Main Point :-   (i) India’s life expectancy rose significantly from 58.6 years in 1990 to 72 years in 2023, marking a new high.

      (ii) The average years of schooling in India have increased from 8.2 in 1990 to 13 years in 2023.

(iii) India’s Gross National Income (GNI) has increased by over 53%, from USD 2,167.22 in 1990 to USD 9,046.76 in 2023.

      - The exercise will cover multiple operational areas including Disaster Response Coordination, Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, Medical Assistance, and Logistical Support. It also involves Joint Drills and Training Sessions along with Community Engagement activities during simulated disaster scenarios.

Main Point :-   (i) The MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2025 during his visit to Mauritius. It builds on the earlier SAGAR doctrine (2015) and broadens its scope to include enhanced regional cooperation, especially among Global South nations.

      (ii) India is the primary training partner of MNDF, having trained over 1,500 Maldivian personnel in the last ten years. Since 2019, India has supported the Maldives in conducting over 630 MEDEVACs, SAR operations, and air surveillance missions, showcasing strong bilateral cooperation.

(iii) India continues to strengthen MNDF capabilities through infrastructure support. Key contributions include the development of the Composite Training Centre, the installation of a Coastal Radar System, and the construction of the "Ekatha" Harbour, which was inaugurated in 2023.

      - Nicaragua, which became one of UNESCO’s 194 member states in 1952, will officially end its 74-year membership on December 31, 2026, in accordance with UNESCO’s constitution.

Main Point :-   (i) La Prensa, officially known as La Prensa – El Diario de los Nicaragüenses, was founded in 1926 and is based in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua. Since 2021, after its leaders were imprisoned and expelled and its assets were confiscated, the newspaper has continued operating online from exile. Most of its team now works from Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, Germany, and the United States.

      (ii) The UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize was established in 1997. It recognizes individuals or organizations that have shown exceptional commitment to defending and promoting press freedom. The award is especially focused on those working under dangerous or challenging conditions.

(iii) The prize is named in honor of Guillermo Cano Isaza, a Colombian journalist. He was assassinated in 1986 because of his courageous journalism and outspoken criticism of drug cartels. His legacy represents the global struggle for press freedom.

Main Point :-   (i) The report emphasized that India continues to be one of the most challenging major economies in terms of IPR protection and enforcement.

      (ii) The report flagged ongoing patent-related issues in India, particularly concerning revocations and the inconsistent application of patentability criteria under the Indian Patents Act, 1970, which the USTR warns could negatively impact multiple sectors.

(iii) In addition to the 'Priority Watch List', the USTR also placed 18 countries on the 'Watch List'. These include: Algeria, Barbados, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Guatemala, Pakistan, Paraguay, Peru, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, and Vietnam. These nations are noted for IPR challenges that require continued bilateral engagement.

      - The agreement is expected to strengthen India-USA strategic relations and significantly improve maritime surveillance capabilities, contributing to peace and stability in the region.

Main Point :-   (i) The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), under the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), recently notified the U.S. Congress about the proposed Foreign Military Sale to India. The key components of the sale include SeaVision software (with requested enhancements), documentation access, remote software and analytic support, Technical Assistance Field Team (TAFT) training, and additional logistical and program support services.

      (ii) The primary contractor for this proposed deal is Hawkeye 360, a U.S.-based defence company headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. The firm will play a central role in delivering the software systems and training required to support India's maritime operations.

(iii) Strategically, the deal aims to enhance India's maritime domain awareness, improve its analytical capabilities, and strengthen its overall strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific. It also supports the foreign policy and national security goals of the USA, reinforcing defence ties with India, which is recognized as a Major Defence Partner.

Main Point :-   (i) W-Power Launched in 2017, this initiative seeks to spotlight self-made women who have forged their own paths to success, acting as role models for future generations.

      (ii) The Forbes India editorial team curated the list using both primary and secondary research, focusing on entrepreneurs and professionals without inherited wealth or privileged positions.

(iii) Key evaluation metrics included a combination of financial success, influence and leadership, innovation, and societal impact, which collectively highlighted the honorees' ability to drive change, inspire others, and create lasting value across their respective fields.

      - Italy's new entry is Mur Geopark, while Norway added The Fjord Coast. South Korea (Republic of Korea) contributed two sites — Danyang and Gyeongbuk Donghaean. Making its debut, Saudi Arabia had North Riyadh and Salma included in the list. Other additions include Costa Quebrada from Spain, Arran from the United Kingdom of England and Northern Ireland, and Lang Son from Vietnam.

Main Point :-   (i) With these additions, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network now includes 229 sites across 50 countries, covering a total area of approximately 855,000 square kilometers.

      (ii) UNESCO Global Geoparks serve as models for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, support educational initiatives, and promote sustainable tourism.

(iii) To maintain standards, each Geopark undergoes a revalidation process every four years. A green card confirms the site's renewal for four years, while a yellow card grants renewal for two years. Among the 39 sites reviewed, 33 received green cards and 6 received yellow cards.

      - The story revolves around a 23-year-old Nigerian footballer, Ahmed, who initially came to play seven-a-side games in the city but unexpectedly transitioned into acting.

Main Point :-   (i) The 23-minute experimental film was created as part of an academic project for the Department of Producing for Film and Television at SRFTI. It uniquely blends the Yoruba and Bengali languages.

      (ii) SRFTI, established in 1995, is a premier autonomous institution dedicated to film and television education in India. It is named after the legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray and is located in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).

Main Point :-   (i) The initiative builds upon FAO’s AIM4Forests, utilizing advanced tools such as the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM) to improve restoration monitoring and reporting efforts.

      (ii) It directly supports Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

(iii) The initiative addresses data gaps identified by a Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) survey, revealing that 80% of countries lack the technical skills needed to track restoration.

      - The report reflects on past achievements and key lessons, while charting a path forward to fulfill the commitments of the Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action (1995) and to accelerate progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Main Point :-   (i) Around 60% of the global population is affected by economic insecurity, while more than 690 million people continue to live in extreme poverty.

      (ii) Climate change is causing widespread disruptions and is expected to diminish livelihood opportunities for future generations. While low-income countries bear the brunt of environmental degradation, it is the high-income countries that contribute most to pollution.

(iii) The erosion of social cohesion is weakening societies’ ability to take collective action, posing a serious threat to social progress and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Main Point :-   (i) The report highlights the urgent need for large-scale investments to modernize and interconnect power grids across developing nations in Asia and the Pacific, to effectively realize the benefits of the energy transition.

      (ii) Clean energy investments in developing Asia grew by over 900% between 2013 and 2023, reaching USD 729.4 billion in 2023 — accounting for 45% of global clean energy investments.

(iii) According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), an estimated USD 23 billion per year in concessional funding is required for India, ASEAN countries, and other Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) to unlock private capital for the energy transition.

      - India retained its position as the 5th-largest military spender, investing USD 86.1 billion, marking a 1.6% increase from the previous year.

Main Point :-   (i) The top five military spenders – USA, China, Russia, Germany, and India – accounted for 60% of global military expenditure, with a combined total of USD 1635 billion.

      (ii) Over 100 countries increased their military spending in 2024, with the share of global GDP devoted to military expenditure rising to 2.5%.

Main Point :-   (i) The primary objective of this initiative is to assist coastal communities in creating and managing MPAs by eliminating barriers that hinder their conservation efforts.

      (ii) Revive Our Ocean has also formed the Revive Our Ocean Collective, uniting local leaders and successful community organizations to promote collaborative marine protection.

(iii) Initially, the programme will focus on seven countries: United Kingdom (UK), Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Philippines, Indonesia, Mexico.

      - The Ebola strain involved in this outbreak was the SVD subtype, which, in past outbreaks, has had a fatality rate of 4 in 10 people infected.

Main Point :-   (i) SVD is a severe disease caused by the Sudan virus (SUDV), which belongs to the same family as the Ebola Virus (EBOV). SUDV was first identified in southern Sudan in June 1976.

      (ii) Prior to this outbreak, there had been 8 previous outbreaks caused by SUDV, with 5 occurring in Uganda and 3 in Sudan. Uganda last reported an SVD outbreak in 2022.

Main Point :-   (i) During the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting 2025, Union MoS Sushri Karandlaje highlighted India's human-centric approach to technological transformation, aligning with Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's vision of "Technology for Empowerment, Not Exclusion".

      (ii) During the meeting, a progressive declaration was adopted, focusing on two vital themes: the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the future of work, and the need for a just, inclusive transition in response to climate change challenges.

Main Point :-   (i) The report highlighted that India has made significant strides in poverty reduction, with employment growth outpacing the working-age population since 2021-22.

