Current Affairs | March 2025

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 Current Affairs | March 2025

Contents
Most Important Current Affairs In March 2025 .............................................................................................................. 3
NATIONAL NEWS....................................................................................................................................................................16
GOVT SCHEMES ...................................................................................................................................................................... 22
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS .................................................................................................................................................. 25
BANKING & FINANCE ............................................................................................................................................................ 26
ECONOMY & BUSINESS ......................................................................................................................................................... 30
MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ......................................................................................................................................................... 34
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...................................................................................................................................36
AWARDS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE...................................................................................................................................42
INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 44
DEFENCE................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ..................................................................................................................................................... 50
SPORTS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 52
BOOKS & AUTHORS ............................................................................................................................................................... 53
OBITUARY ................................................................................................................................................................................ 54
IMPORTANT DAYS .................................................................................................................................................................56
MISCELLANEOUS ....................................................................................................................................................................59
STATIC TAKEAWAYS............................................................................................................................................................. 60
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ................................................................................................................................................. 64

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Most Important Current Affairs In March 2025
Oscars Awards 2025: Full List of the 97th Academy Awards Forbes India Leadership Awards 2025: Honoring Excellence
Winners and Innovation
The 97th Academy Awards are now underway at the Dolby Final Set of Awards: Celebrating Leadership Across Sectors
Theatre in Los Angeles. The 97th Oscars hosted by Conan O’Brien
with your own Oscars printable ballot. Award
Winner Key Contribution
Category
Oscars Awards 2025: Full List of the 97th Academy Awards
Emerging
Winners BugWorks Innovation in
Innovator
Research biotechnology
Category Winners Award
Best Picture Anora Revolutionizing
Outstanding
BrowserStack software testing
Actor in a Leading Startup Award
The Brutalist solutions
Role
Actor in a Icons of Ajay Singh Leadership in aviation
Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain Excellence (SpiceJet) sector
Supporting Role
Actress in a Katrina Kaif (Kay Entrepreneurship in
Mikey Madison, “Anora” Beauty) beauty industry
Leading Role
Actress in a Icons of Contributions to global
Zoe Saldana, Emilia Perez Jay Shah (ICC)
Supporting Role Excellence cricket governance
Animated Feature Shyam Srinivasan Leadership in financial
Flow
Film (Federal Bank) sector
Animated Short Mohit Joshi (Tech Driving technological
In the Shadow of the Cypress
Film Mahindra) transformation
Cinematography Lol Crawley, “The Brutalist” Transparent and
Promising
Costume Design Wicked Minimalist effective skincare
Startup
Best Director Sean Baker, “Anora” solutions
Documentary Authentic Indian
No Other Land Regional
Feature Film MTR Foods cuisine and quality
Goliath
Documentary commitment
The Only Girl in the Orchestra Rizwan & Rekha Social impact in
Short Film Grassroots
Film Editing Anora, Sean Baker Koita (Koita healthcare and
Philanthropists
Foundation) education
International
“I’m Still Here” (Brazil) Climate Sustainable water
Feature Film Indra Water
Makeup and Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon Warrior treatment solutions
Hairstyling and Marilyne Scarselli, “The Substance” Revitalization of
Turnaround Indian Hotels Co.
Music (Original hospitality and service
Daniel Blumberg, “The Brutalist” Star Ltd. (IHCL)
Score) excellence
Music (Original Varun Jaipuria
“El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez” Next-Gen Expansion in the
Song) (Varun
Entrepreneur beverage sector
Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales, Beverages)
Production Design
“Wicked” Ashish Dhawan Contributions to
Institution
Live Action Short (Central Square education reform and
I’m Not a Robot Builder
Film Foundation) policy-making
Best Sound Dune: Part Two Supam
Entrepreneur Leadership in baby and
Visual Effects Dune: Part Two Maheshwari
of the Year kids’ retail market
Writing (Adapted (FirstCry)
Conclave Rajesh Jejurikar Innovation in
Screenplay)
CEO of the
Writing (Original (Mahindra & automobile sector and
Anora Year
Screenplay) Mahindra) business expansion

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025: Key Provisions, Impact 4. Liability of Transport Carriers
and Significance The bill places significant responsibility on transport carriers,
including airlines, shipping companies, and other means of
In a significant move to modernize India’s immigration
transportation. Key provisions include:
framework, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai,
• Carriers transporting foreigners without valid documents
introduced the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the
will be subject to a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.
Parliament. The proposed bill aims to replace colonial-era laws
• If a foreigner is denied entry into India, the carrier will be
with a more structured and stringent immigration system to
responsible for their immediate removal.
enhance national security, regulate foreign nationals, and
• Failure to comply could lead to seizure of the transport
introduce stricter penalties for violations of entry and stay
vehicle if penalties are not paid.
conditions.
5. Powers of Immigration Officers
Existing Laws to be Replaced
The bill enhances the authority of immigration officials by
The bill proposes to repeal four existing laws that currently
granting them the power to:
govern India’s immigration and foreigner management system.
• Arrest individuals without a warrant if they are found
These laws are:
violating immigration laws.
• The Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
• Regulate the movement and stay of foreigners.
• The Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
• Restrict exit from India if a foreigner’s presence is required
• The Foreigners Act, 1946
for investigation or security purposes.
• The Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000
6. Advance Passenger Data Requirement
The government justifies the introduction of this new bill by
To bolster security measures, airlines and vessels will be required
stating that it aims to remove overlapping provisions, ensure a
to share passenger and crew data with immigration authorities
simplified legal framework, and provide better control over
before arrival in India. This provision aims to:
foreign nationals in the country.
• Identify potential security threats in advance.
Key Provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 • Enable real-time monitoring of incoming and outgoing
1. Entry Restrictions for Foreigners travelers.
The bill specifies that any foreigner who poses a threat to
Impact and Significance of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill,
national security, sovereignty, or the integrity of the nation will
2025
be denied entry into India or will not be permitted to stay in the
1. Strengthening National Security
country. This provision reinforces India’s stance on tightening
The bill aligns with India’s objective of ensuring stronger border
border security and immigration control.
control and monitoring foreign nationals to prevent illegal
2. Mandatory Registration and Movement Restrictions immigration, espionage, and terrorism-related activities.
Under the new bill, foreign nationals will be required to register 2. Simplification and Modernization of Immigration Laws
upon arrival in India. Additional regulations include: By replacing four separate laws with a comprehensive legal
• Restriction of movement within India, preventing access to framework, the government aims to remove legal ambiguities
protected and restricted areas without prior permission. and create a streamlined system that is easier to implement and
• Limiting name changes and identity modifications. enforce.
• Educational institutions, hospitals, and nursing homes will 3. Better Control Over Foreigners in India
be obligated to report foreign nationals’ presence to Mandatory registration, stricter penalties, and movement
immigration authorities. restrictions will ensure that foreign nationals comply with Indian
laws and do not pose a threat to national security and public
3. Stricter Penalties for Violations order.
The bill introduces severe punishments for foreigners who 4. Increased Accountability of Transport Carriers
violate entry and stay conditions in India. The penalties include: By holding airlines, shipping companies, and other carriers
• Illegal entry without a valid passport or visa: Up to 5 years accountable, the bill seeks to prevent human trafficking, illegal
of imprisonment and a fine of ₹5 lakh. immigration, and visa violations.
• Usage of forged documents: Jail term of 2 to 7 years, with Statistics on Foreign Visitors to India
fines ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh. According to the latest government data, a total of 9,840,321
• Overstaying or violating visa conditions: Up to 3 years of foreigners visited India between April 1, 2023, and March 31,
imprisonment and a fine of ₹3 lakh. 2024. The new bill is expected to have a significant impact on the
• Trespassing in restricted areas: Strict legal action, including way India regulates and manages such large numbers of foreign
detention and deportation. nationals.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
IIFA Awards 2025: Check Full List of Winners • Best Choreography: Bosco-Caesar (Tauba Tauba from Bad
Newz)
The International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) 2025
• Best Sound Design: Subash Sahoo, Boloy Kumar Doloi, Rahul
marked a spectacular silver jubilee edition, celebrating 25 years
Karpe (Kill)
of honoring the best in Bollywood. Held in the majestic city of
Jaipur, Rajasthan, the event was a glittering affair with the • Best Editing: Jabeen Merchant (Laapataa Ladies)
biggest stars of Indian cinema gracing the occasion. The two-day • Best Cinematography: Rafey Mahmood (Kill)
extravaganza, which took place on March 8 and March 9, 2025, • Best Special Effects: Red Chillies VFX (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3)
witnessed breathtaking performances and unforgettable Lifetime Achievement and Special Honors
moments, culminating in the announcement of the most • Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema: Rakesh Roshan
prestigious awards in Indian cinema.

The biggest winner of the night was Kiran Rao’s “Laapataa Top 10 Largest Arms Importing Countries (2020–2024): SIPRI
Ladies,” which swept 10 awards, establishing itself as the most Report
celebrated film of the evening. Other notable winners included
The latest report from the Stockholm International Peace
Kartik Aaryan, who won Best Actor, and the action thriller “Kill,”
Research Institute (SIPRI) has unveiled the top 10 largest arms-
which bagged multiple trophies. Let’s take a detailed look at the
importing countries from 2020 to 2024. A key highlight of this
full list of winners and key highlights of this year’s IIFA Awards.
report is the emergence of Ukraine as the world’s largest arms
IIFA 2025 Full List of Winners importer, surpassing all other nations due to its ongoing war with
Russia. Additionally, India continues to be a dominant player,
Best Film Categories
ranking as the second-largest arms importer globally.
• Best Picture: Laapataa Ladies
This period has witnessed a significant increase in arms imports
• Best Direction: Kiran Rao (Laapataa Ladies)
across European nations, a trend largely influenced by
• Best Story (Original) In The Popular Category: Biplab
geopolitical conflicts, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war. The
Goswami (Laapataa Ladies)
global arms trade continues to be dominated by a few major
• Best Story (Adapted): Sriram Raghavan, Arijit Biswas, Pooja suppliers, with the United States leading in arms exports.
Ladha Surti, Anukriti Pandey (Merry Christmas)
• Best Screenplay: Sneha Desai (Laapataa Ladies) Global Surge in Arms Imports
• Best Dialogue: Arjun Dhawan, Aditya Dhar, Aditya Suhas According to SIPRI, European countries have significantly
Jambhale, Monal Thaakar (Article 370) increased their arms imports, with a staggering 155% rise
between 2020-2024 compared to the previous period (2015-
Acting Categories 2019). This surge is primarily driven by the Russia-Ukraine war,
• Best Performance in a Leading Role (Male): Kartik Aaryan prompting nations to bolster their defense capabilities.
(Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3) Prior to 2022, Ukraine imported very few major arms, but the
• Best Performance in a Leading Role (Female): Nitanshi Goel war with Russia, which began in February 2022, led to a massive
(Laapataa Ladies) spike in arms imports in 2023 and 2024. At least 35 countries
• Best Performance in a Supporting Role (Female): Janki have supplied major arms to Ukraine as part of military aid,
Bodiwala (Shaitaan) solidifying its position as the world’s top arms importer.
• Best Performance in a Supporting Role (Male): Ravi Kishan
(Laapataa Ladies)
• Best Performance in a Negative Role: Raghav Juyal (Kill)

Debut Categories
• Best Directorial Debut: Kunal Kemmu (Madgaon Express)
• Best Debut (Male): Lakshya Lalwani (Kill)
• Best Debut (Female): Pratibha Ranta (Laapataa Ladies)

Music and Technical Categories

• Best Music Director: Ram Sampath (Laapataa Ladies)
• Best Lyrics: Prashant Pandey (Sajni from Laapataa Ladies)
• Best Singer (Male): Jubin Nautiyal (Dua from Article 370)
• Best Singer (Female): Shreya Ghoshal (Ami Je Tomar 3.0
from Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3)
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 Current Affairs | March 2025
The World’s Largest Arms Importers (2020-2024) Key Suppliers to India
The report identifies the top five largest arms importers, which India’s top three arms suppliers during this period were:
together account for 35% of global arms imports among 162 1. Russia – Constituting 36% of India’s total arms imports.
nations classified by SIPRI. 2. France – Increasingly becoming a key defense supplier.
3. Israel – Strengthening defense ties with India.
Top 10 Arms Importing Countries (2020-2024) Additionally, India has been diversifying its sources by engaging
with Western nations like the USA to ensure strategic
Share of Global Arms Top 3 Supplier
Rank Country independence and reduce reliance on a single country.
Imports (2020-24) Countries
USA, Germany, India’s Shift Towards Self-Reliance in Defense
1 Ukraine 8.8% The decline in India’s arms imports is not due to a reduction in
Poland
defense needs but rather a reflection of its growing indigenous
Russia, France,
2 India 8.3% defense manufacturing capabilities. The Indian government has
Israel
introduced initiatives such as:
3 Qatar 6.8% USA, Italy, UK • ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant
Saudi USA, Spain, India) initiatives.
4 6.8%
Arabia France • Defense Procurement Policy (DPP) reforms to encourage
China, local production.
5 Pakistan 4.6% Netherlands, • Increased investment in domestic defense technology to
Türkiye reduce dependence on imports.
USA, UK, These efforts have led to India manufacturing its own fighter
6 Japan 3.9% jets, missiles, and naval warships, decreasing reliance on foreign
Germany
suppliers.
USA, Spain,
7 Australia 3.5%
Norway Global Trends in Arms Imports
Germany, Italy, Geopolitical Factors Influencing Arms Trade
8 Egypt 3.3% Several key geopolitical factors have shaped the global arms
France
trade from 2020 to 2024:
United UK, France,
9 3.1% • Russia-Ukraine War (2022-Present): The conflict has driven
States Israel
Ukraine’s demand for weapons, with Western nations
USA, Italy,
10 Kuwait 2.9% supplying arms in large numbers.
France • China’s Growing Influence in Asia: Countries like India,
Key Observations Japan, and Australia are strengthening their military
capabilities to counterbalance China’s military expansion.
• Ukraine emerged as the largest arms importer due to the
• Middle East Conflicts: Nations like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and
Russia-Ukraine war.
Kuwait remain key importers due to regional security
• India, despite being the second-largest importer, has
concerns.
witnessed a decline in arms imports. • European Military Buildup: Rising tensions with Russia have
• European countries saw a 155% increase in arms imports, led to increased defense spending in Europe.
driven by security concerns.
• The United States remains the dominant supplier, with PM Narendra Modi’s Historic Visit to Mauritius
Russia, France, and China playing significant roles in global
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day state
arms trade. visit to Mauritius on March 11, 2025, reinforcing India’s long-
India: The Second-Largest Arms Importer standing ties with the island nation. During his visit, PM Modi
India’s Share in Global Arms Imports participated in various diplomatic, cultural, and economic
engagements, highlighting the deep-rooted relationship
India accounted for 8.3% of total global arms imports between
between the two countries. His visit was marked by significant
2020 and 2024, making it the second-largest importer after
announcements, including the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
Ukraine. However, this marks a 9.3% decline compared to the
cards for Mauritian leaders, the inauguration of over 20 India-
2015-2019 period. This decline is attributed to India’s efforts to funded projects, and receiving Mauritius’ highest civilian honor,
reduce dependency on foreign weapons by focusing on The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the
domestic defense manufacturing. Indian Ocean.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Mauritius: A Bridge Between India and the Global South OCI Cards for Mauritius PM and Key Leaders
During his address, PM Modi emphasized Mauritius’ role as a
Strengthening India’s Diaspora Ties
bridge between India and the Global South, reaffirming the
In a special gesture, PM Modi announced the issuance of OCI
strong historical and cultural ties that unite the two nations. He
(Overseas Citizen of India) cards to Mauritius’ Prime Minister
stated that Mauritius is not just a partner country but a vital part Navin Ramgoolam and his spouse Veena Ramgoolam. This was
of India’s extended family. His visit reflected India’s commitment part of India’s continued commitment to fostering strong ties
to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with with the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
Mauritius. Earlier in the day, OCI cards were also presented to President
Ceremonial Welcome and State Visit Highlights Dharam Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool. The OCI status
PM Modi commenced his visit with a ceremonial welcome in grants lifelong visa-free travel, residency, and work rights in
Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius. His itinerary included: India, further strengthening Mauritius’ historical connection to
India.
• A sapling planting ceremony at the Sir Seewoosagur
Ramgoolam Botanical Garden alongside Mauritian Prime PM Modi Attends Mauritius National Day Celebrations
Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. As the Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, PM
• Paying homage at the Samadhi of Sir Seewoosagur Modi reaffirmed India’s strong diplomatic and cultural ties with
Ramgoolam, the founding father of Mauritius. the island nation. During a special lunch hosted by President
• Paying tribute at the Samadhi of Anerood Jugnauth, former Gokhool, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for Mauritius’
President and Prime Minister of Mauritius. warm hospitality and shared heritage.
• Meeting with Mauritius’ President Dharam Gokhool, where In his speech, he highlighted the cultural bonds between the two
he gifted Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh as a token of nations, stating:
India’s spiritual heritage. • “The Mauritian platter reflects the country’s diverse social
fabric, carrying the sweetness of our friendship.”
PM Modi Conferred with Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour • “This occasion is not just about celebration but a
The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the reaffirmation of our deep-rooted ties.”
Indian Ocean PM Modi extended his best wishes for the prosperity and well-
In a historic moment, PM Modi became the first Indian to being of the people of Mauritius and emphasized India’s
receive Mauritius’ highest civilian honor, The Grand continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian
Cultural and Traditional Engagements
Ocean. This marks the 21st international award conferred upon
Paying Tribute to Mauritius’ Leaders
him by a foreign nation.
PM Modi paid respects to the founding father of Mauritius, Sir
Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam stated that
Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, and former PM Anerood Jugnauth
PM Modi is only the fifth foreign national to receive this
by laying wreaths at their Samadhis. These tributes underscored
distinguished honor. In his acceptance speech, PM Modi
India’s historical respect and admiration for Mauritius’ national
dedicated the honor to the strong Indo-Mauritian bond, saying,
leaders.
“This is not just an individual honor but a tribute to the historic
Traditional Bhojpuri Performance: Geet Gawai
relationship between our nations.” PM Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in
Mauritius. Women from the community honored him through a
traditional Bhojpuri performance called Geet Gawai, which was
recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural
Heritage of Humanity in 2016.

PM Modi’s Gifts to Mauritius Leaders

As a symbol of India’s cultural and agricultural wealth, PM Modi
presented unique gifts to Mauritius’ leadership:
• Gangajal from the Maha Kumbh (to President Dharam
Gokhool).
• Makhana (superfood from Bihar) (to Mauritius’ President).
• Banarasi saree in a Sadeli box (to First Lady Brinda Gokhool).
These gifts were a reflection of India’s traditional craftsmanship
and spiritual heritage.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Inauguration of India-Funded Projects in Mauritius Theme for 2025: “Kālachakra – People, Peace and Planet”
PM Modi also focused on economic and infrastructural The central theme for Raisina Dialogue 2025 is “Kālachakra –
collaborations by inaugurating over 20 India-funded projects. People, Peace and Planet.” This theme encapsulates the essence
These included: of global interconnectedness, emphasizing the need for
• Civil Services College Building (constructed at a cost of $4.75 sustainable solutions, inclusive development, and strategic
million). foresight in policymaking.
• Area Health Centre and 20 Community Projects (costing
approximately ₹7 crores). Key Thematic Pillars
• Sports and community-linked infrastructure projects, The discussions will be structured around six thematic pillars,
strengthening local development initiatives. each addressing critical issues that shape international relations
Additionally, PM Modi announced new major infrastructure and global governance:
projects aimed at democracy enhancement and capacity- 1. Politics Interrupted: Shifting Sands and Rising Tides
building in Mauritius. This theme will delve into the evolving geopolitical landscape,
focusing on the disruptions in global power dynamics, the rise of
What is Raisina Dialogue 2025? multipolarity, and the impact of shifting alliances on world
politics.
The Raisina Dialogue is India’s premier conference on geopolitics
2. Resolving the Green Trilemma: Who, Where, & How
and geo-economics, dedicated to addressing some of the most
Addressing the urgent need for climate action, this pillar will
pressing global challenges. Hosted annually in New Delhi, this
dialogue brings together world leaders, policymakers, industry focus on the trade-offs between economic growth,
experts, and scholars to engage in discussions shaping the environmental sustainability, and energy security. Experts will
international order. discuss innovative solutions for achieving carbon neutrality and
The 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue is set to take place from fostering green investments.
March 17 to March 19, 2025. This milestone event will once 3. Digital Planet: Agents, Agencies, and Absences
again serve as a critical platform for fostering dialogue and With the world increasingly reliant on digital technologies,
cooperation among nations, highlighting India’s pivotal role in discussions under this pillar will explore the role of artificial
global affairs. intelligence, cybersecurity, digital governance, and data privacy
in shaping the global digital economy.
Inauguration and Keynote Address
4. Militant Mercantilism: Trade, Supply Chains & the Exchange
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the dialogue
Rate Addiction
on March 17, 2025. The Prime Minister of New Zealand, The
Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, will be the Chief Guest and This segment will analyze the challenges posed by protectionist
will deliver the keynote address. His presence underscores the policies, disrupted supply chains, and fluctuating exchange
strengthening of bilateral ties between India and New Zealand rates, shedding light on how nations can navigate the
and the broader commitment to international dialogue on complexities of global trade and economic resilience.
pressing global issues. 5. The Tiger’s Tale: Rewriting Development with a New Plan
Global Participation: 125 Countries Unite Focusing on emerging economies, this theme will explore new
The Raisina Dialogue 2025 will witness an impressive gathering development models, strategies for economic growth, and the
of participants from around 125 countries, including: role of international institutions in fostering equitable progress.
• Ministers and Diplomats 6. Investing in Peace: Drivers, Institutions, & Leadership
• Former Heads of State and Government Leaders Amid rising geopolitical tensions, this pillar will examine the
• Military Commanders mechanisms required for conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and
• Business and Industry Leaders global security cooperation. Discussions will also highlight the
• Technology Pioneers role of multilateral organizations in maintaining peace and
• Academicians and Researchers stability.
• Journalists and Strategic Affairs Experts Scale of Participation and Global Outreach
• Representatives from Think Tanks and Civil Society Over 3,500 participants from around 125 countries will join the
• Youth Delegates from Across the World Raisina Dialogue in person, making it one of the largest
diplomatic gatherings in India. Additionally, millions of viewers
With such a diverse and dynamic mix of attendees, the dialogue
across the world will be able to engage with the event through
will be instrumental in shaping conversations around
contemporary geopolitical challenges and economic transitions. digital platforms, ensuring widespread reach and impact.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Significance of the Raisina Dialogue 2025 Indian Business Presence in New Zealand
1. Strengthening India’s Role in Global Affairs • IT giants like HCL, Infosys, and Tech Mahindra have
As a key global player, India’s leadership in hosting the Raisina established operations.
Dialogue reflects its commitment to shaping international policy • Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, and New India Assurance also
discourse and fostering diplomatic engagement. operate in the country.
2. Driving Strategic and Economic Partnerships
Objective of FTA
The presence of policymakers and business leaders provides an
excellent opportunity for fostering bilateral and multilateral • Achieve balanced trade outcomes.
partnerships, particularly in areas like trade, defense, climate • Strengthen supply chain integration.
action, and digital governance. • Expand market access for businesses and consumers.
3. A Platform for Young Leaders and Think Tanks • Foster economic resilience and prosperity.
The event also serves as a knowledge-sharing platform for
academics, researchers, and young leaders, fostering innovation Hockey India Awards 2024: Check Complete List of Winners
and thought leadership in global governance. The Hockey India Annual Awards 2024 was a grand event that
recognized and honoured the finest talents in Indian hockey. Held
India – New Zealand Announce Launch of FTA Negotiations in New Delhi, the prestigious awards ceremony was a
India and New Zealand have officially launched negotiations for momentous occasion as it coincided with the centenary of Indian
a “comprehensive and mutually beneficial” Free Trade hockey and the golden jubilee of India’s 1975 Men’s Hockey
Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in their bilateral World Cup victory.
relations. This will be India’s second FTA in the Oceania region, The event was marked by the celebration of outstanding
after the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade performances from Indian players, acknowledging their
Agreement (ECTA), signed in April 2022. The FTA aims to enhance dedication and contribution to the sport. The top honors at the
supply chain integration, expand market access, and foster event were claimed by Harmanpreet Singh and Savita Punia,
economic resilience and prosperity for both nations. both of whom were awarded the Balbir Singh Sr Award for
Player of the Year in the men’s and women’s categories,
Key Highlights respectively.
Official Announcement Complete List of Hockey India Awards 2024 Winners
• The FTA negotiations were announced during a meeting • Hockey India Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year:
between Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and New Savita Punia
Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay on March 16, 2025, in
• Hockey India Pargat Singh Award for Defender of the Year:
New Delhi.
Amit Rohidas
Strategic Timing • Hockey India Ajit Pal Singh Award for Midfielder of the Year:
• The announcement came ahead of the bilateral meeting Hardik Singh
between Indian PM Narendra Modi and New Zealand PM • Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year:
Christopher Luxon, who arrived in India for his first official Abhishek
visit. • Hockey India Asunta Lakra Award for Upcoming Player of the
Year (Women – Under 21): Deepika
Current Trade Scenario
• Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for Upcoming Player of the
• Bilateral trade crossed $1 billion between April 2024 and
Year (Men – Under 21): Araijeet Singh Hundal
January 2025.
• Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr Award for Player of The Year
• India’s exports to New Zealand in 2023-24 were $538 million,
(Women): Savita Punia
while imports stood at $335 million, with a $203 million
• Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr Award for Player of The Year
trade surplus in India’s favor.
(Men): Harmanpreet Singh
• In 2024-25 (up to December 31), exports grew by 21.49% to
• Hockey India Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement
$496 million, while imports surged by 78.72% to $463
Award: 1975 World Cup Winning Team
million, narrowing the trade gap to $33 million.
Honoring the Legacy: The 1975 World Cup Winning Team
Key Imports & Exports
This year’s Hockey India Awards held special significance as it
• India imports from New Zealand: Wool, iron & steel, fruits &
marked the 50th anniversary of India’s historic 1975 Men’s
nuts, aluminum.
Hockey World Cup win. In a heartfelt tribute, the members of the
• India exports to New Zealand: Pharmaceuticals, machinery,
victorious squad were conferred the Major Dhyan Chand
textiles, pearls, precious stones, and metals.
Lifetime Achievement Award.
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 Current Affairs | March 2025
The event saw the presence of legendary players from the 1975 Defence and Security Cooperation
team, including Leslie Fernandez, Onkar Singh, Ashok Diwan, BP • Defence cooperation was expanded with the signing of the
Govinda, Kaliah PE, Brigadier HJS Chimni, VJ Phillips, Ashok India-New Zealand MoU on Defence Cooperation.
Kumar, Aslam Sher Khan, and Brigadier Harcharan Singh. Their • Increased participation in military exercises, officer
exchanges, and naval port calls.
contribution to Indian hockey remains unparalleled, and the
• New Zealand welcomed India’s participation in the
award was a fitting tribute to their glorious victory. Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
• Both sides agreed on regular dialogue for maritime safety
India-New Zealand Bilateral Relations: Key Outcomes of PM and security.
Christopher Luxon’s Visit • New Zealand expressed interest in joining India’s Indo-Pacific
Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, • Cooperation on the National Maritime Heritage Complex
visited India from March 16-20, 2025, at the invitation of Prime (NMHC) in Gujarat was discussed.
Minister Narendra Modi. This was his first official visit to India in Science, Technology & Disaster Management
his current capacity. During his visit, he engaged in bilateral talks • Strengthened partnerships in research, technology, and
with PM Modi, participated in the 10th edition of the Raisina innovation.
Dialogue as the Chief Guest, and met with President Droupadi • Focus on low-emission climate-resilient economies and
Murmu. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral ties across India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
multiple sectors, including trade, investment, defence, • New Zealand joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure (CDRI).
education, and multilateral cooperation. Both leaders reiterated
• Progress towards a Memorandum of Cooperation on
their commitment to enhancing people-to-people ties, maritime earthquake mitigation.
security, climate action, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Education, Mobility & Cultural Exchange
Key Highlights of the Visit • Expansion of education partnerships and opportunities for
Indian students in New Zealand.
Diplomatic and Strategic Engagements • Discussions on mobility arrangements for professionals and
• PM Luxon received a warm and traditional welcome in New skilled workers.
Delhi. • Signing of a refreshed Education Cooperation Arrangement.
• He laid a wreath at Raj Ghat in honor of Mahatma Gandhi. • Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on Sports,
marking 100 years of sporting ties.
• PM Modi and PM Luxon held bilateral talks, reaffirming
• Promotion of traditional medicine and increased
shared democratic values and strengthening cooperation in cooperation in yoga, music, dance, and festivals.
trade, security, education, and technology.
Regional & Multilateral Cooperation
• PM Luxon was the Chief Guest at the 10th Raisina Dialogue,
• Both sides emphasized an open, inclusive, and stable Indo-
delivering the Inaugural Keynote Address. Pacific region.
• Both leaders emphasized strengthening multilateral • New Zealand endorsed India’s bid for permanent
cooperation and ensuring a stable Indo-Pacific region. membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
• Joint commitment to counterterrorism and disrupting
Economic & Trade Cooperation terrorist financing networks.
• Both sides welcomed sustained trade and investment flows • Support for a two-state solution for Israel-Palestine peace
and encouraged business collaborations. and a negotiated settlement for the Ukraine war.
• The launch of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations was
announced to enhance economic ties. Ramnath Goenka Awards for Excellence in Journalism 2025
• Discussions initiated on digital payments cooperation within The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards were
the FTA framework. presented by President Droupadi Murmu to honor outstanding
contributions to Indian journalism. The awards recognize
• The Authorized Economic Operators Mutual Recognition
journalists who uphold the values of truth, integrity, and fearless
Arrangement (AEO-MRA) was signed to facilitate trade. reporting. In her speech, President Murmu highlighted the
• New cooperation on horticulture and forestry was importance of journalism in sustaining democracy and
established through MOUs and Letters of Intent. acknowledged Ramnath Goenka’s legacy in defending press
• Tourism and aviation ties were strengthened, with an update freedom, particularly during the Emergency. She emphasized the
to the Air Services Agreement and plans for direct flight need for ground reporting, research-based journalism, and the
role of human values in combating challenges posed by AI and
operations.
misinformation.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Summary Table of Award Winners Category Winner & Publication
Category Winner & Publication Uncovering India Vishnukant Tiwari & Athar Rather (The
Invisible Quint) – Investigated witch-hunting
Hindi Mridulika Jha (Aaj Tak) – Reported on
(Broadcast/Digital) violence in Jharkhand.
(Print/Digital) the Dunki route migration crisis.
Politics & Ashutosh Mishra (India Today TV) –
Regional Jisha Elizabeth (Madhyamam) –
Government Ground reports on ethnic violence in
Languages Exposed human trafficking of Indian
(Broadcast) Manipur.
(Print/Digital) youth to Myanmar.
Tejas Vaidya & Enakshi Rajvanshi (BBC
Environment, Sibu Kumar Tripathi (India Today) – Sports Journalism
Hindi) – Covered disabled women
Science & Tech Covered the Joshimath sinking crisis. (Broadcast/Digital)
cricketers in Gujarat.
Satyasundar Barik (The Hindu) –
Uncovering India Investigative Anurag Dwary (NDTV) – Exposed
Reports on migration and missing
Invisible Reporting medical college scams in Madhya
daughters in Odisha.
(Broadcast) Pradesh.
Business & Twesh Mishra (Economic Times) –
Economic Investigated subsidy fraud in India’s EV
Government Notifies Revisions to MSME Investment and
Journalism manufacturing sector.
Turnover Criteria: Effective April 1, 2025
Maitri Porecha (The Hindu) – Covered
Politics & The Government of India has announced a major revision in the
Balasore train tragedy and its
Government investment and turnover criteria for the classification of Micro,
aftermath.
Shahab Ali & Amarnath Kashyap Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The changes, which
(Hindustan) – Exposed poor conditions will take effect from April 1, 2025, are aimed at enhancing
Sports Journalism business opportunities and providing greater financial flexibility
in gold medallist Asha Kiran Barla’s
village. to MSMEs. Under the revised criteria, investment limits have
Nihal AP Koshie, Mahender Singh been increased by 2.5 times, and turnover limits have been
Investigative Manral & Mihir Vasavda (Indian doubled, as per the announcement made by Union Finance
Reporting Express) – Exposed sexual harassment Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union Budget 2025.
in India’s wrestling federation. These revisions will allow larger businesses to qualify as MSMEs,
Shubhajit Roy (Indian Express) – facilitating better access to credit, government incentives, and
Feature Writing Ground reports from Israel-Palestine support schemes.
conflict zones. Key Highlights
Foreign Nilesh Christopher (Rest of World) –
Revised MSME Classification
Correspondent Covered the impact of AI and
• Effective Date: April 1, 2025.
(India) manufacturing shifts in India.
• Purpose: To facilitate greater ease of doing business, expand
Jeet Mashru & Somita Pal (Hindustan
eligibility for MSME benefits, and enhance the growth
Civic Journalism Times) – Investigated BMC hospital
potential of enterprises.
shortages, leading to a policy change.
• Increased Investment and Turnover Limits: The government
P. Ravikumar (New Indian Express) –
has raised investment and turnover limits for micro, small,
Photo Journalism Captured oil spill devastation in
and medium enterprises, allowing more businesses to
Chennai.
qualify as MSMEs.
A.R. Venkatachalapathy (Penguin) –
Books (Non-
Wrote about V.O. Chidambaram Pillai’s Revised MSME Classification Criteria
Fiction)
fight against British rule.
1. Micro Enterprises
Siddhant Mohan (Lallantop) –
Hindi • Previous Investment Limit: ₹1 crore → Revised Limit: ₹2.5
Investigated the real Kerala story,
(Broadcast/Digital) crore.
countering film narratives.
• Previous Turnover Limit: ₹5 crore → Revised Limit: ₹10
Mandar Gonjari (ABP Majha) –
Regional crore.
Exposed an undertrial running a
Languages
synthetic drug racket from Pune 2. Small Enterprises
(Broadcast)
hospital. • Previous Investment Limit: ₹10 crore → Revised Limit: ₹25
Environment, Joel Michael & Rohini Krishnamurthy crore.
Science & Tech (Down To Earth) – Covered Ludhiana’s • Previous Turnover Limit: ₹50 crore → Revised Limit: ₹100
(Broadcast/Digital) industrial gas leak deaths. crore.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
3. Medium Enterprises 2. Transport Connectivity & Public Services
• Previous Investment Limit: ₹50 crore → Revised Limit: ₹125 • Rs 12,952 crore allocated for transport development.
crore. • Rs 1,000 crore to enhance Delhi-NCR transport
• Previous Turnover Limit: ₹250 crore → Revised Limit: ₹500 connectivity.
crore. • Replacement of pink tickets for free bus rides for women
with smart cards to prevent misuse.
Implications of the Revised Criteria
• Broader MSME Coverage: More businesses will qualify as 3. Social Welfare Initiatives
MSMEs, increasing access to credit facilities and government • Rs 5,100 crore allocated for monthly financial aid of Rs
incentives. 2,500 to eligible women.
• Enhanced Growth Opportunities: Enterprises can now scale • Free laptops for 1,200 Class X students, with an allocation of
up operations without losing MSME status, promoting Rs 750 crore.
higher investment and innovation. • Establishment of modern cow shelters in Ghummanhera at
• Increased Global Competitiveness: Higher turnover limits a cost of Rs 40 crore.
allow MSMEs to expand their market reach and compete
internationally. 4. Healthcare & Sanitation
• Boost to Employment and Economic Growth: The • Rs 2,144 crore for Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
expansion of MSME criteria is expected to generate new jobs (PMJAY) to improve medical services.
and contribute to India’s GDP growth. • Rs 9,000 crore for clean drinking water and sanitation
services.
Delhi Budget 2025-26: Rekha Gupta Unveils Rs 1 Lakh Crore 5. Education & Skill Development
Budget with Focus on Infrastructure, Welfare & Economic • Launch of new CM Shri Schools with Rs 100 crore allocated.
Growth • Free laptops for meritorious students passing Class X.
Delhi Chief Minister and Finance Minister Rekha Gupta 6. Economic Growth & Business Support
presented the Delhi Budget 2025-26, with a record allocation of
• Formation of a “Traders’ Welfare Board” to support
Rs 1 lakh crore. The budget emphasizes infrastructure businesses and traders.
development, social welfare, healthcare, education, and
• ‘Global Investment Summit’ to be held every two years to
economic growth. It marks a 31.5% increase from the previous
attract investors.
year’s budget and aims to bring transparency, efficiency, and
rapid development to the capital. 7. Environmental & Pollution Control Measures
• Rs 300 crore to tackle pollution control.
Introduction: A Historic Budget for Delhi
• Rs 506 crore for the environment and forest department.
Rekha Gupta described this as a “historic Budget”, aiming to
accelerate Delhi’s transformation through increased capital 8. Municipal Corporation Support
expenditure and public welfare schemes. She criticized the past • Rs 6,897 crore allocated to the Municipal Corporation of
administration for corruption and mismanagement and vowed Delhi (MCD) for urban development.
to implement projects with efficiency.
The budget sees a major boost in capital expenditure, with an 9. Cultural & Tourism Promotion
allocation of Rs 28,000 crore, double the previous year’s • Hosting of ‘International Film Festival’ with Rs 30 crore
spending, focusing on roads, water supply, and sewer systems. allocated.

