Daily Current Affairs of 20th March 2025 in English

Introduction:

Daily Current Affairs of 20th March 2025, witnessed a series of significant events across various domains, ranging from infrastructure development to geopolitical concerns, cultural celebrations, and scientific discoveries. Here's an in-depth look at the noteworthy occurrences of the day.

Top Current Affairs and News Headlines – March 20, 2025

Daily GK Update – 20th March 2025: Current Affairs

Here are the major national and international updates, developments, and key events from 20th March 2025:

National News

Indore to Host India’s First Green Waste Processing Plant Under PPP Model

Indore is gearing up to establish India’s pioneering green waste processing facility under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Set up in Bicholi Hapsi as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, the plant will span 55,000 square feet. Developed in collaboration with Astronomical Industries Pvt. Ltd., it will convert organic waste such as branches, wood, leaves, and flowers into valuable resources. The facility will not only generate revenue for the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) but also manufacture wooden pellets as an eco-friendly coal substitute. This initiative aligns with sustainable development goals, promoting innovation, a circular economy, and reducing pollution.

State News

Delhi Police Introduces ‘Shishtachar’ Squad to Tackle Eve-Teasing

To enhance women's safety, Delhi Police has launched dedicated ‘Shishtachar’ squads across all districts, focused on curbing eve-teasing through patrols, surprise inspections, and public engagement. Each district will have at least two squads under the supervision of the ACP from the Crime Against Women (CAW) cell. Each unit will include one Inspector, one Sub-Inspector, four female officers, five male officers, and a surveillance expert. Equipped with two- and four-wheelers, these teams will conduct daily monitoring at high-risk locations such as public transport hubs. They will collaborate with Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staff to encourage victims to report incidents, making the city safer for women.

Telangana Unveils ₹3.04 Lakh Crore Budget for 2025-26 with Focus on Growth and Welfare

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka presented Telangana’s most extensive budget to date, amounting to ₹3.04 lakh crore. The financial plan allocates ₹2.26 lakh crore to revenue expenditure and ₹36,504 crore to capital investments while maintaining a fiscal deficit of ₹54,009 crore. The budget prioritizes agriculture, education, and welfare programs targeting Backward Classes (BCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs). To support economic growth and infrastructure development, the state aims to secure ₹70,000 crore through borrowings, ensuring balanced and inclusive progress.

💥💥💥

Banking News

City Union Bank Becomes Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Exclusive Banking Partner

City Union Bank (CUB) has entered into a strategic alliance with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), becoming its official banking partner. As part of the collaboration, CUB will introduce SRH-themed savings accounts, exclusive credit cards, and customized loans tailored for fans, players, and staff. This move enhances the bank’s presence in sports finance, making digital banking more appealing to cricket enthusiasts.

Economy News

Government Forms Fintech Panel to Address Regulatory Challenges

The Indian government has set up the Inter-Ministerial-Industry Committee on Fintech (IMICF) to develop long-term strategies for the rapidly evolving financial technology sector. Chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), the committee will analyze fintech’s impact on banking, insurance, and capital markets. Representatives from MeitY, DPIIT, DEA, NITI Aayog, RBI, and SEBI will collaborate to identify regulatory gaps, propose policy reforms, and integrate global best practices to streamline fintech operations in India.

💥💥💥

Agreements News

Andhra Pradesh Collaborates with Gates Foundation for AI & Digital Governance

The Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into key sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, governance, and employment. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu will formalize the agreement in New Delhi. This collaboration aims to implement AI-driven public services, precision farming, smart education tools, and skill development programs, enhancing efficiency and transparency in governance while aligning with India’s Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

UIDAI Partners with Sarvam AI to Strengthen Aadhaar Services

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has joined hands with Bengaluru-based Sarvam AI to enhance Aadhaar services using AI-powered voice interaction, fraud detection, and multilingual support. The initiative, effective from March 18, 2025, will leverage a customized AI stack operating within UIDAI’s secure infrastructure to improve user experience, detect overcharging during Aadhaar enrollment and updates, and ensure data privacy. The initial one-year agreement is extendable by another year.

