Weekly Current Affairs (7–13 April 2025)

Politics & Governance

A landmark judicial intervention and a contentious new law kept India’s political sphere charged this week. The Supreme Court set new timelines for Governors and the President of India on state legislation: in an April 8 verdict related to Tamil Nadu, the apex court ruled that any state bill reserved for the President’s assent must be decided within three months. It also advised the President, as a matter of prudence, to seek the Court’s opinion under Article 143 whenever a Governor flags a bill as unconstitutional. This move aimed to prevent prolonged delays after a clash in which Tamil Nadu’s Governor stalled several bills passed by the state assembly. The Court noted that while its advisory opinion isn’t binding, it “holds high persuasive value” in determining a bill’s constitutionality.

Meanwhile, a newly enacted law – the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 – sparked unrest. In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared she “would not implement” the Waqf Act in her state, following violent protests by the Muslim community in Murshidabad and Jangipur. She appealed for calm and harmony, stressing that the controversial law (which changes management of Islamic charitable endowments) was made by the central government, not by her state. “We do not support this law… So what is the riot about?” Banerjee asked, vowing legal action against anyone inciting communal violence. The Act, passed by Parliament earlier in April, has been criticised by opposition parties as an attempt to interfere in minority affairs. Notably, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear challenges to the Waqf Act’s constitutionality on April 16, setting the stage for another Centre–state legal battle.

The Union government undertook significant policy decisions as well. The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved the modernization of the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) program as a sub-scheme of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2025-26. This initiative will bolster irrigation infrastructure and water-use efficiency in agricultural command areas, supporting farmers through better water management. Additionally, the government pushed forward the ambitious Green Credit Programme aimed at incentivising pro-environmental actions. Under this scheme (launched under Mission LiFE), citizens, communities and industries can earn tradable “green credits” for activities like tree plantation, water conservation and habitat restoration. The program is designed to encourage voluntary sustainable practices by rewarding participants – an innovative market-based approach to environmental conservation. Officials are fine-tuning its framework, even as legal experts debate aspects of its implementation.

Economy

India’s economy saw encouraging signs alongside cautionary moves. In its first monetary policy review of the fiscal year, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% – the second consecutive rate cut in 2025. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced a shift in policy stance from neutral to “accommodative,” signalling room for further easing to bolster growth. The rate reduction, decided unanimously by the Monetary Policy Committee, is poised to bring down borrowing costs, offering relief to home and auto loan borrowers as banks transmit the cut. The central bank tempered its optimism on growth, however, trimming the GDP growth forecast for 2025-26 to 6.5% (from 6.7% earlier) amid global uncertainties. Importantly, inflation remains under control – the RBI projected consumer price inflation around 4% for the coming year, comfortably within its target range. With food prices softening (India’s retail inflation hit a 7-month low of 3.61% in February) and a normal monsoon forecast, the central bank feels confident to prioritize spurring growth. Governor Malhotra noted that easing price pressures and the need to support demand justified the rate cut, even as he vowed vigilance in case global risks – such as oil prices or geopolitical tensions – flare up.

The broader economic landscape reflected a mix of opportunity and caution. Stock markets were volatile during the week, buffeted by global headwinds. The BSE Sensex opened sharply lower mid-week, sliding by nearly 0.5% to around 73,800 points on April 9 in reaction to international market turmoil. Investors were spooked by an escalating trade spat after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on major economies, stirring fears of a trade war and global recession. However, domestic equities later stabilized as the RBI’s rate cut and indications of a possible pause in further US tariff hikes helped neutralize early losses. By week’s end, the Sensex closed roughly flat compared to last week, indicating resilience in India’s markets despite external pressures. Analysts noted that foreign portfolio investors withdrew some funds amid the uncertainty, but strong domestic institutional buying cushioned the impact. The Indian rupee traded in a narrow band around ₹82 per US dollar, showing little volatility despite the global noise.

On the macroeconomic front, government data continued to show strength. Manufacturing PMI and core sector output remained robust, reflecting improved industrial activity. With inflation below 4% and trending downward, India’s real interest rates have risen, giving the RBI space to stimulate growth. Still, policymakers remain cautious: the Finance Ministry highlighted risks including soft global demand and exported inflation from higher global commodity prices. In fiscal developments, tax collections for FY2024 exceeded targets, providing a buffer for increased capital spending in the new budget. The government reiterated its commitment to maintain fiscal prudence – the fiscal deficit is pegged at 5.9% of GDP for 2025-26 – even as it rolls out infrastructure projects and welfare schemes outlined in the Budget.