Key Focus Areas of Delhi Budget 2025-26 RBI Revises Priority Sector Lending (PSL) Norms Effective April
1. Infrastructure Development & Urban Planning 1, 2025
• Rs 28,000 crore for infrastructure projects, doubling last The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued revised Priority
year’s investment. Sector Lending (PSL) guidelines, which will come into effect
• Roads, sewer systems, and clean water supply to be from April 1, 2025. The new norms aim to enhance credit
prioritized. accessibility to priority sectors, including agriculture, MSMEs,
• Rs 500 crore for the repair and upgradation of sewage renewable energy, housing, education, and social
treatment plants (STPs). infrastructure. These revisions introduce higher loan limits,
• Rs 250 crore for replacing old sewer lines. expand the ‘Weaker Sections’ category, and revise the PSL targets
• Rs 100 crore for a pilot project to remove overhead for urban cooperative banks (UCBs). The changes are designed to
electrical lines and shift high-tension power lines boost financial inclusion and promote economic growth in critical
underground. areas.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Key Highlights of RBI’s Revised PSL Guidelines Lok Sabha Passes Finance Bill 2025: Key Highlights and
Implications
1. Enhancement of Loan Limits
• Education Loans: Increased limit to ₹25 lakh per individual On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the Lok Sabha passed the Finance
(including vocational courses). Bill 2025 along with 35 government amendments. One of the key
amendments includes the abolition of the six per cent digital tax
• Social Infrastructure: Up to ₹8 crore per borrower for setting
on online advertisements. The passage of the Finance Bill 2025
up schools, drinking water facilities, etc.
marks the completion of the Budgetary approval process in the
• Housing Loans (Priority sector classification based on Lower House. Now, the bill moves to the Rajya Sabha for further
population size): consideration, after which the Budget process for FY 2025-26
• ₹50 lakh – Centers with a population of 50 lakh and above. will be formally concluded.
• ₹45 lakh – Centers with a population between 10 lakh and
Finance Bill 2025 and Budgetary Overview
50 lakh.
The Union Budget 2025-26 outlines a total expenditure of
• ₹35 lakh – Centers with a population below 10 lakh. ₹50.65 lakh crore, reflecting a 7.4 per cent increase over FY
2. Focus on Renewable Energy 2024-25. The government has proposed a capital expenditure of
₹11.22 lakh crore, with an effective capital expenditure of
• Loans up to ₹35 crore for renewable energy-based power
₹15.48 lakh crore. The projected gross tax revenue collection
generators and public utilities (e.g., street lighting systems,
stands at ₹42.70 lakh crore, while the estimated gross borrowing
remote village electrification). is ₹14.01 lakh crore.
• Loan limit for individual households: ₹10 lakh per borrower.
Key Announcements in Finance Bill 2025
3. Revised PSL Targets for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted that the
• Total PSL target: 60% of Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) or Finance Bill 2025 aligns with India’s vision for Viksit Bharat by
Credit Equivalent of Off-Balance Sheet Exposures (CEOBSE). 2047 and ensures tax certainty. She emphasized the following
• Micro Enterprises: 7.5% of ANBC. objectives:
• Advances to Weaker Sections: 12% of ANBC. • Rationalization of tax provisions to enhance ease of doing
business.
4. Expansion of the ‘Weaker Sections’ Category • Unprecedented tax relief measures for individuals and
The revised definition now includes transgenders, in addition to, businesses.
• Small & Marginal Farmers. • A strong focus on increasing tax mobilization from
• Distressed farmers indebted to non-institutional lenders. individuals with foreign assets.
• Artisans. According to budget documents, the allocation for Centrally
Sponsored Schemes for FY 2025-26 is ₹5,41,850.21 crore, a
• Individual members of SHGs (Self-Help Groups) or Joint
substantial increase from ₹4,15,356.25 crore in FY 2024-25.
Liability Groups (JLGs).
Similarly, Central Sector Schemes will receive ₹16.29 lakh crore
• Scheduled Castes (SC) & Scheduled Tribes (ST). compared to ₹15.13 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year.
• Persons with disabilities.
Budget Estimates for FY 2025-26
• Minority communities notified by the Government of India.
The budget estimates have been revised upwards due to several
• Individual women beneficiaries up to ₹2 lakh (The limit is not
economic and strategic factors:
applicable to UCBs).
• Rise in interest payments on market loans, treasury bills,
external loans, and provident funds.
• Increased capital expenditure for the Armed Forces.
• Provisions for employment generation schemes.
State Allocations and Fiscal Deficit
The total resource transfer to states in Budget 2025-26, including
state share devolution, grants/loans, and Centrally Sponsored
Schemes, stands at ₹25,01,284 crore. This marks an increase of
₹4,91,668 crore compared to the actuals of 2023-24.
The fiscal deficit for FY 2025-26 is projected at 4.4 per cent of
GDP, down from 4.8 per cent in the current fiscal. Additionally,
the GDP for FY 2025-26 is estimated at ₹3,56,97,923 crore, a
10.1 per cent increase over the Revised Estimates for FY 2024-
25 (₹3,24,11,406 crore) released by the National Statistical
Office (NSO).

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
5 Years of National Technical Textiles Mission • Enhances industry-academia collaboration to foster
innovation.
India’s textile industry plays a crucial role in the national economy
• Supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative by promoting
and has evolved into a hub of innovation. The country ranks as
indigenous production.
the 6th largest textile exporter globally, holding a 3.9% share in
2. Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring
world textile exports. Contributing nearly 2% to the GDP, the
Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT) Scheme
sector is projected to expand to $350 billion by 2030, generating
• Launched in August 2023 to support commercialization of
approximately 3.5 crore jobs. While traditional textiles remain
new textile technologies.
fundamental, the rise of technical textiles is transforming the
• 8 startups have received Rs. 50 lakh each for innovations in
industry. These specialized fabrics prioritize functionality over
medical, industrial, and protective textiles.
aesthetics and are categorized into 12 types, serving diverse
industries such as agriculture, healthcare, construction, and • IIT Indore and NIT Patna have received Rs. 6.5 crore to
introduce specialized courses.
safety.
3. Skill Development Programs
To accelerate this sector’s growth, the National Technical Textiles
Mission (NTTM) was launched in 2020, with a budget of Rs. • Targets training of 50,000 individuals in the field of technical
textiles.
1,480 crore for 2020-2026. The mission aims to strengthen
research, boost exports, foster skill development, and position • Offers 12 industry-focused courses in collaboration with
India as a global leader in technical textiles. leading textile research associations like SITRA, NITRA, and
SASMIRA.
Framework for the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) 4. Technotex 2024 (Bharat Tex 2024)
Four key components of NTTM • Showcased India’s advancements in technical textiles.
Component I – Research, Innovation, and Development • Featured an Innovation Zone with 71 cutting-edge projects,
• Focuses on research and innovation in technical textiles. including 48 prototypes and 23 informative posters.
• Supports R&D projects to develop new materials and
Success Stories in Technical Textiles
technologies.
1. Mahina: India’s First Leak-Proof Period Underwear
• 168 research projects worth Rs. 509 crore have been
• Developed by Eicher Goodearth, Mahina is a bonded, leak-
approved.
proof period underwear offering 12-hour protection.
Component II – Promotion and Market Development • Made from natural materials, it provides comfort and
• Encourages the adoption of technical textiles in various reusability for up to 100 washes, eliminating the need for
industries. pads or tampons.
• Strengthens market linkages through trade shows, 2. Tamil Nadu’s Push for Technical Textiles
exhibitions, and global collaborations. • The state government has prioritized the industry through
the PM MITRA Park in Virudhunagar and a new textile park
Component III – Export Promotion
in Salem.
• Aims to enhance India’s exports of technical textiles.
• Increased capital subsidies for technical textile investments
• Works through a dedicated Export Promotion Council to
to 6% from 2%, promoting modernization and machinery
boost international trade.
upgrades.
Component IV – Education, Training, and Skill Development
• Develops skill-training programs to create a skilled 5 Years of National Technical Textiles Mission
workforce.
India has taken a historic step in its clean energy transition with
• 50,000 individuals are being trained in technical textiles. the launch of an ambitious Nuclear Mission, reinforcing its
• Promotes specialized courses in technical textiles across commitment to sustainable energy. The initiative, announced by
educational institutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and detailed by Dr. Jitendra
• Since its launch, Rs. 517 crore has been allocated, with Rs. Singh, aims to generate 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047. This
393.39 crore utilized for research, market development, move marks a major shift, as the nuclear sector—long restricted
exports, and skill development. to government control—is now open to private sector
NTTM Initiatives Strengthening the Textile Industry participation. The mission will focus on Small Modular Reactors
1. Grant for Internship Support for Technical Textiles (GIST 2.0) (SMRs) and the indigenous development of nuclear technology,
• Provides hands-on learning opportunities for students and making nuclear power a key component of India’s journey to net-
professionals. zero emissions by 2070.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Key Highlights of India’s Nuclear Mission India’s Position in the Hurun Global Rich List 2025
India continues its strong presence among the world’s wealthiest
1. Vision and Objective
nations, ranking third globally with 284 billionaires. The
• Target: Generate 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047,
cumulative wealth of Indian billionaires stands at ₹98 lakh crore,
covering 10% of India’s energy needs.
marking a 10% increase from last year.
• Strengthen clean and stable power generation through
nuclear energy. Key Highlights for India
• Establish India as a global leader in advanced nuclear • Mumbai loses its position as Asia’s billionaire hub to
technology. Shanghai, which has 92 billionaires compared to Mumbai’s
90.
2. Opening Up to Private Sector
• 175 Indian billionaires saw an increase in their wealth, while
• A historic shift allowing private sector participation in
109 experienced a decline or no change.
nuclear energy.
• India is home to seven billionaires under 40, primarily from
• Encourages investment and innovation in the nuclear
Bengaluru and Mumbai.
industry.
• Two Indian billionaires are just 34 years old.
• First major policy change to break secrecy barriers around
nuclear programs. India’s Richest Individuals in 2025
Mukesh Ambani Reclaims ‘Richest Person in Asia’ Title
3. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani has reclaimed his
• Capacity ranges from 16 MW to 300 MW. title as the richest person in Asia despite a ₹1 lakh crore decline
• Designed to cater to remote areas and industrial clusters. in his wealth.
• SMRs provide environment-friendly, scalable, and readily
available power. Gautam Adani Becomes the Biggest Wealth Gainer
Industrialist Gautam Adani saw a ₹1 lakh crore increase in
4. Budgetary and Research Boost wealth, marking a 13% rise from last year. His net worth now
• 170% increase in atomic energy budget since 2014. stands at ₹8.4 lakh crore, slightly behind Ambani’s ₹8.6 lakh
• ₹20,000 crore allocated for developing five Bharat SMRs in crore.
2024-25. Global Billionaire Rankings
• National Research Foundation (funded 60-70% by non- For the first time in a decade, the United States leads the list
government sources) to accelerate nuclear R&D. with 870 billionaires, followed by China with 823 billionaires.
5. Global and Indigenous Collaborations Top 10 Billionaires in the World (2025)
• Partnerships with France and the USA for advanced nuclear The list continues to be dominated by Silicon Valley billionaires,
technology. with American business magnates holding nine out of ten spots.
• Emphasis on indigenous development, particularly in
thorium-based reactors. Net Worth (in
Rank Name Company
USD)
• Reviving delayed projects like Bhavini Reactor and
Kudankulam Nuclear Plant. 1 Elon Musk Tesla $420 billion
2 Jeff Bezos Amazon $266 billion
6. Contribution to Climate Goals
Mark
• Nuclear energy will play a key role in achieving India’s net- 3 Meta $242 billion
Zuckerberg
zero target by 2070.
• Reduces dependence on fossil fuels and promotes 4 Larry Ellison Oracle $203 billion
environment-friendly clean energy. Warren Berkshire
5 $167 billion
• Strengthens India’s position in the global green energy Buffett Hathaway
transition. Alphabet
6 Larry Page $164 billion
(Google)
Hurun Global Rich List 2025: Shanghai overtakes Mumbai as Bernard
7 LVMH $157 billion
Asia’s Billionaire Capital Arnault
8 Steve Ballmer Microsoft $156 billion
The Hurun Global Rich List 2025 has been released, revealing
Alphabet
major shifts in billionaire rankings worldwide. Notably, Shanghai 9 Sergey Brin $148 billion
has overtaken Mumbai as the billionaire capital of Asia, and (Google)
India ranks third globally with 284 billionaires. 10 Bill Gates Microsoft $143 billion

