25th-27th October 2025

1. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Released DPM 2025 in New Delhi
2. DPIIT Signs MoUs with Kotak Mahindra Bank and Primus Partners to Strengthen India’s Startup Ecosystem
3. India Re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of COP10 Bureau at UNESCO in Paris, France
4. GOI Partners with Nigeria to Establish First IIT Campus in Nigeria
5. IAF Participated in Multinational Exercise ‘Ocean Sky 2025’ in Spain
6. Dr. Ashokkumar, Nilgiris Scientist Named Among Top 2% Scientists Worldwide for 3rd Consecutive Year
7. Blackstone to Acquire Minority Stake in Federal Bank for Rs 6,196.51 crore
8. PNB Sells 10% Stake in Canara HSBC Life for Rs.1,007 Crores
9. CSL Delivers First of Eight ASW SWC ‘Mahe’ to Indian Navy
10. Airbus, Leonardo, Thales seal deal to merge satellite operations
11. Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat Released book ‘Modi’s Mission’, by Berjis Desai
12. Raising Day of Indo-Tibetan Border Police 2025– October 24
13. International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2025 – October 19 to 25
14. GoI Approves Extension of LC75 & BLC Investment Schemes to Central Government Employees
15. 4th FATF Plenary Meeting Held from October 22 to 24, 2025 in Paris, France
16. India-Bhutan Border Management & Security Meeting Held in Thimpu, Bhutan
17. World Bank Approves USD 280 million Loan to Kerala under KHSIP
18. City Union Bank unveils new digital payment solutions at Global FinTech Fest 2025
19. BEML Signed MoU with Italy’s Tesmec S.p.A to Introduce Surface Miner Equipment in India
20. ICG Launched Two Advanced FPVs ‘ICGS Ajit’ and ‘ICGS Aparajit’ at Goa Shipyard
21. NASA Confirms Asteroid ‘2025 PN7’ as Earth’s New Quasi-Moon
22. BWF World Junior Championships 2025 Held in Guwahati, Assam
23. Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit Kitilyakara Passed Away
24. Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2025 – October 24-31
25. Disarmament Week 2025- October 24 to 30
26. China’s CR450 – World’s Fastest Bullet Train Unveiled
27. East Timor Becomes 11th Member of ASEAN
28. Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025 Winners Announced
29. INS Sutlej Completes 18th Joint Hydrographic Survey
30. India to Host First APAC-AIG Meeting in 2025
31. Veteran Actor Satish Shah, Beloved Star of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Passes Away at 74
32. Lionel Messi Clinches 2025 MLS Golden Boot After Stunning Season with Inter Miami
33. Dame Sarah Mullally to Become First Woman to Lead the Church of England
34. India’s Forex Reserves Cross $700 Billion Mark as Gold Reserves Surge
35. Bajrang Setu: India’s First Glass Suspension Bridge Set to Transform Rishikesh by 2025
36. UIDAI Launches SITAA to Enhance Aadhaar Security and Drive Digital Innovation
37. Jammu and Kashmir Restores 150-Year-Old Darbar Move Tradition After Four Years
38. IMF Projects India to Remain Fastest-Growing Major Economy in 2025-26 with 6.6% Growth
39. SBI Named “World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025” by Global Finance
40. India to Introduce New GDP Series with 2022–23 Base Year
41. India’s GDP to Grow 6.7–6.9% in FY26, Says Deloitte India
42. Rohit Sharma Overtakes Ganguly as India’s 3rd-Highest ODI Run Scorer
43. IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025: New Leadership & Regional Council Elected; Tuvalu Joins IUCN
44. UNCTAD-16 Held in Geneva, Switzerland from October 20 to 23, 2025

National News

1. India to Set Up First IIT Campus in Nigeria

• What:
  • India will establish the first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in West Africa, with Nigeria hosting it at the Federal Government Academy in Suleja.
• Why:
  • The move aims to expand India’s global education presence under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and strengthen Indo-Nigerian collaboration in science, technology, and innovation.
• Tell me more:
  • The plan was confirmed by Nigeria’s Minister of Education during a meeting with the Indian High Commission in Abuja.
  • The academy in Suleja, known as the Nigerian Academy for the Gifted, will be upgraded into a center of excellence with help from Indian experts.
  • The campus will follow the model of IIT Madras–Zanzibar, with India providing teachers, courses, and training, and Nigeria offering infrastructure and local support.
  • The first batch of students will begin studies in 2026, with programs in engineering, technology, and research.

