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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.

Bhagavad Gita & Natyashastra Added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register

India has added another feather to its civilisational cap with the inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita manuscripts and Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.  This move globally acknowledges India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage. The Prime Minister and Union Culture Minister have celebrated this moment as a significant milestone. With these additions, India now has 14 documentary heritages inscribed on the prestigious list.

Key Highlights

What is the Memory of the World Register?

  • Established in 1992, UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MoW) Programme aims to preserve and provide access to documentary heritage of global significance. It safeguards manuscripts, archives, oral traditions, audio-visual content, and library collections.

India’s Inclusion in 2025

  • On April 17, 2025, Bhagavad Gita manuscripts and Natyashastra by Bharat Muni were added to the register.
  • India’s total entries in the list now stand at 14.

Bhagavad Gita’s Significance

  • A core spiritual text of Hinduism, part of the Mahabharata’s Bhishma Parva.
  • Considered a universal guide to philosophy, dharma (duty), and spirituality.
  • Translated into nearly 80 languages globally.

Natyashastra’s Significance

  • An ancient treatise on dramaturgy, theatre, and performance arts, attributed to Bharat Muni.
  • Covers various aspects like acting, stage design, music, dance, and aesthetics (rasa theory).
  • A foundational text for classical Indian dance and drama traditions.

Official Reactions

  • PM Narendra Modi hailed the announcement as a “proud moment for every Indian” and acknowledged the Gita and Natyashastra for nurturing civilisation and consciousness.
  • Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat called it a “historic moment” for Bharat’s civilisational heritage.

Global Perspective

  • A total of 74 new collections were added in 2025, bringing the global total to 570.
  • 14 of the new entries are related to scientific documentary heritage, including contributions by women and multilateral institutions.

UNESCO’s Statement

  • UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized that documentary heritage is fragile but essential to human memory.
  • The register supports preservation efforts, knowledge sharing, and serves as a global archive.

UNESCO’s Broader Programme

  • UNESCO supports the creation of regional and national registers.
  • Over 100 countries now have Memory of the World committees.
  • The programme promotes the universal access to heritage documents.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Bhagavad Gita & Natyashastra Added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register
New Indian Entries Bhagavad Gita manuscripts, Natyashastra by Bharat Muni
Total Indian Inscriptions 14
Gita’s Relevance Spiritual-philosophical guide, translated into ~80 languages
Natyashastra’s Relevance Foundational text on drama, performance, aesthetics, and Indian classical arts
Global New Entries (2025) 74, including science, women’s history, slavery, and diplomacy

India’s Economy to Grow by 6.5% in 2025 As Per UNCTAD Forecast

India is set to maintain its position as the fastest-growing major economy in 2025 with an impressive 6.5% GDP growth, according to the latest “Trade and Development Foresights 2025” report released by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). While global economic momentum shows signs of slowing, India stands out for its resilience, fueled by increased public spending and proactive monetary policies.

Key Highlights

India’s Economic Performance

  • India is projected to grow at 6.5% in 2025, sustaining its title as the fastest-growing major economy globally.
  • The report attributes this growth to robust government expenditure, including infrastructure projects and social sector investments.
  • A supportive monetary policy stance by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also played a key role in stimulating demand and economic activity.

Global Economic Scenario

  • The global economy is expected to experience a marked slowdown, bordering on a recessionary trajectory.
  • Tightening financial conditions, geopolitical uncertainties, and sluggish trade growth are contributing factors to the global economic deceleration.

China’s Outlook

  • China, the world’s second-largest economy, is forecast to grow at 4.4% in 2025.
  • The country continues to face structural challenges and reduced export momentum, despite domestic stimulus efforts.

United States and European Union Projections

  • The United States economy is projected to grow at a modest 1%.
  • The European Union is also expected to see 1% growth, but key member nations like France, Germany, and Italy may witness sub-1% expansion, highlighting economic fragility across the region.

Japan’s Economic Performance

  • Japan is expected to grow at just 0.5%, reflecting slowing consumer demand, demographic pressures, and weak investment sentiment.

Policy Recommendations

  • UNCTAD emphasizes the need for sustained fiscal support and coordinated global action to tackle emerging economic challenges.
  • Developing economies are encouraged to invest in infrastructure, digitalization, and green transition to maintain momentum.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s Economy to Grow by 6.5% in 2025 As Per UNCTAD Forecast
India 6.5%
Reason Fastest-growing major economy; supported by government spending and RBI’s monetary stimulus.
China 4.4% – Slower growth due to structural issues and reduced export momentum despite domestic efforts.
Global Outlook Global economy risks recession due to geopolitical tensions, trade stagnation, and inflation.
UNCTAD’s Recommendation Urges continued fiscal support and investment in infrastructure, digital transformation, and green growth.

