillery)
• Aim: To maximise mutual understanding of drills & procedures to achieve jointness as a multinational force
• Singapore – Singapore – Dollar | PM – Lawrence Wong | President – Tharman Shanmugaratnam
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Sports & Games
1. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has announced that key sports such as hockey,
badminton, table tennis, squash, wrestling, cricket, shooting, and road racing, among other major
sports, have been dropped from the “Commonwealth Games 2026” to be hosted by Glasgow,
Scotland, from July 23, 2026 to August 2, 2026. The objective is to limit the cost and streamline logistics
given that only 4 venues will host the entire showpiece. The Birmingham edition (2022) had featured
19 sports. For Glasgow, just 10 sports disciplines have been picked - athletics and para-athletics (track & field), swimming
and para-swimming, artistic gymnastics, track cycling and para track cycling, netball, weightlifting and para powerlifting,
boxing, judo, bowls and para bowls and 3x3 basketball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball. At the 2022 CWG, India had won 61
medals, including 22 gold. Wrestling (12), weightlifting (10), athletics (8), boxing and table tennis (7 each) contributed the
most to the overall tally. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Key sports have been dropped from “Commonwealth Games 2026” – to be hosted by Glasgow, Scotland
- Includes hockey, badminton, table tennis, squash, wrestling, cricket, shooting, road racing, & other major sports
- From – Jul 23-Aug 2, 2026
• Aim: To limit cost & streamline logistics given that only 4 venues will host entire showpiece
• Birmingham edition (2022) – featured 19 sports | Glasgow edition (2026) – will feature 10 sports
- They are: Athletics & para-athletics (track & field) | Swimming & para-swimming | Artistic gymnastics | Netball
- Track cycling & para track cycling | Weightlifting & para powerlifting | Boxing | Judo | Bowls & para bowls
- 3x3 basketball & 3x3 wheelchair basketball
• At 2022 CWG: India – won 61 medals, including 22 gold
- Medals as per sport: Wrestling – 12 | Weightlifting – 10 | Athletics – 8 | Boxing & Table Tennis – 7 each
• HQs of CGF – London, England | President – Chris Jenkins | CEO – Katie Sadleir
2. India’s Krisha Verma clinched a gold medal after defeating Lerika Simon of Germany at the “U19
World Boxing Championships” in Colorado, USA. Chanchal Chaudhary won the silver medal after
losing to Ruby White of England in the female 48kg category. In the female 57kg category, Anjali
Singh succumbed to a 0-5 defeat to Mia-Tiah Ayton of England. Rahul Kundu, competing in the male
75kg category, also settled for a silver medal as he lost to the USA’s Joseph Awinongya. In the female 60kg category, Vini
won the silver medal after losing to Ella Lonsdale. Akansha Phalaswal in the female 70kg category also won the silver medal
as she lost to Lilly Deacon of England. In another event, India’s Atanu Das, a two-time Olympian, won the bronze medal in
the men’s recurve event after defeating Switzerland’s Thomas Rufer at the “Swiss Open 2024” archery competition, which
kicked off the ‘2025 Indoor Archery World Series’, in Lausanne, Switzerland. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “U19 World Boxing Championships” – held in Colorado, USA
• Gold medal – Krisha Verma (India) | Defeated – Lerika Simon (Germany)
• In female 48kg category, Silver medal – Chanchal Chaudhary | Lost to – Ruby White (England)
• In female 57kg category, Anjali Singh – defeated by Mia-Tiah Ayton (England)
• In male 75kg category, Silver medal – Rahul Kundu (India) | Lost to – Joseph Awinongya (USA)
• In female 60kg category, Silver medal – Vini (India) | Lost to – Ella Lonsdale
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• In female 70kg category, Silver medal – Akansha Phalaswal (India) | Lost to – Lilly Deacon (England)
• “Swiss Open 2024” archery competition – held in Lausanne, Switzerland
- Men’s recurve event: Atanu Das (India) – Bronze | Defeated – Thomas Rufer (Switzerland)
3. 3 years, 8 months, and 19 days old, Anish Sarkar from Kolkata, has made history as the youngest-
rated FIDE chess player ever. He is born on January 26, 2021. Anish’s competitive debut came in
October 2024 at the West Bengal state Under-9 Open, where he scored 5.5 points from 8 rounds.
He soon competed in the state Under-13 Open. This match met the FIDE requirement of playing
five rated players, securing him an initial FIDE rating of 1555. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anish Sarkar (Kolkata) – became youngest-rated FIDE chess player ever at 3 years, 8 months & 19 days old
• In Oct 2024 at West Bengal state Under-9 Open, he scored 5.5 points from 8 rounds & soon competed in Under-13 Open
• He secured an initial FIDE rating of – 1555
• HQs of FIDE – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Arkady Dvorkovich | Founded on – July 20, 1924
4. India’s Harmeet Desai won the men’s singles title at the WTT Feeder Caracas 2024 table tennis
tournament in Venezuela. Harmeet Desai, 90th in the latest table tennis rankings, defeated France’s
Joe Seyfried in the final. He also bagged the mixed doubles crown at the competition with Krittwika
Roy as partner. Desai and Roy had beaten Cuba’s Jorge Campos and Daniela Fonseca Carrazana to bag
the mixed doubles crown. This was Krittwika Roy’s second WTT Feeder doubles title in as many weeks after winning the
women’s doubles crown with Yashaswini Ghorpade in Cagliari. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WTT Feeder Caracas 2024 table tennis tournament – held in Venezuela
• Men’s singles title – Harmeet Desai (90th in latest table tennis rankings) | Defeated – Joe Seyfried (France)
• Mixed doubles – Harmeet Desai & Krittwika Roy | Defeated – Jorge Campos & Daniela Fonseca Carrazana (Cuba)
• It was Krittwika’s 2nd WTT Feeder doubles title | 1st – Women’s doubles crown in Cagliari (with - Yashaswini Ghorpade)
5. In cricket, Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma has attained a career-best No. 2 spot in the Women’s ODI
bowlers’ rankings in the latest update released by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Sophie
Ecclestone of England is No. 1 ranked ODI bowler. Deepti’s three wickets in the first two matches against
New Zealand have helped her gain two places. Moreover, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada has replaced
India’s Jasprit Bumrah as the No. 1 Test bowler in the latest ICC Rankings. Bumrah who failed to take a
single wicket in India’s loss to New Zealand in Pune, is now 3rd in the rankings with Australia’s Josh Hazlewood coming in at
No. 2. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin dropped to 4th. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Women’s ODI bowlers’ rankings – update released by International Cricket Council (ICC)
• ODI bowler: Deepti Sharma – No. 2 (her career-best) | No. 1 – Sophie Ecclestone (England)
• Test bowler in latest ICC Rankings: No. 1 – Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) | No. 2 – Josh Hazlewood (Australia)
- No. 3 – Jasprit Bumrah (India) | No. 4 – Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
• HQs of ICC – Dubai, UAE | Chairman – Jay Shah | CEO – Geoff Allardice | Members – 108 countries
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6. Tennis legends Maria Sharapova, Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan were selected for the
“International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025”. Sharapova is a five-time Grand Slam
champion and is also a former world No. 1. Meanwhile, the Bryan brothers are the most
successful men’s doubles pair in history. Sharapova and the Bryan brothers will be inducted
on August 23, 2025, at the Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Maria Sharapova, Bob Bryan & Mike Bryan – selected for “International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025”
• To be inducted on – Aug 23, 2025 | At – Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island
7. The Paris 2024 Olympics champion in 50-metre rifle 3-position, Liu Yukun of China, was
declared the “Male Athlete of the Year” by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF)
during the opening ceremony of the World Cup Final at the Dr Karni Singh Range in Tughlakabad,
New Delhi. The President of ISSF, Luciano Rossi, presented the award to Yukun Liu. Yang Ji-in of
Korea, the women’s 25-metre sports pistol Olympic champion, was adjudged the “Female
Athlete of the Year” by the ISSF. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Opening ceremony of World Cup Final – held at Dr Karni Singh Range in Tughlakabad, New Delhi
• Liu Yukun (China) – declared “Male Athlete of the Year” by International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF)
- Presented by – Luciano Rossi, President of ISSF
• Yang Ji-in (Korea) – declared “Female Athlete of the Year”
• HQs of ISSF – Munich, Germany | President – Luciano Rossi
8. India’s Arjun Kadhe and Rithvik Bollipalli won the men’s doubles title after defeating Colombia’s
Nicolas Barrientos and Tunisia’s Skander Mansouri at the “Almaty Open 2024” ATP 250 tennis
tournament in Kazakhstan. It was their maiden ATP Tour crown, both as a team and individually.
Karen Khachanov won the men’s singles title after defeating Gabriel Diallo in the same event. The
2024 Almaty Open is a professional men’s tennis tournament that took place on indoor hard courts. The 2024 Open marked
the 5th edition of the event, which has been relocated from Kazakhstan’s Astana to Almaty this year. It is part of the ATP
Tour 250 Series on the 2024 ATP Tour. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5th edition of “Almaty Open 2024” ATP 250 tennis tournament – held in Almaty, Kazakhstan
• Men’s doubles title – Arjun Kadhe & Rithvik Bollipalli (India) | Defeated – Nicolas Barrientos & Skander Mansouri
• Men’s singles title – Karen Khachanov | Defeated – Gabriel Diallo
9. Indian professional boxer Mandeep Jangra, who made his professional boxing debut in 2021, won the
World Boxing Federation’s super featherweight world title after defeating Britain’s Conor McIntosh in the
Cayman Islands. The 31-year-old Mandeep Jangra, who trains under former Olympic silver medallist Roy
Jones Jr, has won 11 out of his 12 fights in his professional career with 7 being knockout victories. Also, under
the guidance of former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Akhil Kumar, Jangra won a silver medal at the 2013 Asian
Amateur Championships and a silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mandeep Jangra (India) – won World Boxing Federation’s super featherweight world title in Cayman Islands
- Defeated – Conor McIntosh (Britain)
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• Under guidance of Roy Jones Jr, he won 11 out of 12 fights in professional career with 7 being knockout victories
• Under guidance of Akhil Kumar, he won silver medal at 2013 Asian Amateur Championships & a silver at 2014
Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
10. India’s FIDE Master Gurpreet Pal Singh, an Indian railway employee, has won the gold medal at the “ACO World Chess
Championship 2024” in Crete, Greece. Gurpreet is known to have coached the likes of Grandmaster and former under-10
world champion Sahaj Grover. The nine-round tournament gave Gurpreet 7 points out of a possible nine in a highly-
competitive field comprising 29 countries. The World Amateur Chess Championship is a tournament organised by FIDE and
Amateur Chess Organisation (ACO). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “ACO World Chess Championship 2024” – held in Crete, Greece | Gurpreet Pal Singh (India) – won gold medal
• World Amateur Chess Championship – organised by FIDE & Amateur Chess Organisation (ACO)
11. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has announced Indian hockey stars Harmanpreet Singh
and PR Sreejesh as the “Men’s Player of the Year” and “Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year”, respectively.
The announcements came during the 49th FIH Statutory Congress held in Oman. Harmanpreet,
captain of the Indian men’s team, earned the Player of the Year award for the third time, having
previously won in 2020-21 and 2021-22. He was the top scorer at the Paris 2024 Olympics, leading India to a bronze medal.
Sreejesh, who retired after the Paris Olympics, received his third Goalkeeper of the Year award. The Netherlands’ Yibbi
Jansen won the Women’s Player of the Year award, while China’s Ye Jiao won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Other awardees are mentioned below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 49th FIH Statutory Congress – held in Oman
• Player of the Year: Men’s – Harmanpreet Singh (India-3rd time) | Women’s – Yibbi Jansen (Netherlands)
• Goalkeeper of the Year: Men’s – PR Sreejesh (India) | Women’s – Ye Jiao (China)
• Rising Star of the Year: Men’s – Sufyan Khan (Pakistan) | Women’s – Zoe Diaz (Argentina)
• Coach of the Year: Men’s – Jeroen Delmee (Netherlands) | Women’s – Alyson Annan (China)
• Umpire of the Year: Men’s – Steve Rogers (Australia) | Women’s – Sarah Wilson (Scotland)
• HQs of FIH – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Mohammad Tayyab Ikram | CEO – Thierry Weil | Founded – 1924
12. Ace Indian cueist Pankaj Advani has clinched a historic 28th world title, 7th in a row,
defeating England’s Robert Hall at the “IBSF World Billiards Championship 2024” in Doha,
Qatar. Advani’s winning streak had begun in 2016. Advani faced a strong challenge from
England’s Robert Hall in the final. Hall took the initial lead, claiming the first frame.
However, Advani quickly regained control, reaching the 150-point mark first in the second
frame and following it up with a remarkable unfinished break of 147 points. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “IBSF World Billiards Championship 2024” – held in Doha, Qatar
• Pankaj Advani (India) – clinched historic 28th world title, 7th in a row | Defeated – Robert Hall (England)
https:// /#
13. World number 3 tennis ace and 2023 US Open Singles winner, Coco Gauff, defeated 2024
Paris Olympic gold medal winner Zheng Qinwen to win her maiden “WTA Finals title” in Riyadh,
Saudi Arabia on November 9, 2024. The winner of the WTA Finals is given the ‘Billie Jean King
Trophy’. The 20-year-old Gauff became the youngest player since Maria Sharapova in 2004 to
win the WTA finals singles title. Canada’s Gabriela Dabrowaski and Erin Routfliffe of New
Zealand won the doubles of the 2024 WTA Finals after defeating the duo of Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic and
Taylor Townsend of the US. The WTA Finals is the season-ending tournament of the WTA, which has been held every year
since 1972. The top 8 ranked women’s singles and doubles players participate in the WTA Finals. The WTA Finals are
organised by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA has signed a 3-year deal under which Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,
will host the 2024, 2025, and 2026 WTA Finals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Coco Gauff (US) – won her maiden “WTA Finals title” in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (defeating - Zheng Qinwen)
• With this, 20-year-old Gauff became the youngest player to win WTA finals singles title (since Maria Sharapova in 2004)
• Gabriela Dabrowaski (Canada) + Erin Routfliffe (New Zealand) = won the doubles of the 2024 WTA Finals
• Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) – will host the 2024, 2025, & 2026 WTA Finals
• HQs of WTA – Florida, US | Chairman & CEO – Steve Simon
14. In chess, Grandmaster Aravindh Chithambaram defeated World No. 2 Arjun Erigaisi in round 6
of the ‘Chennai Grand Masters 2024’. The victory ended Arjun Erigaisi’s unbeaten streak to throw
open the Chennai Grand Masters title race. Arjun and Levon Aronian now lead jointly with 4 points
each, followed closely by Aravindh and Amin Tabatabaei, half a point behind. This tournament,
being a part of the FIDE Circuit that gives one Candidates spot, the players have battled for a
different tiebreak in case of a tie for the top spot. Hence if a deadlock cannot be broken after the seventh round of standard
time control (90 minutes + 30 secs), there won’t be a numeric tiebreak but the board playoff with lesser time control. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Round 6 of the ‘Chennai Grand Masters 2024’:
• Aravindh Chithambaram – defeated Arjun Erigaisi (World No. 2)
15. South Korean footballer Son Heung-min from Tottenham Hotspur F.C. has been named “Asia’s
International Player of the Year (Men)” for the 4th time by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)
at its annual awards ceremony in Seoul. Son, who captains both Tottenham and South Korea, won
the prize in 2015, 2017 and 2019 and took the trophy from compatriot Kim Min-Jae of Bayern
Munich. He is also the most successful Asian player in the Premier League, scoring 123 goals. He
also won the ‘Golden Boot’ for the 2021-22 season, becoming the first player from Asia to do so. Whereas, in the women’s
category, Australia’s Ellie Carpenter, who plays for French club Lyon, became the inaugural winner of the “Asia’s
International Player of the Year (Women)” award at the 28th edition of AFC Annual Awards. Carpenter has represented the
Matildas in 3 Olympic Games and at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. Japanese footballer Go Oiwa won the ‘AFC Coach
of the Year (Men)’ title, while South Korea’s Park Youn-Jeong won the ‘AFC Coach of the Year (Women)’ title. Gianni
Infantino, President of FIFA, was named ‘AFC Diamond of Asia’. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has won the
inaugural ‘AFC President’s Recognition Award’. Moreover, Qatar’s Akram Afif was named ‘AFC Player of the Year (Men)’,
and Japan’s Kiko Seike was named ‘AFC Player of the Year (Women)’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 28th edition of AFC Annual Awards:
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- Asia’s International Player of the Year (Men) – Son Heung-min (South Korea)
- Asia’s International Player of the Year (Women) – Ellie Carpenter (Australia)
- AFC Coach of the Year (Men) – Go Oiwa (Japan)
- AFC Coach of the Year (Women) – Park Youn-Jeong (South Korea)
- AFC Diamond of Asia – Gianni Infantino (President of FIFA)
- AFC President’s Recognition Award – SAFF (Saudi Arabi)
- AFC Player of the Year (Men) – Akram Afif (Qatar)
- AFC Player of the Year (Women) – Kiko Seike (Japan)
• HQs of AFC – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | President – Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa
16. The Indian squash player Anahat Singh secured her 7th ‘PSA Challenger Title’ of the year after
winning the women’s singles event at the “NSW Open 2024” squash tournament in Sydney, Australia.
She defeated Helen Tang of Hong Kong China. Earlier this month, she entered break into the world’s
top 100 for the 1st time following her victory at the ‘2024 Costa North Coast Open’ in Coffs Harbour,
Australia. Anahat won bronze medals in the women’s team and mixed doubles event at the 2023 Asian Games. In August
2024, she defended her national title. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anahat Singh (Delhi) – won Women’s Singles event at “NSW Open 2024” squash tournament in Sydney, Australia
• With this, she secured her 7th ‘PSA Challenger Title’ of the year
• Earlier, she also won the ‘2024 Costa North Coast Open’ in Coffs Harbour, Australia
17. Mumbai has defeated Bengal to win the “Senior Women’s T20 Trophy”. The final of the
16th Senior Women’s T20 trophy was played at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai,
Maharashtra. Humaira Kazi led her Mumbai team, while Saika Ishaque is the Bengal
captain. Jagravi Pawar of Mumbai was adjudged the ‘Player of the Match’, while Humairaa
Kaazi was named the ‘Player of the Series’. With 11 title wins, Railway is the most
successful team in the tournament. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 16th Senior Women’s T20 trophy – played at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, Maharashtra
• “Senior Women’s T20 Trophy” – won by Mumbai (led by - Humaira Kazi) | Defeated – Bengal (led by - Saika Ishaque)
• ‘Player of the Match’ – Jagravi Pawar (Mumbai) | ‘Player of the Series’ – Humairaa Kaazi (Mumbai)
• Most successful team in the tournament – Railway (11 title wins)
18. Armaan Bhatia, the top-ranked pickleball player in Asia, won 3 titles in the “PWR DUPR India
Masters Pickleball Championship 2024”, a PWR 700 tournament, organised by the Pickleball
World Rankings (PWR) at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association Stadium. He secured the men’s singles
title after defeating the USA’s Dusty Boyer; the men’s doubles title with compatriot Harsh Mehta
(their 1st Pro men’s doubles title) after defeating Roman Estereja-Mitch Hargreaves; and the mixed doubles title with Dutch
partner Roos van Reek after defeating George Wall-Danni Elle Townsend. In the same event, Sofia Sewing won the women’s
singles after defeating Kao Pei Chuan. Moreover, Roos van Reek and Kaitlynn Heart won the women’s doubles. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• “PWR DUPR India Masters Pickleball Championship 2024”, a PWR 700 tournament
- Organised by – Pickleball World Rankings (PWR) at Delhi Lawn Tennis Association Stadium
• Armaan Bhatia – won 3 titles
- Men’s singles title | Defeated – Dusty Boyer (USA)
- Men’s doubles with Harsh Mehta (their 1st Pro men’s doubles title) | Defeated – Estereja-Mitch Hargreaves
- Mixed doubles with Dutch partner Roos van Reek | Defeated – George Wall-Danni Elle Townsend
• Sofia Sewing – women’s singles | Defeated – Kao Pei Chuan
• Roos van Reek + Kaitlynn Heart = women’s doubles title
19. New Zealand has become the 1st team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India, under the captaincy
of Rohit Sharma, at home in 3 or more matches series. Meanwhile, it was also only the third
occasion when India suffered three back-to-back defeats in a Test series at home. India last lost
three consecutive Tests in a series against England in 1976-77, while the West Indies were the first
team to achieve that feat against India in 1958-59. Meanwhile, the New Zealand team, led by Tom Latham, etched their
name in history by becoming the 1st New Zealand team to win three Tests in a series home or away. The 3 test matches were
held in Bengaluru, Pune and Mumbai, respectively. This series was a part of the ‘2023-2025 International Cricket Council
(ICC) World Test Championship’. India’s lowest test score was 36 against Australia in 2020-21. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• New Zealand – became 1st team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India at home in 3 or more matches series
- Captains: India – Rohit Sharma | New Zealand – Tom Latham
• It was 3rd-time when India suffered three back-to-back defeats in a Test series at home
- 1st – against West Indies in 1958-59 | 2nd – against England in 1976-77
• 3 test matches – held in Bengaluru, Pune & Mumbai
• This series was a part of ‘2023-2025 International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test Championship’
• India’s lowest test score – 36 against Australia in 2020-21
20. Indian shooters, spearheaded by Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Palak Gulia, finished
the “FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024” with a medal tally of 24 medals (9
gold, 9 silver & 6 bronze). The five-day shooting event concluded at the Dr Karni Singh Range
in New Delhi. The 9 gold medal winners are - Aakash Bhardwaj, Samrat Rana & Amit Sharma
(men’s 10m air pistol team); Palak Gulia, Arshdeep Kaur & Sainyam (women’s 10m air pistol
team); Palak Gulia & Amit Sharma (10m air pistol mixed team); Smit Rameshbhai Moradiya, Umamahesh Maddineni &
Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar (men’s 10m air rifle team); Manini Kaushik, Sanjeeta Das & Disha Dhankhar (women’s 10m air
rifle team); Sanjeeta Das & Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar (10m air rifle mixed team); Simranpreet Kaur Brar, Palak Gulia &
Arshdeep Kaur (women’s 25m pistol team); Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Adriyan Karmakar & Parikshit Singh Brar (men’s
50m rifle 3 positions team); and Bhavtegh Singh Gill (men’s skeet). Switzerland-based International University Sports
Federation (FISU) was established in 1949 to promote University sports worldwide. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024” – concluded at Dr Karni Singh Range in New Delhi
• India – finished with 24 medals (9 gold, 9 silver & 6 bronze)
https:// /#
• India spearheaded by – Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar & Palak Gulia
• Gold medal winners:
- Aakash Bhardwaj, Samrat Rana & Amit Sharma – Men’s 10m air pistol team
- Palak Gulia, Arshdeep Kaur & Sainyam – Women’s 10m air pistol team
- Palak Gulia & Amit Sharma – 10m air pistol mixed team
- Smit Rameshbhai Moradiya, Umamahesh Maddineni & Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar – Men’s 10m air rifle team
- Manini Kaushik, Sanjeeta Das & Disha Dhankhar – Women’s 10m air rifle team
- Sanjeeta Das & Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar – 10m air rifle mixed team
- Simranpreet Kaur Brar, Palak Gulia & Arshdeep Kaur – Women’s 25m pistol team
- Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Adriyan Karmakar & Parikshit Singh Brar – Men’s 50m rifle 3 positions team
- Bhavtegh Singh Gill – Men’s skeet
• HQs of FISU – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Leonz Eder | Established in – 1949
21. India, in collaboration with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), is hosting the “Global Learning and Development
Framework (GLDF) Results Management Training” in New Delhi from November 19-22, 2024. Organized by the National
Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India in collaboration with WADA and with support from the Japan Sports Agency (JSA) and
Japan Anti-Doping Agency (JADA), this landmark event underscores India’s commitment to strengthening the global anti-
doping ecosystem. It will witness the participation of anti-doping professionals and experts from over 10 countries, including
Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Malaysia, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Kyrgyzstan, and Laos, along with
representatives from international organizations such as WADA, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), and the Badminton World
Federation (BWF). The GLDF Training is designed to enhance the technical expertise of anti-doping practitioners in various
programme areas. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + WADA = hosting “Global Learning & Development Framework Results Management Training” in New Delhi
- From – Nov 19-22, 2024 | Organized by – NADA + WADA + JSA + JADA
• GLDF Training is designed to enhance technical expertise of anti-doping practitioners in various programme areas
• HQs of WADA – Montreal, Canada | President – Witold Bańka | Founded in – 1999
22. World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen showcased his dominance at the “2024 Tata Steel Chess India”
tournament, securing both the rapid and blitz titles. In the Open Blitz event, the Norwegian
grandmaster, Carlsen, defeated Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi. The final standings is Magnus Carlsen
(13), Wesley So (11.5), and Arjun Erigaisi (10.5). While in Women’s Blitz event, Russian GM
Kateryna Lagno dominated with an impressive 11.5 points to emerge the champion, followed
by Valentina Gunina (11), Aleksandra Goryachkina (9.5), and Vantika Agrawal (9.5). In the Open
Rapid event, Carlsen emerged as champion with 7.5 score, followed by R Praggnanandhaa (5.5) and Wesley So (5.5). In the
Women’s Rapid event, Russian-Swiss GM Alexandra Kosteniuk emerged as champion with 7.5 score, followed by GM Nana
Dzagnidze (5.5). Third was taken by Vantika Agrawal, half a point behind Dzagnidze, with 5 score. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 Tata Steel Chess India” tournament
• Magnus Carlsen (world no. 1) – secured both rapid & blitz titles
• In Open Blitz event, he defeated – Arjun Erigaisi (Indian GM)
https:// /#
- Final standings: Magnus Carlsen – 13 | Wesley So – 11.5 | Arjun Erigaisi – 10.5
• In Open Rapid event: Carlsen – won with 7.5 score | R Praggnanandhaa – 5.5 | Wesley So – 5.5
• In Women’s Blitz event – Russian GM Kateryna Lagno won with 11.5 points
- Final standings: Valentina Gunina – 11 | Aleksandra Goryachkina – 9.5 | Vantika Agrawal – 9.5
• In Women’s Rapid event – Russian-Swiss GM Alexandra Kosteniuk won with 7.5 score
- GM Nana Dzagnidze – 5.5 | Vantika Agrawal – 5
23. World No. 1 men’s tennis player, Jannik Sinner, has won his 1st ATP Finals title after defeating
Taylor Fritz of the US in Turin, Italy. He also became the 1st Italian to win this tournament. With this,
Sinner, who is also the winner of 2024 US Open Single’s and Australian Open Single’s titles, has
joined the duo Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic as the only male players to win the Australian
Open, US Open and Nitto ATP Finals in the same season. Sinner also became the 1st player born in
the 2000s to won ATP Finals. The German duo of Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz won the season-ending ATP Finals doubles
title. The season-ending ATP Finals is for the 8 top-rank men’s singles and doubles tennis players. The ATP Finals is the
season-ending tournament of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), which has been held every year since 1970.
Novak Djokovic of Serbia has won the ATP Finals title for the maximum times (7). The American doubles pair of John McEnroe
and Peter Fleming has won the ATP Doubles Title maximum times (7). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Jannik Sinner – became 1st Italian to won ATP Finals title (his 1st title) in Turin, Italy | Defeated – Taylor Fritz (US)
- He also became 1st player born in 2000s to won ATP Finals
• Only male players to win Australian & US Opens & Nitto ATP Finals in same season – Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic &
Jannik Sinner
• ATP Finals doubles title – won by Kevin Krawietz & Tim Puetz (Germany)
• Most ATP Finals titles won by: Single – Novak Djokovic (Serbia-7) | Doubles – John McEnroe & Peter Fleming (US-7)
24. Compound archers Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Abhishek Verma bagged the gold and silver
medals respectively in the “GT Open” in Strassen, Luxembourg. The GT Open was the second
of four Indoor World Series 250 tournaments in the 2025 Indoor Archery season. More than
450 competitors from over 35 nations took part in this 18-metre target circuit event. Jyothi
won the gold medal in the women’s compound archery event, defeating Sarah Prieels of
Belgium. While, Abhishek won the silver medal in the men’s compound archery event, after being lost to Mike Schlosser of
the Netherlands. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “GT Open” – held in Strassen, Luxembourg | It was 2nd of 4 Indoor World Series 250 tournaments in 2025 Indoor Archery
season
• Women’s compound archery event: Gold – Jyothi Surekha Vennam | Defeating – Sarah Prieels (Belgium)
• Men’s compound archery event: Silver – Abhishek Verma | Lost to – Mike Schlosser (Netherlands)
https:// /#
25. Odisha defeated two-time champion Haryana in the final of the Hockey India-14th Senior
National Championship at the SDAT-Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Haryana won Silver, while Uttar Pradesh beat Manipur to bag the bronze medal. With 3
goals to Shilanand Lakra and 1 goal each to Rajat Akash Tirkey and Pratap Lakra made
Odisha create history by bagging their first-ever title. Across men’s and women’s games,
Odisha has been the primary sponsor of the national team since 2018. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Hockey India-14th Senior National Championship – held at SDAT-Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Gold – Odisha | Silver – Haryana | Bronze – UP & Manipur
• Across men’s & women’s games, Odisha – primary sponsor of national team since 2018
26. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has announced that Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI),
a part of Japan’s Sony Group Corporation, has bagged the media rights for all ACC
tournaments from 2024 to 2031. The deal includes broadcasting and digital rights for all ACC
tournaments over the next 8 years. The deal encompasses all editions of men’s and women’s
Asia Cups, men’s and women’s Under-19 Asia Cups, and the men’s and women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cups. Star India had
the media rights till 2023. Gaurav Banerjee is the MD & CEO SPNI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) – bagged the media rights for all ACC tournaments from 2024 to 2031
• The deal encompasses all editions of men’s & women’s Asia Cups | Star India had the media rights till 2023
• HQs of SPNI – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Gaurav Banerjee
27. Italy won the “Billie Jean King Cup” for the 5th time in Malaga, Spain, as Jasmine Paolini beat
Rebecca Sramkova to secure a dominant 2-0 win over Slovakia. Italy previously claimed the title in
2006, 2009, 2010 and most recently in 2013. The event, formerly known as ‘Fed Cup’, is the premier
team competition for women’s tennis. The event is named after American Tennis legend Billie Jean
King. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Italy – won the “Billie Jean King Cup” for the 5th time in Malaga, Spain (previously in 2006, 2009, 2010 & 2013)
• The event, formerly known as ‘Fed Cup’, is the premier team competition for women’s tennis
• Italy – Rome – Euro | President – Sergio Mattarella | PM – Giorgia Meloni
28. Indian Hockey team, defending champion and World No. 9, has defeated the People’s
Republic of China, World No. 6, in the final to win the 8th edition of “Women’s Asian Champions
Trophy 2024” at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar, India. In the same event, Japan secured the
3rd place by beating Malaysia. This was India’s 3rd title, bringing them level with the Republic of
Korea as the most successful nation in the competition’s history. The Indian women previously
won titles in 2016 and 2023. This 8th edition of the tournament was organised by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) and hosted
by Hockey India and the Bihar government from 11-20 November 2024. This year, the top 6 ranked Asian women’s hockey
teams - India, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia, and South Korea - participated in the tournament. India hosted the 7th
‘Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2023’ at Ranchi, Jharkhand, which was also won by India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 8th edition of “Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024” finals – held at Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar, India
• Indian Hockey team (World No. 9) – won for 3rd time | Defeated – China (World No. 6) | Previous titles – 2016 & 2023
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- 3rd – Japan | Defeated – Malaysia
• Organised by – Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) | Hosted by – Hockey India & Bihar government (Nov 11-20, 2024)
• Top 6 ranked Asian women’s hockey teams in 2024 – India, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia & South Korea
• 7th ‘Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2023’ – hosted by India at Ranchi, Jharkhand | Winner – India
29. Rishabh Pant made history as the most expensive player in IPL auction history during the 2025 mega
auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter was signed by the Lucknow Super
Giants for an astonishing ₹27 crore. With this record-breaking signing, Pant surpassed Shreyas Iyer, who
was picked up by the Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore. Rishabh was released by Delhi Capitals ahead of this
year’s auction. He had been part of the Capitals’ set up since 2016 and was made captain ahead of the 2021 season in place
of an injured Shreyas Iyer. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2025 mega auction – held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Rishabh Pant – most expensive player in IPL auction history | Signed by – Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 Cr
- Earlier – Delhi Capitals
• Shreyas Iyer – signed by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 Cr
30. GM Aravindh Chithambaram has clinched the title by defeating an Armenian-American chess
grandmaster Levon Aronian in the final of a blitz tie-break in the 2nd edition of the “Chennai
Grandmasters 2024” classical chess tournament at the Anna Centenary Library auditorium, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu. While, in the Challengers category, GM Pranav Venkatesh emerged victorious after drawing
with Leon Mendonca of India. Aravindh Chithambaram (1st), Levon Aronian (2nd) and Arjun Erigaisi (3rd) tied on 4.5 points
after 7 classical rounds and won a cash prize of Rs 11 lakh each. While, Pranav won Rs 6 lakh in prize money. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd edition of “Chennai Grandmasters 2024” classical chess tournament – held at Anna Centenary Library auditorium,
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• GM Aravindh Chithambaram – clinched the title | Defeating – Levon Aronian (Armenian-American)
• In Challengers category, GM Pranav Venkatesh – won | Drawing with – Leon Mendonca (India)
• Aravindh Chithambaram (1st), Levon Aronian (2nd) & Arjun Erigaisi (3rd) – tied on 4.5 points & won cash prize of Rs 11
lakh each
• Pranav – won Rs 6 lakh in prize money
31. Hockey India (HI) has announced a year-long celebration to mark the 100th year of Indian
hockey. 2025, the centenary year of HI, is a tribute to a century of unparalleled excellence
and vision for the future of Hockey in India. As a part of the celebration, HI relaunched the
‘Men’s Hockey India League (HIL)’ after a 7-year pause and also announced the launch of the
‘Women’s Hockey India League’. HI was formed as India’s 1st national body for Hockey on 7th November 1925 in Gwalior,
Madhya Pradesh (MP). Indian hockey’s journey over the last 99 years is a saga of unmatched legacy in global sports, adorned
with 8 Olympic Gold medals, along with a Silver and 4 Bronze medals, and a Hockey World Cup trophy, supplemented by a
Silver and a Bronze medal. HI upholds equal prize money for Men’s and Women’s Teams winning tournaments and
standardized match-winning fees across genders. Hockey remains the only team sport in the nation with complete pay
parity. Dilip Tirkey is the President of HI, while Bhola Nath Singh is the Secretary General of HI. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Hockey India (HI) – announced a year-long celebration to mark the 100th year of Indian hockey
• HI – relaunched ‘Men’s Hockey India League’ after 7-year pause & announced launch of ‘Women’s Hockey India League’
• HI – formed as India’s 1st national body for Hockey on Nov 7, 1925 in Gwalior, MP
• Indian Hockey – 8 Olympic Golds, a Silver & 4 Bronzes & a Hockey World Cup trophy, supplemented by a Silver & a
Bronze medal
• HI upholds equal prize money for Men’s & Women’s Teams winning tournaments
• Hockey – only team sport in country with complete pay parity
• HQs of Hockey India – New Delhi | President – Dilip Tirkey | Secretary General – Bhola Nath | Established – 2009
32. Bihar’s 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been bought for Rs 1.1 crore by Rajasthan
Royals, and became the youngest player in IPL (Indian Premier League) history, during the IPL
Auction 2025 held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. His base price was Rs 30 lakh. The youngster made
headlines recently when he became the youngest batter (13 years, 288 days) to record an
international century (104 off 62 balls), achieving the feat in a Youth Test for India Under-19
against Australia U-19 in Chennai, making it the fastest Youth Test hundred by an Indian and the second-fastest overall in
the world. Suryavanshi 1st made the headlines earlier this year when he made his Ranji Trophy debut for Bihar, aged 12.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• IPL Auction 2025 – held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Bihar) – became youngest player in IPL history | Age – 13 years
• Bought for – Rs 1.1 Cr | By – Rajasthan Royals | Base price – Rs 30 lakh
• He became youngest batter (13 years, 288 days) to record an international century against Australia U-19 in Chennai
33. Indian junior men’s hockey team, under the captain Amir Ali, has recently defeated New
Zealand to win the bronze medal at the “Sultan of Johor Cup 2024” (12th edition), an under 21
men’s hockey tournament, held at Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. PR
Sreejesh is the team coach. Great Britain defeated Australia to win gold medal, achieving this
title for the 4th time. While India won gold medal in this under 21 men’s hockey tournament
in 2013, 2014 and 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 12th “Sultan of Johor Cup 2024”, an under 21 men’s hockey tournament – held at Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor
Bahru, Malaysia
• Indian junior men’s hockey team – won bronze | Captain – Amir Ali | Coach – PR Sreejesh
- Defeated – New Zealand
• Gold – Great Britain (4th time) | Silver – Australia
• India won gold medal in this under 21 men’s hockey tournament in – 2013, 2014 & 2022
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34. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has suspended Bajrang Punia for 4 years for his refusal to
provide his sample for dope test on March 10 during selection trials for the national team. The suspension
means that Bajrang will not be able to return to competitive wrestling and apply for a coaching job
abroad, if he aspires to. NADA had first suspended him on April 23. Bajrang had appealed against the
provisional suspension and NADA’s Anti-Disciplinary Doping panel (ADDP) had revoked it on May 31.
Bajrang joined Congress along with fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat and was given charge of All India Kisan Congress. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Bajrang Punia – suspended by NADA for 4 years for his refusal to provide his sample for dope test on March 10
- NADA had first suspended him – on April 23
• HQs of NADA – New Delhi | Director-General – Ashish Bhargava
35. Veteran India wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha (40) announced his retirement
from all forms of cricket, marking an end to a journey of more than 15 years. The ongoing
Ranji Trophy season will be his last. He has played 40 Tests (1,353 runs) and 9 ODIs (41 runs)
since making his international debut in 2010 against South Africa. He holds the record for
the second-most Test centuries among Indian keepers. He has been a key player for Bengal
in domestic cricket, especially in the Ranji Trophy. He played for 5 Indian IPL franchises:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Punjab Kings (PBKS), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans
(GT). Wriddhiman Saha won West Bengal’s highest civilian award ‘Banga Bibhushan’ award. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper-batter) – announced his retirement from all forms of cricket
• Ongoing Ranji Trophy season – to be his last
• He played 40 Tests (1,353 runs) & 9 ODIs (41 runs) since his international debut (2010 against South Africa)
• He holds record for 2nd-most Test centuries among Indian keepers
• He played for 5 Indian IPL franchises: KKR, CSK, PBKS, SRH & GT
• He won – ‘Banga Bibhushan’ award, West Bengal’s highest civilian award
https:// /#
Persons in News
1. The US President-elect Donald Trump has announced that Tesla & SpaceX CEO Elon Musk
and American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will co-lead a new “Department of
Government Efficiency” in his second administration. The new department would work with
the White House and Office of Management & Budget to drive large scale structural reform,
and create an entrepreneurial approach to government never seen before. The commission
would have to be given a broad mandate to review the largest federal spending programs - Social Security, Medicare and
Defense - to be most effective. The work of the department would conclude by July 4, 2026 - the 250th anniversary of the
signing of the Declaration of Independence. Vivek Ganapathy Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences, a pharmaceutical
company, in 2014. Moreover, Donald Trump announced that Tulsi Gabbard would serve as the Director of National
Intelligence (DNI). Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu-American to be appointed for this role, is an American politician and military
officer serving as a Lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2021. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Donald Trump announced: Elon Musk & Vivek Ramaswamy will co-lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency”
• The work of the department would conclude by July 4, 2026
• Vivek Ramaswamy is the Founder of Roivant Sciences, a pharmaceutical company
• Donald Trump also announced: Tulsi Gabbard would serve as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI)
• Tulsi (an American politician & military officer) will be the first Hindu-American to serve on this role
2. Arjun Vajpai has become the 1st Indian to scale Mt. Shisha Pangma, the world’s 14th and lowest
peak in the eight-thousander category (a peak over 8,000 meters). This landmark climb was
supported by Mpower, an initiative by the Aditya Birla Education Trust, pioneers in providing holistic
mental health services. Standing at a formidable height of 8,027 meters (26,335 feet), Mt. Shisha
Pangma is located in the Tibetan Himalayas. Arjun Vajpai is the only Indian mountaineer to have
embarked on an incredible 16 expeditions throughout his mountaineering career and successfully scaled 8 out of the 14
eight-thousand-meter summits. At just 30 years old, Arjun has already been awarded a Guinness World Record for being
the youngest person to climb 2 higher 8000ers: Mt. Everest in 2010 and Mt. Lhotse in 2011. Right now, his focus is on
‘#Project8k’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arjun Vajpai – became 1st Indian to scale Mt. Shisha Pangma, world’s 14th & lowest peak in eight-thousander category
• Climb was supported by – Mpower, an initiative by Aditya Birla Education Trust
• Mt. Shisha Pangma – located in Tibetan Himalayas | Height – 8,027 meters (26,335 feet)
• Arjun – only Indian mountaineer to embarked on 16 expeditions & successfully scaled 8 out of 14 8000er summits
• Arjun (30 years) – youngest person to climb 2 higher 8000ers, Mt. Everest (in 2010) & Mt. Lhotse (in 2011)
https:// /#
Science & Technology
1. NETRA (NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance), the R&D wing of NTPC, has developed an
Indigenous Catalyst for the Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol in collaboration with the Indian
Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun. A catalyst is an essential component of any chemical
synthesis. CO2 mitigation is one of the critical challenges being faced by fossil-fired power plants.
Therefore, capturing CO2 from the flue gas and converting it to valuable fuel & chemicals is in focus,
globally. Additionally, NTPC Green Energy Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC, is aggressively pursuing initiatives
aimed at reducing its carbon footprint, in line with global climate action targets and India’s pledge to achieve net-zero
emissions by 2070. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NETRA + IIP Dehradun = developed an Indigenous Catalyst for Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol
• Catalyst – an essential component of any chemical synthesis
• NTPC Green Energy Ltd – aims to reduce its carbon footprint | India’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by – 2070
• Director of IIP Dehradun – Dr. Harender Singh Bisht
• HQs of NTPC – New Delhi | CMD – Gurdeep Singh | Founded in – 1975
2. IIT Kanpur in partnership with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has developed a handheld X-ray indigenously,
which will be less than half the cost of imported handheld X-rays. This will ensure we can screen for TB near the homes of
patients and even amongst vulnerable populations. Speaking at the 19th “International Conference of Drug Regulatory
Authorities (ICDRA) INDIA-2024”, ICMR Director General Rajiv Bahl said that India has developed three testing kits for Mpox
as well. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Kanpur + ICMR = developed a handheld X-ray indigenously, less than half the cost of imported handheld X-rays
• India – developed three testing kits for Mpox
• Director of IIT Kanpur – Prof. Manindra Agrawal
• HQs of ICMR – New Delhi, India | Director General – Rajiv Bahl | Established in – 1911
3. Aerospace startup, Space Kidz India, has launched its global initiative, “ShakthiSAT”, a mission that aims to inspire and
empower 12,000 young girls from 108 countries through space exploration. It paves the way forward in the global movement
to foster STEM education among young women. Space Kidz India is involved in the design, fabrication and launch of small
satellites, spacecraft and ground systems. So far, the company has launched 18+ NSLVs (BalloonSats), 3 suborbital payloads,
and 4 orbital satellites. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, is the Mission Lead of ShakthiSAT. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Space Kidz India – launched “ShakthiSAT” to inspire & empower 12,000 young girls from 108 countries through space
exploration
- Mission Lead – Srimathy Kesan
• Space Kidz India – earlier launched 18+ NSLVs (BalloonSats), 3 suborbital payloads & 4 orbital satellites
• HQs of Space Kidz India – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Founder & CEO – Srimathy Kesan
https:// /#
4. On November 5, Japan launched “LignoSat”, the world’s first wooden satellite, aboard a SpaceX rocket
from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, US. Developed by Kyoto University and Japan Aerospace
Exploration Agency (JAXA), the satellite aims to test the viability of using wood as a sustainable
alternative to metals in satellite construction. Its primary mission is to evaluate the durability of
magnolia wood in the extreme conditions of space, with the goal of reducing space debris. Designed to
orbit Earth for 6 months, LignoSat will be exposed to harsh conditions, including cosmic radiation, extreme temperature
fluctuations, and microgravity. Magnolia wood is a material known for its strength and resilience, and often used in
traditional Japanese crafts. The wood is processed using an ancient Japanese technique that avoids the use of screws or
glue. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Japan – launched “LignoSat”, the world’s first wooden satellite, aboard a SpaceX rocket
• From – NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, US | Developed by – Kyoto University & JAXA
• Aim: To test the viability of using wood as a sustainable alternative to metals in satellite construction
• Primary mission – to evaluate durability of magnolia wood in extreme conditions of space to reduce space debris
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Shigeru Ishiba
5. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA)
“Proba-3” mission in December 2024 from Shri Harikota, Andhra Pradesh, as informed by the
ISRO Chairman S Somnath during the ‘Indian Space Conclave 3.0’ in the presence of EU
ambassador for India and Bhutan Herve Delphin. This will be the 3rd spacecraft of the ‘Proba’
series and it will observe the Sun. The earlier 2 satellites were launched for earth observation.
‘Proba (Project for On-Board Autonomy)’ is the designated name for a series of satellites, commencing with Proba-1 which
was also launched by ISRO’s PSLV on 22 October 2001. The term is also utilized to denote the satellite bus within this series.
‘Proba’ is a minisatellite technology demonstration mission designed to tackle challenges related to the onboard operational
autonomy of a generic platform. The Proba-3 mission, the world’s first precision formation flying mission, consists of 2 small
satellites - a Coronagraph spacecraft and a solar-disc-shaped Occulter spacecraft - that will work together to create a 144-
metre-long instrument known as a ‘solar coronagraph’ to study the Sun’s corona. Da mien Galano is the project manager of
ESA’s Proba-3 mission. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO – to launch the ESA’s “Proba-3” mission in Dec 2024 from Shri Harikota, Andhra Pradesh
• Proba (Project for On-Board Autonomy) – is a minisatellite technology demonstration mission
• This will be the 3rd spacecraft of the ‘Proba’ series and it will observe the Sun (earlier 2 satellites – for earth observation)
• Proba-3 mission consists of 2 small satellites – a ‘Coronagraph’ spacecraft & a solar-disc-shaped ‘Occulter’ spacecraft
• Project manager of ESA’s Proba-3 mission – Da mien Galano
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969
• HQs of ESA – Paris, France | DG – Josef Aschbacher
https:// /#
6. Zimbabwe has launched the 2nd earth observation satellite, “ZimSat-2”, into orbit from
Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amu Oblast, Russia. The satellite was launched aboard Soyuz-2.1b
launch vehicle. Zimbabwe’s satellite was designed and manufactured through a collaborative
research programme between Zimbabwe National Geo-Spatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) and
Southwest State University, one of the top public universities in Kursk, Russia. It is designed for
earth observation and data collection in agriculture, environmental protection and natural
resource management. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Zimbabwe – launched 2nd earth observation satellite, “ZimSat-2” | From – Vostochny Cosmodrome, Amu Oblast, Russia
- Aboard – Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle
• Designed & manufactured by – collaboration between ZINGSA & Southwest State University, Kursk, Russia
• Designed for – earth observation & data collection in agriculture, environmental protection & natural resource
management
• Zimbabwe – Harare – Dollar/ZiG | President – Emmerson Mnangagwa
7. The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the premier Telecom R&D centre of the Department of
Telecommunications (DoT), has signed an agreement with the IIT Roorkee for the development of “Millimeter Wave
Transceiver for 5G Rural Connectivity”, to enable affordable broadband and mobile services, under the ‘Telecom Technology
Development Fund (TTDF) Scheme’ of the DoT, which is designed to fund Indian startups, academia, and R&D institutions.
The project focuses on the development of millimeter wave backhaul technology in which only a small number of SBSs (Small
cell - Based Stations) are connected to the gateway through fibre. The innovative mixed optical and millimetre wave
approach proposed in the transceiver development will be a promising method to achieve the desired output of reduced
overall size and decreased cost. Additionally, the project also aims to contribute to generating Intellectual Property Rights
(IPRs) and develop a skilled workforce to support the emerging millimetre wave/Sub-THz technology for 5G/6G. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• C-DOT + IIT Roorkee = agreement for development of “Millimeter Wave Transceiver for 5G Rural Connectivity”
• To enable affordable broadband & mobile services, under ‘Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) Scheme’
• Aim: To contribute to generating IPRs & develop a skilled workforce to support emerging millimetre wave/Sub-THz
technology for 5G/6G
• HQs of C-DoT – New Delhi | CEO – Rajkumar Upadhyay | C-DoT works under – DoT (Ministry of Communications)
• Director of IIT Roorkee – Ajit K. Chaturvedi
8. Researchers at IIT Madras have identified a method to treat retinal tears and diabetic retinopathy. They used mild laser-
induced convection to enhance the delivery of drugs injected into the retina of the eye. They demonstrated through
simulation and modelling studies the efficacy of various types of treatments on the human eye, focusing on heat and mass
transfer. The researchers believe their work could benefit around 11 million people in India with retinal disorders. The
findings of the research were published in the peer-reviewed Wiley Heat Transfer Journal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Madras – identified a method to treat retinal tears & diabetic retinopathy
• They used mild laser-induced convection to enhance delivery of drugs injected into retina of eye
• Findings of research – published in peer-reviewed Wiley Heat Transfer Journal
• Director of IIT Madras – Prof. V. Kamakoti
https:// /#
9. Gnani.ai has launched its speech-to-speech large language model (LLM) which can handle
over 10 million voice interactions daily. The state-of-the-art Gnani.ai model is powered by the
NVIDIA AI-accelerated computing platform, which includes NVIDIA AI Enterprise software for
the development and deployment of generative AI applications. The model was trained on multi-node NVIDIA Hopper GPUs
using the NVIDIA NeMo end-to-end platform for developing custom generative AI (including LLMs, multimodal, vision, &
speech AI) on over 14 million hours of proprietary multilingual conversational data supporting 14 languages. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Gnani.ai – launched its speech-to-speech LLM, which can handle over 10 million voice interactions daily
- Powered by – NVIDIA AI-accelerated computing platform | Trained on – multi-node NVIDIA Hopper GPUs
• It supports 14 languages
• HQs of Gnani.ai – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO – Ganesh Gopalan
10. China has launched “Shenzhou-19” crewed spaceship with three astronauts on board, blasting off
from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The Shenzhou-19 crew includes mission
commander Cai Xuzhe, and astronauts Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze. It is the 33rd flight mission of
China’s manned space program and the fourth crewed mission during the application and development
stage of China’s space station. The team of two men and one woman will replace the astronauts who
have lived on the Tiangong Space Station (TSS) for the last 6 months. China launched its first crewed
mission in 2003, becoming only the third nation to do so after the former Soviet Union and the United States. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• China – launched “Shenzhou-19” crewed spaceship with 3 astronauts on board
- From – Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China
- Crew – mission commander Cai Xuzhe, and astronauts Song Lingdong & Wang Haoze
• 33rd flight mission of China’s manned space program & 4th crewed mission during development stage of its space station
• This crew will replace astronauts who have lived on Tiangong Space Station (TSS) for last 6 months
• China – launched its 1st crewed mission in 2003 & became 3rd nation to do so | 1st – former Soviet Union | 2nd – US
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang
11. IIT Madras signed an MoU with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to establish a
Centre of Excellence for research in ‘Fluid and Thermal Sciences’. The Centre will act as a nodal centre
for spacecraft and launch vehicle-related thermal management research activities of ISRO.
Additionally, thermal problems related to the design, analysis, and testing of various components can
be solved by leveraging the expertise of IIT Madras faculty. ISRO will provide an initial seed funding
of Rs 1.84 crore to establish the Centre and for essential infrastructure and equipment, and additional funding for
consumables, maintenance and future projects in fluid-thermal sciences. Projects will cover critical areas, including
spacecraft thermal management, combustion instability in hybrid rockets, and cryo-tank thermodynamics. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Madras + ISRO = an MoU to establish a Centre of Excellence for research in ‘Fluid and Thermal Sciences’
• It will act as a nodal centre for spacecraft & launch vehicle-related thermal management research activities of ISRO
• Seed funding of Rs 1.84 Cr – to be provided by ISRO to establish Centre & for essential infrastructure & equipment
https:// /#
12. Amazon India launched a facility in Bengaluru that will provide underserved school students
free, hands-on learning in robotics, computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing. Amazon
Future Engineer Makerspace will empower more than 4,000 young innovators by 2025. The
facility will work with ‘The Innovation Story’, a group comprising educators, to provide
underserved students in Classes 5 to 12 with immersive, hands-on learning experiences, nurturing
their curiosity and equipping them with innovative technological skills to become future change-makers. ‘Amazon Future
