Daily Current Affairs March 20th 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

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CURRENT AFFAIRS: BANKING & FINANCE

Asian Development Bank Launches ‘Frontier Seed’ to Support Private Sector Development and Ocean Sustainability in the Pacific

• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched the Frontier Seed (Pacific) program to strengthen private sector growth and economic resilience in the Pacific region.
• The initiative aims to develop local capital markets, support sustainable businesses, and promote inclusive economies.
• Initial commitment: $4 million, backed by ORCA Trust Fund, Nordic Development Fund, and UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Key Investments

• SeaPAC Pte Ltd (Fiji): Received $200,000 technical assistance to boost prawn production and improve food security.
• Kahuto Pacific: Received $200,000 technical assistance to enhance aerial mapping services and improve coastal data availability.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB):

• Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines
• Founded: 1966
• President: Masato Kandaassa
• Members: 68 (49 regional and 19 non-regional)

Paytm Money receives Securities and Exchange Board of India approval to offer research analyst services

• Paytm Money, a wholly-owned subsidiary of One97 Communications Ltd (OCL), has received a Certificate of Registration as a research analyst from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• Paytm Money can now offer research services, including research reports and analysis, in compliance with SEBI norms.
• The registration number for Paytm Money Ltd as a research analyst is INH000020086.
• Integration with Perplexity AI:
  • Last month, Paytm partnered with Perplexity AI to integrate AI-based search features into its app.
  • This allows users to ask questions, explore topics in Indian languages, and make financial decisions using AI.
• Enforcement Directorate (ED) show-cause notice:
  • Paytm received an ED show-cause notice for alleged Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) violations.
  • The alleged violations involve ₹611 crore worth of transactions related to the acquisition of subsidiaries.
  • The issue pertains to the acquisitions of Little Internet Pvt Ltd (LIPL) and Nearbuy India Pvt Ltd (NIPL), formerly Groupon, involving certain directors and officers.

Recent News:

• In February 2025, SEBI launched a dedicated portal for reporting Related Party Transactions (RPTs) to enhance corporate governance and transparency in India’s securities market.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

City Union Bank ties up with Sunrisers Hyderabad as exclusive banking partner

• City Union Bank (CUB) has partnered with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to launch a co-branded credit card.
• The bank will offer customized savings accounts and loans.
• Special co-branded credit cards will be available for SRH supporters.
• Cardholders will receive special rewards and discounts on SRH merchandise.
• Access to exclusive fan experiences will be provided.
• Offers on SRH memorabilia, including jerseys, caps, and other merchandise, will be available.
• Seamless mobile banking and contactless payment options will be introduced.
• Instant access to SRH promotions through CUB’s online platforms will be offered.
• CUB will have a strong presence on SRH match days.
• Digital and on-ground activations will engage fans.

Recent News:

• In March 2025, City Union Bank (CUB) announced a strategic partnership with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to introduce an exclusive co-branded credit card.

About City Union Bank (CUB):

• Founded Year: 1904
• Headquarters: Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India
• MD & CEO: Dr. N. Kamakodi
• Slogan: “Trust and Excellence Since 1904”

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL NEWS

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Drone Federation of India Launch National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research Challenge to Advance Drone Innovation

• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with the Drone Federation of India (DFI), has launched the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR) under the ‘SwaYaan – Capacity Building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems’
• The event was held at Electronics Niketan, with government representatives, industry experts, and students participating via video conferencing.

Key Highlights of the NIDAR Challenge

• Launch & Inauguration:
  • Shri Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, inaugurated the challenge, launched the official website & registration portal (nidar.org.in), and released the NIDAR Poster & RuleBook.
  • T. G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, stressed the importance of academic-industrial collaboration to advance drone technology.
• Focus Areas:
  • Disaster Management (Scout & Deliver Drones): Drones for search, rescue, communication, and parcel delivery in disaster-affected areas.
  • Precision Agriculture (Scan & Spray Drones): Crop health monitoring, targeted pesticide/nutrient delivery, and sustainable agriculture solutions.
• Participation & Prizes:
  • Over 100 student teams from higher education institutions across India.
  • Total prize pool of ₹40 Lakhs, along with:
    • Startup incubation support.
    • Cloud credits & software assistance.
    • Internship opportunities with leading drone companies.
  • Evaluation Process:
    • The competition will be conducted in multiple phases, including:
      • Technology Presentation
      • Business Case Presentation
      • Final Operational Testing

