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CURRENT AFFAIRS: BANKING & FINANCE
International Finance Corporation launches call for expression of interest for its new Catalytic First Loss Guarantee Facility
- The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has launched a call for expression of interest for eligible financial services providers (FSPs) to participate in the Catalytic First Loss Guarantee Facility under its MSME Finance Platform.
- The facility’s objective is to increase access to finance for women-owned businesses, promote agriculture and climate financing, and support MSME lending.
- It aims to show the commercial viability of these segments and experiment with new products, services, and risk criteria.
- The facility will offer a first loss guarantee to eligible FSPs to scale up MSME lending, fostering economic growth and job creation.
- MSMEs represent over 90% of all firms, contribute 70% of total employment, and account for 50% of GDP
- The MSME finance gap is currently estimated at $5.7 trillion, rising to $8 trillion when informal businesses are included.
- Adel Meer, IFC’s Global Manager for Financial Inclusion, emphasized the importance of local currency credit mobilization to support underserved MSMEs.
- Eligible FSPs include regulated banks, non-bank financial institutions, digital lenders, leasing companies, and microfinance institutions.
- FSPs must meet IFC’s qualification criteria, including Environmental & Social Risk Rating (ESRR), Integrity Due Diligence (IDD), financial and operational capability, and developmental impact.
About IFC:
- The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, committed $56 billion to private sector development in FY 2024, working in over 100 countries.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS
India Launches International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum (ITES-Q) to Boost Global Leadership in Quantum Science
- The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India (GoI) released the first edition of the International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum (ITES-Q) on April 14, 2025, coinciding with World Quantum Day and the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST 2025) as designated by the United Nations.
- This strategy aims to accelerate global collaboration and innovation in quantum science, technology, and innovation (QSTI), aligning with India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) to secure global leadership in the field.
Significance of ITES-Q
- First-ever outward-facing strategy for India in the field of Quantum Science, Technology, and Innovation (QSTI).
- Supports the National Quantum Mission (NQM) aimed at strengthening India’s global position in quantum technologies.
Objectives of ITES-Q
- Accelerate discovery and innovation in quantum technologies.
- Promote adoption of quantum advancements across critical sectors.
- Enable strategic autonomy through quantum safety measures.
- Facilitate bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster international collaboration.
- Support international standardization efforts to set global norms in quantum technology.
National Quantum Mission (NQM)
- Implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
- Aims to cover the full lifecycle of quantum research, from R&D to commercialization.
Utility of ITES-Q
- Promotes India’s quantum leadership
- Facilitates partnerships with global stakeholders.
- Enhances policymaking and fosters industry collaboration in quantum technologies.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Launches AIKosha and Other Key AI Initiatives to Boost Innovation in India
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched AIKosha, a secured platform providing a repository of datasets, models, and use cases to support AI innovation.
- AIKosha also features AI sandbox capabilities, an integrated development environment, and includes tools and tutorials to aid AI developers.
Key Highlights:
- AI Compute Portal and Other Initiatives:
- Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of MeitY, unveiled the India AI Compute Portal alongside AIKosha and other AI-driven initiatives, celebrating the IndiaAI Mission anniversary.
- The India AI Compute Portal aims to provide accessible and affordable AI compute, network, storage, platform, and cloud services for developers and researchers in India.
AI Competency Framework and iGOT-AI:
- The AI Competency Framework was released to help public sector officials develop AI skills, competency mapping, and upskilling
- The iGOT-AI system was also launched, offering an AI-powered personalized content recommendation system to improve learning for government officials on the iGOT Karmayogi platform.
IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Program:
- A new initiative, the IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Program, was launched in collaboration with Station F and HEC Paris.
- The program will provide 10 selected Indian AI startups with an immersive four-month acceleration program in Paris, helping them scale globally.
IndiaAI Innovation Challenge and Fellowship:
- The IndiaAI Innovation Challenge shortlisted 30 AI solutions from over 900 submissions, addressing critical challenges in AI for the next stage of development.