Engineer’ is a philanthropic programme of the company to provide opportunities in computer science education to
underprivileged primary and high school students. In India, Amazon has partnered with 11 non-profit organisations to
introduce computer science education in more than 17,000 schools. Akshay Kashyap is the India lead at the Amazon Future
Engineer Program. Meenal Majumder is the founder of The Innovation Story. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Amazon India – launched a facility in Bengaluru to provide underserved school students free, hands-on learning in
robotics, computing, AI & 3D printing
• Amazon Future Engineer Makerspace – to empower >4,000 young innovators by 2025
• It will work with ‘The Innovation Story’ to provide underserved students in Classes 5 to 12
• ‘Amazon Future Engineer’ – a philanthropic programme to provide opportunities in computer science education to
underprivileged primary & high school students
• In India, Amazon partnered with 11 NPOs to introduce computer science education in more than 17,000 schools
• Akshay Kashyap – India lead at Amazon Future Engineer Program
• HQs of Amazon India – Hyderabad, Telangana | Country Manager – Samir Kumar
• HQs of The Innovation Story – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Founder & CEO – Meenal Majumdar
13. Scientists from Northwestern University, US, have discovered a vast underground ocean
located about 700 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. This ocean is three times larger than
all the Earth’s surface oceans combined. However, this ocean is different. Instead of liquid
water, this underground ocean consists of water trapped in the crystalline structure of a blue
mineral called ringwoodite. Scientists believe that this hidden water might play a crucial role
in stabilizing surface oceans by regulating Earth’s overall water cycle. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Northwestern University (US) – discovered a vast underground ocean located about 700 km below the Earth’s surface
- It is three times larger than all the Earth’s surface oceans combined
• It consists of water trapped in crystalline structure of a blue mineral called ringwoodite
14. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) unveiled the prototype
for 6 telescopes that will help LISA’s three spacecrafts to detect gravitational waves in
space. The prototype is called the “Engineering Development Unit Telescope”. The Laser
Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission, led by the European Space Agency (ESA)
in partnership with NASA, aims to detect and study gravitational waves in space. LISA
will be the first gravitational wave detector in space and will explore the fundamental
nature of gravity and black holes. The LISA mission will comprise three spacecraft. These three spacecrafts will fly in a
triangular formation behind the Earth as our planet orbits the Sun. The Engineering Development Unit Telescope was
manufactured and assembled by L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York. The Gravitational waves were first
discovered by Albert Einstein in 1916. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• NASA – unveiled prototype for 6 telescopes to help LISA’s 3 spacecrafts to detect gravitational waves in space
- Name of prototype – “Engineering Development Unit Telescope” | LISA – Laser Interferometer Space Antenna
• LISA mission: Led by – European Space Agency + NASA | Aim: To detect & study gravitational waves in space
• LISA – to be 1st gravitational wave detector in space & will explore fundamental nature of gravity & black holes
• Engineering Development Unit Telescope – manufactured & assembled by L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York
• Gravitational waves – discovered by Albert Einstein in 1916
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958
• HQs of ESA – Paris, France | DG – Josef Aschbacher
15. Leading chipmaker Nvidia and SoftBank Corp, the telecommunications arm of SoftBank Group,
have piloted the world’s 1st artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G telecoms network. The network can
run AI and 5G workloads concurrently, a process known as an ‘Artificial Intelligence Radio Access
Network (AI-RAN)’. Applications for the network include autonomous vehicle remote support and
robotics control. SoftBank was the 1st to receive its new Blackwell chip designs, which it is incorporating into the AI
supercomputer it is developing to create its own generative AI model. SoftBank’s AI-RAN solution, “AITRAS,” was developed
through a 5-year collaboration with Nvidia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nvidia + SoftBank Corp = piloted world’s 1st AI & 5G telecoms network
• It can run AI & 5G workloads concurrently, a process known as an ‘Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network (AI-RAN)’
• SoftBank – 1st to receive its new Blackwell chip designs
• SoftBank’s AI-RAN solution, “AITRAS” – developed through a 5-year collaboration with Nvidia
• HQs of Nvidia – California, US | CEO – Jensen Huang
• HQs of SoftBank Group – Tokyo, Japan | CEO – Masayoshi Son
16. Listed gaming major, Nazara Technologies, has integrated with the Open Network for Digital Commerce
(ONDC) to launch ‘gCommerce’, an in-game monetisation platform that integrates e-commerce within
games to bolster revenue options for Indian game developers, who face challenges like low in-app purchase
(IAP) conversion rates and poor yields from advertising. The integration will allow game developers to
monetise through an affiliate revenue-sharing model, earning a commission on every successful transaction initiated by
players through the gCommerce platform. India’s gaming market grew 23% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) by revenue to $3.8 billion
in the financial year 2023-2024 (FY24). The market is expected to cross $9.2 billion by FY2029, growing at a 5-year compound
annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nazara Tech. + ONDC = to launch ‘gCommerce’, in-game monetisation platform integrating e-commerce within games
• To bolster revenue options for Indian game developers
• India’s gaming market – grew 23% y-o-y by revenue to $3.8 billion in FY24
- Expected to cross $9.2 billion by FY2029, growing at a 5-year CAGR of 20%
• HQs of ONDC – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Thampy Koshy
• HQs of Nazara Technologies – Mumbai, India | Chairman & MD – Vikash Mittersain
https:// /#
17. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the phase
III of the “Space Based Surveillance (SBS-III)” mission for launching 52 spy satellites in low earth and
geostationary orbits, over a period of 5 years. It would cost around Rs 27,000 crore. 21 satellites
will be built by ISRO, and the remaining 31 by private companies. The new fleet of satellites will be
based on artificial intelligence (AI) that can interact with each other in space to gather geo-
intelligence on the Earth. The SBS-1 was first approved under the Vajpayee regime in 2001 under which 4 surveillance
satellites were launched. Thereafter, 6 such satellites were launched under the phase II in 2013. The new tech will be able
to improve the ability of satellites to detect changes, to bring in more AI-related and data-driven approaches. The recent
Cabinet clearance to purchase 31 weaponised Predator drones from US-based General Atomics will add more strength to
the surveillance capability of the SBS-3 mission. The SBS mission is being managed by National Security Council Secretariat,
New Delhi and Defence Space Agency, Bengaluru under the Ministry of Defence. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CCS approved phase III of “SBS-III” mission for launching 52 spy satellites in low earth & geostationary orbits, for 5 years
- SBS – Space Based Surveillance | Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) – led by PM Modi | Worth – Rs 27,000 Cr
• Out of 52: 21 satellites – to be built by ISRO | 31 satellites – by private companies
• SBS-1 – approved under Vajpayee regime in 2001 under which 4 surveillance satellites were launched
• SBS-2 – 6 such satellites launched in 2013
• SBS mission – managed by NSCS, New Delhi & DSA, Bengaluru
18. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed
the flight tests of guided “Pinaka” multi-barrel rocket (MBRL) system as part of Provisional
Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) validation trials paving the way for its induction. This
enhances the range of the Pinaka to over 75km. The flight tests have been conducted in three
phases at different field firing ranges. The Indian Army has 4 Pinaka regiments in service and
6 more are on order. The Pinaka Mk1 has a range of 38 km. During these tests, the PSQR
parameters viz., ranging, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire for multiple target engagement in a salvo mode - have been
assessed by extensive testing of rockets. It is a totally indigenous weapon system designed and developed by Armament
Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune; in association with Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad;
Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad; High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL),
Pune; and Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), Balasore, Odisha. Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Economic
Explosives Limited (EEL) are production agencies for ammunition, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Larsen &
Toubro (L&T) are production agencies for Pinaka launcher and Battery Command Post. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – successfully completed the flight tests of guided “Pinaka” multi-barrel rocket (MBRL) system
- as part of Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials
- this enhances the range of the Pinaka to over 75km
• Indian Army has 4 Pinaka regiments in service | Range of Pinaka Mk1 – 38 km
• It is designed & developed by DRDO labs = ARDE (Pune) + RCI (Hyd) + DRDL (Hyd) + HEMRL (Pune) + PXE (Balasore)
• Production agencies for ammunition = MIL + EEL | Production agencies for Pinaka launcher = TASL + L&T
https:// /#
19. The New Space India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO), is set to launch its communication satellite named “GSAT-20” or “GSAT-
N2” using the Falcon 9 rocket of SpaceX, the rocket-making company owned by billionaire
Elon Musk. This will be ISRO’s 1st commercial launch using SpaceX and will cost an estimated
$60-70 million. India’s own launch vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) can lift a maximum of almost 4,000
kg into a geostationary transfer orbit, however, GSAT-N2 weighs 4,700 kg and offers an HTS capacity of nearly 48Gbps. The
GSAT-N2 satellite will provide in-flight internet services in India including Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. As
of now, access to in-flight internet is prohibited in India, requiring airlines that provide this service to disable it while flying
over the Indian airspace. However, the Government of India on November 4 amended the rules and said that in-flight
passengers will be able to use internet services through WiFi only when electronic devices are permitted to be used in the
aircraft even after it attains an altitude of 3,000 metres in the Indian airspace. The satellite has a lifespan of 14 years.
Radhakrishnan Durairaj is the Chairman and Managing Director of New Space India Ltd (NSIL). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSIL – to launch its communication satellite, “GSAT-20” or “GSAT-N2,” using Falcon 9 rocket of SpaceX
- Lifespan – 14 years
• ISRO’s 1st commercial launch using SpaceX | Cost – $60-70 million | GSAT-N2 – weighs 4,700 kg & HTS capacity 48Gbps
- India’s launch vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) – lift a max. of 4,000 kg into a geostationary transfer orbit
• GSAT-N2 satellite – to provide in-flight internet services in India including Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands
• In-flight passengers – to be able to use internet services through WiFi only
• HQs of NSIL – Bangalore, Karnataka | CMD – Radhakrishnan Durairaj (an arm of ISRO)
20. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test-fired the country’s
first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast, a step towards
strengthening the military’s capabilities with a new weapon system. The hypersonic missile is designed to
carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1,500 km for the armed forces. This missile was indigenously
developed by the laboratories of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad, along with various
other DRDO laboratories and industry partners. Only the US, Russia and China have developed
technologies to field fast-manoeuvring hypersonic missiles that fly at lower altitudes and are extremely
hard to track and intercept. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – test-fired India’s first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast
• It is designed to carry various payloads for ranges >1,500 km for armed forces
• Developed by = laboratories of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad & other DRDO laboratories & industry
partners
• US, Russia & China – the only countries with tech. to field fast-manoeuvring hypersonic missiles flying at lower altitudes
https:// /#
21. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has teamed up with Microsoft to
develop the “Earth Copilot”, a custom AI chatbot designed to respond to users’ queries related
to Earth with easy-to-understand data. The Earth Copilot uses natural language processing to
simplify access to NASA’s data, making it easier for a wider range of users to interact with Earth
Science information. NASA collaborated with the technology giant to create a proof-of-concept model using Microsoft’s
Azure cloud platform and AI capabilities. The Earth Copilot chatbot, however, simplifies the process, making the data more
simplified and accessible to scientists, educators, policymakers, and the general public. Currently, Earth Copilot is in its
prototype phase. After this initial phase, the NASA’s IMPACT team plans to integrate the AI chatbot into the agency’s
Visualization, Exploration, and Data Analysis (VEDA) platform. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NASA + Microsoft = to develop “Earth Copilot”, a custom AI chatbot to respond to users’ queries related to Earth
• Earth Copilot – currently is in prototype phase
• After this phase, it would be integrated into NASA’s Visualization, Exploration & Data Analysis (VEDA) platform
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958
• HQs of Microsoft – Washington, US | Chairman & CEO – Satya Nadella | Founded in – 1975
President of Microsoft India – Puneet Chandok
22. Google has launched “Air View+”, an ecosystem-based solution to empower government authorities and
people with useful hyperlocal air quality information in Google Maps, in collaboration with local climate tech
firms. Powered by Google AI, Air View+ will enable valuable air quality insights to government agencies
responsible for environmental monitoring and urban planning. Climate tech firms, Aurassure and Respirer
Living Sciences were instrumental in setting up an air quality sensor network in cities. These sensors measure various air
quality parameters, PM2.5, PM10, CO2, NO2, Ozone, and VOCs. Google has customised the model for India to reflect the
methodology, categorisation and guidance as defined in the National Air Quality Index (NAQI). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google – launched “Air View+” to empower govt authorities & people with useful hyperlocal air quality information
- Powered by – Google AI
• Aurassure & Respirer Living Sciences – instrumental in setting up an air quality sensor network in cities
• Google – customised their model for India to reflect methodology, categorisation & guidance as defined in NAQI
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998
23. The Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), the in-house start-up incubator at
IIT Bombay, plans to launch a Rs 100-crore Venture Capital (VC) fund to support deep tech start-
ups and those in areas of national importance. This is expected to provide in-house seed-money
funding for start-ups incubated at the SINE. This fund, according to SINE, will be a game-changer,
building on its solid 20-year track record of supporting 245 start-ups. The fund, as informed by SINE, will focus on science,
biotech, space, defense, and other national priority sectors to drive innovation. Shaji Varghese is the CEO of SINE. Professor
Santosh J Gharpure is the Professor-in-charge of SINE. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SINE (IIT Bombay) – plans to launch a Rs 100-crore Venture Capital (VC) fund to support deep tech start-ups
• The fund will focus on science, biotech, space, defense, and other national priority sectors
• CEO of SINE – Shaji Varghese | Professor-in-charge of SINE – Prof. Santosh J Gharpure
https:// /#
24. Union Minister for Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, has launched India’s 1st
indigenously developed antibiotic “Nafithromycin” for tackling Antimicrobial Resistance
(AMR). It has been developed with the support of “Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance
Council” (BIRAC), a unit of the Department of Biotechnology, and has been brought to market
under the trade name “Miqnaf” by a pharma company, Wockhardt. This innovation is designed to treat Community-Acquired
Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP), a severe illness caused by drug-resistant bacteria. India, which bears 23% of the world’s CABP
burden, faces challenges with existing treatments. The development of Nafithromycin represents 14 years of research and
an investment of Rs 500 crores, with clinical trials spanning the U.S., Europe, and India. It is now awaiting final approval from
the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for manufacturing and public use. World AMR Awareness Week
was recently observed between 18-24 November. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Jitendra Singh – launched India’s 1st indigenously developed antibiotic “Nafithromycin” for tackling AMR
• Developed with support of – BIRAC | Brought to market under trade name “Miqnaf” by – Wockhardt, pharma company
• Designed to treat – Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP), a severe illness caused by drug-resistant bacteria
• India – bears 23% of world’s CABP burden | World AMR Awareness Week – 18-24 November
• Nafithromycin developed after 14 years of research with investment of Rs 500 Cr
• MoS (I/C) in the Ministry of Science & Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh | Constituency – Udhampur, J&K
25. Ministry of Science and Technology has launched India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) data bank
during the 7th edition of the ‘ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024’. The data bank is aimed at
propelling innovation and boosting the country’s national security through real-time analytics of
satellite, drone, and IoT data. The initiative will provide researchers, startups, and developers access
to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions. The theme of the Meet 2024 was
“AI for India: Advancing India’s AI Development – Innovation, Ethics, and Governance.” It also aligns with the country’s goal
to utilise AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 7th edition of ‘ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024’
- Theme – “AI for India: Advancing India’s AI Development – Innovation, Ethics, and Governance”
• Ministry of Science & Technology – launched India’s first AI data bank
• Aim: To propel innovation & boost country’s national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone & IoT data
• MoS (I/C) in Ministry of Science & Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh | Constituency – Udhampur, J&K
26. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Australian Space Agency (ASA) have signed
an Implementation Agreement (IA) for further strengthening cooperation in space activities
between Australia and India. The agreement enables cooperation between both space
agencies on crew and crew module recovery for Gaganyaan missions. India and Australia are
enduring strategic partners. Both space agencies are working closely and are committed to
explore current and future collaboration activities. IA was signed by D.K. Singh, Director, HSFC on behalf of ISRO in Bengaluru.
Under the Gaganyaan programme, ISRO intends to carry out three un-crewed missions and one crewed mission. The first
un-crewed mission is scheduled to take place in 2024-25, and the first crewed mission is scheduled in 2025-27. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO + ASA = signed an Implementation Agreement (IA) for strengthening cooperation in space activities between
Australia & India
https:// /#
• Under Gaganyaan programme, ISRO intends to carry out 3 un-crewed missions & 1 crewed mission
- 1st un-crewed mission – to take place in 2024-25 | 1st crewed mission – scheduled in 2025-27
• HQs of ASA – Adelaide, Australia | Founded in – 2018
27. Russia launched a record 55 satellites into orbit, including Iran’s 2 domestically manufactured
satellites ‘Kowsar’ and ‘Hodhod’, designed and built by Omid Faza Company, a private Iranian firm.
The satellites were launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport in eastern Russia using a
Soyuz-2.1b rocket. Along with the 2 Iranian satellites, the payload included 51 Russian satellites, one
jointly developed student satellite by Russian and Chinese teams called ‘Druzhba ATURK’, and
another Russian-Zimbabwean satellite called ‘ZIMSAT-2’. The imaging and communication satellites of Iran are expected to
assist with environmental monitoring and communications in remote areas, reflecting Iran’s growing space capabilities. The
Soyuz rocket also carried 2 Ionosfera-M satellites to monitor Earth’s ionosphere. The ‘ionosphere’, where Earth’s
atmosphere meets space, stretches roughly 50 to 400 miles (80 to 644 km) above Earth’s surface. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Russia – launched 55 satellites into orbit, including 51 Russian satellites
- Iran’s 2 satellites – ‘Kowsar’ & ‘Hodhod’ | Designed & built by – Omid Faza Company
- ‘Druzhba ATURK’ – jointly developed student satellite by Russian & Chinese teams
- ‘ZIMSAT-2’ – Russian-Zimbabwean satellite
• Launched from – Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport in eastern Russia using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket
• 2 Ionosfera-M satellites – also carried by Soyuz rocket to monitor Earth’s ionosphere
- Ionosphere – Earth’s atmosphere meets space | Roughly 80 to 644 km above Earth’s surface
• Russia – Moscow – Russian Ruble | PM – Mikhail Mishustin | President – Vladimir Putin
28. Indian Army has received “Sabal 20” logistics drones procured from EndureAir Systems
for deployment in the Eastern sector. Sabal 20 is an electric unmanned helicopter based
on variable pitch technology, and capable of carrying payloads of up to 20 kg. Sabal 20 is
engineered to meet rigorous operational demands, supporting missions such as long-
range deliveries, high-altitude operations, and precision logistics. It has an advanced
Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) technology, while its low RPM design minimises noise with a low aural signature,
enhancing stealth in sensitive missions. In another development, IIT Kanpur announced a major advancement in stealth
technology by launching the Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System, “Anālakshya”. The Anālakshya MSCS is the brainchild
of Prof. Anantha Ramakrishna, Prof. Kumar Vaibhav Srivastava, and Prof. J. Ramkumar. This textile-based broadband
Metamaterial Microwave Absorber offers near-perfect wave absorption across a broad spectrum, significantly enhancing
stealth capabilities against Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging. The technology has been licensed to Meta Tattva
Systems Pvt Ltd which will oversee its manufacturing and deployment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Army – received “Sabal 20” logistics drones procured from EndureAir Systems for deployment in Eastern sector
• Sabal 20 – electric unmanned helicopter based on variable pitch technology | Carrying payloads – up to 20 kg
• It has been licensed to – Meta Tattva Systems Pvt Ltd to oversee its manufacturing & deployment
• IIT Kanpur – launched Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System, “Anālakshya”
https:// /#
- Brainchild of – Prof. Anantha Ramakrishna, Prof. Kumar Vaibhav Srivastava & Prof. J. Ramkumar
• Director of IIT Kanpur – Prof. Manindra Agrawal
29. TakeMe2Space, a space technology firm based in Hyderabad, is set to launch its ‘Orbital
Infrastructure - Technology Demonstrator (MOI-TD)’, billed as India’s 1st AI lab in space on board
ISRO’s PSLV C60 mission in mid-December 2024. By processing data directly in space, MOI-TD will
deliver relevant insights to users, drastically lowering both the cost of data transmission and
latency. MOI-TD includes control software and hardware components. The satellite also features
flexible solar cells that could power future satellites. All testing and evaluation of the MOI-TD platform was facilitated by the
IN-SPACe Technical Center. Users can access the satellite platform through ‘OrbitLab’, a web-based console to upload AI
models for applications such as environmental monitoring, deforestation tracking, maritime activity observation,
greenhouse gas emission detection and custom earth observation use cases. Ronak Kumar Samantray is the Founder and
CEO of TakeMe2Space. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• TakeMe2Space – to launch its ‘Orbital Infrastructure - Technology Demonstrator (MOI-TD)’
- billed as India’s 1st AI lab in space | On board – ISRO’s PSLV C60 mission in mid-Dec 2024
• All testing & evaluation of MOI-TD platform – facilitated by IN-SPACe Technical Center
• HQs of TakeMe2Space – Hyderabad, Telangana | Founder & CEO – Ronak Kumar Samantray
30. IIT Kharagpur has partnered with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to set up an advanced research centre in areas of digital
health, robotics and intelligent systems leveraging edge computing, embedded systems, and AI. The advanced research centre
will be located in the institute’s research park in New Town, Kolkata. The centre will feature 3 laboratories where over 150 TCS
scientists will explore cutting-edge technologies and push the boundaries of innovation. The laboratories will be in the
domains of - sensing & communications, edge computing & analytics, and robotics & visual computing. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Kharagpur + TCS = to set up an advanced research centre in areas of digital health, robotics & intelligent systems
- It will be located in – institute’s research park in New Town, Kolkata
• 3 laboratories in domains of – sensing & communications, edge computing & analytics, and robotics & visual computing
• HQs of TCS – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – K. Krithivasan | Founded in – 1968
• Director of IIT Kharagpur – Prof. Virendra Kumar Tewari
31. An international team of scientists led by Abhijit Chakraborty, a scientist at the Physical
Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, has discovered an exoplanet outside our solar system that
is 5 times bigger and 60 times heavier than the Earth. Identified as “TOI-6651b”, the sub-Saturn
class planet was discovered using the 2nd PRL Advanced Radial Velocity Abu Sky Search (PARAS-2)
- a high-end spectroscope mounted on PRL’s 2.5m telescope at Mount Abu in Rajasthan. Located 690 light years away from
the Sun, the newest discovered planet is the 3rd most dense sub-Saturn class located at the edge of the Neptunian desert.
Sub-Saturn class planets have a size in between that of Neptune and Saturn. The Neptune desert is a region of the known
exoplanet population, where planets rotating close to the stars are rare. The study stated that TOI-6651b orbits around its
host star, a Sun-like star, in just 5 days. Furthermore, the exoplanet’s surface temperature was measured at 1,500 degrees
Kelvin (about 1,200 degrees Celsius), thus ruling out TOI-6651b from being habitable. The other three exoplanets discovered
were 11 to 12 times larger than Earth and were termed massive gas giants. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Scientists discovered an exoplanet, “TOI-6651b,” outside solar system, 5 times bigger & 60 times heavier than the Earth
- Team led by – Abhijit Chakraborty, a scientist at PRL, Ahmedabad
• It is a sub-Saturn class planet & discovered using 2nd PARAS-2, high-end spectroscope mounted on PRL’s 2.5m telescope
- PARAS – PRL Advanced Radial Velocity Abu Sky Search | Mounted at – Mount Abu, Rajasthan
• It orbits around its host star in – 5 days | Surface temperature – 1,500 K (~1,200°C)
• Located – 690 light years away from Sun | It is 3rd most dense sub-Saturn class located at edge of Neptunian desert
• Sub-Saturn class planets – have a size in between that of Neptune & Saturn
• Neptune desert – a region of known exoplanet population, where planets rotating close to stars are rare
• Other 3 exoplanets discovered were 11 to 12 times larger than Earth & were termed massive gas giants
https:// /#
Appointments & Resignations
1. The International Cricket Council (ICC) appointed Sri Lanka’s Sumathi Dharmawardena as the new
Independent Chairman of its Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). Dharmawardena replaced Sir Ronnie
Flanagan. Dharmawardena has served as the Additional Solicitor General at the Attorney General’s
Department of Sri Lanka, representing the Government and its Ministry of Sport in numerous legal
issues. He also has had stints with Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, investigating sports corruption
matters and overseeing prosecutions under the Prevention of Offences relating to the Sports Act. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sumathi Dharmawardena (Sri Lanka) – appointed as new Independent Chairman of Anti-Corruption Unit of ICC
- Replacing - Sir Ronnie Flanagan
• HQs of ICC – Dubai, UAE | Chairman – Jay Shah | CEO – Geoff Allardice | Members – 108 countries
2. Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that Senior bureaucrat Rajesh Kumar Singh took over as
Defence Secretary. Mr Rajesh is a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre. He succeeds Giridhar
Aramane, a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, who superannuated recently. Prior to
his role at the MoD, Singh held the post of secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and
Internal Trade, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, from April 24, 2023, to August 20, 2024.
He has also served as urban development secretary and finance secretary in the Kerala government. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rajesh Kumar Singh – took over as Defence Secretary (succeeding - Giridhar Aramane)
• Minister of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Sanjay Seth
3. Duma Boko, the presidential candidate of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), has been elected
as Botswana’s 6th President. Mr Duma will succeed the outgoing President Mokgweetsi Masisi. Prime
Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Duma Boko for the same. The victory of UDC ended the 58-year
rule of the Botswana Democratic Party in the country. Botswana is one of the few countries in Africa that
has been democratic and has held regular elections since its independence. The President of Botswana is elected for a term
of five years, and a person can be president for only two terms. Botswana is the second-largest diamond producer in the
world after Russia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Duma Boko (Umbrella for Democratic Change) – elected as 6th President of Botswana (succeeding - Mokgweetsi Masisi)
• Botswana – one of few countries in Africa that are democratic & held regular elections since independence
• President of Botswana – elected for a term of five years | A person can be president for only two terms
• Botswana – 2nd-largest diamond producer in the world | 1st – Russia
• Botswana – Gaborone – Botswanan Pula | President – Duma Boko
https:// /#
4. A leading Indian woman scientist, Shubha Tole has been appointed as the President-elect of the
International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO). She is the first scientist from a developing
country to be appointed to the top position. She will replace Tracy Bale of the US who is serving
for 2020-25 term. The IBRO governing council represents 69 scientific societies and federations
from 57 countries worldwide. It recently elected new officers during its annual assembly in
Chicago, USA. Ms. Tole, currently serves as the dean of graduate studies at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR),
Mumbai. Paris-based IBRO is the global federation of neuroscience organizations which promote and support neuroscience
around the world through training, teaching, collaborative research, advocacy and outreach. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Shubha Tole – appointed as President-elect of International Brain Research Organisation (will replace - Tracy Bale)
- She became 1st scientist from a developing country to be appointed to this position
- She is currently serving as – dean of graduate studies at TIFR, Mumbai
• IBRO governing council represents – 69 scientific societies & federations from 57 countries
• HQs of IBRO – Paris, France | President – Tracy Bale | Secretary General – Giuseppe Di Giovanni
5. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has recently approved significant appointments
within the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY). The Department of Personnel &
Training (DoPT) has mandated IAS Akash Tripathi to take charge of additional responsibilities as Managing
Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Digital India Corporation (DIC). Mr Tripathi was last
posted as the CEO of MyGov. Mr Tripathi’s tenure at DIC will be for 6 months or until a permanent
appointment is made, whichever is earlier. In addition to this, Tripathi has also been appointed as President and Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) of the National eGovernance Division (NeGD). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Akash Tripathi (CEO of MyGov) – appointed as President & CEO of NeGD & given additional charge as MD & CEO of
Digital India Corporation (DIC)
• HQs of NeGD – New Delhi | President & CEO – Akash Tripathi | Founded in – 2009 | Works under – MeitY
• HQs of DIC – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Akash Tripathi (additional charge)
6. The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), a national business association, has announced the
appointment of Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director of Jindal Stainless Limited, as its new
President. The announcement was made at ICC’s annual plenary session held in New Delhi.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal was the chief guest. The session also saw the
induction of new leaders into the ICC. Brij Bhushan Agarwal, Vice Chairman & MD of Shyam
Metalics, was appointed as the Senior Vice President of ICC. Parthiv Vikram Neotia, executive director of Ambuja Neotia,
assumed the role of Vice President. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Abhyuday Jindal (MD) – appointed as President of ICC
• ICC’s annual plenary session – held in New Delhi | Chief guest – Piyush Goyal, Commerce & Industry Minister
• Brij Bhushan Agarwal (Vice Chairman & MD of Shyam Metalics) – appointed as Senior Vice President of ICC
• Parthiv Vikram Neotia (Executive Director of Ambuja Neotia) – appointed as Vice President of ICC
• HQs of ICC – Kolkata, West Bengal | President – Abhyuday Jindal | Founded in – 1925
https:// /#
7. Manoj Bihari Verma, who is serving presently as the Counsellor in the High Commission of India at Dar-es-Salaam, has
been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Liberia. Liberia is a country in West Africa. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Manoj Bihari Verma – appointed as next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Liberia (West African country)
• He is currently serving as Counsellor in High Commission of India at Dar-es-Salaam
• Liberia – Monrovia – Liberian Dollar | President – Joseph Boakai
8. The State Bank of India (SBI) has appointed Debasish Mishra as the Chief General Manager of its New
Delhi Circle, effective from November 1, 2024. He replaced Kalpesh K Avasia who recently retired.
Mishra has experience across Credit, Operations, Forex, IT, HR, and MSME sectors, both in India and
overseas. Mishra’s appointment comes at a time when SBI’s New Delhi Circle, comprising over 1,700
branches catering to NCT of Delhi, Uttarakhand, Western U.P. and 5 districts of Haryana, aims to
reinforce its market position in alignment with the nation’s growth. SBI currently has 17 local head offices, which are headed
by Chief General Managers, overseeing its network of 22,600-odd branches across the country. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Debasish Mishra – appointed as CGM of SBI’s New Delhi Circle w.e.f. Nov 1, 2024 (replacing - Kalpesh K Avasia)
• SBI’s New Delhi Circle – comprises 1,700 branches of NCT of Delhi, Uttarakhand, Western UP & 5 districts of Haryana
- Aim: To reinforce its market position in alignment with the nation’s growth
• Currently, SBI has – 17 local head offices, headed by Chief General Managers
9. Pension regulator PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority) has appointed Chitra
Jayasimha as the Chairperson of the Board of National Pension System (NPS) Trust in the place of erstwhile
Chairman Venkata Rao Yadagani. She has been serving the NPS Trust Board as a Trustee since December
2020. The NPS Trust is administered by a Board of Trustees. NPS is a market-linked, voluntary, portable and
flexible scheme that helps people save for retirement. As of mid-October, overall assets under the management of NPS and
Atal Pension Yojana (APY) stood at about Rs 13.40 lakh crore. The members of the NPS Trust are appointed by the PFRDA
from time to time. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chitra Jayasimha – appointed as Chairperson of Board of NPS Trust (replacing - Venkata Rao Yadagani)
• NPS – a market-linked, voluntary, portable & flexible scheme that helps people save for retirement
• As of mid-October, overall assets under management of NPS & APY – stood at Rs 13.40 lakh Cr
• HQs of PFRDA – New Delhi | Chairperson – Deepak Mohanty | Founded in – 2003
10. Vikram Dev Dutt has assumed the charge as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal. A 1993-batch IAS officer
of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre, Shri Dutt previously served as
the Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). He succeeds VL Kantha Rao, who
currently serves as the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and holds additional charge of the Ministry of Coal.
Prior to Mr Rao, Amrit Lal Meena served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Coal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vikram Dev Dutt – assumed charge as Secretary of Ministry of Coal (succeeding - VL Kantha Rao)
• VL Kantha Rao – serving as Secretary of Ministry of Mines & holding additional charge of Ministry of Coal
https:// /#
• Minister of Coal & Mines: G. Kishan Reddy | Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana
MoS in Ministry of Coal & Mines: Satish Chandra Dubey
11. The Walt Disney Company has appointed James P. Gorman as Chairman of the board, effective January 2,
2025. He will succeed Mark G. Parker, who is stepping down after 9 years of service. Gorman, currently the
Executive Chairman of Morgan Stanley, will leave that position on December 31, 2024. Bob Iger is the present
CEO of Disney. Gorman will appoint a new CEO in early 2026. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• James P. Gorman – appointed as Chairman of Walt Disney Company (effective from Jan 2, 2025)
• James P. Gorman (currently Executive Chairman of Morgan Stanley) – will succeed Mark G. Parker
• HQs of Disney – Burbank, California, US | CEO – Bob Iger | Chairman – Mark G. Parker (From Jan’25 - James P. Gorman)
12. Donald Trump of the Republican Party has emerged as the winner of the US Presidential
polls in 2024, and will assume the 4-year term for the second time. He secured 277 votes
(crossing necessary 270 electoral votes mark), against 224 votes won by the Vice-President
Kamala Harris of the Democratic party. Trump will succeed Joe Biden as the 47th President
of the United States on January 20, 2025. James David Vance of the Republican party will
be the new Vice-President of the US. The symbol of the Republican party is an elephant, and the party’s colour is red. A
person can be elected President of the United States for two 4-year terms. Franklin Roosevelt was the only American
president to be elected four times from 1933 to 1945. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Donald Trump (Republican Party) – emerged as the winner of the US Presidential polls in 2024 (2nd time)
• Trump will succeed Joe Biden as the 47th President of the US (on Jan 20, 2025)
• He secured 277 votes against 224 votes won by – Vice-President Kamala Harris (Democratic party)
• James David Vance – will be the new Vice-President of the US
• Symbol of the Republican party – Elephant | Party’s colour – Red
• A person can be elected President of the US for two 4-year terms
13. Digital payments company Visa has appointed Rishi Chhabra as the country manager for
India. In his new role, Chhabra will be responsible for the India business, owning senior client
relationships and leading and executing the firm’s strategic initiatives for the market. Before
joining Visa, he served as country head-India and Sri Lanka at Fiserv. Previously, he has held
leadership positions in organisations like First Data and PayPal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rishi Chhabra – appointed as the country manager for India of Visa
• HQs of Visa – Foster City, California | CEO – Ryan McInerney | Founded in – 1958
14. President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles as White House Chief of Staff. Wiles
will make history as the first woman to serve in this role. She is one of the two key campaign
managers behind Trump’s election victory. She worked alongside co-campaign manager Chris
LaCivita. Wiles is the daughter of Pat Summerall, the renowned football player and sportscaster.
{Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Susie Wiles – appointed as 1st woman White House Chief of Staff | By – Donald Trump, President-elect
• She is one of the two key campaign managers behind Trump’s election victory | Other – Chris LaCivita
15. Morgan Stanley Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ted Pick is announced to become Chairman of the board
in January 2025, replacing his predecessor, James Gorman. Mr Gorman will take on the title of “Chair
Emeritus” after leaving the board. The long-time former CEO, James Gorman, was recently named as
Chairman of the Walt Disney Company. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ted Pick (CEO of Morgan Stanley) – to become Chairman of Morgan Stanley in Jan 2025 (replacing - James Gorman)
• James Gorman – to take on the title of “Chair Emeritus” | Gorman – also became Chairman of Walt Disney Company
• HQs of Morgan Stanley – New York, US | Chairman – James P. Gorman (from Jan’25 – Ted Pick) | CEO – Ted Pick
16. The Centre has announced key appointments at the secretary rank in the government, with 1991-
batch IAS officer S Gopalakrishnan being appointed the Chairman of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC).
Gopalakrishnan took charge on October 31, upon the voluntary retirement from service (VRS) of current
Chairman Rakesh Ranjan. Ranjan was appointed the SSC chairman on May 29 and was set to retire in
August 2026. Apart from Gopalakrishnan, V Umashankar has been appointed as Secretary in the Ministry
of Road Transport and Highways. Special Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Tanmay
Kumar has been appointed the Secretary but will take charge in December 2024 when the current Secretary, Leena Nandan,
superannuates. Similarly, Subrata Gupta will take charge as the Secretary in the Ministry of Food Processing Industries after
retirement of the present Secretary, Anita Parveen. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• S Gopalakrishnan – appointed as Chairman of SSC from Oct 31 (succeeding - Rakesh Ranjan)
- Rakesh Ranjan – appointed as SSC chairman on May 29 & was set to retire in Aug 2026
• V Umashankar – appointed as Secretary in MoRTH
• Tanmay Kumar – appointed as Secretary in MoEFCC w.e.f. Dec 2024 (succeeding - Leena Nandan)
• Subrata Gupta – appointed as Secretary in MoFPI (succeeding - Anita Parveen)
• HQs of SSC – New Delhi | Chairman – S Gopalakrishnan
17. President Draupadi Murmu administered the oath of the office of the Chief Justice of
India (CJI) to Supreme Court Judge Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He has become the 51st CJI. Justice
Khanna succeeds Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, who retired on November 10, 2024, and his term
will last until May 13, 2025. The Khanna Collegium would have two immediate vacancies to
fill in the Supreme Court. It would be seen if he would replace Justice Hima Kohli, who retired
recently, with another woman judge. The Collegium would have to fill the vacancy left by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud too. Two
more judges, Justices Hrishikesh Roy and C.T. Ravikumar, will be retiring in January 2025. He is the nephew of former apex
court judge Justice H R Khanna, who was part of the landmark verdict propounding the basic structure doctrine in the
Kesavananda Bharati case of 1973. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Justice Sanjiv Khanna – became 51st CJI (succeeding - Justice D.Y. Chandrachud)
https:// /#
• Oath administered by – President Draupadi Murmu
• Present CJI of Supreme Court – Justice Sanjiv Khanna (51st) | Established on – Jan 28, 1950
- Retirement age: Chief Justices & Judges of HC – 62 years | CJI & judges of the SC – 65 years
- Sanctioned strength of judges in the SC – 34 (including CJI)
18. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a 19-month extension of Vikram
Misri as Foreign Secretary beyond the date of his superannuation on November 30 for a tenure up to July
14, 2026. Misri, a 1989-batch IFS officer, assumed charge as foreign secretary on July 15, 2024. He had
succeeded Vinay Kwatra, who is currently India’s ambassador to the United States. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vikram Misri – extended as Foreign Secretary for 19 months upto July 14, 2026
• He assumed charge on – Jul 15, 2024 (succeeding - Vinay Kwatra) | Vinay Kwatra – India’s ambassador to US
• Minister of External Affairs: S. Jaishankar | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of External Affairs: Kirtivardhan Singh & Pabitra Margherita
19. Emami Limited Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, has been elected as the
President of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) for 2024-25. He will succeed
Mahindra & Mahindra’s Group CEO and Managing Director, Anish Shah, as the new President of FICCI at the
conclusion of the 97th Annual General Meeting of FICCI, which will be held on November 21. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Harsha Vardhan Agarwal (VC & MD of Emami Ltd) – elected as President of FICCI for 2024-25
• Succeeding – Anish Shah (CEO & MD of Mahindra & Mahindra’s Group)
• 97th Annual General Meeting of FICCI – to be held on Nov 21, 2024
• HQs of FICCI – Delhi | DG – Jyoti Vij | President – Harsha Vardhan Agarwal | Founded – 1927
20. Mauritius opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam, a two-time former Prime Minister, has won
the elections and will become the next Prime Minister of Mauritius. He is set to replace Pravind
Jugnauth. Indian Prime Minister Navendra Modi was the first foreign leader to publicly
congratulate Ramgoolam. Both Jugnauth and Ramgoolam are members of the dynasties that have
dominated the leadership of Mauritius since independence. Ramgoolam served as prime minister
between 1995 and 2000 and again from 2005 to 2014. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Navin Ramgoolam – elected as next PM of Mauritius (replacing - Pravind Jugnauth)
• Navin Ramgoolam – 2-time former PM between 1995-2000 & 2005-2014
• Mauritius – Port Louis – Mauritian Rupee | PM – Navin Ramgoolam
21. DBS India has nominated its head of institutional banking, Rajat Verma, to be the bank’s new Chief
Executive Officer. His nomination has been submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He is slated to
replace Surojit Shome, who plans to retire after leading DBS Bank India since 2015. Before joining DBS, Mr
Verma spent more than 26 years at HSBC, where he was head of commercial banking in India. Last year,
DBS had more than 530 branches in 19 Indian states. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Rajat Verma – nominated to be the new CEO of DBS Bank India (to replace - Surojit Shome)
• In 2023, DBS had >530 branches in 19 Indian states
• HQs of DBS Bank India – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Surojit Shome (to be succeeded by - Rajat Verma)
22. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the appointment of Vijay Chandok as
the managing director and chief executive officer (MD & CEO) of National Securities Depository (NSDL),
the country’s largest depository. Chandok currently serves as the MD & CEO of ICICI Securities, the broking
and investment banking arm of ICICI Bank. Chandok’s appointment has been approved for the next 5 years
or until he attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vijay Chandok (MD & CEO of ICICI Securities) – appointed as MD & CEO of NSDL for 5 years
• HQs of NSDL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Vijay Chandok | Chairman – Parveen Kumar Gupta
23. Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) has announced the appointment of Arvinder Singh Sahney as the
Chairman of the company. The appointment came into effect on November 13 as the additional charge of
chairman entrusted to V Satish Kumar, came to an end. Before being appointed Chairman of Indian Oil,
Sahney headed the corporation’s petrochemical vertical. Sahney has also chairs Terra Clean Ltd and is a
Director at IndOil Montney, Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Indian Oil. India, the world’s third largest
crude oil importer & consumer, is expected to rely on fossil fuels until at least 2040 and is positioning itself as a refining hub.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arvinder Singh Sahney – appointed as Chairman of IOCL w.e.f. Nov 13, 2024 (replacing - V Satish Kumar)
• India – world’s third largest crude oil importer & consumer
• HQs of IOCL – New Delhi | Chairperson – Arvinder Singh Sahney | Founded in – 1959
24. The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) has announced the appointment of Amandeep Johl as its
new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from January 1, 2025. Mr Johl, who until recently was on the PGTI
board, replaces Uttam Singh Mundy. In the interim period until 31st December, 2024, he will be assisting
Mundy in completing the handover process. Recently in June 2024, legendary cricketer Kapil Dev also
assumed the role of PGTI President. With this transition, PGTI aims to continue its mission to nurture
and support professional golf in India, fostering talent and promoting the sport across the country. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Amandeep Johl – appointed as new CEO of PGTI w.e.f. Jan 1, 2025 (replacing - Uttam Singh Mundy)
• Kapil Dev – also assumed the role of PGTI President in June 2024
• HQs of PGTI – Gurugram, Haryana | President – Uttam Singh Mundy (from Jan 1, 2025 – Amandeep Johl)
25. Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu has won a second term in the presidential election against
a Russia-friendly opponent Alexandr Stoianoglo. Sandu had 55% of the vote, compared to 45% for Alexandr
Stoianoglo, a former prosecutor general who was backed by the pro-Russia Party of Socialists. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Maia Sandu – won Moldova’s presidential election for 2nd term (defeating - Alexandr Stoianoglo)
• Moldova – Chisinau – Moldovan leu | PM – Dorin Recean | President – Maia Sandu
26. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake re-appointed Harini Amarasuriya as the Prime Minister
of the Indian Ocean Island nation. Harini is associated with National People’s Power (NPP) party.
Dissanayake, whose leftist coalition won 159 seats in the 225-member parliament in general election, also
reappointed veteran legislator Vijitha Herath as the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Harini Amarasuriya (NPP party) – reappointed as PM of Sri Lanka
• Vijitha Herath – reappointed as Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka
• Sri Lanka – Colombo/Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte – Sri Lankan Rupee
PM – Harini Amarasuriya | President – Anura Kumar Dissanayake
27. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed 1989-batch IAS officer K. Sanjay Murthy as the new
Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). K. Sanjay Murthy succeeds the incumbent CAG Girish
Chandra Murmu, who was appointed in August 2020. Mr. Murthy is currently posted as Secretary,
Department of Higher Education, and his tenure was to end on December 31, 2024. The Comptroller
and Auditor General of India is the supreme audit institution of India, established under Article 148 of the Constitution of
India. CAG is appointed by the President of India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• K. Sanjay Murthy (Secretary, DHE) – appointed as new CAG of India (succeeding - Girish Chandra Murmu)
• CAG – supreme audit institution of India, established under Article 148 of Constitution | Appointed by – President
• K. Sanjay Murthy – CAG of India
28. The President has appointed Madras High Court judge, Justice D. Krishnakumar, as Manipur High
Court Chief Justice, following the superannuation of the incumbent Justice Siddharth Mridul. The
Supreme Court Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna had recommended Justice
Krishnakumar’s name on November 18. Justice Krishnakumar was appointed Madras High Court judge
on April 7, 2016 and is due to retire on May 21, 2025. He is the senior most puisne judge in his parent High Court and belongs
to a backward community. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Justice D. Krishnakumar – appointed as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court (replacing - Justice Siddharth Mridul)
• Currently he is Madras High Court judge & will retire on May 21, 2025
• Manipur: Capital – Imphal | CM – N. Biren Singh | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya (addi. charge)
29. India’s Nandan Kumar Jha has been elected as the President of the International Mind Sports
Association (IMSA), a global body for the governance and promotion of mind sports. This announcement
was made during IMSA’s Annual General Assembly in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Jha’s nomination was proposed by
the World Draughts Federation. The IMSA, which has over 200 member countries, works with the
International Olympic Committee (IOC) and other affiliate global sports federations to integrate mind
sports into mainstream global sports. Sports federations affiliated to the IMSA represent 9 sports including chess, draughts,
esports, poker, go and bridge. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Nandan Kumar Jha (India) – elected as President of International Mind Sports Association (IMSA)
• IMSA’s Annual General Assembly – held in Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Sports federations affiliated to IMSA represent 9 sports including chess, draughts, esports, poker, go & bridge
• HQs of IMSA – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Nandan Kumar Jha
30. Brazil’s Federal Police Commissioner Valdecy Urquiza has been elected as new
Secretary General of Interpol at the global police organisation’s 92nd General Assembly,
held in Glasgow, Scotland. From India, the annual event is being attended by the Central
Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director, Praveen Sood, and Vijayendra Bidari, joint director
in the federal anti-corruption agency. Urquiza will take over from the incumbent, Jurgen
Stock. Jurgen has been at the helm of the world’s largest police organisation for the past 10 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 92nd General Assembly of Interpol – held in Glasgow, Scotland
• Valdecy Urquiza (Brazil) – elected as new Secretary General of Interpol (succeeding - Jurgen Stock)
• HQs of Interpol – Lyon, France | President – Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi | Founded on – Sep 7, 1923
31. The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended Binod Kumar for the post of
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Chennai-based Indian Bank. Kumar, who is
serving as Executive Director of Punjab National Bank, will replace S L Jain on his superannuation next
month. Earlier in April, the bureau had selected Asheesh Pandey for the position but RBI had raised some
reservation over his name. The final decision on the FSIB recommendation would be taken by the
appointments committee of the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. FSIB is headed by Bhanu Pratap Sharma,
Former Secretary of Department of Personnel and Training. Other members of the FSIB are Animesh Chauhan, Deepak
Singhal, and Shailendra Bhandari. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Binod Kumar (ED of PNB) – recommended for MD & CEO of Indian Bank (to replace – S L Jain)
• FSIB – headed by Bhanu Pratap Sharma, Former Secretary of DoPT
- Other members of FSIB – Animesh Chauhan, Deepak Singhal & Shailendra Bhandari
• HQs of Indian Bank – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | MD & CEO – Shanti Lal Jain | Tagline – “Your Own Bank”
32. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has accepted the proposal of the Jharkhand government to appoint
1988-batch IAS Officer Alka Tiwari as the next Chief Secretary of the State. Ms. Tiwari, who belongs to the
Jharkhand cadre, replaced Lalbiaktluanga Khiangte. The ECI had approved the appointment of Ajay Kumar
Singh as DGP of Jharkhand. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Alka Tiwari – to be appointed as next Chief Secretary of Jharkhand (replacing - Lalbiaktluanga Khiangte)
• Ajay Kumar Singh – appointed as DGP of Jharkhand
• Jharkhand: Capital – Ranchi | CM – Hemant Soren | Governor – Santosh Kumar Gangwar
https:// /#
33. Rahul Shrivastava of the IFS batch 1999 is appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Namibia.
Shrivastava earlier served as the Ambassador of India to Romania, Moldova, Venezuela, and Albania. He
also served in India, Russia, the UK and Kazakhstan. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rahul Shrivastava – appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Namibia
• Namibia – Windhoek – Namibian Dollar/South African Rand | President – Nangolo Mbumba
34. Left-wing politician Yamandu Orsi of the Frente Amplio (Broad Front) alliance was elected as
the President of Uruguay. He defeated Alvaro Delgado of the National Party, a member of outgoing
President Luis Lacalle Pou’s center-right Republican Coalition. Yamandu Orsi won 1,196,798 votes
(49.8%) compared to Alvaro Delgado’s 1,101,296 (45.9%). Uruguay is one of Latin America’s most
stable democracies, with comparatively high per-capita income and low poverty levels. During the heyday of leftist rule,
Uruguay legalized abortion and same-sex marriage, became the 1st Latin American country to ban smoking in public places
and the world’s 1st nation, in 2013, to allow recreational cannabis use. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Yamandu Orsi (Frente Amplio (Broad Front) alliance) – elected as President of Uruguay (replacing - Luis Lacalle Pou)
• Uruguay became: 1st Latin American country – to ban smoking in public places
- World’s 1st nation – to allow recreational cannabis use
• Uruguay – Montevideo – Peso Uruguayo | President – Yamandu Orsi
35. Alix Didier Fils-Aime was sworn in as Prime Minister of Caribbean country Haiti. Fils-Aime vowed to
provide a comprehensive response to insecurity and organise uncontested elections. Haiti has been
suffering from humanitarian and security crises exacerbated by surging gang violence. Fils-Aime replaces
Garry Conille who served twice as Prime Minister. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Alix Didier Fils-Aime – sworn in as PM of Haiti, Caribbean country (replacing - Garry Conille)
