Current Affairs Report: 21-27 April 2025

The week of 21-27 April 2025 was a pivotal period for India, marked by significant developments across politics, governance, economy, science, sports, and international relations. These events are crucial for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, as they reflect India’s dynamic socio-political and economic landscape. This detailed report, crafted in simple English with a storytelling approach, aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging resource for students. It draws from credible sources such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Times of India, Press Information Bureau (PIB), and ISRO, ensuring accuracy and relevance.

Politics and Governance

Pahalgam Terror Attack and Security Response

On 22 April 2025, a devastating terror attack struck Pahalgam, a scenic tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. Militants opened fire in the Baisaran Valley, killing at least 28 tourists, making it one of the deadliest attacks since the Pulwama strike in 2019. The attack, attributed to a Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot, sparked widespread condemnation and grief across India. Security forces launched an immediate crackdown, detaining hundreds of suspects and razing the homes of six alleged militants in Anantnag district. Over 100 residences were searched, and the J&K Police intensified operations against local militants and their supporters (The Hindu).

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the probe, examining eyewitness accounts and collecting evidence to identify the perpetrators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation, expressed deep anguish and vowed a “harshest response” to those responsible, emphasizing justice for the victims (The Hindu). The attack led to an 80% cancellation of tourist bookings to Kashmir, severely impacting the region’s tourism industry (The Hindu).

Political Reactions and Tensions

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat, alluded to the Ramayana, criticizing Pakistan for the “evil act” and urging a united stand against terrorism. However, the The Resistance Front (TRF), initially linked to the attack, denied involvement, calling the claim a breach (The Hindu). People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti cautioned the government against alienating innocent civilians during the anti-terror crackdown, highlighting the need to distinguish between terrorists and the general population (The Hindu).

In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress party criticized a directive by the state’s Director General of Police (DGP), Kailash Makwana, mandating police to salute Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) at public functions. The opposition called it an overreach, arguing it undermined police autonomy (The Hindu).

Legislative Developments

While specific bills passed during 21-27 April 2025 are not explicitly documented, the Parliament was active with ongoing discussions on security and economic policies. Earlier in April, protests in Murshidabad, West Bengal, against The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, indicated legislative tensions, though no new bills were reported this week. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and PRS Legislative Research are key sources for tracking legislative activities, but no major enactments were highlighted for this period (PRS India).

Economy

RBI’s Monetary Policy Shift

On 9 April 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), chaired by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, announced a 25-basis-point cut in the repo rate, bringing it to 6%. This decision, effective from 15 April 2025, aimed to stimulate economic activity amid global uncertainties, particularly U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The RBI projected a 6.5% GDP growth for FY26, with retail inflation forecasted at 4%. The MPC shifted its stance to “accommodative,” signaling flexibility to support growth (Indian Express).

The State Bank of India (SBI) followed suit, reducing its External Benchmark Lending Rate (EBLR) and Repo-Linked Lending Rate (RLLR), which will lower Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) for borrowers. The RBI also addressed concerns about gold loan norms, stating it would rationalize rather than tighten lending practices (Indian Express).

Economic Growth Projections

The United Nations’ World Economic Situation and Prospects 2025 report forecasted a robust 6.6% growth for India’s economy in 2025, positioning it as a key driver of global growth. The Economic Survey, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, projected growth between 6.3% and 6.8% for FY26, supported by strong external accounts, fiscal consolidation, and stable private consumption (Business Standard). Goldman Sachs noted India’s resilience against global shocks, estimating a 6.3% growth in 2025, slightly below consensus due to slower public spending (Goldman Sachs).

Trade and Exports

India’s leather and footwear exports rose by 25% in FY25, reaching US$5.7 billion, with projections to hit US$6.5 billion in FY26, driven by global demand (IBEF). The export of BrahMos supersonic missiles to the Philippines under a US$375 million deal further strengthened India’s defense export capabilities (IBEF).

Economic Indicator	Source	Projection for 2025/FY26
GDP Growth	UN	6.6%
GDP Growth	Economic Survey	6.3-6.8%
GDP Growth	Goldman Sachs	6.3%
Inflation	RBI	4%
Repo Rate	RBI	6% (post-cut)

Science and Technology

ISRO’s Global Leadership

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) assumed the lead role in the International Charter Space and Major Disasters for six months starting April 2025. This role enhances India’s contribution to global disaster management through satellite-based data (ISRO). ISRO also organized a National Science Meet to discuss the Chandrayaan-4 Lunar Sample Return Mission, a significant step toward lunar exploration. The mission aims to collect and return lunar samples, building on the success of Chandrayaan-3.