- Additionally, the IndiaAI Fellowship under the IndiaAI Futureskills Pillar was introduced to encourage students to engage in AI research and innovation.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: STATE NEWS
Rangachara Becomes Tripura’s First Solar Village
- Rangachara village, located in South Tripura district, is set to become Tripura’s first fully solar-powered village.
- The village has faced challenges with erratic electricity supply and limited infrastructure, making this project a major step forward for its residents.
- The Tripura government, in collaboration with the Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) and other central agencies, is working to provide uninterrupted power to all villagers through decentralized solar technology.
- The project is being implemented under the solar village scheme and is supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
Key Highlights:
- Project Features:
The project includes:- Rooftop solar panels
- Battery storage systems
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Street lighting
- Solar water pumps for agriculture
- Solar-powered borewells
- Community facilities such as schools, health centers, and irrigation systems.
- Backup Power:
In the absence of solar power, villagers will rely on traditional grid power provided by the Tripura State Electricity Corporation. - Time Frame:
TREDA has been assigned the task of completing the project within a stipulated time frame. - State Government’s Support:
The state government is actively campaigning for the installation of rooftop solar panels across the state under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Mufhr Bijli Yojana.
About Tripura:
- Capital: Agartala
- Chief Minister: Manik Saha
- Governor: N. Indrasena Reddy
- National Parks: Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Rishyamukh Wildlife Sanctuary, Jampui Hill Wildlife Sanctuary
CURRENT AFFAIRS: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
Union Bank of India Appoints Anil Kuril as CISO and Head of Data Protection Office
- Union Bank of India has appointed Anil Kuril as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Head of the Data Protection Office, effective 15 April 2025.
- The appointment highlights the bank’s focus on cybersecurity and compliance with India’s data privacy regulations in a digitising financial ecosystem.
- Anil Kuril has nearly 30 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, with expertise in cloud computing, AI-based security, and digital transformation.
- Before this role, Kuril served as Chief General Manager (IT, Digital, and Analytics) at Union Bank.
- He has also held past roles as Chief Technology Officer and General Manager, where he led hybrid workplace solutions and secure banking infrastructure projects.
- In his dual role, Kuril will oversee cybersecurity strategy, data protection frameworks, and compliance with RBI guidelines and India’s upcoming data privacy law.
- His leadership will support the bank’s goal to secure cloud-based banking and protect against increasing cyber threats.
- Kuril will work to integrate technologies such as blockchain and AI to boost fraud detection and cross-border data governance.
- Union Bank is accelerating its digital banking services, with emphasis on customer data security and regulatory compliance.
- Kuril’s strategic priorities include threat intelligence systems, incident response protocols, and collaboration with fintechs for secure payment solutions.
Cashfree Payments Appoints Piyush Anchliya as Chief Financial Officer
- Cashfree Payments has appointed Piyush Anchliya as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 15, 2025.
- Anchliya replaces Vikas Guru, who played a key role in Cashfree’s financial growth and will assist during the transition period.
- Anchliya has over 15 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance, strategy, and M&A, with previous roles at Barclays and IDFC/Bandhan Group in both India and the US.
- He was most recently the CFO at Bandhan AMC (formerly IDFC AMC).
- Anchliya is an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur and IIM Ahmedabad, providing him with a strong academic background for his new role.
- At Cashfree, he will be responsible for financial planning, operational streamlining, and driving sustainable growth, reporting to CEO Akash Sinha.
- His appointment comes as Cashfree secures three critical licenses from the Reserve Bank of India:
- Payment Aggregator – Payment Gateway (PA-PG)
- Payment Aggregator – Cross Border (PA-CB)
- Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI)
- These RBI licenses will enable Cashfree to expand its domestic and international offerings in digital payments.
- Cashfree currently processes over $80 billion annually for 800,000+ businesses.
- The company recently raised $53 million in funding, led by KRAFTON and Apis Growth Fund II.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: ACQUISITION & MERGERS
Competition Commission Clears Deal Between TPG-Backed Entities and Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd. (Waverly), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd. (Growth V), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd. (Growth III), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd. (AHH Singapore), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (Rhea), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (AHH LLP), and Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (AINU).
