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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 (Part-1 and 2): 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.

World Press Freedom Day 2025, Date, Significance, History

May 3, 2025, marks the observance of World Press Freedom Day, a globally recognized occasion that honors the critical role of a free, independent, and pluralistic media in a democratic society. Celebrated annually since 1993, the day highlights the growing challenges faced by journalists worldwide—from censorship to violence—and calls on governments, civil society, and citizens to protect press freedom as a fundamental human right. The occasion emphasizes the public’s right to accurate information and the vital role journalists play in upholding transparency, accountability, and democracy.

Why in News?

World Press Freedom Day 2025 is being observed globally on May 3, with renewed calls to protect journalists from increasing threats and reaffirm the importance of independent journalism amid rising disinformation and digital surveillance.

Background

  • Established: By the United Nations General Assembly in 1993.
  • Inspired by: The Windhoek Declaration (1991), Namibia.
  • Organized by: UNESCO annually.
  • Observed on: May 3rd every year.
  • Focus (2025): Journalistic safety, access to accurate information, and countering misinformation as theme

Background & Objectives

  • The Windhoek Declaration of 1991 advocated for a free, independent, and pluralistic press and inspired the UN’s decision to designate May 3 as World Press Freedom Day.

Objectives of the day include,

  • Promoting and defending press freedom.
  • Honoring journalists working in dangerous conditions.
  • Raising awareness about threats like harassment, imprisonment, and violence.
  • Encouraging ethical journalism and public media literacy.

Significance in 2025

  • Reinforces the need for transparent governance and an informed citizenry.
  • Highlights how digital disinformation and AI-generated content pose new challenges to authentic journalism.
  • Emphasizes the role of media literacy in the public.
  • Pays tribute to journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty.
  • Encourages collaboration between governments, civil society, and international bodies to ensure media safety.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? World Press Freedom Day 2025
First Observed 1993
Declared By United Nations General Assembly
Annual Organizer UNESCO
Based on Windhoek Declaration, Namibia (1991)
Related Rights Article 19, UDHR & ICCPR – Freedom of Expression
Objective Promote press freedom, protect journalists, combat misinformation
Significance Essential for democracy, transparency, and informed public discourse

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_6.1

Dr. Mathew Kalarickal, India’s Pioneer of Angioplasty, Passes Away at 77

Dr. Mathew Samuel Kalarickal, renowned as the ‘Father of Angioplasty in India’, passed away on April 18, 2025, at the age of 77 in Chennai. Known for revolutionizing heart care in India by introducing angioplasty in 1986, Dr. Kalarickal’s death marks the end of a transformative era in Indian cardiology.

Why in News?

  • Dr. Mathew Kalarickal passed away on April 18, 2025, after a brief illness. He was India’s first angioplasty expert and a pioneer who trained hundreds across the Asia-Pacific. His contributions to cardiac care, awards, and leadership roles made him a key figure in modern Indian medicine.

Key Contributions

  • Performed India’s first angioplasty in 1986, starting with just 18 patients.
  • Introduced and expanded angioplasty procedures across India and Asia-Pacific nations such as,
  • Pakistan
  • Sri Lanka
  • UAE
  • Indonesia
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia

Education & Background

  • Born on January 6, 1948, in Kerala.
  • Graduated from Kottayam Medical College.
  • Trained in the U.S. under Dr. Andreas Gruentzig, known as the Father of Interventional Cardiology.
  • Returned to India in 1985, committed to bridging the medical gap in heart care.

Awards & Recognitions

  • Padma Shri (2000)
  • Dr. B.C. Roy Award (1996)
  • Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) – Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (2003)
  • Served as President, Asian-Pacific Society of Interventional Cardiology (1995–1997)
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Dr. Mathew Kalarickal, India’s Pioneer of Angioplasty, Passes Away at 77
Known As Father of Angioplasty in India
Age 77
Major Milestone Performed India’s first angioplasty in 1986
Awards Padma Shri (2000), Dr. B.C. Roy Award (1996), DSc (Honoris Causa)
Global Work Developed angioplasty in Asia-Pacific countries

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_8.1

Kapil Dev Joins SoBo Mumbai Falcons as Brand Ambassador

Cricketing icon Kapil Dev, India’s 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has made a grand return to the cricketing limelight by joining the SoBo Mumbai Falcons as their brand ambassador for the T20 Mumbai League 2025. His association brings credibility, inspiration, and historic charm to the tournament, which is all set to kick off on May 26, 2025, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

Why in News?