ICMR Full Form, Know About Its History, Significance and Main Functions

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is India’s most important organization for medical research. It was started in New Delhi and plays a big role in creating, supporting and promoting research in the field medicine and health. It is one of the oldest research organizations in the world and is respected both in India and internationally. ICMR works hard to solve the health problems of the country through science.

Full Form of ICMR

ICMR stands for Indian Council of Medical Research. It is India’s top organization for medical research. It was started in 1911 and works to find solutions for health problems in the country. ICMR supports research, trains scientists and helps improve public health in India.

History and Background of ICMR

In the year 1911, ICMR was first known as the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA). In the early days, its main aim was to help scientific research. After India gained independence, many changes were made in the country, including this organization. In 1949, IRFA was renamed the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The new name came with a wider role and more responsibilities in health and science.

Main Functions of ICMR

ICMR has 26 institutes across India, each working on different health topics like leprosy, tuberculosis cholera and more. It also has six regional centers that focus on diseases like AIDS and malaria. These centers work to solve health problems in different parts of the country.

ICMR is involved it:

  • Controlling diseases that spread easily (communicable diseases)
  • Helping with mother and child health
  • Working on fertility control
  • Fighting nutritional problems
  • Studying big health issues like cancer, diabetes, heart diseases and blindness
  • Improving health care strategies and safety at workplaces

Extra Work by ICMR

ICMR also supports research outside its own centers. It gives money and help to universities, colleges and private industries that are doing important medical research. It starts special projects with fixed goals and time limits to study important health topics. ICMR also does collaborative work with other research institutes, such as the institute of Pathology in Delhi.

Helping the Health Workforce

ICMR does not just focus on research. It also helps young people become skilled in medical science. It offers:

  • Research scholarships
  • Short-term training programs
  • Workshops and fellowships

This helps create more scientists and doctors in the field of medical research.

Important ICMR Institutes in India

Here are some well-known institutes under ICMR:

  • ICMR: NCDIR, Bengaluru
  • ICMR: NIREH, Bhopal
  • ICMR: NICPP, Noida
  • ICMR: NIMR, Delhi
  • ICMR: NIE, Chennai
  • ICMR: NIIH, Mumbai
  • ICMR: NIRRCH, Mumbai
  • ICMR: NIRT, Chennai
  • ICMR: NIIRNCD, Jodhpur

Which Country is Known as the Land of Roses?

Many countries around the world are known for special things like flowers, fruits or traditions. Some places grow beautiful flowers that are loved by people everywhere. One country is very famous for growing a special flower that smells and looks lovely. This country even has a nickname related to this flower. People visit every year to see these flowers and enjoy colorful festivals related to them.

Land of Roses

Bulgaria is known as the “Land of Roses” because it grows a large number of special roses, especially in the famous Rose Valley. These roses are used to make rose oil, which is used in perfumes and cosmetics. Bulgaria is one of the world’s top producers of this valuable oil.

Why is Bulgaria known as the Land of Roses?

Bulgaria is called the “Land of Roses” because it produces a lot of rose oil from special roses grown in the Rose Valley. Here are some reasons why Bulgaria earned the title of “Land of Roses”:

  • Special Rose Variety: Bulgaria grows a unique kind of rose called Rosa Damascena or Damask rose. This rose is known for its sweet smell and is perfect for making rose oil.
  • Rose Valley: The Rose Valley in Bulgaria has the right weather, sunshine and rich soil that help roses grow very well. This area has been growing roses for hundreds of years.
  • Rose Oil: The roses  grown in the Rose Valley are used to make rose oil, which is used in perfumes, cosmetics and medicines. This oil is very valuable and is sometimes called “liquid gold.”
  • World’s Top Producers: Bulgaria is one of the world’s biggest producers of rose oil. Many perfumes and beauty products across the globe use rose oil from Bulgaria.
  • Cultural and Celebrations: Roses are a big part of Bulgarian culture. Every year, people in the Rose Valley celebrate the Rose Festival, where there are parades, dances and rose-picking traditions.

An Overview of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a country in Southwest Europe, found on the eastern side of the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece and Turkey. The capital and largest city is Sofia. Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic with a beautiful and varied landscape, including mountains, plains and the Black Sea coast. Its history is rich and shaped by many old civilizations over time.