• Haiti – Port-au-Prince – Haitian Gourde | President – Jovenel Moise | PM – Alix Didier Fils-Aime
36. SBI Funds Management has appointed Nand Kishore as Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer.
Kishore was Deputy Managing Director (Global Markets) at SBI’s Corporate Centre in Mumbai. He will take
over from Shamsher Singh. Kishore has over 34 years of experience working with SBI across major banking
verticals such as Branch Banking, International Operations, Treasury Operations and Investment Banking,
Corporate Banking and Retail Operations. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nand Kishore – appointed as MD & CEO of SBI Funds Management (replacing - Shamsher Singh)
• HQs of SBI Funds Management – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Nand Kishore
37. The US President-elect Donald Trump has picked Indian-American scientist Jay Bhattacharya as the
Director of the National Institutes of Health, the country’s top health research and funding institution.
With this, Bhattacharya becomes the 1st Indian-American to be nominated by Trump for a top
administrative position. Dr Bhattacharya will work in cooperation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to direct the
nation’s medical research and solutions to, America’s biggest health challenges, including the Crisis of Chronic Illness and
Disease. Bhattacharya is a professor of Health Policy at Stanford University. Bhattacharya is a co-author of the ‘Great
Barrington Declaration’, an alternative to lockdowns proposed in October 2020. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Jay Bhattacharya – became 1st Indian to be nominated as Director of the National Institutes of Health
• Bhattacharya – professor of Health Policy at Stanford University & co-author of ‘Great Barrington Declaration’
38. Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors has unanimously elected Masato Kanda as ADB’s
11th President. Mr. Kanda, 59, currently serves as Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of
Finance. He will assume office on 24 February 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa, who will leave office
on 23 February 2025. Mr. Kanda will complete the unexpired term of President Asakawa, which ends on 23
November 2026. Established in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members - 49 from the region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Masato Kanda – elected as ADB’s 11th President will assume office on Feb 24, 2025 (succeeding - Masatsugu Asakawa)
• He currently serves as Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister & Minister of Finance
39. The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) announced the appointment of C S
Vigneshwar as its President for the 2024-26 period during its 315th Governing Council Meeting. He has
been a council member of FADA for the last 12 years. Vigneshwar is the MD of Anaamalais Toyota based
out of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The Governing Council also elevated Sai Giridhar, MD of Saisha Motors
Pvt Ltd (Dealer for Skoda Volvo Cars & MG Motors) based out of Jaipur, as Vice President and Amar Jatin
Sheth, Managing Director for Group Shaman (Dealer for Honda Cars, Volkswagen and Triumph) based out
of Mumbai, as Secretary. Pradeep Agarwal, managing partner for JMG Group (Dealer of Hero MotoCorp) based out of
Odisha, was unanimously elected as Treasurer for the 2024-26 period. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Appointments made during 315th Governing Council Meeting of FADA:
- C S Vigneshwar (MD of Anaamalais Toyota) – as President for 2024-26 period
- Sai Giridhar (MD of Saisha Motors Pvt Ltd) – as Vice President
- Amar Jatin Sheth (MD for Group Shaman) – as Secretary
- Pradeep Agarwal (Managing partner for JMG Group) – as Treasurer for 2024-26 period
• HQs of FADA – New Delhi | President – C S Vigneshwar | Secretary – Amar Jatin Sheth
https:// /#
Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes
1. More than 460 police personnel of the Police Forces, Security Organizations, Intelligence
Wing/ Branch/ Special Branch of State/ UTs/ Central Police Organisations (CPOs/ Central
Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)/ National Security Guard (NSG)/ Assam Rifles; and Forensic
Science (Central/State/UTs) have been named for the ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’
for 2024 as a recognition of their excellent work and to promote high professional standards
in 4 fields - (i) Special Operation, (ii) Investigation, (iii) Intelligence, and (iv) Forensic Science. Initiated under the leadership
of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on 1 st February 2024, the medal is
announced on October 31 every year, on the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 460+ police personnel – named for ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ for 2024 for recognising their work in 4 fields
- Special Operation, Investigation, Intelligence & Forensic Science
• ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ – announced on Oct 31 every year, on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary
2. The European Parliament has announced that the “2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought”
will be awarded to María Corina Machado and President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia. The two
are being recognised for their efforts to restore democracy and freedom in Venezuela. The award
ceremony for the 2024 Sakharov Prize will be held on December 18, in Strasbourg, during the
Parliament’s plenary session. The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, named after Soviet
physicist and dissident Andrei Sakharov, is the European Union’s highest human rights honour.
Established in 1988, the prize recognises individuals or organisations that champion human rights, democracy, and the rule
of law. The 2023 Sakharov Prize was awarded to Jina Mahsa Amini posthumously. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• María Corina Machado & President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia – to be awarded with “2024 Sakharov Prize for
Freedom of Thought”
- for their efforts to restore democracy & freedom in Venezuela
• Award ceremony – to be held on Dec 18, in Strasbourg
• Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought – European Union’s highest human rights honour | Established in – 1988
• 2023 Sakharov Prize – awarded to Jina Mahsa Amini (posthumously)
3. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has been honoured with the prestigious FICCI
“Best University of the Year - Established Category” award at the 19th FICCI Higher Education
Summit 2024 at the Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, and was presented by Lyndy
Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, in the presence of Jyothi Vij, Director General of FICCI, and Dr Vidya
Yerwadekar, Pro Chancellor of Symbiosis International University. Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor of Technology
and Science, MAHE, received the award on behalf of the university. The award recognizes universities that have
demonstrated outstanding performance in various domains such as academic excellence, innovative practices, faculty
development, student engagement, and contributions to societal growth. Dr H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, while Lt.
Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd) is the Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 19th FICCI Higher Education Summit 2024 – held at Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) – honoured with FICCI “Best University of Year - Established Category”
https:// /#
- Presented by – Lyndy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India
- Received by – Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor of Technology & Science, MAHE
• Location of MAHE – Manipal, Karnataka | Pro Chancellor – Dr H.S. Ballal | Vice Chancellor – LG (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh
• HQs of FICCI – Delhi | DG – Jyoti Vij | President – Subhrakant Panda | Founded – 1927
4. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sport has announced the discontinuation of the “Dhyan Chand
Award for Lifetime Achievement” from this year onwards and the introduction of the “Arjuna
Award (Lifetime)” in its place in a bid to rationalise the various sporting honours of the country.
Instituted in 2002, the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award, named after hockey wizard Major Dhyan
Chand, is given to individuals in disciplines that are part of the Olympic Games, Paralympic
Games, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, among others. In 2023, the award was given to former shuttler Manjusha
Kanwar, ex-hockey exponent Vineet Kumar and kabaddi player Kavitha Selvaraj. Further, to recognize the Khelo India
scheme, the Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy will be given to the University for Overall Top Performance in Khelo
India University Games. The last date for applying for the national sports awards for 2024 is November 14. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoYA&S – to replace “Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement” with “Arjuna Award (Lifetime)” from 2024
• Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award – instituted in 2002
• 2023 recipients of Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award – Manjusha Kanwar, Vineet Kumar & Kavitha Selvaraj
• Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad Trophy – to be given to University for Overall Top Performance in Khelo India University
Games
• Last date for applying for national sports awards for 2024 – Nov 14, 2024
• Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Porbandar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports: Raksha Nikhil Khadse
5. Prominent Indian musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar have earned Grammy
nominations for the 67th Grammy Awards. Ricky Kej, a 3-time Grammy winner, received his 4th
Grammy nomination for his album, ‘Break of Dawn’, in the ‘Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant
Album’ category. Anoushka Shankar, the renowned sitarist and composer, was also nominated
in the same category for her album ‘Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn’. Other nominees
in this category are “Warriors of Light” by Radhika Vekaria and “Triveni” by entrepreneur and musician Chandrika Tandon,
created in collaboration with flautist Wouter Kellerman and cellist Eru Matsumoto. The 2025 Grammy Awards are scheduled
to take place on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, US. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ricky Kej & Anoushka Shankar – earned Grammy nominations for 67th Grammy Awards
- In ‘Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album’ category
• Ricky Kej – received 4th Grammy nomination for his album, ‘Break of Dawn’
• Anoushka Shankar (sitarist & composer) – nominated for her album ‘Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn’
• Other nominees in this category – “Warriors of Light” by Radhika Vekaria & “Triveni” by Chandrika Tandon
- Triveni – created in collaboration with flautist Wouter Kellerman & cellist Eru Matsumoto
• 2025 Grammy Awards – to take place on Feb 2, 2025 | At – Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, US
https:// /#
6. The 55th “International Film Festival of India (IFFI)” will open with the Asia premiere of Michael
Gracey’s “Better Man”, an Australian semi-autobiographical film that offers a captivating glimpse
into the life of British pop singer Robbie Williams. Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce will be
presented the ‘Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the 55th IFFI. The annual film gala will
run from November 20 to November 28 in Goa. Shekhar Kapur has taken over as the festival
director. The theme of this year’s festival is “Young Filmmakers - The Future is Now”, following
which the ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ initiative has been enhanced to support 100 young talents
from 75 in the previous editions. Australia will be the ‘Country of Focus’ for IFFI 2024. A new award the ‘Best Debut Indian
Director’ has been instituted to recognise the young filmmaking talent across India. The winner will be awarded a certificate
and cash prize of Rs 5 lakh at the closing ceremony. Filmmaker-actor Ashutosh Gowariker serves as Chairperson of the
International Jury. The Indian Panorama, a section representing India’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity, will screen 25
feature films and 20 non-feature films. Randeep Hooda’s “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” will open the feature segment,
whereas “Ghar Jaisa Kuch” serves as the opening non-feature film. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 55th “International Film Festival of India (IFFI)” – to open with Asia premiere of Michael Gracey’s “Better Man”
- Australian semi-autobiographical film offering a glimpse into life of British pop singer Robbie Williams
- Nov 20-28, 2024 in Goa | Festival director – Shekhar Kapur | Theme – “Young Filmmakers - The Future is Now”
• ‘Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award’ – to be presented to Phillip Noyce, Australian filmmaker
• ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ initiative – enhanced to support 100 young talents (from 75 in previous editions)
• Australia – ‘Country of Focus’ for IFFI 2024
• ‘Best Debut Indian Director’ – instituted to recognise young filmmaking talent across India
- Winner will be awarded – a certificate & cash prize of Rs 5 lakh
• Chairperson of International Jury – Ashutosh Gowariker, Filmmaker-actor
• Indian Panorama (representing India’s cultural & linguistic diversity) – to screen 25 feature & 20 non-feature films
• Opening films: Feature – “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” (Randeep Hooda) | Non-feature – “Ghar Jaisa Kuch”
7. Ministry of Coal recently organised an event in New Delhi, featuring the Star Rating Awards
Ceremony for Coal & Lignite Mines. Union Minster of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and
Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey presented the awards. Out of a
total of 380 mines that participated in the survey, as many as 43 achieved five-star rating.
Lignite and coal mines of NLC India Ltd (NLCIL) have achieved top scores and five-star ratings
for the year 2022-23. The NLCIL’s Barsingar lignite mine in Rajasthan, lignite mine 1 A, lignite
mine 1 in Neyveli, and Talabira II and III coal mines have got the first place in the survey of lignite and coal-based open cast
mines in the country in the year 2022-23. The survey ratings were published in April 2024 by the Coal Controller Organisation
(CCO). The policy promotes transparency, accountability, and competition among coal/lignite producers, while championing
best practices in environmental management, safety, and operational efficiency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Coal – organised an event in New Delhi, featuring Star Rating Awards Ceremony for Coal & Lignite Mines
• Awards presented by – G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minster of Coal & Mines & Satish Chandra Dubey, MoS for Coal & Mines
• Five-star rating – achieved by 43 mines (out of 380)
• Top scores & five-star ratings for 2022-23 – Lignite & coal mines of NLC India Ltd (NLCIL)
https:// /#
• 1st place in survey of lignite & coal-based open cast mines in India in 2022-23 – NLCIL’s Barsingar lignite mine in
Rajasthan, lignite mine 1 A, lignite mine 1 in Neyveli & Talabira II & III coal mines
- Survey ratings published in – Apr 2024 | By – Coal Controller Organisation
• HQs of NLCIL – Neyveli, Tamil Nadu | CMD – Prasanna Kumar Motupalli
8. British author Samantha Harvey won the $64,000 “2024 Booker Prize” for fiction for her short
novel set on the International Space Station (ISS) titled ‘Orbital’, which follows the lives of 6
astronauts on the ISS, as they circle the Earth, at London’s Old Billingsgate. She has become the 1 st
woman since 2019 to win the Booker Prize. She was longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2009 for her
debut novel ‘The Wilderness’. In 2020, Harvey published her 1st book of non-fiction, ‘The Shapeless
Unease: A Year of Not Sleeping,’ about her personal experience of chronic insomnia. The other finalists were American
writer Rachel Kushner’s spy story ‘Creation Lake’; Canadian Anne Michaels’ poetic novel ‘Held’; Charlotte Wood’s Australian
saga ‘Stone Yard Devotional’; and ‘The Safekeep’ by Yael van der Wouden, the 1st Dutch author to be shortlisted for the
Booker. Founded in 1969, the Booker Prize is open to novels originally written in English and published in the United Kingdom
and Ireland. Last year’s winner was Irish writer Paul Lynch for post-democratic dystopia ‘Prophet Song.’ {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Samantha Harvey (Britain) – became 1st woman author since 2019 to win $64,000 “2024 Booker Prize”
• For short novel – ‘Orbital’, which follows lives of 6 astronauts on ISS, as they circle the Earth
• She was longlisted for Booker Prize in 2009 – for her debut novel ‘The Wilderness’
• Harvey published her 1st book of non-fiction, ‘The Shapeless Unease: A Year of Not Sleeping,’ in 2020
• Other finalists: ‘Creation Lake’ – Rachel Kushner | ‘Held’ – Anne Michaels | ‘Stone Yard Devotional’ – Charlotte Wood
- ‘The Safekeep’ – Yael van der Wouden, 1st Dutch author to be shortlisted for Booker
• Booker Prize – Founded in 1969 | 2023 Booker Prize winner – Paul Lynch (Ireland) for ‘Prophet Song’
9. Actor Darasing Khurana has received the “Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award” for his work
towards raising awareness around mental health issues as the ‘Commonwealth Year of Youth
Champion’. Khurana received the award at the University of Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum in the UK.
Indian actor and philanthropist, Darasing, also served as the keynote speaker at the ‘Global Mental
Health Summit 2024’ at the Oxford University’s historic Oxford Union, before heading over to Samoa
for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Darasing Khurana – received “Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award” at University of Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum in UK
• For his work towards raising awareness around mental health issues as ‘Commonwealth Year of Youth Champion’
• ‘Global Mental Health Summit 2024’ – held at Oxford University’s historic Oxford Union
10. The Commonwealth of Dominica has announced to bestow its highest national award, the
“Dominica Award of Honour”, upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award is in recognition
of Modi’s contributions to Dominica during the COVID-19 pandemic and his dedication to
strengthening the partnership between the two countries. President of the Commonwealth of
Dominica Sylvanie Burton will confer the award during the upcoming ‘India-CARICOM (Caribbean
Community and Common Market) Summit’ scheduled to take place in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 19 to 21. In
February 2021, PM Modi supplied Dominica with 70,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, a generous gift. The
award also recognises India’s support for Dominica in healthcare, education and information technology. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Dominica – to bestow its highest national award, the “Dominica Award of Honour”, upon PM Narendra Modi
• In recognition of his contributions to Dominica during COVID-19 pandemic & dedication to strengthening partnership
between countries
• ‘India-CARICOM (Caribbean Community & Common Market) Summit’ – to held in Georgetown, Guyana (Nov 19-21)
• In Feb 2021, PM Modi supplied Dominica with 70,000 doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
• Dominica – Roseau – East Caribbean Dollar | President – Sylvanie Burton | PM – Roosevelt Skerrit
11. The Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation has been chosen for the “Global Award for
Sustainable Development in Cities”, an initiative led by the United Nations Human Settlements
Programme (UN Habitat) and the Shanghai Municipality. The award, also known as “Shanghai
Award”, is meant for recognising outstanding progress and achievements of cities and
municipalities around the world in the implementation of the new urban agenda for sustainable
urban development. A total of five global cities were chosen for the award. The other cities to win
the award this year are Agadir (Morocco), Melbourne (Australia), Doha (Qatar) and Iztapalapa (Mexico).
Thiruvananthapuram is the first Indian city to win the award. Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran and
Thiruvananthapuram Smart City CEO received the award at a function held in Alexandria, Egypt. The installation of solar
panels on the rooftops of all public buildings, conversion of entire street light system to LED lights, delivery of 115 electric
buses for public transport in the city, and delivery of 100 electric auto rickshaws to unemployed youth - played instrumental
role for the Thiruvananthapuram MC in winning this award. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation – chosen for “Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities”
- It is an initiative led by United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN Habitat) & Shanghai Municipality
- “Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities” – aka “Shanghai Award”
• Other winners – Agadir (Morocco), Melbourne (Australia), Doha (Qatar) & Iztapalapa (Mexico)
• Thiruvananthapuram – 1st Indian city to win award | Function held in – Alexandria, Egypt
• Award received by – Arya Rajendran, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor & Thiruvananthapuram Smart City CEO
12. Nigeria will award Prime Minister Narendra Modi the “Grand Commander of The Order
of the Niger (GCON)”, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this honour, after
Queen Elizabeth received in 1969. This marks the 17th international award conferred on PM
Modi by a foreign nation. This is Modi’s first-ever visit to the West African Region. He is on a
five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana. The two nations have been strategic partners since
2007, with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nigeria – to award PM Narendra Modi the “Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger (GCON)”
• PM Modi is the 2nd foreign dignitary to receive this honour | After – Queen Elizabeth (1969)
• This marks the 17th international award conferred on PM Modi by a foreign nation
• This is Modi’s first-ever visit to the West African Region
https:// /#
13. GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) has received international acclaim for
its advancements in digital innovation, securing accolades at the ‘Airport Excellence Awards’ held
during the ‘Saudi Airport Exhibition 2024’. The awards ceremony took place at the Riyadh
International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), Saudi Arabia. GHIAL’s ‘Digital Twin’
secured an award in the ‘Innovation & Technology’ and ‘Facility Management’ categories.
Another of GHIAL’s innovations, the ‘Smart Shopping Trolley,’ was recognised as the runner-up
in the ‘Airport Revenue Management’ category. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Hyderabad International Airport – secured accolades at the ‘Airport Excellence Awards’ held during the ‘Saudi Airport
Exhibition 2024’ at the Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• GHIAL’s ‘Digital Twin’ – winner in the ‘Innovation & Technology’ & ‘Facility Management’ categories
• GHIAL’s ‘Smart Shopping Trolley’ – runner-up in the ‘Airport Revenue Management’ category
14. The ‘International Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC-2024)’ was organized
by the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Quality and Productivity (SLAAQP) at
Colombo, Sri Lanka in Hybrid mode (in-person & online). 3 LQC (lean quality circle) teams
from RINL - ‘ARMOR’, ‘TARANGINI’, & ‘SADHANA’ - presented their case studies from
Centre for HRD of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. All the above three teams from RINL have
bagged the prestigious “GOLD Awards” at ICQCC-2024. QC team ‘ARMOR’ presented their
case study on “Minimizing Power & Free hook (P&F) Chain Downtime by eliminating Structure Damage”. QC team
‘TARANGINI’ presented their case study on “Cyanide determination in water using micro diffusion Cells”. While QC team
‘SADHANA’ presented their case study on “Surge Hopper-2 Modification”. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘International Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC-2024)’ – organized by SLAAQP at Colombo, Sri Lanka
• 3 LQC teams from RINL - ‘ARMOR’, ‘TARANGINI’, & ‘SADHANA’ – bagged “GOLD Awards” at ICQCC-2024
• The 3 teams presented their case studies from Centre for HRD of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant
• HQs of RINL – Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | CMD – AK Saxena (addi. charge) (From Dec’24 - S Sakthimani)
15. 21-year-old Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark has won the 73rd “Miss Universe
2024” crown in a ceremony held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City. She also became
the first-ever Danish winner of Miss Universe. Theilvig was crowned by her
predecessor, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. Nigeria’s Cnidimma Adetshina emerged
as the 1st runner-up, while Mexico’s María Fernanda Beltrán finished as the 2nd runner-
up. The top 5 finalists also included Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s
Ileana Marquez. India’s Rhea Singha made it to the top 30 but failed to secure a spot in the top 12 finalists. This year’s
contest saw Cuba, Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Macau, Maldives, Moldova and Uzbekistan, taking part in Miss Universe for the
first time since 1967. This year also marked the 1st time in Miss Universe’s history that women aged over 28 were permitted
to enter. This is the 3rd time that Mexico has hosted Miss Universe. Miss Universe 2024 unveiled a new crown “Lumière de
l’Infini” (Light of the Infinity). It’s a pearl-encrusted gold tiara made by the French-Filipino jewellery brand Jewelmer. It is
adorned with 23 South Sea pearls. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Victoria Kjaer Theilvig (Denmark) – 1st Danish to win 73rd “Miss Universe 2024” crown at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City
- Crowned by – Sheynnis Palacios (Nicaragua), 72nd Miss Universe | Ceremony hosted by – Mexico (3rd time)
https:// /#
• Runner-ups: 1st – Cnidimma Adetshina (Nigeria) | 2nd – María Fernanda Beltrán (Mexico)
- Top 5 finalists also included – Opal Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand) & Ileana Marquez (Venezuela)
• Cuba, Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Macau, Maldives, Moldova & Uzbekistan – participated for 1st time in this contest
• Women aged 28+ – also allowed to enter for 1st time in Miss Universe’s history
• New crown “Lumière de l’Infini” (Light of the Infinity) – unveiled by Miss Universe 2024
- A pearl-encrusted gold tiara | Made by – Jewelmer, jewellery brand | Adorned with – 23 South Sea pearls
16. Dhudmaras, a small village in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, has been selected by the
United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for its ‘Best Tourism Village Upgrade
Programme’. This year, 55 villages across the world received the recognition of ‘Best Tourism
Village’ under the UNWTO initiative. Another 20 villages, including Dhudmaras, were chosen
for the Best Tourism Village Upgrade programme, under which they will receive support to
enhance tourism infrastructure, promote cultural heritage, and improve the quality of life for residents. Dhudmaras is
situated in the heart of Kanger Valley National Park, nestled in dense forests with the Kanger River flowing through it. It is
known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, traditional lifestyle, and local cuisine. Earlier this year, the Union Ministry of
Tourism had also awarded Dhudmaras in the ‘Adventure Tourism’ category of the ‘Best Tourism Village Competition 2024’.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dhudmaras, Bastar, Chhattisgarh – selected by UNWTO for its ‘Best Tourism Village Upgrade Programme’
- Situated in the heart of Kanger Valley National Park
• 55 villages in the world – received this recognition in 2024 under the UNWTO initiative
• 20 villages (including Dhudmaras) – chosen for Best Tourism Village Upgrade programme
- They will receive support to enhance tourism infrastructure, promote cultural heritage & improve quality of life for
residents
• Dhudmaras – also awarded by MoT in ‘Adventure Tourism’ category of ‘Best Tourism Village Competition 2024’
• HQs of UNWTO – Madrid, Spain | Secretary-General – Zurab Pololikashvili
17. Guyana and Barbados have announced to confer their top awards on Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, days after Dominica and Nigeria awarded him with equivalent state honours. Guyana would
confer its highest national award, “The Order of Excellence” on PM Modi, while Barbados will award
him the prestigious “Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados”. With these new awards, the total
number of international honours received by PM Modi has now reached 19. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Guyana & Barbados – announced to confer their top awards on PM Modi
- Highest awards of: Guyana – “The Order of Excellence” | Barbados – “Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados”
• With these new awards, total number of international honours received by PM Modi – 19
• Guyana – Georgetown – Guyanese Dollar | President – Mohamed Irfaan Ali
• Barbados – Bridgetown – Barbados Dollar | President – Sandra Mason | PM – Mia Mottley
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18. The “Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2023” was
conferred on Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad, who have dedicated their lives to
promoting amity among Israeli and Palestinian people through non-violent tools of music,
dialogue and peoples’ participation. The awardees were selected by a distinguished jury
headed by former Chief Justice of India T S Thakur. The award was presented virtually on
Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary (19th November). Sonia Gandhi is the Chairperson of Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. Daniel
Barenboim is an Argentine-born distinguished classical pianist and conductor, renowned for performing with and directing
some of the leading orchestras in the world. Ali Abu Awwad is an eminent Palestinian peace activist who has been working
tirelessly with the people of Palestine and Israel for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The 1st
Indira Gandhi Award, which includes a prize of Rs 25 lakh and a citation, was given to Parliamentarians for Global Action in
1986. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament & Development for 2023” – conferred on Daniel Barenboim & Ali Abu Awwad
- Daniel Barenboim (Argentina) – classical pianist & conductor | Ali Abu Awwad (Palestine) – peace activist
- They promoted amity among Israeli & Palestinian people through non-violent tools
• Winners selected by a jury – headed by T S Thakur, former CJI
• Award presented virtually on – Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary (19th November)
• Sonia Gandhi – Chairperson of Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust
• It includes prize of ₹25 lakh & a citation | 1st Indira Gandhi Award – given to Parliamentarians for Global Action in 1986
19. Google Play has announced its much-anticipated “Best of 2024” awards in India, showcasing the
most innovative and engaging apps and games of the year. The winners highlight India’s rapid
adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and its thriving gaming ecosystem, which now ranks as the
world’s second-largest mobile gaming market. AI-powered applications dominated the list this year,
with ‘Alle - Your AI Fashion Stylist’ bagging the coveted ‘Best App of 2024’ and the ‘Best for Fun’
title. Developed by Hey Alle, the app uses generative AI to provide personalised fashion recommendations based on body
type, facial features, and occasion. Headlyne, an AI-driven app, received ‘Best for Personal Growth’ award, while ‘Fold:
Expense Tracker’ app received ‘Best Everyday Essential’ award. ‘Sony LIV: Sports & Entertainment’ app received ‘Best for
Large Screens’ award. Indian-developed game, Indus Battle Royale, by SuperGaming, clinched the ‘Best Made in India’ award
for the second consecutive year. AI integration has also boosted app innovation in India, with the country leading global
downloads of AI-based apps, accounting for 21% of the worldwide market this year, as per Sensor Tower. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google Play – announced “Best of 2024” awards in India, showcasing most innovative & engaging apps & games of year
• ‘Best App of 2024’ & ‘Best for Fun’ title – Alle - Your AI Fashion Stylist | Developed by – Hey Alle
• ‘Best for Personal Growth’ award – Headlyne | ‘Best Everyday Essential’ award – ‘Fold: Expense Tracker’ app
• ‘Best for Large Screens’ award – ‘Sony LIV: Sports & Entertainment’ app
• ‘Best Made in India’ award – Indus Battle Royale for 2nd consecutive year | Developed by – SuperGaming
• As per Sensor Tower, India – leads global downloads of AI-based apps with 21% of worldwide market in 2024
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998
https:// /#
20. Coal India Limited (CIL), under the aegis of the Ministry of Coal, has been conferred with the
esteemed “Green World Environment Award 2024” in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
category along with the distinguished title of “Green World Ambassador”. This prestigious
international award has been given to CIL for exemplary work in the field of CSR i.e. Thalassemia Bal
Sewa Yojna for permanent curative treatment of more than 600 Thalassemia patients through stem
cell transplant also known as Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT). In 2017, CIL became the first Public
Sector Undertaking (PSU) to take up the CSR project for curative treatment of Thalassemia through
BMT operations across the country. Under this scheme, financial assistance up to Rs 10 lakh is provided by CIL for the BMT.
As of now 17 prominent hospitals across India is partnering for this Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna. CIL produces over 80% of
India’s overall coal and contributes to 70% of the total coal-based power generation in the country. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CIL – conferred with “Green World Environment Award 2024” in CSR category with title of “Green World Ambassador”
• CIL – became 1st PSU to take up CSR project for curative treatment of Thalassemia through BMT operations
• Under this scheme, financial assistance up to Rs 10 lakh is provided by CIL for BMT
• As of now, 17 prominent hospitals across India are partnering for this Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna
• CIL – produces 80+% of India’s overall coal & contributes to 70% of total coal-based power generation in country
• HQs of CIL – Kolkata, West Bengal | CMD – P. M. Prasad
21. Writer Ashok Gopal has won the “Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book Prize 2024” for his biography
“A Part Apart: The Life and Thought of B R Ambedkar”, which was published by Navayana. The book
delivers a vivid account of Ambedkar’s life journey from facing systemic oppression to shaping India’s
constitution as an advocate for marginalised communities. This book award, in its 7th iteration, honours
‘exceptional non-fiction writing on modern and contemporary Indian history’. The winning author will
be presented with the award, which includes a cash prize of Rs 15 lakhs, a trophy, and a citation, at the
Bangalore Literature Festival on December 14. Other shortlisted books are “How Prime Ministers Decide” by Neerja Choudhry,
“Fire on the Ganges: Life Among the Dead in Banaras” by Radhika Iyengar, “H-Pop: The Secretive World of Hindutva Pop Stars”
by Kunal Purohit, and “Sheikh Abdullah: The Caged Lion of Kashmir” by Chitralekha Zutshi. Akshaya Mukul won last year’s
‘Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book Prize’ for his wide-ranging biography of writer Agyeya, titled “Writer, Rebel, Soldier,
Lover: The Many Lives of Agyeya”. Political scientist Niraja Gopal Jayal chaired the jury. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashok Gopal (Writer) – won 7th “Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book Prize 2024”
- For – biography “A Part Apart: The Life and Thought of B R Ambedkar” | Published by – Navayana
• It honours ‘exceptional non-fiction writing on modern & contemporary Indian history’
• It includes a cash prize of Rs 15 lakhs, a trophy & a citation | At – Bangalore Literature Festival on Dec 14
• Other shortlisted books are:
- “How Prime Ministers Decide” – by Neerja Choudhry
- “Fire on the Ganges: Life Among the Dead in Banaras” – by Radhika Iyengar
- “H-Pop: The Secretive World of Hindutva Pop Stars” – by Kunal Purohit
- “Sheikh Abdullah: The Caged Lion of Kashmir” – by Chitralekha Zutshi
• 2023 winner – Akshaya Mukul for biography of writer Agyeya, “Writer, Rebel, Soldier, Lover: The Many Lives of Agyeya”
• Niraja Gopal Jayal, Political scientist – chaired the jury
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22. Hyderabad-based environmentalist M. Karunakar Reddy has been chosen for the 1st “Jadav Payeng
International Award” for his outstanding environmental stewardship and climate action. The award is
named after Jadav Payeng, better known as the ‘Forest Man of India’. It will be conferred on M.
Karunakar Reddy in January 2025. M. Karunakar Reddy is known as the ‘Water Man and Green Man of
South India’ and has been working for water conservation and management for more than 15 years now. He is also known
as the ‘Crisis Man of India’ for his contributions to disaster relief and management in areas affected by climate change. The
award, carrying Rs 2 lakh and a citation, has been instituted by the charitable Jyoti-Protap Education Trust based at Kaliapani
in eastern Assam’s Jorhat district. Jadav Payeng, a Padma Shri awardee, created a 550-acre forest on a Brahmaputra sandbar
in the Jorhat district. It is the only man-made green space that houses the tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asiatic
elephants. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• M Karunakar Reddy – chosen for 1st “Jadav Payeng International Award” for environmental stewardship & climate action
- Conferred in – January 2025 | He is known as ‘Water Man & Green Man of South India’ & ‘Crisis Man of India’
• Award is named after – Jadav Payeng, better known as ‘Forest Man of India’ | It includes Rs 2 lakh & a citation
• Instituted by – Jyoti-Protap Education Trust based at Kaliapani, Jorhat, Assam
• Jadav Payeng, a Padma Shri awardee – created a 550-acre forest on a Brahmaputra sandbar in Jorhat
- Only man-made green space that houses tiger, one-horned rhinoceros & Asiatic elephants
23. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), under the Ministry of
Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, celebrated “National Milk Day” on November
26, 2024, at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi to commemorate the 103 rd birth anniversary
of Dr Verghese Kurien, fondly remembered as the “Father of the White Revolution in
India.” On this occasion, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh conferred the ‘National Gopal
Ratna Awards 2024’ (one of the highest National awards in the livestock and dairy sector)
in 3 categories namely (i) Best Dairy Farmer Rearing Indigenous Cattle/Buffalo Breeds, (ii) Best Artificial Insemination
Technician, and (iii) Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/ Milk Producer Company/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization
from across the country. Renu (Jhajjar, Haryana) won the 1st prize in the ‘Best Dairy Farmer Rearing Indigenous Cattle/Buffalo
Breeds’ category. Bhaskar Pradhan (Subarnapur, Odisha) and Rajender Kumar (Hanumangarh, Rajasthan) jointly won the 1st
prize in ‘Best Artificial Insemination Technician’ category. Gabat Milk Producers Cooperative Society (MPCS) Ltd (Aravali,
Gujarat) and Bisanal MPCS Ltd (Bagalkot, Karnataka) jointly won the 1st prize in ‘Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/ Milk
Producer Company/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization’ category. A special highlight of the celebration was the
culmination of the ‘All India Motor Rally’, organised by Amul in association with Bajaj Auto. The rally had been flagged off
by Union Minister Amit Shah on 19th November 2024 from Himmatnagar in Sabarkantha District of Gujarat to Dhaula Kuan,
New Delhi. DAHD also released its annual publication titled “Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) - 2024”, a publication
that provides comprehensive data on the livestock sector, based on the outcomes of the Integrated Sample Survey
conducted for the period from 1st March 2023 to 29th February 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DAHD – celebrated “National Milk Day” on Nov 26, 2024, at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi
• To commemorate 103rd birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, “Father of the White Revolution in India”
• ‘National Gopal Ratna Awards 2024’ – conferred by Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister, in 3 categories
• Winners in different categories:
- Renu (Jhajjar, Haryana) – ‘Best Dairy Farmer Rearing Indigenous Cattle/Buffalo Breeds’ category
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- Bhaskar Pradhan (Subarnapur, Odisha) & Rajender Kumar (Hanumangarh, Rajasthan) – ‘Best Artificial Insemination
Technician’ category
- Gabat MPCS Ltd (Aravali, Gujarat) & Bisanal MPCS Ltd (Bagalkot, Karnataka) – ‘Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/
Milk Producer Company/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization’ category
• ‘All India Motor Rally’ – organised by Amul & Bajaj Auto
- Flagged off by – Amit Shah on Nov 19, 2024 | From – Himmatnagar, Gujarat to Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi
• “Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) - 2024” – released by DAHD
• Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying: Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) | Constituency – Munger, Bihar
MoS in Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying: S. P. Singh Baghel & George Kurian
24. Oscar-winning music composer, A. R. Rahman, has received the “XTIC Award 2024 for
Innovation”, instituted by Experiential Technology Innovation Centre (XTIC) at IIT-Madras.
XTIC is an IIT Madras Institute of Eminence Centre in Virtual Reality and related fields. The
award is presented to Rahman for his 37-minute virtual reality (VR) film, “Le Musk”. Directed
and produced by Rahman, Le Musk integrates multiple sensory elements, including scent,
motion and music, to deliver an immersive cinematic experience. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• A. R. Rahman (music composer) – received “XTIC Award 2024 for Innovation” for his 37-minute VR film, “Le Musk”
• Instituted by – Experiential Technology Innovation Centre (XTIC) at IIT-Madras
- XTIC – an IIT Madras Institute of Eminence Centre in Virtual Reality & related fields
25. Rachel Gupta (20 years old) from Jalandhar, Punjab, was crowned “Miss Grand International (MGI) 2024”
in Bangkok, Thailand. Rachel is the first Indian in MGI history to win the Golden crown. Rachel, who previously
held the Miss Super Talent of the World 2022 title, won Miss Grand India in August 2024 at Zee Studios, Jaipur.
Currently, Miss Grand International is said to be the No. 1 Beauty Pageant in the world with over 5 million
followers across the globe. Rachel will now represent MGI as their ambassador for peace & stability. Christine Juliane Opiaza
of Philippines was the first runner up at MGI 2024, while, Thae Su Nyein, Miss Grand Myanmar 2023, was crowned as the
second runner-up. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rachel Gupta (Jalandhar, Punjab) – 1st Indian to won “Miss Grand International (MGI) 2024” in Bangkok, Thailand
• She previously held Miss Super Talent of World 2022 title & now won Miss Grand India in Aug 2024 at Zee Studios, Jaipur
• Runner-ups: 1st – Christine Juliane Opiaza (Philippines) | 2nd – Thae Su Nyein (Miss Grand Myanmar 2023)
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26. The “2024 OPCW The Hague Award” was conferred upon the Indian Chemical Council
(ICC) at a ceremony during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties (CSP) of
the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) at the Hague on
November 25, 2024. Delegates from the 193 States Parties and experts from the global
chemical industry from around the world participated in the session. This is the first time
that the Award recognises the efforts of a chemical industry body. Indian Chemical Council
(ICC) represents more than 80% of Indian chemical Industry which is valued at $220 billion.
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) came into force in 1997, and presently has 193 States Parties. OPCW, with its
Secretariat in The Hague, is the implementing body for the CWC, with a mission to achieve a world free of chemical weapons.
India is an original signatory to the Convention. National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC) is the national
authority responsible for implementing the Convention in India. In 2013, OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its
extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons. Ambassador Fernando Arias is the Director-General of OPCW. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 29th Session of Conference of States Parties (CSP) of Organisation for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) – held
at the Hague on Nov 25, 2024
• “2024 OPCW The Hague Award” – conferred upon Indian Chemical Council (ICC)
- 1st time this Award recognises efforts of a chemical industry body
• ICC – represents more than 80% of Indian chemical Industry (Valued - $220 billion)
• Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) – came into force in 1997 & presently has 193 States Parties
- Implementing body for CWC – OPCW (The Hague)
• National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention – national authority responsible for implementing Convention in
India
• OPCW – awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons
• HQs of OPCW – The Hague, Netherlands | Director-General – Fernando Arias
27. The closing ceremony of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held at the Dr.
Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa on November 28. The 9-day event showcased
over 200 films from 75 countries. The ceremony was attended by a jury comprising Ashutosh
Gowariker as the Chairperson, along with Anthony Chen, Elizabeth Karlsen, Fran Borgia, and Jill
Bilcock. During the ceremony, Vikrant Massey, best known for his role in ‘12th Fail’, bagged the
‘Personality of the Year’ award; Navjyot Bandivadekar won the ‘Best Debut Director of Indian Feature Film’ award for his
Marathi film ‘Gharat Ganpati’; Swedish filmmaker Levan Akin’s ‘Crossing’ received the ‘ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal’;
Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce was honoured with the ‘Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award’; ‘Golden Peacock (Best
Film)’ award was won by ‘Toxic’ film (Lithuanian language); ‘Best Actress’ award was won by Vesta Matuliyte and Iva
Rupeikaite for ‘Toxic’ film; ‘Best Actor’ award was won by Clement Faveau (for ‘Holy Cow’); ‘Best Director’ award was won
by Bogdan Muresanu (for ‘The New Year That Never Came’); and ‘Best Web Series’ award was won by ‘Lampan’ (Marathi
language). All awards are given below in category-wise form. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Closing ceremony of 55th IFFI – held at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Goa
• The 9-day event showcased over 200 films from 75 countries | Jury Chairperson – Ashutosh Gowariker
• Award winners at 55th IFFI 2024:
• Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film – “Toxic”, a Lithuanian film (directed by Saulė Bliuvaitė)
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• Silver Peacock Awards:
- Best Director – Bogdan Muresanu for ‘The New Year That Never Came’ (Romania)
- Best Actor (Male) – Clément Faveau for ‘Holy Cow’ (France)
- Best Actor (Female) – Vesta Matulytė & Ieva Rupeikaitė for ‘Toxic’ (Lithuania)
• Special Jury Award – Louise Courvoisier for ‘Holy Cow’ (France)
• ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal – ‘Crossing’ film by Levan Akin (Sweden)
• Best Debut Feature Film – ‘Familiar Touch’ by Sarah Friedland (USA)
• Honouring Indian Talent:
- Best Debut Director of Indian Feature Film – Navjyot Bandivadekar for his Marathi film ‘Gharat Ganpati’
- Best Web Series (OTT) – ‘Lampan’ (Marathi), by Nipun Dharmadhikari
- Indian Personality of the Year award – Vikrant Massey
- Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award – Phillip Noyce (Australian filmmaker)
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Schemes & Initiatives
1. The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the operational
guidelines for the implementation of “Namo Drone Didi” scheme. The Union government
approved the Central Sector Scheme “Namo Drone Didi” for providing drones to the
women self-help groups (SHGs) under DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana -
National Rural Livelihoods Mission) of the Ministry of Rural Development, with an outlay
of Rs 1,261 crore. The scheme aims to provide drones to 14,500 selected women SHGs
during the period from 2024-25 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purposes - application
of liquid fertilizers and pesticides. The major components of the operational guidelines are - (i) the scheme will be governed
at the Central level by the Empowered Committee of the Secretaries of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare,
Department of Rural Development, Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and Ministry of Women and Child
Development; (ii) a Central Financial Assistance at 80% of the cost of drone and accessories/ ancillary charges up to a
maximum of Rs 8 lakh will be provided to the women SHGs for purchase of drones as a package; (iii) the Cluster Level
Federations (CLFs) of SHGs may raise the balance amount (total cost of procurement minus subsidy) as loan under the
‘National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF)’ with an interest subvention @ 3% on the AIF loan. (iv) one of the members
of the women SHGs will be selected for 15-day training comprising mandatory drone pilot training; (v) the Lead Fertilizer
Companies (LFCs) responsible for the states will be the implementing agencies of the scheme at the state level. (vi) the states
will closely monitor the interventions, provide handholding support to the women SHGs and help them in getting the
business to cover an area of at least 2,000 to 2,500 acres in a year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DAFW – released operational guidelines for implementing “Namo Drone Didi” scheme
• “Namo Drone Didi” Scheme – approved to provide drones to women SHGs under DAY-NRLM | Outlay – Rs 1,261 Cr
- Aim: To provide drones to 14,500 selected women SHGs from FY25-FY26 for providing rental services to farmers
• Major components of operational guidelines:
- Governed at Central level by – Empowered Committee of Secretaries of DAFW, DRD, DoF, MoCA & MoWCD
- A Central Financial Assistance at 80% of cost of drone up to a max of Rs 8 lakh – to be provided to women SHGs
- Cluster Level Federations of SHGs – may raise balance amount as loan under ‘National AIF’ with interest @ 3%
- One of members of women SHGs – to be selected for 15-day training comprising mandatory drone pilot training
- Implementing agencies of scheme at state level – Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) responsible for states
- States will help in getting business to cover an area of at least 2,000-2,500 acres in a year
2. The Centre has decided to extend providing benefits of “Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI)” scheme to all
subscribers of Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation and their family members till further notice. The EDLI scheme,
launched in 1976, was to provide insurance benefits to members of the EPFO and to ensure that the families of members
get financial assistance in case of death of the member. The minimum and maximum benefits under the EDLI scheme were
enhanced from ₹1.5 lakh and ₹6 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh and ₹7 lakh respectively in 2021 and the benefits were valid for a period
of 3 years, which came to an end on April 27, 2024. Now, Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has approved the decision
to make the benefits applicable to the members of the EDLI Scheme retrospectively from April 28, 2024 onwards till any
further notification. Currently, EDLI provides life insurance cover of up to ₹7 lakh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre – to extend providing benefits of “Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI)” scheme to all subscribers of EPFO
& their family members till further notice
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- It will be applicable retrospectively from Apr 28, 2024
• EDLI scheme – launched in 1976 to provide insurance benefits to members of EPFO & to ensure that families of members
get financial assistance in case of death of member
• Benefits under EDLI scheme enhanced to: Minimum – ₹2.5 lakh (from ₹1.5 lakh) | Maximum – ₹7 lakh (from ₹6 lakh)
- Validity of benefits – 3 years (ended on Apr 27, 2024)
• Currently, EDLI provides life insurance cover – up to ₹7 lakh
3. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Chandrababu Naidu launched the “Deepam 2.0” scheme in
Edupuram, Ichapuram Mandal, Srikakulam district, as part of the “Super Six Promises” initiative. This
program provides 3 free gas cylinders to eligible families every year, aiming to improve their quality of
life. The “Super Six Promises” include - ‘Thalliki Vandhanam’ scheme, ‘Aadabidda Nidhi’ scheme
(women’s fund), ‘Yuvashakti’ scheme, ‘Annadatha’ scheme, and Free travel for women on RTC buses.
Rs 15,000 will be given annually to every school-going student through ‘Thalliki Vandhanam’ scheme.
Additionally, every woman in the age group of 18-59 will receive Rs 1,500 per month through ‘Aadabidda Nidhi’ (women’s
fund). Under Yuvashakti, the TDP has promised Rs 3,000 per month for every jobless youth. Similarly, under ‘Annadatha’,
the party promised an annual financial assistance of Rs 20,000 to every farmer. The CM also presented the ‘NTR Bharosa’
pension of Rs 4,000 to Balijepalli Janaki, a lone woman scheme beneficiary. Andhra Pradesh provides the highest pension
amount of Rs 4,000 nationwide. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chandrababu Naidu (CM of Andhra) – launched “Deepam 2.0” scheme in Edupuram, Ichapuram Mandal, Srikakulam
- As part of “Super Six Promises” initiative
• It provides 3 free gas cylinders to eligible families every year to improve their quality of life
• Other elements of “Super Six Promises” – ‘Thalliki Vandhanam’ scheme, ‘Aadabidda Nidhi’ scheme (women’s fund)
- ‘Yuvashakti’ scheme, ‘Annadatha’ scheme & Free travel for women on RTC buses
• In ‘Thalliki Vandhanam’ scheme, Rs 15,000 – to be given annually to every school-going student
• In ‘Aadabidda Nidhi’ (women’s fund), Rs 1,500 per month – to be given to every woman in age group of 18-59
• Under Yuvashakti, Rs 3,000 per month – for every jobless youth
• Under ‘Annadatha’, Rs 20,000 – to be given to every farmer annually
• In ‘NTR Bharosa’ pension, Rs 4,000 – to be given to Balijepalli Janaki, a lone woman scheme beneficiary
• Andhra Pradesh – provides highest pension amount of Rs 4,000 nationwide
• Andhra Pradesh: Capital – Amaravati | CM – Nara Chandrababu Naidu | Governor – Syed Abdul Nazeer
4. South Africa has launched a new tourism initiative, the “Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS)”, to increase visitor
numbers from India and China. South Africa is setting its sights on increasing the number of Indian visitors from 16,000 to
1,00,000 by the end of the year. Currently, Indian tourists make up 3.9% of South Africa’s international visitors, while Chinese
visitors account for 1.8%. The TTOS aims to address challenges that have previously hindered tourism from India and China,
including lengthy visa processing times for group applications, limited resources at South African embassies, and language
obstacles. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• South Africa – launched a new tourism initiative, the “Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS)” to increase visitor numbers
from India and China
• South Africa’s aim: To increase the number of Indian visitors from 16,000 to 1,00,000 by the end of the year
• Currently, Indian tourists make up 3.9% of South Africa’s international visitors
• South Africa – Cape Town – South African Rand | President – Cyril Ramaphosa
5. The Union Cabinet has approved a new Central Sector Scheme, “PM Vidyalaxmi”, which
seeks to provide financial support to meritorious students in their pursuit of higher
education. Under the scheme, a student who secures admission in any of the top 860
Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs), both government and private, will be eligible
to get collateral-free, guarantor-free loans from banks and financial institutions to cover
the full amount of tuition fees and other expenses related to the course. The scheme will
potentially cover 22 lakh students. Further, for loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh, the student will
receive a credit guarantee of 75%, enabling banks to extend education loans to students.
In addition, for students with an annual family income of up to Rs 8 lakh, and not eligible
for benefits under any other government scholarship or interest-subvention schemes, 3% interest subvention for loans up
to Rs 10 lakh will be provided during the moratorium period. The interest subvention support will be given to 1 lakh students
every year. An outlay of Rs 3,600 crore has been made during 2024-25 to 2030-31, and 7 lakh fresh students are expected
to get the benefit of this interest subvention during the period. The scheme will apply to top QHEIs of the nation, as
determined by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved “PM Vidyalaxmi”, to provide financial support to meritorious students in higher education
• Eligible students to get collateral-free, guarantor-free loans from banks & FIs to cover full tuition fees & other expenses:
- Student securing admission in any of top 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions (both government & private)
- QHEIs – as determined by National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings
• It will potentially cover – 22 lakh students
• For loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh, student will receive – a credit guarantee of 75%
• For students with annual family income up to Rs 8 lakh & not eligible under any other Govt scholarship or interest-
subvention schemes – 3% interest subvention for loans up to Rs 10 lakh
- Interest subvention support – to be given to 1 lakh students every year
• During 2024-25 to 2030-31: Outlay – Rs 3,600 Cr | Students expecting to get benefit – 7 lakh
6. The “One Rank One Pension (OROP)” scheme, launched on November 7, 2015, for
military veterans, has completed 10 years in 2024. The scheme directly benefits the ex-
servicemen and their families by ensuring that the pension gap between current and
retired personnel is bridged periodically. The OROP scheme has benefitted over 25 lakh
veterans and their families, bringing much-needed financial security to the ex-servicemen
community. The pension is re-fixed every 5 years, ensuring that it continues to reflect changes in the pay and pension
structure. By the time of the 16th Lok Sabha and under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, the government decided to
honor the demands of ex-servicemen. The 2014 Budget allocated ₹1,000 crore for its implementation. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme – completed 10 years in 2024 | Launched on – Nov 7, 2015 for military veterans
• OROP scheme – benefitted 25+ lakh veterans & their families, bringing financial security to ex-servicemen community
• Pension is re-fixed in – every 5 years | Budget allocated for its implementation in 2014 – ₹1,000 Cr
7. Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister JP Nadda has launched a Rs

