Daily Current Affairs 27th & 28th July 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

This post is also available in: हिन्दी (Hindi)

Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs July 2025 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs July 27th & 28th 2025, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs July 27th & 28th 2025 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of 27th & 28th July 2025

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India to Introduce Internal Insurance Ombudsman in All Insurance Companies to Enhance Policyholder Protection and Trust

• The Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India plans to introduce an Internal Insurance Ombudsman in all insurance companies (except reinsurers) to strengthen policyholder protection and boost trust.
• The ombudsman will handle unresolved or escalated complaints fairly, transparently, and within a set timeframe.
• The framework applies to insurers with more than 3 years of operations (excluding reinsurers).

Key Highlights :

• Insurers must appoint an Internal Insurance Ombudsman to handle complaints involving claims up to ₹50 lakh.
• Insurers can appoint more than one ombudsman with clearly defined jurisdiction to ensure effective coverage and quick response.
• The Internal Insurance Ombudsman will functionally report to the Board or the Policyholder Protection, Grievance Redressal and Claims Monitoring Committee (PPGR & CM).
• The ombudsman will administratively report to the Managing Director (MD)/CEO.

Eligibility criteria for appointment:

• Minimum 20 years experience in the insurance industry.
• Should have held a post at least two levels below Board Director.
• Must not be currently or previously associated with the insurer or its group companies were appointed.
• Term of appointment: Fixed term of 3 years or till age 70, whichever is earlier.
• Minimum entry age: 55 years.
• The ombudsman will consider complaints that:
• Have not been responded to within 30 days by the insurer.
• Are partly or wholly rejected complaints where an appeal has been preferred.

Recent News :

• In May 2025, The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)imposed a penalty of ₹1 crore on Acko General Insurance.

About IRDAI:

• Headquarters (HQ): Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Chairperson: Ajay Seth
• Founded: 1999

India’s Seafood Sector Set for 70% Export Surge to United Kingdom Following Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement

• The India–United Kingdom (UK) Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was signed on July 24, 2025, by PM Narendra Modi and UK PM Sir Keir Starmer.
• The agreement offers zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines, including significant sectors like marine products, textiles, leather, and gems & jewellery.

Key Highlights :

• For the marine sector, CETA removes import tariffs on a wide range of seafood products, improving Indian exporters’ competitiveness in the UK market.
• Key Indian seafood exports benefiting from duty-free access include:
• Vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
• Frozen squid
• Lobsters
• Frozen pomfret
• Black tiger shrimp
• All fish and fisheries commodities under UK tariff categories marked ‘A’ enjoy 100% duty-free access from the agreement’s enforcement date.
• Relevant HS Codes covered:
• 03: Fish, crustaceans, molluscs (e.g., shrimp, tuna, crab)
• 05: Coral, cowries, Artemia
• 15: Fish oils and marine fats
• 1603/1604/1605: Prepared or preserved seafood
• 23: Fish meal and shrimp feed
• 95: Fishing gear (rods, hooks, reels)
• Tariffs previously ranging from 0% to 21.5% are now removed, improving cost competitiveness.
• Products under HS 1601 (sausages and similar items) remain excluded (staging category ‘U’).
• India’s total seafood exports in 2024–25 reached $7.38 billion (₹60,523 crore), with frozen shrimp accounting for 66% (worth $4.88 billion).
• Marine exports to the UK were valued at $104 million (₹879 crore), with frozen shrimp making up 77% of this.
• India’s share in the UK’s $5.4 billion seafood import market is currently only 2.25%.
• Industry estimates predict a 70% surge in Indian seafood exports to the UK in coming years due to CETA.
• The fisheries sector supports the livelihoods of about 28 million Indians and contributes 8% of global fish production.
• Between 2014–15 and 2024–25, India’s seafood export volume grew by 60% and value by 88%.
• Export destinations increased from 100 to 130 countries, with value-added products tripling to ₹7,666.38 crore.
• Coastal states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat are key players poised to benefit.
• CETA aligns with India’s goal of becoming a global leader in sustainable marine trade and uplifts coastal livelihoods.
• Indian seafood now competes equally with countries like Vietnam and Singapore, which have UK free trade agreements (UK-VFTA and UK-SFTA).
• CETA removes previous tariff disadvantages, particularly benefiting high-value products like shrimp and value-added goods.
• With vast production capacity, skilled manpower, and improved traceability, India is positioned to expand market share in the UK and diversify exports beyond traditional partners like the US and China.

