Daily Current Affairs August 20

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 20. 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 20 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs August 20

1. What is the primary objective of observing Akshay Urja Diwas every year on August 20?
A) Promote petroleum conservation
B) Celebrate coal-based energy development
C) Encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources
D) Increase thermal power capacity
E) Launch electric vehicle subsidies
Answer: C) Encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources

Event and Location:

• Event: Akshay Urja Diwas (Renewable Energy Day) 2025 celebrations
• Location: Nationwide across India
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Akshay Urja Diwas, established by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2004, is celebrated annually to promote awareness and usage of renewable energy.
• Objectives: To reduce dependence on fossil fuels, inspire clean energy adoption, engage youth in sustainability, and support national energy goals under Atmanirbhar Bharat and climate change mitigation missions.

Important Terms Explained:

• Akshay Urja: A Sanskrit term meaning “inexhaustible energy”, symbolizing sustainable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and biomass.
• National Solar Mission: A government initiative under India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) aimed at promoting solar power development.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): A treaty-based intergovernmental organization initiated by India to promote solar energy globally, especially in tropical countries.

Tabular Summary:

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2. What is the main objective of observing Sadbhavana Diwas every year on August 20?
A) To celebrate India’s independence
B) To promote communal harmony and national unity
C) To commemorate Constitution Day
D) To recognize India’s scientific achievements
E) To observe Armed Forces Flag Day
Answer: B) To promote communal harmony and national unity

Event and Location:

• Event: Sadbhavana Diwas 2025 – Observance of Peace and Harmony in India
• Location: Nationwide (India)
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Sadbhavana Diwas, or Day of Harmony, is observed annually on August 20 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, India’s youngest Prime Minister.
• Objectives:
  • Promote communal harmony, national integration, and peaceful coexistence among India’s diverse communities
  • Encourage youth engagement, social responsibility, and secular values
  • Carry forward the ideals of tolerance, inclusivity, and technological progress championed by Rajiv Gandhi

Important Terms Explained:

• Sadbhavana Diwas: Literally means “Day of Goodwill”; observed to promote peace, tolerance, and harmony in memory of Rajiv Gandhi’s birth anniversary.
• National Integration: The process of uniting different religious, linguistic, and regional groups into one cohesive national identity.
• Secularism in India: A constitutional principle ensuring equal treatment of all religions and the separation of religion from state policies and laws.

Tabular Summary:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs August 20

3. Which of the following is not a condition to use UPI for NRIs and OCIs?
A) Must have an NRE or NRO account
B) Must use only Indian mobile number
C) Must register international mobile number with Indian bank
D) Must be an NRI, PIO, or OCI
E) Must use a UPI-enabled app like Google Pay or PhonePe
Answer: B) Must use only Indian mobile number

Event and Location:

• Event: UPI usage guidelines and eligibility extended to NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs
• Location: India and eligible international locations
• Date: Ongoing as of August 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) enables NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs with NRE/NRO accounts and registered international mobile numbers to transact digitally via UPI platforms.
• Objectives: To promote cashless transactions globally, enhance financial inclusion of the Indian diaspora, and facilitate seamless digital payments and remittances.

Important Terms Explained:

• Unified Payments Interface (UPI): A real-time payment system developed by NPCI that facilitates inter-bank peer-to-peer and person-to-merchant transactions via mobile apps.
• NRE Account: Non-Resident External account for depositing foreign earnings in India, maintained in Indian rupees and freely repatriable.
• NRO Account: Non-Resident Ordinary account for managing income earned in India (like rent, dividends), with restricted repatriability.

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs August 20

4. Which financial move has HUDCO recently undertaken to reduce borrowing costs and manage forex risks?
A) Issued new Eurobonds
B) Shifted to only foreign currency loans
C) Replaced rupee loans with external borrowings
D) Swapped foreign loans with cheaper rupee debt
E) Launched a new tax-saving bond series
Answer: D) Swapped foreign loans with cheaper rupee debt

Event and Location:

• Event: HUDCO restructures borrowing strategy by replacing high-cost foreign loans with rupee debt
• Location: India
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: HUDCO is refinancing expensive foreign currency loans with domestic borrowings and recalibrating its hedging strategy using historical currency benchmarks.
• Objectives: To reduce borrowing costs, manage forex volatility, and improve long-term financial sustainability amidst global uncertainties.

