Current Affairs for Indian In-Depth Current Affairs Report: July 12, 2025

For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other Indian government exams, staying updated with current affairs is crucial. The news from July 12, 2025, offers a treasure trove of information across politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports. This detailed report weaves together the day’s most significant developments, presented in a storytelling format to keep you engaged while highlighting key facts in bold for quick revision. Let’s dive into the events shaping India’s present and future.

Politics and Governance: Shaping India’s Democratic Framework

India’s political scene on July 12, 2025, was abuzz with developments that could define governance for years to come. The One Nation, One Election Bill, officially the 129th Constitution Amendment Bill, emerged as a focal point. Former Chief Justices of India, D.Y. Chandrachud and J.S. Khehar, appeared before Parliament’s Joint Committee on July 11, 2025, to discuss its implications. They clarified that the bill does not violate the Constitution’s basic structure, a critical point for UPSC GS-II questions on constitutional amendments. However, they expressed concerns about the Election Commission gaining unbridled powers without sufficient oversight, potentially leading to legal challenges. The bill, championed by the Ram Nath Kovind Committee, aims to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, promising cost savings and governance efficiency. Yet, critics argue it could undermine federalism and complicate situations like no-confidence motions. For students, understanding the pros and cons of this reform is essential, as it’s a hot topic for UPSC Mains essays on electoral reforms.

In Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, also known as the Urban Maoism Bill, was passed on July 11, 2025, by the state’s Legislative Council. Reported by The Hindu, this bill targets Naxal front organizations in urban areas, imposing penalties of 2-7 years imprisonment and fines between Rs 2-5 lakh. The legislation addresses urban Naxalism, a term often debated in UPSC papers on internal security. The opposition’s walkout and submission of an eight-page dissent note highlight its contentious nature, with concerns about potential misuse against dissenters. This bill is a must-know for SSC and Banking exams, where state-level policies are increasingly tested.

Social justice also took a progressive step forward. A policy brief submitted to the Union government recommended amendments to marriage, succession, criminal, and tenancy laws to support the queer community. Key proposals include a civil union framework, horizontal reservations for transgender individuals, safe washroom access, and a ban on conversion therapy. These recommendations, reported by The Hindu, reflect India’s evolving approach to inclusivity, making them a vital topic for GS-II questions on social justice and governance reforms. Students should note the balance between legal reforms and societal acceptance, a potential essay topic.

Economy: Driving Growth and Global Trade

Economic news on July 12, 2025, painted a picture of ambition and opportunity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the 16th Rozgar Mela in New Delhi, distributed over 51,000 appointment letters, contributing to a cumulative total of over 10 lakh jobs through this initiative. As reported by The Hindu, Modi emphasized the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme, which provides Rs 15,000 to first-time private-sector employees, with the government contributing to their initial salaries. With a budget of approximately Rs 1 lakh crore, this scheme aims to create 3.5 crore jobs, a game-changer for SSC and Banking aspirants studying government schemes. Modi also highlighted welfare achievements, such as building over 4 crore houses for the poor, distributing 10 crore LPG connections, and launching a rooftop solar program that has created lakhs of jobs. The International Labour Organization noted that over 90 crore people have benefited from welfare schemes in the past decade, lifting 25 crore people out of poverty.

The manufacturing sector’s growth was another highlight. Electronic manufacturing has surged to Rs 11 lakh crore in 11 years, with mobile manufacturing units increasing from 2-4 to nearly 300. Defense production now exceeds Rs 1.25 lakh crore, and the automobile sector has attracted $40 billion in FDI over five years, with record vehicle sales. These figures, crucial for UPSC GS-III questions on economic development, underscore India’s push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

On the international front, India is poised to finalize a mini interim trade deal with the United States by August 1, 2025, as per the Indian Express. This deal aims to resolve tariff issues in dairy, agriculture, and automobiles, boosting India’s export potential. However, Donald Trump’s threat of 10% additional tariffs on BRICS nations, calling them “anti-American,” poses challenges. With BRICS accounting for 40% of global GDP and 25% of global trade, this could impact India’s trade strategy, a critical topic for UPSC questions on international economics. Students should also note Trump’s broader tariff plans, including 25%-50% tariffs on countries like Brazil and South Korea, which could affect global trade dynamics.

