Current Affairs Report: April 26, 2025

India’s dynamic presence on the global stage is evident in the multifaceted developments unfolding as of April 26, 2025. From escalating geopolitical tensions to groundbreaking scientific advancements, this report provides an in-depth analysis of the latest current affairs, tailored for aspirants of UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. Drawing from credible sources such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Business Standard, PIB, and Down To Earth, this comprehensive overview covers politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports, ensuring students gain a competitive edge.

Politics and Governance

Escalating Tensions Post-Pahalgam Attack

The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, marked a grim turning point in India’s security landscape. The attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir’s scenic Baisaran Valley, has been attributed to The Resistance Front (TRF), a splinter group linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (Indian Express). India’s response has been swift and resolute, with diplomatic measures including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, and expulsion of Pakistani diplomats. The government is also contemplating ending the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC), a move that could escalate military engagement (Indian Defence News). Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed retribution, stating, “India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers” during a rally in Bihar, signaling a firm stance against cross-border terrorism.

Legislative Reforms: Waqf (Amendment) Bill

On April 2, 2025, the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 after a 12-hour debate, with the Rajya Sabha granting approval on April 4. The bill, which received presidential assent from President Droupadi Murmu on April 6, aims to enhance transparency in the management of Waqf properties (Times of India). Home Minister Amit Shah assured that the legislation does not interfere with religious practices, yet it faced opposition from some Muslim MPs who objected to provisions allowing non-Muslims on Waqf Boards. The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill 2025, repealing the 1923 Act, was also passed, marking a significant overhaul of Waqf governance.

Constitutional Concerns: Anti-Defection Law

The Supreme Court took a stern view of Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s remarks in the state Assembly, where he suggested no by-elections would occur despite MLA defections. On April 2, 2025, Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih labeled this a “mockery of the Tenth Schedule,” which governs the anti-defection law (Indian Express). The court was hearing pleas from Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLAs against the Telangana Speaker’s delay in disqualifying defectors, underscoring the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional integrity.

Bihar Elections: Migration and Jobs

The upcoming Bihar elections are poised to be a battleground for addressing critical socio-economic issues. Migration and unemployment dominate the discourse, with Bihar having 74.54 lakh out-migrants, second only to Uttar Pradesh (Indian Express). The NDA, led by Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), and the Mahagathbandhan, spearheaded by RJD, are focusing on job creation. The Congress launched the “Palayan Roko, Naukri Do” campaign, while the BJP organized Bihar Diwas to connect with migrant communities. Bihar’s high poverty rate (33.76% as per NITI Aayog) and low per capita income (Rs 32,174) make these elections crucial for the state’s future.

Political Event	Details	Source
Pahalgam Attack	26 killed; India suspends Indus Water Treaty	Indian Express
Waqf Bill	Passed April 2, 2025; reforms Waqf management	Times of India
Anti-Defection Law	Supreme Court criticizes Telangana CM	Indian Express
Bihar Elections	Focus on migration, jobs	Indian Express

Economy

Robust Growth Projections

India’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience, with the Economic Survey projecting a growth rate of 6.3–6.8% for FY26 (Business Standard). This aligns with forecasts from the IMF (6.5%) and World Bank (6.7%), reflecting confidence in India’s economic fundamentals despite global trade uncertainties. The country’s foreign exchange reserves reached $686.145 billion by April 25, 2025, bolstering its ability to manage external shocks (Business Standard).

Tax Collections and Poverty Reduction

Net direct tax collections for FY25 hit Rs 22.26 trillion, meeting revised targets and reflecting robust fiscal management (Business Standard). A landmark achievement is the lifting of 171 million people from extreme poverty between 2011 and 2023, reducing the poverty rate from 61.8% to 28.1% using the $3.65/day poverty line (Business Standard).

Trade Negotiations with the US

Amid concerns over US tariffs proposed by President Donald Trump, India is negotiating a bilateral trade deal to double trade to $500 billion by 2030. The first tranche is set to roll out by September 2025, with Additional Secretary Rajesh Agrawal leading talks (Business Standard). Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed confidence in India’s economic resilience at the BSE’s 150th anniversary, despite global “tariff wars” (Business Standard).

Economic Indicator	Value	Source
GDP Growth FY26	6.3–6.8%	Business Standard
Forex Reserves	$686.145 billion	Business Standard
Direct Tax Collection	Rs 22.26 trillion	Business Standard
Poverty Reduction	171 million lifted	Business Standard

Science and Technology

ISRO’s Ambitious Missions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the Chandrayaan-4 mission, a lunar sample return mission planned for 2027. Aimed at retrieving up to 3 kg of lunar regolith from the Shiv Shakti point, the mission involves complex space docking, tested successfully in the SPADE mission (ISRO). ISRO also assumed the lead role in the International Charter Space and Major Disasters in April 2025, enhancing its global disaster response capabilities.

