Daily Current Affairs- 28th August 2025

Daily Current Affairs- 28th August 2025

India Sends 700 Troops for Exercise Bright Star 2025

In the News: India is deploying over 700 armed forces personnel to participate in Exercise Bright Star 2025, a major tri-service multilateral military exercise hosted by Egypt from August 28 to September 10, 2025. This marks India's commitment to strengthening regional security ties and enhancing cooperation with international partners.

Key Points:

• Exercise Timing and Participation: Exercise Bright Star 2025 is scheduled from August 28 to September 10, 2025. India will send over 700 personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff for this edition.
• Multinational Scope: This marks the 19th edition of the exercise, with participation from 43 countries—13 contributing troops directly and 30 as observers. Overall, around 7,900 total troops are expected at the exercise.
• Activities Planned:

The drill includes a comprehensive spectrum of tri-service activities:

• Live-firing exercises showcasing capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force
• A Command Post Exercise (CPX) to enhance joint planning and operational coordination
• Short training exercises focusing on various aspects of modern warfare
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) interactions for sharing knowledge across key domains of contemporary military operations

• Historical Context: Exercise Bright Star is a biennial exercise initiated in 1980 as a bilateral drill between Egypt and the United States. It has since evolved into one of the largest tri-service multilateral exercises in the Middle East and North Africa, highlighting the U.S.–Egypt strategic partnership.
• India’s Strategic Focus: India's participation underscores its commitment to regional peace, security, and stability, as well as its aim to enhance jointness, interoperability, and cooperation with friendly foreign nations.

Union Cabinet Restructures PM SVANidhi Scheme, Extends Till 2030

In the News: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a major restructuring of the Prime Minister’s Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme, extending its lending period from the earlier deadline of December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2030. The revamped initiative comes with a total outlay of ₹7,332 crore to bolster support for street vendors across the country.

Key Points:

• Extended Lending Period & Financial Outlay: The scheme, originally slated to end in December 2024, has been extended until March 31, 2030, with an enhanced budget of ₹7,332 crore to broaden its impact.
• Expanded Beneficiary Coverage: It now aims to benefit 1.15 crore street vendors, including 50 lakh new beneficiaries, reinforcing its inclusive outreach.
• Higher Loan Amounts:
  • First tranche increased from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000
  • Second tranche increased from ₹20,000 to ₹25,000
  • Third tranche remains capped at ₹50,000
• UPI-Linked RuPay Credit Card: Vendors who repay their second loan on time will now be eligible for a UPI-linked RuPay credit card, enabling instant access to credit for business or urgent personal needs.
• Digital Cashback Incentives: To promote digital adoption, cashback of up to ₹1,600 will be offered on retail and wholesale transactions made digitally.
• Geographical Expansion: The scheme’s coverage is being gradually extended beyond statutory towns to include census towns and peri‑urban areas, ensuring wider reach.
• Capacity Building & Skill Development:
  Vendors will receive training in: Entrepreneurship, Financial literacy, Digital marketing & Hygiene and food safety (in collaboration with FSSAI)
• SVANidhi se Samriddhi & Lok Kalyan Melas: The welfare component of the scheme, ‘SVANidhi se Samriddhi’, will be strengthened through monthly Lok Kalyan Melas, aimed at ensuring saturation outreach and delivering benefits from multiple government schemes to vendors and their families.
• Impact & Achievements to Date:
  As of July 30, 2025, the PM SVANidhi scheme has:
  • Disbursed over 96 lakh loans totalling ₹13,797 crore to more than 68 lakh street vendors
  • Facilitated 557 crore digital transactions worth ₹6.09 lakh crore, with 47 lakh digitally active beneficiaries earning ₹241 crore in cashback
  • Enabled profiling of 46 lakh beneficiaries across 3,564 Urban Local Bodies, resulting in over 1.38 crore scheme sanctions under ‘SVANidhi se Samriddh

Adi Karmayogi Initiative

In the News:   The Ministry of Tribal Affairs officially launched the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, India’s largest tribal grassroots leadership programme. The initiative aims to institutionalize responsive governance and empower local stakeholders—from ASHAs and Anganwadi workers to youth volunteers—by building a strong cadre of tribal “change leaders” across the country.

