Comprehensive Current Affairs Update: July 5, 2025

Welcome to an in-depth exploration of the most significant events that unfolded on July 5, 2025, tailored for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. This article weaves together a narrative of India’s dynamic developments across politics and governance, economy, science and technology, international relations, environment, defense, and sports, drawing from credible sources like The Hindu, The 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. Our goal is to provide a detailed, engaging, and reliable resource to give students a competitive edge in their exam preparations.

Politics and Governance: Strengthening Democracy and Policy Reforms

On July 5, 2025, India’s political landscape buzzed with activity, reflecting its commitment to democratic values and governance reforms. Over 30 municipal representatives, including councillors and chairpersons, visited the Parliament in New Delhi, exploring both the old and new buildings. They engaged with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who shared insights on democratic governance and urged them to connect with communities to fulfill public expectations. The representatives proposed creating a Chairman-equivalent position in Municipal Councils and allocating separate budgets to strengthen local governance, a move that could empower grassroots democracy. This visit followed a two-day Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Conference in Gurugram, where delegates expressed appreciation and requested more such platforms to enhance local governance (Source: UNI India).

In a significant judicial development, the Allahabad High Court rejected a plea to refer to Mathura’s Shahi Idgah mosque as a “disputed structure” in future proceedings. This ruling is pivotal as it avoids escalating tensions over a sensitive religious site, maintaining the status quo and promoting social harmony (Source: The Hindu). Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, met with Bihar’s Chief Electoral Officer to challenge the Special Intensive Revision of the electoral roll. They alleged that the process could disenfranchise marginalized communities and demanded that Aadhaar and ration cards be accepted as valid documents for voter registration, highlighting concerns about electoral inclusivity (Source: The Hindu).

On the policy front, the Central Government announced a reduction in basic customs duty on imported crude edible oils—sunflower, soybean, and palm oil—from 20% to 10%. This decision aims to address rising food prices and ensure affordability for consumers, reflecting the government’s responsiveness to economic challenges (Source: PIB). Additionally, the government issued an advisory urging consumers to use only Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certified helmets, following over 30 search-and-seizure operations that tested 500 helmets in FY 2024-25, with 2,500 non-compliant helmets seized in Delhi alone (Source: PIB). This move underscores a focus on public safety.

In a broader effort to enhance product quality, India expanded its Quality Control Orders from 14 to 156 over the past decade. This expansion aims to ensure that products meet stringent safety and quality standards, supporting both domestic consumers and global competitiveness (Source: PIB). The Northern Region Ministers’ Conference on Civil Aviation in Dehradun, inaugurated by Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, highlighted policy advancements in aviation, marking a new chapter in India’s aviation growth story (Source: PIB). Additionally, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju chaired a Haj Review Meeting to evaluate Haj 2025 outcomes and plan for Haj 2026, noting the success of the recent pilgrimage (Source: PIB).

Economy: Market Gains and Financial Reforms

India’s economy displayed resilience on July 5, 2025, with the Sensex gaining 193 points and the Nifty closing above 25,450, driven by robust performances in the IT, oil & gas, and realty sectors. This rally reflects growing investor confidence in these industries, signaling a positive outlook for India’s economic growth (Source: Indiatimes).

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) took significant steps to manage the financial system. On July 4, 2025, it withdrew ₹1 trillion from the banking system through a seven-day variable rate reverse repo auction, aiming to stabilize liquidity and keep overnight rates within the policy corridor (Source: Reuters). In response to rising cyber threats, the RBI directed all banks to adopt the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) Financial Risk Identification (FRI) technology to protect customers from fraud, enhancing the security of digital transactions (Source: The Economic Times). Additionally, the RBI introduced the Reserve Bank of India (Pre-payment Charges on Loans) Directions, 2025, prohibiting banks and regulated lenders from charging pre-payment penalties on loans. This consumer-friendly measure is expected to provide financial flexibility to borrowers (Source: Vajiram & Ravi).

