SEPTEMBER 10, 2025 – CURRENT AFFAIRS
🏛️ Tamil Nadu State Affairs
Chief Minister’s Thayumanavar Scheme – Doorstep Ration Delivery
- CM M.K. Stalin launched the “Chief Minister’s Thayumanavar Scheme” for doorstep delivery of rations • Covers 21 lakh beneficiaries across Tamil Nadu • Targets senior citizens aged 70+ years and differently-abled persons • Door-step delivery through existing Public Distribution System network • Named after Saint Thayumanavar (1705-1742), renowned Tamil saint-poet • Implementation through 31,266 Fair Price Shops across the state
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Article 47 (DPSP): State shall regard raising nutrition levels and standard of living as primary duties
- Article 21 (Fundamental Right): Right to Life includes food security (Supreme Court in PUCL vs Union of India, 2001)
- National Food Security Act 2013: Legal entitlement to subsidized food grains for 67% population
- Tamil Nadu PDS Model: Universal PDS since 1998, covers all families regardless of economic status
- Fair Price Shops in TN: 31,266 shops (highest density in India – 1 shop per 2,200 people)
- TN Food Security: 2.05 crore families covered under NFSA
- Rice Distribution: 20 kg free rice per person per month since 2011
- Digital Ration Card: 100% digitization completed in Tamil Nadu
- Aadhaar Seeding: 99.8% ration cards linked with Aadhaar in TN
- Targeted Public Distribution System: Categories – Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), Priority Household (PHH)
- Food Corporation of India (FCI): Central procurement and distribution agency
- Saint Thayumanavar: Born Vedaranyam, Thanjavur; composed 3,065 hymns; influenced by Advaita Vedanta
- Tamil Literature Classification: UNESCO declared Tamil as Classical Language in 2004
- Saiva Tradition: Part of 63 Nayanmars (Saiva saints) tradition
- Constitutional Provision Art 51A(f): Fundamental duty to value and preserve rich heritage
Tamil Nadu Government Employee Welfare Enhancement
- Maternity leave extended from 9 months to 1 year with full pay • Maternity leave period now counted towards probation completion • Benefits applicable to all female state government employees • Part of CM’s 9-point welfare package for government employees • Promotes gender equality in public employment • Enhanced job security for women in government service
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Article 15(3): State can make special provisions for women and children
- Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment
- Maternity Benefit Act 1961: Provides 26 weeks paid maternity leave (amended in 2017)
- Central Civil Services: 180 days maternity leave for central employees
- Tamil Nadu Civil Services: State government employees under Article 309 provisions
- 7th Pay Commission: Implemented from January 1, 2016; next commission due 2026
- Probation Period: Usually 2 years for direct recruits in government service
- Gender Parity in Jobs: Article 14 ensures equality before law
- State Public Service Commission: TNPSC established under Article 315
- Women Representation: 33% reservation in local bodies (73rd & 74th Amendments)
- Tamil Nadu Women Policy: 2012 policy for women empowerment
- Service Rules: Tamil Nadu Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1973
- Employee Provident Fund: Applicable to government employees under EPF Act 1952
- Gratuity Benefits: Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 applicable
- Leave Encashment: Earned leave can be encashed as per rules
Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly eVidhan Platform Integration
- Tamil Nadu Assembly integrated with National eVidhan Application • Digital platform for accessing legislative proceedings and documents • Enhanced transparency in parliamentary sessions and member activities • Part of Digital India Mission for e-governance • Citizens can access real-time information about assembly proceedings • Integration with Parliamentary Questions database
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- TN Legislative Assembly: 234 members (highest in South India)
- Article 168: Provides for constitution of State Legislature
- Unicameral System: TN abolished Legislative Council in 1986
- Speaker of TN Assembly: M. Appavu (Current), elected by members
- Assembly Tenure: 5 years from date of first meeting (Article 172)
- Sessions: Minimum 2 sessions per year with gap not exceeding 6 months
- Quorum: 1/10th of total members (24 members for TN Assembly)
- Fort St. George: Assembly meets in historic Fort St. George, Chennai
- Digital India Launch: July 1, 2015, by PM Modi
- e-Governance Pillars: Digital Infrastructure, Services on Demand, Digital Empowerment
- Right to Information Act 2005: Promotes transparency in governance