Source: TOI

2. India to Host Asia Pacific Aircraft Investigation Meeting

• What:
  • The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will host the four-day Asia Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) meeting in Delhi from October 28 to 31.
• Why:
  • The meeting aims to promote sharing of expertise, experience, and information among accident investigation authorities, and to strengthen cooperation and investigation capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Tell me more:
  • Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu will inaugurate the event.
  • Around 90 representatives from Asia-Pacific accident investigation authorities and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) will participate.
  • The APAC-AIG meeting is held annually and is hosted by one of the ICAO member states in the Asia-Pacific region.

Source: IE

3. UIDAI Launches SITAA Scheme to Boost Innovation in Digital Identity

• What:
  • The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) launched the Scheme for Innovation and Technology Association with Aadhaar (SITAA) to foster innovation and collaboration in the digital identity domain.
• Why:
  • The scheme aims to strengthen India’s ID Tech ecosystem by engaging startups, academia, and industry to co-develop secure, scalable, and advanced digital identity technologies.
• Tell me more:
  • SITAA will focus on biometric devices, authentication frameworks, artificial intelligence, data privacy, and secure identity applications.
  • The initiative will begin with pilot challenges covering areas such as Face Liveness Detection, Presentation Attack Detection, and Contactless Fingerprint Authentication.
  • Applications for these challenges are open until November 15, 2025.
  • The program is supported by MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) and NASSCOM under MoUs signed with UIDAI as strategic partners.
  • MSH will provide technical mentoring, incubation, and accelerator support, while NASSCOM will extend industry and global outreach.

Source: PIB

State News

1. World Bank Approves $280 Million Loan for Kerala Health Programme

• What:
  • The World Bank has approved a $280-million (over Rs 2,450 crore) loan for a health system improvement programme in Kerala to help 11 million elderly and vulnerable people.
• Why:
  • The programme aims to improve life expectancy and quality of life, especially for the elderly and vulnerable, by ensuring better treatment and support for major health issues.
• Tell me more:
  • The programme will provide individual electronic-tracking for patients with hypertension and diabetes and treat over 90% of those registered.
  • The loan comes from the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), with a 25-year maturity and five-year grace period.
  • The World Bank’s Acting Country Director for India, Paul Procee, highlighted efforts to end preventable deaths.

Source: TH

2. Bajrang Setu to Replace Iconic Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh

• What:
  • A new 132-meter-long glass suspension bridge, Bajrang Setu, is being built over the Ganges River in Rishikesh to replace the historic Laxman Jhula, which was closed for safety reasons in 2019.
• Tell me more:
  • Its design draws inspiration from the Kedarnath Temple, with intricately carved towers reflecting Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage.
  • The original Laxman Jhula was completed in 1929 and connected the villages of Tapovan and Jonk.
  • It was believed to be located at the site where Lakshmana from the Ramayana crossed the Ganges on jute ropes.

Source: TOI

3. Darbar Move Tradition Restored in Jammu and Kashmir

• What:
  • The Jammu and Kashmir government restored the 150-year-old Darbar Move tradition, with the Civil Secretariat and other departments set to close in Srinagar on October 31 and reopen in Jammu on November 3.
• Why:
  • The move fulfils a promise by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to restore the bi-annual transfer of the government between Jammu and Srinagar to maintain administrative presence in both regions.
• Tell me more:
  • The Darbar Move was discontinued in 2021 to save around Rs 200 crore annually after the administration adopted e-governance.
  • This year, all departments, including the Chief Minister’s Secretariat and heads of 38 departments, will shift entirely to Jammu.
  • Another 47 departments such as Horticulture and Sericulture will relocate temporarily in a camp setup.
  • The State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) will provide buses and cranes to transport nearly 10,000 employees safely between the two capitals.
  • Health, ration, and security arrangements have been made along the Srinagar-Jammu route for the convenience of travelling employees.

Source: IE

International News

1. Airbus, Leonardo, Thales Join Forces for New Space Company

• What:
  • Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales  have signed an MoU to combine their space activities into a new company, expected to be operational in 2027, subject to approvals.
• Why:
  • The aim is to strengthen Europe’s space ecosystem, support innovation, improve strategic autonomy, and make Europe more competitive in the global space market.
• Tell me more:
  • The new company will pool satellite and space systems manufacturing, and space services, creating a unified European space leader.
  • Ownership will be split: Airbus 35%, Leonardo 32.5%, Thales 32.5%, with joint control and balanced governance.
  • Projected to employ around 25,000 people, with annual turnover about €6.5 billion and an order backlog over three years of sales.
  • The new company aims to accelerate technological progress, boost operational efficiency, and support national and European space missions.
  • Synergies are expected to save several hundred million euros annually in operating income, five years after creation.