Technological Milestones

The Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) Mission achieved a successful second docking and power transfer, a critical technology for future space missions like space station development (ISRO). ISRO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between its National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and HYDRAA for Earth Observation (EO)-based geospatial data support, aiding disaster management and water resource protection.

On 29 April 2025, ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC), in collaboration with IN-SPACe and NSIL, will host a workshop for Indian Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) to promote private sector involvement in space technology (ISRO).

Other Scientific Developments

The 3.6m Devasthal Optical Telescope facilitated the discovery of an Intermediate-Mass Black Hole (IMBH) in the galaxy NGC 4395, located 4.3 million light-years away, highlighting India’s growing prowess in astrophysics (GKToday). Additionally, India achieved a milestone in quantum communication with the first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF), advancing secure digital networks.

Sports

IPL 2025 in Full Swing

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 continued to dominate sports headlines. On 26 April 2025, a match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, was abandoned due to heavy rain. PBKS had posted a formidable 201 for 4, thanks to half-centuries by Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, but KKR could only manage 7 for no loss before the game was called off (The Hindu).

Other notable IPL moments included Virat Kohli surpassing Babar Azam for a historic T20 runs milestone during Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)’s match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) (NDTV Sports). Mumbai Indians (MI) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK), powered by Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav (The Hindu).

Other Sports Achievements

Indian boxers shone at the Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing Championships in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, continuing their winning streak (Sportstar). The Indian women’s hockey team faced a tough 3-5 loss to Australia A in their Australia Tour opener on 27 April 2025 but aimed to bounce back in subsequent matches (Outlook India).

The Billie Jean King Cup 2025 Asia-Oceania Group-1 is set to be hosted in Pune from 8 April 2025, marking India’s growing prominence in tennis (Tribune India).

Sports Event	Date	Outcome
KKR vs. PBKS (IPL)	26 April 2025	Abandoned due to rain
MI vs. CSK (IPL)	20 April 2025	MI won
RCB vs. RR (IPL)	25 April 2025	RCB won by 11 runs
Women’s Hockey vs. Australia A	27 April 2025	Lost 3-5
Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing	April 2025	Indian boxers won medals

International Relations

Strained India-Pakistan Relations

The Pahalgam attack escalated tensions with Pakistan. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) mandated the exit of 272 Pakistani nationals via the Attari-Wagah border by 27 April 2025, with 629 Indians, including diplomats, returning from Pakistan. India also notified Pakistan of pausing the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), prompting Pakistan to suspend the Shimla Agreement and close its airspace to Indian carriers (The Hindu).

Union Minister Hardeep Puri sharply criticized Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s remarks on the IWT, urging him to “get his mental condition checked” (The Hindu). These developments indicate a significant diplomatic standoff.

Global Engagement

European Union (EU) Special Envoy Marjolijn van Deelen praised India’s potential to shape an international framework for responsible behavior in space, reflecting India’s growing influence in global forums (The Hindu). India’s role in groups like G20, BRICS, and QUAD remains critical, though no specific meetings were reported this week.

Environment and Wildlife Conservation

Ongoing Commitments

While no specific environmental developments were reported for 21-27 April 2025, India’s commitment to global climate treaties like the Paris Agreement and wildlife conservation efforts continues. The release of two cheetahs, Prabhas and Pawak, into Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary on 20 April 2025, underscores efforts to restore cheetah populations (The Hindu).

Climate Challenges

Down To Earth reports highlight how climate change impacts sectors like healthcare, with rising temperatures threatening the global blood supply chain. India’s policies aim to address these challenges through sustainable development and renewable energy initiatives (GKToday).

Defense and Military Advancements

Naval Drills

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, the Indian Navy conducted anti-ship firing drills in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating readiness for long-range offensive strikes. The INS Surat, a guided missile destroyer, successfully test-fired a Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile, enhancing India’s defense capabilities (The Hindu; GKToday).

Defense Exports

The export of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines reflects India’s growing defense industry, aligning with the Make in India initiative (IBEF).

