07th-09th June 2025

1. Delhi Inaugurates South Asia’s Largest Utility-Scale Battery Energy Storage System
2. Telangana and Japan’s Kitakyushu Sign Pact for Sustainable Development
3. 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction held in Switzerland
4. TSSEZL’s GIP Inducted into WEF’s Transitioning Industrial Clusters Initiative
5. NSE Sustainability Launches ESG Ratings for Listed Companies
6. Flipkart Secured NBFC License from RBI; becomes 1st Indian e-commerce Company to Offer Direct Lending
7. Air India & Icelandair Signed Codeshare Agreement for Enhance India-Europe Connectivity
8. AP Govt & ISRO Signed MoU to Integrate Space Technology into RTGS
9. Norway Chess 2025: Magnus Carlsen and Anna Muzychuk Clinch Titles in 13th Edition, Gukesh Dommaraju Finishes third
10. Indian Cricketer Piyush Chawla Announces Retirement from All Forms of Cricket
11. World Food Safety Day 2025 – June 7
12. TN Govt Notifies Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi
13. Assam & Meghalaya to Jointly Develop 55 MW Hydropower-Irrigation Project
14. TN, Tripura, Delhi Among Top Performers in Adult Literacy: FLNAT Data
15. ECI Launches New System in ECINET Application
16. Population Census 2027 to be conducted in 2 Phases Along with Enumeration of Castes
17. DPIIT & Copyright Office to Host Event on 68th Anniversary of Copyright Act, 1957 in Delhi
18. IIT Madras Collaborates with GRID-INDIA to Enhance Tanzania’s Electrical Grid Capabilities
19. India Elected to UN ECOSOC for 2026–2028 Term
20. ICICI Prudential MF Renames Two Equity Schemes Effective June 16, 2025
21. Wise gets RBI nod to operate as cross-border payment aggregator
22. Central Bank Acquired 25.18% Stake in Future Generali India Life Insurance
23. TASL & Dassault Aviation Sign Pact for Rafale Fuselage Production in Hyderabad
24. Paris Saint-Germain Wins First UEFA Champions League Title
25. UN Russian Language Day 2025 – June 6
26. World Pest Day 2025 – June 6
27. Uttarakhand Signs 3 Agreements with Tata Trusts, NASSCOM, & Wadhwani Foundation for Social Development and Skill Enhancement
28. Eminent Scholar Daji Panshikar Passes Away at 92
29. Ladakh Reservation and Language Regulations Promulgated by President
30. Tamil Nadu Declares Dhanushkodi as Greater Flamingo Sanctuary
31. Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi Inaugurates Ibex Tarana 88.4 FM in Uttarakhand
32. IAF Officer Manisha Padhi Becomes India’s First Female ADC to a Governor
33. Anders Antonsen, An Se-young Clinch Singles Titles at Indonesia Open
34. Sat Pal Bhanoo Appointed Interim CEO & MD of LIC
35. UN Celebrates First International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations
36. Sailesh C. Mehta Appointed as Chairman of Fertiliser Association of India
37. Anahat Singh Wins PSA Women’s Young Player of the Season Award
38. Public Sector General Insurers Collect ₹1.06 Lakh Crore Premium in FY25
39. RBI’s T Rabi Sankar Joins 16th Finance Commission as Part-Time Member
40. Carlos Alcaraz Clinches Historic Comeback Victory at French Open Final & Winner List
41. Portugal Crowned Nations League Champions After Dramatic Penalty Shootout Win
42. ICG Inaugurates Strategic Jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour to Enhance Coastal Security
43. World Oceans Day
44. David Beckham to Be Knighted in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours
45. Magnus Carlsen Clinches Norway Chess Title After Dramatic Finale
46. India to Open Women’s Asia Cup Hockey Campaign Against Thailand
47. MS Dhoni Becomes Face of Dettol’s New ‘Icy Cool’ Personal Care Range
48. TCL India Renews Rohit Sharma as Brand Ambassador for Second Year
49. World Brain Tumour Day
50. RBI Premieres 5-Part Docuseries ‘Unlocked: Beyond the Rupee’ to Demystify India’s Central Bank
51. PM Modi Inaugurates Chenab Rail Bridge, Completing Kashmir’s Rail Link to India
52. Microsoft Expands LinkedIn CEO Roslansky’s Role to Oversee Office Suite
53. S Mahendra Dev Appointed as Chairman of PM’s Economic Advisory Council
54. Aadhaar Authentications Cross 211 Crore, Driving India’s Digital Growth
55. Canara Bank Removes Minimum Balance Rule for All SB Accounts
56. Election Commission Digitizes Index Cards and Statistical Reports for Faster Data Access
57. India-England Test Series Renamed Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