There were also positive signals on the reforms and investment front. Foreign direct investment flows saw an uptick in sectors like electronics and renewable energy. The World Bank in its latest update retained India’s growth as the fastest among major economies, albeit advising vigilance over external shocks. The NITI Aayog announced that it is formulating a roadmap for urban infrastructure development with private sector participation, aiming to boost job creation in cities. And in a move welcomed by start-ups, the government eased compliance norms for smaller businesses under GST and the Companies Act, reducing the regulatory burden to improve the ease of doing business.

Science & Tech

It was an eventful week for science and technology, with India achieving space milestones and new discoveries expanding human knowledge. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) showcased a commitment to safe skies by successfully executing a controlled re-entry of a satellite vehicle. In the early hours of April 4, ISRO’s teams guided the unused orbital stage of a PSLV rocket (from the January SPADEX mission) to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and fall into a designated zone of the Indian Ocean. This POEM-4 experiment – India’s first deliberate low-earth object re-entry – was carried out to minimize space debris. The PSLV’s fourth stage burned up and splashed down harmlessly, demonstrating ISRO’s growing capability in end-of-life spacecraft disposal and its responsibility in keeping space lanes clear. The accomplishment puts India among a handful of nations with protocols to safely de-orbit defunct satellites, an important step as satellite constellations proliferate in orbit.

India’s ambitious human spaceflight program Gaganyaan also notched progress. The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) of ISRO dispatched the crew module for Gaganyaan’s first uncrewed mission after successfully integrating its propulsion systems. This crew module will be part of an upcoming test flight intended to validate critical technologies for human space travel. Engineers have been rigorously testing the module’s engines, re-entry shielding, and life-support interfaces. Dispatch of the module to the launch site marks a major milestone, bringing India closer to its target of sending astronauts to space. ISRO aims to conduct at least one uncrewed orbital test (with a human-rated GSLV Mk III rocket) before attempting a crewed mission in the coming years. Officials expressed confidence that Gaganyaan’s timeline is on track, with all systems undergoing qualification. In parallel, ISRO’s chief revealed that the government has approved the Chandrayaan-5 mission, a follow-up lunar exploration endeavor after the success of Chandrayaan-3. The planned mission will include a more robust lander-rover duo to explore new regions of the Moon’s surface, underscoring India’s sustained focus on lunar science.

Beyond space, scientific breakthroughs made global headlines. Paleontologists announced a stunning discovery that broadens our understanding of human evolution – a fossilized jawbone found off Taiwan’s coast was identified as belonging to a Denisovan, an extinct archaic human species. This marks the first evidence of Denisovans in East Asia’s lowlands, thousands of miles from the Siberian cave where they were initially discovered. Molecular analysis of the jawbone’s proteins confirmed its Denisovan origin, suggesting this mysterious hominin group ranged much farther across Asia than previously thought. The finding has anthropologists excited, as it could fill gaps in the story of how early humans migrated and interbred. Scientists note that Denisovans, who interbred with ancestors of modern Asians and Oceanians, likely adapted to diverse environments – from Tibetan high altitudes to Pacific islands. The Taiwanese fossil’s age is still being determined, but it could be tens of thousands of years old. This discovery, alongside recent DNA traces of Denisovans in Himalayan caves, is helping researchers piece together the puzzle of our prehistoric cousins.

In technology developments, artificial intelligence and telecom innovation remained in focus. The government is preparing an IndiaAI program to foster indigenous AI solutions, with a task force recommending policies for safe and ethical AI deployment in governance. Tech startups in Bengaluru unveiled new AI-driven language translation tools, aligning with the government’s ambition to bridge the digital divide through natural language processing. The Department of Telecommunications conducted 6G research trials in collaboration with IITs, aiming for an early lead in sixth-generation wireless technology. Also, a consortium of Indian tech companies announced a project to build a homegrown quantum computing platform, after the Finance Ministry’s budget allocation for a National Quantum Mission. These initiatives reflect India’s drive to be at the cutting edge of science – from deep space to subatomic computing – while leveraging technology for inclusive development.

