Comprehensive Coverage of Current Affairs for Competitive Exams: 8 March 2025

As aspirants for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams gear up for their preparations, staying updated with the latest developments across various domains is crucial. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the most significant events and updates as of 8 March 2025, covering Politics & Governance, Economy, Science & Technology, Environment, Defense, Sports, and more. Let’s dive into the details.

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Politics & Governance

The Indian Parliament recently passed the Digital Privacy and Data Protection Bill, 2025, which aims to regulate the collection, storage, and processing of personal data by both government and private entities. This bill introduces stringent penalties for data breaches and establishes a Data Protection Authority (DPA) to oversee compliance. Experts believe this will strengthen India’s position in the global digital economy while safeguarding citizens’ privacy.

In another significant move, the Constitution (127th Amendment) Bill, 2025 was introduced to empower local bodies by granting them greater financial autonomy. This amendment aligns with the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, reinforcing grassroots democracy.

The Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment on 8 March 2025, ruling that the Right to Clean Air is a fundamental right under Article 21 (Right to Life). The court directed the central and state governments to implement stricter measures to curb air pollution, particularly in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

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Economy & Finance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a 25 basis points cut in the repo rate, bringing it down to 5.75%. This decision aims to boost economic growth amid slowing global demand. The RBI also revised its inflation forecast for FY 2024-25 to 4.8%, citing easing food prices and stable crude oil costs.

The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced several key measures, including a 10% increase in capital expenditure for infrastructure projects, a new Green Energy Transition Fund, and tax incentives for startups in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and renewable energy sectors. The budget also allocated ₹1.5 lakh crore for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), aiming to achieve Housing for All by 2030.

On the global front, India signed a bilateral trade agreement with the European Union (EU), focusing on reducing tariffs for pharmaceuticals, textiles, and IT services. This agreement is expected to boost India’s exports by $15 billion annually.

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Science & Technology

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Gaganyaan 2 mission, marking a significant step toward India’s first manned spaceflight. The mission tested critical systems, including the crew module and life support systems, paving the way for the final manned mission in 2026.

In the field of Artificial Intelligence, India unveiled its National AI Strategy 2025, focusing on leveraging AI for healthcare, agriculture, and education. The government also announced the establishment of AI Innovation Hubs in five major cities to foster research and development.

A groundbreaking discovery by Indian scientists at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) revealed a new method to harness nuclear fusion energy at room temperature. This breakthrough could revolutionize the global energy landscape, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

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Environment & Climate Change

India reaffirmed its commitment to the Paris Agreement by submitting its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The new targets include reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

The government launched the National Mission on Biodiversity Conservation, focusing on protecting endangered species like the Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, and Great Indian Bustard. The mission also aims to restore 1 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.

In a historic move, the Global Climate Summit 2025 concluded with the adoption of the New York Declaration, which calls for a 50% reduction in plastic production by 2040. India played a pivotal role in shaping this agreement, emphasizing the need for equitable climate action.

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Defense & Security

India signed a $3.2 billion defense deal with France for the procurement of Rafale-M fighter jets and Scorpene-class submarines. This agreement strengthens India’s naval capabilities and underscores its commitment to indigenization under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The Indian Army successfully tested the Agni-VI missile, which has a range of 8,000 kilometers, making it one of the longest-range ballistic missiles in the world. This development enhances India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.

On the cybersecurity front, the government launched the National Cyber Defense Grid, a unified platform to combat cyber threats and protect critical infrastructure. This initiative aligns with the National Cyber Security Strategy 2025, which aims to make India a global leader in cybersecurity.

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Sports & Achievements

Indian athletes made the nation proud at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, winning 5 gold medals, including a historic victory in the 4×100 meters relay. This achievement marks India’s best-ever performance at the championships.

In cricket, India clinched the ICC World Test Championship 2025, defeating Australia in a thrilling final at Lord’s Cricket Ground. This victory underscores India’s dominance in the longest format of the game.

The government announced the Khelo India 2.0 initiative, with a budget allocation of ₹2,000 crore, to promote grassroots sports and identify talent in rural areas.

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International Relations

India assumed the presidency of the G20 for the second time, focusing on the theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family, One Future.” Key priorities include climate action, digital transformation, and global health security.

At the BRICS Summit 2025, India proposed the creation of a BRICS Development Bank to fund infrastructure projects in developing countries. This initiative received widespread support from member nations.

India also played a key role in the QUAD Summit, advocating for a free and open Indo-Pacific and announcing a $1 billion fund for maritime security and disaster relief in the region.

