Daily Current Affairs (DCA) 24 October, 2025

Daily Current Affairs Quiz
24 October, 2025

National Affairs

1. Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR)

Source: PIB

Context:

The Skilling for AI Readiness (SOAR) program in India represents a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to integrate artificial intelligence competencies into India’s educational framework. This aligns with the government’s goal to lead in global technological advancements. 

About the Program

A flagship initiative under the Skill India Mission, designed to build AI literacy and competency among students (Classes 6–12) and educators. The programme combines structured learning, hands-on practice, and ethics-based training to prepare India’s youth for AI-driven careers.

Implemented by:

• Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
• In coordination with Ministry of Education

Mission of SOAR

• Foster AI Awareness
  • Introduce foundational AI concepts to students, including machine learning basics and ethical AI use.
  • Train educators to integrate AI modules into school curricula, ensuring alignment with industry needs.
• Support Economic Self-reliance
  • Equip youth with skills for high-demand AI-driven sectors, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Complement PMKVY 4.0 by focusing on emerging technologies to enhance employability and entrepreneurship.
• Build a Tech-driven India
  • Prepare students for careers in AI development, data analytics, and tech innovation.
  • Develop a robust pipeline of AI-literate professionals and entrepreneurial talent.

Aim:

• Create AI awareness among students and teachers
• Equip youth with industry-relevant AI skills for self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat
• Bridge the digital skill gap between urban and rural learners

Key Features

• Structured Learning Modules:
  • 3 × 15-hour AI modules for students
  • 1 × 45-hour advanced module for educators
• Ethical AI Training: Focus on responsible and ethical use of AI
• Centre of Excellence in AI: ₹500 crore allocated in Union Budget 2025–26
• Industry Integration: Collaboration with IITs, AICTE, and private sector partners for specialised AI/ML courses
• Digital Access: Linked with Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) for access across urban and rural areas
• Apprenticeship Support: Under NAPS-2, 1,480 apprentices trained (FY 2022–26) in roles like AI Data Engineer and Machine Learning Engineer

2. NFR Introduces Intrusion Detection System to Protect Elephants

Source: IE

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has deployed an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) along key elephant corridors to prevent train–elephant collisions.

About IDS

An AI- and sensor-based surveillance system that uses vibration-sensitive fibre optic cables to detect elephants or other large animals near railway tracks and send instant alerts to control rooms.

• Launched by:
  • Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), under the Ministry of Railways

Aim:

• Reduce elephant fatalities due to train collisions
• Ensure safe train operations
• Integrate technology-driven conservation into railway management

How it Works

• Fibre optic cables detect movement vibrations of elephants or large animals near tracks
• Real-time signals are sent to control rooms and train drivers
• Trains can slow down or stop immediately
• Alerts also help monitor wildlife movement for conservation planning

Key Features

• Coverage: 4 pilot sections across Alipurduar, Lumding, Rangiya, and Tinsukia, covering 64.03 km
• Expansion: Additional 146.4 km by April 2026, totaling 210 km
• Dual Benefit: Protects wildlife while ensuring operational efficiency
• Real-time alerts: Instant communication between sensors and control rooms
• Data Integration: Supports long-term planning for habitat preservation

3. Coast is Clear for Doing Business Sustainably – NITI Aayog Report

Context:

NITI Aayog has proposed reforms to coastal regulation and green cover requirements to unlock land for economic activities while balancing environmental concerns.

Key Proposals:

• Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Adjustment:
  • Current CRZ limit: 500 meters from the high-tide line.
  • Proposed reduction: 200 meters, aligning with global norms.
  • Objective: Unlock 2,790 sq km of coastal land for tourism, infrastructure, and other economic activities.
• Green Cover Norms for Industrial Zones:
  • Existing requirement: 33% green cover.
  • Proposal: Reduce to 10%, similar to Taiwan, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
  • Exception: Polluting industries must maintain up to 25% green cover based on a graded index.