Important Terms Explained:

• Refinancing: A financial strategy where an existing high-interest loan is replaced with a new one at lower interest rates, aiming to reduce repayment burden and improve liquidity.
• Hedging: A risk management method used to protect against losses from currency or market fluctuations, typically through forward contracts or derivatives.
• Mark-to-Market Losses: Losses that arise when the current market value of an asset or liability falls below its book value, especially relevant in forex exposures.

Tabular Summary:

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5. What is WATTSync, recently launched by Tata Technologies?
A) A new electric vehicle model
B) A blockchain-based payment system
C) A digital battery passport platform
D) A government data security initiative
E) A new AI-powered search engine
Answer: C) A digital battery passport platform

Event and Location:

• Event: Tata Technologies launches WATTSync digital battery passport
• Location: Mumbai, India (Global availability; aligned with EU and India regulations)
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Tata Technologies has introduced WATTSync, a cloud-based digital battery passport solution that enables lifecycle tracking, performance analysis, and regulatory compliance for batteries.
• Objectives: To support manufacturers in meeting EU’s 2027 battery passport mandate, promote supply chain transparency, ensure battery traceability, and facilitate circular economy outcomes like second-life usage and recycling.

Important Terms Explained:

• WATTSync: A digital platform by Tata Technologies that uses AI and blockchain to track and verify battery data across its lifecycle for compliance, safety, and sustainability.
• Digital Battery Passport: A digital record required by the European Union by 2027 for electric and industrial batteries, containing key information about materials, carbon footprint, and end-of-life management.
• Circular Economy: An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources through reuse, recycling, and second-life solutions for products like batteries.

Tabular Summary:

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6. Which mineral exploration license has Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) recently won through auction?
A) Rare earth elements in Andhra Pradesh
B) Platinum in Madhya Pradesh
C) Iron ore in Chhattisgarh
D) Gold and copper in Karnataka
E) Bauxite in Odisha
Answer: D) Gold and copper in Karnataka

Event and Location:

• Event: SCCL wins exploration license for gold and copper mines in Karnataka
• Location: Deodurg region, Raichur district, Karnataka
• Date: August 20, 2025 (Auction conducted earlier in August)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) secured a mineral exploration license for gold and copper deposits in Deodurg, Karnataka, through a competitive bidding process conducted by the Central Government.
• Objectives: To evaluate the availability, quantity, and commercial viability of key minerals such as gold and copper over the next five years and submit a detailed report to the Centre for further mining rights allocation.

Important Terms Explained:

• Exploration License: A government-issued permit allowing entities to conduct geological surveys and feasibility studies for mineral deposits before commercial mining rights are granted.
• SCCL (Singareni Collieries Company Limited): A government-owned coal mining company under the joint ownership of the Government of Telangana and the Government of India, now diversifying into non-coal mineral exploration.
• Royalty: A share of revenue or profit paid to the license-holding company if the mining rights go to another firm. In this case, SCCL will receive 37.75% royalty if it does not win the mining license but exploration proves successful.

Tabular Summary:

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7. India’s InvIT market is projected to reach what value by 2030, as per Knight Frank India?
A) $120 billion
B) $185 billion
C) $258 billion
D) $300 billion
E) $400 billion
Answer: C) $258 billion

Event and Location:

• Event: India’s InvIT market projected to grow 3.5 times by 2030
• Location: India
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Expansion of India’s Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) to fund large-scale infrastructure development projects across transportation, energy, and logistics sectors.
• Objectives: To attract long-term domestic and global investments, bridge the infrastructure financing gap, reduce reliance on government funding, and support India’s $7 trillion economy goal by 2030.

Important Terms Explained:

• InvITs (Infrastructure Investment Trusts): Investment vehicles allowing public and institutional investors to invest in revenue-generating infrastructure assets for long-term returns.
• Assets Under Management (AUM): The total market value of all assets that an InvIT manages on behalf of investors.
• Capital Expenditure (Capex): Funds used by the government or companies to build, upgrade, or maintain physical assets such as infrastructure and facilities.