- Waverly will subscribe to Ordinary Shares and Class F Redeemable Preference Shares in AHH Singapore.
- Growth V will acquire certain rights in AHH Singapore, Rhea (including downstream entities), and AHH LLP.
- Growth III will acquire certain rights in AHH Singapore, specifically in matters related to AINU and its downstream entities.
- Rhea will acquire the complete shareholding of AINU from AHH Singapore.
- Rhea will issue equity shares to AHH Singapore as consideration for acquiring AINU.
- TPG Growth III and TPG Growth V are investment funds managed and controlled by TPG Inc., a global investment firm listed on NASDAQ, with interests in private equity, real estate, and public markets. In India, TPG focuses on sectors like technology, healthcare, consumer, and financial services.
- Waverly is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lathe Investment Pte. Ltd., which is in turn owned by GIC (Ventures) Pte Ltd. Waverly is managed by GIC Special Investments Private Limited.
- AHH Singapore is an investment holding company incorporated in Singapore, engaged through its subsidiaries in healthcare services such as maternal and child care, urology, nephrology, and related services in India. It is jointly owned and controlled by the TPG Group and GIC Group.
- Rhea is a specialty hospital chain in India offering women and child care services, and IVF services (after merging with Nova Medical Centers Private Limited). It operates in 19 states and 3 union territories in India.
- AINU is a single-specialty hospital network focused on urology, nephrology, dialysis, and kidney transplant, with facilities in Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Siliguri, Chennai, and Secunderabad.
- AHH LLP provides advisory services in strategy, finance, and operational matters (excluding investment management or financial advisory) to AHH Singapore and its downstream entities.
About CCI:
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory body within the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is responsible for enforcing the Competition Act of 2002.
- Founded: October 14, 2003
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
- Chairperson: Ravneet Kaur
Competition Commission Clears Alat-TKE Group Share Deal and Joint Venture
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of shares of the TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of a joint venture between the two entities.
- The proposed combination includes:
(a) the indirect acquisition by Alat Technologies Company (ATC) of shareholding in Vertical Topco S.à r.l. (Vertical Topco), through which ATC will acquire approximately 15% stake in the TKE Group (Proposed Topco Investment); and
(b) the formation of a joint venture (KSA JV) between ATC and the TKE Group (Proposed KSA JV Transaction). - ATC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia.
- ATC operates globally and focuses on manufacturing in the areas of:
- semiconductors
- smart devices
- smart buildings
- smart appliances
- smart health
- advanced industrials
- next generation infrastructure
- electrification
- artificial intelligence infrastructure
- Vertical Topco is a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg and is the holding company of the TKE Group.
- The proposed KSA JV will operate primarily in Saudi Arabia, and potentially in other MENA countries, to engage in:
- manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of
- vertical and horizontal transportation units, including elevators and escalators.
- manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of
Competition Commission Clears PIOF, Claypond & 360 Fund Investment in Akasa Air
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by:
- PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF)
- certain executives of PIOF
- Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond)
- 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund), through its schemes and affiliates
- The Proposed Combination involves the acquisition of shareholding in Akasa Air by PIOF, PI Executives, Claypond, and the 360 Fund, acting through its investment manager, 360 ONE Alternates Asset Management Limited.
- PIOF is a trust registered as an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). It aims to provide investors with risk-adjusted returns through a portfolio of long-term equity investments in growing entities.
- Claypond is an affiliate of the Pai Family Group, which has made financial investments across various sectors.
- The 360 Fund is registered with SEBI as a Category II AIF, with a mandate to invest in multiple sectors in India and globally.
- Akasa Air is engaged in:
- domestic and international scheduled air passenger transport services
- air cargo transport services
- allied services, including in-flight sales
Competition Commission Clears Aster DM Healthcare’s Acquisition of Quality Care India Limited Stake
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella, and Quality Care India Limited (QCIL).
- The transaction includes the merger of QCIL into Aster DM Healthcare Limited (Aster) through a scheme of amalgamation. Post-merger, Aster will be renamed as Aster DM Quality Care Limited.
