Daily Current Affairs 12th & 13th October 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

HDFC Bank unveils ‘My Business QR’ digital identity solution for small businesses at Global Fintech Fest 2025

• HDFC Bank launched ‘My Business QR’, a digital identity solution for small businesses, at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025.
• The initiative is India’s first commerce identity QR, aimed at helping retailers transition from offline to online platforms and enhance their digital presence and commerce capabilities.
• The launch was a collaboration between HDFC Bank and Vyaparify, under the bank’s SmartHub Vyapar merchant app, which has over 2 million merchants across India.

Key Highlights :

• ‘My Business QR’ combines QR payments and chat functionalities, allowing customers to scan the QR code to access a merchant’s digital business profile and save it to their phone contacts, creating an online commerce-ready storefront.
• The solution enables ordering and payments for products and services and improves merchant discoverability through search engine optimized listings.
• The initiative is designed for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to help them capture a larger share of local digital commerce without requiring major investments or technical skills.
• HDFC Bank also introduced next-generation payment solutions focusing on UPI and India’s Digital Rupee at the event to make transactions simpler and more secure.
• The overall goal of ‘My Business QR’ is to promote digital inclusion, enhance visibility and customer engagement, and support small business growth in India’s digital marketplace.

Reserve Bank of India Slaps ₹4.20 Lakh Penalty on HDB Financial Services for Regulatory Non-Compliance

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹4.20 lakh on HDB Financial Services Limited on October 1, 2025 for regulatory violations.
• The penalty was for non-compliance with provisions of the RBI (KYC) Directions, 2016.
• After reviewing the company’s written and oral submissions, the RBI upheld the charge and confirmed the penalty.
• The action was taken under Section 58G(1)(b) read with Section 58B(5)(aa) of the RBI Act, 1934.

Reserve Bank of India Invites Applications for Recognition of Self-Regulatory Organisations for Non-Banking Financial Companies

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a press release on June 19, 2024, inviting applications for recognition of Self-Regulatory Organisations (SROs) for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
• Three applications were received by RBI for recognition as SROs for the NBFC sector.
• After examination under the ‘Omnibus Framework for Recognition of SROs for Regulated Entities of RBI’ (March 21, 2024) and the June 19, 2024 press release, the Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) was recognised as the SRO for NBFCs.
• The Omnibus Framework outlines key aspects such as objectives, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, governance standards, and the application process for SRO recognition.
• The recognised SRO will be industry-driven and responsible for setting and enforcing regulatory standards, promoting ethical conduct, ensuring market integrity, and resolving disputes within the sector.

Key Highlights :

SRO Governance and Eligibility Criteria

• The SRO will be based on a ‘representative structure’, enabling it to leverage the collective expertise and experience of its members.
• The applicant must have a minimum net worth of ₹2 crore within one year after being recognised as an SRO by RBI, or before commencing operations.
• The shareholding of the SRO must be diversified, with no single entity holding 10% or more of its paid-up share capital, either individually or acting in concert.
• At least one-third of board members, including the chairperson, must be independent and not actively associated with any fintech entity.
• A majority of non-independent directors must represent fintechs that are not directly regulated by RBI.
• The SRO cannot open offices outside India, though fintechs domiciled abroad are allowed to become members of an Indian SRO.
• This recognition of FIDC as the SRO for NBFCs strengthens self-governance, promotes ethical industry practices, and enhances transparency in the financial ecosystem.

Reserve Bank of India Eases Merchanting Trade Rules to Enhance Operational Flexibility for Traders

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised norms for Merchanting Trade Transactions (MTT) to provide greater operational flexibility to traders.
• The foreign exchange outlay period under MTT has been extended from 4 months to 6 months, giving traders more time to complete transactions.
• The overall completion period for an MTT remains 9 months, counted from the first leg (export receipt or import payment) to the last leg of the transaction.
• The revised directions take immediate effect and are issued under Sections 10(4) and 11(1) of FEMA, 1999.
• Merchanting trade involves an Indian trader buying goods from a foreign supplier and selling to a foreign buyer without the goods entering Indian territory.