Key Points:

• Vision & National Movement: Adi Karmayogi is not just a scheme but a movement to build people-centric governance across tribal India, guided by the principles of Sewa (Service), Sankalp (Resolve), and Samarpan (Dedication).
• Scale & Outreach: The initiative targets empowerment across 1 lakh tribal-dominated villages, mobilizing over 20 lakh change leaders—referred to as Aadi Karmayogis—spanning 550 districts across 30 States/UTs.
• Training Architecture (Cascade Model):
  A multi-tiered training structure is in place: State-level master trainers, District-level trainers & Block-level trainers, eventually cascading down to village-level Karmayogis
  Training is conducted through structured Governance Lab Workshops / Process Labs, emphasizing responsive governance, grievance redressal, citizen engagement, and convergence planning.
• Participatory Planning—Vision 2030: Tribal communities and government officials jointly co-create “Tribal Village Vision 2030” plans, complete with action strategies and investment outlines. These community-generated visions serve as aspirational blueprints for inclusive development.
• Service Delivery—Adi Seva Kendras & Seva Hours: The initiative introduces Adi Seva Kendras, envisioned as single-window service hubs in tribal villages. These centres will host regular Seva Hours and Seva Days, facilitating grievance redressal, youth mentoring, and convergence of welfare services.
• Cadre Diversity & Roles:
  The Aadi Karmayogis encompass a diverse group including: Grassroots government workers (e.g., ASHAs, Anganwadi staff), PRI representatives, youth volunteers, SHG leaders & Teachers, doctors, social activists, traditional knowledge holders
  They serve as catalysts for transparent governance, community mobilization, and effective last-mile delivery.
• Implementation Progress:
  • Regional Process Labs are already underway—for instance, the 4th Regional Process Lab (RPL) in Bhubaneswar has successfully commenced to train frontline tribal functionaries from Odisha, Jharkhand, and Bihar.
  • District-level implementations are active, e.g., in Parvathipuram Manyam district (Andhra Pradesh), where training of district- and block-level trainers has begun to extend to 165 villages benefiting 83,000 tribal residents.
  • In Gajapati district (Odisha), the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan was launched to cover 485 villages with master trainer sessions scheduled in Jeypore followed by block-level training.
  • Odisha also held a high-level review meeting focusing on improving inter-departmental coordination to ensure delivery of services like housing, roads, health, and livelihoods through village teams of trained individuals

Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Mumbai among safest cities for women: NARI

In the News: The National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety (NARI) 2025 was released by the National Commission for Women (NCW). Based on a survey of 12,770 women across 31 cities, it found that Kohima, Visakhapatnam, and Mumbai, among others, emerged as some of the safest urban centres for women in India.  

Key Points:

• Top-ranked Cities: The safest cities identified are: Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, and Mumbai.
• Safety Metrics & National Benchmark: With a national safety score of 65%, cities were grouped into performance bands—“much above,” “above,” “below,” or “much below” this benchmark.
• Bottom-ranked Cities: On the opposite end, Patna, Jaipur, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar, and Ranchi were among the least safe cities for women.
• Factors Influencing Safety Rankings: The top-tier cities tend to score higher on metrics like gender equity, civic participation, policing, and women-friendly infrastructure. The lower-ranked cities face issues such as patriarchal norms, weak institutional response, and poor urban planning.
• Women's Sense of Safety: 60% of women surveyed felt “safe” in their cities. A significant minority—40%—felt “not so safe” or “unsafe,” especially during nighttime or in public transport and recreational spaces.
• Institutions and Harassment Reporting:
  • 86% felt safe in educational institutions during the day.
  • 91% reported feeling safe at their workplace; however, nearly half were unsure if their workplace had a POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) policy.
  • Only 25% of women trusted authorities to take effective action on safety grievances.
• Harassment Data:
  • 7% of women experienced harassment in public spaces in 2024; among those under 24, the figure was 14%.
  • Harassment most commonly occurred in neighborhoods (38%) and public transport (29%).
  • Only one in three women reported such incidents—meaning two-thirds remain unreported, creating a significant gap in official crime data.