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NATIONAL NEWS
Cabinet Approvals • The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired
by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra
construction of a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to
Modi, has approved the Revision of the Livestock Health and
Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) with a total outlay of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand at a total capital cost of Rs.
Rs. 3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26. The scheme 4,081.28 crore under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate,
comprises three components: National Animal Disease and Transfer (DBFOT) mode. Developed through a public-
Control Programme (NADCP), LH&DC, and the newly private partnership, the ropeway will feature the advanced
introduced Pashu Aushadhi. LH&DC includes Critical Animal Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology with a design
Disease Control Programme (CADCP), Establishment and capacity of 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD),
Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries - carrying 18,000 passengers daily. This project will
Mobile Veterinary Unit (ESVHD-MVU), and Assistance to significantly benefit pilgrims by offering an environment-
States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD). Pashu
friendly, comfortable, and fast alternative, reducing travel
Aushadhi aims to provide quality and affordable veterinary
time from 8-9 hours to just 36 minutes. It will also create
medicines with a Rs. 75 crore provision. The scheme focuses
on reducing livestock productivity losses caused by diseases employment opportunities in construction, operations, and
like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste des allied tourism sectors like hospitality, travel, and food &
Petits Ruminants (PPR), Classical Swine Fever (CSF), and beverages, boosting socio-economic growth. Currently, the
Lumpy Skin Disease through immunization, vaccination, and 16-km uphill trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is covered
improved healthcare access. It also ensures doorstep on foot, ponies, palanquins, or helicopters, but the ropeway
veterinary services via Mobile Veterinary Units and will ensure all-weather connectivity and enhance
enhances the availability of generic medicines through PM- accessibility. Kedarnath, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, is
Kisan Samriddhi Kendras and Cooperative Societies. By located at an altitude of 3,583 m (11,968 ft) in Rudraprayag
preventing and controlling livestock diseases, LHDCP will
district and remains open for about 6-7 months annually,
boost productivity, generate employment, encourage rural
attracting around 20 lakh pilgrims each season.
entrepreneurship, and minimize economic losses for
farmers.
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired State-wise March Month Important Events
by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the
Andhra Pradesh
construction of a 12.4 km ropeway from Govindghat to
Hemkund Sahib Ji in Uttarakhand at a total capital cost of Rs. • The Government of Andhra Pradesh will sign an MoU with
2,730.13 crore under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to integrate Artificial
and Transfer (DBFOT) mode. Currently, the 21-km uphill trek Intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and data-driven
to Hemkund Sahib Ji is challenging and covered on foot, governance in sectors like healthcare, education,
ponies, or palanquins, but the proposed ropeway will agriculture, and employment.
provide all-weather last-mile connectivity, benefiting both • Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu announced a
pilgrims and tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers.
58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in Amaravati to honor his
Developed through a public-private partnership, the
sacrifice for Andhra Pradesh's formation in 1953. Along
ropeway will feature Monocable Detachable Gondola
(MDG) technology from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km) with a memorial, his native house in Padamatipalli will be
and Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology from converted into a museum, and a modern health center and
Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km), with a design high school will be established in his village. The project will
capacity of 1,100 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), be completed before his next birth anniversary.
accommodating 11,000 passengers daily. This project will
Assam
create employment opportunities in construction,
operations, and allied tourism sectors like hospitality, travel, • The Assam government has named the upcoming
and food & beverages, fostering socio-economic growth in Electronics City in Jagiroad as Ratan Tata Electronic City,
the region. Hemkund Sahib Ji, a revered pilgrimage site at honoring Ratan Tata’s contributions to the state’s industrial
15,000 ft in Chamoli district, is open for about five months and economic growth. Announced after Advantage Assam
annually and attracts 1.5 to 2 lakh pilgrims. The trek also 2.0 Summit (Feb 2025), the move recognizes the Tata
serves as a gateway to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO Group’s impact in semiconductors, electronics
World Heritage site in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas. manufacturing, and investment in Assam.
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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Assam state government announced plans to launch its Himachal Pradesh
own satellite, ASSAMSAT, to enhance data access for socio- • Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
economic initiatives and border security. Announced by presented the annual budget for FY 2025-26, amounting to
Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog in the 2025-26 state Rs 58,514 crore. The budget emphasizes tourism, rural
budget, ASSAMSAT will support agriculture, disaster development, and green energy, while also addressing
management, infrastructure development, and security
financial challenges such as a reduction in the Revenue
operations, making Assam the first Indian state to launch its
Deficit Grant and the withdrawal of GST compensation.
own satellite.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Lachit Karnataka
Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon, Assam, on March • Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced that Bangalore
15, 2025. Named after the legendary Ahom general Lachit City University will be renamed as Dr. Manmohan Singh
Barphukan, the academy aims to strengthen policing in the Bengaluru University in honor of the late former PM
Northeast and become a premier training institution. The Manmohan Singh. The government plans to develop it into
event was attended by Assam CM Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma
a model university, incorporating Government Arts College
and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
and Government RC College as constituent institutions.
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, approved the establishment of the Namrup-IV Kerala
Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex in Assam. The • Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the Advanced
₹10,601.40 crore project, with an annual capacity of 12.7 Cybersecurity Operations Centre (SOC) of the Kerala Police
LMT, will be developed under a Joint Venture and is Cyber Division to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure.
expected to boost domestic urea production, improve Developed by C-DOT, the TRINETRA system enhances police
fertilizer availability in Eastern India, and create
system security and critical infrastructure protection. This
employment. The plant will be commissioned in 48 months.
initiative highlights India’s commitment to indigenous
Bihar cybersecurity solutions.
• The Nitish Kumar-led NDA government in Bihar presented • Kerala has become the first state in India to establish a
the ₹3,16,895 crore Budget for the financial year 2025-26 Senior Citizens Commission by passing the Kerala State
on March 3, 2025. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Senior Citizens Commission Bill, 2025. This statutory body,
Minister Samrat Choudhary highlighted a significant focused on safeguarding the rights and welfare of elderly
increase in the state’s Budget size over the years and
citizens, will also serve as an advisory body for policymaking,
emphasized allocations for education, health, rural
highlighting Kerala’s commitment to the protection,
development, and welfare schemes. The Budget also
rehabilitation, and empowerment of senior citizens.
introduced several measures for women’s empowerment
and employment generation while maintaining fiscal Maharashtra
discipline within FRBM limits. • The Maharashtra Budget 2025-26 was tabled by Deputy
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who holds the Finance portfolio.
• The Chhattisgarh government has unveiled its Budget for This budget comes after the landslide victory of the
the financial year 2025, prioritizing capital expenditure, Mahayuti government in the assembly elections and is
digital governance, infrastructure development, and marked by severe financial constraints. The state is facing its
welfare schemes. The budget, amounting to ₹1,65,000 highest-ever debt projection of Rs 9.3 lakh crore and the
crore, was presented by State Finance Minister O.P. steepest revenue deficit, estimated at Rs 45,891 crore for
Choudhary in the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on the fiscal year 2025-26. Due to these financial challenges,
March 4, 2025. the budget does not introduce any big-ticket schemes and
• The Chhattisgarh government, led by CM Vishnu Deo Sai,
instead focuses on sustaining existing initiatives.
plans to introduce a stricter anti-conversion law to prevent
• Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the
illegal religious conversions. The new law aims to stop
state's first temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji
conversions through coercion, inducements, or faith
healing gatherings. While the opposition claims conversions Maharaj in Bhiwandi, Thane, on his birth anniversary. The
are rising, Home Minister Vijay Sharma assured strict action temple honors Shivaji Maharaj’s heroism, valour, and
against illegal conversions, and concerns were raised about enduring legacy, providing a sacred space for devotees to
NGOs allegedly using foreign funds for conversion activities. pay tribute to his contributions to India’s history.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Madhya Pradesh Telangana
• On March 3, 2025, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced • The Telangana Government has presented its most
that farmers in Madhya Pradesh will receive permanent ambitious budget to date, crossing the ₹3 lakh crore mark
power connections for just Rs 5, aiming to provide for the first time since the state’s formation. The budget,
affordable electricity and boost agricultural productivity. which amounts to ₹3.04 lakh crore, reflects the
The initiative, implemented through the Madhya Pradesh government’s commitment to welfare programs, economic
Central Power Distribution Company, underscores the growth, and infrastructure development. Deputy Chief
government’s commitment to improving rural Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who also holds the
infrastructure and promoting sustainable farming Finance portfolio, presented the budget in the state
practices. assembly, emphasizing inclusivity and equitable resource
• Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been distribution. The financial plan outlines significant
officially declared as India’s 58th Tiger Reserve on March 9, allocations for agriculture, education, backward classes,
and flagship welfare schemes, all while balancing fiscal
2025. The announcement was made by Union Environment
challenges.
Minister Bhupender Yadav, marking another milestone in
• The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling
the country’s ongoing efforts to protect and conserve its rich
has become India’s first zoo to preserve wildlife DNA from
biodiversity. With this recognition, Madhya Pradesh now
snowy regions. In collaboration with CCMB Hyderabad, the
boasts nine tiger reserves, further solidifying its reputation
project aims to support conservation and genetic research.
as the ‘Tiger State’ of India.
60 DNA samples, including from red pandas and snow
Meghalaya leopards, have been collected and cryogenically preserved.
• Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the state’s This initiative ensures long-term genetic material
first scientific coal mining block, “Saryngkham-A”, at preservation for endangered species.
Byndihati, East Jaintia Hills, marking a shift from rat-hole
Tamil Nadu
mining, which was banned by the NGT in 2014 due to safety
• The Tamil Nadu government's decision to replace the Indian
and environmental concerns. This init iative promotes safe
Rupee symbol (₹) with the Tamil letter ‘ரூ’ in the state
and sustainable coal mining in the coal-rich Jaintia Hills
budget logo has reignited the language debate in India. Led
region.
by Chief Minister M K Stalin, this move aligns with Tamil
Odisha Nadu’s stance against the imposition of Hindi and reflects
• A UK Skills and Chartered Bodies Mission delegation is ongoing resistance to the National Education Policy (NEP),
visiting Odisha to explore partnerships in vocational which the state views as "saffronized."
education and skill development. Discussions focused on • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new
industry-led skilling, UK-style apprenticeships, and training Pamban rail bridge connecting Ramanathapuram and
in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, digital Rameswaram Island on April 6, 2025, coinciding with Ram
skills, and sustainable infrastructure. Minister Sampad Navami. The bridge, costing ₹531 crore, aims to boost
Chandra Swain and British Deputy High Commissioner connectivity and railway infrastructure in the region. The
Prime Minister will also flag off a new train service between
Andrew Fleming emphasized collaboration to build a
Tambaram and Rameswaram and address a public
globally competitive workforce.
gathering.
Punjab
Uttarakhand
• Punjab's Social Security, Women, and Child Development
• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami
Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur launched ‘Project Hifazat’ on March
announced the development of corridors along the Ganga
7, 2025, to enhance women and child safety. The initiative
and Sharda rivers to boost religious tourism in the state.
features a 24×7 helpline (181), coordinated government
The initiative will enhance infrastructure and facilities for
support, and rapid response mechanisms to combat gender-
pilgrims while preserving cultural and spiritual heritage. CM
based violence. Dr. Kaur urged women to use the helpline,
Dhami also highlighted the significance of ancient Indian
emphasizing empowerment and swift action against
scriptures in shaping both scientific and spiritual thought at
crimes. the 62nd All India Shastraotsav in Haridwar.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Uttar Pradesh • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Vantara, an
• Uttar Pradesh has launched the ‘Rapid Immunisation Skill advanced animal rescue, conservation, and rehabilitation
Enhancement’ (RISE) app to strengthen its immunization center in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district. The event was
program. Designed for nurses, ANMs, and health workers, attended by Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Anant Ambani,
the app enhances vaccination tracking, training, and safety and Radhika Merchant. PM Modi explored the state-of-the-
management. It provides real-time updates on vaccination art facilities, interacted with rehabilitated animals, and
schedules, cold chain management, and adverse effect observed medical procedures at the center's wildlife
monitoring, re placing traditional training with digital hospital, highlighting wildlife conservation and efforts to
learning for improved efficiency and outreach. protect endangered species in India.
West Bengal • President Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the second
• The West Bengal Police has launched a mobile app to ensure edition of Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav at Rashtrapati
a transparent and corruption-free transfer process for Bhavan on March 5, 2025. The festival celebrates India's
personnel, from constables to sub-inspectors. Integrated cultural heritage, with this edition highlighting the Southern
with e-HRMS software, the app aims to eliminate states of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra
malpractices like bribery and favoritism. Transfer requests Pradesh, and the Union Territories of Lakshadweep and
must be submitted digitally by April 11. Puducherry.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched key initiatives
Union Territories of India under the IndiaAI Mission to boost AI research, innovation,
and skill development. The initiatives include AIKosha:
• On March 18, 2025, the Delhi government will sign an MoU
IndiaAI Datasets Platform, a secured hub for datasets,
with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to
models, and AI use cases with sandbox capabilities,
implement the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health
Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). The scheme will encryption, and secure APIs. Additionally, the IndiaAI
establish 1,139 Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (U- Compute Portal offers AI compute, storage, and cloud
AAMs) in Delhi, upgrading 553 mohalla clinics and setting services with up to 40% subsidy on high-end GPUs (NVIDIA
up 413 new U-AAMs to strengthen primary healthcare H100, AMD MI300x, AWS Tranium) to support AI
services and address future pandemics. This follows a legal development in India.
battle and political changes in Delhi. • Indian Railways is contributing to Mission Amrit Sarovar,
• The Delhi Police has launched ‘Shishtachar’ squads across launched in April 2022, to address water scarcity and
all districts to enhance women's safety in public spaces. enhance groundwater recharge. The mission focuses on
These anti-eve-teasing squads focus on harassment rejuvenating 75 ponds in each district with community
prevention through active patrolling, surprise checks, and participation and climate resilience. By October 2024, over
public outreach. Each squad consists of an Inspector, Sub- 68,000 ponds were rejuvenated. In Phase 2, Indian Railways
Inspector, 4 female officers, 5 male officers, and a technical will assist in desilting, excavating, and constructing new
personnel for surveillance support. Supervised by the ACP water bodies near railway lines, using the excavated
of the Crime Against Women (CAW) cell, the initiative aims material for railway embankments.
to create a secure environment for women. • The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched two initiatives
• Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh launched six — Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan and Model Women-
mobile dental clinics on World Oral Health Day to provide Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) — to empower
free oral healthcare. The initiative, a collaboration between Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in Panchayati Raj
the Delhi government and Maulana Azad Institute of Institutions (PRIs). The Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan
Dental Sciences (MAIDS), targets underserved areas like focuses on capacity building to enhance leadership and
slums. The clinics are equipped with modern dental chairs,
decision-making, aiming to eliminate the "Mukhiya Pati"
X-ray machines, and sterilization units, offering fluoride
culture. The MWFGP initiative seeks to establish gender-
treatments and dental care to residents.
sensitive, girl-friendly governance in every district.
• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched a
October Month Launches & Inaugurations: mobile app for the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme
• India has inaugurated its first World Peace Center in (PMIS) in New Delhi. The app aims to streamline
Gurugram, Haryana, established by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti registration, provide real-time updates, and offer an
under the guidance of Jain Acharya Lokesh. The center aims intuitive interface for candidates. This initiative supports
to promote non-violence, spiritual awareness, human the government’s commitment to employment, skilling,
values, and universal brotherhood. and creating opportunities for the youth.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• Indore is launching India’s first green waste processing • Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan inaugurated
plant under the PPP model as part of the Swachh Bharat Techkriti 2025 at IIT Kanpur, Asia’s largest tech and
Mission-Urban. The plant will convert green waste into entrepreneurial festival, under the theme “Panta Rhei”
wooden pellets, providing an eco-friendly alternative to coal (Everything Flows). He emphasized the modernization of
and promoting sustainability. It aims to generate revenue the Indian Armed Forces through Cybersecurity, AI,
for Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) and contribute to a Quantum Computing, and Cognitive Warfare, urging young
circular economy and innovative waste management. innovators to contribute to national security.
• The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has • Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah
launched ‘Samarth’, an incubation program to foster announced the launch of ‘Sahkar’, a cooperative-based taxi
innovation in telecom and IT. It supports startups in service modeled on Ola and Uber but designed to empower
Telecom Software, Cybersecurity, 5G/6G, AI, IoT, and drivers as stakeholders. Unlike corporate-owned ride-
Quantum Technologies, with STPI as the implementation hailing platforms, ‘Sahkar’ ensures fair earnings and profit-
partner. Running in hybrid mode, the program will have two sharing under the cooperative framework. Introduced
cohorts per year, each with 18 startups, offering funding, during discussions on the Multi-State Cooperative Societies
mentorship, and infrastructure support. (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
• The Purple Fest 2025, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan and
organized by DePwD, Ministry of Social Justice and Miscellaneous National News
Empowerment, saw 23,500 attendees promoting
• India has conducted its first-ever population estimation of
inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment for
riverine dolphins, revealing a total of 6,327 dolphins across
Divyangjan. The event featured literary discussions, sports,
the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems. This
corporate collaborations, and cultural performances,
significant study, conducted as part of ‘Project Dolphin’,
fostering an inclusive society.
provides crucial insights into the status and distribution of
• The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) launched these endangered freshwater species. The findings,
Samarthya 2025 on March 22-23, 2025, at its Manesar published in a government report on Monday, highlight the
campus. The event offers students a platform to develop ecological importance of river dolphins and the need for
corporate rescue strategies for distressed businesses, conservation efforts.
focusing on financial analysis, strategy development, and • The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation
industry engagement through case studies and expert (IRCTC) and Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC)
mentorship. Winning solutions receive industry were granted Navratna PSU status by the Indian
recognition. government on March 4, 2025, granting them greater
• The "Baalpan ki Kavita" Initiative, launched by the financial and operational autonomy. With this, all seven
Department of School Education & Literacy under the listed railway PSUs have achieved Navratna status,
Ministry of Education, aims to preserve and promote Indian reflecting the government's commitment to enhancing the
rhymes and poems for young children. Aligning with the efficiency and profitability of railway-owned enterprises.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it focuses on early • Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri
childhood education, multilingualism, and cultural Pralhad Joshi, emphasized India's commitment to becoming
relevance. The initiative encourages contributions of a global leader in green hydrogen production. Speaking at
rhymes in various Indian languages and English, targeting the launch of India's first fleet of hydrogen-powered truck
children aged 3-8 years across three categories: Pre- trials in New Delhi, he highlighted the role of the National
primary, Grade 1, and Grade 2. Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) in achieving energy
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare launched independence and reducing carbon emissions, under Prime
the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) System to collect real-time Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
crop data through a mobile interface, improving accuracy in • On March 4, 2025, the Supreme Court of India ruled that
crop area estimation and agricultural forecasting. Integrated the right against disability-based discrimination is a
with Agri Stack, the system ensures data privacy through fundamental right, in line with the RPwD Act, 2016. The
farmer consent, secure encryption, and compliance with the judgment allows visually impaired candidates to participate
Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. State control, in judicial service recruitment, ensuring equal opportunity
regular security audits, and restricted data sharing safeguard and reasonable accommodation. The verdict was delivered
the information. by Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Government of India has approved the construction of • The literacy rate among Muslims in India has significantly
a 12.4 km ropeway from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji improved, rising from 59.1% in Census 2001 to 68.5% in
in Uttarakhand under the National Ropeways Development Census 2011. Despite this, it was still below the national
Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana. This project aims to literacy rate of 73.0% in 2011. The PLFS 2023-24 shows
provide all-weather connectivity to the Hemkund Sahib further improvement, with the Muslim literacy rate at
79.5%, compared to 80.9% for all religious communities.
pilgrimage site, boosting tourism and local employment.
• The National Archives of India (NAI) celebrated its 135th
• The Government of India has approved the construction of
Foundation Day on March 11, 2025, with the inauguration
a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to Kedarnath under the
of the “Indian Heritage through Architecture” exhibition by
National Ropeways Development Programme – Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The
Parvatmala Pariyojana. This project aims to provide all- exhibition showcased India's architectural heritage through
weather connectivity to the Kedarnath Temple, reducing archival documents and rare records. The event also
travel time and boosting tourism and employment in the launched the ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ to expand access to
region. India’s knowledge repository, while the world’s largest
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the seventh NBWL digitization program is underway to preserve historical
meeting in Sasan, Junagadh, Gujarat, with Union Minister documents.
Bhupender Yadav. Key decisions included the 16th Asiatic • The Oilfield (Regulatory and Development) Amendment
Lion Population Estimation, scheduled for May 2024, aimed Bill, 2024 was passed by the Lok Sabha on March 12, 2025,
after Rajya Sabha approval in December 2024. The Bill
at assessing the lion population, habitat, and conservation
reforms India’s oil and gas exploration and production
challenges.
framework to attract investments, boost production, and
• The Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with Coal India ensure energy security. Key reforms include shifting from a
Limited (CIL), organized the “Celebrating Women in Mining Production Sharing to a Revenue Sharing regime,
Sector” event ahead of International Women’s Day to simplifying processes, deregulation of crude oil, and pricing
recognize and promote women’s contributions in mining. freedom for natural gas.
Attended by key ministers, industry leaders, and • The Fit India Carnival, a three-day event held from March
organizations like IBM, TATA, GSI, ADANI, and Vedanta, the 16-18, 2025, at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, was
event honored 46 outstanding women professionals and inaugurated by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for
featured panel discussions on gender inclusivity and Youth Affairs and Sports. The event aimed to promote
empowerment. This initiative highlights the government’s fitness, mental well-being, and healthy lifestyle choices. It
featured stars like Ayushmann Khurrana, Sangram Singh,
commitment to breaking barriers and ensuring equal
Mickey Mehta, Shanky Singh, and Rohtash Chaudhary.
opportunities for women in mining.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Hyperloop
• The Sahitya Akademi Festival of Letters 2025, Asia’s largest
testing facility at IIT Madras, announcing that the 410-
literature festival, will be held at Rabindra Bhavan, New meter Hyperloop tube would soon become the world’s
Delhi, from 7th to 12th March 2025. Inaugurated by Union longest high-speed tube. The Indian Railways Ministry is
Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the event will feature supporting the project, with Integral Coach Factory (ICF)
Mahesh Dattani as the chief guest at the Sahitya Akademi Chennai handling the electronic technology. Vaishnaw also
Awards ceremony and Upamanyu Chatterjee delivering the attended Open House 2025 at IIT Madras, discussing India’s
Samvatsar Lecture. With 700 writers from 50+ languages advancements in semiconductors, AI, and data science, and
across 100 sessions. reaffirming the government’s commitment to technological
• Launched on August 26, 2021, the e-Shram portal aims to leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
create a National Database of Unorganised Workers • Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of Science and
Technology, laid the foundation stone for the North East
(NDUW), providing workers with a Universal Account
Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR)
Number (UAN) and linking them to social security and
permanent campus at Mawdiangdiang, Shillong, on March
welfare schemes. By March 3, 2025, over 30.68 crore
13, 2025. Established in 2014 under the Department of
workers had registered, with 53.68% women. To enhance Science and Technology (DST), NECTAR focuses on
accessibility, features like multilingual support, a mobile technology-driven socio-economic development in the
app, and integration with welfare schemes were added. The Northeast. The Minister highlighted NECTAR’s work in
e-Shram One-Stop-Solution, launched on October 21, 2024, saffron cultivation, drone technology, and STEM education,
integrates welfare programs for easier access. aiming to make the region India's next saffron hub.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Indian government is advancing its nuclear energy Central Vista Redevelopment Project. The museum aims to
efforts with two major projects: the Jaitapur Nuclear Power showcase India's civilizational and cultural heritage, with
Plant in Maharashtra and the Gorakhpur Nuclear Power technical cooperation from France Museums Development.
Project in Haryana. The Jaitapur plant will contribute 10% to The project offers an immersive experience into India’s past,
India's 100 GW nuclear energy target by 2047, while present, and future.
Gorakhpur is the first nuclear facility in North India. • The Department of Financial Services directed Public Sector
Addressing concerns over environmental impact, safety, Banks (PSBs) to redesign their e-auction platform, leading to
and nuclear liability, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the the launch of “e-BKray” in 2019. On January 3, 2025, the
commitment to sustainable energy and private sector enhanced “BAANKNET” portal was introduced to streamline
involvement in nuclear energy expansion. the listing and auctioning of assets, focusing on the disposal
• The Ministry of Culture, through Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and ensuring secure
and National Gallery of Modern Arts (NGMA), is preserving transactions and maximizing sale value.
public art installations under the Public Art of India (PARI) • On March 24, 2025, the Central Government notified a 24%
project. LKA has implemented a preservation strategy to salary increase for Members of Parliament (MPs), effective
ensure the sustainability and longevity of these from April 1, 2023. Under the Salary, Allowances and
installations, transforming Delhi’s public spaces into vibrant Pension of Members of Parliament Act, the monthly salary
artistic landmarks and promoting regional art forms for Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs has risen from ₹1 lakh
globally. to ₹1.24 lakh, and the daily allowance has been increased
• The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms from ₹2,000 to ₹2,500. This is the first revision since April
Development Corporation Ltd. (NEHHDC) has achieved a 2018.
significant milestone by obtaining the Oeko-Tex • The Supreme Court has set up a National Task Force (NTF)
certification for eri silk. This globally recognized certification to address student mental health concerns in response to
ensures that eri silk is free from harmful substances and rising suicides in higher education, including the tragic
meets international safety and quality standards, boosting deaths of two IIT Delhi students in 2023. Chaired by Justice
its marketability and consumer confidence in the global S. Ravindra Bhat, the NTF will investigate the causes,
textile industry while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. analyze existing regulations, and propose solutions to
• The Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum in New Delhi combat academic stress, caste-based discrimination, and
will be housed in the North and South Blocks as part of the other institutional issues affecting students' well-being.

GOVT SCHEMES
CENTRAL GOVT SCHEMES
Name of
Ministry Purpose
Initiative
1. One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP)
Aimed at standardizing port operations across India to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and
boost global trade.
• Key Objectives:
o Uniform operational procedures across all major ports
o Reduction in logistics costs and elimination of redundant documentation
‘One Nation- Ministry of o Faster clearance and improved transparency through digitization
One Port’ Ports, Shipping, 2. Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) 2023-24
Initiative and Waterways A benchmarking tool to assess and improve port efficiency and global competitiveness.
• Key Highlights:
o Evaluates port performance and turnaround time
o Focuses on sustainability and cost-effectiveness
o Encourages competition among ports to enhance service quality
3. Bharat Global Ports Consortium
Strengthening India’s global maritime influence through international collaborations.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Name of
Ministry Purpose
Initiative
• Key Benefits:
o Expanding India’s trade connectivity with global ports
o Attracting foreign investment in port infrastructure
o Developing world-class smart, green, and digital ports
4. Future Focus Areas
• Smart Ports: AI & blockchain-based automation
• Green Energy: Renewable sources for port functioning
• Maritime Security: Coastal surveillance & cybersecurity
• Digitalization: AI-powered tracking & electronic documentation
These initiatives align with Sagarmala Project’s ‘Port-Led Development’ vision, positioning
India as a leading global maritime hub.
The Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education launched PM-YUVA 3.0 (Prime
Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors) on March 11, 2025. This initiative aims to
train young and budding authors (below 30 years of age) to promote reading, writing, and book
culture in India while projecting Indian literature on the global stage. The third edition follows
the success of the first two editions, which saw participation in 22 Indian languages and English.
Introduction to PM-YUVA 3.0
PM-YUVA 3.0 (Young, Upcoming, and Versatile Authors) aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision
of encouraging the youth to understand and appreciate India’s rich culture, heritage, and
contributions of visionaries. The scheme is designed to nurture young literary talents, enabling
them to write on key themes that define India’s progress and historical legacy.
Key Highlights
• Launch Date: March 11, 2025
• Implementing Agency: National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education
• Target Audience: Young and budding authors below 30 years
• Objective: To develop a new generation of writers focusing on India’s cultural and
intellectual legacy
• Languages: Books will be published in multiple Indian languages and English
Ministry of • Mentorship Period: June 30, 2025 – December 30, 2025
PM-YUVA 3.0
Education • Platform for Selection: www.mygov.in

Objectives of PM-YUVA 3.0

1. Promoting Reading and Writing Culture
The scheme aims to instill a habit of reading and writing among the youth, encouraging them
to engage with India’s history, culture, and heritage.
2. Encouraging Young Authors
By mentoring and guiding young writers, the initiative seeks to create a new literary ecosystem
that represents India’s diverse perspectives and rich storytelling traditions.
3. Showcasing India’s Global Influence
Through this program, young authors will be able to articulate the contributions of the Indian
diaspora and highlight India’s historical and contemporary progress on the world stage.
Themes of PM-YUVA 3.0
The third edition of PM-YUVA focuses on three major themes, each representing India’s
evolving identity and global influence:
1) Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building
• Highlights the political, economic, and socio-cultural contributions of the Indian diaspora.
• Focuses on how Indians abroad have influenced their host countries while maintaining
deep ties with India.
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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Name of
Ministry Purpose
Initiative

2) Indian Knowledge System

• Emphasizes India’s ancient wisdom, scientific contributions, and philosophical traditions.
• Showcases how India’s intellectual heritage has shaped global thought.

3) Makers of Modern India (1950-2025)

• Chronicles the contributions of visionaries in various fields such as education, science,
economy, and social empowerment.
• Presents a comprehensive narrative of India’s post-independence journey.
Role of the National Book Trust (NBT), India
The National Book Trust (NBT), India, will execute the program phase-wise, ensuring structured
mentorship and high-quality content creation.
• Publishing and Translation: Books developed under this scheme will be published by NBT
and translated into multiple Indian languages, fostering cultural exchange and linguistic
diversity.
• Literary Engagements: Selected young authors will have the opportunity to engage with
esteemed writers, participate in literary festivals, and contribute to Indian literature.
• National Camp: A National Camp for PM-YUVA 3.0 authors will be held during the New
Delhi World Book Fair 2026.
The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) reached a milestone of 10 lakh rooftop
solar installations by March 10, 2025. Launched on February 13, 2024, the initiative aims to
PM Surya
solarize 1 crore households by 2026-27, reducing electricity costs and promoting clean
Ghar: Muft
energy. With ₹4,770 crore in subsidies disbursed to 6.13 lakh beneficiaries and 3 GW solar
Bijli Yojana
capacity installed, the scheme accelerates India’s shift to renewable energy, supporting
Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
As of February 28, 2025, a total of 15,057 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) have been opened
across India under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), ensuring the
Jan Aushadhi
availability of affordable and quality generic medicines. Launched to provide high-quality,
Kendras
affordable medicines, the scheme aims to make healthcare accessible, especially for the
economically weaker sections.
The Government of India will discontinue the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) for medium-
and long-term deposits from March 26, 2025, due to evolving market conditions, though short-
Gold
term deposits will continue at bank discretion. Launched in November 2015, the GMS aimed
Monetisation
to reduce gold imports and the current account deficit, allowing households and institutions to
Scheme
deposit gold with banks, with a minimum deposit requirement of 10 gm. Existing deposits
remain unaffected until maturity.

STATE GOVT SCHEMES

Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy launched the ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ Scheme, aimed at promoting self-
employment and economic development. With a budget of ₹6,000 crore, the scheme provides financial
‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’
assistance to unemployed youth from SC, ST, BC, and Minority communities. Its goals include creating self-
Scheme,
employment opportunities, reducing unemployment, and promoting entrepreneurship among marginalized
groups.
The Uttarakhand Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, approved key decisions to enhance
Unified Pension governance, pension benefits, and excise policy. Notably, the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) was introduced,
Scheme (UPS) aligning with the Central Government's initiative to provide stable retirement payouts for state officers and
employees under the National Pension System (NPS).

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
• On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump announced leadership will focus on Gaza operations, Iran tensions, and
English as the official language of the United States, citing West Bank security. Prime Minister Netanyahu has
it as a step towards national unity. The White House expressed confidence in Zamir’s ability to achieve "absolute
released an executive order, stating it was "long past time" victory" against Hamas.
to make this decision. • Mark Carney has been appointed as the new leader of
• Yamandú Orsi was sworn in as Uruguay’s President on Canada’s Liberal Party and the country’s next Prime
March 1, 2025, marking the return of the leftist Broad Front Minister, replacing Justin Trudeau amid growing public
coalition after five years of conservative rule. A former dissatisfaction. The former central banker will now lead the
party into the upcoming general elections and manage
history teacher and mayor, Orsi aims to strengthen
Ottawa’s response to increasing challenges from US
Uruguay's social safety net while tackling economic
President Donald Trump.
stagnation. His presidency will focus on balancing leftist
• China has deployed a Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR)
support with economic growth and investor confidence,
system in Yunnan province, near the China-Myanmar
while navigating challenges like labor disputes and fiscal
border, enhancing surveillance over India. The radar boasts
constraints.
a range of 5,000+ kilometers, with advanced tracking
• The Trump administration imposed significant tariffs on capabilities to monitor ballistic missiles and aerial activities.
imports from Canada, Mexico, and China starting March 4, Positioned strategically, it can track missile tests from India's
2025, raising import duties to levels not seen in decades. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, raising security concerns.
While aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and • In response to the global financial crisis and uncertainty, UN
reducing trade imbalances, the move has sparked backlash Secretary-General Antonio Guterres launched the ‘UN80
from trading partners and business groups due to concerns Initiative’. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and
over higher consumer costs and economic instability. cost-effectiveness within the United Nations by addressing
• China has announced a 7.2% increase in its 2025 defence shrinking resources, streamlining operations, and enhancing
budget, raising total spending to approximately $245 billion, the organization's ability to deliver on its mandates
as revealed at the National People's Congress (NPC). The effectively.
budget focuses on modernizing military technology, • In a historic breakthrough, Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed
reinforcing territorial claims, and countering U.S. influence on the text of a peace treaty on March 13, 2025, ending
in Asia. Despite being the world's second-largest defence nearly four decades of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh
spender, analysts estimate actual expenditure could be 40% region. While this marks a significant step toward stability in
higher due to unaccounted costs in other sectors. the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan demands changes in
• On March 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump, in his first Armenia’s constitution before signing the treaty, creating
uncertainty about the timeline for its official signing.
congressional address of his second term, announced
• Donald Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, is set to
reciprocal tariffs on countries with high tariffs on U.S.
begin trading on the NASDAQ pending a shareholder vote
goods. Effective April 2, the policy targets India, China, the
on its merger with Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC),
EU, Brazil, Mexico, and Canada, aiming to ensure a “level
a SPAC. This move could reshape the financial structure of
playing field” for American businesses. Trump cited “very
Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), which owns
unfair” trade practices as the reason, potentially impacting Truth Social.
U.S.-India trade relations. • Stuart Young is set to be sworn in as the new Prime Minister
• The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, has run aground near of Trinidad and Tobago at a formal ceremony at the
South Georgia, a British overseas territory. Scientists are President’s House in St. Ann’s. He will succeed Dr. Keith
monitoring its impact, as it may disrupt wildlife feeding Rowley, who has officially stepped down from his position.
routes but also boost ocean productivity by releasing • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched the
nutrients. A23a broke off from Antarctica in 1986 and has Frontier Seed (Pacific) program to boost local businesses,
drifted for decades before lodging on the continental shelf. strengthen capital markets, and promote sustainable
Its future movement remains uncertain due to oceanic economic growth in the Pacific region. ADB has committed
conditions. $200,000 in technical assistance to SeaPAC Pte Ltd (prawn
• Israel has appointed Eyal Zamir as its new Chief of Staff production) and Kahuto Pacific (aerial mapping). Backed by
amid ongoing military operations and rising regional international partners like the ORCA Trust Fund, Nordic
tensions. A former tank commander and defence ministry Development Fund, and FCDO, the program aims to attract
director, Zamir succeeds Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, investors, create jobs, and enhance economic resilience with
who resigned after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. His an initial commitment of $4 million.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• In 2025, US President Donald Trump is considering a travel Subianto made the announcement during a meeting with
ban on citizens from 43 countries, categorized into Red, NDB President Dilma Rousseff. This move is expected to
Orange, and Yellow lists. Red List countries (11 nations, enhance Indonesia’s economic transformation by enabling
including Afghanistan, Iran, and Venezuela) face complete financial collaborations and investment opportunities in key
visa suspension, while Orange List countries (10 nations, sectors.
including Russia, Pakistan, and Haiti) will have severely • Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made history as Namibia’s first
restricted visas. Yellow List countries (22 nations, including female president on March 21, 2025, coinciding with the
Angola, Cambodia, and Zimbabwe) have 60 days to address country’s 35th Independence Day. A veteran of SWAPO, she
US concerns. This move expands on the travel restrictions won the November 2024 elections with 58% of the vote. Her
from Trump's first term, which were later revoked by Joe administration will focus on addressing unemployment,
Biden in 2021. especially among youth, aiming to create 500,000 jobs
• Kirsty Coventry, a legendary swimmer from Zimbabwe, through investments in agriculture, fishing, and the creative
made history by becoming the first female and first African sectors.
president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). • President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on
Her election marks a significant milestone for the IOC, imported cars and auto components, effective next week,
ushering in a new era of progress, diversity, and inclusivity impacting global markets including the EU, Canada, India,
in global sports leadership. and China. While Indian automakers may not face
• In 2024, global funding for women-led tech startups fell to immediate challenges, auto component manufacturers and
$29.6 billion, an 11% decline from 2023 and 21% from 2022, tyre companies exporting to the US could be significantly
due to macroeconomic challenges. Despite the downturn, affected. This move aligns with Trump's broader trade
India ranked second globally in all-time funding for strategy to protect American industries and encourage
women-led tech startups, after the United States, as per domestic manufacturing.
Tracxn. Women-led startups accounted for 11.7% of total • On March 28, 2025, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck
global funding, with 45 funding rounds exceeding $100 near Mandalay, Myanmar, causing widespread damage in
million. Key sectors like Enterprise Applications, Life Bangkok, Thailand. The Thai government, led by Prime
Sciences, and FinTech continued to attract significant Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, declared a state of
investment. emergency as a 30-storey skyscraper collapsed, trapping 43
• Indonesia has announced its decision to join the New workers. Structural damage was reported across the city,
Development Bank (NDB), a multilateral financial institution and panic led to evacuations, while water overflow was
established by the BRICS nations. President Prabowo observed in pools. Rescue operations are ongoing.

