Daily Current Affairs April 03
Table of Contents
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April 03 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs April 03
1. What is the historical event commemorated on National Maritime Day in India?
A) Launch of India’s first warship
B) Founding of the Shipping Corporation of India
C) Maiden voyage of SS Loyalty from Mumbai to London
D) India’s first oil shipment
E) Signing of the Maritime Trade Pact
Answer: C) Maiden voyage of SS Loyalty from Mumbai to London
Event and Location:
- Event: 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week inaugurated in Mumbai
- Date: April 5, 2024
- Location: Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mandates and Objectives:
- Inauguration Ceremony: Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan officially inaugurated the 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week.
- Purpose of the Celebration: The event was aimed at emphasizing India’s maritime heritage and highlighting the sector’s contribution to achieving Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
- Governor’s Key Message: He called for modernization of Indian ports and stressed the importance of coordination among maritime bodies, exporters, and Indian Railways.
- Focus on Maritime Infrastructure: Emphasis was laid on the need for technologically advanced, automated ports to enhance India’s competitiveness in global trade.
- Symbolic Gesture: Director General of Shipping, Shyam Jagannathan, pinned a miniature National Maritime Day flag on the Governor’s jacket to symbolize pride in maritime achievements.
- Commemorative Tribute: A Coffee Table Book outlining India’s maritime progress was presented to the Governor.
- Historical Significance: National Maritime Day marks the maiden voyage of SS Loyalty on April 5, 1919 — the first Indian-owned ship to sail internationally.
- Future Vision: India aims to become a global maritime leader by investing in port infrastructure, automation, sustainability, and skill development.
Important Terms Explained:
- National Maritime Day: Celebrated on April 5 each year to commemorate the voyage of SS Loyalty in 1919, highlighting India’s maritime legacy.
- Merchant Navy Week: Week-long celebration recognizing the contributions of Indian seafarers to international trade and the shipping economy.
- Viksit Bharat: A national vision focusing on transforming India into a developed country through sector-wise modernization.
- Smart Ports: Ports equipped with automation and modern technology for efficient cargo handling, reduced turnaround time, and environmental sustainability.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week inaugurated by Governor C P Radhakrishnan. |
Date | April 5, 2024 |
Location | Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
Significance | Highlights maritime sector’s contribution to Viksit Bharat and commemorates India’s maritime history. |
Governor’s Message | Called for port modernization and coordination among maritime agencies, exporters, and railways. |
Symbolic Gesture | DG Shipping pinned a miniature National Maritime Day flag on the Governor’s jacket. |
Historical Reference | Commemorates the voyage of SS Loyalty from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. |
Officials Present | Shyam Jagannathan, Ajit Sukumaran, Captain B. K. Tyagi, Pandurang Raut, and other maritime leaders. |
Future Focus Areas | Smart ports, private investment, maritime security, and employment generation in shipping. |
Sports – Daily Current Affairs April 03
2. Who won the Grand Prix of the Americas after Marc Marquez crashed on lap nine?
A) Marc Marquez
B) Fabio Di Giannantonio
C) Alex Marquez
D) Francesco Bagnaia
E) Jorge Martin
Answer: D) Francesco Bagnaia
Event and Location:
- Event: Francesco Bagnaia triumphs at Grand Prix of the Americas after Marc Marquez crash
- Date: March 30, 2025 (Race Day)
- Location: Circuit of the Americas (COTA), United States
Mandates and Objectives:
- Race Outcome: Francesco Bagnaia secured victory at the Grand Prix of the Americas after Marc Marquez crashed on lap nine.
- Race Incident: Marc Marquez, who led early in the race, crashed after touching a kerb and was forced to retire after dropping to 18th.
- Bagnaia’s Performance: Starting from sixth, he moved up quickly and overtook the lead following Marquez’s crash.
- Podium Finishers: Alex Marquez finished in second place, while Fabio Di Giannantonio took third — both riding for Ducati Satellite teams.
- Championship Implications: Alex Marquez overtook Marc Marquez in the riders’ standings by one point.
- Ducati Milestone: This win marks Ducati’s 20th consecutive Grand Prix victory, nearing Honda’s all-time record of 22.
Important Terms Explained:
- Grand Prix of the Americas: A MotoGP race held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, part of the MotoGP World Championship.
- Ducati Factory Team: The official factory team of Ducati Corse competing in MotoGP.
- Satellite Team: An independent MotoGP team that uses bikes and technical support from a factory team, such as Ducati.
- Riders’ Standings: The ranking system in MotoGP based on points accumulated throughout the season.
- Circuit of the Americas (COTA): A premier race circuit in Austin, Texas, USA, which hosts MotoGP, Formula 1, and other motorsport events.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Francesco Bagnaia won the Grand Prix of the Americas after Marc Marquez crashed on lap nine. |
Date | March 30, 2025 (Race Day) |
Location | Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Austin, Texas, United States |
Winner | Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Factory Team) |
Second Place | Alex Marquez (Ducati Satellite Team) |
Third Place | Fabio Di Giannantonio (Ducati Satellite Team) |
Marquez’s Outcome | Crashed on lap nine and retired from the race after falling to 18th position |
Ducati’s Achievement | 20th consecutive MotoGP win, two short of Honda’s all-time record of 22 |
Riders’ Standings Impact | Alex Marquez moved ahead of Marc Marquez by one point in the championship rankings |
3. How many total medals did India win at the 2025 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship?
A) 7
B) 8
C) 9
D) 10
E) 11
Answer: D) 10
Event and Location:
- Event: India concludes Senior Asian Wrestling Championship with 10 medals
- Date: April 3, 2025 (News Update)
- Location: Amman, Jordan
Mandates and Objectives:
- Event Performance: India finished the 2025 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship with a total of 10 medals.