India Set to Become Fastest-Growing Major Aviation Market by 2026

India is poised to become the world’s fastest-growing large aviation market by 2026, according to Airports Council International (ACI). While China remains significantly ahead in overall aviation market size, India’s growth is being fuelled by increasing demand for air travel among its vast population, where per capita air travel remains low. The rapid pace of infrastructure development, policy reforms, and growing middle-class aspirations are contributing factors. Over the next three decades, India is projected to maintain its third-largest aviation market position globally but lead in terms of growth rate.

Key Highlights

India’s Growth to Surpass China (2026)

  • India’s air passenger traffic expected to grow 10.5% in 2026 vs China’s 8.9%.
  • In 2027: India – 10.3%, China – 7.2%.
  • India’s CAGR (2023–2027) pegged at 9.5%, higher than China’s 8.8%.

2025 Projection

  • China: 12% growth
  • India: 10.1%

Reasons for India’s Rapid Growth

  • Low trips per capita (India: 0.1 vs China: 0.5 in 2023) indicates untapped potential.
  • Rising middle class, improving aviation infrastructure, and expanding airline networks.
  • Strong policy support under schemes like UDAN and Gati Shakti.

Long-Term Outlook (Till 2053)

  • India’s CAGR (long-term): 5.5% – highest among large aviation markets.
  • China’s long-term CAGR: 3.8%.

Other fast-growing markets

  • Vietnam (4.6%), Philippines (4.5%), Saudi Arabia (4.5%), Thailand (4.3%), Qatar (4.2%), Egypt (4%), UAE (3.8%).

Per Capita Air Travel Comparison (2023),

  • US: 2.1 trips
  • China: 0.5 trips
  • India: 0.1 trips
  • ACI projects India to reach 0.4 trips per capita by 2043.

India’s Global Position by 2053

  • 3rd largest aviation market globally (after China and the US), but with fastest growth rate.

ACI’s View

  • India’s air travel demand is rising as the market is developing, and supply-side enhancements like new airports and improved connectivity support growth.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Set to Become Fastest-Growing Major Aviation Market by 2026
India’s air passenger growth (2026) Projected at 10.5%, higher than China’s 8.9%
India’s CAGR (2023–2027) 9.5%, compared to China’s 8.8%
2027 Growth Projections India: 10.3%, China: 7.2%
2025 Growth Rate China: 12%, India: 10.1%
Long-Term CAGR (till 2053) India: 5.5%, China: 3.8%
India’s Global Rank (2053) Expected to remain the 3rd largest aviation market
Per Capita Air Trips (2023) India: 0.1, China: 0.5, US: 2.1
Projected Per Capita Trips (2043) India expected to reach 0.4 trips per capita
Reason for India’s rapid growth Expanding infrastructure, low air travel penetration, growing middle class
Other fast-growing markets Vietnam (4.6%), Philippines (4.5%), Saudi Arabia (4.5%), Thailand (4.3%)

India’s Defence Production Target by 2029 To Achieve 3 Lakh Crore

India is significantly enhancing its defence production capabilities under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Speaking at the Defence Conclave 2025 – Force of the Future, Singh revealed that India aims to achieve ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, with an expected output of ₹1.60 lakh crore in 2025. This ambitious vision is anchored in the principles of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), reducing dependency on imports, promoting indigenous innovation, and boosting defence exports. The evolving nature of warfare, new-age security challenges, and global supply chain resilience are shaping India’s future-ready defence roadmap.

Key Highlights

Production & Export Targets

  • Defence production in 2025 is expected to exceed ₹1.60 lakh crore.
  • India targets ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029.

Defence exports target

  • ₹30,000 crore in 2025
  • ₹50,000 crore by 2029

Strategic Vision

  • India’s aim is to become self-reliant in defence manufacturing.
  • Goal to reduce dependency on imports and build a strong domestic industrial ecosystem.
  • Defence manufacturing to contribute to resilient global supply chains.

Innovation & Modernisation

  • Emphasis on indigenisation through the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
  • New battlefields identified: cyber, space, and narrative warfare.
  • Focus on holistic capacity building and continuous reforms.

Institutional Reforms

  • Corporatisation of Ordnance Factories (200+ years old) transformed them into profit-making units.
  • Government sees this as a landmark reform in the 21st century.

Budgetary Prioritisation

  • 75% of the defence procurement budget now reserved for domestic companies.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s Defence Production Target by 2029 To Achieve 3 Lakh Crore
Current defence production (2025) ₹1.60 lakh crore
Target defence production (2029) ₹3 lakh crore
Defence exports target (2025) ₹30,000 crore
Defence exports target (2029) ₹50,000 crore
Indigenised items (Forces) 509
Indigenised items (DPSUs) 5,012
Reserved defence budget (domestic) 75%

Agreement Signed As India to Host International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Headquarters

In a landmark move reinforcing India’s global leadership in wildlife conservation, the Government of India signed a formal agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) to host its headquarters and secretariat. This agreement signifies India’s commitment to protecting the world’s seven major big cat species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma. The IBCA, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2023 during the golden jubilee celebrations of Project Tiger, aims to foster global cooperation for conservation, research, and habitat preservation of these endangered species.