About the United Kingdom:

• Capital: London
• Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
• Monarch: King Charles III
• Prime Minister: Keir Starmer

About Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying :

• Cabinet Minister : Lalan Sing
• Minister of State : S. P. Singh Baghel,George Kurian

Securities and Exchange Board of India Lifts Trading Restrictions on US-based Jane Street Following ₹4,844 Crore Escrow Deposit

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has lifted trading restrictions on US-based high-frequency trading firm Jane Street after it deposited ₹4,844 crore in an escrow account.

What is an escrow account?

• An escrow account is a financial arrangement involving a neutral third party.
• The third party holds funds or assets on behalf of two or more parties involved in a transaction.
• The funds or assets are released only when specific conditions are met.
• It ensures security and trust between parties by safeguarding the transaction process.

Key Highlights :

• The trading curbs were initially imposed under SEBI’s interim order for alleged expiry-day index manipulation.
• The restrictions were lifted on July 18, 2025, after the funds were verified.
• Jane Street has voluntarily delayed resuming trades until the case is fully resolved.
• Exchanges and depositories have been directed to maintain strict surveillance on Jane Street’s activities.
• Jane Street remains barred from any fraudulent or manipulative trading practices identified in SEBI’s investigation.
• SEBI’s interim order accused Jane Street of manipulating index levels on expiry days through large, aggressive trades in the cash and futures markets

Recent News :

• In May 2025, SEBIamended the SECC Regulations, 2018 and Depositories and Participants Regulations, 2018 to enhance governance at Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) such as stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

Federal Bank Introduces Biometric Authentication for E-commerce Card Transactions

• Federal Bank, in partnership with fintech firms M2P and MinkasuPay, launched the first-ever biometric authentication solution for e-commerce card transactions.
• Customers can authenticate online purchases using fingerprint or face ID.
• The solution replaces OTP-based authentication with biometric verification, reducing transaction time to 3–4 seconds.
• Enhances security and user experience by combining simplicity with strong protection.
• Fully compliant with RBI’s Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Provides fallback to OTP if biometric data cannot be captured.
• Customers enrol with one-time consent during checkout.
• Compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.
• Merchants can integrate the solution using a lightweight SDK.
• Currently available for Federal Bank debit and credit cardholders at select partner merchants, with plans for phased expansion

Recent News :

• In July 2025, Federal Bank promoted its Group President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Venkatraman Venkateswaran, to the position of Executive Director.

About Federal Bank:

• Founded: 1931
• Headquarters: Aluva, Kerala, India
• Managing Director & CEO: KVS Manian
• Tagline: “Your Perfect Banking Partner”

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

French President Emmanuel Macron to Announce France’s Formal Recognition of Palestine at UN General Assembly in September 2025

• French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September 2025.
• France will be the most powerful European country to take this step, joining 142 countries that already recognize or plan to recognize Palestinian statehood (as per an AFP tally).
• Macron’s move follows Israel’s bombardment of Gaza in 2023, in response to the October 7 Hamas attacks.
• Israel and the United States strongly oppose international recognition of a Palestinian state.
• Israel condemned Macron’s decision; Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin called it a “shameless decision” and “direct aid to terrorism.”
• Palestinian Authority official Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the announcement, calling it support for Palestinian self-determination and international law.
• Macron emphasized the “urgent priority” of ending the war in Gaza and rescuing the civilian population.
• He also stressed on building a viable, demilitarized Palestinian state that recognises Israel and contributes to Middle East security.
• WHO and France have accused Israel of causing a man-made hunger crisis in Gaza through a blockade.

