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SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF

The SBI Clerk Mains Exam 2025 is expected to be conducted in April 2025, and the General Awareness (GA) section plays a crucial role in determining candidates’ overall performance. This section covers current affairs, banking awareness, and static GK, making it an essential part of the exam preparation.

To help candidates maximize their scores, we have compiled a comprehensive GA Capsule PDF covering all major topics required for the SBI Clerk Mains 2025.

Why is the GA Capsule Important for SBI Clerk Mains 2025?

The General Awareness section is one of the most scoring parts of the SBI Clerk Mains Exam. Unlike quantitative aptitude or reasoning, this section does not require calculations, allowing aspirants to answer questions quickly and accurately. A well-prepared candidate can boost their overall score significantly with proper GA preparation.

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025 – Download PDF

To assist candidates in their SBI Clerk Mains 2025 preparation, we are providing a free downloadable PDF covering all the important General Awareness topics.

Download SBI Clerk General Awareness PDF: Click Here

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Topics Covered in the SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025

  • UNION BUDGET 2025-26
  • Economic Survey 2024-25
  • Padma Awards
  • Republic Day Parade 2025
  • RBI Monetary Policy- February 2025
  • Golden Globe Awards
  • 8th Pay Commission

How to Use the GA Capsule Effectively?

  • Revise Regularly: Read the PDF daily to stay updated with important events.
  • Make Notes: Write down key points for quick revision before the exam.
  • Attempt Quizzes: Solve daily quizzes on current affairs to strengthen your knowledge.
  • Focus on Banking & Economy: Since SBI Clerk is a banking exam, prioritize banking and financial awareness.
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States and Capitals – How Many States in India?

India, a vast South Asian nation and the world’s seventh-largest by land area, is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital. These states and territories are further segmented into districts. New Delhi, situated in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as India’s administrative, political, and cultural hub.

The states and capitals of India weave a rich and diverse tapestry, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage, traditions, and innovations. Exploring these regions offers a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient legacies with modern advancements, tradition with contemporary influence, and showcasing India’s remarkable unity in diversity.

States and Capitals

In 1956, India reorganized its states according to linguistic demographics. Today, the country consists of 28 states and 8 Union Territories, home to nearly 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities—Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune—are prominent. The Prime Minister has introduced a plan to develop 100 smart cities across the nation, with Indore being recognized as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Discover India’s dynamic urban landscape and its focus on modernization.

How many states in India?

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area and the 2nd most populated. The country is divided into states and union territories so that the government can function properly. Below is a list of all 28 states, their capitals and the year they were formed.

S.NO State Capital CM Governor
1 Andhra Pradesh Amaravati Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu S. Abdul Nazer
2 Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar Pema Khandu Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3 Assam Dispur Himanta Biswa Sarma Lakshman Prasad Acharya
4 Bihar Patna Nitish Kumar Arif Mohammed Khan
5 Chhattisgarh Raipur Vishnu Deo Sai Ramen Deka
6 Goa Panaji Pramod Sawant P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7 Gujarat Gandhinagar Bhupendra Patel Acharya Dev Vrat
8 Haryana Chandigarh Nayab Singh Saini Bandaru Dattatraya
9 Himachal Pradesh Shimla Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Shiv Pratap Shukla
10 Jharkhand Ranchi Hemant Soren Santosh Kumar Gangwar
11 Karnataka Bengaluru Siddaramaiah Thaawarchand Gehlot
12 Kerala Thiruvananthapuram Pinarayi Vijayan Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
13 Madhya Pradesh Bhopal Mohan Yadav Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14 Maharashtra Mumbai Devendra Fadnavis C.P. Radhakrishnan
15 Manipur Imphal N. Biren Singh
Ajay Kumar Bhalla
16 Meghalaya Shillong Conrad Kongkal Sangma
C H Vijayashankar
17 Mizoram Aizawl Lalduhoma General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.)
18 Nagaland Kohima Neiphiu Rio
La. Ganesan
19 Odisha Bhubaneswar Mohan Charan Majhi
Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati
20 Punjab Chandigarh Bhagwant Singh Mann Gulab Chand Kataria
21 Rajasthan Jaipur Bhajan Lal Sharma Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
22 Sikkim Gangtok PS Golay Om Prakash Mathur
23 Tamil Nadu Chennai M. K. Stalin R. N. Ravi
24 Telangana Hyderabad Anumula Revanth Reddy Jishnu Dev Varma
25 Tripura Agartala Dr. Manik Saha Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
26 Uttar Pradesh Lucknow Yogi Aditya Nath Anandiben Patel
27 Uttarakhand Dehradun Pushkar Singh Dhami Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28 West Bengal Kolkata Mamata Banerjee Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories of India and Their Capitals