500 crore scheme to strengthen India’s medical devices industry. This
initial outlay of Rs 500 crore will be for 3 years, up to financial year
2026-27 (FY27). The overall scheme consists of 5 components,
including common facilities for medical device clusters, capacity
building and skill development, a marginal investment scheme for
reducing import dependence, clinical studies support, and a medical
device promotion scheme. Under the scheme, Rs 110 crore has been allocated to strengthen infrastructure through the
creation of common facilities such as R&D labs, design and testing centres, and animal labs for around 20 medical device
clusters in India. Grants of up to Rs 20 crore for common facilities and Rs 5 crore for testing facilities will be provided.
Similarly, Rs 180 crore has been outlined for a marginal investment scheme. This sub-scheme offers a one-time capital
subsidy of 10-20%, with a maximum cap of Rs 10 crore per project. The government will also provide a support scheme
worth Rs 100 crore for clinical studies of medical devices. While Rs 100 crore has been earmarked for skill development in
the sector, an additional Rs 10 crore will be used for a promotion scheme for the medical device industry. With a market
size of $14 billion, the Indian medical devices sector is the 4th largest in Asia and ranks among the top 20 global medical
device markets. The sector is expected to grow to $30 billion by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• JP Nadda (Chemicals & Fertilisers Minister) – launched a scheme to strengthen India’s medical devices industry
- Initial outlay – Rs 500 Cr for 3 years, up to FY27
• Rs 110 Cr – to strengthen infrastructure through creation of common facilities for ~20 medical device clusters
• Grants of up to: Rs 20 Cr – for common facilities | Rs 5 Cr – for testing facilities
• Rs 180 Cr – for a marginal investment scheme
• It offers a one-time capital subsidy of 10-20%, with a maximum cap of Rs 10 Cr per project
• Govt will provide a support scheme for clinical studies of medical devices | Worth – Rs 100 Cr
• Rs 100 Cr – for skill development in sector | Rs 10 Cr – for a promotion scheme for medical device industry
• Indian medical devices sector – 4th largest in Asia & among top 20 global medical device markets
- Market size – $14 billion | To grow to – $30 billion by 2030
• Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers: Jagat Prakash Nadda | Constituency – Buldhana, Maharashtra
MoS in Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers: Anupriya Singh Patel
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8. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 18th instalment of the “Pradhan Mantri-Kisan Samman
Nidhi (PM-KISAN)” scheme in Washim, Maharashtra on October 5, 2024. Over 9.4 crore farmers
across the country received the instalment of Rs 2,000 in their accounts and the Centre spent more
than Rs 20,000 crore for the 18th instalment. As per the Union Agriculture Ministry, around 2.5 crore
farmers joined the event through webcast screenings at 732 Krishi Vigyan Kendras, over 1 lakh Primary Agricultural
Cooperative Societies and 5 lakh Common Service Centres across the country. The day, according to the Ministry, was also
celebrated as ‘PM-KISAN Utsav Divas’. Launched in February 2019, the scheme provides Rs 6,000 annually to landholding
farmers in 3 equal instalments. With the 18th instalment release, the total disbursement under the scheme exceeded Rs 3.45
lakh crore, supporting more than 11 crore farmers nationwide. In Maharashtra, the Centre transferred about Rs 32,000
crore to around 1.20 crore farmers in 17 instalments, which is the second highest among all states. The Prime Minister also
released an additional benefit of around Rs 2,000 crore to the farmers of Maharashtra under the 5 th instalment of ‘Namo
Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana’. Additionally, the Prime Minister launched a Unified Genomic Chip - the ‘Gau Chip’ for
cattle and ‘Mahish Chip’ for buffalo - developed by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. This chip, tailored
for Indian breeds, will enable farmers to make informed decisions on animal selection by identifying young, high-quality
bulls at an early age, improving the efficiency of dairy farming in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – released 18th instalment of “PM-KISAN” scheme in Washim, Maharashtra on Oct 5, 2024
- PM-KISAN – Pradhan Mantri-Kisan Samman Nidhi | Total expenditure – >Rs 20,000 Cr
• >9.4 crore farmers across the country – received instalment of Rs 2,000 in their accounts
• Oct 5 – celebrated as ‘PM-KISAN Utsav Divas’ | Now, total disbursement under scheme – >Rs 3.45 lakh Cr
• PM-KISAN – launched in Feb 2019 to provide Rs 6,000 annually to landholding farmers in 3 equal instalments
• Centre transferred ~Rs 32,000 Cr in Maharashtra to 1.20 crore farmers in 17 instalments (2nd-highest among states)
• PM released an additional benefit of ~Rs 2,000 Cr to farmers of Maharashtra under 5 th instalment of ‘Namo Shetkari
Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana’
• PM – launched a Unified Genomic Chip, ‘Gau Chip’ for cattle & ‘Mahish Chip’ for buffalo
- Developed by – Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying
9. The total gross enrolments under the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) have crossed 7 crores, with an enrolment of over 56 lakhs
in the current Financial Year 2024-25. The scheme is in its 10th year of rollout. The APY, a flagship social security scheme of
the Government of India, was launched on May 9, 2015, with an aim to create a universal social security system for all
Indians, especially the poor, the underprivileged and the workers in the unorganised sector. The scheme is administered by
Pension Fund and Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA). It was introduced by the Ministry of Finance. Any citizen of
India, aged between 18-40 years, can join the APY scheme. The scheme provides a minimum guaranteed pension ranging
from Rs 1000 to Rs 5000 on attaining 60 years of age. The contributions to the APY are eligible for tax benefits. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Total gross enrolments under Atal Pension Yojana (APY) – crossed 7 crores | 56 lakh – in FY25
• APY – launched on May 9, 2015 to create a universal social security system for all Indians
- Administered by – PFRDA | Introduced by – Ministry of Finance
• Any Indian citizen, between 18-40 years – can join APY scheme | Contributions to APY – eligible for tax benefits
• It provides a minimum guaranteed pension ranging from Rs 1000 to Rs 5000 on attaining 60 years of age
https:// /#
10. The government is set to extend subsidy for sale of cargo category of electric three-wheelers (e-3Ws of L5 category)
under the “Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE)” scheme. The
incentives of the second batch of vehicles, the subsidies will be half of the first year and will be capped at ₹25,000 per
vehicle. The e-3Ws L5 under this Scheme, registered on the Vahan (Ministry of Transport) portal after the cut-off date which
is November 7, 2024, will be eligible for an incentive at reduced rate of ₹2,500 per kWh, capped at ₹25,000 per vehicle
subject to the limit of 1,24,846 units. PM E-Drive Scheme was launched from October 1 with a budget outlay of ₹10,900
crore for a period of two years for vehicle categories including e2Ws, e3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks e-buses and PM-eBus
Sewa Payment Security Mechanism to accelerate the adoption of EVs across the country. Under the Scheme, the subsidies
for e2Ws were fixed based on battery power at ₹5,000 per kilowatt hour (kWh), but the overall incentive will not exceed
₹10,000 in the first year. In the second year, it will be halved by ₹2,500 per kilowatt hour, and the overall benefit will not
exceed ₹5,000. Similarly, for the e-rickshaws subsidy of ₹25,000 in the first year was fixed and ₹12,500 in the second year.
For the L5 category of e-3W, it was fixed at ₹50,000 in the first year, and reduced to ₹25,000 in the second year. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Govt will extend subsidy for sale of cargo category of electric three-wheelers (e-3Ws of L5 category)
- Under – “Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE)” scheme
• Subsidies (half of first year) – to be capped at ₹25,000 per vehicle subject to the limit of 1,24,846 units
• Eligible e-3Ws – registered on Vahan (Ministry of Transport) portal after Nov 7, 2024 (cut-off date)
• PM E-Drive Scheme – launched from Oct 1 for 2 years | Outlay – ₹10,900 Cr
- For vehicle categories – e2Ws, e3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks e-buses & PM-eBus
• Under this scheme, subsidies for various vehicles in 1st & 2nd years, respectively:
- e2Ws – ₹10,000 & ₹5,000 | e-rickshaws – ₹25,000 & ₹12,500 | L5 category of e-3W – ₹50,000 & ₹25,000
11. Indian government is aiming to empower women in rural areas by ensuring they own
the houses built under the “Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) - Gramin”. In the second
phase of the scheme, starting in 2024, houses built under PMAY will be registered only in
the name of women or under joint ownership with men. Currently, 74% of the houses built
under the scheme are owned by women alone or jointly. To identify beneficiaries for the
second phase, the Union Rural Development Ministry is launching a new survey called
“Awas-Plus 2024”. For the first time, this survey will include a “self-survey” option, allowing individuals to upload their
information directly through an app. The government aims to identify the remaining 80 lakh beneficiaries through this
survey, adding to the existing list of 1.2 crore beneficiaries. States have been instructed to complete the Awas-Plus 2024
surveys by November 30 and sanction housing for eligible families by December 31, 2024. Under this scheme, the
government provides ₹1.20 lakh per house, a sum that has not been revised since 2016. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – aims to empower women in rural areas by ensuring they own houses built under “PMAY - Gramin”
- PMAY - Gramin – Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin
• In 2nd phase of scheme, houses built under PMAY – to be registered only in name of women or under joint ownership
- Currently, 74% of houses built under scheme – owned by women alone or jointly
• Rural Development Ministry – launching a new survey called “Awas-Plus 2024” to identify beneficiaries for 2nd phase
- Aim: To identify remaining 80 lakh beneficiaries through this survey, adding to existing list of 1.2 crore beneficiaries
• Under this scheme, government provides ₹1.20 lakh per house
https:// /#
• Minister of Rural Development: Shivraj Singh Chouhan | Constituency – Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Rural Development: Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani & Kamlesh Paswan
12. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the launching of the “National Mission on Natural
Farming (NMNF)” as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare with
an outlay of Rs 2481 crore (Government of India share - Rs 1584 crore; State share - Rs 897 crore) till the 15th Finance
Commission (2025-26) to promote natural farming (NF) in mission mode across the country. NMNF is designed to support
farmers in reducing the input cost of cultivation and dependency on externally purchased inputs. In the next 2 years, NMNF
will be implemented in 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats & reach 1 crore farmers. Further, need-based 10,000 Bio-input
Resource Centres (BRCs) will be set up to provide easy availability and accessibility to ready-to-use NF inputs for farmers.
Under NMNF, around 2000 NF Model Demonstration Farms shall be established at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural
Universities (AUs) and farmers’ fields. 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/ CRPs (Community Resource Persons) will be deployed for
awareness generation, mobilisation and handholding of willing farmers in the clusters. Real-time geo-tagged & referenced
monitoring of NMNF implementation shall be done through an online portal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved launching of “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)” as a standalone CSS under MoA&FW
- Till 15th Finance Commission (2025-26) to promote natural farming (NF) in mission mode across the country
- Outlay – Rs 2481 Cr (Share: Center - Rs 1584 Cr; State - Rs 897 Cr)
• It is designed to support farmers in reducing input cost of cultivation & dependency on externally purchased inputs
• NMNF – to be implemented in 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats & reach 1 crore farmers in next 2 years
• 10,000 BRCs – to be set up to provide easy availability & accessibility to ready-to-use NF inputs for farmers
• 2000 NF Model Demonstration Farms – to be established at KVKs, Agricultural Universities (AUs) & farmers’ fields
• 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/ CRPs – to be deployed for awareness generation, mobilisation & handholding of willing farmers
13. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved “One Nation One Subscription”, a new Central Sector
Scheme for providing country-wide access to scholarly research articles and journal publications. A total of Rs 6,000 crore
has been allocated for the scheme for 3 calendar years, 2025, 2026 and 2027. The scheme will supplement the ANRF
(Anusandhan National Research Foundation) initiative to promote R&D and foster a culture of research and innovation. The
benefits of the scheme will be provided to all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) under the management of the Central
or State Government and R&D Institutions of the Central Government, through a national subscription coordinated by a
central agency, namely the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET). It is an autonomous inter-university centre of the
University Grants Commission (UGC). A total of 13,000 e-journals published by the 30 major international journal publishers
will now be accessible to more than 6,300 institutions. Further, this scheme is in line with the goals of ‘Viksitbharat@2047’,
‘National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’ and ‘ANRF’, and will expand access to scholarly journals to a vast diaspora of students,
faculty, researchers and scientists of all disciplines, including those in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved “One Nation One Subscription”, a new CSS for providing country-wide access to scholarly research
articles & journal publications
• Allocation for this scheme – Rs 6,000 Cr for 3 calendar years, 2025, 2026 & 2027
• Benefits will be provided to all HEIs through a national subscription coordinated by a central agency, INFLIBNET
- INFLIBNET – autonomous inter-university centre of UGC
• 13,000 e-journals published by 30 major international journal publishers – be accessible to 6,300+ institutions
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14. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of its flagship initiative,
the ‘Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)’, under the aegis of NITI Aayog, with an enhanced scope of work and an allocated budget
of Rs 2,750 crore for the period till March 31, 2028. With India at rank 39th on the ‘Global Innovation Index’ and home to the
world’s 3rd-largest start-up ecosystem, the next phase of the ‘Atal Innovation Mission (AIM 2.0)’ is expected to further
enhance India’s global competitiveness. AIM 2.0 is designed to strengthen India’s innovation and entrepreneurship
ecosystem in 3 ways: (a) by increasing input through 2 programs - Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI), and
Frontier Program; (b) by improving the success rate or ‘throughput’ through 4 programs - Human Capital Development
Program, Deeptech Reactor, State Innovation Mission (SIM), and International Innovation Collaborations program; and (c)
by improving the quality of ‘output’ through Industrial Accelerator program and Atal Sectoral Innovation Launchpads (ASIL)
program. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved continuation of ‘Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)’, under NITI Aayog, with an enhanced scope of work
- Budget – Rs 2,750 Cr till Mar 31, 2028
• India’s rank: ‘Global Innovation Index’ – 39th | World’s largest start-up ecosystems – 3rd
• ‘AIM 2.0’ is designed to strengthen India’s innovation & entrepreneurship ecosystem in 3 ways:
- by increasing input through 2 programs – Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI) & Frontier Program
- by improving success rate through 4 programs – Human Capital Development Program, Deeptech Reactor, State
Innovation Mission (SIM) & International Innovation Collaborations program
- by improving quality of ‘output’ through Industrial Accelerator program & Atal Sectoral Innovation Launchpads
(ASIL) program
• HQs of AIM – New Delhi | Director – Chintan Vaishnav | Launched in – 2016 (a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog)
15. Kerala is set to launch a comprehensive insurance scheme benefiting the entire cattle population in the State. The Centre
has approved the scheme. The government has launched many schemes to support the dairy sector and the veterinary
ambulance service will be extended to all block panchayats of the State. The state government also set aside ₹22 crore for
the maintenance of the calves. J Chinchurani, the State Dairy Development and Animal Husbandry Minister, also launched
two schemes - ‘Arunodayam’ aimed at nurturing heifers into cows yielding better milk, and ‘Snehamitram,’ a life insurance
scheme at a premium of ₹10 for dairy farmers by Milma’s Malabar Union. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kerala – to launch a comprehensive insurance scheme benefiting entire cattle population in state
• Kerala – gave ₹22 Cr for maintenance of calves
• J Chinchurani, State Dairy Development & Animal Husbandry Minister – launched two schemes
- ‘Arunodayam’ – to nurture heifers into cows yielding better milk
- ‘Snehamitram’ – a life insurance scheme at a premium of ₹10 for dairy farmers by Milma’s Malabar Union
• Kerala: Capital – Thiruvananthapuram | CM – Pinarayi Vijayan | Governor – Arif Mohammad Khan
16. The Delhi government has announced an expansion of its ‘Old-Age Pension Scheme’, bringing an additional 80,000 senior
citizens under its ambit. With this move, the total number of beneficiaries will rise to 5.3 lakh. The scheme provides financial
assistance to senior citizens based on their age. Beneficiaries aged 60-69 will receive ₹2,000 per month, while those aged
70 and above will be entitled to ₹2,500. Additionally, individuals belonging to SC, ST, and minority communities will receive
an extra ₹500 per month. The government ensures that applications are reviewed and processed within 45 days. {Read
more}
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Smart Points:
• Delhi – to expand its ‘Old-Age Pension Scheme’, bringing an additional 80,000 senior citizens under its ambit
• Total number of beneficiaries – will rise to 5.3 lakh
• Amount received by beneficiaries aged: 60-69 – ₹2,000 per month | 70 & above – ₹2,500
- Individuals belonging to SC, ST & minority communities – extra ₹500 per month
• Government ensures that applications are reviewed & processed within – 45 days
• Delhi: CM – Atishi | Lt. Governor – Vinai Kumar Saxena | Chief Secretary – Dharmendra
17. The 3rd Round of on-line application window for ‘PLI Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED lights)’ has
attracted 38 responses with a net committed investment of Rs 4,121 crore, after being open for 90 days. The 38 responses
include 20 for air conditioner (AC) components and 18 for light-emitting diode (LED) lights. 43% of the new applicants are in
the MSME sector which shows the confidence among MSMEs to become part of the value chain of manufacturing of
components of ACs and LED Lights. Several applicants are vendors for large manufacturers such as Daikin, Voltas, Blue Star
and LG Electronics in the ACs sector. Similarly, several applicants are suppliers of LED components for large LED Lights
manufacturers like Surya, Orient, Crompton Greaves, Signify and Halonix etc. The government approved the PLI Scheme on
April 7, 2021, as part of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The PLI Scheme for White Goods, running from FY22 to FY29,
has an outlay of $747.5 million (Rs 6,238 crore). The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under
Ministry of Commerce & Industry, is the nodal agency for the PLI Scheme for White Goods. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 3rd Round of on-line application window for ‘PLI Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners & LED lights)’ – attracted 38
responses (20 for AC & 18 LED lights) with Rs 4,121 Cr investment
• 43% of the new applicants are in the MSME sector
• PLI Scheme for White Goods: Approved on – April 7, 2021 (from FY22 to FY29) | Financial outlay – Rs 6,238 Cr
• Nodal agency for PLIWG Scheme – DPIIT (under Ministry of C&I)
• Minister of Commerce & Industry: Piyush Goyal | Constituency – Mumbai (North), Maharashtra
MoS in Ministry of Commerce & Industry: Jitin Prasada
18. Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) is implementing a Centrally Sponsored - “Pradhan Mantri Formalisation
of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme” for providing financial, technical and business support for
upgradation of micro food processing enterprises in the country. The scheme is operational for a period of 5 years from
2020-21 to 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs 10,000 Crore. The scheme aims to enhance the competitiveness of existing
individual micro-enterprises in the unorganized segment of the food processing industry and promote formalization of the
sector. The Scheme primarily adopts ‘One District One Product (ODOP)’ approach to reap the benefit of scale in terms of
procurement of inputs, availing common services and marketing of products. Under the scheme, financial assistance as
grant-in-aid is given to Private organizations/ Universities/ institutions/ R&D laboratories and CSIR-recognized R&D units in
private sector to the tune of 50% of equipment cost in general areas and 70% in difficult areas. R&D projects of Government
organizations/ Institutions are eligible for 100% grant-in-aid for the cost of equipment, consumables and expenditure related
to Research Fellows, etc. The details of financial assistance offered to the prospective entrepreneurs under PMFME Scheme
to promote ODOP are - (i) Credit-linked capital subsidy at 35% of the eligible project cost, maximum ceiling Rs 10 lakh per
unit; (ii) Seed capital at Rs 40,000 per member of SHG engaged in food processing for working capital and purchase of small
tools, subject to maximum of Rs 4 lakh per SHG Federation; (iii) Credit linked capital subsidy at 35% subject to maximum of
Rs 3 crore to support FPOs, SHGs, Cooperatives and any Government agency for setting up of common infrastructure; (iv)
Grant up to 50% for Branding and Marketing to groups of FPOs/ SHGs/ Cooperatives or an SPV of micro food processing
enterprises. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• MoFPI – implementing “Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme”
• For providing financial, technical & business support for upgradation of micro food processing enterprises in the country
• Operational for – 5 years (from FY21 to FY26) | Outlay – Rs 10,000 Cr
• Aim: To enhance competitiveness of existing individual micro-enterprises in unorganized segment & promote
formalization of the sector
• Financial assistance as grant-in-aid – is given to Private organizations/ Universities/ institutions/ R&D laboratories &
CSIR-recognized R&D units in private sector
- Up to 50% of equipment cost in general areas & 70% in difficult areas
• R&D projects of Govt organizations – eligible for 100% grant-in-aid for cost of equipment, consumables & expenditure
• Details of financial assistance offered to prospective entrepreneurs under PMFME Scheme to promote ODOP are:
- Credit-linked capital subsidy at – 35% of eligible project cost | Maximum – Rs 10 lakh per unit
- Seed capital at – Rs 40,000 per member of SHG for working capital | Maximum – Rs 4 lakh per SHG Federation
- Credit linked capital subsidy at – 35% | Maximum – Rs 3 Cr
- Grant up to – 50% for Branding & Marketing to groups of FPOs/ SHGs/ Cooperatives
• Minister of Food Processing Industries: Chirag Paswan | Constituency – Hajipur, Bihar
MoS in Ministry of Food Processing Industries: Ravneet Singh
19. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has launched the “Yuva Apada Mitra Scheme” at the 20 th
formation day function of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The theme of the
20th formation day was ‘Empowering Communities for Disaster Risk Reduction through Awareness for
Behavioral Change’. Under the scheme, 2.37 lakh young volunteers from the youth organisations such
as National Cadet Corps (NCC), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Bharat Scouts & Guides (BS&G)
and National Service Scheme (NSS) will be trained in 315 districts of 28 states as a 1st respondents to disaster preparedness
and response. Besides, 1,300 trainers will also be prepared under the up-scaling of ‘Aapda Mitra Scheme’ with an estimated
total cost of Rs 469.53 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Govind Mohan (Union Home Secretary) – launched “Yuva Apada Mitra Scheme” at 20th formation day function of NDMA
• Theme – ‘Empowering Communities for Disaster Risk Reduction through Awareness for Behavioral Change’
• 2.37 lakh young volunteers from youth organisations – to be trained in 315 districts of 28 states
• 1,300 trainers – to be prepared under up-scaling of ‘Aapda Mitra Scheme’ | Total cost – Rs 469.53 Cr
• HQs of NDMA – New Delhi | Headed by – PM of India | Established in – 2005 | Functions under – MHA
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Meetings, Conferences and Summit
1. The Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation
(IBC), is holding the 1st “Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS)” in New Delhi. The summit themed
“Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia” is a manifestation of India’s Act East Policy,
which is principled on collective, inclusive and spiritual development of Asia. To be held on
November 5-6, the summit was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. Besides, a
special exhibition is being curated on the theme “India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) connecting Asia.” {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI + IBC = holding 1st “Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS)” in New Delhi on Nov 5-6, 2024
• Theme – “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia” | Inaugurated by – President Droupadi Murmu
• A special exhibition is also being curated | Theme – “India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) connecting Asia”
• HQs of IBC – New Delhi, India | Secretary General – Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche
2. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju led Indian delegation at the 27th “Commonwealth Heads of
Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024)” held in Apia, Samoa. The theme of the meeting was “One
Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth”. The CHOGM summit gathered
leaders from across the Commonwealth to deliberate on pressing global issues, including climate
change, equitable international trade, and the unique challenges faced by small island developing
states (SIDS). CHOGM is convened every 2 years by the Commonwealth countries and organisations. During the CHOGM
2024, commonwealth countries adopted their 1st ocean declaration, called ‘Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration’. It calls
on all 56 Commonwealth nations to protect the ocean in the face of severe climate, pollution and over-exploitation.
Moreover, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Foreign Minister of Ghana, was appointed as the new Commonwealth Secretary-
General (SG). Botchwey takes over from Patricia Scotland (Dominica). The Secretary-General is nominated by
Commonwealth leaders and can serve a maximum of two terms of 4 years each. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 27th “Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024)” – held in Apia, Samoa
• Theme – “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth” | Indian delegation led by – Kiren Rijiju
• CHOGM is convened every 2 years by – Commonwealth countries & organisations
• At CHOGM 2024, commonwealth countries adopted – 1st ocean declaration, ‘Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration’
• Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey (Foreign Minister of Ghana) – appointed as new Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG)
- Replacing – Patricia Scotland (Dominica)
• HQs of Commonwealth of Nations – London, UK | SG – Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey | Member countries – 56
https:// /#
3. The 12th “Meeting of the India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (HLJTFI)”
took place in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was co-Chaired by Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce
& Industry, and Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, MD of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
(ADIA). To augment the relationship, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), via its
international subsidiary NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) is collaborating with Al
Etihad Payments (AEP), to enable creation of domestic card scheme “JAYWAN” in UAE. It is
based on the RuPay card stack. The two governments are now working on interlinking the two national payment platforms
- India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and UAE’s Arabian Automated Network for Instant Payments (AANI), which will
facilitate seamless cross-border transactions between the two countries. AANI is powered by Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a
subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. UAE is the first country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to adopt the
RuPay infrastructure. Moreover, the UAE has committed nearly $2 billion to establish Food Parks in India, with an aim of
bolstering food security for the UAE and creating jobs for Indian farmers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 12th “Meeting of India-UAE High Level Joint Task Force on Investments (HLJTFI)” – held in Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Co-chaired by – Piyush Goyal, Minister of C&I + Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, MD of ADIA
• NIPL + Al Etihad Payments (AEP) = collaborated to enable creation of domestic card scheme “JAYWAN” in UAE
• UAE – 1st country in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to adopt RuPay infrastructure
• UAE – committed ~$2 billion to establish Food Parks in India to bolster food security for UAE & creating jobs for Indians
4. The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change or UNFCCC (COP29) is set to kick off in the Azerbaijani capital Baku, aiming to address
escalating climate challenges, which will conclude on November 22. COP29 is focused on a new
financial commitment, known as the “New Collective Quantified Goal” (NCQG). Countries are
expected to replace the previous $100 billion annual commitment to developing countries from
the ‘2009 Copenhagen Accord’. The new target, known as the NCQG or the “Finance COP”, will
be under discussion at this COP and is intended to take effect from 2025 onwards. A 2022 report by the Independent High-
level Expert Group on Climate Finance found that developing countries need around $1 trillion per year by 2025, and $2.4
trillion by 2030 to meet their climate finance needs. The COP29 marks the midpoint of the “COP Presidencies Troika,” a
collaborative effort between the United Arab Emirates (UAE, host to COP28) and Brazil (host to COP30 in 2025) aimed at
accelerating progress toward the 1.5°C goal. The first COP was held in Berlin, Germany in 1995. Meanwhile, Union Minister
of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh is leading the 19-member delegation from India
to the Summit. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 29th Conference of Parties to UNFCCC or COP29 – to kick off in Baku, Azerbaijan & will conclude on Nov 22
- Aim: To address escalating climate challenges
• COP29 is focused on – a new financial commitment, “New Collective Quantified Goal” (NCQG)
• Previous $100 billion annual commitment to developing countries – to be replaced from ‘2009 Copenhagen Accord’
• Kirti Vardhan Singh (Union MoS of MoEFCC) – leading 19-member delegation from India to COP29
• As per 2022 report by Independent High-level Expert Group on Climate Finance
- Developing countries need – ~$1 trillion per year by 2025 & $2.4 trillion by 2030 to meet their climate finance needs
• “COP Presidencies Troika” – collaboration between UAE (host to COP28) & Brazil (host to COP30 in 2025)
https:// /#
- Aim: To accelerate progress toward 1.5°C goal
• 1st COP – held in Berlin, Germany in 1995
5. The 18th ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention’ will be organised from January 8 to January 10, 2025,
in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in collaboration with the Odisha government, and it will be inaugurated by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi. A youth edition of the convention will also be held in partnership with the Ministry
of Youth Affairs and Sports. President Droupadi Murmu will confer the ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards’
and preside over the valedictory session. The theme of the PBD Convention for 2025 is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit
Bharat”. The PBD Convention, a flagship event of the government of India, provides an important platform to engage and
connect with the Indian diaspora (more than 3.5 crore). Moreover, the official website of the 18th PBD Convention was jointly
launched by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 18th ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention’ – to be organised from Jan 8-10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- In collaboration with – Odisha government | To be inaugurated by – PM Modi
- Theme – “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”
• Youth edition of convention – to be held in partnership with Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
• President Droupadi Murmu – to confer ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards’
• Official website of 18th PBD Convention – launched by S Jaishankar, EA Minister + Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha CM
6. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, successfully concluded his visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
During the visit, he participated in the Plenary Session of the 8th Edition of “The Future Investment Initiative (FII)”, and co-
chaired the 2nd “Ministerial Meeting of the Economy and Investment Committee” under the India-Saudi Strategic
Partnership Council (SPC) in Riyadh. The Committee reviewed the progress achieved by the 4 Joint Working Groups: (i)
Agriculture and Food Security; (ii) Energy; (iii) Technology and Information Technology; and (iv) Industry and Infrastructure.
He also interacted with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) chapter in Saudi Arabia and emphasized the
role of chartered accountants in supporting India’s expanding global trade network. During the visit, the Minister also
launched the ‘Lulu Wali Diwali Festival’ at the Lulu Hypermarket. At the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, the Minister unveiled the
‘One District, One Product (ODOP) Wall’, featuring unique products from various districts across India. The ODOP initiative
is a part of the Government of India’s “Vocal for Local” campaign. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry – concluded his visit to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
• He participated under India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Riyadh in:
- Plenary Session of 8th Edition of “The Future Investment Initiative (FII)”
- Co-chaired the 2nd “Ministerial Meeting of the Economy and Investment Committee”
• Committee reviewed progress achieved by 4 Joint Working Groups:
- Agriculture & Food Security | Energy | Technology & Information Technology | Industry & Infrastructure
• He launched – ‘Lulu Wali Diwali Festival’ at Lulu Hypermarket
• ‘One District, One Product (ODOP) Wall’ – unveiled at Indian Embassy featuring products from various Indian districts
• Saudi Arabia – Riyadh – Saudi Riyal | PM – Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud | King – Salman bin Abdulaziz
https:// /#
7. The 25th “Meeting of the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC-25)” was held at New Delhi, India
from November 11-13, 2024, gathering regulators, industry leaders, and experts from across South Asia. Hosted by the
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), SATRC-25
emphasizes the theme of “Accelerating Telecommunication and ICT Development for Growth and Inclusiveness”. With
members including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, SATRC is
dedicated to creating a digitally inclusive society by supporting regulatory innovation, policy alignment, and cooperative
efforts to bridge digital divides in the region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 25th “Meeting of South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council” – held at New Delhi, India from Nov 11-13, 2024
• Hosted by = TRAI + Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT)
• Theme – “Accelerating Telecommunication and ICT Development for Growth and Inclusiveness”
• SATRC members – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan & Sri Lanka
• HQs of SATRC – Bangkok, Thailand | Chair – Mohammad Emdad Ul Bari (Bangladesh)
8. As part of the 3-nation tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,
to attend the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit. This year, G20 summit starts with the theme of “Building
a Just and Sustainable World”. The G20 summit in Brazil is significant as India continues to play a
key role as part of the G20 Troika, which also includes Brazil and South Africa. The “troika” (India
+ Brazil + South Africa) consists of the current, previous, and next G20 presidencies and the three
members cooperate with one another in preparing for the G20 Summit. The high-level delegation accompanying the PM
includes External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and
others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit – to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Theme – “Building a Just and Sustainable World”
• G20 Troika (current, previous & next G20 presidencies) – India + Brazil + South Africa
• High-level delegation with PM includes – S Jaishankar, EAM; Ajit Doval, NSA; Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary; & others
• Presidency of G20: 2024 – Brazil | 2025 – South Africa
9. IIT Ropar has participated in “VIVIBHA 2024”, a distinguished three-day national

