25th April 2025 Current Affairs

We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 25th April February 2025 current affairs from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.

Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 25th April 2025 current affairscoverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.

Edusprint Youtube Channel : Edusprint Academy

National news

Govt launches National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination campaign

On 24 April 2025, the Government of India launched the 2025-26 National Zero Measles Rubella Elimination Campaign to achieve 100% immunisation coverage. The campaign coincided with the start of World Immunisation Week, which is observed from 24-30 April 2025. The government aims to eliminate Measles and Rubella in the country by 2026.

The campaign has been initiated in collaboration with state governments and other health partners.

Who Launched the Campaign?

The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, officially launched the National Zero Measles Rubella Elimination Campaign in New Delhi on 24 April 2025.

India’s Achievements in Eliminating Measles and Rubella

From January to March 2025, the following progress was reported:

• 332 districts in India reported zero measles cases.
• 487 districts reported zero rubella cases. These efforts have been acknowledged internationally, with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare receiving the 2024 Measles and Rubella Champion Award from the Measles and Rubella Partnership.

About the Measles Rubella Elimination Campaign

The Measles Rubella Campaign is a large-scale vaccination initiative aimed at vaccinating all eligible children between 9-12 months and 16-24 months. The children will receive two doses of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, which is provided free of cost.

As of the latest report, the vaccination coverage in India stands at:

• 93.7% for the first dose.
• 92.2% for the second dose.

About Measles and Rubella

• Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can cause severe health issues and even death, especially in children, but it can be prevented through vaccination.
• Rubella is another contagious viral disease, particularly dangerous when contracted by a pregnant woman, as it can result in severe congenital birth defects in the fetus. Vaccination can prevent both diseases.

Universal Immunisation Programme

Launched in 1978 and expanded nationwide in 1985, the Universal Immunisation Programme is fully funded by the Government of India. The program provides free vaccines to pregnant women and newborns and currently covers 12 diseases, including Diphtheria, Polio, Measles, Rubella, and others.

Building a Self-Reliant India: 5 Years of SVAMITVA Scheme

The SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme, a transformative initiative in rural governance, recently marked five years of successful implementation. It was launched on April 24, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day.

The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) in collaboration with the Survey of India (SoI), headquartered in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, and National Informatics Centre Services Inc. (NICSI), based in New Delhi, serving as the technology partner.

Key highlights:

• SVAMITVA is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) aimed at providing rural household owners with a ‘record of rights’ in the form of property cards, covering inhabited areas of villages.
• It was initially allocated a budget of Rs 566.23 crore, covering FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25, and has now been extended till FY 2025-26.
• As of January 18, 2025, the Government of India (GoI) had successfully distributed 65 lakh SVAMITVA property cards across more than 50,000 villages in 10 states, including 2 Union Territories (UTs).

Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR):

• Union Minister: Rajiv Ranjan Singh (also known as Lalan Singh), representing Munger, Bihar
• Minister of State: S.P. Singh Baghel, representing Agra, Uttar Pradesh (UP)

GoI Announced 5-Point Action against Pakistan After Pahalgam Terror Attack

In April 2025, following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) that claimed the lives of 26 people, including a foreign national, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), the highest body responsible for national security decisions in India and chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took a series of stringent actions against Pakistan.

During a meeting of the CCS in New Delhi, the Government of India (GoI) rolled out a 5-point action plan aimed at impacting Pakistan’s infrastructure, diplomatic activities, and cross-border movements. Key actions include:

1. The suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), a vital water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, with immediate effect.
2. The closure of the integrated Attari-Wagah Border, effective immediately. The government clarified that individuals who have already crossed with valid documents will be allowed to return via the same route before May 01, 2025.
3. The expulsion of all Pakistani military, naval, and air advisors stationed at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. These individuals have been declared ‘Persona Non Grata’ and instructed to leave India within one week.

International news

UNESCO Names 16 New Global Geoparks

On April , 2025, UNESCO added 16 new Global Geoparks, increasing its network to 229 geoparks across 50 countries. These geoparks now cover nearly 855,000 km², which is roughly the size of Namibia. The newly designated geoparks, located in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, are recognized for their remarkable geological heritage, including volcanic ranges, rock formations, mountain ranges, fossil sites, and ancient desert landscapes. These sites not only preserve geological wonders but also foster environmental education, promote the conservation of local ecosystems, and support the cultural knowledge of indigenous communities.

Key Highlights of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network (UGGPs) – 10th Anniversary Update (2025):

• Total UGGPs: 229, spanning across 50 countries.
• 16 New UNESCO Global Geoparks added in 2025.
• India: Currently has no UNESCO Global Geoparks.

