Strategic Guide to Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) & Business Financing

Executive Summary:

The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) is a cornerstone of India’s SME Banking sector. Launched to facilitate Financial Inclusion, it empowers small business owners by providing Unsecured Business Loans to “Fund the Unfunded.”

1. Key Features & Financial Advantages:

• High-Value Credit Limit: Currently, entrepreneurs can access Small Business Funding up to ₹20 Lakhs. This recent increase is designed to meet the rising Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) needs of growing firms.
• Collateral-Free Financing: As a Non-Collateral Loan, it eliminates the barrier of asset-backing, making it a preferred choice for Startup Funding.
• Diverse Industry Scope: The facility covers Manufacturing Equipment Financing, Retail Trade Credit, Service Sector Loans, and Agri-Allied Business Loans (poultry, dairy, etc.).
• Institutional Framework: MUDRA (Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency) operates as a Refinance Institution. It channels liquidity through Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies), and Small Finance Banks (SFBs).

2. Strategic Loan Classification (Growth Stages):

Understanding these categories is vital for Debt Management and business scaling:

1. Shishu: Loans up to ₹50,000 – Ideal for Micro-Financing and seed-stage ventures.
2. Kishor: ₹50,000 to ₹5 Lakhs – Targeted at Working Capital Management for developing units.
3. Tarun: ₹5 Lakhs to ₹10 Lakhs – Best for Business Expansion Loans.
4. Tarun Plus: ₹10 Lakhs to ₹20 Lakhs – A premium category for proven borrowers with a strong Credit History.

3. Economic Impact & Financial Metrics:

• Disbursement Scale: With over ₹40.07 Lakh Crores disbursed, PMMY is a global benchmark in Massive Credit Distribution.
• Women in Business: Over 60% of Loan Approvals are dedicated to Women Entrepreneurs, a key segment in Gender-Inclusive Financing.
• Marginalized Communities: Significant portions of the Credit Portfolio are allocated to SC/ST/OBC categories to ensure equitable Wealth Distribution.

4. Digital Banking & Support Ecosystem:

• Mudra Card: A RuPay-powered Debit Card that manages Overdraft Facilities and daily cash flows.
• Credit Guarantee (CGFMU): Backed by the NCGTC, this fund acts as a Default Insurance, reducing the Risk Weighted Assets for commercial lenders.
• JanSamarth Portal: A sophisticated FinTech Platform that digitizes the Loan Application Workflow, ensuring faster approvals and transparency.

India’s Renewable Energy Outlook 2026: Strategic Growth and Investment Opportunities

Executive Summary:

India has emerged as a global leader in the Clean Energy Transition. According to recent reports, the nation is aggressively scaling its Green Infrastructure to ensure long-term Energy Security and sustainable economic growth.

1. Global Ranking & Market Position:

• 3rd Globally: As per the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), India has surpassed Brazil to secure the 3rd position in Installed Renewable Energy Capacity, trailing only behind China and the USA. This shift highlights India’s dominance in the Global Energy Market.

2. Strategic Milestones (Targets vs. Achievements):

• Early NDC Achievement: India achieved its COP21 NDC Target (50% non-fossil fuel-based power capacity) in June 2025, a full five years ahead of the 2030 deadline.
• Record-Breaking Capacity Addition: The FY 2025-26 witnessed a massive influx of Sustainable Energy Investments, leading to a record addition of 55.3 GW of non-fossil capacity.
• Current Energy Mix (as of March 31, 2026): India’s total Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity stands at 283.46 GW, distributed as follows:
  • Solar Power: 150.26 GW
  • Wind Energy: 56.09 GW
  • Large Hydroelectric Projects: 51.41 GW
  • Nuclear Power Generation: 8.78 GW

3. Sector-Specific Progress & Future Trends:

• Solar Energy Sector: Since 2014, solar capacity has grown by an astounding 53 times. Government initiatives like PM-Surya Ghar (Rooftop Solar Subsidy) and PM-KUSUM (Solar Pumps for Irrigation) have revolutionized Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE).
• Wind Energy Infrastructure: With a record 6.05 GW added in 2025-26, India now ranks 4th globally in Wind Power Capacity.
• Green Hydrogen Economy: Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India aims to produce 5 MMT annually by 2030. Notably, Green Ammonia Prices have stabilized, significantly lowering the Cost of Sustainable Fuel.

