Daily Current Affairs August 19

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs August 19. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

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August 19 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs August 19

1. What is the theme for World Photography Day 2025?
A) Capture the Moment
B) Photography for Peace
C) Through My Lens
D) My Favourite Photo
E) Frame the Future
Answer: D) My Favourite Photo

Event and Location:

• Event: Celebration of World Photography Day 2025
• Location: Observed globally
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Annual celebration on 19 August to honour the invention of photography and its evolution as an art and storytelling medium.
  • Commemorates the announcement of the daguerreotype process in 1839 by Louis Daguerre, marking the beginning of practical photography.
• Objectives:
  • To recognize photography’s impact on storytelling, culture, and social awareness.
  • To celebrate photographers—professional and amateur—who use imagery to capture and share meaningful moments, history, and emotion.
  • To inspire creativity and build global connections through visual language.

Important Terms Explained:

• World Photography Day: Celebrated annually on August 19, it honours the history and influence of photography. It commemorates the invention of the daguerreotype, the earliest practical photographic process, made public in 1839.
• Daguerreotype: An early form of photography developed by Louis Daguerre, which allowed images to be captured permanently on a silver-coated copper plate.
• Theme – My Favourite Photo: The 2025 theme encourages individuals to share a personal photograph along with the story behind it, promoting emotional expression and global engagement through images.

Tabular Summary:

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Sports – Daily Current Affairs August 19

2. Who won the junior women’s 10m air pistol gold medal for India at the 16th Asian Shooting Championship in 2025?
A) Manu Bhaker
B) Vanshika Chaudhary
C) Palak Sharma
D) Rashmika Sahgal
E) Mohini Singh
Answer: D) Rashmika Sahgal

Event and Location:

• Event: Indian shooters win medals at the 16th Asian Shooting Championship
• Location: Shymkent, Kazakhstan
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Participation of Indian rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooters in the 16th Asian Shooting Championship.
  • Showcase of junior and senior category performances, with focus on individual and team 10m air pistol events.
• Objectives:
  • To compete in international shooting events, strengthen India’s medal prospects in upcoming Olympic cycles, and encourage youth and junior shooting talent development on the continental stage.

Important Terms Explained:

• 10m Air Pistol: A shooting discipline where athletes fire a series of shots at a stationary target 10 meters away, using air pistols. Events are divided into senior, junior, and youth categories for men and women.
• Asian Shooting Championship: A continental-level shooting competition conducted by the Asian Shooting Confederation, featuring elite and emerging shooters from across Asia in rifle, pistol, and shotgun events.
• Team Medal (Shooting): In shooting events, team medals are awarded based on the aggregate qualification scores of a country’s shooters in the same category.

Tabular Summary:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs August 19

3. What is the estimated annual savings through the implementation of the “Anna-Chakra” Supply Chain Optimisation Tool in the Public Distribution System?
A) ₹100 crore
B) ₹250 crore
C) ₹500 crore
D) ₹750 crore
E) ₹1000 crore
Answer: B) ₹250 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Centre implements “Anna-Chakra” Supply Chain Optimisation Tool in 31 States/UTs
• Location: India (nationwide implementation excluding Manipur)
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Implementation of the “Anna-Chakra” Supply Chain Optimisation Tool across 30 States/UTs under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to enhance efficiency in food grain distribution logistics.
• Objectives: To reduce transportation costs, improve delivery efficiency in PDS, minimize CO₂ emissions, and align with India’s climate commitments, while realizing estimated annual savings of ₹250 crore.

Important Terms Explained:

• Anna-Chakra Tool: A digital supply chain optimisation system developed for the Public Distribution System to optimize transportation routes, reduce cost, and enhance logistics efficiency.
• Public Distribution System (PDS): A food security system managed by the Government of India to distribute subsidized food grains to the poor through ration shops.
• Route Optimization: The process of determining the most efficient delivery routes, reducing fuel consumption and costs while improving delivery timelines and minimizing environmental impact.