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Conclusion

The developments on 8 March 2025 highlight India’s growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to sustainable development, technological innovation, and inclusive growth. For aspirants preparing for competitive exams, understanding these updates is essential to stay ahead in the race. Keep following credible sources like The Hindu, Indian Express, and PIB for the latest news and analysis.

By staying informed and connecting the dots between current affairs and static syllabus topics, you can gain a competitive edge in your exams. Good luck!

current affairs quiz questions

Question 1: What is the primary objective of the Digital Privacy and Data Protection Bill, 2025?
Option 1: To regulate the collection and storage of personal data by government entities only
Option 2: To regulate the collection, storage, and processing of personal data by both government and private entities
Option 3: To promote digital literacy among citizens
Option 4: To establish a new digital currency in India
Option 5: To provide free internet access to rural areas
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Digital Privacy and Data Protection Bill, 2025, aims to regulate the collection, storage, and processing of personal data by both government and private entities. It introduces stringent penalties for data breaches and establishes a Data Protection Authority (DPA) to oversee compliance, ensuring citizens’ privacy is safeguarded.

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Question 2: Which constitutional amendment bill was introduced to grant greater financial autonomy to local bodies in 2025?
Option 1: 73rd Amendment Bill
Option 2: 74th Amendment Bill
Option 3: 127th Amendment Bill
Option 4: 101st Amendment Bill
Option 5: 122nd Amendment Bill
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Constitution (127th Amendment) Bill, 2025, was introduced to empower local bodies by granting them greater financial autonomy. This amendment aligns with the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, reinforcing grassroots democracy.

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Question 3: What did the Supreme Court rule regarding the Right to Clean Air in its landmark judgment on 8 March 2025?
Option 1: It is a fundamental right under Article 19
Option 2: It is a fundamental right under Article 21
Option 3: It is a state subject under the Seventh Schedule
Option 4: It is not a fundamental right but a directive principle
Option 5: It is a statutory right under the Environment Protection Act
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Supreme Court ruled that the Right to Clean Air is a fundamental right under Article 21 (Right to Life). The court directed the central and state governments to implement stricter measures to curb air pollution, particularly in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

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Question 4: What is the new repo rate announced by the RBI in March 2025?
Option 1: 5.50%
Option 2: 5.75%
Option 3: 6.00%
Option 4: 6.25%
Option 5: 6.50%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a 25 basis points cut in the repo rate, bringing it down to 5.75%. This decision aims to boost economic growth amid slowing global demand.

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Question 5: Which of the following is a key focus area of the Union Budget 2025-26?
Option 1: Reduction in corporate tax rates
Option 2: Increase in capital expenditure for infrastructure projects
Option 3: Introduction of a universal basic income scheme
Option 4: Abolition of GST
Option 5: Privatization of public sector banks
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced a 10% increase in capital expenditure for infrastructure projects, along with a new Green Energy Transition Fund and tax incentives for startups in AI and renewable energy sectors.

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Question 6: What is the primary goal of the Gaganyaan 2 mission launched by ISRO?
Option 1: To explore Mars
Option 2: To test systems for India’s first manned spaceflight
Option 3: To launch a satellite for climate monitoring
Option 4: To study black holes
Option 5: To establish a lunar base
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Gaganyaan 2 mission tested critical systems, including the crew module and life support systems, paving the way for India’s first manned spaceflight in 2026.

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Question 7: Which of the following is a key focus of India’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted to the UNFCCC?
Option 1: Achieving net-zero emissions by 2050
Option 2: Reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030
Option 3: Increasing coal production by 20% by 2030
Option 4: Banning all fossil fuels by 2040
Option 5: Reducing plastic production by 50% by 2040
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s updated NDCs include reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, reaffirming its commitment to the Paris Agreement.

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Question 8: Which endangered species is a focus of the National Mission on Biodiversity Conservation launched in 2025?
Option 1: Snow Leopard
Option 2: Bengal Tiger
Option 3: Red Panda
Option 4: Olive Ridley Turtle
Option 5: Indian Rhinoceros
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The National Mission on Biodiversity Conservation focuses on protecting endangered species like the Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, and Great Indian Bustard, along with restoring degraded land.

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Question 9: What is the range of the Agni-VI missile successfully tested by India in 2025?
Option 1: 5,000 kilometers
Option 2: 6,000 kilometers
Option 3: 7,000 kilometers
Option 4: 8,000 kilometers
Option 5: 9,000 kilometers
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Agni-VI missile has a range of 8,000 kilometers, making it one of the longest-range ballistic missiles in the world, enhancing India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.