conference organized by Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM) at SGT University, Gurugram,
Haryana. Themed “Vision for Viksit Bharat,” the event celebrated India’s rich cultural
legacy while highlighting pioneering research and innovations that are shaping a self-
sustaining nation. As part of the “Research to Realisation” exhibition, the IIT Ropar
Technology and Innovation Foundation (TIF), namely “AWaDH” (Agriculture and Water
Technology Development Hub), showcased its transformative technologies that promote sustainable solutions in
agriculture, water management, and environmental conservation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “VIVIBHA 2024”, 3-day national conference – organized by Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal at SGT University, Gurugram
- Theme – “Vision for Viksit Bharat” | IIT Ropar participated in this conference
• Director of IIT Ropar – Prof. Rajeev Ahuja
https:// /#
10. Union Minister of State (MoS) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan
Singh, together with Swedish Minister for Climate and Environment, Ms. Romina
Pourmokhtari, co-chaired the “Annual Summit of the Leadership Group for Industry Transition
(LeadIT)”, held on the sidelines of COP29 to the UN Climate Change Summit in Baku,
Azerbaijan. The LeadIT Summit brings together the country and company members to discuss
low-carbon industrial transition. The objective is to support plans that align heavy industry with the objectives of the Paris
Agreement. The India-Sweden Industry Transition Partnership launched under LeadIT 2.0 at COP 28 in 2023, was highlighted
as a key mechanism for co-developing technologies, sharing knowledge, and driving the transition of industries such as steel
and cement. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Annual Summit of the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT)” = co-chaired by Kirti Vardhan Singh & Romina
Pourmokhtari
- Kirti Vardhan Singh – Union Minister of State (MoS) for Environment, Forest & Climate Change
- Romina Pourmokhtari – Swedish Minister for Climate & Environment
• It held on sidelines of COP29 to UN Climate Change Summit in – Baku, Azerbaijan
• Aim: To support plans that align heavy industry with the objectives of the Paris Agreement
• India-Sweden Industry Transition Partnership – launched under LeadIT 2.0 at COP 28 in 2023
11. India will host the ‘Global Conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)’ from November 25 to 30, 2024 in
Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the “United Nations International Year of Cooperatives - 2025” at the
conference on November 25. The theme of the event would be “Cooperatives Build Prosperity of All”. First time in the 130-
year-long history of the ICA, the ‘ICA General Assembly’ and ‘Global Cooperative Conference’ will be hosted by India, with
the initiative of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO). Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will chair the
inaugural session conference as Chief Guest. Of all cooperatives globally, 25% (around 8 lakh) is in India. IFFCO Managing
Director U.S. Awasthi said the event would be carbon neutral and 10,000 peepal trees had been planted across the country.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Global Conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)’ – to be hosted by India in Delhi from Nov 25-30, 2024
- ‘ICA General Assembly’ & ‘Global Cooperative Conference’ – hosted by India for 1st time, with initiative of IFFCO
• “United Nations International Year of Cooperatives - 2025” – to be launched by PM Modi on Nov 25
• Theme – “Cooperatives Build Prosperity of All” | Amit Shah – to chair inaugural session conference as Chief Guest
• India – has 25% (~8 lakh) of all cooperatives in the world
12. PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated “Global Cooperative Conference 2024” and launched
the “UN International Year of Cooperatives 2025” at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. ICA Global
Cooperative Conference and ICA General Assembly is being organised in India for the first
time in the 130 year long history of International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), the premier body
for the Global Cooperative movement. The Global Conference was hosted by Indian Farmers
Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), in collaboration with ICA and Government of India, and Indian Cooperatives AMUL
and Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO). The theme of the conference, “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All,”
aligns with the Indian Government’s vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation). Prime Minister also
launched a commemorative postal stamp, symbolising India’s commitment to the cooperative movement. The stamp
showcases a lotus, symbolising peace, strength, resilience, and growth. The five petals of the lotus represent the five
elements of nature (Panchatatva). {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• PM Narendra Modi – inaugurated “Global Cooperative Conference 2024” at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
- Organised in India for the first time in the 130 year long history of International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)
- Hosted by = IFFCO + ICA, GoI, AMUL, KRIBHCO
• Theme of the conference – “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All”
• PM Modi also launched the “UN International Year of Cooperatives 2025”
• Prime Minister also launched a commemorative postal stamp, showcasing a ‘Lotus’
• HQs of ICA – Brussels, Belgium | President – Ariel Guarco | DG – Jeroen Douglas
• HQs of IFFCO – New Delhi | Chairman – Dileep Sanghani | Established in – 1967
13. The National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB), under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has signed
two MoUs during the 18th “NCB International Conference and Exhibition on Cement and Concrete” held at Yashobhoomi,
IICC Dwarka, New Delhi. An MoU was signed between NCB and the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), India,
to promote research in the area of decarbonization within the Indian cement sector. This will boost the ongoing efforts in
making the Indian Cement Industry “Net Zero” by 2070. Also, another MoU was signed between NCB and AIC-Plasmatech
Innovation Foundation in the application of Thermal Plasma Torch Technology in Cement production. This MoU will explore
the potential applications of Thermal Plasma Technologies in the Cement Manufacturing Process. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 18th “NCB International Conference & Exhibition on Cement & Concrete” – held at Yashobhoomi, IICC Dwarka, New Delhi
• National Council for Cement & Building Materials (NCB) – signed 2 MoUs
• NCB + Global Cement & Concrete Association = an MoU to promote research in area of decarbonization within Indian
cement sector
- India aims to make Indian Cement Industry “Net Zero” by 2070
• NCB + AIC-Plasmatech Innovation Foundation = an MoU in application of Thermal Plasma Torch Technology in Cement
production
• HQs of NCB – Ballabgarh, Haryana | DG – Dr L P Singh | Secretary – Dr S K Chaturvedi
14. During the 27th “Energy Technology Summit” in Bengaluru, Union Minister for Petroleum and
Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, has noted that India ranks 2nd globally in biofuel blending and
is on track to achieve a 20% biofuel blending target by 2025, ahead of schedule. The biofuel
blending could save India Rs 91,000 crore on import expenses. The 27 th Energy Technology
Summit, inaugurated by Hardeep Singh Puri, was organised by the Centre for High Technology
and Indian Oil Corporation Limited from 12th November to 14th November 2024 under the theme ‘Green Energy Horizons:
Advancing Sustainable Refining and Petrochemicals.’ He also highlighted that India’s energy demand is expected to grow 2.5
times by 2047, with a current crude oil refining capacity of 400-450 million metric tons annually-about one-third of the
global average. He also added that India has become the fourth-largest refining nation globally, with a capacity of 8 million
Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MM TPA), following the USA, China, and Russia. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited
(MRPL) was awarded with the special award for innovation by the Centre for High Technology, MoPNG. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 27th “Energy Technology Summit” – held in Bengaluru from Nov 12-14, 2024
- Organised by – Centre for High Technology (CHT) & IOCL | Inaugurated by – Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister)
https:// /#
- Theme – ‘Green Energy Horizons: Advancing Sustainable Refining and Petrochemicals’
• India – ranks 2nd globally in biofuel blending & is on track to achieve a 20% biofuel blending target by 2025
• Biofuel blending – could save India Rs 91,000 Cr on import expenses
• India’s energy demand – to grow 2.5 times by 2047
• India’s current crude oil refining capacity – 400-450 million metric tons annually (one-third of global average)
• India – 4th largest refining nation globally | Capacity – 8 million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MM TPA)
- 1st – USA | 2nd – China | 3rd – Russia
• Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals Ltd – awarded with special award for innovation by CHT, MoPNG
https:// /#
Ranks, Reports & Surveys
1. Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, famous for its one-horned rhino population, has also
earned the distinction of being the second-largest hub for butterfly diversity, after
Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh. The research was carried out by Dr
Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi, a young scientist from Kaziranga. A new pictorial guidebook on
butterflies, authored by Gogoi, documents 446 species of butterflies recorded in Kaziranga,
18 of which are new in India. He stated that the first-ever ‘Butterfly Conservation Meet-
2024’, held in September 2024, focused on detailed butterfly records. The meet attracted approximately 40 butterfly
enthusiasts from across India. Apart from the national park, the Panbari Forest Reserve in Kaziranga is also home to a diverse
range of butterfly species. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kaziranga NP (Assam) – earned distinction of being 2nd-largest hub for butterfly diversity | 1st – Namdapha NP (Ar. P)
- Kaziranga NP – famous for one-horned rhino population
• Dr Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi – carried out the research & authored a new pictorial guidebook on butterflies
• As per pictorial guidebook: 446 species of butterflies – recorded in Kaziranga | 18 of them – new in India
• First-ever ‘Butterfly Conservation Meet-2024’ – held in Sep 2024
• Panbari Forest Reserve in Kaziranga – also home to a diverse range of butterfly species
2. Singapore has retained its title as the world’s most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to
195 countries, according to the latest “Henley Passport Index” released in October 2024. France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain tied for 2nd place with access to 192 countries. Austria, Denmark,
Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden shared the 3rd place, granting
their citizens visa-free access to 191 countries. Belgium, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the
United Kingdom tied for 4th place with access to 190 countries, while Australia and Portugal tied for 5th place with access to 189
countries. The United States ranked 8th, giving its citizens visa-free entry to 186 countries. Meanwhile, India ranked 83rd,
sharing the position with Mauritania, Senegal, and Tajikistan, providing its citizens with visa-free access to 58 countries.
Afghanistan (105th), Syria (104th), Iraq (103rd), Yemen & Pakistan (shared 102nd) and Somalia (101st) are the least powerful
indexes in the world. The Henley Passport Index, which draws data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA),
ranks global passports based on the number of destinations holders can enter without prior visa requirements. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Latest “Henley Passport Index” – released in Oct 2024
• World’s most powerful passport with visa-free access to countries – Singapore (195)
- 2nd – France, Germany, Italy, Japan & Spain (192 each)
- 3rd – Austria, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, South Korea & Sweden (191 each)
- 4th – Belgium, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland & UK (190 each) | 5th – Australia & Portugal (189 each)
• 8th – US (186) | 83rd – India, Mauritania, Senegal & Tajikistan (58)
• Least powerful indexes: 105th – Afghanistan | 104th – Syria | 103rd – Iraq | 102nd – Yemen & Pakistan | 101st – Somalia
https:// /#
3. Between 2015 and 2024, India allocated approximately 4.1% to 4.6% of its GDP to education, as per the report titled
“World Education Statistics 2024” released by the UNESCO’s Institute for Statistics (UIS). The investment by India in
education aligns with international benchmarks set by ‘Education 2030 Framework for Action’, which recommends that
countries allocate 4-6% of their GDP to education. As per the report, India’s government expenditure on education has
fluctuated between 13.5% and 17.2% during the same period. This range aligns with the Education 2030 target, that
encourages governments to allocate 15-20% of their public expenditure to education. These reports provide a detailed
analysis of global education investment trends, particularly in relation to achieving sustainable development goals (SDG),
especially SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. The report notes that while South
Asian countries allocate around 4-6% of their GDP to education. In 2022, India’s expenditure on education as a percentage
of GDP among Central and Southern Asia is lower only to Bhutan (7.5%), Kazakhstan (7.2%), Maldives (4.7%), Tajikistan
(5.7%) and Uzbekistan (5.2%). Globally, the world average of public expenditure on education has seen a decline, from 13.2%
in 2010 to 12.5% in 2020. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Education Statistics 2024” report – released by UNESCO’s Institute for Statistics (UIS)
• India’s allocation of its GDP to education, between 2015 & 2024 – 4.1% to 4.6%
• ‘Education 2030 Framework for Action’ – recommends that countries allocate 4-6% of their GDP to education
• India’s govt expenditure on education – fluctuated between 13.5% & 17.2% during same period
- Education 2030 target – encourages govts to allocate 15-20% of their public expenditure to education
• SDG 4 – focuses on ensuring inclusive & equitable quality education
• South Asian countries allocation of their GDP to education – 4-6%
• Central and Southern Asian countries allocation: Bhutan – 7.5% | Kazakhstan – 7.2% | Maldives – 4.7%
- Tajikistan – 5.7% | Uzbekistan – 5.2%
• World average of public expenditure on education – decline to 12.5% in 2020 (from 13.2% in 2010)
4. The International Solar Alliance (ISA), in a global collaboration with the Ministry of New
& Renewable Energy, the Asian Development Bank, and the International Solar Energy
Society, organised the 3rd edition of the “High-level Conference on New Technologies for
Clean Energy Transition” on the sidelines of the 7th Session of the ‘ISA Assembly’ in New
Delhi. The ‘World Solar Report (3rd edition)’, ‘World Investment Report’, and ‘World
Technology Report’ were launched during the event. Key findings of the ‘World Solar Report
2024’ include (i) the rise of global solar capacity from 1.22 GW in 2000 to 1,418.97 GW in
2023 (40% annual growth rate). In 2023 alone, 345.83 GW of solar power was added,
accounting for three-quarters of all new renewable capacity worldwide; (ii) by the close of 2024, the capacity for global solar
manufacturing is projected to exceed 1,100 GW; (iii) the clean energy industry now fuels 16.2 million jobs, with solar leading
the charge at 7.1 million-up 44% from 2022’s 4.9 million; and (iv) global solar capacity is set to skyrocket to between 5457
and 7203 GW by 2030, driven by Paris Agreement commitments. Key findings of the ‘World Investment Report 2024’ include
(i) global energy investments are set to soar from $2.4 trillion in 2018 to a projected $3.1 trillion in 2024, and global clean
energy investment are set to leap from $1.2 trillion in 2018 to $2 trillion by 2024; (ii) investments in solar represented ~ 59%
($393 billion) of all renewable energy investments ($673 billion); and (iii) region-wise, APAC (Asia-Pacific) is at the forefront
of solar investments pouring $223 billion into solar in 2023. The event also witnessed the release of the ‘Readiness
Assessment of Green Hydrogen African Countries’ report by ISA and Denmark, with the object of conducting a readiness
assessment of the target countries: Egypt, Morocco, Namibia, and Egypt. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• ISA + MNRE + ADB + ISES = organised 3rd edition of “High-level Conference on New Technologies for Clean Energy
Transition”
- On sidelines of – 7th Session of ‘ISA Assembly’ in New Delhi
• Launched reports – World Solar Report (3rd edition), World Investment Report & World Technology Report
• As per ‘World Solar Report 2024’:
- Global solar capacity – rose with 40% annual growth rate to 1,418.97 GW in 2023 (from 1.22 GW in 2000)
- In 2023, solar power added – 345.83 GW
- By close of 2024, capacity for global solar manufacturing – to exceed 1,100 GW
- Clean energy industry – fuels 16.2 million jobs | Solar – 7.1 million, up 44% (from 4.9 million in 2022)
- Global solar capacity – to reach between 5457-7203 GW by 2030
• As per ‘World Investment Report 2024’:
- Global energy investments – to soar to $3.1 trillion in 2024 (from $2.4 trillion in 2018)
- Global clean energy investment – to leap to $2 trillion by 2024 (from $1.2 trillion in 2018)
- Investments in solar represented – ~59% ($393 billion) of all renewable energy investments ($673 billion)
- Region-wise, APAC (Asia-Pacific) – at forefront of solar investments | Invested – $223 billion in 2023
• ‘Readiness Assessment of Green Hydrogen African Countries’ report – released by ISA & Denmark
- To conduct a readiness assessment of target countries: Egypt, Morocco, Namibia & Egypt
• HQs of ISA – Gurugram | DG – Ashish Khanna | President – R. K. Singh | Members – 103 | Signatory Countries – 17
• HQs of ISES – Breisgau, Germany | President – Viktoria Martin | Founded in – 1954
• Minister of New & Renewable Energy: Pralhad Joshi | Constituency – Dharwad-Hubballi, Karnataka
MoS in Ministry of New & Renewable Energy: Shripad Yesso Naik
5. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released a