India and Mauritius Sign MoU to Enable Trade in Local Currencies

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bank of Mauritius (BOM) have signed an MoU to facilitate cross-border transactions using the Indian Rupee (INR) and Mauritian Rupee (MUR). RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and BOM Governor Rama Krishna Sithanen signed the agreement on March 12, 2025, in Port Louis, in the presence of Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This initiative aims to strengthen financial cooperation, reduce transaction costs, and enhance trade efficiency between the two nations.

Appointments News

Rajiv Bajaj Reappointed as Bajaj Auto MD & CEO, ₹1,500 Crore Investment in Credit Arm

Bajaj Auto has reappointed Rajiv Bajaj as Managing Director & CEO for another five-year term, starting April 1, 2025, pending shareholder approval. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its presence in the global two- and three-wheeler market. Additionally, Bajaj Auto has infused ₹1,500 crore into Bajaj Auto Credit Ltd (BACL) to strengthen its asset base for FY 2025-26.

Ayushmann Khurrana Recognized as ‘Fit India Icon’

Actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been honored as the ‘Fit India Icon’ by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, reinforcing his role in the Fit India Movement. Launched in 2019, the initiative promotes physical activity and well-being across India.

Defense News

India-France Naval Cooperation Strengthens with VARUNA 2025

The 23rd edition of the VARUNA naval exercise between India and France will take place from March 19-22, 2025. Featuring India’s INS Vikrant and France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, along with MiG-29K and Rafale-M jets, the drills will enhance interoperability in air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface combat. The exercise underscores both nations’ commitment to maintaining a secure and open maritime domain.

Sports News

Lando Norris Wins Chaotic Australian Grand Prix Opener

McLaren’s Lando Norris triumphed in a dramatic 2025 Formula 1 season opener in Melbourne. Despite unpredictable weather and multiple crashes, he reclaimed the lead from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to secure victory. Mercedes’ George Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli also delivered strong performances, marking an electrifying start to the season.

India Defends Title as Kabaddi World Cup Kicks Off in England

The 2025 Kabaddi World Cup has begun in England, marking the sport’s first major tournament outside Asia. India’s men’s team faces Italy in their opening match in Wolverhampton. The seven-day tournament features 10 men’s and six women’s teams, with India aiming to retain both titles from its 2019 victory in Malaysia.

Important Days

Ordnance Factory Day 2025: Honoring India’s Defense Manufacturing Legacy

Celebrated on March 18, Ordnance Factory Day marks the establishment of India’s first Ordnance Factory in Cossipore, Kolkata, in 1802. The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was restructured in 2021 to enhance efficiency and boost domestic defense production.

World Sparrow Day 2025: Advocating Bird Conservation

Observed on March 20, World Sparrow Day highlights the declining population of house sparrows due to urbanization, pollution, and habitat destruction. Initiated in 2010 by India’s Nature Forever Society, the day promotes conservation efforts across more than 50 countries.

Daily Current Affairs Question Answers in English of

20th March 2025

1. National News: Green Waste Processing Plant

Q1. Where is India’s first green waste processing plant under the PPP model being established?

A) Mumbai

B) Indore

C) Hyderabad

D) Ahmedabad

Answer: B) Indore

Explanation: Indore is setting up India’s first green waste processing plant under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in Bicholi Hapsi. The facility will convert organic waste into valuable resources such as wooden pellets, promoting sustainability, reducing pollution, and generating revenue for the Indore Municipal Corporation.

2. State News: Delhi’s 'Shishtachar' Squad

Q2. What is the primary objective of Delhi Police’s newly introduced ‘Shishtachar’ squad?

