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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.

India’s First Defence MoU with Slovakia Through JCBL Group

India and Slovakia have signed a significant defence Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering India’s domestic defence manufacturing capabilities. This agreement, finalized during Indian President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit to Slovakia in April 2025, marks the first of its kind between the two countries. Under the partnership, JCBL Group’s defence unit, Airbornics Defence & Space Pvt. Ltd. (ADSL), will collaborate with Slovakia to develop cutting-edge technologies for next-generation combat vehicles, strengthening India’s indigenous manufacturing initiative. The MoU emphasizes India’s ongoing efforts to reduce its dependency on foreign defence imports by enhancing self-reliance in defence production.

Key Highlights of the MoU

Partnership Between India and Slovakia

  • India and Slovakia have entered into their first defence MoU, focusing on co-developing advanced combat systems for light tanks.
  • The partnership is part of India’s broader strategic goal of increasing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and reducing foreign dependency.

Role of JCBL Group and ADSL

  • JCBL Group’s defence unit, ADSL, will lead the development of critical combat systems, including turrets, active protection systems, remote-controlled weapon systems, and human-machine interface modules.
  • ADSL specializes in aerospace systems, defence platforms, and armored vehicles, holding quality certifications such as ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100D.

Make-in-India Vision

  • The MoU aligns with the Indian government’s “Make-in-India” vision, which aims to foster indigenous manufacturing capabilities within the country.
  • All manufacturing under this partnership will be conducted in India, supporting the local economy and industry.

Technology Transfer and Co-Development

  • The partnership will facilitate technology transfer from Slovakia to India, enabling the development of combat platforms tailored to complex terrains and high-altitude environments.
  • The focus is on manufacturing light tank systems and related technologies that meet India’s defence requirements.

Potential for Future Defence Exports

  • The collaboration may open doors for future defence exports by combining Slovakia’s technological expertise with India’s manufacturing capabilities.
  • India’s growing defence manufacturing sector is poised to become an important player in global defence markets.

JCBL Group’s Expertise

  • Founded in 1989, JCBL Group has expanded its operations across various sectors, including mobility solutions, defence, railway components, agriculture, and finance.
  • The group’s current valuation is $206.02 million, and it has previously partnered with global brands like Daimler, Toyota, and Harley-Davidson.
Why in the news? India’s First Defence MoU with Slovakia Through JCBL Group
Signing Date April 2025, during Indian President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit to Slovakia
Key Partner JCBL Group’s defence unit, Airbornics Defence & Space Pvt. Ltd. (ADSL)
Focus of Collaboration Co-development of technologies for light tanks, including turrets, protection systems, and weapon systems
Defence MoU Between India and Slovakia
Manufacturing Location All manufacturing will be conducted in India
Technology Transfer Slovakia will transfer advanced combat vehicle technologies to India
Strategic Significance Strengthening India’s defence manufacturing capacity and international partnerships

New York City’s Declaration of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day

In a historic move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams officially proclaimed April 14, 2025, as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day, recognizing the global legacy of the renowned social reformer and architect of the Indian Constitution. This proclamation comes as part of the commemoration of Dr. Ambedkar’s 135th birth anniversary, marking a significant step in honoring his contributions to human rights, justice, and equality. The announcement was made at a special event organized at the United Nations headquarters in New York, where Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale delivered the keynote address. The celebration was attended by dignitaries and community leaders, reflecting the universal relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals.

Key Highlights of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day Proclamation

Proclamation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day

  • April 14, 2025, was officially proclaimed as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day by the Mayor of New York, Eric Adams.
  • The declaration acknowledges Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions to the fight for social justice, human rights, and equality.

Significance of the Day

  • The day honors the legacy of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution.
  • His advocacy for the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities continues to inspire global movements for equality and justice.