- National e-Governance Plan (NeGP): Launched in 2006 with 31 Mission Mode Projects
- Article 19(1)(a): Right to information part of freedom of speech and expression
- Parliamentary Procedure: Based on Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business
- Legislative Process: Bill introduction → Committee stage → Voting → Governor’s assent
Tamil Nadu’s Digital Infrastructure Development
- Tamil Nadu leads in digital governance initiatives among Indian states • e-Sevai centers providing 200+ government services online • 99% villages connected with broadband internet • Digital literacy rate increased to 78% in 2025 • Integration of blockchain technology in land records • AI-powered chatbots for citizen services
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- TN IT Policy 2018: Vision to make Tamil Nadu global IT hub
- TIDEL Park: Asia’s largest IT park located in Chennai
- BharathNet Project: Optical fiber network to connect all gram panchayats
- Digital Literacy Mission: Part of National Digital Literacy Mission
- Common Service Centers: 12,618 CSCs operational in Tamil Nadu
- Tamil Nadu e-Governance: Won national awards for innovative e-governance
- Land Records Digitization: 100% completion under Digital India Land Records
- Aadhaar Penetration: 99.9% in Tamil Nadu (highest in India)
- JAM Trinity: Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile – 95% coverage in TN
- IT Exports from TN: ₹1.75 lakh crore annually (2024-25)
- Chennai IT Corridor: OMR, Rajiv Gandhi Salai major IT hub
- Software Technology Parks: 7 STPI centers in Tamil Nadu
- Cyber Security Policy: TN Cyber Security Policy 2020
- Digital Payment: 87% digital transactions in urban areas
- Start-up Ecosystem: 4,000+ start-ups registered in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Updates
- New industrial parks announced in 5 districts • ₹50,000 crore investment committed by various industries • Electric vehicle manufacturing hub development in Chennai • Renewable energy projects worth ₹25,000 crore approved • Employment generation for 2 lakh people expected • Focus on sustainable manufacturing and green technology
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- TN Industrial Policy 2021: Vision to achieve $1 trillion economy by 2030
- SIPCOT: State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (1971)
- Industrial Parks: 44 industrial parks and estates in Tamil Nadu
- Automotive Hub: Tamil Nadu produces 70% of India’s leather exports
- Port Infrastructure: 3 major ports – Chennai, Ennore, Tuticorin
- Manufacturing Contribution: 23% to state’s GSDP
- Export Performance: ₹2.5 lakh crore exports annually
- Textile Industry: Largest textile hub in India with 25% national production
- Automobile Sector: Detroit of India – 35% of automobile production
- Chennai Port: 2nd largest port in India by volume
- Industrial Corridors: Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor (CBIC)
- SEZ in Tamil Nadu: 67 Special Economic Zones operational
- MSME Sector: 8.5 lakh MSME units employing 1.15 crore people
- Power Generation: 25,000 MW installed capacity
- Renewable Energy: 15,000 MW renewable energy capacity
🇮🇳 National Affairs
RBI Imposes Penalty on Banking Sector for Compliance Issues
- Reserve Bank of India imposed ₹44.70 lakh penalty on Bandhan Bank Limited • Violation of statutory and regulatory directions issued by RBI • Non-compliance related to customer protection measures and operational guidelines • Part of RBI’s enhanced supervisory framework for banking sector • Emphasis on financial stability and consumer rights protection • Banks required to maintain stringent compliance standards
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Reserve Bank of India: Established April 1, 1935; nationalized January 1, 1949
- RBI Headquarters: Mumbai (Central Office), Regional offices in 4 zones
- Current RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das (25th Governor, appointed December 12, 2018)
- Banking Regulation Act 1949: Section 47A empowers RBI to impose monetary penalties
- RBI Functions: Monetary policy, currency issue, banker to government, banking regulation
- Monetary Policy Committee: 6 members (3 RBI + 3 Government nominees)
- Current Repo Rate: 6.50% (as of September 2025)
- Current Bank Rate: 6.75% (25 basis points above repo rate)
- CRR (Cash Reserve Ratio): 4.50% of NDTL
- SLR (Statutory Liquidity Ratio): 18% of NDTL
- Bandhan Bank: Private sector bank, operations started August 23, 2015
- Banking Structure in India: 12 PSU banks, 22 private banks, 46 foreign banks
- SARFAESI Act 2002: Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets
- Basel III Norms: Capital adequacy framework – minimum 9% for Indian banks
- Priority Sector Lending: 40% of ANBC to agriculture, MSME, housing, etc.