Concerns & Risks:

• Climate and Environmental Vulnerability:
  • Coastal erosion, cyclones, and extreme rainfall events (IPCC assessments) increase risk for low-lying and densely populated cities.
  • 113 Indian coastal cities are at risk of submergence.
  • A one-size-fits-all approach is impractical due to India’s 11,000+ km coastline and varied geomorphology.
• Carbon Sequestration & Emissions:
  • Industrial expansion will increase emissions.
  • Existing higher green cover norms (33-40%) act as natural carbon sinks.
  • Simply adopting lower norms of other countries may not suit India’s distinct emissions profile.

Way Forward:

• India needs customised, sustainable regulations that allow industrial growth while mitigating ecological and climate risks.
• Policies must strike a balance between economic development and environmental protection, ensuring long-term resilience.

4. Blackbuck Makes Comeback in Chhattisgarh’s Barnawapara Sanctuary

Context:

The blackbuck, declared locally extinct in Chhattisgarh in 2017, has made a remarkable recovery under ax five-year revival plan (2021–2026) in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.

About Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

A protected forest and wildlife sanctuary in Chhattisgarh, known for rich biodiversity, thriving herbivore and carnivore populations, and grassland–forest ecosystems that support both conservation and eco-tourism.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (NT).
• Threats:
  • Habitat loss and fragmentation due to agriculture and urbanisation.
  • Poaching for meat and horns.
  • Competition with livestock for grazing.

Key Features

• Topography: Gently undulating plains, elevations up to 640 m, crisscrossed by rivers Balmedhi, Jonk, and Mahanadi
• Climate: Annual rainfall ~1,200 mm; pleasant winters Nov–Feb
• Flora: Teak, Sal, and mixed deciduous forests
• Fauna: Leopards, barking deer, bison, wild boar, chital, and now blackbuck; rich avian and aquatic species around Balar reservoir
• Tourism Infrastructure: Watchtowers, eco-camps, and patrol stations promoting eco-tourism and conservation awareness

5. India Endorses Transboundary Conservation Plan under CAMI

Context:

Central Asian nations, including India, have endorsed a six-year transboundary conservation plan under the Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) to protect 17 migratory mammal species across Central Asia’s vast ecological corridors. The plan aims to enhance regional cooperation to address shared threats like habitat loss, illegal hunting, and climate change impacts.

About Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI)

The Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) is a collaborative conservation framework under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). It seeks to ensure the survival and ecological connectivity of migratory and nomadic mammal species across the Central Asian landscape.

• Established in:
  • 2014, during COP11 of CMS held in Quito, Ecuador.
• Updated at: COP13 (2020) in Gandhinagar, India, to expand scope and align with global biodiversity goals.

Aim

• To preserve migratory connectivity and ecological corridors across borders.
• To combat major threats such as habitat fragmentation, illegal poaching, infrastructure barriers, and climate-induced migration shifts.
• To strengthen regional cooperation among participating countries for joint conservation and monitoring efforts.

Key Features

• Coverage: Protects 17 flagship migratory species, including:
  • Saiga antelope
  • Snow leopard
  • Wild camel
  • Urial (mountain sheep)
  • Argali (wild sheep)
  • Bukhara deer
  • Persian leopard
• Approach:
  • Promotes ecosystem-level management rather than species-specific conservation.
  • Emphasizes removal of migration barriers like border fences and infrastructure.
  • Encourages data sharing, joint surveys, and harmonized policy actions among member countries.
• Stakeholders:
  • Governments of Central and South Asian countries
  • International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
  • Local communities involved in wildlife stewardship

India’s Role

• India is a key signatory to the CMS and CAMI framework.
• Actively contributes through the Project Snow Leopard and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) schemes.
• Strengthens its conservation diplomacy through engagement in transboundary species management and data collaboration with Central Asian neighbours.

6. India Re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of UNESCO Anti-Doping Bureau

Event:

• 10th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP10) to the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport.
• Location: Paris, marking the 20th anniversary of the Convention.
• Outcome: India was re-elected as Vice-Chairperson of the Bureau for the Asia-Pacific (Group IV).

UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport

• A multilateral treaty adopted to prevent and eliminate doping in sports, ensuring fair and ethical competition.
• Adoption: 33rd UNESCO General Conference, 19 October 2005
• Entry into Force: 1 February 2007
• States Parties: 192 (UNESCO’s second most ratified treaty)

Objectives

1. Harmonize anti-doping laws and standards worldwide.
2. Ensure a level playing field for athletes.
3. Promote integrity, ethics, and health in sports by curbing performance-enhancing drug use.

Key Features

• Legal Framework:
  • Requires States to align national anti-doping measures with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code.
• Global Cooperation:
  • Encourages collaboration among governments, sports organizations, and scientific institutions.
• Funding Mechanism:
  • Establishes the Anti-Doping Fund for capacity-building and awareness programs.
• Ethical Oversight:
  • Monitors emerging challenges such as gene doping and traditional pharmacopoeia to preserve sports values.
• Governance Reforms:
  • COP sessions elect a Bureau and Approval Committee to oversee compliance and financing.

7. ‘23for23’ Initiative and National Snow Leopard Census

Context:

India observed International Snow Leopard Day (23 October 2025) with the nationwide ‘#23for23’ campaign. The government unveiled the first-ever National Snow Leopard Census, recording 718 individuals across the Indian Himalayas.

About the ‘23for23’ Initiative

• Launched by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
• Purpose:
  • Raise awareness about snow leopard habitats and conservation challenges.
  • Encourage citizen participation in protecting high-altitude ecosystems.
  • Align with the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Programme (GSLEP).
• Mode: Nationwide awareness campaign with community-driven engagement.

About the Snow Leopard

• Scientific Name: Panthera uncia
• IUCN Status: Vulnerable
• Global Habitat: 12 countries including India, Nepal, China, Mongolia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan
  • Found at 3,000–5,000 meters in cold, arid, rocky terrains
• Indian Habitat: High-altitude Himalayan states and UTs — Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh

Banking/Finance

1. Microfinance Institutions (MFIs)

Context:

Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and fintechs are increasing lending to low-income micro-borrowers, a segment traditionally served by Microfinance Institutions (MFIs). This growth is attracting regulatory scrutiny due to potential risks of over-indebtedness.

MFIN Guardrails

• The Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN) is a self-regulatory organization (SRO) representing the microfinance sector in India.
• Established to promote responsible lending practices, transparency, and financial inclusion, MFIN acts as a bridge between the microfinance industry and regulatory authorities like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• Key measures include:
  • Capping the number of lenders per borrower at three (effective April 1, 2025).
  • Monitoring outstanding loans to prevent excessive indebtedness.

Key Objectives:

• Industry Representation: Represents the interests of member microfinance institutions (MFIs) to regulators, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
• Self-Regulation: Implements a code of conduct and operational standards to ensure ethical lending, borrower protection, and compliance with RBI guidelines.
• Capacity Building: Provides training, workshops, and resources to enhance institutional governance, operational efficiency, and risk management.
• Data and Research: Maintains a centralized database on microfinance lending, credit scores, and sector trends to inform policy and industry practices.
• Financial Inclusion: Works to expand access to credit for underserved populations while promoting sustainable and responsible lending practices.

Functions:

• Establishes prudential norms and best practices for the sector.
• Monitors compliance with RBI guidelines for microfinance lending.
• Advocates for policy reforms to strengthen the microfinance ecosystem.
• Provides dispute resolution and grievance redressal mechanisms for borrowers and lenders.

2. New Bank Nomination Rules 2025

Source: TOI

Context:

The Ministry of Finance has announced that new provisions under the Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 — relating to nomination facilities, claim settlement, and depositor protection — will come into effect from November 1, 2025. These reforms mark a major step toward improving transparency, flexibility, and uniformity in the banking system.

Legal Background

• The Banking Laws (Amendment) Act, 2025 was notified on April 15, 2025.
• It includes 19 amendments across five key legislations:
  • Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934
  • Banking Regulation Act, 1949
  • State Bank of India Act, 1955
  • Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts, 1970 and 1980
• As per the notification, Sections 10, 11, 12, and 13 — dealing with nomination facilities — will come into force on November 1, 2025.

