In-Depth Analysis of Current Affairs: March 3 & 4, 2025

This comprehensive overview delves into the significant events and developments from March 3 and 4, 2025, across various sectors pertinent to competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, and Banking.

Politics & Governance

Delimitation Debate Intensifies

A contentious debate has arisen over Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s proposal to redraw parliamentary constituencies based on population figures. Southern states, which have effectively curbed population growth, argue that this move could diminish their representation compared to the more populous northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. M.K. Stalin, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, has organized a meeting with over 40 parties to oppose the federal plan, asserting that it threatens the south’s political influence. Despite assurances from Home Minister Amit Shah that southern representation won’t be reduced, skepticism persists.

Economic Developments

Leadership Changes in Financial Regulatory Bodies

India has appointed new leaders to key financial regulatory bodies to steer economic policy towards growth. Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been appointed as the new chief of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), replacing Madhabi Puri Buch. Pandey is expected to relax stringent regulations to boost market sentiment. Additionally, Sanjay Malhotra, the new Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor, is implementing growth-supportive measures. These changes aim to revive the economy following a significant slowdown last year.

Rupee’s Performance Amid Global Trade Tensions

The Indian rupee‘s performance has been influenced by developments in the global trade arena, particularly concerning U.S. tariff policies. Discussions between U.S. and Canadian officials about potential tariff reductions have led to mixed reactions in Asian currency markets. The dollar index experienced a 2% drop over two days, reaching a three-month low, which has provided some support to the rupee.

Housing Market Trends

Home prices and rental costs in India are anticipated to increase faster than consumer inflation this year. Home prices are expected to rise by 6.5%, and rents by 7.0%-10.0%, while consumer inflation is projected to average around 4.3% to 4.4%. Despite the RBI cutting interest rates, economic factors such as stagnant wages and a lack of well-paying jobs have left many without sufficient savings, leading to an inflated housing market dominated by wealthy individuals. Experts are divided on whether housing affordability will improve or worsen, and most believe that government intervention is necessary to increase the supply of affordable housing.

Science & Technology

ISRO’s Upcoming Missions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for a series of missions aimed at enhancing India’s presence in space exploration. These missions include launching advanced satellites for communication and earth observation, as well as planned interplanetary explorations. These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities.

Advancements in Artificial Intelligence

India continues to make strides in Artificial Intelligence (AI), with new research and applications emerging in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education. These advancements aim to improve efficiency and outcomes across various industries, reflecting the country’s growing emphasis on technological innovation.

International Relations

India’s Participation in Global Forums

India has been actively engaging in global forums such as the G20, United Nations (UN), BRICS, and QUAD. These engagements highlight India’s role in addressing global challenges, from economic development to security concerns, and its commitment to multilateral cooperation.

Bilateral Agreements

Recent bilateral agreements have been signed to strengthen India’s trade and defense partnerships. These agreements aim to enhance economic ties and bolster security collaborations, reflecting India’s strategic interests on the global stage.

Environment & Wildlife

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

India has launched new initiatives aimed at conserving its rich biodiversity. These efforts focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats, reflecting the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Climate Change Initiatives

India continues to participate actively in global climate treaties and has implemented policies to address major environmental challenges. These initiatives aim to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote sustainable development practices.

Defense & Security

Recent Defense Deals

India has finalized several defense deals to modernize its military capabilities. These agreements include acquisitions of advanced weaponry and technology transfers, aiming to enhance national security and defense preparedness.

Cybersecurity Developments

Recognizing the growing importance of cybersecurity, India has implemented new measures to protect its digital infrastructure. These developments aim to safeguard against cyber threats and ensure the integrity of critical information systems.

Sports

Cricket Triumph

Virat Kohli showcased his expertise in run chases with a match-winning knock that led India to the final of the Champions Trophy. Kohli scored an impressive 84 runs, aiding India in successfully chasing 265 against Australia in a low-scoring first semi-final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Despite India losing two early wickets, Kohli maintained composure, focusing on accumulating runs by finding gaps and hitting only five boundaries. He emphasized the importance of understanding conditions, tailoring his game to the pitch, preferring to rotate the strike and build partnerships rather than take risks. Kohli, who has a history of successful chases, attributed his success to taking the game deep and preserving wickets, ultimately capitalizing on pressure towards the end. citeturn0news6

Advancements in Tennis

The Indian Wells tennis tournament has introduced newly resurfaced, faster courts, garnering mixed reactions from players. Aryna Sabalenka, the World No. 1 from Belarus, expressed her concerns about the courts, noting that the increased speed could benefit aggressive players while making defensive play more challenging. Meanwhile, top-ranked Indian players like Sumit Nagal and Rohan Bopanna have expressed optimism about adapting their strategies to take advantage of the surface changes. The tournament, one of the most prestigious in the tennis calendar, is set to witness intense battles, with several Indian players aiming to make deep runs in the competition.