About SwaYaan Initiative

• Launched by MeitY in July 2022, focusing on capacity building in drone technology.
• 42,560 participants targeted for training through formal & non-formal programs.
• 30 top institutions involved, including IISc, IITs, IIITs, NITs, CDAC, NIELIT.
• Five key focus areas:
  1. Drone Electronics
  2. GNC Algorithms & Simulation
  3. Aeromechanics
  4. Drone Applications
  5. Allied UAS Technologies
• 14,000+ participants trained so far.
• Achievements:
  1. Tech. in UAS Engineering launched at IIT Kanpur.
  2. Minor degree programs, bootcamps, and workshops

WAVEX 2025: Empowering Startups in Media & Entertainment

• The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has launched WAVEX 2025, an initiative to support startups in the media and entertainment (M&E) sector.
• Organized in collaboration with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), WAVEX 2025 will be held at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, from May 1-4, 2025, as part of the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES).

Key Objectives

• Funding support through venture capitalists and celebrity angel investors.
• National exposure via televised pitching sessions.
• Networking & mentorship with industry leaders.
• Boosting India’s media-tech ecosystem through innovation and collaboration.

Key Highlights of WAVEX 2025

1. Organizers & Venue

• Launched by: Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB).
• In collaboration with: Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).
• Venue: Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.
• Dates: May 1-4, 2025.

2. Focus Areas

• Gaming & Animation.
• Extended Reality (XR) & Metaverse.
• Generative AI & Next-Generation Content Platforms.
• Digital Media & Emerging Entertainment Technologies.

3. Investment & Funding Opportunities

• Two pitching sessions for startup funding.
• Venture Capitalists & Angel Investors to evaluate innovative ideas.
• Celebrity Angel Investors to offer financial backing.
• Multi-stage selection process culminating in a high-stakes televised finale.
• Structured mentorship programs with leading industry experts.
• Business collaboration opportunities with top media & tech firms.

Indore to Establish India’s First Green Waste Processing Plant under Public-Private Partnership Model

• Indore is taking a pioneering step in sustainable waste management by setting up India’s first green waste processing plant under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
• This initiative, launched under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, aims to convert green waste into valuable resources, promoting environmental sustainability and reducing pollution.
• The plant will process green waste, generate revenue for the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), and produce wooden pellets as an alternative to coal.

Key Highlights of the Green Waste Processing Plant

1. Project Overview

• Location: Bicholi Hapsi, Indore
• Developed Under: Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban
• Execution Model: Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
• Land Area: 55,000 square feet
• Private Partner: Astronomical Industries Private Limited
• Waste Processed: Wood, branches, leaves, and flowers

2. Green Waste Processing & Revenue Model

• Daily Green Waste Generation: 30 tons, increasing to 60-70 tons during autumn
• IMC Revenue: Earns ₹3,000 per tonne in royalty from wood and branch supply
• End Product: Wooden pellets (coal alternative)
• Collection Model: Major institutions will send green waste to the facility under a fixed fee structure

3. Waste Transformation Process

• Large tree branches are sent to City Forest’s Green Waste Processing Plant
• Drying Process: Green waste is dried for 3-4 months, reducing moisture content by 90%
• Processing: Cutting-edge machines convert dried waste into fine sawdust
• Final Products: Sawdust is repurposed into multiple eco-friendly materials

4. Role of IMC & Private Firms

IMC’s Responsibilities

• Provides land and transports green waste to the plant

Private Firm’s Responsibilities

• Sets up infrastructure: Sheds, electricity, and water facilities
• Oversees installation & operation of the plant

RECENT NEWS

• In January 2025, Indore and Udaipur achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first two cities from India to join the global list of accredited Wetland Cities under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

Unique Identification Authority of India Partners with Sarvam AI to Enhance Aadhaar Services with AI

• The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has partnered with Bengaluru-based Sarvam AI, an indigenous Generative AI (GenAI) company, to enhance the user experience of Aadhaar services.
• Effective March 18, 2025, this collaboration introduces AI-powered voice interactions, real-time fraud detection, and multilingual support to make Aadhaar services more accessible, secure, and efficient.
• This one-year agreement, extendable by another year, reflects UIDAI’s commitment to technological advancements and user-centric innovations.

