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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.

Cabinet Backs Caste Count — But at What Cost?

In a significant move, the Union Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has approved the inclusion of a caste census in the upcoming national population census. The announcement was made by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who emphasized that this exercise will be conducted in a “transparent manner” to preserve social harmony.

Important Highlights:

  • The caste census will be officially conducted as part of the next national census, not as a separate survey.
  • Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw criticized the Congress and other INDIA bloc parties, claiming they had historically opposed caste-based census and used it politically.
  • The Minister stated that caste surveys often “created doubts” in society and argued for a more systematic and national-level enumeration to avoid political misuse.
  • Congress, INDIA bloc, and several regional parties have long demanded a caste census. Congress-ruled Karnataka recently carried out a state-level caste survey.
  • The Karnataka caste survey faced backlash from Vokkaliga and Lingayat communities, who claimed the survey data did not represent them accurately and required revision.
  • Bihar became the first state to conduct a caste census in 2023, setting a precedent for others.

History of Census and Caste Enumeration in India

  • The last full national census in India was conducted in 2011. The 2021 Census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is yet to be conducted.
  • The decennial Census in India has been conducted every 10 years since 1871.
  • The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) was conducted in 2011, but its caste data was not released officially due to concerns over data reliability and political sensitivity.
  • British India’s last full caste enumeration was done in 1931.
  • In 2023, Bihar became the first Indian state to conduct an independent caste census after independence.
  • Karnataka conducted its own state-level caste survey in 2023–24, but it faced community-based backlash and credibility issues.

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

International Jazz Day 2025, Date, Significance, Origin

Every year on April 30, the world comes together to celebrate International Jazz Day, a UNESCO-led initiative that recognises jazz music as more than just an art form — it is a global language of peace, diversity, dialogue, and mutual understanding. Launched with the help of jazz legend Herbie Hancock, this day unites musicians and communities across the world in workshops, concerts, and discussions.

Why in the News?

International Jazz Day 2025 is being celebrated on April 30, continuing its mission to honour jazz music and its power to foster peace, unity, creativity, and freedom across cultures. Initiated by UNESCO in 2011, this global event is once again drawing attention to the impact of jazz as a catalyst for social change and education.

Background and Origin

  • Started by: UNESCO in 2011
  • Key supporter: Herbie Hancock, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and jazz icon
  • Purpose: To promote jazz music as a tool for education, communication, and social change

Historical Context

  • Jazz originated in the early 20th century in the United States
  • Rooted in a fusion of African and European musical traditions
  • Known for its improvisation, rhythm, emotion, and expression

Global Celebrations

  • Celebrated annually on April 30
  • Global Concerts, workshops, and dialogues held in multiple countries
  • The UNESCO Global Concert 2024 was held in Tangier, Morocco
  • Events are usually live-streamed to ensure global participation

Significance and Values

Jazz promotes,

  • Peace
  • Unity and diversity
  • Freedom of expression
  • Teamwork and cultural respect
  • Acknowledges the struggles and achievements of jazz pioneers during times of racial discrimination and hardship

Message for 2025

  • Reinforces jazz as the “most democratic” music form, encouraging inclusiveness
  • Encourages the youth to explore and express through jazz
  • Serves as a bridge between cultures, enhancing international cooperation through music

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

Will India-Pakistan War Hit the Stock Market?

The India-Pakistan relationship has long been marked by tension, historical grievances, and occasional military skirmishes. Any escalation between these nuclear-armed neighbors sends ripples far beyond their borders — especially into financial markets. The very threat of conflict can trigger panic, reduce investor confidence, and disrupt trade. In this article, we delve deep into the economic and market implications of a potential India-Pakistan conflict.

1. Immediate Market Reaction: Volatility and Sell-Offs

Stock Market Tremors

When military tensions between India and Pakistan rise, equity markets react almost instantaneously. Typically, there is a sharp decline in benchmark indices like the Nifty 50 and Sensex due to:

  • Panic selling
  • Flight of foreign capital
  • Weakening investor sentiment

For instance, after the Pulwama attack in 2019, followed by India’s airstrike in Balakot, the Indian stock market lost over ₹4 lakh crore in a single day before recovering.