Death tolls:

• 59,587 Palestinians (mostly civilians) killed in Gaza (as per Gaza Health Ministry).
• 1,219 Israelis killed in Hamas’s October 2023 attack.
• Other countries that recently recognised Palestine include Norway, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and non-European nations.
• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hinted at possible recognition after a ceasefire, planning discussions with France and Germany

About France :

• President : Emmanuel Macro
• Prime Minister : François Bayrou
• Capital : Paris

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

President Droupadi Murmu Completes Three Years in Office Launches Various Initiatives at Rashtrapati Bhavan

• President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, marked the completion of three years in office.
• To commemorate the occasion, several important initiatives and developmental activities were highlighted, particularly in the Rashtrapati Bhavan and President’s Estates.

Major Initiatives & Developments during the 3rd Year of Presidency:

1. President’s Estate Declared Divyangjan-Friendly:

• Rashtrapati Bhavan, Amrit Udyan, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum were made accessible for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities).
• This transformation was based on the 50-point recommendation submitted by the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities.

2. Launch of Rashtrapati Bhavan Websites in 22 Indian Languages:

• Official websites:
  🔹 rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in
  🔹 presidentofindia.gov.in
• Now available in 22 Indian languages, enhancing citizen accessibility and inclusivity.

3. New Facilities for Visitors and Estate Residents:

• Visitor Facilitation Centre inaugurated at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Nilayam Nikunj opened at Rashtrapati Nilayam, Hyderabad.
• Cafeteria, Souvenir Shop, and Reception inaugurated at Rashtrapati Niwas, Mashobra.
• Renovated Gymnasium opened for the benefit of residents of the President’s Estate.

4. Launch of E-Upahaar Season 2:

• An online auction of over 250 items belonging to the President.
• Proceeds to be donated to child welfare initiatives.
• Auction Portal: upahaar.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in

5. Release of an E-Book:

• An e-book launched containing highlights of the Presidency’s activities over the past year.
• Access link: rb.nic.in/ebook25.htm

6. Towards Net Zero – Green Commitment:

• Initiatives started to make Rashtrapati Bhavan a Net Zero establishment by March 2027.
• Focus areas include energy efficiency, sustainability, and carbon neutrality.

RECENT NEWS

• President Droupadi Murmu was honored with an Honorary Doctorate by Constantine The Philosopher University in Nitra, Slovakia on the final day of her four-day state visit to Slovakia and Portugal.

Ministry of Ayush supports efforts of the State/UT Governments for Promotion and overall development of Traditional System of Medicines

• The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme titled National Ayush Mission (NAM) through State and Union Territory Governments, aiming to promote and develop Ayush systems – Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy – across the country.
• Under NAM, grant-in-aid is provided to States/UTs based on their proposals submitted via State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs) in accordance with NAM guidelines.

Key Components under NAM:

1. Operationalization of Ayush Health & Wellness Centres (AHWCs) – now renamed as Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush).
2. Co-location of Ayush services at PHCs, CHCs, and District Hospitals.
3. Upgradation of existing standalone Government Ayush Hospitals.
4. Infrastructure development, including:
   • Upgrading Government/Panchayat/Govt-aided Ayush Dispensaries.
   • Constructing buildings for dilapidated/rented Ayush Dispensaries.
   • Constructing new Ayush Dispensaries.
5. Setting up of 10/30/50 bedded Integrated Ayush Hospitals.
6. Supply of essential medicines to:
   • Govt. Ayush Hospitals
   • Govt. Ayush Dispensaries
   • Government/Government-aided Ayush Teaching Hospitals.
7. Implementation of Ayush Public Health Programmes.
8. Development of Ayush Grams.
9. Behavior Change Communication (BCC) initiatives.
10. Establishing new Ayush Colleges in states lacking Government Ayush teaching institutes.
11. Infrastructure support for:
    • Ayush UG and PG Institutions
    • Add-on PG courses
    • Pharmacy/Para-Medical Courses

Promotion of International Cooperation – Central Sector Scheme

• The Ministry of Ayush also runs the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation (IC Scheme) to boost the export and global presence of Ayush products and services.