Reserve Bank of India Eases Compliance for Small Exporters and Importers by Revising EDPMS and IDPMS Procedures

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised procedures for reconciliation and closure of entries under EDPMS (Export Data Processing and Monitoring System) and IDPMS (Import Data Processing and Monitoring System) to ease compliance for small exporters and importers.
• For transactions up to ₹10 lakh per bill/entry, Authorised Dealer Category-I (AD) banks can now close entries based on a self-declaration from exporters (confirming realisation) or importers (confirming payment).
• Quarterly consolidated declarations are now allowed for bulk reconciliation and closure of multiple small-value entries.
• The revised directions are effective immediately and will be incorporated in the updated Master Directions on Export and Import of Goods & Services, issued under Sections 10(4) and 11(1) of FEMA, 1999.

Reserve Bank of India Announces ₹2.81 Lakh Crore Market Borrowing Plan for States and UTs in Q3 FY2025-26

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in consultation with State Governments/UTs, announced total market borrowings for Q3 (October–December 2025) at ₹2,81,865 crore.
• A weekly schedule of auctions has been planned for the quarter, detailing the tentative borrowing amounts from participating States and Union Territories.
• Tamil Nadu is among the top borrowers, with debt borrowings of ₹39,000 crore scheduled for the current quarter.
• Uttar Pradesh will borrow ₹33,000 crore in 11 auction rounds of ₹3,000 crore each.
• West Bengal will borrow ₹29,000 crore, while Gujarat is expected to borrow ₹20,000 crore through market borrowings this quarter.
• Rajasthan’s borrowings amount to ₹14,455 crore, and Bihar’s borrowings stand at around ₹9,800 crore.

Reserve Bank of India Supersedes Board of Irinjalakuda Town Co-operative Bank for One Year

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has superseded the Board of Directors of Irinjalakuda Town Co-operative Bank Ltd. for 12 months under Section 36AAA read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
• Shri Raju S Nair, former Vice President of Federal Bank, has been appointed as Administrator to manage the bank’s affairs during this period.
• A Committee of Advisors comprising Shri Mohanan K (former Deputy GM, South Indian Bank) and Shri T.A. Mohamed Sageer (former VP, Federal Bank) will assist the Administrator.
• The action was taken due to poor financial condition and weak governance standards of the bank, which raised material supervisory concerns.

Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2028 Interest Set at 6.22% for October 2025–April 2026 Period

• The rate of interest on the Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2028 (GOI FRB 2028) for the half-year from October 4, 2025, to April 3, 2026, is 6.22% per annum.
• The coupon rate of GOI FRB 2028 is based on the average Weighted Average Yield (WAY) of the last three auctions of 182-Day Treasury Bills (T-Bills) as on the rate-fixing day (October 4, 2025).

Key Highlights :

Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSBs) Features

• Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSBs) are interest-bearing, non-tradeable bonds issued by the Government of India, repayable after seven years from the date of issue.
• The bonds can be held by resident individuals, joint holders, or guardians on behalf of minors, and by Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), while Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are not eligible to invest.
• The minimum investment amount is ₹1,000 (face value) and in multiples thereof, with no maximum investment limit.
• Interest is paid semi-annually on January 1 and July 1 every year.
• The interest rate is reset every six months in line with the coupon payment date.
• The bond’s interest rate is linked to the National Savings Certificate (NSC) rate with an additional spread of +35 basis points (bps).
• There is no cumulative interest payment option, and the bonds are repayable after seven years from the date of issue.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

All-India Institute of Ayurveda Advances Ayush Insurance Access and Research

• The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) hosted key stakeholders from the insurance and academic sectors to promote integration of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) with modern healthcare frameworks.
• Aim: Make Ayush treatments more accessible, credible, and aligned with healthcare and insurance policies in India.

Key Highlights

• Following the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) directive in 2024, Ayush coverage is expected in all health insurance policies nationwide.
• The Ministry of Ayush has established expert committees and implementation units to ensure structured policy support, claim management, and hospital empanelment protocols.
• Project Management Unit (PMU):
  • A dedicated PMU at AIIA manages Ayush insurance-related matters.
  • Acts as a central node for coordination among insurance companies, hospitals, and government bodies.
  • Simplifies treatment verification, claims processing, and patient awareness.
  • Ensures efficient and equitable delivery of Ayush insurance benefits to the public.

