Current Affairs: July 11, 2025 – A Comprehensive Guide for Competitive Exams

For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, staying updated with current affairs is a game-changer. The events of July 11, 2025, offer a wealth of information across politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports. This article, sourced from credible outlets like The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, Business Standard, Livemint, Press Information Bureau (PIB), Reuters, and Down To Earth, provides a detailed and engaging overview to help students gain a competitive edge. Written in simple English with a storytelling approach, this guide ensures high readability and is optimized to outrank other educational resources online.

Politics and Governance: Shaping India’s Future

The political landscape on July 11, 2025, was abuzz with discussions on key legislative proposals. The Simultaneous Election Bill, aimed at holding Lok Sabha and state assembly elections together, was a major focus. Former Chief Justices of India, D.Y. Chandrachud and J.S. Khehar, appeared before a parliamentary committee to address concerns about the bill. They highlighted that the Election Commission has been granted significant powers without clear oversight, raising questions about potential loopholes. For instance, the bill’s undefined “remaining period” for state assembly elections could lead to misinterpretations, possibly undermining its purpose. This debate is crucial for aspirants, as it touches on constitutional amendments and governance structures, key topics in UPSC exams.

Another significant development was the Finance Bill 2025, which proposes amendments to the Income-tax Act, Customs Act, and Central Goods and Services Tax Act. Introduced to simplify tax compliance and reduce legal complexities by up to 60%, the bill includes revised tax slabs and increased deductions for senior citizens. For example, the tax deduction for senior citizens doubled to ₹1 lakh, and the TDS threshold on rent payments rose to ₹6 lakh. These changes, effective from April 1, 2025, are vital for Banking and SSC aspirants focusing on economic policies.

The National Sports Policy 2025, approved on July 1, 2025, marks a turning point for Indian sports. Aimed at transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse, the policy addresses governance issues, promotes sports tourism, and supports infrastructure development. With 326 sports infrastructure projects worth ₹3,124.12 crore approved, and 1,045 Khelo India Centres established, this policy is a must-know for exams covering government schemes.

The Union Budget 2025-26, announced earlier in the year, introduced several schemes to boost development. A notable allocation of ₹1.5 lakh crore provides 50-year interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure, encouraging infrastructure growth. The SWAMIH Fund-2, with ₹15,000 crore, aims to complete stalled housing projects, benefiting the real estate sector. These initiatives reflect India’s focus on inclusive growth, a recurring theme in competitive exams.

Economic Developments: Stability and Challenges

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) played a pivotal role in economic management on July 11, 2025. It conducted auctions for government bonds worth ₹25,000 crore, including a new 2032 bond and a 2074 re-issue, to manage liquidity. Additionally, a 7-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction was held with a cut-off rate of 5.49%, slightly higher than the previous auction’s 5.47%. These actions follow the RBI’s decision in June 2025 to cut the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.50%, signaling a shift to a neutral monetary policy stance to balance inflation and growth.

Inflation trends were encouraging, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation dropping to 2.50% in June 2025, the lowest in over six years, down from 2.82% in May 2025. This decline, driven by lower food prices, is a positive signal for the economy, as noted by CRISIL. However, students should note the growing concern over core inflation, which could impact future RBI policies.

The Indian stock market faced challenges on July 11, 2025. The BSE Sensex fell by 690 points to 82,500.47, and the Nifty 50 dropped 205 points to below 25,150, resulting in investor losses of over ₹3 lakh crore. The decline was attributed to a selloff in IT and auto stocks, with companies like Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors seeing significant drops. This market volatility, influenced by global factors like US tariff policies, is a critical topic for Banking exams.

Science and Technology: India’s Leap Forward

India’s space program made headlines on July 11, 2025, with ISRO successfully completing the development of the Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) for the Gaganyaan Mission. A full-duration hot test lasting 350 seconds was conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, validating the system’s performance under various conditions. The SMPS is essential for orbit circularization, on-orbit control, and mission abort scenarios, marking a step closer to India’s first human spaceflight mission.

Another milestone was the Axiom-4 mission, featuring ISRO-trained astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. Launched on June 25, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, this mission marked India’s first astronaut mission in 41 years. Shukla, serving as the mission pilot, was set to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) on July 14, 2025, after conducting experiments to advance space exploration.

In artificial intelligence (AI), India is pushing for independence. The government announced plans in April 2025 to develop six large-scale AI models and 18 additional AI applications by the end of 2025. The AI market in India is projected to grow at a 25-35% compound annual growth rate, reaching $17-22 billion by 2027. These developments are crucial for UPSC aspirants studying technological advancements.

India’s 12th Southern Ocean expedition, which returned in April 2025, provided valuable insights into ocean chemistry, biodiversity, and climate modelling. Conducted near the Bharati research station in Prydz Bay, the expedition noted low sea ice levels for four consecutive years, contributing to global climate change research. This is a key topic for environmental science questions in exams.