MoUs and Global Outreach:

• 25 Country-to-Country MoUs
• 15 Ayush Chair MoUs
• 52 Institute-to-Institute MoUs

Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC):

• Set up at Jamnagar, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Designed to function as a global knowledge hub for Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM), focusing on evidence-based practices.

Other Central Sector Schemes by Ministry of Ayush:

1. Ayush Oushadhi Gunavatta evam Uttpadan Samvardhan Yojana (AOGUSY) – focuses on improving the quality and production of Ayush medicines.
2. Promotion of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) – to enhance public awareness.
3. Scheme for Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants (CDSMMP).
4. Ayurswasthya Yojana – aims to promote Ayush interventions for public health.
5. Ayurgyan – supports education and capacity building in Ayush.

RECENT NEWS

• Ministry of Ayush organized a special session of the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme at Ayush Bhawan, Delhi. The initiative is part of the Mission Karmayogi framework, in collaboration with the Capacity Building Commission (CBC).

Over 10.18 Crore Women Screened for Cervical Cancer Under National Health Mission Initiative

• The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has surpassed 10.18 crore screenings of women aged 30–65 years for cervical cancer, as part of the population-based NCD screening, prevention, and management programme under the National Health Mission (NHM).
• Screenings are conducted through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) at Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres.

Key Highlights:

• Target Group & Methodology: Women aged 30–65 years are screened primarily using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA). VIA-positive cases are referred to higher centres for diagnostic evaluation.
• Role of ASHAs & CBAC:
  • Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) identify at-risk individuals using the Community Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC).
  • They mobilize women for screenings at AAMs and raise awareness on early detection and healthy lifestyles.
• Awareness & Wellness Campaigns:
  • Observance of National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day.
  • Continuous engagement via print, electronic, and social media to promote preventive practices against NCDs, including cervical cancer.
• Dedicated NHM Funding: States and UTs receive earmarked funds for awareness activities in their Programme Implementation Plans (PIPs).
• Time-Bound NCD Screening Campaign: A special drive from 20 February to 31 March 2025 accelerated screenings for those aged 30+, contributing significantly to current numbers.
• Current Coverage: As of 20 July 2025, 10.18 crore out of 25.42 crore eligible women have been screened, according to the National NCD Portal.

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Intelligence & Investigations Workshop 2025 Held in New Delhi to Strengthen Global Anti-Doping Efforts

• The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India, supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, hosted the second World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Intelligence & Investigations (I&I) Workshop in New Delhi.
• Organized under WADA’s auspices and in partnership with INTERPOL and Sport Integrity Australia, the workshop brought together anti-doping and law-enforcement professionals from 11 countries across Asia to advance intelligence-led collaboration and protect the integrity of sport.

Key Highlights

• Participants & Partners: Delegates from India, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Brunei, and the Philippines, alongside experts from WADA, INTERPOL, and Sport Integrity Australia.
• Strategic Importance: Emphasized the need for cross-border cooperation and intelligence-driven investigations to uphold fair and clean competition.
• Project Context: Part of WADA’s Capability and Capacity Building Project, aiming to fortify the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network through knowledge-sharing, joint training, and information exchange.
• Future Outlook: This workshop is the second of four in Asia–Oceania, with the final session scheduled for April 2026, underscoring India’s ongoing contribution to global anti-doping efforts.

About WADA

• Headquarters: Montreal, Canada
• President: Witold Bańka
• Founders: International Olympic Committee, Dick Pound
• Founded: 10 November 1999

Bima Sakhi Yojana: A pioneering model of social security and women empowerment

• Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, highlighted the historic launch of the Bima Sakhi Yojana under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• He described the scheme as a landmark initiative aimed at women’s empowerment and providing economic security to rural and semi-urban India.

