Daily Current Affairs Quiz
18 & 19 October, 2025
National Affairs
1. UNEP’s State of Finance for Forests (SFF) 2025 Report
Source: UNEP
Context:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released the State of Finance for Forests (SFF) 2025 Report, warning that global investments in forests must triple by 2030 to meet international climate, biodiversity, and land restoration goals. The report provides a comprehensive overview of global and country-level trends, highlighting both the progress made and the persistent gaps in forest finance.
Key Global Findings:
- Severe Underfunding of Forests
- Only US$ 8 billion was invested globally in 2023 (91% public, 9% private).
- An estimated US$ 24 billion per year is needed by 2030 to meet climate and biodiversity targets.
- Dominance of Public Finance
- Governments contributed US$ 7.3 billion, mainly China and the U.S.
- Tropical forest nations contributed only 17% of their domestic spending, showing regional disparities.
- Low Private Sector Participation
- Private forest finance amounted to US$ 0.7 billion, mainly through certified commodities (39%) and impact investing (23%).
- High-risk tropical commodities, causing 97% of deforestation, received minimal sustainable funding.
- Environmentally Harmful Flows Persist
- Agriculture subsidies harmful to the environment reached US$ 500 billion.
- Banks financed US$ 5.5 trillion to firms with deforestation risk—far exceeding green investments.
- Need for Nature-Based Solutions
- To meet Rio Convention targets, 1 billion hectares must be restored by 2030.
- Estimated financing requirement: US$ 30 billion/year for forest protection & avoided deforestation, US$ 20 billion/year for reforestation.
India-Specific Insights
- Public Finance Dominates
- India relies heavily on government schemes like CAMPA, Green India Mission, and National Afforestation Programme, with minimal private participation.
- Low Private Investment
- Engagement in carbon markets and biodiversity credits is negligible, highlighting untapped potential for green investors.
- High Domestic Commitment
- India spends over 30 times more domestically on forest protection than it receives in international aid.
- Shift Toward Nature-Based Solutions
- Initiatives like LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), Green Credit Programme (2023), and REDD+ pilots align with global calls for climate-resilient investments.
- Inclusive and Community-Led Approach
- Increased focus on Joint Forest Management (JFM) and tribal livelihood projects.
- Emphasis on gender-inclusive and community-driven governance.
2. COP30 in Belém, Brazil
Context:
The 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), scheduled for November 2025 in Belém, Brazil, comes at a time of deepening climate anxiety. The 1.5°C target is slipping out of reach, the U.S. has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement, and global faith in multilateral climate diplomacy is being tested. COP30 is positioned as a defining moment to shift from commitments to concrete climate action.
About COP30 and Global Climate Diplomacy
- COP as a ‘Summit of Solutions’:
- COP30 is branded the “COP of Action,” emphasizing practical implementation and financing mechanisms over new promises. The focus is on deploying funds and operationalizing solutions.
- New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG):
- Developed nations are expected to scale up climate finance to US$ 1 trillion annually by 2035, up from the earlier US$ 100 billion target, with greater transparency and equitable allocation between mitigation and adaptation.
- Baku–Belém Roadmap to Trillion:
- A proposed US$ 1 trillion climate finance roadmap by 2035 aims to mobilize funds through public–private partnerships, green bonds, and carbon markets.
- Regional Priorities – The Amazon and Beyond:
- Hosting COP in Belém, the “gateway to the Amazon,” highlights Brazil’s intent to link forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and indigenous participation in global climate policy.
- Focus on Just Transition and Carbon Markets:
- Developing nations plan to counter the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and push for equitable climate finance, fair trade, and stronger voluntary carbon markets to support green industrialization.
Paris Agreement Context
- 1.5°C Target
- Symbolic and strategic: Represents the global ambition for climate justice.
- Overshoot pathway: Temporary exceedance (~1.7°C) may occur, but rapid emission cuts and carbon removal could restore limits later.
- Maintaining this benchmark motivates innovation and equity-focused action.
- U.S. Withdrawal and Global Implications
- Challenges trust and leadership in climate diplomacy.