Social and Other Developments

Women in Civil Services

Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted the historic representation of women in the Civil Services, with 74 women (41% of the 2023 IAS batch) joining the ranks, a milestone for gender equality in governance (The Hindu).

Infrastructure and Safety

A report flagged safety concerns for Vande Bharat Express trains, noting their vulnerability to accidents from cattle runovers. The Railway Ministry is urged to implement safety measures to protect this flagship project (The Hindu).

Incidents and Controversies

A fire broke out in Delhi’s Rohini Sector 17 jhuggi cluster on 27 April 2025, requiring 20 fire tenders to control (The Hindu). A bomb scare on a Varanasi-Bengaluru IndiGo flight led to the detention of a Canadian passenger (The Hindu). In Assam, politician Akhil Gogoi apologized for controversial remarks about Muslim voters supporting the BJP (The Hindu).

Conclusion

The week of 21-27 April 2025 was a microcosm of India’s challenges and aspirations. The Pahalgam attack tested the nation’s resolve, while RBI’s rate cut and ISRO’s advancements showcased economic and scientific progress. IPL 2025 and other sports achievements brought moments of pride. For exam aspirants, understanding these events in depth—connecting them to governance, economy, and international relations—will provide a competitive edge. Stay updated with credible sources and keep revising to excel in your preparations.

Key Citations:

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which agency took over the investigation of the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025?
Option 1: Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
Option 2: National Investigation Agency (NIA)
Option 3: Intelligence Bureau (IB)
Option 4: Research and Analysis Wing (RAW)
Option 5: Special Protection Group (SPG)
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) officially took over the probe into the Pahalgam terror attack to investigate and identify the perpetrators.

Question 2: Which political leader criticized Pakistan by referring to the Ramayana after the Pahalgam attack?
Option 1: Narendra Modi
Option 2: Amit Shah
Option 3: Rahul Gandhi
Option 4: Mohan Bhagwat
Option 5: Arvind Kejriwal
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat referenced the Ramayana to describe Pakistan’s role as evil after the terror attack, urging national unity against terrorism.

Question 3: As per RBI’s latest announcement, what is the new repo rate effective from 15 April 2025?
Option 1: 6%
Option 2: 5.5%
Option 3: 6.25%
Option 4: 5.75%
Option 5: 6.5%
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 6% to stimulate economic growth.

Question 4: Which team defeated Chennai Super Kings in an IPL 2025 match on 20 April 2025?
Option 1: Rajasthan Royals
Option 2: Kolkata Knight Riders
Option 3: Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Option 4: Mumbai Indians
Option 5: Sunrisers Hyderabad
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Mumbai Indians defeated Chennai Super Kings, with notable performances by Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav, strengthening their position in the IPL.

Question 5: In 2025, India’s leather and footwear exports grew by what percentage?
Option 1: 20%
Option 2: 30%
Option 3: 25%
Option 4: 18%
Option 5: 22%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India’s leather and footwear exports rose by 25% in FY25 due to increasing global demand and expansion in markets.

Question 6: Who chaired the RBI Monetary Policy Committee during the April 2025 repo rate decision?
Option 1: Nirmala Sitharaman
Option 2: Sanjay Malhotra
Option 3: Shaktikanta Das
Option 4: Anurag Thakur
Option 5: Raghuram Rajan
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Sanjay Malhotra chaired the RBI Monetary Policy Committee when it decided to lower the repo rate to 6% in April 2025.

Question 7: ISRO assumed leadership of which international organization starting April 2025?
Option 1: United Nations Space Committee
Option 2: World Meteorological Organization
Option 3: United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
Option 4: International Charter Space and Major Disasters
Option 5: Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: ISRO began leading the International Charter Space and Major Disasters to enhance satellite-based global disaster response efforts.

Question 8: Which missile export deal boosted India’s defense exports to the Philippines?
Option 1: Akash Missile System
Option 2: BrahMos Supersonic Missiles
Option 3: Prithvi Ballistic Missiles
Option 4: Nag Anti-Tank Missiles
Option 5: Astra Air-to-Air Missiles
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: India finalized the export of BrahMos Supersonic Missiles to the Philippines under a US$375 million agreement, enhancing defense ties.

