09th July 2025

1. Bihar Reserves 35% Government Jobs for Domicile Women
2. Punjab Launches Mukhya Mantri Sehat Yojana
3. HCLSoftware Launches Sovereign AI to Strengthen Government Data Privacy
4. Veteran Socialist Leader Charupara Ravi Passes Away at 77
5. NTPC Simhadri Celebrates 28th Raising Day with Pride and Purpose
6. Bulgaria to Join Eurozone as 21st Member from January 1, 2026
7. Asia’s Oldest Elephant ‘Vatsala’ Passes Away at Panna Tiger Reserve
8. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Honoured with Brazil’s Highest Civilian Award
9. RCB Becomes IPL’s Most Valuable Team in 2025
10. Hardeep Singh Brar Named CEO of BMW India
11. Adani Power Buys 600 MW Vidarbha Unit for ₹4,000 Crore
12. Nigeria Football Legend Peter Rufai Passes Away at 61
13. Trinidad & Tobago Joins UPI Network for Indian Travelers
14. VS Ravi Launches Book on Shakespeare in Hyderabad
15. Hindustan Shipyard (HSL) Delivers Diving Support Vessel ‘Nistar’ to Indian Navy
16. Sakambari Festival Begins at Indrakeeladri Temple
17. GoI Awards Seven-Star Ratings to Three Mines for Green Practices
18. IISc Bengaluru Launched ‘BHARAT Study’ to Build India’s Ageing Biomarker Baseline
19. MapmyIndia’s Mappls App Integrates DIGIPIN to Generate Digital Addresses
20. ADB Launches UHC PEERS Network to Accelerate Health Coverage in Asia-Pacific
21. AirAsia Berhad Signs USD 12.25 billion Agreement with Airbus for 50 A321XLR Jets
22. Space TS and Synergy Quantum Partner to Develop India’s first Indigenous Quantum-Secure Satellite
23. Asian Para Archery Championships 2025: China Tops Medal Tally; India Finishes 2nd
24. Indian Sprinter Animesh Kujur First Indian to run 100m in less than 10.2 seconds
25. World Bioproduct Day – July 7
26. AP Govt Approves Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration
27. AP Government Set to Launch AI-powered SMoSS to Tackle Mosquito Menace
28. Overview of PM Narendra Modi’s 5-Nation Visit to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil & Namibia

National News

1. IISc Launches BHARAT Study on Healthy Ageing

• What:
  • The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, launched the BHARAT study in 2023 to research healthy ageing in India.
• Why:
  • The study aims to create an India-specific health standard to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of age-related illnesses.
• Tell me more:
  • BHARAT stands for Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions.
  • The study collects health data on genetics, metabolism, environment, and lifestyle from people across India.
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning are used to analyse data and predict diseases before symptoms appear.
  • The project’s goals include predicting and preventing illnesses like dementia and Parkinson’s, and improving elderly quality of life.
  • BHARAT is part of the Longevity India Program.

Source: TH

2. MapmyIndia Integrates DIGIPIN with Mappls App

• What:
  • MapmyIndia has integrated India Post’s DIGIPIN with its Mappls app, allowing users to generate a unique 10-character code for any address with high accuracy.
• Why:
  • The integration aims to improve last-mile delivery, location accuracy, and support Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by creating digital addresses for all citizens and businesses.
• Tell me more:
  • DIGIPIN is a 10-character alphanumeric code developed by India Post for precise geolocation.
  • The Mappls app overlays DIGIPIN with its own Pin, adding details like building names and landmarks.
  • The system helps locate remote or unmapped areas and is useful for delivery workers, emergency services, and others.
  • India Post has also embedded MapmyIndia’s Map APIs in its internal systems to enhance services.

Source: IE

3. PM Modi Visits Namibia to Conclude Five-Nation Tour

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Namibia, marking his first visit to the country and the final stop of his five-nation tour.
• Why:
  • The visit aims to strengthen India’s historical and multi-faceted ties with Namibia.
• Tell me more:
  • The visit is at the invitation of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
  • He will address the Parliament in Namibia and pay homage to the Founding Father and first President, Late Dr. Sam Nujoma.
  • This is the third-ever state visit to Namibia by an Indian Prime Minister.

Source: HT

State News

1. Bihar Applies Domicile Rule for Women’s Job Quota

• What:
  • Bihar Cabinet approved the domicile rule for the existing 35% quota for women in all state government jobs, allowing only women who are residents of Bihar to be eligible.
• Why:
  • The decision aims to ensure that the 35% reservation in government jobs benefits women who are residents of Bihar.
• Tell me more:
  • The domicile rule was not applied earlier, leading to criticism during mass teacher recruitment.
  • To get Bihar domicile status, a person must be a resident for at least three years, own a house or land, or be married to a resident; voter ID is not mandatory.
  • Bihar has less than 1.57% of its population as state government employees, with 36,000 women in the police force and over 2.5 lakh women teachers employed since 2007.
  • The 35% quota for women in jobs started in January 2016.

