Weekly Current Affairs (1st to 7th August 2025) | General Test Preparation for CUET UG - CUET Commerce PDF Download

Digital Payments Index Surges

Why in News?
On August 1, 2025, it was reported that India’s digital payments ecosystem has experienced significant growth. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that the Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) reached a score of 493.22 in March 2025, indicating a substantial increase from 465.33 in September 2024. This index tracks the progress and adoption of digital payments across the country, reflecting a rapid digital transformation in both urban and rural areas of India.

Key Takeaways

• The RBI-DPI shows a rise from 465.33 in September 2024 to 493.22 in March 2025.
• The index illustrates the growing adoption of digital payments in India.

Additional Details

• What is Digital Payments Index?The RBI-DPI was introduced in January 2021, with March 2018 as the base period set at 100. It measures the digitization of payments based on five broad parameters:
  • Payment Enablers
  • Demand-side Infrastructure
  • Supply-side Infrastructure
  • Payment Performance
  • Consumer Centricity
• Each parameter is assigned a different weightage to reflect its significance:
  
• The index provides a composite score that indicates the depth and reach of digital payments.
• Since its inception, the index has shown a consistent upward trajectory, rising from 100 in March 2018 to 493.22 in March 2025, marking a fourfold increase in digital payment activity over seven years.

The increase in the RBI-DPI is driven by various factors, including the expansion of payment infrastructure, the widespread acceptance of digital payments among merchants, and the robust growth of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). These advancements reflect significant fintech innovations and government initiatives like Digital India, contributing to India's ambition of becoming a fully digital economy.

In conclusion, the rising RBI-DPI score indicates substantial progress towards digital financial inclusion in India, helping policymakers benchmark advancements and address gaps in access to digital payment solutions.

Operation Shiv Shakti

Why in News?
On August 1, 2025, the Indian Army initiated Operation Shiv Shakti in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir, successfully targeting two terrorists attempting to infiltrate across the Line of Control (LoC). This operation followed closely on the heels of Operation Mahadev, which neutralised three terrorists involved in the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, that resulted in the loss of 26 civilian lives. These operations reflect India's intensified commitment to combating cross-border terrorism and enhancing security in vulnerable regions.

Key Takeaways

• Operation Shiv Shakti successfully eliminated two infiltrators in Poonch.
• The operation was built on precise intelligence from the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
• It highlights India's proactive measures against cross-border terrorist threats.

Additional Details

• Background: The operation was launched following credible intelligence regarding the infiltration attempts by Lashkar-e-Taiba militants through the Maldivalan sector of Degwar in Poonch, a region known for its challenging terrain and militant activity.
• Objectives: The primary goal was to intercept armed infiltrators before they could enter Indian territory, ensuring the safety of civilian populations and crucial pilgrimage routes, such as the Budha Amarnath Yatra.
• Sequence of Events: Intelligence warnings led to the establishment of ambush posts. On a foggy evening, suspicious movements were detected, resulting in a firefight that led to the neutralisation of two terrorists and the recovery of three foreign-made weapons, including Chinese and Turkish pistols.
• Joint Operations: This operation demonstrated effective coordination between the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps and local police, reflecting improved intelligence sharing and operational synergy.
• Strategic Implications: Operation Shiv Shakti is part of a broader security strategy to deter infiltration and highlights the increasing involvement of foreign militants in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Significance: The operation safeguarded key civilian and religious sites, emphasizing the commitment of Indian security forces to protect citizens and maintain peace in the region.

In summary, Operation Shiv Shakti not only underscores India's resolve to thwart cross-border terrorism but also showcases the effectiveness of its military and intelligence capabilities in maintaining regional stability despite challenging conditions.

Barbados Threadsnake

Why in News?
The Barbados threadsnake, recognized as the world's smallest known snake, was rediscovered in 2025 after nearly two decades without a confirmed sighting. This remarkable find has reignited interest in the unique biodiversity of Barbados and highlighted the urgent need for the protection of endangered habitats.

Key Takeaways

• The Barbados threadsnake (Tetracheilostoma carlae) is a blind, burrowing snake.
• It primarily feeds on termites and ants, laying a single slender egg.
• Fully grown, it measures approximately 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) long.
• Its small size makes it difficult to spot, as it can comfortably fit on a coin.
• The snake is characterized by pale yellow dorsal lines and eyes located on the sides of its head.