4. Critical Policy Interventions (Boosting ROI):

• GST Rationalization: To lower the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) for developers, GST on renewable energy equipment was slashed from 12% to 5%.
• Digital Transparency (REEIMS): The launch of the Renewable Energy Equipment Import Monitoring System (REEIMS) ensures a transparent supply chain for Clean Tech Imports.
• Skill Development Programs: Initiatives like Vayumitra (Wind Energy) and Jaiv-Urja Mitra (Bio-energy) are creating a high-skilled workforce for the Green Job Market.

5. Future Targets (Vision 2030):

As part of the Panchamrit goals announced at COP26, the government is on track to reach 500 GW of Non-Fossil Power Capacity by 2030, presenting a multi-billion dollar opportunity for ESG Investors and Private Equity in the power sector.

• IRENA Headquarters: Located in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• Non-Fossil vs. RE: Non-fossil includes Renewable Energy plus Nuclear Power.
• Coal Deceleration: India recorded a 3.69% decrease in coal-based power generation in 2025-26, proving a decisive shift toward Carbon Neutrality.

ISSF World Cup 2026: India Sets Historic World Record in Shooting

Executive Summary:

The global Sports and Athletics landscape witnessed a monumental shift as Indian shooters dominated the ISSF World Cup 2026 in Spain. This victory not only cements India’s position in International Competitive Sports but also signals a new era for Professional Shooting Athletes.

1. Winners and Event Overview:

• Athletes: Palak Gulia and Mukesh Nelavalli.
• Category: 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event.
• Venue: Granada, Spain (A premier destination for International Sports Tourism).

2. New World Record Achievement:

• The Milestone: The Indian duo clinched the Gold Medal by shattering the existing World Record and Junior World Record with a staggering total score of 487.7.
• Dominating the Field: In a high-stakes final, they defeated the world-champion Chinese pair (Kai Hu and Qianxun Yao) by a significant 2.9-point lead, proving their mettle against Olympic-grade competition.

3. Advanced Final Format Analysis:

Understanding the new ISSF rules is crucial for anyone following Professional Sports Betting or coaching:

• Format Change: Unlike the previous “Top Two” system, the new regulations allow the Top Four Teams to fight for medals, increasing the pressure and viewer engagement.
• The Process: The final involves three series of five shots each (within 250 seconds), followed by three high-tension Elimination Rounds consisting of single shots.

4. Athlete Profiles & Career Milestones:

• Mukesh Nelavalli: Making a sensational Senior International Debut, this shooter from Andhra Pradesh, India, is a rising star. Previously the 2024 Junior World Champion in 25m Pistol, he trains at the prestigious Gun For Glory Academy (Hyderabad & Pune), a hub for Professional Athletic Training.
• Palak Gulia: A veteran of success, she was the 10m Air Pistol gold medalist at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games.

5. Strategic Performance Breakdown:

• Despite qualifying in the second spot behind China, the Indian pair displayed superior Mental Conditioning and precision from the very first series of the final.
• As powerhouses like the USA and Hungary bowed out in the elimination rounds, India maintained a consistent lead.
• Under the expert guidance of Foreign Coach Jelena Arunovic, the team is utilizing this victory as a stepping stone for the 2028 Los Angeles (LA) Olympics.

RBI Cancels License of Shirpur Merchants’ Co-operative Bank: A Financial Risk Analysis

Executive Summary:

In a significant move to ensure Banking Sector Stability, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revoked the banking license of Maharashtra-based Shirpur Merchants’ Co-operative Bank. This regulatory action underscores the central bank’s commitment to Consumer Protection and strict adherence to the Banking Regulation Act.

1. Current Context & Regulatory Action:

• Effective from April 6, 2026, the Shirpur Merchants’ Co-operative Bank has been prohibited from conducting any banking business.
• The RBI exercised its powers under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to safeguard the integrity of the Financial System.

2. Primary Reasons for License Revocation:

To maintain Corporate Governance in banking, the RBI cited several critical failures:

• Capital Inadequacy: The bank lacked Adequate Capital and had poor Earning Prospects, making it impossible to satisfy the requirements of a sustainable financial institution.
• Regulatory Non-compliance: The lender failed to comply with various provisions of the 1949 Act, posing a threat to the broader Banking Ecosystem.
• Depositor Interests: The RBI concluded that the bank’s continued operation was “prejudicial to the interests of its depositors,” necessitating an immediate shutdown to prevent further Financial Loss.