- Reinforces the need for coalitions of the willing and regional cooperation.
- Scientific Guidance
- The IPCC Seventh Assessment Report will provide evidence reinforcing the 1.5°C target and urging alignment of national budgets and climate policies.
3. Tejas Mk1A
Source: TH
Context:
The Mk1A is an advanced and upgraded variant of India’s indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), jointly developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). It represents a significant step in enhancing India’s defense self-reliance and combat capability.
About Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
The Mk1A is an advanced and upgraded variant of India’s indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), jointly developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). It represents a significant step in enhancing India’s defense self-reliance and combat capability.
Key Features
- Avionics and Mission Systems
- Modern Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for improved target detection and tracking.
- Advanced electronic warfare suite for self-protection.
- Upgraded cockpit displays and digital systems for enhanced situational awareness.
- Weapon Systems
- Integration of Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missiles.
- Capability to carry precision-guided munitions and smart weapons.
- Supports air-to-surface and anti-ship missions.
- Structural and Aerodynamic Improvements
- Enhanced fuselage and wing design for higher payload and range.
- Improved maintainability and service life.
- Operational Benefits
- Multi-role capability: air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and maritime roles.
- Reduced maintenance downtime and better mission reliability.
- Strengthens Indian Air Force’s (IAF) indigenous fleet and reduces dependence on foreign aircraft.
4. Synchronous All India Elephant Estimation (SAIEE) 2021–25
Source: IE
Context:
After a delay of over a year, the Union Environment Ministry and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) released the results of the Synchronous All India Elephant Estimation (SAIEE) 2021–25 in Dehradun. The latest census estimates India’s total elephant population at 22,446 individuals, marking a comprehensive update on the status of the country’s largest terrestrial mammal.
About SAIEE 2021–25:
- What it is: India’s nationwide synchronized census of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) conducted every five years.
- Published by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
- Objective: To develop a harmonized, data-driven baseline for elephant population monitoring, integrated with tiger census methodologies for greater precision.
Key Findings:
- Total Elephant Population: 22,446 individuals.
- Regional Distribution:
- Western Ghats: 11,934
- Northeastern Hills & Brahmaputra Plains: 6,559
- Shivalik Hills & Gangetic Plains: 2,062
- Central India & Eastern Ghats: 1,891
- Top States by Elephant Population:
- Karnataka – 6,013
- Assam – 4,159
- Tamil Nadu – 3,136
- Kerala – 2,785
- Uttarakhand – 1,792
Population Trends:
- Decline:
- Jharkhand (–68%) and Odisha (–54%) due to mining activities and habitat loss.
- Increase:
- Chhattisgarh (+82.6%) and Madhya Pradesh due to elephant migration from disturbed eastern habitats.
5. NITI Aayog, DP World Launch ‘We Rise’ Initiative for Women Entrepreneurs
Source: PIB
Context:
NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and DP World have jointly launched ‘We Rise – Women Entrepreneurs Reimagining Inclusive and Sustainable Enterprises’, a programme aimed at nurturing women-led MSMEs and making them export-ready.
About the Initiative:
- Type: Public–private partnership under WEP’s Award to Reward (ATR) framework.
- Objective: Identify and scale high-potential women-led MSMEs for global trade and sustainable growth.
- Launch Partners: NITI Aayog’s WEP and DP World, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management.
Key Features:
- Global Expansion Support: 100 women entrepreneurs will be mentored for international business operations and export readiness.
- Market Access: Participants will showcase their products at Bharat Mart (Dubai) in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, a global B2B and B2C marketplace.
- Strategic Mentorship: Guidance on trade compliance, branding, and cross-border logistics leveraging DP World’s expertise.
- Public-Private Partnership Model: Integrates WEP’s network of 90,000+ women entrepreneurs with DP World’s global trade infrastructure.
- ATR Framework: Provides scalable solutions addressing finance, market linkages, legal support, and growth challenges.
6. UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave 2025
Source: PIB
Event Overview:
- Hosted by: Indian Army
- Dates: 14–16 October 2025
- Location: New Delhi
- Participants: UNTCC Chiefs from 32 countries, senior UN officials, policymakers, and industry leaders
Purpose:
- Strengthen UN peacekeeping operations globally
- Foster dialogue, cooperation, and interoperability among troop-contributing nations (TCCs)
- Explore technology and indigenous solutions to enhance operational effectiveness
Major Sessions and Initiatives:
- Interactive Session: “Leveraging Technology in UN Peacekeeping” with 15 industry leaders
- Defence Expo: 41 exhibitors across 9 operational domains showcasing indigenous weapon systems and technologies
- Cultural & Sustainability Activities:
- Homage at the National War Memorial
- Tree plantation at Manekshaw Centre (‘Peacekeepers Grove’) under “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative
Banking/Finance
1. LIC Launches Jan Suraksha (880) & Bima Lakshmi (881) Plans
Source: Economic Times
Context:
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) launched two new life insurance plans — Jan Suraksha (Plan 880) and Bima Lakshmi (Plan 881) — under its first product launches post the GST regime. These plans aim to cater to specific demographics, focusing on financial inclusion and women empowerment.
LIC Jan Suraksha (Plan 880)
Type: Non-participating, non-linked individual savings plan.
Target Audience: Lower-income individuals.
Key Features:
- Policy Term: 25 years
- Premium Paying Term: 5 years
- Entry Age: 18–55 years
- Minimum Sum Assured: ₹50,000
- Guaranteed Additions: 4% of annualized premium at year-end
- Loan Facility: Available after one year of premium payment
- Auto Cover: Commences after 3 full years of premiums
Significance: Promotes long-term savings and life cover for economically weaker sections.
LIC Bima Lakshmi (Plan 881)
Type: Non-linked plan with life cover and periodic money-back options.
Target Audience: Exclusively women.
Key Features:
- Policy Term: 25 years
- Premium Paying Term: 7–15 years
- Entry Age: 18–50 years
- Minimum Sum Assured: ₹2,00,000 (no maximum, subject to underwriting)
- Critical Illness Rider: Optional with additional premium
- Auto Cover: After 3 full years of premium
Significance: Supports women’s financial empowerment and provides periodic liquidity along with life cover.
2. Getepay Partners with ESAF SFB to Deploy Payment Switch “VEGA”
Context:
Getepay, a leading Payment Aggregator, partnered with ESAF Small Finance Bank (ESAF SFB) to deploy VEGA, a next-generation payment switch.
Aim:
To enhance India’s digital payment infrastructure by integrating Getepay’s advanced payment technology with ESAF SFB’s financial network.
About VEGA:
- Function: Future-ready payment switch for real-time transaction processing and automated reconciliation.
- Features: Supports multiple payment modes, scalable, high-performance, compliant with Indian banking standards.
- Significance: Modernizes payment systems, ensuring a secure and efficient payment platform for banks and financial institutions.
3. Lxme Launches India’s First Women UPI “Lxmepay”
Source: BS
Context:
Lxme, India’s leading financial platform for women, launched LxmePay, the country’s first Unified Payments Interface (UPI) exclusively for women, aimed at empowering them to manage money smarter and build long-term wealth.
Purpose:
- To transform everyday transactions into financial opportunities for women.
- To address challenges such as overspending, losing track of expenses, and missing out on meaningful rewards.
Key Features:
- Digital Gold Rewards: Earn digital gold not only on spends but also when receiving money from other LxmePay users.
- Smart Expense Tracking: Automated insights, categorized spending, and monthly alerts to help women manage budgets effectively.
- Seamless Investment Options: Guided tools within the Lxme app to move from saving to investing.
- Women-Centric Design: Features tailored to women’s unique financial behaviors, goals, and money management needs.
4. Bajaj Finserv AMC Introduces ‘Pay with Mutual Fund’ Feature
Source: BL
Context:
Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Company (AMC) has launched ‘Pay with Mutual Fund’, a first-of-its-kind feature that allows investors to make daily UPI payments directly from their mutual fund investments.