      (ii) The report also indicated that the decline in India's extreme poverty rate was highest in rural areas, where it dropped from 18.4% to 2.8%. Urban extreme poverty decreased from 10.7% to 1.1%, narrowing the rural-urban poverty gap from 7.7% to just 1.7%, reflecting a 16% Year-on-Year (Y-o-Y) decrease.

(iii) According to the World Bank's findings, India's employment rates, especially among women, are increasing. Urban unemployment dropped to 6.6% in the 1st Quarter (Q1) of Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), the lowest since 2017-18.

Main Point :-   (i) The Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Government of Punjab, has been requested to issue an order for the winding up of the bank and appoint a liquidator for the bank.

      (ii) On liquidation, each depositor is entitled to receive a deposit insurance claim up to Rs. 5 lakh under the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) Act, 1961.

(iii) According to the data submitted by the bank to the RBI, 97.79% of depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC. As of January 31, 2025, DICGC has already paid Rs. 541 crore of the total insured deposits.

Main Point :-   (i) This latest edition ranked 853 universities from 35 countries/territories, up from 739 universities in 2024, evaluating their research, teaching, knowledge transfer, and international outlook.

      (ii) Among India's top 10 universities, only two Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) — IIT-Indore (Madhya Pradesh), ranked 131st, and IIT-Guwahati (Assam), ranked 184th — featured on the list.

(iii) Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, with an overall score of 48.1, ranked 146th (up from 150th in 2024), and emerged as the highest-ranked private university in India for the second consecutive year.

Main Point :-   (i) A 2023 study showed that between 2000 and 2019, the world suffered at least USD 2.8 trillion in climate-related damages, amounting to nearly USD 16 million every hour.

      (ii) Vulnerable countries, despite being least responsible for global greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), are most affected by climate change. For instance, the 2022 floods in Pakistan impacted 33 million people and caused economic damages close to USD 30 billion.

(iii) The Santiago Network was established in 2019 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to bring together organizations, networks, and experts to support the implementation of solutions that avert, minimize, and address loss and damage due to climate change. Its secretariat is co-hosted by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Main Point :-   (i) During the visit, PM Narendra Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held official talks and co-chaired the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC).

      (ii) The SPC decided to establish a new Ministerial Committee focused on Defence Cooperation, Tourism, and Cultural Cooperation.

(iii) India and Saudi Arabia signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during PM Modi's visit, aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Main Point :-   (i) The machine melts the gold at temperatures above 1,200°C, performs real-time purity analysis, and calculates the payout amount based on the current market price of gold.

      (ii) A service charge of 18 yuan per gram (approximately ₹210) is deducted from the total value before the amount is transferred to the seller’s bank account.

(iii) This initiative marks a major step toward digital financial innovation in precious metals, bringing convenience, speed, and transparency to gold-to-cash transactions in China.

      - The APMU functions as a specialized entity that oversees the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) program.

Main Point :-   (i) The ABP program involves continuous monitoring of athletes' biological indicators, such as blood parameters and hormone levels, to identify possible doping practices without directly detecting banned substances.

      (ii) The launch of the APMU reflects India’s commitment to ensuring clean, fair, and transparent sporting practices.

(iii) The Athlete Biological Passport Operating Guidelines were introduced by WADA and have been in effect since 1 December 2009.

Main Point :-   (i) The Letters of Intent (LoIs) were signed with several renowned Japanese companies to facilitate the development of the proposed 'Eco Town' in Hyderabad. The companies involved include EX Research Institute Limited, P9 Limited Liability Company (LLC), Nippon Steel Engineering Co., Ltd., New Chemical Trading Co., Ltd., and Amita Holdings Co., Ltd..

      (ii) These collaborations aim to strengthen efforts in environmental restoration, recycling, and waste management through innovative Japanese technologies and practices.

(iii) In addition to these agreements, Toshiba Transmission Distribution Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd. (TTDI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation (Japan), announced a major investment of ₹562 crore in Telangana. This investment will be used to set up a new manufacturing facility for surge arresters and expand existing infrastructure for transformers and gas-insulated switchgear at the company’s plant located in Rudraram, Telangana.

      - Snow Persistence refers to the number of days snow remains on the ground after snowfall. It plays a critical role in maintaining the water supply, river flow, and ecological balance in snow-fed regions like the HKH.

Main Point :-   (i) The HKH Snow Update Report 2025 reveals alarming trends in snow persistence across major South Asian river basins. In the Ganga Basin, snow persistence peaked at +30.2% in 2015 but sharply declined to a 23-year low of just 24.1% in 2025, posing threats to early-summer river flows. Similarly, the Indus Basin, which saw a peak of +19.5% in 2020, experienced a drastic drop to -24.5% in 2024 and further plummeted to -27.9% in 2025, marking its lowest in two decades.

      (ii) In the Brahmaputra Basin, snow persistence that peaked at +27.7% in 2019 steadily declined to 27.9% in 2025. This trend raises concerns over the region’s water-dependent sectors like hydropower generation and agriculture. Meanwhile, the Tibetan Plateau, known as the source of many North Indian rivers, saw snow levels plunge from a significant +92.4% in 2022 to a worrying -29.1% in 2025, highlighting its growing climate vulnerability.

(iii) Other regional basins have also shown sharp reductions. The Mekong Basin recorded the most severe drop at -51.9%, closely followed by the Salween Basin at -48.3%. The Yangtze River Basin (Vangtze) also showed a notable decline at -26.3%. These findings underscore the regional scale of snow loss and its potential implications for water security, agriculture, and ecosystems across Asia.

      - According to the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) report, only 93 out of 187 countries have legislation, compulsory standards, or norms regulating school food and beverages. It was further revealed that only 29% of these countries have measures to restrict food and beverage marketing in schools.

Main Point :-   (i) The report showed that in 30 low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), food and nutrition education in schools is mainly integrated through extracurricular activities or project-based initiatives rather than as a standalone subject across the curriculum.

      (ii) The report highlighted that only 3 out of 28 countries regularly assess changes in attitudes, perceptions, knowledge, and practices related to food and nutrition. It also noted that 72% of countries have some restrictions on food marketing on school grounds, while 52% have national-level restrictions on food permitted near schools. This indicates a need for more comprehensive and consistent policies to promote better student health worldwide.

(iii) India's school meal program, now called PM-POSHAN, was nationalized in 2001 after a Supreme Court order, showing that children who received meals throughout primary school scored 18% higher in reading and 9% higher in math. Tamil Nadu, which pioneered school meals in 1925, introduced a breakfast program in 2022, increasing attendance from 60-70% to 90-95%.

      - In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe signed an agreement to manufacture Shinkansen trains in India under the "Make in India" initiative, facilitating the transfer of Japanese high-speed rail technology to India.

Main Point :-   (i) The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor (MAHSRC) is being developed by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), a subsidiary of Indian Railways. Once completed, the corridor will enable bullet trains to run at speeds of up to 320 km/h, marking India’s entry into high-speed rail infrastructure.

      (ii) The donated Shinkansen trains include the E5 and E3 series. The E5 Series, introduced by East Japan Railway Company in 2011, is known for its aerodynamic design, advanced safety, and superior ride quality. The E3 Series, an older model used for mini-shinkansen services, is recognized for its efficient performance and reliability.

(iii) The India-Japan collaboration stems from an agreement signed in 2016 between PM Narendra Modi and former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, promoting high-speed rail technology transfer through the "Make in India" initiative. The trial data from the E5 and E3 series will help in the future indigenous production of the E10 (Alfa-X) series trains, capable of reaching speeds up to 400 km/h. The project is financially supported by around 80% low-interest yen loans from the Japanese government, and negotiations are underway for further loan frameworks to introduce the E10 trains.

      - This exercise aims to foster better coordination and joint operations, allowing air forces from diverse nations to refine their combat techniques and share valuable insights, strengthening global defense partnerships.

Main Point :-   (i) India’s participation in Exercise Desert Flag-10 involves the deployment of MiG-29 and Jaguar fighter aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF). The primary objectives of India’s involvement include conducting complex and diverse fighter engagements in a multinational environment, exchanging operational knowledge and mission planning strategies with global air forces, and enhancing interoperability. Additionally, the exercise provides an opportunity to build mutual trust with partner nations.

      (ii) India's strong defence cooperation with the UAE is highlighted through regular engagements such as annual Defence Dialogue and the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC). This collaboration also includes naval and military training exchanges, along with regular port calls, strengthening the defense ties between the two nations.

(iii) To facilitate deeper defence engagements, India has posted a resident Defence Adviser (DA) at the Indian Embassy in UAE since March 2013. These efforts align with the shared vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to deepen defence, energy, and security cooperation between India and the UAE.

      - Currently, the shipping industry contributes to 3% of global GHG emissions.

Main Point :-   (i) The new carbon tax framework is expected to be formally adopted in October 2025, after which it will become mandatory for large ocean-going ships exceeding 5,000 gross tonnage, which currently contribute to 85% of total Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions from international shipping. The carbon tax will officially be enforced from 2028, marking a significant regulatory step for the maritime industry.

      (ii) Under this framework, ships will be required to either transition to low-emission fuels or pay emission fees ranging from USD 100 to USD 380 per tonne, depending on their pollution levels. This pricing mechanism aims to push shipping companies towards cleaner energy alternatives while placing financial responsibility on higher emitters.

(iii) Since the shipping sector was not included under the 2015 Paris Agreement, this legally binding global carbon tax represents a major milestone in addressing emissions from the maritime domain. The initiative is projected to generate USD 30–40 billion in revenues by 2030, averaging USD 10 billion annually, all of which will be dedicated to decarbonizing the shipping industry. However, the framework is expected to cut CO2 emissions by only 10% by 2030, falling short of the IMO's target of a minimum 20% reduction.

      - The commemorative event was organised by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, showcasing India's pride in celebrating Dr. Ambedkar's life and ideals on an international stage. The event was also attended by Dr. Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State (MoS), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), Government of India.

Main Point :-   (i) Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born on 14 April 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, India. He played a transformative role in shaping modern India, particularly in championing the rights of marginalized communities and promoting inclusive governance.

      (ii) As the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constituent Assembly, Dr. Ambedkar is hailed as the Architect of the Indian Constitution. The Drafting Committee originally consisted of seven members: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar, K. M. Munshi, Mohammad Saadulla, Madhava Rao (who replaced B.L. Mitter), and T.T. Krishnamachari (who replaced D.P. Khaitan).

(iii) A tireless social reformer, Dr. Ambedkar led campaigns against caste-based discrimination and worked extensively for Dalit rights, women’s empowerment, and labour reforms. His slogan, "Educate, Agitate, Organize," continues to inspire human rights movements across the globe, cementing his legacy as a universal symbol of equality and justice.

      - During his visit to Rome, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Defence (MoD), co-chaired the 11th India-Italy Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting along with Luisa Riccardi, Secretary General of Defence, Republic of Italy. The meeting aimed at enhancing strategic cooperation between both nations in key defence areas.

Main Point :-   (i) The JDC meeting highlighted crucial topics such as strengthening maritime security and improving information-sharing under the Trans Regional Maritime Network (T-RMN). Both sides also addressed regional security challenges in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), and discussed deeper collaboration in defence technology, armament production, and industrial tie-ups.

      (ii) Rajesh Kumar Singh also participated in the India-Italy Defence Industry Roundtable held in Italy. This event served as a platform for key stakeholders from both countries to explore industrial partnerships and collaborative opportunities in the defence manufacturing sector.

(iii) A key outcome of the roundtable was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), based in New Delhi, and the Federation of Italian Companies for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD), based in Rome. The MoU aims to boost cooperation in defence R&D, facilitate technology transfer, encourage joint production, and promote Business-to-Business (B2B) collaborations between Indian and Italian industries.

      - It was followed by Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in the USA, securing the 2nd and 3rd ranks, respectively.

Main Point :-   (i) According to ACI World’s latest preliminary data, global passenger traffic reached nearly 9.5 billion in 2024, reflecting a 9% increase over 2023 and a 3.8% rise compared to pre-pandemic (2019) levels.

      (ii) The world’s top 10 busiest airports collectively accounted for 855 million passengers or 9% of total global traffic, showing an 8.8% increase over 2023 and 8.4% over 2019.

Main Point :-   (i) The report was prepared by the ASPIRE team (Atlas of Social Protection Indicators of Resilience and Equity) of the World Bank, in collaboration with departments focused on social safety nets, labour, skills development, and pensions.

      (ii) An analysis covering 73 countries, including LICs, MICs, and High-Income Countries (HICs), showed that between 2010 and 2022, social protection coverage increased by 10 percentage points, rising from 41% to 51% of the population.

(iii) Over the past decade, social protection systems in LICs and MICs have expanded to cover approximately 4.7 billion people—equivalent to three out of every four individuals. However, 1.6 billion people still remain uncovered, underscoring the massive gap that still needs to be addressed.

      - The Committee on Governance was established in November 2024 through a resolution passed during the 92nd General Assembly of INTERPOL, held in Glasgow, United Kingdom (UK).

Main Point :-   (i) The committee is assigned to monitor reviews of INTERPOL’s statutes, regulations, and related documents, and to propose necessary amendments or clarifications for improved clarity and relevance.

      (ii) It consists of high-level experts in governance and international law from member states, enabling diverse and inclusive participation in the committee’s activities.

(iii) The committee also offers guidance to the General Assembly on interpreting and improving INTERPOL’s foundational legal frameworks, thereby ensuring greater transparency and operational efficiency.

      - President Murmu was honoured with the ‘City Key of Honour’ of Lisbon City by Carlos Moedas, the Mayor of Lisbon. This recognition made her an honorary citizen of Lisbon, highlighting the growing goodwill between the two nations.

Main Point :-   (i) As part of the diplomatic celebrations, the Presidents of India and Portugal jointly launched commemorative postage stamps to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties, symbolizing the historical and cultural friendship between both nations.

      (ii) In the second leg, from April 9–10, 2025, President Murmu visited Slovakia at the invitation of Peter Pellegrini, the President of Slovakia. The visit underlined India’s commitment to deepening its strategic and economic engagements with the Slovak Republic.

(iii) During the Slovakia visit, President Murmu was presented with a Slovak translation of the ancient Indian texts—the Upanishads by the Slovak President. She also received an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa, Dr. h. c.) from Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, and two MoUs were signed between India and Slovakia to foster cooperation in key sectors of mutual interest.

Main Point :-   (i) The 6-day multilateral maritime exercise witnessed participation from various African nations, including Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, and South Africa (SA).

      (ii) From India, INS Chennai (destroyer) and INS Kesari (large platform) arrived at Dar-es-Salaam to take part in the exercise.

(iii) Additionally, INS Sunayna, renamed as Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, departed from Karwar Naval Base on April 5, 2025, and will also participate in the exercise.

Main Point :-   (i) During the WG meeting, India and Russia agreed on 6 new strategic projects to enhance bilateral investment cooperation. The co-chairs of the session also signed a protocol highlighting these projects' strategic importance and reviewed the outcomes of the 7th session of IRWG-PIP. These initiatives aim to strengthen mutual investments, sector-specific partnerships, and deepen economic ties.

      (ii) Both countries discussed initiatives to bolster their bilateral economic ties, reaffirming their commitment to expand investment collaboration across key sectors.

(iii) The India-Russia Investment Forum 2025 was organized by Invest India (Delhi), under the DPIIT (MoC&I), in collaboration with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) (Kolkata) and the Ministry of Economic Development, Russia. The forum saw strong participation from over 80 stakeholders, including business leaders, financial institutions, logistics firms, trade bodies, and senior officials from both countries.

Main Point :-   (i) Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi was ranked 32nd and was also named the Best Airport in India and South Asia for 2025.

      (ii) Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru was ranked 48th. It was also awarded the title of Best Regional Airport in India & South Asia. KIA’s T2 terminal received a Skytrax 5-star airport terminal rating, making it the first airport in India to achieve this rating.

(iii) Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad was ranked 56th. GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL), which operates RGIA, was honoured with the 'Best Airport Staff in India & South Asia 2025' award for the fourth consecutive time.

Main Point :-   (i) During the meeting, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional agricultural cooperation and highlighted the alignment of BIMSTEC with India's 'Neighbourhood First' and 'Act East' policies.

      (ii) India proposed the establishment of a BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Agriculture Cooperation, focusing on accurate farming, natural and organic agriculture, climate risk mitigation, gender equality, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture.

(iii) On the sidelines of the meeting, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Ramnath Adhikari, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development of Nepal, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance agricultural cooperation, further strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Nepal.

      - Under the recently signed Country Partnership Framework (CPF), a Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) will be formulated to implement solar energy projects specific to Mauritius’s requirements. The key focus areas include floating solar, rooftop solar systems, solar-powered water pumps, agrivoltaics, and green hydrogen technologies.

Main Point :-   (i) The CPF aims to support Mauritius in its transition to clean energy through a country-specific roadmap aligned with its national development goals. This collaboration will help enhance energy security and sustainability.

      (ii) The CPF also proposes the establishment of a Solar Technology Application Resource Centre (STAR-C) in Mauritius. This centre will serve as a hub for innovation, capacity building, and investment promotion in solar energy technologies.