report titled “Emissions Gap Report 2024: No more hot air …please!”.
According to the UNEP report, the world is on pace to hit 3.1°C (5.6°F)
of warming since pre-industrial times, which is more than twice the
goal, set in the 2015 Paris Agreement i.e., to limit global temperature
to 1.5°C (2.7°F) since pre-industrial times. Further, the report
observed that global emissions reached a record high of 57.1 gigatons
of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) in 2023, an increase of 1.3% from 2022. This rise was largely driven by emissions from
the power sector, which emitted 15.1 GtCO2e, followed by transport (8.4 GtCO2e), agriculture (6.5 GtCO2e), and industry
(6.5 GtCO2e). The G20 nations accounted for 77% of global emissions in 2023, with China, the United States, and India as
the top 3 emitters. China alone contributed approximately 16 GtCO2e, reflecting a 5.2% rise from 2022. The US’ emissions
totalled 5.97 GtCO2e, showing a slight decline of 1.4%. India, the third-largest emitter, saw a 6.1% increase, reaching 4.14
GtCO2e. Despite this rise, India’s per capita emissions remain significantly lower at 2.9 tCO2e. Further, the report
emphasized that global emissions must be reduced by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035 from 2019 levels to have a realistic
chance of achieving the 1.5°C target. With emissions rising in 2023, achieving these cuts now requires a drastic 7.5%
reduction annually until 2035 for the 1.5°C goal, and 4% annually for the 2°C goal. The estimated incremental investment
for achieving net-zero emissions stands at $0.9-$2.1 trillion annually. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• “Emissions Gap Report 2024: No more hot air …please!” – released by UNEP
• World is on pace to hit 3.1°C (5.6°F) of warming since pre-industrial times
- More than twice the goal set in 2015 Paris Agreement (to limit global temp. to 1.5°C since pre-industrial times)
• Global emissions – reached 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) in 2023, increase of 1.3% from 2022
- By emissions from: Power – 15.1 GtCO2e | Transport – 8.4 GtCO2e | Agriculture & Industry – 6.5 GtCO2e each
• G20 nations – accounted for 77% of global emissions in 2023 | Top 3 emitters – China, US & India
- Contribution of countries: China – 16 GtCO2e (5.2% rise from 2022) | US – 5.97 GtCO2e (decline of 1.4%)
- India – 4.14 GtCO2e (6.1% increase)
• India’s per capita emissions – 2.9 tCO2e
• Global emissions – to be reduced by 42% by 2030 & 57% by 2035 from 2019 levels (to have chance of achieving 1.5°C)
- Achieving these cuts now requires – 7.5% reduction annually until 2035 for 1.5°C goal & 4% annually for 2°C goal
• Estimated incremental investment for achieving net-zero emissions – $0.9-$2.1 trillion annually
• HQs of UNEP – Nairobi, Kenya | Executive Director – Inger Andersen | Founded in – 1972
6. As per a research report of the State Bank of India (SBI), in fiscal year 2023-2024, Karnataka was
the second-largest direct tax contributor with a contribution of 11.9% of direct tax revenue, after
Maharashtra at 38.9%. Delhi was on 3rd spot (10.4%), followed by Tamil Nadu (6.5%) and Gujarat
(4.8%). These 5 states contribute more than 70% of the Centre’s total direct tax kitty. This is the
1st time in at least 7 years that Karnataka has contributed more in income and corporate taxes than Delhi, which held the
2nd spot from 2017-2018 to 2022-2023. The report stated that India’s progressive tax regime has increased direct tax
contributions to 56.7% of total tax revenue in 2023-2024, the highest in 14 years. Since FY2020-2021, personal income tax
collections have outpaced corporate income tax, growing by 6%, compared to 3% for corporate tax. Direct taxes comprise
income and corporate tax, while indirect taxes include GST, customs and duties, among others. The report stated that ITRs
filed for 2023-2024 rose to 8.6 crore from 7.3 crore in 2021-22, and could exceed 9 crore for the current financial year. The
report also proposed that the TDS threshold on bank interest payments be raised to Rs 1 lakh from Rs 10,000. Further, there
should be a flat tax rate for individuals earning over Rs 8 lakhs, specifically targeting those aged 60 to 80, with additional
provisions for individuals aged 80 and above. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per a research report of SBI:
• Direct tax contributor in FY24 with its contribution: 1st – Maharashtra (38.9%) | 2nd – Karnataka (11.9%)
- 3rd – Delhi (10.4%) | 4th – Tamil Nadu (6.5%) | 5th – Gujarat (4.8%)
• 1st time in at least 7 years, Karnataka contributed more in income & corporate taxes than Delhi (2nd from FY18-23)
• India’s progressive tax regime – increased direct tax contributions to 56.7% of total tax revenue in FY24
• Personal income tax collections – outpaced corporate income tax, growing by 6%, since FY21 (from 3% for corporate tax)
• ITRs filed for FY24 – rose to 8.6 crore (from 7.3 crore in FY22) | It could exceed 9 crore for FY25
• It also proposed that TDS threshold on bank interest payments – to be raised to Rs 1 lakh (from Rs 10,000)
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7. Shiv Nadar, the founder of HCL Technologies Ltd, has retained India’s most generous title for the
third time in 5 years. He topped the “Edelgive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2024” with an annual
donation of ₹2,153 crore (₹5.9 crore per day) in 2023-24. He was followed on the list by Mukesh Ambani
of Reliance Industries Ltd. Ambani and his family donated ₹407 crore through Reliance Foundation. The
others among the country’s top 5 philanthropists are the Bajaj family (₹352 crore), Kumar Mangalam Birla and family (₹334
crore), & Gautam Adani and family (₹330 crore). Remaining 5 among the top 10 are - Nandan Nilekani, Krishna Chivukala,
Anil Agarwal and family, Susmita and Subroto Bagchi, & Rohini Nileknai. The 11th edition of the list saw 96 new entrants,
bringing the total number of philanthropists in the country to 203, who donated ₹8,783 crore in 2023-24. At 38, Nikhil
Kamath of financial services firm Zerodha was the youngest philanthropist in the fiscal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 11th edition of “Edelgive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2024”
• Top – Shiv Nadar, founder of HCL Tech Ltd (3rd time in 5 years) | Annual donation in FY24 – ₹2,153 Cr (₹5.9 Cr per day)
- 2nd – Mukesh Ambani, Reliance Industries Ltd (₹407 Cr) | 3rd – Bajaj family (₹352 Cr)
- 4th – Kumar Mangalam Birla & family (₹334 Cr) | 5th – Gautam Adani & family (₹330 Cr)
- Rest in top 10 – Nandan Nilekani, Krishna Chivukala, Anil Agarwal & family, Susmita & Subroto Bagchi, & Rohini
Nileknai
• Total number of philanthropists in India – 203 (96 new entrants) | Donation – ₹8,783 Cr in FY24
• Youngest philanthropist – Nikhil Kamath from Zerodha (38)
8. According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation’s (WIPO) annual “World Intellectual
Property Indicators Report 2024”, a strong growth in the number of patents filed in India pushed
the global patenting activity to a new high in 2023. India, which came 6 th in the global list,
reported a 15.7% growth in the number of patents filed in 2023 at 64,480. The number of global
applications crossed 35 lakh for the first time. Global patents grew 2.7% over 34.6 lakh
applications in 2022. This is the first time India made into the top 10 across the three main intellectual property (IP) rights
included in the WIPI, i.e., patent, industrial design & trademark. China topped the list with 1.64 million applications, the US
came in 2nd with 5,18,364, while Japan filed 4,14,413. Republic of Korea was 4th with 2,87,954 applications and Germany 5th
with 1,33,053. India recorded the fastest growth among the top 20 nations in terms of patents filed. Asia continues to be
the top spot for patents, accounting for 68.7%, 66.7% and 69% of global patent, trademark and industrial design filing activity
in 2023. In Asia, three countries - China, Japan and South Korea - dominate the number of applications filed with over 91%
of the total patents. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Intellectual Property Indicators Report 2024” – released by WIPO
• India’s growth in number of patents filed in 2023 – 15.7% at 64,480 | Number of global applications – crossed 35 lakh
- India – fastest growth among top 20 nations in terms of patents filed
• Global patents – grew 2.7% (from 34.6 lakh in 2022)
• List of global patents with applications: 1st – China (1.64 million) | 2nd – US (5,18,364) | 3rd – Japan (4,14,413)
- 4th – Republic of Korea (2,87,954) | 5th – Germany (1,33,053) | 6th – India (64,480)
• Top spot (region) for patents – Asia
- Filing activity in 2023 – 68.7% (patent), 66.7% (trademark) & 69% (industrial design)
• Dominating countries in Asia in no. of applications filed – China, Japan & South Korea (over 91% of total patents)
• HQs of WIPO – Geneva, Switzerland | Director General – Daren Tang (Singapore) | Members – 193 countries
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9. Dubai is the highest-ranked city in the Middle East and Africa on the “2024
Global City Index” by Brand Finance, leading the region for the second
consecutive year. Globally, Dubai also rose to 5th place with a score of 86 out
of 100, surpassing global powerhouses like Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney,
San Francisco, and Amsterdam. Dubai was also recognized as the 2nd-most
significant city globally due to its strategic role as an international trade hub
and its strong economy. London has again topped the Brand Finance Global
City Index, boasting an impressive score of 90.9 out of 100. New York City retains its 2 nd place with a score of 89.8, Paris
retains 3rd spot with a score of 87.8, and Tokyo ranks 4th overall in the Index, climbing three spots from 7th in 2023. Other
cities among top 10 are - Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney, San Francisco, and Amsterdam, respectively. Overall, European
cities dominate the Culture & Heritage pillar in the Index, claiming an impressive 17 spots in the top 20. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 Global City Index” – published by Brand Finance
• Achievements of Dubai in this index:
- Highest-ranked city in Middle East & Africa – for 2nd consecutive year | 5th highest-ranked city globally (86)
- 2nd-most significant city globally
• Top 10 cities: 1st – London (90.9) | 2nd – New York City (89.8) | 3rd – Paris (87.8) | 4th – Tokyo (from 7th in 2023)
- 6th – Singapore | 7th – Los Angeles | 8th – Sydney | 9th – San Francisco | 10th – Amsterdam
• Culture & Heritage pillar in Index – dominated by European cities (17 spots in top 20)
10. About 77% of children in India aged 6-23 months lack diversity in diet as suggested by the World Health Organization
(WHO). Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh reported the highest levels of inadequate
diversity in children's diets, all above 80%; while Sikkim and Meghalaya were the only two to report an under-50%
prevalence. The WHO suggests using the Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) score to evaluate the quality of a child's diet. It
is considered to be diverse if it contains 5 or more food groups, including breastmilk, eggs, legumes and nuts, and fruits and
vegetables. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per WHO, 77% children in India (aged 6-23 months) – lack diversity in diet
• Highest levels of inadequate diversity in children's diets (above 80%) – UP, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra & MP
• Only two states to report an under-50% prevalence – Sikkim & Meghalaya
• WHO suggests using – Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) score to evaluate quality of a child's diet
• Diverse diet – contains 5 or more food groups, including breastmilk, eggs, legumes & nuts, and fruits & vegetables
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11. Two Indian institutions in the top 50 and seven in the top 100 have
been ranked in the recently released “QS Asia Rankings 2025”, with IIT
Delhi leading at 44th place, followed by IIT Bombay at 48th. Remaining
five institutions in the top 100 are - IIT Madras (56), IIT Kharagpur (60),
IISc Bengaluru (62), IIT Kanpur (67), and University of Delhi (81).
Besides, the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES)
achieved the most significant improvement among Indian institutions,
climbing 70 spots to 148th. India’s strongest average indicator scores are
in Papers per Faculty and Staff with PhD. Anna University achieved a perfect score of 100 in the Papers Per Faculty indicator.
This ranking assesses 984 institutions covering 25 countries in Eastern, Southern, South-Eastern and Central Asia. Overall,
India topped with 162 in terms of institutions by country/territory in the ranking. India is followed by China (135), Japan
(115), South Korea (101), and Indonesia (73). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “QS Asia Rankings 2025” – 2 Indian institutions in top 50 & 7 in top 100
• Indian institutions: 44th – IIT Delhi | 48th – IIT Bombay | 56th – IIT Madras | 60th – IIT Kharagpur | 62nd – IISc Bengaluru
- 67th – IIT Kanpur | 81st – University of Delhi | 148th – University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES)
• India’s strongest average indicator scores – in Papers per Faculty & Staff with PhD
• Anna University – achieved a perfect score of 100 in Papers Per Faculty indicator
• In terms of institutions by country/territory in ranking: 1st – India (162) | 2nd – China (135) | 3rd – Japan (115)
- 4th – South Korea (101) | 5th – Indonesia (73)
• HQs of QS – London, UK | CEO – Jessica Turner | Founded in – 1990
12. India ranked 79 out of 142 countries in the “Rule of Law Index 2024”, released by the
World Justice Project (WJP), a Washington D.C.-based think tank, on October 23. Globally,
Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden and Germany stood in the top 5 places. Within South
Asia, India ranked 3rd after Nepal (69) and Sri Lanka (75), and followed by Bangladesh (127),
Pakistan (129) and Afghanistan (140). Venezuela got the lowest rank and placed at 142. The
Rule of Law Index ranks the countries on 8 indicators: constraints on government powers, absence of corruption, open
government, fundamental rights, order and security, regulatory enforcement, civil Justice and criminal justice. India
performed tolerably on governance indicators i.e., constraints on government powers (60/142) and open government
(44/142). India has put up a poor show in the protection of fundamental rights (102/142), the order and security of the
people (98/142) and the efficiency of criminal justice (82/142). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Rule of Law Index 2024” – released by World Justice Project (Washington D.C.)
• India – 79th | Top 5 – Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden & Germany | Last – Venezuela (142nd)
• In South Asia: India – 3rd | 1st – Nepal (69) | 2nd – Sri Lanka (75)
- 4th – Bangladesh (127) | 5th – Pakistan (129) | 6th – Afghanistan (140)
• It ranks countries on 8 indicators
• India’s performance in various indicators:
- Tolerable: constraints on government powers – 60/142 | open government – 44/142
- Poor: protection of fundamental rights – 102/142 | order & security of people – 98/142
- efficiency of criminal justice – 82/142
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13. As per the data by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), rural employment under the ‘Mahatma Gandhi National
Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA)’ has increased in the last 10 years. The total person days generated
between FY 2006-2007 to FY 2013-2014 were 1660 crore, whereas, the total person days between FY 2014-2015 to FY 2024-
2025 has been 2923 crore. As far as the crediting of payment using the Aadhaar number of the beneficiary is concerned, as
of August 2024, Aadhar seeding has been done for 13.10 crore active workers, which is 99.3% of total active workers (13.18
crore). Regarding the deletion of job cards, as per NREGASoft, during the FY 2023-2024, the total number of job cards deleted
by the states/UTs was 102.20 lakh, whereas, in the current FY 2024-2025 as of August 2024, it is 32.28 lakh. Further, in
Andhra Pradesh between April to September 2024, a total of 3.43 lakh new workers were added while 2.85 lakh workers
were deleted resulting in a net addition of 58 thousand workers. Regarding attendance, in FY 2024-2025, attendance for
20.35 lakh worksites (95.66%) has been captured and uploaded on the portal. In case of exceptional circumstances due to
which attendance could not be uploaded, the District Programme Coordinator (DPC) has been authorized to approve the
manual attendance. The budget allocation for the scheme has also increased from Rs 33,000 crore in FY 2013-2014 to Rs
86,000 crore in FY 2024-25, which is the highest since inception. Further, in FY 2024-2025, the minimum average notified
wage rate has increased by 7%. Additionally, delay compensation rules have been notified so far in 27 states/UTs, with Rs
5.27 lakh paid as compensation for delays in FY 2024-2025. In FY 2013-2014, the minimum average notified wage rate for
Mahatma Gandhi NREGA was Rs 155, while in FY 2024-2025, the minimum average notified wage rate was Rs 279. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• As per data by MoRD, rural employment under MGNREGA – increased in last 10 years
- MGNREGA – Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
• Total person days generated between: FY07-FY14 – 1660 Cr | FY15-FY25 – 2923 Cr
• As of Aug 2024, Aadhar seeding – done for 13.10 Cr active workers, 99.3% of total (13.18 crore)
• Total number of job cards deleted by states/UTs: During FY24 – 102.20 lakh | In FY25 (till Aug 2024) – 32.28 lakh
• In Andhra Pradesh between Apr-Sep 2024: New workers added – 3.43 lakh | Deleted – 2.85 lakh
• Attendance captured and uploaded on portal in FY25 – 20.35 lakh worksites (95.66%)
- District Programme Coordinator – authorized to approve manual attendance in case of exceptional circumstances
• Budget allocation – increased to Rs 86,000 Cr in FY25 (from Rs 33,000 Cr in FY14)
• Minimum average notified wage rate in FY25 – increased by 7% to Rs 279 (from Rs 155 in FY14)
• Delay compensation rules – notified in 27 states/UTs | Rs 5.27 lakh – paid as compensation for delays in FY25
• Minister of Rural Development: Shivraj Singh Chouhan | Constituency – Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Rural Development: Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani & Kamlesh Paswan
14. Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group, has been ranked the
world’s most sustainable aluminium company for the 5th consecutive year. In the 2024 edition of the
S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) rankings, Hindalco was the only aluminium
company to secure the top position. It got a total score of 87 points (as of 30 October 2024),
improving its tally by 9 points from 2023. The DJSI World Index comprises the top 10% of the largest 2,500 companies by
market capitalisation in the ‘S&P Global Broad Market Index’ based on long-term economic and environmental, social, and
governance (ESG) factors. Hindalco achieved the 100th percentile in most aspects of the 3 dimensions of ESG aspects.
Hindalco’s 100 MW round-the-clock carbon-free power project for its Odisha smelter earned the “Energy Transition
Changemaker” award at COP28. Hindalco recycled 85% of its operational waste in FY2024, and 3 of its units received zero-
waste-to-landfill certification in line with the company’s goal to achieve zero-waste-to-landfill by 2030. In the social category,
the company retained its top position by scoring 89%. In terms of governance, the company scored an impressive 84%. S&P
Global’s Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) is the world’s leading provider of ratings that evaluate publicly listed
companies against ESG criteria. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• World’s most sustainable aluminium company – Hindalco Industries Ltd for 5th consecutive year
• In 2024 edition of S&P Global CSA rankings, Hindalco – only aluminium company to secure top position
• DJSI World Index – comprises top 10% of largest 2,500 companies by market capitalisation in ‘S&P Global Broad Market
Index’
• Hindalco – achieved 100th percentile in most aspects of 3 dimensions of ESG aspects
• Hindalco’s 100 MW round-the-clock carbon-free power project for Odisha smelter – earned “Energy Transition
Changemaker” award at COP28
• Hindalco – recycled 85% of its operational waste in FY24 | 3 of its units – received zero-waste-to-landfill certification
• Hindalco in: Social category – retained top position by scoring 89% | Governance – scored 84%
• S&P Global’s DJSI – world’s leading provider of ratings that evaluate publicly listed companies against ESG criteria
• HQs of Hindalco Industries Ltd – Mumbai | Chairman – Kumar Mangalam Birla
15. India’s exports of solar photovoltaic (PV) products surged 23 times to $2 billion in the
fiscal year (FY) 2024 from FY2022, according to a report by the Institute for Energy Economics
and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) and JMK Research & Analytics. This marks significant progress
in India’s transition from a net importer to a net exporter of solar products. Among the
factors listed for the increase in exports is that other countries are now considering India as
a viable option for their “China Plus One” strategy. In terms of markets, the United States (US) has emerged as a key market
for Indian solar PV exports with more than 97% in both FY2023 and FY2024. The report estimated that annual module
production by Indian solar PV manufacturers in FY2025 and FY2026 will likely be 28 GW and 35 GW, respectively. After
accounting for exports, the resultant supply by Indian PV manufacturers in the next 2 years will be only 21 GW and 25 GW,
respectively, which is less than the requirement of approximately 30GW per annum to meet India’s 2030 renewable energy
target. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per a report by Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) & JMK Research & Analytics:
• India’s exports of solar PV products – surged 23 times to $2 billion in FY24 (from FY22)
• In terms of markets, US – key market for Indian solar PV exports with more than 97% in FY23 & FY24
• Annual module production by Indian solar PV manufacturers is expected to: 28GW – in FY25 | 35 GW – in FY26
• After accounting exports, resultant supply by Indian PV manufacturers will be: 21 GW – in FY25 | 25 GW – in FY26
- It is less than requirement of ~30GW per annum to meet India’s 2030 renewable energy target
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16. India’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from burning fossil fuels are expected to rise 4.6%
in 2024, the highest among major economies, according to a “Global Carbon Project” study
released at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Last year, it was 8.2%. Globally, fossil-based CO2
emissions are set to touch a record high of 37.4 billion tonnes this year, a rise of 0.8% from
2023. According to the study, India’s carbon emissions are projected to rise with an increase
in emissions from coal (4.5%), oil (3.6%), natural gas (11.8%) and cement (4%). Compared with India, China’s emissions are
projected to rise by 0.2% in 2024, while that of the United States (US) and the European Union (EU) by 0.6% and 3.8%,
respectively. India’s contribution to global CO2 emissions stands at 8% while China, the US and the EU contribute 32%, 13%
and 7%, respectively. In terms of carbon sinks, the study showed that land and oceans combined absorbed around half of
the CO2 emitted due to human activity. El Nino reduced land CO2 sink in 2023 due to warmer temperatures, but it is projected
to recover as El Nino ended by the second quarter of 2024. El Niño is a climate pattern that occurs when the ocean surface
in the central and eastern tropical Pacific warms above average. The Global Carbon Project and Global Carbon Budget annual
research is done by a team of scientists from the University of Exeter and the University of East Anglia in the UK; the CICERO
Center for International Climate Research in Norway; Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich and Alfred-Wefener-Institut in
Germany. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Carbon Project” study – released at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan
• India’s CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels – to rise 4.6% in 2024 (from 8.2% in 2023)
• Globally, fossil-based CO2 emissions – to reach 37.4 billion tonnes in 2024 (rise of 0.8% from 2023)
• India’s carbon emissions – rise with increase in emissions from coal (4.5%), oil (3.6%), natural gas (11.8%) & cement (4%)
• Increase in emissions in 2024 of: China – 0.2% | US – 0.6% | EU – 3.8%
• Contribution to global CO2 emissions: India – 8% | China – 32% | US – 13% | EU – 7%
• In terms of carbon sinks, land & oceans combined – absorbed around half of CO2 emitted due to human activity
• El Nino – reduced land CO2 sink in 2023 due to warmer temperatures
- El Niño – a climate pattern that occurs when ocean surface in central & eastern tropical Pacific warms above average
17. Puducherry has earned the prestigious spot in the 15th edition of Lonely Planet’s “Best in
Travel 2025” list. Puducherry is the only Indian destination to join 29 other must-visit
locations worldwide in this annual roundup. Located along the Bay of Bengal in South India,
Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry) is known for its unique blend of French colonial
heritage, with charming Gallic architecture, as well as its temples and spiritual centers. Once
a French colony until 1954, the city is a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. Toulouse (France), Pondicherry
(India), Bansko (Bulgaria), Chiang Mai (Thailand), Genoa (Italy), Pittsburgh (USA), Osaka (Japan), Curitiba (Brazil), Palma de
Mallorca (Spain) and Edmonton (Canada) are the top 10 best cities to visit. While Cameroon, Lithuania, Fiji, Laos, Kazakhstan,
Paraguay, Trinidad & Tobago, Vanuatu, Slovakia and Armenia are the top 10 best countries to visit in 2025 as per the “Best
in Travel” 2025 list. Lonely Planet’s list is categorized into 3 segments: cities, countries, and regions. These destinations were
selected based on their topical relevance, unique experiences, wow factor, and commitment to sustainability, diversity, and
community development. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Puducherry – earned the prestigious spot in the 15th edition of Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2025” list
• Puducherry is the only Indian destination to join 29 other must-visit locations worldwide in this list
• Top 10 best cities to visit in 2025 (as per Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2025” list):
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- Toulouse (France), Pondicherry (India), Bansko (Bulgaria), Chiang Mai (Thailand), Genoa (Italy), Pittsburgh (USA),
Osaka (Japan), Curitiba (Brazil), Palma de Mallorca (Spain) & Edmonton (Canada)
• Top 10 best countries to visit in 2025:
- Cameroon, Lithuania, Fiji, Laos, Kazakhstan, Paraguay, Trinidad & Tobago, Vanuatu, Slovakia & Armenia
• Puducherry: CM – N. Rangasamy | Lt. Governor – K. Kailashnathan
18. Glacial lakes and other water bodies across the Himalayan region saw a 10.81% increase
in area from 5,33,401 hectares in 2011 to 5,91,108 hectares in 2024 due to climate change,
signalling a heightened risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), according to the
Central Water Commission’s (CWC) report. With a 33.7% expansion of the surface area, the
lakes in India experienced an even more substantial rise. The total inventory area of glacial
lakes within India was 1,962 hectares during the year 2011 which has increased to 2,623 hectares during the year 2024 (till
September). There is a 33.7% increase in area. It also identified 67 lakes in India that witnessed an over 40% increase in
surface area, placing them in the high-risk category for potential GLOFs. Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and
Arunachal Pradesh showed the most notable expansions, signalling a heightened risk of GLOFs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per a report by Central Water Commission (CWC):
• Glacial lakes & other water bodies across Himalayan region – increased 10.81% in area to 5,91,108 hectares in 2024
- From 5,33,401 hectares in 2011 | Due to – climate change | Signalled risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
• Lakes in India – expanded 33.7% in surface area
• Total inventory area of glacial lakes in India – 33.7% increase in area to 2,623 hectares during 2024
- From 1,962 hectares during 2011
• 67 lakes in India – witnessed 40+% increase in surface area | They are placed in high-risk category for potential GLOFs
• Most notable expansions – Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh
• HQs of CWC – New Delhi | Chairman – Kushvinder Vohra
19. Climate change under a high-end emissions scenario could lead to a 16.9% loss in GDP by 2070 across
the Asia and Pacific region, with India projected to suffer a 24.7% GDP loss, according to the 1st edition of
Asian Development Bank (ADB)’s report titled “Asia-Pacific Climate Report 2024: Catalyzing Finance and
Policy Solutions”. Most of the region would face more than 20% loss. Among the assessed countries and
subregions, these losses are concentrated in Bangladesh (30.5%), Vietnam (30.2%), Indonesia (26.8%),
India (24.7%), the rest of Southeast Asia’ (23.4%), higher-income Southeast Asia (22%), Pakistan (21.1%),
the Pacific (18.6%), and the Philippines (18.1%). Rising sea levels and decreasing labour productivity would drive the most
significant losses. Asia has accounted for most of the increase in global GHG emissions since 2000. Consequently, the region’s
share of global emissions rose from 29.4% in 2000 to 45.9% in 2021. Emissions from developing Asia continue to rise, driven
primarily by China, which contributed about 30% of global emissions in 2021. For climate change adaptation, regional
countries require annual investment between $102 billion and $431 billion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 1st edition of “Asia-Pacific Climate Report 2024: Catalyzing Finance and Policy Solutions” report – published by ADB
• Climate change under high-end emissions scenario – could lead to 16.9% loss in GDP by 2070 across Asia & Pacific region
- India – projected to suffer a 24.7% GDP loss
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• Among assessed countries & subregions, these losses are concentrated in:
- Bangladesh – 30.5% | Vietnam – 30.2% | Indonesia – 26.8% | India – 24.7% | Rest Southeast Asia – 23.4%
- Higher-income Southeast Asia – 22% | Pakistan – 21.1% | Pacific – 18.6% | Philippines – 18.1%
• Most significant losses – driven by rising sea levels & decreasing labour productivity
• Most of increase in global GHG emissions since 2000 – Asia
• Region’s share of global emissions – rose to 45.9% in 2021 (from 29.4% in 2000)
• Emissions from developing Asia – continue to rise | China – contributed about 30% of global emissions in 2021
• For climate change adaptation, regional countries – require annual investment between $102 billion & $431 billion
20. In 2023, the world lost 6.37 million hectares of forest, according to the report “2024 Forest Declaration Assessment”.
This loss was 45% higher than the goal set by over 140 countries to eliminate deforestation by 2030. The goal is to eliminate
deforestation and forest degradation, and restore 30% of degraded forest area by 2030. The report indicated serious
problems in global efforts to stop deforestation and forest damage. Primary tropical forests, essential for storing carbon and
protecting biodiversity, lost 3.7 million hectares in 2023. The report also emphasizes the loss of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs),
where more than 1.4 million hectares of forest were lost in 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 Forest Declaration Assessment” report:
• The world lost 6.37 million hectares of forest in 2023
• This loss was 45% higher than the goal set by over 140 countries to eliminate deforestation by 2030
- Goal: To eliminate deforestation and forest degradation, and restore 30% of degraded forest area by 2030
• Primary tropical forests lost 3.7 million hectares in 2023
• In Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), more than 1.4 million hectares of forest were lost in 2023
21. India is projected to be the fastest growing economy among the G20 countries with a 7%
GDP growth rate for 2024, followed by Indonesia in the 2nd spot with 5% while China is ranked
3rd with an economic growth rate of 4.8%. Russia and Brazil have been ranked 4th and 5th,
respectively, with 3.6% and 3% GDP growth rate. The African region comes 6th with 3%, while
the US is placed at the 7th spot with its projected GDP growth at 2.8%. Germany is seen as the
worst performer among the advanced countries with a projected growth rate of Zero. The
rankings were released at the ongoing G20 Summit in Brazil. The focus of the summit, being
held amid the ongoing climate crisis and conflict in the Middle East and Europe, is on the fight
against hunger, poverty and inequality; sustainable development and global governance
reforms. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rankings of fastest growing economies among G20 countries – released at ongoing G20 Summit in Brazil
• Fastest growing economies among G20 countries with GDP growth rate: 1st – India (7%) | 2nd – Indonesia (5%)
- 3rd – China (4.8%) | 4th – Russia (3.6%) | 5th – Brazil (3%) | 6th – African region (3%) | 7th – US (2.8%)
- Last – Germany (0%)
• Presidency of G20: 2024 – Brazil | 2025 – South Africa
https:// /#
22. India, despite dropping two spots compared to last ago, has ranked 10th this year
on a list of 63 countries assessed for efforts to fight climate change, as per the “Climate
Change Performance Index (CCPI 2025)” report, released at the annual UN Climate
Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The report leaves the first three places empty,
as no country performed well enough across all index categories to achieve an overall
‘very high’ rating. Denmark ranks at the top (but technically 4th place), followed by the
Netherlands (5th), UK (6th), Philippines (7th), Morocco (8th), & Norway (9th). While the
largest two emitters - China and the US - remain very low at 55th and 57th place,
respectively. India and the U.K. are the only two G20 countries among the high
performers in the CCPI. The 4 lowest-ranked countries in the CCPI are Iran (67th), Saudi Arabia (66th), UAE (65th), and Russia
(64th). The CCPI 2025, published by think tanks Germanwatch, NewClimate Institute, and Climate Action Network -
International (CAN), tracks the progress of the world’s largest emitters in terms of emissions, renewables, and climate policy.
The 63 countries, along with the European Union, assessed in the CCPI are responsible for 90% of global emissions. India’s
per capita emissions stand at 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e), far below the global average of 6.6 tCO2e. India, the
world’s 3rd-largest greenhouse gas emitter and the fastest growing major economy, has pledged to reach Net Zero Emissions
by 2070 and aims to achieve 500 GW of Renewable Energy capacity by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI 2025)” report – released at annual UN COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan
- Published by – Germanwatch, NewClimate Institute & Climate Action Network - International (CAN)
• For efforts to fight climate change: India – 10th (from 8th in 2024)
• 4th – Denmark | 5th – Netherlands | 6th – UK | 7th – Philippines | 8th – Morocco | 9th – Norway
- First three places – kept empty, as no country performed well enough to achieve an overall ‘very high’ rating
• Lowest-ranked countries: 67th – Iran | 66th – Saudi Arabia | 65th – UAE | 64th – Russia
• Rank of largest two emitters: 55th – China | 57th – US
• India & UK – only two G20 countries among high performers in CCPI
• These 63 countries (including EU) – are responsible for 90% of global emissions
• India’s per capita emissions – 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) | Global average – 6.6 tCO2e
• India – world’s 3rd-largest greenhouse gas emitter & fastest growing major economy
• India – pledged to reach Net Zero Emissions by 2070 & aims to achieve 500 GW of Renewable Energy capacity by 2030
23. India has earned the dubious distinction of becoming the country with the most
cities in the ‘World’s Top 100 Worst Polluted Cities’, far ahead of its rival, China. A recent
S&P Global Mobility web presentation identified 39 Indian cities in the top 100 most
polluted globally. In comparison, China has 30 cities on the list. Neighbouring Pakistan
ranks 3rd with 7 cities, followed by Bangladesh with 5 and Nepal with 2. Alarmingly, more
than half (53) of the top 100 most polluted cities in the world are in the Indian
subcontinent. The S&P study was part of a presentation highlighting the need for India to shift towards vehicle electrification.
It also called attention to concerns about growing traffic congestion in major Indian cities. Mumbai tops the list with 430
vehicles per kilometer (km), followed by Kolkata at 308, Pune at 248, and Delhi comparatively better at 93 vehicles per km. In
2023, IQAir, an international monitoring agency, ranked Delhi as the most polluted capital in the world, with Beijing in China
placed 18th. Among countries with the highest average PM2.5 concentrations, India ranked 3rd, after Bangladesh and Pakistan.
China, meanwhile, ranked 19th. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• India (39) – became the country with most cities in the ‘World’s Top 100 Worst Polluted Cities’ (by S&P Global Mobility)
• 2nd – China (30) | 3rd – Pakistan (7) | 4th – Bangladesh (5) | 5th – Nepal (2)
• 53 of top 100 most polluted cities in the world – located in Indian subcontinent
• Traffic congestion (in vehicles per km): 1st – Mumbai (430) | 2nd – Kolkata (308) | 3rd – Pune (248) | 4th – Delhi (93)
• Delhi – became most polluted capital in world in 2023 by IQAir | Beijing (China) – 18th
• Among countries with highest avg PM2.5 concentrations: 1st – Bangladesh | 2nd – Pakistan | 3rd – India | 19th – China
24. India, projected to house 350 million children by 2050, must navigate critical challenges like
extreme climate and environmental hazards to ensure their well-being and rights, according to
UNICEF’s new report titled “The State of the World’s Children 2024: The Future of Children in a
Changing World”. Although India will see a decline of 106 million children compared to today, it
will still account for 15% of the global child population. With nearly 1 billion children worldwide
already exposed to high-risk climate hazards, India ranks 26th in the ‘Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI)’. Indian children
face acute risks from extreme heat, floods, and air pollution, particularly in rural and low-income communities. The report
was launched in New Delhi, spotlighting 3 global megatrends - demographic shifts, climate crises, and frontier technologies
- that are set to reshape the lives of children by 2050. The report was unveiled by Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India
Representative, alongside Suruchi Bhadwal of The Energy Research Institute (TERI), UNICEF Youth Advocate Kartik Verma.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “The State of the World’s Children 2024: The Future of Children in a Changing World” report – published by UNICEF
- Launched in – New Delhi | Unveiled by – Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative
• India – projected to house 350 million children by 2050
• India – will see a decline of 106 million children, it will still account for 15% of global child population
• In ‘Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI)’: India – 26th | 1 billion children – exposed to high-risk climate hazards globally
• HQs of UNICEF – New York, US | Executive Director – Catherine Russell | Established in – 1946
25. Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan, along with Minister of Labour and
Employment Mansukh Mandaviya, launched a World Bank’s report titled “Jobs at Your
Doorstep: A Jobs Diagnostics for Young People” that covers 6 STARS (Strengthening Teaching-
Learning and Results for States) states - Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan - in India. It serves as both a diagnostic and roadmap to
providing strategic linkages and convergence between education and the jobs agenda of India. The World Bank assists the
Ministry of Education with its programme called ‘STARS’ covering 6 states. The report underscores the significant benefits
of embedding skill-based education from Classes 9-12 to prepare students for diverse career paths relying on a bottom-up
approach, going deep in districts of the 6 states. The Government of India has an ambitious plan to transform the economy
towards a high-income country status by 2047. To achieve the goal, India needs to urgently address the challenges facing its
employment landscape and prepare its workforce. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has set ambitious targets of
50% of students accessing skill education by 2025, and all secondary schools offering skill education by 2030. Auguste Tano
Kouame is the Country Director at the World Bank, India. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• “Jobs at Your Doorstep: A Jobs Diagnostics for Young People” report – published by World Bank
- Launched by = Dharmendra Pradhan & Mansukh Mandaviya
• It covers 6 STARS (Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States) states in India
- Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha & Rajasthan
• World Bank assists Ministry of Education with its programme called ‘STARS’ covering 6 states
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 set targets of:
- 50% students – accessing skill education by 2025 | All secondary schools offering skill education – by 2030
• Auguste Tano Kouame – Country Director at World Bank, India
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189
26. The “2024 Network Readiness Index (NRI)”, published by the Portulans Institute and Saïd Business
School at the University of Oxford, has ranked the United States (US) as the world leader in network
readiness for the 3rd consecutive year. Singapore has retained the second position, followed by Finland,
Sweden, South Korea, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Germany and Denmark. India is
ranked 49th globally. Among lower-middle-income countries, India is 2nd only to Vietnam (45th globally).
The report showcased India’s strengths in areas such as AI scientific publications, where it ranks 1 st globally, and its vast
domestic market ranked 3rd. Strong performances in public cloud computing (11th) and digitally skilled individuals (17th)
highlight the country’s growing digital talent and infrastructure. India’s progress in the digital economy is reflected in its
42nd-place ranking in government promotion of tech investments. Its information and communication technology (ICT)
services exports ranked 1st globally. India ranked 105th in digital inclusion, while ranked 104th and 87th in the regulatory
frameworks around privacy and e-commerce, respectively. Soumitra Dutta is the Co-founder and President of the Portulans
Institute and the Co-editor of the NRI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 Network Readiness Index (NRI)” – published by Portulans Institute & Saïd Business School at University of Oxford
• World leader in network readiness – US (for 3rd consecutive year) | 2nd – Singapore | 3rd – Finland | 4th – Sweden
- 5th – South Korea | 6th – Netherlands | 7th – Switzerland | 8th – UK | 9th – Germany | 10th – Denmark
• India – 49th | Among lower-middle-income countries, India – 2nd | 1st – Vietnam (globally 45th)
• India’s ranks in various spheres: In AI scientific publications – 1st | Domestic market – 3rd
- In public cloud computing – 11th | In digitally skilled individuals – 17th | ICT services exports – 1st
- In government promotion of tech investments – 42nd | In digital inclusion – 105th
- In regulatory frameworks around privacy – 104th | E-commerce – 87th
• Soumitra Dutta – Co-founder & President of Portulans Institute & Co-editor of NRI
https:// /#
27. Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) has published the 16th edition of the “QS World
University Rankings: Asia 2025”, featuring 984 universities across 25 higher
education systems. India, with a total of 163 universities ranked, is the most
represented country. While Mainland China is the 2nd most represented country
overall with 135 universities (also, China leads in the top 10 universities), and
Japan is the 3rd with 115. The top 10 universities are - Peking University, China; The
University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR; National University of Singapore (NUS),
Singapore; Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU), Singapore; Fudan
University, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR;
Tsinghua University, China; Zhejiang University, China; Yonsei University, South Korea; and City University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong SAR. India excels in research productivity. IIT Delhi now ranks 44th, surpassing IIT Bombay, which slips to 48th. In the QS
Asia 2025 rankings, 8 out of the first 10 universities from India are IITs and an IISc. Published annually since 2009, the QS Asia
University Rankings highlight the top universities in Asia each year. The 11 indicators used to compile the QS Asia University
Rankings are academic reputation (30%), Employer reputation (20%), Faculty/student ratio (10%), International research
network (10%), Citations per paper (10%) and papers per faculty (5%), Staff with a PhD (5%), Proportion of inbound exchange
students (2.5%) and proportion of outbound exchange students (2.5%). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 16th edition of “QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025” – featured 984 universities across 25 higher education systems
• Most represented country – India (163 universities) | 2nd – China (135) | 3rd – Japan (115)
• China – leads in top 10 universities | Top 10 universities:
- Peking University, China; The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore; Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU), Singapore
- Fudan University, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR; Tsinghua University, China
- Zhejiang University, China; Yonsei University, South Korea; & City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
• India – ranks 1st in research productivity | India’s universities: IIT Delhi – 44th | IIT Bombay – 48th
• In QS Asia 2025 rankings – 8 out of first 10 universities from India are IITs & an IISc
• QS Asia University Rankings – published annually since 2009 | It uses 11 indicators
• HQs of QS – London, UK | CEO – Jessica Turner | Founded in – 1990
28. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “Global Tuberculosis Report 2024”, India has
achieved a notable 17.7% decline in tuberculosis (TB) incidence from 2015 to 2023. This decline,
exceeding the global average of 8.3%, underscores India’s unwavering commitment to eliminating TB
by 2025, under the ‘National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP)’. India, as a signatory to the
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), has pledged to achieve the ‘End TB’ targets
by 2025, five years ahead of the SDG deadline of 2030. The SDG Target 3.3 aims to “End the epidemics
of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases, and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases, and other
communicable diseases by 2030”. India is a signatory to the ‘Gandhinagar Declaration’, the joint declaration by the Health
Ministers and WHO South-East Asian Regional Office (SEARO), which was signed at the high-level ministerial meeting on
“Sustain, Accelerate and Innovate to End TB” in the South-East Asia Region by 2030 in August 2023. Further, to provide financial
support for TB patients, monthly nutritional support increased from Rs 500 to Rs 1000 under the ‘Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana’. The
‘Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA)’ was launched in September 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Tuberculosis Report 2024” – released by WHO
https:// /#
• India has achieved a notable 17.7% decline in TB incidence from 2015 to 2023 (global average - 8.3%)
• India has pledged to achieve the ‘End TB’ targets by 2025 (5 years ahead of the SDG deadline of 2030)
• India is a signatory to the ‘Gandhinagar Declaration’, a joint declaration by MoHFW & WHO-SEARO
• India’s initiative: Monthly nutritional support increased from Rs 500 to Rs 1000 under the ‘Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana’
29. Russia remained the top oil supplier to India with 39% market share, due to attractive price discounts
in the first half (April-September) of this fiscal year, according to energy cargo tracker Vortexa. Russia
(39%) is followed by Iraq (18%), Saudi Arabia (13%), UAE (8%) and US (5.5%). The top 3 suppliers lost
about 0.5% each from a year earlier and maintained their rankings, while the UAE and the US have
expanded their share in Indian crude imports. Africa’s share remained nearly the same at 5%. India’s overall crude imports
rose about 4% this year. Before the beginning of the Ukraine war in February 2022, Russia had less than a 1% share in Indian
imports. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per energy cargo tracker Vortexa, in first half (April-September) of FY25:
• Top oil supplier to India – Russia (39%) | 2nd – Iraq (18%) | 3rd – Saudi Arabia (13%) | 4th – UAE (8%) | 5th – US (5.5%)
- Africa – 5%
• India’s overall crude imports – rose about 4%
• Russia’s share in Indian imports before Ukraine war in Feb 2022 – <1%
30. According to the “Adaptation Gap Report 2024: Come Hell and High Water” from the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), international public finance to help developing countries adapt
climate change increased from $22 billion in 2021 to $28 billion in 2022, which records growth of 32%
in 2022. Still, there remains a huge gap between what is needed and what is being delivered. Further,
it said even achieving the ‘Glasgow Climate Pact’ goal would only reduce the adaptation finance gap, estimated at $187-359
billion per year, by around 5%. At the UN climate conference in Glasgow in 2021, developed nations were urged to at least
double their adaptation funding for developing countries by 2025, from about $19 billion in 2019. According to the report,
171 countries now have at least 1 national adaptation policy, strategy, or plan in place. Earlier, European climate change
agency, Copernicus, said it is almost certain that 2024 will be the ‘warmest year on record’ and the 1st with an average
temperature at least 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, following the second-warmest October in history. In addition, UNEP’s
‘Emissions Gap Report’, released in October 2024, said the world is on course for a catastrophic temperature rise of 2.6-
3.1°C this century without immediate and major cuts to greenhouse gas emissions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Adaptation Gap Report 2024: Come Hell and High Water” – published by UNEP
• International public finance to help developing countries adapt climate change – increased to $28 billion in 2022
- From – $22 billion in 2021 | Growth – 32% in 2022
• Achieving ‘Glasgow Climate Pact’ goal would only reduce adaptation finance gap, estimated at $187-359 billion per year
- By around 5%
• Developed nations – urged to at least double their adaptation funding for developing countries by 2025 (from $19
billion in 2019)
- At UN climate conference in Glasgow in 2021
• 171 countries – now have at least 1 national adaptation policy, strategy, or plan in place
https:// /#
• As per Copernicus, 2024 – to be ‘warmest year on record’ & 1st with an avg temp. at least 1.5°C above pre-industrial
levels, following 2nd-warmest October in history
• UNEP’s ‘Emissions Gap Report’ – released in Oct 2024
- World is on course for a catastrophic temp. rise of 2.6-3.1°C this century
31. According to the study by the Delhi-based independent think tank Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW),
India’s current climate policies are projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 4 billion tonnes between 2020
and 2030, and drive a 24% reduction in coal-based power generation by 2030. At present, India generates around 71% of its
electricity using coal. India, a fast-developing South Asian country and the 5th-largest economy in the world, committed to
reducing emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030 at COP26 in Glasgow. The share of combined solar and wind power in India’s
energy mix is projected to rise to 26% by 2030 and 43% by 2050, up from only around 3% in 2015. In the transport sector,
the CEEW study has found that policies, such as the FAME (2015-2022) schemes, have set the stage for significant growth in
the EV market. Projections show that by 2030, electric two-wheeler and four-wheeler sales could account for 19% and 11%
of their respective segments. By 2050, these figures are expected to rise dramatically to above 65% for both EV categories.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per Council on Energy, Environment and Water (Delhi):
• India’s current climate policies – to reduce CO2 emissions by around 4 billion tonnes between 2020 & 2030
- Also, drive a 24% reduction in coal-based power generation by 2030
• Currently, India generates around 71% of its electricity using coal
• India committed at COP26 in Glasgow to reduce emissions – by 1 billion tonnes by 2030
• Share of combined solar & wind power in India’s energy mix – to rise to 26% by 2030 & 43% by 2050 (from 3% in 2015)
• In transport sector, policies (such as FAME schemes) – set the stage for significant growth in EV market
• Sales of electric vehicles in their segments by 2030: Two-wheelers – 19% | Four-wheelers – 11%
- It will be >65% by 2050
• HQs of CEEW – New Delhi | CEO – Dr Arunabha Ghosh
32. World Bank (WB) has launched the 1st edition of its “Business-Ready (B-Ready) Index”. B-READY is the World Bank’s new
flagship report benchmarking the business environment and investment climate in most economies worldwide. It replaces
the World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Index’ that ranked countries based on their business enabling environment.
The EoDB report was discontinued in 2021 due to irregularities in data and ethical concerns. B-Ready is in a 3-year rollout
phase, spanning 2024 to 2026. The assessment currently includes 50 economies (excluding India) and plans to expand to
180 by 2026. B-READY considers 3 pillars - (i) Regulatory Framework, (ii) Public Services, & (iii) Operational Efficiency.
Targeting $200 billion in e-commerce exports by 2030, the B-READY index helps identify and streamline issues in digital trade
and logistics. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• World Bank – launched 1st edition of its “Business-Ready (B-Ready) Index” (replacing ‘Ease of Doing Business Index’)
• EoDB report – discontinued in 2021 due to irregularities in data & ethical concerns
• B-READY – a new report benchmarking business environment & investment climate in most economies worldwide
• B-Ready (in a 3-year rollout phase, spanning 2024 to 2026) considers 3 pillars:
https:// /#
- Regulatory Framework | Public Services | Operational Efficiency
• It currently includes 50 economies (excluding India) & will expand to 180 by 2026
• B-READY index – targets $200 billion in e-commerce exports by 2030
33. According to the “Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics - 2024” prepared by the Department
of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, milk production in the country saw an increase of 3.78%
to 239.30 million tonnes during 2023-2024 over the estimates of 2022-2023. This is a
compound annual growth of 5.62% over the past 10 years. India is at the top in milk
production globally and 2nd in egg production. Uttar Pradesh produces 16.21% of total milk
in the country and ranks at the top in milk production followed by Rajasthan (14.51%), Madhya Pradesh (8.91%), Gujarat
(7.65%), and Maharashtra (6.71%). The highest annual growth rate in milk production was recorded in West Bengal (9.76%).
The total egg production is estimated at 142.77 billion numbers during 2023-2024, which is a compound annual growth of
6.8% over the past 10 years. Andhra Pradesh is the largest producer of eggs with a share of 17.85% of total egg production
in the country followed by Tamil Nadu (15.64%), Telangana (12.88%), West Bengal (11.37%) and Karnataka (6.63%). The
total meat production in the country (including poultry, cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig) is estimated as 10.25 million
tonnes during 2023-2024. It registered a compound annual growth of 4.85% over the past 10 years. West Bengal is the
largest meat producer with 12.62% share, followed by Uttar Pradesh (12.29%), Maharashtra (11.28%), Telangana (10.85%)
and Andhra Pradesh (10.41%). The highest annual growth rate in meat production was recorded in Assam (17.93%). Total
wool production in the country is estimated at 33.69 million kg during 2023-2024, which is a slight growth of 0.22% over last
year. The major contribution to the total wool production comes from Rajasthan with a share of 47.53%, followed by Jammu
& Kashmir (23.06%), Gujarat (6.18%), Maharashtra (4.75%) and Himachal Pradesh (4.22%). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics - 2024” – prepared by Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying
• Milk production in country – increased 3.78% to 239.30 million tonnes during 2023-2024 over estimates of 2022-2023
- CAGR – 5.62% over past 10 years
• India – top country in milk production & 2nd in egg production
• Top state in milk production – UP (16.21%) | 2nd – Rajasthan (14.51%) | 3rd – MP (8.91%)
- 4th – Gujarat (7.65%) | 5th – Maharashtra (6.71%)
• Highest annual growth rate in milk production – West Bengal (9.76%)
• Total egg production – 142.77 billion during 2023-2024 | CAGR – 6.8% over past 10 years
• Largest producer of eggs – Andhra Pradesh (17.85%) | 2nd – Tamil Nadu (15.64%) | 3rd – Telangana (12.88%)
- 4th – West Bengal (11.37%) | 5th – Karnataka (6.63%)
• Total meat production – 10.25 million tonnes during 2023-2024 | CAGR – 4.85% over past 10 years
• Largest meat producer – West Bengal (12.62%) | 2nd – Uttar Pradesh (12.29%) | 3rd – Maharashtra (11.28%)
- 4th – Telangana (10.85%) | 5th – Andhra Pradesh (10.41%)
• Highest annual growth rate in meat production – Assam (17.93%)
• Total wool production – 33.69 million kg during 2023-2024, growth of 0.22% over last year
• Largest wool producer – Rajasthan (47.53%) | 2nd – J&K (23.06%) | 3rd – Gujarat (6.18%)
- 4th – Maharashtra (4.75%) | 5th – Himachal Pradesh (4.22%)
https:// /#
34. India climbed up 11 slots in the latest “Network Readiness Index 2024 (NRI 2024)”, and is now placed at 49th rank globally.
The country not only improved its ranking but also improved its score from 49.93 in 2023 to 53.63 in 2024, according to the
index published by the Portulans Institute, an independent non-profit research and educational institute based in
Washington, DC. Notably, India secured first rank in ‘AI scientific publications’, ‘AI talent concentration’ and ‘ICT services
exports’ indicators. The report maps the network-based readiness landscape of 133 economies based on their performances
in 4 different pillars - Technology, People, Governance, and Impact - covering a total of 54 variables. Over the past decade,
tele-density increased from 75.2% to 84.69%. The country now aims to position itself as a leader in future telecom
technologies with the ‘Bharat 6G Vision’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Network Readiness Index 2024 (NRI 2024) – published by the Portulans Institute (Washington DC)
• India – ranked 49th globally (climbed up 11 slots) with score 53.63 in 2024 (from 49.93 in 2023)
• India – secured 1st rank in ‘AI scientific publications’, ‘AI talent concentration’ & ‘ICT services exports’ indicators
• Tele-density (over past decade) – increased to 84.69% (from 75.2%)
35. In November 2024, Fortune has announced the inaugural list of the “Fortune 100 Most
Powerful People in Business”. The list includes 70 US-based companies, 15 from Asia regions, 14
in Europe, and 1 from the Middle East. 18 of the list’s CEOs and leaders are female. The top 10
most powerful people are Elon Musk, also the world’s richest man (CEO and Founder of Tesla and
SpaceX); Jensen Huang (CEO and Founder of Nvidia); Satya Nadella (CEO and Chairman of Microsoft); Warren Buffett (CEO
and Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway); Jamie Dimon (CEO and Chairman of JPMorgan Chase); Tim Cook (CEO of Apple), Mark
Zuckerberg (Chairman and Founder of Meta), Sam Altman (CEO and Cofounder of OpenAI); Mary Barra (CEO and Chairman
of General Motors) and Sundar Pichai (CEO of Alphabet). Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance
Industries (RIL) who ranked 12th is the only Indian featured in the list. The list includes 6 Indian-origin individuals, of which 4
are CEOs of leading tech giants, while one leads a makeup brand. The list has featured the world’s most influential leaders,
ranging in age from their 30s to 90s, have shaped the global business landscape, representing 40 industries across the world.
Key categories and criteria, including the size and health of the leaders’ business and the inventiveness, influence, and
impact of the leaders themselves, were used for this inaugural list. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 1st edition of “Fortune 100 Most Powerful People in Business” – announced by Fortune
• Includes – 70 US-based companies, 15 from Asia regions, 14 in Europe & 1 from Middle East
• 18 of list’s CEOs & leaders – female
• Top 10 most powerful people: 1st – Elon Musk (CEO & Founder of Tesla & SpaceX)
- 2nd – Jensen Huang (CEO & Founder of Nvidia) | 3rd – Satya Nadella (CEO & Chairman of Microsoft)
- 4th – Warren Buffett (CEO & Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway)
- 5th – Jamie Dimon (CEO & Chairman of JPMorgan Chase) | 6th – Tim Cook (CEO of Apple)
- 7th – Mark Zuckerberg (Chairman & Founder of Meta) | 8th – Sam Altman (CEO & Cofounder of OpenAI)
- 9th – Mary Barra (CEO & Chairman of General Motors) | 10th – Sundar Pichai (CEO of Alphabet)
• Mukesh Ambani, CMD of Reliance Industries (RIL) – ranked 12th & is only Indian featured in list
• It includes 6 Indian-origin individuals, of which: 4 – CEOs of leading tech giants | 1 – leads a makeup brand
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A GLIMPSE OF SOME GENUINE TESTIMONIALS
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Amount & Agreements
1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $241.3 million loan to improve electricity distribution in West Bengal
in order to help enhance people’s quality of life by ensuring reliable and sustainable power supply. This ADB programme is
aligned with the government’s ‘Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme’, which aims to strengthen the operational efficiency
of power distribution companies. The programme will improve electricity distribution for 8.96 million consumers in 7
districts in the state. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – approved a $241.3 million loan to improve electricity distribution in West Bengal to help enhance quality of life
• It aligned with govt’s ‘Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme’ to strengthen operational efficiency of power discoms
• It will improve electricity distribution for 8.96 million consumers in 7 districts in state
• West Bengal: Capital – Kolkata | CM – Mamta Banerjee | Governor – C. V. Ananda Bose
2. The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $200 million loan to help upgrade water
supply, sanitation, urban mobility, and other urban services in Uttarakhand, under the ‘Uttarakhand Livability Improvement
Project’. The project aims to create urban infrastructure that is resilient to climate and environmental risks such as floods
and landslides, ensuring the safety and health of Uttarakhand’s population. The project will enhance transportation, urban
mobility, drainage, flood management, and overall public services in Haldwani, the economic hub of the state. The European
Investment Bank is cofinancing the project with $191 million on a parallel basis. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GoI + ADB = $200 million loan to upgrade water supply, sanitation, urban mobility & other urban services in Uttarakhand
- Under – ‘Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project’
• Aim: To create urban infrastructure resilient to climate & environmental risks ensuring safety & health to residents
• European Investment Bank – cofinancing with $191 million on a parallel basis
• Uttarakhand: Capital – Dehradun & Gairsain | CM – Pushkar Singh Dhami | Governor – Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
3. International Finance Corporation (IFC), an entity of the World Bank, has partnered with Bajaj Finance to invest $400 million
out of the $1 billion fundraising to aid in the expansion of the latter’s EV fleet, energy-efficient consumer goods (EECG) and
women empowerment. The funding is aimed at increasing competitiveness in the climate finance market, supporting the
country’s climate goals, and promoting financial inclusion. IFC is a member of the World Bank Group with focus on the private
sector in the emerging market. In the financial year 2024, IFC committed $56 billion to private companies and financial
institutions in developing countries. Imad N. Fakhoury is Regional Director for South Asia, IFC. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IFC (World Bank) + Bajaj Finance = partnered to invest $400 million out of the $1 billion fundraising
• Aim: To aid in the expansion of the latter’s EV Fleet, Energy-Efficient Consumer Goods (EECG) & Women Empowerment
• It also aims to increase competitiveness in the climate finance market
• In 2024, IFC has committed $56 billion to private companies & financial institutions in developing countries
• HQs of IFC – Washington, U.S. | MD – Makhtar Diop | IFC India’s Head – Wendy Werner (an arm of World Bank)
• HQs of Bajaj Finance – Pune, Maharashtra | MD – Rajeev Jain | Established in – 1987
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4. Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (HUDCO), a navaratna central public sector enterprise, has announced to
lend Rs 11,000 crore to Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (AP CRDA) for the construction of Amaravati
greenfield capital city in Andhra Pradesh. Out of the Rs 26,000 crore needed for constructing Amaravati Phase-1, the World
Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB) came forward to lend Rs 15,000 crore and Rs 11,000 crore loan is being lent by by
HUDCO. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HUDCO – to lend Rs 11,000 Cr to AP CRDA for construction of Amaravati greenfield capital city in Andhra Pradesh
• Total outlay for construction of Amaravati Phase-1 – Rs 26,000 Cr | Out of this, Rs 15,000 Cr – by World Bank & ADB
5. The European Investment Bank (EIB) formally announced a €300 million ($323.76 million) loan
for the under-construction Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP). BSRP is proposed to be
implemented on an equity-funded model with equal contribution from the Centre (20%) and the
state government (20%), and the remaining amount (60%) raised from multilateral agencies. EIB
has already granted a €500 million loan to build the 23 km-long Bengaluru Metro R6 line and purchase a fleet of about 96
Metro cars. BSRP is divided into 4 corridors. EIB estimates that once the BSRP project is fully operational, the Bengaluru
transport system will see a 43% drop in CO2 emissions. Additionally, a loan agreement of €500 million for BSRP was also
signed with Germany-based KfW on December 15, 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• EIB – announced €300 million ($323.76 million) loan for under-construction Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP)
• BSRP is proposed to be implemented on – equity-funded model | It is divided into 4 corridors
- Contribution of: 20% – Centre | 20% – State govt | 60% – raised from multilateral agencies
• EIB – granted €500 million loan to build 23 km-long Bengaluru Metro R6 line & purchase a fleet of about 96 Metro cars
• After this project became fully operational – Bengaluru transport system will have 43% drop in CO2 emissions
• BSRP + KfW (Germany) = signed a loan agreement of €500 million on Dec 15, 2023
• HQs of EIB – Luxembourg | President – Nadia Calvino
6. The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have granted the loan wroth Rs 13,500 crore ($1.6 billion) for
Andhra Pradesh’s capital city Amaravati development project. Each of these two banks will provide ₹6,750 crore (US $800
million each) under the Program for Results (PforR) and Result-Based Lending (RBL) programs, respectively. The ‘Amaravati
Inclusive and Sustainable Capital City Development Program’ focuses on creating a safe and sustainable urban ecosystem
through key infrastructure activities. It will also develop roads, utilities, and green spaces in LPS zones, and establish a 24x7
clean water supply system and sewerage system. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• World Bank + ADB = granted loan for Andhra’s capital city Amaravati development project
• Worth – ₹13,500 Cr | ₹6,750 Cr – by each
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7. The Asian Development Bank has announced to increase its climate-related lending by up to $7.2 billion after the United
States and Japan agreed to underwrite risk for some existing loans, marking the first ever sovereign guarantees for climate
finance. The ADB has set a long-term cumulative climate finance lending target of $100 billion between 2019 and 2030. In
2023, it lent $9.8 billion. Under the ADB plan, the world’s richest country, the US, would guarantee up to $1 billion of existing
loans from ADB, while Japan would underwrite $600 million - freeing the bank to lend more for climate-related projects.
The extra lending headroom the guarantees generate will be deployed over the next 5 years, while the duration of the
guarantees themselves will be 25 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – announced to increase its climate-related lending by up to $7.2 billion
- after US & Japan agreed to underwrite risk for some existing loans
- It marks the first ever sovereign guarantees for climate finance
• ADB has set a long-term cumulative climate finance lending target of $100 billion between 2019 & 2030
- It lent $9.8 billion in 2023
• Under the ADB plan, US would guarantee up to $1 billion of existing loans from ADB | Japan – $600 million
• Duration of the guarantees – 25 years
8. India has fulfilled its annual contribution of $5 million for the year 2024-25 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency
for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), with the release of the second tranche of $2.5 million. This financial
support aims to assist the UN agency in providing vital services to Palestinian refugees. Over the years, India has contributed
a total of $40 million to UNRWA’s core programs, including education, healthcare, and relief services. In October 2024, India
also sent 30 tons of medical supplies, including life-saving and anti-cancer drugs, to Palestine as part of its humanitarian
assistance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – released second tranche of $2.5 million for 2024-25 to UNRWA & fulfilled its annual contribution of $5 million
- UNRWA – United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East
• Aim: To assist UN agency in providing vital services to Palestinian refugees
• India – contributed $40 million to UNRWA’s core programs till date
• India – sent 30 tons of medical supplies to Palestine as part of its humanitarian assistance in Oct 2024
• HQs of UNRWA – Amman, Jordan & Gaza, Palestine | SG – Philippe Lazzarini | Established in – 1949
9. World Bank has approved a Rs 2,365.5-crore project submitted by the State Agriculture Department for the ‘Kerala
Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernisation (KERA)’ Project. World Bank sanctioned Rs 1,655.85 crore ($200 million),
while Rs 709.65 crore was sanctioned by the Kerala government for this project. The World Bank assistance also includes Rs
76 crore for small and medium farming enterprises led by women. KERA project will be implemented in the state over the
next 5 years and has 5 components: (i) climate resilience in agriculture (Rs 790.43 Cr), (ii) enhancing small-holder
commercialisation for value addition (Rs 899.13 Cr), (iii) strengthening agribusiness and food system (Rs 508.89 Cr), (iv)
project management unit and, (v) the contingent emergency response component. Climate-smart initiatives under KERA will
benefit 4 lakh farmers directly, while about 10 lakh farmers stand to gain indirect benefits. The KERA project is designed to
energise the State’s farm sector, integrate the value networks in the sector and also help build alliances between farming
groups and agribusinesses. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• World Bank – approved ‘Kerala Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernisation (KERA)’ Project submitted by State
Agriculture Department
- Worth – Rs 2,365.5 Cr
• Amount sanctioned for this project: Rs 1,655.85 Cr – World Bank | Rs 709.65 Cr – Kerala government
• World Bank assistance also includes Rs 76 Cr for small & medium farming enterprises led by women
• KERA project – to be implemented in Kerala over next 5 years & has 5 components
- Climate resilience in agriculture – Rs 790.43 Cr | Strengthening agribusiness & food system – Rs 508.89 Cr
- Enhancing small-holder commercialisation for value addition – Rs 899.13 Cr
- Project management unit & contingent emergency response component
10. The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to improve horticulture
crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials, which will boost their crops’ yield, quality, and resilience to
climate impacts. The loan agreement, part of the “Building India’s Clean Plant Programme (CPP),” was signed by Juhi
Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo Officer-in-Charge of ADB’s
India Resident Mission, for ADB. The project supports the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar CPP which enhances plant
health management. This will be achieved by establishing clean plant centres dedicated to maintaining disease-free
foundation materials. It will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare through the National
Horticulture Board and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + ADB = a $98 million loan to improve horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials
• Part of – “Building India’s Clean Plant Programme (CPP)”
• To be implemented by – MoAFW through National Horticulture Board & ICAR
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MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships
1. Leading PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings) NTPC and ONGC have formed a 50:50 joint venture
company (JVC) through their green energy subsidiaries - NTPC Green Energy (NGEL) and ONGC
Green Energy (OGL) - to promote their interests in the renewable and new energy arena. After
signing the joint venture agreement on February 7, 2024, during India Energy Week 2024, NGEL
received statutory approvals from the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) and NITI Aayog.
NGEL has submitted an application to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for the incorporation of a 50:50 JVC with OGL. The
JVC will venture into various renewable energy and new energy opportunities including Solar, Wind (Onshore/Offshore),
Energy Storage (Pump/Battery), Green molecule (Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Green
Methanol), E-mobility, Carbon Credits, Green Credits, etc. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NTPC + ONGC = 50:50 JVC through their green energy subsidiaries to promote interests in renewable & new energy arena
- Subsidiaries – NTPC Green Energy (NGEL) & ONGC Green Energy (OGL)
• NGEL – received statutory approvals from DIPAM & NITI Aayog | JVC agreement signed on – Feb 7, 2024
• HQs of NTPC – New Delhi | CMD – Gurdeep Singh | Founded in – 1975
• HQs of ONGC – New Delhi | Chairman & CEO – Arun Kumar Singh | Founded in – 1956
2. Cairn Oil & Gas, a Vedanta Group company, has signed an MoU with the United Nations Environment
Programme’s (UNEP) “Oil & Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) 2.0”. Cairn Oil & Gas is first in India to
join UNEP’s methane reduction initiative. The OGMP 2.0 framework supports the goals of the ‘Paris
Agreement’ and ‘Global Methane Pledge’, which targets a 30% global methane reduction by 2030. The
partnership aligns with Cairn’s goal to decarbonise operations, advancing towards Net Zero Carbon by 2030, reducing gas
flaring volumes by 60% over 4 years and optimizing processes to minimize emissions. Under the MoU, Cairn will implement
a 5-year methane reduction target and report its progress to OGMP. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cairn Oil & Gas + UNEP’s “Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0” = an MoU to implement 5-year methane reduction target
• Cairn Oil & Gas – 1st in India to join UNEP’s methane reduction initiative
• Aim (Cairn): To decarbonise operations, reducing gas flaring volumes by 60% over 4 years, among others
• HQs of Cairn Oil & Gas – Gurugram, Haryana | CEO – Ajay Dixit
3. Rajasthan government signed an MoU for the investment of Rs 3 lakh crore for setting up 60 GW
capacity solar, wind and hybrid projects with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Under this initiative,
the UAE will also appoint a qualified and competent developer who will coordinate at the level of
governance and administration in the state and will speed up the project’s implementation. The
Central government has set an ambitious target of producing 500 GW of solar energy in the country.
To achieve this target, Rajasthan will have to install solar plants of 250 GW. Rajasthan ranks 1st in
renewable energy production in India. Additionally, the Rajasthan government has signed MoUs worth Rs 2.24 thousand
crore with public sector undertakings and in a tenure of about 10 months, MoUs have been signed to set up plants of 32,000
MW. The Chief Minister also invited Suwaidi to the ‘Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit-2024’ to be held in Jaipur
from 9 to 11 December, 2024. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• Rajasthan + UAE = an MoU for investment of Rs 3 lakh Cr for setting up 60 GW capacity solar, wind & hybrid projects
• Central government set target of producing – 500 GW of solar energy in India
- For this, Rajasthan will have to install solar plants of – 250 GW
• In renewable energy production in India: 1st – Rajasthan
• Rajasthan – signed MoUs worth Rs 2.24 thousand Cr with PSUs
• In a tenure of 10 months, MoUs signed to set up plants of – 32,000 MW
• ‘Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit-2024’ – to be held in Jaipur (Dec 9-11, 2024)
• Rajasthan: Capital – Jaipur | CM – Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor – Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
4. Food delivery company Zomato has introduced a feature, called “Food Rescue”, allowing
users to buy cancelled orders at a discounted price, in an effort to reduce food wastage. As
per the company, more than 4,00,000 orders are cancelled by customers on the platform per
month for multiple reasons despite a no-refund policy. Cancelled orders will appear for
customers located within a 3 km radius of the delivery partner carrying the order. Items such
as ice creams, shakes, smoothies and certain perishable goods will not be eligible for Food Rescue. The amount paid by the
new customer will be shared with the original customer (if they made payment online) and with the restaurant partner. The
company will also compensate its delivery partners for the entire trip. In addition, Zomato rolled out various features over
the past few months such as ‘Brand Packs’, allowing users to purchase coupons for extra discounts on food delivery from
their frequently ordered restaurants. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Zomato – introduced “Food Rescue”, allowing users to buy cancelled orders at discounted price to reduce food wastage
• Orders cancelled by customers per month – 4,00,000
• Cancelled orders will appear for customers located within – 3 km radius of delivery partner
• Non-eligible items for Food Rescue – ice creams, shakes, smoothies & certain perishable goods
• HQs of Zomato – Gurugram | Founder & CEO – Deepinder Goyal | Chairman – Kaushik Dutta | Founded in – 2008
5. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina
Raimondo held the 6th “US-India Commercial Dialogue” in Washington DC, US, during which they
reviewed the progress made in semiconductors supply chains, innovation handshake, energy-
industry network and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. The two countries
signed a new MoU to expand and diversify critical minerals supply chains. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 6th “US-India Commercial Dialogue” – held in Washington DC, US
• By – Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Gina Raimondo, U.S. Commerce Secretary
• India + US = an MoU signed earlier to expand & diversify critical minerals supply chains
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6. Tata Power entered into a partnership with Noida International Airport (NIA) to supply renewable
energy to the upcoming airport in Jewar in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddha Nagar district. Tata Power
will invest Rs 550 crore to develop solar and wind power capacities and related infrastructure to
supply clean energy to NIA. Two comprehensive Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) pertaining to
wind and solar power supply were signed in New Delhi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata Power + Noida International Airport (NIA) = partnered to supply renewable energy to upcoming airport in Jewar
- Gautam Buddha Nagar district, UP
• Tata Power – to invest Rs 550 Cr to develop solar & wind power capacities to supply clean energy to NIA
• HQs of Tata Power – Mumbai | Chairman – N. Chandrasekaran | MD & CEO – Praveer Sinha
7. Andhra Pradesh government has signed an MoU with Reliance Industries for the
establishment of 500 compressed biogas (CBG) plants over the 3 years with a total investment
of around Rs 65,000 crore (Rs 130 crore per plant). All the available wastelands will be utilised
for the project. The plants would create direct and indirect employment for around 2.50 lakh
people with an estimated financial benefit of around Rs 57,650 crore over a period of 25 years
through State Goods and Service Tax (SGST) collection, electricity duty and taxes on employment. The production of around
39 lakh MT (Metric Tonne) of CBG per annum (7,800 MT per plant) will give a fillip to the State Gross Domestic Product
(SGDP) by aiding industrial growth. The maiden biofuel project in the State will be laid on December 28, 2024, at Kanigiri in
the Prakasam district and is expected to be completed in 1 year. Keerthi Chekuri, Joint Managing Director of APTRANSCO
(AP Transmission Corporation) has been appointed as the escort officer for the project. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Andhra Pradesh + Reliance Industries = an MoU to establish 500 compressed biogas (CBG) plants over 3 years
- Total investment – Rs 65,000 Cr (Rs 130 crore per plant)
• Plants would create direct & indirect employment – for ~2.50 lakh people
- Estimated financial benefit – Rs 57,650 Cr over 25 years through SGST, electricity duty & taxes on employment
• Estimated production – 39 lakh MT of CBG per annum (7,800 MT per plant)
• 1st biofuel project in state – to be laid on Dec 28, 2024 | At – Kanigiri, Prakasam district | To be completed in – 1 year
• Escort officer for the project – Keerthi Chekuri, JMD of APTRANSCO (AP Transmission Corporation)
• HQs of Reliance Industries Ltd – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Mukesh Ambani | Founded in – 1973
8. National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC), the Government of Bihar and the Bihar Industrial Area
Development Authority (BIADA) have signed the State Support Agreement (SSA) and Shareholder Agreement (SHA) for the
establishment of an Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) in Gaya, a node under the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor
(AKIC). IMC Gaya, located 39 kms south of Gaya International Airport, will cover 1,670 acres with a projected investment
potential of Rs 16,524 crore and a project cost of Rs 1,339 crore. This ambitious project is expected to create approximately
1,09,185 jobs, providing an economic boost to the local community. The cluster will also have ‘Plug n Play’ infrastructure
facilities like Common Effluent Treatment Plant, Sewage Treatment Plant, Water Treatment Plant, Solid Waste
Management, Stormwater drainage, and green landscaping to ensure environmental compliance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NICDC + Bihar + BIADA = signed State Support Agreement (SSA) & Shareholder Agreement (SHA)
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• For establishment of an Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) in Gaya, a node under Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial
Corridor (AKIC)
• IMC Gaya – to cover 1,670 acres | Investment potential – Rs 16,524 Cr | Project cost – Rs 1,339 Cr
9. Ministry of Labour & Employment has signed an MoU with TeamLease EdTech to enhance employment opportunities for
jobseekers of National Career Service (NCS) portal. Under the MoU, more than 15,000 open jobs available with TeamLease
EdTech on daily basis, will be shared with NCS portal through integration. The collaboration will also introduce work-linked
degree programs, combining academic learning with practical experience. The MoU is set for an initial period of two years.
As part of MoU, Career lounges will be established in the identified Model Career Centers, staffed with dedicated counselors
to guide job seekers on career options and programs. The NCS portal, operational since July 2015, has been a transformative
platform in the employment landscape. It is managed by the Ministry of Labour & Employment. This year, the NCS portal
crossed the milestone of 2 million active vacancies on a single day, with on an average 15 -20 lakh job opportunities listed
on the portal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoLE + TeamLease EdTech = an MoU to enhance employment opportunities for jobseekers of NCS portal for 2 years
• >15,000 open jobs available with TeamLease EdTech on daily basis – to be shared with NCS portal through integration
• Career lounges – to be established in identified Model Career Centers
• NCS portal – operational since July 2015 | Managed by – Ministry of Labour & Employment
• Minister of Labour & Employment: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Porbandar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Labour & Employment: Shobha Karandlaje
10. IIM Shillong, through its IIM Shillong Foundation for Incubation and Enterprise (IIMSFIE), has signed an MoU with the
Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). This collaboration marks a significant milestone in fostering
entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. As part of this collaboration, IIMSFIE will introduce the Skill to Enterprise
Model (STEM) Programme in partnership with SIDBI. The STEM Programme is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with
the skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to transform their innovative ideas into successful businesses. Under the
STEM programme, IIMSFIE will offer an intensive 18-month entrepreneurship training program designed for 30 selected
candidates. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIMSFIE (IIM Shillong) + SIDBI = an MoU to introduce the Skill to Enterprise Model (STEM) Programme
• To equip aspiring entrepreneurs with skills, knowledge & mentorship to transform their ideas into successful businesses
• IIMSFIE – to offer an 18-month entrepreneurship training program for 30 selected candidates
• Director of IIM Shillong – Prof D. P. Goyal
11. The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has signed a pact with online food delivery
platform, Zomato, to promote financial literacy and investor awareness programmes among the
gig economy workers. This partnership aims to launch an extensive financial literacy and investor
awareness drive, specifically designed for Zomato’s delivery partners, impacting the lives of over
50,000 gig workers across the country. As a part of the pact, fundamental aspects of personal
finance management and the basics of investing will be covered. Topics will include budgeting, saving, investing, debt
management, and insurance, among others. {Read more}
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Smart Points:
• NSE + Zomato = pact to promote financial literacy & investor awareness programmes among gig economy workers
• Aim: To launch an extensive financial literacy & investor awareness drive
• HQs of Zomato – Gurugram | Founder & CEO – Deepinder Goyal | Chairman – Kaushik Dutta | Founded in – 2008
12. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has signed an MoU with the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) and the
Mumbai Port Sustainability Foundation (MPSF) to create a state-of-the-art green fuel ecosystem at Mumbai Port. With a
focus on innovations in green fuel, the initiative seeks to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, thereby supporting the
nation’s climate objectives. The MoU aligns with BPCL’s commitment to a sustainable future, as well as its goal of reaching
Net Zero Emissions for Scope 1 and Scope 2 by 2040. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• BPCL + MbPA + MPSF = an MoU to create a state-of-the-art green fuel ecosystem at Mumbai Port
• Aim: To significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, thereby supporting the nation’s climate objectives
• HQs of BPCL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman & MD – G. Krishnakumar | Founded in – 1952
13. Maharashtra government recently signed an MoU with National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology
(NIELIT) to establish the “Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (Al), Robotics, Internet of Things (IOT), Industry 4.0,
3D Printing and Allied Technologies” for capacity training and “Research & Development Centers” at Government
polytechnic and Government Engineering college in the state. The MoU also seeks funding from Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology (MeitY) & other government organisations through joint project proposals. The Government of
Maharashtra has a total 40 Government Polytechnics and 300 private polytechnic in the State. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Maharashtra + NIELIT = an MoU to establish “CoE in Al, Robotics, IOT, Industry 4.0, 3D Printing & Allied Technologies”
for capacity training & “Research & Development Centers” at Government polytechnic & Engineering college in state
• Maharashtra – has total 40 Government Polytechnics & 300 private polytechnic colleges
• HQs of NIELIT – New Delhi | Chairman – S. Krishnan
14. India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development
of UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast, a conical structure that houses antennas
atop warships increasing their stealth characteristics, for fitment on Indian Naval warships under
the framework of the India-Japan Defence Technology Cooperation. The MoI was signed and
exchanged between the Indian Envoy to Japan Sibi George and Ishikawa Takeshi from Japan. Once
implemented, this would be the first export case of defence technology from Japan under the
bilateral agreement on defence equipment and technology transfer signed in 2015. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + Japan = an MoI for the co-development of UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast
- It is a conical structure that houses antennas atop warships increasing their stealth characteristics
• Indian Envoy to Japan – Sibi George
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Shigeru Ishiba
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15. Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, inaugurated the power flow from Nepal to
Bangladesh. This historic occasion marks the ‘first trilateral power transaction’ which has been carried out through the Indian
grid. In October, a tripartite power sales agreement between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam, Nepal Electricity Authority and
Bangladesh Power Development Board was signed in Kathmandu, to facilitate the first trilateral power transaction from
Nepal to Bangladesh, through Indian grid with an export of up to 40 MW. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Manohar Lal – inaugurated the power flow from Nepal to Bangladesh
• It marks the ‘first trilateral power transaction’ which has been carried out through the Indian grid
• An MoU = NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam + Nepal Electricity Authority + Bangladesh Power Development Board
• Nepal – Kathmandu – Nepalese Rupee | President – Ram Chandra Poudel | PM – K. P. Sharma Oli
• Bangladesh – Dhaka – Taka | President – Mohammed Shahabuddin
16. GAIL (India) Ltd has signed a 10-year Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the UAE-based ADNOC (Abu Dhabi
National Oil Company) for the delivery of up to 0.52 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of liquified natural gas (LNG) from
2026. This is the first SPA of ADNOC Gas with an Indian buyer. The LNG will be delivered in six cargoes per year from ADNOC
Gas’ Das Island natural gas facility. It is the third longest established LNG plant still in production globally. In 2023, India
ranked as the fourth-largest importer of LNG globally, with expectations for further growth in LNG imports over the next
decade. India aims to increase the share of natural gas in the country’s total primary energy mix to 15% by 2030, from about
6% today. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GAIL + ADNOC (UAE) = 10-year Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) for the delivery of up to 0.52 mtpa of LNG from 2026
• This is the first SPA of ADNOC Gas with an Indian buyer
• India ranked as the 4th-largest importer of LNG globally in 2023
• India aims to increase the share of natural gas in the country’s total primary energy mix – to 15% by 2030 (from 6%)
• HQs of GAIL – New Delhi | MD & Chairman – Sandeep Kumar Gupta | Founded in – 1984
17. State-owned Oil India Ltd (OIL) has signed a cooperation agreement with France-based
TotalEnergies for conducting methane emissions detection and measurement campaigns at its sites
in India using the TotalEnergies’s ‘Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications
(AUSEA)’ gas analyser technology. The two entities also inked a technical service agreement to
facilitate collaboration with a specific focus on drilling of stratigraphic wells in Indian offshore waters.
The agreement on access to AUSEA comes in the backdrop of OIL joining the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC),
a global industry initiative launched at COP28, co-chaired by TotalEnergies’ CEO. The charter’s ambition is to work towards
net-zero operations by 2050, as well as near-zero upstream methane emissions and zero routine flaring by 2030. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• OIL + TotalEnergies (France) = cooperation to conduct methane emissions detection & measurement campaigns at its
sites in India
- Using TotalEnergies’s ‘Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications’ gas analyser technology
• OIL + TotalEnergies = a technical service agreement to collaborate on drilling of stratigraphic wells in Indian offshore
waters
https:// /#
• Aim: To work for net-zero operations by 2050 & near-zero upstream methane emissions & zero routine flaring by 2030
• HQs of OIL – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | CMD – Ranjit Rath | Founded in – 1959
• HQs of TotalEnergies – Courbevoie, France | Chairman & CEO – Patrick Pouyanne
18. Tata Power has signed an MoU with Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC) for
the development of 5,000 MW of clean energy capacity in the Himalayan nation. The MoU was
signed between Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD of DGPC and Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD of Tata Power.
DGPC is a subsidiary of Druk Holding and Investments Ltd, the sole generation utility of Bhutan.
Through the collaboration, at least 5,000 MW of renewable energy projects; including 4,500 MW of hydropower comprising
the 1,125 MW Dorjilung HEP (hydro-electric project); 740 MW Gongri Reservoir; 1,800 MW Jeri Pumped Storage; and 364
MW Chamkharchhu IV will be developed in phases. Another 500 MW of solar projects will be developed by Tata Power
Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power. As a precursor to this collaboration, Tata Power recently acquired
a 40% stake in the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydroelectric Project. Tata Power has a robust clean and green portfolio crossing
12.9 GW (6.4 GW operational, 6.5 GW under construction) which constitutes 42% of its total capacity, and is well-positioned
to expand this to 70% by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata Power + DGPC (Bhutan) = an MoU for the development of 5,000 MW of clean energy capacity in Bhutan
• 5,000 MW of renewable energy projects will be developed in phases
- Projects include 4,500 MW of hydropower comprising: 1,125 MW – Dorjilung HEP
- 740 MW – Gongri Reservoir | 1,800 MW – Jeri Pumped Storage | 364 MW – Chamkharchhu IV
• Another 500 MW of solar projects – to be developed by TPREL
• Tata Power – acquired a 40% stake in 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydroelectric Project
• Tata Power – crossed 12.9 GW (6.4 GW operational, 6.5 GW under construction), constituting 42% of its total capacity
- To expand to – 70% by 2030
• HQs of DGPC – Thimphu, Bhutan | MD – Dasho Chhewang Rinzin
19. Karnataka government has signed 5 MoUs with global tech giants - Microsoft, Intel,
Accenture, IBM, & BFSI Consortium - for skill training in IT sector, as part of the Nipuna
Karnataka initiative, at Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024. These MoUs aim to train
1,00,000 persons in the next year with a placement of 70% of the trained professionals.
With Microsoft, the state government aims to train more than 10,000 persons annually
in emerging technology with a focus on Deep tech, while Karnataka will be collaborating
with Intel to train 20,000 persons annually in AI. Accenture will train 10,000 persons on emerging technology, like cyber
security and quantum computing, while IBM has committed to train 50,000 people on AI and Cloud services. The BFSI
Consortium will train 10,000 persons in the banking and financial sector to ensure placement in the fintech sector. The
‘Bengaluru Data Report’ was launched at the event, while a ‘Centre of Excellence on AI’ in Bengaluru to foster cutting-edge
research and development was announced. A ‘Start-up Springboard Programme’, announced at the event, is designed to
empower Karnataka’s start-ups through 3 pillars - Investor Connect, Mentor Connect, and Innoverse. Also, the Karnataka
government has released the draft of “Space Tech Policy 2024-2029”. The policy aims to capture 50% of the national market
share in the space sector and to transform Karnataka into a global destination for the sector, with 5% of the global market
share. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• Karnataka – signed 5 MoUs with Microsoft, Intel, Accenture, IBM, & BFSI Consortium for skill training in IT sector
- As part of – Nipuna Karnataka initiative | At – Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024
• Aim: To train 1,00,000 persons in the next year with a placement of 70% of the trained professionals
• These companies will train a fixed number of persons in various fields:
- Microsoft – 10,000+ persons annually in Deep tech | Intel – 20,000 persons annually in AI
- Accenture – 10,000 persons on cyber security & quantum computing | IBM – 50,000 people on AI & Cloud services
- BFSI Consortium – 10,000 persons in banking & financial sector
• ‘Bengaluru Data Report’ – launched at event
• ‘Centre of Excellence on AI’ in Bengaluru – announced to foster cutting-edge R&D
• ‘Start-up Springboard Programme’ – announced to empower Karnataka’s start-ups through 3 pillars
- Investor Connect, Mentor Connect & Innoverse
• Draft of “Space Tech Policy 2024-2029” – released
- Aim: To capture 50% of national market share in space sector & to transform Karnataka into a global destination
with 5% of global market share
20. IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation has partnered with Codenatives, a US-based IT
company, to offer ‘Salesforce B2C Commerce Developer Training Program’ for professionals. It will be
in online mode and have a duration of 70 hours of instructor-led sessions spread across eight weeks. E-
commerce continues to evolve rapidly, driven by advancements in technology and SaaS platforms like
Salesforce Commerce Cloud (SFCC). Market analysts predict global e-commerce sales will reach $7.96
trillion by 2027, reflecting an annual growth rate of 7.6%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Madras Pravartak Tech. Foundation + Codenatives (US) = partnered to offer ‘Salesforce B2C Commerce Developer
Training Program’ for professionals
• Duration – 70 hours in 8 weeks | Global e-commerce sales – to reach $7.96 trillion by 2027 (annual growth rate - 7.6%)
• Director of IIT Madras – Prof. V Kamakoti
21. National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), a constituent body of Quality Council of
India (QCI), has signed an MoU with the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), to advance quality and
consistency of diabetes care in India through the use of robust clinical and digital health standards. RSSDI is India’s largest
professional body representing over 12,000 diabetes care providers across the country. The MoU will leverage the distinctive
capabilities of NABH to drive national quality certification and accreditation programs and RSSDI’s expertise in developing
best practice clinical guidelines for diabetes management and research. NABH was set up in the year 2005. The first
accreditation programme “Hospital Accreditation” was launched in the year 2006. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NABH + RSSDI = an MoU to advance quality & consistency of diabetes care in India
• RSSDI – India’s largest professional body representing over 12,000 diabetes care providers across the country
• NABH – set up in 2005 | 1st accreditation programme “Hospital Accreditation” – launched in 2006
https:// /#
• HQs of NABH – New Delhi | CEO – Atul Mohan Kochhar | Founded – 2006 (functions under QCI)
• HQs of RSSDI – Pune, Maharashtra | President – Dr. Rakesh Sahay | SG – Dr. Sanjay Agarwal
22. NTPC Green Energy Ltd (NGEL) has signed a joint venture (JV) agreement with NREDCAP (New
& Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh) to set up renewable energy
projects worth Rs 2 lakh crore in Andhra Pradesh. The collaboration will focus on developing 25
GW solar/wind, 10 GW pumped storage projects (PSPs), and 0.5 MMTPA green hydrogen. This
historic project will also create over 1 lakh jobs. NGEL, an arm of NTPC, has recently launched its Rs 10,000 crore Initial Public
Offering (IPO) with a price band of Rs 102-108 per share. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NTPC Green Energy + NREDCAP = a JV to set up renewable energy projects worth Rs 2 lakh Cr in Andhra Pradesh
• Focus – To develop 25 GW solar/wind, 10 GW pumped storage projects (PSPs), & 0.5 MMTPA green hydrogen
• CEO of NGEL – Rajiv Gupta
23. Tata Power and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed an MoU to explore financing options
for renewable energy projects in India. ADB will provide $4.25 billion to Tata Power for clean energy
power projects. The collaboration aims to support India’s clean energy transition by funding projects
such as 966 MW solar-wind hybrid systems, pumped hydro storage, and other projects in the
pipeline around energy transition, decarbonization, and battery storage. Further, this partnership is pivotal as India
accelerates its journey toward achieving its renewable energy target of 500 GW by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tata Power & ADB = an MoU to explore financing options for renewable energy projects in India
• ADB – to provide $4.25 billion to Tata Power for clean energy power projects
• Aim: To support India’s clean energy transition by funding projects such as 966 MW solar-wind hybrid systems
• India’s renewable energy target – 500 GW by 2030
24 The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed an MoU with WinZO, India’s largest
social gaming and interactive entertainment platform. This first-of-its-kind collaboration will focus on building a robust
ecosystem of over 2,000 startups, innovators, and students, providing them with mentorship, industry insights, and access
to global opportunities. This initiative also aims to establish India as a global leader in interactive entertainment, capturing
a significant share of the $300 billion global gaming market. According to a recent USISPF report, India’s interactive
entertainment sector is projected to grow to $60 billion by 2034, creating over 2 million jobs. Besides, the essence of this
collaboration is the establishment of a Center of Excellence (CoE) by WinZO, in sync with DPIIT. Additionally, the MoU will
expand WinZO’s flagship ‘Tech Triumph Program’ (Bharat Edition), a platform for identifying and mentoring India’s top game
developers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DPIIT + WinZO = an MoU to focus on building a robust ecosystem of 2,000+ startups, innovators & students
• Aim: To establish India as a global leader in interactive entertainment, capturing share of $300 billion global gaming
market
https:// /#
• As per USISPF report, India’s interactive entertainment sector – to grow to $60 billion by 2034
• WinZO – will establish a Center of Excellence (CoE), in sync with DPIIT
• HQs of DPIIT – New Delhi | Secretary – Amardeep Singh Bhatia | Founded in – 1995 (Functions under Ministry of C&I)
• HQs of WinZO – New Delhi | CEO & Co-founder – Paavan Nanda | Founded in – 2018
25. India and the UK have signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) to co-design and co-produce electric
propulsion systems to be used in futuristic warships of the Indian Navy in sync with their aim to broad-
base cooperation in the strategic domain. The landing platform docks, planned to be built at an Indian
shipyard, are envisaged to have a fully electric propulsion system. The signing was part of the 3rd joint
working group meeting of the electric propulsion capability partnership. From the Indian side, the SoI
was signed by Joint Secretary (naval systems) Rajeev Prakash. Director of Ships Operations and Capability Integration in the
UK’s defence ministry Rear Admiral Steve McCarthy inked it from the British side. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + UK = signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) to co-design & co-produce electric propulsion systems to be used in
futuristic warships of Indian Navy
• Aim: To broad-base cooperation in strategic domain
• UK – London – Pound Sterling | PM – Keir Starmer | New King – King Charles lll
26. IREL (India) Limited (IREL), a Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) under the Department
of Atomic Energy (DAE), and Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant JSC (UKTMP JSC),
Kazakhstan, have signed an agreement to establish Indo-Kazakh joint venture company (JVC) -
IREUK Titanium Limited - for production of Ti Slag in India. The agreement was signed by Dr
Deependra Singh, CMD of IREL (India) Limited, and Assem Mamutova, President of UKTMP JSC.
The JVC will act as a catalyst in developing the Titanium value chain within India as it shall beneficiate low-grade Ilmenite
into high-grade Titanium Feedstock and also result in employment generation opportunities in the State of Odisha. The JVC
envisages synergising the strength of the respective companies by establishing a plant in the titanium value chain for
producing Titanium Slag by utilizing IREL’s Ilmenite from Odisha. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IREL (India) Ltd + UKTMP JSC = an agreement to establish ‘IREUK Titanium Limited’ for production of Ti Slag in India
• The JVC will act as a catalyst in developing the Titanium value chain within India
• It will establish a plant in the titanium value chain for producing Titanium Slag by utilizing IREL’s Ilmenite from Odisha
• HQs of IREL (India) Ltd – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CMD – Deepender Sing
27. NHPC Limited, India’s leading hydropower company, signed an MoU with the Global Green
Growth Institute (GGGI) at NHPC’s corporate office in Faridabad to advance clean energy solutions,
including agrivoltaics, green hydrogen, sustainable financing, and support India’s low-carbon
transition. The MoU was signed by NHPC Executive Director (REGH) V.R. Shrivastava and GGGI
Country Head Soumya Prasad Garnaik in the presence of NHPC Director (Personnel) Uttam Lal and GGGI Advisor D.K. Khare.
NHPC, a Navratna enterprise, operates a diverse portfolio of hydropower, solar, and wind projects. Its partnership with
GGGI, an international organization focusing on sustainable economic growth in emerging economies, is expected to
develop scalable solutions for climate resilience and green energy adoption. The initiatives align with India’s commitments
under the ‘Paris Agreement’ and NHPC’s renewable energy goals. {Read more}
https:// /#
Smart Points:
• NHPC Ltd + GGGI = an MoU to advance clean energy solutions & support India’s low-carbon transition
- Signed at – NHPC’s corporate office in Faridabad, Haryana
• HQs of NHPC – Faridabad, Haryana | MD & Chairman – Raj Kumar Chaudhary
• HQs of GGGI – Seoul, South Korea | President & Chair – Ban Ki-Moon
28. The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited for Short Refit and Dry
Docking (SRDD) of INS Vikramaditya at an overall cost of Rs 1207.5 crore. INS Vikramaditya is an
Indian Aircraft Carrier commissioned in the Indian Navy in November 2013. This project is an
important step towards the development of Cochin Shipyard Limited as a Maintenance, Repair &
Overhaul (MRO) Hub for supporting the industrial ecosystem of India with the involvement of nearly
50 MSMEs. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoD + Cochin Shipyard Ltd = contract for Short Refit & Dry Docking of INS Vikramaditya | Overall cost – Rs 1207.5 Cr
• INS Vikramaditya – an Indian Aircraft Carrier commissioned in Indian Navy in Nov 2013
• HQs of Cochin Shipyard – Kochi, Kerala | Chairman & MD – Madhu S. Nair | Incorporated in – 1972
• Minister of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Sanjay Seth
❖ Important Obituaries in November 2024:

• Bibek Debroy – a Renowned Economist & Chairman of PM’s Economic Advisory Council
• Dr Rohini Godbole – a Renowned Physicist (Padma Shri in 2019)
(She played a phenomenal role in both science and gender equality.)
• Mohanraj (Keerikkadan Jose) – a Veteran Malayalam actor
• Sharda Sinha – Popular Folk Singer (Padma Bhushan in 2018, Padma Shri in 1991, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award)
• Harinder Singh Sodhi – Former Indian Polo player (Arjuna Award)
• Aashish Khan (from Maihar Gharana) – a Legendary Sarod Maestro
(Awards: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2004, nominated for a Grammy Award in 2006)
(He formed his own Indo-jazz band "Shanti" with tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain in the 1960s.)
(Aashish Khan School of World Music - Kolkata, West Bengal)
• TP Gopalan Nambiar – Founder of British Physical Laboratories (BPL) Group
• Varadarao Kamalakara Rao – a Legendary Artist & Scholar in Mridangam
(Awards: Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award & President’s Medal)
• Harinder Singh Sodhi – Former Indian Polo Player (Arjuna Award)
(He was the manager of the Indian equestrian team during the 1980 Moscow Olympics.)
https:// /#
• Pandit Ram Narayan – a Legendary Sarangi Exponent
(Awards: Padma Shri in 1976, Padma Bhushan in 1991, Padma Vibhushan in 2005, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award,
Kalidas Samman by MP Govt, Aditya Vikram Birla Kalashikhar Puraskar)
❖ Some Important Species found in November 2024:

• “Dicliptera polymorpha”, a new fire-resilient species of plant — discovered in Northern Western Ghats
❖ Appointments of some Important Brand Ambassadors in November 2024:

• Harbhajan Singh & Sania Mirza — Brand Ambassador of Dubai Sports Council
• Gautam Gambhir — Brand Ambassador for ‘learn Karo.Cryptp karo’ campaign of CoinDCX
• D Gukesh — Brand Ambassador of RBL Bank
❖ F1 Grand Prix (GP) winners in November 2024:

• Mexico City Grand Prix 2024 — Carlos Sainz (Spain - Ferrari)
• Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 — Max Verstappen (Dutch-Belgian - Red Bull)
❖ Some Important Acquisitions & Mergers in November 2024:

• Ambuja Cements announced the signing of a binding agreement for the acquisition of 46.8% stake in Orient Cement
(OCL) at an equity value of Rs. 8,100 crore.
• Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited will acquire Standard Chartered Bank India’s personal loan book. Kotak Mahindra
Bank informed that the total outstanding loan amount was around ₹4,100 crore as of September 30, 2024. The
acquisition consists of loans classified as “Standard Loans” according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.
• L&T Technology Services Ltd announced the acquisition of US-based software and artificial intelligence (AI) firm,
Intelliswift Software Inc., for $110 million. The US-based Intelliswift Software Inc. was founded in 2001 and has
offices in India, Hungary, Canada, Singapore, and Costa Rica. Intelliswift Software (India) was established in Gujarat
in 2002.
• Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) has sold more than 2.02% stake in Tata Power Company for about Rs 2,888 crore
and reduced its holding in the company to 3.88%.
• The Air India Group has completed the operational and legal merger between Air India and Vistara, enabling
Singapore Airlines (SIA) to hold a 25.1% stake in the merged entity. Vistara was a 51:49 joint venture between the
Tata group and Singapore Airlines. Starting November 12, all Vistara aircraft will be operated under the Air India
banner, identified by a special four-digit flight code beginning with “2”.
• Delhi-based pharmaceutical major Mankind Pharma has completed the acquisition of 100% stake in Mumbai-based
Bharat Serums and Vaccines (BSV) for Rs 13,768 crore. The transaction was funded through internal accruals and
external debt, arranged through a combination of non-convertible debentures (NCDs) and commercial papers.
https:// /#
• Reliance Industries has completed the merger of Walt Disney to form a new joint venture worth Rs 70,352 crore
($8.5 billion). The JV, in which Reliance Industries has invested Rs 11,500 crore ($1.4 billion) for its growth, will be
headed by Nita Ambani as its Chairperson. Reliance Industries holds a 16.34% stake in the JV, while its step-down
unit Viacom18 holds 46.82% and Disney the rest 36.84%.
• Bharti Global, the international investment arm of Bharti Enterprises, has completed the acquisition of 24.5% of the
issued share capital of BT Group plc from Netherlands-based Altice. In August, Bharti Global had announced to buy
24.5% stake in BT Group for about $4 billion to become the single largest shareholder in Britain’s biggest broadband
and mobile company, BT Group plc.
• India’s Tata Electronics has signed a deal to buy 60% stake in Taiwanese contract manufacturer Pegatron’s only
iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu. Tata Group company could pay $150-200 million for the stake.
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has given a nod to Hinduja Group firm,
IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL), for acquisition of debt-ridden Reliance Capital Ltd (RCAP).
• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has granted approval to Alphabet’s arm, Shoreline International Holdings
LLC, to acquire a stake in Flipkart, a Walmart group firm.
❖ Do not miss to study our “Smart Topic-wise PDF” that includes following topics:
• National Parks / Wildlife Sanctuaries / Tiger Reserves
• Miscellaneous News & Current Static GK
• Books & Authors
• Appointments in One-liner form
• Awards & Recognitions in One-liner form
• India’s Ranks in various Reports/Indexes
• Venues & Themes of All Important Meetings/Summits/Conferences (It includes some extra events too.)
• MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships in One-liner form
• Important Days & Themes
• Latest GDP Predictions by various organisations
Important Books & Authors

“Bharatvakya”, biography of Dr. Bharat Balvalli Pravin Vitthal Tarde
“The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World” William Dalrymple
“Maa-Mother”
Dr Davendra Kumar Dhodawat
(Released by - Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal)
“Vision to Victory: Unleashing India’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)
Ajay Thakur
platform”
“Fearless”, autobiography of Mohinder Amarnath (Former Indian cricketer) Rajender Amarnath (co-author)
“A Wonderland of Words: Around the Word in 101 Essays” Shashi Tharoor
“Modialogue: Conversations for a Viksit Bharat” Dr. Ashwin Fernandes
https:// /#
“Friends: India’s Closest Strategic Partner”
Sreeram Chaulia
(Released by - S. Jaishankar)
“Chhaunk on Food, Economics and Society” Abhijit Banerjee
“Ratan Tata: A Life”
Thomas Mathew
(Published by - HarperCollins India)
“Speaking With Nature: The Origins of Indian Environmentalism” Ramachandra Guha
Important Days
Vigilance Awareness Week
Oct 28-Nov 3
(Theme - “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity”)
World Vegan Day
72nd Foundation Day Employee Provident Fund Organization (EPFO)
November 1
Rajyotsava Day or Karnataka Formation Day
Haryana Day
November 2 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
World Jellyfish Day
November 3
World Biosphere Reserve Day - by UNESCO
World Tsunami Awareness Day
November 5 (Theme - “Empowering the Next Generation with the Lessons of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami -
20 Years On” or “Youth and Future Generations”)
November 6 International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
Infant Protection Day
November 7 National Cancer Awareness Day
136th Birth Anniversary of Dr. C. V. Raman (Bharat Ratna in 1954)
World Radiography Day or International Day of Radiology
(Theme - “Radiographers: Seeing the Unseen”)
November 8
World Urbanism Day or World Town Planning Day
(Theme - “Homes Start with Planning”)
November 9-15 International Week of Science and Peace
National Legal Services Day
World Freedom Day
November 9
(The day commemorates the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.)
25th Foundation Day of Uttarakhand
World Immunization Day
World Science Day for Peace and Development
November 10
(Theme - "Youth at the Forefront")
World Public Transport Day
World Quality Week
November 11-15
(Theme - “Quality: From Compliance to Performance”)
National Education Day
(The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education
November 11
Minister of independent India.)
103rd Foundation Day of Tamilnad Mercantile Bank
World Pneumonia Day
November 12
(Theme - “Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in its Track”)
https:// /#
Public Service Broadcasting Day or Jan Prasaran Diwas
(The day commemorates the first and only visit of Mahatma Gandhi to the studio of the All India
Radio.)
November 13 World Kindness Day
World Children’s Day - only in India (135th birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru)
(Theme - “Listen to the Future. Stand up for Children’s Rights.”)
World Usability Day (2nd Thursday of Nov)
November 14 (Theme - “Designing for a Better World”)
World Diabetes Day
(WHO Theme - “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”)
(UN Theme - “Diabetes and well-being”)
National Newborn Week
November 15-21
(Theme - “Safety, Quality and Nurturing care - Birth Right of Every Newborn”)
Foundation Day of Jharkhand (founded in 2000)
Guru Nanak Jayanti or Guru Purab or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav (555th birth anniversary)
(He is the founder of Sikhism & the 1st of the 10 Sikh Gurus.)
November 15 National Tribal Pride Day or Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a brave
tribal leader & freedom fighter)
International Day for the Prevention of and Fight against All Forms of Transnational Organized
Crime
National Press Day
November 16 (Theme - “Changing Nature of the Press”)
International Day for Tolerance
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (3rd Sunday in Nov)
(Theme - “Remember. Support. Act.”)
National Epilepsy Day (Symbol of Epilepsy Awareness - Purple Ribbon)
November 17
(Theme - “Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey”)
International Students’ Day
(October 15 - World Students’ Day)
World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week
November 18-24
(Theme - “Educate. Advocate. Act now.”)
World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence
(CHILDLINE – 1098)
November 18
7th National Naturopathy Day (by Ministry of AYUSH)
(Theme - “Naturopathy for Healthy Aging and Longevity”)
World Heritage Week
November 19-25
(Theme - “Discover and Experience Diversity”)
International Men’s Day
(Theme - “Positive Male Role Models”)
World Toilet Day
November 19 (Theme - “Toilets - A Place for Peace” & “Sanitation for Peace”)
National Integration Day or Quami Ekta Diwas
(The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi.)
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
World Children’s Day (globally)
November 20 (Theme - “Listen to the Future. Stand up for Children’s Rights.”)
(This day was observed on November 14 in India.)
https:// /#
World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day
(Theme - “Know Your Lung Function”)
Africa Industrialization Day
World Television Day
(Theme - “Accessibility”)
World Fisheries Day
November 21
(Theme - “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Small-Scale and Sustainable Fisheries”)
World Philosophy Day (3rd Thursday of Nov) - by UNESCO
(Focus: “Philosophy: Bridging Social Gaps”)
Fibonacci Day
November 23 (The day honors one of the most influential mathematicians of the Middle Ages, Leonardo
Bonacci.)
World Conjoined Twins Day
November 24 (Theme - “Together as One: Celebrating Unity and Individuality”)
Lachit Diwas (by Assam)
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
November 25
(Theme - “No Excuse”)
National Milk Day
(The day marks 103rd birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, “Father of the White Revolution in
November 26 India”.)
Constitution Day or Samvidhan Divas or National Law Day
World Sustainable Transport Day
Red Planet Day
November 28
(The day commemorates ‘Mariner 4’ spacecraft’s launch to Mars in 1964.)
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
November 29
International Jaguar Day
November 30 Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare
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38. 24 coastal villages in Odisha were recognised by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic

13. The “Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor” has become operational

6. According to data shared by the National Payments Corporation of India

7. Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister JP Nadda has launched a Rs

9. IIT Ropar has participated in “VIVIBHA 2024”, a distinguished three-day national

5. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released a

❖ Important Obituaries in November 2024:

❖ Some Important Species found in November 2024:

❖ Appointments of some Important Brand Ambassadors in November 2024:

❖ F1 Grand Prix (GP) winners in November 2024:

❖ Some Important Acquisitions & Mergers in November 2024:

Important Books & Authors

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