- Participation Details: The Indian wrestling team consisted of 30 members, including 10 women, 10 men in freestyle, and 10 in Greco-Roman.
- Gold Medal Achievement: Manisha Bhanwala won the only gold medal for India in the women’s 62kg category.
- Silver Medal Achievements: Reetika Hooda (76kg), Deepak Punia (92kg), and Udit (61kg) won silver medals.
- Bronze Medal Winners: Six wrestlers secured bronze, including Antim Pangal, Mansi Lather, Muskan, Dinesh, Dinesh Kumar, and Nitesh.
- Team Highlights: The performance demonstrated India’s growing prowess in freestyle and women’s wrestling at the continental level.
Important Terms Explained:
- Senior Asian Wrestling Championship: A major continental wrestling tournament held annually featuring Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling competitions.
- Freestyle Wrestling: A wrestling style that allows the use of the wrestler’s or opponent’s legs in offense and defense.
- Greco-Roman Wrestling: A wrestling style that forbids holds below the waist, focusing only on upper body techniques.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | India concluded the 2025 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship with 10 medals. |
Date | April 3, 2025 (Reported) |
Location | Amman, Jordan |
Total Medals Won | India won a total of 10 medals. |
Gold Medalist | Manisha Bhanwala (Women’s 62kg category). |
Silver Medalists | Reetika Hooda (Women’s 76kg), Udit (Men’s Freestyle 61kg), Deepak Punia (Men’s Freestyle 92kg). |
Bronze Medalists | Antim Pangal (Women’s 53kg), Mansi Lather (Women’s 68kg), Muskan (Women’s 59kg), Dinesh (Men’s Freestyle 125kg), Dinesh Kumar (Men’s Greco-Roman 87kg), Nitesh (Men’s Greco-Roman 97kg). |
Indian Team Size | 30-member squad including women’s, men’s freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestlers. |
Governing Body | United World Wrestling (UWW). |
UWW Headquarters | Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland. |
UWW President | Nenad Lalovic |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs April 03
4. What is the key change introduced by the RBI regarding Government of India-guaranteed Security Receipts (SRs)?
A) SRs can now be issued by foreign investors
B) Government-backed SRs are now exempt from capital deduction
C) Banks can reverse excess provisions if SRs are government-backed and received in cash
D) SRs no longer need to be valued based on NAV
E) ARCs can distribute dividends from SR-related gains
Answer: C) Banks can reverse excess provisions if SRs are government-backed and received in cash
Event and Location:
- Event: RBI revises norms on Government of India-guaranteed Security Receipts
- Date: April 3, 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- New Framework: RBI has revised the regulatory treatment for government-guaranteed Security Receipts (SRs).
- Provisioning Flexibility: Banks can reverse excess provisioning if the sale proceeds are received in cash and the SRs are backed by the Government of India.
- Capital Treatment: Non-cash SRs must be deducted from CET1 capital to ensure that unrealized gains do not inflate core capital.
- Dividend Restrictions: Banks are prohibited from paying dividends from unrealized fair valuation gains.
- Valuation Methodology: Government-backed SRs must be valued periodically based on Net Asset Value (NAV) declared by ARCs, and adjusted using recovery ratings.
- Policy Upgrade: These changes improve upon the 2021 Master Direction on Transfer of Loan Exposures by differentiating sovereign-backed SRs.
- Coverage: The circular applies to commercial banks (including SFBs, RRBs, LABs), cooperative banks, AIFIs, NBFCs, and HFCs.
- Intended Impact: The new norms aim to strengthen financial discipline, boost investor confidence, and accelerate bad loan resolution.
Important Terms Explained:
- Security Receipts (SRs): SRs are issued by ARCs to banks or qualified buyers when purchasing stressed assets.
- Government-Guaranteed SRs: These SRs are backed by sovereign guarantees, making them less risky and more recoverable.
- CET1 Capital: Core component of a bank’s capital used to absorb losses and comply with regulatory capital requirements.
- Net Asset Value (NAV): The fair value of an asset calculated by subtracting liabilities from total assets, used for valuing SRs.
- Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs): Entities that buy and recover bad loans from financial institutions to resolve NPAs.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | RBI revises norms on Government of India-guaranteed Security Receipts |
Date | April 3, 2025 |
Location | India |
Purpose | To distinguish sovereign-backed SRs from ordinary SRs for improved provisioning and capital discipline |
Provisioning Norms | Banks can reverse excess provisions if SRs are government-guaranteed and received in cash |
Capital Treatment | Non-cash SRs to be deducted from CET1 capital; no dividend from unrealized gains |
Valuation Method | Government-backed SRs to be periodically valued based on NAV and adjusted with recovery ratings |
Entities Covered | Commercial banks, cooperative banks, AIFIs, NBFCs, Housing Finance Companies |
Previous Guidelines | Replaces uniform norms under 2021 Master Direction on Transfer of Loan Exposures (MD-TLE) |
Key Impact | Enhances investor confidence, speeds up stressed asset resolution, and enforces capital discipline |
5. Where was the RBI conference on strengthening large NBFCs held on March 28, 2025?
A) Mumbai
B) Hyderabad
C) Kolkata
D) Chennai
E) New Delhi
Answer: D) Chennai
Event and Location:
- Event: RBI conference on strengthening large NBFCs held in Chennai
- Date: March 28, 2025
- Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Mandates and Objectives:
- Objective of the Conference: The Reserve Bank of India organized the conference to strengthen large NBFCs through enhanced supervision and shared responsibility.
- Theme: The event was held under the theme “Shared Vision, Shared Responsibility: Strengthening the NBFCs.”