Tabular Summary:

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8. What is the primary focus of the newly launched FedEx SMART Centre at IIT Madras?
A) Electric vehicle manufacturing
B) Defense technology research
C) Logistics and supply chain innovation
D) Financial auditing and compliance
E) Online education systems
Answer: C) Logistics and supply chain innovation

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of FedEx SMART Centre for logistics and supply chain solutions
• Location: IIT Madras, Chennai, India
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Establishment of a dedicated research centre focused on logistics modelling, algorithms, and sustainable technology
• Objectives: Develop AI-driven, carbon-neutral, and efficient supply chain solutions while fostering nationwide talent through outreach and internships

Important Terms Explained:

• SMART Centre: Supply Chain Modelling, Algorithms, Research and Technology Centre established by IIT Madras in collaboration with FedEx to drive innovation in sustainable logistics.
• Autonomous Delivery Systems: Use of self-driving vehicles or drones to transport goods without human intervention, enhancing delivery efficiency and safety.
• Predictive Analytics: Advanced data techniques used to forecast logistics and supply chain behaviors, delays, and outcomes using AI and machine learning.
• EV Infrastructure: Electric vehicle charging and support systems necessary for sustainable logistics and fleet operations.

Tabular Summary:

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9. What is the post-merger valuation of Inox Renewable Solutions Ltd. after Inox Wind’s stake sale?
A) ₹5,200 crore
B) ₹6,000 crore
C) ₹7,400 crore
D) ₹8,500 crore
E) ₹9,000 crore
Answer: C) ₹7,400 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Inox Wind sells ₹175 crore stake in EPC subsidiary
• Location: India (Company HQ: Noida, Operations Pan-India)
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Inox Wind sold a ₹175 crore stake in Inox Renewable Solutions Ltd. (IRSL) to investors post-corporate restructuring
• Objectives: To unlock value in its EPC business, strengthen investor confidence, and support large-scale renewable infrastructure projects

Important Terms Explained:

• Inox Renewable Solutions Ltd. (IRSL): The EPC subsidiary of Inox Wind, providing end-to-end renewable project services; formerly Resco Global Wind Services Pvt. Ltd.
• EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction): A form of contracting where the contractor is responsible for all activities from design, procurement, to final construction and commissioning
• Corporate Restructuring: Refers to the merger of Inox Green’s substation business into IRSL to consolidate renewable infrastructure operations under one entity

Tabular Summary:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs August 20

10. What is the total worth of the IAF projects recently approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in August 2025?
A) ₹42,000 crore
B) ₹62,000 crore
C) ₹72,990 crore
D) ₹80,000 crore
E) ₹99,000 crore
Answer: C) ₹72,990 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: CCS approves ₹72,990 crore for IAF’s LCA Mk1A and AEW&C projects
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: August 19, 2025 (Announced August 20, 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has cleared two high-value IAF projects — procurement of 97 LCA Mk1A fighter jets for ₹62,000 crore and development of 6 AEW&C aircraft for ₹10,990 crore.
• Objectives: To enhance the combat readiness and surveillance capabilities of the Indian Air Force, promote indigenous defence manufacturing, and replace the ageing MiG-21 fleet under India’s self-reliance vision.

Important Terms Explained:

• LCA Mk1A: Light Combat Aircraft developed by HAL, upgraded with improved avionics, radars, weapon systems, and indigenous components; meant to replace MiG-21s.
• AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control): A system for aerial surveillance and situational awareness, involving mounting of AESA radars on aircraft; enhances airspace control.
• CCS (Cabinet Committee on Security): The apex decision-making body in India for defence and security, chaired by the Prime Minister, responsible for approving strategic projects.

Tabular Summary:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 20

11. What is the primary benefit of Dubai’s newly launched ‘One Freezone Passport’?
A) Allows free travel between emirates
B) Unifies business licensing across Dubai’s free zones
C) Reduces corporate tax to 0%
D) Introduces a visa-free regime for investors
E) Replaces all existing trade licenses in the UAE
Answer: B) Unifies business licensing across Dubai’s free zones

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of the One Freezone Passport unified licensing system
• Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Introduction of a single unified license for businesses to operate across all Dubai free zones without separate approvals
• Objectives: To reduce operational costs, simplify compliance, and attract global investment under the D33 Economic Agenda

Important Terms Explained:

• One Freezone Passport: A single business license enabling companies to operate across all free zones in Dubai without the need for multiple registrations or re-incorporation.
• Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC): The regulatory body coordinating policies and development of Dubai’s various economic free zones.
• Dubai Economic Agenda D33: A strategic roadmap launched to double Dubai’s GDP by 2033 and position the city among the top three global economic hubs.

