West Bengal  
   



Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates 'Corporate Bhavan' in Kolkata.

In May 2025, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who heads the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), inaugurated the newly constructed ‘Corporate Bhavan’ located in New Town, Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).


      - The seven-storey facility is designed to bring various MCA offices under one roof, streamlining operations and improving the ease of doing business.


      - The building also features the country’s first Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) Facilitation Centre, established on the seventh floor in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

      - This centre is aimed at connecting eligible youth (aged 21–24) with internship opportunities, offering application guidance and support.

Main Point :-   (i) The facility will house multiple offices under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), bringing together key regulatory bodies to improve coordination and efficiency. These include the Regional Directorate (East), Registrar of Companies, Official Liquidator, Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) – Kolkata Bench, and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI).

      (ii) The Corporate Bhavan will serve as a true single-window interface for stakeholders such as companies, insolvency professionals, auditors, startups, and investors, enabling quicker access to corporate regulatory services.

(iii) The seven-storey building has a built-up area of approximately 13,239 sq. metres and was completed at a total project cost of Rs. 150.43 crores.

About MoF
Minister : Nirmala Sitharaman
Headquarters: New Delhi
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Gopalkrishna Gandhi Releases Memoir Titled 'The Undying Light'.

In April 2025, renowned author and former Governor of West Bengal (WB), Gopalkrishna Gandhi released his memoir titled "The Undying Light: A Personal History of Independent India." The book was published by New Delhi (Delhi)-based Aleph Book Company, spans 624 pages, and is available in English in hardcover format.


      - The memoir opens with a poignant, personal recollection of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, which the author witnessed at the age of three.


      - From this deeply emotional starting point, the book expands into a broad and reflective account of India’s political journey after 1947, interweaving personal memories with landmark historical developments.

      - Offering an insider’s view of India’s socio-political landscape, the memoir is both historically rich and introspective. It serves as a valuable resource for students and competitive exam aspirants, providing context and commentary on pivotal moments in Indian history through the lens of lived experience.

Main Point :-   (i) Gopalkrishna Devadas Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and C. Rajagopalachari (India’s last Governor-General), served as the Governor of West Bengal from 14 December 2004 to 14 December 2009.

      (ii) With a distinguished background in public service and literature, his memoir contributes significantly to the canon of modern Indian political writing.

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ZSI and Germany’s Museum Koenig Bonn Discover Six New Sericinae Beetle Species in India.

The Kolkata (West Bengal, WB)-based Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), operating under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in collaboration with Germany’s Museum Koenig Bonn, recently discovered six new species of Sericinae scarab beetles. These beetles were identified from the biodiversity-rich regions of Northeast India and the Western Ghats (Kerala).


      - The findings of this collaborative discovery were published in the peer-reviewed journal ‘Zootaxa’, marking a significant addition to entomological studies and India’s rich biodiversity records.


      - The joint research team included Devanshu Gupta, Debika Bhunia, and Kailash Chandra from ZSI, along with Dirk Ahrens from Museum Koenig. The team conducted a detailed specimen analysis using collections from both the Coleoptera Section of ZSI (Kolkata) and Museum Koenig (Germany).

      - The six newly discovered Sericinae beetle species are — Maladera champhaiensis, found in Mizoram; Neoserica churachandpurensis, identified from Manipur; Maladera barasingha, named in honor of the Indian swamp deer; Maladera lumlaensis, discovered in Arunachal Pradesh; Serica subansiriensis, also from Arunachal Pradesh; and Maladera onam, which was found in Kerala.

Main Point :-   (i) The study also led to new state records, including Maladera bengalensis in Goa and Maladera seriatoguttata in Maharashtra. In total, 28 additional beetle species were documented, enhancing the distribution data and understanding of beetle diversity across India.

      (ii) The discoveries emphasize the importance of India’s biodiversity hotspots. Five of the six species were found in Northeast India, a region that forms part of the Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, known for its high endemism and ecological sensitivity. Maladera onam, found in Kerala, highlights the richness and vulnerability of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site threatened by deforestation and human encroachment.

(iii) Sericinae beetles play dual roles in ecosystems. While some species are known agricultural pests impacting crops, others are beneficial to soil health, contributing to aeration and nutrient recycling, which is vital for maintaining ecological balance and agricultural productivity.

About Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
Director : Dhriti Banerjee
Headquarters : Kolkata, West Bengal (WB)
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Mohun Bagan Super Giant Clinches 2024–25 ISL Championship Title.

In April 2025, Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG), a Kolkata (West Bengal)-based football club (FC), recently clinched the title of the 11th edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–25 by defeating Bengaluru FC with a score of 2–1 in the final match held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan Stadium, Kolkata.


      - This win marked MBSG’s second ISL title, with their first triumph coming in the 2022–23 season, when they were known as ATK Mohun Bagan. With this victory, MBSG also became only the second team in ISL history, after Mumbai City FC (2020–21), to win both the ISL Winners Shield and the ISL Title in a single season.


      - Pokemon acted as the Official Sponsor of the ISL 2024–25 Final, while Hero MotoCorp Limited continued to be the Title Sponsor of the tournament.

      - During the 2024–25 season, MBSG secured the ISL Winners Shield by defeating Odisha FC, showcasing consistent performance throughout the league stage.

Main Point :-   (i) In the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–25 season, Alaaeddine Ajaraie of NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) emerged as the standout performer, clinching both the Golden Boot (Top Scorer) and Golden Ball (Best Player) awards. Vishal Kaith of Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) was awarded the Golden Glove for the most clean sheets. Brison Fernandes from FC Goa (FCG) was named the Emerging Player of the Season. Jamshedpur FC won the award for the Best Grassroot Program, while Punjab FC was recognized for having the Best Elite Youth Program.

      (ii) The Indian Super League (ISL) is India’s premier professional football league, established in 2014. It is co-promoted by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) based in New Delhi, Reliance Industries Limited from Mumbai, and Star India. In 2019, the league gained official recognition as the top-tier domestic league of India by both FIFA (Zurich, Switzerland) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).

(iii) The ISL features 13 clubs competing for two major titles: the ISL Winners Shield, awarded to the team topping the league table, and the ISL Title, given to the winner of the playoffs. Notably, in the 2023–24 season, the ISL Title was won by Mumbai City FC.

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GRSE and SDHI Ink MoU to Strengthen Indigenous Commercial Shipbuilding Efforts.