Source: Airbus

2. Fourth FATF Plenary Meeting Held under Mexican Presidency

• What:
  • The fourth Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary under the Mexican Presidency of Elisa de Anda Madrazo ended with a strong focus on depriving criminals of their illegal gains and addressing key issues in fighting illicit finance.
• Why:
  • The meeting aimed to improve countries’ ability to fight money laundering, terrorist financing, and to help nations recover assets from criminals more effectively.
• Tell me more:
  • Representatives from over 200 jurisdictions participated in discussions on strengthening anti-money laundering efforts globally.
  • New reports on Belgium and Malaysia’s defence systems against illicit finance were adopted—these are the first assessments under the updated, risk-based evaluation process.
  • Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa were removed from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring after completing their Action Plans.
  • New guidance was approved to help countries recover criminal assets, including across borders, and a Horizon Scan was agreed to alert on risks of AI and deepfakes in illicit finance.
  • The suspension of the Russian Federation from FATF membership continues.

Source: FATF

3. China Starts Trials for the World’s Fastest Bullet Train

• What:
  • China has started pre-service trials of the CR450 bullet train, which reached a top speed of 450 km/h during tests on the Shanghai-Chongqing-Chengdu high-speed railway line.
• Why:
  • The trials aim to evaluate the train’s performance before its commercial launch in 2026 and highlight advancements in China’s high-speed rail technology.
• Tell me more:
  • The CR450 prototype was unveiled in November last year and is now in its final evaluation phase after extensive testing.
  • The CR450 was developed by subsidiaries of the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC).
  • Once operational, the CR450 will become the fastest commercial train in the world.

Source: ET

4. East Timor Becomes 11th Member of ASEAN

• What:
  • East Timor officially joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as its 11th member during the summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 26.
• Why:
  • East Timor’s membership strengthens regional economic, political, and security cooperation and realises its long-standing goal to join ASEAN.
• Tell me more:
  • East Timor, independent since 2002, has a population of 1.4 million and is located north of Australia on the eastern side of the island shared with Indonesia.
  • It was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years before invasion by Indonesia in 1975, regaining independence after a UN referendum in 1999.
  • The country faces economic challenges with nearly 42% living below the poverty line and is seeking to diversify from oil and gas revenues.
  • East Timor has signed many agreements with ASEAN before full membership and will join regional institutions like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

Source: IE

5. IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi

• What:
  • Members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) re-elected Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak as President for a second four-year term, along with new leaders for its Commissions and Council during the IUCN World Conservation Congress.
• Tell me more:
  • IUCN Director General Dr. Grethel Aguilar congratulated Al Mubarak.
  • The re-elected and newly elected Chairs of IUCN’s seven Commissions will guide the organization’s scientific work through research, advocacy, and policy inputs.
  • Indian conservationist Vivek Menon became Chair of the Species Survival Commission, focusing on protecting threatened species globally.
  • Dr. Madhu Rao continues as Chair of the World Commission on Protected Areas, working on equitable conservation and climate solutions.
  • Lima Rosalind from India has been elected for the South and East Asia region.

Source: IUCN

6. 16th UNCTAD Conference Held in Geneva, Switzerland

• What:
  • The 16th session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16) was held from 20 to 23 October 2025 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Why:
  • The conference aimed to drive economic transformation for equitable, inclusive, and sustainable development through global dialogue on trade, finance, investment, and the digital economy.
• Tell me more:
  • The theme of the conference was “Shaping the future: Driving economic transformation for equitable, inclusive and sustainable development.”
  • Originally planned to be held in Viet Nam, the venue was shifted to Geneva after both parties could not finalize the Host Country Agreement in time.