International Relations: Strengthening Global Ties

India’s international engagements were prominent around July 11, 2025. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Brazil on July 8, 2025, both nations planned to sign nearly half a dozen agreements to boost bilateral trade to $20 billion from the current $12.2 billion. These agreements cover renewable energy, counter-terrorism, agricultural research, and confidential information protection. The expansion of the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement, with Brazil chairing MERCOSUR from July 1, 2025, was also discussed.

India and the United States moved closer to an interim trade agreement, potentially reducing tariffs to below 20%. This development, reported on July 12, 2025, reflects India’s efforts to strengthen economic ties amid global trade uncertainties.

The 17th BRICS Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, 2025, saw India play a strategic role. The Rio de Janeiro Declaration emphasized Global South cooperation, advocating for reforms in global institutions like the UN Security Council and Bretton Woods Institutions. India supported Brazil and itself for UNSC roles, highlighting its commitment to multilateralism. The summit also welcomed new members like Indonesia and partner countries like Nigeria and Vietnam, reinforcing BRICS’ global influence.

Environment: Conservation and Climate Action

Environmental efforts received a boost in the Union Budget 2025-26, with the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change allocated ₹3,412.82 crores, a 9% increase from the previous year. This funding supports wildlife conservation projects, including the 2025 Asiatic Lion Survey and cheetah reintroduction programs. The Wildlife Trust of India reported rescuing an 8-week-old male elephant on July 5, 2025, showcasing ongoing conservation efforts.

The Second Indian Conservation Conference (ICCON 2025), scheduled for June 25-27, 2025, will bring together conservationists and policymakers to discuss sustainable practices. The World Wildlife Day 2025 theme, “Wildlife Conservation Finance”, underscores the need for innovative funding solutions, a topic relevant for environmental sections in exams.

India’s commitment to global climate treaties was evident in its support for COP30, scheduled for November 10-21, 2025, in Belém, Brazil. The BRICS nations endorsed COP30, focusing on climate finance and sustainable development, aligning with the Paris Agreement. India’s role in these discussions highlights its growing influence in global environmental governance.

Defense: Strengthening National Security

On July 3, 2025, India approved defense purchases worth $12.3 billion, including armoured recovery vehicles, electronic warfare systems, and surface-to-air missiles. This decision, prompted by a military confrontation with Pakistan, underscores India’s focus on modernizing its armed forces. The Ministry of Defence allocated 75% of its ₹1,11,544 crore modernization budget for FY 2025-26 to domestic procurement, promoting self-reliance.

India and the United States agreed to sign a 10-year defense framework by the end of 2025, enhancing military cooperation and access to advanced technology. This pact, discussed during a meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on July 1, 2025, is a significant step for India’s defense strategy.

Sports: Celebrating Achievements

India’s sports scene shone brightly with Neeraj Chopra winning the NC Classic 2025 javelin event on July 3, 2025, with a throw of 86.18m at Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. This victory reinforces his status as a global athletics star, a key point for sports-related questions in exams.

The National Sports Policy 2025, approved on July 1, 2025, aims to nurture talent and expand opportunities. The policy supports initiatives like the Khelo India Centres and plans to attract international events, boosting India’s global sporting profile. Nominations for the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards 2024, open until July 15, 2025, highlight India’s focus on recognizing adventure sports achievements.

Conclusion: Your Path to Success

The events of July 11, 2025, provide a rich tapestry of developments for competitive exam aspirants. From legislative debates and economic policies to space missions and international summits, these topics cover the breadth of UPSC, SSC, and Banking syllabi. By understanding these issues, students can gain a knowledge advantage, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle current affairs questions with confidence.

Citations:

• The Hindu
• The Indian Express
• Times of India
• Business Standard
• Livemint
• Press Information Bureau
• Reuters
• Down To Earth
• ISRO
• RBI
• MEA
• PM India

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers English

Question 1:
Which major concern did former Chief Justices raise about the Simultaneous Election Bill during their appearance before a parliamentary committee?
Option 1: Lack of representation for regional parties
Option 2: Increased administrative costs of simultaneous elections
Option 3: Overlapping of electoral codes of conduct
Option 4: Ambiguity regarding the “remaining period” clause for state assemblies
Option 5: Absence of electronic voting mechanisms
Answer: Option 4
Explanation:
Former Chief Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and J.S. Khehar highlighted that the “remaining period” clause in the Simultaneous Election Bill lacks clarity, potentially undermining the bill’s intent. They also expressed concern about the extensive powers granted to the Election Commission without adequate oversight, indicating risks to constitutional processes and federal balance.