Tabular Summary:

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4. India Exim Bank recently signed a $40 million commercial credit line agreement with which African regional bank?
A) African Development Bank
B) ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development
C) East African Trade Bank
D) West African Monetary Bank
E) Pan-African Finance Corporation
Answer: B) ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development

Event and Location:

• Event: Signing of $40 million commercial credit line agreement between India Exim Bank and ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID)
• Location: Mumbai / Africa (ECOWAS Region)
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: India Exim Bank to provide a $40 million credit line to ECOWAS Bank for financing infrastructure projects.
• Objectives: To strengthen India–Africa economic ties, create opportunities for Indian businesses in Africa, and support cost-effective infrastructure development adaptable to local conditions.

Important Terms Explained:

• India Exim Bank: The Export-Import Bank of India, a government-owned financial institution that promotes international trade and investments.
• ECOWAS: Economic Community of West African States, a regional grouping of 15 West African countries working towards economic integration and development.
• Credit Line: A financial facility extended by a bank allowing borrowing up to a pre-set limit, often used in international trade to fund projects and imports.

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs August 19

5. What was the total amount paid to farmers under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system during 2024–25?
A) ₹1.84 lakh crore
B) ₹66,310 crore
C) ₹3.33 lakh crore
D) ₹35,753 crore
E) ₹17,811 crore
Answer: C) ₹3.33 lakh crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Government provides data on MSP, PM-KISAN, PMFBY, MISS, and AIF performance in 2024–25
• Location: India (nationwide)
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Disclosure of updates on Minimum Support Prices (MSPs), PM-KISAN, PMFBY, MISS, and Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), based on a written reply by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in Lok Sabha.
• Objectives: To highlight the government’s efforts in improving farmers’ income, addressing crop loss risk, supporting credit needs, and enhancing infrastructure in the agriculture sector.

Important Terms Explained:

• Minimum Support Price (MSP): The price at which the government purchases crops from farmers to ensure they are not forced to sell below cost. MSPs are set for 22 crops by the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP).
• PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi): A Central Sector Scheme that offers ₹6,000 annually to landholding farmers in three instalments via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana): Launched in 2016 to provide crop insurance against natural calamities and weather risks. Farmers have received claims of ₹1.83 lakh crore as of June 2025.
• Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS): A 100% centrally funded scheme providing interest subsidy on short-term agricultural loans through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC).
• Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF): A ₹1 lakh crore credit-linked scheme launched under Atmanirbhar Bharat to develop post-harvest and community farming infrastructure.

Tabular Summary:

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6. Which corporation recently signed an MoU with Coal India Ltd to develop rail infrastructure?
A) Indian Railways
B) NTPC Limited
C) Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd
D) Indian Port Authority
E) Eastern Coalfields Ltd
Answer: C) Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd

Event and Location:

• Event: MoU signed between Coal India Ltd and Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd for rail infrastructure development
• Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
• Date: 18 August 2025 (announced 19 August 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Coal India Ltd (CIL) and Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) for developing rail infrastructure.
  • The agreement aims to benefit CIL and its subsidiaries for improving coal transportation efficiency.
• Objectives:
  • To boost coal transportation infrastructure, reduce logistics delays, and facilitate higher offtake and dispatch volumes.
  • To strengthen last-mile connectivity for mines and enhance multimodal logistics support to meet growing energy demands.

Important Terms Explained:

• Coal India Ltd (CIL): A state-owned Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Coal and the world’s largest coal-producing company, accounting for over 80% of India’s coal output.
• Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL): A Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, responsible for operating and developing railway infrastructure in the Konkan region and elsewhere.
• Non-binding MoU: A preliminary agreement that expresses intent to collaborate without imposing legal obligations—often the first step in forming a strategic partnership.