Keynote Address by Ramdas Athawale

  • Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, delivered the keynote address during the event held at the UN Headquarters.
  • Athawale praised Ambedkar’s contribution to the global fight for equity, representation, and human rights, emphasizing their relevance in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Ambedkar’s Global Legacy

  • Ambedkar’s ideals transcend borders, resonating strongly in the halls of the United Nations and New York—a city deeply rooted in its immigrant heritage and diversity.
  • His fight for the rights of the oppressed and marginalized finds a parallel in the diversity of New York, which thrives on inclusion and opportunity for all.

Symbolic Recognition

  • The proclamation serves as a moral declaration, positioning New York as a global leader in advocating for human rights and justice.
  • The declaration goes beyond symbolism, recognizing Ambedkar’s role as a transformative figure who fought for equality, dignity, and democracy for all marginalized communities.

Ambedkar’s Legacy at Columbia University

  • Before the UN event, Ramdas Athawale paid homage at the statue of Dr. Ambedkar at Columbia University, where Ambedkar earned his PhD in Economics in 1927.
  • The statue at the university serves as a symbol of knowledge and Ambedkar’s relentless pursuit of education despite the adversities of caste and colonial oppression.
Summary/Static Key Details
Why in the news? New York City’s Declaration of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day
Proclamation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day April 14, 2025, officially recognized as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day by New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
Event Location United Nations Headquarters, New York
Keynote Speaker Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment
Ambedkar’s Role Architect of the Indian Constitution, advocate for Dalits and marginalized communities
Ambedkar’s Education Earned PhD in Economics from Columbia University in 1927.

SBI Card and Tata Digital Launch Co-branded Tata Neu SBI Card

SBI Card, the largest pure-play credit card issuer in India, has partnered with Tata Digital to launch a co-branded credit card aimed at enhancing customer experiences through rewards and exclusive benefits. The Tata Neu SBI Card is available in two variants – the Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card and the Tata Neu Plus SBI Card. Both cards offer a premium shopping experience with significant rewards, lounge access, and various other lifestyle benefits, making it a convenient and rewarding option for consumers.

Key Features of the Tata Neu SBI Card

Variants

  • Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card
  • Tata Neu Plus SBI Card

Reward System

  • Earn up to 10% rewards (NeuCoins) on purchases made at Tata Neu and Tata partner brands with the Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card.
  • Earn up to 7% rewards (NeuCoins) on purchases made at Tata Neu and Tata partner brands with the Tata Neu Plus SBI Card.
  • NeuCoins can be redeemed via the Tata Neu app for a wide range of lifestyle categories like groceries, fashion, and travel.

Additional Benefits

  • Complimentary access to domestic and international airport lounges for Tata Neu Infinity SBI Cardholders.

Spend-based annual fee reversal,

  • For Tata Neu Plus SBI Card: Reversal after an annual spend of Rs 1,00,000.
  • For Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card: Reversal after an annual spend of Rs 3,00,000.
  • Up to 5% back on bill payments made via the Tata Neu platform.
  • 1.5% cashback on UPI transactions with the RuPay variant.

Joining and Annual Fee

  • Tata Neu Plus SBI Card: Rs 499 (plus taxes).
  • Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card: Rs 1,499 (plus taxes).

Exclusive Partner Brands

  • The cards work with brands like Air India, Big Basket, Croma, Taj Hotels, Tanishq, Titan, Westside, and more, offering discounts and rewards.

Application Process

  • Apply digitally via the SBI Card SPRINT platform or offline at select Croma stores.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? SBI Card and Tata Digital Launch Co-branded Tata Neu SBI Card
Card Variants Tata Neu Plus SBI Card, Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card
Reward System Up to 10% NeuCoins on Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card, up to 7% on Tata Neu Plus SBI Card
Reward Redemption NeuCoins can be redeemed on Tata Neu app for groceries, travel, fashion, etc.
Additional Benefits Complimentary lounge access, spend-based annual fee reversal, up to 5% back on bill payments
Joining & Annual Fee Tata Neu Plus SBI Card: Rs 499, Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card: Rs 1499
Partner Brands Air India, Big Basket, Tata CLiQ, Taj Hotels, Titan, Tanishq, Croma, Westside, and more
Application Process Apply via SBI Card SPRINT or offline at select Croma stores
Annual Fee Reversal Tata Neu Plus SBI Card: Rs 1,00,000 spend, Tata Neu Infinity SBI Card: Rs 3,00,000 spend