Key Highlights of the UIDAI-Sarvam AI Partnership

1. Partnership Objective

• Improve Aadhaar service accessibility, security, and user experience using AI.

2. AI-Powered Voice Interactions

• Enables real-time user feedback for Aadhaar services.
• Detects overcharging during enrollment and updates.

3. Real-Time Fraud Detection

• Uses AI-driven alerts to flag suspicious authentication requests.
• Strengthens security and prevents Aadhaar misuse.

4. Multilingual AI Support

• Supports 10 languages: Hindi, English, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi, and Malayalam.
• More languages to be added soon.

5. Data Security Measures

• AI solution is hosted on-premise within UIDAI’s air-gapped infrastructure.
• Ensures no data leaves UIDAI’s secure environment, maintaining data sovereignty compliance.

RECENT NEWS

• IAS officer Bhuvnesh Kumar, a 1995 batch officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, assumed charge as the CEO of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on January 1, 2025.

Ayushmann Khurrana Named ‘Fit India Icon’ by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya

• Renowned Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been officially designated as the ‘Fit India Icon’ by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
• The announcement was made during the inaugural ceremony of the Fit India Movement in New Delhi.
• With this recognition, the 40-year-old actor has joined hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India Movement, an initiative that aims to inspire citizens to prioritize their health and well-being.

The Fit India Movement: A National Initiative for Health

1. What is the Fit India Movement?

The Fit India Movement is a nationwide fitness campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 29, 2019.

2. Objectives of the Fit India Movement

• Encouraging people to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
• Promoting simple and fun ways to incorporate physical activity into daily routines.
• Eliminating barriers to fitness by making it accessible to all.
• Organizing awareness campaigns, fitness challenges, and events to promote physical and mental well-being.

Ayushmann Khurrana’s Role as ‘Fit India Icon’

• Will actively spread awareness about fitness and mental well-being.
• Expected to motivate millions, particularly the youth, to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
• Strengthens public engagement in the Fit India campaign using his influence as a celebrity.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: STATE NEWS

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy launches ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ to boost self-employment for youth

• Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy launched the ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ scheme on the Assembly premises.
• The scheme provides self-employment loans to SC, ST, BC, and Minority
• The scheme aims to create self-employment opportunities for five lakh unemployed youth across Telangana.
• The government has allocated ₹6,000 crore for the initiative.
• Eligible beneficiaries can receive up to ₹3 lakh to establish self-employment units.
• Application scrutiny begins next month, and loan sanction documents will be issued on June 2nd (Telangana Formation Day).
• Loans up to ₹1 lakh will receive an 80% subsidy.
• Loans up to ₹2 lakh will receive a 70% subsidy.
• Loans up to ₹3 lakh will receive a 60% subsidy.

About Telangana:

• Capital: Hyderabad
• Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma
• Chief Minister: Anumula Revanth Reddy
• National Parks: Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park, Mrugavani National Park, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary, Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary

Maharashtra’s Rural Local Bodies Receive over ₹620 Crore XV Finance Commission Grants

• The Union Government has released the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants for Rural Local Bodies in Maharashtra for FY 2024–25.
• The release includes the 2nd installment of Untied Grants amounting to ₹611.6913 crore and the withheld portion of the 1st installment amounting to ₹8.4282 crore.
• The funds are allocated to 4 District Panchayats, 40 Block Panchayats, and 21,551 Gram Panchayats in the state.

Key Highlights :

• Untied Grants can be used by Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)/Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) for location-specific needs, excluding salaries and establishment costs.
• Tied Grants can be used for:
  • Sanitation and ODF maintenance, including household waste, human excreta, and fecal sludge management.
  • Drinking water supply, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.
• The grants are recommended by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Jal Shakti and released by the Ministry of Finance in two installments per year.
• The Central Finance Commission (CFC) Grants empower Panchayati Raj Institutions to address local development needs.
• The initiative aligns with PM Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Panchayat Se Viksit Bharat”, strengthening grassroots democracy and accelerating rural transformation.