A) Reducing cybercrime

B) Combating drug abuse

C) Tackling eve-teasing

D) Preventing traffic violations

Answer: C) Tackling eve-teasing

Explanation: Delhi Police has launched the ‘Shishtachar’ squad to improve women's safety by preventing eve-teasing in public places. These teams will conduct regular patrols and collaborate with Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staff to ensure a safer environment for women.

3. Telangana Budget 2025-26

Q3. What is the total budget allocation for Telangana’s 2025-26 financial plan?

A) ₹2.5 lakh crore

B) ₹3.04 lakh crore

C) ₹3.5 lakh crore

D) ₹2.75 lakh crore

Answer: B) ₹3.04 lakh crore

Explanation: The Telangana government has presented a ₹3.04 lakh crore budget, focusing on agriculture, welfare programs, and infrastructure development. The budget also includes provisions for supporting Backward Classes (BCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

4. Banking News: City Union Bank & Sunrisers Hyderabad

Q4. Which IPL team has City Union Bank partnered with as its exclusive banking partner?

A) Chennai Super Kings

B) Mumbai Indians

C) Sunrisers Hyderabad

D) Kolkata Knight Riders

Answer: C) Sunrisers Hyderabad

Explanation: City Union Bank has entered into a strategic alliance with Sunrisers Hyderabad to introduce SRH-themed savings accounts, credit cards, and customized loans to attract cricket fans and enhance digital banking appeal.

5. Economy News: Fintech Committee

Q5. What is the primary focus of the newly formed Inter-Ministerial-Industry Committee on Fintech (IMICF)?

A) Regulating insurance companies

B) Strengthening cryptocurrency transactions

C) Addressing fintech regulatory challenges

D) Promoting offline banking services

Answer: C) Addressing fintech regulatory challenges

Explanation: The government established IMICF to analyze fintech’s impact on banking, insurance, and capital markets. The committee aims to close regulatory gaps and ensure smooth fintech operations.

6. Agreements: Andhra Pradesh & Gates Foundation

Q6. Which global foundation has Andhra Pradesh collaborated with for AI and digital governance?

A) Ford Foundation

B) Gates Foundation

C) World Economic Forum

D) UNICEF

Answer: B) Gates Foundation

Explanation: The Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to integrate AI-driven technologies into healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance to improve efficiency and transparency.

7. Agreements: UIDAI & Sarvam AI

Q7. What is the main objective of UIDAI’s partnership with Sarvam AI?

A) Strengthening Aadhaar services

B) Developing a national cryptocurrency

C) Promoting blockchain technology

D) Enhancing cybersecurity for banks

Answer: A) Strengthening Aadhaar services

Explanation: UIDAI is working with Sarvam AI to introduce AI-powered voice interaction, fraud detection, and multilingual support, enhancing Aadhaar services and user experience.

8. India-Mauritius Trade Agreement

Q8. India signed an MoU with which country to facilitate trade in local currencies?

A) Sri Lanka

B) Bangladesh

C) Mauritius

D) UAE

Answer: C) Mauritius

Explanation: India and Mauritius signed an MoU to enable trade using the Indian Rupee (INR) and Mauritian Rupee (MUR), reducing dependency on third-party currencies and enhancing economic cooperation.

9. Appointments: Bajaj Auto CEO

Q9. Who has been reappointed as the Managing Director & CEO of Bajaj Auto?

A) Pawan Munjal

B) Rajiv Bajaj

C) Anand Mahindra

D) Vikram Kirloskar

Answer: B) Rajiv Bajaj

Explanation: Rajiv Bajaj has been reappointed for another five-year term, continuing his leadership in expanding Bajaj Auto’s market presence globally.

10. Fit India Movement

Q10. Who has been recognized as the ‘Fit India Icon’ by the Union Sports Minister?

A) Virat Kohli

B) Neeraj Chopra

C) Ayushmann Khurrana

D) Akshay Kumar

Answer: C) Ayushmann Khurrana

Explanation: Actor Ayushmann Khurrana was honored as ‘Fit India Icon’ for his contributions to promoting fitness and well-being as part of the Fit India Movement.