Source: UN UN

Banking and Economy

1. Blackstone to Acquire 9.99% Stake in Federal Bank

• What:
  • Private equity firm Blackstone  will acquire a 9.99% stake in Federal Bank  for Rs 6,196.51 crore through its entity Asia II Topco XIII Pte Ltd.
• Why:
  • The investment aims to strengthen Federal Bank’s capital base and support growth across retail, SME, and digital businesses.
• Tell me more:
  • Federal Bank’s board approved the proposal, subject to approval from shareholders and regulators such as RBI and the Competition Commission.
  • The bank will issue up to 27.29 crore warrants through a private placement; each warrant can be converted into one equity share of face value Rs 2 at an issue price of Rs 227 per share.
  • The investor will pay 25% of the issue price upfront, with the remainder due upon conversion within 18 months. Warrants not converted within this period will lapse without refund.
  • Once the investor holds at least 5% equity, it can appoint one non-executive director to the board, subject to necessary approvals.
  • The investor is not part of the bank’s promoter group or related entities.

Source: TOI

2. PNB Reduces Stake in Canara HSBC Life Insurance

• What:
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB)  has divested 10% of its stake in Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company, bringing its shareholding down from 23% to 13%.
• Why:
  • The divestment is part of PNB’s strategy to optimise capital and unlock value from non-core investments, while maintaining strategic exposure in key associates.
• Tell me more:
  • The stake sale was done via an offer for sale (OFS) during the initial public offering (IPO) of Canara HSBC Life, raising Rs 1,007 crore from selling 9.5 crore shares at Rs 106 per share.
  • This transaction follows Canara Robeco’s modest listing earlier in the week.

Source: CNBC

3. Life Cycle 75 (LC 75) and Balanced Life Cycle (BLC) Options Extended in NPS, UPS

• What:
  • The Government of India has approved the extension of LC75 and BLC investment options to Central Government Employees under the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).
• Why:
  • The decision fulfils a demand for more investment choices, giving employees greater flexibility and control over their retirement planning.
• Tell me more:
  • Under NPS and UPS, the Central Government employees can now choose from a range of investment options:
    • Default option: A standard investment pattern decided by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) from time to time.
    • Scheme G: 100% investment in government securities, offering low-risk and steady returns.
    • LC-25: Allows up to 25% investment in equities, which gradually reduces from age 35 to 55 because equity is considered a riskier option.
    • LC-50: Allows up to 50% investment in equities, tapering gradually from age 35 to 55.
    • BLC (Balanced Life Cycle): A modified version of LC-50 where equity reduction begins at age 45, letting employees stay invested in equities for a longer period.
    • LC-75: Allows up to 75% investment in equities, which gradually decreases from age 35 to 55.
  • Equity allocation in these schemes reduces with age to protect employees as retirement nears—dropping to 15% for LC75 and 35% for BLC by age 55.
  • These “Auto Choice” options increase diversification and let employees structure retirement savings as per individual risk-return preferences.
  • Employees can now manage retirement corpus according to personal retirement goals and risk appetite, similar to non-government subscribers.
  • The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) decides the default pattern from time to time.

Source: PIB

4. City Union Bank Launches New Digital Payment Products

• What:
  • City Union Bank (CUB) launched several new digital payment products and solutions at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025 in Mumbai to make financial services easier and more secure for customers.
• Why:
  • These launches aim to increase digital payments, improve customer convenience, and provide advanced secure solutions to users.
• Tell me more:
  • Major product launches include “UPI Circle: My Devices” for IoT-enabled UPI payments, “UPI Reserve Pay” using Single Block Multiple Debit (SBMD), and the AI-powered SLM Chatbot “UPI Help” for UPI support.
  • The bank also introduced multisignatory workflows through UPI, UPI-based cash withdrawal at business correspondent points, and additional authentication methods for UPI including BioAuth and Face Auth.
  • Other launches are digital loan against mutual funds for new customers, CUB Desire systematic savings plan, CUB Depend credit line on UPI, and the AI-enabled CUB RuPay MSME Credit Card.
  • The new features were developed in partnership with NPCI and rolled out during GFF 2025 organised by Payments Council of India (PCI), National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC).
  • The Reserve Bank of India Governor unveiled the main digital payment products at the event.

Source: IE

5. India’s Forex Reserves Cross $700 Billion Mark

• What:
  • India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $4.496 billion to reach $702.28 billion for the week ending October 17, mainly due to a rise in the value of gold reserves.
• Why:
  • The increase highlights India’s stronger external position as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continues to diversify reserves, favouring gold over dollar-based assets.
• Tell me more:
  • In the previous week, reserves had risen by $2.176 billion to $697.784 billion.
  • Foreign currency assets (FCA) dropped by $1.692 billion to $570.411 billion due to currency valuation changes.
  • Gold reserves rose sharply by $6.181 billion to $108.546 billion, while Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) increased by $38 million to $18.722 billion.
  • India’s reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) fell by $30 million to $4.602 billion.
  • The RBI’s preference for gold helped offset the fall in FCA, keeping total reserves above $700 billion.