BANKING & FINANCE

Bank
S. No. Purpose
Name
• YES BANK partnered with the World Trade Center (WTC) Mumbai to host the Export Conclave 2025
at YES BANK House, focusing on empowering MSMEs, enhancing India’s export ecosystem, and
1. YES BANK
discussing trade trends, challenges, and global market opportunities.
• The event highlighted trade facilitation, financial support, and innovation in export services.
• Bank of Baroda has received the ISO 22301:2019 Business Continuity Management System (BCMS)
certification from the British Standards Institution (BSI), highlighting its commitment to operational
Bank of
2. resilience, business continuity planning, and risk management.
Baroda
• The certification recognizes the bank’s strategies to mitigate risks, minimize disruptions, and ensure
swift recovery during crises.
• City Union Bank (CUB) has partnered with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to launch a co-branded credit
City Union
3. card offering exclusive rewards, special offers, and unique cricket-related experiences for CSK fans,
Bank
enhancing their purchasing experience and team spirit.
• On International Women’s Day 2025, the State Bank of India (SBI) launched ‘SBI Asmita’, a collateral-
free digital SME loan aimed at women entrepreneurs.
State Bank
4. • This initiative seeks to simplify financing access for women-led MSMEs through a digital, hassle-free
of India
process. Additionally, SBI introduced the ‘Nari Shakti’ platinum debit card, designed for women,
offering benefits across multiple categories.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Bank
S. No. Purpose
Name
• Bank of Baroda (BoB) introduced the ‘bob Global Women NRE & NRO Savings Account’, a first among
public sector banks, designed specifically for women NRIs.
Bank of
5. • This account offers premium banking privileges, concessional loan rates, and insurance benefits to
Baroda
empower women. Additionally, BoB revamped its ‘bob Premium NRE & NRO Savings Account’ to
enhance the customer experience with new features and benefits.
• ICICI Bank has appointed Kamal Wali as the new Head of its Security Operations Center to strengthen
cybersecurity and risk mitigation.
6. ICICI Bank
• With over 18 years of experience, he will lead security strategies to enhance the bank’s digital
infrastructure and safeguard customer data amid evolving cyber threats.
• City Union Bank (CUB) has partnered with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as its exclusive banking
City Union partner. The collaboration offers customised financial solutions, exclusive offers, and enhanced
7.
Bank digital banking services to SRH fans, players, and staff, strengthening CUB’s presence in the sports
sector.
• State Bank of India (SBI) is setting up a specialized unit to manage project financing for emerging
industries like AI, e-commerce, and fintech.
State Bank
8. • This initiative aims to diversify SBI’s project finance operations beyond traditional sectors. The project
of India
is expected to be completed within a year, with plans to recruit specialized professionals and appoint
an external consultant.
• State Bank of India (SBI) is setting up a specialized unit to manage project financing for emerging
industries like AI, e-commerce, and fintech. This initiative aims to diversify SBI’s project finance
State Bank
9. operations beyond traditional sectors.
of India
• The project is expected to be completed within a year, with plans to recruit specialized professionals
and appoint an external consultant.
• Equitas Small Finance Bank has renewed its partnership as the Official Banking Partner with Chennai
Equitas
Super Kings (CSK) for six years and Gujarat Titans (GT) for three years. This collaboration highlights
Small
10. Equitas' commitment to excellence and community engagement through its ‘Bank Behind
Finance
Champions’ campaign. The Equitas brand will be featured on the lead helmet of CSK and the back of
Bank
the helmet of GT throughout the season.
• Punjab & Sind Bank has been honored with the Top Improvers award in the EASE 6.0 Reforms Index
for its exceptional progress in digital transformation, financial inclusion, and customer service
Punjab &
11. excellence. Under the leadership of Swarup Kumar Saha (MD & CEO), the bank has enhanced banking
Sind Bank
services, operational efficiency, and modernization, reflecting its commitment to excellence in the
public banking sector.

RBI News Key Regulations for Cooperative Banks

RBI’s ‘Regulations at a Glance’: Key Insights for Cooperative 1. Licensing of New Institutions
Banks Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
• Minimum paid-up capital/net worth: ₹12.5 lakh – ₹4 crore
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the “Regulations at
(depending on location and population size).
a Glance” handbook, compiled by the Department of
• Note: RBI has stopped accepting fresh applications for new
Regulation (DoR), to offer a broad overview of key regulatory
UCBs since 2004.
guidelines applicable to various banking entities, including
cooperative banks. The handbook summarizes major regulations Rural Cooperative Banks (StCBs & CCBs)
in a tabular format for easy reference but does not replace official • Declared as State Cooperative Banks (StCBs) or Central
circulars, Master Circulars, or Master Directions. Cooperative Banks (CCBs) by the state government.
This article highlights essential regulatory provisions applicable • RBI grants licenses based on NABARD’s recommendations
to cooperative banks as outlined in the handbook. and internal assessment.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Promoters’ Criteria • No negotiation of interest rates with individual depositors.
• Evaluated on educational qualifications, professional • NRE/NRO deposit rates cannot exceed domestic deposit
competence, financial strength, capital mobilization ability, rates.
and membership eligibility.
6. Mergers & Amalgamations
2. Branch Licensing
Key Provisions
Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)
• Governed by the Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949.
• Automatic Route: UCBs classified as Financially Sound and
• RBI has discretionary power under Section 44A to approve
Well Managed (FSWM) can open branches up to 10% of
existing branches (min. 1, max. 5). voluntary amalgamations.
• Approval Route: FSWM UCBs must submit an Annual • Private Bank Mergers: Must be approved by shareholders
Business Plan (ABP) to RBI’s regional office by December 15. (2/3rd majority) before submission to RBI.
State Cooperative Banks (StCBs) • UCB Mergers: Considered only if depositors’ funds are fully
• Require NABARD & RBI approval with conditions like: protected.
• CRAR ≥ 9%, NNPA ≤ 5%, compliance record, and no penalties
7. Resolution of Banking Companies & Cooperative Banks
in last two years.
Compulsory Amalgamation/Reconstruction
District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs)
Additional requirements, • RBI can apply to the government for restructuring under
• Operational for at least 3 years and net profit in last 2 years. Section 45 of the BR Act.
• Not under RBI restrictions. • Section 45(4) (2020 Amendment): RBI can initiate
amalgamations during a moratorium or at any other time.
3. Governance Framework
Powers of RBI
Regulated by
• Section 10B: Remove Chairman/MD of a banking company.
• State/Central Cooperative Society laws.
• Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949 (since 2020). • Section 36ACA: Supersede the board of banking companies.
Key Provisions • Section 35A: Issue directives for proper banking
• UCBs must form an Audit Committee of the Board. management.
• Fit and proper criteria for directors, MD/CEO, and WTD. • Section 22(4): RBI can cancel banking licenses (appeals go to
• Maximum continuous tenure limits for directors. the Central Government within 30 days).
• Larger UCBs must appoint an independent Chief Risk Officer Post-License Cancellation
(CRO). • Banking companies: High Court appoints liquidator.
• NABARD issues governance guidelines for rural cooperative • Uni-state cooperative banks: Registrar of Cooperative
banks. Societies appoints liquidator.
4. Credit Risk Management • Multi-state cooperative banks: Central Registrar appoints
Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) liquidator.
• Loan against shares, bonds, and debentures: Max ₹10 lakh,
LTV 50%.
Rural Cooperative Banks
• Loan against shares, bonds, and debentures: Max ₹5 lakh,
LTV 50%.
Securitization of Standard Assets
• Allowed for SCBs, AIFIs, and NBFCs.
• Not allowed for RRBs and Cooperative Banks.

5. Interest Rate Framework & Deposit Pricing

General Principles
• Uniform interest rates across all branches/customers.
• No discrimination in deposit rates for similar amounts and
dates.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Current Affairs related to Regulatory authorities
S.No. Name Purpose
• The RBI imposed monetary penalties on HSBC (₹66.6 lakh) for violations related to KYC norms, foreign
currency exposures, and deposit interest rate rules, and on IIFL Samasta Finance (₹33.1 lakh) for issues
1. RBI including interest charges before loan disbursement, NPA misclassification, and customer
identification.
• Additionally, three cooperative banks in Maharashtra were penalized for regulatory non-compliance.
Reserve
Bank of
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept the window open for the exchange and deposit of ₹2000
India
2. denomination notes, despite 98.18% of the total value being returned to the banking system.
Reserve
• This ensures that individuals still holding these notes have accessible channels for deposit or exchange.
Bank of
India
• On March 3, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Dr. Ajit Ratnakar Joshi as its new Executive
Reserve Director (ED).
3. Bank of • He will oversee the Department of Statistics and Information Management and the Financial Stability
India Department. With over 30 years of experience in statistics, information technology, and cyber risk
management, Dr. Joshi brings extensive expertise to his new role.
• The 29th Meeting of the Standing Advisory Committee (SAC), chaired by Swaminathan J, Deputy
Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), focused on enhancing credit access to the Micro, Small,
Reserve and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
4. Bank of • Key initiatives discussed included promoting the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), expanding the Account
India Aggregator framework, and testing innovative solutions through the Regulatory Sandbox. Challenges
like financial literacy gaps, information asymmetry, and delayed payments were addressed to ensure
transparency, accessibility, and support for MSMEs' growth.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed monetary penalties totaling ₹76.6 lakh on four Non-
Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) for non-compliance with regulatory norms.
Reserve • The penalties were issued under Section 58G of the RBI Act, 1934, and Section 30 of the Payment and
5. Bank of Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
India • The violations included issues with governance, reporting requirements, fair lending practices, capital
adequacy, and fraud risk management. This action underscores the RBI’s commitment to financial
discipline, consumer protection, and strengthening compliance in the NBFC sector.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE) have launched
Reserve nationwide financial literacy campaigns under the National Strategy for Financial Education (NSFE).
6. Bank of • These initiatives aim to promote financial awareness and inclusion, targeting diverse groups, especially
India youth (below 18 years) and senior citizens (above 60 years), to empower them with essential financial
knowledge and skills.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a framework to recognize a Self-Regulatory Organisation
(SRO) for the Account Aggregator (AA) ecosystem, aiming to streamline financial data exchange,
Reserve
address operational challenges, and ensure compliance.
7. Bank of
• This initiative enhances coordination, standardization, and dispute resolution within the AA framework,
India
building on the 2016 AA framework and the recent recognition of the Fintech Association for Consumer
Empowerment as an SRO in 2024.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported a rise in its net short position in the forward book, reaching
Reserve
$77.5 billion by January 2025, up from $67.9 billion in December 2024.
8. Bank of
• This increase reflects the forex market interventions amid rupee depreciation and global trade
India
uncertainties. The data was released in RBI’s March 2025 monthly bulletin.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank of Mauritius (BOM) have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) to enable cross-border transactions using the Indian Rupee (INR) and Mauritian
Reserve
Rupee (MUR).
9. Bank of
• This agreement aims to reduce costs and improve efficiency for exporters and importers by settling
India
transactions in their domestic currencies, strengthening economic and financial ties between India and
Mauritius.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Current Affairs related to Regulatory authorities
S.No. Name Purpose
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reports a significant shift in inward remittances, with the U.S. and U.K.
surpassing Gulf countries as top contributors. According to the RBI's paper on India’s Remittances
Reserve
Survey, remittances from the U.S. and U.K. nearly doubled, accounting for 40% of total inflows in FY24,
10. Bank of
up from 26% in FY17. This rise is linked to the increasing presence of Indian professionals and students
India
in these countries, while contributions from traditional sources like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have
declined.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set the interest rate for the Government of India Floating Rate Bond
Reserve
2033 (GOI FRB 2033) at 8.34% per annum for the period from March 22, 2024, to September 21, 2024.
11. Bank of
The bond’s floating interest rate is determined based on the Weighted Average Yield (WAY) of the last
India
three 182-Day Treasury Bill auctions, plus a fixed spread of 1.22%.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has won the Digital Transformation Award 2025 from Central Banking,
Reserve
London for successfully implementing its in-house digital initiatives, Pravaah and Sarthi.
12. Bank of
• These advancements have improved workflow management, regulatory processes, and operational
India
efficiency, reducing reliance on paper-based submissions.

SEBI News
S.No Announcement Key Details
• SEBI recorded a 48% YoY growth in total income, reaching ₹2,075 crore in FY 2023-24,
driven by higher fees and subscriptions from stock exchanges, market participants, and
companies.
1. SEBI • While investment and other income also increased, total expenditure rose to ₹1,006
crore.
• SEBI reported substantial funds in its General Fund, Investor Protection & Education Fund
(IPEF), and Disgorgement Fund, highlighting its strong financial position.
• SEBI has reduced the minimum investment for Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP)
instruments on the Social Stock Exchange (SSE) from ₹10,000 to ₹1,000.
• This decision aims to boost retail participation and increase funding for non-profit
2. SEBI
organizations (NPOs), especially in sectors like education and healthcare.
• The change, effective immediately, modifies SEBI’s directive from September 19, 2022, to
strengthen social impact investment in India.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has partnered with DigiLocker to
simplify access to investors' securities holdings and reduce unclaimed assets in the
market.
Securities and Exchange
3. • This initiative allows investors to store and retrieve demat holdings, mutual fund
Board of India (SEBI)
statements, and Consolidated Account Statements (CAS) through DigiLocker.
• SEBI also introduced a nomination facility for appointing legal heirs, ensuring smooth
asset transition and improving investor protection and financial transparency.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

GDP & GROWTH RATE as per October 2024 • Morgan Stanley projects India’s GDP will reach $5.7 trillion
by fiscal 2028, making it the third-largest economy,
• Crisil has forecasted India's GDP growth to stay at 6.5% in surpassing Germany and Japan. India, currently the fifth-
FY26, with the RBI's MPC likely to reduce the repo rate by largest economy, is expected to overtake Japan by 2026.
50-75 basis points to boost growth. While lower than the India’s share in global GDP will rise from 3.5% in 2023 to
previous year's 9.2%, it aligns closely with the pre-pandemic 4.5% by 2029, driven by strong policies, improved
average of 6.6%, maintaining India’s position as the fastest- infrastructure, and a growing consumer market. In a bullish
growing major economy. scenario, GDP could reach $10.3 trillion by 2035.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• India has achieved a historic economic milestone by • India’s agriculture trade surplus has been shrinking despite
doubling its GDP from $2.1 trillion in 2015 to $4.3 trillion in growth in exports like basmati rice, spices, coffee, and
2025, marking a 105% increase and the fastest growth tobacco. The surge in imports of pulses and edible oils has
among major global economies. According to the IMF, contributed to this decline. The surplus peaked at $27.7
India's inflation-adjusted GDP growth over the decade is billion in 2013-14, and dropped to $16 billion in 2023-24.
77%, positioning it as one of the world’s most rapidly For April-December 2024, the surplus fell to $8.2 billion,
expanding economies. India is set to surpass Japan in 2025 down from $10.6 billion in the previous year.
• India's retail inflation dropped to a seven-month low of
and may overtake Germany by 2027.
3.61% in February 2025, driven by a decline in food inflation
• S&P Global has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26
to below 4% for the first time in nearly two years. This broad-
down to 6.5% from the earlier 6.7%. The forecast assumes a
based reduction, particularly in perishable goods and
normal monsoon and stable commodity prices, including protein-based food items, has raised expectations for a
crude oil. Despite global trade uncertainties, India’s potential rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the
services-led exports to the US remain strong. Additionally, upcoming April meeting.
easing food inflation, tax benefits from the FY26 Budget, • India's Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February 2025 shows
and lower borrowing costs are expected to boost domestic a year-on-year inflation of 3.61%, marking the lowest
consumption. inflation rate since July 2024. This represents a 65 basis
• India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) widened to $11.5 points decline from January 2025. A significant drop in food
billion (1.1% of GDP) in Q3 FY25, driven by a higher inflation, especially in rural areas, contributed to this
merchandise trade deficit of $79.2 billion, while CAD moderation.
moderated from Q2 FY25. The Balance of Payments (BoP) • India's Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2025
saw a depletion of $37.7 billion, contrasting with a surplus showed a 5.0% growth, up from 3.2% in December 2024.
a year ago. Forex reserves surged by $311 billion since Dec The manufacturing sector led the growth at 5.5%, followed
by mining (4.4%) and electricity (2.4%). The IIP index for
2018, marking the largest increase under any RBI Governor.
January 2025 stands at 161.3, up from 153.6 in January
• India’s core sector growth slowed to 2.9% in February 2025,
2024.
the weakest in five months, compared to 7.1% in February
• Moody’s Ratings projects India's economic growth to
2024. The decline was due to a high base effect and weaker exceed 6.5% in FY 2025-26, up from 6.3% in FY 2024-25. The
output in five of the eight industries. Cement (10.5%) and growth will be fueled by increased government capital
fertilizers (10.2%) were the only sectors with annual expenditure, tax cuts, and monetary easing. However,
growth, while coal (1.7%), crude oil (-5.2%), and natural gas Moody’s warns of a moderate decline in asset quality in the
(-6%) performed poorly. The slowdown may impact banking sector, particularly due to stress in unsecured retail
Industrial Production Index (IIP) growth, which stood at 5% loans, microfinance, and small business loans.
in January 2025. • Fitch Ratings has affirmed the Long-Term Issuer Default
Rating (IDR) of Union Bank of India and Punjab National
ECONOMY NEWS Bank (PNB) at ‘BBB-‘ with a stable outlook. The Viability
Rating (VR) has been upgraded to ‘bb-’ from ‘b+’, reflecting
• GST collections in February 2025 rose by 9.1% YoY, totaling improved financial performance and asset quality. The
₹1.84 lakh crore, reflecting strong domestic economic ratings reflect strong government support and a favorable
activity and improved compliance. The breakdown includes operating environment.
Central GST (CGST) ₹35,204 crore, State GST (SGST) ₹43,704 • India’s net FDI dropped significantly to $1.4 billion during
crore, Integrated GST (IGST) ₹90,870 crore (with ₹41,702 April 2024–January 2025, down from $11.5 billion a year
crore from imports), and Compensation Cess ₹13,868 crore. earlier. This decline was due to increased repatriation by
• India's circular economy is expected to generate over $2 investors and higher outward FDI by Indian firms. However,
gross FDI grew by 12.4% YoY, reaching $67.7 billion, as per
trillion in market value and create nearly 10 million jobs by
the RBI's March 2025 bulletin.
2050, as per Union Minister Bhupender Yadav. At the 12th
• India's foreign exchange reserves surged by $15.267 billion
Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum, he highlighted
to reach $653.966 billion during the week ending March 7,
the shift towards a sustainable, reuse and recycle-based 2025, marking the sharpest rise in over two years. This
system. India is also interested in hosting the World Circular increase was driven by a $10 billion forex swap by the
Economy Forum 2026, launching key initiatives, MoUs, and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on February 28, 2025. The
reports to promote sustainable waste management and previous week's reserves were $638.698 billion, and the all-
urban circular economy practices. time high remains $704.885 billion (September 2024).

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• India's wholesale inflation rose to 2.38% in February 2024, • Star Health Insurance launched the SheTARA campaign in
slightly up from 2.31% in January. The increase was driven Tamil Nadu to celebrate International Women’s Day. The
by higher prices in manufactured food products, textiles, initiative promotes preventive healthcare among women
and non-food articles, though a decline in the Food Index and encourages more women to join as insurance agents.
provided some relief. With 42% of India’s women workforce (6.3 lakh) based in
Tamil Nadu, the state is an ideal location for this campaign.
BUSINESS NEWS • Credit disbursement to priority sectors like agriculture,
MSME, and social infrastructure has grown by 85%, rising
• Paytm has partnered with Perplexity, an AI-driven answer
from ₹23.01 lakh crore in 2019 to ₹42.73 lakh crore in 2024.
engine, to integrate AI-powered search into the Paytm app,
The RBI and government have implemented measures to
enabling users to ask questions, explore topics in local
languages, and make informed financial decisions. ensure credit discipline, responsible lending, and
Perplexity offers real-time responses with in-line citations, technological adoption. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) are
providing accurate and reliable answers, especially for collaborating with FinTechs to enhance banking services
finance and market trends. and facilitate seamless lending.
• PhonePe has launched the ‘Insuring HEROES’ campaign • Digital payment transactions in India surged from 8,839
ahead of International Women’s Day 2025, aiming to crore in FY 2021-22 to 18,737 crore in FY 2023-24, reflecting
enhance financial security for women by offering exclusive a 46% CAGR. This growth was led by UPI, which grew at 69%
discounts on term life and health insurance. Available on CAGR, contributing to over 70% of digital payments. The
the PhonePe app from March 6 to March 9, 2025, the Incentive Scheme for RuPay Debit Cards and BHIM-UPI
campaign provides up to 30% off on term life insurance and transactions has been pivotal in boosting digital
15% off on health insurance, making affordable insurance transactions nationwide.
more accessible for women. • India’s digital payment ecosystem saw over 18,000 crore
• In February 2025, India's digital payments ecosystem transactions in FY 2024-25 (till January 2025), driven by UPI
showed mixed trends, with UPI transactions declining MoM, adoption, fintech collaborations, and government
while FASTag and AePS saw steady growth. Despite this, the initiatives. To ensure security, RBI and NPCI implemented
industry continued expanding YoY, driven by increased AI-driven fraud detection systems and awareness
adoption of cashless transactions across the country. campaigns, while the government strengthened cybercrime
• Razorpay, a leading fintech company, has launched its reporting mechanisms to enhance user safety in digital
payment solutions in Singapore, marking a major expansion transactions.
after its success in India and Malaysia. The move aligns with • The MSME sector in India has seen significant growth in
Singapore’s digital-first economy and growing real-time credit availability and a reduction in Non-Performing Assets
payments ecosystem. Razorpay aims to simplify cross- (NPAs), with the gross NPA ratio decreasing from 11% in
border transactions, reduce payment costs, and introduce
2020 to 4% in 2024. Measures by the government and RBI
AI-driven financial tools to empower businesses in
have strengthened loan recovery mechanisms and ensured
Singapore.
financial stability, improving the health of the MSME credit
• SBI Life Insurance has launched two new child insurance
sector.
products—‘SBI Life – Smart Future Star’ and ‘SBI Life –
• In 2024, India became the top source of Foreign Direct
Smart Platina Young Achiever’—to secure children’s
Investment (FDI) into Dubai, surpassing the United States,
financial future. These products aim to provide financial
France, and the United Kingdom. Dubai maintained its
safeguards amidst rising education costs, evolving career
aspirations, and increasing lifestyle expenses, ensuring status as the world's leading destination for Greenfield FDI
children can pursue their dreams without financial projects for the fourth consecutive year, driven by its
constraints. business-friendly environment, tax policies, and
• GRM Overseas Limited has launched a new marketing infrastructure, positioning it as a global investment hub.
campaign for its 10X Classic Chakki Fresh Atta, with • IIFL Finance has rebranded seven of its branches as ‘Shakti’
Bollywood actor Salman Khan as the brand ambassador. branches to mark Women’s Day, staffed entirely by women
Titled “Better Half Ki Better Choice”, the campaign in the Delhi NCR and Mumbai MMR. This initiative aims to
highlights the product’s quality, hygiene, and nutrition, empower women in the financial services sector, promote
positioning it as the preferred choice for households. With diversity, equity, and inclusion, and support women
the tagline “10 Ka Dum”, the campaign promotes branded entrepreneurs while advancing financial literacy in
packaged wheat flour over traditional unpackaged options. underserved communities.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Finance Ministry has approved the issuance of Zero boosting milk production, genetic improvement, and
Coupon Bonds (ZCBs) by Power Finance Corporation (PFC) farmer incomes, while preserving indigenous bovine breeds
to raise up to ₹10,000 crore. ZCBs are issued at a discount through scientific interventions.
and redeemed at full face value upon maturity, with the • BPCL has inaugurated a 3.2 MW AC floating solar power
return for investors being the difference between the issue plant at the Kochi Refinery, marking a major step toward
price and the face value. sustainable energy. Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan
• In February 2025, UPI saw a 5.2% decline in transaction inaugurated the project on March 22, 2025. Built on an 8-
volume, totaling 16.11 billion transactions. Despite this acre rainwater harvesting pond, the plant is part of BPCL’s
drop, PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm maintained their efforts to integrate renewable energy, with an investment
market dominance, with Flipkart’s Super.money debuting in of ₹28.93 crore.
the top five UPI apps. This decline signals a possible shift in • The Indian government has formed the Inter-Ministerial-
user behavior or market saturation. Industry Committee on Fintech (IMICF) to address
• In a historic move, the Insurance Regulatory and regulatory concerns and create a long-term strategy for the
Development Authority of India (IRDAI) granted financial technology (fintech) sector. Chaired by the
Valueattics Reinsurance, backed by Prem Watsa and Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), the
Kamesh Goyal, the first private reinsurance license in India. committee will evaluate fintech's impact on the banking and
This marks a significant step in fostering competition in the financial services industry (BFSI), identify growth obstacles,
reinsurance sector, ending GIC Re's monopoly that has and study global best practices in governance and
lasted since 1972. The approval was granted during regulation.
Debasish Panda’s final board meeting as IRDAI Chairperson • Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, sold his
on March 12, 2025. stake in Magma General Insurance to Patanjali Ayurved and
• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of DS Group for ₹4,500 crore, giving them a 98% stake. This
India (IRDAI) has re-designated Life Insurance Corporation strategic acquisition strengthens Magma Insurance’s
of India (LIC), The New India Assurance Company, and position, leveraging Patanjali's rural reach and DS Group’s
General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) as financial expertise. The company offers over 70 insurance
Domestic Systemically Important Insurers (D-SIIs) for 2024- products, with a gross written premium (GWP) of ₹3,295
25. These insurers are deemed critical to the stability of the crore in 2024, projected to rise to ₹3,650-3,700 crore in
Indian financial system due to their size, market importance, 2025.
and interconnectedness with both the domestic and global • SBI Mutual Fund launched two new schemes—the SBI BSE
economy. PSU Bank Index Fund and the SBI BSE PSU Bank ETF—to
• Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, sold his provide exposure to India's public sector banking sector.
stake in Magma General Insurance to Patanjali Ayurved and Both will track the BSE PSU Bank Index with 95% of assets
DS Group for ₹4,500 crore, giving them a 98% stake. This allocated to its securities. The NFO opens on March 17,
strategic acquisition strengthens Magma Insurance’s 2025, and closes on March 20, 2025, with a minimum
position, leveraging Patanjali's rural reach and DS Group’s investment of ₹5,000. The funds are managed by Viral
financial expertise. The company offers over 70 insurance Chhadva.
products, with a gross written premium (GWP) of ₹3,295 • In a significant milestone for India’s floriculture sector, the
crore in 2024, projected to rise to ₹3,650-3,700 crore in APEDA facilitated the first-ever export of Anthurium
2025. flowers from Mizoram to Singapore, consisting of 1,024 cut
• The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1,500 crore incentive flowers (70 kg) in 50 boxes. This initiative, in collaboration
scheme for banks to promote UPI transactions below with the Department of Horticulture, Government of
₹2,000 in FY 2024-25. Banks will receive a 0.15% incentive Mizoram, highlights Mizoram’s floriculture potential and
on transactions by small merchants, with part of the payout boosts India’s agricultural exports, benefiting local farmers,
based on maintaining reliable UPI infrastructure. The including women.
initiative aims to boost digital payments adoption, • Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in India reported significant
especially among small businesses, without imposing financial improvement in FY24, with net profits reaching
merchant fees. their highest-ever levels and a 33% increase in dividend
• The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, payouts to Rs 27,830 crore, up from Rs 20,964 crore in FY23.
approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) with This growth highlights the banks' strengthened financial
an allocation of ₹3,400 crore (plus ₹1,000 crore) for the 15th position and their ability to return value to shareholders,
Finance Commission cycle (2021-26). The mission focuses on including the Indian government.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Finance Ministry informed the Lok Sabha that public acquired a 100% stake in Nauyaan Tradings Private Limited
sector banks (PSBs) have transferred over ₹45,000 crore of (NTPL) through its subsidiary Reliance Strategic Business
unclaimed deposits to the Depositor Education and Ventures Limited (RSBVL) for ₹1 lakh. Additionally, NTPL has
Awareness (DEA) Fund between 2019-20 and 2024-25 (up signed a share purchase agreement with Welspun Corp
to December 31, 2024). The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Limited (WCL) to acquire 74% of Nauyaan Shipyard Private
manages this fund under the Depositor Education and Limited (NSPL) for ₹382.73 crore. This acquisition, set to
Awareness Fund Scheme, 2014. complete by March 21, 2025, is part of Reliance’s strategy to
• Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), led by Mukesh Ambani, has expand in the shipyard, naval, defense, and energy sectors.

MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoUs WITH COUNTRY

Country MoU’s With Field/Purpose

• India and Singapore signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) on Green and Digital Shipping Corridor
(GDSC) collaboration during Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) on March 25, 2025.
• The agreement focuses on maritime digitalization and decarbonization, aiming to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and integrate digital solutions.
India Singapore
• Additionally, India and the Netherlands discussed using Dutch expertise for cargo movement
in rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak. Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the initiative’s
role in enhancing sustainability, efficiency, and technological advancements in the maritime
sector.
• The Lanka India Business Association (LIBA) has been launched in Sri Lanka to strengthen
trade, investment, and business networking between India and Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Sri Lanka • With India set to become the world's second-largest economy by 2075, the initiative
capitalizes on the shift towards Eastern economic power and Sri Lanka's strategic location
and historical trade ties with India.