Tabular Summary:

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12. Which three key concerns did China assure to address during Wang Yi’s 2025 visit to India?
A) Defence imports, water treaties, and tourism
B) Rare earths, fertilisers, and tunnel boring machines
C) River data, pharmaceutical trade, and education
D) Border disputes, IT services, and steel supply
E) Energy trade, pilgrimage visas, and textiles
Answer: B) Rare earths, fertilisers, and tunnel boring machines

Event and Location:

• Event: China assures India of addressing key trade concerns during diplomatic visit
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi assured EAM Dr. S Jaishankar that China will address India’s concerns over rare earths, fertilisers, and tunnel boring machines
• Objectives: To strengthen bilateral trade relations, remove restrictive trade barriers, and ensure mutual sensitivity in diplomatic and economic engagements

Important Terms Explained:

• Rare Earths: A group of 17 elements critical for manufacturing electronics, EVs, and defense systems; China is a major global supplier
• Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs): Large machines used for infrastructure projects like metro tunnels, highways, and dams; India is dependent on imports
• Fertilisers: Agricultural inputs crucial for food production; India relies heavily on imports, especially from China, to meet domestic demand

Tabular Summary:

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Schemes – Daily Current Affairs August 20

13. Under the Stand-Up India Scheme, how much loan amount has been sanctioned by banks as of August 2025?
A) ₹52,311 crore
B) ₹67,902 crore
C) ₹62,791 crore
D) ₹58,100 crore
E) ₹60,000 crore
Answer: C) ₹62,791 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Loan sanctions under the Stand-Up India Scheme reach ₹62,791 crore
• Location: Pan-India (applicable across all Scheduled Commercial Bank branches)
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Banks to provide loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore to at least one SC/ST borrower and one woman borrower per branch
• Objectives: To promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and job creation among SC/ST and women through greenfield enterprises

Important Terms Explained:

• Stand-Up India Scheme: A government initiative launched in April 2016 to support SC/ST and women entrepreneurs through institutional credit for starting new enterprises in trading, manufacturing, services, and allied agricultural sectors.
• Greenfield Enterprise: A new business venture started from scratch by first-time entrepreneurs, rather than purchasing or leasing an existing firm.
• Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS): A central government scheme offering subsidized interest rates and incentives for prompt repayment on short-term crop loans to reduce the financial burden on farmers.
• Peer-to-Peer Lending (P2P): A digital financial model regulated by RBI that enables individuals to lend or borrow money without traditional financial intermediaries, governed under NBFC-P2P guidelines.

Tabular Summary:

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14. What is the NPA percentage of outstanding loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) as of March 2025?
A) 5.47%
B) 7.20%
C) 9.81%
D) 3.60%
E) 2.19%
Answer: C) 9.81%

Event and Location:

• Event: Surge in NPAs under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana
• Location: India (nationwide implementation)
• Date: August 19, 2025 (data shared in Parliament)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Provide collateral-free loans to micro and small entrepreneurs under PMMY
• Objectives: Promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and employment among first-time and small-scale borrowers

Important Terms Explained:

• Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): A flagship scheme launched in April 2015 to provide loans up to ₹10 lakh to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises without collateral, typically offered under Shishu, Kishor, and Tarun categories.
• Non-Performing Assets (NPAs): Loans or advances on which the borrower has stopped making interest or principal repayments for a specified period, typically 90 days in banking.
• Credit Guarantee Scheme: A mechanism under which the government backs loans issued by financial institutions, reducing the lending risk for banks in extending credit to small businesses.
• Mahila Samriddhi Yojana: A women-centric financial inclusion scheme aiming to provide affordable credit and promote saving habits among rural women.