Source: TOI

6. India to Introduce New GDP Series with 2022–23 Base Year

• What:
  • The government will roll out a new GDP series early next year with the base year shifted from 2011–12 to 2022–23, reflecting India’s growing digital footprint and structural economic transformation.
• Why:
  • The new series aims to capture the digitalisation of the economy more accurately by including data from e-commerce, gig work, logistics, and digital payments.
• Tell me more:
  • The revised series will incorporate richer data on services, unincorporated enterprises, and other emerging sectors.
  • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has strengthened its Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises for more detailed output and employment estimates.
  • The revised GDP series will be released in late February alongside the second advance estimates.

Source: ET

GDP Forecasts

1. Deloitte Projects India’s GDP Growth at 6.7–6.9% for FY26

• What:
  • Deloitte India projected India’s economy to grow between 6.7% and 6.9% in the current fiscal, with an average growth of 6.8%, supported by strong demand and policy reforms.
• Why:
  • The growth outlook reflects India’s economic resilience, driven by buoyant domestic demand, accommodative policies, and structural reforms like GST 2.0.
• Tell me more:
  • India recorded 7.8% economic growth in the April–June quarter of the current fiscal.
  • Private investment is likely to pick up momentum as businesses prepare to meet higher demand and anticipate trade deals with the US and EU.
  • However, risks remain from global headwinds, trade uncertainties, and high core inflation above 4%, which could restrict RBI’s scope for rate cuts.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. Defence Procurement Manual 2025 Released to Boost Efficiency

• What:
  • Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh released the Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 in New Delhi, which will be effective from November 01, 2025, facilitating revenue procurement of about Rs 1 lakh crore by the three Services and other Ministry of Defence establishments.
• Why:
  • The manual aims to simplify procurement procedures, bring uniformity in functioning, enhance transparency, and promote participation of MSMEs and start-ups in defence manufacturing and technology.
• Tell me more:
  • DPM 2025 was prepared in close consultation with the Services and other stakeholders under the guidance of the Financial Advisor (Defence Services).
  • Provisions have been revised to promote ease of doing business, expedite decision-making, and reduce liquidated damages (LD) on delayed deliveries, with relaxed rates for indigenisation cases.
  • Assured orders up to five years are allowed for items developed under indigenisation, and the requirement for a ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the old Ordnance Factory Board has been removed.
  • The new manual introduces three additional chapters: Promoting Self-Reliance through Innovation and Indigenisation, ICT Procurement, and Consultancy and Non-Consultancy Services.
  • All RFPs issued from November 01, 2025, will follow DPM 2025, while earlier cases will continue under DPM 2009.

Source: PIB

2. Indian Air Force Takes Part in Exercise Ocean Sky 2025

• What:
  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the multinational air combat exercise ‘Ocean Sky 2025’ hosted by the Spanish Air Force at Gando Air Base, Spain, from October 20 to 31, 2025.
• Why:
  • The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, improve air combat skills, encourage mutual learning, and strengthen defence cooperation with friendly nations.
• Tell me more:
  • This exercise follows the recent induction of 16 Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft into the IAF fleet, received ahead of schedule in August 2025.
  • The Airbus C-295 aircraft enhances India’s operational capability with its multi-role use in transport, surveillance, patrol, and medical missions.
  • The aircraft’s handover took place in Seville, Spain, with the Indian Ambassador to Spain, Dinesh K Patnaik, and IAF officials in attendance.

2. Indian Air Force Takes Part in Exercise Ocean Sky 2025

• What:
  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the multinational air combat exercise ‘Ocean Sky 2025’ hosted by the Spanish Air Force at Gando Air Base, Spain, from October 20 to 31, 2025.
• Why:
  • The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, improve air combat skills, encourage mutual learning, and strengthen defence cooperation with friendly nations.
• Tell me more:
  • This exercise follows the recent induction of 16 Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft into the IAF fleet, received ahead of schedule in August 2025.
  • The Airbus C-295 aircraft enhances India’s operational capability with its multi-role use in transport, surveillance, patrol, and medical missions.
  • The aircraft’s handover took place in Seville, Spain, with the Indian Ambassador to Spain, Dinesh K Patnaik, and IAF officials in attendance.