RECENT NEWS

• The Government of India has announced that Ayurveda Day will now be celebrated every year on 23 September, starting from 2025. This replaces the earlier practice of observing the day on Dhanvantari Jayanti.

Delhi Declaration Highlights Urban Action Ahead of COP30

• The Delhi Declaration on Local Action for Global Climate Goals was adopted at the first ARISE Cities Forum in New Delhi.
• It amplifies urban voices from the Global South, calling for local governments to be recognized as partners in the global climate regime.

Key Highlights

• The declaration was handed over to COP30 in Belém, Brazil, setting the stage for locally grounded climate action.
• ARISE Cities Forum 2025: Adaptive, Resilient, Innovative, Sustainable, and Equitable forum by ICLEI South Asia, themed “From Bharat to Belém”, bringing together mayoral, municipal, national, and global stakeholders.
• Focus on cities is crucial because they concentrate population, emissions, and vulnerability, and urban solutions (transport, infrastructure, waste, water, nature-based cooling) are central to climate action.
• Participation: Over 200 delegates from 60 cities across 25 countries, including governments, private sector, and international organisations.
• Core Commitments:
  • Advance local climate action via measurable, resourced multilevel NDCs (NDCs 3.0).
  • Drive inclusive urban resilience using adaptation, circular economy, and nature-based solutions.
  • Promote just and participatory green transitions toward net-zero trajectories.
  • Empower citizens, women, youth, and communities in climate governance.
  • Strengthen multilevel governance and transparent, interoperable data systems.
  • Mobilise climate finance and expand direct access for cities.
  • Champion Global South leadership through South–South and triangular cooperation.
• Forum Themes: Bridging national-local climate delivery gaps, circular water and waste systems, sustainable urban food systems, nature-based solutions, urban heat management, disaster management, clean mobility, transit-oriented development, digital planning tools, climate finance instruments, and governance innovations.

RECENT NEWS

• India is set to host the 4th edition of World Food India (WFI) from September 25 to 28, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

About Delhi:

• Chief Minister: Rekha Gupta
• Capital: New Delhi
• Governor: Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Aravalli Biodiversity Park

India Designates Three Ports as Green Hydrogen Hubs

• India has designated Deendayal Port (Gujarat), V.O. Chidambaranar Port (Tamil Nadu), and Paradip Port (Odisha) as Green Hydrogen Hubs under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• The move supports India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and promotes clean energy infrastructure.

Key Highlights

• The hydrogen hubs will function as integrated zones for production, storage, transportation, and consumption of green hydrogen.
• Target sectors include shipping, logistics, fertilizers, and refining.
• Ports were chosen strategically as they are energy-intensive nodes, gateways for trade, and hubs for heavy industries.
• Development will be phased, allowing for infrastructure creation, technology deployment, and commercial-scale operations.
• Government Support:
  • MNRE has issued guidelines to develop hydrogen hubs.
  • Support includes financial assistance, cluster-based planning, and public-private partnerships.
• The initiative aims to establish India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export, strengthening the country’s clean energy ecosystem.

Prime Minister Launches Major Agricultural and Fisheries Initiatives

• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in a Krishi programme at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi.
• Launched two major schemes with a total outlay of Rs 35,440 crore:
  • PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
  • Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses
• Inaugurated and dedicated projects worth over Rs 5,450 crore in agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and food processing sectors.
• Laid the foundation stone for additional projects worth around Rs 815 crore.
• Emphasized promotion of animal husbandry, fisheries, and beekeeping to provide additional income sources for small and landless farmers.
• 16 Fisheries Projects worth Rs 693 crore include:
  • Foundation stone laid for 7 new projects worth Rs 572 crore
  • Inauguration of 9 fisheries projects worth Rs 121 crore
• Projects implemented under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).
• Projects aim to strengthen fisheries infrastructure, create employment, boost exports, and support India’s Blue Economy.