Recent News:

• In March 2025, In a historic tribute to the legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the state’s first-ever temple dedicated to the Maratha king.

About Maharashtra:

• Chief Minister: Devendra Fadnavis
• Governor: C. P. Radhakrishnan
• Capital: Mumbai
• National Parks: Tadoba National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Chandoli National Park, Gugamal National Park, Navegaon National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

About 15^th Finance Commission:

• The Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC or 15-FC) was constituted in November 2017 to provide recommendations on tax devolution and fiscal matters for the five-year period starting April 1, 2020.
• The commission is chaired by Nand Kishore Singh, since March 2014.
• Full-time members of the commission include Ajay Narayan Jha, Ashok Lahiri, and Anoop Singh, with Ramesh Chand serving as a part-time member.
• The commission was constituted by the Government of India with ceremonial approval from the President and was officially notified in The Gazette of India.

Nagaland Launches Agricultural Best Practices to Boost Rural Entrepreneurship

• The North East Center for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) has set up a Common Facility Center (CFC) in Kukidolong village in Chumukedima district, Nagaland to promote rural entrepreneurship.
• This is part of a Farmers Mobilization and Awareness Program initiative launched in Nihoto village in Dimapur district, Nagaland.
• Representatives from eight villages participated in this initiative under the PM-DevINE project.
• The Consortium for Training, Research and Development, Guwahati and the Entrepreneurs Associate, Kohima jointly conducted the training session.
• There was special emphasis on best agricultural practices and the importance of supporting the CFC on community-wide benefits.
• The best practices included converting banana pseudo-stem into marketable products, extracting banana fibre, producing nonwoven fibre, preparing organic liquid nutrients and manufacturing handmade paper.
• However, the insights were provided by progressive farmer Kitoho S Rotokha and Kitoho Michael Swu of the State Agriculture Department.

About Nagaland:

• Chief Minister: Neiphiu Rio
• Governor: La. Ganesan
• Capital: Kohima
• National Parks: Intanki National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, Puliebadze Wildlife Sanctuary, Rangapahar Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Bajaj Auto reappoints Rajiv Bajaj as Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer & approves ₹1,500-crore infusion in Bajaj Auto Credit

• Bajaj Auto has reappointed Rajivnayan Rahulkumar Bajaj as Managing Director & CEO for another five-year term, effective April 1, 2025, subject to shareholder approval.
• The company has announced a ₹1,500 crore fund infusion into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bajaj Auto Credit Ltd (BACL).
• The investment aims to support BACL’s projected AUM growth for FY 2025-26 and will be provided in installments through equity capital, preference capital, or subordinated debt.
• Rajiv Bajaj, who has led Bajaj Auto since 2005, is credited with transforming it into a global leader in two- and three-wheelers.
  • Holds a mechanical engineering degree from the College of Engineering Pune.
  • Completed a master’s in manufacturing systems engineering from the University of Warwick.
  • Under his leadership, Bajaj Auto has achieved significant milestones.
• The board also reappointed Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra as a non-executive independent director for a second five-year term, effective May 20, 2025, subject to shareholder approval.

About BACL:

• BACL, established in December 2021, reported an AUM of ₹7,048 crore as of December 31, 2024.
• The capital injection is intended to maintain regulatory compliance and support BACL’s capital adequacy.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: DEFENCE NEWS

Indian and French Navies to hold 23rd edition of VARUNA naval exercise

• The Indian Navy and the French Navy will carry out the 23rd edition of their bilateral naval exercise, VARUNA, from March 19 to 22, 2025
• First Conducted: 1993 (as part of Indo-French cooperation), renamed as Varuna in 2001
• The exercise has been an important part of India-France maritime cooperation since it began in 2001 and reflects the strong naval partnership between the two countries.
• According to an official press release, VARUNA 2025 will focus on improving coordination and cooperation between the two navies.
• The exercise will include various drills and manoeuvres involving underwater, surface, and air operations.
• Key warships and aircraft from both navies will take part, including India’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and France’s aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle.
• Other participants include fighter aircraft, destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine.
• The exercise will feature advanced air defence drills and fighter jet exercises, including mock air combat between India’s MiG-29K and France’s Rafale-M jets.
• Anti-submarine warfare drills will focus on strengthening underwater surveillance, while surface warfare operations will involve coordinated movements and engagements by ships from both navies.
• Maritime patrol aircraft will assist in improving situational awareness, and replenishment-at-sea exercises will boost logistical cooperation.