In April 2025, Kolkata (West Bengal)-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gujarat-based Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) to boost collaboration in commercial shipbuilding and offshore infrastructure, thereby advancing India's maritime self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.


      - The MoU is designed to develop a robust and scalable commercial shipbuilding model by harnessing the core competencies of GRSE and SDHI in design, infrastructure, and project execution to serve both domestic and international markets for ships and offshore assets.


      - The partnership enables both entities to share infrastructure and jointly develop standardised vessel platforms, aimed at improving project timelines and ensuring cost-effectiveness.

      - The agreement encompasses collaboration in vessel trials, commissioning processes, and comprehensive ship repair services.

Main Point :-   (i) GRSE and SDHI will adopt integrated project management approaches and co-create solutions to minimise operational hurdles.

      (ii) A strong emphasis will be placed on establishing a mutually advantageous vendor and supply chain framework, with joint procurement and sourcing strategies.

(iii) The agreement includes training initiatives to cultivate skilled manpower, supporting long-term growth of the shipbuilding sector.

About Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE)
Established : 1884
Headquarters : Kolkata, West Bengal
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Bandhan Bank Introduces 'Elite Plus' Savings Account for High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs).

In April 2025, Bandhan Bank Limited, based in Kolkata (West Bengal), launched the 'Elite Plus' Savings Account, specifically designed for High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs). This premium account offers a range of exclusive benefits such as unlimited monthly cash deposits, complimentary digital transactions, and luxurious lifestyle perks.


      - The product was unveiled by Partha Pratim Sengupta, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Bandhan Bank, alongside former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.


      - The 'Elite Plus' Savings Account provides an enhanced banking experience with unlimited free cash deposits each month, along with complimentary RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement), NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer), and IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) transactions.

     

Main Point :-   (i) The account also offers enhanced debit card insurance coverage, including up to Rs 15 lakh for personal accident cover and Rs 3 lakh for purchase protection.

      (ii) Customers enjoy domestic lounge access, with 2 visits per quarter for the cardholder and 1 for a companion.

(iii) To qualify for the 'Elite Plus' Savings Account, customers must be Indian residents and meet any of the following balance criteria: a monthly average savings account balance of Rs 15,00,000, a term deposit relationship of Rs 75,00,000, or a Total Relationship Value (TRV) of Rs 15,00,000 or above.

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SRMB Steel Names Rohit Sharma as Brand Ambassador.

In March 2025, Kolkata (West Bengal, WB) based SRMB Srijan Steel Private Limited (SRMB Steel), a leading manufacturer and supplier of Thermo-Mechanically Treated (TMT) bars in India, announced the appointment of Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma as its brand ambassador.


      - This collaboration aims to enhance SRMB Steel's brand presence by leveraging Sharma's widespread popularity and leadership qualities.


      - Rohit Sharma joins former Indian World Cup-winning captains Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Kapil Dev as part of SRMB Steel's celebrity endorser lineup.

      - In March 2025, L&T Finance (LTF) appointed Jasprit Bumrah as its brand ambassador to boost its presence and promote financial products. He will feature in ATL and BTL campaigns, with the partnership facilitated by RISE Worldwide. Bumrah also endorses JK Super Cement and Skechers Cricket footwear.

Main Point :-   (i) Under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, India secured victories in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Champions Trophy 2025, Asia Cup 2023, and ICC Men's Twenty20 (T20) World Cup 2024, while finishing as runners-up in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023.

      (ii) Apart from SRMB Steel, Rohit Sharma is the brand ambassador for several leading companies, including Adidas (Sportswear), CEAT Tyres (Tyre manufacturer), Dream11 (Fantasy sports platform), Max Life Insurance, Oppo (Smartphone), and Hublot (Swiss watches), among others.

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The 7th Act East Business Show Takes Place in Meghalaya.

In March 2025, the 7th Act East Business Show was inaugurated by Meghalaya Chief Minister (CM) Conrad Sangma in Shillong, Meghalaya. The three-day event, held from March 25th-27th, 2025, was attended by ambassadors and representatives from various countries. The event was organized by the Kolkata (West Bengal)-based Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in partnership with the Government of Meghalaya.


      - The primary objective of the 7th Act East Business Show is to position Meghalaya as a key trade and investment hub, while strengthening economic ties between India’s Northeast and the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) regions, under India’s Act East Policy.


      - The Act East Business Show was first launched in 2014, with annual editions held until 2018, followed by a gap before the 2021 edition.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Aligned with Meghalaya’s vision of achieving a USD 10 billion economy, the event focused on policy reforms, infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and grassroots economic networks as key drivers of growth.

      (ii) The state seeks to capitalize on its strategic location and the Act East Policy framework to attract cross-border investments and improve regional connectivity.

(iii) Launched in 2014 at the 12th ASEAN-India Summit in Myanmar, the Act East Policy succeeded the Look East Policy (1992) with the aim of strengthening trade and investment relations with Southeast Asian nations.

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Bandhan Bank Signs MoU with IAF to Offer Shaurya Salary Account Benefits.

In March 2025, Kolkata, West Bengal (WB)-based private lender Bandhan Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to introduce the Bandhan Bank Shaurya Salary Account, a zero-balance corporate salary account designed for IAF personnel, veterans, and their families.


      - The account offers exclusive benefits such as personalized insurance coverage, competitive interest rates, and access to over 1,700 branches across India.


      - The MoU was signed by Air Vice Marshal Updesh Sharma VSM, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) (Accounts & Air Veterans), Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India (GoI), and Debraj Saha, Head of the Government Business Group, Bandhan Bank, in the presence of other senior officials.

     

Main Point :-   (i) This partnership further strengthens Bandhan Bank’s role as a SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) Service Centre for defence personnel.

      (ii) In collaboration with the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), MoD, the bank operates 557 designated branches for processing pensions and supporting defence pensioners and their families.

(iii) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Bandhan Bank as an Agency Bank, authorizing it to handle tax collections under the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and to disburse Central Civil Pensions and Railway Pensions on behalf of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

About Bandhan Bank
MD & CEO : Partha Pratim Sengupta
Headquarters: Kolkata
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CIL Signs MoU with IIT Hyderabad to Set Up CLEANZ in Telangana.