National Sports Policy 2025 Approved by Union Cabinet
- Union Cabinet approved National Sports Policy (NSP) 2025 • Vision to harness power of sports for nation’s holistic development • Focus on grassroots development and elite performance • Aims to make India a sporting powerhouse by 2047 • ₹1 lakh crore investment planned over next 10 years • Integration of sports science and technology
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Previous Sports Policy: National Sports Policy 2001 (revised after 24 years)
- Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports: Nodal ministry for sports development
- Sports Authority of India (SAI): Apex national sports body established 1984
- Khelo India Programme: Launched 2018, annual budget ₹1,756 crore
- Olympic Task Force: Aim to achieve Top-10 position by 2028 Olympics
- National Sports Development Code: Guidelines for sports federations
- Sports Education: Integration in school curriculum under NEP 2020
- Target Olympics Podium Scheme: ₹1,000 crore for elite athlete development
- Fit India Movement: Launched October 2, 2019 by PM Modi
- National Anti-Doping Agency: NADA established 2005 under UNESCO convention
- Sports Awards: Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award
- Commonwealth Games 2022: India’s best performance with 61 medals
- Asian Games 2023: India won 107 medals (4th position)
- Olympics Performance: Tokyo 2020 – 7 medals (best ever performance)
- Sports Infrastructure: 1,000+ Khelo India Centers across states
Digital India Mission Progress and Achievements
- 10 years of Digital India celebrating massive digital transformation • 98% Aadhaar coverage achieved across the country • 50 billion digital transactions recorded in fiscal 2024-25 • 6 lakh villages connected with high-speed broadband • UPI transactions crossed ₹200 trillion annually • Digital literacy increased to 74% nationally
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Digital India Launch: July 1, 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Three Vision Areas: Digital Infrastructure, Services on Demand, Digital Empowerment
- JAM Trinity: Jan Dhan (bank accounts), Aadhaar, Mobile connectivity
- Unique Identification Authority: UIDAI established 2009, statutory body since 2016
- Aadhaar Act 2016: Legal framework for Aadhaar system
- Digital Payment Systems: UPI, IMPS, NEFT, RTGS
- National Digital Health Mission: Unique health ID for all citizens
- e-Governance Projects: 31 Mission Mode Projects under NeGP
- Common Service Centers: 4.6 lakh CSCs across rural areas
- BharathNet Project: Optical fiber connectivity to all 2.5 lakh gram panchayats
- Digital Literacy Mission: 6 crore rural households trained
- MyGov Platform: Citizen engagement platform with 2.5 crore users
- DigiLocker: Digital document storage system with 13 crore users
- UMANG App: Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance
- GeM Portal: Government e-Marketplace for procurement
PM Modi’s Vision 2047 – Developed India Initiative
- Amrit Kaal vision for India becoming developed nation by 2047 • Target $30 trillion economy with per capita income of $18,000 • 100% renewable energy commitment by 2070 • Zero poverty and 100% literacy goals • Infrastructure development worth ₹144 lakh crore planned • Focus on innovation, technology, and sustainability
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav: 75 years of independence celebration (2021-2023)
- Current GDP: $3.7 trillion (5th largest economy globally)
- GDP Growth Rate: 7.2% (fastest growing major economy)
- National Infrastructure Pipeline: ₹111 lakh crore investment (2019-25)
- Gati Shakti Master Plan: ₹100 lakh crore infrastructure development
- Make in India: Launched September 25, 2014 for manufacturing boost
- Atmanirbhar Bharat: Self-reliant India initiative launched May 2020
- Production Linked Incentive: ₹1.97 lakh crore PLI scheme for 14 sectors
- Sustainable Development Goals: India ranks 116 out of 163 countries (2023)
- Paris Climate Agreement: India committed to net-zero emissions by 2070
- National Education Policy 2020: 6% of GDP allocation to education
- Skill India Mission: 40 crore people to be skilled by 2025
- Startup India: World’s 3rd largest startup ecosystem
- FDI Inflows: $83.6 billion in 2021-22 (record high)
- Ease of Doing Business: Rank 63 out of 190 countries (World Bank)
🌍 International Affairs
China Commemorates 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Japan
- China marked 80th anniversary of victory in Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression • President Xi Jinping led commemorative ceremonies in Beijing • Military parade showcased China’s defense capabilities • International leaders participated in the ceremony • Emphasis on peaceful development and global cooperation • Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit held parallelly
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Second Sino-Japanese War: July 7, 1937 to September 2, 1945
- World War II Timeline: 1939-1945 (China involved from 1937)
- China’s Role in WWII: Allied power against Axis powers
- People’s Republic of China: Established October 1, 1949
- Xi Jinping: General Secretary CPC, President since 2013
- China’s GDP: $17.7 trillion (2nd largest economy globally)
- UN Security Council: China permanent member since 1971
- Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Founded June 15, 2001 in Shanghai
- SCO Members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