Science and Technology: Reaching for the Stars

India’s scientific achievements were in the spotlight on July 12, 2025, with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) making headlines. As reported by The Hindu and Times of India, Shukla, the first Indian astronaut on this mission, conducted experiments like the microalgae study for food and oxygen in deep-space missions, the Voyager Displays study on eye movement, and the Cerebral Blood Flow study on microgravity’s cardiovascular effects. Costing Rs 550 crore, the mission docked at the ISS on June 26, 2025, and Shukla is set to return on July 15, 2025, after a seven-day rehabilitation program. This milestone, alongside ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission in 2027, is a key topic for UPSC GS-III papers on space technology. Students should focus on India’s growing role in global space exploration.

In artificial intelligence, India’s IndiaAI Mission, with a Rs 10,000 crore budget, faced criticism for lacking a National AI Strategy, unlike the US, China, and EU. The Indian Express reported that India’s weak R&D base and skewed venture capital funding toward consumer tech hinder its AI competitiveness. This is a critical discussion point for GS-III questions on technology and innovation, as AI’s applications in governance, health, and education are increasingly relevant.

International Relations: Strengthening Global Ties

India’s diplomatic efforts were prominent on July 12, 2025. Prime Minister Modi concluded a five-nation tour to Ghana, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil, securing six agreements with Brazil in areas like defense, pharmaceuticals, and digital technology. He received the highest honors in Brazil and Namibia, reinforcing India’s global stature, as reported by the Indian Express. These engagements are vital for UPSC GS-II questions on bilateral relations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s planned attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Tianjin, China, on July 15, 2025, underscores India’s role in multilateral forums, as noted by The Hindu. However, Donald Trump’s tariff threats on BRICS and other nations, including 25%-50% tariffs on countries like Brazil and South Korea, could complicate India’s trade and diplomatic strategies, making it a nuanced topic for exam analysis.

Environment: Balancing Development and Sustainability

Environmental policy took a controversial turn on July 12, 2025, as the Environment Ministry exempted 78% of India’s thermal power plants (Category C) from installing Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) systems to reduce SO2 emissions, as reported by The Hindu. Only 11% of plants (Category A) near the National Capital Region (NCR) or cities with over 1 million population must comply by December 2027, while another 11% (Category B) face conditional requirements by December 2028. The decision, based on low SO2 levels (10-20 µg/m³) and low sulphur in Indian coal, was criticized by experts like Kartik Ganesan from CEEW for being short-sighted and risking transboundary pollution. This issue, affecting India’s 500 GW non-fossil fuel target by 2030 and net-zero goal by 2070, is a key topic for UPSC GS-III questions on environmental policy.

Defense: Strengthening National Security

India’s defense sector demonstrated its strength with Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in response to a Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. US warfare expert John Spencer, from the Modern War Institute, praised India’s precision and restraint, noting the operation exposed the inefficiency of Pakistan’s Chinese military gear, as reported by Times of India. The DRDO and IAF also successfully tested the indigenous Astra missile with a radio-frequency seeker, achieving pinpoint accuracy against aerial targets, as per The Hindu. Experts advocated for a focus on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and satellites, signaling a shift in India’s defense strategy, a critical topic for GS-III security questions.

Sports: Celebrating National Pride

Sports news on July 12, 2025, was dominated by India’s cricket team’s performance in the 3rd Test against England at Lord’s. KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja led India to a strong 387 all out, matching England’s first-innings score, as reported by The Hindu and Times of India. Pant broke MS Dhoni’s record for runs at Lord’s, despite a controversial run-out, making it a moment of national pride. This performance, alongside Aditi Ashok’s seventh-place standing in the Evian Championship, highlights India’s growing sports prowess, a potential topic for UPSC current affairs questions.