Tabular Summary:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs August 20

15. What recent clean energy milestone has India achieved ahead of its 2030 Paris Agreement target?
A) Achieved net-zero carbon emissions
B) Became the world’s largest energy exporter
C) Non-fossil fuels now form 50% of installed energy capacity
D) Completely phased out coal power
E) Installed only nuclear power-based energy grid
Answer: C) Non-fossil fuels now form 50% of installed energy capacity

Event and Location:

• Event: India achieves 50% non-fossil fuel share in installed energy capacity
• Location: India
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: India has reached a clean energy milestone where non-fossil fuel sources now contribute 50% of the total installed power capacity.
• Objectives: To accelerate the country’s energy transition and meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement, while moving toward its net-zero emissions goal.

Important Terms Explained:

• Non-fossil fuels: Energy sources that do not involve the combustion of fossil fuels; includes solar, wind, hydro, nuclear, and biomass.
• Paris Agreement: A global treaty adopted in 2015 to limit global warming to well below 2°C; India pledged to reach 50% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
• Net-zero emissions: A target to balance the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere, aiming for climate neutrality.

Tabular Summary:

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16. Which northeastern city will soon host a new Indian Institute of Management (IIM) as per a bill passed by Lok Sabha in August 2025?
A) Imphal
B) Guwahati
C) Aizawl
D) Itanagar
E) Kohima
Answer: B) Guwahati

Event and Location:

• Event: Lok Sabha passes Bill to establish IIM in Guwahati
• Location: Guwahati, Assam (India)
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Lok Sabha has passed the Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025 to set up a new IIM in Guwahati with capital support of ₹550 crore.
• Objectives: To promote higher education, enhance management studies infrastructure in the Northeast, and support the Special Development Package (SDP) under the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) with Assam stakeholders.

Important Terms Explained:

• Indian Institutes of Management (IIM): Premier management institutes in India established to provide world-class education in business and management, declared institutions of national importance.
• Memorandum of Settlement (MoS): A formal agreement between the Centre, Assam government, and ULFA aimed at achieving socio-economic development in Assam.
• Special Development Package (SDP): A targeted funding initiative by the Union Government to address regional developmental gaps, especially in areas with strategic or political sensitivity.

Tabular Summary:

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17. What is DEMCARES, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary on August 23, 2025?
A) A medical insurance scheme
B) A rural education initiative
C) A government-funded cancer research project
D) A dementia care unit of SCARF
E) A startup accelerator program
Answer: D) A dementia care unit of SCARF

Event and Location:

• Event: DEMCARES 10th anniversary celebration
• Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Alliance Française of Madras)
• Date: August 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF) will host a public event to mark 10 years of DEMCARES, its specialized dementia care unit.
• Objectives: To raise public awareness about dementia care, highlight the impact of DEMCARES over a decade, and foster compassion and understanding for people affected by dementia.

Important Terms Explained:

• DEMCARES: A specialized dementia care unit under SCARF, providing support, research, and awareness on dementia-related conditions.
• SCARF (Schizophrenia Research Foundation): A non-profit mental health research and care organization based in Chennai, focusing on psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and dementia.
• Alliance Française of Madras: A cultural and educational institution promoting Indo-French collaborations, hosting the 10th anniversary event.

Tabular Summary:

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18. What is the main objective of the three Bills introduced by Union Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha on August 20, 2025?
A) To increase the tenure of ministers to 7 years
B) To allow ministers to continue in office despite arrest
C) To mandate removal of PMs, CMs, or ministers detained for 30 days on serious charges
D) To give more power to state assemblies
E) To abolish the post of Chief Minister in UTs
Answer: C) To mandate removal of PMs, CMs, or ministers detained for 30 days on serious charges

Event and Location:

• Event: Introduction of three Bills for removal of arrested ministers after 30 days of detention
• Location: Lok Sabha, New Delhi
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Three new bills — Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025 — were introduced to provide legal grounds for the removal of Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, or ministers detained on serious criminal charges for over 30 days.
• Objectives: To uphold constitutional morality by preventing individuals under serious criminal investigation from holding constitutional offices, while aiming to establish a uniform legal framework across India, including Union Territories.