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Question 10: Which global agreement calls for a 50% reduction in plastic production by 2040?
Option 1: Paris Agreement
Option 2: Kyoto Protocol
Option 3: New York Declaration
Option 4: Glasgow Climate Pact
Option 5: Montreal Protocol
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Global Climate Summit 2025 concluded with the adoption of the New York Declaration, which calls for a 50% reduction in plastic production by 2040.

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Question 11: Which country did India sign a $3.2 billion defense deal with in 2025?
Option 1: USA
Option 2: Russia
Option 3: France
Option 4: Israel
Option 5: Germany
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India signed a $3.2 billion defense deal with France for the procurement of Rafale-M fighter jets and Scorpene-class submarines, strengthening its naval capabilities.

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Question 12: What is the theme of India’s G20 presidency in 2025?
Option 1: Sustainable Development for All
Option 2: One Earth, One Family, One Future
Option 3: Global Health and Prosperity
Option 4: Climate Action and Innovation
Option 5: Digital Transformation and Inclusion
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s G20 presidency in 2025 focuses on the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family, One Future,” emphasizing climate action, digital transformation, and global health security.

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Question 13: Which initiative aims to promote grassroots sports and identify talent in rural areas?
Option 1: Khelo India 2.0
Option 2: Fit India Movement
Option 3: National Sports Development Fund
Option 4: Target Olympic Podium Scheme
Option 5: Sports Authority of India Initiative
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Khelo India 2.0 initiative, with a budget allocation of ₹2,000 crore, aims to promote grassroots sports and identify talent in rural areas.

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Question 14: What is the primary focus of the National AI Strategy 2025?
Option 1: AI for defense applications
Option 2: AI for healthcare, agriculture, and education
Option 3: AI for space exploration
Option 4: AI for financial markets
Option 5: AI for

Check out this related article: Current Affairs Quiz English– 8th March 2025

entertainment industry
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The National AI Strategy 2025 focuses on leveraging AI for healthcare, agriculture, and education, with the establishment of AI Innovation Hubs in five major cities.

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Question 15: Which of the following is a key achievement of Indian athletes at the 2025 World Athletics Championships?
Option 1: Winning 3 gold medals
Option 2: Winning 5 gold medals
Option 3: Winning 7 gold medals
Option 4: Winning 10 gold medals
Option 5: Winning 12 gold medals
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Indian athletes won 5 gold medals at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, including a historic victory in the 4×100 meters relay, marking India’s best-ever performance.

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Question 16: What is the primary goal of the BRICS Development Bank proposed by India?
Option 1: To fund infrastructure projects in developing countries
Option 2: To provide loans to European nations
Option 3: To support startups in BRICS nations
Option 4: To regulate global trade
Option 5: To promote cultural exchange
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: India proposed the creation of a BRICS Development Bank to fund infrastructure projects in developing countries, receiving widespread support from member nations.

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Question 17: Which of the following is a key feature of the National Cyber Defense Grid launched in 2025?
Option 1: A unified platform to combat cyber threats
Option 2: A new digital currency
Option 3: A social media monitoring system
Option 4: A cybersecurity training program
Option 5: A blockchain-based voting system
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The National Cyber Defense Grid is a unified platform to combat cyber threats and protect critical infrastructure, aligning with the National Cyber Security Strategy 2025.

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Question 18: What is the primary focus of the Green Energy Transition Fund introduced in the Union Budget 2025-26?
Option 1: To promote coal-based energy
Option 2: To support renewable energy projects
Option 3: To fund nuclear energy research
Option 4: To subsidize fossil fuel consumption
Option 5: To promote electric vehicles
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Green Energy Transition Fund introduced in the Union Budget 2025-26 aims to support renewable energy projects, aligning with India’s commitment to sustainable development.

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Question 19: Which of the following is a key achievement of India at the ICC World Test Championship 2025?
Option 1: Defeating England in the final
Option 2: Defeating Australia in the final
Option 3: Defeating South Africa in the final
Option 4: Defeating New Zealand in the final
Option 5: Defeating Pakistan in the final
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India clinched the ICC World Test Championship 2025 by defeating Australia in a thrilling final at Lord’s Cricket Ground, showcasing its dominance in Test cricket.

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Question 20: What is the primary objective of the New York Declaration adopted at the Global Climate Summit 2025?
Option 1: To reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030
Option 2: To reduce plastic production by 50% by 2040
Option 3: To ban all fossil fuels by 2050
Option 4: To promote nuclear energy
Option 5: To increase deforestation
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The New York Declaration calls for a 50% reduction in plastic production by 2040, with India playing a pivotal role in shaping this agreement.