International Relations

On the diplomatic front, India engaged actively with its neighbors and strategic partners, bolstering ties and addressing regional challenges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi traveled to Bangkok to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, where leaders of South and Southeast Asian nations discussed connectivity and economic cooperation. On the sidelines of the summit, Modi held a crucial meeting with Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate heading Bangladesh’s interim government after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. It was the first high-level dialogue since Bangladesh’s political upheaval, and Modi used the opportunity to urge the new leadership to avoid any rhetoric that could strain India–Bangladesh relations. He reiterated India’s support for a “democratic, stable and inclusive” Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for a constructive approach moving forward. Yunus – who took charge in Dhaka amid massive protests last year – in turn expressed his intent to reset ties and work with India for mutual benefit. Notably, New Delhi has provided refuge to former PM Hasina, resisting Dhaka’s requests to extradite her. The cordial Modi-Yunus meeting suggests India will play a steadying role as Bangladesh navigates its transition, keeping bilateral cooperation (from power trade to border management) on track despite political changes.

Immediately after BIMSTEC, PM Modi paid a two-day state visit to Sri Lanka, becoming the first foreign leader hosted by Sri Lanka’s new President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The visit underscored India’s proactive “Neighborhood First” policy. A slew of agreements were signed covering energy, digitalisation, security, and healthcare cooperation. India agreed to help set up a regional energy hub in eastern Sri Lanka: Modi and President Dissanayake jointly broke ground on a 120 MW solar power plant co-developed by India’s NTPC and Ceylon Electricity Board. Discussions were held on linking the two countries’ power grids and supplying LNG to Sri Lanka to ease its energy crisis. Significantly, Modi pledged continued assistance in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery – extending support for debt restructuring and infrastructure investments as the island rebuilds from its 2022 financial meltdown. A memorandum on defense cooperation was also reached, marking the first such bilateral defense understanding; it will facilitate more joint naval exercises and training exchanges, reflecting India’s role in Sri Lanka’s security calculus. The visit comes as India competes with China for influence in Sri Lanka. Indeed, Modi’s talks in Colombo touched on a potential Indian-built oil refinery in Trincomalee – a project that, if realized, would rival a Chinese refinery venture in Hambantota. Both sides lauded Modi’s visit as opening a “new chapter” in Indo-Lanka relations, focusing on mutual benefits and strategic trust in the Indian Ocean region.

India also kept an eye on broader geopolitical developments. In West Asia, tensions simmered as the Israel–Hamas conflict in Gaza continued without a long-term truce. New Delhi reiterated its support for a humanitarian ceasefire at the UN, urging protection of civilians while backing Israel’s right to combat terrorism. Indian diplomats engaged the Arab League and Israel through quiet channels, reflecting India’s delicate balancing act in the region. Separately, India welcomed the United States and Iran returning to the negotiating table in a bid to revive the Iran nuclear deal. In a surprising thaw, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that Washington held direct high-level talks with Tehran – the first in years – to explore a new accord on Iran’s nuclear program. The talks, held in Muscat, signal an effort to reduce nuclear tensions and possibly ease sanctions on Iran. India, which has longstanding ties with Iran, views a potential U.S.-Iran understanding as positive for regional stability and for its own energy security (as it could eventually resume oil imports from Iran). Global powers are cautiously optimistic that these discussions might lay the groundwork for curbing Iran’s nuclear advances in exchange for economic relief. India expressed hope that diplomacy would succeed, reiterating its stance that Iran, as a signatory of the NPT, is entitled to peaceful nuclear energy but must assure the world of the non-military nature of its program.

On the multilateral front, India geared up for leadership roles in international forums. Having steered the G20 presidency in 2023 successfully, India is now actively supporting Brazil (2024 chair) and engaging with South Africa (2025 chair) as part of the G20 Troika to ensure continuity of key initiatives such as inclusive digital public infrastructure and reformed multilateral development banks. India’s push for United Nations Security Council reform also continued: at the UN, India joined other G4 nations in demanding time-bound negotiations for expanding the UNSC’s permanent membership. As a leading voice of the Global South, New Delhi is positioning itself as a bridge between developed and developing nations on issues like climate finance and debt relief – themes likely to feature in upcoming summits. In the BRICS bloc, member countries began consultations for the 2025 BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia; India stressed the need for cooperation in supply chain resilience and intra-BRICS trade in national currencies. Furthermore, military diplomats from the Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia) met informally to discuss maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring India’s multi-aligned approach – engaging diverse partners to promote stability, development, and a rules-based order globally.