- Target Participants: The conference was attended by MDs & CEOs of NBFCs, Audit Committee Chairpersons, Statutory Auditors, and ICAI officials.
- Focus Areas: Discussions focused on risk-taking limits, audit quality, lending practices, and grievance redressal.
- RBI’s Message: RBI emphasized the importance of prudential risk management and ethical governance in NBFCs.
- ICAI’s View: ICAI President called for CAs to embrace transparency and keep pace with technological changes in auditing.
- Interactive Engagement: RBI officials conducted sessions addressing queries and concerns from NBFC stakeholders.
- Technical Discussion Topics: Sessions covered regulatory expectations, the use of data analytics in audits, and issues under Ind AS.
Important Terms Explained:
- Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs): Financial institutions that offer various banking services but do not hold a banking license. They play a critical role in financial inclusion and credit delivery.
- Audit Committee of the Board (ACB): A key subcommittee in financial institutions responsible for overseeing financial reporting, compliance, and auditing functions.
- Ind AS: Indian Accounting Standards are guidelines issued for financial reporting in India, aligned with IFRS.
- Data Analytics in Auditing: The use of technology and data tools to improve audit efficiency, fraud detection, and compliance checks.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | The Reserve Bank of India held a conference for strengthening large NBFCs. |
Date | March 28, 2025 |
Location | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
Theme | “Shared Vision, Shared Responsibility: Strengthening the NBFCs” |
Key Attendees | RBI Deputy Governor, Executive Directors, MD & CEOs of NBFCs, Audit Committee Chairpersons, ICAI President |
Total Participants | Over 200 stakeholders from the NBFC sector were in attendance. |
Core Discussion Topics | Risk-taking within limits, fair lending, grievance redressal, audit rigor, and ethics. |
ICAI’s Message | Emphasis on trust, transparency, and adapting auditing to technological advancements. |
Technical Sessions | Regulatory expectations, data analytics in audits, Ind AS implementation challenges. |
Interactive Session | RBI officials addressed stakeholder queries and concerns. |
6. From which date will RBI transition Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) from the Supervisory Action Framework (SAF) to the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework?
A) January 1, 2025
B) March 31, 2025
C) April 1, 2025
D) July 1, 2025
E) October 1, 2025
Answer: C) April 1, 2025
Event and Location:
- Event: RBI to transition Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) from SAF to PCA framework
- Date: April 1, 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Framework Change: RBI will shift nearly 500 financially weak UCBs from the Supervisory Action Framework to the Prompt Corrective Action framework.
- Primary Objective: The PCA framework is designed to enable early supervisory intervention and enforce timely corrective actions to restore the banks’ financial health.
- Scope of Action: While PCA prescribes structured steps, it does not limit RBI from taking additional supervisory or regulatory measures.
- Key Indicators: PCA monitoring for UCBs will focus on capital adequacy, asset quality (particularly NPAs), and profitability instead of leverage as in SCBs.
- Capital Norms: UCBs under PCA must raise additional capital if their net NPA exceeds 6% of net advances.
- Dividend Restrictions: UCBs may be barred from distributing dividends, affecting investor incentives for further capital infusion.
- Industry Feedback: Experts have raised concerns about the fairness of applying commercial bank-like PCA criteria to cooperative banks, urging proactive support instead of reactive correction.
Important Terms Explained:
- Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs): These are cooperative banks operating in urban and semi-urban areas, regulated by both the RBI and respective state governments.
- Supervisory Action Framework (SAF): Introduced in 2012, SAF was RBI’s earlier tool to monitor the financial health of weak UCBs.
- Prompt Corrective Action (PCA): A structured framework by RBI that enforces corrective actions on banks showing financial stress based on specific trigger points like NPAs and capital adequacy.
- Net NPA: Net Non-Performing Assets are the total bad loans after deducting provisions, used as a key measure of asset quality.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | RBI will transition UCBs from the Supervisory Action Framework to the Prompt Corrective Action framework. |
Date | April 1, 2025 |
Location | India |
Number of Banks Affected | Approximately 500 Urban Co-operative Banks are included in the transition. |
Old Framework | Supervisory Action Framework (SAF), implemented since 2012. |
New Framework | Prompt Corrective Action (PCA), to enforce structured supervisory intervention. |
Monitoring Areas | Capital adequacy, asset quality (NPAs), and profitability. |
Capital Requirements | UCBs with net NPAs over 6% must raise additional capital. |
Dividend Restrictions | PCA imposes restrictions on dividend payouts for affected banks. |
Industry Concerns | Experts argue PCA may be unsuitable for UCBs and urge for proactive intervention over punitive action. |
7. From which date will the revised ATM withdrawal charge of Rs 23 per transaction come into effect?
A) March 31, 2025
B) April 1, 2025
C) April 15, 2025
D) May 1, 2025
E) June 1, 2025
Answer: D) May 1, 2025
Event and Location:
- Event: RBI revises ATM cash withdrawal charges to Rs 23 per transaction
- Date: March 28, 2025 (Announcement)
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Fee Revision Announcement: The Reserve Bank of India has announced a hike in ATM withdrawal charges effective May 1, 2025.
- New Withdrawal Fee: Customers exceeding the free monthly ATM transaction limit will now be charged Rs 23 per transaction, up from Rs 21.
- Reason for Revision: The hike is aimed at compensating banks for the increased cost of ATM network maintenance and cash replenishment.
- Free Transaction Limits: Customers continue to get 5 free transactions at their own bank ATMs. In addition, they get 3 free transactions at other bank ATMs in metro areas and 5 in non-metro areas.
- Applicability: The revised fee applies not only to standard ATMs but also to cash recycler machines, except for cash deposits.