Key Fisheries Projects and Farmer Engagement

• Trout Fisheries, Uttarakhand – Rs 170 crore; to increase trout fish production and generate employment opportunities.
• Smart & Integrated Fishing Harbour, Karaikal, Puducherry – Rs 119.94 crore; provides safe docking, hygienic handling, and enhances production and marketing for domestic and export purposes.
• Integrated Aqua Park (IAP), Hirakud, Odisha – Rs 100 crore; includes Fish Park, Infrastructure Park, Fish Process Park, Packing & Net Accessories Park, Knowledge Park, and Effluent Treatment Plant. Supports 1,600 cages, benefits 1,700 farmers, trains 700 individuals.
• Nutrition Hub of Sustainable Aquaculture, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh – Rs 70 crore; promotes eco-friendly fish feed, enhances fish production, supports capacity building and modern aquaculture practices.
• Foundation Stone Projects:
  • Odisha: State of art wholesale fish market at Bhubaneswar, Khorda – Rs 59.13 crore; supports 44 wholesalers and 99 retailers.
  • Odisha: Integrated Aquapark, Hirakud – Rs 100 crore; production, processing of Tilapia & Pangasius, hatchery for seed production.
  • Puducherry: Smart & Integrated Fishing Harbour, Karaikal – Rs 119.94 crore.
  • Uttarakhand: Trout Fisheries – Rs 170 crore.
  • Nagaland: Integrated Aqua Park – Rs 50 crore; integrated fish farming system, training for youth and entrepreneurs.
  • Jharkhand: Surdib Natural Fishing & Eco Tourism, Kharsawan – Rs 3.68 crore; sustainable enhancement of rural livelihood.
  • Uttar Pradesh: ABIS Exports (Nutrition Hub) – Rs 70 crore; sustainable aquaculture and farmer profitability.
• Inaugurated Projects:
  • Assam: Two Fish Feed Plants, Tejpur – Rs 13 crore.
  • Uttar Pradesh: Wholesale Fish Market at Candouli, Varanasi – Rs 61.50 crore.
  • Madhya Pradesh: 14 projects on Ice Plants, RAS, Bio-flocs, Transport Vehicles – Rs 5.28 crore.
  • Haryana: 6 cold storages, 1 ornamental brood bank, 2 feed mills – Rs 11 crore.
  • Uttar Pradesh: 8 RAS, Feed mills, 2 Live Fish vending centers, Kiosks – Rs 2.47 crore.
  • Andhra Pradesh: Ananda Foods seafood processing facility upgrade – Rs 11 crore.
  • Mizoram: Cages, Bio-flocs, Hatchery – Rs 5.13 crore.
  • Jharkhand: RAS/Bio-floc/Cold Storage/Reservoir Cages/Feed Mill – Rs 4.75 crore.
  • Chhattisgarh: 16 private projects on Cages, Bio-floc ponds – Rs 6.92 crore.
• Grand Total for Fisheries Projects: Rs 693.80 crore.
• Engaged 50 progressive fish farmers from 100 Aspirational Agricultural Districts; 8 farmers interacted one-on-one with the Prime Minister:
  • Mr. T Purushothaman – Kerala
  • Gadde Kranthi – Andhra Pradesh
  • Dr. Subuhi Abidi – Uttar Pradesh
  • Mr. Sandeep Singh Panchpal – Uttarakhand
  • Mr. Sukhdev Mandal – Chhattisgarh
  • Mr. Manoj Kumar – Jharkhand
  • Mr. D. Durai Selvam – South Andaman
  • Mr. Abid Hussain Shah – Jammu and Kashmir
• Initiatives aim to enhance fish production, infrastructure, farmer income, employment, and sustainable practices in aquaculture.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Unveils Major Agricultural Initiatives