Additional Details

• History: The species was first identified in 2008 by S. Blair Hedges, a biology professor at Temple University, who initially misidentified it as a similar species, the Brahminy blind snake. Genetic analysis later confirmed it as a new species. Prior to this, only three specimens were known, housed in museums in London and California. The species was named in honor of Hedges' wife, Carla.
• Challenges in Rediscovery: Due to its cryptic nature and small size, the Barbados threadsnake can easily be overlooked during searches. After a year of searching, Connor Blades from Barbados’ Ministry of Environment successfully found a specimen under a rock in a small forest. Its active movements made identification difficult even under a microscope, requiring a still image for confirmation.
• Ecological Importance: The rediscovery of the threadsnake is vital for Barbados' ecosystem. As an endemic species, it plays a crucial role in controlling populations of termites and ants. The island has experienced significant habitat destruction, leading to the loss of many endemic species, including the Barbados racer and skink. Protecting the threadsnake's habitat could also benefit other native species and enhance biodiversity.
• Conservation Efforts: The rediscovery has heightened awareness regarding lesser-known species and the importance of biodiversity. It underscores the need for ongoing scientific surveys and habitat protection. Conservation groups like Re:wild are partnering with local authorities to foster wildlife preservation. The threadsnake may serve as a flagship species for conservation initiatives in Barbados and the broader Caribbean region.

The rediscovery of the Barbados threadsnake not only emphasizes the rich biodiversity of the island but also signifies an urgent call to action for conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.

AI-Powered Agromet Advisory

Why in News?
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has launched an innovative AI-powered climate advisory service aimed at providing personalized, real-time weather and climate information to smallholder farmers. This initiative is designed to help farmers adapt to increasing climate variability and enhance agricultural productivity, backed by the Government of India's Monsoon Mission III, integrating advanced technology with local agricultural needs.

Key Takeaways

• The advisory system utilizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for generating context-specific insights.
• It offers hyper-local weather forecasts and tailored crop recommendations based on various factors.
• Advisories are delivered through multiple platforms, including an AI-powered WhatsApp bot.
• The pilot phase targets over 120 million small and marginal farmers in Maharashtra.

Additional Details

• AI and ML Integration: The advisory system generates insights by analyzing real-time data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and satellite observations, continuously updating to reflect changing climate conditions.
• Delivery Channels: The service employs various user-friendly platforms, including Interactive Voice Response Systems (IVRS), mobile applications, and village resource centres, ensuring accessibility, especially in remote areas.
• The pilot project's lessons will inform a national rollout across India, with an aim to extend benefits to other semi-arid regions globally.

This AI-powered advisory service significantly addresses climate risks in agriculture by reducing uncertainty in farming decisions. It promotes sustainable agricultural practices while enhancing productivity. By providing timely and relevant information, this initiative strengthens farmers' resilience to extreme weather events and represents a crucial advancement in integrating digital technologies with traditional farming methods.

Matri Van Initiative

Why in News?
The Matri Van initiative was recently launched in Gurugram as a significant step toward ecological preservation and urban sustainability. This urban forest project is part of the Government of India's 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' program, aiming to create a green legacy that involves communities and various stakeholders. Spanning over 750 acres in the Aravalli Hills, it is set to enhance biodiversity and improve public well-being in the Delhi NCR region.

Key Takeaways

• Inaugurated on August 4, 2025, during Van Mahotsav 2025.
• Joint effort involving government bodies, NGOs, corporate partners, Resident Welfare Associations, and citizens.
• Focus on restoring the Aravalli ecosystem through indigenous tree species.
• Supports the Prime Minister's Mission LiFE for environmental sustainability.

Additional Details

• Project Launch: The initiative was inaugurated by Union Ministers Bhupender Yadav and Manohar Lal, with the Haryana Forest Department facilitating the event alongside state officials and public representatives.
• Ecological Vision: The Matri Van is designed as a theme-based urban forest that aims to restore the Aravalli ecosystem. It will improve air quality and provide a peaceful environment for health and recreation.
• Biodiversity Focus: The project will eliminate invasive species like Kabuli Kikar (Prosopis juliflora) and replace them with native trees such as Bargad, Peepal, and Neem.
• Features themed groves including Bodhi Vatika and Butterfly Garden to preserve local flora and fauna.
• Community engagement will be promoted through CSR initiatives and public facilities such as nature trails, yoga spaces, and water bodies.
• Water conservation methods will include using treated water for irrigation and maintaining greenery through misting and sprinkling systems.

