Digital Payments
Paytm NRI UPI Service
Paytm’s NRI UPI service allows NRIs in 12 countries to use UPI with their international mobile numbers linked to NRE/NRO bank accounts. No Indian SIM required. Supports instant NPCI transfers and QR merchant payments without forex conversion.
Maritime
India Maritime Week β Vision Statement
India’s maritime vision is anchored in “Safety, Stability, and Self-Reliance” as highlighted during India Maritime Week in Mumbai. Key initiatives include structural reforms and Vadhavan Port development.
Environment
NBA’s First ABS Payout to Farmers
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) disbursed βΉ55 lakh to 18 Red Sanders cultivators in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. This is the first direct benefit-sharing (ABS) payout to farmers/cultivators under the Access and Benefit Sharing framework.
Governance
8th Central Pay Commission ToR
The 8th CPC will be a temporary body with Chairperson, one Part-Time Member, and Member-Secretary. Must submit recommendations within 18 months of constitution. Can give interim reports; implementation from a future reference date.
International
22nd ASEAN-India Summit
India reiterated support for ASEAN Unity, Centrality, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). India welcomed Timor Leste as 11th ASEAN member and advanced the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Geopolitics
U.S.βJapan Critical Minerals Agreement
U.S.βJapan agreements signed in Tokyo establish cooperation to secure critical and rare-earth mineral supply chains for electronics and advanced technology. Includes framework for mining and processing cooperation.
Environment
IUCN World Heritage Outlook β Indian Sites
Khangchendzonga National Park received a “good” rating. Manas and Sundarbans at “significant concern.” Climate change identified as biggest overall threat to World Heritage sites globally (43% affected).
Literature & Awards
Ursula K. Le Guin Prize 2025
Vajra Chandrasekera won the 2025 Ursula K. Le Guin Prize for Fiction (USD 25,000) for his novel ‘Rakesfall’. The prize honors imaginative fiction exploring power, freedom, equity, and humanity’s place.
Defence
INS Ikshak β Survey Vessel
‘Ikshak’ is the third indigenously built Survey Vessel (Large) for the Indian Navy. Built by GRSE, Kolkata. Reflects advances in indigenous shipbuilding and Navy’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar) push.
Space
Gaganyaan Mission Readiness
ISRO reports ~90% development complete for Gaganyaan. Key milestones: Human-rating the launch vehicle, integrating crew escape system, and ECLSS (Environmental Control and Life Support Systems). Uncrewed mission with Vyommitra to precede crewed flight.