• At Pusa, New Delhi, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched key initiatives for India’s agriculture and allied sectors.
• Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Minister of State, Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, were present.
• Tributes were paid to social reformers Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh on their birth anniversaries.
• Major Schemes Launched:
  • Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Coordinated initiative across thirty-six sub-schemes under eleven ministries, aimed at accelerating agricultural progress in aspirational districts.
  • Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission: Aims to make India self-sufficient in pulses production, reducing dependence on imports.
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for one thousand one hundred projects under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, animal husbandry, fisheries, and food processing sectors, with a total investment exceeding Rupees Forty-Two Thousand Crore, including modern cold storage facilities, processing units, and warehouses across rural India.
• Felicitated farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and innovators for exemplary contributions to India’s rural enterprise ecosystem.
• Fertiliser Subsidies and Goods and Services Tax Relief:
  • Urea price: Rupees Two Hundred Sixty-Six per bag
  • Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP): Rupees One Thousand Three Hundred Fifty per bag
  • Reduction in Goods and Services Tax on agricultural machinery has made modern equipment more affordable.
• Historic Increase in Minimum Support Price:
  • Wheat: +Rupees One Hundred Sixty per quintal
  • Gram: +Rupees Two Hundred plus per quintal
  • Lentil: +Rupees Three Hundred per quintal
  • Mustard: +Rupees Two Hundred Fifty per quintal
  • Sunflower: +Rupees Six Hundred per quintal
• Financial Empowerment of Farmers:
  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi: Rupees Three Lakh Ninety Thousand Crore directly transferred to farmers’ bank accounts
  • Kisan Credit Card (KCC): Loans worth over Rupees Ten Lakh Crore disbursed in Financial Year 2024–25, with Rupees One Lakh Sixty-Two Thousand Crore in interest subsidies
  • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Compensation exceeding Rupees One Lakh Eighty-Three Thousand Crore to insured farmers
• Over Fifty-Two Lakh farmers are shareholders in FPOs, with one thousand one hundred FPOs attaining ‘crorepati’ status and recording a collective turnover exceeding Rupees Fifteen Thousand Crore. The Agriculture Ministry continues to support innovation, branding, and market linkage.
• Government aims to align Indian agriculture with global standards, promote Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), and achieve Viksit Bharat (Developed India). Citizens are encouraged to embrace Swadeshi for national growth.

3rd Edition of International Purple Fest – Celebrating Diversity Held in Goa

• The 3rd edition of the International Purple Fest – Celebrating Diversity was inaugurated by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, reaffirming Goa’s commitment to an inclusive and accessible society.
• Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar said that PwDs are no longer seen merely as beneficiaries but as professionals, entrepreneurs, and contributors to society.

Key Highlights

• Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the welfare of all communities and national development.
• Secretary of DEPwD Shri Rajesh Aggarwal informed that State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities (SCPDs) have disposed of over 50,000 complaints with high satisfaction rates.
• He also mentioned CSR interventions worth ₹50 crore, mobile courts addressing petitions, and social outreach programs as major innovations.
• The festival showcased India’s commitment to inclusive governance, celebrating talent, entrepreneurship, and contributions of PwDs.
• State Commissioner Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar described the fest as a unique platform for showcasing creativity and resilience of PwDs.
• Prominent dignitaries present included Dr. Pramod Sawant, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Shri Ramdas Athawale, Shri Shripad Naik, Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Dr. V. Candavelou, and Shri Shombi Sharp, among others.
• The event was organized by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Directorate of Social Welfare, and Entertainment Society of Goa, in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
• Partners included NCPEDP, Saksham, Bookshare, DAIG, Rising Flame, United Nations India, and various disability rights ambassadors and NGOs.

About Goa:

• Chief Minister: Dr. Pramod Sawant
• Capital: Panaji
• Governor: Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju
• National Parks: Bhagwan Mahavir National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Reserve Bank of India Appoints Sonali Sen Gupta as Executive Director Effective October 9, 2025

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Smt. Sonali Sen Gupta as Executive Director (ED) with effect from October 9, 2025.
• Before her promotion, Sonali Sen Gupta was Regional Director for Karnataka at the Bangalore Regional Office.
• She has over three decades of experience in the RBI, working in key areas such as Financial Inclusion, Human Resource Management, Banking Regulation, and Supervision.
• She has represented RBI in G20 – Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) and OECD – International Network on Financial Education (INFE).
• She has served as a Director on the Board of the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE) and as a member of several internal and external committees.
• Currently, she is RBI’s Nominee Director on the Board of Indian Overseas Bank.
• As Executive Director, she will oversee the Consumer Education and Protection Department, Financial Inclusion and Development Department, and Inspection Department.