Objectives of the New Provisions

• Simplify and standardize the nomination process across all banks.
• Ensure faster claim settlement for depositors’ nominees.
• Strengthen governance and depositor protection.
• Enhance customer convenience and transparency in the banking ecosystem.

Key Features of the New Nomination Rules

1. Multiple Nominations (Up to Four)

• Depositors can now nominate up to four persons for their bank accounts, fixed deposits, lockers, and safe custody articles.
• This is the first time such flexibility is being introduced in Indian banking law.

2. Simultaneous Nomination

• Customers may nominate up to four individuals simultaneously.
• Each nominee’s entitlement share (percentage or portion) must be clearly specified, with the total equalling 100%.
• Enables transparent and proportionate fund distribution among nominees.

3. Successive Nomination

• Customers may also opt for successive nominations, where nominees are prioritized in sequence.
• If the first nominee passes away, the next nominee automatically becomes operative — ensuring continuity in claim settlement.
• For lockers and articles kept in safe custody, only successive nominations are allowed.

4. Simplified Claim Settlement

• The provisions are designed to make post-death claim settlements faster and dispute-free, protecting depositors’ families.

5. Uniform Implementation

• To ensure consistency across banks, the government will soon notify Banking Companies (Nomination) Rules, 2025.
• These rules will define standard forms and procedures for making, modifying, or cancelling nominations.

3. SEBI Proposes Easing Geo-Tagging Requirement for NRIs in KYC

Source: BS

Context:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed easing the geo-tagging requirement for Non-Resident Indian (NRI) clients during their re-KYC or KYC process.

Key Highlights:

• Relaxation for NRIs:
  • NRIs will no longer be required to be physically present in India for KYC verification.
  • Digital onboarding and Video Client Identification Process (V-CIP) can be used instead.
• Purpose:
  • Simplifies compliance for overseas investors.
  • Follows multiple stakeholder representations seeking streamlined KYC procedures.
• Public Consultation:
  • SEBI has invited public comments on the draft circular before finalising the proposal.

Significance:

• Reduces compliance burden for NRI investors.
• Facilitates ease of investment from abroad while maintaining regulatory oversight.

4. Government Securities (G-Sec)

Government Securities (G-Secs) are debt instruments issued by the central or state governments to borrow money from the public. They are considered one of the safest investment options because they carry the sovereign guarantee of the government.

Types of G-Secs:

• Treasury Bills (T-Bills):
  • Short-term securities with maturities of less than one year (commonly 91 days, 182 days, and 364 days).
  • Issued at a discount and redeemed at face value (zero-coupon instrument).
• Government Bonds / Dated Securities:
  • Long-term securities with maturities ranging from 5 to 40 years.
  • Pay periodic interest (coupon) at fixed or floating rates.

Key Features:

• Safety: Virtually risk-free as they are backed by the government.
• Liquidity: Can be traded in the secondary market, offering liquidity to investors.
• Returns: Yield depends on market interest rates and tenure; longer-term bonds may offer higher returns.
• Minimum Investment: Varies by instrument; T-bills are often accessible to retail investors via RBI or banks.

Issuing Authority:

• Central Government: Through the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
• State Governments: Known as State Development Loans (SDLs), also issued via RBI auctions.

Purpose:

• To raise funds for government expenditure and budgetary needs.
• To regulate money supply and implement monetary policy (RBI uses G-Secs in open market operations).

Investors:

• Banks, financial institutions, insurance companies, mutual funds, and retail investors.

5. RBI Gold Reserves: Status and Context

RBI gold reserves represent the total stock of gold held by the Reserve Bank of India as part of the country’s foreign exchange and monetary reserves. These reserves serve as a safe-haven asset, strengthening India’s financial stability, supporting the rupee, and providing insurance against global economic uncertainties.