Source: IE

2. Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Launched in Punjab

• What:
  • Punjab government launched the “Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana” to provide free and cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per year for every family in the state.
• Why:
  • The scheme aims to ensure that every citizen of Punjab gets free healthcare without any income limit.
• Tell me more:
  • The scheme covers all 3 crore residents of Punjab, including government employees and pensioners.
  • The previous treatment limit was ₹5 lakh, now increased to ₹10 lakh per family per year.
  • Health cards can be obtained at Seva Kendras, Common Service Centres, or through online registration using Aadhaar or voter ID.
  • The scheme will be operational from October 2, with camps organized for enrolment.
  • Punjab is the first state in India to provide free healthcare, education, electricity, and bus travel to its citizens.
  • Under this scheme, treatment is available at any government or empanelled private hospital in Punjab.

Source: HT

3. Shakambari Festival Begins at Kanaka Durga Temple

• What:
  • The three-day Shakambari festival started at the Kanaka Durga temple on Indrakeeladri Hill with the temple decorated using over 50 tonnes of fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Tell me more:
  • The festival began on Ashada Shuddha Trayodashi and will end on Guru Purnima.
  • Goddess Shakambari is considered an incarnation of goddess Kanaka Durga.
  • The festival is believed to make land fertile and free from drought.

Source: TOI

4. Andhra Pradesh Approves Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration

• What:
  • Andhra Pradesh Government approved the Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration to guide efforts in advancing quantum technologies and aims to attract USD 1 billion in investments by January 1, 2029.
• Why:
  • The declaration is intended to transform Amaravati into a global hub for quantum science and technology, fostering innovation, research, and international partnerships.
• Tell me more:
  • The declaration was a result of the Quantum Valley Workshop in Vijayawada, which included discussions on quantum computing, sensing, materials, and startup ecosystems.
  • AQV will establish a Living Lab Infrastructure, including QChipIN, India’s largest open quantum testbed, and aims for 1,000 effective qubits by 2029.
  • IBM will install Quantum System Two by January 1, 2026, and three quantum computers based on different qubit technologies are planned by January 1, 2027.
  • The initiative targets Rs 5,000 crore in annual exports by 2030 and will support at least 20 quantum startups in the next year and 100 by 2030 with a dedicated Rs 1,000 crore Quantum Fund.

Source: ET

5. Andhra Pradesh Launches AI-Based Mosquito Surveillance System

• What:
  • Andhra Pradesh is starting the Smart Mosquito Surveillance System (SMoSS) pilot project using artificial intelligence to control mosquitoes in 66 locations across six municipal corporations.
• Why:
  • The project aims to track and control mosquito populations more efficiently during monsoons to prevent diseases like dengue and malaria.
• Tell me more:
  • SMoSS uses AI-powered sensors, drones, and devices to detect mosquito species, population, and weather conditions.
  • Automatic alerts will be sent when mosquito numbers cross safe limits, enabling quick spraying or fogging.
  • The system includes a real-time dashboard for live data and will use mobile apps to track complaints and field operations.
  • Hospitals will send daily reports of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya cases to identify and target hotspots.

Source: IE

International News

1. Bulgaria to Adopt Euro as Official Currency

• What:
  • EU ministers approved Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro from January 1, 2026, making it the 21st member of the euro area.
• Why:
  • The move aims to strengthen Bulgaria’s economy and bring benefits to its people and businesses by joining the single currency area.
• Tell me more:
  • Bulgaria will switch from the lev to the euro at a fixed rate of 1.95583 lev per euro.
  • Bulgaria joined the European Union nearly 19 years ago and has a population of 6.4 million.
  • The European Commission and European Central Bank confirmed Bulgaria met the strict conditions to adopt the euro.
  • Bulgaria faced political challenges and public protests, with some citizens concerned about rising prices and loss of purchasing power.

Source: TH

Banking and Economy

1. HCLSoftware Launches Domino 14.5 with Sovereign AI

• What:
  • HCLSoftware has launched Domino 14.5, introducing a sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) solution for governments and regulated organisations focused on data privacy.
• Why:
  • The launch aims to protect organisational data privacy and ensure information security for entities concerned about data sovereignty.
• Tell me more:
  • Domino 14.5 brings significant enhancements to the Domino+ sovereign collaboration portfolio.
  • The new version includes Domino IQ, a sovereign AI extension to the Domino platform.
  • The solution is designed specifically for governments and regulated organisations.