- Before the merger, Aster will purchase a 5.0% stake in QCIL from BCP Asia II TopCo IV Pte. Ltd. (BCP Asia) and Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited (Centella). The consideration will be in the form of a primary share issuance by Aster.
- The existing shareholders of QCIL (i.e., Centella, BCP, and certain minority shareholders) will hold a stake in the merged entity, with Centella holding less than 10%, without any control rights.
- Aster is a healthcare service provider in India operating:
- 19 hospitals with 4,867 beds
- 13 clinics
- 215 pharmacies
- 232 labs and patient experience centers
across 6 states in India. It is part of the Aster Group.
- BCP is owned by funds advised and/or managed by affiliates of Blackstone Inc.
- Centella is owned and controlled by an entity advised by affiliates of TPG Inc. (TPG). TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, is referred to as the TPG Group.
- QCIL is an unlisted public limited company, owned and controlled by Centella and BCP. It operates a network of multi-specialty hospitals under the brand names CARE Hospitals, KIMS Health, and Evercare.
- QCIL has:
- A network of 26 healthcare centers
- Over 5,150+ beds
- Operations in 14 cities
- More than 30 medical specialties
- A team of over 2,500 doctors
CURRENT AFFAIRS: BUSINESS NEWS
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Releases Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Data for March 2025
- The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) released the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) data for March 2025.
- The data reveals that the annual WPI inflation for March 2025 stood at 2.05% (provisional) compared to March 2024.
- This inflation was largely driven by increased prices in the manufacture of food products, textiles, electricity, and other manufactured goods.
Key WPI Components and Inflation Trends
- All Commodities (Weight: 100%)
- Index: 154.5
- Inflation Rate (Y-o-Y): 2.05%
- Shows a slight decline from 2.38% in February and 2.51% in January 2025.
- Primary Articles (Weight: 22.62%)
- Index: 184.6
- Inflation Rate: 0.76% (sharp drop from 2.81% in February)
- Month-on-Month (M-o-M) Change: Decreased by 1.07%
- Sub-categories:
- Crude Petroleum & Natural Gas: -2.42%
- Non-food Articles: -2.40%
- Food Articles: -0.72%
- Minerals: +0.31%
- Fuel & Power (Weight: 13.15%)
- Index: 152.4
- Inflation Rate: 0.20% (positive after previous negative months)
- Month-on-Month (M-o-M) Change: -0.91%
- Sub-categories:
- Electricity: -2.31%
- Mineral Oils: -0.70%
- Coal: No Change
- Manufactured Products (Weight: 64.23%)
- Index: 144.4
- Inflation Rate: 3.07% (highest among all categories)
- Month-on-Month (M-o-M) Change: +0.42%
- WPI Food Index (Weight: 24.38%)
- Index: 188.8 (slightly down from 189.0 in February)
- Inflation Rate: 4.66% (down from 5.94% in February and 7.52% in January)
- Composed of food items from both primary articles and manufactured products.
RECENT NEWS
- In March 2025, The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Mercedes-Benz India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance manufacturing, road safety, and sustainability in India.
- India’s DPIIT and South Korea’s KOTI signed an MoU on February 10, 2025, to enhance logistics and infrastructure collaboration. The partnership focuses on knowledge exchange, technology adoption, and master planning under PM GatiShakti.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS
6th National Highways Excellence Awards 2023: Recognizing Innovation and Excellence in India’s Road Sector
- To promote innovation, acknowledge quality, and reward excellence in National Highways development, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) organized the 6th edition of the National Highways Excellence Awards (NHEA) 2023 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Key Dignitaries Present
- Shri Nitin Gadkari – Union Minister, MoRTH
- Shri Harsh Malhotra – Minister of State, MoRTH & Corporate Affairs
- Dr. V.K. Saraswat – Member, NITI Aayog
- Shri V. Umashankar – Secretary, MoRTH
- Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav – Chairman, NHAI
Major Awards & Winners
- Excellence in Project Management (PPP Model)
- Award: Silver
- Winner: G. Infra Engineering Ltd.