MoUs BETWEEN ORGANIZATION

Organization MoU’s With Field/Purpose

• To offer accessible financing for IGBC-certified green buildings.
Confederation of Indian Confederation of Indian
• This partnership aims to promote energy-efficient
Industry (CII), Indian Green Industry (CII), Indian Green
construction, water conservation, and the use of renewable
Building Council (IGBC), Building Council (IGBC), and
materials, fostering sustainable development in India’s real
and Indian Overseas Bank Indian Overseas Bank
estate sector.
• Indian Air Force (IAF) and CSC Academy to launch Project
HAKK (Hawai Anubhavi Kalyan Kendra), aimed at supporting
defence pensioners, veterans, and their families with financial
services and skill development.
HDFC Bank Indian Air Force
• The project will initially establish 25 centres at Air Force units
in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Pune, Secunderabad,
Guwahati, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, and other locations,
promoting economic inclusiveness and welfare.
• SIDBI and Federal Bank have signed an MoU to enhance
financial support for MSMEs, offering project finance,
equipment loans, working capital support, and loans against
SIDBI Federal Bank property.
• The collaboration will also explore joint financing options to
improve credit access for MSMEs, reinforcing their role in
India’s manufacturing and industrial growth.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Organization MoU’s With Field/Purpose
• The DPIIT and Mercedes-Benz India have signed an MoU to
enhance manufacturing, road safety, and sustainability in
India.
• This partnership aims to support startups by providing
infrastructure, mentorship, funding, and market linkages
DPIIT Mercedes-Benz India while fostering technological advancements and sustainable
innovations.
• The collaboration will also strengthen industry-academia
linkages, promote green solutions, and facilitate international
knowledge exchange to drive impactful innovations in the
automotive sector.
• UIDAI has partnered with Sarvam AI, a Bengaluru-based
Generative AI company, to enhance Aadhaar services starting
March 18, 2025.
• The collaboration introduces AI-powered voice interactions,
real-time fraud detection, and multilingual support to improve
UIDAI Sarvam AI
accessibility, security, and efficiency.
• The GenAI stack will operate within UIDAI’s secure
infrastructure, ensuring data privacy. This agreement, lasting
one year with a possible extension, underscores UIDAI’s focus
on technological advancements and user-centric innovations.
• The Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and
Adamas University, Kolkata signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) on March 1, 2025, to enhance academic
Central Council for and research collaboration in homoeopathy.
Adamas University, Kolkata
Research in Homoeopathy • The agreement aims to advance scientific research, knowledge
exchange, and interdisciplinary studies in alternative medicine,
contributing to the broader acceptance and integration of
homoeopathy in mainstream healthcare.
• The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signed an
MoU with the Jammu & Kashmir government to develop river
cruise tourism, aiming to boost tourism, employment, and
economic growth.
Inland Waterways Jammu & Kashmir • Announced during Chintan Shivir in Srinagar in the presence of
Authority of India government Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the initiative focuses on
three national waterways—River Chenab (NW-26), River
Jhelum (NW-49), and River Ravi (NW-84)—with infrastructure
development and navigational improvements to facilitate
cruise operations.
• Centrico Insurance Repository, a subsidiary of CDSL, has
partnered with LIC to provide digital insurance repository
services, promoting paperless policy management.
Centrico Insurance • This collaboration aims to enhance digital accessibility and
CDSL
Repository efficiency in the insurance sector.
• Centrico, which has partnered with 43 insurers, including 23 life
insurance companies, is strengthening its network in digital
insurance services.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Organization MoU’s With Field/Purpose
• The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) and UNICEF
YuWaah have signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to empower
rural women and youth in India.
• The three-year partnership aims to strengthen livelihood
Ministry of Rural opportunities, promote entrepreneurship, and improve digital
UNICEF YuWaah
Development (MoRD) infrastructure in rural areas.
• Key initiatives include supporting Self-Help Groups (SHG),
expanding female labor force participation, and enhancing
youth skilling through platforms like Youth Hub and Didi ki
Dukan.
• The UIDAI, in collaboration with IIIT-Hyderabad, launched a
Biometric SDK Benchmarking Challenge to improve fingerprint
authentication for children aged 5-10.
UIDAI, IIIT-Hyderabad • The initiative focuses on age invariance in biometric systems,
ensuring accuracy over time, with global participation open to
researchers. Participants can access UIDAI's field-collected
dataset for better real-world model performance.
• The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public
Grievances (DARPG), in collaboration with Digital India
Bhashini, is launching an AI-powered, multimodal,
Department of
multilingual grievance redressal system for CPGRAMS by July
Administrative Reforms Digital India Bhashini
2025.
and Public Grievances
• This initiative enables citizens to file grievances in 22 regional
languages using voice and text input, enhancing accessibility,
inclusivity, and efficiency.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL
Person Name Appointed As Key Notes
• Manan Kumar Mishra has been re-elected as Chairman of the Bar Council of
India (BCI) for the seventh consecutive time, highlighting his strong influence in
Manan Kumar Chairman of the Bar
the legal community.
Mishra Council of India
• Along with his legal expertise, Mishra is also a BJP Member of Parliament in the
Rajya Sabha from Bihar.
• Ajay Seth, the Economic Affairs Secretary, was given the additional charge of
Secretary, Department of Revenue, following the appointment of Tuhin Kanta
Economic Affairs
Ajay Seth Pandey as SEBI Chairman.
Secretary
• The Revenue Secretary position became vacant after Pandey assumed charge
on March 1, 2025.
• Dr. Mayank Sharma assumed office as the Controller General of Defence
Dr. Mayank Controller General of Accounts (CGDA).
Sharma Defence Accounts • A 1989-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), he brings
over three decades of experience in key roles within the Government of India.
• Government of India appointed Ajay Bhadoo, Additional Secretary in the
Department of Commerce, as the new CEO of Government e Marketplace
Additional Secretary in
(GeM).
Ajay Bhadoo the Department of
• Bhadoo, a 1999-batch IAS officer from the Gujarat cadre, will lead GeM as it
Commerce
transitions into a next-generation digital marketplace powered by Tata
Consultancy Services (TCS).

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Person Name Appointed As Key Notes
• Anju Rathi Rana has made history as India’s first woman Law Secretary,
marking a significant milestone in the Ministry of Law and Justice.
India’s first woman • A distinguished Indian Legal Service (ILS) officer, she succeeds Niten Chandra,
Anju Rathi Rana
Law Secretary breaking a long-standing tradition of male leadership in the role.
• Her appointment reflects the government’s commitment to gender inclusion in
top administrative positions.
• The government has appointed Vikas Kaushal as the Chairman and Managing
Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) for a five-
year term, replacing Rajneesh Narang, the interim CMD since September 1,
Chairman and
Vikas Kaushal 2024.
Managing Director
• Kaushal, with over three decades of experience in the energy, oil & gas, and
power sectors, is known for leading strategic transformations and digital
initiatives in major Indian energy companies.
• The Government of India has officially appointed Justice Joymalya Bagchi, a
sitting judge of the Calcutta High Court, as a Judge of the Supreme Court of
India.
Calcutta High Court, as
Justice Joymalya • The announcement was made by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on
a Judge of the Supreme
Bagchi X (formerly Twitter), confirming the appointment by the President of India after
Court of India
consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
• Justice Bagchi, who is set to become CJI in 2031, is recognized for his merit,
integrity, and competence, key factors in his elevation.
• The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA) has elected Arun
Vice-Chairman and Mammen, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Ltd., as its new
Arun Mammen Managing Director of Chairman.
MRF Ltd • This leadership change occurs during ATMA's Golden Jubilee Year (2025),
marking a significant milestone for the organization.
• Tata Communications has appointed N Ganapathy Subramaniam (NGS) as the
N Ganapathy Chairman of the Board
Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective March 14, 2025, following the
Subramaniam of Directors
recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee.
• Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman has been appointed as the new CEO of the
CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), succeeding Professor
Dr. Shivkumar Anusandhan National Abhay Karandikar.
Kalyanaraman Research Foundation • Dr. Kalyanaraman will lead ANRF in its mission to promote research and
(ANRF), development (R&D) initiatives across India. The handover was conducted by
DST Secretary Professor Abhay Karandikar.
• Intel Corporation appointed Lip-Bu Tan as its new CEO, effective March 18,
2025, marking a leadership transition from Interim Co-CEOs David Zinsner and
Lip-Bu Tan New CEO Michelle (MJ) Johnston Holthaus.
• Tan will also rejoin Intel’s board of directors after stepping down in August
2024.
• Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE) has appointed Dr. Lakshmi Venu
as its Vice Chairman.
• With extensive experience in farm mechanisation and the auto component
Dr. Lakshmi Venu Vice Chairman sectors, her appointment reflects TAFE’s commitment to enhancing leadership
and expanding its global presence.
• Dr. Lakshmi has played a key role in the Indian automotive and farm equipment
industries.
• Indranil Bhattacharyya has been appointed as Executive Director (ED) of the
Indranil Reserve Bank of India (RBI), effective March 19, 2025.
Executive Director (ED)
Bhattacharyya • He will oversee the Department of Economic and Policy Research (DEPR),
responsible for shaping monetary policies and conducting economic research.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Person Name Appointed As Key Notes
• Fino Payments Bank (FPB) has re-appointed Deena Mehta as an Independent
Director for a second term from March 19, 2025, to March 18, 2028.
Deena Mehta Independent Director • A seasoned finance professional, Mehta has played a key role in Indian capital
markets reforms, including the BOLT trading system at BSE and the
establishment of Central Depository Services (CDSL).
• NIIT University (NU) has appointed Amitabh Kant, former NITI Aayog CEO and
India’s G20 Sherpa, as its new Chancellor (Chairperson), effective March 10,
Chancellor 2025.
Amitabh Kant
(Chairperson), • Succeeding K Kasturirangan, his leadership will focus on economic
transformation, policy-making, and technology-driven innovation, reinforcing
NU’s commitment to industry-aligned education and skilling.
• Anuj Kumar Singh, a 2009-batch IRSEE officer, has been appointed as Joint
Secretary (Director level) in UPSC, Delhi under the Central Staffing Scheme for
Joint Secretary
Anuj Kumar five years or until further orders.
(Director level) in
Singh • Recommended by the Ministry of Railways, his technical and administrative
UPSC, Delhi
expertise is expected to enhance UPSC’s operational efficiency and strategic
framework.
• Justice Harish Tandon has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Orissa
High Court.
Justice Harish Chief Justice of the
• His appointment comes after the retirement of Justice Chakradhari Sharan
Tandon Orissa High Court
Singh on January 19, 2024. Until now, Justice Arindam Sinha had been serving
as the acting Chief Justice.
• Mythili Balasubramanian has been appointed as the Interim MD & CEO of
Interim MD & CEO of
Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Company (EARC), effective immediately until
Mythili Edelweiss Asset
September 30, 2025.
Balasubramanian Reconstruction
• With nearly five years at EARC and over 40 years of experience in banking, NPA
Company
resolution, and IBC processes, she brings significant expertise to the role.
• Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, has been
elected as the Chairman of the Global System for Mobile Communications
Vice Chairman and
Association (GSMA), becoming the second Indian after Sunil Mittal to hold this
Gopal Vittal, Managing Director of
prestigious position. His tenure will last until the end of 2026.
Bharti Airtel
• GSMA represents over 1,100 companies from the global telecommunications
industry.
• Indian government appointed Ajay Seth, the current Economic Affairs
Secretary, as the new Finance Secretary.
Ajay Seth Finance Secretary • With over three decades of experience, Seth has been instrumental in shaping
India’s economic policies and driving financial reforms, as the government
seeks to balance fiscal discipline with economic growth.
• Sanjay Singh, president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), was elected
president of the as a Bureau Member of United World Wrestling (UWW)-Asia during the UWW-
Sanjay Singh Wrestling Federation Asia General Assembly in Amman, Jordan, on March 24, 2025.
of India • He secured 22 out of 38 votes, marking a significant milestone for Indian
wrestling and strengthening its international presence in Asia.
• Rajiv Gauba, former Cabinet Secretary, has been appointed as a Full-Time
Member of NITI Aayog.
Full-Time Member of
Rajiv Gauba • A 1982-batch IAS officer of the Jharkhand cadre, Gauba served as India’s top
NITI Aayog
bureaucrat from 2019 to August 2024. His appointment is effective immediately
and will continue until further orders.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Person Name Appointed As Key Notes
• Rahul Bhave has been appointed as the MD & CEO of IFCI for a three-year term,
approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
Rahul Bhave MD & CEO of IFCI
• Bhave, previously Deputy Managing Director, will assume office following this
decision.
• Hitachi Cash Management Services (CMS) has appointed Yusuf Pachmariwala
Hitachi Cash as its MD & CEO effective April 1, 2025, succeeding Anup Neogi.
Yusuf
Management Services • This leadership change aims to enhance Hitachi CMS’s position in the cash
Pachmariwala
(CMS) management industry, leveraging Pachmariwala's experience in cash business
operations and digital payments.
• Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) has appointed Sunil Kakkar as Director
(Corporate Planning) for a three-year term (April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2028).
Maruti Suzuki India
Sunil Kakkar • With 35+ years of experience, he has held key leadership roles, including Senior
Limited (MSIL)
Executive Officer – Corporate Planning and Head of Supply Chain & Gurgaon
Production Operations.
• Rajneet Kohli, former CEO of Britannia Industries, has been appointed as
Executive Director –
Executive Director – Foods and Refreshment at Hindustan Unilever (HUL),
Foods and
effective April 7, 2025.
Rajneet Kohli Refreshment at
• With 30 years of experience in consumer and retail, he succeeds Shiva
Hindustan Unilever
Krishnamurthy, reinforcing HUL’s focus on expanding its foods and beverages
(HUL),
segment as part of its leadership transformation.
• Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh has been appointed to the
Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR) Advisory Board, as announced by
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. His appointment underscores his
Centre for Australia-
contributions to Australia-India ties in sports, culture, and philanthropy.
Steve Waugh India Relations (CAIR)
• CAIR plays a crucial role in strengthening economic, cultural, and diplomatic
Advisory Board
relations, acting as a bridge between government, industry, academia, and
communities. The Advisory Board guides CAIR’s strategic priorities to enhance
bilateral cooperation.
• Challa Sreenivasalu Setty, SBI Chairman, has been elected as the new Chairman
of the Indian Banks Association (IBA) for the upcoming fiscal year, succeeding
MV Rao (Central Bank of India CEO).
Challa • The IBA also appointed A Manimekhalai (Union Bank of India), Swarup Kumar
Chairman of the Indian
Sreenivasalu Saha (Punjab & Sind Bank), and Madhav Nair (Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait India)
Banks Association
Setty as Deputy Chairmen, while B Ramesh Babu (Karur Vysya Bank CEO) was named
Honorary Secretary.
• Setty will lead IBA in advocating for banking sector policies and industry
challenges.
• S. K. Majumdar has been appointed as the Executive Director of Canara Bank,
Executive Director of effective March 24, 2025.
S. K. Majumdar
Canara Bank • Previously serving as the CFO, Majumdar brings over 25 years of experience in
finance and leadership, expected to enhance the bank's growth and governance.
• Parminder Chopra has been appointed as Chairman and Managing Director
(CMD) of REC Limited for a three-month tenure, while continuing her role as
Chairman and
Parminder CMD of Power Finance Corporation Ltd. (PFC).
Managing Director
Chopra • With over 35 years of experience in the power and financial sectors, Chopra has
(CMD) of REC Limited
significantly contributed to financial restructuring and renewable energy
financing.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025

BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS

Person Name Brand / Campaign Key Notes
Levi's has appointed Diljit Dosanjh as its global ambassador, making him the first
Diljit Dosanjh Levi's Punjabi artist to join the brand’s creative community. This collaboration blends music,
fashion, and culture, strengthening Levi's brand presence in India and globally.
Badminton legend and former World No.1 Saina Nehwal has entered the business
world by partnering with Naarica, an innovative menstrual hygiene brand. As a
Saina Nehwal Naarica
strategic investor and brand ambassador, Nehwal aims to promote sustainable, high-
quality menstrual care solutions and make them accessible to women across India.
'Fit India Icon' by Ayushmann Khurrana has been named the 'Fit India Icon' by Union Sports Minister
Ayushmann Union Sports Mansukh Mandaviya during the Fit India Movement inauguration in New Delhi. The
Khurrana Minister Mansukh 40-year-old Bollywood actor joins Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative to inspire
Mandaviya citizens to focus on their health and well-being.
Honda Motor Company has appointed Takashi Nakajima as the new President and CEO
Takashi Honda Motor of its Indian subsidiary, Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), effective April 1, 2025. He will
Nakajima Company succeed Takuya Tsumura, who will return to Honda’s headquarters in Japan after his
three-year tenure in India.
Jasprit Bumrah has signed with Skechers, a global Comfort Technology Company, to
promote its cricket footwear and feature in marketing campaigns. Known as a top fast
Jasprit Bumrah Skechers bowler, Bumrah joins other players like Ishan Kishan and Yastika Bhatia as part of
Skechers’ growing association with cricket. This move strengthens Skechers’ presence
in the sport, also serving as the official kit sponsor of Mumbai Indians.
Bajaj Auto reappointed Rajiv Bajaj as MD and CEO for another five-year term, starting
April 1, 2025. The company also invested ₹1,500 crore into its subsidiary, Bajaj Auto
Rajiv Bajaj MD and CEO
Credit Ltd (BACL), to support its growth and improve regulatory compliance, capital
adequacy, and financial stability for the financial year 2025-26.
Former Indian cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has been appointed as the
Goodwill Goodwill Ambassador of VISION 2020 India, an initiative focused on eliminating
Krishnamachari
Ambassador of avoidable blindness in the country. The program aims to raise awareness, offer medical
Srikkanth
VISION 2020 India assistance, and ensure accessible eye care services for preventable visual impairment.
The announcement was made at Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai.
Atul Kumar Goel has been appointed as the new Chief Executive (CE) of the Indian
Chief Executive (CE)
Banks' Association (IBA). With over three decades of experience in the banking sector,
Atul Kumar Goel of the Indian Banks'
Goel brings strong leadership during a time of rapid evolution in India’s banking
Association
industry.
Tata Motors has appointed Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal as the brand ambassador for
its Passenger and Electric Vehicle segment, launching with the “Take the Curvv”
Vicky Kaushal Brand ambassador campaign to promote the upcoming Tata Curvv SUV during IPL 2025. This partnership
underscores Tata Motors' focus on innovation, excellence, and the ‘Make in India’
initiative.
L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), a leading NBFC in India, has appointed cricketer Jasprit Bumrah
as its brand ambassador to enhance its brand presence. Known for its leadership in
Rural Business Finance, Farm Equipment Finance, and Two-wheeler Finance, LTF
Jasprit Bumrah Brand ambassador
serves over 2 lakh villages, with 2,028 rural branches and 185 urban branches,
providing accessible financial solutions through a strong retail franchise and 12,500
distribution touch points.
Goibibo has appointed Rishabh Pant as its brand ambassador, launching a campaign
featuring Sunil Gavaskar that playfully twists his iconic "Stupid, Stupid, Stupid" phrase.
Rishabh Pant Goibibo The youth-centric campaign blends cricket nostalgia with travel deals, aiming to attract
travel enthusiasts by making trip planning fun and hassle-free. Pant’s energy and
Gavaskar’s legacy enhance its mass appeal.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
AWARDS
Award Name Award Winner Key Notes
Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), was awarded
Icon of Excellence at the
the Icon of Excellence at the Forbes India Leadership Awards (FILA 2025) for
Forbes India Leadership Jay Shah
his significant contributions to cricket administration, introducing new ideas,
Awards (FILA 2025)
and making the game more inclusive and competitive globally.
Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman of the International Institute of Hotel
Management (IIHM), received the ‘Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality and
‘Lifetime Achievement in
Education Through Technology’ award at the Vibrant Bharat Global Summit
Hospitality and Education
2025. Awarded by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Shekhawat, the
Through Technology’ award at Dr. Suborno Bose
recognition honors Dr. Bose’s work in integrating AI and technology into
the Vibrant Bharat Global
hospitality education. His new book, Harmonizing Human Touch and AI in
Summit 2025
Tourism & Hospitality, was also launched, highlighting IIHM’s AI-driven
initiatives like NamAIste IIHM HospitalityGPT.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the prestigious ‘Honorary Order of
Freedom of Barbados’ for his strategic leadership and support during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Union Minister Pabitra Margherita accepted the
Honorary Order of Freedom of Prime Minister award on his behalf at a ceremony in Bridgetown, attended by Barbadian
Barbados Narendra Modi President Dame Sandra Mason, PM Mia Amor Mottley, and Foreign
Minister Kerrie Symmonds. This honor underscores India’s strong
diplomatic ties with Barbados and its commitment to global cooperation
and development.
GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited announced that its subsidiary, Delhi
Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has won the Airport Service Quality
Airport Experience Award International (ASQ) Airport Experience Award 2024 for the Best Airport Over 40 Million
2024 Airport Limited Passengers in the Asia-Pacific region. This marks the seventh consecutive
year Delhi Airport has been recognized for its excellence in customer service.
Jayshree Vencatesan, co-founder of Care Earth Trust, became the first Indian
to receive the Ramsar Award for ‘Wetland Wise Use’, recognizing her
Ramsar Award for ‘Wetland Jayshree
contributions to sustainable wetland management. The award was
Wise Use’ Vencatesan
announced by the Ramsar Secretariat in Geneva on the eve of International
Women’s Day 2024.
Muthoot Microfin, a prominent microfinance institution focused on
empowering women entrepreneurs, has won two Gold Awards at the
Muthoot
SKOCH Awards 2025 SKOCH Awards 2025. The awards highlight its exceptional contributions to
Microfin
digital financial inclusion and innovative insurance solutions, solidifying its
position as a key player in India’s microfinance sector.
Chiranjeevi, the veteran Telugu cinema superstar, was honoured with the
Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Indian cinema, cultural
Lifetime Achievement Award Chiranjeevi, influence, and public service. The award was presented by Bridge India at
the House of Commons, UK Parliament, recognising his impact on the film
industry and philanthropic efforts.
Renowned sculptor Ram Sutar, known for designing the Statue of Unity, has
been honored with the Maharashtra Bhushan award. The decision was
Maharashtra Bhushan award Ram Sutar announced by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on March 12, 2025. At
100 years old, Sutar continues to contribute to India’s artistic heritage,
including sculpting a statue of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar for Chaityabhoomi.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Award Name Award Winner Key Notes
Vijay Sankar, Honorary Consul General of Denmark for Southern India and
Chairman of The Sanmar Group, has been awarded the Knight’s Cross of the
Knight’s Cross of the Order of Order of Dannebrog by the King of Denmark. This honor recognizes his
Dannebrog by the King of Vijay Sankar contributions to Indo-Danish relations. The award was presented by Rasmus
Denmark Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of Denmark in India, on March 18, 2025
in Chennai. The event also celebrated the Sankar family's five-decade-long
association with Denmark’s consular services.
Günter Blöschl, a renowned hydrologist, has been awarded the 2025
Stockholm Water Prize for his pioneering research in flood hydrology. His
2025 Stockholm Water Prize Günter Blöschl work in understanding flood risks and water resource management under
climate change has significantly improved global flood prediction models,
aiding communities in preparing for extreme weather events.
Eminent Hindi writer Vinod Kumar Shukla, aged 88, has been awarded the
59th Jnanpith Award, India's highest literary honor, for his exceptional work
Vinod Kumar
59th Jnanpith Award in short stories, poetry, and essays.
Shukla
He is the first from Chhattisgarh to receive this prestigious award and the
12th Hindi writer to be honored with it.
Violinist R.K. Shriramkumar has been selected for the prestigious Sangita
Kalanidhi award for 2025 by the Music Academy, to be presented during its
R.K.
Sangita Kalanidhi award 99th annual conference from December 15, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
Shriramkumar
This recognition, marking the 250th anniversary of composer Muthuswami
Dikshitar, honors his significant contributions to Carnatic music.
Japanese mathematician Masaki Kashiwara has been awarded the 2025
Abel Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to algebraic analysis and
representation theory.
Masaki
2025 Abel Prize Honored by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters, Kashiwara, 78,
Kashiwara
is recognized for his pioneering work on D-modules and crystal bases, which
have significantly influenced modern mathematics. The Abel Prize,
established in 2002 and named after Niels Henrik Abel.
The 2024 ACM A.M. Turing Award was presented to Andrew G. Barto and
Richard S. Sutton for their groundbreaking work in reinforcement learning
(RL), which laid the foundation for AI advancements. Their key contributions
Andrew G. Barto
include temporal difference learning, policy-gradient methods, and neural
2024 ACM A.M. Turing Award and Richard S.
network-based function representations. Their influential publication,
Sutton
"Reinforcement Learning: An Introduction" (1998), has been cited over
75,000 times. The award, often called the "Nobel Prize in Computing,"
carries a $1 million prize, sponsored by Google.

SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

Category Event Venue Key Points
• Union Minister Bhupender Yadav inaugurated the World Sustainable
Development Summit (WSDS) 2025 in New Delhi, organized by TERI,
to promote global partnerships for sustainable development and
climate solutions.
World Sustainable • He highlighted India’s leadership in climate action through initiatives
Summits New Delhi
Development Summit like the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Coalition for Disaster
Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Mission LiFE.
• The summit saw participation from global leaders, including Guyana’s
PM Brigadier Mark Phillip and Brazil’s Minister Marina Silva,
reinforcing international cooperation on environmental sustainability.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Category Event Venue Key Points
• WAVEX 2025, launched by the Union Ministry of Information &
Broadcasting and IAMAI, aims to empower startups in the media and
entertainment sector.
• Held at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, from May 1-4, it
Summits WAVEX 2025 Mumbai
offers funding, networking, and exposure opportunities.
• Startups can pitch to venture capitalists and celebrity investors, with
a focus on gaming, animation, XR, metaverse, generative AI, and
next-gen content platforms.
• The WAVES India: A Bird’s Eye View Challenge is a Create in India
initiative organized by BECIL in collaboration with the Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting.
WAVES India: A Bird’s
Events • The competition invites drone pilots and filmmakers to create 2-3
Eye View Challenge
minute videos showcasing India's landscapes, heritage, and vibrant
life through aerial cinematography, capturing the country's beauty
from a bird’s-eye view.
• Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia represented India at the
Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
• He highlighted India’s 5G expansion, lowest data tariffs, indigenous
Mobile World Congress Barcelona,
Events telecom infrastructure, and cybersecurity framework. Scindia
(MWC) 2025 Spain
emphasized tech governance, innovation, and global partnerships
while unveiling the India Mobile Congress 2025 and inaugurating the
Bharat Pavilion to showcase India’s telecom capabilities.
• GRIDCON 2025, an International Conference cum Exhibition, was
inaugurated by Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban
Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, on March 9, 2025, at IICC, Yashobhoomi,
Dwarka, New Delhi.
• The event, which runs from March 9 to March 11, 2025, is organized
by the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) under
Events GRIDCON 2025 New Delhi.
the patronage of the Ministry of Power and in association with CIGRE
India.
• It aims to strengthen India’s power grid and promote innovations in
renewable energy integration, with the Union Minister of State for
Power & New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, also in
attendance.
• India, led by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt.
Annpurna Devi, participated in the 69th Session of the United
69th Session of the
Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) from March
United Nations
10-21, 2025 in New York.
Events Commission on the New York
• The session focused on gender equality and women's
Status of Women
empowerment, with India reaffirming its commitment to holistic
(UNCSW)
development, inclusive policies, and international cooperation for
women's rights.
• India participated in the 353rd ILO Governing Body Meeting in
Geneva (March 10-20, 2025), led by Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary of
the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
• India highlighted its achievements in social protection, living wages,
353rd ILO Governing and fair migration, with initiatives like EPFO, ESIC, and e-Shram
Events Genev
Body Meeting Portal.
• India supported ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice, the Second
World Summit for Social Development, and ILO’s Fair Migration
Agenda. The country also emphasized its Factories Act, 1948 and
Occupational Safety Code, 2020 for worker safety.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Category Event Venue Key Points
• Sourcex India 2025, organized by the Federation of Indian Export
Organisations (FIEO) with the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, was
inaugurated on March 26, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention
Centre, New Delhi.
• Launched by Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Director General of Foreign
Events Sourcex India 2025 New Delhi
Trade, the event connects Indian exporters with 150+ global buyers
from over 45 countries.
• It supports India’s initiatives like Make in India, Startup India, and the
PLI Scheme, enhancing India’s manufacturing competitiveness and
global trade.
• The International Ramayana and Vedic Research Institute organized
a Ramayana Conclave in Colombo, with scholars and religious leaders
from India and Sri Lanka discussing the global impact of Lord Rama's
Events Ramayana Conclave Colombo personality and the historical significance of Ramayana-related sites
in Sri Lanka.
• The event highlighted the epic's cultural and spiritual influence,
particularly in relation to Ravana’s kingdom.
• The Water Sustainability Conference 2025, organized by BWUE and
TERI, focused on enhancing Industrial Water Use Efficiency.
Water Sustainability Inaugurated by Union Minister C. R. Patil, the conference emphasized
Conference
Conference 2025 the 4R approach (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle & Recharge), with Respect
added as the 5th principle for sustainable water management in
industries.
• At the 4th ‘No Money for Terror’ (NMFT) Conference in Munich, India
emphasized the need for international cooperation to combat terror
4th ‘No Money for financing, particularly concerning cross-border fund flows and digital
Conference Terror’ (NMFT) transactions.
Conference • India highlighted the evolving methods terrorists use for financial
transfers and called for unified global action to tackle the growing
threat.