National News

1. Election Commission Launches ECINET Digital Platform

• What:
  • The Election Commission of India is developing ECINET, a new user-friendly digital platform to integrate and reorient over 40 existing mobile and web applications for electors and stakeholders.
• Why:
  • The platform aims to provide a single, simplified interface for all electoral activities, making it easier for users to access services without managing multiple apps and logins.
• Tell me more:
  • ECINET will have an improved User Interface and User Experience, accessible on desktops and smartphones.
  • Only authorized ECI officials will enter data on ECINET to ensure accuracy; statutory forms will prevail in case of conflicts.
  • ECINET will subsume apps like Voter Helpline, Voter Turnout, cVIGIL, Suvidha 2.0, ESMS, Saksham, and KYC App, which have over 5.5 crore downloads.
  • The platform is expected to benefit nearly 100 crore electors and the entire electoral machinery, including Booth Level Officers, Booth Level Agents, Polling Officials, AEROs, EROs, and DEOs.
  • ECINET is in advanced development, with rigorous trials for functionality, ease of use, and cybersecurity.

Source: PIB

2. DPIIT Hosts Event on 68th Anniversary of Copyright Act

• What:
  • The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in collaboration with the Copyright Office, will host a special event on June 4 to mark the 68th anniversary of the Copyright Act, 1957.
• Why:
  • The event aims to reflect on the journey of India’s copyright legislation and explore reforms needed in the digital era.
• Tell me more:
  • The event theme is “Reform in Copyright Act in the Digital Era” and will be held at India International Centre, New Delhi.
  • The Copyright Act, 1957, protects creators of literary, musical, artistic, dramatic, and cinematographic works.

Source: DD

3. IIT Madras, GRID-INDIA Partner to Boost Tanzania’s Energy Sector

• What:
  • IIT Madras is collaborating with GRID-INDIA to offer certification programs, conduct joint research, and deliver technical consultation projects to strengthen Tanzania’s energy infrastructure.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to build capacity and support sustainable, resilient, and future-ready energy systems in Tanzania and East Africa.
• Tell me more:
  • The collaboration will be led by the Energy Consortium at IIT Madras and will use the IITM Zanzibar campus as a focal point in Africa.
  • Certification programs will provide foundational and specialized training for Tanzanian power sector professionals.
  • Joint research will focus on areas like microgrids, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
  • GRID-INDIA is a Miniratna company under the Union Ministry of Power and manages India’s electricity grid.

Source: IITM

4. Election Commission Launches Automated Index Card System

• What:
  • The Election Commission has introduced a technology-driven system to generate Index Cards and statistical reports after elections.
• Why:
  • The new system aims to make reporting faster and remove delays caused by manual methods.
• Tell me more:
  • The Index Card is a post-election statistical reporting format created by the Election Commission of India as a suo moto initiative. It is non-statutory and meant only for academic and research purposes.
  • The system provides data at the constituency level for researchers, policymakers, journalists, and the public.
  • Index Cards help generate about 35 reports for Lok Sabha elections and 14 for State Assembly elections, covering details like voter turnout, party performance, and women’s participation.
  • The new system uses automation and data integration to replace the earlier manual and multi-layered process.

Source: PIB

State News

1. Delhi Inaugurates South Asia’s Largest Battery Storage System

• What:
  • Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood inaugurated a 20-MW battery energy storage system (BESS) at Kilokari, which is the largest in South Asia and India’s first commercially approved utility-scale energy storage system, aimed at improving power supply in South Delhi.
• Why:
  • The system was launched to ensure better and more reliable power supply, enhance grid stability, optimize power purchase costs, and support renewable energy integration in densely populated areas.
• Tell me more:
  • The 20-MW (40 MWh) BESS can deliver up to four hours of reliable power daily, split into two hours each during the day and night.
  • The project was implemented in collaboration with BRPL, IndiGrid, GEAPP, and Amperehour.
  • BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) is the power distribution company responsible for the project.

