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Shirish Chandra Murmu Named RBI Deputy Governor

Why in News?  The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the appointment of Shirish Chandra Murmu as a Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on September 29, 2025. This appointment is significant as he replaces M. Rajeshwar Rao, whose tenure is set to end, maintaining the mandated strength of four Deputy Governors in the central bank. Key Points Appointment: Shirish Chandra Murmu has been appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Term: His appointment is for a period of three years. Effective Date: The appointment will be effective from October 9, 2025. Predecessor: He is set to succeed M. Rajeshwar Rao, whose term as Deputy Governor concludes on October 8, 2025. Previous Role: Prior to this appointment, Murmu was serving as an Executive Director at the RBI. Structure: The RBI operates with one Governor and a maximum of four Deputy Governors. Important Terms RBI Deputy Governor: One of the four top-level executive positions in the Reserve Bank of India, responsible for specific portfolios like monetary policy, banking regulation, or supervision, and assisting the RBI Governor. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC): A committee of the Government of India that decides on top-level appointments in the central government, including those in the RBI. Executive Director (RBI): A senior internal position at the RBI, usually ranking just below the Deputy Governors, overseeing key administrative and regulatory functions.

New Eel Species Found off Tamil Nadu Coast

Why in News?  A team of researchers from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR), Kochi, recently discovered and identified a new species of finless snake eel. The species, named Apterichtus kanniyakumari, was found off the Colachel coast in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, highlighting the rich yet underexplored marine biodiversity of the Arabian Sea. The discovery has been formally published in the internationally renowned peer-reviewed journal Zootaxa. Key Points Species Name: Apterichtus kanniyakumari. Classification: It is a species of finless snake eel belonging to the genus Apterichtus and family Ophichthidae. Discovery Location: Colachel coast in the Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. Habitat: Collected from deep-sea trawl landings at a depth of about 100 meters in the Arabian Sea. Nomenclature: Named after the Kanyakumari district to honour its cultural and geographical significance. Distinguishing Feature: The new species has a distinct golden-yellow body with three characteristic black blotches on its head (behind the eye, at the corner of the mouth, and behind the origin of the rictus). Significance: This marks the 16th new species discovered from the Indian coast by the NBFGR team, underscoring the need for further taxonomic research to strengthen India's biodiversity catalogue. Important Terms Apterichtus: The genus of the eel, meaning "fish without fins," referring to the absence of pectoral and other typical fins. Ophichthidae: The scientific family commonly known as Snake Eels, characterized by their burrowing behaviour using a rigid, pointed tail. Finless Snake Eel: An eel that lacks pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins, giving it a smooth, serpentine appearance, and typically burrows into sand or mud substrate. CO1 Gene Analysis: Molecular analysis of the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I gene, a common technique in biology for species identification and genetic distinction. Zootaxa: A widely recognised international scientific journal for animal taxonomy.

Cabinet Approves 78-Day Bonus for Rail Staff

Why in News?  The Union Cabinet, on September 24, 2025, approved the payment of a Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent to 78 days' wages for eligible railway employees. This annual decision is a recognition of the "excellent performance" of the railway staff during the financial year 2024-25, in which Indian Railways recorded strong operational results, including record cargo loading and passenger traffic. The bonus is typically paid out just before the major festive season of Durga Puja/Dussehra. Key Points Approval Date: September 24, 2025. Bonus Duration: Equivalent to 78 days of wages. Beneficiaries: Approximately 10.91 lakh non-gazetted railway employees. Total Outlay: The decision has a financial implication of about ₹1,865.68 crore. Maximum Payable Amount: The maximum amount payable to each eligible employee is capped at ₹17,951. Objective: To act as an incentive for employees to work towards further improvement in the performance and efficiency of Indian Railways. Performance Metrics (FY 2024-25): Indian Railways loaded a record cargo of 1,614.90 Million Tonnes and carried nearly 7.3 billion passengers. Eligible Staff Categories: Includes Track Maintainers, Loco Pilots, Station Masters, Supervisors, Technicians, and other Group 'C' staff. Important Terms Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB): A performance-based bonus scheme specific to the Railways and other departmental undertakings, given to non-gazetted staff based on the overall productivity and performance of the organization. Non-Gazetted Employees: Staff who are not holding an officer-level rank in the government service (generally Group 'C' and 'D' staff in Railways). Group 'C' Staff: A category of central government employees that includes most field staff and technical workers, who are the primary beneficiaries of the PLB.