INDEX
RANKING Key Global Findings from The Wealth Report 2025

India Ranks 4th in Global Wealth Rankings: Knight Frank’s The Growth of High Net-Worth Individuals Worldwide
Wealth Report 2025 The report defines HNWIs as individuals possessing at least USD
1 million in investable assets. According to the findings, the
In March 2025, the London-based global property consultancy number of HNWIs increased by 4.4% globally, reaching
firm, Knight Frank, released the 19th edition of ‘The Wealth 2,341,378 in 2024, up from 2,243,300 in 2023.
Report 2025’, providing a comprehensive analysis of the global The top three regions that experienced the highest percentage
distribution of wealth. The report highlights the growing number growth in their HNWI populations are:
of High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) worldwide, with India • United States – 5.2% growth
securing the 4th position globally, boasting an estimated 85,698 • Asia – 5% growth
HNWIs in 2024, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. • Africa – 4.7% growth
Other notable regional HNWI population growth rates:
With 3.7% of the world’s wealthy population, India continues to
• Australasia – 3.9% (owing to strong ties with Asian and
strengthen its presence among the top wealth-generating North American markets)
nations. The United States of America (USA) remains the leader • Middle East – 2.7%
with 905,413 HNWIs, followed by China (471,634 HNWIs) and • Latin America – 1.5%
Japan (122,119 HNWIs). • Europe – 1.4%

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Top 5 Countries with the Highest Number of HNWIs in 2024 Despite these advancements, women continue to face obstacles
such as wage disparities, unequal career advancement
Number of Percentage of
Rank Country opportunities, and underrepresentation in top managerial
HNWIs Global HNWIs
positions.
United
1 905,413 38.7%
States Top 10 Best Countries for Working Women in 2025
China According to The Economist’s 2025 Glass-Ceiling Index, the
2 471,634 20.1%
(Mainland) following countries ranked highest in fostering gender equality,
3 Japan 122,119 5.2% workplace inclusion, and career growth for women:
4 India 85,698 3.7%
Rank Country Region
5 Germany 69,798 3.0%
1 France Europe
2 Spain Europe
Glass-Ceiling Index 2025: Best Countries for Working Women
3 Australia Oceania
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March
4 Sweden Europe
8, serves as a global platform to recognize the achievements of
women in cultural, political, and socio-economic spheres. It is 5 Portugal Europe
also a moment to assess progress in gender equality and the 6 Norway Europe
challenges that remain in workplaces worldwide. The Glass- 7 Finland Europe
Ceiling Index (GCI), compiled by The Economist, provides a
8 Denmark Europe
comparative analysis of the best and worst countries for working
women. 9 New Zealand Oceania
The 2025 Glass-Ceiling Index reveals that while significant 10 Iceland Europe
improvements have been made globally, disparities still persist.
This year, Sweden has reclaimed its position as the best country LIC Ranked World’s 3rd Strongest Insurance Brand
for working women, surpassing Iceland, which held the top spot
for the past two years. Meanwhile, countries like Japan, Turkey, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has been ranked the third
and South Korea continue to struggle due to entrenched societal strongest insurance brand globally, with a Brand Strength Index
norms and wage gaps. (BSI) score of 88 out of 100, according to the Brand Finance
Insurance 100 (2025) report. Poland-based PZU topped the
Global Trends in Women’s Workforce Representation rankings with a BSI score of 94.4, followed by China Life Insurance
Political Landscape: A Historic Year for Elections in second place with 93.5. LIC also holds the 12th position in brand
The year 2024 was remarkable for women’s participation in value among global insurers, while SBI Life ranks 76th, making
politics. According to the OECD, the average women’s them the only two Indian insurers in the top 100.
parliamentary representation rose to 34%, a testament to global
Key Highlights
efforts toward gender inclusivity.
• Japan saw a substantial increase in representation, jumping LIC’s Global Ranking
from 10% to 16%. • Ranked 3rd strongest insurance brand globally.
• Britain experienced notable growth, with representation • Achieved a BSI score of 88/100.
rising from 35% to 41%. • Holds the 12th position in brand value worldwide.
• The United States, however, witnessed a slight decline, with • SBI Life is the only other Indian insurer in the top 100, ranking
female parliamentary representation falling to 28.7%. 76th.
This data highlights the evolving role of women in governance,
though many nations still lag behind in achieving gender parity in Global Insurance Market Trends
politics. • The top 100 insurance brands grew by 9% in brand value in
2025.
Economic Indicators: Progress and Challenges
• Growth driven by higher investment income, rising interest
On the economic front, the percentage of women on corporate
rates, and increased profitability.
boards reached 33%, reflecting a growing acceptance of gender
• Market capitalization rose due to increasing demand for
diversity in leadership roles. Additionally, the labour-force
insurance products.
participation rate for women increased to 66.6%, up from 65.8%
in the previous year. However, this figure remains significantly • Economic recovery, strategic mergers, acquisitions, and tech
lower compared to the 81% male participation rate. advancements accelerated industry growth.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
LIC’s Financial Performance India’s Free Speech Ranking in Global Index
• Standalone net profit rose 17% YoY in the December quarter
Summary/Static Details
to ₹11,056.47 crore (from ₹9,444.42 crore).
India’s Free Speech Ranking in Global
• Consolidated net profit increased 16% YoY to ₹11,000 crore. Why in the news?
Index
• Management expenses decreased, with employee Survey Conducted The Future of Free Speech (U.S.-based
compensation and welfare costs dropping 30%. By think tank)
• Expense ratio reduced by 231 basis points (bps) to 12.97% Survey Date October 2024
from 15.28%. India’s Rank 24th out of 33 countries
India’s Score 62.6
India ranks 11th globally in pharmaceutical exports, accounting
Comparison with India ranked between South Africa (66.9)
for 3% of total pharmaceutical exports in 2023. The Central Drugs
Other Countries and Lebanon (61.8)
Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the Ministry of
Highest Ranked
Health and Family Welfare have implemented measures to Norway (87.9), Denmark (87.0)
Nations
ensure drug quality, safety, and efficacy, including risk-based Most Improved Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4),
inspections, regulatory amendments, stricter penalties for non- Countries Pakistan (57.0)
compliance, and training programs to improve manufacturing Global Free Trend Declined in many democratic
standards. These initiatives aim to strengthen the Speech nations, including U.S., Israel, and Japan
Indians believe free speech has
pharmaceutical sector in India. Public Perception
improved, despite global rankings
Amul, India’s leading dairy cooperative, secured 3rd position in in India
showing decline
the YouGov India Value Rankings 2025, making it the only FMCG Criticism in India 37% support restricting
brand in the top three. It stands alongside Amazon (1st) and Support for
criticism (highest among surveyed
Government
Flipkart (2nd), reflecting its strong consumer trust and value-for- nations)
money proposition. This achievement underscores the strength Lowest Support
of Amul’s cooperative model, ensuring fair pricing for farmers for Restricting U.K. (5%) and Denmark (3%)
and delivering high-quality, affordable dairy products to Indian Criticism
Despite public support, actual protection
households. India’s Free
remains low (similar to Hungary,
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India Speech Exception
Venezuela)
(IRDAI) released the ‘Handbook on Indian Insurance Statistics Free speech needs public commitment
2023-24’ in March 2025, providing insights into the Claim Key Expert
beyond legal protections (Jacob
Opinion
Settlement Ratio (CSR) of various insurers. CSR is a key metric Mchangama)
that reflects an insurer's reliability, representing the percentage
of claims settled within a specified time, helping stakeholders Finland Tops the World Happiness Rankings for the Eighth
Consecutive Year
make informed decisions about insurance companies.
Finland has once again secured its position as the world’s happiest
country for the eighth consecutive year, according to the latest
global happiness rankings. The study, conducted by the Wellbeing
Research Centre at the University of Oxford in collaboration with
Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network,
revealed that the United States has dropped to its lowest-ever
ranking at 24th place. The rankings are based on people’s self-
assessment of their quality of life, highlighting factors such as social
trust, economic stability, and life expectancy.
Global Happiness Rankings: Finland Remains on the Top
The 2024 World Happiness Report has reaffirmed Finland’s
position as the happiest country in the world. Other Nordic
nations, including Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the
Netherlands, rounded out the top five.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
The rankings are derived from individuals’ responses to survey corruption perception (rank improved from 71 in 2022 to 56 in
questions about their overall life satisfaction. Despite Finland’s 2024), and rising personal freedom (ranked 23rd in 2024,
geographical proximity to Russia and increasing geopolitical highest in five years). India's GDP per capita rank also improved
tensions, its citizens continue to report high levels of happiness. to 93rd in 2024. However, it still lags behind Pakistan (109th) and
Nepal (92nd) due to lower social support and economic
Factors Influencing Happiness Rankings
inequality.
The happiness rankings are based on a three-year average of a
population’s self-assessment of life quality. The factors considered
Roshni Nadar Becomes First Indian Woman in World’s Top 10
in the ranking include:
Richest Women
• Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita – Economic stability
contributes significantly to life satisfaction. Roshni Nadar, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has achieved a
• Healthy life expectancy – Access to quality healthcare and a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to enter
longer lifespan improve well-being. the world’s top 10 richest women list. According to the Hurun
• Social support – Having a reliable network of family and Global Rich List 2025, she ranks 5th among the world’s wealthiest
friends enhances happiness. women, with a net worth of ₹3.5 lakh crore (US$40 billion). This
• Freedom to make life choices – A sense of autonomy and achievement follows the transfer of a 47% stake in HCL
personal control is linked to higher life satisfaction. Technologies from her father, Shiv Nadar, further cementing her
• Generosity – Acts of kindness and donations contribute position as one of India’s most influential billionaires. She remains
positively to societal happiness. India’s richest woman and is now the third-richest person in the
• Perceptions of corruption – Lower levels of corruption country in 2025.
improve trust in government institutions and social systems. Hurun Global Rich List 2025: Top 10 Wealthiest Women
The Role of Social Trust in Happiness The Hurun Global Rich List 2025 features 561 women, with 224 of
One of the key findings of the 2024 report is the strong correlation them being self-made, showcasing the growing influence of
between happiness and belief in the kindness of others. The women in business worldwide. Here are the top 10 wealthiest
report highlights that people who believe in social trust—such as women:
the likelihood of someone returning a lost wallet—tend to
1. Alice Walton (USA) – US$102 Billion
experience greater happiness.
Background: Daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Her
Nordic countries, which consistently rank at the top in happiness
wealth surged by 46% due to a rise in Walmart’s share price.
indices, also excel in social trust metrics. This suggests that
interpersonal trust and societal stability play an essential role in 2. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers (France) – US$67 Billion
overall well-being. Background: Heiress to L’Oréal. Despite a 26% decline in net
worth, she remains one of the wealthiest women.
United States Sees a Decline in Happiness
The United States, which ranked 13th in 2016, has now dropped to 3. Julia Koch & Family (USA) – US$60 Billion
24th place, marking its lowest position ever in the global rankings. Background: Widow of David Koch, her family’s stake in Koch
Experts attribute this decline to increasing income inequality, Industries continues to generate wealth.
political divisions, and social unrest.
4. Jacqueline Mars (USA) – US$53 Billion
Similarly, the United Kingdom also fell to its lowest ranking since
Background: Heiress to Mars Inc., her wealth grew by 33%, largely
2017. Researchers have observed that while happiness disparities
due to the global pet food industry boom.
between countries have remained stable, happiness inequality
within countries has increased by about 25% over the past two 5. Roshni Nadar (India) – US$40 Billion
decades. Background: First Indian woman to enter the world’s top 10
wealthiest women list. Chairperson of HCL Technologies.
Geopolitical Challenges and Their Impact on Happiness
Despite facing increased geopolitical tensions due to its proximity 6. Abigail Johnson (USA) – US$32 Billion
to Russia, Finland has continued to rank as the happiest nation. Background: CEO of Fidelity Investments, her wealth increased by
Over recent years, Finland and other European countries have 14% due to growth in assets under management.
experienced a rise in cyberattacks, GPS jamming, and suspected
7. Marilyn Simons & Family (USA) – US$31 Billion
sabotage of critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. However, these
Background: Widow of James Simons, founder of Renaissance
external challenges have not significantly impacted the Finnish
Technologies, known for strategic investments and philanthropy.
people’s reported happiness levels.
India's happiness ranking has improved steadily, reaching 118th 8. Linda Stephens & Family (USA) – US$30 Billion
in the World Happiness Report 2025, up from 126th in 2023 and Background: Widow of Autry Stephens, founder of Endeavor
139th in 2020. Key factors include economic growth, better Energy Resources, marking her debut in the top 10.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
REPORT
Submitted
Report Name Key Notes
By
A study published in The Lancet predicts that by 2050, 44.9 crore Indians will be overweight or
obese, with 21.8 crore men and 23.1 crore women affected. This accounts for nearly one-third of
The Lancet The Lancet
India’s projected population. India also had the highest number of overweight or obese young
adults in 2021, surpassing China and the U.S..
Knight Frank’s Knight Frank’s ‘The Wealth Report 2025’ highlights the global distribution of High Net-Worth
‘The Wealth Individuals (HNWIs), with India ranking 4th worldwide. The report estimates 85,698 HNWIs in
Report 2025’ India in 2024, reflecting a 6% year-on-year growth and 3.7% of the world's wealthy population.
IndiGo Airlines is the world’s second fastest-growing airline in seat capacity, with a 10.1% YoY
increase to 134.9 million seats in 2024, as per the OAG report. It follows Qatar Airways (10.4%
OAG report
growth). The report highlights IndiGo’s flight frequency growth, expanding international
operations, strong financial performance, and future plans.
Global Glacier
A UN report on the World Day for Glaciers reveals that glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH)
Loss
region are melting at an alarming rate, with a 65% acceleration in glacier loss during 2011-2020
Accelerates:
compared to the previous decade. If global temperatures rise by 1.5°C to 2°C, HKH glaciers may
Hindu Kush
lose 30-50% of their volume by 2100, and up to 45% if warming exceeds 2°C. The HKH spans eight
Himalayas Hit
countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Hardest

DEFENCE
EXERCISE
VENUE / PARTICIPATING
EXERCISE NAME KEY NOTES
COUNTRIES
• Sea Dragon 2025, a multilateral anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
exercise, has begun off the Guam coast from March 4 to March 19,
India, Japan (JMSDF),
2025. Hosted by the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, it includes India, Japan
Sea Dragon 2025 Australia (RAAF), and
(JMSDF), Australia (RAAF), and South Korea (ROKN).
South Korea
• The drill aims to enhance maritime security coordination and
strengthen tactical interoperability among allies.
• The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise
KHANJAR-XII will be held in Kyrgyzstan from 10 March to 23 March
2025.
• Since its inception in 2011, the exercise has become a key annual event
KHANJAR-XII India-Kyrgyzstan
to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.
KHANJAR-XII underscores the growing strategic partnership between
India and Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing their shared commitment to regional
peace, stability, and security.
• The Theatre Level Operational Exercise (TROPEX) 2025, India's premier
large-scale combat drill, was held from January to March 2025. The
Indian Ocean Region
Theatre Level exercise aimed to validate operational concepts, test combat readiness,
(IOR), including the
Operational Exercise and enhance joint-force coordination.
Arabian Sea and Bay of
(TROPEX) 2025 • Conducted in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), including the Arabian Sea
Bengal
and Bay of Bengal, it saw extensive participation from the Indian Army,
Indian Air Force (IAF), and Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
VENUE / PARTICIPATING
EXERCISE NAME KEY NOTES
COUNTRIES
• The 6th edition of CORPAT and the 4th edition of 'BONGOSAGAR'
between the Indian Navy and Bangladesh Navy began on March 10,
6th edition of CORPAT
Indian Navy and 2025, and will run until March 12, 2025, in the Bay of Bengal.
and the 4th edition of
Bangladesh Navy • These exercises aim to enhance maritime security, strengthen
'BONGOSAGAR'
cooperation, and combat criminal activities at sea, under the
supervision of Commander Flotilla West.
• The 23rd edition of VARUNA, a bilateral naval exercise between India
and France, will be held from March 19-22, 2025. Established in 2001,
the exercise focuses on enhancing naval interoperability and
operational synergy.
VARUNA India and France
• This year's drill features aircraft carriers Vikrant and Charles de Gaulle,
along with fighter aircraft, destroyers, frigates, and a Scorpene-class
submarine. The exercise aims to strengthen air defence, anti-submarine
warfare, and surface combat capabilities.
• The Indian Army conducted ‘Prachand Prahaar’, a Tri-Service integrated
multi-domain warfare exercise, in Arunachal Pradesh from March 25-27,
2025, under the Eastern Command.
Prachand Prahaar’ Tri-Service
• The exercise focused on jointness, technological superiority, and
operational preparedness, integrating Surveillance, Command &
Control, and Precision Firepower across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

TESTING barges awarded on March 5, 2021, to the MSME shipyard.

The barges are indigenously designed and built,
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation strengthening the Indian Navy’s logistics and operational
(DRDO) successfully tested an indigenous Integrated Life capabilities.
Support System (ILSS) for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
Tejas. This Oxygen Generating System-based (OBOGS) ILSS
DEAL & MoU’s
eliminates the need for conventional liquid oxygen
cylinders, generating breathable oxygen for aircrew during • India has signed a $248 million agreement with Russia’s
flight. Conducted by the Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Rosoboronexport to procure 1,000 horsepower engines for
Medical Laboratory (DEBEL) in Bengaluru, the trial proved its T-72 battle tanks, aiming to boost battlefield mobility
the system’s effectiveness under extreme conditions, paving and offensive capability of the Indian Army. The deal also
the way for its use in other aircraft like the MiG 29K. includes technology transfer to Armoured Vehicles Nigam
• India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) Ltd for the licensed production of these engines,
successfully tested the Astra BVRAAM (Beyond Visual Range strengthening India’s defense manufacturing sector.
Air-to-Air Missile) from the LCA Tejas AF MK1 prototype off • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) signed a ₹2,906 crore
the Chandipur coast, Odisha. Developed by DRDO, the contract with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the
missile hit a flying target accurately, demonstrating a range procurement of the Low-Level Transportable Radar (LLTR)
of over 100 kilometers and enhancing India’s air defense Ashwini. Developed by DRDO’s LRDE, this solid-state
capabilities with advanced, indigenous missile technology. technology radar can track drones, helicopters, and fighter
• The DRDO and Indian Navy successfully tested the jets. The deal supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat, boosting
Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile indigenous defence production.
(VLSRSAM) on March 26, 2025, at the Integrated Test Range • The Indian Navy launched its second Project 1135.6 follow-
(ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. The missile successfully engaged on frigate, ‘Tavasya’, at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This
and destroyed a high-speed aerial target at low altitude, multi-role combat warship is designed for air, surface, and
demonstrating its Near-Boundary-Low Altitude capability, sub-surface warfare, measuring 124.8m in length and
agility, reliability, and accuracy in combat configuration. displacing over 3,800 tonnes. Equipped with stealth
• The tenth ACTCM Barge, LSAM 24 (Yard 134), was launched technology, advanced weapons like the BrahMos missile,
on March 26, 2025, at M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd, and indigenous sensors, it reflects India's progress in self-
Thane. This vessel is part of a contract for eleven such reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
partnership between India and Thailand.
ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS
• India is set to enhance maritime security cooperation with
• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh made history by Mauritius through a white shipping agreement. The deal,
becoming the first Defence Minister of India to visit the expected to be signed during Prime Minister Narendra
Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) in Bengaluru, Modi’s visit, will enable the exchange of commercial
Karnataka, on March 09, 2025. His visit highlighted the shipping information between the Indian and Mauritian
significance of aerospace medicine in India’s defence and navies and coast guards, strengthening ties in the Western
aviation sectors. Singh was briefed on IAM’s role in pilot Indian Ocean amid rising Chinese presence and shifting
training, aeromedical research, and medical evaluation of geopolitical dynamics.
Air Force personnel. He also inaugurated a key research • The keel-laying ceremony for the second Fleet Support Ship
project and emphasized the growing importance of space (FSS) was held on March 12, 2025, at L&T Shipyard,
medicine as India advances in both air and space domains. Kattupalli. The event, attended by Vice Admiral Rajaram
• HDFC Bank, in partnership with the Indian Army and CSC Swaminathan and senior officials, marks a significant
Academy, has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding milestone in India's maritime capabilities. The project is part
(MoU) to expand Project NAMAN, which supports Army
of a contract signed in August 2023 between the Indian
veterans, their families, and next of kin. The agreement will
Navy and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) for five FSS
establish Common Service Centres (CSCs) at 26 Directorate
vessels, with deliveries starting by mid-2027. The initiative
of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV) locations, offering pension
showcases the success of the public-private partnership
services, Government-to-Citizen (G2C) services, and
(PPP) model, with L&T constructing two ships to boost
Business-to-Consumer (B2C) services at defense
establishments. This initiative is part of HDFC Bank’s India’s shipbuilding capacity.
Parivartan programme, aimed at promoting economic • India and Australia have agreed to strengthen defence
inclusiveness for veterans and their families. cooperation and interoperability across maritime, land,
• The First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy, and air domains. This was discussed during the 9th India-
including INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, Australia Defence Policy Talks in New Delhi on March 17,
successfully completed its visit to Phuket Deep Sea Port, 2025. Key areas include enhancing maritime domain
Thailand. The visit involved coordinated tactical awareness, information sharing, and science & technology
maneuvers, professional exchanges, and joint exercises collaboration, with a focus on the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial
with the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), strengthening the maritime Dialogue in Australia.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES • SpaceX's Starlink is set to launch its satellite-based
broadband services in India, partnering with telecom giants
• NASA's IM-2 mission, launched on February 26, 2025, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel to offer high-speed internet,
targets the lunar south pole’s Mons Mouton to explore especially in rural and remote areas. However, regulatory
water ice and rare minerals for future lunar bases. The approvals from the Indian government are still pending. The
mission also aims to deploy Nokia's 4G/LTE network, impact of Starlink on India’s broadband market in terms of
enabling high-speed communication on the Moon. These speed, pricing, and availability remains to be seen.
objectives could support sustained lunar habitation and • NASA is set to launch two groundbreaking missions,
future Mars missions. SPHEREx and PUNCH, aboard a SpaceX Falcon rocket.
• India's Aditya-L1 mission, the first dedicated solar SPHEREx will map cosmic light from the earliest galaxies
observatory, has captured the first-ever image of a solar using infrared detectors, providing insights into the Big Bang
flare ‘kernel’ in the photosphere and chromosphere. This and cosmic history. PUNCH will study the Sun's corona and
groundbreaking discovery will enhance understanding of the solar wind using polarimetric imaging, enhancing our
Sun’s energy bursts and solar dynamics. understanding of solar storms and space weather.
• On March 3, 2025, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost • Bellatrix Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based space mobility
spacecraft successfully landed on the Moon, marking a company, has signed an MoU with Astroscale Japan to
major milestone in private space exploration. As part of collaborate on active debris removal, satellite servicing,
NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) and sustainable in-orbit mobility. This partnership aims to
program, it is the third private moon mission and the first improve space sustainability and ensure a cleaner orbital
with an almost flawless landing. The year 2025 is expected environment. Bellatrix is known for its innovative
to see more lunar missions focused on scientific research, propulsion technologies, while Astroscale is a leader in
exploration, and technology demonstration. space debris mitigation.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
NATIONAL compatible with open-source softwa re. Both processors
support India's self-reliance in high-performance
• Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the IndiaAI computing for space missions.
Compute Portal and AIKosha Dataset Platform under the • Tata Communications launched Vayu, an AI-powered cloud
IndiaAI Mission to accelerate AI innovation in India. The solution offering cost-effective, flexible, and intelligent
Compute Portal provides access to 18,000+ GPUs, cloud enterprise cloud services. Vayu integrates IaaS, PaaS, AI
storage, and AI-related services, supporting students, capabilities, security, cloud connectivity, and professional
startups, researchers, and government departments. It services. It provides 15-25% cost savings, eliminates data
aims to offer affordable, high-performance AI computing egress charges, and reduces multi-cloud complexities,
and facilitate the development of India’s own foundational positioning itself as a next-gen cloud fabric to optimize
AI model. performance and cost efficiency.
• Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have signed agreements with • A human coronavirus HKU1 case was reported in Kolkata,
SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet to India, aiming to raising concerns. Medical experts clarified that HKU1,
bridge the digital divide, especially in remote and identified in 2005, causes mild respiratory illnesses and
underserved areas. Starlink, a satellite-based internet does not pose a pandemic threat like Covid-19. The patient
service, uses a network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to is stable, and the virus spreads through respiratory droplets
provide high-speed internet without traditional and surface contact. Vulnerable individuals, including the
infrastructure. With 7,000 satellites in operation and 4.6 elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with
million users globally, the service aims to serve India’s 670 weakened immune systems, should take precautions.
million people lacking internet access. The deal is pending
security clearance from the Indian Home Ministry.
INTERNATIONAL
• India has become a global space leader, generating USD 143
million in foreign exchange by launching 393 foreign • Researchers from China and Japan have provided evidence
satellites from 34 countries between 2015 and 2024. The that niobium diselenide (NbSe₂) could exhibit a Bose metal
ISRO used PSLV, LVM3, and SSLV vehicles for these state, where Cooper pairs form but fail to condense into a
launches. This success strengthens India’s position in the superconducting state. This discovery challenges traditional
global space economy and sets the stage for future missions theories about metals and is a significant advancement in
like Gaganyaan and the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by condensed matter physics, as reported in Physical Review
2035. Letters on February 13, 2025.
• India’s Chandrayaan-5 mission was approved on March 13, • On March 3, 2025, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost
2025, and announced by ISRO Chairman V Narayanan. In spacecraft successfully landed on the Moon, marking a
collaboration with Japan (JAXA), the mission aims for an major milestone in private space exploration. As part of
advanced study of the Moon’s surface. Unlike Chandrayaan- NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS)
3, it will deploy a 250 kg rover, ten times heavier than the program, it is the third private moon mission and the first
‘Pragyan’ rover. The mission will focus on mineralogical and with an almost flawless landing. The year 2025 is expected
geological analysis of the Moon. to see more lunar missions focused on scientific research,
• ISRO launched the Shri S Ramakrishnan Centre of exploration, and technology demonstration.
Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Science Research at IIT • Mycelium bricks, made from the fibrous network of fungi,
Madras, inaugurated by ISRO Chairman V Narayanan. The are an innovative eco-friendly material being explored in the
facility will focus on thermal challenges in space construction industry to reduce carbon footprint. These
applications, including heat dissipation in satellites and biodegradable and fire-resistant bricks offer good
launch vehicles, and develop cooling solutions. This insulation and can help reduce CO₂ emissions from
initiative aims to enhance India’s self-reliance in space traditional fired clay bricks. However, they face challenges
technologies and strengthen research for future deep-space such as structural limitations, moisture vulnerability, and
missions. higher production costs, particularly in India’s tropical
• ISRO, in collaboration with Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), climate
developed two 32-bit microprocessors for space • Google has launched Gemma 3, a lightweight AI model
applications: Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201. Vikram 3201 designed for efficient performance on devices like
is India’s first indigenous microprocessor qualified for space smartphones, laptops, and other platforms. Built on the
missions, supporting floating-point arithmetic and technology of Gemini 2.0, Gemma 3 offers low-latency
compatible with previous models. Kalpana 3201, a SPARC processing on a single GPU or TPU host, enhancing user
V8 RISC processor, is efficient for high-speed processing and experience with its efficient capabilities.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
SPORTS
CRICKET • Delhi Capitals (DC) has appointed Axar Patel as the team’s
captain for the 2025 IPL season. The 31-year-old all-
• Virat Kohli played his historic 300th ODI on March 2, 2025, rounder, with the franchise since 2019, takes over after
against New Zealand in Dubai, becoming the 7th Indian and serving as vice-captain for two seasons. Known for his
22nd player globally to reach this milestone. Kohli joins consistency with both bat and ball, Axar Patel is set to lead
cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar (463 ODIs) and MS DC towards success with a well-balanced squad.
Dhoni (347 ODIs) in this exclusive club. • Ajinkya Rahane made history by becoming the first Indian
• Vidarbha won their third Ranji Trophy title in seven seasons, player to captain three different IPL teams. In IPL 2025, he
defeating Kerala in the 2024-25 final in Nagpur. Led by led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their opening match
Akshay Wadkar, Vidarbha secured the victory on March 2 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens,
after the final ended in a draw, thanks to their first-innings marking his 26th game as an IPL captain. Rahane previously
lead at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium. captained Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017 and Rajasthan
• Steve Smith, the Australian cricketing great, announced his Royals in 2018-2019.
retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs), ending a
remarkable career in the 50-over format. With 170 matches, BADMINTON & TENNIS
5800 runs, and two World Cup victories, Smith leaves a
• Achanta Sharath Kamal, India’s legendary table tennis
lasting legacy in Australian cricket. Known for his
player, announced his retirement, with his farewell
unorthodox yet effective batting, he will continue playing
tournament being the WTT Star Contender in Chennai from
Test and T20 cricket in future international assignments.
March 25-30, 2025. A 10-time National Champion and five-
• Mushfiqur Rahim has announced his retirement from ODIs
time Olympian, Sharath has earned recognition at the
after Bangladesh’s Champions Trophy campaign, ending his
Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and Olympics.
19-year ODI career. The 37-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman
shared his decision on Instagram, citing recent challenges
ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL
but reaffirming his dedication and honesty toward
Bangladesh cricket. • Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has made a remarkable
• In December 2024, Jay Shah stepped down as ACC president comeback to the national team at the age of 40, reversing
after three terms and was elected ICC chairman, assuming his retirement decision from June 2024. The former captain
office on December 1, 2024. Following his departure, and India’s all-time leading goal scorer, who had retired
Shammi Silva became the new ACC president, while Rajeev after a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait, was recalled by
Shukla and Ashish Shelar took on key roles in the ACC Board. head coach Manolo Marquez for India's pursuit of 2027 AFC
This transition comes ahead of major cricket events like the Asian Cup qualification.
2025 Asia Cup in the UAE and the ICC Champions Trophy. • Japan secured its spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the
• Harry Brook, the England batter, has withdrawn from the first team to qualify after the host nations. A 2-0 win over
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for the second Bahrain at Saitama Stadium on March 20, 2025 confirmed
consecutive year, despite being signed by Delhi Capitals their place. Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the
(DC) for ₹6.25 crores in the previous year's auction. His second half, marking Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup
decision could lead to a two-year ban from future IPL appearance.
editions, in accordance with new rules introduced by the
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). OTHER SPORTS NEWS
• A one-off day-night Test match between Australia and • Gulmarg, the famous ski resort in Jammu and Kashmir, will
England will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground host the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 from
(MCG) from March 11 to March 15, 2027, to celebrate the March 9 to 12. Originally scheduled for February 22-25, the
150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match. This event was postponed due to a lack of snow but has been
landmark pink-ball Test marks a significant moment in the rescheduled following moderate to heavy snowfall in the
evolution of Test cricket, blending tradition with modernity region.
and drawing global attention to the game's longest format. • Brandon Holt of the United States won the 2025 Bengaluru
• India’s Shubman Gill won the ICC Men’s Player of the Open ATP 125 Challenger, defeating Shintaro Mochizuki of
Month for February 2025, while Australia’s Alana King Japan in the final on March 2, 2025 at the KSLTA Tennis
claimed the ICC Women’s Player of the Month title, both Stadium. The tournament, part of the ATP Challenger Tour,
recognized for their outstanding performances. had a $200,000 prize pool and was played on hard courts.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• The Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) 2025 will be held in New spans seven days, with 60+ matches across venues like
Delhi from March 20-27, featuring 1,230 para athletes, Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
including top performers from the 2024 Paris Paralympics • The Khelo India Para Games 2025 will be held from March
and 2022 Asian Para Games. Announced by Dr. Mansukh 20 to 27, 2025 in New Delhi. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya,
Mandaviya, the event aims to promote para sports in India Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, launched the official
and will include six major disciplines, hosted at premier anthem at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The mascot
sports venues across the city. ‘Ujjwala’, inspired by the house sparrow, symbolizes
• The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has resilience and determination. The Games logo, featuring
rebranded itself as Commonwealth Sport, a move unveiled Delhi landmarks, was unveiled by Devendra Jhajharia and
on March 10, 2025, during Commonwealth Day. The Sminu Jindal.
rebranding reflects the organization’s transformation from a • Hockey Jharkhand won their first-ever 15th Hockey India
sports federation to a global sports movement, focusing on Senior Women National Championship 2025 title, defeating
unity, development, and inclusion through sports. defending champions Hockey Haryana in a thrilling final at
• The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 (KIWG 2025) was held
Tau Devi Lal Complex, Panchkula. The match ended in a 1-1
in two phases from January 23 to March 12, 2025, with over
draw, and Hockey Jharkhand triumphed in the penalty
400 athletes from 19 teams participating. The event took
shootout, making history in Indian women’s hockey.
place in Leh, Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, and the Indian
• In the Chinese Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri triumphed over his
Army emerged as the overall champion, winning the most
McLaren teammate Lando Norris, delivering a standout
gold medals.
performance for the team in Formula 1 2024. Meanwhile,
• India had a remarkable showing at the Special Olympics
World Winter Games 2025 in Turin, Italy, securing 33 Ferrari faced a post-race setback as Charles Leclerc and
medals: 8 gold, 18 silver, and 7 bronze. Snowshoeing was a Lewis Hamilton were disqualified for technical
strong area, with 10 medals, including silver for Vasu Tiwari, infringements.
Shalini Chauhan, and Tanya, and a bronze for Jahangir. In • Indian wrestler Sunil Kumar won a bronze medal in the 87kg
Alpine Skiing, India won 10 medals, including silver for Greco-Roman category at the Asian Wrestling
Radha Devi, Nirmala Devi, and Abhishek Kumar in various Championships 2025 in Amman, Jordan. After losing to
categories. Iran’s Yasin Yazdi in the semifinals, Sunil bounced back to
• India Masters won the inaugural International Masters defeat China’s Jiaxin Huang for bronze. Sunil, a former silver
League (IML) 2025, defeating West Indies Masters by six medallist (2019), began his campaign with a dominant 10-1
wickets in a thrilling final at the SVNS International Stadium. victory over Tajikistan’s Sukhrob Abdulkhaev in the
Led by Sachin Tendulkar, India Masters triumphed in front quarterfinals.
of nearly 50,000 fans. The match, featuring Brian Lara and a • The Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) 2025 concluded in New
star-studded lineup, celebrated cricket’s golden era. India Delhi with nearly 1,300 para-athletes showcasing
Masters also earned a ₹1 crore prize for their victory. remarkable talent. Haryana topped the medal tally with 34
• The Kabaddi World Cup 2025 begins in England, marking the golds, followed by Tamil Nadu (28) and Uttar Pradesh (23).
first time the tournament is hosted outside Asia. India's The event set 18 national records, highlighting the growing
men’s team will face Italy in Wolverhampton. The event competitiveness and excellence of para-athletes in India.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Book Name Author Key Notes

• To celebrate the Golden Jubilee of India's first Hockey World Cup victory in 1975, the
K. Arumugam book ‘March of Glory’ was launched on March 18, 2025 at Shivaji Stadium, New
March of Glory’ and Errol Delhi.
D’Cruz, • Co-authored by K. Arumugam and Errol D’Cruz, the book chronicles India's journey
to World Cup glory in Kuala Lumpur on March 15, 1975.
• V.I. Mathan, former director of Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, launched
To the Seventh
the book “To the Seventh Generation: The Journey of CMC Vellore” in Chennai.
Generation: The
V.I. Mathan • The first copy was presented to Dr. Vikram Mathew, the current director, and the
Journey of CMC
second to Dr. V.V. Bashi. The book details CMC Vellore’s history, including insights
Vellore
from its founder, Ida Scudder.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Book Name Author Key Notes
Syed Kirmani, • The autobiography Stumped, co-authored by Syed Kirmani, Debashish Sengupta, and
Debashish Dakshesh Pathak, offers a humorous and insightful account of Kirmani’s career and
Stumped Sengupta, and India’s 1983 World Cup victory.
Dakshesh • It highlights key moments, including Kapil Dev’s iconic 175 against Zimbabwe, a
Pathak game-changing innings in Indian cricket history.
• MS Dhoni and members of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a surprise
appearance at the book launch of ‘Leo: The Untold Story of Chennai Super Kings’ by
‘Leo: The Untold
P.S. Raman.
Story of Chennai P.S. Raman
• Their unannounced visit thrilled fans and added excitement to the event, attended
Super Kings’
by notable figures from cricket and entertainment industries, making it a memorable
occasion.