Important Terms Explained:

• Joint Committee of Parliament: A parliamentary body composed of members from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to scrutinize Bills in detail before final passage. In this case, a 31-member committee (21 LS + 10 RS) will examine the three Bills.
• Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025: A proposed amendment to define legal provisions for disqualification/removal of ministers arrested for serious offences.
• Government of Union Territories Act, 1963: An Act governing the functioning of Union Territories in India. The amendment seeks to include removal provisions for UT Chief Ministers and ministers facing criminal detention.

Tabular Summary:

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19. What is the primary goal of the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan launched in August 2025?
A) To promote tribal art and culture globally
B) To implement digital voting in tribal areas
C) To empower tribal communities through grassroots leadership and governance
D) To privatize forest land in tribal regions
E) To provide urban housing to tribal populations
Answer: C) To empower tribal communities through grassroots leadership and governance

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan – World’s Largest Tribal Leadership Programme
• Location: Nationwide (Tribal-dominated regions across 30 States/UTs)
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, envisioned as the world’s largest grassroots tribal leadership initiative, covering 1 lakh tribal villages and mobilizing 20 lakh change leaders.
• Objectives:
  • Promote responsive, people-centric governance in tribal areas
  • Facilitate community-led development planning through “Tribal Village Vision 2030”
  • Build capacity among tribal youth, women, and local leaders
  • Establish a structured volunteer network to support implementation and outreach
  • Align grassroots development with SDGs and Viksit Bharat by 2047

Important Terms Explained:

• Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan: A nationwide initiative to create a network of grassroots tribal leaders for implementing community-driven governance and development plans.
• Adi Sewa Kendra: Village-level service hubs where officers and locals collaborate during ‘Adi Sewa Samay’ to resolve issues and support development.
• Governance Lab Workshops: Capacity-building labs involving multiple departments to train state, district, and block-level officers and trainers for tribal area development.
• Tribal Village Vision 2030: A strategic roadmap co-created by communities and officials to ensure sustainable, inclusive growth in tribal regions.
• Adi Sahyogi and Adi Saathi: Volunteer categories for professionals and local influencers respectively, guiding and implementing development at the grassroots.

Tabular Summary:

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20. What is the primary purpose of the newly launched Press Sewa portal?
A) To publish digital newspapers
B) To monitor fake news
C) To simplify newspaper and periodical registration
D) To issue broadcast licenses
E) To regulate TV advertising rates
Answer: C) To simplify newspaper and periodical registration

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of Press Sewa portal for media registration
• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana (First interactive session by PIB Hyderabad)
• Date: August 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Press Registrar General of India (PRGI) launched the Press Sewa portal as a single-window online platform for the registration of newspapers and periodicals under the new Registration of Periodicals Act (PRP Act).
• Objectives:
  • Digitize and simplify the newspaper/periodical registration process
  • Improve ease of doing business for publishers
  • Ensure faster approvals and eliminate middlemen
  • Enhance transparency and accountability in the media registration system

Important Terms Explained:

• Press Sewa Portal: A centralized digital portal launched by PRGI to streamline the registration of print media publications by allowing direct online submissions, status tracking, and deemed approvals after 60 days.
• Press Registrar General of India (PRGI): The statutory authority responsible for overseeing the registration of newspapers and periodicals in India.
• PRP Act (Registration of Periodicals Act): A revised regulatory framework aimed at modernizing and replacing the earlier Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, with simplified procedures and digital processes.

Tabular Summary:

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21. What is a key objective of the Mines and Minerals (Amendment) Bill, 2025 passed by Parliament?
A) Promote coal-based energy exports
B) Prohibit private sector participation in mining
C) Boost domestic production of critical minerals
D) Reduce mining lease duration
E) Shift all mining activities offshore
Answer: C) Boost domestic production of critical minerals

Event and Location:

• Event: Parliament passes Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025 seeks to modernise India’s mining framework by expanding access to critical and strategic minerals, encouraging sustainable mining, and simplifying lease and trading rules.
• Objectives:
  • Promote domestic production of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earths
  • Support the National Critical Mineral Mission
  • Enable zero-waste mining, improve transparency, and reduce dependence on imports
  • Empower private and public sector players through liberalised rules and mineral trading platforms

Important Terms Explained:

• Critical Minerals: Minerals essential for technologies such as EVs, electronics, defense systems, and renewable energy—e.g., lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
• National Critical Mineral Mission: A government initiative to secure access to essential minerals via exploration, domestic development, and international collaborations.
• Captive Mining: Mining activity where the mineral is used by the company itself; the amendment removes the 50% cap on sale of surplus minerals from captive mines.
• Mineral Exchanges: Formal, digital platforms enabling transparent trade of minerals with real-time pricing and supply-demand tracking.
• National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT): The upgraded version of the earlier trust, now empowered to fund both domestic and international mining projects.