Key Points:

• The Ministry of Rural Development has partnered with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to fulfill the Government’s mission of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.
• Trained women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be appointed as ‘Bima Sakhis’ at the Gram Panchayat level. This initiative promotes women’s entrepreneurship and financial independence.
• The scheme enables rural women to create new income streams, contributing to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and supporting the Lakhpati Didi Mission, which aims to reach 2 crore empowered women (‘Lakhpati Didis’) by August 15.
• The ‘Bima Sakhi’ scheme is fostering local employment in both urban and rural areas and increasing women’s workforce participation.
• Bima Sakhis help expand access to insurance schemes and provide trust-based financial services at the last mile, particularly important for disaster-affected families.
• The initiative complements other key schemes like Jan-Dhan Se Jan Suraksha, Digital India, and women’s skill development programs.

India Achieves 20% Ethanol–Petrol Blending Five Years Early

• India has successfully met its 20% ethanol–petrol blending target by June 2025, originally slated for 2030.
• This landmark achievement advances energy independence, low-carbon goals, and rural economic uplift through sustainable biofuel production.

Key Highlights:

• Rapid Scale-Up: Blend ratio rose from 1.5% in 2014 to 20% by mid-2025, with 661 crore litres of ethanol mixed into petrol.
• Foreign Exchange Savings: The programme has saved ₹1.36 lakh crore in import bills.
• Emission Reduction: Achieved a 698 lakh-tonne CO₂ cut, supporting India’s climate commitments.
• Rural Economic Impact:
  • Farmers earned ₹1.18 lakh crore by supplying sugarcane juice and B-heavy molasses.
  • Distilleries generated ₹1.96 lakh crore in revenue, fostering rural prosperity.
• Policy & Industry Collaboration:
  • Subsidies, infrastructure support, and assured offtake underpinned rapid capacity expansion.
  • Partnership with the Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) ensured coordinated implementation.
• Future Pathways:
  • Builds momentum for higher blend ratios or next-generation biofuels.
  • Positions India ahead of global peers in the transition to green energy.

Centre of Excellence on PESA Established at IGNTU, Amarkantak to Strengthen Tribal Self-Governance

• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in partnership with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Amarkantak, signed an MoU in Bhopal to set up a three-year Centre of Excellence on the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA).
• This dedicated platform will drive research, capacity building, participatory planning, and policy support, advancing tribal empowerment and localized sustainable development in the 5th Scheduled Areas.

Key Highlights:

• Dignitaries Present: Shri Vivek Bharadwaj (Secretary, MoPR), Smt. Dipali Rastogi (Principal Secretary, MP), Smt. Mukta Shekhar (Joint Secretary, MoPR), Prof. Byomakesh Tripathy (VC, IGNTU), and other senior officials.
• Released “PESA in Action: Stories of Strength and Self-governance,” featuring best practices, case studies, legal provisions, and field innovations from PESA States.
• Panel Discussion: Focused on “Strengthening PESA through Capacity Building, Research and Institutional Support”, underscoring the Centre’s role in helping communities exercise their PESA rights.
• Objectives:
  • Resolve implementation challenges by strengthening institutional mechanisms and community capacities.
  • Align with Localized Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) and tribal empowerment.
• Key Functions:
  • Promote awareness and understanding of PESA.
  • Facilitate participatory GPDP planning at Gram Panchayat level.
  • Build leadership skills among tribal representatives.
  • Document customary laws and preserve cultural heritage.
  • Develop IEC materials and conduct focused research.
  • Support State/District-level PESA Resource Centres.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Indira Gandhi National Open University Appoints Prof Uma Kanjilal as Its First Woman Vice-Chancellor

• Prof Uma Kanjilal has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious position.
• She has been serving as acting VC since July 25, 2024, and has over 36 years of experience in Open and Distance Learning (ODL).
• Previously, she was Pro-Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU from March 2021 to July 2024.
• Her earlier leadership roles at IGNOU include:
• Director, Centre for Online Education (2019–2021)
• Director, Inter-University Consortium for Technology Enabled Flexible Education (2016–2019)
• Director, Advanced Centre for Informatics and Innovative Learning (2012–2013)
• Director, School of Social Sciences (2007–2010)
• University Librarian (2004–2006)
• Faculty member at IGNOU since 2003, specializing as a Professor in Library and Information Science.
• Expertise includes e-learning, digital libraries, ICT in education, and multimedia content development.
• Currently the National Coordinator for SWAYAM and SWAYAM PRABHA, which are key digital learning platforms under the Ministry of Education.
• Internationally, she has:
• Received a Fulbright Fellowship at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1999–2000)
• Worked as a consultant for the Commonwealth of Learning
• Engaged in digital education initiatives with UNRWA in Jordan