- Interchange Fees: The ATM interchange fees remain unchanged — Rs 17 for financial and Rs 6 for non-financial transactions.
- Customer Impact: The revision increases transaction costs for customers who frequently withdraw cash beyond the free limits.
- Credit Card Update: SBI Card has also revised its reward points structure for select cards between March 31 and April 1, 2025, offering fewer points for some transactions.
Important Terms Explained:
- ATM Withdrawal Charges: The amount a bank charges a customer per cash withdrawal after crossing the monthly free limit.
- Cash Recycler Machines: Machines that accept and dispense cash and are used for both deposit and withdrawal transactions.
- Interchange Fee: The fee paid by the card-issuing bank to the ATM-operating bank when a customer uses another bank’s ATM.
- SBI Card Reward Programme: A benefits program where customers earn points on eligible card spends; recent changes may lower reward earnings for some transactions.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | The Reserve Bank of India has revised ATM withdrawal charges from Rs 21 to Rs 23 per transaction. |
Announcement Date | March 28, 2025 |
Effective From | May 1, 2025 |
Previous Withdrawal Charge | Rs 21 per transaction beyond the free limit. |
New Withdrawal Charge | Rs 23 per transaction beyond the free limit. |
Free Transactions Allowed | 5 at own bank’s ATMs, 3 at other banks’ ATMs in metros, 5 in non-metros. |
Interchange Fee | Rs 17 per financial transaction, Rs 6 per non-financial transaction. |
Applicability | Applies to ATMs and cash recycler machines, excluding deposit transactions. |
Impact on Customers | Customers will incur higher charges for excess ATM withdrawals. |
SBI Card Update | SBI revised its reward point structure for select credit cards from March 31 to April 1, 2025. |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs April 03
8. What is the expected policy rate cut by the RBI in April 2025, according to the report?
A) 10 basis points
B) 15 basis points
C) 25 basis points
D) 50 basis points
E) No rate cut expected
Answer: C) 25 basis points
Event and Location:
- Event: Deposit rate cuts start at lenders following RBI signals
- Date: April 3, 2025 (Reported)
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Initiation of Rate Cuts: HDFC Bank, Yes Bank, Bajaj Finance, and Bandhan Bank have reduced deposit rates by 25–40 basis points (bps), especially targeting special deposit schemes.
- RBI Rate Transmission: These cuts follow the RBI’s February 2025 repo rate cut, and the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is expected to cut the policy rate again by 25 bps on April 9.
- Domino Effect: A drop in deposit rates paves the way for a potential fall in MCLR (Marginal Cost of Funds Based Lending Rate), though not expected immediately.
- Shift in Liquidity: System liquidity has shifted from a deficit to a surplus, thanks to government bond purchases and RBI’s open market operations (~₹1.4 lakh crore).
- Special Deposits Focus: Most cuts have been observed in special fixed deposits, especially those ending March 31, 2025, which had offered higher rates to gather short-term resources.
Important Terms Explained:
- Basis Point (bps): A unit equal to 0.01%, commonly used to describe interest rate changes.
- MCLR (Marginal Cost of Funds-Based Lending Rate): The minimum interest rate below which banks cannot lend.
- Repo Rate: The rate at which RBI lends money to commercial banks; key tool for monetary policy.
- EBLR (External Benchmark Lending Rate): A lending rate linked to an external benchmark like the RBI repo rate.
- Surplus Liquidity: A situation where the banking system has excess funds, pushing interest rates down.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Banks and NBFCs begin trimming deposit rates across various tenures and schemes. |
Date | April 3, 2025 (news report); rate changes from March 31–April 10, 2025 |
Banks/NBFCs Involved | HDFC Bank, Yes Bank, Bandhan Bank, Bajaj Finance |
Rate Cuts | 25–40 basis points; Bandhan halved savings deposit rate |
Reason for Cuts | Anticipation of further policy rate cut, surplus liquidity, and lower borrowing costs |
Special Deposits Affected | Fixed deposits for 35–55 months (HDFC); 42 months (Bajaj Finance); 1–10 lakh (Bandhan) |
Policy Expectation | RBI MPC likely to cut rates by 25 bps on April 9, 2025 |
Share of High-Yield Deposits | Deposits yielding ≥7% rose from 61.4% in Dec 2023 to 70.8% in Dec 2024 |
Market Impact | Lower deposit rates may lead to reduced lending rates and impact fixed-income investors |
Acquisitions and Mergers – Daily Current Affairs April 03
9. What is the effective date of the merger between Aditya Birla Capital Ltd. and Aditya Birla Finance Ltd.?
A) March 31, 2025
B) April 1, 2024
C) March 24, 2025
D) April 1, 2025
E) April 15, 2025
Answer: D) April 1, 2025
Event and Location:
- Event: Aditya Birla Capital merged with Aditya Birla Finance Ltd.
- Date: April 1, 2025 (Effective Date), March 31, 2025 (Completion Date), April 1, 2024 (Appointed Date)
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Merger Completion: Aditya Birla Capital Limited (ABCL) has completed the merger of its wholly owned subsidiary Aditya Birla Finance Ltd. (ABFL) into itself.
- Effective and Appointed Dates: The appointed date for the merger is April 1, 2024, and the effective date is April 1, 2025.
- Regulatory Approvals: The merger was completed after approvals from SEBI, RBI, NCLT, stock exchanges, shareholders, and creditors.
- Leadership Transition: Vishakha Mulye has been appointed MD & CEO of the merged entity, and Rakesh Singh will serve as Executive Director & CEO of the NBFC business.
- Independent Directors: Nagesh Pinge and Sunil Srivastav have been appointed as Independent Directors.