Source: ET

2. Telangana to Develop Eco-Town Inspired by Kitakyushu

• What:
  • Telangana government will develop an 80-acre eco-town inspired by the Japanese city of Kitakyushu, focusing on sustainable development and future needs.
• Why:
  • The project aims to promote sustainable growth, boost Japanese investment, and create a roadmap for future generations through a cooperation agreement with Kitakyushu.
• Tell me more:
  • The eco-town will be developed based on a mutual cooperation agreement between Telangana and Kitakyushu.
  • Telangana has attracted investments worth Rs 3 lakh crore in the past 18 months.
  • The project will focus on Net Zero targets, riverfront development, circular economy, clean technologies, and digital innovation.
  • The feasibility of direct flight services between Hyderabad and Kitakyushu will be explored to strengthen ties.
  • The agreement was signed to strengthen relations and promote inclusive economic growth, zero emissions, and urban innovation.

Source: ET

3. Andhra Pradesh Signs MoU with ISRO for Real-Time Governance

• What:
  • Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with ISRO’s Sathish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) to enhance the Real Time Governance System (RTGS) with satellite imagery and scientific inputs.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to use space technology for real-time, citizen-centric governance across various sectors.
• Tell me more:
  • A five-year MoU was signed between SHAR (ISRO) and RTGS in the presence of SHAR Director Rajarajan.
  • The collaboration will provide satellite imagery and scientific inputs to the AWARE platform for 42 applications, including agriculture, weather, disaster management, and urban planning.
  • The AWARE platform integrates data from satellites, drones, IoT, sensors, mobile feeds, and CCTV.
  • Real-time alerts and advisories will be delivered to citizens and the government through SMS, WhatsApp, media, and social media.

Source: ET

4. Greater Flamingo Sanctuary Established in Tamil Nadu

• What:
  • The Tamil Nadu government has notified the establishment of the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram on 524.78 hectares of land on World Environment Day.
• Why:
  • The sanctuary aims to safeguard the biodiversity hotspot, promote responsible tourism, and benefit local communities in Ramanathapuram.
• Tell me more:
  • The sanctuary is located within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, a critical stopover for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.
  • The sanctuary was established on World Environment Day (June 5).

Source: IE

5. Assam and Meghalaya to Set Up Kulsi Hydropower Project

• What:
  • Assam and Meghalaya governments have decided to set up a 55-megawatt hydropower and irrigation project and address urban floods in Guwahati jointly.
• Why:
  • The project aims to generate electricity for both states, provide irrigation benefits to Assam, and resolve issues like urban flooding and boundary disputes.
• Tell me more:
  • The 55 MW Kulsi hydropower-cum-irrigation project will be taken up after consultations with local people.
  • The Kulsi river is a tributary of the Brahmaputra and is a major nesting site for the Gangetic river dolphin.
  • The North East Space Application Centre will conduct satellite mapping to help find solutions for Guwahati’s urban flooding.
  • IIT Roorkee will be approached for solutions to minimize flooding while protecting livelihoods in Meghalaya.
  • The two states have agreed to erect boundary pillars in five of the six disputed sites and will address land adjustment issues in the sixth.

Source: TH

6. SETU Signs MoUs to Empower Uttarakhand’s Urban and Social Sectors

• What:
  • The State Institute for Empowering and Transforming Uttarakhand (SETU) Commission presented a report to the Chief Minister and signed three MoUs to boost urban local body empowerment, social development, and digital skills in Uttarakhand.
• Why:
  • The aim is to make urban local bodies self-sufficient, drive social progress, and transform Uttarakhand into a hub for digital talent and modern skills.
• Tell me more:
  • The SETU report proposes transferring functions from the 12th Schedule of the Constitution, such as water supply and urban planning, to urban local bodies to increase their financial autonomy and capacity.
  • The report advocates smart governance, GIS mapping, and data-driven decision-making, along with staff training and adapting successful models from other states.
  • A MoU with Tata Trusts focuses on water management, nutrition, telemedicine, rural livelihoods, and green energy.
  • An MoU with NASSCOM introduces AI, data science, Python, and cybersecurity courses for students and faculty, with model mentor colleges in each district.
  • An MoU with Wadhwani Foundation aims to provide AI-based personality development and employability skills to final-year college students.