Conclusion

The events of July 12, 2025, offer a rich tapestry of developments for government exam aspirants. From the One Nation, One Election Bill to Operation Sindoor, these topics span governance, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports. By understanding these issues, students can gain a competitive edge in UPSC, SSC, and Banking exams. Stay curious, keep revising, and let these insights fuel your preparation!

References

1. The Hindu, “Top news of the day: July 12, 2025,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-july-12-2025/article69804421.ece
2. The Hindu, “The Hindu Morning Digest: July 12, 2025,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-july-12-2025/article69803030.ece
3. Indian Express, “The world this week: India aims for mini trade deal with US,” https://indianexpress.com/article/upsc-current-affairs/upsc-essentials/india-to-ink-mini-trade-deal-trump-threatens-brics-with-additional-tariffs-10122394/
4. The Hindu, “PM Modi highlights government’s focus on generating employment,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/prime-minister-narendra-modi-16th-rozgar-mela-in-new-delhi/article69803545.ece
5. Indian Express, “UPSC Key: One Nation One Election, unmanned aerial vehicles,” https://indianexpress.com/article/upsc-current-affairs/upsc-essentials/upsc-key-one-nation-one-election-uavs-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-10122337/
6. The Hindu, “Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to undergo seven-day rehabilitation,” https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/astronaut-shubhanshu-shukla-to-undergo-seven-day-rehabilitation-post-return-to-earth-on-july-15/article69803791.ece
7. The Hindu, “Environment Ministry exempts 78% of coal plants from installing key anti-polluting systems,” https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/environment-ministry-exempts-78-of-coal-plants-from-installing-key-anti-polluting-systems/article69804518.ece
8. Times of India, “Operation Sindoor proved India’s readiness,” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/operation-sindoor-proved-indias-readiness-exposed-inefficiency-of-paks-chinese-military-gear-us-warfare-expert/articleshow/122408721.cms
9. The Hindu, “DRDO, IAF successfully test indigenous Astra missile,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-iaf-successfully-test-indigenous-astra-missile-with-radio-frequency-seeker-from-su-30-mki/article69801243.ece
10. The Hindu, “IND vs ENG Day 3 Lord’s Test,” https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/india-vs-england-test-match-day-3-kl-rahul-jofra-archer-rishabh-pant-updates-july-12/article69804251.ece

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers English

Question 1: Which category of thermal power plants in India has been fully exempted from installing Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) systems under the new environmental rules?

Option 1: Category A (within 10 km of NCR)
Option 2: Category B (in polluted cities)
Option 3: Category D (plants outside India)
Option 4: Category E (small-capacity plants)
Option 5: Category C (outside urban zones)
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: On July 12, 2025, the Environment Ministry exempted 78% of India’s thermal power plants, categorized as Category C, from installing FGD systems to reduce SO2 emissions. These plants are located outside highly polluted areas, and the exemption was based on lower SO2 levels and the nature of Indian coal. However, experts criticized the decision for ignoring transboundary pollution risks and weakening India’s net-zero targets.

Question 2: Which Indian astronaut was part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS)?

Option 1: Rakesh Sharma
Option 2: Sunita Williams
Option 3: Shubhanshu Shukla
Option 4: Gagandeep Singh
Option 5: Abhinav Mohanty
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla participated in the Axiom-4 mission aboard the ISS, conducting experiments related to microalgae and cerebral blood flow in microgravity. The mission cost Rs 550 crore and strengthens India’s presence in space research ahead of the Gaganyaan mission planned for 2027.

Question 3: What is a major concern raised by former Chief Justices about the “One Nation, One Election” Bill?