Environment

Environmental news this week ranged from climate patterns to conservation efforts. Meteorologists confirmed a significant shift in the Pacific Ocean’s climate cycle: the three-year-long La Niña phase has finally ended, giving way to ENSO-neutral conditions. During La Niña, cooler-than-normal Pacific waters altered weather worldwide (bringing heavy rains to Australia and droughts to parts of India’s west). With neutral conditions now prevailing, climate models are predicting the possible onset of an El Niño event by mid-2025, which could mean a hotter, drier summer for South Asia if it materializes. Current projections give about a 40% chance of El Niño conditions emerging by the end of the year. Indian agencies are closely monitoring these trends, as El Niño years have historically been linked to weaker monsoons on the subcontinent. The India Meteorological Department indicated it will issue detailed monsoon predictions soon, factoring in this ENSO shift. Globally, the return to ENSO-neutral is expected to bring some relief to regions that suffered La Niña-induced extremes, but the potential flip to El Niño is raising caution for planners in agriculture and water management. Climate scientists also noted that the underlying trend of global warming could amplify El Niño impacts, making preparedness key for countries like India where millions depend on monsoon rains.

Wildlife conservation initiatives made headway in India. As the country celebrated 50+ years of Project Tiger, the government is expanding its focus beyond protected reserves. A new project has been formulated to monitor and manage tiger populations outside the designated tiger reserves. An estimated 30% of India’s ~3,700 tigers roam in areas that are not officially protected, often leading to human–wildlife conflict and vulnerability to poaching. The upcoming program – which received in-principle approval at a National Board for Wildlife meeting chaired by the Prime Minister – will initially cover 10 states and has a proposed outlay of ₹176 crore till 2026-27. It will deploy modern tracking techniques (like camera traps and possibly drone surveillance) to keep tabs on tigers in forests and corridors outside the reserves. The aims are to prevent poaching by strengthening intelligence networks, reduce clashes by proactively managing tiger presence near villages, undertake community outreach to build local support for conservation, and improve habitat connectivity so that these big cats have safe passage between protected areas. Conservationists have lauded this move, noting that long-term survival of the species requires safeguarding tigers wherever they are found, not just in parks. The initiative will complement existing funding under Project Tiger and could become a model for integrative wildlife management. In related news, a census in the Kaziranga landscape found the population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros has grown by about 200 over the past four years, a positive sign that anti-poaching measures and habitat restoration are yielding results.

Pollution and environmental health remained pressing concerns. In Delhi, unseasonal rain in early April cleared the air temporarily, but as temperatures began to rise, the capital braced for the return of summer smog. The Central Pollution Control Board issued directives to NCR authorities to strictly enforce dust control at construction sites and ban garbage burning, in anticipation of higher pollution levels. A study released by Down To Earth magazine highlighted that several Indian cities saw an increase in hazardous ozone levels last summer due to heat and stagnant air, calling for urgent mitigation actions. The government’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is reportedly set for an upgrade with more funds and a focus on implementing smog control towers and robust monitoring in the worst-affected cities. Also this week, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) cracked down on illegal sand mining in Madhya Pradesh, levying fines on violators and directing state agencies to restore affected riverbeds – a strong message against unsustainable extraction harming rivers and biodiversity.

Internationally, climate action featured in diplomatic dialogues. The Petersberg Climate Dialogue in Berlin (a precursor to COP-30) saw India emphasize climate justice and urge developed nations to fulfill their $100 billion annual financing pledge to help developing countries. India also showcased its progress on renewable energy – now ~175 GW installed capacity – and announced that it will enhance its target under the Paris Agreement’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by aiming for 50% of power from non-fossil sources by 2030. In a notable appointment, Brazil (host of the 2025 UN climate summit COP-30) named industrialist Dan Ioschpe as its “Climate Champion” to mobilize business support for climate goals. India, as a key participant in global climate fora, welcomed the move and indicated it will work with Brazil to ensure COP-30 focuses on funding for loss and damage, adaptation, and technology transfer – priority issues for the developing world.

Defense & Security

India’s defense modernization drive gained momentum with major acquisitions and indigenous innovations coming to the fore. The government gave the green light to a ₹63,000 crore (~$7 billion) deal to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy. These advanced carrier-capable jets will be deployed on India’s new aircraft carriers, including INS Vikrant, significantly boosting naval air power. The purchase, approved by the Defence Acquisition Council on April 9, is part of a larger push to equip the Navy with modern fighters for blue-water operations. The twin-engine Rafale-M jets, to be armed with potent missiles and precision munitions, are expected to replace India’s aging MiG-29K fighters. This deal, once formally signed during an upcoming visit of France’s Defence Minister, will deepen Indo-French defense ties and comes with provisions for maintenance and training. It follows on the Indian Air Force’s earlier induction of Rafale fighters, and now extends the platform’s presence to the maritime domain. Defence experts noted that the Rafale-M beat out America’s F/A-18 Super Hornet in technical evaluations for India’s requirements. With China’s naval footprints growing in the Indian Ocean, the timing of this induction is crucial for India to maintain a strategic edge.