Sectors Most Affected

  • Aviation and tourism take a direct hit due to travel advisories and airspace restrictions.
  • Banking and finance suffer from reduced consumer spending and rising NPAs.
  • Defense stocks, however, may show temporary gains due to increased government orders.

2. Currency and Bond Market Impact

Rupee Depreciation

In times of geopolitical crisis, the Indian Rupee weakens against the US Dollar as:

  • Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) pull out funds
  • Import bills rise, especially for energy
  • Investors flock to safe-haven assets like gold and US Treasury bonds

A prolonged standoff could push the rupee past key psychological barriers, making imports costlier and inflationary pressures worse.

Bond Yields and Government Borrowing

Heightened uncertainty leads to:

  • Increased bond yields
  • Higher cost of government borrowing
  • Pressure on fiscal deficit as defense spending surges

3. Commodities: Gold Rises, Oil Becomes Volatile

Gold: The Safe Haven

Historically, gold prices rise during conflict. Indian investors, already culturally inclined toward gold, increase purchases as a hedge, pushing prices even higher.

Oil: A Double-Edged Sword

India imports over 85% of its crude oil, and conflict-induced volatility in the region can:

  • Disrupt supply chains
  • Cause spikes in Brent crude prices
  • Widen India’s current account deficit

Additionally, if hostilities lead to damage in trade corridors like the Arabian Sea or Gwadar Port, global oil supply chains could be affected.

4. FDI and FPI: Investor Confidence Takes a Hit

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) Exit

Foreign investors are highly sensitive to geopolitical risks. A major India-Pakistan flare-up would likely cause:

  • Massive outflows from equity and debt markets
  • Pressure on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to stabilize markets via rate interventions or liquidity infusion

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Slows

Companies may postpone or cancel expansion plans in India, especially in sensitive sectors like:

  • Manufacturing
  • Infrastructure
  • Telecom and tech, which are closely monitored during times of national security concerns

5. Trade Disruption: Bilateral and Beyond

Limited India-Pakistan Trade

Although formal trade between India and Pakistan is minimal (less than $3 billion historically), conflict still:

  • Destabilizes regional trade agreements
  • Disrupts cross-border trucking, rail, and air logistics
  • Hurts exporters in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and agriculture

Spillover to South Asia

If tensions escalate to the level of full-scale war, it could:

  • Disrupt SAARC cooperation
  • Affect India’s trade with Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia
  • Push other South Asian markets into turmoil

6. Defense Budget Surge and Economic Reallocation

Opportunity Cost of War

Military engagement leads to a redirection of national funds from:

  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Infrastructure

toward defense procurement and military logistics. This not only slows long-term growth but also raises the fiscal deficit.

Impact on Inflation and Growth

War can cause:

  • Supply chain shocks
  • Spike in food and fuel prices
  • Stagnation of GDP growth due to reduced industrial and service sector output

7. Psychological and Social Impacts on the Market

Consumer Confidence Drops

During conflict, consumer confidence dips drastically. Households:

  • Reduce discretionary spending
  • Postpone high-ticket purchases like homes and cars
  • Save more out of uncertainty, reducing economic circulation

Investor Sentiment Crashes

Both domestic and global investors prefer stable political environments. An India-Pakistan war narrative:

  • Deters new capital infusion
  • Increases India’s risk premium in global credit markets
  • Harms long-term economic image

India Post Partners with SBI Mutual Fund to Streamline KYC

To simplify and expand mutual fund investments across India, particularly in remote regions, the Department of Posts (DoP) and SBI Funds Management Limited (SBIFM) have partnered to offer door-to-door KYC verification services. This collaboration ensures secure, accurate, and convenient onboarding of mutual fund investors, leveraging India Post’s vast postal network.

Why in the News?

India Post has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SBI Mutual Fund to offer doorstep KYC verification services across India, especially targeting rural and underserved regions. This initiative promotes financial inclusion under the Jan Nivesh and Digital India programs.