However, challenges remain. Prominent investor Ashish Kacholia criticized the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, calling it a “big, bad monster” that wastes billions of man-hours. He urged the RBI to streamline the process to reduce inefficiencies for businesses and individuals (Source: Business Today). On a broader note, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) projected India’s GDP growth for 2025-26 to be between 6.4% and 6.7%, indicating steady economic progress (Source: Indiatimes).

Science and Technology: Reaching for the Stars and Embracing AI

India’s scientific advancements took center stage on July 5, 2025, with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) making significant strides. The completion of the second stage of the Gaganyaan mission marked a milestone in India’s ambition to send astronauts into space, positioning the country as a key player in global space exploration (Source: Instagram). ISRO also announced a ₹10,000 crore investment to build a second spaceport in Gujarat, which will support launches of LVM3, PSLV, and SSLV rockets, enhancing India’s space infrastructure for major missions planned for 2026 (Source: Indian Masterminds). Additionally, IN-SPACe facilitated the transfer of 10 advanced ISRO technologies to six Indian companies, boosting indigenous innovation and private sector participation in space technology (Source: Passionate in Marketing).

However, concerns were raised about ISRO lagging behind China in the space race, particularly with China’s advancements in sea landings and cargo missions. This has sparked discussions on the need for India to accelerate its space program to remain competitive (Source: Business Today). Meanwhile, ISRO collaborated with the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) to enhance helicopter safety in Kedarnath Valley using advanced imaging and navigation systems, demonstrating its commitment to applying space technology for public safety (Source: ETV Bharat).

In artificial intelligence, Aadhaar’s AI-powered face authentication system continued to scale rapidly, improving the security and efficiency of identity verification across India (Source: LinkedIn). A report by Google.org and the Asian Development Bank emphasized the urgent need for India to upskill its workforce to meet the demands of an AI-driven job market, highlighting a gap in the country’s AI infrastructure compared to global leaders like China (Source: The Indian Express). KSUM CEO Anoop Ambika also called for strengthening India’s in-house AI ecosystem through increased investment in training and development (Source: UNI India).

International Relations: Building Global Partnerships

On July 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a significant visit to Trinidad and Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Session of Parliament and was conferred the Order of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, the country’s highest national award. The visit resulted in several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), including agreements on the Indian Pharmacopoeia, grant assistance for Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), and a Programme of Cultural Exchanges, strengthening bilateral ties rooted in shared history and values (Source: PIB). Modi’s meetings with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed the deep friendship between the two nations (Source: PIB).

India’s trade negotiations also made headlines, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasizing that the country would prioritize national interests in free trade agreements with the United States, European Union, New Zealand, Oman, Chile, and Peru. Goyal stated that India would not rush into deals under time pressure, ensuring that agreements align with national priorities (Source: The Hindu).

A landmark development was the agreement between India and the United States to sign a new 10-year defence framework agreement by the end of 2025. This pact, discussed between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, aims to deepen strategic cooperation, enhance interoperability, and grant India access to advanced military technology (Source: Deccan Herald, Firstpost). This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening India’s global strategic position.

Environment: Balancing Conservation and Development

Environmental issues took center stage with a debate between the Tribal Affairs Ministry and the Environment Ministry over the Forest Rights Act (FRA). The Tribal Affairs Ministry challenged claims that the FRA negatively impacts forest cover, demanding evidence to support such assertions. This discussion highlights the complex balance between indigenous rights and environmental conservation (Source: The Hindu).

Weather forecasts indicated that India would experience above-average July rains following a wetter-than-normal June, a positive development for agriculture and water resource management (Source: Reuters). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Delhi and predicted heavy rainfall in states like Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh from July 5 to 10, underscoring the importance of monsoon management (Source: CNBC-TV18).

In infrastructure development, the Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) recommended environmental clearance for the proposed Puri airport, balancing development needs with environmental safeguards (Source: The Indian Express).