(iii) Mauritius has previously partnered with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) under the ISA CARES initiative. A significant outcome of this was the solarisation of Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in June 2024, improving sustainability in the healthcare sector. The CPF was signed during the Global SolarX Accelerator Programme—an ISA initiative in partnership with Business Mauritius—aimed at accelerating solar startups across Africa and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions.

      - NASA collaboration will give Bangladesh access to advanced space technologies, satellite systems, and scientific research tools.

Main Point :-   (i) The Dhaka-based Bangladesh Space Research and Remote Sensing Organisation (SPARRSO), established in 1980, will benefit from technical aid in developing satellites for disaster management (e.g., cyclones, floods).

      (ii) Students and scientists from Bangladesh will gain global collaboration opportunities and access to NASA training and exchange programs.

(iii) With this move, Bangladesh joins 53 countries—including the USA, India, Japan, and the UAE—committed to responsible and transparent space exploration.

      - In terms of access to finance, India stood at 70th, reflecting areas of both progress and potential improvement.

Main Point :-   (i) Among the top 5 countries globally, four were developed nations: the United States of America (1st), Sweden (2nd), Netherlands (3rd), and Switzerland (4th).

      (ii) Singapore secured the 5th position, making it the only Asian country featured in the top five rankings.

(iii) According to the 2025 Technology and Innovation Report by UNCTAD, in 2023, only two developing countries made notable private investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI). China ranked 2nd globally, investing approximately USD 7.8 billion, while India secured the 10th position, with AI investments worth USD 1.4 billion. This highlights the growing emphasis on AI development in emerging economies.

      - The report highlights key threats to regional resilience, including slower productivity growth, high public debt risks, and increasing trade tensions, while emphasizing the critical need for governments to strike a balance between promoting economic growth and achieving sustainability amidst the growing climate-related challenges.

Main Point :-   (i) The survey analyzed 30 Asia-Pacific countries and identified 11, including Afghanistan, Cambodia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam, as particularly vulnerable to climate risks. These nations face heightened risks due to their reliance on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, fossil fuels, and coastal economies.

      (ii) India's Real GDP growth is projected to increase to 6.5% in 2025, up from 6.2% in 2024, with inflation expected to ease to 4.3%.

(iii) By 2026, India's GDP growth is forecast to reach 6.6%, backed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals, while inflation is anticipated to decrease further to 4%.

      - Key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit to boost collaboration in strategic sectors.

Main Point :-   (i) PM Narendra Modi visited Sri Lanka from April 5–6, 2025, on the official invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. This marked his fourth official visit to Sri Lanka, following earlier visits in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

      (ii) During a special ceremony held in Colombo, PM Modi was conferred with Sri Lanka’s highest civilian award, the ‘Mithra Vibhushana’, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations.

(iii) The visit included high-level talks with President Dissanayake and the signing of several MoUs in strategic sectors such as defence, energy, digital infrastructure, healthcare, and trade, aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.

      - The main mandate of ISAR is to help member states improve the quality and international comparability of financial reporting. It also covers non-financial disclosures, focusing on critical areas like environmental sustainability, corporate governance, and corporate social responsibility (CSR), ensuring that companies provide holistic and transparent reports to stakeholders.

Main Point :-   (i) ISAR consists of 34 formal member countries, each serving a three-year term. The representation is regionally balanced with 9 members from Africa, 7 from Asia, 6 from Latin America, 3 from Eastern Europe, and 9 from Western Europe and other states. This structure ensures diverse and inclusive perspectives on global accounting standards.

      (ii) ISAR organizes elections twice every three years, usually around April or May. Member countries are selected without financial obligations, making participation accessible and focused purely on knowledge-sharing and global cooperation. India’s acclamation reflects its widespread support and respect within the international financial reporting community.

(iii) Current ISAR members include a wide range of countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, China, Russia, Brazil, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Mexico, Philippines, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This diverse membership enables ISAR to address varied regional issues and contribute to the global harmonization of corporate reporting standards.

      - As of March 2025, only two countries—Burundi and the Philippines—have officially withdrawn from the ICC. Hungary’s move adds a new chapter in ICC history, raising concerns about international accountability and the future participation of EU nations in global justice mechanisms.

Main Point :-   (i) In November 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes in Gaza. These charges relate to Israel’s military retaliation following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel, which killed about 1,200 people and saw over 250 hostages taken.

      (ii) As an ICC member, Hungary is required to act on ICC warrants, including arresting accused individuals. However, due to its strong political and diplomatic support for Israel, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declared Hungary would not arrest Netanyahu, creating a direct conflict with ICC obligations.

(iii) To avoid violating ICC rules while maintaining its alliance with Israel, Hungary announced its decision to withdraw from the ICC in April 2025. Once the formal withdrawal notice is submitted, Hungary will become the first European Union (EU) country to leave the ICC.

      - The Summit followed the 25th Session of the BIMSTEC Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) on 2 April 2025 and the 20th Session of the Ministerial Meeting (MM) of BIMSTEC on 3 April 2025 in Bangkok.

Main Point :-   (i) One of the major outcomes of the summit was the launch of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, the first-ever vision document of BIMSTEC, which charts a strategic roadmap to build a "PRO BIMSTEC" (Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC) by 2030.

      (ii) Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a comprehensive 21-point action plan to boost regional cooperation. Key proposals included a pilot study on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), linking India’s UPI with BIMSTEC payment systems, hosting the BIMSTEC Athletics Meet in 2025, and organizing the first BIMSTEC Games in 2027, coinciding with BIMSTEC’s 30th anniversary.

(iii) Following the Summit, Bangladesh, a founding member of BIMSTEC, took over the Chairmanship of BIMSTEC for a 2-year term, succeeding Thailand.

      - India urged BRICS nations to collectively support the ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap,’ an initiative launched at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan in 2024, which aims to mobilize USD 1.3 trillion annually in climate finance to help developing countries achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Main Point :-   (i) India reaffirmed the 2021 New Delhi Statement, highlighting integrated climate action via adaptation, mitigation, and implementation. With BRICS expanding to 11 nations, India urged joint action on desertification, biodiversity loss, and marine plastic pollution, while stressing energy diversification and promoting the Green Grids Initiative under ISA for sustainable energy transition.

      (ii) India advocated for adherence to Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR-RC) in global forums such as UNFCCC, UNCCD, CBD, and UNEA. It emphasized the urgent need to scale up climate finance, noting that the proposed USD 300 billion per year by 2035 falls short of the USD 1.3 trillion needed.

(iii) India urged BRICS nations to actively engage in global sustainability initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT) co-led by India and Sweden, and the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) initiated by India, to collectively accelerate climate action and sustainable development efforts.

      - Mukesh Ambani remains India's richest person and Asia's wealthiest, ranking 18th globally with a fortune of $92.5 billion from Reliance Industries.

Main Point :-   (i) Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, follows at 28th place with $56.3 billion. He is the fourth richest Asian, behind TikTok's Zhang Yiming (23rd, $65.5 billion) and Nongfu Spring's Zhong Shanshan (26th, $57.7 billion).

      (ii) Jensen Huang, the CEO and co-founder of Nvidia, presently positioned at the 10th rank, has entered the ranks of the top 10 richest people for the first time and US topped the list with a record of 902 billionaires, followed by China with 516 billionaires and India at the 3rd position with 205 billionaires.

(iii) The richest woman of all is Walmart heir Alice Walton, whose fortune stands at an estimated $101 billion. She reclaims the title from French L'Oréal heiress Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, who now ranks second, at $81.6 billion.

      - New schools will be built in Taplejung (Koshi), Gulmi & Rupandehi (Lumbini), and Kailali & Bajhang (Sudurpashchim). These projects aim to improve educational infrastructure, ensuring better learning opportunities for students in remote regions and enhancing access to quality education across Nepal.

Main Point :-   (i) Health posts will be established in Sindhupalchowk (Bagmati), and the Nepal-Bharat Maitri Hospital will be built in Humla (Karnali) to enhance medical accessibility in rural areas. Cultural projects include the Ngagyur Nyngma Palyul Dhongag Chholing Monastery (Solukhumbu, Koshi) and the Nepal-Bharat Maitri E-Library (Chitwan, Bagmati), promoting heritage and education.

      (ii) The projects will be implemented through Nepalese local authorities, including Metropolitan Cities, Sub-Metropolitan Cities, Municipalities, and Rural Municipalities. This ensures efficient administration, smooth execution, and direct community benefits while strengthening India-Nepal bilateral cooperation.