In March 2025, Kolkata (West Bengal, WB)-based Coal India Limited (CIL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-Hyderabad), Telangana for establishing a Centre of Clean Coal Energy and Net Zero (CLEANZ) in Hyderabad.


      - The MoU was exchanged between PM Prasad, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of CIL, and Acharya B S Murthy, Director of IIT-H, in the presence of Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, Ministry of Coal (MoC) and Ministry of Mines (MoM).


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) The initiative aims to develop clean coal technologies and diversify coal consumption. Both entities will work together to establish cutting-edge technological readiness levels (TRLs) for the long-term use of Indian coal.

      (ii) The management of CIL has approved a five-year grant of Rs 98 crores to IIT Hyderabad for the establishment of this Center of Excellence. After the initial five-year investment from CIL, it is expected to achieve financial sustainability in the long term.

(iii) This collaboration is part of the National Centre for Coal and Energy Research (NaCCER), an independent Research and Development (R&D) unit of the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI), which serves as CIL's mine development and consultancy arm.

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Professor Suman Chakraborty Honored with UNESCO's TWAS Award for Advancing Low-Cost Medical Diagnostics.

In March 2025, Suman Chakraborty, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-KGP), West Bengal (WB), has been awarded the 2026 The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Award in Engineering and Computer Sciences (CS) by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).


      - Suman Chakraborty is currently a Jagadish Chandra Bose National Fellow and a visiting lecturer at Stanford University, California, United States of America (USA).


      - His research focuses on affordable, simple-to-execute, and innovative diagnostic solutions for medical challenges, including anaemia, cancer, COVID-19, and tuberculosis.

      - His notable innovations include Oroscreen, a torch-like imaging device for the early detection of oral cancer, and Covirap, a rapid COVID-19 detection test kit, which has been granted a United States (U.S.) patent for its rapid nucleic acid testing technology using Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and Ribonucleic acid (RNA) samples. He also developed PrepapQR, a home test for women to accurately test vaginal potential of hydrogen (pH) using a strip, and HemoQR, a simplified anaemia screening technology.

Main Point :-   (i) The TWAS Awards have been presented annually since their inception in 1985. From 2020, the TWAS Award is presented biennially and recognizes scientists from developing countries for their outstanding contributions to scientific knowledge and sustainable development.

      (ii) The award winner receives a cash prize of USD 10,000, along with a commemorative plaque during the TWAS General Conference.

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GSI Marks 175th Foundation Day and Unveils Two Key Digital Initiatives.

On March 4, 2025, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) celebrated its 175th Foundation Day with a grand ceremony at its headquarters in Kolkata, West Bengal.


      - The event was graced by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Ministry of Coal (MoC) and Ministry of Mines (MoM).


      - G. Kishan Reddy unveiled a commemorative plaque and a special postal cover to honor the 175-year journey of GSI.

      - Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy launched two significant digital initiatives during the event: the Field Data Acquisition Application (App) and the Geo-heritage App 'Bhuvirasat', aimed at improving the efficiency of data collection and promoting awareness of India's rich geo-heritage.

Main Point :-   (i) On March 2, 2025, GSI organized a nationwide walkathon across 27 locations to kick off its 175th Foundation Year celebrations.

      (ii) The walkathon was designed to promote fitness and raise awareness about geoscience, with the theme "Geoscience for a Safe World".

(iii) The GSI is one of the oldest geological surveys in the world and the second oldest survey in India after the Survey of India (founded in 1767).

About Geological Survey of India (GSI)
Director General (DG): Asit Saha
Headquarters: Kolkata
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ZSI Scientists Discover New Soil Nematode Species 'Crassolabium dhritiae' in Odisha.

In March 2025, scientists from the Kolkata (West Bengal)-based Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered a new species of soil-dwelling nematode named ‘Crassolabium dhritiae’ in the Deccan Peninsula biogeographic zone located in Keonjhar, Odisha.


      - The discovery, published online in Acta Zoologica Bulgarica, highlights the rich and often overlooked biodiversity of this region, emphasizing the ecological significance of nematodes in maintaining healthy soil ecosystems.


      - The species is named ‘Crassolabium dhritiae’ in honor of Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, the Director of ZSI, recognizing her remarkable contributions to taxonomy and zoological research.

     

Main Point :-   (i) This nematode is characterized by a medium-sized slender body, rounded lip region, large odontostyle, long pharynx, and distinct features in the female reproductive system, along with a uniquely shaped tail.

      (ii) Members of the Crassolabium genus display omnivorous and predatory behavior, although detailed research is ongoing to better understand their feeding habits.

(iii) With the addition of Crassolabium dhritiae, the global count of species in the Crassolabium genus rises to 39, including 9 species reported from India.

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GRSE Recently Signed MoU with Indian Army for Modular Steel Bridge in Arunachal Pradesh.

Kolkata (West Bengal) based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army (IA) for the construction of a 130-foot-long Single Lane Modular (SLM) Steel Bridge (70R) in Arunachal Pradesh (AR).


      - The agreement was signed by Natarajan Partheepan, General Manager (GM) (Bailey Bridges), representing GRSE with the IA.


      - In 2022, GRSE became the sole Indian company to be awarded the Green Channel Certification for Portable Steel Bridges (Bailey Type) by the Indian Army.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Previously, GRSE provided 44 Modular Bridges to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for installation across India, as well as to various state governments and friendly countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.

      (ii) In 2024, GRSE and the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) made an agreement for delivering Class 70R Double-Lane Bridges.

(iii) As of February 2025, GRSE has supplied more than 5,800 Modular Bridges. This aligns with the Government of India's Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

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GRSE Recently Signed MoU with Indian Army for Modular Steel Bridge in Arunachal Pradesh.

Kolkata (West Bengal) based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army (IA) for the construction of a 130-foot-long Single Lane Modular (SLM) Steel Bridge (70R) in Arunachal Pradesh (AR).


      - The agreement was signed by Natarajan Partheepan, General Manager (GM) (Bailey Bridges), representing GRSE with the IA.


      - In 2022, GRSE became the sole Indian company to be awarded the Green Channel Certification for Portable Steel Bridges (Bailey Type) by the Indian Army.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Previously, GRSE provided 44 Modular Bridges to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for installation across India, as well as to various state governments and friendly countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.

      (ii) In 2024, GRSE and the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) made an agreement for delivering Class 70R Double-Lane Bridges.