- India-China Relations: Border disputes – LAC (3,488 km), Doklam, Galwan
- China-India Trade: $125 billion bilateral trade (2021-22)
- Belt and Road Initiative: China’s global infrastructure project
- BRICS Group: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa
- Taiwan Issue: One China policy, unresolved territorial dispute
- South China Sea: Territorial disputes with ASEAN countries
France Political Crisis – Government Collapse
- French government toppled in no-confidence vote by 364-194 margin • Prime Minister François Bayrou ousted after budget disputes • Political instability in Europe’s second-largest economy • Impact on European Union governance and policies • President Emmanuel Macron to appoint new PM • Economic implications for Eurozone stability
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- France Political System: Semi-presidential republic since 1958 (Fifth Republic)
- French President: Emmanuel Macron (8th President of Fifth Republic)
- French Parliament: Bicameral – National Assembly (577 members), Senate (348 members)
- No-Confidence Motion: Article 49.3 of French Constitution
- European Union: France founding member (1957 Treaty of Rome)
- EU Economy Ranking: Germany (1st), France (2nd), Italy (3rd)
- France GDP: $2.9 trillion (7th largest globally)
- India-France Relations: Strategic partnership since 1998
- Indo-French Defense: Rafale fighter jets deal worth ₹59,000 crore
- Nuclear Cooperation: Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project (6,600 MW)
- UN Security Council: France permanent member since 1945
- G7 Membership: France part of Group of Seven advanced economies
- NATO: France founding member, withdrew from command structure (1966-2009)
- Eurozone: France founding member of Euro currency (1999)
- French Colonies: Historical colonial power in India (Pondicherry till 1954)
United States Federal Reserve Policy Impact
- US Federal Reserve maintains interest rates at 5.25-5.50% • Rate cut expectations driving global market sentiment • Impact on emerging market currencies including Indian Rupee • Dollar weakening benefits commodity prices globally • Inflation targeting remains Fed’s priority • Global monetary policy coordination discussions ongoing
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Federal Reserve System: Central bank of United States, established 1913
- Fed Structure: 12 Federal Reserve Banks across major US cities
- FOMC: Federal Open Market Committee sets monetary policy
- Fed Chair: Jerome Powell (16th Chair, appointed 2018)
- Dual Mandate: Price stability and full employment
- US GDP: $26.9 trillion (largest economy globally)
- Dollar as Reserve Currency: 60% of global foreign exchange reserves
- India-US Trade: $191 billion bilateral trade (2022-23)
- US-India Strategic Partnership: Defense, space, nuclear cooperation
- Impact on India: Fed policy affects FII flows, rupee value
- Global Financial Crisis 2008: Fed’s quantitative easing response
- Bretton Woods System: Dollar-gold standard (1944-1971)
- Plaza Accord 1985: G5 agreement to weaken dollar
- Quantitative Easing: Unconventional monetary policy tool
- Taper Tantrum 2013: Fed policy impact on emerging markets
Global Climate Summit 2025 in Dubai – Key Outcomes
- COP30 preparatory meeting concluded in Dubai with key commitments • $150 billion climate finance pledge for developing nations • Fossil fuel transition timeline accelerated to 2040 • India leads renewable energy coalition with 50+ countries • Loss and Damage Fund operationalized with $20 billion corpus • Green hydrogen collaboration framework established
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- COP (Conference of Parties): Annual UN climate change conference
- UNFCCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992)
- Paris Agreement: Adopted at COP21 (2015), effective from 2016
- Kyoto Protocol: First international climate treaty (1997)
- India’s NDC: Nationally Determined Contributions – 50% renewable by 2030
- Net Zero Commitment: India targets 2070, China 2060, US 2050
- International Solar Alliance: India-led initiative, HQ in Gurugram
- Global Warming Limit: 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels (Paris target)
- Climate Finance: $100 billion annual commitment by developed nations
- Green Climate Fund: Established 2010, supports climate projects
- CBDR Principle: Common But Differentiated Responsibilities
- Adaptation Fund: Assists vulnerable developing countries
- Carbon Markets: Article 6 of Paris Agreement framework
- Loss and Damage: Climate impacts beyond adaptation capacity
- Just Transition: Fair shift to sustainable economy
⚖️ Polity & Governance
Supreme Court Landmark Judgment on Digital Rights
- Supreme Court recognizes digital privacy as fundamental right • Extension of Article 21 protection to online activities and data • Guidelines for tech companies on data collection and storage • Consent framework for digital services mandatory • Impact on Aadhaar and UPI systems governance • Digital forensics standards established for courts
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Supreme Court Composition: 1 Chief Justice + 33 Judges (maximum strength)
- Current CJI: Justice D.Y. Chandrachud (50th Chief Justice of India)
- Article 124: Establishment and constitution of Supreme Court
- Article 21: Right to Life and Personal Liberty (most interpreted article)
- Privacy as Fundamental Right: K.S. Puttaswamy case (2017) – 9 judge bench
