Latest General Knowledge – 16 October 2025

• Sonali Ghosh, Director of Kaziranga National Park, received the Kenton R. Miller Award. She is the first Indian to win this award, which honors innovation in national parks and protected areas. It is presented by the World Commission on Protected Areas.
• Israel announced that it will honor former U.S. President Donald Trump with its highest civilian honor, the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor, for his role in the Gaza ceasefire and release of Israeli hostages.
• The Maldives became the first country in the world to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis. The WHO has officially confirmed this as a “Triple Elimination”.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed Indian banks to lend in Indian Rupees to individuals and banks in Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Authorized dealer banks and their overseas branches can now offer rupee-denominated loans, promoting the global use of INR.
• In the Henley Passport Index 2025, India dropped 5 spots to rank 85th, compared to 80th in 2024. Indian passport holders can now travel visa-free to 57 countries. Singapore remains at the top of the index.

45th GITEX Global 2025 Begins in Dubai

GITEX is the world’s largest technology and AI expo, focused on AI, quantum computing, and sustainable technologies. It aims to foster innovation and investment in digital transformation globally.

AI Skills Passport – Free Online Training Program

Launched by EY India and Microsoft, this free online program aims to equip youth with job-ready AI skills and reduce India’s digital skill gap. Open to individuals aged 16 and above, the course includes 10 hours of training through video lectures, practical exercises, and assessments.

Available in English and Hindi, the course offers modular content, hands-on learning, career guidance, and certification upon completion.