In conclusion, the Matri Van initiative is poised to transform Gurugram into an 'Ideal Millennium City' through its focus on urban sustainability, enhancing biodiversity, and providing recreational spaces, potentially inspiring similar projects across other metro cities.

IPPB Launches Aadhaar-Based Face Authentication Nationwide

Why in News?
On August 4, 2025, India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) announced the launch of Aadhaar-based face authentication for customer transactions across India. This innovative feature facilitates identity verification through facial recognition technology, aiming to enhance banking accessibility, especially for the elderly and differently-abled individuals who may struggle with traditional methods like fingerprint or OTP verification.

Key Takeaways

• IPPB introduces Aadhaar-based face authentication for secure transactions.
• The initiative aims to improve financial inclusivity for marginalized groups.
• IPPB utilizes a vast network of post offices to reach unbanked populations.

Additional Details

• About IPPB: Launched in 2018 under the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, IPPB is entirely government-owned and focuses on providing affordable banking services, leveraging over 1.65 lakh post offices, predominantly in rural areas.
• Features of the Authentication System: Utilizing the UIDAI’s Aadhaar framework, this system enables contactless and rapid transaction verification without the need for fingerprints or OTPs, beneficial especially during health crises when minimizing physical contact is crucial.
• Benefits for Financial Inclusion: The face authentication feature addresses challenges associated with traditional biometric methods, enhancing the dignity and ease of banking for differently-abled and elderly customers, thus supporting government initiatives like Digital India.
• IPPB's Role in Digital and Financial Inclusion: By combining technology with a broad physical network, IPPB serves 11 crore customers across 5.5 lakh villages and towns, offering services in 13 languages and promoting a less-cash economy.

In summary, IPPB's launch of Aadhaar-based face authentication represents a significant step towards simplifying banking processes while emphasizing security and inclusivity, ensuring that financial services are accessible to all citizens.

Odisha Launches SOP for Landrace Seed Conservation

Why in News?
On August 5, 2025, Odisha announced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at conserving traditional seed varieties known as landraces. This initiative seeks to protect agrobiodiversity and empower smallholder farmers by integrating these seeds into formal agricultural systems. The SOP is part of the 'Shree Anna Abhiyan' and emphasizes the importance of farmers' knowledge and community management over the dominance of industrial seed varieties.

Key Takeaways

• Odisha's SOP targets the conservation of traditional landrace seeds to preserve agricultural diversity.
• The approach focuses on empowering local farmers and prioritizing community involvement.

Additional Details

• Landraces: Traditional crop varieties that have evolved over generations through natural selection and farmers' choices. They are genetically diverse and adapted to local climates, offering resilience against pests and climate stress while requiring fewer external inputs.
• The SOP addresses the challenges posed by modern agricultural practices, which have led to a decline in genetic diversity and traditional seed varieties.
• The SOP includes measures such as surveying agro-biodiversity hotspots, creating Crop Diversity Blocks (CDBs), establishing Community Seed Centres (CSCs), and registering landraces digitally.
• Legal protections will ensure that landraces remain under community ownership, with original local names preserved in official records.

As of now, Odisha has successfully mapped and conserved 163 traditional seed varieties under the Shree Anna Abhiyan, with ongoing efforts to profile their nutritional benefits. This initiative aligns with Odisha's recognition as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the FAO, particularly highlighting the Koraput region's significance.

BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival

Why in News?
The inaugural BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival took place on August 5, 2025, showcasing the diverse musical heritage of the seven member countries of BIMSTEC. The event was inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and served as a symbol of regional unity and cultural cooperation.

Key Takeaways

• The festival highlighted the musical traditions of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
• It was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to promote cultural diplomacy within the Bay of Bengal region.

Additional Details

• Cultural Significance: The festival was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand in April 2025, emphasizing cultural ties as a means to strengthen regional cooperation.
• The event aimed to enhance people-to-people connections and utilized soft power to improve diplomatic relations among BIMSTEC nations.
• Event Venue: The festival was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, a venue chosen for its ability to showcase diverse musical traditions.
• The festival was free and open to the public, encouraging inclusive participation across all societal sections.
• Participating Countries: All seven BIMSTEC nations presented unique musical styles, contributing to a rich cultural exchange under the theme “SaptaSur – Seven Nations, One Melody.”
• The festival reinforced cultural diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and respect among member states, and setting a precedent for future cultural engagements.

The BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival not only celebrated the rich musical heritage of the region but also promoted peace and collaboration beyond economic and political domains. Its successful execution paves the way for future cultural initiatives aimed at strengthening ties among BIMSTEC countries.

District Flood Severity Index

Why in News?
Recent research conducted by IIT Delhi and IIT Gandhinagar has introduced the District Flood Severity Index (DFSI) for India. This index aims to deliver a comprehensive measurement of flood severity at the district level, addressing gaps in existing flood data and enhancing flood management policies.

Key Takeaways

• The DFSI combines flood duration, area affected, deaths, injuries, and population to better assess flood impacts.
• It helps target relief and prevention efforts more effectively at the district level.
• Patna ranks highest in DFSI, indicating severe impacts in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
• Urban flooding is exacerbated by poor planning and heavy rainfall, affecting cities like Thiruvananthapuram.

Additional Details

• Need for a District-Level Flood Index: Flooding frequently causes displacement, injuries, and fatalities in India. The DFSI addresses the absence of a standard data-based index to measure flood severity at the district scale, thus facilitating more effective flood response.
• Data Sources and Parameters: The index utilizes data collected annually by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) since 1967, incorporating factors such as mean flood duration, percentage of area flooded, total deaths, injuries, and population, providing a multi-dimensional view of flood impacts.
• Limitations and Future Improvements: Current DFSI does not account for agricultural flood impacts due to data constraints and could benefit from enhanced datasets concerning land types and socio-economic factors.
• Significance for Flood Management: The DFSI serves as a practical tool for policymakers to prioritize districts needing urgent flood relief and infrastructure investments, emphasizing the importance of considering both human and spatial flood impacts.

The District Flood Severity Index represents a crucial step towards improved flood management and resilience planning in India, encouraging detailed data collection for more targeted mitigation strategies.

Repairability Index

Why in News?
On August 6, 2025, India made significant strides towards promoting sustainable electronics by implementing a Repairability Index. This index evaluates mobile phones and appliances based on their repairability, availability of spare parts, and software support. In conjunction with this initiative, the government introduced new e-waste policies that establish minimum payments to promote formal recycling, aiming to position repair as a consumer right and acknowledge its cultural and intellectual value.

Key Takeaways

• The Repairability Index ranks devices on their ease of repair, access to spare parts, and software updates.
• New e-waste policies incentivize responsible recycling, aiming to reduce informal dumping.
• These efforts align with global trends, including the EU's Right to Repair and the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 12.

Additional Details

• Tacit Knowledge in Repair: India’s repair economy thrives on tacit knowledge, which is practical skill gained through observation and hands-on experience rather than formal training. Repairers often rely on sensory cues to diagnose issues and creatively adapt to constraints, significantly extending the lifespan of devices beyond what manufacturers intend.
• Despite its importance, this informal expertise often remains unrecognized in formal policy and digital frameworks.

The informal repair sector faces numerous challenges. As product designs become less amenable to repair and consumer tendencies lean towards disposability, these workers are increasingly marginalized. They lack access to formal training programs and policy support, with existing skill development schemes primarily focused on industrial roles that do not adequately capture the essence of repair work. This situation risks undermining a vast reservoir of undocumented knowledge essential for sustainability and economic opportunity.

Policy Gaps and Opportunities

• Current policies, including the E-Waste (Management) Rules 2022, emphasize recycling over repair as a preventive strategy.
• The National Education Policy 2020 advocates for experiential learning but does not sufficiently support the transmission of repair expertise.
• Campaigns like Mission LiFE promote repair and reuse, but they lack targeted support for repair workers.
• There is a critical need to integrate repairability into design, procurement, and skill development policies.

Role of AI and Digital Public Infrastructure

• While India’s digital and AI policies focus on innovation and data-driven governance, they often overlook the informal repair economy.
• AI can assist in codifying repair knowledge through tools like decision trees and language models, translating tacit expertise into shareable formats.
• Incorporating repairability standards into AI and procurement policies can foster sustainable design and recognize informal repairers within digital platforms like e-Shram, providing them access to social protection and training.