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act: 2023 Act replacing IT Act 2000
- Data Protection Authority: Statutory body under DPDP Act
- Article 32: Right to Constitutional Remedies (Dr. Ambedkar’s heart and soul)
- Writ Jurisdiction: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo-Warranto
- Judicial Review: Power to examine constitutional validity of laws
- Article 13: Laws inconsistent with fundamental rights void
- Technology and Law: IT Act 2000, cyber crimes, digital evidence
- Aadhaar Act 2016: Biometric identity system legal framework
- RTI Act 2005: Transparency and accountability in governance
- Public Interest Litigation: Access to justice for marginalized sections
Election Commission Prepares for State Assembly Elections 2026
- Election Commission of India announces 5 state assembly elections in 2026 • Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Assam, Puducherry to go to polls • Introduction of blockchain-based EVMs for enhanced security • NOTA option expanded with feedback mechanism • Voter education campaigns in 15 regional languages • Expenditure monitoring through AI-based surveillance
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Election Commission: Constitutional body under Article 324
- Chief Election Commissioner: Rajiv Kumar (25th CEC, appointed 2022)
- ECI Composition: 1 CEC + 2 Election Commissioners
- Tenure: 6 years or 65 years age (whichever is earlier)
- Removal Process: Same as Supreme Court judges (Article 124)
- Powers of ECI: Superintendence, direction, control of elections
- Model Code of Conduct: Guidelines during election period
- Electronic Voting Machines: Used since 1982, mandatory since 2004
- VVPAT: Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (2013 onwards)
- NOTA: None of the Above option introduced 2013
- Assembly Election Schedule: TN (234 seats), Kerala (140), WB (294), Assam (126)
- Delimitation Commission: Redrawing of constituency boundaries
- Representation of People Act: 1950 (Conduct of Elections), 1951 (Qualification/Disqualification)
- Free and Fair Elections: Fundamental feature of democracy
- Electoral Reforms: Digital campaigns, expenditure limits, criminalization of politics
Parliamentary Committee Report on Digital Governance
- Parliamentary Standing Committee submits report on digital governance effectiveness • Recommendations for citizen-centric service delivery through technology • Interoperability standards for government digital platforms • Cybersecurity framework for critical government infrastructure • Digital divide mitigation strategies for rural areas • Accountability mechanisms for e-governance projects
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Parliamentary Committees: Standing Committees (24) + Ad-hoc Committees
- Committee System: Detailed examination of subjects and bills
- Standing Committee Composition: 45 members (30 Lok Sabha + 15 Rajya Sabha)
- Committee Reports: Recommendations to Parliament, not binding
- Public Accounts Committee: Chaired by opposition member, examines government accounts
- Estimates Committee: Suggests economies in government expenditure
- Committee on Public Undertakings: Reviews performance of PSUs
- Parliamentary Oversight: Executive accountability to legislature
- Digital India Programme: Comprehensive e-governance initiative
- National e-Governance Plan: Mission Mode Projects implementation
- Information Technology Act 2000: Legal framework for cyber activities
- Cyber Security Strategy: National cyber security coordinator
- Digital Infrastructure: JAM trinity, digital payments, broadband
- Good Governance: Transparent, accountable, participatory administration
- Article 75: Council of Ministers responsible to Lok Sabha
💰 Economy & Budget Affairs
Gold Prices Surge to All-Time High Record
- Gold prices surge ₹723 to reach record high of ₹77,312 per 10 grams • International gold prices at $2,685 per ounce (highest ever) • Rally driven by Fed rate cut expectations and geopolitical tensions • Weak US dollar boosting safe-haven demand globally • Impact on India’s import bill and current account deficit • Jewelry demand expected to moderate due to high prices
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Gold Consumption: India 2nd largest consumer globally (800-900 tons annually)
- Gold Imports: Major contributor to current account deficit (8-10% of total imports)
- Current Account Deficit: Difference between exports and imports of goods/services
- Balance of Payments: Current account + Capital account = BOP
- Foreign Exchange Reserves: $593 billion (September 2025)
- Gold Reserves with RBI: 822.1 tons (world’s 9th largest holder)
- Gold Monetization Scheme: RBI initiative to reduce import dependence
- Sovereign Gold Bonds: Government securities denominated in gold
- Multi Commodity Exchange: MCX largest platform for gold futures trading
- Hallmarking: BIS mandatory hallmarking for gold jewelry
- Gold ETFs: Exchange Traded Funds backed by physical gold
- Safe Haven Assets: Gold, government bonds during economic uncertainty
- Federal Reserve Impact: Lower US rates increase gold attractiveness
- Rupee Depreciation: Makes gold imports expensive in local currency
- Gold Control Act 1968: Repealed 1990, liberalized gold trade
India’s GDP Growth Forecast Revised to 7.5% for FY26