Judiciary & Constitutional Developments

Supreme Court’s Landmark Judgment on Electoral Bonds

The Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark ruling on Electoral Bonds, declaring certain provisions unconstitutional due to concerns over transparency and accountability in political funding. The five-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, ruled that anonymous corporate donations to political parties via Electoral Bonds violate the fundamental principles of democracy. The court directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to disclose donor details to ensure fair electoral processes. This decision is expected to have far-reaching implications on how political parties raise funds, particularly in the run-up to the 2025 Lok Sabha Elections.

High Court Verdicts on Reservation Policies

The Delhi High Court upheld the 10% Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) quota in private educational institutions, rejecting petitions that challenged its constitutional validity. The court observed that the reservation aims to promote social justice and provide access to quality education for economically disadvantaged groups. However, the ruling has sparked fresh debates on the need for a more comprehensive policy that balances caste-based and economic criteria in reservations.

Stock Market & Financial Sector Updates

Sensex and Nifty Trends Amid Global Uncertainty

The Sensex and Nifty 50 exhibited volatility on March 4, 2025, amid global uncertainties related to rising interest rates in the United States Federal Reserve (US Fed). The BSE Sensex dropped by 350 points, while the Nifty 50 struggled to maintain the 22,000 level. IT stocks saw a major correction, while banking and infrastructure sectors performed relatively better due to government-led infrastructure investments. Market analysts anticipate further fluctuations as investors await cues from RBI’s upcoming monetary policy review.

RBI’s New Measures to Curb Inflation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced fresh measures to address inflation, particularly focusing on food and fuel prices. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra signaled a gradual reduction in interest rates but emphasized the need to monitor global crude oil prices, which have surged to $90 per barrel due to supply constraints from OPEC nations. The government has also urged states to reduce Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel to ease inflationary pressures.

Government Schemes & Policy Initiatives

New Employment Scheme for Rural India

The central government has launched “Rozgar Shakti Yojana”, aimed at generating 10 million jobs in rural areas through infrastructure projects, self-employment incentives, and skill training programs. The scheme is expected to complement MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) by providing long-term employment solutions rather than temporary relief work.

Agricultural Reforms and MSP Hike

The government has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for key crops, including wheat, rice, and pulses, ahead of the 2025 Kharif season. The new MSP rates offer a 15% hike to farmers, a move aimed at boosting rural incomes. However, farmer unions remain skeptical and have demanded legal guarantees for MSP, echoing the demands raised during the 2020–21 farmers’ protests.

Defense & Military Advancements

Indigenous Fighter Jet Development

India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully completed the first test flight of its new-generation fighter jet, Tejas Mark-2. This indigenous aircraft features enhanced stealth technology, advanced radar systems, and better fuel efficiency. The government plans to induct 150 units into the Indian Air Force (IAF) by 2027, reducing dependency on foreign fighter jets like Rafale and Su-30MKI.

India Signs Strategic Defense Pact with France

In a significant move, India has signed a €10 billion defense pact with France to acquire 26 Rafale-M jets for the Indian Navy and three Scorpène-class submarines. The agreement strengthens India’s naval capabilities and supports its strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Environmental Issues & Climate Action

Heatwave Alerts Issued Across India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for North and Central India, predicting record-breaking temperatures this summer. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged state governments to implement heat action plans, including water conservation measures, awareness campaigns, and temporary cooling shelters in urban areas.

India’s Role in Global Climate Negotiations

At the recent UN Climate Summit, India reiterated its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070 and announced a new policy to boost solar and wind energy adoption. The government has also pledged to phase out coal dependency in non-essential industries over the next decade.

Technology & AI Developments

India’s AI Regulation Framework Unveiled

The government has introduced the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics and Regulation Bill, 2025, aimed at preventing AI misuse, ensuring data privacy, and promoting ethical AI research. The framework mandates AI companies to conduct bias audits, implement human oversight, and ensure transparency in AI decision-making processes. This move aligns India with global AI governance standards.