- Business Strategy: The merger converts ABCL from a Core Investment Company (CIC) into an NBFC, simplifying the group structure.
- Benefits of Merger: The consolidation is aimed at improving financial strength, access to capital, and operational efficiencies.
- Chairman’s Message: Kumar Mangalam Birla emphasized the role of financial services in India’s growth and ABCL’s commitment to value creation and financial inclusion.
- CEO’s Vision: Vishakha Mulye stressed the strategic benefits of simplified corporate structure and synergies post-merger.
Important Terms Explained:
- Core Investment Company (CIC): A non-banking financial institution holding shares of group companies, not involved in other financial services.
- NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company): A financial institution that provides services similar to banks but does not hold a banking license.
- Amalgamation: The process of merging two or more companies into a single entity for strategic, financial, or operational reasons.
- Effective Date: The date on which the merger legally comes into effect.
- Appointed Date: The date from which the merged entity’s financials are consolidated for accounting and legal purposes.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Aditya Birla Capital Limited merged with Aditya Birla Finance Ltd., its wholly owned NBFC subsidiary. |
Completion Date | March 31, 2025 |
Effective Date | April 1, 2025 |
Appointed Date | April 1, 2024 |
Regulatory Approvals | Received from SEBI, RBI, NCLT, stock exchanges, shareholders, and creditors. |
MD & CEO | Vishakha Mulye has been appointed as Managing Director and CEO. |
Executive Director & CEO | Rakesh Singh has been appointed as Executive Director & CEO of the NBFC business. |
Independent Directors | Nagesh Pinge and Sunil Srivastav have been appointed. |
Strategic Purpose | To simplify the group structure, improve financial strength, and enhance operational efficiencies. |
Financial Impact | The merger converts ABCL into an NBFC, improving direct capital access and financial flexibility. |
Stakeholder Benefit | The move is expected to enhance long-term shareholder value and reduce regulatory complexity. |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs April 03
10. Who has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) for a tenure of five years?
A) T. V. Somnathan
B) Deepak Mohanty
C) Sivasubramanian Ramann
D) Ajay Bhushan Pandey
E) Subhash Chandra Garg
Answer: C) Sivasubramanian Ramann
Event and Location:
- Event: Sivasubramanian Ramann appointed as Chairperson of PFRDA
- Date: April 3, 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Appointment Authority: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Sivasubramanian Ramann as Chairperson of PFRDA.
- New Role: He will lead the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority for a tenure of five years.
- Current Position: He is currently serving as Deputy Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and Chief Technology Officer at CAG of India.
- Main Responsibility: His primary task will be to regulate and oversee India’s pension sector including NPS and APY.
- Sectoral Goals: He is expected to expand the coverage of NPS and APY, especially among informal workers.
- Governance Focus: The focus will be on enhancing governance, transparency, and protection of subscriber interests.
- Technological Objective: He will work to improve digital systems for efficient pension fund management.
Important Terms Explained:
- Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA): It is the statutory body regulating India’s pension sector and was established under the PFRDA Act, 2013.
- Statutory Role: It regulates pension schemes like the National Pension System and Atal Pension Yojana.
- Main Functions: It ensures efficiency, transparency, and financial security for subscribers while promoting retirement planning.
- National Pension System (NPS): It is a voluntary, contribution-based retirement savings scheme backed by the Government of India.
- Eligibility: It is open to Indian citizens between 18 and 70 years of age.
- Tax Benefits: Subscribers are eligible for tax benefits under Sections 80CCD(1) and 80CCD(1B) of the Income Tax Act.
- Fund Management: It is managed by Pension Fund Managers licensed and monitored by PFRDA.
- Atal Pension Yojana (APY): It is a government-backed pension scheme designed for unorganized sector workers.
- Pension Guarantee: It provides a fixed pension between ₹1,000 and ₹5,000 per month after 60 years of age.
- Government Support: Eligible subscribers receive co-contribution from the Government of India.
- Objective: It aims to provide social security to economically vulnerable individuals post-retirement.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Sivasubramanian Ramann has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority. |
Date | April 3, 2025 |
Location | India |
Appointing Authority | The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his appointment. |
Tenure | He will serve a tenure of five years. |
Current Role | He is currently the Deputy Comptroller and Auditor General and Chief Technology Officer at CAG of India. |
Supervising Ministry | The Ministry of Finance is the supervising authority of PFRDA. |
Regulatory Scope | The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority oversees and regulates pension schemes like NPS and APY. |
Expected Impact | His leadership is expected to enhance pension coverage, promote transparency, and strengthen digital governance. |
11. Who has officially assumed the charge as the Managing Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL)?
A) Sandeep Kumar Gupta
B) H Shankar
C) Prabh Das
D) Subhash Kumar
E) Arun Kumar Singh
Answer: B) H Shankar
Event and Location:
- Event: H Shankar officially assumes charge as Managing Director of CPCL
- Date: April 3, 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Official Role Assumption: H Shankar has officially taken over as Managing Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited.
- Earlier Role: He was holding the additional charge as MD since July 16, 2024.
- Previous Designation: He served as Director (Technical) on CPCL’s Board since October 2020.
- Educational Background: He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA.
- Industry Experience: He has over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas sector.
- Strategic Vision: He is expected to lead CPCL with a focus on modernization, sustainability, and innovation.
- Future Strategy: He will focus on expanding refining capacity and strengthening fuel development for space and defense applications.
Important Terms Explained:
- Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL): CPCL is a leading public sector oil refining company in India and a group company of Indian Oil Corporation.
- Strategic Fuels: These are specialized fuels developed for national security applications, including space and defense sectors.
