Daily GK 15th August 2025

National News

• PM Modi Launches Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
  • On Independence Day 2025, PM Narendra Modi introduced the ₹1 lakh crore Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana.
  • The program targets the creation of 3.5 crore jobs by 2027.
  • Key benefits include:
    • ₹15,000 incentive for first-time employees.
    • ₹3,000 per month subsidy for employers hiring new workers.
  • Implementation is under the Ministry of Labour with monitoring through EPFO systems.
  • The scheme supports youth employment and reflects the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision for inclusive and sustainable growth.
• President Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day Eve Address
  • On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a national address.
  • She paid tribute to freedom fighters and lauded India’s transformation into a vibrant democracy.
  • Key highlights of the speech included:
    • Economic progress with 6.5% GDP growth.
    • Digital advancements, including the India-AI Mission.
    • Healthcare improvements via the Ayushman Bharat expansion.
    • National security initiatives, such as Operation Sindoor.
    • Women empowerment through the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.
  • She stressed inclusive development, self-reliance, good governance, defence readiness, and environmental sustainability.
• PM Modi Breaks Record of Consecutive Independence Day Speeches
  • PM Narendra Modi delivered his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech from the Red Fort in 2025.
  • With this, he surpassed Indira Gandhi’s 11 consecutive speeches record.
  • Modi now stands as the second-longest consecutive speaker, behind Jawaharlal Nehru’s 17 addresses.
  • His speeches continue to emphasize national growth, key policy measures, and people-centric initiatives.

Business News

• India Aiming to Set Global Standards in Data Quality
  • Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran announced India’s plans to become a global benchmark for data quality.
  • This comes amid data accuracy concerns in countries like the US and UK.
  • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is working on stronger data mechanisms.
  • An upcoming Service Production Index, modeled on the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), will further strengthen data robustness.
• Kargil Apricots Exported to Saudi Arabia
  • On India’s 79th Independence Day, Kargil apricots made their first international entry into Saudi Arabia.
  • The launch took place at Lulu Hypermarket, Riyadh, as part of India Utsav celebrations.
  • The event was led by Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan with support from APEDA.
  • This marks a key success under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.
  • The initiative boosts India-Saudi trade ties, empowers Ladakhi farmers, and enhances India’s agri-export brand globally.

Awards News

• 1,090 Personnel Honoured with Gallantry and Service Medals
  • On Independence Day 2025, the Government conferred 1,090 awards to personnel from Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services.
  • The distribution included:
    • 233 Gallantry Medals (GM)
      • 152 awarded to Jammu & Kashmir personnel.
      • 54 for Left Wing Extremism (LWE) zones.
      • 3 awarded in the North-East region.
    • 99 President’s Medals for Distinguished Service (PSM).
    • 758 Medals for Meritorious Service (MSM).
  • These honours recognize bravery, dedication, and exceptional service in national security and public safety.

Defense News

• Launch of ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra’
  • PM Narendra Modi launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a 10-year national security program.
  • The initiative focuses on indigenous technology for safeguarding critical establishments.
  • Core features include:
    • AI-driven surveillance systems.
    • Advanced cyber defence mechanisms.
    • Enhanced physical security measures.
  • Inspired by the Mahabharata’s Sudarshan Chakra, the mission reflects India’s self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in defence.
  • It integrates efforts from R&D agencies, defence PSUs, and private sector innovators to create a multi-layered proactive defence system.

Sports News

• Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 – Mascot and Logo Unveiled
  • The mascot for the Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) was revealed in Srinagar.
  • The chosen mascot is the Himalayan Kingfisher, symbolizing adventure, eco-sports, and Kashmir’s natural beauty.
  • The event will be held at Dal Lake from August 21–23, 2025.
  • Hosted by the J&K Sports Council with support from Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and Sports Authority of India (SAI).
  • Events will include:
    • Medal competitions – rowing, canoeing, kayaking.
    • Demo events – shikara race, dragon boat race.
  • Participation expected from 400+ athletes representing 36 states and UTs.
  • The festival aims to transform Dal Lake into a hub for water sports in India.

Important Days News

• 79th Independence Day of India (2025)
  • On August 15, 2025, India celebrated its 79th Independence Day.
  • The day commemorates freedom fighters’ sacrifices and India’s progress in unity and democracy.
  • Celebrations included:
    • Flag hoisting ceremonies across the country.
    • Prime Minister’s national address.
    • Cultural programs and community activities.
  • The 2025 theme emphasized:
    • Patriotism.
    • Inclusive growth.
    • India’s vision to become a $5 trillion economy by 2047.