In a parallel development, the Ministry of Defence inked a ₹2,385 crore contract with public-sector giant Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to supply advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) suites for the Air Force’s Mi-17 V5 helicopters. These EW suites, designed and built in India, will equip the medium-lift transport helicopters with the ability to detect, jam, and evade hostile radar and missile threats. Officials hailed the deal as a milestone for self-reliance in cutting-edge defense technology, noting that the Mi-17 V5-specific electronic warfare system is a product of indigenous R&D and will significantly improve the survivability of Indian helicopters in conflict zones. The contract will also give a fillip to India’s domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem, as BEL will source components from various Indian MSMEs. This procurement aligns with the Make in India initiative and follows recent policy moves to reserve certain defense purchases for Indian vendors. Similarly, private sector participation saw a boost when Mahindra Aerostructures, an Indian company, secured a prestigious order from Airbus to manufacture fuselage assemblies for the Airbus H130 civil helicopter. The contract makes Mahindra a global supplier for Airbus’s helicopter production line, underscoring the growing capability of India’s aerospace industry to meet international quality standards. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised it as an example of Indian firms becoming part of global supply chains and noted such partnerships help India’s aim of becoming a defense export hub.

Military readiness was also evident through ongoing exercises and vigilance. The Indian Army conducted a surprise joint exercise along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh, testing rapid deployment of troops by helicopters in high-altitude areas. This drill, involving special forces and the newly procured light combat helicopters, was a message of deterrence amid reports of continued Chinese military infrastructure build-up across the border. In the maritime domain, the Navy tracked the movement of a Chinese research and survey vessel in the Indian Ocean Region. The vessel’s presence near India’s Exclusive Economic Zone was closely monitored, and it was shadowed by an Indian Navy warship until it moved away. Naval sources said such Chinese ships have been frequently observed, likely mapping the seabed – information that could be of strategic value – and India responds by keeping a constant watch to secure its interests.

On the internal security front, cybersecurity took center stage during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The Uttar Pradesh Police revealed that over 6 million cyber-attack attempts were thwarted on the Kumbh’s digital infrastructure. The iconic religious gathering, which now uses extensive technology for crowd management, CCTV surveillance, and information services, faced a deluge of hacking and DDoS attack attempts (many traced to foreign IP addresses). Thanks to prompt action by a dedicated cyber team, these threats – ranging from efforts to deface websites to attempts at spreading misinformation via the Kumbh’s public Wi-Fi – were neutralized, ensuring uninterrupted digital services to millions of pilgrims. Police officials detailed how round-the-clock monitoring was set up at an Integrated Command and Control Centre, with firewalls and real-time intrusion detection systems in place. Every suspicious login or network request was analyzed, and the vast majority of attacks were blocked at the firewall level. The government emphasized that “digital Kumbh security” is now an integral part of event planning, given the scale of connected systems from drone feeds to e-governance portals at the site. This successful defense against cyber threats at the Kumbh underscores India’s improving cyber preparedness. It also served as a warning: authorities stated they will take strict legal action under the IT Act against any actors (domestic or foreign) trying to disrupt critical services or communal harmony via cyber means.

Counter-terrorism agencies remained vigilant as well. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out raids in multiple states targeting an emerging radical outfit suspected of recruiting youth for extremist activities. Several suspects were detained and incriminating literature and digital devices seized. The raids are part of a broader crackdown on terror modules; officials say they have a keen eye on online radicalization in the wake of global conflicts. In Jammu and Kashmir, security forces foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control, eliminating two armed militants in Kupwara district. With snow melting in the mountain passes, activity has picked up on the LOC – but the Army’s enhanced surveillance equipment and intelligence network have so far kept infiltration largely in check this spring.

Sports

Indian athletes brought home glory in multiple sports, reflecting the nation’s growing prowess on the world stage. In cue sports, the legendary Pankaj Advani added yet another accolade to his storied career by clinching the silver medal at the WBL World Matchplay Billiards Championship in Melbourne. Advani, a 23-time world champion across snooker and billiards, battled through a strong field to reach the final. Although he narrowly missed the gold, losing to England’s Mike Russell in the title match, Advani’s achievement reinforced his status as one of the all-time greats in billiards. This is the first time an Indian has won a medal at the World Matchplay event, a testament to Advani’s enduring class. Back home, he received congratulatory messages from sporting fraternity and the government, and he noted that the silver finish motivates him to push for gold in the next world championship. His consistency on the world circuit continues to inspire a generation of Indian cueists.