Question 9: What event caused the IPL match between KKR and PBKS on 26 April 2025 to be abandoned?
Option 1: Flooding
Option 2: Heavy rain
Option 3: Fire accident
Option 4: Security threat
Option 5: Pitch invasion
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The IPL match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings was abandoned due to heavy rain after Punjab set a strong total.

Question 10: Which discovery was facilitated by the 3.6m Devasthal Optical Telescope in April 2025?
Option 1: New planet in the solar system
Option 2: Supermassive black hole in Milky Way
Option 3: Intermediate-Mass Black Hole in NGC 4395
Option 4: Dark matter evidence in nearby galaxy
Option 5: First Earth-like exoplanet
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Indian scientists discovered an Intermediate-Mass Black Hole (IMBH) in the galaxy NGC 4395 using the Devasthal Optical Telescope.

Question 11: What percentage of the 2023 IAS batch was composed of women according to Jitendra Singh?
Option 1: 39%
Option 2: 41%
Option 3: 36%
Option 4: 40%
Option 5: 38%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that women constituted 41% of the 2023 IAS batch, reflecting gender progress.

Question 12: Which agreement did Pakistan suspend following the escalation with India over the Pahalgam attack?
Option 1: Tashkent Agreement
Option 2: Shimla Agreement
Option 3: Lahore Declaration
Option 4: Indus Waters Treaty
Option 5: Islamabad Accord
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: In response to India’s action on the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan suspended the Shimla Agreement, intensifying diplomatic tensions.

Question 13: Who criticized Bilawal Bhutto Zardari over remarks on the Indus Waters Treaty?
Option 1: S. Jaishankar
Option 2: Rajnath Singh
Option 3: Hardeep Puri
Option 4: Piyush Goyal
Option 5: Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Union Minister Hardeep Puri criticized Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s comments, suggesting he needed a “mental check” for his statements.

Question 14: Which two cheetahs were released into Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in April 2025?
Option 1: Sasha and Siyaya
Option 2: Pawak and Prabhas
Option 3: Asha and Oban
Option 4: Giza and Tejas
Option 5: Freddie and Elton
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The cheetahs named Prabhas and Pawak were released into Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary as part of India’s conservation efforts.

Question 15: What major technological achievement did India record in quantum communication in April 2025?
Option 1: First Quantum Internet launch
Option 2: QKD over Single-Core Fibre
Option 3: QKD over 4-Core Multi-Core Fibre
Option 4: Quantum Satellite launch
Option 5: Quantum Computing breakthrough
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India achieved a major milestone by conducting Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre.

Question 16: Which Indian city will host the Billie Jean King Cup 2025 Asia-Oceania Group-1?
Option 1: Hyderabad
Option 2: Pune
Option 3: Bengaluru
Option 4: Chennai
Option 5: Mumbai
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Pune was selected to host the Billie Jean King Cup 2025 Asia-Oceania Group-1, highlighting India’s growing tennis prominence.

Question 17: Which Indian Navy ship successfully test-fired a Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile in April 2025?
Option 1: INS Chennai
Option 2: INS Kolkata
Option 3: INS Surat
Option 4: INS Kochi
Option 5: INS Mysore
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The INS Surat successfully test-fired a Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile in the Arabian Sea during naval drills.

Question 18: Which organization hosted a National Science Meet for Chandrayaan-4 Mission discussions?
Option 1: DRDO
Option 2: Ministry of Science and Technology
Option 3: ISRO
Option 4: IN-SPACe
Option 5: NSIL
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: ISRO organized the National Science Meet focused on the Chandrayaan-4 Lunar Sample Return Mission for future lunar exploration.

Question 19: A fire broke out in which area of Delhi on 27 April 2025?
Option 1: Janakpuri
Option 2: Lajpat Nagar
Option 3: Rohini Sector 17
Option 4: Chandni Chowk
Option 5: Karol Bagh
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: A major fire incident occurred at the Rohini Sector 17 jhuggi cluster, requiring the deployment of 20 fire tenders.

Question 20: Which Indian athlete surpassed Babar Azam for a T20 milestone during IPL 2025?
Option 1: Suryakumar Yadav
Option 2: KL Rahul
Option 3: Virat Kohli
Option 4: Rohit Sharma
Option 5: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Virat Kohli overtook Babar Azam’s T20 runs tally during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s match against Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025.