- Sustainable Products: These are environmentally friendly, value-added petroleum products that align with green energy goals and global emission norms.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | H Shankar has officially assumed charge as the Managing Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited. |
Date | April 3, 2025 |
Location | India |
Previous Role | He was serving as Director (Technical) at CPCL since October 2020. |
Interim Charge | He was holding additional charge as MD since July 16, 2024. |
Educational Qualification | He is a Mechanical Engineer and also holds an MBA degree. |
Industry Experience | He has over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas sector. |
Key Contributions | He led infrastructure modernization, introduced sustainable products, and developed fuels for space and defense. |
Strategic Focus | His appointment is expected to drive CPCL’s long-term growth, sustainability, and technological advancement. |
12. Who has been appointed as the Chairperson of FICCI’s Media and Entertainment Committee South?
A) S. S. Rajamouli
B) Kamal Haasan
C) Mani Ratnam
D) R. Madhavan
E) Rajinikanth
Answer: B) Kamal Haasan
Event and Location:
- Event: Kamal Haasan appointed as Chairperson of FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee South
- Date: April 3, 2025 (Announcement Date)
- Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Mandates and Objectives:
- Appointment Announcement: Kamal Haasan was appointed during the FICCI Media and Entertainment Business Conclave South Connect 2025 held in Chennai.
- Committee Role: As Chairperson, Haasan will lead the southern division of FICCI’s Media and Entertainment Committee, focusing on regional and national industry growth.
- Industry Vision: In his statement, Kamal Haasan urged the Indian media industry to aim for a $100 billion valuation, emphasizing the importance of bold, creative, and culturally resonant storytelling.
- Cultural Diversity: He highlighted the importance of cross-regional and multilingual collaborations to create an inclusive media landscape.
- Focus on VFX & Animation: He recognized India’s emerging strength in animation and visual effects (VFX) and called for greater investment in intellectual property and skill development.
- Policy Reforms: Haasan appealed for government support through regulatory reforms, access to credit, and training programs for upcoming media professionals.
- Future Goals: Strengthening India’s global presence in content production, bridging industry gaps, and nurturing homegrown talent remain core priorities under his leadership.
Important Terms Explained:
- FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry): One of India’s oldest and most influential business associations representing industry and commerce.
- Media and Entertainment Committee: A sector-specific advisory body within FICCI that focuses on policy advocacy, industry promotion, and strategic development of the media sector.
- VFX (Visual Effects): Digital manipulation and creation of imagery for media and entertainment, widely used in films, TV, and OTT platforms.
- IP (Intellectual Property): Creations of the mind like films, music, and characters that can be owned and monetized.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Kamal Haasan was appointed Chairperson of FICCI’s Media and Entertainment Committee South. |
Date | April 3, 2025 (Announcement made during FICCI South Connect 2025) |
Location | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
Organization Involved | Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) |
Committee Role | To promote regional content creation, foster industry collaborations, and influence national policy. |
Kamal Haasan’s Vision | Transform India’s media sector into a $100 billion industry by focusing on creativity and inclusivity. |
Industry Goals | Encourage cross-regional storytelling, promote India’s animation and VFX talent, support IP creation. |
Policy Support Requested | Regulatory reforms, better credit access, and skill-building programs for media professionals. |
Significance | His appointment is expected to guide strategic development and international competitiveness in the sector. |
Awards – Daily Current Affairs April 03
13. Who was recently honored with the Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award for his contribution to the PR and media industry?
A) Prasoon Joshi
B) Nikhil Singhal
C) Rajdeep Sardesai
D) Arnab Goswami
E) Raghav Bahl
Answer: B) Nikhil Singhal
Event and Location:
- Event: Nikhil Singhal honored with the Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award
- Date: March 31, 2025
- Lobcation: Taj Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Mandates and Objectives:
- Award Recognition: Nikhil Singhal, a media strategist and Founder of Vigor Media Worldwide, received the Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award for his contributions to public relations and strategic communications.
- Organizing Body: The award was presented by the Tapasya Foundation Trust at a grand event attended by industry leaders and dignitaries.
- Presenter: The award was conferred by Shri Akhilesh Yadav, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
- Leadership Roles: In addition to leading Vigor Media, Singhal is also the President of the Noida High Rise Federation, where he advocates for resident welfare and infrastructure development.
- PR Industry Impact: Singhal has revolutionized the public relations landscape with innovative communication strategies, crisis management, and corporate branding techniques.
- Community Work: As President of the Federation, he has worked on community development, better public amenities, and engagement with government bodies for high-rise societies.
- Vision for the Future: Singhal plans to expand globally, integrate technology in PR, and mentor future industry leaders.
Important Terms Explained:
- Public Relations (PR): A strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics.
- Vigor Media Worldwide: A PR agency founded by Nikhil Singhal, recognized for its international clientele and strategic communication excellence.
- Noida High Rise Federation: An association working for the rights, amenities, and development of residents in high-rise apartments in Noida.
- Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award: A state-level honor recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Nikhil Singhal was honored with the Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award. |
Date | March 31, 2025 |
Location | Taj Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh |
Presented By | Shri Akhilesh Yadav, Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh |
Awarding Body | Tapasya Foundation Trust |
Key Positions Held | Founder of Vigor Media Worldwide, President of Noida High Rise Federation |
Contributions in PR | Revolutionized media strategy, branding, corporate communication, and crisis handling |
Community Development Work | Advocacy for resident welfare, infrastructure improvement, and public facilities in Noida |
Recognitions Received | Times 40 Under 40 (2022), ET Global Leader Award (2021), Khaleej Times Most Followed Indian Strategist (2022) |
Future Vision | Expand global footprint, integrate technology in PR, and mentor upcoming leaders |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs April 03
14. What metaphor did Chinese President Xi Jinping use to describe India-China cooperation during the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations?