11. Defense: India-France Naval Exercise

Q11. What is the name of the India-France naval exercise taking place in March 2025?

A) INDRA

B) VARUNA

C) SIMBEX

D) MALABAR

Answer: B) VARUNA

Explanation: The 23rd edition of the VARUNA naval exercise involves both nations’ aircraft carriers and fighter jets, enhancing military interoperability.

12. Sports: F1 Australian Grand Prix

Q12. Who won the 2025 Australian Grand Prix?

A) Max Verstappen

B) Lewis Hamilton

C) Lando Norris

D) Charles Leclerc

Answer: C) Lando Norris

Explanation: McLaren’s Lando Norris secured his first victory of the season in a chaotic race marked by unpredictable weather and multiple crashes.

13. Sports: Kabaddi World Cup

Q13. Where is the 2025 Kabaddi World Cup being hosted?

A) India

B) Malaysia

C) England

D) Iran

Answer: C) England

Explanation: For the first time, the Kabaddi World Cup is being held outside Asia, in England, marking a significant expansion for the sport.

14. Important Days: Ordnance Factory Day

Q14. When is Ordnance Factory Day observed in India?

A) March 15

B) March 18

C) March 21

D) April 1

Answer: B) March 18

Explanation: Ordnance Factory Day commemorates the establishment of India’s first ordnance factory in 1802 in Cossipore, Kolkata.

15. Important Days: World Sparrow Day

Q15. What is the focus of World Sparrow Day?

A) Conservation of Endangered Species

B) Save the Sparrows

C) Birds and Urbanization

D) Protecting Our Feathered Friends

Answer: C) Birds and Urbanization

Explanation: World Sparrow Day raises awareness about habitat destruction and urbanization's impact on sparrow populations worldwide.

16. Telangana Budget Allocation

Q16. What is Telangana’s projected fiscal deficit for the 2025-26 budget?

A) ₹40,000 crore

B) ₹54,009 crore

C) ₹60,500 crore

D) ₹49,250 crore

Answer: B) ₹54,009 crore

Explanation: Telangana's budget for 2025-26 includes a fiscal deficit of ₹54,009 crore while prioritizing welfare programs, agriculture, and capital investments.

17. Fintech Regulation

Q17. Who will chair the newly established Inter-Ministerial-Industry Committee on Fintech (IMICF)?

A) RBI Governor

B) Finance Minister

C) Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS)

D) NITI Aayog Chairman

Answer: C) Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS)

Explanation: The IMICF is chaired by the DFS Secretary and includes representatives from MeitY, DPIIT, DEA, NITI Aayog, RBI, and SEBI to streamline fintech regulations.

18. Green Waste Processing Plant Benefits

Q18. What eco-friendly product will the Indore green waste processing plant produce?

A) Biogas

B) Wooden pellets

C) Organic fertilizer

D) Plastic substitutes

Answer: B) Wooden pellets

Explanation: The Indore plant will convert organic waste such as branches, leaves, and wood into wooden pellets, which can be used as a sustainable alternative to coal.

19. AI in Aadhaar Services

Q19. How will UIDAI’s partnership with Sarvam AI enhance Aadhaar services?

A) Enabling Aadhaar-based cryptocurrency

B) Providing AI-powered fraud detection and multilingual support

C) Linking Aadhaar to blockchain technology

D) Offering free Aadhaar updates for all citizens

Answer: B) Providing AI-powered fraud detection and multilingual support

Explanation: Sarvam AI will help improve Aadhaar services through advanced AI solutions, including fraud detection and better multilingual support, enhancing security and accessibility.

20. Kabaddi World Cup Teams

Q20. How many men’s teams are participating in the 2025 Kabaddi World Cup?

A) 8

B) 10

C) 12

D) 14

Answer: B) 10

Explanation: The 2025 Kabaddi World Cup in England features 10 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, with India defending both titles from its 2019 victory in Malaysia.