Source: TOI

7. Ladakh Reservation and Official Languages Regulations Announced

• What:
  • The President of India has promulgated the Union Territory of Ladakh Reservation (Amendment) Regulation, reserving eighty-five percent jobs in Ladakh, and declared English, Hindi, Urdu, Bhoti, and Purgi as official languages of the Union Territory.
• Why:
  • These regulations aim to increase local representation in jobs and promote linguistic diversity and cultural development in Ladakh.
• Tell me more:
  • The reservation regulation excludes the quota for Economically Weaker Sections and covers the whole Union Territory of Ladakh.
  • The Ladakh Official Languages Regulation allows English to continue for all official purposes and supports the promotion and development of other native languages like Shina, Brokskat, Balti, and Ladakhi.
  • The President has also promulgated an amendment to reserve one-third seats for women in both Leh and Kargil Hill Councils, with rotation of constituencies based on official notifications.
  • The Administrator may establish the Academy of Art, Culture and Languages to strengthen institutional mechanisms for language promotion.

Source: IE

8. Army Chief Reviews Readiness, Inaugurates Radio in Garhwal, Uttarakhand

• What:
  • Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited forward posts in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, to review operational and administrative readiness and inaugurated Ibex Tarana 88.4 FM, a community radio station in Jyotirmath.
• Why:
  • The visit and radio launch aim to ensure high standards of preparedness among troops and to provide a platform for local expression and knowledge sharing.
• Tell me more:
  • Ibex Tarana 88.4 FM will broadcast programmes on education, environment, weather, entertainment, employment, disaster preparedness, tourism, health, and traditional arts.
  • The radio station is designed to amplify the voice of youth, promote local talent, and reconnect people with their cultural roots.
  • Ibex Tarana 88.4 FM is the first community radio station of its kind in Jyotirmath.

Source: NOA

9. Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express Flagged Off, Rail Link Completed

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express and inaugurated an all-weather transportation system connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
• Why:
  • The project was completed to provide reliable and direct rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and other states, overcoming geographical challenges.
• Tell me more:
  • The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link is now connected to the national railway network, including the world’s highest rail bridge over the Chenab.
  • Kashmir’s location between the Greater Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal range has historically made travel difficult, with only mountain passes providing access.
  • The Chenab bridge is the highest rail bridge in the world.

Source: DTE

International News

1. Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025 Announced

• What:
  • The eighth session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025) will be held in person at the International Conference Centre Geneva, Switzerland, from 2 to 6 June 2025.
• Why:
  • The event aims to review progress on the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, guide future actions, and reaffirm commitment to sustainable development through disaster resilience.
• Tell me more:
  • GP2025 is hosted by the Government of Switzerland and organized by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), with both co-chairing the session.
  • The agenda will align with the Sendai Framework’s goal, four priorities for action, and seven global targets, and will include key issues from the Framework’s midterm review.
  • The programme will be held in all six official UN languages, with International Sign Interpretation and Real Time Captioning provided.
  • The event will be inclusive and open, encouraging participation from all societal groups through the UNDRR Stakeholder Engagement Mechanism.

Source: UN

Banking and Economy

1. Gopalpur Industrial Park Joins WEF Green Initiative

• What:
  • Tata Steel Special Economic Zone’s Gopalpur Industrial Park (GIP) in Odisha has joined the World Economic Forum’s Transitioning Industrial Clusters Initiative to reduce CO2 emissions, drive economic growth, and create jobs.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to accelerate large-scale decarbonisation by promoting sustainability, energy efficiency, and green innovation in industrial ecosystems.
• Tell me more:
  • The initiative is implemented in collaboration with Accenture and Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).
  • GIP is becoming a hub for green hydrogen, green ammonia, and green energy equipment manufacturing.
  • About 25% of GIP’s land is set aside for green hydrogen/ammonia and renewable energy sectors.
  • GIP has signed land agreements with multiple green hydrogen players, with a total capacity of more than 2 million tonnes per annum of green ammonia and an estimated investment of over Rs 27,000 crore.
  • GIP will contribute around 10% of India’s green hydrogen/ammonia production target by 2030 under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Source: ET

2. NSE Sustainability Launches ESG Ratings for Companies

• What:
  • NSE Sustainability Ratings and Analytics Ltd, an entity of the National Stock Exchange, has launched ESG ratings for listed companies.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to assess environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and provide stakeholders with important information for decision-making.
• Tell me more:
  • NSE Sustainability received registration from SEBI to operate as a Category I ESG Rating Provider.
  • The ESG ratings are based on a detailed evaluation of company practices, policies, and disclosures across sectors.
  • The ratings use a transparent, data-driven, and materiality-based methodology aligned with national and international standards.
  • NSE Sustainability is a wholly owned subsidiary of NSE Indices, which is a subsidiary of National Stock Exchange of India Ltd.