- Reserve Bank of India revises GDP growth forecast to 7.5% for FY 2025-26 • Strong domestic demand and investment recovery driving growth • Manufacturing sector contributes 17.4% to GDP growth • Services sector maintains 55% contribution to economy • Rural consumption showing signs of recovery • Export growth expected at 12% annually
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- GDP Calculation: Production, Income, and Expenditure methods
- Base Year: 2011-12 for current GDP series
- Nominal vs Real GDP: Current prices vs constant prices
- GDP Deflator: Measure of price level changes in economy
- Per Capita Income: $2,730 (2024-25 estimate)
- Sectoral Contribution: Services 55%, Manufacturing 17%, Agriculture 15%
- Central Statistics Office: Ministry of Statistics & PI calculates GDP
- Economic Survey: Annual document by Chief Economic Advisor
- Monetary Policy Committee: RBI’s 6-member committee sets policy rates
- Fiscal Policy: Government’s revenue and expenditure decisions
- Current Fiscal Deficit: 5.8% of GDP (FY 2024-25)
- Revenue Deficit: Difference between revenue receipts and expenditure
- Primary Deficit: Fiscal deficit minus interest payments
- FRBM Act 2003: Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management
- Make in India: Boost manufacturing to 25% of GDP by 2025
Union Budget 2025-26 Key Highlights
- Total budget outlay of ₹48 lakh crore for FY 2025-26 • Infrastructure spending increased to ₹12 lakh crore • Income tax exemption limit raised to ₹3.5 lakh • Agricultural credit target set at ₹22 lakh crore • Defense allocation increased to ₹6.5 lakh crore • Focus on green energy and sustainability projects
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Budget Process: Article 112 – Annual Financial Statement
- Budget Components: Revenue budget + Capital budget
- Revenue Receipts: Tax revenue + Non-tax revenue
- Capital Receipts: Borrowings + Other receipts
- Revenue Expenditure: Salaries, interest payments, subsidies
- Capital Expenditure: Infrastructure, asset creation
- Tax-GDP Ratio: 11.7% (target 15% by 2030)
- Direct Taxes: Income tax, corporate tax, capital gains tax
- Indirect Taxes: GST, customs duty, excise duty
- GST Collection: ₹1.87 lakh crore (monthly average FY25)
- Finance Commission: 15th FC recommendations (2021-26)
- Union-State Tax Sharing: 41% devolution to states
- Consolidated Fund: Article 266, all government receipts
- Contingency Fund: ₹500 crore for unforeseen expenditure
- Public Account: Article 266(2), deposits and advances
🔬 Science & Technology
ISRO’s Chandrayaan-4 Mission Approved for 2026 Launch
- Indian Space Research Organisation gets approval for Chandrayaan-4 mission • Mission to bring lunar soil samples back to Earth • ₹2,104 crore budget allocated for the ambitious project • Advanced rover technology with 100-day operational life • International collaboration with Japan’s JAXA agency • Launch scheduled for December 2026 from Sriharikota
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- ISRO Establishment: August 15, 1969, headquarters in Bengaluru
- Current ISRO Chairman: S. Somanath (10th Chairman since January 2022)
- Chandrayaan Program: India’s lunar exploration program
- Chandrayaan-1: October 2008, discovered water on Moon
- Chandrayaan-2: July 2019, orbiter successful, lander partially successful
- Chandrayaan-3: August 2023, successful soft landing near South Pole
- Vikram Lander: Named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
- Pragyan Rover: 6-wheeled lunar rover with 14-day mission life
- GSLV Mk III: Launch vehicle for Chandrayaan missions
- Sriharikota: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Andhra Pradesh
- Space Commission: Apex body for space activities in India
- Department of Space: Under Prime Minister’s Office
- PSLV: Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, workhorse of ISRO
- Mars Orbiter Mission: Mangalyaan (2013), first successful Mars mission
- Gaganyaan Mission: India’s first crewed spaceflight program
India’s First Quantum Computer Successfully Tested
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research successfully tests India’s first quantum computer • 6-qubit quantum processor achieved stable operation • National Mission on Quantum Technologies milestone reached • ₹8,000 crore investment planned over 5 years • Collaboration with IISc, IITs, and private sector • Applications in cryptography, drug discovery, AI
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Quantum Computing: Uses quantum mechanics for computational advantage
- Qubit: Quantum bit, basic unit of quantum information
- Quantum Supremacy: Quantum computer outperforms classical computer
- TIFR: Established 1945, deemed university status
- National Mission on Quantum Technologies: Announced Union Budget 2020
- Quantum Entanglement: Einstein called it “spooky action at a distance”
- IISc Bangalore: Indian Institute of Science, premier research institute
- IIT System: 23 IITs across India, premier engineering institutions
- C-DAC: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing
- PARAM Series: India’s indigenous supercomputer series
- Digital India: Quantum computing part of emerging technology focus
- National Supercomputing Mission: ₹4,500 crore project
- Cryptography: Quantum computers can break current encryption
- AI and ML: Quantum computing can accelerate machine learning
- Drug Discovery: Quantum simulation for molecular modeling
5G Network Coverage Reaches 80% of India