World Liver Day 2025, Date, Theme, Significance

World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about liver health, disease prevention, and the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle. The theme for 2025 – “Food is Medicine” – emphasizes the vital role of nutrition in protecting and healing the liver. Since the liver is responsible for detoxification, digestion, and energy storage, a balanced diet and conscious lifestyle changes can significantly enhance its performance and resilience. This day serves as a reminder that small, informed choices in our daily food intake can become powerful tools in the fight against liver diseases.\

Introduction

  • World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to spread awareness about liver-related diseases and promote liver health globally.
  • The day serves as a reminder that the liver is a vital organ responsible for metabolism, detoxification, immunity, and nutrient processing.
  • In 2025, the theme “Food is Medicine” highlights how adopting a healthy and balanced diet can prevent liver disorders and promote long-term well-being.

Significance of the Liver

  • The liver is the largest internal organ and one of the most critical for survival.
  • Located in the upper right abdomen, it performs over 500 essential functions such as breaking down toxins, aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar, and producing essential proteins.
  • A healthy liver maintains hormonal balance, filters harmful substances, and supports immunity—making its care crucial.

Key Functions of the Liver

Metabolism of nutrients

  • The liver converts carbohydrates into glucose and stores excess glucose as glycogen.
  • It also breaks down fats into usable energy and converts amino acids for protein synthesis.

Detoxification

  • The liver filters and neutralizes toxins from food, alcohol, drugs, and environmental pollutants.
  • These toxins are then eliminated from the body through bile or urine.

Bile production

  • The liver produces bile, a fluid essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.

Immune regulation and storage

  • It stores important vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals like iron and copper.
  • It also plays a key role in fighting infections by producing immune factors.

2025 Theme Explained: “Food is Medicine”

  • This year’s theme emphasizes the role of nutrition in preventing and reversing liver damage.
  • Poor dietary habits—such as excess intake of processed foods, sugar, saturated fats, and alcohol—are major contributors to liver diseases like fatty liver and cirrhosis.
  • A diet rich in fiber, antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based foods can reduce inflammation, improve liver enzyme levels, and support regeneration.
  • The theme also encourages public policy changes, such as promoting healthy school meals, food labeling, and awareness campaigns.

Common Liver Diseases

Fatty Liver Disease

  • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is caused by obesity, diabetes, and poor diet.
  • Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) results from excessive alcohol intake.
  • Both can progress to liver inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis if untreated.

Hepatitis (Types B and C)

  • These are viral infections that lead to chronic liver inflammation and damage.
  • They are transmitted through infected blood or body fluids and can cause liver failure or cancer.

Liver Cirrhosis

  • This is a late-stage liver disease marked by scarring (fibrosis) due to long-term damage.
  • Common causes include chronic hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and autoimmune disorders.

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

  • Often develops from cirrhosis or long-term hepatitis infections.
  • Early symptoms may be silent; later signs include pain, weight loss, and jaundice.

Acute and Chronic Liver Failure

  • Caused by viral infections, drug overdoses (like paracetamol), or genetic conditions.
  • It leads to loss of liver function, confusion, and bleeding issues—requiring urgent medical care or transplant.

Risk Factors for Liver Disease

  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption
  • Unhealthy Diet and Obesity
  • Hepatitis Infections
  • Environmental Toxins and Drugs
  • Genetic and Autoimmune Conditions

Tips for a Healthy Liver

  • Follow a nutritious diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Get vaccinated
  • Stay hydrated and get liver function tests
  • Avoid self-medication

What is the Full Form of VDRL? Know Everything About It

The VDRL test, also known as the Veneral Disease Research Laboratory test, is a simple blood test used to check for syphilis, a type of sexually transmitted infection. It does not find the bacteria directly but looks for special proteins called antibodies made by the body. This test helps doctors find the infection early, even if there are no symptoms and start proper treatment.