Source: ET

3. Air India and Icelandair Sign Codeshare Agreement

• What:
  • Air India and Icelandair have signed a new codeshare agreement to improve connectivity between India and Iceland.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to make travel easier for passengers and support growing travel and trade between the two nations.
• Tell me more:
  • The announcement was made at the 81st Annual General Meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in New Delhi.
  • The agreement covers 15 routes in India and Europe, allowing Air India customers to book flights to Reykjavik via major European hubs like London Heathrow, Gatwick, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Milan, and Zurich.
  • These flights will use Air India’s ‘AI’ flight code, while Icelandair customers can access Air India flights to Indian cities with the ‘FI’ flight code.
  • Icelandair customers will have access to Air India-operated flights from Delhi and Mumbai to several European cities.

Source: ET

4. ICICI Prudential Renames Two Equity Mutual Funds

• What:
  • ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund will change the names of ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund and ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund, effective June 16.
• Why:
  • The name change follows SEBI’s direction to ensure uniformity in the naming of equity-oriented schemes.
• Tell me more:
  • ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund will be renamed as ICICI Prudential Large Cap Fund.
  • ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund will be renamed as ICICI Prudential Value Fund.
  • All other provisions of the Scheme Information Documents (SIDs) and Key Information Memoranda (KIMs) remain unchanged except for the names.
  • As of April 30, 2025, the Bluechip Fund had an AUM of Rs 68,033 crore and the Value Discovery Fund had an AUM of Rs 51,111 crore.
  • The Bluechip Fund is managed by Anish Tawakley, Vaibhav Dusad, and Sharmila D’silva; the Value Discovery Fund is managed by Sankaran Naren, Dharmesh Kakkad, Masoomi Jhurmarvala, and Sharmila D’silva.

Source: ET

5. Wise Gets RBI Nod as Cross-Border Payment Aggregator

• What:
  • Wise, a global technology company, has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India to operate as a cross-border payment aggregator.
• Why:
  • The approval aims to provide Indians and exporters with a faster, cheaper, and more transparent way to make and receive international payments.
• Tell me more:
  • Wise currently facilitates about 10% of all inbound international remittances to India.
  • The new licence will help Wise support exporters in receiving payments from customers abroad efficiently.
  • Wise is expanding its presence in India with a full-stack office in Hyderabad.
  • Smrithi Ravi has been appointed as APAC Head of Engineering to lead the Hyderabad hub.
  • S K Saraogi is the APAC Head of Expansion at Wise.

Source: ET

6. Central Bank of India Acquires Stake in Future Generali Life

• What:
  • Central Bank of India has acquired a 25.18% stake in Future Generali India Life Insurance Company Limited (FGILICL) for Rs 57 crore as part of the insolvency process.
• Why:
  • The acquisition allows Central Bank of India to enter the insurance sector and was completed under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India regulations.
• Tell me more:
  • The bank now holds a 25.28% stake in FGILICL.
  • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition through a bid/resolution plan.
  • FGILICL offers a range of products including savings insurance, ULIP, term insurance, health, child, retirement, rural, and group insurance plans.
  • In August last year, Central Bank of India was declared the successful bidder for the stake in Future Enterprises Ltd’s insurance ventures.

Source: ET

7. Review Meeting of Public Sector General Insurance Companies Held

• What:
  • Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a review meeting of Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs) in New Delhi to assess their performance and future strategies.
• Why:
  • The meeting aimed to review key indicators, encourage digital transformation, and guide PSGICs to improve insurance penetration, customer service, and profitability.
• Tell me more:
  • Total premium collected by PSGICs rose from ₹80,000 crore in 2019 to nearly ₹1.06 lakh crore in 2025, while the overall general insurance industry premium reached ₹3.07 lakh crore in FY 2024–25.
  • Insurance penetration in India is low at 1% of GDP, compared to the global average of 4.2% in 2023, but insurance density increased from $9 in 2019 to $25 in 2023.
  • Incurred claims ratios peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic but declined by FY24 to 103% for PSGICs, 89% for private insurers, and 65% for Standalone Health Insurers (SAHI).
  • All PSGICs have returned to profitability, with Oriental Insurance and National Insurance posting profits in recent quarters, and United India Insurance posting profit after 7 years.
  • The Finance Minister stressed the adoption of AI-driven claim settlement, development of new insurance products for emerging risks, and partnerships with fintechs and insurtechs.