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_11.1

MoU Signing & Stakeholders

MoU signed between,

  • Ms. Manisha Bansal Badal (GM, Business Development, DoP)
  • Sh. Munish Sabharwal (SVP, SBI Funds Management Ltd.)
  • Signing held at Dak Bhawan, New Delhi

Role of India Post

  • Uses its 1.64 lakh+ post office network
  • Provides doorstep collection of KYC documents
  • Trained staff ensures accuracy, privacy, and compliance
  • Targets areas with limited access to financial services

Benefits to Investors

Especially helpful for,

  • Senior citizens
  • Persons with mobility issues
  • Residents in remote or rural areas
  • Enables KYC completion from home
  • Reduces need for visiting physical branches

Wider Government Objectives

  • Supports Jan Nivesh and Digital India goals
  • Aims to increase capital market participation
  • Enhances financial literacy and onboarding

Past Success of India Post

  • Collaborated earlier with UTI Mutual Fund and SUUTI
  • Handled over 5 lakh KYC verifications efficiently
  • Demonstrated ability to manage large-scale KYC operations

Future Scope

  • India Post plans more partnerships with public/private financial firms
  • Aims to become a major driver of investment facilitation, especially in semi-urban and rural India
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Post Partners with SBI Mutual Fund to Streamline KYC
Partnership India Post & SBI Funds Management Limited
Objective Doorstep KYC verification for mutual fund investors
Network Utilized Over 1.64 lakh post offices across India
Primary Beneficiaries Rural citizens, senior citizens, and mobility-challenged individuals
Supporting Schemes Jan Nivesh, Digital India
Prior Collaborations UTI Mutual Fund, SUUTI – over 5 lakh KYCs handled

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

How Did India’s Economy Respond to Past Conflicts with Pakistan?

While geopolitical clashes between India and Pakistan have always garnered attention for their political and military dimensions, the economic consequences are equally important. History shows that such conflicts trigger market volatility, strain bilateral trade, and hamper investor sentiment, but India’s larger economic base often ensures quicker recovery, while Pakistan faces deeper and prolonged economic pain.

Why in the News?

Following the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, allegedly by Pakistani terrorists, tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan, prompting India to take strong diplomatic and economic actions, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and expelling Pakistani diplomats. This development raises concerns about the economic consequences of a potential conflict, making it crucial to look at historical economic impacts of past India-Pakistan confrontations.

Economic Impact of Past India-Pakistan Conflicts

1. The 1999 Kargil War

  • Trigger: Pakistani intrusion into Indian territory (Jammu & Kashmir).

Market Reaction

  • BSE Sensex dropped 5% in May 1999 due to fear of escalation and post-nuclear test sanctions.
  • Pakistan’s KSE-100 fell 7% amid political instability.

GDP Impact

  • India’s fiscal deficit rose to 5.1% of GDP.
  • Pakistan’s GDP slowed to 4.2%.

Recovery

  • Sensex rebounded 20% by year-end, driven by IT boom.
  • Pakistan’s recovery was slower due to coup & sanctions.

Lesson: Short-term volatility, long-term recovery, with India bouncing back faster.

2. The 2001 Parliament Attack

Trigger: Attack on Indian Parliament by terror outfits.

Military Response: 1 million troops deployed along the border.

Market Reaction

  • Sensex fell 7% in December 2001.
  • FIIs withdrew $200 million.

GDP Impact

  • India: Growth dipped to 4.8% (2001–02).
  • Pakistan: Growth fell to 3.1%.

Bilateral Disruption

  • Trade halted (~$250 million).
  • Pakistan lost $50 million in overflight revenue.

Lesson: Economic shocks are amplified by global recessionary trends; diplomacy helped recovery.

3. The 2008 Mumbai Attacks

Trigger: 26/11 terror attack by Lashkar-e-Taiba; 166 killed.

Market Reaction

  • Sensex dropped 4% to ~8,700 points.
  • FIIs pulled out $13 billion in 2008.

Sectoral Impact

  • Hospitality, real estate, tourism hit hardest.
  • Tourism revenue fell 15%, costing $2 billion.

GDP Impact

  • India: 6.7% growth in 2008–09.
  • Pakistan: Growth slowed to 1.7% amid IMF bailout.

Recovery

  • Sensex rebounded 80% in 2009 with stimulus.
  • KSE-100 up 35%, but recovery slower.

Lesson: Terror shocks are sharp but short-lived; India’s domestic demand aids resilience.

4. The 2019 Pulwama–Balakot Crisis

Trigger: Pulwama attack (40 CRPF personnel killed); Balakot airstrike followed.

Market Reaction

  • Sensex dipped 2%, tourism/aviation down 5%.