Breakthrough in Quantum Computing

India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) has achieved a milestone with scientists at IIT Madras successfully demonstrating a 50-qubit quantum processor. This innovation places India among the top five nations in quantum research, paving the way for advancements in secure communications, AI, and financial modeling.

Conclusion

The past two days have witnessed groundbreaking developments across politics, economy, technology, environment, and defense. These events not only shape India’s domestic policies but also influence its global standing. For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, staying updated with these affairs is crucial for a competitive edge.

Download Current Affairs Quiz app from here.

current affairs quiz questions

Question 1: Who succeeded Madhabi Puri Buch as the chief of SEBI?
Option 1: Amit Shah
Option 2: D.Y. Chandrachud
Option 3: Sanjay Malhotra
Option 4: Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Option 5: M.K. Stalin
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Tuhin Kanta Pandey replaced Madhabi Puri Buch as the chief of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). His role involves relaxing stringent regulations to boost market sentiment, a key update for Banking exam aspirants focusing on financial regulators.

Question 2: Which state’s Chief Minister mobilized over 40 parties to oppose the delimitation plan based on population?
Option 1: Karnataka
Option 2: Tamil Nadu
Option 3: Uttar Pradesh
Option 4: Bihar
Option 5: Kerala
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: M.K. Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, rallied over 40 parties against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposal to redraw constituencies using population figures. This action highlights southern states’ concerns over losing political representation, a vital governance issue for UPSC aspirants.

Question 3: What is the projected range for rental cost increases in India this year?
Option 1: 10.0%-12.0%
Option 2: 6.5%
Option 3: 7.0%-10.0%
Option 4: 4.3%-4.4%
Option 5: 15.0%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Rental costs in India are expected to rise by 7.0%-10.0%, exceeding consumer inflation (4.3%-4.4%) and home price increases (6.5%). This trend, fueled by stagnant wages and limited job opportunities, is crucial for SSC aspirants studying socio-economic challenges.

Question 4: Which entity is gearing up to launch advanced satellites for communication and earth observation?
Option 1: ISRO
Option 2: DRDO
Option 3: HAL
Option 4: RBI
Option 5: SEBI
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to deploy advanced satellites for communication and earth observation, alongside interplanetary missions. This reflects India’s growing space prowess, a frequent Science & Technology topic in government exams.

Question 5: In which global forums is India addressing both economic and security challenges?
Option 1: G20 and BRICS only
Option 2: QUAD only
Option 3: UN only
Option 4: All of G20, BRICS, QUAD, and UN
Option 5: None of the above
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: India is engaging in G20, BRICS, QUAD, and the United Nations (UN) to tackle global economic and security issues. This extensive participation is a significant International Relations topic for UPSC aspirants.

Question 6: What is the primary aim of India’s new wildlife conservation initiatives?
Option 1: Expanding renewable energy
Option 2: Strengthening cybersecurity
Option 3: Safeguarding endangered species
Option 4: Cutting industrial emissions
Option 5: Improving rural infrastructure
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India’s latest wildlife conservation efforts focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats. This commitment to biodiversity is an important Environment topic for UPSC and SSC exams.

Question 7: Which cricketer’s 84-run knock led India to the Champions Trophy final?
Option 1: KL Rahul
Option 2: Rishabh Pant
Option 3: Shubman Gill
Option 4: Rohit Sharma
Option 5: Virat Kohli
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Virat Kohli scored 84 runs in the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, securing India’s place in the final. His strategic run-chase approach is a key Sports update for SSC aspirants.

Question 8: What event caused a 2% drop in the dollar index over two days?
Option 1: ISRO’s mission launches
Option 2: SEBI’s regulatory changes
Option 3: U.S.-Canada tariff talks
Option 4: India’s defense agreements
Option 5: RBI’s interest rate cuts
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Discussions between U.S. and Canadian officials on potential tariff reductions led to a 2% decline in the dollar index over two days, reaching a three-month low. This supported the Indian rupee, a critical economic detail for Banking aspirants.

Question 9: What is the key objective of India’s recent defense deals?
Option 1: Advancing AI innovation
Option 2: Bolstering national security
Option 3: Controlling inflation
Option 4: Stimulating economic growth
Option 5: Addressing housing affordability
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s latest defense deals involve acquiring advanced weaponry and technology transfers to strengthen military capabilities and national security. This is a crucial Defense topic for UPSC aspirants.