India has 8 union territories that are managed by the central government. Some of them have their own legislative assemblies. Below is the of these union territories and their capitals:

S.NO Union Territories Capital CM Lt. Governor
1 Andaman and Nicobar Island Port Blair NA D K Joshi
2 Chandigarh Chandigarh NA Banwarilal Purohit
3 Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Daman NA Praful Patel
4 Delhi Delhi Rekha Gupta Vinai Kumar Saxena
5 Ladakh NA NA B. D. Mishra
6 Lakshadweep Kavaratti NA Praful Patel
7 Jammu and Kashmir NA Omar Abdullah Manoj Sinha
8 Puducherry Pondicherry N. Rangaswamy C. P. Radhakrishnan

Difference Between States and Union Territories

India is divided into states and Union Territories for administrative purposes. They are in different in how they are governed.

Basis of Difference States Union Territories
Head of Administration Governor Administrator or Lieutenant Governor
Government Type Elected by the People Managed by the central government
Powers Shares power with the central government. Controlled directly by the central government.

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No. States Language
1 Andhra Pradesh Telugu and Urdu
2 Arunachal Pradesh Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3 Assam Assamese
4 Bihar Hindi
5 Chhattisgarh Hindi
6 Goa Marathi Konkani
7 Gujarat Gujarati
8 Haryana Hindi
9 Himachal Pradesh Hindi and Pahari
10 Jharkhand Hindi
11 Karnataka Kannada
12 Kerala Malayalam
13 Madhya Pradesh Hindi
14 Maharashtra Marathi
15 Manipur Manipuri
16 Meghalaya Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17 Mizoram Mizo and English
18 Nagaland Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19 Odisha Oriya
20 Punjab Punjabi
21 Rajasthan Rajasthani and Hindi
22 Sikkim Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23 Tamil Nadu Tamil
24 Telangana Telugu
25 Tripura Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26 Uttar Pradesh Hindi
27 Uttarakhand Hindi
28 West Bengal Bengali

Some Key Facts About Indian States

Each state in India is unique and has something special. Here are some interesting facts about a few states:

  • Andhra Pradesh: Famous for spicy food and historical sites like Charminar.
  • Assam: Know for tea gardens and Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Bihar: A place with a rich history, home to Bodh Gaya and the ancient city of Pataliputra.
  • Goa: Popular for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
  • Kerala: Famous for its backwaters, Ayurveda treatments and lush green nature.
  • Maharashtra: Mumbai, the financial capital, is also home to Bollywood.
  • Himachal Pradesh: Known for stunning hill stations and adventure sports.
  • Tamil Nadu: Famous for classical dance forms and grand temples.

Ram Navami 2025, When and Why is it Celebrated?

Ram Navami is a very special Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ram. He is the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. People celebrate this day with great joy and devotion. Lord Ram is loved and respected for his honesty, kindness and bravery.

Ram Navami 2025 – Date and Time

In 2025, Ram Navami will be celebrated on April 6, which falls on a Sunday. According to the Hindu calendar, this day comes on the ninth day (Navami Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra.

The most auspicious time to worship Lord Ram on this day is between 11:08 AM to 01:39 PM, as per Drik Panchang.

Why Ram Navami is Celebrated?

Ram Navami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ram. He is called Maryada Purushottam, meaning the perfect and ideal man. Lord Ram showed people the right way to live – with truth, discipline and respect for others.

This festival reminds everyone that good always wins over evil, just like Lord Ram defeated the demon King Ravana.

Significance of Ram Navami

Lord Rama is considered the symbol of truth, virtue and dharma (duty). Ram Navami is a day when people remember and celebrate his notable life. It also brings the message of victory of good over evil. Many people begin the Hindu New Year with prayers and devotion during Chaitra Navartri, ending with Ram Navami.

How People Celebrate Ram Navami?