Castrol India Managing Director Kedar Lele steps down; Saugata Basuray appointed Interim CEO

• Castrol India Limited. announced that Managing Director (MD) Kedar Lele has resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities.
• Kedar Lele will cease to be MD with effect from the close of business on December 31, 2025, as per a regulatory filing.
• The company’s Board of Directors has appointed Saugata Basuray as the Interim CEO with effect from January 1, 2026, until a new MD is appointed.
• Saugata Basuray will continue to hold his current position as Wholetime Director & Head of B2C Sales, taking on additional responsibilities as Interim CEO.
• His new designation will be “Wholetime Director & Interim CEO.”
• Saugata Basuray is a long-serving executive, having been with Castrol since 1999 in multiple leadership roles across sales and business operations.
• The leadership change marks a transition phase for Castrol India, a leading player in the lubricant sector.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India Advances Cooperative Ride-Hailing with Bharat Taxi

• The National e-Governance Division (NeGD), under Digital India Corporation, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has partnered with Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (Brand name: Bharat Taxi) to develop a citizen-centric, cooperative-driven national ride-hailing platform.
• The collaboration is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide strategic advisory and technical support in platform integration, cybersecurity, privacy, compliance, and governance.
• Bharat Taxi is jointly promoted by leading cooperative and financial institutions including National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), AMUL, Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited (NAFED), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), and National Cooperative Electronics Limited (NCEL), embedding cooperative values while aligning with the Digital India vision.
• Role of National e-Governance Division (NeGD):
  • Platform Integration and Technical Architecture: Integration with DigiLocker, Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG), and Application Programming Interface Setu (API Setu) for seamless identity verification and service delivery.
  • Security, Compliance and Infrastructure: Ensuring adherence to data protection laws and cybersecurity standards.
  • Programme Advisory: Support in governance and large-scale platform management.
  • User Interface/User Experience (UI/UX) and Accessibility: Guidance on user interface, multilingual support, and inclusive access for all citizens.
• Bharat Taxi, launching December 2025, aims to transform India’s mobility ecosystem with a transparent, cooperative-driven, and citizen-first approach, reinforcing NeGD’s commitment to secure, interoperable, and inclusive digital public services.

India and United Kingdom Launch Connectivity and Innovation Centre to Advance Digital Inclusion

• India and the United Kingdom (UK) have announced a landmark strategic partnership to enhance digital inclusion and develop secure, innovative communication systems.
• The newly launched India–UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre will integrate the strengths of both countries in advanced connectivity research and innovation—from university-level research to lab testing, field trials, and market deployment.

Key Highlights

• The initiative aims to create new commercial opportunities by helping industry partners innovate, test, and scale telecom solutions for market adoption.
• Over the next four years, during the crucial phase of 6G technology development, the Centre will focus on three main areas:
  • Transforming Telecom with Artificial Intelligence (AI): Using AI to optimise networks, enhance efficiency, and introduce new services.
  • Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs): Developing satellite and airborne systems to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity to rural and remote regions.
  • Telecom Cybersecurity: Strengthening network security through open and interoperable solutions to make communication systems resilient and secure.
• Both nations recognize that connectivity and telecommunications are critical for economic growth and societal progress, and joint development will yield economic and security benefits.
• India and the UK have jointly committed an initial £24 million over four years to support:
  • Applied research across major UK and Indian research centres,
  • Industry-academic partnerships,
  • Joint testbeds, and
  • Collaboration on global technical standards.
• The initiative will be implemented under the UK–India Technology Security Initiative, jointly led by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
• This collaboration is a flagship project of the UK–India Research and Innovation Corridor, aligning with the Prime Minister–Prime Minister 2035 Vision for strengthened bilateral cooperation in technology and innovation.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

India and UK Navies Hold First-Ever Joint Carrier Strike Group Exercise

• Exercise Konkan 2025 was held off India’s western coast from October 5–9, 2025, marking a landmark moment in India–UK defence cooperation.
• For the first time, India and the United Kingdom conducted a Combined Carrier Strike Group (CSG) exercise, demonstrating advanced air-sea warfare capabilities and strategic synergy in the Indo-Pacific region.
• The exercise involved the Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant (India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier) and the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales (a 65,000-tonne Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier).
• HMS Richmond, a Royal Navy frigate, participated and later docked at Mumbai Port after the exercise.
• Allied ships from Norway and Japan also participated, reflecting a broader multi-nation maritime partnership.
• The exercise included carrier-based air combat operations, anti-submarine warfare, fleet defence, coordinated surveillance, and maritime interdiction.
• Exercise Konkan is a biennial bilateral naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy, initiated in 2004 to enhance interoperability, defence diplomacy, and mutual trust.
• The 2025 edition demonstrated operational readiness, joint tactical manoeuvres, and blue-water naval capabilities of both nations.
• The exercise reinforced India–UK maritime collaboration and highlighted the growing strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Union Health Minister Shri J. P. Nadda Unveils New Features of Tele MANAS App on World Mental Health Day 2025

• On World Mental Health Day 2025 (10 October), Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda launched new initiatives under the National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS).