(iii) As of February 2025, GRSE has supplied more than 5,800 Modular Bridges. This aligns with the Government of India's Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

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ADB Sanctions USD 200 Million Loan to Enhance Urban Services in Kolkata.

On 26 February 2025, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a USD 200 million loan to improve the development of climate and disaster-resilient sewerage and drainage infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal, with the aim of enhancing Kolkata's livability.


      - The loan agreement was part of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sustainability, Hygiene, and Resilience (Sector) Project (KSHARP).


      - Kolkata, one of India's most populous and highly populated cities, faces severe issues due to poor drainage and sewerage systems, which result in urban flooding and an unsanitary atmosphere.

     

Main Point :-   (i) The project includes 84 kilometers (km) of trunk and secondary sewerage & drainage pipelines, 176 km of lateral sewerage & drainage pipelines connecting homes, 50,000 new domestic sewer connections, the construction of one sewage treatment plant, and five new pumping stations to prevent waterlogging.

      (ii) This project will enhance living conditions and health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women and children, by lowering exposure to waterborne and vector-borne diseases and mitigating flood risks.

(iii) Additionally, the project will assist Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) in developing a comprehensive IT-based asset management system, increasing property tax revenue, expanding an earlier ADB intervention's early flood warning system, raising community awareness on water, sanitation, and hygiene, and promoting women's employment through skill training and internship programs.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB)
President : Masato Kanda
Headquarters : Mandaluyong City, Manila, Philippines
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EDF India Collaborates with CIL & NTPC for PSP and Renewable Energy Opportunities.

In February 2025, New Delhi (Delhi)-based EDF India Private Limited, a fully-owned subsidiary of France-based Électricité de France SA (EDF), signed the Non-Binding Shareholder Agreement (SHA) term sheet with Kolkata (West Bengal, WB)-based Coal India Limited (CIL), an Indian 'Maharatna' Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU).


      - The agreement aims to establish a Joint Venture (JV) to develop Pumped Storage Projects (PSP) alongside other Renewable Energy (RE) projects in India and neighboring countries.


      - EDF India also signed the SHA term sheet with NTPC Limited (formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation Limited), a New Delhi-based 'Maharatna' CPSU under the Ministry of Power (MoP), to jointly develop, own, and operate PSPs and hydro projects integrated with RE initiatives, while also exploring opportunities in the distribution sector.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Under the agreement, NTPC and EDF will establish a Joint Venture Company (JVC) with a 50:50 partnership, subject to receiving the necessary approvals from the Government of India (GoI).

      (ii) The JVC will independently undertake projects or may establish additional joint ventures and subsidiaries to execute such projects within India and its neighboring countries.

(iii) NTPC Limited contributes one-fourth of India's power requirements with an installed capacity of over 77 gigawatts (GW). The company is committed to achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032.

About EDF India Private Limited
CEO : Federico D'Amico
Headquarters : New Delhi
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ICG Conducts Security Exercise 'Sagar Kavach' in West Bengal (WB).

In February 2025, a two-day coastal security exercise, 'Sagar Kavach', was conducted in West Bengal (WB). The exercise was coordinated by the Kolkata (WB)-based Coast Guard Region (North East, NE). The State Coastal Security Operation Centre (SCSOC) at Headquarters Coast Guard District No. 8, Haldia, served as the nerve centre for the exercise.


      - The drill validated coastal security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across the 158-kilometre (km) coastline.


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise included simulated scenarios such as hijacking of fishing boats, smuggling, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planting, and attacks on vital assets.

      (ii) It also featured coordinated sea and air surveillance by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to enhance readiness against terror threats.

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India and Bangladesh Recently Agreed to Launch a New 'Hotline' Between Border Forces.

In February 2025, India and Bangladesh recently agreed to establish a new 'hotline' for seamless communication between their border forces. This communication link will be set up between the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF) Eastern Command, headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB), and his Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) counterpart in Dhaka, Bangladesh.


      - This decision was finalized during the 55th Director General (DG)-level Border Coordination Conference, a bi-annual meeting held from February 18 to 20, 2025, at the BSF headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi.


      - The Indian delegation was led by Daljit Singh, DG of BSF, while Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, DG of BGB, represented Bangladesh.

      - 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.

About Bangladesh
President : Mohammed Shahabuddin
Capital : Dhaka
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Darjeeling Zoo Recently Unveils India’s First Bio-Bank and Animal Museum.

In February 2025, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP), commonly known as Darjeeling Zoo in Darjeeling, West Bengal (WB), opened India’s first bio-bank (Frozen Zoo) and an animal museum. This initiative is part of the national conservation plan, developed in collaboration with the Darjeeling Zoo and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) based in Hyderabad, Telangana, under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T).


      - The bio-bank, established in July 2024, has already collected Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) and tissue samples from 60 animals across 23 species.


      - The bio-bank collects and stores cells and tissue samples from endangered species, including reproductive cells from deceased animals, to aid preservation. These samples can be used for future research and may play a vital role in the potential revival of critically endangered species that are extinct or near extinction.

      - All samples are stored at a temperature of minus 196°C in Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) to maintain a cryogenic state, helping preserve the genetic diversity of species.

Main Point :-   (i) The samples can be preserved in the bio-bank for a minimum of 40 to 45 years.

      (ii) CCMB plans to establish bio-banks at other zoos, including the National Zoological Park in Delhi and Nandankanan Zoological Park in Barang, Odisha.

(iii) The animal museum has been created to preserve the bodies and skeletons of deceased animals. It currently houses specimens from 19 species at Darjeeling Zoo, including animals such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and Siberian Tiger.

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West Bengal Records Highest Bird Species in India During GBBC 2025 for Third Consecutive Year.

In February 2025, West Bengal (WB) recorded the highest number of bird species across 37 states and union territories (UTs) in India, with 543 species, securing the top position in the national list for the third consecutive year. This recognition was achieved during the 28th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), one of the world's largest birding events, held from February 14 to February 17, 2025.


      - As per preliminary results, the total number of bird species in India increased to 1,068 in 2025, compared to 1,036 in 2024. Additionally, the number of checklists (a list of birds observed, heard, or identified) submitted from India rose to 44,300 in 2025.


      - In the GBBC India 2025 rankings, WB secured the highest number of species, followed by Uttarakhand in second place with 446 species. Other states in the rankings included Assam and Maharashtra with 414 species each, Karnataka with 380 species, and Kerala with 342 species.