OBITUARY

NATIONAL
PERSON
S.No FIELD KEY NOTES
NAME
Himmat Shah, renowned Indian artist known for his sculptures and modern art,
sculptures and passed away at 92 on Sunday due to a heart attack at Jaipur’s Shalby Hospital.
1. Himmat Shah
modern art Known for his belief that every material has life, he creatively transformed objects
like old bottles, wires, and ropes into unique artworks.
Padmakar Shivalkar, one of India's finest left-arm spinners, passed away at 84 in
Mumbai.
Padmakar A legendary figure in Mumbai cricket, Shivalkar was never able to represent India
2. left-arm spinners
Shivalkar internationally due to the presence of Bishan Singh Bedi. His death follows the
recent passing of former Mumbai captain Milind Rege, leaving the cricket
fraternity in mourning.
Ananta Das, former Minister of Higher Education and Industries and senior Biju
Janata Dal (BJD) leader from Balasore district, passed away at the age of 85 in
former Minister of
Bhubaneswar due to age-related ailments.
3. Ananta Das Higher Education and
Born on August 28, 1940, in Kuruthia village under Balim Panchayat, he had a
Industries
strong academic background, completing his post-graduation in Arts and earning
a law degree.
Garimella Balakrishna Prasad, the renowned classical singer and former Asthana
Renowned classical
Garimella Vidwan (court musician) of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), passed away
singer and former
4. Balakrishna at the age of 76 due to a heart attack in Tirupati.
Asthana Vidwan
Prasad His demise marks the end of an era in Indian classical and devotional music,
(court musician)
particularly in the popularization of Annamacharya’s compositions.
The cricket world mourns the loss of Syed Abid Ali, a former Indian all-rounder,
who passed away at 83 in the United States.
former Indian all-
5. Syed Abid Ali Renowned for his agility and all-round performances, Abid Ali made significant
rounder
contributions to Indian cricket and played a key role in shaping memorable
moments in the sport’s history.
Arvind Singh Mewar, chairman of the HRH Group of Hotels and descendant of
Maharana Pratap, passed away at 81 on March 16, 2025, in Udaipur after a
Arvind Singh chairman of the HRH prolonged illness. He was known for preserving Rajput heritage and promoting
6.
Mewar Group of Hotels tourism in Udaipur.
His family includes wife Vijayraj Kumari, son Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, and
daughters Bhargavi Kumari Mewar and Padmaja Kumari Parmar.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
PERSON
S.No FIELD KEY NOTES
NAME
Bindu Ghosh, a beloved Tamil film comedian, passed away at 76 on March 16,
2025, in Chennai after a prolonged illness.
7. Bindu Ghosh Tamil film comedian
Known for her exceptional comic timing and vibrant presence, her death has left
a deep void in the hearts of fans and colleagues in the Tamil cinema industry.
Ramakanta Rath, renowned Odia poet and former IAS officer, passed away at 90.
Born in Puri on December 30, 1934, Rath was known for works like Saptama Ritu,
Ramakanta Renowned Odia poet Sri Radha, and Sandigha Mrigaya, which redefined Odia poetry with deep
8.
Rath and former IAS officer philosophical reflections.
He received prestigious awards, including Padma Bhushan, Saraswati Samman,
and Atibadi Jagannath Das Award.
Veteran BJP leader and former Union Minister Dr. Debendra Pradhan passed away
Veteran BJP leader
Dr. Debendra at 84 in New Delhi after a brief illness.
9. and former Union
Pradhan He is survived by his wife and two sons, with his last moments spent at the
Minister
residence of his son, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
American boxing legend George Foreman passed away on March 21, 2025, at age
76.
George American boxing A two-time heavyweight champion, Olympian, and successful businessman,
10.
Foreman legend Foreman was celebrated for his remarkable comeback in boxing.
His family announced his demise, remembering him as a humanitarian and
sporting icon.
Tamil actor and director Manoj Bharathiraja, son of legendary filmmaker
Bharathiraja, passed away at 48 due to a heart attack at his residence in Chetpet,
Chennai on March 25, 2025.
Manoj Tamil actor and
11. He had recently undergone bypass surgery before suffering a fatal cardiac arrest.
Bharathiraja director
Manoj is survived by his wife Ashwathi (Nandana) and two daughters, Arshitha
and Mathivathani. Prominent figures like Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin, Ilaiyaraja, and
Sarathkumar have expressed their condolences.
Dr. Senkalong (Senka) Yaden, a distinguished Naga scientist and academician,
Dr. Senkalong passed away at 89 in Tyler, Texas, on March 14, 2025. Known as the "Man of
Naga scientist and
12. (Senka) Science of the USA," he made significant contributions to science and education.
academician
Yaden, Despite living abroad, he remained connected to his Naga roots. In honor of his
achievements, Ao Senden declared March 17, 2025, a day of mourning.

INTERNATIONAL
S.No PERSON NAME FIELD KEY NOTES
Ron Draper, the oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at 98 years and 63 days in
Gqeberha on February 25, 2025.
12. Ron Draper Test cricketer A top-order batsman and occasional wicketkeeper, Draper played two Test matches
for South Africa against Australia in 1950. His death was confirmed by his son-in-law,
Neil Thomson, on February 28, 2025.
Fred Stolle, the legendary Australian tennis player and commentator, has passed
Australian tennis away at the age of 86.
13. Fred Stolle player and Tennis Australia confirmed the news, honoring his extraordinary skill and
commentator contributions to the sport. Stolle was a key figure in Australia’s golden era of tennis
in the 1960s, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the court.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
IMPORTANT DAYS

Date Day/Observance Theme/Description

• World Wildlife Day, observed annually on March 3, promotes wildlife
conservation through education, advocacy, and action.
March 3 World Wildlife Day • In 2025, the day will focus on the theme "Wildlife Conservation Finance:
Investing in People and Planet" and marks the adoption of the CITES in
1973.
• National Defence Day is observed on March 3rd annually in India to honor
the sacrifices and bravery of the armed forces.
March 3rd National Defence Day • The 2025 observance marked its 87th anniversary, paying tribute to the
Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for their role in safeguarding the country's
sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• World Hearing Day is observed on March 3 to raise awareness about
hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care.
March 3 World Hearing Day • Organized by the WHO, the 2025 theme is "Changing mindsets: Empower
yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all!," encouraging
individuals to take charge of their hearing health.
• International Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness Day is
observed on March 5 every year to raise global awareness about
International Disarmament
disarmament issues, especially among the youth.
March 5 and Non-Proliferation
• The day highlights the threats posed by weapons of mass destruction
Awareness Day
(WMDs) and underscores the importance of collective efforts for global
peace and security.
• National Dentist’s Day, observed annually on March 6th, highlights the
importance of oral hygiene and recognizes the dedication of dentists in
maintaining dental health.
March 6th National Dentist’s Day • This day serves as a reminder to prioritize regular dental checkups,
brushing, and flossing, which are essential for strong teeth and gums. It also
aims to raise awareness about oral health issues and encourage better
dental care habits while expressing gratitude to dental professionals.
• Jan Aushadhi Diwas is celebrated annually on March 7 to promote generic
medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana
March 7 Jan Aushadhi Diwas (PMBJP).
• A week-long awareness campaign from March 1 to March 7 highlights the
benefits of affordable, high-quality medicines.
• The International Day of Women Judges, observed on March 10,
celebrates the vital contributions of female judges in promoting fairness,
International Day of Women representation, and equality in judicial systems.
March 10
Judges • This day highlights their role in upholding justice, democracy, and human
rights, while also inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers
in law and the judiciary.
• CISF Raising Day is observed annually on March 10 to honor the
contributions of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in safeguarding
critical infrastructure in India.
March 10 CISF Raising Day • In 2025, the country celebrates the 56th CISF Raising Day, with a grand
event held in Thakkolam, Tamil Nadu. The event was attended by Union
Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan, and CISF
Director General Shri Rajvinder Singh Bhatti.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Date Day/Observance Theme/Description
• The 54th National Safety Week is being observed across India from March
4 to March 10, 2025, to raise awareness about safety measures in
industries and workplaces, promoting accident prevention and employee
March 4 to March well-being.
54th National Safety Week
10, 2025 • Organized by the National Safety Council (NSC) of India, the event
highlights the importance of safety in achieving a developed and
progressive India. This year's theme, ‘Safety & Well-being Crucial for Viksit
Bharat’, emphasizes safety’s essential role in building a Viksit Bharat.
• No Smoking Day, observed on the second Wednesday of March, aims to
encourage smokers to quit and raise awareness about the health risks of
tobacco use.
March 12, 2025 No Smoking Day
• This year, it falls on March 12, 2025. Smoking leads to severe complications
such as premature aging, skin discoloration, dental issues, and respiratory
problems, with the day promoting a smoke-free life.
• The International Day of Action for Rivers on March 14 raises awareness
about the threats to rivers, including degradation, climate change, and
The International Day of human impacts like dam construction and pollution.
March 14
Action for Rivers • With over 60% of rivers disrupted by barriers, this day emphasizes the
urgent need for collective action to protect and restore these vital
ecosystems.
• Pi Day, celebrated on March 14 (3/14), honors the mathematical constant
π (Pi), approximately 3.14159.
March 14 Pi Day, • This day is significant for mathematicians, scientists, and enthusiasts as Pi is
essential in geometry, physics, and engineering, and holds a special place
in both academia and popular culture.
• World Consumer Rights Day, observed on March 15, advocates for
consumer rights, fair practices, and ethical business.
• The theme for 2025, ‘A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles’, emphasizes
March 15 World Consumer Rights Day
the importance of making sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices
accessible and affordable for all, promoting consumer protection and
sustainable consumption globally.
• National Vaccination Day, observed on March 16 annually, celebrates
India's commitment to immunisation and public health.
• It marks the historic moment in 1995 when the first dose of the oral polio
March 16 National Vaccination Day
vaccine was given under the Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme. The
day highlights the progress in eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases and
the importance of universal vaccination coverage.
• Ordnance Factory Day is celebrated on March 18 to mark the establishment
of India’s first Ordnance Factory in 1801 near Kolkata. The day emphasizes
the research, development, and production capabilities of Indian Ordnance
Factories, crucial to India's defence sector.
March 18 Ordnance Factory Day
• The oldest factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, started operations on March 18,
1802. In 2021, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was restructured into
seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) for greater efficiency
and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
• World Sparrow Day, celebrated on March 20th, raises awareness about the
declining population of house sparrows and promotes conservation efforts.
Initiated in 2010 by the Nature Forever Society, the event has gained global
March 20th World Sparrow Day
recognition, with over 50 countries participating.
• The once-common sparrows, known for their cheerful chirps, have become
rare due to significant population decline.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Date Day/Observance Theme/Description
• International Day of Happiness is celebrated on March 20 to promote
happiness as a fundamental human goal. Recognized by the United Nations
(UN), the day emphasizes well-being, sustainable development, and the
International Day of
March 20 need for inclusive, equitable economic growth.
Happiness
• It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize
happiness in policies and daily life. The UN declared this day in 2012 to
promote poverty eradication and overall well-being.
• French Language Day will be celebrated by the United Nations (UN) on
March 20, 2025, highlighting multilingualism, cultural diversity, and
education.
• The theme for 2025, chosen by the International Organization of La
March 20 French Language Day Francophonie (OIF), is “I educate myself, therefore I act,” focusing on
education's role in sustainable development and global peace.
• The UN Language Days, introduced in 2010, aim to promote the six official
languages of the UN: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and
Spanish.
• Nowruz, the ancient Persian New Year festival, will be celebrated on March
20 or 21, coinciding with the vernal equinox.
• Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of
March 20 or 21 Nowruz Day
Humanity, it celebrates renewal, unity, and the triumph of light over
darkness, bringing together communities across Iran, Central Asia, the
Caucasus, and the Balkans.
• International Day of Forests is celebrated on March 21, 2025, with the
theme “Forests and Food”.
• This day highlights forests' vital role in food security, nutrition, and
March 21 International Day of Forests livelihoods. Forests provide resources like fruits, seeds, roots, and wild
meat for indigenous and rural communities, emphasizing their connection
to global food supply and sustainability.
• The UN established this day to raise awareness about forest conservation.
• World Day for Glaciers is observed on March 21, as declared by the United
Nations under resolution A/RES/77/158.
March 21 World Day for Glaciers • This initiative, alongside the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation
2025, aims to raise awareness about the critical role of glaciers and the
urgent need for their conservation amid climate change threats.
• The 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on
the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), adopted by
International Day for the
the UN General Assembly in 1965.
March 21 Elimination of Racial
• The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination,
Discrimination
observed on March 21 annually, celebrates progress in combating racial
discrimination while recognizing ongoing challenges.
• World Poetry Day 2025 is celebrated on March 21 to emphasize poetry's
significance as a universal medium of expression.
March 21 World Poetry Day 2025 • Established by UNESCO in 1999, the day promotes poetry reading, writing,
publishing, and education, recognizing its role in cultural preservation and
fostering peace.
• World Water Day 2025, observed on March 22, focuses on “Glacier
Preservation”, highlighting glaciers' role in water security, climate
regulation, and sustaining life.
March 22 World Water Day 2025
• The United Nations urges global efforts to protect glaciers to combat
climate change and water scarcity, emphasizing their critical importance
for the planet’s future.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Date Day/Observance Theme/Description
• World Meteorological Day 2025, observed on March 23, marks the 75th
anniversary of the WMO with the theme “Closing the Early Warning Gap
World Meteorological Day Together.”
March 23
2025 • It highlights the importance of early warning systems in mitigating climate
change impacts and extreme weather events, reinforcing global efforts for
disaster preparedness and resilience.
• World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise
awareness about TB, a major global health concern.
• The 2025 theme is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, focusing
March 24 World Tuberculosis (TB) Day
on government commitment, increased investment, and effective delivery
of TB control strategies. The day commemorates Dr. Robert Koch's 1882
discovery of the TB bacteria.
• International Day for the Right to the Truth is observed on March 24 to
honor the right to truth for victims of gross human rights violations.
International Day for the • The day commemorates Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero, assassinated
March 24
Right to the Truth on this day in 1980 for speaking out against human rights abuses in El
Salvador. It emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth about crimes
like summary executions, enforced disappearances, and torture.
• International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery is observed
International Day of annually on March 25 to honor the millions of men, women, and children
March 25 Remembrance of the Victims affected by the transatlantic slave trade.
of Slavery • The day aims to educate future generations about the atrocities of slavery
and address its lingering effects in modern societies.
• International Unborn Child Day is celebrated annually on March 25 to raise
International Unborn Child awareness about the rights and protection of unborn children.
March 25
Day • Established by Pope John Paul II, the day symbolizes hope and new
beginnings, advocating for the protection of life from its earliest stages.
• World Theatre Day, celebrated on March 27th, was initiated by the
International Theatre Institute (ITI) in 1961 to honor the importance of
March 27th World Theatre Day theatre.
• The theme for 2025 is "Theatre and a Culture of Peace," emphasizing
theatre's role in promoting peace, understanding, and storytelling.
• The UN General Assembly declared 30 March as the International Day of
Zero Waste on 14 December 2022 to address unsustainable production
International Day of Zero and consumption.
30 March
Waste • This year, the focus is on reducing waste in the fashion and textile industry,
promoting circular solutions under the theme “Towards Zero Waste in
Fashion and Textiles.”

MISCELLANEOUS
• The Cheetah Reintroduction Project in India is expanding beyond Kuno National Park to Banni Grasslands in Gujarat and
Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the National Board of Wildlife
(NBWL) meeting, the expansion aims to restore the cheetah population and enhance biodiversity conservation in India.
• India has added six new properties to its UNESCO Tentative List, bringing the total to 62 sites. These include Kanger Valley
National Park, Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs, Ashokan Edict Sites, Chausath Yogini Temples, Gupta Temples of North India, and
Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas. Being on the Tentative List is a crucial step towards UNESCO World Heritage status,
showcasing India's commitment to preserving its cultural and natural heritage.
• The 'Watan Ko Jano' programme, funded by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to promote national integration by exposing
children under 18 from government-run homes to the culture, history, and technological advancements of other parts of India.
The initiative has successfully fostered unity among India's youth and contributed to a more inclusive and harmonious society.
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 Current Affairs | March 2025
• East Coast Railway (ECoR) has become the first railway zone in India to achieve 250 million tons (MT) of originating freight in FY
2024-25, reaching the milestone on March 21, 2024, 11 days ahead of schedule. This marks the second consecutive year of
surpassing 250 MT, reinforcing ECoR’s position as India’s highest freight-loading railway zone and a key contributor to logistics
and economic growth.
• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has made significant discoveries at two locations: over 110 megalithic burial sites near
Malampuzha Dam in Palakkad, Kerala, shedding light on early Iron Age society, and a collection of Buddhist antiquities in
Ratnagiri, Odisha, offering insights into the spread of Vajrayana Buddhism and its links with Southeast Asia.

STATIC TAKEAWAYS

Sr. No Static Name Static Details

Banking Organizations
Chairman- Atanu Chakraborty
1 HDFC Bank
Head office - Mumbai
Chairman- Abhaya Prasad Hota
2 Federal Bank
Head office - Aluva, Kerala
Chairman- R. Gandhi
3 Yes Bank
Head office - Mumbai
Chairman- M.R. Kumar
4 Bank of India
Head office - Mumbai
City Union Chairman- M. Narayanan
5
Bank Head office - Mumbai
Chief - Tuhin Kanta Pandey
6 SEBI
Head office - Mumbai
Governor - Sanjay Malhotra
7 RBI
Head office - Mumbai
Space Organizations
Acting Administrator - Janet Petro
8 NASA
HQ - Washington D.C.
Chairman - V. Narayanan
9 ISRO
HQ - Bengaluru, India
Countries of World
President - Donald Trump
Capital - Washington D.C.
10 USA
Currency - American Dollar
Facts - USA and Canada share the world's largest border with each other.
President - Xi Jinping
Capital - Beijing
11 China Currency - Chinese Yuan
Neighbouring Countries - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, North Korea, Mongolia, Russia,
Tajikistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan
President - Claudia Sheinbaum
Capital - Mexico City
12 Mexico
Currency - Mexican Peso
Neighbouring Countries - USA, Guatemala, Belize
President - Yamandu Orsi
Capital - Montevideo
13 Uruguay
Currency - Peso Uruguayo
Neighbouring Countries - Argentina, Brazil, Atlantic ocean to South

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Sr. No Static Name Static Details
PM - Benjamin Netanyahu
Capital - Jerusalem
14 Israel
Currency - Israeli New Shekel
Neighbouring Countries - Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon
Indian States
Governor - Mangubhai Patel
CM - Mohan Yadav
Capital - Bhopal
Madhya State Bird - Paradise Flycatcher
15
Pradesh State Animal - Swamp Deer (Barasingha)
State Tree - Banyan Tree
State Flower - Madonna Lilly
State Fish - Mahasheer
Governor - Gulab Chand Kataria
CM - Bhagwat Man
Capital - Chandigarh
16 Punjab
State Bird - Northern Goshawk
State Animal - The Blackbuck
State Tree - Shisham Tree
Governor - Bandaru Dattatreya
CM - Nayab Singh Saini
Capital - Chandigarh
17 Haryana
State boundary - Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan
State Animal - Black Buck
State Bird - Black Francolin
Governor - Acharya Devvrat
CM - Bhupendra Patel
Capital - Gandhinagar
Largest city - Ahmedabad
State Boundaries - Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, UT of Daman & Diu, Dadar & Nagar Haveli
18 Gujarat International boundary - Pakistan
Sea borders Arabian Sea
State Animal - Asiatic Lion
State Bird - Greater Flamingo
State Tree - Mango
State Flower - Golgotha
Governor - V. Arlekar
CM - Pinarayi Vijayan
Capital - Thiruvananthpuram
State Boundaries - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Puducherry (Mahe)
19 Kerala
Number of Districts - 14
State Animal - Elephant
State Bird - Great Indian Hornbill
State Flower - Kanikonna or Indian laburnum or amaltus
Governor - Thawar Chand Gehlot
CM - Siddharamaiya
Capital - Bengaluru
State Boundaries - Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Tamil Nadu
20 Karnataka
Principal Language - Kannada
Other Language - Tulu, Hindi, Bengali, Mahi
State Animal - Asian Elephant
State Bird - Indian Roller

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Sr. No Static Name Static Details
Governor - Lakshaman Prasad Acharya
CM - Hemanta Biswa Sarma
21 Assam Capital - Dispur
Silk - Muga, Eri, Pat silk
Oil Industry - Digboi Refinery – birth place of the Oil Industry in India.
Governor - Gurmit Singh
CM - Pushkar Singh Dhami
Capital - Dehradun
State Borders - Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh
22 Uttarakhand
Char-Dhams - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri
State Animal - Himalayan Musk deer
State Flower - Brahm Kamal
State Tree - Burans

Sr. No Static Name Static Details

Space and Business Org.
Acting Administrator - Janet Petro
1 NASA
HQ - Washington D.C.
CEO - Elon Musk
2 SPACE X
HQ - California
CEO - Sundar Pichai
3 Google
HQ - California
4 Bharti Airtel CEO - Shashwat Sharma
5 Jio CEO - Akash Ambani
CEO - Marc Lilstosella
6 Tata Motors
Head office - Mumbai
CEO - Praveer Sinha
7 Tata Power
Head office - Mumbai
Banking Org.
Governor - Sanjay Malhotra
8 RBI
Head office - Mumbai
MD - Sandeep Bakhshi
9 ICICI Bank
Head Office - Mumbai
MD - Debadatta Chand
10 BOB Bank
Head Office - Vadodara
Chairman- Atanu Chakraborty
11 HDFC Bank
Head office - Mumbai
Star Health
12 MD - Anand Roy
Insurance
13 IIFL Finance MD - Nirmal Jain
SBI Life
14 MD - Amit Jhingran
Insurance
Countries
President - Mark Carney
Capital - Ottawa
15 Canada
Currency - Canadian Dollar
Neighbouring Countries - US, Green Land
President - Xi Jinping
Capital - Beijing
16 China Currency - Chinese Yuan
Neighbouring Countries - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, North Korea, Mongolia, Russia,
Tajikistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Sr. No Static Name Static Details
Indian State
Governor - Lakshaman Prasad Acharya
CM - Hemanta Biswa Sarma
17 Assam Capital - Dispur
Silk - Muga, Eri, Pat silk
Oil Industry - Digboi Refinery – birth place of the Oil Industry in India.
Governor - R. N. Ravi
CM - M. K. Stalin
Capital - Chennai
18 Tamil Nadu
State Bird - Emerald Dove
State Animal - Nilgiri Tahr
State Tree - Palmyra Palm
Governor - Mangubhai Patel
CM - Mohan Yadav
Capital - Bhopal
Madhya State Bird - Paradise Flycatcher
19
Pradesh State Animal - Swamp Deer (Barasingha)
State Tree - Banyan Tree
State Flower - Madonna Lilly
State Fish - Mahasheer

Sr. No Static Name Static Details

Business Organizations
1 Bharti Airtel Chairman - Sunil Bharti Airtel
2 Reliance Industries Chairman - Mukesh D. Ambani
3 Maruti Suzuki India Limited Chairman - R.C. Bhargava
4 Hindustan Unilever Limited Chairman - Ashok Sekhar Ganguly
5 HCL Technologies Chairman - Roshni Nadar Malhotra
6 Bellatrix Aerospace Co-Founder - Rohan M Ganapathy
Banking Organizations
7 Punjab & Sind Bank MD/CEO - Swarup Kumar Saha
8 L & T Finance Ltd. MD/CEO - Mr. Sudipta Roy
9 Equitas Small Finance Bank MD/CEO - P. N. Vasudevan
10 RBI Governor - Sanjay Malhotra
11 Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Company MD/CEO - Mythili Balasubramanian
12 Canara Bank MD/CEO - K. Satyanarayana Raju
Defense
13 DRDO DG - Dr. Manu Korulla
14 Indian Navy Chief of Naval Staff - Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi
Countries
President - Prabowo Subianto
15 Indonesia Capital - Jakarta
Currency - Indonesian Rupiah
PM - Lawrence Wong
16 Singapore Capital - Singapore
Currency - Singapore Dollar

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Sr. No Static Name Static Details
President - Donald Trump
17 USA Capital - Washington D.C.
Currency - USD
President - Netumbo Nandi
18 Namibia Capital - Windhoek
Currency - Namibian Dollar
PM - Paetongtarn Shinawatra
19 Thailand Capital - Bangkok
Currency - Thai Baht
Indian States
Governor - Gurmit Singh
20 Uttarakhand CM - Pushkar Dhami
Capital - Dehradun
Governor - Rajendra Arlekar
21 Kerala CM - Pinarayi Vijayan
Capital - Thiruvananthpuram
Governor - R. N. Ravi
22 Tamil Nadu CM - Stalin M. K.
Capital - Chennai
Governor - Ananda Bose
23 West Bengal CM - Mamata Banerjee
Capital - Kolkata
L. Governor - Vinai Saxena
24 Delhi CM - Rekha Gupta
Capital - New Delhi
Governor - Jishnu Dev Varma
25 Telangana CM - Revanth Reddy
Capital - Hyderabad

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. Which initiative was unveiled by Sarbananda Sonowal Q7. What is the name of the IndiaAI Datasets Platform
to standardize port operations? launched by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw?
Ans: 'One Nation-One Port' initiative Ans: AIKosha
Q2. How many riverine dolphins were recorded under Q8. What is the maximum subsidy percentage offered on
Project Dolphin across three river systems? high-end GPUs under the IndiaAI Compute Portal?
Ans: 6,327 riverine dolphins Ans: Up to 40%
Q3. What is the cost of the Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib Ji Q9. How many outstanding women professionals in mining
Ropeway approved under Parvatmala Pariyojana? were recognized under the Women in Mining Initiative?
Ans: ₹2,730.13 crore Ans: 46 outstanding women professionals
Q4. How much will the travel time be reduced from 9 hours Q10. Where was India's first World Peace Center inaugurated
to by the Sonprayag-Kedarnath Ropeway? to promote non-violence and universal brotherhood?
Ans: 36 minutes Ans: Gurugram
Q5. Which census was announced by PM Modi during the Q11. When will Uttarakhand's Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)
NBWL meeting to be conducted in May 2024? for NPS employees become effective?
Ans: 16th Asiatic Lion Census Ans: April 1, 2025
Q6. Who inaugurated the 'Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav' Q12. Which cybersecurity facility was inaugurated by Kerala
showcasing Southern India's cultural heritage? CM Pinarayi Vijayan?
Ans: President Murmu Ans: Advanced Cybersecurity Operations Centre (SOC)