People celebrate Ram Navami in many beautiful ways:

  • Visiting temples: Devotees go to temples to pray and seek blessings.
  • Chanting and Bhajans: Many chant Ram’s name and sing bhajans (devotional songs).
  • Reading Ramayana: People read stories from the Ramayana, the holy book about Lord Rama’s life.
  • Pujas and Havans: Special prayers (pujas) and fire rituals (havans) are done in homes and temples.
  • Fasting: Some people fast for one day, while others observe a nine-day fast during Chaitra Navaratri.

Grand Celebrations in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, sees the most vibrant celebrations. Devotees from all over India visit the city. Celebrations begin with a holy dip in the Sarayu River, followed by temple visits, bhajans and special pujas at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple. The entire city glows with lights, flowers and devotion.

Seema Agrawal Named DGP of Fire and Rescue Services

Seema Agrawal, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been appointed as the new Director-General of Police (DGP)/ Director of Fire and Rescue Services. She takes this position after the retirement of former DGP Abhash Kumar on March 31. Before this role, Seema Agrawal served as DGP of Civil Supplies.

Transfer of Seven Other IPS Offices to New Roles

Along with Seema Agrawal’s new posting, the State government has also transferred seven other IPS officers. These transfers are a part of regular updates made to keep the police department working efficiently and without gapes.

New Charge for Rupesh Kumar Meena

Rupesh Kumar Meena, who is now the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for Civil Supplies-CID, will also take the extra responsibility of acting as DGP of Civil Supplies. This means he will handle two roles together for now.

Posting of Vijayendra S. Bidari

IGP Vijayendra S. Bidari has been posted as IGP/ Additional Commissioner of Police, Headquarters, Greater Chennai Police. The previous officer in this role, Kapil Kumar C. Saratkar, has now been transferred to the post of IGP, Enforcement, Chennai.

Traffic Police Appointment

G. Karthikeyan has been posted as the new IGP/ Additional Commissioner of Police, Greater Chennai Traffic Police. The earlier officer, R. Sudhakar, has been deputed to Central services.

Changes in Economic Offences Wing

Santhosh Kumar, who was Joint Director of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption, has been transferred and made the new IGP of the Economic Offences Wing. The former IGP of this wing, M. Sathiya Priya, has been shifted to the post of IGP, Welfare.

M. Durai posted as DIG at Police Headquarters

M. Durai has been appointed as the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police at the Headquarters. His new role involves assisting senior officers in handling important files and daily police operations from the main office.

Summary of the News

Officer Name New Posting 
Seema Agrawal DGP/ Director, Fire and Rescue Services
Rupesh Kumar Meena IGP, Civil Supplies-CID & Additional Charge as DGP, Civil Supplies
Vijayendra S. Bidair IGP/ Additional Commissioner of Police, HQ Greater Chennai Police
Kapil Kumar C. Saratkar IGP, Enforcement, Chennai
G. Karthikeyan IGP/ Additional Commissioner of Police, Greater Chennai Traffic Police
R. Sudhakar Deputed to Central Services
Santhosh Kumar IGP, Economic Offences Wing
M. Sathiya Priya IGP, Welfare
M. Durai DIG of Police, Police Headquarters

Tamil Nadu Sets a New High with 9.69% Growth

Tamil Nadu has achieved the highest real economic growth rate in India for the year 2024-25. The state grew at a rate of 9.69%, which is the best in the country and also the highest for Tamil Nadu in the past 10 years. This growth shows that Tamil Nadu’s economy is getting stronger year by year.

What is Real Economic Growth?

Real growth means the growth of the economy without including inflation. This gives a clear picture of how much actual progress has been made. On the other hand, nominal growth includes inflation. In 2024-25, Tamil Nadu’s nominal growth rate was 14.02%, which is also the highest among all Indian States.

Tamil Nadu’s GDP Numbers

At constant prices (2011-12 base years):

  • In 2023-24, the GSDP was Rs.15,71,368 crore.
  • In 2024-25, it rose to Rs.17,23,698 crore.

This increase shows that the State’s economy is growing fast.

Comparison with Past Years

  • 2017-18: Growth was 8.59%
  • 2020-21 (COVID-19 period): Growth was very low at 0.07%, but still positive.
  • 2024-25: Growth reached 9.69%, the best in 10 years.