     

Main Point :-   (i) In 2025, WB uploaded 1,909 checklists, a slight decrease from 2,223 entries in 2024. Kerala led India in checklist submissions with 9,856 entries. Darjeeling recorded the highest number of species in WB with 252 species, though lower than last year's 308 species.

      (ii) South 24 Parganas emerged as the top district in WB with 513 checklists, while in 2024, Darjeeling held the top position with 342 checklists.

(iii) The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a global annual bird-watching event held every February, launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society (USA). It helps monitor bird populations through eBird, an online platform. India joined GBBC in 2013 with 200 participants.

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West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya Presents Rs 3.89 Lakh Crore Budget for FY26.

West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya presented a Rs 3.89 lakh crore (3,89,194 crore) budget for the financial year 2025-26 (FY26) in the assembly. In the FY25 budget, the state saw an allocation of Rs 3.67 lakh crore, marking an 8% increase from the FY24.


      - The outstanding debt for FY25 (revised) was Rs 7,06,531 crore, while the amount in the FY26 budget has been pegged at Rs 7,71,670 crore. The revised fiscal deficit for FY25 was Rs 73,017 crore, while in this budget, it is estimated to be Rs 73,177 crore.


      - While the revised grant-in-aid from the Government of India (GoI) for FY25 was Rs 28,431 crore, the grant-in-aid for the FY26 budget has been pegged at Rs 37,157 crore.

      - 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and pensioners has been announced, bringing the total DA to 18%, effective from 1 April 2025, while Rs 44,000 crore is earmarked for rural development and Panchayats.

Main Point :-   (i) An allocation of Rs 1,500 crore has been made for upgrading rural roads under various development schemes.

      (ii) The newly introduced 'Nadi Bandhan' Initiative, aimed at preventing riverbank erosion in river-centric areas, has been allocated Rs 200 crore.

(iii) Under the 'Banglar Bari' Housing Project, the state plans to construct 16 lakh new houses in 2025-26, with a budget of Rs 9,600 crore.

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Indian Army's Eastern Command Headquarters 'Fort William' Renamed as 'Vijay Durg'.

On February 6, 2025, the Indian Army's (IA) Eastern Headquarters, Fort William in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB), was renamed as 'Vijay Durg' to remove colonial influences. Originally built by the British in 1781 and named after King William III of England, the fort now takes inspiration from the historic Vijaydurg fort in Maharashtra, which served as a key naval base for the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji.


      - Spread over 170 acres, the fort features six gates: Chowringhee, Plassey, Calcutta (now Kolkata), Water Gate, St. George's, and Treasury Gate. Fort William has been the Eastern Army Command's headquarters since 1963, following the Sino-India War.


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) Additionally, 'Kitchener House' within the fort has been renamed as Manekshaw House, while the South Gate, previously called St. George's Gate, is now known as Shivaji Gate.

      (ii) These renaming efforts, initiated in December 2024, are part of broader steps to "Indianize" military traditions, an initiative endorsed by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi.

(iii) The move aligns with India's larger mission to shed its colonial legacy, following the Indian Navy’s (IN) adoption of a new ensign in September 2022.

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GRSE Ltd & AMS Pvt Ltd Forge Partnership for Defence and Aerospace Collaboration.

On January 30, 2025, Kolkata, (West Bengal, WB) based Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) and Hyderabad (Telangana) based Apollo Micro Systems (AMS) Private Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a 5-year collaboration to enhance cutting-edge technologies and boost India’s Defence and Aerospace capabilities.


      - The partnership aims at joint Research and Development (R&D), co-production, and the supply of advanced Underwater Weapons and Vehicles, Underwater Mines, Underwater Communication Systems, and Air Defence Systems and Vehicles.


      - The MoU was signed between Commodore Shantanu Bose, Indian Navy (IN) (Retired), Director of Shipbuilding, GRSE Limited, and Karunakar Reddy Baddam, Managing Director (MD), AMS Private Limited, in the presence of Commodore P R Hari, IN (Retired), Chairman and Managing Director (MD), Subrato Ghosh, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Indian Coast Guard (ICG) (Retired), and other senior officials from both companies.

      - The collaboration is focused on meeting the current and future requirements of the Indian Defence Forces (IDFs), Paramilitary Forces (PMFs), Police Organizations, Government Agencies at both Central and State levels, the Civil Sectors, and Global Export Markets.

Main Point :-   (i) A crucial aspect of this partnership is the enhancement of both companies' manufacturing infrastructure to produce critical components and sub-assemblies for advanced defence and aerospace systems.

      (ii) The collaboration includes services for the modernization and upgrade of existing systems, ensuring they align with evolving technological requirements and remain state-of-the-art.

(iii) Through this partnership, GRSE reinforces its commitment to strengthening indigenous capabilities and advancing the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.

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New Biography 'Soumitra Chatterjee and His World (Vintage)' Launched in West Bengal.

"Soumitra Chatterjee and His World", a comprehensive biography authored by journalist Sanghamitra Chakraborty, was launched at the Kolkata Literary Meet in West Bengal (WB). The book is published by Penguin India’s Vintage Books.


      - The biography highlights the multifaceted life of Soumitra Chatterjee, an iconic Indian and Bengali film actor renowned for his collaboration with legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray and his remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and culture.


      - It also delves into his diverse roles as an actor, poet, editor, and artist, providing a vivid portrayal of Bengal’s rich cultural landscape.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Soumitra Chatterjee was born in 1935 in Kolkata, West Bengal, and passed away in 2020. He starred in 14 of Satyajit Ray's films, including iconic works such as Apur Sansar (The World of Apu), Sonar Kella (The Golden Fortress), Joy Baba Felunath (The Elephant God), Devi (The Goddess), Charulata (The Lonely Wife), and Ghare Baire (The Home and the World).

      (ii) Soumitra’s legendary characters, such as Apu and Feluda, have become household names among Bengalis and cinema enthusiasts worldwide.

(iii) He was the first Indian film personality to receive France’s highest artistic honor, Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (1999). His accolades include the Padma Bhushan (2004), two National Film Awards (2007 and 2017), and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2012), India's highest honor in cinema.

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India's 6th Astronomical Observatory and Eastern India's First Inaugurated in West Bengal.