Purpose:
- To blend investing and spending, allowing money to earn returns while remaining accessible for everyday transactions.
- To provide liquidity and convenience, making mutual funds more integrated into modern financial life.
Key Features:
- Instant Access via UPI: Payments can be made by scanning a QR code, triggering an automatic redemption from the mutual fund to the bank account in the background.
- Redemption Limit: Investors can redeem up to ₹50,000 or 90% of their investment, whichever is lower, under the Insta Redemption facility.
- Higher Returns: Money parked in liquid funds earns better returns than a traditional savings account, while remaining usable for everyday expenses.
- Collaboration: Developed in partnership with Curie Money, a fintech platform ensuring seamless transaction processing.
5. RBI’s Application Tracking System (ATS)
What is ATS?
- The Application Tracking System (ATS) is an online platform hosted on the RBI website for members of the public to submit applications to any department of the Reserve Bank of India and track their status until disposal.
Purpose:
- To enhance transparency and accountability in handling public applications.
- To enable applicants to monitor their requests in real time, including applications submitted physically or via post/courier.
Key Features:
- Accessibility: Available on the RBI website: http://www.rbi.org.in
- Registration: First-time users register with a valid email ID; system generates a password.
- Unique Application Number: Each submission generates a unique application number, which is communicated to the applicant.
- Real-Time Updates: Applicants receive emails for submission, disposal, or transfer of the application.
- Transfer of Applications:
- Applications can be transferred to other departments/offices.
- Applicants are notified of transfer details, and the complete history is available under “My Application.”
- Attachment Support: Documents can be uploaded with each application (max size 1 MB each).
- Tracking Physical Submissions: Applications submitted at RBI counters or via post/courier can also be tracked if a valid email ID is provided.
Agriculture
1. Social Alpha & Sustain Plus Tie-Up with PRADAN to Strengthen Agri Value Chain in Jharkhand
Source: BL
Objective:
- Strengthen agricultural value chains in Jharkhand from pre-production to post-harvest.
- Improve livelihoods of ~1 lakh small and marginal farmers over four years.
- Directly empower 40,000 women across 20 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in 20 blocks.
Partnership Structure:
- Social Alpha: Innovation curation and venture development platform.
- Sustain Plus: Implements technology-driven livelihood solutions.
- PRADAN: Leads on-ground mobilisation, capacity building, and community engagement.
Implementation Focus:
- Women-led collectives driving local implementation.
- Adoption of technology through “Lab to Communities” approach.
- Integration of farming with allied activities and entrepreneurship.
Significance:
- Promotes inclusive rural development, women empowerment, and technology adoption.
- Provides a scalable model for central India, bridging communities, technology, and government schemes.
- Encourages sustainable agriculture, allied livelihoods, and renewable energy integration.
Facts To Remember
1. Jyothi scripts history with World Cup Final bronze
V. Jyothi Surekha Vennam on Saturday became the first Indian woman compound archer to win a medal at the World Cup Final, clinching a bronze with a flawless performance in Nanjing (China).
2. Tanvi outclasses Liu, moves into World Juniors final
The decibel levels at the National Centre of Excellence (NCE) rose in sync with the music beats, but one spectator could barely look at the action unfolding on the Centre Court.
3. India Post to Launch 24–48 Hour Guaranteed Speed Post Service by January
The Department of Posts (India Post) is set to introduce a guaranteed 24–48 hour Speed Post service by January, aiming to enhance delivery efficiency and compete with private courier firms.
4. Rajnath Singh Commissions First Batch of BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow Unit
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday commissioned the first batch of BrahMos missiles manufactured at the Lucknow unit of BrahMos Aerospace Ltd, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence indigenisation and manufacturing capabilities.
5. Egypt Invites Indian Firms to Set Up Industrial Zone in Suez Canal Economic Zone
During his two-day visit to New Delhi, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s keen interest in India establishing an industrial zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCEZ) — a strategic hub where China and Russia already have a presence. The initiative aims to deepen India-Egypt economic and strategic engagement.