Full Form of VDRL

The full form of VDRL is Veneral Disease Research Laboratory. It is a simple blood test used to check if a person has syphilis, which is a type of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Syphilis is caused by a harmful bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This bacterium can enter the body through the mouth or private parts and cause infection.

What Does the VDRL Test Do?

The VDRL test does not directly find the bacteria that cause syphilis. Instead, it checks if your body has made antibodies to fight the infection. These antibodies are made when the body’s cells are damaged by the bacteria. If these antibodies are present in your blood, it may mean you have syphilis.

When is the VDRL Test Needed?

Doctors may advise a VDRL test if they think someone might have syphilis. Some early signs of syphilis include:

  • A small, painless sore
  • Swollen glands near the sore
  • A rash that does not

Even without symptoms, doctors might still suggest the test. For example, pregnant women are often tested as a part of regular checkups. Also, if someone has another STI like gonorrhea, or if they have HIV or had unsafe sex, doctors may recommend this test.

How is the VDRL Test Done?

To do the VDRL test:

  • A small amount of blood is taken from your arm or hand.
  • The blood is sent to a lab to check for syphilis antibodies.
  • Usually, you don’t need to fast or stop any medicines before the test.

In some serious cases, if the doctor thinks the infection may have spread to your brain, they might also test your spinal fluid.

Understanding the VDRL Test Results

  • Negative Result: No antibodies found. You likely don’t have syphilis.
  • Positive Result: Antibodies found. You might have syphilis, but other tests are needed to confirm.

One important test used after a positive VDRL result is called the Treponemal test, which checks for specific antibodies made against the bacteria Treponema pallidum.

Significance of VDRL Test

Syphilis can be curd with proper treatment. But if left untreated, it can spread in the body and harm important organs. The VDRL test helps doctors find syphilis early so treatment can start quickly.

In FY25 Engineering, Textile, and Apparel Exports Witness Over 6% Growth

India’s exports in the engineering, textile, and apparel sectors have shown a strong performance in the financial year 2024–2025. According to data released by the Commerce Ministry, each of these sectors recorded over 6% growth compared to the previous fiscal year. This growth comes amid evolving global trade patterns and shifting geopolitical relationships, especially between the U.S. and China, which have opened up new opportunities and posed new challenges for Indian exporters.

Key Highlights

Engineering Goods Exports

  • Registered a 6.74% year-on-year growth in FY25.
  • Export value rose from $109.3 billion (FY24) to $116.67 billion (FY25).

Concerns

  • Additional U.S. tariffs on iron, steel, and auto components may impact future growth.
  • Possible $4–5 billion annual loss in shipments to the U.S.
  • Increased competition from China in alternative markets as it redirects exports due to trade tensions with the U.S.

Textile and Apparel Exports

  • Grew 6.32% in FY25 compared to FY24.
  • Apparel exports were the key driver, rising by 10.03%.
  • The industry sees a strategic opening as the U.S. looks to diversify sourcing away from China.

Market Impact and Challenges

  • March 2024: Indian engineering goods exports dipped 4% YoY to $10.82 billion, down from $11.27 billion in March 2023, due to global trade instability.
  • Global trade war impacts are already visible, with rising trade barriers and shifting supply chains.
  • Exporters urge for policy support and diversification to withstand global competition.