- Project: Ateli Mandi–Narnaul section of NH-11 & Narnaul Bypass, Haryana
- Excellence in Project Management (EPC Model)
- Award: Silver
- Winner: Bhartia Infra Projects
- Project: Hakanjuri–Khonsa, NH-315A, Arunachal Pradesh
- Excellence in Operation & Maintenance (Flexible Pavement)
- Award: Gold
- Winner: Nanguneri Kanyakumari Tollway Pvt. Ltd.
- Project: Madurai–Kanyakumari, NH-7 (Tamil Nadu)
- Green Highways Category
- Gold: Ashoka Buildcon Ltd. – Kandi to Ramsanpalle, NH-161 (Telangana)
- Silver: Deccan Tollways Ltd. – MH-Karnataka border to Sangareddy, NH-65
- Best Engineer Award
- Navratan – DGM & PD, NHAI
- Devender Kumar – GM, NHIDCL
- Subhash Chandra – RO, MoRTH, Itanagar
- Special Recognition
- Awarded to: Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS)
- Reason: Excellence in quality, transparency, and social responsibility
Innovation Drive
- Winners of “पथ चिंतन Hackathon” were felicitated for their tech-driven ideas to enhance highway infrastructure.
About NHEA
- Started in: 2018
- Objectives:
- Promote healthy competition
- Recognize excellence
- Inspire continuous improvement in highways sector
CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT
Memorandum of Understanding Between Ministry of Labour & Employment and Swiggy to Boost Employment in Gig Economy
- The Ministry of Labour & Employment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Swiggy to create significant employment opportunities in the gig and logistics sectors.
- This collaboration is set to generate over 12 lakh job opportunities in the next 2–3 years through the National Career Service (NCS) portal.
- The partnership is focused on matching gig and logistics job roles with job seekers across India.
Role of the National Career Service (NCS) Portal
- Active Users: 1.25 crore job seekers and 40 lakh employers (as of January 2025).
- Services:
- Provides location-based, flexible work opportunities.
- One-stop solution for employment, skilling, and counselling.
- Facilitates hyperlocal job matching for both domestic and international placements.
Salient Features of the MoU
- Job Integration: Verified gig and delivery jobs posted on the NCS portal.
- Real-Time Postings: API-based integration ensures seamless job tracking.
- Focus on Inclusivity: Special emphasis on youth, women, and flexible work seekers.
- Onboarding and Empowerment: Structured onboarding and awareness of worker welfare schemes.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING & INDEX
South states take 5 top spots, Bengal last in policing, justice delivery: Report
- Southern states of India are performing the best when it comes to policing, justice delivery and prison management, according to the fourth India Justice Report released.
- While Karnataka took the top spot, West Bengal came last among the 18 large and mid-sized states.
Key Highlights:
- About the Report:
- Launched by Tata Trusts in 2019
- Evaluates performance across four pillars:
- Police
- Prisons
- Judiciary
- Legal Aid
- Top Performers (Large & Mid-sized States)
- Karnataka ranked 1st with a score of 6.78/10
- All top five spots occupied by southern states:
- Karnataka
- Andhra Pradesh
- Telangana (jumped from 11th in 2022)
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- Lowest Performers (Large & Mid-sized States)
- West Bengal ranked last (18th) with a score of 3.63/10
- Other bottom-ranked states:
- Uttar Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Jharkhand
- Rajasthan
- Small States (7 States Considered)
- Best performer: Sikkim
- Lowest performer: Goa
- State-wise Key Improvements (2022–2025)
- Police:
- Most improved: Bihar
- Worst police-population ratio: Bihar (81 per lakh people)
- National average remains stagnant at 155 per lakh, below sanctioned 197.5
- Judiciary:
- Most improved: Rajasthan, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh
- Prisons:
- Most improved: Odisha and Jharkhand
- Prison population surged by 50% in the last decade
- Undertrial percentage increased from 66% to 76%
- Legal Aid:
- Most improved: Haryana
- Budget & Infrastructure Insights
- Most of the budget is spent on salaries
- Very little allocated for infrastructure and training
- This affects:
- Quality of policing
- Efficiency of judicial services
CURRENT AFFAIRS: DEFENCE NEWS
Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh calls on Italian Defence Minister in Rome to further enhance bilateral defence cooperation
- Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh visited Rome, Italy from April 14-15, 2025 on an official trip.