Question 2:
What is the new threshold for TDS on rent payments as per the Finance Bill 2025?
Option 1: ₹5 lakh
Option 2: ₹6 lakh
Option 3: ₹7 lakh
Option 4: ₹4.5 lakh
Option 5: ₹3 lakh
Answer: Option 2
Explanation:
The Finance Bill 2025 revised several tax norms to ease compliance. One of the key amendments includes raising the threshold for TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on rent payments from ₹2.4 lakh to ₹6 lakh annually, reducing the tax burden on small-scale tenants and landlords while simplifying procedures.

Question 3:
Which ISRO-trained astronaut became the first Indian to be part of a space mission in over 40 years, as part of the Axiom-4 mission?
Option 1: Rakesh Sharma Jr.
Option 2: Gagandeep Singh
Option 3: Rajeev Tyagi
Option 4: Anshul Kumar
Option 5: Shubhanshu Shukla
Answer: Option 5
Explanation:
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, trained by ISRO, participated in the Axiom-4 mission launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. He became the first Indian astronaut in over four decades to reach space and is serving as the mission pilot. His mission includes conducting experiments aboard the ISS.

Question 4:
Which financial instrument did the RBI re-issue on July 11, 2025, to manage liquidity?
Option 1: 2074 government bond
Option 2: 2040 floating-rate bond
Option 3: 2030 savings bond
Option 4: 2032 bond
Option 5: 2028 inflation-indexed bond
Answer: Option 1
Explanation:
The Reserve Bank of India conducted bond auctions worth ₹25,000 crore, which included the re-issue of the 2074 bond. These actions are part of RBI’s monetary operations to manage market liquidity and adjust to the neutral stance following a recent repo rate cut.

Question 5:
What is India’s new CPI inflation rate for June 2025, the lowest in over six years?
Option 1: 2.85%
Option 2: 2.75%
Option 3: 2.50%
Option 4: 2.30%
Option 5: 2.82%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation:
Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation dropped to 2.50% in June 2025, a significant decline from May’s 2.82%. This marks the lowest inflation rate in over six years and reflects reduced food prices. This trend strengthens RBI’s position to maintain a neutral monetary policy.

Question 6:
Which athlete won the NC Classic 2025 javelin event held in Bengaluru with a throw of 86.18 meters?
Option 1: Kishore Jena
Option 2: Shivpal Singh
Option 3: Julian Weber
Option 4: Johannes Vetter
Option 5: Neeraj Chopra
Answer: Option 5
Explanation:
Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic gold medalist in javelin, secured victory in the NC Classic 2025 at Sree Kanteerava Stadium with an impressive throw of 86.18 meters. His consistent performances affirm his status as a leading global athlete.

Question 7:
What is the name of the propulsion system that ISRO successfully tested for the Gaganyaan Mission?
Option 1: Hybrid Control Thruster
Option 2: Indian Space Propulsion Core
Option 3: Service Module Propulsion System
Option 4: Gaganyaan Launch Booster
Option 5: Orbital Engine Assembly
Answer: Option 3
Explanation:
ISRO successfully conducted a full-duration hot test of the Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) for the Gaganyaan Mission. The system ensures critical functionalities such as orbit circularization and emergency aborts, paving the way for India’s first manned space mission.

Question 8:
Which South American trade bloc did India discuss expanding its Preferential Trade Agreement with during PM Modi’s Brazil visit?
Option 1: OAS
Option 2: MERCOSUR
Option 3: Andean Pact
Option 4: CELAC
Option 5: Pacific Alliance
Answer: Option 2
Explanation:
During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brazil, India and Brazil discussed expanding the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement. MERCOSUR, chaired by Brazil since July 1, 2025, includes Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, aiming to enhance trade cooperation with India.

Question 9:
How much funding has the Union Budget 2025-26 allocated for 50-year interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure?
Option 1: ₹1.5 lakh crore
Option 2: ₹2 lakh crore
Option 3: ₹75,000 crore
Option 4: ₹50,000 crore
Option 5: ₹1 lakh crore
Answer: Option 1
Explanation:
The Union Budget 2025-26 allocated ₹1.5 lakh crore for 50-year interest-free loans to states, aimed at boosting capital expenditure in infrastructure and development. This is part of India’s push for inclusive and sustainable growth through public investment.

Question 10:
What was the main theme of the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in July 2025?
Option 1: Innovation for a Sustainable World
Option 2: Building Multilateral Consensus
Option 3: Strengthening Global South Cooperation
Option 4: Reforming Bretton Woods Institutions
Option 5: Expanding Economic Diplomacy
Answer: Option 3
Explanation:
The 17th BRICS Summit, held on July 6–7, 2025, in Rio de Janeiro, emphasized the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation”. The summit focused on reforms in global governance, climate change financing, and support for Global South initiatives like expanding BRICS membership and backing UN Security Council reforms.