A) Silk Road and Lotus
B) Bamboo and Banyan
C) Dragon and Elephant
D) Tiger and Phoenix
E) Himalayas and Yangtze
Answer: C) Dragon and Elephant
Event and Location:
- Event: India and China celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations
- Date: April 3, 2025 (Reported)
- Location: India and China
Mandates and Objectives:
- Commemorative Occasion: India and China marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties with mutual messages of goodwill.
- Key Leaders: President Xi Jinping and President Droupadi Murmu exchanged congratulatory messages emphasizing cooperation and strategic partnership.
- Strategic Metaphor: Xi Jinping used the phrase “cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant” to symbolize the potential for peaceful collaboration.
- Diplomatic Theme: The relationship was described as crucial to the modernization efforts of both countries and essential for the Global South.
- Mutual Focus: Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized rebuilding ties based on mutual respect, sensitivity, and shared interests.
- Chinese Viewpoint: Ambassador Xu Feihong highlighted the long-term and strategic nature of the bilateral relationship.
- Strengthening Engagement: The countries have taken steps to de-escalate border tensions, such as disengagement in Eastern Ladakh and resumed talks on patrolling.
- People-to-People Growth: China issued 70,000 visas to Indian citizens in the first quarter of 2025, indicating increased people-level interaction.
- Other Initiatives: Plans are in place to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, enhance cooperation on rivers, and discuss restarting direct air services.
Important Terms Explained:
- Pas de deux: A ballet term meaning a duet; here it metaphorically refers to synchronized and cooperative movement between India and China.
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: A pilgrimage to the Mount Kailash region in Tibet, which holds religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains.
- Global South: A term often used to describe developing countries, including India and China, in contrast to the developed countries of the Global North.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | India and China celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations. |
Date | April 3, 2025 (Reported) |
Location | India and China |
Commemorative Host | Chinese Embassy in India hosted the celebratory event. |
Key Leaders Involved | Xi Jinping (China), Droupadi Murmu (India), Vikram Misri, Xu Feihong |
Symbolic Metaphor | Xi Jinping used “dragon and elephant” to symbolize cooperative partnership. |
Focus Areas | Mutual respect, sensitivity, interest alignment, people-to-people ties |
Key Diplomatic Initiatives | Disengagement in Eastern Ladakh, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct air service discussions |
Visa Statistics | 70,000 visas issued by China to Indian citizens in Q1 of 2025 |
Strategic Direction | Emphasis on long-term cooperation, peaceful coexistence, and development |
Recent Engagements | High-level meetings between defense, foreign ministers to build mutual trust |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs April 03
15. Which agricultural product from Telangana recently received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag?
A) Guntur Sannam Chilli
B) Nizamabad Black Rice
C) Warangal Chapata Chilli
D) Karimnagar Turmeric
E) Adilabad Cotton
Answer: C) Warangal Chapata Chilli
Event and Location:
- Event: Warangal Chapata Chilli receives GI tag
- Date: April 3, 2025
- Location: Telangana, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Recognition Purpose: The GI tag officially recognizes the uniqueness and regional identity of Warangal Chapata Chilli.
- Farmer Benefit: The recognition is expected to benefit around 20,000 farmers by enabling premium pricing and export opportunities.
- Cultivation Region: The chilli is cultivated across 3,000 hectares in Warangal, Hanmakonda, Mulugu, and Bhupalpally districts.
- Harvesting Cycle: The harvesting season falls between February and March when pods are 60–70% withered on the plant.
- Chilli Variants: The variety includes Single Patti, Double Patti, and Odalu.
- Processing Advantage: Dried pods retain good moisture and low brittleness, making them ideal for export and industrial processing.
- Recognizing Institutions: The GI tag was confirmed by the GI Registry to Thimmampet Chilli Farmer Producer Company Ltd. and SKLTGHU.
Important Terms Explained:
- Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: A GI tag is an intellectual property right that identifies a product as originating from a specific location, granting it protection and value based on its geographical uniqueness.
- Chapata Chilli: Also known as Tomato Chilli, it is known for its bright red color, mild pungency, and use in natural coloring.
- SKLTGHU: Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University is involved in promoting the cultivation and recognition of region-specific horticultural crops.
- Oleoresin: It is a natural extract derived from chillies that is widely used as a coloring and flavoring agent in multiple industries.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Warangal Chapata Chilli has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. |
Date | April 3, 2025 |
Location | Telangana, India |
Cultivation Area | 3,000 hectares across Warangal, Hanmakonda, Mulugu, and Bhupalpally districts. |
Farmers Benefited | Around 20,000 farmers are expected to gain from the GI recognition. |
Annual Production | Approximately 11,000 tonnes of Chapata Chilli is produced annually. |
Chilli Variants | The variety includes Single Patti, Double Patti, and Odalu. |
Harvesting Period | Harvesting takes place from February to March each year. |
Unique Characteristics | Bright red color, mild pungency, high moisture retention, and low brittleness. |
Major Uses | Used in pickles, food coloring, spice blends, and as natural dye in cosmetics, beverages, textiles. |
Export Demand | Oleoresin is in high demand in the US, China, UK, Germany, and other European markets. |
Recognizing Institutions | Thimmampet Chilli Farmer Producer Company Ltd. and SKLTGHU received official GI communication. |
Industrial Applications | Used by food, cosmetic, beverage, pharmaceutical, and textile industries. |
16. Who flagged off the free bus service for women in Jammu and Kashmir?
A) Manoj Sinha
B) Mehbooba Mufti
C) Farooq Abdullah
D) Omar Abdullah
E) Ghulam Nabi Azad
Answer: D) Omar Abdullah
Event and Location:
- Event: Free bus service for women launched in Jammu and Kashmir
- Date: April 1, 2025
- Location: Jammu and Kashmir, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Initiative Launch: The Jammu and Kashmir government launched a free bus service for women across the Union Territory on April 1, 2025.