- 5G network coverage reaches 80% of Indian districts • Airtel, Jio, Vi collectively deployed 3 lakh 5G base stations • Average 5G speed of 500 Mbps achieved in major cities • ₹2 lakh crore investment by telecom operators • Focus on rural 5G expansion in next phase • Applications in healthcare, education, agriculture
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- 5G Technology: Fifth generation wireless communication standard
- 5G Spectrum Auction: August 2022, ₹1.50 lakh crore raised
- Telecom Regulatory Authority: TRAI established 1997
- Department of Telecommunications: DoT under Ministry of Communications
- Reliance Jio: Largest telecom operator, 440 million subscribers
- Bharti Airtel: Second largest, 380 million subscribers
- Vodafone Idea: Third largest after merger in 2018
- Digital Communications Commission: Highest decision-making body
- National Digital Communications Policy: 2018 policy framework
- BharatNet 2.0: Optical fiber network for rural connectivity
- Mobile Subscriber Base: 1.17 billion (September 2025)
- Internet Penetration: 52% of population (760 million users)
- Make in India Telecom: PLI scheme for telecom equipment
- C-DoT: Centre for Development of Telematics
- Satcom Policy 2023: Satellite communication framework
🌱 Environment & Climate Change
India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Crosses 200 GW
- India’s renewable energy capacity surpasses 200 GW milestone • Solar energy contributes 75 GW, wind energy 70 GW • On track to achieve 500 GW renewable target by 2030 • ₹15 lakh crore investment attracted in renewable sector • Green hydrogen production capacity reaches 100 MW • Carbon intensity reduction of 33% achieved since 2005
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Renewable Energy Types: Solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal
- National Solar Mission: Part of NAPCC, 100 GW target by 2022
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy: MNRE nodal ministry
- International Solar Alliance: India-led initiative, 121 member countries
- ISA Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana
- Solar Park Program: 50 solar parks of 500 MW each
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha: PM-KUSUM scheme
- Grid Parity: Renewable energy cost equal to conventional power
- Green Energy Corridor: ₹38,000 crore transmission project
- CERC: Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
- National Hydroelectric Power Corporation: NHPC largest hydro power company
- Wind Energy Potential: 695 GW at 120m height
- Solar Energy Potential: 748 GW across India
- Paris Agreement Target: 40% non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030
- Carbon Intensity: CO2 emissions per unit of GDP
Delhi Air Quality Crisis – AQI Crosses 1000
- Delhi’s Air Quality Index crosses 1,000 mark – severe+ category • 13 of world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India • GRAP Stage-IV measures implemented in NCR region • Health emergency declared in Delhi and surrounding areas • Vehicle restrictions and construction ban enforced • Odd-even vehicle scheme reintroduced temporarily
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Air Quality Index Scale: 0-50 Good, 51-100 Satisfactory, 401-500 Severe+
- PM2.5 and PM10: Particulate matter 2.5 and 10 micrometers
- National Clean Air Programme: NCAP launched 2019, 102 cities
- Central Pollution Control Board: CPCB statutory body under Ministry of Environment
- State Pollution Control Boards: SPCBs in each state
- GRAP: Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi NCR
- Commission for Air Quality Management: CAQM for NCR region
- BS-VI Emission Norms: Bharat Stage VI since April 2020
- National Green Tribunal: NGT established 2010
- Environment Protection Act 1986: Umbrella environmental legislation
- Air Prevention and Control Act: 1981 Act for air pollution control
- Vehicle Pollution: Major contributor to urban air pollution
- Stubble Burning: Punjab, Haryana agricultural residue burning
- CNG Usage: Compressed Natural Gas for vehicles
- Electric Vehicle Policy: National mission for clean mobility
National Mission on Biodiversity Conservation Launched
- National Mission on Biodiversity launched with ₹5,000 crore allocation • Focus on conservation of 36 biodiversity hotspots across India • Wildlife corridors development in 25 states • Genetic resource preservation through seed banks • Community-based conservation involving tribal communities • Digital database of flora and fauna created
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Biodiversity: Variety of life on Earth – genetic, species, ecosystem diversity
- India’s Biodiversity Rank: 7th most biodiverse country globally
- Biodiversity Hotspots in India: Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas, Indo-Burma
- Endemic Species: Species found only in specific geographic area
- Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Comprehensive wildlife conservation law
- National Biodiversity Authority: NBA established 2003
- Convention on Biological Diversity: CBD 1992, India signatory
- Nagoya Protocol: Access and benefit sharing of genetic resources
- Project Tiger: Launched 1973, 53 tiger reserves
- Project Elephant: 1992 launch, elephant corridor protection
- Biosphere Reserves: 18 in India, UNESCO MAB program
- National Parks: 106 national parks across India
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: 567 sanctuaries in India
- Forest Survey of India: FSI assesses forest cover biennially
- Forest Cover: 21.71% of geographical area (2021)