3. Depositor Protection & Insurance Claims:

• Role of DICGC: Following the liquidation, every depositor is entitled to a Deposit Insurance Claim of up to ₹5 Lakhs. This payout is facilitated by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
• Coverage Statistics: Based on official data, approximately 99.7% of depositors are eligible to receive their full deposit amount under the DICGC Insurance Cover.

Critical Knowledge for Competitive Exams:

A. Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC):

• Establishment: Founded on July 15, 1978, under the DICGC Act, 1961.
• Ownership: It is a Wholly-owned Subsidiary of the RBI, serving as a critical pillar for Financial Safety Nets.
• Scope of Insurance: Covers all types of bank deposits, including Savings Accounts, Fixed Deposits (FDs), Current Accounts, and Recurring Deposits (RDs) up to the statutory limit.

B. Regulation of Co-operative Banks:

• Dual Regulation Framework: Co-operative banks in India operate under a unique regulatory structure:
  • Registration: Managed by the Registrar of Co-operative Societies under state-specific laws.
  • Banking Operations: Governed and supervised by the RBI under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

C. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Quick Facts:

• Founded: April 1, 1935 (Based on the Hilton Young Commission recommendations).
• Nationalization: January 1, 1949.
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

UPSC Mains Perspective:

The frequent intervention by the RBI in the co-operative banking sector highlights the importance of the 2020 Amendment to the Banking Regulation Act. These amendments were designed to bring Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) under closer scrutiny, ensuring better Asset Quality Management and professionalizing the board of directors. The Shirpur Bank case serves as a prime example of the RBI’s enhanced oversight to prevent Systemic Risk in the Indian economy.

Telangana Declares Cancer a ‘Notifiable Disease’: Strategic Analysis of Public Health Surveillance

Executive Summary:

In a major move toward Data-Driven Governance, the Telangana government has officially classified cancer as a Notifiable Disease. This policy shift is designed to strengthen the Public Health Infrastructure and create a robust surveillance system for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

1. Current Policy Context:

• To enhance the monitoring of chronic illnesses, Telangana has mandated the reporting of cancer cases across the state.
• This legal framework allows for the systematic collection of Medical Health Records, facilitating better Epidemiological Research and health planning.

2. Reporting Mandates & Legal Obligations:

• Compulsory Reporting: All Government Hospitals, Private Medical Centers, Diagnostic Laboratories, and specialized clinics are legally bound to report every diagnosed cancer case to the authorities.
• Submission Timeline: Healthcare providers must submit the data through a centralized portal within one month of diagnosis. This ensures real-time Disease Surveillance and timely intervention.

3. Institutional Framework & Data Coordination:

• Centre of Excellence: The Mehdi Nawaz Jung Institute of Oncology and Regional Cancer Centre in Hyderabad has been designated as the nodal agency for this mission.
• Digital Health Portal: A dedicated State Digital Health Platform has been established for seamless data entry.
• National Integration: Once validated, this state-level data is shared with the National Cancer Registry (NCRP) to assist in national-level health policy formulation.

4. Core Objectives & Strategic Intent:

• Centralized Cancer Registry: To establish a uniform database to monitor the Incidence and Prevalence of various cancer types across different demographics.
• Resource Optimization: By analyzing the data, the government can improve the Allocation of Healthcare Resources, including specialized oncology beds, essential chemotherapy drugs, and advanced screening facilities in high-risk zones.

Critical Knowledge for Competitive Exams:

A. What is a Notifiable Disease?

A Notifiable Disease is any illness that is required by law to be reported to government authorities. In India, this mandate is supported by the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, which provides the legal teeth for Public Health Surveillance.

B. National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP):

• Inception: Launched in 1982 by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
• Operational Categories:
  • PBCR (Population-Based Cancer Registry): Tracks cancer cases within a specific geographical population.
  • HBCR (Hospital-Based Cancer Registry): Compiles data from patients reporting to specific hospitals.

C. Key Facts about Telangana:

• State Formation: June 2, 2014.
• Capital City: Hyderabad (Strategically located on the banks of the Musi River).

UPSC Mains Perspective:

This initiative highlights the growing importance of Medical Informatics in formulating public health policies. Without precise Cancer Statistics, government-funded schemes like Aarogyasri or Ayushman Bharat struggle to reach the right beneficiaries. Telangana’s proactive stance serves as a blueprint for Healthcare Decentralization and evidence-based policy-making in India.

Menaka Guruswamy: India’s First Openly Queer Member of Parliament

Executive Summary:

Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy has made history by becoming the first “Openly Queer” Member of Parliament (MP) in India. Her entry into the Upper House of Parliament marks a significant shift in Political Representation and Social Justice within the world’s largest democracy.

1. Current Political Context:

• Historic Oath: Menaka Guruswamy took her oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha on April 6, 2026.
• Political Affiliation: She represents the state of West Bengal as a candidate from the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) party. This move is seen as a strategic step toward inclusive Legislative Policy making.

2. Legal Career & Civil Rights Advocacy:

• Senior Advocate, Supreme Court: Before her political debut, she established a formidable reputation as a Senior Counsel in the Supreme Court of India, handling high-stakes Constitutional Litigation.
• Decriminalization of Homosexuality: She was the lead lawyer in the landmark Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) case. Her legal expertise was instrumental in reading down Section 377 of the IPC, effectively legalizing consensual same-sex relationships in India.
• Global Recognition: In 2019, she was featured in the prestigious TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential people for her contribution to Human Rights Law.

3. Rajya Sabha – Constitutional Framework (UPSC Polity Perspective):

For students of Indian Polity and Public Administration, understanding the structure of the Rajya Sabha is crucial:

• Article 80: This article of the Indian Constitution governs the composition and strength of the Rajya Sabha.
• Permanent House: Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a Permanent Body and is not subject to dissolution.
• Tenure & Retirement: Members are elected for a 6-year term, with one-third of the members retiring every second year to ensure continuity in Governance.
• Ex-officio Chairman: The Vice President of India serves as the presiding officer of the house.

4. Section 377 (IPC) and the Legal Battle:

• Historical Background: Section 377 was a colonial-era law introduced in 1861 that criminalized “unnatural offenses.”
• The Verdict: A five-judge Constitution Bench ruled that the law violated fundamental rights related to Privacy and Equality. Menaka Guruswamy’s arguments helped secure this victory for Civil Liberties.

Strategic Importance for Competitive Exams:

• Social Inclusion: Her election represents a milestone in Gender Diversity and LGBTQ+ Political Empowerment.
• Persons in News: Significant for current affairs; she is the daughter of Mohan Guruswamy, a former advisor to the Union Finance Ministry.
• Landmark Judgments: Essential for Law Entrance Exams and Civil Services preparation.

Payal Nag: The World’s First Quadruple Amputee Archery Champion

Executive Summary:

In a historic feat for Para-Athletics, Indian archer Payal Nag clinched a gold medal at the World Para Archery Series Final in Bangkok. She has officially become the world’s first Quadruple Amputee to win an international title, setting a new benchmark in Disability Inclusion and Competitive Sports.

1. Current Achievement & Context:

• Historic Victory: On April 4, 2026, Payal Nag secured the gold medal in her senior international debut.
• The Competition: In a thrilling final, she defeated world-renowned Indian archer Sheetal Devi with a score of 139-136, highlighting the rising talent in India’s Para-Sports Ecosystem.

2. Specialized Assistive Technology & Technique:

To compete at the highest level without four limbs, Payal utilizes cutting-edge Sports Engineering and unique physical techniques:

• Custom Prosthetic Arm: She uses a specially designed Stabilizing Prosthesis to hold and balance the bow firmly.
• Shoulder & Mouth Technique: Payal employs a unique method of drawing the bow using her shoulder and mouth, demonstrating incredible Neuromuscular Control.
• Advanced Trigger Mechanism: The release of the arrow is activated via a specialized Release Aid or trigger mechanism, a key innovation in Assistive Sports Equipment.

3. Background and Professional Training:

• Home State: She hails from the Balangir district of Odisha, India.
• Elite Coaching: Payal trained at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) Archery Academy in Katra, J&K, under the guidance of coach Kuldeep Kumar Vedwan. This academy is a premier hub for Para-Athlete Development.
• Discovery: Her journey began when a viral video of her Mouth Painting caught the attention of sports scouts, who recognized her exceptional focus and coordination.

4. Critical Performance Stats & Related Facts:

• Domestic Success: Winner of the gold medal at the 2025 Para Archery Nationals in Jaipur and a top performer at the Khelo India Para Games.
• Sheetal Devi (Co-Athlete): Known as India’s first “armless” international archer, Sheetal is a two-time Asian Para Games gold medalist and an Arjuna Award recipient (2023). Their rivalry is boosting the global viewership of Para-Archery Events.

Strategic Importance for Competitive Exams:

• Persons in News: Essential for General Awareness sections, focusing on world-first milestones in international sports.
• Sports Technology & Innovation: Understanding how Robotic Prosthetics and adaptive gear are fostering inclusivity in global athletics.
• World Archery Federation: Formerly known as FITA, it is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland (Established in 1931).

Yoga Mahotsav 2026: Lonar, Maharashtra – A Strategic Leap in Preventive Healthcare

Executive Summary:

The Ministry of Ayush recently organized the Yoga Mahotsav 2026 at the geologically significant site of Lonar. This event serves as a major milestone in promoting Holistic Wellness and integrating Ancient Wisdom with Modern Technology.

1. Event Context & Strategic Significance:

• Date: April 7, 2026.
• Objective: To initiate the 75-day countdown to the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21.
• Venue: Chhatrapati Shri Shivaji Maharaj Udyan, Buldhana District. The proximity to the famous Lonar Crater Lake highlights India’s focus on Geotourism and heritage-linked wellness.

2. Asia Book of Records – A Global Achievement:

• The Milestone: The event entered the Asia Book of Records for the largest simultaneous performance of Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), involving approximately 5,000 participants. This display of mass synchronization promotes Community Health and physical fitness on a global scale.

3. Organizational Framework & Specialized Protocols:

• Nodal Agency: The event was spearheaded by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), a premier body for Professional Yoga Training.
• Scientific Yoga Protocols:
  • Common Yoga Protocol (CYP): Standardized practices designed for universal physical wellbeing.
  • Yoga for Air Travel: Specialized techniques for travelers to manage DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and travel-related stress.
  • NCD Management Protocols: 10 targeted yoga modules specifically designed for the management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension.

4. Core Campaigns & Future Vision (IDY 2026):

• Yoga 365: A lifestyle campaign aimed at integrating Daily Yoga Practice into corporate and residential routines.
• IDY 2026 Focus Areas: The upcoming international celebrations will prioritize Geriatric Healthcare (Senior Wellness), NCD control, and the groundbreaking integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Yoga for personalized posture correction.

Critical Knowledge for Competitive Exams:

A. International Day of Yoga (IDY):

• Celebrated annually on June 21.
• Origin: Proposed by India and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014. The inaugural celebration took place in 2015.

B. Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY):

• An autonomous organization under the Ministry of Ayush.
• Headquarters: New Delhi (Established in 1998). It is the focal point for Yoga Research and Education.

C. Ministry of Ayush:

• Established: November 9, 2014.
• Mandate: Overseas the education and development of Alternative Medicine systems including Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy.

UPSC / Competitive Exam Analysis:

• Soft Power Diplomacy: Yoga remains a primary pillar of India’s Cultural Diplomacy, fostering global peace and unity.
• Public Health Policy: By mandating protocols for NCDs, the government is using yoga as a low-cost, high-impact tool for Preventive Medicine.
• Economic Impact: Leveraging sites like Lonar encourages Spiritual Tourism and local economic development through “Geotourism.”

India Digital Payments Report 2025: The Dominance of UPI and FinTech Innovation

Executive Summary:

According to the latest Worldline Report, India’s Digital Payment Ecosystem witnessed unprecedented growth in the calendar year 2025. The rise of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) continues to redefine Financial Inclusion and the Less-Cash Economy in India.

1. UPI Growth Metrics (Transaction Milestones):

• Transaction Volume: In 2025, a staggering 228.5 Billion transactions were recorded, marking a 33% Year-on-Year (YoY) growth.
• Transaction Value: The total cumulative value of these transactions surged to ₹299.74 Trillion, showcasing the massive scale of Digital Liquidity in the Indian market.

2. The Expansion of Merchant Ecosystems:

• P2M Transactions: Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments rose by 34%, reaching 143.82 Billion. This indicates a high adoption of Digital Retail Payments.
• QR Code Proliferation: The number of UPI QR Codes across the country grew by 15%, totaling 731.38 Million.
• PoS Terminal Growth: Point of Sale (PoS) infrastructure increased to 11.48 Million units, facilitating smoother In-store Digital Checkouts.

3. Average Ticket Size (ATS) – The Micro-Transaction Trend:

• The overall UPI ATS declined by 9% to ₹1,314, while the merchant-specific ATS dropped to ₹592.
• Strategic Analysis: This decline in average value suggests that consumers are increasingly using Mobile Wallets and UPI for Micro-transactions (small daily expenses), moving away from physical cash for even the smallest purchases.

4. Shifting Trends in Card Payments & Bill Pay:

• Credit Card Growth: Transactions increased by 27% (5.69 Billion), with online spending reaching ₹14.53 Trillion, highlighting the growth in Consumer Credit Demand.
• Debit Card Decline: Usage saw a 23% decrease, as most users have migrated to UPI-linked Bank Accounts for daily needs.
• Bharat BillPay (BBPS): Processed 3.05 Billion transactions, reflecting a 40% growth in Digital Utility Bill Payments.

Critical Knowledge for Competitive Exams:

A. Unified Payments Interface (UPI):

• Launch: Introduced in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• Technology: Operates on the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) infrastructure, enabling Real-time Interbank Transfers 24/7 via mobile platforms.

B. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI):

• Founded: 2008, under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
• Organization: A Section 8 (Non-Profit) company registered under the Companies Act.
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is the umbrella organization for Retail Payment Systems in India.

C. Worldline:

• A global leader in the Payments and Transactional Services industry.
• Headquarters: Puteaux, France.

UPSC / Competitive Exam Analysis:

• Financial Inclusion: The expansion of digital payments into tier-2 and tier-3 cities is bridging the gap for the unbanked population.
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): These figures prove India’s global leadership in building a scalable and secure Digital Economy.
• Monetary Policy Impact: The shift toward digital reduces the Cost of Printing Currency and improves tax compliance through a transparent audit trail.

Daily Current Affairs Analysis: Strategic Insights for Competitive Exams

Topic	Key Highlights & Business Trends	Exam Perspective & Strategic Facts
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)	• Unsecured Business Loans now available up to ₹20 Lakhs. • Four loan categories: Shishu, Kishor, Tarun, and Tarun Plus. • Women Entrepreneurs account for 60% of total loan disbursements.	• MUDRA is a subsidiary of SIDBI. • Objective: Financial Inclusion of the unorganized sector into the formal economy.
Renewable Energy Infrastructure	• India ranks 3rd globally in Installed Clean Energy Capacity. • Achieved the 2030 target of 50% Non-Fossil Fuel Power in 2025. • Solar Energy capacity has crossed the 150 GW milestone.	• Target: 500 GW of non-fossil power capacity by 2030. • IRENA Headquarters: Abu Dhabi, UAE.
ISSF World Cup (Shooting)	• Palak Gulia and Mukesh Nelavalli set a new World Record (487.7 score). • Gold medal in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event.	• Mukesh Nelavalli hails from Andhra Pradesh. • Awareness of the newly introduced ISSF Final Format.
Banking License Revocation	• RBI cancelled the license of a Maharashtra-based Co-operative Bank. • Primary Reason: Capital Inadequacy and lack of earning prospects.	• Deposit Insurance: DICGC covers depositors up to ₹5 Lakhs. • DICGC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the RBI.
Cancer as a Notifiable Disease	• Telangana declares cancer a ‘Notifiable Disease’ to boost Public Health Surveillance. • Compulsory reporting for all medical institutions.	• Promoting Data-Driven Governance in healthcare. • Falls under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.
Menaka Guruswamy (Rajya Sabha MP)	• First ‘Openly Queer’ MP to enter the Indian Parliament. • Represents West Bengal in the Rajya Sabha.	• Article 80: Constitutional structure of the Rajya Sabha. • Instrumental in the Section 377 decriminalization verdict.
Payal Nag (Para-Archery)	• First Quadruple Amputee in the world to win an international title. • Gold medal at the Bangkok World Series Finals.	• Significance of Assistive Sports Technology and prosthetics. • Swasthalam: Balangir, Odisha.
Yoga Mahotsav 2026	• 75-day countdown to the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) begins. • Venue: Lonar, Maharashtra (Geotourism site).	• Focus on Yoga 365 and AI Integration in wellness. • Ministry of Ayush established in 2014.
Digital Payments Report (2025)	• 228.5 Billion UPI Transactions recorded (Value: ₹299.74 Trillion). • Average Ticket Size (ATS) dropped to ₹1,314.	• NPCI is a Section 8 (Non-Profit) organization. • Growth of Micro-transactions is a pillar of Digital India.