Indian shooters, meanwhile, hit the bullseye at the ISSF Shooting World Cup in Buenos Aires. Team India finished second in the overall medal tally in this first leg of the 2025 World Cup, with a haul of 8 medals (including 4 gold medals). Rising star Vijayveer Sidhu was the cynosure of all eyes, as he secured the gold in the men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol event in dramatic fashion. The 20-year-old marksman edged out Italy’s Riccardo Mazzetti in a high-pressure final, scoring 29 hits to Mazzetti’s 28 in the decisive round. Sidhu’s nerves of steel in the shoot-off clinched him the top podium spot, heralding his arrival on the senior world stage. This gold adds to India’s rich showing: the contingent’s other gold medals came from the women’s 10m air rifle team, the men’s 50m rifle 3-positions (with Olympian Aishwary Tomar striking gold), and the mixed team 10m air pistol event – highlighting strength across disciplines. India also picked up two silvers and two bronzes in Buenos Aires, underscoring the depth of talent. Notably, Olympian Manu Bhaker earned a silver in women’s 25m pistol, and the shotgun team contributed a bronze in skeet. With this performance, India has made a strong start in the 2025 ISSF World Cup series, and the shooters have gained valuable momentum on the road to the World Championships later in the year. The National Rifle Association of India praised the shooters and support staff, crediting the improved coaching setup and sports science support for consistent results.

On the wrestling mat, Indian grapplers showcased their might at the 2025 Asian Wrestling Championships in Astana (Amman) with a rich medal haul. India concluded the competition with 10 medals – 1 Gold, 3 Silver, and 6 Bronze – marking one of its best-ever tallies at the Asian meet. The lone gold came from the ever-reliable Bajrang Punia in the men’s freestyle 65kg category (his fourth Asian Championship title), as he defeated Iran’s Rahman Mousa in a thrilling final. The silver medals were earned by Udit (men’s freestyle 61kg), Deepak Punia (freestyle 92kg) and Antim Panghal (women’s 53kg), each of whom put up valiant efforts in their final bouts before falling just short. Especially heartening was the performance of the women’s wrestling team: aside from Antim’s silver, multiple women secured bronzes – including Sakshi Malik in 75kg – signaling continued progress in a field where India has been emerging as a force. Greco-Roman wrestlers contributed two bronzes as well, matching their best show in recent years. This overall tally of 10 medals placed India a strong third in the team standings, behind powerhouses Iran and Japan, and ahead of hosts Jordan. Coaches noted that the exposure trips and specialized training camps abroad have paid dividends. With the Paris Olympics qualification events nearing, India’s wrestlers seem to be peaking at the right time. The Wrestling Federation announced that based on this performance, a core probable team will be sent to a training stint in eastern Europe to iron out chinks and build on the success.

Other sports too saw Indians making headlines. In badminton, the India Open Super 500 tournament in New Delhi culminated on April 13 with Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon winning the women’s singles title; India’s top shuttlers PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen had bowed out earlier in hard-fought quarterfinal matches. In tennis, India’s doubles specialist Rohan Bopanna, pairing with a Dutch partner, reached the finals of the ATP Marrakech tournament, continuing his fine form on the ATP tour at the age of 45. The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams began their European tour as part of preparations for the Asian Champions Trophy – the men started strong with a 5-2 win over Spain in a friendly, while the women drew 1-1 with Germany in a test match, showing defensive grit. Meanwhile, in cricket, the IPL 2025 season kicked into high gear. Defending champions Chennai Super Kings won their first three matches on the trot, with skipper MS Dhoni achieving a personal milestone of 250 IPL appearances. A standout performance came from young Mumbai Indians batsman Tilak Varma, who smashed a 52-ball century, the first of this IPL season, signalling that the next generation of Indian cricketing talent is ready to shine. Off the field, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar celebrated his 52nd birthday on April 12, with tributes pouring in for the “Master Blaster” from around the world of sports.