Option 1: It violates Article 370
Option 2: It removes statehood of Delhi
Option 3: It grants excessive power to the Election Commission
Option 4: It abolishes the Lok Sabha
Option 5: It replaces the Rajya Sabha with the NITI Aayog
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The “One Nation, One Election” Bill aims to synchronize state and national elections. Former Chief Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and J.S. Khehar expressed concerns that the bill could grant the Election Commission unchecked authority, posing risks to federalism and raising questions about democratic oversight.

Question 4: What type of policy reform was recently proposed to promote queer rights in India?

Option 1: Repealing Article 15
Option 2: Recognizing civil unions and horizontal reservations
Option 3: Legalizing polygamy
Option 4: Granting adoption rights to live-in couples only
Option 5: Mandatory LGBTQ+ quota in Parliament
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: A policy brief submitted to the Union government recommended civil union recognition, horizontal reservations for transgender persons, and a ban on conversion therapy. These reforms aim to align India’s legal framework with principles of inclusion and dignity for the queer community.

Question 5: According to the PM’s Rozgar Mela address, how many total appointment letters have been distributed so far through the initiative?

Option 1: Over 10 lakh
Option 2: 5 crore
Option 3: Around 51,000
Option 4: 7.2 lakh
Option 5: 3.5 crore
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Prime Minister Modi, speaking at the 16th Rozgar Mela, announced that over 10 lakh appointment letters had been distributed through the initiative. This includes the latest batch of over 51,000 letters, showcasing the government’s push toward employment generation.

Question 6: Which sector is NOT part of the mini trade deal being negotiated between India and the United States?

Option 1: Dairy
Option 2: Agriculture
Option 3: Space exploration
Option 4: Automobiles
Option 5: Tariff regulation
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The upcoming India-US mini trade deal includes negotiations on dairy, agriculture, and automobiles, particularly focusing on tariff issues. Space exploration is not part of this deal, making it the incorrect option in this context.

Question 7: What key technological milestone was achieved during Operation Sindoor?

Option 1: Deployment of nuclear submarines
Option 2: Satellite-based crowd control
Option 3: Pinpoint precision using indigenous Astra missile
Option 4: First use of drone tanks
Option 5: Use of Israeli Iron Dome defense
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s military precision in response to a terror attack. A major milestone was the successful test of the Astra missile, featuring a radio-frequency seeker, enabling pinpoint accuracy in targeting. The operation also highlighted flaws in Pakistan’s Chinese-made military gear.

Question 8: Which sports player recently broke MS Dhoni’s record at Lord’s Cricket Ground?

Option 1: KL Rahul
Option 2: Virat Kohli
Option 3: Ravindra Jadeja
Option 4: Shubman Gill
Option 5: Rishabh Pant
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: During the third Test at Lord’s against England, Rishabh Pant broke MS Dhoni’s record for most runs at the venue by an Indian wicketkeeper. Despite a controversial run-out, his innings was a key highlight, boosting national pride.

Question 9: In the AI policy domain, what is one major criticism of India’s current AI strategy?

Option 1: Lack of foreign funding
Option 2: Excessive government interference
Option 3: Absence of a National AI Strategy
Option 4: Ban on private AI startups
Option 5: Focus only on facial recognition
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Although India launched the IndiaAI Mission with a Rs 10,000 crore budget, it lacks a comprehensive National AI Strategy, unlike other countries like the US or China. Experts cite a weak R&D base and skewed funding toward consumer tech as key challenges.

Question 10: What is the name of the bill passed in Maharashtra targeting urban Naxalism?

Option 1: Maharashtra Urban Crime Control Act
Option 2: Anti-Urban Terrorism Ordinance
Option 3: Special Public Security Bill
Option 4: Urban Maoism Eradication Act
Option 5: Maharashtra Internal Security Law
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, often dubbed the Urban Maoism Bill, was passed by the state assembly to curb activities of Naxal front organizations in cities. It allows imprisonment from 2 to 7 years and heavy fines, but has faced criticism for potential misuse against dissenters.