Source: TH Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the South India Natural Farming Summit 2025 in Coimbatore, an event organised by farmers’ associations to promote the ideals of noted organic farming scientist G. Nammalvar. He outlined India’s vision to emerge as a global centre for natural farming, backed by science, traditional wisdom, and strong government support. Key Highlights: India’s Vision for Natural Farming Role of Science, Tradition & Youth Progress Under National Mission on Natural Farming (NMSF) Strengthening FPOs & Promoting Minor Millets Support Through Government Schemes Advocacy for Multi-Crop Agriculture
Groundwater Contamination
Source: TH Context: India is facing a deepening groundwater contamination crisis that threatens public health, agriculture, economic productivity, and long-term human capital. The Annual Groundwater Quality Report 2024 shows widespread contamination across hundreds of districts, exposing millions of people to toxic substances such as uranium, fluoride, nitrate, and arsenic. This is not only an environmental issue but a major economic and developmental challenge. Scale of the Crisis alarming contamination levels enormous economic losses Human Capital at Risk severe health impacts deepening inequality Impact on Agriculture and Exports declining soil and crop health threats to export markets unsustainable water extraction Way Forward Nationwide, real-time groundwater monitoring Strict enforcement on industrial effluents and sewage Sustainable agricultural reforms Decentralised treatment and purification Farmer awareness and export-readiness Manage over-extraction
Daily Current Affairs (DCA) 20 November, 2025
Daily Current Affairs Quiz20 November, 2025 National Affairs 1. Government May Widen PMJJBY & PMSBY Coverage Source: Mint Context: The Centre is considering raising the insurance cover under the flagship schemes: Proposed Changes Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) Eligibility: Coverage: Objective: Key Features: Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) Eligibility: Coverage: Objective: Key Features: 2. YUVA AI for ALL – National AI Literacy Initiative Source: PIB Context: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), under the IndiaAI Mission, has launched ‘YUVA AI for ALL’, a first-of-its-kind free course that introduces the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to all Indians, especially the youth. Launched By: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), under the IndiaAI Mission Course Overview: Objectives: Key Features / Modules: Significance: 3. BIRSA 101 Gene Therapy Source: PIB Launch: India’s first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)Developed By: CSIR–Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (IGIB)Industry Partner: Serum Institute of India (SIIPL) – for technology transfer, scale-up, and affordable deploymentNamed After: Birsa Munda, on his 150th birth anniversary Objective How BIRSA 101 Works Key Features 4. Gujarat Hosts a Wild Tiger in Ratanmahal Sanctuary Context: For the first time in decades, a wild tiger has permanently settled in Gujarat’s Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary, staying for nine continuous months. Gujarat now hosts all three big cats—Asiatic lion, Indian leopard, and tiger—within a shared natural landscape, a unique ecological milestone in India. About Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary Location: History: Key Ecological Features 5. ISRO Tests Bootstrap Mode Start on CE20 Cryogenic Engine Source: ET Context: ISRO has successfully demonstrated the bootstrap mode start of the CE20 cryogenic engine—which powers the upper stage of the LVM3 rocket—marking a major step toward enhancing mission flexibility and multiple-restart capability for future launches. Key Details of the Test: Test Conducted Under Vacuum What Is Bootstrap Mode Start? Why This Matters Enables Multiple In-Flight Restarts Future missions—especially multi-orbit deployments and complex space manoeuvres—require the CE20 engine to restart multiple times. Reduces Weight and Increases Payload Capacity Key for Advanced Missions Banking/Finance 1. IRDAI’s Bima Gram API Source: TH Context: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced the Bima Gram API to digitally strengthen insurance penetration in rural India. The pilot phase has been successfully completed. Key Features of Bima Gram API Digital Validation of Rural Policies Reduction of Manual Processes Enhanced Speed & Reporting Efficiency Creation of Baseline Datasets 2. NBFCs Seek Reforms in Debt Recovery & Funding Framework Source: ET Context: During the pre-Budget meeting with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, representatives of the Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) sector, especially NBFCs, presented key demands aimed at improving liquidity, recovery efficiency, and deposit mobilisation. Key Demands Made by NBFCs Dedicated Refinance Window for NBFCs Amendments to SARFAESI Act Current Issue Proposal Remove TDS on Non-Individual Borrowers Education Loan Deduction Benefit for NBFCs 3. Bima Sugam Context: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) is preparing to launch