Tabular Summary:

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7. Where is ONGC setting up its ₹40 crore Helium Recovery Demonstration Plant in collaboration with Engineers India Ltd (EIL)?
A) Hazira, Gujarat
B) Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh
C) Kuthalam, Tamil Nadu
D) Mumbai, Maharashtra
E) Digboi, Assam
Answer: C) Kuthalam, Tamil Nadu

Event and Location:

• Event: ONGC to establish a ₹40 crore Helium Recovery Demonstration Plant
• Location: Kuthalam Gas Collection Station, Cauvery Asset, Tamil Nadu
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Partnership between ONGC Energy Centre Trust (OECT) and Engineers India Ltd (EIL) for building a Helium Recovery Demonstration Plant, based on CSIR–IIP technology.
• Objectives: To recover Grade-A helium of 99.995% purity from natural gas, strengthen indigenous helium production, and support strategic industries.

Important Terms Explained:

• ONGC Energy Centre Trust (OECT): R&D arm of ONGC focused on alternative and future energy technologies.
• Engineers India Ltd (EIL): A PSU providing engineering consultancy and EPC services in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
• Helium (Grade-A, 99.995% purity): A noble gas used in space research, semiconductors, cryogenics, and medical imaging, requiring ultra-high purity levels.

Tabular Summary:

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8. Which city in Rajasthan will get a new ₹1,507 crore greenfield airport as approved by the CCEA?
A) Jaipur
B) Udaipur
C) Kota-Bundi
D) Ajmer
E) Jodhpur
Answer: C) Kota-Bundi

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval of a greenfield airport project in Kota-Bundi
• Location: Kota-Bundi, Rajasthan, India
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) proposal for constructing a new airport with ₹1,507 crore investment on 440.06 hectares of transferred land.
• Objectives: To create a modern airport capable of handling 2 million passengers annually, supporting Kota’s role as an industrial hub and India’s educational coaching capital.

Important Terms Explained:

• Greenfield Airport: An airport built from scratch on unused land where no previous facilities exist.
• CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs): A cabinet-level committee chaired by the Prime Minister responsible for key economic policy approvals.
• Airports Authority of India (AAI): A statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India.

Tabular Summary:

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9. Which startup launched in April 2025 offers a managed cow care service platform integrating Panchagavya, native cow breeds, and modern technology?
A) KsheeraTech
B) Gomini
C) CowKart
D) DesiMilk
E) PanchGavya Labs
Answer: B) Gomini

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Gomini, a managed cow care service platform
• Location: Mangaluru, Karnataka
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Launch of a digital-first cow care service platform enabling urban individuals to own indigenous cows while rural women manage their care.
• Objectives: To revive India’s cow-based economy, promote Panchagavya wellness, empower rural women with sustainable livelihoods, and integrate tradition with modern technology.

Important Terms Explained:

• Panchagavya: A traditional mixture of five cow-derived products (milk, curd, ghee, urine, dung) used in Ayurveda, natural farming, and wellness products.
• A2 Milk: Milk produced by indigenous Indian cow breeds that contains only the A2 type of beta-casein protein, considered healthier and easier to digest.
• NFT (Non-Fungible Token): A blockchain-based digital certificate that provides secure, lifelong ownership records for each cow in the Gomini ecosystem.

Tabular Summary:

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10. What is the primary purpose of Vikram Solar’s ₹2,079.37 crore IPO launched in August 2025?
A) To acquire new solar manufacturing units
B) To repay existing long-term borrowings
C) To fund capital expenditure through its subsidiary and for general corporate purposes
D) To expand its operations in Europe
E) To launch a new product line in solar batteries
Answer: C) To fund capital expenditure through its subsidiary and for general corporate purposes

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Vikram Solar IPO worth ₹2,079.37 crore
• Location: India
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Launch of an IPO comprising a fresh issue of ₹1,500 crore and an offer for sale of ₹579.37 crore by promoters. The IPO includes allocations for QIBs, retail investors, non-institutional investors, and anchor investors.
• Objectives: The proceeds will fund capital expenditure for Phase-I and Phase-II projects via investment in its subsidiary VSL Green Power Private Limited, with additional funds allocated for general corporate purposes.