Current Status (as of September 2025)

• Total gold reserves: 880 tonnes
• Recent addition: 0.2 tonnes added in the last week of September 2025
• Total value: Around $95 billion
• Gold purchased in H1 FY26: 0.6 tonnes (600 kg)

Context and Significance

• Rising Global Uncertainty:
  • Escalating geopolitical tensions, volatile financial markets, and trade conflicts have increased demand for safe-haven assets like gold.
  • Central banks worldwide, including India, have been increasing gold holdings to hedge against currency and market risks.
• India’s Monetary Strategy:
  • Gold reserves complement foreign currency reserves, providing diversification and reducing dependence on the US dollar.
  • Acts as a financial buffer for the Reserve Bank of India to stabilize the economy during crises.
• Trend and Policy:
  • In the six months ended September 2025, RBI added 0.6 tonnes, showing a gradual accumulation strategy rather than large, sporadic purchases.
  • Increasing reserves also reflect India’s long-term focus on risk-free assets amidst global market volatility.
• Global Comparison:
  • India ranks among the top 10 countries in terms of gold reserves globally, underlining its commitment to secure, long-term financial stability.

Agriculture

1. NABARD Announces First Investment Under AgriSURE Fund at Global Fintech Festival 2025

Context:

At the Global Fintech Festival (GFF) 2025, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) announced its first investment under the AgriSURE Fund, jointly promoted with the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The initiative highlights NABARD’s focus on fostering agritech innovation, rural entrepreneurship, and digital financial inclusion.

About AgriSURE Fund

The AgriSURE Fund (Agriculture Sector Upscaling and Resilience Enhancement Fund) is a dedicated investment vehicle established by NABARD and the Ministry of Agriculture to support agri-focused startups and technological innovations that enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience in India’s agricultural sector.

Key Objectives:

• To catalyse investments in agritech, food processing, and rural value chains.
• To promote digital and financial inclusion in agriculture and allied sectors.
• To strengthen the agriculture–fintech ecosystem by backing scalable, impact-driven startups.
• To enhance supply chain efficiency and farmer-market linkages through technology.

NABARD’s Broader Focus at GFF 2025

At GFF 2025, NABARD showcased several of its supported and funded ventures that are driving innovation and rural financial inclusion, including:

• Kuberjee Tech Pvt Ltd: Provides technology-driven financial solutions for rural and semi-urban markets.
• NAVADHAN Capital: Facilitates accessible and affordable credit for smallholder farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
• SLO Technologies (Advarisk): Offers a real-time collateral management platform enhancing transparency and risk management in agri-lending.

Facts To Remember

1. FIDE to probe Kramnik’s comments on Naroditsky

World chess governing body FIDE will look into former World champion Vladimir Kramnik’s statements on American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, who died at the age of 29. The Russian had come under fire for his accusations of cheating against Naroditsky.

2. SBI Recognised as World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025

• Awards:
  • World’s Best Consumer Bank 2025
  • Best Bank in India 2025
• Awarding Body: Global Finance, New York.
• Event: Presented during the World Bank/IMF annual meetings.
• Significance:
  • Reinforces SBI’s global leadership in banking.
  • Highlights excellence in innovation, financial inclusion, and customer service.
  • Recognises technological leadership and expansion across India’s diverse regions.

3. Health Minister JP Nadda Highlights India’s Polio Eradication Success on World Polio Day

On the occasion of World Polio Day, Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda today highlighted India’s remarkable journey in eliminating polio through unwavering national efforts and strong public participation.

4. Two-Minute Film on ‘Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas’ to Promote People’s Role in Grassroots Planning

A two-minute Public Service Awareness film on the People’s Plan Campaign – Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas will be screened across cinema theatres in the country from today till 6th November. 

5. Gaganyaan Uncrewed Test Flight Ready for Launch in December, Says ISRO Chief Dr. V. Narayanan

  The Indian Space Research Organisation Chairman, Dr V Narayanan, has informed that 90 percent of the work on the Gaganyaan uncrewed test flight mission G1 is over, and they are set for launch in December first week.

6. ESTIC 2025 to Be Held at Bharat Mandapam from Nov 3–5

  Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 will be organised from 3rd to 5th November, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. 

7. ISRO Says 90% of Gaganyaan Development Complete

Bengaluru: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making steady progress on its Gaganyaan mission, with about 90% of the development work already completed, according to ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan.