Current Affairs Report: July 15, 2025

India’s dynamic landscape on July 15, 2025, offers a wealth of developments across politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports. This comprehensive report, crafted for students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, draws from credible sources like The Hindu, Indian Express, Times of India, Hindustan Times, Business Standard, Livemint, The Economic Times, Press Information Bureau (PIB), PRS Legislative Research, BBC News, Reuters, and Down To Earth. It aims to provide a detailed, engaging, and exam-focused overview to give aspirants a competitive edge.

Politics and Governance: Shaping India’s Legislative Future

As India gears up for the Monsoon Session of Parliament from July 21 to August 21, 2025, anticipation surrounds several key bills set to be tabled. The Income Tax Bill, 2025 and Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 are expected to streamline tax policies, impacting fiscal governance. The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025 aims to reform sports administration, aligning with India’s growing global sports presence. Other notable bills include the Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill, 2025 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025, reflecting diverse legislative priorities (The Economic Times).

A landmark judicial ruling came on July 10, 2025, when the Supreme Court upheld the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), deeming it constitutional. This decision has sparked heated debates, with supporters praising its humanitarian intent to provide citizenship to persecuted minorities, while critics argue it discriminates based on religion. The ruling’s implications for India’s secular framework make it a critical topic for exam discussions, requiring aspirants to understand both perspectives (The Hindu).

The Lok Sabha Secretariat has also embraced digital transformation, introducing Multi-Media Devices (MMDs) for MPs to mark attendance and publishing parliamentary papers in 12 languages using AI tools. This enhances accessibility via the Digital Sansad portal (The Economic Times).

Economy: Steady Growth Amid Global Challenges

India’s economy displayed resilience on July 15, 2025, with the BSE Sensex closing at 82,571 points, a 0.39% gain, driven by robust corporate earnings and investor optimism (Trading Economics). The Nifty 50 also rose, closing at 25,195.80 points, up 0.45%, reflecting strength in sectors like IT and banking (Investing.com).

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation dropped to 2.10% in June 2025 from 2.82% in May, the lowest since February 2019. This decline, driven by falling food prices (e.g., pulses, vegetables) and stable fuel costs, aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) target of 2-6% (PIB). The RBI’s repo rate cut to 6% in June 2025 continues to encourage lending, supporting economic growth (PIB).

The Economic Survey 2024-25, released on January 31, 2025, projected a GDP growth rate of 6.3-6.8% for 2025-26, emphasizing domestic consumption, fiscal consolidation, and structural reforms. It highlighted an 8.2% growth in capital expenditure from July to November 2024, signaling infrastructure focus (Indian Express). However, global trade tensions pose risks, making domestic reforms crucial.

Science and Technology: Pioneering Space and AI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is advancing India’s space ambitions. The NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission, set for June 2025, will monitor Earth’s ecosystems, ice surfaces, and crustal changes, aiding climate and disaster management (NASA Science). The Axiom-4 mission in May 2025 saw Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla train at the International Space Station, a milestone for the Gaganyaan program (Deccan Chronicle). On July 27, 2025, IN-SPACe announced a course on Space Technology in Agriculture, running until August 1, 2025, to promote tech applications (ISRO).

In AI, the Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX), launched on July 2, 2025, by the Government of Telangana, IISc, and Japan International Cooperation Agency, provides datasets for AI solutions. It aims to host over 2,000 AI-ready datasets by 2030, boosting India’s $450-500 billion AI-driven GDP goal (Wikipedia). Additionally, Delv.AI, founded by 16-year-old Pranjali Awasthi, gained attention for its ₹100 crore valuation, focusing on accessible academic data (India Today).

International Relations: Strengthening Global Ties

India’s diplomatic efforts shone with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to China in July 2025, the first since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020. His talks with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting emphasized border de-escalation and improving ties, following a Modi-Xi meeting in October 2024 (Indian Defence News). This development is significant for India’s role in BRICS and G20.