Important Terms Explained:

• IPO (Initial Public Offering): A process through which a company raises capital by offering shares to the public for the first time.
• Book-Building Process: A price discovery method where investors bid within a specified band, and the final price is set based on demand.
• Anchor Investors: Institutional investors who are allocated shares before the IPO opens to the public. Vikram Solar raised ₹620.8 crore from such investors including Goldman Sachs, ICICI Prudential Life, and HSBC.

Tabular Summary:

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs August 19

11. Who chaired the first meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Ayush in August 2025?
A) Shri Sarbananda Sonowal
B) Dr. Swami Sachidanand Hari Sakshi
C) Shri Parshottam Rupala
D) Shri Prataprao Jadhav
E) Shri Laxmikant Bajpayee
Answer: D) Shri Prataprao Jadhav

Event and Location:

• Event: First Meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of Ministry of Ayush
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: To conduct the first-ever meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee dedicated to the Ministry of Ayush, bringing together Members of Parliament to discuss strategies for growth, outreach, and innovation in the Ayush sector.
• Objectives: To strengthen the Ayush healthcare system, expand its reach across India and globally, promote Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and work towards the $200 billion Ayush industry target through collaborative policymaking and feedback.

Important Terms Explained:

• Parliamentary Consultative Committee: A group of Members of Parliament associated with a ministry to provide guidance, review, and feedback on its functioning and policy directions.
• National Ayush Mission (NAM): A flagship program of the Ministry of Ayush aiming to provide Ayush services through cost-effective interventions and promote education and awareness in traditional medicine systems.
• Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Wellness centers established under NAM for the promotion of holistic health and preventive healthcare using Ayush principles, contributing to primary health infrastructure.

Tabular Summary:

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12. Who is the NDA’s nominee for the post of Vice President of India in 2025?
A) Kiren Rijiju
B) Tiruchi Siva
C) Rajnath Singh
D) CP Radhakrishnan
E) Venkaiah Naidu
Answer: D) CP Radhakrishnan

Event and Location:

• Event: PM Modi appeals for unanimous election of NDA nominee CP Radhakrishnan as Vice President
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • CP Radhakrishnan, former Governor and Member of Parliament, has been nominated by the BJP-led NDA as its official candidate for the post of Vice President of India.
  • PM Narendra Modi has appealed to all Members of Parliament, including those from the opposition, to support his unanimous election.
• Objectives:
  • To secure consensus and bipartisan support for the post of Vice President, ensuring stability and smooth functioning of the Rajya Sabha, which the VP chairs as ex-officio Chairman.
  • To recognize the contributions of a non-controversial, experienced public servant with a clean record and long-standing service.

Important Terms Explained:

• Vice President of India: The second-highest constitutional post in India. The Vice President is also the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and acts as President in the latter’s absence.
• NDA (National Democratic Alliance): A coalition of political parties led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently in power at the Centre.
• CP Radhakrishnan: Senior BJP leader, former MP, and former Governor of several Indian states, known for his simple lifestyle, integrity, and non-controversial public record.
• INDIA Bloc: Opposition coalition led by parties such as Congress, DMK, AAP, and others. Reportedly considering Tiruchi Siva as its Vice Presidential nominee.