Tamil Nadu stayed strong even during though times like the pandemic.

Support from Experts

The Madras School of Economics (MSE) had predicted 9.3% growth in a study by economists Dr. C. Rangarajan and Dr. K.R. Shanmugam. The Tamil Nadu Economic Survey had expected over 8% growth. But the actual number – 9.69% – was even better.

Growth by Sectors

Tertiary (Services) Sector:

This sector grew the most, by 12.7%. It includes:

  • Real estate and professional services: 13.6% growth
  • Communication and broadcasting: 13% growth
  • Trade, hotels and restaurants: 11.7% growth

This sector now contributes around 53% to the state’s economy.

Secondary Sector

This sector grew by 9%. It includes:

  • Construction: 10.6% growth
  • Manufacturing: 8% growth

This sector contributes 37% to the economy.

Primary Sector

This sector did not do well. It grew only by 0.15% and contributes 10% to the economy.

  • Crop production: -5.93% (negative growth)
  • Livestock: 3.84% growth

Future Possibilities

Dr. Shanmugam said Tamil Nadu has been growing at over 8% since 2021-22. If it is keeps growing at 9.7% and increases exports, the State could become a $1 trillion economy by 2032-33. He also said that if each sector grows just 0.5% more than in 2024-25, the total growth could be 10.7% in 2025-26. The budget also expects 14.5% nominal growth in 2025-26.

Summary of the News

Events Details
Real Economic Growth Rate Tamil Nadu recorded 9.69% growth in 2024-25, highest in India and in 10 years.
Nominal Growth Rate The state achieved 14.02% nominal growth, also the highest among all states.
Gross State Domestic Product GSDP increased from Rs.15.71 lakh crore (2023-24) to Rs.17.23 lakh crore (2024-25).
Top Performing Sector Tertiary (services) sector grew 12.7% – led by real estate, communication and trade.
Secondary Sector Growth Grew by 9% with construction at 10.6% and manufacturing at 8%.
Primary Sector Performance Very low growth of 0.15%. Crop production declined by -5.93%
Growth Prediction Experts from MSE predicted 9.3% actual growth was even higher.
Future Outlook Tamil Nadu could become a $1 trillion economy by 2032-33, if high growth continues.

Samata Diwas 2025: Observing Birth Anniversary Of Babu Jagjivan Ram

Samata Diwas is celebrated every year on April 5 to remember the birth anniversary of Babu Jagjivan Ram, a great leader and social reformer. He worked hard for equality and justice in society. This day is a public holiday in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. People remember his work and take inspiration to fight against discrimination and injustice.

Who was Babu Jagjivan Ram?

Babu Jagjivan Ram, lovingly called “Babuji,” was a freedom fighter, a social justice leader and a great speaker. He worked for the rights of depressed and backward classes. He was also a member of Parliament for 50 years and served as a Union Minister for 30 years, which is a record in Indian politics.

Why is Samata Diwas Celebrated?

Samata Diwas is celebrated to honour Babuji’s efforts of equality and justice. The word ‘Samata’ means equality and this day motivates people to raise their voices against untouchability, casteism, and unfair treatment in society.

Early Life and Education of Samata Diwas

Babu Jagjivan Ram was born on April 5, 1908, in Chandwa village, Bihar. His father was a religious person and a Mahant. After his father died, his mother raised him. From a young age, Jagjivan faced untouchability and social discrimination.

He completed his schooling at Arrah Town School with excellent marks. Later, he studied at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and then earned a BSc degree from the University of Calcutta. During his college life, he joined Gandhiji’s anti-untouchability campaign and began raising awareness about social equality.

Jagjivan Ram – Family Life

Jagjivan Ram’s first wife passed away in 1933. He later married Indrani Devi, daughter of a social worker from Kanpur. They had two children – Suresh Kumar and Meira Kumar, who also became a politician and served as Lok Sabha Speaker.

Struggles Against Discrimination

As a child, Jagjivan Ram was not allowed to drink water from the same pot as others because of his caste. He protested by breaking the separate pot, which led to a change in school rules. This showed his strong will to fight injustice.

He met Pandit Madan Malaviya in 1925 and joined BHU. There too, he faced discrimination, which made him more determined to fight for equal rights.