Awards and recognitions include:

• Manthan Award for e-Education
• Grant from the Australia-India Council
• DANIDA Fellowship
• Played a vital role in enhancing IGNOU’s digital capabilities and expanding its online education programs.

Kamal Haasan and Three DMK MPs Sworn In as Rajya Sabha Members from Tamil Nadu

• Kamal Haasan, founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), was sworn in as a Rajya Sabha member from Tamil Nadu.
• Other members sworn in include:
• P.Wilson (former Additional Advocate-General, sitting Rajya Sabha MP)
• Poet Rajathi (Salma)
• S.R. Sivalingam
• All four were elected with support from DMK and allies and took the oath in Tamil.
• The 69-year-old actor-turned-politician secured his Rajya Sabha seat through DMK’s allotment of one seat to MNM.
• All six candidates from Tamil Nadu were elected unopposed on June 12, including two from AIADMK: I.S. Inbadurai and M. Mohamed Jaleel.

Anuradha Thakur Appointed as Director on RBI’s Central Board by Centre                      

• The Central Government has appointed Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), as a Director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• She replaces Ajay Seth, the recently retired Finance Secretary, who has been appointed as the Chairman of IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India).
• Thakur’s appointment is effective from July 24, as announced by the RBI.
• She is a 1994-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre.
• Thakur recently took charge as the first woman Economic Affairs Secretary (EAS).
• She was earlier serving as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the DEA since the end of June 2025.
• Her appointment to the RBI Board follows the tradition of the EAS serving as an ex-officio RBI board member.
• Earlier this month, she also joined the SEBI board as part of her EAS responsibilities.
• Previously served as:
• Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
• Director at the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO)
• Joint Secretary in the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)
• She led Air India’s disinvestment and played a key role in the launch of Bharat Bond Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs).

Nirmal Minda Appointed as New President of ASSOCHAM

• Nirmal K. Minda is set to become the new President of ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India), succeeding Sanjay Nayar.
• He is currently the Executive Chairman of Uno Minda, a leading auto components manufacturer.
• Minda has been appointed as Senior Vice-President of ASSOCHAM.
• Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank, is set to become the Vice-President of ASSOCHAM, subject to RBI approval.
• Minda is a veteran industrialist with over 50 years of experience in the auto components sector.
• Under his leadership, Uno Minda:Has a market capitalization of approx. ₹62,566 crore, Generated annual revenue of ₹16,775 crore in FY25
• He is a former President of ACMA (Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India).
• He was awarded the ‘EY Entrepreneur of the Year – Manufacturing’ in 2019.

About ASSOCHAM :

• Founded : 1920
• Headquarters : New Delhi, India
• ASSOCHAM is one of India’s oldest and leading industry chambers.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India-Maldives Sign MoU to Boost Fisheries and Aquaculture Cooperation

• During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Maldives, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, India, and the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Maldives signed a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral collaboration in fisheries and aquaculture.

Key Objectives:

• Promote sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries.
• Enhance aquaculture and sustainable resource management.
• Foster fisheries-based eco-tourism.
• Support innovation and scientific research in both countries.

Areas of Collaboration:

• Development of the fisheries value chain and mariculture.
• Facilitation of trade and capacity building.
• Maldives to upgrade fish processing with investments in cold storage.
• Boost aquaculture through hatchery development, improving production efficiency, and diversifying cultured species.

• Training programs in aquatic animal health, biosecurity, and aquaculture farm management.
• Technical skill development in refrigeration, mechanical engineering, and marine engineering.