- The visit began with a meeting between Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Guido Crosetto, the Defence Minister of Italy.
- They held productive discussions to enhance defence cooperation as a key pillar of the India-Italy strategic partnership.
- Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the 11th India-Italy annual bilateral Joint Defence Committee meeting with Luisa Riccardi, the Secretary General of Defence of Italy.
- During the meeting, both sides discussed various issues related to defence, security, and industrial cooperation, maritime cooperation, information sharing arrangements, Trans Regional Maritime Network, and the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean Region situation.
Key Highlights :
- Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh stressed on the importance of closer defence collaboration, especially in technology and armament production.
- He highlighted the Government of India’s efforts to build a robust defence production and innovation ecosystem within the country through policy initiatives.
- In his keynote address at the India-Italy Defence Industry Roundtable, the Defence Secretary shared insights on how the Indian defence industry has undergone significant reforms in recent years, making it more conducive to growth through transparency, predictability, and Ease of Doing Business.
- An MoU was signed between the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Federation of Italian Companies for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD), marking a significant step toward fostering closer cooperation between the defence industries of both countries.
- Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh was accompanied by a high-level delegation from the Ministry of Defence, including senior officials from the Service Headquarters, Department of Defence, and the Department of Defence Production.
- A substantial industry delegation from SIDM also accompanied the Defence Secretary to strengthen B2B connections between the Indian and Italian defence industries.
About Ministry of Defence:
- Cabinet Minister: Rajnath Singh
- Minister of State (MoS): Ajay Bhatt
CURRENT AFFAIRS: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
QpiAI launches India’s first full-stack quantum computer with 25 qubits on World Quantum Day
- Bengaluru-based QpiAI, selected under the National Quantum Mission by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), launched one of India’s most powerful quantum computers with 25 superconducting qubits on World Quantum Day (April 14).
Key Highlights:
- QpiAI-Indus:
The quantum computer launched, QpiAI-Indus, is India’s first full-stack quantum computing system, combining advanced quantum hardware, scalable control, and optimized software for transformative hybrid computing. - Technological Advancements:
The system integrates quantum processors, next-gen Quantum-HPC software platforms, and AI-enhanced quantum solutions. - Impact Across Industries:
QpiAI is driving innovation in various fields like life sciences, drug discovery, materials sciences, mobility, logistics, sustainability, and climate action. - Role in National Quantum Mission:
QpiAI is pivotal in building India’s quantum computing technology ecosystem and quantum adoption programs, while also contributing to creating one of the world’s largest quantum talent ecosystems. - Company Milestones:
Founded in 2019, QpiAI has 11 patent applications and generates a revenue of around Rs 1 million per annum. The company has also raised substantial capital from Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). - World Quantum Day Participation:
On World Quantum Day, QpiAI celebrates the shared vision for a quantum-enabled future that transforms industries, accelerates scientific discovery, and empowers innovators globally.
Gayle King and Blue Origin’s all-women crew return after historic space launch
- The New Shepard NS-31 mission by Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, was launched on April 14, 2025, from West Texas.
- The mission marked the first all-female spaceflight in over 60 years, the last being the solo flight of Valentina Tereshkova in 1963.
- The spaceflight lasted around 11 minutes and reached the edge of space, giving the crew a short experience of weightlessness.
- The six-member all-female crew included Katy Perry, Lauren Sanchez, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen, and Kerianne Flynn.
- During the return phase, Katy Perry sang “What a Wonderful World” and carried a daisy flower to symbolize her daughter.
- Oprah Winfrey, Kris Jenner, and Khloe Kardashian were among the celebrities present at the launch.
- Blue Origin has not disclosed exact pricing but mentions a refundable deposit of $150,000 is required to begin booking.
- In 2021, the highest bid for a New Shepard seat was $28 million, while earlier reports in 2018 suggested a cost of at least $200,000 per seat.