In January 2025, the Satyendra Nath Bose Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBCBS), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T), inaugurated India's sixth and Eastern India's first astronomical observatory in the Garpanchkot Hills of Purulia district, West Bengal (WB).


      - The observatory has been named after the renowned scientist Satyendra Nath Bose.


      - The other five observatories are located in Ladakh, Nainital (Uttarakhand), Mount Abu (Rajasthan), Girawali Hills (Pune, Maharashtra), and Kavalur (Tamil Nadu, TN).

      - Vishvajit Sahay, Additional Secretary of the Union Science and Technology Department, along with other dignitaries, were present at the inauguration event.

Main Point :-   (i) The observatory is equipped with two telescopes, including a 14-inch diameter telescope, and a 1-meter diameter telescope is set to be installed soon. Its seeing value of 1.3 arc seconds meets the standards of the other five astronomical centers across the country.

      (ii) Located 600 meters above sea level in a pollution-free area, the observatory's best observation period is from November to April. An automatic weather forecasting center has also been established on the hilltop to measure rainfall, temperature, and wind speed.

(iii) SNBCBS has partnered with Sidhu Kanu Birsa University in WB for the observatory's operations and resource sharing.

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Coal India Limited (CIL) and Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) Join Forces for Critical Minerals Development.

On January 7, 2025, Coal India Limited (CIL), based in Kolkata (West Bengal) and operating under the Ministry of Coal, signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL), a Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), to collaborate on the development of critical minerals.


      - The partnership aims to enhance India's capacity to mine, extract, refine, and source critical minerals such as mineral sands and Rare Earth Elements (REE), which are crucial for the electronics, renewable energy, and defense sectors.


      - This collaboration is a crucial part of CIL's efforts to reduce India's dependence on imports of essential minerals like lithium and cobalt.

     

Main Point :-   (i) As part of this partnership, the two companies will collaborate to acquire assets, source raw materials both domestically and internationally, and enhance mining, extraction, and refining capabilities.

      (ii) In the Union Budget 2024-25, the Government of India (GoI) introduced the Critical Mineral Mission to strengthen domestic production, promote recycling, and facilitate asset acquisition.

(iii) India, among the few countries producing rare earth elements, depends on IREL for self-sufficiency in mining, processing, and refining, as China continues to be the leading player in the critical minerals sector.

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RBI Removes Business Restrictions on Arohan Financial Services Limited.

On January 3, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lifted the business restrictions on Kolkata (West Bengal)-based microfinance institution Arohan Financial Services Limited after the institution implemented remedial measures and committed to adhering to fair loan pricing.


      - On October 17, 2024, the RBI had directed four non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) to stop sanctioning and disbursing loans, effective from October 21, 2024.


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) The RBI had found that Arohan Financial Services, along with other NBFCs, was charging excessive interest rates and failing to follow guidelines for assessing household income and considering repayment capabilities for microfinance loans.

      (ii) While the restrictions on Arohan have been removed, the restrictions on Asirvad Micro Finance Limited (AMFL), a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance Limited, and DMI Finance Private Limited (DFPL) remain in effect.

About RBI
Governor : Sanjay Malhotra
Headquarter : Mumbai
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West Bengal won the 78th Santosh Trophy title in Hyderabad.

On December 31, 2024, West Bengal (WB) won the 78th Santosh Trophy by defeating Kerala in the final at the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad, Telangana.


      - This victory marked WB’s record 33rd Santosh Trophy title in the history of the tournament.


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) The Santosh Trophy is a National Football Championship organized by the All India Football Federation. A total of 31 teams participated in the 2024 edition, competing in the Group stage.

      (ii) The 2023 Santosh Trophy was won by Meghalaya, who defeated Karnataka in the final to claim the title.

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Discovery of New Species of Stellaria in West Bengal Named Stellaria bengalensis.

In December 2024, researchers identified a new species of the genus Stellaria (family Caryophyllaceae) in Kalimpong, West Bengal, named Stellaria bengalensis. This marks the second Stellaria species discovered in 2024. The finding was published in the journal Phytotaxa.


      - The first discovery in May 2024 was Stellaria mcclintockiae, found in Nelliyampathy Hills, Palakkad, Kerala.


      - The discovery was made by Arya S, Post-Graduate & Research Department of Botany, PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, and Harsh Singh from the Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Stellaria bengalensis is an annual herb that grows to a height of 8 to 10.5 centimeters. It is distinguished by its white flowers, the absence of bracts, shorter petals that are enclosed within the sepal, and sharp, pointed seeds. The plant blooms between May and September.

      (ii) India hosts approximately 22 species of Stellaria, primarily located in the Himalayan region. The population of Stellaria bengalensis has been classified as 'data deficient' according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria.

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Nobel Prize Laureate Abhijit Banerjee Launches New Book "Chhaunk on Food, Economics, and Society".

Nobel Prize laureate Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee launched his latest book, "Chhaunk: On Food, Economics, and Society", during the curtain raiser of the Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival (AKLF) at the Oxford Bookstore in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB). This event marked a significant highlight for India's only literary festival organized by a bookstore. The book is co-authored by Cheyenne Olivier and published by Juggernaut Publication.


      - The book delves into Indian culinary traditions, blending personal memories, food, and economics. It offers a conversational and accessible narrative, enriched with delicious recipes, particularly resonating with those familiar with life during the 1970s and 1980s.


     

     

Main Point :-   (i) Abhijit Vinayak Banerjee, an Indian-American economist, was awarded the 'Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences' in 2019, along with Esther Duflo and Michael Kremer, for their pioneering experimental approach to poverty alleviation and economic development.

      (ii) उनके द्वारा लिखी गई अन्य पुस्तकें: Cooking to Save Your Life (2021); What the Economy Needs Now (2019); Poverty and Income Distribution in India (2019) आदि।

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The Union Civil Aviation Minister inaugurated the 'UDAN Yatri Cafe' and special centenary tributes during the celebrations at Kolkata Airport.

In December 2024, Union Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) launched the 'UDAN Yatri Cafe' and the 'Centenary Postal Special Cover' during the opening ceremony of the 100th-anniversary celebrations of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).


      - The Union Minister also revealed the Centenary Celebrations logo of NSCBI Airport. In addition, he announced several initiatives, including the release of a special My Stamp, a souvenir coin, and a coffee table book.


