02nd April 2025 Current Affairs | Daily GK Update & Top News for Exams

National News

India Records Highest Child Adoptions in 12 Years

 The Ministry of Women and Child Development also promoted foster care and alternate family-based care, while legal frameworks and training initiatives further boosted adoption rates, reflecting growing acceptance of legal adoption in India.

FM Launched NITI NCAER States Economic Forum Portal

On April 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched the “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal in New Delhi, developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER). The portal serves as a comprehensive repository of data on social, economic, and fiscal parameters of Indian states from 1990-91 to 2022-23. It aims to provide a data-driven approach to managing state finances, including debt management, revenue generation, and fiscal interventions. Key stakeholders, including Dr. Poonam Gupta and Shri BVR Subrahamanyam, highlighted the portal’s role in improving policy decisions, fiscal awareness, and promoting collaboration among states.

PM Laid Various Initiative in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth ₹33,700 crore in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, focusing on infrastructure, housing, healthcare, education, energy, and tribal welfare. Key initiatives include three lakh new homes for the poor, many registered under women’s names, improved connectivity through roads and railways, renewable energy projects, and special schemes for tribal empowerment. PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable development and uplifting underprivileged communities.

Banking News

Enhanced RBI Supervision Over Co-operative Banks

The Banking Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2020 has strengthened RBI’s oversight on co-operative banks by expanding its powers in management, audit, capital requirements, and restructuring. Effective from June 26, 2020, it applies key provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs), ensuring financial stability and depositor protection. Additionally, RBI’s Master Direction on Fraud Management (2024) enforces strict fraud prevention measures, while amendments to the Multi-State Co-operative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002, along with the Co-operative Ombudsman and Election Authority, enhance transparency and governance in the sector.

98.21% of Rs 2000 Banknotes Returned to Banking System, Says RBI

On April 2, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that 98.21% of Rs 2000 banknotes have been returned to the banking system, with only Rs 6,366 crore still in public hands. Following the RBI’s decision to withdraw Rs 2000 notes from circulation, first announced on May 19, 2023, the notes’ circulation has significantly declined since their introduction in November 2016 post-demonetization. As of March 31, 2025, the value of Rs 2000 notes in circulation dropped from Rs 3.56 lakh crore to Rs 6,366 crore.

Economy News

EY Report Projects 6.5% Growth in FY26 For India

The EY Economy Watch report projects India’s GDP growth at 6.5% for FY26, stressing the need for a balanced fiscal strategy that promotes economic expansion while maintaining fiscal prudence. It highlights the importance of government investment in education and healthcare, a higher revenue-to-GDP ratio, and equalization transfers to reduce regional disparities. Achieving the 6.5% growth target requires a 7.6% Q4 FY25 growth, which may necessitate increased investment expenditure. While the fiscal deficit may widen due to supplementary grants, higher nominal GDP could mitigate fiscal pressures, making strategic capital spending essential.

Appointments News

Shirley Botchwey Becomes First African Woman Secretary General of the Commonwealth

On 1st April 2025, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey became the 7th Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations, marking a historic moment as the first African woman to hold the position. She succeeded Patricia Scotland of Dominica, the first woman to serve in this role. Botchwey was elected during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024 in Apia, Samoa, for a four-year term. A Ghanaian diplomat and politician, she previously served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and has held roles in national security, business, and tourism consulting.

N Chandrasekaran Joins IMF Managing Director’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth

N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, has been appointed to the IMF Managing Director’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth, aimed at providing insights into macroeconomic and financial policies to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic growth. The council, led by Kristalina Georgieva, will focus on improving macroeconomic conditions for sustainable development. Chandrasekaran’s inclusion underscores his influence in global business strategy and economic policy.

Salila Pande Appointed as MD & CEO of SBI Card, Effective April 1, 2025

SBI Cards and Payment Services (SBI Card) appointed Salila Pande as its new Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective April 1, 2025. With nearly 30 years of experience in the banking sector, primarily with State Bank of India (SBI), Pande brings expertise in retail banking, credit services, and financial management. Her appointment marks a new leadership phase for SBI Card as it continues to expand its presence in India’s credit card market.

Swaminathan S. Iyer Appointed as Whole-Time Member (Life) of IRDAI

The Government of India has approved the appointment of Swaminathan S. Iyer as a Whole-time Member (Life) of IRDAI for a 5-year tenure or until he turns 62, whichever is earlier. Approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on March 25, 2025, his role involves overseeing the life insurance segment, focusing on regulation, policy development, and industry growth. His expertise in legal and regulatory affairs is expected to strengthen India’s insurance sector.