RECENT NEWS

• In a move showcasing India’s deepening regional defence ties and commitment to humanitarian collaboration, INS Sharda reached the Maldives’ Maafilaafushi Atoll on May 4, 2025, to participate in a joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 Begins in Jodhpur, Strengthening India–Singapore Defence Ties

• The 14th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 commenced on July 25, 2025, at Jodhpur, continuing until August 4, 2025.
• Participants include the 42 Singapore Armoured Regiment of the 4 Singapore Armoured Brigade and the Indian Army’s Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
• The exercise is conducted as a Table Top Exercise and Computer-Based Wargame, focusing on validating operational procedures for mechanised warfare.
• The exercise will conclude with an equipment display by the Indian Army.

History :

• The 13th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra, a bilateral military exercise between India and Singapore, was held in Jodhpur Military Station from March 6-13, 2023.
• The first edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra, a bilateral military exercise between the Singapore Army and the Indian Army, was conducted in 2005.

Objectives:

• Enhance interoperability and joint training capabilities of both armies under the United Nations mandate.
• Strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between India and Singapore.
• Senior officers from both countries attended the opening ceremony.
• Colonel Arjun Ganapathi leads the Indian contingent.
• Lieutenant Colonel Khiew Zhi Yoong commands the Singaporean contingent.

Other dignitaries:

• Brigadier Pritam, Commander of 340 (I) Mechanised Brigade (India)
• Colonel Wong Zeng Yu, Commander of the 4 Singapore Armoured Brigade (Singapore)
• A symbolic handing over of the Regimental Flag from the Singapore Armoured Regiment to the Indian contingent signifies the formal transfer of command during the exercise.
• The exercise aims to consolidate strong defence ties and promote mutual understanding and collaboration at both tactical and strategic

About Ministry of Defence:

• Cabinet Minister: Rajnath Singh
• Minister of State (MoS): Sanjay Seth

India Successfully Conducts Flight Trials of Drone-Launched Missile ULPGM-V3 in Kurnool

• India conducted flight trials of a drone-launched missile, named ULPGM-V3, at a test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, July 25, 2025.
• The missile has anti-armour and anti-bunker capabilities and is an upgraded version developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• ULPGM-V3 is equipped with a high-definition dual CCD seeker allowing it to strike high-value targets in complex environments during day and night battle conditions.
• The test achieved all mission objectives, according to the Defence Ministry.
• The missile system is intended for use by the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• The weapon features a thermobaric warhead option and modern armour-defeating anti-armour warheads with high lethality.
• Three configurations of the missile were successfully tested.
• The missile was launched from a UAV developed by Indian start-up NewSpace Research and Technologies, Bengaluru.
• DRDO aims to integrate ULPGM systems with indigenous fixed- and rotary-wing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from Indian firms such as Tata, IdeaForge, and NewSpace.
• The trial reinforces the importance of locally developed unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technologies, specifically designed for Indian terrain and needs.
• This development was highlighted during Operation Sindoor, emphasizing the need for self-reliance in defence technology and reduced dependence on imported niche technologies.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Ish Sodhi Becomes Third Bowler in Men’s T20I History to Claim 150 Wickets

• New Zealand leg-spinner Ish Sodhi etched his name in the record books by becoming only the third bowler in men’s T20 International history to take 150 wickets in the format.
• The milestone was achieved during New Zealand’s 60-run victory over Zimbabwe in the 2025 T20I Tri-Nation Series held in Harare.
• The 32-year-old delivered a match-winning spell of 4/12, dismantling Zimbabwe’s top order and setting up a comfortable win for the Kiwis.

Elite Company: With this achievement, Sodhi joined an elite list of bowlers:

• Tim Southee (New Zealand) – 164 wickets
• Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – 161 wickets
• Ish Sodhi (New Zealand) – 150 wickets
• Notably, Sodhi becomes the first spinner from New Zealand and only the third overall player to reach the 150-wicket mark in T20 Internationals, reflecting his longevity, consistency, and adaptability in the shortest format.