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q13. What is the total budget allocation for Bihar in 2025-26? Q29. Which handbook did RBI release for cooperative banks
Ans: ₹3,16,895 crore summarizing key regulatory guidelines?
Ans: "Regulations at a Glance"
Q14. At what price will Madhya Pradesh government provide
permanent power connections to farmers? Q30. Which AI company did Paytm partner with to enhance
Ans: Rs 5 search and financial decision-making?
Ans: Perplexity AI
Q15. To what has Bangalore City University been renamed?
Ans: Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru University Q31. What was the percentage decline in UPI transactions in
February 2025?
Q16. What is the helpline number for Punjab's 'Project
Ans: 5% MoM decline
Hifazat' women & child safety initiative?
Ans: 181 Q32. What was the YoY growth in GST collections in February
2025?
Q17. What is the name of Assam's electronic city announced
Ans: 9.1%
post Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit?
Ans: Ratan Tata Electronic City Q33. What is the maximum discount offered on term life
insurance under PhonePe's 'Insuring HEROES'
Q18. What does RISE app in Uttar Pradesh stand for?
Campaign?
Ans: Rapid Immunisation Skill Enhancement
Ans: 30%
Q19. By what percentage did China increase its 2025 defence
Q34. What is India's GDP growth forecast by Crisil for FY26?
budget?
Ans: 6.5%
Ans: 7.2%
Q35. Which film won Best Picture at the Oscars 2025?
Q20. Who was sworn in as Uruguay's President on March 1,
Ans: Anora
2025?
Ans: Yamandú Orsi Q36. Who received the 'Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality
Education' award at Vibrant Bharat Global Summit
Q21. Which countries faced sweeping tariffs from the Trump
2025?
administration effective March 4, 2025?
Ans: Dr. Suborno Bose
Ans: Canada, Mexico, and China
Q37. What honorary order did PM Modi receive from
Q22. Which is the world's largest iceberg that ran aground
Barbados?
near South Georgia Island?
Ans: Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados
Ans: Iceberg A23a
Q38. Which rivers are the focus of the MoU between IWAI &
Q23. Who replaced Herzi Halevi as Israeli Military Chief?
J&K Govt. for River Cruise Tourism?
Ans: Eyal Zamir Ans: Chenab (NW-26), Jhelum (NW-49), Ravi (NW-84)
Q24. Which certification did Bank of Baroda receive from BSI Q39. What is the name of HDFC Bank's project launched in
for Business Continuity Management? partnership with IAF & CSC Academy?
Ans: ISO 22301:2019 Ans: Project HAKK
Q25. Which bank partnered with Chennai Super Kings to
launch a co-branded credit card?
Ans: City Union Bank

Q26. Who was appointed as RBI Executive Director to

manage key financial and risk management sectors?
Ans: Dr. Ajit Ratnakar Joshi
Q27. By what percentage did SEBI's total income rise YoY in
FY 2023-24?
Ans: 48%
Q28. What was the fine imposed by RBI on HSBC for
compliance lapses?
Ans: ₹66.6 lakh

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q40. Where was the Australia-India Sports Excellence Forum Q55. Which cricket milestone did Virat Kohli achieve
launched? recently?
Ans: GIFT City, Gujarat Ans: 300th ODI
Q41. Who was re-elected as Chairman of Bar Council of India Q56. Who announced retirement from table tennis at WTT
for the seventh consecutive term? Star Contender Chennai?
Ans: Manan Kumar Mishra Ans: Sharath Kamal
Q42. Who was appointed as CEO of Government e- Q57. When are the Khelo India Para Games 2025 scheduled
Marketplace (GeM)? to be held?
Ans: Ajay Bhadoo Ans: March 20-27, 2025
Q43. Who became the first woman Law Secretary in India? Q58. Which Bangladesh cricketer announced retirement
Ans: Anju Rathi Rana from ODIs post Champions Trophy 2025?
Q44. Which Punjabi artist was appointed as Levi's first global Ans: Mushfiqur Rahim
ambassador? Q59. Which team clinched their third Ranji Trophy title in
Ans: Diljit Dosanjh seven seasons?
Q45. Who took additional charge as Revenue Secretary? Ans: Vidarbha
Ans: Ajay Seth
Q60. When is Khelo India Winter Games 2025 scheduled in
Q46. What was tested at 50,000 feet in DRDO's High-Altitude Gulmarg?
Trial for Tejas? Ans: March 9-12
Ans: Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System
Q61. Who clinched the Bengaluru Open ATP 125 Challenger
(OBOGS)
title?
Q47. Which countries are participating in the Sea Dragon Ans: Brandon Holt (USA)
2025 Naval Exercise?
Q62. Who took over as ACC President after Jay Shah became
Ans: India, U.S., Japan, Australia, S. Korea
ICC Chairman?
Q48. What is India's rank in Global Wealth Rankings Ans: Shammi Silva
according to Knight Frank's Wealth Report 2025?
Ans: 4th Q63. How many GPUs are available under the IndiaAI Mission
Compute Portal?
Q49. How many HNWIs does India have according to Knight Ans: 18,000+
Frank's Wealth Report 2025?
Ans: 85,698 Q64. What was the theme of World Wildlife Day 2025?
Ans: "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People
Q50. Which company was honored as Emerging Innovator at and Planet"
Forbes India Leadership Awards 2025?
Ans: BugWorks Research Q65. When is National Dentist's Day observed?
Ans: March 6
Q51. Which country ranks No.1 in the Glass-Ceiling Index
2025 for working women? Q66. When is Jan Aushadhi Diwas celebrated?
Ans: Sweden Ans: March 7

Q52. What is LIC's rank in the strongest insurance brand Q67. What was the theme of World Hearing Day 2025?
index? Ans: "Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear
Ans: 3rd and hearing care a reality for all!"

Q53. What is IndiGo's seat capacity growth percentage, Q68. At what age did Australian tennis legend Fred Stolle pass
making it the 2nd fastest-growing airline? away?
Ans: 10.1% Ans: 86
Q54. Where was the World Sustainable Development Q69. Who is now the oldest living Test cricketer after Ron
Summit (WSDS) 2025 held? Draper's passing?
Ans: Not specified in the document Ans: Neil Harvey (Australia, 96)

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q70. Which legendary left-arm spinner for Mumbai cricket Q85. Which city is recognized as India’s first solar city?
passed away at 84? Ans: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
Ans: Padmakar Shivalkar
Q86. Under the ‘PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana,’ how many
Q71. Which new habitats were identified for cheetah units of free electricity are provided?
reintroduction in India? Ans: 300 units
Ans: Banni Grasslands (Gujarat) & Gandhisagar Sanctuary
Q87. Which city hosts India’s first underwater metro?
(MP)
Ans: Kolkata
Q72. What will be the cost of the Sonprayag-Kedarnath
Q88. Which state was the first to implement a climate risk
Ropeway project?
atlas?
Ans: ₹4,081.28 crore
Ans: Odisha
Q73. Which festival was described as Asia's largest literature
Q89. Which was the first state to provide menstrual leave for
festival from March 7-12 in New Delhi?
women employees?
Ans: Sahitya Akademi's Festival of Letters 2025
Ans: Bihar
Q74. Which two railway PSUs were upgraded to Navratna
Q90. The world’s tallest railway bridge is built over which river?
status on March 4, 2025?
Ans: Chenab River
Ans: IRCTC and IRFC
Q91. Which country launched the “Bharat Mart” in Dubai?
Q75. Who was the new RBI Executive Director appointed to
Ans: UAE
oversee Statistics & Information Management?
Ans: Dr. Ajit Ratnakar Joshi Q92. With which South American country did India sign a trade
agreement in 2025?
Q76. What is the total defence budget of China for 2025?
Ans: Brazil
Ans: $245 billion
Q93. Which country was the first to land on the far side of the
Q77. When will Trump's reciprocal tariffs on India be
Moon?
effective?
Ans: China
Ans: April 2
Q94. In which country is India’s first overseas rail project
Q78. Which sector received the highest allocation in Bihar's
located?
2025-26 budget?
Ans: Mauritius
Ans: Education (₹60,954 crore)
Q95. Which country hosted the 2025 SCO Summit?
Q79. Who won the Best Director award at Oscars 2025?
Ans: Kazakhstan
Ans: Sean Baker
Q96. To which country did India gift a Dornier aircraft?
Q80. How many disciplines will feature in the Khelo India
Para Games 2025? Ans: Sri Lanka
Ans: Six Q97. Which is the first AI-driven city in the world?
Q81. What is India’s 58th Tiger Reserve? Ans: Neom, Saudi Arabia
Ans: Madhav National Park Q98. Which new sport was introduced in the Paris 2024
Q82. Which is the first state in India to use AI in vehicle fitness Olympics?
testing? Ans: Breaking (Breakdancing)
Ans: Uttar Pradesh Q99. Which country became the 31st NATO member?
Q83. How many kilometers does India’s longest expressway, Ans: Sweden
the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, span? Q100. In which country was the world’s largest electric ferry
Ans: 1,386 km launched?
Q84. What is the purpose of the “Mera Yuva Bharat” (MY Ans: Norway
Bharat) platform? Q101. What is India’s GDP growth projection for FY 2025 by RBI?
Ans: Youth empowerment Ans: 6.5%

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q102. Who was appointed as the new RBI governor in Q118. What is the name of India’s AI chatbot for healthcare
December 2024? services?
Ans: Sanjay Malhotra Ans: Aarogya AI
Q103. Which bank launched the “Smart Hub Vyapar” app for Q119. Which was the first Indian private rocket company to
merchants? reach orbit?
Ans: HDFC Bank Ans: Skyroot Aerospace
Q104. Which is India’s largest public sector bank? Q120. How many astronauts is the Gaganyaan mission aiming
Ans: State Bank of India (SBI) to send into space?
Ans: Three
Q105. Where is the headquarters of the BRICS New
Development Bank? Q121. What is the name of India’s first indigenous aircraft
Ans: Shanghai, China carrier?
Ans: INS Vikrant
Q106. What is the name of the first digital currency introduced
by RBI? Q122. What is the range of the Agni-5 missile?
Ans: e-Rupee (CBDC) Ans: 5,000 km
Q107. India’s forex reserves recently crossed which amount? Q123. Who is India’s first woman Rafale fighter pilot?
Ans: $650 billion Ans: Shivangi Singh
Q108. Which bank launched the ‘Green Deposit’ scheme? Q124. Exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’ is conducted between India and
Ans: ICICI Bank which country?
Ans: USA
Q109. Which was the first Indian stock exchange to launch AI-
powered trading? Q125. What is the name of the first Indian submarine made
Ans: NSE (National Stock Exchange) under Project-75I?
Ans: INS Kalvari
Q110. Which was the first bank in India to introduce a UPI credit
card facility? Q126. The BrahMos missile is developed by India in
Ans: Axis Bank collaboration with which country?
Ans: Russia
Q111. In which city was India’s first quantum computing-based
telecom network set up? Q127. What is the name of the Indian Army’s first AI-based
Ans: Delhi combat drone system?
Ans: SkyStriker
Q112. What is the name of ISRO’s reusable launch vehicle?
Ans: RLV-TD Q128. Who is the current Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) of India?
Ans: General Anil Chauhan
Q113. Which company launched the world’s first 3D-printed
rocket? Q129. The 'Varunastra' torpedo was developed by which
Ans: Relativity Space (USA) organization?
Ans: DRDO
Q114. What is the name of India’s first AI-powered robot
lawyer? Q130. What is the name of India’s first indigenously built attack
Ans: Lexi helicopter?
Ans: HAL Prachand
Q115. Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed near which lunar
region? Q131. How many gold medals did India win in the 2024 Paris
Ans: South Pole Olympics?
Ans: 7
Q116. What is the name of the world’s first malaria vaccine
approved by WHO? Q132. Who was the first Indian to win an ATP Masters 1000
Ans: RTS,S (Mosquirix) title?
Ans: Rohan Bopanna
Q117. In which city was India’s first indigenously developed
hydrogen fuel cell ferry launched? Q133. Which country will host the Champions Trophy 2025?
Ans: Kochi Ans: Pakistan

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q134. Who won the Orange Cap in IPL 2024? Q148. Who was India’s first female Grandmaster in chess?
Ans: Shubman Gill Ans: Koneru Humpy
Q135. Which country will host the 2028 Olympics? Q149. Who won the Booker Prize 2024?
Ans: USA (Los Angeles) Ans: Chetna Maroo
Q136. Who became the first Indian woman to win a Formula 3 Q150. Who was the first Indian to win the Fields Medal in
race? Mathematics?
Ans: Sneha Sharma Ans: Akshay Venkatesh
Q137. Where was India’s first football AI referee system Q151. What was the theme of World Environment Day 2024?
launched?
Ans: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought
Ans: ISL (Indian Super League)
Resilience
Q138. Who was the first Indian para-athlete to win six medals
Q152. Which was the first solar-powered village in India?
at the Paralympics?
Ans: Modhera, Gujarat
Ans: Sumit Antil
Q153. In which state was India’s first hydrogen-powered train
Q139. Which country will host the Asian Games 2026?
Ans: Japan launched?
Ans: Haryana
Q140. Who won the 2024 Ballon d’Or?
Ans: Lionel Messi Q154. Where is the world’s largest renewable energy park
located?
Q141. Who was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024? Ans: Gujarat
Ans: Chaudhary Charan Singh
Q155. Which was the first city in India to achieve net-zero
Q142. Who was the first Indian woman to receive the Nobel
carbon status?
Prize in Literature?
Ans: Indore
Ans: Arundhati Roy
Q156. Which is the world’s first carbon-neutral country?
Q143. Which film won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2024?
Ans: Bhutan
Ans: Oppenheimer
Q144. Who received the Padma Vibhushan in Sports in 2024? Q157. Which was the first Indian state to mandate EV-only
Ans: Sachin Tendulkar government vehicles?
Ans: Kerala
Q145. Who was the first Indian scientist to win the Abel Prize?
Ans: Manjul Bhargava Q158. Where is the world’s largest floating solar plant located?
Ans: Madhya Pradesh
Q146. Who won the Miss World 2024 title?
Ans: Krystyna Pyszková (Czech Republic) Q159. What is the name of India’s first deep-sea mining
exploration project?
Q147. Who was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2024?
Ans: Samudrayaan
Ans: Damodar Mauzo
Q160. Which was the first river in India to be declared a living
entity?
Ans: Ganga

Q161. Who laid the foundation stone for NECTAR's permanent

campus in Shillong?
Ans: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh.

Q162. Where was the first-ever Fit India Carnival 2025

inaugurated?
Ans: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.

Q163. Which Union Minister visited the IIT Madras Hyperloop

testing facility?
Ans: Ashwini Vaishnaw.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q164. What is the purpose of the PM Internship Scheme App Q180. Who inaugurated Meghalaya's first scientific coal
launched by FM Nirmala Sitharaman? mining block?
Ans: To streamline internship applications and enhance Ans: Meghalaya CM.
youth employment.
Q181. Which state will install a 58-foot statue of Potti
Q165. Where will India's first PPP green waste processing Sriramulu?
plant be established? Ans: Andhra Pradesh.
Ans: Bicholi Hapsi, Indore.
Q182. Which countries finalized a peace treaty for Nagorno-
Q166. What is the outlay for the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Karabakh?
Mission? Ans: Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Ans: ₹3,400 crore.
Q183. Which platform is merging with DWAC to go public?
Q167. Which state will host the Jaitapur nuclear energy Ans: Truth Social.
project?
Ans: Maharashtra. Q184. What is the focus of ADB’s “Frontier Seed” Initiative?
Ans: Boosting Pacific businesses.
Q168. What is the theme of Purple Fest 2025?
Ans: Promoting inclusivity for Divyangjan. Q185. Which country joined India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans
Initiative?
Q169. What is the focus of C-DOT's 'Samarth' incubation
Ans: New Zealand.
program?
Ans: Supporting startups in Telecom, Cybersecurity, Q186. Which country tops the World Happiness Report 2025?
5G/6G, AI, and Quantum Technologies. Ans: Finland.
Q170. Which state government is implementing PM-ABHIM Q187. Who became the first female IOC President?
with 1,139 Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs? Ans: Kirsty Coventry.
Ans: Delhi.
Q188. Which country ranks second in funding for women-led
Q171. Who inaugurated the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj startups?
Temple in Bhiwandi? Ans: India.
Ans: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis.
Q189. What is SBI’s new project finance unit focusing on?
Q172. Which state is planning stricter anti-conversion laws?
Ans: AI, fintech, and e-commerce startups.
Ans: Chhattisgarh.
Q190. Which bank partnered with Sunrisers Hyderabad?
Q173. Who inaugurated the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy
Ans: City Union Bank.
in Assam?
Ans: Amit Shah. Q191. What is SEBI’s new minimum investment limit for SSE?
Ans: ₹1,000.
Q174. What is the budget allocation for Himachal Pradesh in
2025-26? Q192. Which country is India’s largest source of remittances?
Ans: ₹58,514 crore. Ans: USA.
Q175. What is the purpose of Delhi Police's 'Shishtachar' Q193. Who sold Magma General Insurance to Patanjali
squads? Ayurved and DS Group?
Ans: To combat eve-teasing. Ans: Adar Poonawalla.
Q176. What is the budget outlay for Telangana in 2025-26? Q194. Which company acquired an additional 10% stake in
Ans: ₹3.04 lakh crore. Tata Play?
Q177. Which state will host the Namrup-IV Fertilizer Plant? Ans: Tata Sons.
Ans: Assam. Q195. Where did BPCL inaugurate a 3.2 MW floating solar
Q178. Who launched six mobile dental clinics in Delhi? power plant?
Ans: Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh. Ans: Kochi Refinery.

Q179. Which state is exploring skill development partnerships Q196. What was India’s wholesale inflation rate in February
with the UK? 2024?
Ans: Odisha. Ans: 2.38%.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q197. What is India’s forex reserve as of March 2025? Q214. What is the focus of the book "To the Seventh
Ans: $653.966 billion. Generation"?
Ans: CMC Vellore.
Q198. Which country is negotiating a Comprehensive FTA with
India? Q215. Which organization signed a ₹2,906 crore deal with the
Ans: New Zealand. Ministry of Defence?
Ans: BEL.
Q199. What is India’s projected GDP by 2028?
Ans: $5.7 trillion. Q216. Which countries participated in VARUNA 2025?
Ans: India and France.
Q200. Who chairs the Inter-Ministerial-Industry Committee on
Fintech? Q217. Who won the 2025 Stockholm Water Prize?
Ans: DFS Secretary. Ans: Günter Blöschl.
Q201. Which state signed an MoU with the Gates Foundation Q218. Who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement
for AI integration? Award at the UK Parliament?
Ans: Andhra Pradesh. Ans: Chiranjeevi.
Q202. Which organization partnered with Sarvam AI for Q219. Who was conferred with the Maharashtra Bhushan
Aadhaar services? Award?
Ans: UIDAI. Ans: Ram Sutar.
Q203. Which countries signed an MoU to promote trade in Q220. Who was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Order of
local currencies? Dannebrog?
Ans: India and Mauritius. Ans: Vijay Sankar.
Q204. Who was appointed TAFE Vice Chairman? Q221. What is India’s rank in the Free Speech Index?
Ans: Dr. Lakshmi Venu. Ans: 24th.
Q205. Who became the CEO of ANRF? Q222. What is India’s rank in the World Happiness Report
Ans: Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman. 2025?
Q206. Who was appointed as Intel’s new CEO? Ans: 118th.
Ans: Lip-Bu Tan. Q223. What is the outlay for Telangana’s ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’
Q207. Who was named 'Fit India Icon'? Scheme?
Ans: Ayushmann Khurrana. Ans: ₹6,000 crore.

Q208. Who joined Skechers as a brand ambassador? Q224. Which country participated in the 353rd ILO Governing
Ans: Jasprit Bumrah. Body Meeting?
Ans: India.
Q209. Who was appointed Goodwill Ambassador of VISION
2020 India? Q225. Who won the Balbir Singh Sr Award for Player of the
Ans: Krishnamachari Srikkanth. Year?
Ans: Harmanpreet Singh and Savita Punia.
Q210. Who was re-appointed as Independent Director of Fino
Payments Bank? Q226. How many medals did India win at the Special Olympics
Ans: Deena Mehta. World Winter Games 2025?
Ans: 33 medals.
Q211. Who was appointed RBI's Executive Director?
Ans: Indranil Bhattacharyya. Q227. Who won the IML 2025 title?
Ans: India Masters.
Q212. Who was appointed as NIIT University Chancellor?
Ans: Amitabh Kant. Q228. Who won the Australian GP opener in 2025?
Ans: Lando Norris.
Q213. Which book celebrates India's 1975 Hockey World Cup
victory? Q229. Who was banned for doping in 2025?
Ans: "March of Glory." Ans: Archana Jadhav.

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q230. Where is the Kabaddi World Cup 2025 being held? Q246. What is the name of the national museum planned in
Ans: England. New Delhi with French cooperation?
Ans: Yuge Yugeen Bharat
Q231. Who qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup first after
hosts? Q247. Which portal was launched to enhance PSU bank e-
Ans: Japan. auctions and asset sales?
Ans: BAANKNET
Q232. What is the mascot of Khelo India Para Games 2025?
Ans: Ujjwala. Q248. Who chairs the National Task Force on student mental
health established by the Supreme Court?
Q233. Which mission will deploy a 250 kg rover in
Ans: Justice S. Ravindra Bhat
collaboration with JAXA?
Ans: Chandrayaan-5. Q249. What is India's current milk production in million metric
tons?
Q234. How much revenue did India generate by launching Ans: 239 MMT
foreign satellites?
Ans: $143 million. Q250. For whom was a commemorative postage stamp issued
on her 1009th birth anniversary?
Q235. Where did ISRO launch a Thermal Research Centre? Ans: Mata Karma
Ans: IIT Madras.
Q251. What is India's nuclear power target by 2047?
Q236. What virus was detected in Kolkata but is not a Ans: 100 GW
pandemic threat?
Ans: HKU1 Coronavirus. Q252. Which country did India surpass to become the 2nd
largest tea exporter?
Q237. Who returned to Earth after a nine-month extended Ans: Sri Lanka
stay in space?
Ans: Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams. Q253. What is the full form of DCS launched for real-time crop
data collection?
Q238. What is the name of Tata Communications' AI-powered Ans: Digital Crop Survey
cloud solution?
Ans: Vayu. Q254. Which two river corridors are being planned by
Uttarakhand to boost religious tourism?
Q239. What was created by researchers combining superfluid Ans: Ganga and Sharda
and solid properties?
Ans: Supersolid. Q255. What is the name of the mobile app launched by West
Bengal Police for transparent transfers?
Q240. What is the theme of World Water Day 2025? Ans: West Bengal Police Mobile App
Ans: "Glacier Preservation."
Q256. What is the name of Haryana's AI chatbot for citizen
Q241. Which ministry launched Project PARI to transform services?
Delhi's public spaces into artistic landmarks? Ans: Sarathi
Ans: Ministry of Culture
Q257. Which zoo launched India's first DNA preservation
Q242. Which organization secured Oeko-Tex certification for project using cryogenic storage?
eri silk? Ans: Darjeeling Zoo
Ans: NEHHDC
Q258. Which country recently joined the BRICS New
Q243. On which date is Ram Manohar Lohia Jayanti observed? Development Bank?
Ans: March 23 Ans: Indonesia
Q244. What is the name of IICA's national competition on Q259. Who became Namibia's first female president in March
corporate rescue strategies? 2025?
Ans: Samarthya 2025 Ans: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

Q245. Which state established India's first Senior Citizens Q260. What percentage tariff did the US impose on imported
Commission? cars and auto parts?
Ans: Kerala Ans: 25%

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q261. What was the magnitude of the earthquake that hit Q276. When will the revised MSME classification become
near Mandalay, Myanmar? effective?
Ans: 7.7 Ans: April 1, 2025
Q262. Which two funds did SBI Mutual Fund launch tracking Q277. Which flower did Mizoram export to Singapore for the
the BSE PSU Bank Index? first time?
Ans: PSU Bank Index Fund & PSU Bank ETF Ans: Anthurium
Q263. How many years has RBI granted RRBs to amortize Q278. On how many Chinese products did India impose anti-
additional pension liabilities? dumping duties?
Ans: Five years Ans: Five
Q264. By what percentage did public sector banks' dividend
Q279. What is India's current GDP in trillion dollars?
payouts surge in FY24?
Ans: $4.3 trillion
Ans: 33%
Q280. Which country is India projected to surpass
Q265. What interest rate did RBI set for GOI Floating Rate Bond
economically in 2025?
2033?
Ans: Japan
Ans: 8.34%
Q266. Which IPL teams has Equitas Small Finance Bank Q281. What is the total expenditure in the Finance Bill 2025
partnered with? passed by Lok Sabha?
Ans: Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans Ans: ₹50.65 lakh crore

Q267. What type of fixed deposit did HDFC Bank launch for Q282. What is S&P's growth forecast for India in FY26?
diplomatic missions in India? Ans: 6.5%
Ans: Embassy Fixed Deposit Q283. How much does the government plan to raise via bonds
Q268. What will be the ATM cash withdrawal fee from May 1, in H1 FY26?
2025? Ans: ₹8 lakh crore
Ans: ₹19
Q284. Which country did India sign a Green and Digital
Q269. What is the new education loan limit under revised Shipping Corridor Letter of Intent with?
Priority Sector Lending norms? Ans: Singapore
Ans: ₹25 lakh
Q285. Which organization partnered with LIC for digital
Q270. What penalty did RBI impose on HDFC Bank for insurance services?
regulatory non-compliance? Ans: CDSL Centrico
Ans: ₹75 lakh
Q286. What is the focus of the UIDAI-IIIT Hyderabad Biometric
Q271. What is the value of unclaimed bank deposits Challenge?
transferred to RBI's DEA Fund? Ans: Age-invariant fingerprint authentication
Ans: ₹45,000+ crore
Q287. What organization was launched to strengthen India-Sri
Q272. Who was appointed as brand ambassador for Tata
Lanka economic ties?
Motors' Passenger and Electric Vehicle segment?
Ans: India-Sri Lanka Business Association
Ans: Vicky Kaushal
Q288. Whose autobiography "Stumped" revisits India's 1983
Q273. Which company did Reliance Industries acquire to
Cricket World Cup triumph?
expand its shipyard operations?
Ans: Nauyaan Tradings Ans: Not specified

Q274. Which company became the world's most valuable Q289. Who is the subject of the book 'Leo: The Untold Story of
steelmaker with a market cap over $30 billion? Chennai Super Kings'?
Ans: JSW Steel Ans: Chennai Super Kings

Q275. Which countries replaced Gulf nations as top remittance Q290. Who received the Sangita Kalanidhi Award 2025 for
sources to India? Carnatic music?
Ans: U.S. & U.K. Ans: R.K. Shriramkumar

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 Current Affairs | March 2025
Q291. Who was appointed as Interim MD & CEO of Edelweiss Q308. Who won the Chinese Grand Prix 2025?
ARC? Ans: Oscar Piastri
Ans: Mythili Balasubramanian
Q309. Who made IPL history by captaining three different
Q292. Who was appointed as Chief Justice of Orissa High teams?
Court? Ans: Ajinkya Rahane
Ans: Justice Harish Tandon
Q310. Who won bronze at the Asian Wrestling Championships
Q293. Who was elected as GSMA Chairman? 2025?
Ans: Gopal Vittal Ans: Sunil Kumar
Q294. Who was appointed as the new Finance Secretary? Q311. Which badminton player retired to focus on coaching?
Ans: Ajay Seth Ans: B Sumeeth Reddy
Q295. Who was appointed as Full-Time Member of NITI Q312. Which state topped the medal tally at Khelo India Para
Aayog? Games with 34 gold medals?
Ans: Rajiv Gauba Ans: Haryana
Q296. Who was elected as INTACH chairman? Q313. Which company partnered with Astroscale Japan for
Ans: Ashok Singh Thakur space debris removal?
Ans: Bellatrix Aerospace
Q297. Who was appointed as MD & CEO of IFCI?
Ans: Rahul Bhave Q314. What is the theme of World TB Day 2025?
Ans: "Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver"
Q298. Who was appointed as MD & CEO of Hitachi CMS?
Ans: Yusuf Pachmariwala Q315. Whose memory does the International Day for the Right
to the Truth honor?
Q299. What is the name of the frigate launched by the Indian
Ans: Monsignor Óscar Romero
Navy?
Ans: Tavasya Q316. On which date is International Unborn Child Day
observed?
Q300. What missile was successfully test-fired by DRDO and
Ans: March 25
Indian Navy?
Ans: VLSRSAM Q317. What was the theme of World Theatre Day 2025?
Ans: "Theatre and a Culture of Peace"
Q301. What barge was launched by the Indian Navy to
transport ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles? Q318. Which Tamil actor-director passed away at 48 due to a
Ans: ACTCM Barge (LSAM 24) heart attack?
Ans: Manoj Bharathiraja
Q302. Which region's glaciers are facing accelerated loss
according to a UN report? Q319. What is the size of Delhi Budget 2025-26?
Ans: Hindu Kush Himalayas Ans: Rs 1 lakh crore
Q303. What rank did Roshni Nadar achieve in the Hurun Global Q320. What archaeological discoveries did ASI make in Kerala?
Rich List 2025? Ans: Megaliths
Ans: 5th
Q304. How many Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been opened
under PMBJP?
Ans: 15,057
Q305. What initiative was launched to promote Indian rhymes
under NEP 2020?
Ans: Baalpan ki Kavita
Q306. Which scheme's medium and long-term deposits did
the government discontinue?
Ans: Gold Monetisation Scheme
Q307. How many buyers from how many countries
participated in Sourcex India 2025?
Ans: 150+ buyers from 45+ countries

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