Source: BS

2. NTPC Simhadri Celebrates 28th Raising Day

• NTPC Simhadri marked its 28th Raising Day at its administrative premises in Parawada, Anakapalli district.
• NTPC Simhadri was established in 1997 as NTPC’s first coastal-based power station.

Source: HT

3. Adani Power Completes Acquisition of VIPL Thermal Plant

• What:
  • Adani Power Ltd (APL) completed the ₹4,000-crore acquisition of Vidarbha Industries Power Ltd (VIPL), a 600 MW coal-based thermal project in Maharashtra.
• Tell me more:
  • After this acquisition, APL’s total operational capacity has increased to 18,150 MW, with a target to reach 30,670 MW by FY30.
  • Adani Power is India’s largest private thermal power producer, operating in eight states and running a 40 MW solar facility in Gujarat.
  • The company generated over 100 billion units of electricity in 2025, the highest by any private company in India.
  • The group aims to scale its capacity to 31 GW by 2030.

Source: BS

4. UPI Enabled in Trinidad and Tobago via India’s BHIM App

• What:
  • Trinidad and Tobago became the first Caribbean country to enable transactions through India’s BHIM app using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
• Tell me more:
  • Both countries agreed to further collaborate on India Stack solutions like DigiLocker, e-Sign, and Government e-Marketplace (GeM).

Source: HT

5. Tata Steel Mines Win Star Rating Awards for Sustainability

• What:
  • Tata Steel’s Noamundi, Joda East, and Khondbond mines received Star Rating Awards from the Ministry of Mines, with Noamundi Iron Mine winning the 7-Star Rating Award.
• Why:
  • The awards recognise outstanding efforts in scientific, safe, and sustainable mining practices.
• Tell me more:
  • Noamundi Iron Mine is one of only three mines in India to receive the 7-Star Rating since the award’s inception in 2016.
  • Joda East Iron Mine received a 5-Star Rating for the fourth time, and Khondbond Iron and Manganese Mine received its first 5-Star Rating.
  • The Star Rating system assesses mines on operational efficiency, environmental management, safety, community engagement, and sustainability.
  • The awards were presented at a ceremony in Jaipur, Rajasthan, attended by government officials and Tata Steel leaders.

Source: TAM

6. ADB Launches UHC PEERS Network for Health Coverage

• What:
  • Asian Development Bank (ADB) launched the Universal Health Coverage Practitioners and Experts Knowledge Exchange and Resources (UHC PEERS) network to accelerate universal health coverage in Asia and the Pacific.
• Why:
  • The network aims to help countries share solutions and learn from each other to extend health coverage to underserved populations and make healthcare accessible without financial hardship.
• Tell me more:
  • The launch was announced by ADB President Masato Kanda at the INSPIRE Health Forum, attended by over 25 developing member countries.
  • UHC PEERS will support countries in health financing reforms, service delivery innovations, and coverage expansion.
  • The network will allow countries to exchange ideas on reaching remote populations, integrating private sector providers, and developing sustainable financing.
  • More than 1 billion people in Asia and the Pacific still lack access to basic health services.

Source: ADB

7. AirAsia Orders 50 Airbus A321XLR Aircraft for Expansion

• What:
  • AirAsia Berhad signed an agreement with Airbus to buy 50 A321XLR aircraft, with rights for 20 more, valued at USD 12.25 billion.
• Why:
  • The purchase aims to help AirAsia become the world’s first low-cost network carrier and expand its routes to new regions.
• Tell me more:
  • The A321XLR’s extended range will allow AirAsia to operate longer routes, especially to Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
  • The aircraft offers up to 20% lower fuel burn per seat, supporting AirAsia’s efficiency and environmental goals.
  • Deliveries are expected between 2028 and 2032, helping AirAsia target 150 million guests annually by 2030.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. Nistar: First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel Delivered

• What:
  • ‘Nistar’, the first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel, was delivered by Hindustan Shipyard Limited to the Indian Navy on 8 July 2025 at Visakhapatnam.
• Why:
  • The delivery supports the Indian Navy’s goal of increasing indigenous shipbuilding and aligns with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
• Tell me more:
  • Nistar is designed as per Indian Register of Shipping rules and has nearly 75% indigenous content.
  • The ship is 118 meters long, weighs nearly 10,000 tons, and is equipped for deep sea saturation diving up to 300 meters.
  • It can perform rescue operations, act as a ‘Mother Ship’ for Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels, and use remotely operated vehicles for monitoring and salvage up to 1000 meters depth.
  • The ship also has a side diving stage for operations up to 75 meters.