(iii) Since 2003, India has supported 573 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) in Nepal, completing 495. These initiatives span education, healthcare, roads, irrigation, and electrification, contributing to grassroots infrastructure development across all seven provinces and improving the quality of life for local communities.

      - The UNESCO report found that 50% of primary school pupils received meals in 2024, but 27% lacked nutritionist input (2022). Only 93 of 187 countries had school food regulations, raising concerns about meal quality.

Main Point :-   (i) Among these 93 countries, only 65% had regulations covering foods sold in cafeterias and vending machines, pointing to gaps in ensuring healthy meal options. The report emphasized the positive impact of nutritious school meals on education, with data showing that school meals increased enrolment by 9% and attendance by 8%, while also improving learning outcomes.

      (ii) The report also addressed the rising concern of childhood obesity, which has more than doubled in most countries since 1990, even as food insecurity continues to escalate. Despite this, 418 million children now benefit from school meals globally, an increase of 30 million since early 2020, showcasing efforts to expand school feeding programs post-pandemic.

(iii) However, nutritional deficiencies remain a major issue, as over half of school meal programs lack adequate fruits and vegetables, while one-third continue to provide sugary drinks, highlighting the urgent need for improved food quality in schools.

      - The exercise sharpens combat skills, fosters tactical knowledge exchange, and strengthens military ties. The previous edition was held in Greece from April 8 to April 18, 2024.

Main Point :-   (i) The IAF participated in INIOCHOS-25 with Su-30 MKI fighter jets, IL-78, and C-17 combat support aircraft, enhancing its operational preparedness and strengthening India's strategic ties with friendly nations. The exercise features the largest number of fighter jets and helicopters from various countries, including France, Israel, Italy, Poland, Qatar, Spain, UAE, and the USA.

      (ii) INIOCHOS-25 is divided into three phases: Phase 1 (March 24-30, 2025) involved the deployment of forces, Phase 2 (March 31-April 11, 2025) is the main exercise where air operations take place, and Phase 3 (April 11-13, 2025) focuses on redeployment.

(iii) During the main phase, participating air forces will conduct various air operations, including Offensive and Defensive Counter Air Operations, Strategic Air Operations, Air Support for land and maritime missions, Reconnaissance, Combat Search and Rescue, Time-Sensitive Targeting, and protection of high-value airborne assets.

      - The 14th edition of the Hurun Global Rich List, based on wealth calculations as of January 15, 2025, features 3,442 billionaires from 71 countries, marking an increase from 3,278 last year. The number of billionaires grew by 5%, while their total combined wealth rose by 13%.

Main Point :-   (i) For the first time since 2016, the USA topped the list with the most billionaires (870). China follows in second place with 823 billionaires, and India ranks third with 284 billionaires.

      (ii) New York has reclaimed its position as the global billionaire capital, while London ranks second.

(iii) Shanghai (92 billionaires) has become the Asian billionaire capital for the first time, surpassing Mumbai as Asia's billionaire capital.

Main Point :-   (i) During SMW 2025, India and Singapore signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to collaborate on a Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).

      (ii) During SMW 2025, the Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech), in collaboration with MPA, introduced Singapore’s inaugural Maritime Digital Twin.

Main Point :-   (i) In the overall ranking, New York City (United States of America, USA) retained the top position with a score of 769, followed by London (United Kingdom, UK) in second place with 762 points. Hong Kong (China) secured the third spot with a rating of 760.

      (ii) The Asia-Pacific region demonstrated strong performance, with six financial centres ranking in the global top 20.

      In January 2025, Indonesia officially joined BRICS as the 10th member.

Main Point :-   (i) The New Development Bank (NDB) was established in 2015 by BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—to support sustainable development and infrastructure projects in Emerging Market Economies and Developing Countries (EMDCs).

      (ii) The bank has an initial authorized capital of USD 100 billion, divided into one million shares valued at USD 100,000 each, ensuring financial strength for large-scale investments.

(iii) The first president of NDB was K.V. Kamath from India, who served from 2015 to 2020, contributing to the bank's early growth and strategic direction.

Main Point :-   (i) The IUCN first introduced the 'green status' in a paper published in the journal Conservation Biology in July 2021. The green status was developed to give a full conservation picture of a species.

      (ii) The new assessment method has 9 recovery categories: fully recovered, slightly depleted, moderately depleted, largely depleted, critically depleted, extinct in the wild, and indeterminate.

Main Point :-   (i) By focusing on immediate community needs, these projects are designed to improve the quality of life for Bolivian citizens and strengthen the foundation for a strong bilateral relationship between India and Bolivia.

      (ii) This development follows a meeting between EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar and Andre Aranha Correa do Lago, President of the United Nations (UN) Climate Change COP30 and former Ambassador of Brazil to India.

(iii) During the meeting, India assured its full support to Brazil’s leadership for ensuring a successful and result-driven COP30 summit.

      - In 2024, India ranked 3rd globally in terms of funding raised by startups co-led by women, following the USA and the United Kingdom (UK).

Main Point :-   (i) Globally, women-led tech companies secured USD 29.6 billion in funding in 2024, reflecting an 11% decline from USD 33.1 billion in 2023 and a 21% drop from USD 37.5 billion in 2022.

      (ii) Among Indian cities, Bengaluru leads in both the number of women-led startups and the amount of funding raised, followed by Mumbai and Delhi NCR (National Capital Region) in second and third place, respectively.

(iii) In 2024, the top cities with the highest funding for women-led startups were San Francisco, leading with USD 9.4 billion, followed by New York City with USD 1.9 billion, and London with USD 1.8 billion.

Main Point :-   (i) Singapore topped among all cities and countries featured, with 108 companies, followed by Japan and South Korea, each contributing 91 companies.

      (ii) Among the top 10 companies on the list, five were from India: Lendbox, BluSmart, BigHaat (7th), Zypp Electric (8th), and Kuku FM (10th).

(iii) Other notable Indian companies on the list include: Gurugram (Haryana)-based BluSmart (6th), Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based e-commerce company Meesho (72nd), Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based Titan Company Limited (301st), Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Aditya Birla Capital Limited (ABCL) (374th), and Havells India Limited (396th).

      - The 22nd edition took place in the Mediterranean Sea from September 2-4, 2024.

Main Point :-   (i) India is represented by INS Vikrant, MiG-29K fighter jets, destroyers, frigates, and a Scorpene-class submarine, while France has deployed its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, Rafale-M fighter jets, destroyers, and frigates.

      (ii) The Harbour Phase (March 19-20) focuses on professional and cultural interactions, while the Sea Phase (March 21-22) involves advanced air defense drills, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, maritime patrol operations, and replenishment-at-sea exercises.

(iii) VARUNA 2025 highlights India and France’s shared commitment to maintaining a free, open, and secure maritime environment.

Main Point :-   (i) The report indicated that 2024 is likely the first calendar year (CY) to exceed 1.5°C above the pre-industrial era, with a global average temperature of 1.55°C ±0.13°C above the 1850-1990 average, marking it as the warmest year in a 175-year observational record.

      (ii) Nearly 90% of the additional heat trapped by greenhouse gases (GHGs) is absorbed by the oceans, which is further warming ocean waters and impacting marine life, weather patterns, and sea levels.

Main Point :-   (i) The report showed that global trade expanded significantly to USD 33 trillion in 2024, a 3.7% increase (USD 1.2 trillion) from 2023. This growth was led by developing economies and strong services trade, except in regions like Europe and Central Asia.

      (ii) The report stated that India saw an 8% growth in goods imports in Q4 2024 compared to the previous quarter and a 6% year-on-year (Y-O-Y) increase in imports.

Main Point :-   (i) The event served as an international platform for exchanging experiences on emerging issues and strategies to implement the 12 key areas of concern outlined in the Beijing Platform for Action.

      (ii) The discussions were held through two ministerial roundtables focusing on the interconnected themes of: 'Digital Public Infrastructure to Accelerate Women-Led Development' and 'Financing Inclusion: Criticality of Core Resources.'

(iii) The roundtable saw participation from Ministers and high-level representatives from across the globe, including members of Group-20 (G20) countries such as Indonesia, Australia, South Africa, as well as other nations like Panama and Qatar. During the event, ministers shared their countries' experiences and perspectives on advancing women's rights.

Main Point :-   (i) China, Russia, and Iran have been conducting joint naval exercises in this region annually since 2018, with the goal of strengthening military coordination in response to Western presence.

      (ii) Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Qatar, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Sri Lanka are attending the 2025 exercise as observers.

(iii) The drills include maritime target strikes, damage control operations, and joint search and rescue missions. Crews are also practicing daytime and nighttime firing using large-caliber machine guns and small arms against simulated enemy drones and unmanned boats.

