“IMPORTANT DAYS”

Women’s Equality Day 2025: Honouring Progress and Ongoing Struggles

Every year on August 26, the United States observes Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the certification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which gave American women the constitutional right to vote. While it marks a historic victory in women’s rights, the day also serves as a reminder of persistent challenges such as wage inequality, underrepresentation in leadership, and barriers in healthcare and education.

“DEFENCE”

Indian Navy to Commission Udaygiri and Himgiri

In a significant development for India’s maritime defence capabilities, the Indian Navy is set to commission two advanced Project 17A stealth frigates—INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri—on 26 August 2025 at Naval Base, Visakhapatnam. This unique dual commissioning, overseen by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks the first time two major frontline surface combatants constructed at different Indian shipyards will be inducted simultaneously.

“SPORTS”

Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 Concludes Here Are Winners

The Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) 2025, held from August 21–23 at the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar, has emerged as a defining moment for India’s water sports ecosystem. As the country’s first consolidated national-level open-age competition in kayaking, canoeing, and rowing, KIWSF 2025 proved to be more than just a medal event—it became a springboard for India’s aspirations at the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 and other global arenas.

“APPOINTMENTS”

Rajiv Ranjan Appointed VP, Chief Risk Officer at NDB

The New Development Bank (NDB), established by the BRICS nations, has appointed Dr. Rajiv Ranjan, a former Member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as its Vice-President and Chief Risk Officer (CRO). The announcement was made on August 23, 2025, confirming a five-year term for the seasoned central banker.

RBI Appoints Indranil Bhattacharyya as New Ex Officio MPC Member

The RBI appointed Indranil Bhattacharyya, Executive Director of the Monetary Policy Department, as the new ex officio member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), replacing Rajiv Ranjan. His appointment comes ahead of the MPC meeting scheduled from September 29 to October 1, 2025, ensuring a smooth leadership transition in RBI’s key policy-making body. With more than 28 years of experience in central banking, Bhattacharyya brings deep expertise and insight to the MPC.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATION NEWS”

India Launches First Guidelines for Animal Blood Banks

In a groundbreaking move for animal healthcare, the Government of India has released the first national guidelines for veterinary blood transfusion services. The initiative addresses a long-standing gap in standardized animal care, especially during emergencies. Issued on 25 August 2025 by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the guidelines introduce a structured framework for animal blood donation, storage, and transfusion, aimed at improving animal welfare, biosafety, and One Health integration.

Smart City Index 2025 Rankings

The IMD Smart City Index 2025, released by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), has once again highlighted how cities across the world are leveraging technology, infrastructure, and governance to improve urban life. While Swiss cities continue to dominate, the Middle East has made dramatic leaps, and Indian cities remain outside the global top 20.