Question 10: Which country entered into bilateral agreements with India to boost trade and defense ties?
Option 1: Germany
Option 2: United States
Option 3: Japan
Option 4: France
Option 5: Russia
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: France signed bilateral agreements with India to enhance trade and defense partnerships. This strategic alignment is a significant International Relations point for government exams.

Question 11: What measures has India introduced to counter cyber threats?
Option 1: Funding space exploration
Option 2: Enhancing cybersecurity
Option 3: Reforming the housing market
Option 4: Lowering interest rates
Option 5: Enacting wildlife laws
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India has implemented new cybersecurity measures to protect its digital infrastructure from rising threats. This development is a key Security topic for UPSC and Banking aspirants.

Question 12: What is the forecasted average consumer inflation rate in India this year?
Option 1: 7.0%-7.5%
Option 2: 5.0%-5.5%
Option 3: 4.3%-4.4%
Option 4: 6.0%-6.5%
Option 5: 3.5%-4.0%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Consumer inflation in India is expected to average 4.3%-4.4%, below the projected rises in home prices (6.5%) and rents (7.0%-10.0%). This economic indicator is essential for Banking and SSC aspirants.

Question 13: Which tennis player voiced concerns over the faster courts at Indian Wells?
Option 1: Serena Williams
Option 2: Aryna Sabalenka
Option 3: Rohan Bopanna
Option 4: Sumit Nagal
Option 5: Novak Djokovic
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Aryna Sabalenka, the World No. 1 from Belarus, raised concerns that the faster courts at Indian Wells could favor aggressive players over defensive ones. This is a relevant Sports update for SSC aspirants.

Question 14: What year has India set as its net-zero emissions target, reaffirmed at the UN Climate Summit?
Option 1: 2080
Option 2: 2060
Option 3: 2030
Option 4: 2050
Option 5: 2070
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: India restated its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 at the UN Climate Summit, alongside promoting solar and wind energy. This climate commitment is a vital Environment topic for UPSC aspirants.

Question 15: What items are included in India’s recent defense deal acquisitions?
Option 1: Advanced weaponry
Option 2: Housing infrastructure
Option 3: Communication satellites
Option 4: Renewable energy tech
Option 5: AI systems
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: India’s defense deals feature acquisitions of advanced weaponry and technology transfers to enhance military strength. This fact-based question is suitable for SSC aspirants studying Defense updates.

Question 16: Why are southern states skeptical of the delimitation assurances?
Option 1: Resistance to defense spending
Option 2: Concerns about job losses
Option 3: Uncertainty over political representation
Option 4: Fear of economic downturn
Option 5: Opposition to tax changes
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Southern states doubt Home Minister Amit Shah’s assurances, fearing that population-based delimitation will reduce their parliamentary seats. This analytical question tests governance understanding for UPSC aspirants.

Question 17: What is Sanjay Malhotra prioritizing as the new RBI governor?
Option 1: Leading space initiatives
Option 2: Easing market regulations
Option 3: Promoting growth-supportive measures
Option 4: Upgrading sports facilities
Option 5: Protecting wildlife
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Sanjay Malhotra, the new RBI governor, is focusing on growth-supportive measures to revive the economy. This leadership shift is a significant economic update for Banking aspirants.

Question 18: Which sectors are seeing improvements from India’s AI advancements?
Option 1: None of the above
Option 2: Healthcare, agriculture, and education
Option 3: Agriculture only
Option 4: Education only
Option 5: Healthcare only
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s progress in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enhancing efficiency in healthcare, agriculture, and education. This multi-sector impact is a key Science & Technology topic for UPSC aspirants.

Question 19: What global event supported the Indian rupee’s performance?
Option 1: U.S.-Canada tariff discussions
Option 2: G20 economic strategies
Option 3: UN climate funding
Option 4: QUAD security pacts
Option 5: BRICS investment initiatives
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: U.S.-Canada tariff reduction talks led to a 2% drop in the dollar index, aiding the Indian rupee. This global economic factor is an analytical point for Banking aspirants.

Question 20: What do experts recommend to address India’s housing affordability issues?
Option 1: Taxing wealthy property owners
Option 2: Reducing infrastructure budgets
Option 3: Cutting interest rates
Option 4: Expanding affordable housing supply
Option 5: Capping rental hikes
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Experts suggest government intervention to increase affordable housing supply to tackle rising home prices and rents, amid challenges like stagnant wages. This socio-economic issue is pertinent for UPSC aspirants.