Main Point :-   (i) The Tentative List is a list of sites that a country considers for future nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Sites must be included in this list before they can be officially nominated.

      (ii) The Tentative List contains sites that are either cultural, natural, or a combination of both, and are considered to have outstanding universal value.

(iii) Being on the Tentative List ensures that these heritage sites meet the necessary criteria and are properly evaluated before being nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage List.

      - On March 12, 2025, PM Narendra Modi attended Mauritius' 57th National Day celebrations at Champ de Mars Racecourse in Port Louis, as the Chief Guest for the second time, following his first visit in 2015. The Indian Navy (IN) contingent participated in the National Day parade.

Main Point :-   (i) During the visit, PM Modi was conferred with Mauritius' highest civilian honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK), at a ceremony held in Port Louis.

      (ii) PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Mauritius PM Ramgoolam. Both countries signed multiple agreements to enhance cooperation, and a total of eight MoUs were exchanged.

(iii) PM Modi introduced a new vision for the Global South, called "MAHASAGAR" (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

Main Point :-   (i) ISM University Dhanbad emerged as India's top performer in Engineering - Mineral and Mining, ranking 20th globally, a significant improvement from its previous position of 41st. The university scored 74.7/100, marking a notable achievement in the QS World University Rankings.ISM University Dhanbad emerged as India's top performer in Engineering - Mineral and Mining, ranking 20th globally, a significant improvement from its previous position of 41st. The university scored 74.7/100, marking a notable achievement in the QS World University Rankings.

      (ii) IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay were the only Indian institutes in the global top 50 for Engineering & Technology, securing 26th and 28th positions, respectively, showcasing India's strength in the field of engineering.

(iii) IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore saw a decline in their rankings for Business and Management Studies, with IIM Ahmedabad dropping from 22nd to 27th and IIM Bangalore from 32nd to 40th, despite retaining their positions in the global top 50.

Main Point :-   (i) According to the World Air Quality Report 2024, only 7 out of 138 countries analyzed met the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline of 5 µg/m³, while over 90% of nations recorded unsafe levels of pollution.

      (ii) The 7 countries that met the WHO guideline are Australia (4.5 µg/m³), New Zealand (4.4 µg/m³), Estonia (4.6 µg/m³), Iceland (4.0 µg/m³), Barbados (3.1 µg/m³), Grenada (3.2 µg/m³), and The Bahamas (2.3 µg/m³).

(iii) Byrnihat, a town on the Assam-Meghalaya border in India, was ranked as the most polluted city globally, with an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 128.2 µg/m³, far exceeding the WHO air quality guideline.

      - As a symbolic gesture of strengthening ties, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy presented EAM Dr. Jaishankar with a Tottenham Hotspur No. 1 jersey bearing his name at Chevening House, UK.

Main Point :-   (i) During his visit to Ireland, EAM focused on expanding bilateral ties rooted in shared democratic values and cultural links.

      (ii) EAM Dr. Jaishankar and Ireland’s Minister Simon Harris agreed to establish a Joint Economic Commission (JEC) to enhance trade, investment, and technological collaborations.

(iii) India and Ireland signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the annual exchange of diplomats, aimed at strengthening bilateral diplomatic relations.

      - Cambodia is a key partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. Both nations emphasized their strong ties within the Global South, reaffirming their commitment to expanding diplomatic and economic collaboration. They also agreed to hold the next FOC at a mutually convenient date to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Main Point :-   (i) As part of the visit, both leaders explored key cultural and heritage sites, including the Asian Traditional Textile Museum (Cambodia), which was established in April 2014 with Indian support under the Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) initiative.

      (ii) Ta Prohm Temple (Cambodia) – A UNESCO World Heritage site, where India plays a crucial role in restoration and conservation efforts.

      - The Indian Army (IA) is represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while the Kyrgyzstan Army contingent includes soldiers from the Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise focuses on improving joint operational capabilities in urban warfare, counter-terrorism tactics, and precision sniping under a United Nations (UN) mandate. It emphasizes sharing best practices and experiences in Counter Terrorism (CT) and Special Forces operations, particularly in urban and high-altitude mountainous terrains.

      (ii) It reflects the commitment of both nations to combat international terrorism and extremism, fostering peace, stability, and security in the region.

(iii) The exercise includes advanced Special Forces skills such as sniping, complex building interventions, and mountain craft. It also features cultural exchanges, such as the celebration of the Kyrgyzstan festival Nowruz, to strengthen bilateral ties.

      - Rice production is projected to reach a record 543 Mt in 2024/25, driven by positive crop prospects in India and favorable growing conditions in Cambodia and Myanmar.

Main Point :-   (i) The report provides insights into regional agricultural challenges and the impact of weather patterns on global food production.

      (ii) FAO identified 45 countries in need of external food assistance, including 33 in Africa, 9 in Asia, 2 in South America and the Caribbean, and 1 in Europe. Conflict and instability remain major contributors to food shortages, with Gaza (Palestine) and Sudan facing the most severe food crises.

      - The event features an exhibition on India's Opium and Alkaloid Factories, emphasizing India's responsible use of medicinal opiates. Additionally, India is hosting two side events: one on the 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan' campaign and the other on innovative digital technologies in drug law enforcement.

Main Point :-   (i) The session covers both normative and operational aspects, addressing treaty-based responsibilities and overseeing the work of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

      (ii) Armenia’s Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan was elected as the First Vice-Chairman at the 68th session of the UN CND. He will also chair the Committee of the Whole, leading key negotiations on global drug policies.

(iii) The session's focus includes preventing drug abuse, addressing its consequences, and strengthening law enforcement security.

      - The United States, France, and Russia were the top three arms exporters during the 2020-2024 period.

Main Point :-   (i) Russia continues to be India’s top arms supplier, although its share decreased from 55% in 2015-2019 to 36% in 2020-2024 due to increased domestic production in India and diversified sourcing.

      (ii) France is the second-largest supplier to India, accounting for 33% of its imports, notably through the supply of Rafale jets and other military equipment.

(iii) Israel ranked third, providing 13% of India's total arms imports.

      - During the event, Ajit Gupte, the Ambassador of India to the Federal Republic of Germany, inaugurated the India Pavilion.

Main Point :-   (i) The 25th edition of the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) World Tourism and Aviation Leaders Summit was held at ITB Berlin 2025. This year's summit was hosted by PATWA in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Goa (India).

      (ii) PATWA, an affiliate member of United Nations (UN) Tourism, announced the winners of the prestigious '2025 edition of PATWA International Travel Awards'.

(iii) Indian state Goa made a significant mark at ITB Berlin 2025 by winning two prestigious awards at the PATWA International Travel Awards. This achievement further elevated Goa's status as India's premier tourism destination.

Main Point :-   (i) The visit, which started on March 1, 2025, was part of the 1TS's ongoing training deployment to South East Asia and concluded on March 4, 2025.

      (ii) Captain Anshul Kishore, Senior Officer of 1TS, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, met Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Commander of the 3rd Naval Area Command of the RTN, to discuss regional security, joint training exercises, and goodwill activities.

(iii) The 1TS is a unit of the IN responsible for training naval personnel. It includes ships such as INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, which are deployed for operational training and international engagements.

Main Point :-   (i) The iClimateAction project, funded with 3 million Euros from the European Commission, aims to enhance coordination and synergy among GCOS, GEO, and WMO, improving international alignment in the creation, management, and use of climate data. It addresses fragmentation in climate data collection and access by standardizing Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) and enhancing compatibility across observation networks, making climate data more accessible and useful for scientists, policymakers, and communities worldwide.

      (ii) It supports key initiatives like Early Warnings for All, the Global Greenhouse Gas Watch, and GEO projects such as the Global Heat Resilience Service and the Global Ecosystems Atlas, transforming climate data into life-saving strategies.

(iii) 193 member states and territories of WMO will benefit from enhanced climate intelligence, paving the way for smarter, science-driven climate action.

Main Point :-   (i) Globally, women account for 32% of total GenAI enrollments, but in India, their participation is significantly lower at 29.6%, even though they make up 40% of Coursera's total learners.

      (ii) GenAI enrollments from India have surged fourfold, with women showing a remarkable 296% growth, outpacing the 191% growth seen among men.

Main Point :-   (i) MWC 2026 will be held from March 2 to 5, 2026, at Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain.

      (ii) Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia officially inaugurated the Bharat Pavilion at MWC 2025 in Spain. He also announced that the 9th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC), Asia's largest digital technology forum, will take place in New Delhi (Delhi) from October 8 to 11, 2025.