      - The "UDAN Yatri Cafe" is a special pilot project by MoCA and AAI. It is created to meet the needs of passengers traveling under the Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme.

      - The cafe will offer a carefully selected menu at affordable prices, allowing passengers to enjoy quality food at reasonable rates and improving their travel experience.

Main Point :-   (i) The event was attended by Union Minister of State (MOS) Murlidhar Kisan Mohol, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), along with Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary of MoCA, and Vipin Kumar, Chairman of Airports Authority of India (AAI). Other senior officials from the Department of Post (DoP), MoCA, and AAI were also present to mark the occasion.

      (ii) The Union Minister launched a coffee table book that highlights India's cultural heritage through the modern airport designs of AAI. He also opened a photo exhibition showing rare images of the journey of NSCBI Airport.

(iii) During the event, employees of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and key airport stakeholders, including airlines and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), were honored for their outstanding contributions to the growth and development of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport.

About MoCA
Minister : Murlidhar Mohol
Headquarters : New Delhi
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UNICEF Collaborates with West Bengal Government to Improve Juvenile Diabetes Care.

In December 2024, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) partnered with the West Bengal (WB) Government to enhance the treatment of children affected by Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including juvenile diabetes.


      - The goal of this partnership is to strengthen the state's healthcare system, providing equitable access to treatment for childhood NCDs.


      - UNICEF has partnered with the West Bengal Government to improve the treatment of juvenile diabetes and other childhood NCDs, focusing on training healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and community health officers, to identify and refer children for proper treatment.

      - Five district hospitals in West Bengal already have NCD clinics treating children with Type 1 diabetes, and the government has approved 10 more district hospitals to start similar clinics, with plans to expand the service across the state.

Main Point :-   (i) UNICEF is working with WB's Department of Health and Family Welfare (DHFW), Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research (IPGMER), and Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial (SSKM) Hospital in Kolkata to establish a Primary Health Care (PHC) model for preventing and managing NCDs in children by improving community healthcare and primary health services.

      (ii) UNICEF has also partnered with the West Bengal Academy of Paediatrics to assist the health department and district health authorities in providing treatment across all districts in WB.

(iii) As per the data from the Young Diabetic Registry of India (YDR), juvenile diabetes affects five out of every 100,000 children in India.

About the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
Executive Director (ED) : Catherine Russell
Headquarters : New York (USA)
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Economic historian Amiya Kumar Bagchi has passed away.

Former professor, economic historian, and founder-director of the Institute of Development Studies Kolkata (IDSK), Amiya Kumar Bagchi, passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal.


      - He was born in 1936 in Jadupur, West Bengal, and was awarded the Padma Shri in 2005 for his contributions to literature and education.


      - In 1974, Amiya Bagchi founded and became the director of the Centre for Studies in Social Science in Kolkata.

      - As an economic historian, he played a key role in preserving banking and finance records. He worked as the official historian of the State Bank of India from 1976 to 1978.

Main Point :-   (i) After leaving the Centre for Social Sciences, he became the founder director of Institute of Development Studies Kolkata (IDSK) in 2002.

      (ii) Bagchi was also the president of Friends of Latin America (FOLA), where he played an important role in strengthening India's relations with Latin American countries.

(iii) His first major work, inspired by his PhD, was Private Investment in India: 1900-1939 (1972). Over the years, he authored several other notable works, including The Political Economy of Underdevelopment, Perilous Passage: Mankind and the Global Ascending of Capital, Capital and Labor Redefined: India and the Third World, Colonialism and Indian Economy, Money and Credit in Indian History, and The Evolution of the State Bank of India: The Roots, 1806-1876.

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Union Minister Amit Shah Participates in Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)'s 61st Raising Day Celebration in West Bengal.

On 20th December 2024, Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Cooperation (MoC), attended the 61st Raising Day function of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in Siliguri, West Bengal (WB) as the Chief Guest.


      - During the event, Union Minister Amit Shah digitally inaugurated the Integrated Check Point (ICP) in Agartala, Tripura, and the newly constructed residential complex of the Border Guard Force (BGF) at Petrapole, WB.


      - The event was also attended by Amrit Mohan Prasad, Director General (DG) of SSB; Rajendra Kumar, Secretary of Border Management (BM), MHA; Tapan Kumar Deka, Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB); and other distinguished dignitaries.

      - The SSB, a Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), established in 1963 and headquartered in New Delhi, safeguards 2,450 km borders with Nepal and Bhutan, curbs smuggling, secures borders, and plays a key role in making Bihar and Jharkhand Naxal-free, with the motto "Service, Security, and Brotherhood."

Main Point :-   (i) The event commenced with a grand parade, highlighting the discipline and dedication of the SSB personnel.

      (ii) The event featured displays of Mallakhamb, a traditional Indian acrobatic art, along with martial arts, sports demonstrations, and physical exercises. These performances showcased the fitness, training, and versatility of the SSB.

(iii) The SSB has achieved significant recognition, earning 4 Padma Shri awards, 1 Kirti Chakra, 6 Shaurya Chakra, 2 President's Gallantry Medals, 25 Police Gallantry Medals (PMG), and 35 Gallantry Medals (GM). Additionally, its personnel have showcased excellence in sports, winning 72 medals in national and international events.

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Union Minister Rammohan Naidu Unveils Logo Marking 100 Years of NSCBI Airport(Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport) in Kolkata.

On 13 December 2024, Union Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA) unveiled the logo for the centenary celebrations of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI Airport) in Kolkata, West Bengal, marking 100 years of its service.


      - A special commemorative stamp and coin were also launched to honor the airport's 100-year journey. Additionally, an exclusive art book was released, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage through modern airport architecture.


      - The event was attended by Vumlunmang Vualnam (Secretary of MOCA), Vipin Kumar (Chairman of the Airport Authority of India - AAI), and other senior officials.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Kolkata Airport celebrated its 100th anniversary on December 21, 2024, and a three-month-long celebration has been planned.

      (ii) A special UDAN Yatri Café will be opened at the airport for passengers traveling under the Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme. The café will offer quality, affordable meals to improve the travel experience.

(iii) The civil aviation sector in India is growing quickly and has become the third-largest domestic aviation hub in the world.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched the 'Banglar Bari' housing scheme.