The India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) is in its final stages, awaiting US President Donald Trump’s approval. Indian negotiators are securing favorable tariffs for agriculture and dairy, building on a forward most-favoured-nation clause to ensure competitive terms (Business Today; Reuters). India’s 13 active Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and ongoing negotiations further strengthen its global trade position (India Briefing).

Environment: Addressing Climate and Conservation

The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, launched the ‘Aapka Prahari’ campaign on July 1, 2025, during Van Mahotsav (July 1-7). This initiative promotes public awareness for wildlife conservation, focusing on protecting habitats like Katarniaghat (WTI). The State of India’s Environment 2025 report, released by the Centre for Science and Environment, warned of escalating climate, health, and development challenges, urging comprehensive reforms (Down To Earth).

India’s commitment to global climate goals was evident in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the UNFCCC, with efforts to enhance climate-resilient agriculture and reduce emissions (Down To Earth). The Wildlife Institute of India also announced recruitment for conservation projects, reflecting ongoing efforts (WII).

Defense: Bolstering National Security

India’s defense sector advanced with the US delivery of GE F404 engines for the TEJAS MK-1A Light Combat Aircraft in July 2025, supporting Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in domestic production. A $716 million contract ensures 12 engines by early 2026 (Indian Defence News). The Ministry of Defence issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 maritime Airbus C-295 aircraft, enhancing the Indian Navy and Coast Guard’s surveillance capabilities under the Make in India initiative (IDRW).

The Indian Air Force’s Operation Sindoor in May 2025 targeted Pakistan’s air defense infrastructure, highlighting India’s precision strike capabilities (IDRW). The Skynex air defense system is also being considered to counter drone threats along the Line of Control (IDRW).

Sports: India’s Global Presence

Indian badminton players are shining at the Japan Open 2025, with Lakshya Sen, PV Sindhu, and the men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty competing in Tokyo (Outlook India). The India Women’s cricket team is set for a three-match ODI series against England Women, starting July 16, 2025, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, as preparation for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 hosted by India (The Hindu).

India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics faced scrutiny from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over doping and governance concerns, a topic relevant for exam discussions (Indian Express). The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 also saw Indian players like Koneru Humpy advancing to the fourth round (Outlook India).

Conclusion

The events of July 15, 2025, reflect India’s multifaceted progress and challenges. From legislative reforms and economic stability to space exploration and global diplomacy, these developments are crucial for aspirants. The CAA ruling and environmental concerns highlight the need for balanced perspectives, while defense and sports achievements showcase India’s growing global stature. This report, grounded in verified sources, equips students with the knowledge to excel in competitive exams.

Sources:

• The Hindu
• Indian Express
• Times of India
• Press Information Bureau
• PRS Legislative Research
• Down To Earth
• Trading Economics
• ISRO
• Indian Defence News
• Outlook India

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers English

Question 1: Which of the following statements is correct regarding India’s CPI inflation rate for June 2025?
Option 1: It increased to 3.10% due to rising fuel prices
Option 2: It decreased to 2.10% due to falling food prices
Option 3: It remained constant at 2.82% as in May 2025
Option 4: It was the highest since February 2019
Option 5: It increased due to high vegetable prices
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation dropped to 2.10% in June 2025 from 2.82% in May, marking the lowest rate since February 2019. This decline was driven by a significant fall in food prices, including pulses and vegetables, along with stable fuel costs. It aligns with the RBI’s inflation target band of 2–6%.

Question 2: What is the key significance of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) on July 10, 2025?
Option 1: It declared the CAA unconstitutional
Option 2: It upheld the constitutionality of the CAA
Option 3: It recommended new amendments to the CAA
Option 4: It deferred the judgment to a later date
Option 5: It ordered nationwide public hearings on CAA
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: On July 10, 2025, the Supreme Court of India upheld the constitutionality of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The court’s decision sparked widespread debate across the country. While proponents praised it for offering protection to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries, critics argued that it undermines India’s secular framework by introducing religion as a criterion for citizenship.