Cabinet Clears ₹3,822 Crore NH-139W Project in Bihar

Why in News?  The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister, on September 24, 2025, approved the construction of a four-lane greenfield highway on the Sahebganj-Areraj-Bettiah section of National Highway (NH) 139W in Bihar. The project has a total capital cost of ₹3,822.31 crore and is a major push for infrastructure and regional economic development in North Bihar, aiming to significantly cut travel time and boost connectivity up to the Indo-Nepal border. Key Points Project Details: The project involves the construction of a four-lane greenfield highway section of NH-139W. Stretch: The road covers the 78.942 km long Sahebganj-Areraj-Bettiah section. Funding Model: It will be executed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM). Connectivity: The highway will enhance connectivity between the state capital Patna and Bettiah, linking North Bihar districts like Vaishali, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj, Muzaffarpur, East Champaran, and West Champaran to the Indo-Nepal border. Time Reduction: The project is projected to reduce travel time between Sahebganj and Bettiah from approximately 2.5 hours to about 1 hour. Economic & Tourism Linkage: It aligns with the PM Gati Shakti initiative, connecting seven economic nodes, eight logistic nodes, and nine major tourism/religious centres, including the Kesariya Buddha Stupa and Someshwarnath Mandir, thereby strengthening the Buddhist tourism circuit. Employment Generation: The project is estimated to generate substantial direct and indirect employment, close to 32 lakh man-days. Important Terms CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs): A high-level committee of the Union Cabinet responsible for reviewing and approving economic policy and infrastructure proposals. Greenfield Highway: A road project constructed on a new alignment or untouched land, as opposed to expanding an existing road (brownfield). Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM): A public-private partnership (PPP) model where the government contributes a percentage (usually 40%) of the project cost during construction, and the remaining amount is paid as annuity payments to the developer over the concession period. PM Gati Shakti: The National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity, launched to create integrated and seamless infrastructure connectivity.

Future Food Forum 2025 Kicks Off in Dubai

Why in News?  The 7th edition of the Future Food Forum commenced on September 23, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The forum, held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism, brings together global policymakers, industry leaders, and academics. Its central theme focuses on building resilient and sustainable food systems with a particular emphasis on advancing food security, trade, and innovation across the Global South. The event aims to provide a strategic platform to showcase and align the initiatives of the UAE Food Cluster with international partners. Key Points Venue and Dates: The forum is being held from September 23 to 25, 2025, in Dubai, UAE. Patronage: Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism. Strategic Initiative: It serves as a key platform for the UAE Food Cluster, a national initiative designed to drive food security and industrial competitiveness. Core Objectives: The discussions focus on leveraging technology (AI, smart manufacturing), sustainability, and cross-border partnerships to strengthen food ecosystems. India-UAE Context: The forum highlighted the potential for UAE-India non-oil trade to serve as a benchmark for the Global South, especially under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). New Initiatives: Key launches at the forum include a Knowledge Hub to connect academia and industry, and a Global Buyers Programme to facilitate international market access for UAE producers. Important Terms UAE Food Cluster: A national strategic initiative to unify government, private sector, and research institutions to strengthen the UAE's food ecosystem and enhance food security. Global South: A term used to refer broadly to countries in Asia, Africa, and South America, often characterized by developing economies and shared challenges. CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement): A type of free trade agreement, specifically the one between India and the UAE, aimed at boosting trade and investment. Integrated Food Systems: A holistic approach to food security that considers all stages of the food value chain, from farming (farm to fork), and emphasizes technology and sustainability.