In December 2024, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched the 'Banglar Bari' scheme to provide homes for the rural poor across the state. The launch event took place at the state secretariat, Nabanna, in West Bengal. "


      - The scheme is fully funded by the state government, with a total budget of Rs. 14,773 crore.


      - Under the scheme, each family will receive Rs. 1.20 lakh for building a house, with Rs. 60,000 provided in the first installment.

      - Families in specific areas of Jangalmahal and the Darjeeling hills will receive Rs. 1.30 lakh."

Main Point :-   (i) The beneficiaries will receive the money in two phases. Over 28 lakh eligible beneficiaries have been identified through a state-conducted survey for the scheme. The Chief Minister (CM) handed over funds to 42 beneficiaries from 21 districts. More than 12 lakh beneficiaries in the state are eligible for the first installment.

      (ii) An additional 16 lakh beneficiaries will receive housing allowances before the 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal."

(iii) Mamata Banerjee also announced the construction of a 5-kilometer-long bridge, "Gangasagar Sethu," to connect the mainland to Sagar Island. The project is estimated to cost Rs. 1,500 crore and will be fully funded by the state government, as the Centre has not responded to previous requests.

About West Bengal
CM : Mamata Banerjee
Governor: C.V. Ananda Bose
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IIT Guwahati, IIT Mandi, and CSTEP Bengaluru Release District-Level Climate Risk Assessment Report

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, IIT Mandi, and the Centre for Study of Science, Technology, and Policy (CSTEP) Bengaluru released a comprehensive report titled "District-Level Climate Risk Assessment for India: Mapping Flood and Drought Risks Using IPCC Framework" on December 13, 2024. The report, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), provides a detailed analysis of district-level climate risks in India. The report identifies 51 districts with very high flood risk and 118 districts with high flood risk, with vulnerable regions including Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, and Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, 91 districts face very high drought risk, with Bihar, Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra being the most affected. Alarmingly, 11 districts, including Patna (Bihar), Alappuzha (Kerala), and Kendrapara (Odisha), are highly vulnerable to both floods and droughts. The report emphasizes the urgent need for tailored, region-specific adaptation strategies to enhance resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change. It also highlights the importance of collective efforts and innovative frameworks to address climate challenges.


      - 51 districts face very high flood risk. 118 districts face high flood risk. 91 districts face very high drought risk.


      - 11 districts are highly vulnerable to both floods and droughts.

      - The report calls for tailored, region-specific adaptation strategies.

Main Point :-   (i) Emphasis on collective efforts and innovative frameworks to address climate challenges.

     

About IIT Guwahati :
- Chairman : Prof. Devendra Jalihal
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Indian States Showcase Economic Resilience with Over 7% GSDP Growth Post-Pandemic.

India's states have exhibited strong economic resilience post-COVID-19, with 25 states recording over 7% growth in their Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) during FY22 and FY23, as per the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) report. Among them, 17 states, including Gujarat, Kerala, Telangana, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Bihar, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Odisha, achieved an impressive 9% growth rate. The report underscores the sectoral strengths contributing to India's economic growth, highlighting Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh as leaders in agricultural production. Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha have leveraged their industrial and mineral wealth, while Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka excel in industrial and technological advancements. Tourism-centric states like Kerala, Rajasthan, and Goa boost foreign exchange earnings. Infrastructure development in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, along with renewable energy initiatives in Rajasthan and Gujarat, align with sustainable development goals. Improved connectivity in Northeastern states has transformed them into trade and tourism hubs. Human development achievements in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, coupled with initiatives like Gujarat's Vibrant Gujarat Summit and Telangana's IT corridor, have attracted foreign investments, amplifying India's global outreach. PHDCCI proposes a nine-pronged strategy to sustain and enhance state-level growth, focusing on improving ease of doing business, reducing costs, accelerating infrastructure development, promoting sustainable growth, boosting the services sector, and fostering skill development and innovation.


      - Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh lead in agricultural production.


      - Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha excel in industrial growth. Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka drive industrial and technological advancements.

      - Kerala, Rajasthan, and Goa boost tourism and foreign exchange earnings. Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh lead in infrastructure development. Rajasthan and Gujarat focus on renewable energy. Northeastern states improve connectivity, enhancing trade and tourism.

Main Point :-   (i) 25 states recorded over 7% GSDP growth in FY22 and FY23.

      (ii) 17 states achieved over 9% growth, including Gujarat and Kerala.

(iii) PHDCCI proposes a nine-pronged strategy for sustained growth.

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BMW and UNICEF Partner to Empower Rural Indian Children with STEM Skills

BMW Group and UNICEF have partnered to transform education for 100,000 children in rural India by providing quality STEM education with a focus on gender equality and inclusive learning. This initiative will be implemented in four states: Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, aiming to support the most marginalized communities


      - The initiative focuses on gender equality and inclusive education.


      - The program aims to build foundational literacy and numeracy skills.

     

Main Point :-   (i) Implementation will occur in Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

      (ii) Low-cost maker spaces will nurture curiosity, creativity, and innovation.

Headquarters: New York City, USA
Founded: 1946
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Magnus Carlsen Clinches Both Rapid and Blitz Titles at Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2024.

Five-time world champion Grandmaster (GM) Magnus Carlsen (Norway) won both the rapid and blitz titles at the 6th edition of the Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz 2024 tournament, held from 13th to 17th November 2024, at the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal.


      - Carlsen won the blitz title by defeating Vidit Gujrathi (India) in the final round to record three straight wins and end with 13 points.


      - He won the Rapid title by defeating Daniil Dubov (Russia) in the Open Category with 7.5 points.

      - Pragnanandhaa Rameshbabu and Wesley So (USA) scored 5.5 points each, securing 2nd and 3rd place according to tie-breaks.

Main Points:-   (i) In the women's category, GM Nana Dzagnidze (Georgia) secured 2nd place with 5.5 points while the Indian grandmaster Vantika Agrawal remained in 3rd with a total of 5 points.

      (ii) In the women's section, Valentina Gunina (Russia) finished second with 11 points. Aleksandra Goryachkina (Russia) and India's Vantika Agrawal secured 3rd place with 9.5 points each.

(iii) Magnus Carlsen has won the world title in 2013 and has successfully defended it four times (2014, 2016, 2018, and 2021). He also claimed the 2024 Champions Chess Tour Chessable Masters title in February 2024. As of November 2024, he is on the top of the FIDE (International Chess Federation) ratings.

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