(iii) Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., headquartered in California, USA, received two GLOMO Awards. Several Chinese companies, including Huawei, China Mobile, ZTE, and Xiaomi, won awards in different categories at MWC 2025.

Main Point :-   (i) India's HNWIs population is projected to increase by 9.4% to 93,753 by 2028.

      (ii) India ranks 3rd globally with 191 billionaires in 2024, including 26 new entrants, marking a significant growth compared to just 7 in 2019.

(iii) The cumulative wealth of India's billionaires is estimated at USD 950 billion, ranked 3rd globally, behind the USA (USD 5.7 trillion) and Mainland China (USD 1.34 trillion).

      - For the first time, Hexaware Technologies Limited from India has entered the rankings at Rank 24, showing its growing market influence.

Main Point :-   (i) Brand Finance 2025 methodology evaluates IT services brands based on brand value, market strength, financial performance, brand perception, investment, and business performance.

      (ii) The combined brand value of the top 25 IT services brands in 2025 is USD 163 billion.

(iii) The top five brands alone account for over USD 99.32 billion, highlighting the critical role of IT services in the global economy.

Main Point :-   (i) American comedian and actor Kevin Darnell Hart secured the 3rd spot, earning USD 81 million (approximately 67.73 crore), driven by his diverse entertainment ventures, including films, television (TV) series, stand-up comedy, and podcasting.

      (ii) American actress Nicole Mary Kidman emerged as the highest-paid actress of 2024, ranking 8th overall with earnings of USD 31 million.

Main Point :-   (i) American comedian and actor Kevin Darnell Hart secured the 3rd spot, earning USD 81 million (approximately 67.73 crore), driven by his diverse entertainment ventures, including films, television (TV) series, stand-up comedy, and podcasting.

      (ii) American actress Nicole Mary Kidman emerged as the highest-paid actress of 2024, ranking 8th overall with earnings of USD 31 million.

Main Point :-   (i) The conference was inaugurated by Krishna M. Ella, Executive Chairman, Bharat Biotech International Limited.

      (ii) During ISC 2025, AISEF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) to strengthen international cooperation in the spice trade.

(iii) Paresh Shah, Chairman of the Sub-Committee, Scientific Panel on Pesticide Residues, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), announced that a revised Maximum Residue Level (MRL) for spices and culinary herbs is under development, which is expected to enhance global market access for Indian spice exporters.

Main Point :-   (i) The conference was inaugurated by Krishna M. Ella, Executive Chairman, Bharat Biotech International Limited.

      (ii) During ISC 2025, AISEF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) to strengthen international cooperation in the spice trade.

(iii) Paresh Shah, Chairman of the Sub-Committee, Scientific Panel on Pesticide Residues, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), announced that a revised Maximum Residue Level (MRL) for spices and culinary herbs is under development, which is expected to enhance global market access for Indian spice exporters.

Main Point :-   (i) Dubai International Airport (DXB) remained the busiest airport in the world, with 4.8 million seats, reflecting a 1% increase in capacity compared to February 2024.

      (ii) Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) in the USA held the second spot, with 4.6 million seats, marking a 2% increase in capacity over the previous year

(iii) London Heathrow Airport (LHR) retained its position as Europe's busiest airport, ranking 5th globally in 2025 with 3.85 million seats.

      - The Indo-French Life Sciences Sister Innovation Hub aims to strengthen bilateral collaboration in the healthcare domain through innovation, research, and development.

Main Point :-   (i) The Indo-French Life Sciences Sister Innovation Hub aims to promote healthcare research and innovation by leveraging expertise from both countries to address public health issues and foster collaboration between research institutes, academia, and businesses.

      (ii) The collaboration focuses on two critical areas: One Health and Digital Health, bringing together top innovation hubs from both India and France to work on these key domains.

(iii) The agreement marks a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties, supporting research, and enhancing innovation to tackle global healthcare challenges.

      - A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is an agreement between two or more countries where they agree on certain obligations that affect trade in goods and services, as well as protections for investors and intellectual property rights, among other topics.

Main Point :-   (i) The negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK began on January 13, 2022, under the leadership of then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. So far, 14 rounds of negotiations have been held, with the 14th round starting in January 2023 and paused in May 2024 due to the UK general elections.

      (ii) In November 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of the Group-20 (G-20) Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. During their meeting, both leaders agreed to resume negotiations for the FTA.

(iii) Trade between India and the UK has grown significantly, with bilateral trade rising to USD 21.34 billion in FY24. The UK is the 6th largest investor in India, contributing USD 35.3 billion, and India is the 2nd largest source of FDI into the UK, with a 28% Year-on-Year increase in investment.

      - Strategic partners include the Mumbai-based Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), the Chennai-based Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras Energy Consortium, and Denmark-based Indo-Danish Chamber of Commerce (IDCC) & Confederation of Danish Industry (DI).

Main Point :-   (i) India aims for net-zero emissions by 2070, while Denmark targets 2045, with the Green Transition Alliance India (GTAI) being a crucial part of their collaborative effort to address climate change and promote sustainable energy practices.

      (ii) Established as part of the Green Strategic Partnership (GSP) from 2020, GTAI draws inspiration from successful initiatives like the Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) and Wind Alliance India (WAI), aiming to support India’s climate goals through sector collaboration.

(iii) GTAI will operate through three working groups focused on Renewable Energy, Green Fuels, and Energy Efficiency to keep up with evolving trends and foster a dynamic approach to sustainable energy solutions.

      - The exercise involves participation from the Indian Army (IA) and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The Indian contingent, comprising 120 personnel, is represented by a battalion of the MADRAS Regiment along with troops from other arms and services. The Japanese contingent, also consisting of 120 personnel, is made up of troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise aims to strengthen the India-Japan relationship by boosting military ties and promoting cultural understanding for regional cooperation. It will focus on physical fitness, joint planning, tactical drills, and disaster response strategies to enhance skills, combat readiness, and teamwork for effective operations.

      (ii) India and Japan also conduct military exercises such as the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX), a bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The 8th edition of JIMEX was held in Japan in June 2024.

(iii) A joint air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), with the 1st edition held in Japan in January 2023.

      - The Plenary selected Mr. Giles Thomson from the United Kingdom (UK) as the next FATF Vice President, succeeding Mr. Jeremy Weil from Canada, who has served since July 1, 2023, and will step down on June 30, 2025. Mr. Thomson will hold the position for two years, starting July 1, 2025.

Main Point :-   (i) Laos (Lao People's Democratic Republic) and Nepal were added to the FATF Grey List due to strategic deficiencies in their anti-money laundering and countering terrorism financing (AML/CFT) frameworks. Both countries have committed to addressing gaps in supervision, financial intelligence, and the prosecution of financial crimes.

      (ii) The Philippines was removed from the FATF Grey List after successfully addressing its action plan, which included stricter casino supervision, improved access to beneficial ownership data, and enhanced terrorism financing investigations. The FATF emphasized continued collaboration with the Asia/Pacific Group to maintain these reforms.

      - The 56th edition of the DG-level Border Coordination Conference is scheduled to take place in Bangladesh in July 2025.

Main Point :-   (i) Currently, hotlines exist between the force chiefs of both countries, as well as officers holding ranks such as Inspector General (IG) (regional commander for BGB), Deputy Inspector General (DIG) (sector commander for BGB), and other field-level officers. These communication links facilitate real-time exchange of information and intelligence, enabling effective monitoring of border issues and curbing cross-border crimes.

      (ii) During the meeting, India emphasized the importance of completing the fencing along the remaining sections of the 4,096 km-long border shared with Bangladesh, which spans across five Indian states—Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and West Bengal. According to official data, 864.48 km of the border remains unfenced, including 174.51 km classified as a 'non-feasible' gap.

(iii) The Directors General (DGs) of India and Bangladesh discussed the need to initiate fencing or the creation of a Single-Row Fence (SRF) at approximately 99 patches covering around 70-72 km of the border, following joint inspections and consultations. Previously, both sides had agreed to fencing at 92 patches, covering 95.8 km of the border.

      - The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Shoor, an advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel, showcased India's maritime strength at NAVDEX 2025.

Main Point :-   (i) Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), based in Goa, presented its locally designed Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025.

      (ii) Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), based in Hyderabad, introduced its indigenously developed Light Armoured Multi-role Vehicle (LAMV), which meets NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) standards, at IDEX 2025.

(iii) The 18th edition of IDEX will be held from January 25 to 29, 2027, at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi.

      - Similarly, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D), based in Delhi, slipped to 201-300 (in 2025) from 151-175 (in 2023).

Main Point :-   (i) Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M), based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN), ranked in the range of 201-300, down from 176-200 (in 2023).

      (ii) Also, Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B), which was featured in the previous edition of rankings in the 151-175 range, has not been included in the 2025 rankings.