Key Highlights

Launch of IBCA

  • Launched by PM Modi in April 2023 during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.
  • Focus: Global conservation of seven big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar, and cheetah.

Headquarters Agreement

  • India signed an agreement with IBCA to host its HQ and secretariat.
  • Marks India’s role as permanent host of the alliance.

Funding Support by Government of India:

  • Rs 150 crore corpus for infrastructure, functioning, and recurring expenditure.
  • Timeframe: 2023-24 to 2028-29.

Legal Status

  • Became a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation in 2024.
  • Came into force after ratification by 5 countries:
  • India, Liberia, Eswatini, Somalia, and Nicaragua.

Provisions in the Agreement:

  • Covers visa facilitation, privileges, and immunities for IBCA staff and premises.
  • Establishes guidelines for operation, governance, and supplementary agreements.

Key Officials

  • P Kumaran, Secretary (East), MEA – signed on behalf of India.
  • S P Yadav, Director General, IBCA – signed on behalf of IBCA.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Agreement Signed As India to Host International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Headquarters
Organisation International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
Launched By PM Narendra Modi (April 2023)
Objective Global big cat conservation (7 species)
HQ Location India
HQ Agreement Signed  April 2025
Treaty-Based Members (First 5) India, Liberia, Eswatini, Somalia, Nicaragua
Funding by India ₹150 crore (2023–2029)

Which City of Malaysia is Known as the Garden City of Lights?

Malaysia is a country known for its modern cities, natural beauty and rich culture. Some cities are famous for their history, while others are known for their beauty and design. One special city in Malaysia is known by a unique name that shows its connection to nature and lights. This city stands out because of its greenery during the day and glowing charm at night.

An Overview of Malaysia

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia. It has two main parts – one part is on the Malay Peninsula, called Peninsula Malaysia and other part is on the island of Borneo, known as East Malaysia. It is ruled by a king and has a system of government. Kuala Lumpur is the capital city and Putrajaya is where the government offices are. Malaysia is known for its rich culture, growing economy and important location in Asia.

Garden City of Lights in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is known as the “Garden City of Lights.” This name comes from its beautiful green parks and gardens mixed with tall, brightly lit buildings. At night, the city shines with lights and has a lively nightlife, making it a perfect mix of nature and modern life.

Why is Kunala Lumpur Known as the Garden City of Ligths?

Kuala Lumpur is called the “Garden City of Lights” because it beautifully blends green parks with bright city lights and vibrant nightlife. Here are some reasons why kuala Lumpur earned the title of “Garden City of Lights”:

  • Green Spaces: Kuala Lumpur has many green areas like parks, gardens and even small forests. These give the city a fresh and beautiful look. Places like the Perdana Botonical Garden and KL Forest Eco Park are perfect examples.
  • Modern Lights and Buildings: The city has a bright and shining styles. At night, buildings like the Petronas  Twin Towers and other skyscrapers light up beautifully. This makes the city look glowing and modern.
  • Vibrant Nightlife: Kuala Lumpur is also known for its exciting nightlife. There are many cafes, restaurants, shopping malls and night markets that stay open late. All these lights and fun activities make the city lively and full of energy.

An Overview of Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, often called KL, is the capital city and a federal territory of Malaysia. It is also the largest city in the country. The city covers 243 square kilometers and has a population of around 2 million people.

KL is part of a bigger area called Greater Kuala Lumpur or the Klang Valley, which has about 8.8 million people. This region is growing fast in both population and economic progress.

Kuala Lumpur is famous for its mix of modern buildings and natural beauty, which is why it is called the Garden City of Lights.

Union Minister inaugurated Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU)

Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) at the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) in New Delhi. This initiative marks a significant advancement in India’s anti-doping efforts, aligning the country with international standards and reinforcing its commitment to fair, clean, and ethical sports practices.

The APMU will enable longitudinal tracking of athletes’ biological markers under the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) system, making it possible to detect doping patterns without directly identifying banned substances. This also positions India as a supportive leader for the Global South, offering expertise and resources to neighboring countries.