Source: ANI

3. Indian Navy Receives First ASW Shallow Water Craft ‘Mahe’

• What:
  • ‘Mahe’, the first of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC) built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, was delivered to the Indian Navy on 23 October 2025.
• Why:
  • The vessel enhances India’s maritime security and self-reliance in naval shipbuilding, boosting the Navy’s capability in anti-submarine operations.
• Tell me more:
  • ‘Mahe’ is named after the historic port town in Puducherry and reflects India’s maritime heritage.
  • The ship is indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited with over 80% indigenous content.
  • The vessel is the first of eight ASW SWCs ordered by the Indian Navy.

Source: PIB

4. 14th India-Bhutan Border Management and Security Meeting Held in Thimphu

• What:
  • The 14th India-Bhutan Meeting on Border Management and Security was held in Thimphu, Bhutan from October 16 to 17, 2025.
• Why:
  • The meeting aimed to review and strengthen bilateral security cooperation and border management for a safe and prosperous border region.
• Tell me more:
  • The Indian delegation was led by Dr. Rajendra Kumar, Secretary, Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Bhutanese side was headed by Mr. Sonam Wangyel, Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Officials from Sashastra Seema Bal, Land Ports Authority of India, Department of Telecommunications, Narcotics Control Bureau, Survey of India, Customs, and representatives from Assam, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh participated.
  • The last border management meeting was held in 2019.

Source: PIB

5. Goa Shipyard Limited Launches Last Two Fast Patrol Vessels For Indian Coast Guard

• What:
  • Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched two fast patrol vessels (FPVs), ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit, for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), marking the completion of all eight FPVs built indigenously for the ICG.
• Why:
  • The launches aim to strengthen coastal security and finish a major series of shipbuilding for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
• Tell me more:
  • The launch of these vessels makes a historical feat of 10 coast guard ships launched and two deliveries in 14 months at GSL.
  • ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit are the 42nd and 43rd Coast Guard ships built by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
  • The FPVs have over 65% indigenous equipment and are designed to boost coastal and maritime capabilities.
  • Since July 2024, GSL has launched 12 vessels at an average rate of one ship every 40 days.
  • In 2024-25, GSL plans to launch a dredger for a Belgian firm, a floating drydock for a foreign navy, and a new generation patrol vessel.

Source: TOI

6. INS Sutlej Completes Joint Hydrographic Survey with Mauritius

• What:
  • INS Sutlej successfully completed a joint hydrographic survey with the Mauritius Hydrographic Service covering around 35,000 square nautical miles.
• Why:
  • The mission aimed to enhance marine charting, coastal regulation, resource management, and environmental planning to support Mauritius’ Blue Economy goals.
• Tell me more:
  • The survey was conducted under an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Mauritius with coordination from national agencies.
  • Six Mauritian personnel joined INS Sutlej for hands-on training in modern hydrographic methods as part of capacity-building efforts.
  • INS Sutlej also carried out joint Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance and anti-piracy patrols with the Mauritius National Coast Guard.

Source: ANI

Science and Technology

1. Earth Hosts Second Moon: Discovery of 2025 PN7

• What:
  • NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and researchers announced that Earth now has a second moon-like companion, a small near-Earth object named 2025 PN7, classed as a quasi-satellite.
• Why:
  • The discovery shows surprising new features in Earth’s cosmic neighbourhood and offers scientists a unique chance to study orbital dynamics and near-Earth asteroids.
• Tell me more:
  • 2025 PN7 is very small, measuring about 18–36 metres across, and is expected to remain in Earth’s orbit-like arrangement until around 2083.
  • Unlike the true moon, 2025 PN7 does not orbit Earth directly—it orbits the Sun in sync with Earth’s path, creating the impression of a second moon.
  • This object belongs to the rare class of quasi-satellites, which are not gravitationally bound to Earth but follow a similar orbit.
  • Scientists say 2025 PN7 does not pose any danger due to its stable, distant orbit.
  • Its faint size and brightness make it invisible to the naked eye or most amateur telescopes.