Source: PIB

8. RBI Launches Documentary Series “RBI Unlocked” with Jio Hotstar

• What:
  • The Reserve Bank of India has launched a five-part documentary series titled “RBI Unlocked: Beyond the Rupee” in collaboration with Jio Hotstar.
• Why:
  • The series aims to visually document RBI’s 90-year history and create awareness about its functions and roles.
• Tell me more:
  • The documentary is produced by Chalkboard Entertainment and provides insights into the inner workings of RBI.
  • The series covers RBI’s various functions, including currency management, monetary policy, regulation and supervision of banks and NBFCs, and financial inclusion.
  • The series is available on Jio Hotstar, which offers different subscription plans for viewers.

Source: LM

9. Canara Bank Removes Minimum Balance Requirement for Savings Accounts

• Canara Bank has removed the average monthly balance requirement for all types of savings bank accounts from 1 June 2025.
• This change is made so that no savings account holder will be charged any penalty for not maintaining the minimum balance.

Source: LM

Reports and Indices

1. Delhi, Tripura, Tamil Nadu Lead in Adult Literacy Certification

• What:
  • Delhi, Tripura, and Tamil Nadu are top performers in adult literacy and education certification according to the Foundational Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT).
• Why:
  • The assessment aims to identify, train, and certify illiterate adults to improve foundational literacy and numeracy across states.
• Tell me more:
  • FLNAT tests reading, writing, and numeracy, each carrying 50 marks, for a total of 150 marks.
  • The test was conducted nationwide from July 2024 to March 2025, with over 1.77 crore adult learners tested and 34.31 lakh certified, giving a national average certification rate of about 19.4%.
  • Tamil Nadu achieved a 100% success rate, Tripura 98.1%, and Delhi 99.3% in certifying learners.
  • States like Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh had lower certification rates despite moderate participation.
  • The assessment is part of the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram and results are compiled by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).

Source: ET

Defence News

1. Tata to Manufacture Rafale Fuselages in Hyderabad

• What:
  • Tata Advanced Systems has signed agreements with Dassault Aviation to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in Hyderabad for both Indian and global orders.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to expand India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and strengthen the Rafale supply chain in India.
• Tell me more:
  • The new facility in Hyderabad will produce the four main parts of the Rafale fuselage, with a capacity of 24 fuselages per year and first deliveries expected by FY28.
  • At least 100 fuselages are planned for global orders, with the number possibly rising if India places more Rafale orders.
  • India has already bought 36 Rafale jets for the Air Force and ordered 26 Rafale Marines for the Navy.
  • The Air Force is considering procuring 114 more multi-role fighter aircraft, with Rafale as a leading contender.
  • Several Rafale parts are already made in India, and future plans include engine production and a maintenance hub.
  • This is the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France.

Source: ET

2. Indian Coast Guard Inaugurates Jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour

• What:
  • Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani inaugurated a new dedicated jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour, Kerala to enhance maritime security.
• Why:
  • The jetty was opened to support faster deployment and turnaround of Coast Guard vessels, improving readiness for coastal surveillance, rescue, anti-smuggling, and fisheries protection.
• Tell me more:
  • The facility is expected to play a key role in safeguarding India’s southwestern coastline.
  • The inauguration event was attended by officials from the Indian Coast Guard, Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd, Kerala government, Maritime Board, State Police, Port Authorities, Indian Army, Adani Ports, and the Fisheries Department.

Source: IE

Awards

1. David Beckham to Receive Knighthood in UK Honours

• What:
  • David Beckham, former England football captain, will be awarded a knighthood in King Charles’ Birthday Honours for his contributions to football and British society.
• Why:
  • The honour recognises Beckham’s achievements in football and his positive impact on society.
• Tell me more:
  • Beckham played 115 times for England and had a successful club career with Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, Paris St-Germain, and AC Milan before retiring in 2013.
  • He was first nominated for a knighthood in 2011 but faced delays due to controversies, including leaked emails and a tax scheme investigation; his finances were cleared in 2021.
  • Beckham is involved in philanthropy as a UNICEF ambassador since 2005 and launched the David Beckham UNICEF Fund in 2015.
  • In 2024, he became an ambassador for The King’s Foundation and supports youth education and nature awareness.
  • He is part-owner of Salford City and co-owner and president of Inter Miami, and helped launch the Inter Miami CF Foundation.