- The estimated cost of each launch is between $1 to $3 million, according to Loizos Heracleous of Warwick Business School.
- Blue Origin’s long-term goal is to reduce the cost of access to space by using reusable rockets.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS
Saurabh Chaudhary Clinches Bronze in ISSF World Cup 2025
- Saurabh Chaudhary, a 22-year-old shooter from Uttar Pradesh, made a remarkable comeback to the Indian shooting team by winning a bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol event at the ISSF World Cup 2025 in Lima, Peru.
- Competing in a star-studded final with Olympic champions, Chaudhary demonstrated his resilience in a low-scoring, tightly contested match.
- This was his first individual World Cup medal in over two years, marking a strong return to international form.
Notable Competitors in the Final
- Yu Xie (China): Reigning Olympic Champion – Finished 5th
- Almeida Felipe Wu (Brazil): 2016 Rio Olympic Silver Medallist – Won Silver
- Kai Hu (China): Winner of Argentina ISSF WC – Finished strong
- Christian Reitz (Germany): Rio Olympic Champion in 25m Rapid Fire – Eliminated earlier
- Varun Tomar (India): Cousin of Saurabh – Finished 4th.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant Clinches Historic ISL Title with 2-1 Victory over Bengaluru FC
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant made history by securing the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) title with a 2-1 victory over Bengaluru FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.
- This victory marked several milestones: it was the first time an ISL final was won at home, and Mohun Bagan became the first team to achieve a season double, winning both the ISL title and the ISL League Shield.
Key Scorers
- Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan)
- Jamie Maclaren (Mohun Bagan)
- Alberto Rodriguez (Own Goal for Bengaluru FC)
Historical Significance
- Mohun Bagan became the first team to win the ISL title at home, marking a historic achievement for the club and its fans.
- The team also achieved the season double by winning both the League Shield and ISL Trophy in the same season.
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu Appointed as Chairperson of the Athletes Commission of Indian Weightlifting Federation
- Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, India’s celebrated Olympic silver medallist, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletes Commission of the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF).
- This significant appointment brings competitive experience and a strong advocacy role for athlete welfare and representation in sports administration.
- Chanu is committed to amplifying the voices of weightlifters, ensuring their well-being, and supporting their focus on achieving sporting excellence.
About Mirabai Chanu
- Full Name: Saikhom Mirabai Chanu
- Origin: Manipur, India
- Sport: Weightlifting
- Category: 49 kg
- Olympic Medal: Silver at Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021)
- Commonwealth Games Gold Medals:
- 2018 (Gold Coast)
- 2022 (Birmingham)
- Paris Olympics 2024: Participated but did not win a medal, citing performance impact due to menstrual cycle weakness.
About the IWLF Athletes Commission
- Governing Body: Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF)
- Commission Role: Represents and advocates for active weightlifters in administrative matters.
- Newly Formed: 2025
- Chairperson Appointment: April 16, 2025
India Hosts First-Ever World Para-Athletics Grand Prix in Delhi
- India is all set to host the first-ever World Para-Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi from 11th to 13th March 2025 at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Key highlights:
- Over 280 para-athletes from 20 countries will participate.
- India will field a contingent of 145 para-athletes across various disciplines.
- Top athletes, including Paris Paralympics gold medalists like Praveen Kumar, Navdeep, and Dharambir, will be in action, though Sumit Antil and Yogesh Kathuniya will miss the event.
- The World Para-Athletics Grand Prix is crucial as it provides classification opportunities for para-athletes, enabling them to participate in international competitions.
- India benefits by hosting, as it reduces costs associated with classification at other international events.
- India has been awarded 58 slots this time, up from the usual 4-5 slots at other events.
Event Branding and Logo
- The official logo of the event showcases India’s cultural heritage, featuring traditional instruments like the sitar, drum, and flute, symbolizing India’s artistic expression.
- The design also highlights para-athletic sports such as wheelchair racing, javelin throw, and running, emphasizing inclusivity and the spirit of para-sports.
- The logo further incorporates yoga and athletic movements, underscoring India’s connection with holistic well-being and fitness.
CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS
World Hemophilia Day 2025: April 17
- World Hemophilia Day is celebrated on April 17th every year.
- This day is recognized worldwide to increase awareness of hemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders.
History
- World Hemophilia Day was first started in 1989 by the World Federation of Hemophilia which chose 17th April as the day to bring the community together in honor of World Federation of Hemophilia founder Frank Schnabel’s birthday.
- The importance of educating hemophilia patients and the general public about bleeding disorders.
- The day will also emphasize the importance of proper hemophilia care and treatment.
- This will be achieved through media events, awareness campaigns, and a host of activities held around the world.
Theme
- The theme for World Hemophilia Day 2025 is “Access for All: Women and Girls Bleed Too”.
World Obesity Day 2025: March 4
- World Obesity Day is observed annually on 4th March to raise awareness about the global obesity crisis and promote real-world solutions to combat obesity.
- The theme for World Obesity Day 2025 is “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives”.
History:
- Since 2020, World Obesity Day has been observed worldwide to counter obesity and promote awareness of the associated health risks.
- Obesity is becoming a global norm, and 270 crore adults worldwide are expected to be obese or overweight by 2025.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS):
- In 2005-06, 13% of women and 9% of men in the age group of 15-49 years were overweight or obese.
- By 2015-16, the figures had risen to 21% of women and 19% of men being overweight or obese.
- BMI (Body Mass Index) is used to measure obesity: Overweight is defined as a BMI ≥ 25, and obesity as a BMI ≥ 30, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Daily CA One- Liner: April 17
- The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India released the first edition of the International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum (ITES-Q) on April 14, 2025, coinciding with World Quantum Day and the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST 2025) as designated by the United Nations
- The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) released the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) data for March 2025.
- To promote innovation, acknowledge quality, and reward excellence in National Highways development, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) organized the 6th edition of the National Highways Excellence Awards (NHEA) 2023 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- The Ministry of Labour & Employment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Swiggy to create significant employment opportunities in the gig and logistics sectors.
- Southern states of India are performing the best when it comes to policing, justice delivery and prison management, according to the fourth India Justice Report released.
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched AIKosha, a secured platform providing a repository of datasets, models, and use cases to support AI innovation.
- Saurabh Chaudhary, a 22-year-old shooter from Uttar Pradesh, made a remarkable comeback to the Indian shooting team by winning a bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol event at the ISSF World Cup 2025 in Lima, Peru.
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant made history by securing the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) title with a 2-1 victory over Bengaluru FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata
- Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, India’s celebrated Olympic silver medallist, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Athletes Commission of the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF).
- India is all set to host the first-ever World Para-Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi from 11th to 13th March 2025 at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
- International Finance Corporation (IFC) has launched a call for expression of interest for eligible financial services providers (FSPs) to participate in the Catalytic First Loss Guarantee Facility under its MSME Finance Platform.
- Rangachara village, located in South Tripura district, is set to become Tripura’s first fully solar-powered village.
- Union Bank of India has appointed Anil Kuril as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Head of the Data Protection Office, effective 15 April 2025.
- Cashfree Payments has appointed Piyush Anchliya as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 15, 2025.
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd. (Waverly), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd. (Growth V), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd. (Growth III), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd. (AHH Singapore), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (Rhea), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (AHH LLP), and Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (AINU).
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of shares of the TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of a joint venture between the two entities.
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF), its executives, Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond), and 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund) through their respective schemes and affiliates.
- The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella, and Quality Care India Limited (QCIL).
- Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh visited Rome, Italy from April 14-15, 2025 on an official trip.
- Bengaluru-based QpiAI, selected under the National Quantum Mission by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), launched one of India’s most powerful quantum computers with 25 superconducting qubits on World Quantum Day.
- The New Shepard NS-31 mission by Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, was launched on April 14, 2025, from West Texas.
- World Hemophilia Day is celebrated on April 17th every year.
- World Obesity Day is observed annually on 4th March to raise awareness about the global obesity crisis and promote real-world solutions to combat obesity.
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