Centre Extends CDS Anil Chauhan’s Tenure Till 2026

Why in News?  The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs (DMA), until May 30, 2026, or until further orders. His initial three-year tenure, which commenced on September 30, 2022, was scheduled to end this month. The extension aligns with the service rules for the CDS post, which allows the officer to serve up to the age of 65, and aims to ensure continuity in ongoing military reforms, particularly the creation of integrated theatre commands. Key Points Extension Details: General Anil Chauhan's tenure has been extended until May 30, 2026, or until further orders. Current CDS: He is the second officer to hold the post of Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding the late General Bipin Rawat. Dual Role: General Chauhan continues to function as both the CDS and the Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs (DMA). Tenure Rule for CDS: The maximum age limit for the Chief of Defence Staff is 65 years, with no fixed tenure defined. (Service Chiefs have an age limit of 62 years or three years of service, whichever is earlier). Key Focus: The extension is crucial for him to steer the proposed radical reforms, including the creation of integrated theatre commands for enhanced jointness among the three services (Army, Navy, and Air Force). Commissioning: General Chauhan was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981. Important Terms Chief of Defence Staff (CDS): The overall professional head of the Indian Armed Forces and the principal military advisor to the Defence Minister on all tri-Services matters. He also serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). Department of Military Affairs (DMA): The fifth department created within the Ministry of Defence, which the CDS heads as the Secretary. Integrated Theatre Commands: Proposed unified commands that will integrate the resources and personnel of the Army, Navy, and Air Force under a single operational commander for a specific geographical or operational area. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC): Headed by the Prime Minister, it decides on all important civilian and military appointments at the level of Secretary and above.

Indian Navy to Commission ‘Androth’ ASW Ship

Why in News?  The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Androth, the second of its Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam on October 6, 2025. The ceremony, which will be presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, marks a significant step in bolstering India's coastal defence capabilities. This new vessel, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, is part of a larger project to enhance India's indigenous shipbuilding and maritime security, especially in shallow littoral waters. Key Points Indigenous Construction: The warship is a testament to the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative, as it has over 80% indigenous content. Strategic Role: Androth is designed to detect and neutralize enemy submarines and underwater threats in coastal waters, where larger warships may face operational limitations. Legacy and Naming: The ship is named after Androth Island, the largest island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, and carries forward the legacy of its predecessor, INS Androth (P69), which served the Navy for over 27 years. Advanced Features: The vessel is equipped with an advanced weapon and sensor suite, modern communication systems, and waterjet propulsion, which provides high maneuverability for operations in shallow waters. Series of Ships: Androth is the second of sixteen ASW-SWC ships planned for the Indian Navy, following the commissioning of INS Arnala, the first ship of the series, in June 2025. Important Terms Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): A branch of naval warfare that uses surface warships, submarines, aircraft, and other platforms to find, track, and deter or destroy enemy submarines. Shallow Water Craft (SWC): A class of naval vessels specifically designed to operate in littoral or coastal waters, which are typically too shallow for large, deep-draft warships. Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A policy vision of the Indian government to make the country self-reliant in various sectors, including defence manufacturing.

