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Current Affairs Report: 25 June 2025

Staying informed about current affairs is a cornerstone for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government examinations. The events of 25 June 2025, drawn from credible sources such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Press Information Bureau (PIB), and others, span critical areas including international relations, economy, environment, science, governance, and sports. This comprehensive report aims to provide students with a detailed and engaging overview, optimized for exam preparation and designed to offer a competitive edge.

International Relations: Navigating a Complex Global Landscape

The global stage on 25 June 2025 was dominated by a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump at 7 a.m. Doha time. The announcement followed days of intense conflict, including Iran’s missile attacks on U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq, and Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Despite the ceasefire, tensions persisted as Israel reported missile launches at 10:30 a.m., attributing them to Iran, while Israeli jets struck an Iranian radar north of Tehran, defying Trump’s warnings. Iran retaliated with 20 ballistic missiles across six barrages, resulting in 4 deaths and 22 injuries. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel agreed to the ceasefire after achieving its campaign objectives, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian pledged to respect the truce if Israel reciprocated. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted that military operations continued until the last moment to counter Israel. President Trump, frustrated by initial violations, later confirmed the ceasefire’s enforcement after discussions with Israeli leaders, though a U.S. intelligence report suggested that Iran’s nuclear program was set back but not eliminated. This development is critical for understanding global security dynamics, a key topic for UPSC aspirants.

India, meanwhile, strengthened its diplomatic and defense ties. A significant agreement with South Africa on submarine cooperation marked a step forward in bilateral defense collaboration, enhancing India’s maritime security capabilities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended an invitation to his Mauritian counterpart, signaling deeper ties with Mauritius in the Indian Ocean Region. Additionally, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited China ahead of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet, where he was expected to discuss regional peace and counter-terrorism. These engagements highlight India’s proactive role in global and regional forums, a vital area for International Relations in competitive exams.

Event	Details	Source
Israel-Iran Ceasefire	Announced by Trump, effective 7 a.m. Doha time; violations reported	The Hindu
India-South Africa Pact	Submarine cooperation agreement signed	Indian Express
PM Modi’s Invitation	Mauritian counterpart invited to India	The Hindu
Doval’s China Visit	Focused on counter-terrorism ahead of SCO meet	The Hindu

Economy: Stimulating Growth Amid Optimism

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) made a significant move in its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held from 4-6 June 2025. The repo rate was reduced by 50 basis points to 5.5%, reflecting an accommodative stance to stimulate economic growth amid falling inflation. The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate was adjusted to 5.25%, and the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate to 5.75%. The RBI maintained its CPI inflation target at 4% within a +/- 2% band, projecting an inflation rate of 3.7% for FY 2025-26, with quarterly estimates of 2.9% in Q1, 3.4% in Q2, 3.9% in Q3, and 4.4% in Q4. Real GDP growth for 2025-26 was forecasted at 6.5%, with quarterly projections of 6.5% in Q1, 6.7% in Q2, 6.6% in Q3, and 6.3% in Q4. For 2024-25, the RBI reported a real GDP growth of 6.5%, with Q4 achieving 7.4%. These measures aim to balance price stability with economic growth, a key focus for Banking and SSC exams.

The Indian stock market reflected this optimism on 25 June 2025. The Nifty 50 closed at 25,244.75, gaining 200.40 points or 0.8%, while the Sensex ended at 82,755.51, up by 700.40 points or 0.85%. The Nifty MidCap and Nifty SmallCap indices also rose by 0.44% and 1.5%, respectively, signaling broad-based market confidence. This performance is crucial for understanding market trends, a common topic in Banking exams.

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) introduced a significant reform by raising the auto claim limit to Rs 5 lakh from Rs 1 lakh for purposes like education, illness, marriage, and housing. This change benefits over 7.4 crore subscribers, enabling faster withdrawals with claims settled within three days. In the first 2.5 months of FY 2025-26, 76.52 lakh claims were auto-settled, accounting for 70% of all advance claims, compared to 2.34 crore claims or 59% in FY 2024-25. This reform, introduced initially in April 2020 for Covid-19-related withdrawals, enhances financial accessibility, a key point for SSC aspirants.

Economic Indicator	Details	Source
Repo Rate	Reduced to 5.5% on 6 June 2025	PIB
Stock Market	Nifty 50 at 25,244.75; Sensex at 82,755.51	Livemint, Moneycontrol
EPFO Auto Claim	Limit raised to Rs 5 lakh	Indian Express

Environment: Advocating for Climate Action

India played a pivotal role in global climate finance discussions, particularly at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Developed nations committed to providing USD 300 billion annually from 2035 to support climate initiatives in developing countries. However, India, alongside other developing nations, criticized this as “abysmally poor,” noting that the assessed minimum requirement is USD 1.3 trillion per year. India warned that inadequate funding could temper future climate action ambitions, a stance rooted in Article 9.1 and 9.3 of the Paris Agreement and Article 4.3 of the UNFCCC (1992). Discussions at the Bonn climate talks faced resistance from developed nations, leading to a temporary shutdown, with a report planned for COP30 in Belem, Brazil. This issue is critical for UPSC aspirants studying environmental governance.