Tabular Summary:

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22. Which digital platform was launched by the Election Commission of India as part of its 28 reform initiatives to integrate election-related services?
A) VoterLink
B) E-Vote India
C) ECINET
D) MyBallot
E) PollWatch
Answer: C) ECINET

Event and Location:

• Event: ECI launches 28 reform initiatives to strengthen the electoral process
• Location: Nationwide (India)
• Date: August 20, 2025 (Reform period: last 6 months)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced 28 major reform initiatives in the past six months, guided by six core pillars to improve transparency, efficiency, inclusivity, and voter convenience.
• Objectives:
  • Streamline the electoral process
  • Increase public trust and transparency
  • Enhance voter roll accuracy and reduce fraud
  • Digitally integrate election management and voter services
  • Build capacity among election personnel and stakeholders

Important Terms Explained:

• ECINET: A unified digital platform launched by ECI integrating 40+ applications related to voters, polling officials, and political parties, enhancing digital governance in elections.
• VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail): A mechanism that allows voters to verify their vote and enables auditability of the EVM system.
• Booth Level Officer (BLO): A grassroots field official responsible for maintaining accurate electoral rolls and supporting voter registration and awareness at the booth level.
• IIIDEM (India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management): A premier training institute under the ECI, focused on capacity building of election officials and stakeholders.

Tabular Summary:

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23. What key action does the Online Gaming Bill, 2025 propose regarding online money gaming in India?
A) Legalises all forms of online gaming
B) Regulates online money games under the RBI
C) Bans online money gaming and related advertisements
D) Declares eSports as illegal in India
E) Allows unrestricted transactions for betting
Answer: C) Bans online money gaming and related advertisements

Event and Location:

• Event: Cabinet approves Online Gaming Bill to regulate e-sports and prohibit online betting
• Location: India
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: To prohibit online money gaming, restrict associated advertisements, and establish a regulatory authority for oversight of online gaming platforms.
• Objectives: To prevent financial frauds, protect users from psychological risks, distinguish between eSports and gambling, and support the growth of India’s digital gaming industry.

Important Terms Explained:

• Online Money Gaming: Any online game played by paying a fee, deposit, or stake, in expectation of a monetary reward, regardless of whether it is based on skill or chance.
• eSports: Competitive digital games that involve organized tournaments and skill-based gameplay, recognized as legitimate sporting activity under the bill.
• Regulatory Authority: A proposed statutory body under the bill responsible for overseeing online gaming, identifying illegal platforms, and enforcing compliance.

Tabular Summary:

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24. Where has Indian Railways commissioned India’s first removable solar panel system between railway tracks?
A) Secunderabad Railway Station
B) Banaras Locomotive Works Varanasi
C) Howrah Junction
D) Ratlam Division
E) Chennai Egmore
Answer: B) Banaras Locomotive Works Varanasi

Event and Location:

• Event: Commissioning of India’s first removable solar panel system between railway tracks
• Location: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Date: August 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Installation and commissioning of a 70-metre removable solar panel system between railway tracks at BLW, Varanasi.
• Objectives: Promote renewable energy usage, enable sustainable rail operations, and support green transport infrastructure under Indian Railways’ carbon-neutral goals.

Important Terms Explained:

• Removable Solar Panel System: A solar power setup designed to be temporarily installed and easily removed between railway tracks, allowing for both power generation and easy maintenance.
• Scott Transformer Technology: A power transformer configuration used to convert three-phase electrical supply into two-phase, reducing power loss in railway electrification systems.
• 2×25 kV Electric Traction System: A high-capacity power delivery system that enhances the efficiency of railway electrification by delivering dual voltage levels, allowing broader and faster electrification coverage.

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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