Current affairs 05 April 2025

India ranks 10th with $1.4 billion private investment in AI: UN.

• India has been ranked 10th in the world with significant private investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in 2023.
• According to the 2025 Technology and Innovation Report issued by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), India ranked 36th in 2024 on the Readiness for Frontier Technologies Index, improving its position from 48th in 2022.

ATM Withdrawal Fee Hiked to ₹23 from May 1, 2025.

• RBI raised ATM withdrawal charges from ₹21 to ₹23 per transaction beyond free limits, effective May 1, 2025.
• Customers still get 5 free own-bank ATM uses/month, 3 at other banks in metros, and 5 in non-metro areas.
• The hike addresses rising ATM maintenance costs; RBI last revised fees in 2021.

UK Set to Host 2035 Women’s World Cup.

• UK (England, Scotland, Wales, N. Ireland) is the sole valid bidder for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
• FIFA will confirm the UK’s bid next year; it would be the UK’s first World Cup since 1966.
• The 2027 tournament will be held in Brazil, will feature 32 teams.
• Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was founded in 1904.
• President: Gianni Infantino
• Hq: Zurich, Switzerland

RailTel Signs MoU to Boost Railway Skill Development.

• RailTel, Lamrin Tech Skills University, Punjab (LTSU), and National Skill Development Corporation signed an MoU to offer diplomas and certifications tailored to railway industry needs.
• The partnership will focus on curriculum design, training labs, internships, and placement support.
• RailTel brings industry insights, LTSU offers infrastructure, and NSDC aids with collaboration and funding.

BPCL Launches Scholarship for Young Athletes.

• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) introduced a Sports Scholarship Initiative to support Indian athletes aged 13–25.
• Athletes across sports like cricket, hockey, tennis, and more will receive monthly stipends and sports kits.
• The scheme covers training and tournament costs to ease financial challenges.