AI Advancements

The IndiaAI Innovation Initiative is driving India’s AI ambitions, with a call for proposals to build foundational AI models extended to April 22, 2025 (IndiaAI). The government is developing a domestic large language model (LLM) with six developers, focusing on Indian languages and culture. The IndiaAI Mission, with Rs 10,370 crore funding, has selected 18 AI-based apps for funding, targeting sectors like agriculture and climate change (Indian Express).

Cosmic Discoveries

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope discovered a “dead galaxy” that ceased star formation 700 million years after the Big Bang, offering clues about early universe dynamics (Indian Express). Additionally, brain-to-voice technology advancements enable real-time communication for paralyzed individuals, marking a medical breakthrough (Indian Express).

Science/Tech Development	Details	Source
Chandrayaan-4	Lunar sample return, 2027	ISRO
IndiaAI Initiative	Building indigenous AI models	IndiaAI
Dead Galaxy	Discovered via JWST	Indian Express

International Relations

Strengthening India-US Ties

The India-US Summit 2025 in February reaffirmed the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, yielding a 10-year defense pact, the Mission 500 trade goal ($500 billion by 2030), and collaborations in AI, space, and nuclear energy. Defense sales expanded to include Javelin Anti-Tank Missiles and P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, while the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) was launched for AI-based defense systems (Insights on India).

Tensions with Pakistan

The Pahalgam attack prompted India to suspend the Indus Water Treaty, downgrade diplomatic ties, and close the Wagah-Attari border (BBC News). Pakistan’s Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari warned of severe consequences, escalating regional tensions.

Climate Diplomacy

India is preparing for COP30 in November 2025, advocating for climate justice and Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR-RC). Brazil’s proposal for a Global Climate Action Council has sparked mixed reactions, but India remains committed to equitable climate solutions (Diplomatist).

International Event	Details	Source
India-US Summit	Defense, trade agreements	Insights on India
Indus Water Treaty	Suspended post-attack	BBC News
COP30 Preparations	India emphasizes equity	Diplomatist

Environment

Climate Vulnerability

The Economic Survey ranks India as the seventh most vulnerable country to climate change, with 93% of 2024 days marked by extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods (India Today). The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) predicts early summers and higher temperatures in 2025, posing risks to vulnerable populations.

Afforestation Efforts

The Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, launched on World Environment Day 2024, aims to plant 140 crore trees by March 2025, with 109 crore saplings planted by January (DD News). This initiative reflects India’s commitment to combating deforestation and enhancing green cover.

Wildlife Conservation

India’s protected areas have grown to 1,022, covering 5.43% of the country, with 57 tiger reserves and 33 elephant reserves under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (DD News). These efforts underscore the country’s focus on biodiversity preservation.

Environmental Issue	Details	Source
Climate Vulnerability	7th most vulnerable country	India Today
Tree Planting	140 crore target	DD News
Protected Areas	1,022 areas, 5.43% coverage	DD News

Defense

Military Response to Pahalgam Attack

The Pahalgam attack has heightened defense preparedness, with India considering military options, including ending the LoC ceasefire. The Indian Air Force’s Exercise Aakraman, featuring Rafale aircraft, enhances operational capabilities amid tensions (Economic Times).

Indigenous Defense Programs

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) anticipates approval for the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) program by 2025, aiming to replace 240 ageing Mi-17 helicopters (Defence.in). Negotiations for 26 Rafale Marine jets are also progressing, strengthening naval capabilities.

Defense Development	Details	Source
Exercise Aakraman	IAF enhances capabilities	Economic Times
IMRH Program	Replace Mi-17 helicopters	Defence.in

Sports

IPL 2025 Highlights

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is captivating fans, with Virat Kohli scoring multiple half-centuries, including a 70-run knock for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Rajasthan Royals (NDTV Sports). RCB’s 11-run victory over RR broke their home ground jinx, while Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a historic win against Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk (Outlook India).

Other Sporting Achievements

Indian athletes shone at the ISSF World Cup in Peru, clinching back-to-back silver medals in shooting. In athletics, Yash Vir Singh won the men’s javelin throw at the Indian Open Athletics 2025, edging out Kishore Jena (News On Air). The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 saw Kerala Blasters defeat East Bengal, highlighting football’s growing popularity (The Bridge).