GDP Impact

  • India: Growth slowed to 6.1% in 2019–20.
  • Pakistan: Down to 0.5%, impacted by FATF scrutiny.

Trade

  • Bilateral trade, already low, shrank further.

Recovery

  • India: Sensex up 10% by year-end.
  • Pakistan: KSE-100 up 15%, but underlying fragility persisted.

Lesson: India’s market depth cushions shocks, Pakistan’s structural weaknesses magnify them.

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

CSR Spending Witnessed 16% Rise in FY 23-2024

In a noteworthy development in corporate governance and social responsibility, CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) spending by listed Indian companies has surged by 16% in FY 2023-24. This increase follows a period of stagnant expenditure and aligns with a rise in the average net profits of these firms. The CSR law, in effect since 2014, requires eligible companies to invest in social initiatives like education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. However, calls have now emerged to revisit the thresholds for mandatory CSR compliance in light of the doubling of corporate profits since the law’s inception.

Why in the News?

CSR spending by listed Indian companies rose 16% to ₹17,967 crore in FY 2023-24, driven by improved profits. HDFC Bank topped the list with the highest CSR spend, followed by Reliance Industries, TCS, and ONGC.

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

CSR Law Overview

  • Came into effect: April 2014
  • Mandates companies with,
  • Net worth ≥ ₹500 crore, or
  • Turnover ≥ ₹1,000 crore, or
  • Net profit ≥ ₹5 crore to spend 2% of average net profits (last 3 years) on CSR.

CSR Expenditure Highlights (FY 2023–24)

Total CSR spend: ₹17,967 crore (↑16% from ₹15,524 crore in 2022–23)

Top Spenders

  • HDFC Bank: ₹945.31 crore
  • Reliance Industries: ₹900 crore
  • TCS: ₹827 crore
  • ONGC: ₹634.57 crore
  • Total Companies Considered: 1,394
  • Companies that spent: 1,367 (98%)
  • Did not spend: 27 companies
  • Required amount: ₹18,309 crore
  • Shortfall transferred to Unspent CSR Account: ₹2,329 crore

Profit Trends and Suggestions

  • Avg. net profit (1,394 companies): ₹9.62 lakh crore
  • Suggestion by Pranav Haldea (MD, PRIME Database):
  • Revise CSR thresholds upwards to exclude smaller companies
  • Reflect the improved ease of doing business and higher corporate profits

Sector-wise Allocation

  • Education: ₹1,104 crore (Highest share)
  • Healthcare: ₹720 crore
  • Environmental Sustainability: Increased 54%
  • National Heritage: Increased 5%
  • Slum Development: Decreased 72%
  • Rural Development: Decreased 59%
  • Armed Forces Veterans: Decreased 52%

PSU Contribution

  • PSUs’ total CSR spend: ₹3,717 crore
  • Total PSUs that spent: 66
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? CSR Spending Witnessed 16% Rise in FY 23-2024
Total CSR Spend (FY24) ₹17,967 crore (↑16%)
Highest Spender HDFC Bank – ₹945.31 crore
CSR Law Effective Since April 2014
Mandatory CSR Spend 2% of avg. net profit (last 3 years)
Total Companies Considered 1,394
Unspent Transferred to Account ₹2,329 crore
Most Funded Sector Education – ₹1,104 crore
Fastest Growing CSR Sector Environmental Sustainability

 SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_17.1

Supreme Court Suggests Minimum Vote Requirement for Unopposed Election Wins

In a significant development aimed at strengthening democratic values, the Supreme Court has questioned the validity of declaring a sole candidate elected without public voting. It emphasized that even in unopposed scenarios, a basic level of voter approval—say, 10% or 15% of total votes—should be mandated. This discussion stems from a petition by the Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, which argues that denying the NOTA (None of the Above) option violates the right to expression under Article 19(1)(a).

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court of India has suggested that candidates declared elected unopposed in elections must secure a minimum percentage of votes to validate their win. This suggestion came during a hearing on the constitutionality of Section 53(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which currently allows unopposed wins without actual polling

Background of the Case

  • Petition Filed: August 2024 by Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy.
  • Challenge: Section 53(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
  • Argument: Denial of election when only one candidate stands deprives voters of the NOTA option.
  • Legal Basis: Based on the 2013 PUCL judgment, where the SC upheld NOTA under freedom of expression (Article 19(1)(a)).