Finally, recognition for sporting excellence continued to pour in. At the Laureus World Sports Awards 2025 nominations announced this week, India’s javelin star Neeraj Chopra earned a nomination for Breakthrough of the Year for his consistency after Olympic gold, becoming the first Indian athlete to be shortlisted for a Laureus in a major category in over 15 years. Though the winners will be declared later in April, the nod is a proud moment for Indian athletics. With such achievements across billiards, shooting, wrestling, and more, Indian sports enthusiasts have much to cheer about, and aspirants for government exams have a rich array of sporting accomplishments to remember from this week.

quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which recent Supreme Court verdict mandated a three-month timeline for the President to act on bills reserved for assent? Option 1: The Tamil Nadu Governor Case Verdict
Option 2: Sabarimala Temple Review Judgment
Option 3: Triple Talaq Case
Option 4: Article 370 Abrogation Verdict
Option 5: Electoral Bonds Scheme Ruling
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Supreme Court ruled that when a state bill is reserved for the President’s assent, the President must respond within three months. This decision stemmed from the case involving the Tamil Nadu Governor withholding assent on multiple bills, prompting the Court to set a constitutional timeline.

Question 2: What policy decision was recently approved as a sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)? Option 1: National Food Security Mission
Option 2: Green Credit Programme
Option 3: Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM)
Option 4: Soil Health Card Scheme
Option 5: e-NAM Extension Scheme
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Union Cabinet approved the modernization of the CADWM program as a sub-scheme under PMKSY. This move focuses on improving irrigation infrastructure and water management efficiency in agricultural areas.

Question 3: Which new law has triggered protests in West Bengal and is being legally challenged in the Supreme Court? Option 1: Forest Rights (Amendment) Act
Option 2: Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025
Option 3: Citizenship (Amendment) Act
Option 4: UAPA Reform Bill
Option 5: National Education Policy Amendment
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 has sparked protests, particularly in West Bengal, where the state government has refused to implement it. The law has been challenged in the Supreme Court, with hearings scheduled soon.

Question 4: What monetary policy action did the RBI take in April 2025? Option 1: Raised the repo rate by 25 bps
Option 2: Kept the repo rate unchanged
Option 3: Reduced the repo rate by 50 bps
Option 4: Reduced the repo rate by 25 bps
Option 5: Switched to a tightening stance
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 6%. The policy stance also shifted from neutral to accommodative to support economic growth amid stable inflation.

Question 5: What is the projected GDP growth for India for FY 2025-26 as per the RBI? Option 1: 6.9%
Option 2: 7.1%
Option 3: 6.5%
Option 4: 5.9%
Option 5: 6.7%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The RBI revised India’s GDP growth forecast for 2025-26 downward to 6.5%, citing global economic uncertainties, while maintaining an accommodative stance to promote domestic economic activity.

Question 6: What major achievement did ISRO accomplish regarding space debris management? Option 1: Deployed a new anti-satellite weapon
Option 2: Launched the first Indian space station
Option 3: Conducted a controlled re-entry of PSLV’s stage
Option 4: Reused a GSLV rocket stage
Option 5: Built India’s first orbital debris observatory
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: ISRO successfully executed a controlled re-entry of the PSLV’s fourth stage from the SPADEX mission into the Indian Ocean, showcasing its ability to minimize space debris effectively.

Question 7: Which module related to India’s human spaceflight program was recently dispatched by ISRO? Option 1: Vikram Lander
Option 2: Chandrayaan-5 Orbiter
Option 3: Gaganyaan Crew Module
Option 4: Aditya Solar Probe
Option 5: Shukrayaan Payload
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Gaganyaan Crew Module was sent to the launch site after successful integration of its propulsion systems. It will be used in the upcoming uncrewed mission to validate technologies for human spaceflight.

Question 8: What ancient species’ remains were recently discovered near Taiwan? Option 1: Homo habilis
Option 2: Neanderthals
Option 3: Homo erectus
Option 4: Denisovans
Option 5: Cro-Magnon
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Scientists discovered a fossilized jawbone belonging to a Denisovan, a now-extinct archaic human species. This marks the first evidence of Denisovans in lowland East Asia.

Question 9: What significant international summit did PM Narendra Modi attend in Bangkok recently? Option 1: SAARC Summit
Option 2: QUAD Ministerial
Option 3: BIMSTEC Summit
Option 4: BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meet
Option 5: G20 Outreach Session
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: PM Modi attended the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, where leaders from South and Southeast Asia discussed connectivity, regional integration, and economic cooperation.