the Bima Sugam digital marketplace in December 2025 to enhance transparency and efficiency in insurance services. About Bima Sugam Key Features Significance Other Digital Interventions National Health Claims Exchange (NHCX) Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA ID) Cashless Everywhere Initiative (2024) 4. Sebi Considers Settlement Netting for FPIs & Mutual Fund Regulation Overhaul Source: BS Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said the regulator is examining whether foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) can be allowed to net their settlements for trades executed within the same day, a move that would mark a major shift from the current trade-wise settlement regime. Settlement Netting for FPIs Current Regime Proposed Change Related Reforms 5. Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS) Source: BL Context: Key Changes Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS) Types of CGAS Deposits Deposit Account-A Deposit Account-B (Term Deposit) Capital Gain Term Deposit Account Features 6. RBI Adds Seven Unauthorised Forex Platforms to Alert List Source: FE Context: Recent Additions RBI has added seven new entities/platforms: With this addition, the total number of unauthorised forex entities on RBI’s alert list has risen to 95. Forex Trading Platforms Forex (Foreign Exchange) trading platforms are software applications that allow individuals and institutional investors to buy, sell, and manage currencies in the global foreign exchange market. Purpose: Electronic Trading Platforms (ETPs) Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999 7. Axis Bank Launches Curated Corporate Salary Programme for Start‑up Employees Source: BL Context: Features of the Programme 8. RBI’s MuleHunter.ai Detects Fraudulent Mule Accounts in Real-Time Context: Mule Account A mule account is a bank account used to receive, transfer, or withdraw money on behalf of someone else, often for illegal or fraudulent activities.The person operating the account—called a money mule—may knowingly or unknowingly help criminals move illicit funds. Related RBIH Initiatives Significance Agriculture 1. India Will Become Hub of Natural Farming: PM Modi Source: TH Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the South India Natural Farming Summit 2025 in Coimbatore, an event organised by farmers’ associations to promote the ideals of noted organic farming scientist G. Nammalvar. He outlined India’s vision to emerge as a global centre for natural farming, backed by science, traditional wisdom, and strong government support. Key Highlights: India’s Vision for Natural Farming Role of Science, Tradition & Youth Progress Under National Mission on Natural Farming (NMSF) Strengthening FPOs & Promoting Minor Millets Support Through Government Schemes Advocacy for Multi-Crop Agriculture 2. Groundwater Contamination Source: TH Context: India is facing a deepening groundwater contamination crisis that threatens public health, agriculture, economic productivity, and long-term human capital. The Annual Groundwater Quality Report 2024 shows widespread contamination across hundreds of districts, exposing millions of people to toxic substances such as uranium, fluoride, nitrate, and arsenic. This is not only an environmental issue but a major economic and developmental challenge. Scale of the Crisis alarming contamination levels enormous economic losses Human Capital at Risk severe health impacts deepening inequality Impact on Agriculture and Exports declining soil and crop health threats to export markets unsustainable water extraction Way Forward Nationwide, real-time groundwater monitoring
Rajasthan Launches Chatbot-Based Veterinary Service
Context: The Rajasthan Animal Husbandry Department has introduced an innovative digital chatbot platform to provide livestock owners with quick access to veterinary advice. Objective Key Features
RBI’s Floating Rate Bonds
Source: ET Context: With bank deposits and small-savings schemes offering modest returns, risk-averse investors are increasingly turning to RBI Floating Rate Bonds, a government-backed debt instrument with a seven-year lock-in period. These bonds are gaining traction among individuals seeking safer and higher-yielding alternatives. What are Floating Rate Bonds? Floating Rate Bonds (FRBs) are debt securities issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) or other entities in which the interest rate is not fixed, but periodically reset based on a benchmark rate.Unlike fixed-rate bonds, FRBs protect investors from interest rate risk by adjusting the coupon payments according to market conditions. Key Features Feature Description Issuer RBI (on behalf of Government of India) or financial institutions. Interest Rate Linked to a benchmark such as Treasury Bill yield or Government Security (G-Sec) rate. The rate is reset at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 6 months). Tenure Usually medium to long-term, often ranging from 5 to 10 years. Face Value ₹1,000 per bond (typical for retail investors), but can vary. Coupon Payment Periodic interest payment (e.g., semi-annual) that fluctuates with benchmark rate movements. Marketability Listed on stock exchanges for trading; investors can buy and sell before maturity. Types of Floating Rate Bonds by RBI Advantages Disadvantages
Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR)
Source: Mint Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has initiated a comprehensive review of the Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR), aiming to simplify and streamline corporate compliance norms for listed companies. What is LODR? The Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR) are a set of regulations framed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) under the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.They govern all companies whose securities are listed on stock exchanges in India and aim to ensure transparency, accountability, and investor protection. Objectives Key Provisions LODR regulations cover various aspects of listing compliance, broadly classified as: A. Continuous Disclosure Requirements B. Corporate Governance Requirements C. Other Compliance Obligations Penalties for Non-Compliance
Darwinian Adaptation Beats Lazy Banking
Source: ET Context: Uday Kotak highlights the urgent need for Indian banks to adapt amid rising financialization, shifting household savings behavior, and increasing competition from non-banking financial services and digital investment platforms. Key Highlights: Key Terms: Darwinian Adaptation Lazy Banking
PayU Receives RBI Approval to Operate as Payment Aggregator
Source: TH Context: PayU, a leading diversified fintech platform, has received integrated authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a payment aggregator. The approval allows PayU to facilitate payments across online, offline (physical), and cross-border transactions, covering both inward and outward flows. Payment Aggregator A Payment Aggregator collects funds on behalf of a merchant from customers through online or offline digital payment methods (cards, UPI, wallets, net banking, etc.) and then transfers the money to the merchant after deducting applicable fees. Key Functions RBI’s “Guidelines on Regulation of Payment Aggregators and Payment Gateways” (July 2021): S. No. Requirement Details 1 Incorporation Must be a company incorporated in India under the Companies Act, 2013. Foreign entities cannot operate directly as a PA. 2 Net Worth Minimum initial net worth: ₹15 crore for new PAs. RBI may require net worth to increase as operations scale, ensuring financial stability. 3 Regulatory Approvals Must obtain authorisation from RBI before commencing operations. Only authorised PAs can handle customer payment instruments and collect funds on behalf of merchants. 4 Fit & Proper Criteria Promoters, directors, and key management personnel must meet RBI’s fit and proper requirements: integrity, reputation, competence, no prior convictions/defaults, adequate experience in financial services/technology. 5 Governance & Risk Management Must have Board-approved policies for operational risk, fraud management, IT security, cyber risk, data protection, and customer grievance redressal mechanism. 6 Segregation of Funds Customer funds cannot be used for PA’s own business. Funds collected on behalf of merchants must be in a separate “trust account” and remitted as per RBI timelines. 7 Operational Requirements Compliance with RBI’s KYC, AML/CFT norms; maintenance of transaction records; conduct risk assessments; ensure secure transaction processing. 8 Capital & Insurance Maintain sufficient capital buffers; may require insurance coverage for operational or cyber risks. 9 Technology & Security Standards Implement end-to-end encryption, tokenisation, PCI DSS standards for card payments; regular system audits and penetration testing.
India Re-Elected to Codex Executive Committee
Source: News on Air Context: India has been unanimously re-elected as the Asian regional representative on the Executive Committee (CCEXEC) of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). Role & Functions: Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) An international intergovernmental body that develops food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice. Organizational Structure: Aim: Key Features:
QS Sustainability Rankings 2026
Source: IE Context: An annual ranking assessing universities globally on environmental and social impact, sustainability research, governance, and alumni impact. It evaluates institutions’ contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research, education, and societal outcomes. Key Metrics: Global Top 5 Institutions (2026): India’s Performance in QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 Performance Across Sustainability Indicators Lens / Indicator Weight Top Indian Institution Global Rank Social Impact 45% IIT Delhi 382 Equality 12% Manipal Academy of Higher Ed 441 Knowledge Exchange 10% University of Delhi 94 Impact of Education 7% University of Delhi 785 Employability & Outcomes 11% IIT Delhi 93 Health & Wellbeing 5% IIT Roorkee 537 Environmental Impact 45% IIT Bombay 100 Environmental Sustainability 15% IIT Kharagpur 49 Environmental Education 17% IISc Bangalore 42 Environmental Research 13% IIT Kharagpur 291 Governance 10% University of Delhi 187 Key Observations India’s Overall Position