Source: bbc

Important Days

1. World Food Safety Day 2025 – June 7

• Theme: Food safety: science in action

Source: WHO

2. UN Russian Language Day 2025 – June 6

3. World Pest Day 2025 – June 6

• Theme: Guardians of Health: Professional Pest Management for a Safer World

Source: npma

4. International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations (1st Edition) – June 10

• The United Nations General Assembly has declared June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.
• The resolution was proposed by China and co-sponsored by over eighty countries.

Source: UN

5. World Ocean Day – June 8

• World Oceans Day 2025 celebrations will take place in Nice, France.
• Theme: “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”

Source: UN

6. World Brain Tumour Day – June 8

Sports

1. Piyush Chawla Announces Retirement from All Cricket

• Star Indian spin bowler Piyush Chawla has officially retired from all forms of cricket after a 20-year professional career.
• Chawla was part of the Indian squads that won the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Source: NOA

2. PSG Wins First UEFA Champions League Title

• What:
  • Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) won their first UEFA Champions League title by defeating Inter Milan at Munich’s Allianz Arena.
• Tell me more:
  • The victory marks PSG’s maiden European crown and sets a record for the largest winning margin in a Champions League final.
  • This was the first time PSG won the UEFA Champions League.

Source: ET

3. Indonesia Open 2025 (Badminton)

Source: IE

4. Anahat Singh Wins Twin Honours at PSA Awards

• What:
  • Anahat Singh, India’s top women’s squash player, won the Women’s Challenger Player of the Season and shared the Women’s Young Player of the Season title at the PSA Awards 2024-25.
• Why:
  • The awards recognise her outstanding performance and consistency on the Challenger circuit and her rise as a young star in squash.
• Tell me more:
  • She won the U-17 title at the British Junior Open and helped India win bronze at the Asian Junior Team Championships.
  • Her strong season pushed her into the world’s top seventy in PSA rankings and she is currently ranked world number fifty-six.
  • The PSA Awards honour top performers in professional squash each season.

Source: OC

5. French Open 2025 (Tennis Grand Slam)

• Men’s Singles: Carlos Alcaraz (Spanish)
• Women’s Singles: Iga Swiatek (Poland)
• This tournament is also known as Roland Garros.

Source: FO

6. Portugal Wins 2025 UEFA Nations League Title (Football)

• Portugal won the 2025 UEFA Nations League by defeating Spain 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw at the Allianz Arena.

Source: ET

7. Women’s Asia Cup 2025 Hockey Schedule Announced

• What:
  • The schedule for the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 hockey tournament has been announced, to be held in Hangzhou, China from September 5 to 14.
• Tell me more:
  • The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will start their campaign against Thailand on September 5.
  • India is placed in Pool B with Japan (defending champions), Thailand, and Singapore.
  • Pool A includes hosts China, Korea, Malaysia, and Chinese Taipei.
  • India won the Bronze medal in the previous edition and aims for the top position this time.

Source: NOA

8. England-India Test Series Gets Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

• What:
  • The England-India Test series is being renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy through a joint decision by ECB and BCCI.
• Tell me more:
  • The new trophy will be unveiled at Lord’s on June 11 during the World Test Championship final.
  • The five-Test series between England and India will start June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.
  • The decision replaces the Pataudi Trophy which was named in 2007 to mark 75 years since the first Test between the two nations.
  • Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar called the decision “disturbing” and showed “total lack of sensitivity to the contribution made by the Pataudis.”
  • Cricket broadcaster Harsha Bhogle felt the new name “misses the deep connect that Pataudi had with our countries.”

Source: TP

Appointments

1. India Elected to UN Economic and Social Council for 2026-28

• What:
  • India has been elected to the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations for the term 2026-28.
• Why:
  • The election aims to give India a platform to champion development issues and strengthen ECOSOC’s role in sustainable development.
• Tell me more:
  • ECOSOC coordinates efforts to achieve internationally agreed goals and follows up on major UN conferences and summits.
  • ECOSOC was established as one of the six main organs of the United Nations in 1945.
  • India’s Permanent Mission at the UN in New York played a key role in the election process.