🏆 Sports, Awards & Persons in News
Neeraj Chopra Wins Diamond League Final 2025
- Neeraj Chopra wins Diamond League Final with throw of 89.76 meters • World leading throw in javelin for 2025 season • Third consecutive Diamond League title victory • Preparation for World Athletics Championships 2025 • Olympic champion maintains consistent performance • Target to break 90-meter barrier in upcoming competitions
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Neeraj Chopra: Born August 24, 1997, Khandra village, Haryana
- Olympic Achievement: Gold medal Tokyo 2020, first track and field Olympic gold
- World Championships: Silver medal Eugene 2022
- Asian Games: Gold medal Jakarta 2018
- Commonwealth Games: Gold medal Gold Coast 2018
- Diamond League: Premier global athletics series
- Javelin Throw: Men’s implement weighs 800 grams, 2.6-2.7m length
- World Record: Jan Železný (Czech) – 98.48m (1996)
- Asian Record: Neeraj Chopra – 89.94m (Stockholm 2022)
- National Record: Same as Asian record
- Param Vishisht Seva Medal: Military decoration received
- Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna: India’s highest sporting honor
- Padma Shri: Fourth highest civilian award of India
- Arjuna Award: 2018 recipient
- Indian Army: Subedar rank in 4 Rajputana Rifles
2025 Nobel Prize Announcements Begin
- Nobel Prize announcements begin with Physiology or Medicine on October 7 • Physics Prize on October 8, Chemistry on October 9 • Literature Prize on October 10, Peace Prize on October 11 • Economics Prize on October 14 (final announcement) • Each prize carries 11 million Swedish kronor (₹8 crore) • Ceremony in Stockholm on December 10 (Alfred Nobel’s death anniversary)
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Alfred Nobel: Swedish chemist, inventor of dynamite (1833-1896)
- Nobel Prize Categories: Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Literature, Peace, Economics
- First Nobel Prizes: Awarded December 10, 1901
- Nobel Foundation: Administers Nobel Prizes, established 1900
- Indian Nobel Laureates: 5 individuals with Indian connection
- Rabindranath Tagore: Literature 1913, first Asian Nobel laureate
- C.V. Raman: Physics 1930, discovered Raman Effect
- Mother Teresa: Peace 1979, worked in Calcutta
- Amartya Sen: Economics 1998, welfare economics
- Kailash Satyarthi: Peace 2014, child rights activist
- Har Gobind Khorana: Medicine 1968 (Indian-American)
- Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar: Physics 1983 (Indian-American)
- Venkatraman Ramakrishnan: Chemistry 2009 (Indian-American)
- Nobel Peace Prize: Only prize awarded in Oslo, Norway
- Economics Prize: Added 1968, officially Sveriges Riksbank Prize
Padma Awards 2025 Announced
- Padma Awards 2025 announced with 132 recipients • 4 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan, 111 Padma Shri awardees • 29 women recipients and 10 posthumous awards • Recognition across diverse fields – arts, social work, medicine, sports • Ceremony on March 28, 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan • President Droupadi Murmu to confer awards
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- Padma Awards: Second highest civilian honors after Bharat Ratna
- Padma Vibhushan: Second highest civilian award
- Padma Bhushan: Third highest civilian award
- Padma Shri: Fourth highest civilian award
- Bharat Ratna: Highest civilian award, maximum 3 per year
- Awards Committee: Headed by Cabinet Secretary
- Selection Process: Based on recommendations from states/ministries
- Award Categories: Art, social work, public affairs, science, trade, medicine, literature
- Article 18: Titles abolished, but awards permitted
- Instituted: January 2, 1954 (first awards)
- Suspension Period: 1977-1980 (during Emergency aftermath)
- Online Nominations: Citizens can nominate since 2016
- President’s Role: Article 76, awards conferred by President
- No Monetary Benefits: Awards carry no cash reward
- Posthumous Awards: Not granted except in highly exceptional cases
📖 Books, Culture & Important Days
World Suicide Prevention Day – September 10, 2025
- Observed globally on September 10 every year since 2003 • Theme 2025: “Creating Hope Through Action” • World Health Organization and IASP initiative • India accounts for 2.6% of global suicides despite having 18% world population • Focus on mental health awareness and community support • National Mental Health Policy emphasizes prevention
📚 TNPSC Static Background:
- World Health Organization: UN specialized agency, established April 7, 1948
- WHO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
- World Health Day: April 7 (WHO establishment day)
- IASP: International Association for Suicide Prevention
- Mental Healthcare Act 2017: Replaced Mental Health Act 1987
- Article 21: Right to Life includes mental health and well-being
- National Institute of Mental Health: NIMHANS, Bengaluru
- National Mental Health Programme: Launched 1982, district-level implementation
- Manodarpan Initiative: Mental health support for students
- Kiran Helpline: 1800-599-0019 for mental health support
- Section 309 IPC: Attempt to suicide (partially decriminalized)
- Tamil Nadu Mental Health: Institute of Mental Health, Chennai (1794)
- Suicide Prevention: Multi-sectoral approach involving health, education, social welfare
- WHO Definition: Suicide as intentional self-inflicted death
- Risk Factors: Mental disorders, substance abuse, social isolation