Poonam Gupta Appointed as RBI Deputy Governor Ahead of MPC Meeting

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Poonam Gupta as its new Deputy Governor, succeeding Michael Patra, ahead of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting (April 7-9, 2025). With extensive experience in macroeconomic policy, IMF, World Bank, and central banking, she previously served as Director General of NCAER, EAC-PM member, and convener of the 16th Finance Commission Advisory Council. Her appointment is expected to play a crucial role in shaping India’s monetary and financial policies.

Awards News

Dalai Lama Honored with Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability

The Dalai Lama was awarded the Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability on April 1, 2025, at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Presented by Gold Mercury International, a global think tank, the award recognizes his lifelong commitment to non-violence, human dignity, interfaith dialogue, and environmental conservation. This honor comes as the Dalai Lama nears his 90th birthday and celebrates his advocacy for peace and leadership. The Gold Mercury Award honors individuals and organizations contributing to world peace, good governance, and sustainable development.

Defense News

India’s Defence Exports Surge to Record High in FY 2024-25

India’s defence exports hit a record Rs 23,622 crore (US$ 2.76 billion) in FY 2024-25, marking a 12.04% growth from the previous year. This surge, driven by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and private industry, reflects India’s growing self-reliance and global competitiveness in defence manufacturing. DPSUs recorded a 42.85% rise, contributing Rs 8,389 crore, while the private sector accounted for Rs 15,233 crore. The increase in export authorizations and government support highlights the rising global demand for Indian-made defence products.

Navika Sagar Parikrama II: INSV Tarini Reaches Cape Town, South Africa

The Navika Sagar Parikrama II (NSP-II), a global circumnavigation expedition by Indian Navy women officers Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, reached Cape Town, South Africa, marking the fourth leg of its 23,400-nautical-mile journey. Flagged off on October 2, 2024, from Goa, the expedition aims to promote women empowerment, marine research, and maritime cooperation. The vessel INSV Tarini previously stopped at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), and Port Stanley (Falklands, UK) and will return in May 2025. The crew will engage with the South African Navy and conduct outreach programs during their stay.

Summits & Conferences News

Army Commanders’ Conference 2025 Begins in New Delhi

The Army Commanders’ Conference (ACC) 2025 is being held in New Delhi from April 1-4, 2025, serving as a biannual platform for senior Army leadership to review national security, operational priorities, and emerging challenges. Key discussions include military preparedness, technological integration, and soldier welfare. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and NITI Aayog CEO, will provide strategic insights on India’s defence vision and the armed forces’ role in nation-building.

Sports News

Vandana Katariya Retires from International Hockey at the Peak of Her Career

Vandana Katariya, a stalwart of Indian women’s hockey, announced her retirement from international hockey on April 2, 2024, after an illustrious 15-year career. The 32-year-old striker, with a record of 320 international appearances and 158 goals, retires as the most capped female hockey player in India’s history. Katariya shared her emotional farewell on Instagram, emphasizing her decision to step away at the “zenith” of her career, choosing to leave the sport while still performing at her best.

Rajnigandha Achievers Winner Of Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup 2025

The Aditya Birla Memorial Polo Cup 2025 concluded with Rajnigandha Achievers defeating Jindal Panther in a thrilling final in New Delhi. The winning team, featuring Dino Dhankhar, Shamsheer Ali, Abhimanyu Pathak, and Daniel Otamendi, secured the prestigious trophy, presented by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Rajashree Birla, and Askaran Agarwala. The tournament, honoring Aditya Vikram Birla’s passion for polo, also saw participation from Cavalry Royal Enfield, showcasing top international polo talent.

Science & Technology News

IIT Madras Pravartak Completes Training of First Batch of Cyber Commandos

On April 1, 2025, the IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation successfully completed training for the first batch of Cyber Commandos, a specialized program aimed at enhancing cybersecurity skills among law enforcement officers in India. The Cyber Commandos Programme, initiated by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, trained 37 officers in advanced cybersecurity techniques to combat growing cyber threats. The valedictory ceremony, held at IIT Madras, was attended by key officials including Dr. Sandeep Mittal, Dr. Shankar Ram, and Prof. Mangala Sunder.

Miscellaneous News

Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Flower Garland Receive GI Tag

The Kumbakonam Betel Leaf of Thanjavur and the Thovalai Flower Garland of Kanyakumari were granted Geographical Indication (GI) Tags by the Government of India, increasing Tamil Nadu’s total GI products to 62. The GI Tag protects these products from commercial misuse, ensures authenticity, and enhances market recognition. The Kumbakonam Betel Leaf, grown in the fertile Cauvery river basin, is expected to boost exports, while the Thovalai Flower Garland, crafted with white, red, and green flowers, is renowned for its artistic floral arrangements in southern Tamil Nadu and Kerala.