Note :

Defence Exercises between India and France:

• Varuna – Naval exercise.
• Garuda – Air exercise.
• Shakti – Army exercise.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Nine-Month Space Mission Ends as Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Return to Earth

• Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams returned to Earth in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule.
• Their return followed a nine-month delay due to issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.
• Initially planned as an eight-day test mission, their stay on the ISS lasted 286 days.
• The astronauts departed the ISS at 1:05 a.m. ET (0505 GMT) on March 19, 2025.
• They landed off Florida’s Gulf Coast at 5:57 p.m. ET, using heat shields and parachutes.
• The four-member Crew-9 mission, including Wilmore and Williams, experienced a safe splashdown.
• Former U.S. President Donald Trump demanded an earlier return, alleging political delays.
• NASA expedited Crew-9’s replacement mission and advanced SpaceX capsule readiness.
• Wilmore denied any political influence on NASA’s decision to keep them on the ISS.
• Boeing’s Starliner faced propulsion issues, delaying the return.
• NASA may require another uncrewed test flight before Starliner can carry astronauts.
• Crew Dragon remains the only operational U.S. spacecraft for human spaceflight.
• Wilmore and Williams spent 286 days in space, exceeding typical six-month ISS missions.
• Williams has now spent 608 cumulative days in space, second among U.S. astronauts after Peggy Whitson (675 days).
• Frank Rubio holds the U.S. record (371 days), while Oleg Kononenko holds the world record (878 days).
• The astronauts will undergo routine health checks at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

About NASA:

• Established: 1958
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., USA

About SpaceX:

• Full Name: Space Exploration Technologies Corp.
• Founded: March 14, 2002
• CEO & Founder: Elon Musk
• Headquarters: Hawthorne, California, USA

Sansad Bhashini Initiative: A Leap Forward in Real-Time Parliamentary Translations and Documentation

• The Lok Sabha Secretariat and MeitY signed an MoU to develop the Sansad Bhashini initiative.
• The project aims to use AI-based multilingual support to modernize parliamentary operations.
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
• AI tools will be integrated with parliamentary data for translation and automation.
• Bhashini, a MeitY initiative, will provide translation capabilities for parliamentary records.
• Real-time AI translation will make debates, committee meetings, and agenda files accessible in regional languages.
• An AI-powered chatbot will assist MPs and officials in retrieving parliamentary rules and documents.
• Speech-to-text conversion will transcribe debates in real time with noise reduction and improved accuracy.
• Real-time speech translation will make parliamentary discussions instantly available in multiple languages.
• Automatic summarization of debates will aid in quicker decision-making and record-keeping.
• Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded Om Birla’s leadership and emphasized the project’s role in enhancing technology-driven governance.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

IndiaAI Launches Hackathon on Mineral Targeting in Collaboration with Geological Survey of India

• IndiaAI, an Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC), Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), in partnership with the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of Mines, has launched the IndiaAI Hackathon on Mineral Targeting.
• This initiative aims to leverage AI and ML technologies to enhance mineral discovery and geological analysis by utilizing multi-parametric geoscience datasets, including geology, geophysics, geochemistry, remote sensing, and borehole data.

Objectives of the Hackathon

• Identification of New Potential Areas: Focus on discovering critical minerals like REE, Ni-PGE, and copper, along with diamond, iron, manganese, and gold within a 39,000 sq. km area in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
• Deep-Seated Mineral Exploration: Emphasis on locating unrevealed and concealed mineralized bodies through depth modeling.
• AI/ML Algorithm Development: Designing AI/ML models for data cleaning, integration, modeling, and validation in mineral targeting.
• Creation of Mineral Predictive Maps: Generating exploration target maps and visualizations using AI-powered analysis.