Data on Uncontested Elections

  • Total Lok Sabha constituencies (1951–2024): 26 elected uncontested.
  • Voters deprived: 82 lakh+.

Breakup

  • 1951 – 5
  • 1957 – 7
  • 1962 – 3
  • 1967 – 5
  • 1971 – 1
  • 1977 – 2
  • 1980 – 1
  • 1989 – 1
  • 2024 – 1 (Surat, Mukeshkumar Dalal, BJP)

ECI’s Counterpoints

  • Only 9 uncontested polls in 20 Lok Sabha elections.
  • Since 1989, just one MP elected unopposed.
  • Argued that with higher voter awareness, uncontested elections are rare now.
  • NOTA is valid only when elections are held, not when a candidate wins unopposed.
  • Any change would need amendments to RPA 1951 and Election Rules 1961.

Supreme Court’s Observations

  • Democracy requires voter consent, even if only one candidate is running.
  • Suggested introducing minimum vote threshold (10%-15%) for unopposed winners.
  • Opposed the idea of “default” victories.
  • Advised the Parliament to legislate accordingly.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Supreme Court Suggests Minimum Vote Requirement for Unopposed Election Wins
Law Challenged Section 53(2), Representation of the People Act, 1951
Petition Filed By Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy
Core Argument Denial of NOTA violates Article 19(1)(a)
SC Suggestion Minimum vote % for unopposed candidates (10-15%)
ECI’s Position Uncontested elections are rare; NOTA not applicable without polling
Example from 2024 BJP’s Mukeshkumar Dalal elected unopposed in Surat
Voters Deprived Historically  Over 82 lakh in 26 uncontested Lok Sabha constituencies since 1951

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_19.1

The Draft of Greenhouse Gases Emissions Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025

In a significant climate action step, India has proposed draft rules to regulate and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity across key energy-intensive industries. The GEI Target Rules, 2025, establish a clear compliance mechanism aligned with the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023, offering industries both obligations and market incentives to decarbonize. These targets are vital for India’s ambition to reduce GHG emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 from 2005 levels.

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the Draft Greenhouse Gases Emissions Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025 to operationalize India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023 and help meet its climate goals under the Paris Agreement.

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_21.1

 

What is Greenhouse Gases Emissions Intensity (GEI)?

  • GEI refers to GHG emissions per unit of output (e.g., per tonne of cement).
  • It is measured in tCO₂e (tonnes of CO₂ equivalent), accounting for all major GHGs.
  • Includes emissions from CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, CFCs, HCFCs, etc.

Key Features of Draft GEI Target Rules, 2025:

  • Notified on: April 16, 2025.
  • Open for feedback: 60-day window from notification.
  • Linked to CCTS (Carbon Credit Trading Scheme), 2023.
  • Sets baseline emissions for FY 2023–24.
  • Defines reduction targets for FY 2025–26 and 2026–27.

Industries Covered

  • Targets set for 282 industrial units from.
  • Cement (186 units)
  • Aluminium (13 units)
  • Pulp & Paper (53 units)
  • Chlor-Alkali (30 units)
  • Major companies covered: Vedanta, Hindalco, Ultratech, JSW Cement, Dalmia Cement, etc.

Compliance and Enforcement

  • Industries must submit action plans to reduce GEI.
  • Penalties for non-compliance under the oversight of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Objectives of the Rules

  • Aid India’s Paris Agreement target: 45% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2030.
  • Promote low-carbon growth and clean technologies.
  • Support decarbonization through carbon credit incentives.