Source: TOI

Awards

1. Nilgiris Scientist Named Among World’s Top Researchers

• What:
  • Nilgiris-based researcher Dr. Ashokkumar Veeramuthu has been recognised among the World’s Top Scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier Publishers for the third consecutive year — 2023, 2024, and 2025.
• Why:
  • The recognition highlights his outstanding contribution to environmental and health research and places him among the top 2% of scientists globally.
• Tell me more:
  • Dr. Ashokkumar’s recognition marks a rare achievement for an Indian scientist in global research rankings that include Nobel laureates and leading experts.
  • He serves as Professor and Head at the Centre for Waste Management and Renewable Energy at Saveetha University, Chennai.
  • He has authored over 130 peer-reviewed publications and collaborates with 18 universities worldwide, including Chulalongkorn University (Thailand), National University of Singapore, and University Technology Malaysia.

Source: ET

2. Centre Announces Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025 Winners

• What:
  • The Centre announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) 2025, with 24 individual awards and one team award for scientific achievement.
• Why:
  • The awards aim to recognise lifetime achievements, distinguished contributions, and exceptional work of young scientists and teams in various fields of science and technology.
• Tell me more:
  • Eminent physicist Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, who passed away in May, received the Vigyan Ratna for lifetime contribution.
  • Eight scientists, including Gyanendra Pratap Singh and Mahan Mj, received the Vigyan Shri awards for distinguished contributions.
  • Fourteen scientists, such as Jagadis Gupta Kapuganti and Deepa Agashe, won the Vigyan Yuva awards for young scientists under 45 years.
  • The Vigyan Team award went to the CSIR Aroma Mission.
  • Last year, President Droupadi Murmu presented 33 awards during the inaugural ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Source: TH

3. Lionel Messi Wins 2025 MLS Golden Boot

• What:
  • Lionel Messi won the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) Golden Boot after scoring 29 goals and making 19 assists in his second full season with Inter Miami CF.
• Why:
  • The award recognises the highest goal scorer of the MLS season and celebrates outstanding performance and consistency in the league.
• Tell me more:
  • Messi became the first Inter Miami player and the first Argentine since Taty Castellanos in 2021 to win the MLS Golden Boot.
  • His 48 goal contributions are only one short of Carlos Vela’s 2019 record.
  • He outperformed Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge in the 2025 season.
  • Messi is also in contention to become MLS’s first back-to-back MVP after leading Miami to a historic 2024 Supporters’ Shield win.
  • Earlier in the week, he became the all-time assist leader in men’s international football with 60 assists following Argentina’s 6-0 win over Puerto Rico.

Source: NOA

4. SBI Wins Two Global Finance Awards 2025

• What:
  • State Bank of India (SBI) received two honours from Global Finance, New York — “World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025” and “Best Bank in India 2025” at the Global Finance Award Ceremony held during the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings 2025.
• Why:
  • The awards recognize SBI’s innovation, financial inclusion, technological leadership, and commitment to providing world-class banking services to a diverse customer base.
• Tell me more:
  • As of June 2025, SBI’s deposits stood at Rs 54.73 lakh crore, advances at Rs 42.54 lakh crore, and home loan portfolio at Rs 8.5 lakh crore supporting 30 lakh families.
  • The bank ranks as the 4th most trustworthy bank globally according to Newsweek.
  • It operates 22,980 branches, 62,200 ATMs/ADWMs, and over 76,800 BC outlets across India.
  • SBI holds 27.7% market share in home loans and 19.03% in auto loans.
  • SBI’s Chairman, Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, highlighted the bank’s “Digital First, Consumer First” approach as key to its success.

Source: ET

Important Days

1. International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2025 – October 19 to 25

• WHO’s 2025 Campaign: “No safe level: act now to end lead exposure”

Source: WHO

2. Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2025 – October 24-31

• Theme: “Minds Over AI” – MIL in Digital Spaces

Source: UN

3. Disarmament Week 2025- October 24 to 30

Sports

1. Tanvi Sharma Reaches Girls’ Singles Final at BWF World Junior Championships

• What:
  • Tanvi Sharma of India reached the girls’ singles final at the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Junior Championships 2025 in Guwahati.
• Why:
  • The achievement marks Tanvi as the fifth Indian to reach a World Junior final, highlighting her rising prominence in Indian badminton.
• Tell me more:
  • Only four Indian badminton players have earlier reached the World Junior final: Aparna Popat (1996), Saina Nehwal (2006, 2008), Siril Verma (2015), and Sankar Muthusamy (2022).
  • Tanvi Sharma is 16 years old and part of India’s promising new badminton talent.
  • The championship took place in Guwahati, providing home advantage to Indian players.