Opportunities

  • U.S.–China trade war opens space for India to become a trusted alternative supplier.
  • With effective trade diplomacy and incentives, India can expand its footprint in global markets.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? In FY25 Engineering, Textile, and Apparel Exports Witness Over 6% Growth
Engineering Goods  – Grew by 6.74% YoY: $109.3B (FY24) → $116.67B (FY25)
– Faces U.S. tariff risks on iron, steel, and auto parts
– Potential $4–5B loss in exports to U.S.
– China competition rising due to trade diversions
Textile & Apparel – Grew by 6.32% YoY
– Apparel exports up 10.03%, driving overall growth
– India gains from U.S. shifting away from China
– Industry sees long-term opportunity despite global tensions

Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Approved Draft SC Sub-Categorisation Ordinance

In a major step towards equitable distribution of reservation benefits among Scheduled Castes (SCs), the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved a draft ordinance to implement sub-categorisation of SCs in the state. The move is rooted in the principle of “reservation within reservation”, aimed at distributing quota benefits based on degree of backwardness among SC sub-castes. This ordinance follows the Supreme Court’s allowance for states to sub-classify SCs and is based on the recommendations of a commission headed by retired IAS officer Rajeev Ranjan Mishra.

Key Highlights of the Ordinance

  • Approved By: Andhra Pradesh Cabinet on April 15, 2025
  • Purpose: To implement sub-categorisation of SCs for fairer reservation distribution
  • Initiated by: TDP-led NDA government
  • Legal Backing: Enabled after a Supreme Court verdict allowed such state-level classification
  • Commission Setup: November 15, 2024, under Rajeev Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS)
  • Public Consultations: Conducted across 13 (now 26) districts of AP
  • Legislative Approval: Unanimously adopted in both the Legislative Council and Assembly

Purpose of SC Sub-Categorisation

  • To provide reservation benefits based on numerical strength, social and economic condition of each SC sub-caste.
  • Address concerns of underrepresentation of some communities (e.g. Madigas) within the SC quota.
  • Counter the alleged dominance of certain SC groups (e.g. Malas) in availing reservation benefits.
  • Backed by the Madiga Reservation Porata Samithi (MRPS) and other backward class advocacy groups.

Rajeev Ranjan Mishra Commission’s Recommendations

  • The commission proposed dividing the 59 Scheduled Castes into three categories based on their relative backwardness,

Group 1: Most Backward (Relli sub-group)

  • Includes sub-castes like: Bavuri, Chachati, Chandala, Dandasi, Dom, Ghasi, Godagali, Mehtar, Paki, Pamidi, Relli, Sapru
  • Quota Allocation: 1.0%

Group 2: Backward (Madiga sub-groups)

  • Includes:Arundhatiya, Bindala, Chamar, Chambhar, Dakkal, Dhor, Godari, Gosangi, Jaggali, Jambuvulu, Kolupulavandlu, Madiga, Madiga Dasu, Mang, Mang Garodi, Matangi, Samagara, Sindholu
  • Quota Allocation: 6.5%

Group 3: Less Backward (Mala sub-groups)

  • Includes: Adi Dravida, Anamuk, Arayamala, Arvamala, Bariki, Byagara, Chalavadi, Yellamalavar, Holeya, Holeya Dasari, Madasi Kuruva, Mahar, Mala, Mala Dasari, Mala Dasu, Mala Hannai, Mala Jangam, Mala Masti, Mala Sale, Mala Sanyasi, Manne, Mundala, Samban, Yatala, Valluvan, Adi Andhra, Masti, Mitta Ayyalavar, Panchama
  • Quota Allocation: 7.5%

Expected Benefits

  • Ensures equitable distribution of reservation benefits
  • Promotes inclusive development across all SC sub-castes

Provides better representation in,

  • Education
  • Government Jobs
  • Local Bodies
  • Politics and Civil Society
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Approved Draft SC Sub-Categorisation Ordinance
Ordinance Approved On April 15, 2025
Approved By Andhra Pradesh Cabinet
Commission Head Rajeev Ranjan Mishra (Retd. IAS)
Sub-Categorisation Groups Group 1 (Most Backward), Group 2 (Backward), Group 3 (Less Backward)
Number of SC Sub-Castes 59
Group 1 (Relli Sub-Group) 12 Sub-Castes, 1.0% Reservation
Group 2 (Madiga Sub-Groups) 18 Sub-Castes, 6.5% Reservation
Group 3 (Mala Sub-Groups) 29 Sub-Castes, 7.5% Reservation
Legal Basis SC Verdict allowing state-level SC classification
Main Objective Ensure fair and inclusive representation among all SCs

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the Land of Diversity?