Kapil Dev has been officially announced as the brand ambassador of the newly introduced SoBo Mumbai Falcons team in the upcoming T20 Mumbai League 2025. His appointment comes just weeks before the league’s third edition begins, and it marks his renewed presence in the Indian domestic cricket scenario in a promotional and mentoring capacity.

Key Highlights

  • Kapil Dev, India’s legendary all-rounder and 1983 World Cup-winning captain, joins SoBo Mumbai Falcons.
  • He will serve as the brand ambassador of the team for the T20 Mumbai League 2025.
  • The league will take place from May 26 to June 8, 2025, at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
  • A total of 8 teams will compete in 20 matches.
  • The league features prominent Indian stars including Suryakumar Yadav, Ajinkya Rahane, Prithvi Shaw, and others.
  • The event will be broadcast live on Jio Hotstar and the Star Sports Network.

Statements and Reactions

  • Kapil Dev: “It’s an honour for me to stand alongside the SoBo Mumbai Falcons as they embark on their maiden journey.”
  • Ameet H Gadhoke (Team Owner & MD, Roadways Solutions India Infra Ltd): Praised Dev’s legacy and said his presence would be instrumental in guiding the team.

Objectives and Significance

  • To boost fan engagement and promote the SoBo Mumbai Falcons brand.
  • Add prestige and credibility to the T20 Mumbai League.
  • Inspire young cricketers by aligning them with cricketing legends.
  • Strengthen the regional cricket ecosystem in Mumbai and Maharashtra.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Kapil Dev Joins SoBo Mumbai Falcons as Brand Ambassador
Name of League T20 Mumbai League 2025
New Role of Kapil Dev Brand Ambassador, SoBo Mumbai Falcons
Owner of SoBo Mumbai Falcons Ameet H Gadhoke
Venue Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Total Teams 8

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_10.1

Indigenous Dhruv Helicopter Cleared for Military Use After Crash Probe

The Army and Air Force variants of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), have been officially cleared for operations. This decision comes after a three-month grounding prompted by a fatal crash of an Indian Coast Guard Dhruv in January 2025. Based on the Defect Investigation Committee’s recommendations, HAL and defence users have now prepared a time-bound plan to safely resume operations.

Why in News?

The HAL Dhruv helicopters, temporarily grounded since January 5, 2025, due to a crash in Porbandar, Gujarat, have been cleared for flying. The clearance follows the Defect Investigation (DI) Committee’s analysis and coincides with operational requirements following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Background & Timeline

  • On January 5, 2025, an ALH Mark-III of the Indian Coast Guard crashed during a training sortie in Porbandar, killing all three onboard.
  • As a precaution, all 330 ALH Dhruvs in the armed forces were grounded.
  • HAL also advised civilian operators to suspend operations.

Clearance Details

  • HAL announced on May 2, 2025, that the Army and Air Force versions of ALH Dhruv have been cleared.
  • Clearance based on recommendations of a Defect Investigation Committee.
  • A time-bound resumption plan was discussed and implemented with stakeholders.

Impact on Operations

  • The grounding affected various military operations and training schedules.
  • Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the IAF did not perform at Aero India 2025 due to grounding.

Operational Resumption

  • After the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, Dhruv helicopters were pressed into service in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Indigenous Dhruv Helicopter Cleared for Military Use After Crash Probe
Helicopter Name Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv
Manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Result Grounding of 330 ALH Dhruvs in armed forces
Clearance Status Approved for Army and Air Force use (May 2, 2025)
Investigating Body Defect Investigation (DI) Committee
Follow-up Actions Time-bound plan for safe resumption
Display Team Impact IAF Sarang team missed Aero India 2025

 

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_12.1

Sunil Bharti Mittal Joins World Bank’s Investment Lab to Boost Job Creation

Bharti Enterprises Chairperson Sunil Bharti Mittal has joined the World Bank’s Private Sector Investment Lab (PSIL), a high-level initiative aimed at accelerating private sector-led solutions for job creation and economic development in emerging markets. The latest phase of the initiative includes top leaders from diverse sectors to drive impactful investment strategies in critical areas such as energy, infrastructure, and healthcare.

Why in News?

The World Bank Group launched the next phase of the PSIL on April 24, 2025, with a renewed focus on job creation as a core driver of development. Sunil Bharti Mittal’s induction into the initiative signifies India’s growing role in shaping global investment strategies and private sector development.