Defense: Strengthening Strategic Capabilities

India’s defense sector saw promising developments with the announcement of a new 10-year India-US defence framework agreement, set to be finalized by the end of 2025. This pact will grant India access to advanced military technology, boost local manufacturing, and enhance border security, marking a significant step in India’s defense modernization (Source: Deccan Herald, Firstpost). The agreement reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.

Reflecting on past operations, the Deputy Chief of Army Staff highlighted Operation Sindoor, where India faced challenges from Pakistan, China, and Türkiye. This operation underscored the importance of indigenizing defense technology to enhance self-reliance and preparedness (Source: The Hindu).

Sports: Celebrating Athletic Excellence

In sports, India showcased its prowess on both the cricket pitch and the boxing ring. In the second Test match against England at Edgbaston, India ended day three with a commanding lead of 244 runs, thanks to stellar performances by bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep (Source: The Hindu). In boxing, Indian pugilists Hitesh Gulia and Sakshi advanced to the semi-finals of the World Boxing Cup 2025, highlighting India’s growing presence in international sports (Source: Leverage Edu).

Conclusion

The events of July 5, 2025, reflect India’s dynamic progress across multiple domains. From strengthening local governance and advancing space exploration to forging global partnerships and addressing environmental challenges, these developments shape the nation’s trajectory. For aspirants of UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, staying informed about these current affairs is crucial for gaining a competitive edge. This comprehensive update, sourced from trusted outlets, aims to empower students with the knowledge needed to excel in their preparations.

Citations:

• The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-the-day-on-july-5-2025/article69776709.ece
• Press Information Bureau: https://www.pib.gov.in/
• Indiatimes: https://www.indiatimes.com/events/school-assembly-news-headlines-for-today-july-5-2025-from-sports-to-education-check-20-national-international-news-662914.html
• Business Today: https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/isro-losing-to-china-in-rocket-race-sea-landings-and-cargo-plans-raise-alarm-483209-2025-07-05
• The Indian Express: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/puri-airport-environment-ministry-panel-green-clearance-10108302/
• Deccan Herald: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/india-us-to-ink-10-year-defence-framework-pentagon-3613259
• Firstpost: https://www.firstpost.com/world/india-us-to-sign-10-yr-defence-pact-says-pentagon-rajnath-hegseth-meeting-on-the-cards-13902589.html
• Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/india-central-banks-operations-keep-overnight-rates-within-policy-corridor-2025-07-04/
• The Economic Times: https://m.economictimes.com/wealth/save/rbi-acts-tough-against-cyber-frauds-directs-all-banks-to-use-dots-fri-technology-to-protect-bank-customers/articleshow/122263356.cms

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers English

Question 1: Which of the following Indian leaders was conferred with the highest civilian honour of Trinidad and Tobago in July 2025?
Option 1: Ram Nath Kovind
Option 2: S. Jaishankar
Option 3: Rajnath Singh
Option 4: Kamala Harris
Option 5: Narendra Modi
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the “Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,” the highest civilian award of the Caribbean nation, during his official visit. This honour acknowledged India’s historical and cultural ties with Trinidad and Tobago, strengthening diplomatic relations through MoUs in pharmaceuticals, cultural exchanges, and quick-impact projects.

Question 2: ISRO recently completed the second stage of which flagship mission?
Option 1: Chandrayaan-4
Option 2: NISAR
Option 3: Gaganyaan
Option 4: Shukrayaan
Option 5: Aditya-L1
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked a milestone by completing the second stage of the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight project. This significant development positions India alongside global space powers aiming for manned missions.

Question 3: What was the ruling of the Allahabad High Court regarding the Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura?
Option 1: Declared it a disputed site
Option 2: Ordered demolition of illegal constructions
Option 3: Rejected plea to label it as a disputed structure
Option 4: Ordered a joint archaeological survey
Option 5: Transferred the case to the Supreme Court
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Allahabad High Court rejected a plea seeking to label the Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura as a “disputed structure.” This verdict maintained the legal and communal status quo, thereby promoting social harmony and avoiding a repeat of past conflicts over religious sites.