Veda Krishnamurthy Announces Retirement from International Cricket

• India women’s cricket team batter Veda Krishnamurthy, officially announced her retirement from international cricket.
• However, she indicated that she intends to stay connected with the sport in another capacity.

Career Overview:

• Veda, aged 32, represented India in:
  • 48 One Day Internationals (ODIs), scoring 829 runs
  • 76 T20 Internationals (T20Is), amassing 875 runs
• Her last international appearance was during a T20I match against Australia in Melbourne in 2020.
• She last featured in an ODI match in 2018.

• Veda is married to Arjun Hoysala, a former Karnataka cricketer.

• Her most recent competitive match was for Gujarat Giants against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) held last year.

• Beyond the statistics, Veda’s journey is marked by resilience and personal loss.
• She lost her mother, Cheluvamaba Devi, and sister, Vatsala Shivakumar, during the COVID-19 pandemic, displaying immense strength to carry on.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Nature Conservation Day 2025: July 28

• On July 28th, World Nature Conservation Day 2025is celebrated and observed all over the world as an awareness program to conserve Nature.
• The World Nature Conservation theme for 2025 is “Connecting People and Plants, Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.”

History

• In 2018, The E.U. completely restricted the outdoor use of three neonicotinoids (a type of pesticide).
• Between 1995 — 1996, Thirty-one gray wolves from western Canada were released into Yellowstone National Park, 40 years after they were wiped out by people.
• In 1973, The Endangered Species Act was passed to encourage the conservation of ecosystems upon which threatened and endangered species rely for survival.
• On October 5, 1948, In Fontainebleau, a small town in France, the International Union for Conservation of Nature was established.

Daily CA One- Liner: July 27 & 28

• President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, marked the completion of three years in office
• The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme titled National Ayush Mission (NAM) through State and Union Territory Governments, aiming to promote and develop Ayush systems – Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy – across the country
• The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has surpassed 10.18 crore screenings of women aged 30–65 years for cervical cancer, as part of the population-based NCD screening, prevention, and management programme under the National Health Mission
• The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India, supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, hosted the second World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Intelligence & Investigations (I&I) Workshop in New Delhi
• Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, highlighted the historic launch of the Bima Sakhi Yojana under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• India has successfully met its 20% ethanol–petrol blending target by June 2025, originally slated for 2030.
• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in partnership with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Amarkantak, signed an MoU in Bhopal to set up a three-year Centre of Excellence on the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA).
• During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Maldives, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, India, and the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Maldives signed a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral collaboration in fisheries and aquaculture.
• New Zealand leg-spinner Ish Sodhi etched his name in the record books by becoming only the third bowler in men’s T20 International history to take 150 wickets in the format
• India women’s cricket team batter Veda Krishnamurthy, officially announced her retirement from international cricket.
• On July 28th, World Nature Conservation Day 2025 is celebrated and observed all over the world as an awareness program to conserve Nature.
• The Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India plans to introduce an Internal Insurance Ombudsman in all insurance companies (except reinsurers) to strengthen policyholder protection and boost trust.
• The India–United Kingdom (UK) Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was signed on July 24, 2025, by PM Narendra Modi and UK PM Sir Keir Starmer.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has lifted trading restrictions on US-based high-frequency trading firm Jane Street after it deposited ₹4,844 crore in an escrow account.
• Federal Bank, in partnership with fintech firms M2P and MinkasuPay, launched the first-ever biometric authentication solution for e-commerce card transactions.
• French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September 2025.
• The 14th edition of Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 commenced on July 25, 2025, at Jodhpur, continuing until August 4, 2025.
• India conducted flight trials of a drone-launched missile, named ULPGM-V3, at a test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, July 25, 2025.
• Prof Uma Kanjilal has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious position.
• Kamal Haasan, founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), was sworn in as a Rajya Sabha member from Tamil Nadu.
• The Central Government has appointed Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), as a Director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• Nirmal K. Minda is set to become the new President of ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India), succeeding Sanjay Nayar.