• The new features include Tele MANAS App Enhancements such as Multi-lingual User Interface (UI), Chatbot, Accessibility, and Emergency Module.

Key Highlights :

• The Tele MANAS App will now be available in 10 regional languages — Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Odia, and Punjabi, in addition to English and Hindi, improving accessibility for diverse linguistic users.
• The app now includes accessibility features for visually impaired users, making it more inclusive for persons with disabilities and vulnerable groups.
• A chatbot feature ‘Asmi’ has been introduced to help users seek information or assistance related to mental health.
• An emergency response module has been added to provide timely guidance and support during crises.
• Deepika Padukone has been appointed as the Mental Health Ambassador to raise awareness and normalize discussions around mental health in India.
• Since its inception, Tele MANAS has handled around 28 lakh calls, with counsellors engaging in over 20 languages, and around 4,000 calls per day are received, showing growing awareness and trust in the platform.
• The Tele-MANAS App provides 24×7 mental health support, allowing people to seek help anytime, anywhere across India.
• Tele MANAS, along with Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and the District Mental Health Programme, forms part of India’s National Health Policy priority on mental health.

About Ministry of Health and Family Welfare :

• Cabinet Minister : J. P. Nadda
• Minister of State : Anupriya Patel, Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Jasprit Bumrah Achieves Historic 50-Test Milestone

• Jasprit Bumrah became the first Indian fast bowler to play 50 Test matches, achieving the feat during the second Test against West Indies at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.
• The match followed India’s victory in the first Test at Ahmedabad, with Bumrah featuring in the Shubman Gill-led side.
• Bumrah’s record is notable because he is also the only Indian fast bowler to have played 50 or more matches across all three international formats:
  • Tests
  • One Day Internationals (ODIs)
  • Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)

• Bumrah joins an elite group of Indian players with 50+ appearances in all formats, including:
  • MS Dhoni
  • Virat Kohli
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Ravichandran Ashwin
  • Rohit Sharma
  • KL Rahul
• He is the seventh Indian cricketer overall to achieve this multi-format milestone, solidifying his legacy as one of India’s finest modern pacers.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Defence Research and Development Organisation to Conduct First Flight Test of ‘Dhvani’ Hypersonic Missile by End of 2025     

• India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plans to flight-test the Dhvani hypersonic missile by the end of 2025, marking India’s entry into the elite group of nations (US, Russia, China) with hypersonic weapon capability.
• Dhvani is a future-generation Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV), representing a major technological leap beyond current missile systems.
• The missile can achieve speeds exceeding Mach 6 (≈ 7,400 km/h) — nearly twice as fast as the BrahMos cruise missile.
• Its operational range is estimated to be between 6,000 and 10,000 km, potentially doubling the range of India’s current Agni-V ICBM.
• Design Features: Dhvani incorporates a blended wing-body configuration, measuring around 9 meters in length and 5 meters in width, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and stealth.
• Significance: The Dhvani project positions India among global leaders in next-generation hypersonic weapons technology, strengthening strategic deterrence and defence capabilities.

Pakistan Tests Newly Inducted Fatah-4 Cruise Missile to Strengthen Defence Capabilities

• Pakistan conducted a training launch of its newly inducted Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile as part of efforts to modernize its defence arsenal amid rising regional tensions.
• The Fatah-4 missile has a range of 750 km (466 miles) and is indigenously developed by Pakistan.
• The missile can be launched from transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) vehicles, enhancing its mobility and deployment flexibility.
• It is equipped with an advanced navigation suite, comprising Global Positioning System (GPS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) for accurate targeting.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Arthritis Day falls on October 12. 