Question 3: Who among the following recently gained attention for founding the AI startup Delv.AI, valued at ₹100 crore?
Option 1: Sundar Pichai
Option 2: Nandan Nilekani
Option 3: Roshni Nadar
Option 4: Shubhanshu Shukla
Option 5: Pranjali Awasthi
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Pranjali Awasthi, a 16-year-old innovator, gained national attention for founding Delv.AI, an AI-driven academic data platform. Her startup was recently valued at ₹100 crore and is aimed at making research data more accessible. This highlights India’s growing focus on youth-led technological innovation.

Question 4: The ‘Aapka Prahari’ campaign, launched during Van Mahotsav 2025, primarily focuses on:
Option 1: River rejuvenation and clean water initiatives
Option 2: Anti-plastic awareness in urban centers
Option 3: Forest fire early warning systems
Option 4: Wildlife conservation and habitat protection
Option 5: Promoting solar energy in villages
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The ‘Aapka Prahari’ campaign, launched on July 1, 2025, during Van Mahotsav by the Wildlife Trust of India and the UP Forest Department, aims to increase public awareness about wildlife conservation. It specifically focuses on protecting habitats like Katarniaghat and fostering community involvement in preserving India’s biodiversity.

Question 5: What is the primary objective of the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025?
Option 1: To build more stadiums across rural India
Option 2: To allocate funds to Olympic sport athletes
Option 3: To reform the administrative structure of sports bodies
Option 4: To encourage private sector investment in sports
Option 5: To introduce compulsory sports in school curriculum
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, is designed to reform the governance structure of Indian sports bodies. It aims to enhance transparency, reduce bureaucratic delays, and align Indian sports administration with global best practices. This reform aligns with India’s goal to strengthen its global sports performance.

Question 6: Which Indian defense-related development involves a $716 million contract for Light Combat Aircraft engines?
Option 1: Operation Sindoor
Option 2: Airbus C-295 maritime deal
Option 3: Skynex drone defense system
Option 4: Indo-Israel missile defense project
Option 5: GE F404 engine delivery for TEJAS MK-1A
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: In July 2025, the US delivered GE F404 engines under a $716 million deal to power India’s TEJAS MK-1A Light Combat Aircraft. This supports Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s domestic production and strengthens India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.

Question 7: Which mission involved astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s training at the International Space Station in May 2025?
Option 1: NISAR
Option 2: Artemis-3
Option 3: Axiom-4
Option 4: Gaganyaan-3
Option 5: Polaris Dawn
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer, underwent astronaut training at the ISS as part of the Axiom-4 mission in May 2025. This is a crucial milestone for India’s human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, and marks progress in international space collaboration.

Question 8: Which initiative was launched on July 2, 2025, to boost AI research through access to datasets?
Option 1: BharatGPT Consortium
Option 2: Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX)
Option 3: National AI Grid
Option 4: Prerna Data Portal
Option 5: IndiaOpen.AI Repository
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX) was launched on July 2, 2025, by the Government of Telangana, IISc, and JICA to provide AI-ready datasets. The initiative aims to support innovation and drive India’s goal of reaching a $450–500 billion AI-driven GDP by 2030.

Question 9: What concern has the International Olympic Committee raised regarding India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics?
Option 1: Insufficient infrastructure in proposed cities
Option 2: Low international athlete participation
Option 3: Governance and doping-related issues
Option 4: Inadequate transportation network
Option 5: Poor international tourism connectivity
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The International Olympic Committee has expressed concern over India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics, citing issues related to governance and doping. These concerns could impact India’s efforts to position itself as a global sports destination and require systemic reforms in its sports governance framework.

Question 10: During the Monsoon Session 2025, which of the following bills is aimed at preserving India’s geological heritage?
Option 1: National Sports Governance Bill, 2025
Option 2: Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Option 3: Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025
Option 4: Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill, 2025
Option 5: Digital Sansad Modernization Bill, 2025
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Geoheritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill, 2025, scheduled for the Monsoon Session, focuses on protecting India’s geological heritage. It proposes frameworks for the conservation of significant geo-sites, reflecting India’s commitment to preserving natural and scientific history.