Tabular Summary:

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs August 19

13. Which year marks the 10th anniversary of the National Anubhav Awards, launched by the Government of India?
A) 2014
B) 2015
C) 2016
D) 2013
E) 2017
Answer: B) 2015

Event and Location:

• Event: 8th National Anubhav Awards ceremony recognizing retirees’ contributions to governance
• Location: Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Organizing the 8th National Anubhav Awards and 57th Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop, chaired by Dr. Jitendra Singh, to honour civil and public sector retirees contributing significantly to governance and public service.
  • Release of Digital Life Certificate Campaign 4.0 Guidelines and a Coffee Table e-Book showcasing governance success stories.
• Objectives:
  • To institutionalize retiree wisdom, build a repository of candid governance feedback, and integrate AI tools for analyzing systemic challenges in government functioning.
  • To promote post-retirement engagement, encouraging retirees to take up roles in advisory, entrepreneurship, or social service.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Anubhav Awards: An initiative by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, launched in 2015, to recognize and share experiences of retiring employees through written memoirs on the Anubhav Portal.
• Digital Life Certificate Campaign: A government-led campaign encouraging retirees to submit life certificates digitally, reducing paperwork and simplifying pension disbursal.
• Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop: A structured session organized to guide soon-to-retire government employees on pension rules, tax matters, health benefits, and post-retirement options.

Tabular Summary:

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14. The Shakti Scheme of Karnataka recently entered the Golden Book of World Records for facilitating how many women passengers’ journeys?
A) 200 crore
B) 300 crore
C) 400 crore
D) 500 crore
E) 600 crore
Answer: D) 500 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Shakti Scheme enters Golden Book of World Records with over 500 crore women passengers
• Location: Karnataka, India
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Free bus travel for women in Karnataka through KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC under the Shakti Scheme.
• Objectives: To empower women socially, economically, educationally, and industrially by ensuring affordable and accessible public transport.

Important Terms Explained:

• Shakti Scheme: Karnataka government’s flagship initiative providing free bus travel for women across state-run transport corporations.
• Golden Book of World Records: An international recognition platform that documents unique and extraordinary global achievements.
• KSRTC/BMTC/NWKRTC/KKRTC: State-run transport corporations in Karnataka providing road transport services.

Tabular Summary:

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs August 19

15. Where was the 4-day Regional Workshop on WHO-GMP for Herbal Medicines organized by CCRAS and WHO-SEARO held?
A) Delhi
B) Hyderabad
C) Mumbai
D) Bengaluru
E) Ahmedabad
Answer: C) Mumbai

Event and Location:

• Event: Regional Workshop on WHO-GMP for Herbal Medicines conducted jointly by CCRAS and WHO-SEARO
• Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra (RRAP-Central Ayurveda Research Institute)
• Date: 19–22 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Organization of a four-day regional workshop on WHO-Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for Herbal Medicines by CCRAS in collaboration with WHO-SEARO, involving international and national participants.
• Objectives: To advance quality standards in herbal drug development, promote compliance with WHO-GMP guidelines, showcase India’s leadership in herbal manufacturing, and support international cooperation in traditional medicine practices.

Important Terms Explained:

• WHO-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices): A system ensuring that products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards recommended by the World Health Organization, particularly important in pharmaceutical and herbal industries.
• CCRAS (Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences): An autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, responsible for conducting scientific research in Ayurvedic medicine.
• WHO-SEARO (World Health Organization – South-East Asia Regional Office): The regional office of the WHO overseeing health and medical initiatives across the South-East Asia region, including herbal medicine standardization.

Tabular Summary:

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16. Which institution developed and licensed India’s first Silicon Photonics-Based Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) in 2025?
A) IISc Bengaluru
B) IIT Bombay
C) DRDO
D) IIT Madras
E) CSIR
Answer: D) IIT Madras

Event and Location:

• Event: Licensing of India’s first Silicon Photonics-Based Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) to industry
• Location: IIT Madras, Tamil Nadu
• Date: 18 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • IIT Madras, through its Centre for Programmable Photonic Integrated Circuits and Systems (CPPICS), signed a ₹1 crore licensing agreement with Indrarka Quantum Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
  • The technology licensed is a field-deployable QRNG module, developed indigenously using silicon photonics.
• Objectives:
  • To promote indigenous quantum technology solutions for secure computing and communication.
  • To commercialize academic research for real-world applications in defence, cybersecurity, and blockchain.
  • To reinforce India’s leadership in quantum innovation and self-reliance in critical technologies.