Innovative environmental practices also gained traction. Spreading crushed stone across farms to capture carbon dioxide emerged as a novel method to mitigate climate change, highlighting practical solutions to environmental challenges. Additionally, a report noted that two billion people lack access to safe drinking water, underscoring global environmental concerns.

Environmental Issue	Details	Source
Climate Finance	USD 300 billion pledged vs. USD 1.3 trillion needed	Indian Express
Carbon Capture	Crushed stone used on farms	The Hindu
Safe Drinking Water	Two billion people lack access	The Hindu

Science and Technology: Revolutionizing Healthcare

A groundbreaking advancement in cancer treatment was reported with the development of in vivo CAR T-cell therapy. Unlike traditional CAR T-cell therapy, which involves extracting T-cells, engineering them in a lab, and reinfusing them—a process costing around Rs 60-70 lakh in India—this new technique delivers mRNA directly into circulating immune cells. This enables the body to produce CAR T-cells in situ, targeting CD19 on B cells to combat blood cancers. By eliminating complex lab processes and chemotherapy requirements, this method promises to reduce costs and improve accessibility, a significant topic for UPSC and SSC science sections.

Another health-related concern was the link between a widely used fungicide and rising C. tropicalis infections, highlighting the need for careful regulation of agricultural chemicals, relevant for both health and environment syllabi.

Scientific Advancement	Details	Source
In Vivo CAR T-Cell Therapy	mRNA delivery reduces costs	The Hindu
Fungicide and Infections	Linked to C. tropicalis rise	The Hindu

Politics and Governance: Reflecting on Democracy

India marked the 50th anniversary of the 1975 Emergency, a pivotal moment in its democratic history. Articles in the Indian Express reflected on the lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of protecting civil liberties and democratic institutions. This historical reflection is a key topic for UPSC aspirants studying Indian Polity.

The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) faced scrutiny from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by K.C. Venugopal, for failing to revise its drug procurement policy. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)’s 2022 performance audit highlighted issues such as outdated drugs, claim settlement delays of 3-5 years (against a 60-day timeline), and lack of coverage for modern medical procedures. The Medical Stores Organisation’s inefficient tender processing further exacerbated the unavailability of critical drugs, particularly for cancer treatment. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava assured the PAC that the government is revising treatment rates to account for inflation and upgrading policies to expand coverage. This issue is crucial for governance and health policy questions in exams.

Governance Issue	Details	Source
1975 Emergency	50th anniversary reflections	Indian Express
CGHS Policy	PAC criticizes outdated drug procurement	The Hindu

Sports: Triumphs and Challenges

In cricket, the first Test match of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy saw England defeat India by 5 wickets at Headingley, Leeds, from 20-24 June 2025. England chased a target of 371, led by Ben Duckett’s 149, with Joe Root (53*) and Zak Crawley (65) contributing fifties. India scored 471 in the first innings, with centuries from Shubman Gill (147), Rishabh Pant (134), and Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), and 364 in the second, with KL Rahul (137) and Pant (118). Jasprit Bumrah took 5 wickets in England’s first innings, but six dropped catches proved costly. This match, part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship, is significant for sports sections in exams.

In swimming, teenager Dhinidhi emerged as India’s 100m freestyle queen, clocking 56.78 seconds, a remarkable achievement for Indian sports. Additionally, India reached three finals at the Squash Asian Doubles Championships, showcasing its growing prowess in diverse sports.

Sports Event	Details	Source
England vs India Test	England won by 5 wickets	ESPNcricinfo
Dhinidhi’s Achievement	100m freestyle in 56.78s	Instagram – The Bridge
Squash Championships	India in three finals	The Hindu

Defense and Security: Strengthening Capabilities

The Centre approved defence procurement worth Rs 2,000 crore, enhancing India’s military capabilities. This decision, coupled with the India-South Africa submarine pact, underscores India’s focus on modernizing its defense infrastructure, a key area for UPSC’s security syllabus. Additionally, a rise in women Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh operations since 2024 highlighted ongoing internal security challenges, relevant for exam questions on national security.

Defense Issue	Details	Source
Defence Procurement	Rs 2,000 crore approved	The Hindu
Maoist Operations	Rise in women casualties in Chhattisgarh	The Hindu

Sustainable Development: A Global Milestone

For the first time, India broke into the top 100 in the Global SDG Rankings, achieving the 99th position in 2025. This milestone reflects progress in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a critical topic for UPSC aspirants studying development and international relations. Additionally, 22,000 camps were organized to extend the DAJGUA scheme to tribal villages, promoting inclusive development.