- Inauguration: The initiative was officially flagged off by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar.
- Service Type: The service includes both smart city e-buses and Jammu & Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) buses.
- Scope and Reach: The service covers the entire Union Territory and is intended to promote safe and affordable mobility for women.
- Bus Deployment: 200 smart city e-buses serve urban centers, 130 JKRTC buses operate in the Kashmir region, and 105 JKRTC buses are running in the Jammu region on inter-district and highway routes.
- Primary Target: The scheme primarily aims to support working women and promote gender-inclusive transportation.
- Key Objectives: The initiative seeks to promote empowerment, inclusivity, and mobility for women by providing them with a safe and cost-free travel option.
- Expected Outcomes: The initiative is expected to increase workforce participation, enhance travel freedom, and promote a safer commuting environment for women.
Important Terms Explained:
- Smart City E-Buses: Electric buses deployed in urban areas under smart city projects to provide sustainable and tech-enabled transport solutions.
- JKRTC (Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation): The state-run transport organization operating bus services across the UT.
- Gender-Inclusive Mobility: A transport policy approach that ensures equitable access and safety for all genders, especially women, in public transport.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Free bus service for women launched across Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. |
Date | April 1, 2025 |
Location | Jammu and Kashmir |
Inauguration | Flagged off by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. |
Type of Service | Free travel on smart city e-buses and JKRTC buses. |
Bus Deployment | 200 e-buses in urban areas, 130 JKRTC buses in Kashmir, 105 JKRTC buses in Jammu. |
Service Coverage | Entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. |
Target Beneficiaries | Women across the UT, especially working women. |
Objectives | Promote empowerment, inclusivity, and affordable mobility for women. |
Expected Impact | Increased participation of women in workforce and public life through improved travel accessibility. |
Public Response | The initiative has received a positive response from women across the region. |
17. What does the ‘P4’ in Andhra Pradesh’s ‘Zero Poverty – P4 Policy’ stand for?
A) Public, People, Policy, Partnership
B) Public, Private, Political, Partnership
C) Public, Private, People, Partnership
D) Poverty, People, Policy, Progress
E) People, Power, Progress, Policy
Answer: C) Public, Private, People, Partnership
Event and Location:
- Event: Andhra Pradesh to launch ‘Zero Poverty – P4 Policy’ initiative
- Date: March 30, 2025 (Ugadi – Telugu New Year)
- Location: Andhra Pradesh
Mandates and Objectives:
- Policy Launch: The Government of Andhra Pradesh is launching the ‘Zero Poverty – P4 Policy’ as part of its Swarna Andhra-2047 vision to eradicate poverty by the year 2047.
- Meaning of P4: P4 stands for Public, Private, People Partnership, promoting collaborative development involving the government, private sector, and citizens.
- Program Focus: The initiative will empower underprivileged families by providing housing, sanitation, tap water, LPG, electricity, solar power, internet access, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Targeted Beneficiaries: The poorest 20 lakh families will be prioritized under this initiative for support from contributors.
- Support System: The model introduces ‘Bangaru Kutumbam’ (Golden Families – beneficiaries) and ‘Margadarsis’ (Guides – wealthy individuals offering support).
- Role of Margadarsis: They can provide financial help, business capital, education support, infrastructure funding, and career mentorship.
- Government’s Role: The government will focus on policy creation and monitoring; it won’t directly manage financial transactions.
- Transparency Measures: A dedicated P4 platform will facilitate family selection, fund disbursal, and impact tracking with public verification.
- Implementation Mechanism: A P4 Society will be created at state and local levels, involving representatives from government, civil society, industry, and philanthropy.
Important Terms Explained:
- Swarna Andhra-2047: A long-term developmental roadmap by the Government of Andhra Pradesh to make the state prosperous by the 100th year of independence.
- P4 Policy: A tri-sector partnership model involving public, private, and people’s collaboration aimed at eradicating poverty.
- Bangaru Kutumbam: Translates to “Golden Family”; refers to underprivileged families identified for upliftment under the initiative.
- Margadarsis: Wealthy individuals, corporates, and NRIs who volunteer to support Bangaru Kutumbams through finance, mentorship, and resources.
- P4 Society: An institutional mechanism at the state, district, constituency, and village levels for executing the P4 initiative.
Tabular Summary:
Aspect | Details |
Event | Andhra Pradesh Government launches ‘Zero Poverty – P4 Policy’ initiative. |
Date | March 30, 2025 (on Ugadi – Telugu New Year) |
Location | Andhra Pradesh |
Vision | Part of Swarna Andhra-2047 to eradicate poverty by 2047. |
Full Form of P4 | Public, Private, People Partnership |
Beneficiaries | Underprivileged families called Bangaru Kutumbam |
Contributors | Wealthy supporters or Margadarsis, including NRIs and HNIs |
Government Role | Framing policy, data analysis, and monitoring; not managing direct financial transactions |
Platform | P4 digital platform for matching families with supporters and tracking fund flow and progress |
Priority Families | Top 20 lakh most deprived families identified through analytics |
Implementation Body | A multi-level P4 Society with state, district, and local chapters |
Key Stakeholders | Government, public representatives, CSR leaders, industry, civil society, philanthropists |
Over All Review
Important Days
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Sports
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Banking and Finance
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Business And Economy
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Acquisitions and Mergers
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Appointments
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Awards
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International Affairs
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National Affairs
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