Source: PIB

Science and Technology

1. Space TS and Synergy Quantum to Build Quantum-Secure Satellite

• What:
  • Space TS and Synergy Quantum signed an MoU to jointly develop India’s first indigenous quantum-secure satellite and space-based technologies.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to protect India’s space infrastructure from future quantum-enabled cyber threats and support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Tell me more:
  • The collaboration will focus on quantum-secure satellite payloads, encrypted satellite-ground communications, and AI-driven mission planning.
  • Plans include quantum-resilient satellite swarms, secure ground segment infrastructure, and quantum-secured drones for space-to-ground operations.
  • The alliance brings together expertise in spacecraft engineering and post-quantum cryptography to create sovereign, cyber-resilient space systems.
  • The project will use post-quantum encryption to safeguard national security, strategic autonomy, and mission integrity.

Source: TW

Awards

1. PM Modi Receives Brazil’s Highest Civilian Honour

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Brazil’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
• Why:
  • The award recognises Modi’s contributions to strengthening India-Brazil relations and enhancing cooperation on regional and global issues.
• Tell me more:
  • The ceremony took place during a meeting at Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, Brazil.
  • This is the 26th international honour awarded to Modi by a foreign government since May 2014.
  • Modi was also recently conferred with ‘The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’, the highest civilian honour of Trinidad and Tobago.

Source: HT

Important Days

1. World Bioproduct Day – July 7

• What:
  • Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh led the nationwide celebration of World Bioproduct Day – The BioE3 Way, highlighting India’s commitment to a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030.
• Tell me more:
  • The event was organized by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), BIRAC, and iBRIC+ and featured a synchronized national dialogue series across Indian cities.
  • India’s biotech ecosystem has grown from about 50 startups a decade ago to nearly 11,000 today, supported by policy and partnerships.
  • The recently launched BioE3 Policy focuses on sustainable biomanufacturing, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

Source: PIB

Sports

1. IPL 2025 Business Value Rises, RCB Most Valuable Team

• What:
  • The Indian Premier League’s business value rose by 13% to $18.5 billion in 2025, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru becoming the most valuable franchise.
• Why:
  • The growth is due to increased viewership, strong team performances, and higher advertising income, making IPL a leading global sports brand.
• Tell me more:
  • IPL’s brand value increased by 14% to nearly $4 billion.
  • RCB won its first IPL trophy and reached a brand value of $269 million, surpassing Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
  • Mumbai Indians are now the second most valuable team at $242 million, followed by Chennai Super Kings at $235 million and Kolkata Knight Riders at $227 million.

Source: IT

2. Harvinder Singh Wins Double Gold at Asian Para Archery

• What:
  • Harvinder Singh, World No. 1 and Paralympics champion, won two gold medals at the Beijing 2025 Asian Para Archery Championships, helping India finish second in the medal standings.
• Why:
  • The achievement highlights India’s strong performance in para archery and boosts the country’s reputation in international para sports.
• Tell me more:
  • India secured a total of three gold, three silver, and three bronze medals, while China topped the table.
  • He won gold in the recurve open mixed team event with Bhawna and in the recurve men’s open title.
  • The women’s compound team of Sheetal Devi and Jyoti won gold by defeating China in the final.

Source: TOI

3. Animesh Kujur Breaks India’s 100m National Record

• What:
  • Sprinter Animesh Kujur set a new Indian national record in the 100m by clocking 10.18 seconds at the Dromia Sprint and Relay Meet in Greece.
• Tell me more:
  • Kujur became the first Indian to run the 100m in under 10.2 seconds, beating the previous record of 10.20 seconds set by Gurindervir Singh.
  • Kujur has also broken the national 200m record twice this year and won a 200m medal at the Asian Championships.

Source: IE

Appointments

1. Hardeep Singh Brar Appointed President & CEO of BMW India

• BMW Group India has appointed Hardeep Singh Brar as its new President and CEO, effective September 1, 2025.
• Hardeep Singh Brar succeeds Vikram Pawah, who will become CEO of BMW Group Australia and New Zealand.

Source: ET

Miscellaneous

1. Veteran Trade Union Leader Charupara Ravi Passes Away

• Veteran trade union leader and RJD Kerala Vice President Charupara Ravi died at the age of 77 after prolonged illness.

Source: UNI

2. Vatsala, Asia’s Oldest Female Elephant, Passes Away

• Vatsala, claimed to be the oldest female elephant in Asia, died at Panna Tiger Reserve at over 100 years of age.
• Vatsala was brought from Kerala to Narmadapuram and later shifted to Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

Source: TOI

3. Former Nigeria Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Passes Away

• Former Nigeria international goalkeeper Peter Rufai died at the age of 61 after an illness.

Source: TH

4. Confessions of a Shakespeare Addict Book Launched in Hyderabad

• Retired IPS officer and columnist V.S. Ravi launched his new book, Confessions of a Shakespeare Addict, at an event in Hyderabad.

Source: IM

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