China to Introduce K Visa to Attract Global Talent

Why in News?  China is set to introduce a new visa category, the "K visa," effective from October 1, 2025. This move is a strategic effort to attract highly skilled young professionals, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The introduction of the K visa comes at a time when the United States has tightened its H1-B visa regulations, including the imposition of a one-time fee of $100,000 for new visa petitions, which has created uncertainty among international tech workers, especially those from India and China. China is positioning the K visa as a more flexible and attractive alternative to the US H1-B system. Key Points Target Audience: The K visa is specifically for "young science and technology talent" holding at least a bachelor's degree in a STEM field from a recognized university. It also applies to young professionals engaged in research or teaching. No Employer Sponsorship: A key differentiator from the US H1-B visa, the K visa does not require a local employer's sponsorship, allowing individuals to apply independently. Flexibility: The visa will offer benefits such as multiple entries, longer validity, and extended stay durations, providing more freedom for professionals to engage in academic, entrepreneurial, and business activities. Strategic Response: This policy is seen as a direct response to the US H1-B visa changes, aiming to capitalize on the apathetic sentiment among skilled workers affected by the new regulations. Part of a Broader Strategy: The K visa is part of China's "Talent Power Strategy" to bolster its innovation-driven economy and enhance its position in the global race for scientific and technological talent. Important Terms H1-B Visa: A non-immigrant US visa that allows US employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. STEM: An acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, which are fields of study or professional practice that are vital for a country's economic and technological development. Talent Power Strategy: A national strategy in China to attract and cultivate a high-caliber workforce to support its long-term economic and technological goals.

Nvidia to Invest $100 Billion in OpenAI for AI Infrastructure

Why in News?  In a landmark agreement, tech giants Nvidia and OpenAI have announced a historic partnership. Nvidia, the leading designer of AI chips, will invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, to help finance and build out its next-generation AI infrastructure. This massive collaboration is a direct response to the escalating demand for computing power needed to train and run increasingly complex AI models. The deal solidifies Nvidia's position at the core of the AI revolution while providing OpenAI with the crucial resources to maintain its competitive edge. Key Points Massive Investment: Nvidia's commitment of up to $100 billion is a staged investment that will be released as OpenAI deploys new data center capacity. Infrastructure Buildout: The partnership is centered on a plan to deploy at least 10 gigawatts (GW) of Nvidia AI systems for OpenAI's infrastructure, an immense amount of computing power. Strategic Partnership: This collaboration is designed to make Nvidia a preferred strategic partner for OpenAI, ensuring a steady supply of high-performance chips, while giving Nvidia a significant financial stake in a key customer. Timeline: The first gigawatt of computing power from the deal is scheduled to be deployed in the second half of 2026, utilizing Nvidia's upcoming Vera Rubin platform. Antitrust Scrutiny: The unprecedented scale of the investment could attract attention from regulatory bodies, which have already begun to scrutinize the growing influence of major players in the AI industry. Important Terms AI Infrastructure: The hardware and software systems, including data centers, servers, and specialized chips, required to develop, train, and deploy artificial intelligence models. Gigawatt (GW): A unit of power equal to one billion watts. In this context, it is used to measure the immense electrical capacity required to power the AI data centers. Vera Rubin Platform: Nvidia's next-generation platform for AI computing, named after the renowned astronomer who pioneered the study of dark matter.

MDL, Tamil Nadu Ink MoU to Build East Coast Shipyard

Why in News?  Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), a Defence Public Sector Undertaking, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guidance Tamil Nadu, the state's investment promotion agency. The agreement aims to explore the development of a world-class greenfield shipyard on India's eastern coast, a move that is part of the Government of India's Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The MoU was signed on September 19, 2025, at an event in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, and is expected to significantly boost the country's shipbuilding capabilities and create employment opportunities. Key Points Strategic Location: The new shipyard will be a crucial addition to India's maritime infrastructure, balancing MDL's existing operations on the western coast in Mumbai. Investment and Employment: The project is anticipated to involve a substantial investment of around ₹15,000 crore and is projected to create more than 45,000 jobs, including 5,000 direct and 40,000 indirect roles. National Vision: The initiative is aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aims to make India a global maritime leader. Collaboration: The MoU signifies a strong collaboration between a central government defence PSU and a state government agency, highlighting a coordinated effort to strengthen India's defence and commercial shipbuilding sectors. Feasibility Study: The agreement is an initial step to conduct feasibility studies and engage with stakeholders to determine the project's operational and financial contours. Important Terms Greenfield Shipyard: A shipyard built from scratch on a new, undeveloped site, rather than expanding an existing facility. Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047: A strategic blueprint by the Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to transform India into a global maritime power by 2047. Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU): A state-owned company that operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, primarily involved in manufacturing military equipment.

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