Question 4: Which ministry raised concerns over the impact of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) on forest cover, prompting a rebuttal from another ministry?
Option 1: Ministry of Agriculture
Option 2: Ministry of Environment
Option 3: Ministry of Jal Shakti
Option 4: Ministry of Road Transport
Option 5: Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Environment Ministry suggested that the Forest Rights Act might be harming forest conservation efforts. However, the Tribal Affairs Ministry challenged this assertion, asking for empirical proof, thereby highlighting the complex balance between tribal rights and environmental conservation.

Question 5: Which government policy decision in July 2025 aims to lower consumer costs for essential cooking oils?
Option 1: Increasing MSP for oilseeds
Option 2: Launching a national edible oil mission
Option 3: Setting price caps on edible oils
Option 4: Reducing import duties on edible oils
Option 5: Introducing oil subsidies to ration shops
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The government reduced the basic customs duty on imported crude edible oils (soybean, sunflower, and palm oil) from 20% to 10% to address inflation in food prices. This move was aimed at ensuring affordable cooking oil for Indian households amid volatile global markets.

Question 6: What recent step did the RBI take to stabilize liquidity in the Indian banking system?
Option 1: Introduced a new base rate formula
Option 2: Conducted a ₹1 trillion reverse repo auction
Option 3: Increased CRR by 0.5%
Option 4: Reduced repo rate by 25 basis points
Option 5: Launched a digital currency pilot
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: To manage surplus liquidity, the Reserve Bank of India withdrew ₹1 trillion from the banking system via a seven-day variable rate reverse repo auction. This aimed to keep overnight borrowing rates within the policy corridor and prevent overheating in the money markets.

Question 7: Which of the following steps was taken by the RBI to strengthen cybersecurity in Indian banks?
Option 1: Ordered a nationwide KYC overhaul
Option 2: Mandated encryption of SMS alerts
Option 3: Required biometric verification for all accounts
Option 4: Rolled out a national digital locker
Option 5: Directed banks to adopt DoT’s Financial Risk Identification (FRI) system
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The RBI mandated all banks to implement the Department of Telecommunications’ Financial Risk Identification (FRI) system to combat rising cyber threats. This measure enhances the security of digital banking channels and protects customers from fraud.

Question 8: Which significant initiative was taken by ISRO to boost private participation in space technology?
Option 1: Established a third launchpad in Sriharikota
Option 2: Collaborated with foreign space agencies
Option 3: Transferred advanced ISRO technologies to Indian firms
Option 4: Offered PSLV rideshare slots at discount
Option 5: Launched a national space entrepreneurship fund
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: In a push for self-reliance and private sector involvement, ISRO, through IN-SPACe, transferred 10 advanced technologies to six Indian companies. This move aims to spur innovation, support start-ups, and make India’s space sector globally competitive.

Question 9: What was the main issue raised by the INDIA bloc during their meeting with Bihar’s Chief Electoral Officer?
Option 1: Delay in Assembly elections
Option 2: Voter bribery allegations
Option 3: Disenfranchisement of marginalized communities
Option 4: Polling booth irregularities
Option 5: Misuse of EVMs
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The INDIA bloc raised concerns that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of the electoral roll could disenfranchise marginalized communities. They urged authorities to accept Aadhaar and ration cards as valid ID proofs for voter registration, stressing the need for inclusivity in electoral processes.

Question 10: Which Indian boxers advanced to the semi-finals of the World Boxing Cup 2025?
Option 1: Lovlina Borgohain and Nikhat Zareen
Option 2: Amit Panghal and Manju Rani
Option 3: Hitesh Gulia and Sakshi
Option 4: Vikas Krishan and Simranjit Kaur
Option 5: Deepak Bhoria and Preeti
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Hitesh Gulia and Sakshi made headlines by advancing to the semi-finals of the World Boxing Cup 2025. Their performance underscores India’s growing reputation in international boxing circuits, supported by improved training facilities and exposure to global competitions.