Work for Social Equality

In 1934, Babuji founded the Akhil Bharatiya Ravidas Mahasabha and the All Indian Depressed Classes League. He worked to bring unity among the Scheduled Castes and uplift them. He also supported the idea that temples and wells should be open to all, including untouchables.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Jagjivan Ram actively took part in India’s freedom movement. He was arrested during the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1940 and again in 1942 during the Quit India Movement.

After India got freedom, he became the first Labour Minister. He also worked in many important departments like Railways, Agriculture, Defence and Communication. He was the Defence Minister during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Political Career and Achievements

  • In 1936, he became a member of the Bihar Legislative Council at just 28 years old.
  • In 1977, he was made the Deputy Prime Minister of India.
  • He was a Member of Parliament for 50 years without a break-a world record.
  • He was known for being a strong leader who always stood for the poor and backward communities.

Death and Memorial

Babu Jagjivan Ram passed away on July 6, 1986. His cremation place is called ‘Samata Sthal’ in Delhi. In 2008, India celebrated his birth centenary with great respect.

Significance of Samata Diwas

Samata Diwas is important because it honors the birth of Babu Jagjivan Ram, who fought for equality and justice in society. This day reminds people to stand against untouchability, caste discrimination and unfair treatment. It spreads the message of unity and equal rights for all. Samata Diwas inspires us to build a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

PM Narendra Modi Conferred Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Honour – Mithra Vibhushana

On April 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honour, the Mithra Vibhushana, for his contributions to strengthening the historic ties between India and Sri Lanka. The honour was conferred upon him by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during a ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. This prestigious recognition is a reflection of the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

Key Points

Award Details

  • Mithra Vibhushana is Sri Lanka’s highest civilian award, first introduced in 2008.
  • Previous recipients include former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
  • The award includes a citation and a silver medal adorned with nine types of Sri Lankan gems.
  • The medal’s design features symbols like the lotus, globe, sun, moon, and sheaves of rice, reflecting the shared cultural heritage of India and Sri Lanka.

Historical Significance

  • The Dharma Chakra on the medal represents the shared Buddhist heritage that has shaped the cultural traditions of both countries.
  • The Pun Kalasa or ceremonial pot with sheaves of rice symbolizes prosperity and renewal.
  • The Navarathna (nine precious gems) is depicted inside a globe encircled by lotus petals.

Modi’s Remarks

  • Modi expressed that the award was a reflection of the strong historic ties and the deep friendship between India and Sri Lanka.
  • He mentioned that receiving the Mithra Vibhushana is an honour not only for him but for the 1.4 billion Indians as well.

Modi’s International Recognition

Modi has been conferred state honours by over 15 countries, including,

  • Saudi Arabia’s Order of King Abdul Aziz
  • Order of the State of Palestine
  • United Arab Emirates’ Order of Zayed
  • Order of Fiji
  • Egypt’s Order of the Nile

In March 2025, Mauritius awarded Modi its highest civilian honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean during his visit to the country.

Ceremony Details

  • The ceremony took place at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.
  • President Anura Kumara Dissanayake personally conferred the award to PM Modi.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? PM Narendra Modi Conferred Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Honour – Mithra Vibhushana
Award Name Mithra Vibhushana
Recipient Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Awarded By President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka
Award Introduced 2008
Previous Recipients Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Yasser Arafat
Symbols on the Medal Lotus, Globe, Sun, Moon, Sheaves of Rice, Dharma Chakra
Significance of the Award Reflects historic ties and shared Buddhist heritage between India and Sri Lanka
Modi’s Remarks Award is an honour for 1.4 billion Indians, represents deep friendship

Bangladesh Takes Over Chairmanship of BIMSTEC for Next Two Years

On April 4, 2025, Bangladesh officially became the new Chair of BIMSTEC for the next two years. It received the leadership from Thailand, the previous Chair.

Chief Advisor of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, accepted the chairmanship. He said Bangladesh will focus on making BIMSTEC more inclusive (involving everyone) and action-oriented (focused on real results).

What is BIMSTEC?

BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. It is a group of seven countries near the Bay of Bengal. These countries are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

This group works together to improve trade, economy and regional sites.

The Sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok

The Sixth BIMSTEC Summit was held in Bangkok, Thailand, three years after the previous (virtual) summit in 2022. The theme of the summit was “Prosperous, Resilient and Open BIMSTEC.”

At the start of the summit, all the leaders of the seven countries took a group photo. Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra gave the welcome speech.

A one-minute silence was held to remember those who died in the recent earthquake on March 28 in Myanmar and Thailand.

Important Declaration Adopted

The leaders of all seven countries made speeches and then adopted two important documents:

  • The Bangkok Declaration
  • The BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision

These documents give a roadmap for the future. They will help guide BIMSTEC towards sustainable development (growth that lasts) and stronger economic cooperation among the countries.

How Chairmanship Rotates?

The leadership of BIMSTEC changes every two years, based on the alphabetical order of the country names in English. After Thailand, it was Bangladesh’s turn.

A Step towards Regional Unity

Bangladesh now has a big role in leading BIMSTEC and helping the region move forward together. With cooperation and shared goals, the BIMSTEC countries hope to build a stronger and more connected South and Southeast Asia.

Summary of the News

Event Details
What’s the news? On April 4, 2025, Bangladesh became the new Chair of BIMSTEC for two years.
Previous Chair Thailand
New Chair Bangladesh
Representative of Bangladesh Chief Advisor Muhammad Yuns
Bangladesh’s Focus To make BIMSTEC more inclusive and action-oriented
What is BIMSTEC? Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
6th BIMSTEC Summit Location Bangkok, Thailand
Important of the Event A step towards stronger unity and connection in South and Southeast Asia

 

HIL Ltd Rebrands as BirlaNu Limited

HIL Ltd, a major player in the building materials industry and part of the USD 3 billion CK Birla Group, has rebranded itself as BirlaNu Limited. The company, with its strong presence in India and Europe, has transformed its identity to better reflect its core values of innovation, quality, and sustainability in the construction industry.

Key Points

Rebranding

  • HIL Ltd is now officially rebranded as BirlaNu Limited, marking a significant shift in the company’s identity.

Core Values

  • The new name reflects the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and creating long-lasting products.

Target Audience

  • Focus on serving homeowners, builders, and designers who are central to the company’s operations.

Company History

  • BirlaNu has been operational for over eight decades, with deep roots in Hyderabad, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh (AP).

Product Range

  • The company specializes in building materials, including pipes, construction chemicals, putty, roofs, walls, and floors that meet modern construction needs.

Manufacturing Facilities

  • BirlaNu operates state-of-the-art facilities in Sanathnagar, Thimmapur, and Kondapalli for various products.
  • International Presence: The company has 32 manufacturing facilities across India and Europe, serving customers in over 80 countries.

Leadership Statements

  • Avanti Birla (President, BirlaNu) emphasized the company’s drive to push forward with a focus on quality, innovation, and durability.
  • Akshat Seth (MD & CEO) highlighted the company’s focus on sustainable building materials.
  • Vijay Lahoti (CBO) discussed BirlaNu’s historical roots and expansion across the region with pioneering products.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? HIL Ltd Rebrands as BirlaNu Limited
New Name BirlaNu Limited
Previous Name HIL Ltd (Hyderabad Industries Limited)
Group Affiliation Part of the CK Birla Group, valued at USD 3 billion
Company Focus Quality, Innovation, Sustainability in building materials
Target Audience Homeowners, Builders, Designers
Primary Products Pipes, Construction Chemicals, Putty, Roofs, Walls, Floors
Manufacturing Facilities 32 facilities across India and Europe
Notable Locations Sanathnagar, Thimmapur, Kondapalli
Global Reach Serving over 80 countries

BIMSTEC: Full Form, Member Countries, Objectives, and Significance of Regional Cooperation

The 6th BIMSTEC Summit was held on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. During this summit, leaders from BIMSTEC member nations approved six key outcomes aimed at regional development and integration, with a shared vision to achieve these goals by 2030.

What is BIMSTEC?

BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. It is a regional organization that brings together countries from South Asia and Southeast Asia, aiming to promote cooperation in multiple areas including economic development, security, connectivity, and sustainable growth.

Historical Background

Date of Formation:

June 6, 1997

Original Name:

BIST-EC – Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation

Current Name:

BIMSTEC – Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (The name was changed in July 2004 during the first summit in Bangkok.)