Important Terms Explained:

• QRNG (Quantum Random Number Generator): A device that uses quantum physics principles to generate truly random numbers, essential for secure encryption and communication systems.
• Silicon Photonics: A technology that uses light (photons) on silicon chips for data transmission and processing, enabling faster and more secure systems.
• Technology Transfer Office (TTO): An office at IIT Madras that facilitates commercialization of academic research by licensing technologies to industries.
• Indrarka Quantum Technologies Pvt. Ltd.: A quantum tech startup in India partnering with IIT Madras for deploying QRNG commercially.

Tabular Summary:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs August 19

17. What is the primary focus of MILMEDICON-2025 organized by the Indian Army?
A) Expansion of Indian military bases overseas
B) Training of Special Forces in mountain warfare
C) Management of physical and mental trauma in military settings
D) Procurement of advanced medical drones
E) Modernization of infantry weapons systems
Answer: C) Management of physical and mental trauma in military settings

Event and Location:

• Event: MILMEDICON-2025 – International Conference on Military Trauma
• Location: Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi
• Date: August 28–29, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Indian Army, through the Director General of Medical Services (Army), is organizing an international conference on trauma in military settings, as part of the Ministry of Defence’s “Year of Reforms” initiative.
• Objectives: To promote knowledge exchange, enhance trauma care capabilities, explore applications of AI and emerging technologies in military healthcare, and foster international cooperation in military medicine.

Important Terms Explained:

• MILMEDICON-2025: A global military medicine conference focused on physical and mental trauma management, hosted by the Indian Army.
• Year of Reforms: A Ministry of Defence initiative in 2025 aimed at implementing systemic improvements across military domains.
• Military Nursing Service (MNS): A specialized corps of the Indian Armed Forces, marking its centenary in 2025, recognized for its contributions to combat medical care and the embodiment of Nari Shakti (women empowerment).

Tabular Summary:

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Schemes – Daily Current Affairs August 19

18. What is the total approved outlay for Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II) till FY 2028-29?
A) ₹4550 crore
B) ₹6839 crore
C) ₹5190 crore
D) ₹7990 crore
E) ₹6350 crore
Answer: B) ₹6839 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Approval and implementation of Vibrant Villages Programme-I & II for border village development
• Location: Northern and other international border states/UTs of India
• Date: 19 August 2025 (announcement reference), VVP-I (approved on 15 Feb 2023), VVP-II (approved on 2 April 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • VVP-I: Centrally Sponsored Scheme approved in Feb 2023 for 662 villages along northern borders across 5 States/UTs.
  • VVP-II: Central Sector Scheme approved in April 2025 for development of strategic border villages other than northern border in 17 States/UTs with an outlay of ₹6839 crore till FY 2028-29.
• Objectives:
  • To enable comprehensive development of border villages with focus on livelihood generation, infrastructure, tourism, and connectivity.
  • To create incentives for residents to stay in these strategically important villages, strengthening border security through population retention.

Important Terms Explained:

• Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP): A development initiative aimed at transforming border villages into vibrant centers of growth and habitation by improving infrastructure, livelihoods, and social services.
• Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS): A scheme where funding is shared between the Centre and the States, with guidelines framed by the Centre.
• Central Sector Scheme: Fully funded and implemented by the Central Government, typically for schemes of national importance.

Tabular Summary:

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19. How many Garima Grehs are currently supported by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment across India?
A) 15
B) 18
C) 21
D) 12
E) 25
Answer: B) 18

Event and Location:

• Event: Implementation update on Garima Grehs for transgender persons across India
• Location: Across 15 States/UTs in India
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • 18 Garima Grehs are operational under the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE).
  • Approval for 3 more Garima Grehs has been granted for the FY 2025–26 (Jharkhand, Manipur, and Madhya Pradesh).
  • Proposals from NGOs/CSOs have been forwarded to 14 States/UTs for further recommendations.
• Objectives:
  • To provide shelter and support to transgender persons through safe residential facilities.
  • To enable life skill training, mental health counselling, and livelihood opportunities for better mainstreaming and social integration of transgender persons.