Source: HT

2. Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi Becomes First Woman ADC

• What:
  • Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi of the Indian Air Force has become the first woman officer to be appointed as Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to the Governor of Mizoram, Hari Babu Kambhampati.
• Why:
  • The appointment marks a historic achievement for women in the Indian Armed Forces and highlights progress in gender representation in key ceremonial roles.
• Tell me more:
  • The official ceremony took place at Raj Bhawan in Aizawl, where Squadron Leader Padhi reported to the Governor after serving at Air Force bases in Bidar, Pune, and Bhatinda.
  • The title ‘Aide-de-Camp’ refers to an armed forces officer who assists a higher-ranking officer and is an honorary designation in India.
  • Service chiefs in India typically have three aides-de-camp, while the President has five, and state governors usually have two, one from the armed forces and one from the police services.
  • In Jammu and Kashmir, both aides-de-camp to the governor are selected from the Indian Army.
  • The Governor’s office confirmed that Manisha Padhi is the first woman from the Indian Armed Forces to be appointed as ADC to a Governor in the country.

Source: DD

3. Sat Pal Bhanoo Gets Additional Charge as LIC MD and CEO

• Sat Pal Bhanoo has been given additional charge as Managing Director and CEO of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) after approval from the Department of Financial Services.

Source: ET

4. Sailesh C Mehta Elected Chairman of Fertiliser Association of India

• Sailesh C Mehta, Managing Director of Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals Corp, has been elected as the new chairman of the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI).
• The Fertiliser Association of India (FAI) is a key body representing the fertiliser sector in India.

Source: BS

5. Appointment of T Rabi Sankar to 16th Finance Commission

• What:
  • President of India appointed T Rabi Sankar, Deputy Governor of RBI, as a part-time member of the 16th Finance Commission after Ajay Narayan Jha stepped down.
• Why:
  • The appointment was made to fill the vacancy in the commission and ensure its smooth functioning.
• Tell me more:
  • T Rabi Sankar will serve until the commission submits its report or October 31, 2025, whichever is earlier.
  • The 16th Finance Commission was formed on December 31, 2023, and is headed by Arvind Panagariya.
  • The commission will give recommendations for a five-year period starting April 1, 2026.
  • The Finance Commission is a constitutional body that gives suggestions on centre-state financial relations.
  • The 15th Finance Commission had recommended 41% share of the divisible tax pool to states for 2021-22 to 2025-26.

Source: BS

6. MS Dhoni Becomes Brand Ambassador for Dettol Icy Cool

• Dettol has announced Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the brand ambassador for its Icy Cool soaps, bodywash, and handwash range.

Source: ET

7. TCL Extends Rohit Sharma as Brand Ambassador

• TCL has announced the extension of Rohit Sharma as its brand ambassador in India for the second year in a row.

Source: ANI

8. Microsoft Announces Leadership Changes and Cybersecurity Initiative

• Microsoft has made leadership changes, giving LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky additional responsibility over Office products and Copilot, and launched a free cybersecurity programme for European governments.
• Ryan Roslansky will continue as LinkedIn CEO and now oversee Word, Excel, and Copilot, reporting to Rajesh Jha, who leads Windows and Teams.

Source: BS

9. S Mahendra Dev Appointed Chairman of EAC-PM

• What:
  • Eminent economist S Mahendra Dev has taken charge as Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), filling the leadership gap since last November.
• Tell me more:
  • S Mahendra Dev succeeds Suman Bery, who held additional charge after Bibek Debroy’s passing.
  • The EAC-PM has been reconstituted for two years or until further orders, with full-time members Sanjeev Sanyal, Sanjay Kumar Mishra, and Shamika Ravi retained.
  • New part-time members include Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Rakesh Mohan, Sajid Chenoy, Neelkanth Misra, Nilesh Shah, TT Ram Mohan, KV Raju, Chetan Ghate, Pami Dua, Pulak Ghosh, and Gourav Vallabh.
  • S Mahendra Dev is a former Vice Chancellor of the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research and has served as editor of Economic and Political Weekly and as an independent director at Axis Bank.

Source: TOI

Miscellaneous

1. Eminent Scholar Daji Panshikar Passes Away in Thane

• Eminent scholar and author Daji Panshikar, known for his knowledge of Indian epics and Marathi literature, passed away at his residence in Thane, Maharashtra after a brief illness.

Source: NOA

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