Sports Event	Details	Source
IPL 2025	Kohli’s half-centuries	NDTV Sports
ISSF World Cup	Silver medals in shooting	The Bridge
Indian Open Athletics	Yash Vir Singh wins javelin	News On Air

Conclusion

As of April 26, 2025, India navigates a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. From addressing security threats and legislative reforms to advancing scientific frontiers and combating climate change, the nation’s multifaceted progress is a testament to its resilience and ambition. For exam aspirants, understanding these developments is crucial for a holistic grasp of India’s role in the global arena.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which organization was held responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025?
Option 1: The Resistance Front
Option 2: Jaish-e-Mohammed
Option 3: Hizbul Mujahideen
Option 4: Al-Badr
Option 5: Lashkar-e-Omar
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, was responsible for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists.

Question 2: What major diplomatic move did India make following the Pahalgam attack?
Option 1: Withdrawal from SAARC
Option 2: Suspension of Indus Water Treaty
Option 3: Closing Indian consulates in Pakistan
Option 4: Imposing trade restrictions
Option 5: Termination of airspace access to Pakistani flights
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India suspended the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan as a strong diplomatic response to the Pahalgam attack.

Question 3: What is the GDP growth projection for India for FY26 according to the Economic Survey 2025?
Option 1: 5.8–6.2%
Option 2: 6.0–6.5%
Option 3: 6.3–6.8%
Option 4: 6.7–7.2%
Option 5: 7.0–7.5%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Economic Survey 2025 projected India’s GDP growth at 6.3–6.8% for FY26, indicating robust economic fundamentals.

Question 4: Which major mission is ISRO planning for the year 2027?
Option 1: Aditya-L2 solar observatory
Option 2: Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission
Option 3: Mars Orbiter Mission-2
Option 4: Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return mission
Option 5: Shukrayaan Venus mission
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Chandrayaan-4 is ISRO’s ambitious 2027 mission to return lunar samples from the Shiv Shakti point.

Question 5: What was the primary focus of the India-US Summit held in 2025?
Option 1: Creation of a common currency
Option 2: Launch of a free trade zone
Option 3: Establishment of a joint space station
Option 4: Merger of nuclear research programs
Option 5: Finalization of a 10-year defense pact and trade cooperation
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The India-US Summit 2025 finalized a 10-year defense pact and expanded cooperation in AI, space, nuclear energy, and trade.

Question 6: Which campaign aimed to plant 140 crore trees by March 2025?
Option 1: Green India Movement
Option 2: Bharat Harit Abhiyan
Option 3: Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam Plantation Drive
Option 4: Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam
Option 5: One Tree, One Earth Initiative
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ is a government-led afforestation initiative launched to plant 140 crore trees by March 2025.

Question 7: What is the latest military exercise conducted by the Indian Air Force involving Rafale jets?
Option 1: Exercise Vayu Shakti
Option 2: Exercise Varuna
Option 3: Exercise Garuda
Option 4: Exercise Vajra Prahar
Option 5: Exercise Aakraman
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Exercise Aakraman involved Indian Air Force’s Rafale fighter jets, enhancing India’s operational readiness after increased border tensions.

Question 8: Which athlete won the men’s javelin throw event at the Indian Open Athletics 2025?
Option 1: Neeraj Chopra
Option 2: Rohit Yadav
Option 3: Shivpal Singh
Option 4: Kishore Jena
Option 5: Yash Vir Singh
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Yash Vir Singh emerged victorious in the men’s javelin event at the Indian Open Athletics 2025, outperforming Kishore Jena and others.

Question 9: What important astronomical discovery was made using the James Webb Space Telescope?
Option 1: Detection of water vapor on Mars
Option 2: Discovery of a dead galaxy that stopped star formation early
Option 3: Identification of a supernova remnant
Option 4: Discovery of the oldest black hole
Option 5: Mapping of an ancient star cluster
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope discovered a dead galaxy that ceased star formation just 700 million years after the Big Bang.

Question 10: What critical comment did the Supreme Court of India make regarding Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s Assembly remarks?
Option 1: Upheld his comments as constitutionally valid
Option 2: Referred them to the Election Commission
Option 3: Suggested a referendum
Option 4: Labeled them a “mockery of the Tenth Schedule”
Option 5: Ordered immediate resignation
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Supreme Court called Telangana CM Revanth Reddy’s remarks a “mockery of the Tenth Schedule,” emphasizing the seriousness of constitutional obligations.