Rajasthan becomes first State to issue guidelines on stray dogs after Supreme Court directive

In the News: Rajasthan became the first Indian state to issue detailed, comprehensive guidelines for managing stray dogs, aligning with the Supreme Court’s August 22, 2025 directive. The state’s Department of Local Self‑Government formalised roles and protocols for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), championing both public safety and animal welfare.

Key Points:

• Designated Feeding Zones: Every ward and locality must have clearly marked feeding spots for stray dogs, identified in consultation with Resident Welfare Associations and animal welfare organisations. These spots must provide food and water—even for stray dogs in rabies situations.
• Sterilisation & Medical Facilities: Municipal bodies are directed to establish or upgrade sterilisation centres, offering facilities for deworming, vaccination, and surgery, with full veterinary pre‑ and post‑operative care.
• Humane Capture Methods: Only trained personnel may handle stray dog capture using nets or hands. The use of tongs, wires, snares, or forceful methods is strictly prohibited.
• Protection of Vulnerable Dogs: Puppies under six months and lactating females with dependent pups must not be captured or sterilised, ensuring animal welfare and healthy developmental continuity.
• Monitoring & Transparency Measures:
  • Establishment of monitoring committees in each municipal body, including at least one animal welfare worker.
  • Mandatory CCTV installation in operating theatres and sterilisation centres.
  • Detailed documentation of sterilisation, vaccination, feeding, deaths, treatments, and staff activity.
• Release of Treated Dogs: Healthy, sterilised, vaccinated, and tagged dogs must be returned to their original locality. Rabid or dangerously aggressive dogs are to be quarantined under veterinary supervision, while sick or injured dogs must be treated first.
• Incentivising NGOs & Para-Veterinary Teams: NGOs recognised by the Animal Welfare Board of India will receive ₹200 per captured dog and ₹1,450 for sterilisation, feeding, and post-operative care.
• Compliance Reporting: All civic bodies must submit compliance reports to the state government within 30 days of implementing the guidelines.
• Judicial and Safety Context: These guidelines operationalise the Supreme Court’s August 22, 2025 order, which reinstated the "vaccinate–sterilise–release" method under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023—mandating humane and scientifically backed population control over culling or indefinite sheltering.

UNGA Launches Two Global Initiatives for AI Governance

In the News: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) formally launched two groundbreaking global initiatives—the United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. UN Secretary‑General António Guterres hailed these moves as a significant step in advancing the Global Digital Compact, aimed at harnessing the benefits of artificial intelligence while mitigating its risks.

Key Points:

• Two New Institutional Mechanisms:
  • Scientific Panel on AI: A 40-member body intended to issue rigorous, independent scientific assessments of AI research, trends, and risks. It will deliver annual, policy-relevant (but non‑prescriptive) summary reports to be reviewed at the Global Dialogue. Panel members will be selected via an open nomination process and appointed by the UNGA.
  • Global Dialogue on AI Governance: A multistakeholder platform within the UN bringing together states, industry, academia, and civil society to discuss pressing AI governance challenges—from ethical considerations to societal impacts.
• Timeline & Next Steps:
  • The Scientific Panel will release annual reports, with the first being part of the Global Dialogue sessions scheduled for July 2026 in Geneva, followed by another in July 2027 in New York.
  • An open call for expert nominations to the Scientific Panel will be announced by the UN Secretary‑General soon.
• Broader Context:
  • These initiatives form a key operational pillar of the Global Digital Compact, which itself is part of the wider Pact for the Future, aiming for responsible digital cooperation at a global scale.

NDB Appoints Dr Rajiv Ranjan as Vice President

In the News: The Board of Governors of the New Development Bank (NDB)—a multilateral development bank established by the BRICS nations—appointed Dr Rajiv Ranjan, an esteemed central banker from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as Vice‑President and Chief Risk Officer for a five‑year term.