Objectives & Focus of PSIL

  • Stimulate private sector investments in developing economies.
  • Address regulatory and financial barriers in high-risk markets.
  • Promote job creation as a central development priority.
  • Foster collaborations across infrastructure, energy, healthcare, tourism, agribusiness, and more.

Key Highlights

Sunil Bharti Mittal joins along with other global leaders like,

  • Aliko Dangote (Dangote Group)
  • Mark Hoplamazian (Hyatt Hotels)
  • Bill Anderson (Bayer AG)
  • Five focus areas of PSIL include:
  • Regulatory and policy certainty
  • Political risk insurance
  • Local currency financing
  • Junior equity capital
  • Securitisation

Significance

  • Encourages foreign direct investment (FDI) by de-risking capital flows.
  • Integrates private capital into World Bank’s development framework.
  • Aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by enabling upfront regulatory reforms.
  • Launch of the Frontier Opportunities Fund to support early-stage investments.
  • Push to triple the use of guarantees by 2030.

Background

  • PSIL was formed in 2023 by the World Bank to overcome private investment challenges in emerging markets.
  • Chaired by Shriti Vadera, Chair of Prudential plc.
  • Founding members include representatives from BlackRock, HSBC, Tata Sons, Temasek, and others.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Sunil Bharti Mittal Joins World Bank’s Investment Lab to Boost Job Creation
Initiative Private Sector Investment Lab (PSIL)
Organization  World Bank Group
New Member Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman, Bharti Enterprises
Focus Areas Regulation, risk insurance, local financing, junior equity, securitisation
Key Objective Boost private investment & job creation in developing economies
Chair of PSIL Shriti Vadera (Prudential plc)
Example Project Connecting 300 million in Africa to electricity

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_14.1

India’s Exports Hit Record $824.9 Billion in FY 2024–25: RBI Data

In a major milestone for India’s trade sector, the country’s total exports for the financial year 2024–25 reached an all-time high of US$824.9 billion, according to the Reserve Bank of India’s latest report on services trade. This marks a robust growth of 6.01% over the previous year’s figure of US$778.1 billion. The surge was significantly powered by services exports, which witnessed double-digit growth, reflecting India’s rising competence in sectors like IT, consulting, finance, and digital services.

Why in News?

India’s total exports for FY 2024–25 have reached a record high, as per RBI data released on May 2, 2025, making it a landmark year for the Indian economy. This development is crucial as India aims to position itself as a global trade powerhouse, especially through non-oil merchandise and services sectors in alignment with policy initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Foreign Trade Policy 2023.

Export Performance in FY 2024–25

  • Total Exports: $824.9 billion (up 6.01% from $778.1 billion in FY 2023–24)
  • Services Exports: $387.5 billion (up 13.6% from $341.1 billion)
  • Merchandise Exports (excluding petroleum): $374.1 billion (up 6.0% from $352.9 billion)

March 2025 Snapshot

  • Services Exports in March 2025: $35.6 billion
  • Growth over March 2024: 18.6%
  • March 2024 Services Exports: $30.0 billion

Objectives and Significance

  • Enhance foreign exchange reserves through diversified trade.
  • Reduce dependence on petroleum-based exports.
  • Promote services sector including IT, finance, R&D, and digital services.
  • Support Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India missions.
  • Increase India’s resilience in global trade dynamics.

Background and Policy Context

  • The Foreign Trade Policy 2023 targets $2 trillion in exports by 2030, focusing on innovation, digitization, and new trade markets.
  • Continued government support via PLI schemes, trade infrastructure upgrades, and Ease of Doing Business.
  • Export growth despite global uncertainties such as geopolitical tensions and inflation.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s Exports Hit Record $824.9 Billion in FY 2024–25: RBI Data
Report Released By Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
FY 2023–24 Total Exports US$778.1 billion
FY 2024–25 Total Exports US$824.9 billion
Services Export Growth (YoY) 13.6%
March 2025 Services Exports US$35.6 billion
Non-Petroleum Merchandise Growth 6.0%

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_16.1

PM Modi Dedicates ₹8,800 Crore Vizhinjam International Seaport to the Nation

In a significant stride toward transforming India’s maritime infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on May 2, 2025. Developed at a cost of ₹8,800 crore, this state-of-the-art facility is set to emerge as a major transshipment hub, capable of accommodating the world’s largest cargo ships and reducing India’s dependency on foreign ports. The inauguration coincided with the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, adding spiritual resonance to the launch of this economic landmark.