Important Terms Explained:

• Garima Greh: A residential shelter facility for transgender persons, providing basic amenities, capacity-building programs, life skill training, and a safe environment for their social empowerment.
• SMILE Scheme: Stands for Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise, a scheme under DoSJE that provides holistic support to transgender persons and beggars, including housing and livelihood support.
• Tele MANAS: A 24×7 tele-mental health service launched by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2022, providing psychosocial support through helpline number 14416 across India, including to transgender individuals.

Tabular Summary:

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20. As of FY 2023–24, how many individuals have received employment after training under the PM-DAKSH Scheme?
A) 42,002
B) 1,631
C) 73,150
D) 80,185
E) 1,800
Answer: C) 73,150

Event and Location:

• Event: Implementation progress of PM-DAKSH and other Social Justice welfare schemes
• Location: Nationwide implementation across all States/UTs
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Update on the PM-DAKSH Central Sector Scheme for skill development of SCs, OBCs, EWSs, DNTs, and Safai Karamcharis including waste pickers.
  • Report on skill training for transgender persons under the SMILE Scheme and entrepreneurship training via NIESBUD.
  • No training conducted yet under NAMASTE scheme for Sewer & Septic Tank Workers.
• Objectives:
  • To provide vocational and entrepreneurship training for marginalized communities to enhance employability and self-reliance.
  • To promote inclusive growth and social equity through skill-based employment generation.

Important Terms Explained:

• PM-DAKSH (Pradhan Mantri – Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi): A Central Sector Scheme launched in 2020–21 for skill development and training of socially and economically disadvantaged sections including SCs, OBCs, EWSs, DNTs, and Safai Karamcharis.
• SMILE Scheme: A central initiative titled Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise, supporting transgender persons and people engaged in begging through shelter, skill training, and financial support.
• NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem): A scheme aimed at mechanizing sanitation work and improving the livelihood and dignity of sanitation workers including Sewer and Septic Tank Workers.
• NIESBUD (National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development): An autonomous body under Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, engaged in promoting entrepreneurship education and development.

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21. What is the name of the new scheme launched by the West Bengal government to rehabilitate migrant labourers returning to the state?
A) Ghar Wapsi
B) Sramasree
C) Shramik Samman
D) Karma Bhoomi
E) Rojgar Bandhu
Answer: B) Sramasree

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of ‘Sramasree’ scheme for migrant labourer rehabilitation
• Location: West Bengal
• Date: 18 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The West Bengal Cabinet approved the Sramasree scheme to provide financial assistance to migrant labourers returning to the state.
• Objectives: The goal is to support migrant workers who faced hardships in other states and wish to rebuild their lives by offering monthly financial aid and reintegration support.

Important Terms Explained:

• Sramasree Scheme: A state government initiative launched by West Bengal to provide ₹5,000 per month for up to 12 months to returning migrant workers.
• Migrant Labourers: Individuals who travel to other states for work and are often vulnerable to exploitation and lack of welfare support.
• Rehabilitation: The process of reintegrating individuals into society by offering economic, housing, or skill-based assistance after displacement or hardship.

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 19

22. What is the approved capital cost for the construction of the 6-Lane Access-Controlled Capital Region Ring Road (Bhubaneswar Bypass) in Odisha?
A) ₹4686.74 crore
B) ₹1029.43 crore
C) ₹8307.74 crore
D) ₹7282.50 crore
E) ₹9000 crore
Answer: C) ₹8307.74 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Cabinet approves construction of 6-Lane Capital Region Ring Road under HAM
• Location: Odisha (Rameshwar to Tangi, covering Bhubaneswar, Khordha, Cuttack)
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Approval for construction of a 110.875 km long 6-Lane Access-Controlled Greenfield Capital Region Ring Road (CRRR) around Bhubaneswar under Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM).
• Objectives: To decongest urban traffic on existing highways, improve regional freight movement, promote multimodal connectivity, and support socio-economic growth in Odisha and surrounding eastern states.