Designing for Unmaking and Circular Economy

• The unmaking concept involves designing products for easy disassembly, repair, and reuse, treating breakdowns as opportunities for feedback and learning rather than failures.
• Informal repairers are crucial to this circular economy, salvaging parts and restoring devices. Supporting them as sustainability stewards can reshape environmental initiatives and drive digital innovation in India.

In conclusion, the Repairability Index and related e-waste policies represent a transformative approach to sustainability in India. By prioritizing repairability and acknowledging the vital role of informal repairers, India can foster a more sustainable future while enhancing economic opportunities.

Indri Lemur Microbiome

Why in News?
The intestinal microbiome of the indri lemur, a critically endangered species endemic to Madagascar, has been analyzed for the first time. This groundbreaking study uncovers unique bacterial species and reveals social transmission patterns, providing fresh insights into conservation efforts.

Key Takeaways

• The indri indri, locally known as babakoto, is found exclusively in the tropical forests of north-east Madagascar.
• It primarily feeds on leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers, bark, and occasionally soil.
• Indri lemurs live in small, stable family groups, typically consisting of two to five members, and exhibit monogamous, matriarchal social structures.
• They are critically endangered due to habitat loss from climate change and human activities.

Methodology

• Sample Analysis: Researchers collected and analyzed fecal and soil samples from six indri families.
• They employed genome assembly techniques to identify bacterial species present in the indri's intestinal microbiome, with findings published in The ISME Journal.

Key Findings on Microbiome Composition

• The study identified 48 bacterial species within the indri microbiome.
• Of these, 47 species were previously unknown and unique to indris, with only Escherichia coli being a known species, typically found near human settlements.
• This indicates that indris host exclusive microbial communities, and their extinction would result in the loss of these unique bacteria.

Social Transmission of Microbiome

• The study highlights that microbiome bacteria are transmitted within family groups, with each group sharing unique bacterial strains not seen in others.
• Transmission occurs despite soil ingestion, which does not affect their gut microbiome significantly.
• Genetic variations in bacterial strains correspond with geographic separations, suggesting isolated populations develop distinct microbial profiles.

Implications for Conservation

• Understanding the indri's microbiome provides new perspectives on conservation strategies.
• Protecting their habitat is crucial for preserving their unique microbial heritage.
• Microbiome analysis could be used as a monitoring tool for population health and social structures, aiding in extinction prevention and biodiversity maintenance in fragmented habitats.

This analysis of the indri lemur's microbiome not only enriches our understanding of this endangered species but also emphasizes the importance of habitat conservation for sustaining both biodiversity and unique microbial communities.

PAHAL Scheme

Why in News?
As of August 7, 2025, India has significantly ramped up efforts to refine the distribution of LPG subsidies through the PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) direct benefit transfer scheme. This initiative includes the deactivation of over 4 crore duplicate or inactive LPG connections, aimed at curbing fuel diversion and ensuring that subsidies are allocated to genuine consumers. Central to these reforms are Aadhaar-based verification and biometric authentication, which enhance transparency and precision in targeting.

Key Takeaways

• The PAHAL scheme is India's premier mechanism for LPG subsidy transfer, facilitating direct payments to consumers.
• Over 33 crore active LPG consumers are covered, making it the largest cash transfer program worldwide.
• Biometric Aadhaar authentication is essential for new connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).

Additional Details

• PAHAL Scheme: This scheme replaces indirect subsidy delivery by directly crediting subsidy amounts into the bank accounts of consumers. Individuals pay the market price for LPG cylinders and receive refunds digitally.
• The initiative has enhanced financial inclusion and significantly reduced subsidy leakages, ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients.
• Measures to Prevent Misuse: The government has terminated more than 4 crore inactive connections, including 8.49 lakh PMUY connections. Regular inspections at LPG outlets are conducted to identify irregularities.
• Aadhaar seeding has achieved a compliance rate of 92.44% among active consumers, with 86.78% fully compliant for Aadhaar-based transfers.

The impact of the PAHAL scheme has been notable, with approximately 194 crore LPG refills delivered in FY25 and only 0.08% complaints reported. A third-party evaluation indicates over 90% consumer satisfaction. While the scheme has improved subsidy targeting and transparency, recommendations suggest the need for stronger infrastructure, enhanced targeting accuracy, and increased safety awareness among consumers. Overall, PAHAL aims to eliminate fraudulent connections, protect consumer rights, and ensure timely subsidy payments, thereby improving LPG availability for genuine customers.