Link with Carbon Credit Market

  • Industries reducing GEI below targets earn carbon credits.
  • These can be traded on the Indian Carbon Market platform.
  • Buyers: Industries that fail to meet targets or want flexibility.
  • Managed by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? The Draft of Greenhouse Gases Emissions Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025
Notified By Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Open for Feedback 60 days
Targets Cover
282 industrial units (Cement, Aluminium, Pulp & Paper, Chlor-Alkali)
Base Year for Emissions 2023–24
Target Years 2025–26, 2026–27
Linked Scheme Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), 2023
Market Oversight By Bureau of Energy Efficiency (Ministry of Power)
Penalty Enforcing Authority Central Pollution Control Board
Paris Goal Linked 45% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2030 (from 2005 levels)

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Centre Issues Guidelines for Bio-Resource Centres under NMNF

To promote natural farming and reduce farmers’ reliance on chemical inputs, the central government launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) in November 2024. As part of this initiative, the government aims to establish 10,000 Bio-resource Centres (BRCs) at the cluster level. These BRCs will provide ready-to-use bio-inputs, training, and technical support to farmers. However, the financial assistance of ₹1 lakh per centre has been questioned by experts as inadequate, especially for infrastructure development.

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare released guidelines on April 23, 2025, for setting up Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). These centres are meant to support India’s transition to natural farming practices.

Objective and Purpose

  • Support local production and availability of natural bio-inputs.
  • Assist farmers unable to produce bio-inputs themselves.
  • Disseminate knowledge and best practices for natural farming.

Financial Support

  • ₹1 lakh assistance per centre in two tranches of ₹50,000.
  • The support excludes infrastructure costs like shed construction or land rent.
  • Entrepreneurs must arrange physical infrastructure themselves.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The entrepreneur group/entity must be practicing natural farming or have experienced members.
  • If no such members exist, state natural farming cells will help identify willing farmers.

Local Adaptability

  • Inputs to be tailored as per local soil, land use patterns, and crop systems.
  • Access to raw materials like livestock waste, biomass, etc. is essential.

Affordability

  • BRCs must ensure inputs are affordable for small and marginal farmers.
  • District-level monitoring to ensure price regulation and quality control.

Scheme Convergence

Encouragement to align with schemes like,

  • 10,000 FPO Formation
  • National Mission on Edible Oilseeds
  • Other agri-linked welfare programmes
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Centre Issues Guidelines for Bio-Resource Centres under NMNF
Scheme Name National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
Objective Promote natural farming, provide bio-inputs and knowledge to farmers
Financial Assistance ₹1 lakh per centre (₹50,000 in 2 tranches)
Target Set up 10,000 Bio-resource Centres (BRCs)
Eligibility Practicing or willing farmers/entities with natural farming experience
Support Limitations No support for sheds, land or heavy infrastructure
Concern Raised Funding insufficient; need for integrated support

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_24.1

Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam’s Issued Certified Green Municipal Bond

In a first-of-its-kind move towards sustainable urban infrastructure, Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam (GNN) has pioneered the use of Green Municipal Bonds to fund a state-of-the-art water recycling facility. This initiative not only highlights India’s evolving urban financial mechanisms but also sets a benchmark for environmental accountability and resource conservation.

Why in the News?

Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam has created history by becoming the first Urban Local Body (ULB) in India to issue a Certified Green Municipal Bond, raising ₹150 crore for establishing an advanced Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP) under the Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban.

SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_26.1

Green Municipal Bond Issuance

  • India’s first certified Green Municipal Bond
  • Raised ₹150 crore to fund a Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP)
  • Supported by Government of India and Government of Uttar Pradesh

Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP)

  • Capacity: 40 MLD (Million Litres per Day)

Technologies used,

  • Microfiltration
  • Ultrafiltration
  • Nanofiltration

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

  • Delivers treated water through a 95 km pipeline
  • Supplies to 1,400+ industrial units
  • Contracts with 800+ firms for 9.5 MLD treated water

Financial Innovation – PPP-HAM Model

  • Developed under Public-Private Partnership – Hybrid Annuity Model (PPP-HAM)
  • 40% funding by Municipal Corporation
  • Demonstrated financial discipline and investor confidence

Awards and Recognition

  • Won Best Municipal Treated Water Reuse Award at Water Digest World Water Awards 2024–25
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam’s Green Municipal Bond and sustainable water management initiative
Project Name Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP)
Funding Mechanism Certified Green Municipal Bond (₹150 crore) + PPP-HAM
Capacity 40 MLD with advanced membrane filtration technologies
Industrial Supply 1,400+ units via 95 km pipeline; 800+ firm contracts for 9.5 MLD water
Awards Received Best Municipal Treated Water Reuse Award (Water Digest 2024–25)
Technology Used Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, Nanofiltration, RO
Partner Institutions  Government of India, Government of Uttar Pradesh

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