Eligibility & Participation

The hackathon is open to:

• Startups & Companies
• Academic & Research Institutions
• Autonomous Bodies & Public Sector Organizations
• Students, Researchers, and Working Professionals (Individual or Team Participation)

Exciting Prizes for Winners

• 1st Prize: ₹10 Lakh
• 2nd Prize: ₹7 Lakh
• 3rd Prize: ₹5 Lakh
• Special Prize: ₹5 Lakh for an All-Women Team (if no women’s team ranks in the top 3)

India-Malaysia Bilateral Meeting Focuses on Trade & Investment Cooperation

• The Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics & IT, Shri Jitin Prasada, held a bilateral meeting with Liew Chin Tong, Malaysian Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Senior officials from both countries, including representatives from Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry and India’s Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Ministry of Electronics & IT, Ministry of External Affairs, and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), were present.

Key Discussion Points

• Review of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA):
  • Both sides agreed to accelerate the AITIGA review to achieve a substantial conclusion by 2025.
• Bilateral Trade & Market Access:
  • Addressing trade barriers and exploring new market opportunities for mutual growth.
• Semiconductor Industry Collaboration:
  • Strengthening cooperation in semiconductor manufacturing and technology sharing.
• Service Sector Cooperation:
  • Exploring potential partnerships in IT, digital economy, and financial services.
• Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) – BIS:
  • Discussion on certification challenges for foreign manufacturers under BIS regulations.

India-Malaysia Trade Relations

• Malaysia is India’s 3rd largest trading partner in ASEAN.
• Bilateral Trade (2023-24): USD 20.02 billion (17% of India’s total ASEAN trade).
• Malaysia holds the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025, strengthening its role in regional trade cooperation.

RECENT NEWS

• In February 2025, India and Malaysia strengthened their defence cooperation, particularly in the maintenance and operational expertise of their respective Russian-origin Sukhoi-30 (Su-30) combat aircraft fleets.
• On January 27, 2025, Indian Grandmaster Iniyan Panneerselvam showcased an exceptional performance to win the 9th Johor International Open Chess Tournament in Malaysia.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s Visit to India (March 16-20, 2025)

• The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, visited India from March 16-20, 2025, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• This was his first official visit to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties across key sectors such as trade, investment, defence, education, and multilateral cooperation.

During his visit, PM Luxon:

• Held bilateral talks with PM Modi.
• Participated in the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue as the Chief Guest.
• Met President Droupadi Murmu.

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to people-to-people ties, maritime security, climate action, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Key Highlights of the Visit

1. Diplomatic & Strategic Engagements

• Warm welcome in New Delhi and a wreath-laying ceremony at Raj Ghat in honor of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Bilateral talks between PM Modi and PM Luxon, reinforcing democratic values and cooperation in trade, security, education, and technology.
• Keynote address at the 10th Raisina Dialogue as the Chief Guest.
• Emphasis on multilateral cooperation and a stable Indo-Pacific region.

2. Economic & Trade Cooperation

• Launch of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations to enhance economic ties.
• Discussions on digital payments cooperation under the FTA framework.
• Authorized Economic Operators Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AEO-MRA) signed to facilitate trade.
• New MoUs on horticulture and forestry to boost agricultural collaboration.
• Tourism & aviation strengthened with:
  • Updated Air Services Agreement.
  • Plans for direct flight operations between India and New Zealand.

3. Defence & Security Cooperation

• Signing of the India-New Zealand MoU on Defence Cooperation.
• Increased military exercises, officer exchanges, and naval port calls.
• New Zealand welcomed India’s participation in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
• Commitment to maritime safety & security dialogues.
• New Zealand’s interest in joining India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
• Discussion on India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat.

4. Science, Technology & Disaster Management

• Strengthened research and innovation partnerships.
• Focus on low-emission, climate-resilient economies.
• New Zealand joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
• Progress towards a Memorandum of Cooperation on earthquake mitigation.
• Support for India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

5. Education, Mobility & Cultural Exchange

• Expansion of education partnerships for Indian students in New Zealand.
• Discussions on professional & skilled worker mobility arrangements.
• Signing of a refreshed Education Cooperation Arrangement.
• MoU on Sports signed, marking 100 years of India-New Zealand sporting ties.
• Enhanced cooperation in yoga, music, dance, and cultural festivals.