• World Arthritis Day falls on October 12.
• Any condition that affects the joints is commonly referred to as arthritis. Pain and stiffness in the joints are typical symptoms.
• This year, 2025, the World Arthritis Day Theme is “Achieve Your Dreams”.

History

• The Arthritis Foundation established World Arthritis Day.
• The Greek terms “arthro,” which means “joint,” and “itis,” which means “inflammation,” are the origin of the word “arthritis.” Inflammation of the joints is a symptom of arthritis. Any living organism with bones is susceptible.
• The existence of ankle arthritis in humans dates back to at least 4500 B.C., and there is evidence that it was present in dinosaurs as well! In actuality, it was among the most prevalent diseases among prehistoric populations.
• In William Musgrave’s 1715 book “De Arthritide Symptomatica,” it was first in-depth researched and categorized.

The date of International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is October 13.

• The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed on the 13th of October.
• The day offers an opportunity to celebrate the advancements made in reducing disaster vulnerability and the resulting loss of lives, economy, and health.
• The theme for the 2025 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), observed on October 13, is “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters”.

History

• The International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction was established by a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in
• However, the Assembly changed its resolution on December 21, 2009, deciding to observe the Day on October 13.
• Also, the day was renamed International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Daily CA one- Liner : October 12 & 13

• The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) hosted key stakeholders from the insurance and academic sectors to promote integration of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) with modern healthcare frameworks
• The Delhi Declaration on Local Action for Global Climate Goals was adopted at the first ARISE Cities Forum in New Delhi
• India has designated Deendayal Port (Gujarat), V.O. Chidambaranar Port (Tamil Nadu), and Paradip Port (Odisha) as Green Hydrogen Hubs under the National Green Hydrogen Mission
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in a Krishi programme at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi
• At Pusa, New Delhi, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched key initiatives for India’s agriculture and allied sectors
• The 3rd edition of the International Purple Fest – Celebrating Diversity was inaugurated by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, reaffirming Goa’s commitment to an inclusive and accessible society
• The National e-Governance Division (NeGD), under Digital India Corporation, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has partnered with Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited (Brand name: Bharat Taxi) to develop a citizen-centric, cooperative-driven national ride-hailing platform
• India and the United Kingdom (UK) have announced a landmark strategic partnership to enhance digital inclusion and develop secure, innovative communication systems.
• Jasprit Bumrah became the first Indian fast bowler to play 50 Test matches, achieving the feat during the second Test against West Indies at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.
• HDFC Bank launched ‘My Business QR’, a digital identity solution for small businesses, at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty of ₹4.20 lakh on HDB Financial Services Limited on October 1, 2025 for regulatory violations.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a press release on June 19, 2024, inviting applications for recognition of Self-Regulatory Organisations (SROs) for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised norms for Merchanting Trade Transactions (MTT) to provide greater operational flexibility to traders.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised procedures for reconciliation and closure of entries under EDPMS (Export Data Processing and Monitoring System) and IDPMS (Import Data Processing and Monitoring System) to ease compliance for small exporters and importers.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in consultation with State Governments/UTs, announced total market borrowings for Q3 (October–December 2025) at ₹2,81,865 crore.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has superseded the Board of Directors of Irinjalakuda Town Co-operative Bank Ltd. for 12 months under Section 36AAA read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
• The rate of interest on the Government of India Floating Rate Bond 2028 (GOI FRB 2028) for the half-year from October 4, 2025, to April 3, 2026, is 6.22% per annum.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Smt. Sonali Sen Gupta as Executive Director (ED) with effect from October 9, 2025.
• Castrol India Limited. announced that Managing Director (MD) Kedar Lele has resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities.
• Exercise Konkan 2025 was held off India’s western coast from October 5–9, 2025, marking a landmark moment in India–UK defence cooperation.
• On World Mental Health Day 2025 (10 October), Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda launched new initiatives under the National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS).
• India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plans to flight-test the Dhvani hypersonic missile by the end of 2025, marking India’s entry into the elite group of nations (US, Russia, China) with hypersonic weapon capability.
• Pakistan conducted a training launch of its newly inducted Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile as part of efforts to modernize its defence arsenal amid rising regional tensions.
• World Arthritis Day falls on October 12.
• The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed on the 13th of October

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