Why in News?

The Vizhinjam International Seaport was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, 2025, marking a major boost to India’s maritime capacity. This development comes at a crucial time when the government is focusing on coastal development under initiatives like Sagarmala, PM-Gati Shakti, and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, aiming to elevate India as a global trade and logistics hub.

Key Features of Vizhinjam Seaport

  • Built at a cost of ₹8,800 crore.
  • First deepwater, multipurpose, transshipment port in India.
  • Can host the world’s largest cargo ships (over 20,000 TEU capacity).
  • Located just 10 nautical miles from the international shipping route.
  • Operates under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with Adani Ports.

Objectives and Aims

  • Reduce India’s dependence on foreign ports for transshipment (currently 75% done abroad).
  • Enhance India’s share in global maritime trade.
  • Promote economic growth in coastal states like Kerala.
  • Create employment opportunities through port-linked industrial growth.

Strategic Importance

  • Positioned to become a major hub for Indo-Pacific maritime trade.
  • Will integrate with India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
  • Complements India’s push under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
  • Kerala set to play a pivotal role in India’s logistics and export economy.

Policy Support

  • Sagarmala Project: Modernizes port infrastructure and connectivity.
  • PM-Gati Shakti: Ensures integrated planning across road, rail, air, and sea.
  • Seafarer Policy Reforms: Boosted Indian seafarers from 1.25 lakh (2014) to 3.25 lakh (2024).
  • Budget 2025: Push for indigenous shipbuilding and large ship construction.

Significance for Kerala

  • Enhances Kerala’s historic role in maritime trade.
  • Generates thousands of jobs, directly and indirectly.
  • Promotes MSMEs, tourism, fisheries, and shipping industry.
  • Will complement Kochi’s emerging shipbuilding and repair cluster.

Other Associated Developments

  • Upgraded fishing harbors under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
  • Integrated modern infrastructure (Vande Bharat trains, highways, bypasses).
  • Major beneficiary of Jal Jeevan Mission, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? PM Modi Dedicates ₹8,800 Crore Vizhinjam International Seaport to the Nation
Inaugurated By Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Project Cost ₹8,800 crore
Location Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Port Type International Deepwater Multipurpose Transshipment Port
Key Aim Reduce foreign port dependency, boost maritime trade
Policy Frameworks Sagarmala, PM-Gati Shakti, Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision
Economic Significance Boost to coastal economy, job creation, MSME support
Strategic Role Hub for global trade, part of IMEEC, deep-sea access
Private Partnership Adani Ports under PPP model

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_18.1

RBI’s Gold Reserves Soar with 57.5 Tonne Purchase in FY25

In a significant move reflecting global financial anxieties and a shift in reserve strategies, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) added 57.5 tonnes of gold to its reserves in FY25, the second-highest annual addition since it began accumulating gold in 2017. This comes amid a dramatic surge in gold prices, driven by global uncertainties, geopolitical risks, and weakening of the US dollar.

Why in News?

The RBI’s gold purchase has gained attention due to Rising gold prices crossing ₹1 lakh per 10 grams in April 2025. A sharp 30% annual rise in gold rates, influenced by global market volatility, tariff wars, and US dollar weakness.

Key Highlights

  • RBI purchased 57.5 tonnes of gold in FY25, second only to a previous high since 2017.
  • Total gold reserves as of March 2025: 879.6 tonnes, up from 822.1 tonnes a year earlier.
  • Global trend: Central banks globally are stockpiling gold due to currency risk and sovereign debt concerns.

Objectives of RBI’s Gold Purchase

  • Diversify foreign exchange reserves beyond traditional assets like USD and US Treasuries.
  • Hedge against currency volatility and geopolitical uncertainties.
  • Preserve value as gold retains purchasing power over time.

Background

  • RBI resumed gold accumulation in December 2017 after a gap.
  • In FY24, RBI had added 27.47 tonnes of gold.
  • Amid fears of US debt default and the dollar’s instability post-Trump’s re-election in Nov 2024, gold became increasingly attractive.

Static Facts

  • Gold touched $3,230 per ounce globally in 2024.
  • Gold’s price history shows resilience: rose 21% during 2008 crisis.
  • Gold has low correlation with equities/bonds, making it a portfolio hedge.

Overall Significance

  • Signals a strategic shift in India’s reserve management.
  • Enhances RBI’s financial strength and increases investor confidence.
  • Aligns with global central bank trends, including moves by China and Russia to accumulate gold.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? RBI’s Gold Reserves Soar with 57.5 Tonne Purchase in FY25
Gold bought by RBI in FY25 57.5 tonnes
Total RBI gold reserves (Mar 2025) 879.6 tonnes
FY24 gold addition 27.47 tonnes
Reason for buying Dollar volatility, safe-haven investment, rising gold prices
Price of gold (April 2025) ₹1,00,000 per 10g; $3,230 per ounce globally
Strategic impact Boosts reserves, hedges risk, aligns with global central banks

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_20.1

SBI to Power Banking Services at 26 Land Ports Across India

In a significant move to bolster India’s cross-border trade and passenger movement infrastructure, the State Bank of India (SBI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI). This strategic partnership aims to establish and upgrade banking services across 26 land ports in India that connect with neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar.

Why in News?

On April 29, 2025, SBI signed an MoU with LPAI to provide modern banking infrastructure at land ports to facilitate international trade, forex transactions, and financial services, aligning with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Aim & Objectives

  • To provide comprehensive banking services including forex, insurance, and digital banking at land ports.
  • To facilitate smoother cross-border trade and passenger movements.
  • To enhance trade capacity from ₹80,000 crore to ₹2 trillion by 2030.

Key Points from the MoU

  • Number of Ports Covered: 26 land ports across 8 border states.

Present Operations

  • 15 operational land ports
  • 11 new land ports sanctioned (including in UP, Bihar, Mizoram, Uttarakhand, West Bengal)

Trade & Traffic Data (2023-24)

  • ₹70,952 crore worth of trade
  • 30.46 lakh passengers crossed through land ports

Growth in a Decade

  • 15-fold rise in trade
  • 18-fold rise in passenger traffic

Services SBI Will Offer

  • Forex transactions
  • Bulk cargo insurance
  • Corporate salary packages (with accident insurance and locker concessions for LPAI staff)
  • Digital banking products
  • Personal and business banking support

Significance

  • Enhances financial inclusion and trade facilitation at India’s borders.
  • Supports India’s ambition for becoming a major global trade hub.
  • Strengthens border state economies and generates employment.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? SBI to Power Banking Services at 26 Land Ports Across India
MoU Parties SBI and Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI)
No. of Land Ports Covered 26 (15 operational, 11 upcoming)
Trade Volume (2023-24) ₹70,952 crore
Passenger Movement  30.46 lakh annually
SBI Goals Raise trade to ₹2 trillion by 2030
Key Services Forex, insurance, digital banking, salary package

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_22.1

 

Vishnu Prasad Versatile Malayalam Actor Passed Away

Renowned Malayalam actor Vishnu Prasad, known for his compelling performances in negative roles, passed away at the age of 52. He was undergoing treatment for liver disease in Ernakulam and faced severe financial hardship during the process. His demise has drawn attention not only to his contribution to cinema but also to the challenges faced by artists in the industry. The Association of Television Media Artists (ATMA) and fellow actors had tried to support his treatment financially. His death highlights issues around healthcare access and financial support systems for artists.

Why in the News?

Malayalam actor Vishnu Prasad passed away on May 2, 2025, in Ernakulam, Kerala, due to complications from liver disease. Known for his roles in Malayalam films and serials, his death has triggered an outpouring of grief across the entertainment industry.

Key Highlights

  • Cause of Death: Liver disease; passed away during treatment at a private hospital in Ernakulam.
  • Age: 52 years.
  • Financial Struggle: Family needed ₹30 lakhs for a liver transplant. His daughter was willing to donate her liver, but treatment costs were a major hurdle.
  • Support Extended: ATMA (Association of Television Media Artists) and fellow actors including Kishore Sathya and Seema G. Nair tried to held.

Notable Films

  • Runway, Lion, Kaiyethum Doorath, Ben Johnson, Pathaka, Mango Season, Lokanathan IAS.

Debut Film

  • Kaasi (Tamil, directed by Vinayan).

TV Career

  • Acted in several Malayalam television serials.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Vishnu Prasad Versatile Malayalam Actor Passed Away
Name Vishnu Prasad
Age 52
Industry Malayalam Film and Television
Cause of Death Liver disease
Notable Works Runway, Lion, Ben Johnson, Pathaka
Debut Film Kaasi (Tamil)

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