Key Points

Inauguration Details

  • Inaugurated by: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Labour & Employment
  • Date: 17 April 2025
  • Location: National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL), New Delhi
  • Attendees: Smt. Sujata Chaturvedi (Secretary, Sports), Shri Kunal (Joint Secretary), Prof. P. L. Sahu (CEO, NDTL), eminent scientists

What is the APMU (Athlete Passport Management Unit)?

  • Specialized unit to monitor and manage Athlete Biological Passports (ABP)
  • 17th APMU in the world; India’s first
  • Tracks an athlete’s biological markers over time (blood parameters, hormonal levels, etc.)
  • Aims to detect doping indirectly by identifying physiological anomalies

Significance for India & the Global South

  • Enhances India’s anti-doping capabilities as per WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) standards
  • Promotes regional collaboration—India to support neighboring countries with tools, training, and knowledge
  • APMU acts as a “beacon of support for the Global South”
  • Fosters solidarity and fairness in sports globally

Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) – Explained

  • Electronic profile of an athlete’s biological markers collected over time
  • Helps in detecting doping patterns without testing for specific banned substances
  • Parameters include blood values, steroidal levels, etc.
  • First conceptualized with scientific and medical input, refined by WADA

Objectives of APMU

  • Ensure fair play and sports integrity
  • Detect unethical practices without invasive testing
  • Raise awareness about anti-doping in schools, colleges, and rural areas
  • Encourage involvement of sports federations, educational institutions, and scientists in anti-doping education
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Union Minister inaugurated Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU)
Location National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL), New Delhi
Unit Name Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU)`
Purpose Manage & track Athlete Biological Passports
Global Significance 17th APMU globally, 1st in India
Monitoring System Tracks biological markers (blood, hormones, etc.)
In line with WADA Guidelines
Role for Global South Knowledge-sharing, capacity building
Long-Term Vision Promote clean, ethical sports and regional collaboration

Cap-and-Trade Scheme in Gujarat’s Surat Achieves 30% Pollution Cut

A groundbreaking study, published in issue of The Quarterly Journal of Economics, has revealed that Surat’s cap-and-trade programme for particulate matter emissions has delivered significant environmental and economic benefits. This programme, launched in Gujarat’s industrial city of Surat, is the world’s first emissions trading scheme (ETS) for particulate matter and India’s first pollution trading system. The findings, based on a randomized controlled trial, show a substantial reduction in pollution levels, improved regulatory compliance, and decreased abatement costs, highlighting the viability of market-based approaches in low-state-capacity regions like India.

Key Highlights

About the Programme

  • Location: Surat, Gujarat – major industrial hub.
  • Initiated by: Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) with Energy Policy Institute, University of Chicago.
  • Started in: September 2019.
  • First of its kind: Globally for particulate matter (PM); India’s first pollution market.

Mechanism: How the Cap-and-Trade Works

  • Plants install Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) for real-time emissions data.
  • Total emissions cap set for all 318 participating plants.
  • Plants receive or buy emission permits, allowing them to emit a specific quantity of PM.
  • 80% of permits were distributed free; 20% auctioned weekly.
  • Non-compliance leads to financial penalties.
  • Initial cap: 280 tonnes/month; later reduced to 170 tonnes/month.

Study Overview

  • Duration: Sept 2019 – Apr 2021 (includes COVID lockdown period).

Researchers

  • Michael Greenstone (University of Chicago)
  • Rohini Pande & Nicholas Ryan (Yale University)
  • Anant Sudarshan (University of Warwick)
  • Method: Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) with 317 plants
  • 162 plants – ETS group
  • 155 plants – Control group (command-and-control regulation)

Key Findings

  • Emission reduction: 20–30% decrease in PM emissions by ETS plants.

Compliance

  • 99% for ETS group
  • 66% for control group.
  • Cost-effectiveness: ETS plants spent 11% less on abatement.
  • Environmental law compliance: Significantly improved.
  • Cost-benefit ratio: Market-based approach’s benefits outweighed its costs by at least 25x.

Significance

  • Proof of concept: Shows pollution markets can work even in low-state-capacity countries like India.
  • Demonstrates the superiority of market mechanisms over traditional regulations.
  • Offers a scalable model for other cities and countries facing similar pollution challenges.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Cap-and-Trade Scheme in Gujarat’s Surat Achieves 30% Pollution Cut
Programme Name Surat Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)
Pollutant Type Particulate Matter (PM)
Launch Year 2019 (Pilot)
Implemented by GPCB + University of Chicago (EPIC)
Monitoring System Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS)
Emission Cap Initially 280 tonnes/month → Revised to 170 tonnes/month
Permit System 80% free allocation, 20% auctioned
Trial Type Randomised Controlled Trial
No. of Plants Participated 162 (ETS), 155 (Control Group)

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