Uttar Pradesh is a large and culturally rich state in India. It is home to many districts that are known for their unique traditions, festivals and lifestyles. One special district stands out because people from different religions, languages and backgrounds live together in peace. This district is often called the “City of Diversity” due to its colorful culture, shared celebrations and unity among its people.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India and the most populated state in the country. It has over 241 million, which is about 16.5% of India’s population. It is bordered by nine Indian states and Nepal. Uttar Pradesh is the fourth-largest state by area and has 75 districts. Lucknow is the capital, while Prayagraj is the judicial capital of the state.

Number of Districts in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts, the highest number in India. These districts are grouped into 18 administrative divisions, each with its own main center or headquarters for better management and governance.

Land of Diversity

Auraiya is a district in the south-western part of Uttar Pradesh. It is often called the ”Land of Diversity’‘ because of its different types of land, people, culture, economy and history. It became a separate district on September 17, 1997, when two tehsils – Auraiya and Bidhuna – were separated from Etawah district. Today, it is part of the Kanpur district.

Why is Auraiya Known as the City of Diversity?

Auraiya is called the Land of Diversity because it has many different features in one place. It has varied geography, as it lies near districts like Etawah, Kanpur Dehat and Jalaun and even touches Madhya Pradesh. People from different religions and culture live here, creating a rich mix of traditions. The economy is also diverse, with farming, industries and trade. Its long history, historical places and well-organized administration add to its uniqueness, making Auraiya truly diverse and special.

An Overview of Auraiya

Auraiya is a district in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was made a separate district on September 17, 1997, after being separated from Etawah district. Auraiya is in the south-western part of the state and comes under the Kanpur district. The main city and administrative center of the district is Auraiya City. The district is mainly known for farming and small industries, especially in the towns of Auraiya and Dibiyapur.

ISRO-NASA NISAR Mission Likely to Launch in June 2025

The much-anticipated NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite mission a unique collaborative project between India’s ISRO and NASA is now expected to be launched in June 2025. This milestone comes after several delays, particularly during the assembly and testing stages. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan updated Union Science Minister Jitendra Singh on the upcoming space initiatives, including NISAR and other key missions planned for May. NISAR is designed to revolutionize Earth observation by offering highly detailed, repetitive insights into dynamic environmental processes.

Key Highlights of the NISAR Mission

  • Mission Name: NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar)
  • Launch Window: Expected in June 2025
  • Launch Vehicle: GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle)
  • Mission Type: Earth Observation using dual-frequency SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar)
  • Agencies Involved: NASA and ISRO

Significance

  • First major collaborative Earth science mission between NASA and ISRO.
  • Aimed at producing extremely precise, high-resolution observations of Earth’s surface.

Scientific Objectives of NISAR

Monitor dynamic processes such as,

  • Glacier retreat and ice sheet melting.
  • Vegetation and forest cover changes.
  • Earthquakes, volcanoes, and ground deformation.
  • Detect surface changes as small as 1 cm, enabling better tracking of natural hazards and climate-related shifts.
  • Improve models related to climate change, ecosystem disturbances, and disaster response.

Reasons for Delay

  • Originally scheduled for launch in early 2024.
  • One key issue was identified with the 12-metre antenna, which required improvement and replacement.
  • The satellite, partially assembled in the United States, was shipped to Bengaluru in 2023 for final testing.
  • Due to the antenna issue, it was shipped back to the US for upgrades, delaying the timeline.