Key Points:

• Appointment Details & Tenure: Dr Rajiv Ranjan—formerly an Executive Director and Member of the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)—has been appointed to serve as Vice‑President and Chief Risk Officer of the NDB for five years, starting around September 2025.
• Extensive Banking & Policy Experience: Joining the RBI in 1989, Ranjan has over 35 years of experience, including leadership roles in monetary policy, liquidity management, and economic research. He also served internationally, including as an economic policy expert with the Central Bank of Oman (2012–15).
• International Engagement & Expertise: Ranjan brings experience in collaborating with key global financial forums and institutions such as the G20, IMF, World Bank, BIS, FSB, OECD, SAARC, and central banks across the Global South.
• Role in NDB Functions: Beyond leading risk management, Ranjan is expected to shape the NDB’s strategy, policy frameworks, partnerships, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. He will also represent the bank at global forums on climate change and development finance.

Cabinet Greenlights Bid for Hosting Commonwealth Games 2030

In the News: The Union Cabinet of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officially approved the submission of a bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The decision includes authorization to sign the Host Collaboration Agreement (HCA) and to provide grant-in-aid and guarantees to the Gujarat government if the bid is accepted.

Key Points:

• Host City Nomination & Infrastructure Strength: Ahmedabad has been chosen as the proposed host city, praised for its world-class facilities—especially the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket arena globally, which successfully hosted the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup Final. Its existing infrastructure and vibrant sports culture reinforce its candidacy.
• Formal Bid Process Steps Approved: The Cabinet’s approval covers the formal submission of the bid, the signing of the Host Collaboration Agreement, and providing financial backing to Gujarat, ensuring readiness if the Commonwealth Games Federation accepts the bid.
• Strategic Sports Diplomacy & Olympic Aspirations: The bid is seen as a strategic move toward eventually hosting the 2036 Olympic Games in Ahmedabad, using the Commonwealth Games as a stepping-stone. It reflects India’s broader ambition to position itself as a global sports powerhouse.
• Enhanced Bid Proposal & Sustainability Focus: A recent Commonwealth Sports delegation visit to Ahmedabad helped Indian organizers refine the bid. The proposal emphasizes sustainability, gender balance, cultural diversity, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Expansion of Sports on Offer: As part of the proposal, India plans to reintegrate several sports dropped from recent editions—including field hockey, badminton, table tennis, shooting, wrestling, women’s cricket, squash, and archery—to broaden participation and cultural relevance.
• Historical Context & Opportunity for Redemption: India's hosting of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games was marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The 2030 bid is viewed as a chance to renew its international reputation and deliver a well-managed, impactful event.

Neeraj Chopra finishes second in Diamond League Finals, Weber wins maiden trophy

In the News: At the Diamond League Final in Zurich, two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra finished as the runner-up for the third straight year. Germany’s Julian Weber claimed his first-ever Diamond League title, delivering an extraordinary performance with two throws exceeding 90 meters.

Key Points:

• Consistent Podium Finish: Neeraj Chopra secured second place for the third consecutive Diamond League Final, underlining his remarkable consistency at the highest level.
• Weber’s Commanding Victory: Julian Weber dominated the competition with back-to-back 90m+ throws, including a world-leading effort of 91.51 meters, claiming his maiden Diamond League crown.
• Chopra’s Best Throw: Chopra’s top mark of the evening was 85.01 meters, achieved on his final (sixth) attempt—enough to edge past 2012 Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott (84.95m) for second place.
• Series of Throws & Technical Struggles: Chopra began with a solid 84.35 m, but faltered with three consecutive fouls before delivering his best throw in the final round.
• Head-to-Head Rivalry: With this win, Weber extended his 2025 head-to-head lead over Chopra to 3–1, though Chopra maintains a superior overall advantage of 15–5 in their encounters since 2016.
• Remarkable Podium Streak: Chopra’s second-place finish continued an extraordinary run—he has not finished outside the top two since June 2021, totaling 26 consecutive podium finishes.
• Looking Ahead to Tokyo: Reflecting on his performance, Chopra acknowledged needing improvements ahead of the next major assignment, the World Championships in Tokyo, while congratulating Weber on an “excellent” display.