(iii) Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (SOA), a private deemed-to-be university based in Bhubaneswar (Odisha), debuted in the latest edition of rankings and has been ranked in the 201-300 range, with an overall score of 26.9-34.2.

      - On 22 September 2024, global leaders adopted the Pact for the Future at the Summit of the Future, reaffirming their commitment to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Main Point :-   (i) The report highlights significant progress in the Asia-Pacific region on SDGs, including reducing income poverty (SDG 1), addressing undernourishment (SDG 2), supporting small-scale industries (SDG 9), reducing hazardous waste (SDG 12), mitigating land degradation (SDG 15), and combating human trafficking and intentional homicide (SDG 16).

      (ii) Additionally, the availability of SDG data has increased to 54%.

Main Point :-   (i) A roundtable discussion was held to strengthen UK-India collaboration in telecom security and innovation under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI).

      (ii) During the discussion, the Centre for Development of Telematics (CDOT) under DoT, MoC, and SONIC Labs (SmartRAN Open Network Interoperability Centre) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Main Point :-   (i) The campaign, using the hashtag #EveryVoiceInScience, builds on the momentum of the UNESCO Call to Action Closing the Gender Gap in Science, launched during the 2024 celebration of this International Day.

      (ii) The campaign highlights the vital role of women in advancing scientific progress.

(iii) To shape the campaign, UNESCO conducted a global survey among its scientific community, gathering over 700 responses from diverse disciplines.

      - EAM S. Jaishankar and Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, unveiled a specially designed logo marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Oman, symbolizing their strong historical, cultural, and people-to-people ties.

Main Point :-   (i) EAM S. Jaishankar and Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, launched the book Mandvi to Muscat: Indian Community and the Shared History of India and Oman, published by the Indian Embassy in Muscat. The book highlights the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations and the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in Oman.

      (ii) On the sidelines of the conference, EAM S. Jaishankar held bilateral meetings with the Foreign Ministers of Brunei, Bangladesh, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Nepal.

(iii) These discussions covered key regional and global issues of mutual concern, emphasizing India's commitment to strengthening its engagement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

      - India is set to host the IALA Council meeting in December 2025 and the IALA Conference & General Assembly in September 2027, both in Mumbai (Maharashtra). These meetings will provide a platform for India to showcase its advancements in maritime technology, navigation systems, and global maritime partnerships.

Main Point :-   (i) Founded in 1957, IALA (formerly known as the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities) was established as an NGO to unite marine aids to navigation authorities, manufacturers, consultants, and scientific and training organizations from around the world.

      (ii) In August 2024, 34 member states ratified IALA's transformation into an IGO, enhancing its ability to regulate and standardize marine navigation, leading to its name change to the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA).

(iii) As an IGO, IALA sets international standards for safe and efficient navigation, harmonizes global maritime systems, promotes safety initiatives, and works with member states, organizations, and industry partners to tackle emerging challenges in maritime safety and environmental protection.

      - As of January 2025, OPEC+ consists of 22 member countries.

Main Point :-   (i) Brazil's participation in OPEC+ is limited to the Charter of Cooperation (CoC), a forum for oil-producing countries to discuss production strategies.

      (ii) Brazil is the 7th-largest oil producer globally, producing approximately 4.3 million barrels per day, which accounts for 4% of global oil output. In 2024, crude oil became Brazil's top export, contributing 13.3% to the country's foreign sales, surpassing its soy exports.

(iii) OPEC+ is a coalition of OPEC members and 10 non-OPEC oil-producing nations that collaborate on oil production targets to influence global prices. Formed in 2016, it includes countries like Russia, Mexico, and Malaysia, with Russia being the largest non-OPEC member.

Main Point :-   (i) The FutureBrand Index is an annual report that evaluates the top 100 global brands based on the PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Market Capitalization ranking. The report analyzes brand evolution from 2014 to 2024, highlighting key trends shaping growth and sustainability in the marketplace.

      (ii) Samsung ranks 1st, excelling in innovation and sustainability, while Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) ranks 2nd, marking the first time an Indian company has made it to the top three, followed by Apple (3rd), Nike (4th), and ASML (5th), with other notable brands like Danaher, Disney, MOUTAI, TSMC, and IHC securing top spots.

(iii) Top Gainers include China Construction Bank (Rank 23, up 147 places) for financial stability, Agricultural Bank of China (Rank 24, up 84 places) for B2B growth, and Bank of America (Rank 61, up 27 places) for improved digital banking. Top Decliners are Shell (Rank 144, down 83 places) due to environmental concerns, Meta (Rank 57, down 35 places) for data privacy issues, and Berkshire Hathaway (Rank 106, down 71 places) due to governance and financial challenges.

      - The 'Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo 2025' officially commenced on February 16, 2025, at Benoa Port, Bali, focusing on maritime interoperability, regional security cooperation, and disaster relief operations.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise saw participation from over 30 countries, including the USA, Russia, China, Australia, and Singapore, under the theme 'Maritime Partnership for Peace and Stability', emphasizing humanitarian aid, natural disaster response, and crisis management.

      (ii) IN’s participation aligns with India’s 'Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)' vision, following its involvement in Exercise LA PEROUSE in January 2025, where INS Mumbai and a P-8I aircraft participated.

(iii) Strengthening bilateral naval ties, Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, visited India as part of a high-level delegation accompanying Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during the Republic Day Parade 2025.

      - It is integrated with the ANANDA (Atma Nirbhar Agents New Business Digital Application) platform from LIC. ANANDA helps agents onboard clients and forms the basis for this service.

Main Point :-   (i) OMO provides features like a Premium calculator, benefit illustrations, Electronic National Automated Clearing House (E-NACH) registration, address change, online loan requests, premium renewal payments, claim-related submissions, and more.

      (ii) Additionally, it offers a knowledge center, various health and insurance-related calculators, an office locator, National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) search, and other tools to help agents serve their customers better.

Main Point :-   (i) On February 11, 2025, PM Modi and President Emmanuel Macron led the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris, France. During the summit, PM Modi announced that India will host the next AI summit in 2026.

      (ii) On February 13, 2025, PM Modi arrived in the USA for an official visit. This marked his 10th visit to the USA as Prime Minister and the 4th time he visited with Donald Trump as President.

(iii) PM Modi and President Donald Trump launched a new initiative called the 'Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA)'.

Main Point :-   (i) Countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have applied for membership

      (ii) At the 2024 summit in Kazan (Russia), Indonesia became the 11th member, while Nigeria was named a "partner country".

      - The MoU was signed by India’s Union Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge, IC), Prataprao Jadhav (Ministry of AYUSH) and Indonesia’s Health Minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, in the presence of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, and Union Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar (Minister of External Affairs - MEA).

Main Point :-   (i) The MoU focuses on quality assurance and standardization by establishing protocols for the production, testing, and certification of traditional medicines. It ensures safety, efficacy, and quality to meet global standards, combats counterfeit products, and develops regulatory frameworks to facilitate trade in traditional medicines.

      (ii) The MoU promotes research and innovation by encouraging joint studies to scientifically validate traditional medicine practices and facilitating knowledge exchange through collaboration between academic institutions, researchers, and industry stakeholders.

(iii) The MoU boosts bilateral trade in traditional medicinal products, creating opportunities for manufacturers and exporters while enhancing market access for Ayurvedic and Jamu products, supporting industry growth. It aligns with India's vision to globalize Ayush products and strengthens global leadership in traditional medicine by supporting the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy, promoting integration into global healthcare systems, and positioning India and Indonesia as pioneers in the field.

Main Point :-   (i) The 2024 CPI reveals that approximately 85% of the global population (about 6.8 billion people) live in countries experiencing high corruption levels.

      (ii) The most corrupt nations at the bottom of the ranking include South Sudan at 180th (score 8), Somalia at 179th (score 9), Venezuela at 178th (score 10), and Syria at 177th (score 12).

      - The agreement was signed by Arun Singhal (Indian Administrative Service, IAS, Director General, DG, NAI, Government of India, GoI) and Dr. Hamed Bin Mohammed Al Dhawaini (Chairman, NRAA, Government of the Sultanate of Oman).

Main Point :-   (i) The agreement outlines a range of collaborative initiatives, including the exchange and reproduction of documents, preservation of historical manuscripts and books, and joint efforts in publishing cultural, literary, and historical works.

      (ii) It emphasizes the importance of organizing conferences, exhibitions, and workshops on archives management, aiming to build capacity, share expertise, and promote scientific research.

(iii) The agreement facilitates research into NAI’s collections to discover valuable Omani documents in India, while also ensuring the examination and preservation of Indian archives in Oman.