Question 10: What was a key agreement signed during PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka? Option 1: India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement
Option 2: Defense and Surveillance Pact
Option 3: Solar Power Plant Joint Development
Option 4: Oil Refinery at Hambantota
Option 5: Indian Naval Base Agreement
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India and Sri Lanka agreed to co-develop a 120 MW solar power plant in eastern Sri Lanka, reflecting deepening cooperation in energy and sustainability.

Next 10 questions coming up…

Question 11: What environmental scheme allows citizens and industries to earn tradable credits for eco-friendly actions? Option 1: Eco Bharat Yojana
Option 2: Jal Jeevan Mission
Option 3: Green Credit Programme
Option 4: Clean India Trade Scheme
Option 5: Sustainable India Action Plan
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Green Credit Programme incentivizes sustainable actions like tree plantation and water conservation. Participants earn tradable green credits for environmentally positive behaviors.

Question 12: Which climatic condition officially ended recently, potentially paving the way for an El Niño event? Option 1: El Niño Southern Oscillation
Option 2: La Niña
Option 3: Indian Ocean Dipole
Option 4: Arctic Oscillation
Option 5: Pacific Typhoon Oscillation
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The three-year-long La Niña phase ended, with meteorologists now observing ENSO-neutral conditions. There is a chance El Niño may form later in 2025, possibly affecting the monsoon.

Question 13: What new initiative was approved to monitor tigers outside protected reserves? Option 1: Tiger Corridors Network
Option 2: Wildlife Vigil Programme
Option 3: Project Panthera
Option 4: Extended Tiger Surveillance Mission
Option 5: Non-Reserve Tiger Management Scheme
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: A new project, approved by the National Board for Wildlife, aims to track and manage tiger populations living outside official reserves to reduce poaching and human-wildlife conflict.

Question 14: Which country did India assist with a $7 billion defense deal involving Rafale-M jets? Option 1: Russia
Option 2: United States
Option 3: Germany
Option 4: France
Option 5: Israel
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: India finalized a ₹63,000 crore deal with France to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for its aircraft carriers, strengthening its naval air capabilities.

Question 15: What indigenous defense equipment will now be fitted onto India’s Mi-17 V5 helicopters? Option 1: Advanced radar detection systems
Option 2: Precision-guided bombs
Option 3: Air-to-air missiles
Option 4: Electronic Warfare (EW) suites
Option 5: Infrared signature suppressors
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd to equip Mi-17 V5 helicopters with indigenous electronic warfare suites, enhancing their survivability and jamming capabilities.

Question 16: What record did MS Dhoni recently achieve in the 2025 IPL season? Option 1: Highest run-scorer in a single season
Option 2: First player with 200 sixes in playoffs
Option 3: 250th IPL appearance
Option 4: Most stumpings in IPL history
Option 5: Fastest century in IPL 2025
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni reached the milestone of 250 IPL appearances, becoming the first player in league history to do so.

Question 17: Who recently won a gold medal for India in the men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol event at the ISSF World Cup? Option 1: Saurabh Chaudhary
Option 2: Vijayveer Sidhu
Option 3: Abhinav Bindra
Option 4: Manu Bhaker
Option 5: Aishwary Tomar
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Vijayveer Sidhu secured gold in the men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Buenos Aires, narrowly defeating Italy’s Riccardo Mazzetti.

Question 18: In which country did the Asian Wrestling Championships 2025 take place? Option 1: Jordan
Option 2: Iran
Option 3: Kazakhstan
Option 4: India
Option 5: South Korea
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The 2025 Asian Wrestling Championships were hosted in Amman, Jordan. Indian wrestlers secured 10 medals, including one gold from Bajrang Punia.

Question 19: What major fossil discovery provided new insights into Denisovan migration patterns? Option 1: Skull in Ladakh
Option 2: Jawbone in Taiwan
Option 3: Tooth in Arunachal Pradesh
Option 4: Femur in Uzbekistan
Option 5: Rib cage in Siberia
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: A Denisovan jawbone was found near Taiwan’s coast, confirming that this archaic human species had a wider geographic range than previously believed.

Question 20: What step did Uttar Pradesh Police take to secure the Maha Kumbh Mela from cyber threats? Option 1: Deployed AI drones for surveillance
Option 2: Enforced biometric access control
Option 3: Established a cyber command center
Option 4:

Check out this related article: Daily quiz on current affairs with answers English 13 April 2025

Shut down public Wi-Fi networks
Option 5: Used blockchain-based authentication
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: A dedicated cyber command center was set up in Prayagraj, where over 6 million hacking attempts on digital infrastructure were thwarted during the Maha Kumbh Mela.