Released by: United Nations at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF)Timeframe: Five years left to achieve SDG 2030 AgendaGlobal Warning: 35% of measurable SDG targets are stagnating or reversing Key Highlights: SDG 2: Zero Hunger SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities SDG 14: Life Below Water SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being SDG 12, 15, 16: Responsible Consumption, Life on Land, Peace & Justice Negative Trends Undermining SDG Progress Positive Developments Noted in the SDG Report 2025
India–Argentina 2nd Joint Working Group Meeting on Agriculture
Context: India and Argentina convened the 2nd Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting on Agriculture, reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors. The dialogue focused on enhancing collaboration through knowledge exchange, technological partnership, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. Key Highlights: Priority Areas for Cooperation Both countries agreed to collaborate in the following focus areas: India’s Agricultural Innovations Presented by Shri Muktanand Agrawal, Joint Secretary (Plant Protection), DA&FW: Importance BS
Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY)
Context: The Union Cabinet approved the “Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana”, or PMDDKY, to enhance agricultural productivity and increase adoption of sustainable agricultural practices across the country. PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming Indian agriculture. Announced in the Union Budget 2025–26, the scheme focuses on enhancing productivity and promoting sustainable farming. Financial Outlay and Duration Convergence of Schemes Objective of PM-DDKY To boost agriculture and allied sectors by: Key Features Implementation Mechanism Monitoring and Evaluation Expected Outcomes PIB & TH
EximPe Secures RBI’s In-Principle Approval for Payment Aggregator-Cross Border (PA-CB) Licence
Context: EximPe, a fintech startup specializing in cross-border payment solutions, has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a Payment Aggregator–Cross Border (PA-CB) licence, positioning itself to serve India’s growing digital exports and global trade flows. What Is a PA-CB Licence? About EximPe BS
Fitch Ratings: RBI’s Liquidity Infusion to Facilitate 100 bps Rate Cut in 2025
Context: Fitch Ratings has assessed the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI’s) recent liquidity management actions and confirmed that these efforts will support monetary policy transmission, particularly in view of the anticipated 100 basis points (bps) rate cut in 2025. Key Highlights: Massive Liquidity Injection in 2025 CRR Cut to Release Additional Funds Monetary Transmission Support Mint
RBI Reviews Unified Lending Interface (ULI) Rollout
Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Department of Financial Services (DFS) convened a meeting with banks and NBFCs to assess progress and address challenges in scaling up the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) a digital public infrastructure likened to UPI for loans. Purpose of ULI Adoption Challenges RBI Action Way Forward TET
SEBI Proposes Shift in Valuation of Gold, Silver ETFs to Domestic Spot Prices
Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has released a consultation paper proposing a revised valuation methodology for physical gold and silver held by mutual funds through Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). The aim is to bring greater transparency, consistency, and alignment with Indian market realities. Key Highlights of SEBI’s Proposal Current Practice Proposed Changes Impact on Asset Management Companies (AMCs) BS
Delhi to Develop India’s First Net-Zero E-Waste Eco Park
Context: The Delhi government has unveiled plans to build India’s first-of-its-kind net-zero emission e-waste eco park in Holambi Kalan, North Delhi, as part of a national push toward circular economy models. The facility will be modeled on global best practices and is expected to significantly reduce Delhi’s e-waste pollution burden. Key Highlights: Project Vision and Location India’s E-Waste Crisis Eco Park Features TH
Yakten Becomes India’s First Digital Nomad Village Under ‘Nomad Sikkim’ Initiative
Context: Yakten village in Pakyong district of Sikkim was officially declared India’s first digital nomad village. The recognition marks a milestone in transforming remote rural destinations into sustainable hubs for digital professionals. Key Highlights: TH
Second GE-F404 Engine for LCA Mk-1A Fighter Jets
Context: India has received the second GE-F404 engine from the United States for its indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A programme. The engine was delivered to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the manufacturer of the LCA fleet. About GE-F404 Engine & LCA Mk-1A TH