Founding Member Countries (1997)

The organization was established with four founding countries:

  • Bangladesh
  • India
  • Sri Lanka
  • Thailand

These countries signed the Bangkok Declaration on June 6, 1997.
Key Signatories:

  • Abul Hasan Chowdhury (Bangladesh)
  • Saleem Iqbal Shervani (India)
  • D.P. Wickremasinghe (Sri Lanka)
  • Pitak Intrawityanunt (Thailand)

Expansion of Membership

Myanmar

  • Joined on December 22, 1997
  • With Myanmar’s inclusion, the name was changed to BIMST-EC

Nepal and Bhutan

  • Both joined in February 2004
  • The final name BIMSTEC was adopted during the first summit in July 2004

Current Member Countries

As of now, BIMSTEC consists of seven member countries:

  1. Bangladesh
  2. Bhutan
  3. India
  4. Myanmar
  5. Nepal
  6. Sri Lanka
  7. Thailand

These countries are located around the Bay of Bengal and represent a strategic and economically vital region.

Main Objectives of BIMSTEC

The primary objective of BIMSTEC is to promote regional cooperation and accelerate economic and social development through collaboration among its members.

Key Objectives in Detail:

  • Economic Growth: Promote faster economic growth among member countries by collaborating in sectors like trade, investment, technology, transport, tourism, energy, and agriculture.
  • Social Progress: Work towards improving the living standards of people in the region by ensuring inclusive and sustainable development.
  • Technical Cooperation: Encourage collaboration in science and technology to foster innovation and digital advancement.
  • Connectivity: Strengthen physical, digital, and people-to-people connectivity to boost regional integration.
  • Energy Cooperation: Ensure energy security by promoting cooperation in energy exploration, trade, and development of renewable resources.
  • Disaster Management and Climate Change: Enhance collaboration in tackling shared challenges like natural disasters and climate change.
  • Security and Counterterrorism: Work jointly on matters of regional security, including counterterrorism and combating transnational crimes.

Significance of BIMSTEC

  • Strategic Location: The Bay of Bengal region links South and Southeast Asia, making BIMSTEC a bridge between two dynamic regions.
  • Alternative to SAARC: Due to challenges faced by the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), BIMSTEC has emerged as a more active platform for regional cooperation.
  • Focus on Development: Unlike many other regional groups, BIMSTEC emphasizes both economic growth and sustainable development across multiple sectors.

Indian Army’s MRSAM Missile Tests Prove War-Readiness

The Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries, has successfully passed critical trials, proving its operational capability for the Indian Army. The MRSAM Army version of the missile system is designed to target and destroy a wide range of aerial threats at varying altitudes and ranges, enhancing India’s defense capabilities. The four successful flight tests mark major milestones in the system’s operational readiness, validating the system’s ability to intercept high-speed aerial targets.

Key Highlights

MRSAM System

  • A joint development by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries for the Indian Army.

Components

  • Multi-function radar
  • Command post
  • Mobile launcher system
  • Other vehicles to form an integrated weapon system.

Test Locations

  • Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off the coast of Odisha.

Test Details

  • Four successful flight tests against aerial targets at long-range, short-range, high altitude, and low altitude.
  • Targets were intercepted and destroyed by the MRSAM missiles with direct hits.
  • Flight data captured by range instruments, including radars and electro-optical tracking systems.

Operational Readiness

  • The tests confirmed that the MRSAM is fully operational and can be deployed effectively.

Defense Ministry Statement

  • Trials were carried out with the system in operational conditions, validating its performance.

Congratulatory Messages

  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and the Indian Army on the success, emphasizing the strategic importance of these tests.

Strategic Importance

  • The successful tests reaffirm the Indian Army’s capability to intercept threats at critical ranges, enhancing national security.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Indian Army’s MRSAM Missile Tests Prove War-Readiness
System MRSAM (Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile)
Developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries
Test Location Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha
Test Results Four successful flight tests against aerial threats at varying ranges.
Test Performance Missiles intercepted and destroyed targets with direct hits.
Weapon Components Multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system, vehicles.
Range and Altitude Long-range, short-range, high altitude, and low altitude targets.
Operational Status System was tested in operational condition, confirming readiness.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and Indian Army on successful tests.
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