Other Upcoming ISRO Missions (May 2025)

EOS-09 Launch

  • Type: Earth Observation Satellite.
  • Capability: High-resolution imaging during both day and night.

TV-D2 (Test Vehicle D2) Mission

  • Linked to Gaganyaan, India’s first human spaceflight mission.
  • Purpose: Test the Crew Escape System under abort conditions.

Axiom-4 Mission

  • Involves Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, flying to the International Space Station.
  • Shukla will become the second Indian in space, after Rakesh Sharma in 1984.
  • Mission by private US-based company Axiom Space.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? ISRO-NASA NISAR Mission Likely to Launch in June 2025
Mission Name NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar)
Launch Date Expected in June 2025
Launch Vehicle GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle)
Main Purpose Earth observation with high precision (1 cm accuracy)
Agencies Involved NASA (USA) & ISRO (India)
Key Focus Areas Climate change, glacier movements, vegetation, earthquakes
Reason for Delay Issues with 12m antenna; sent back to US for upgrades

PM Modi’s Visit to Saudi Arabia (April 22–23, 2025) What to Expect?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Saudi Arabia on April 22–23, 2025, marking his first trip to the Kingdom during his third term in office. The visit is expected to significantly boost India-Saudi Arabia relations across sectors like trade, energy, defence, and strategic connectivity. Modi will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah. The visit comes at a crucial time when West Asia is dealing with geopolitical instability, and both nations aim to strengthen cooperation through multilateral initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEEC).

Key Focus Areas of the Visit

1. Strategic Dialogue and Diplomacy

  • Modi to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah.
  • Visit comes ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2025.
  • Saudi Arabia is playing a diplomatic role in US-Russia-Ukraine talks.
  • India keen to discuss regional stability, especially in light of Houthi disruptions in the Red Sea.

2. IMEEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor)

  • Reviving and reviewing progress on IMEEC, which aims to connect India to Europe via the Middle East.
  • IMEEC was affected by Hamas’s attacks on Israel in October 2023 and the Gaza conflict.
  • Saudi Arabia is a crucial partner in this corridor project.
  • India sees this as a counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

3. Energy Cooperation

  • Saudi Arabia is India’s third-largest supplier of crude oil and LPG.

2023–24 data

  • Crude Oil: 33.35 MMT, accounting for 14.3% of India’s crude imports.
  • LPG: 18.2% of India’s total LPG imports.
  • India seeks better pricing and long-term energy security through this engagement.

4. Trade and Investment

Bilateral trade in 2023–24

  • Total: USD 42.98 billion
  • Indian exports: USD 11.56 billion
  • Imports (mainly oil): USD 31.42 billion
  • India: 2nd largest trading partner of Saudi Arabia.
  • Saudi Arabia: 5th largest trading partner of India.

Investment trends

  • Indian investments in Saudi Arabia: ~USD 3 billion (as of August 2023).
  • Saudi investments in India: ~USD 10 billion.

5. Defence and Security Cooperation

  • Growing collaboration in defence industries, naval cooperation, and training.

Key milestone

  • In February 2024, MoS (Defence) Ajay Bhatt visited Riyadh for the World Defence Show—first such visit in 12+ years.
  • Naval exercise ‘Al Mohed Al Hindi’: Two editions held so far.
  • Emphasis on maritime security and capacity building.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? PM Modi’s Visit to Saudi Arabia (April 22–23, 2025) What to Expect?
Visit Dates April 22–23, 2025
Host Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
Location Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Key Focus Areas Trade, Energy, Defence, IMEEC, Regional Stability
Trade Volume (2023–24) USD 42.98 billion
Indian Exports USD 11.56 billion
Indian Imports USD 31.42 billion (mostly crude oil & LPG)
LPG Imports from Saudi 18.2% of India’s LPG imports
SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_15.1
SBI Clerk Mains GA Capsule 2025: Latest Updates & Important Topics PDF_16.1

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