Source: NOA

2. Rohit Sharma Becomes India’s Third-Highest Run-Getter in ODIs

• What:
  • Rohit Sharma surpassed former captain Sourav Ganguly to become India’s third-highest run-scorer in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
• Tell me more:
  • He has now scored 11,249 runs in 275 ODIs at an average of 48.69, including 32 centuries and 59 fifties, with a best of 264.
  • Ganguly had scored 11,121 runs in 308 matches at an average of 40.95 with 22 centuries and 71 fifties.
  • Sachin Tendulkar (18,426 runs) and Virat Kohli (14,181 runs) are the only two Indian batters ahead of Rohit in ODI runs.
  • Since 2022, Rohit has made 19 fifty-plus scores, only twice reaching fifty at a strike rate under 100.

Source: ET

Memorandum of Understanding

1. DPIIT Signs MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank to Support Startups

• What:
  • The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. to enhance financial and non-financial support for startups across India.
• Why:
  • The collaboration aims to nurture an innovation-led economy and strengthen India’s position as a global startup hub by improving access to finance, guidance, and infrastructure for startups.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU will create a framework for startups to access customized banking services, credit, funding, digital infrastructure, and capacity-building programs.
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank will offer zero-balance current accounts, working capital and term loans, API-based platforms, digital payment solutions, and startup cards for DPIIT-recognized startups.
  • The Bank will also provide mentorship, investment advisory, incubation, and networking opportunities to help startups grow from idea to scale.

Source: PIB

2. BEML Signs MoU with Tesmec S.p.A. for Surface Miner Equipment

• What:
  • BEML Limited signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tesmec S.p.A., Italy, to introduce Surface Miner equipment for mining applications.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to expand and enhance BEML’s mining equipment offerings as part of its regular business operations.
• Tell me more:
  • BEML Limited is a multi-technology ‘Schedule A’ company under the Ministry of Defence.
  • ‘Schedule A’ companies are among the largest public sector enterprises in India.
  • The company operates in defence & aerospace, mining & construction, and rail & metro verticals.
  • As of June 30, 2025, the Government of India holds a 53.86% stake in BEML.

Source: BS

Appointments

1. India Re-elected as Vice-Chair of COP10 Bureau

• What:
  • India has been re-elected as the Vice-Chairperson of the Conference of Parties (COP10) Bureau to the International Convention against Doping in Sport during the 10th Session held in Paris.
• Tell me more:
  • The decision was made during the 10th Session of COP10 held in Paris.
  • The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports facilitated the provision of Interactive Boards showing the journey of the Anti-Doping Convention.
  • The conference focused on enhancing governance and financing for the Fund for the Elimination of Doping in Sport.
  • The event also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Anti-Doping Convention.

Source: NOA

2. Dame Sarah Mullally Becomes First Woman to Lead Church of England

• What:
  • The Church of England appointed Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally as its first female leader and the next Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Justin Welby.
• Tell me more:
  • Mullally, aged 63, will officially become the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury at her confirmation of election in January 2026, with her installation service in March 2026.
  • She has served as Bishop of London since 2018, becoming the first woman to hold that position.
  • Before joining the clergy in 2001, she was England’s Chief Nursing Officer and the youngest ever appointed at age 37.

Source: TOI

Miscellaneous

1. ‘Modi’s Mission’ Book Launched in Mumbai

• Governor of Maharashtra Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched the book ‘Modi’s Mission’ in Mumbai, authored by Berjis Desai.
• The book aims to highlight Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life journey, decisions, and his role in resolving complex issues facing the country.
• The author Berjis Desai is a well-known Mumbai-based lawyer and writer.

Source: NOA

2. Thailand Mourns the Death of Queen Mother Sirikit

• What:
  • Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of grace, philanthropy, and influence that shaped the country’s modern monarchy.
• Tell me more:
  • Sirikit was born in 1932, the year Thailand became a constitutional monarchy.
  • The Thai monarchy is bound by lese-majeste laws, which prohibit criticism of the royal family.
  • Queen Sirikit’s son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), currently heads Thailand’s monarchy.
  • The Thai royal family is among the wealthiest in the world, though Sirikit’s personal wealth was never disclosed.

Source: LM

3. Veteran Actor Satish Shah, Beloved Star of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Passes Away at 74

Source: IE

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