Important Terms Explained:

• Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM): A public-private partnership model in road development where the government pays 40% of the project cost during the construction phase and the remaining 60% is paid as annuity over a period.
• Greenfield Highway: A newly developed road project built on a completely new alignment, not modifying or expanding any existing route.
• Capital Region Ring Road (CRRR): A strategic outer ring road bypassing key cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to enable faster inter-city movement and freight logistics without entering urban congestion zones.

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23. Which organization launched a new Medical Application Portal for ISO 15189:2022 applicant laboratories?
A) National Health Authority
B) Quality Council of India
C) National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories
D) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
E) Bureau of Indian Standards
Answer: C) National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of NABL’s Medical Application Portal for ISO 15189:2022 applicant laboratories
• Location: Nationwide (Virtual event)
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Launch of a restructured Medical Application Portal by NABL for applicant laboratories seeking accreditation under ISO 15189:2022 standards.
• Objectives: To enhance ease of doing business, streamline accreditation workflows, and ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in India’s medical laboratory accreditation process.

Important Terms Explained:

• NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories): A constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI), responsible for providing accreditation to laboratories across India.
• ISO 15189:2022: An international standard for quality and competence specific to medical laboratories, covering both management and technical requirements.
• Medical Application Portal: A digital platform launched by NABL to allow multi-user access, real-time tracking, and simplified submission for medical labs applying for accreditation under ISO 15189:2022.

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24. The Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) recently approved ₹904 crore for critical infrastructure works in Amaravati. Who chaired this 51st CRDA meeting?
A) YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
B) P Narayana
C) K Vijayanand
D) Nara Chandrababu Naidu
E) Venkaiah Naidu
Answer: D) Nara Chandrababu Naidu

Event and Location:

• Event: CRDA approves ₹904 crore for critical infrastructure development in Amaravati
• Location: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh
• Date: 18 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Sanction of ₹904 crore for critical infrastructure and formation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for executing capital projects.
• Objectives: To accelerate Amaravati’s development, strengthen basic amenities, create world-class facilities like Sports City, greenfield airport, riverfront, and attract large-scale investments.

Important Terms Explained:

• CRDA (Capital Region Development Authority): Statutory body responsible for planning and development of Andhra Pradesh’s capital region.
• Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): A separate legal entity created to oversee and implement specific infrastructure projects efficiently.
• Land Pooling Scheme (LPS): A system where landowners voluntarily contribute land for urban development and receive a portion back as developed plots.

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25. Which institution’s innovation park recently launched a ₹50 crore fund for cleantech and sustainability start-ups?
A) IIT Madras Research Park
B) IIM Bangalore Innovation Hub
C) IIM Calcutta Innovation Park
D) IIT Bombay Incubation Cell
E) IIM Ahmedabad Venture Lab
Answer: C) IIM Calcutta Innovation Park

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of ₹50 crore fund for cleantech and sustainability start-ups
• Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
• Date: 19 August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Deploy ₹50 crore over 12–18 months to support early-stage start-ups in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, waste-to-value, and climate resilience.
• Objectives: To nurture sustainability-led enterprises, provide funding, mentorship, market access, and partnerships, and create a long-term impact on lives and communities.

Important Terms Explained:

• Cleantech: Technology that reduces negative environmental impacts through energy efficiency, renewable energy, or sustainable production.
• Sustainability Start-ups: Early-stage ventures focused on addressing climate, agriculture, waste, and ecological challenges through innovation.
• Mission 2047: IIMCIP’s long-term initiative aiming to impact one billion lives by 2047 through entrepreneurship and ecosystem building.

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Over All Review

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