6. Regional & Multilateral Cooperation

• Commitment to an open, inclusive, and stable Indo-Pacific region.
• New Zealand endorsed India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
• Joint efforts to combat terrorism and disrupt terror financing.
• Support for a two-state solution for Israel-Palestine peace.
• Commitment to a negotiated settlement for the Ukraine war.

About New Zealand

• Capital: Wellington
• Currency: Dollar
• Head of the State: British Monarch King Charles III
• Prime Minister: Christopher Luxon

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

England to Host Kabaddi World Cup 2025, Marking First-Ever Edition Outside Asia

• For the first time in history, the Kabaddi World Cup 2025 is being hosted outside Asia, with England set to stage the tournament.
• The competition begins this evening, and the Indian men’s team will open their campaign against Italy in Wolverhampton, West Midlands.

Tournament Overview

• Host Country: England
• Duration: 7 days
• Venues: Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton
• Total Matches: 60+ matches across multiple venues

Men’s Competition Format

• 10 teams, divided into two groups:
  • Group A: Pakistan, England, Canada, Iran, Kenya
  • Group B: India, Italy, Scotland, Wales, China

Women’s Competition Format

• 6 teams, divided into two groups:
  • Group D: India, Wales, Poland
  • Group E: England, Canada, Kenya

India’s Kabaddi Dominance

• This is the second edition of the Kabaddi World Cup organized by World Kabaddi.
• The first edition (2019) was held in Malaysia, where India won both the men’s and women’s tournaments.
• This tournament is different from the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) Kabaddi World Cup, which has been exclusively hosted in India.

RECENT NEWS

• Test cricket is set to witness a monumental milestone as Australia and England lock horns in a special one-off day-night Test match to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match on March 12, 2025

Jasprit Bumrah Joins Skechers as Brand Ambassador

• Renowned Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has signed with Skechers, the global Comfort Technology Company, further strengthening its presence in cricket.
• Bumrah will now compete in Skechers Cricket footwear and feature in the brand’s marketing campaigns, promoting both performance and lifestyle collections.

Skechers’ Growing Presence in Cricket

• Signing Elite Athletes: Skechers has partnered with top cricketers to promote its sports footwear.
• Existing Cricket Associations:
  • Ishan Kishan & Yastika Bhatia – Using Skechers footwear during matches.
  • Mumbai Indians’ Official Kit Sponsor – Strengthening its brand in the IPL.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Cricketing Achievements

• International Debut: 2014
• 400+ international wickets (achieved in 2024)
• First bowler to hold No.1 ranking in all three formats
• Player of the Series in India’s 2024 World Cup victory
• First Asian bowler to take five-wicket hauls in South Africa, England, and Australia in a single year (2018)
• BCCI Polly Umrigar Award Winner (2018-19, 2021-22)
• Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year (2024)
• Key Mumbai Indians player in all five IPL title wins

Skechers’ Global Sports Presence

Apart from cricket, Skechers sponsors top athletes in various sports:

• Football: Harry Kane, Baris Alper Yilmaz, Mohammed Kudus, Isco Alarcón
• Basketball: Joel Embiid, Julius Randle, Terance Mann, Norman Powell
• Golf: Matt Fitzpatrick, Brooke Henderson
• Pickleball: Tyson McGuffin, Catherine Parenteau
• Baseball: Clayton Kershaw, Aaron Nola
• Indian Football: Sunil Chhetri

RECENT NEWS

• In January 2025, Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah was awarded the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024

Daily CA One- Liner : March 20, 2025

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• The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, visited India from March 16-20, 2025, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• For the first time in history, the Kabaddi World Cup 2025 is being hosted outside Asia, with England set to stage the tournament.
• Renowned Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has signed with Skechers, the global Comfort Technology Company, further strengthening its presence in cricket.
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• The Lok Sabha Secretariat and MeitY signed an MoU to develop the Sansad Bhashini initiative.