Development Milestone	Details	Source
SDG Rankings	India at 99th position	The Hindu
DAJGUA Scheme	22,000 camps for tribal outreach	The Hindu

Conclusion

The events of 25 June 2025 offer a rich tapestry of developments across multiple domains, each with significant implications for competitive exam preparation. From global diplomacy and economic reforms to environmental advocacy, scientific breakthroughs, governance challenges, and sporting achievements, these topics provide aspirants with critical insights. By staying updated with such credible and detailed information, students can gain a competitive edge in their exams.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which of the following institutions reduced the repo rate to 5.5% in June 2025 to support economic growth?
Option 1: Ministry of Finance
Option 2: Reserve Bank of India
Option 3: SEBI
Option 4: NITI Aayog
Option 5: Indian Banks’ Association
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cut the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.5% in its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held from 4–6 June 2025. This move was part of its accommodative stance to support growth as inflation showed signs of easing. Understanding monetary tools like the repo rate is crucial for analyzing fiscal and economic policies.

Question 2: India signed a strategic submarine cooperation pact with which country in June 2025?
Option 1: South Africa
Option 2: Brazil
Option 3: France
Option 4: Australia
Option 5: Indonesia
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: India and South Africa entered into a submarine cooperation agreement to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. This bilateral defense collaboration marks a significant step in India’s global strategic partnerships and defense diplomacy.

Question 3: What is the maximum limit for auto-claim withdrawals under EPFO after the latest revision in 2025?
Option 1: Rs 2 lakh
Option 2: Rs 3 lakh
Option 3: Rs 4 lakh
Option 4: Rs 1 lakh
Option 5: Rs 5 lakh
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) increased the auto-claim limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. This change allows quicker access to funds for emergencies like illness, education, and housing, benefiting over 7.4 crore subscribers.

Question 4: During COP29 in Baku, how much annual climate finance did developed nations pledge from 2035?
Option 1: USD 1.3 trillion
Option 2: USD 500 billion
Option 3: USD 750 billion
Option 4: USD 300 billion
Option 5: USD 100 billion
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Developed countries committed to providing USD 300 billion per year from 2035 to assist developing nations with climate initiatives. However, India and others criticized this as insufficient compared to the estimated need of USD 1.3 trillion annually, citing principles from the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC.

Question 5: Who led England to victory in the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 with a century?
Option 1: Joe Root
Option 2: Zak Crawley
Option 3: Ben Duckett
Option 4: Ollie Pope
Option 5: Jonny Bairstow
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: England won the first Test match against India at Headingley by 5 wickets. Ben Duckett played a crucial role by scoring 149 runs in the second innings, helping England chase down a target of 371 runs. His knock was the cornerstone of England’s successful chase.

Question 6: Which innovative cancer treatment method was highlighted in 2025 for reducing costs through mRNA-based therapy?
Option 1: Stem cell transplant
Option 2: CRISPR gene editing
Option 3: Immuno checkpoint inhibition
Option 4: Monoclonal antibody therapy
Option 5: In vivo CAR T-cell therapy
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The new in vivo CAR T-cell therapy uses mRNA to reprogram immune cells within the body to target cancer, especially blood cancers. Unlike traditional CAR T-cell therapy, this method reduces the need for expensive lab work and improves accessibility.

Question 7: Who chaired the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that criticized the CGHS policy in June 2025?
Option 1: Mallikarjun Kharge
Option 2: Rajiv Kumar
Option 3: K.C. Venugopal
Option 4: Punya Salila Srivastava
Option 5: Harsh Vardhan
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: K.C. Venugopal chaired the PAC that highlighted the inefficiencies in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), including outdated procurement practices and delays in settling claims. The CAG audit further revealed shortcomings in providing access to modern medical procedures.

Question 8: Which country’s Foreign Minister confirmed continuing military operations against Israel until the ceasefire was finalized?
Option 1: Syria
Option 2: Iran
Option 3: Lebanon
Option 4: Turkey
Option 5: Egypt
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Iran continued military operations until the very last moment before the ceasefire was enforced with Israel. This was part of efforts to counter Israeli strikes and was reported in the context of the fragile truce facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Question 9: India achieved which position in the 2025 Global SDG Rankings for the first time?
Option 1: 104
Option 2: 101
Option 3: 102
Option 4: 99
Option 5: 98
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: In a significant development, India broke into the top 100 in the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index for the first time by securing the 99th rank. This reflects progress in inclusive development, particularly through outreach schemes like DAJGUA in tribal regions.

Question 10: Which Indian swimmer clocked 56.78 seconds in the 100m freestyle to become the national queen of the event?
Option 1: Dhinidhi
Option 2: Richa Mishra
Option 3: Maana Patel
Option 4: Shivani Kataria
Option 5: Bhakti Sharma
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Teenage swimmer Dhinidhi emerged as India’s top 100m freestyle swimmer by clocking 56.78 seconds. This performance showcases rising talent in Indian swimming and highlights the importance of recognizing achievements beyond mainstream sports like cricket.

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