New UNESCO Global Geoparks:

1. Geoparks in Asia:

• China:
  • Kanbula UNESCO Global Geopark: Located on the northeast edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, featuring ancient volcanoes and the Yellow River.
  • Yunyang UNESCO Global Geopark: Showcases landscapes from 250 million years ago, highlighting the transition from an inland sea to terrestrial environments.
• Democratic People’s Republic of Korea:
  • Mt Paektu UNESCO Global Geopark: A volcanic site marked by eruptions and glacial erosion, the first UNESCO Global Geopark in the country.
• Indonesia:
  • Kebumen UNESCO Global Geopark: Features ancient rock formations, including the Karangsambung site, a natural laboratory for oceanic and continental margin rocks.
  • Meratus UNESCO Global Geopark: Displays geological history dating back to the Jurassic period with significant diamond deposits and tectonic features.
• Republic of Korea:
  • Danyang UNESCO Global Geopark: Located along the Baekdu Daegan mountain range, featuring 1.9-billion-year-old granite gneiss formations.
  • Gyeongbuk Donghaean UNESCO Global Geopark: Known for Deokgu Valley and ancient granitic rocks, combined with hot springs.

2. Geoparks in Europe:

• Italy:
  • MurGEopark UNESCO Global Geopark: Situated in the Murges Highlands, famous for stable Adriatic Plate features and ancient geological formations.
• Norway:
  • The Fjord Coast UNESCO Global Geopark: Known for fjords, waterfalls, and glaciers in Norway’s westernmost region.
• Spain:
  • Costa Quebrada UNESCO Global Geopark: Reveals tectonic movements along the Cantabrian coast, spanning over 120 million years.
• United Kingdom:
  • Arran UNESCO Global Geopark: Located on a Scottish island, showcasing a geological history of 600 million years with evidence of tectonic plate collisions.

3. Geoparks in the Middle East and Latin America:

• Saudi Arabia:
  • North Riyadh UNESCO Global Geopark: Known for Tabletop Mountains and significant cultural landmarks.
  • Salma UNESCO Global Geopark: Features volcanic and magmatic rocks more than 740 million years old, offering insights into deep Earth processes.
• Viet Nam:
  • Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark: Located in rugged limestone peaks, displaying volcanic eruptions and evolving ecosystems.
• Ecuador:
  • Napo Sumaco UNESCO Global Geopark: Situated in the Amazon Basin, it includes Sumaco Volcano and geological activity from the Jurassic period to the present.
  • Tungurahua Volcano UNESCO Global Geopark: Known for its volcanic and glacial history spanning over 417 million years in the Andes.

Overview of UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGPs):

• Launched: 2015 as part of the International Geosciences and Geoparks Programme (IGGP).
• Definition: A UNESCO Global Geopark is a unified geographical area of significant geological importance.
• Management: Must be overseen by a legally recognized body in accordance with national laws.
• Reassessment: Geoparks are reassessed every 4 years.
• Networking: Membership in the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) is mandatory.

Focus Areas of UNESCO Global Geoparks:

• Protection: Preserving natural and cultural heritage.
• Education: Promoting environmental and geological awareness.
• Sustainable Development: Supporting local communities and eco-friendly practices.

Overview of PM Narendra Modi’s Official Visit to Saudi Arabia from April 22 -23, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an official two-day visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from April 22-23, 2025, at the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Upon his arrival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, PM Modi was accorded a grand welcome, including a 21-gun salute at the airport.

This was PM Modi’s third visit to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in further strengthening the ties between the two nations. It also marked his 15th official trip to the Gulf region since assuming office in 2014.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

1. PM Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held extensive talks and co-chaired the second meeting of the India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC).
2. The SPC agreed to form a new Ministerial Committee to focus on areas such as Defence Cooperation, Tourism, and Cultural Cooperation.
3. During the visit, India and Saudi Arabia signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

About the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:

• Prime Minister: Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
• Capital: Riyadh
• Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)

Banking news

RBI Data: Outward remittances under RBI’s LRS decline 8.2% in April-February

Outward remittances under the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) for the period April 2024 to February 2025 in Financial Year (FY) 2025 have shown a decline compared to the same period in the previous year.

Remittances decreased by 8.21% year-on-year (Y-o-Y), falling to USD 27.02 billion from USD 29.43 billion in the corresponding period last year.

Key Observations:

1. International travel, the largest category of remittances, experienced a slight decline of about 1%, dropping to USD 15.84 billion during April–February of FY25, compared to USD 16 billion in the same period last year.
2. Remittances for the maintenance of close relatives saw a significant 22% year-on-year drop, falling to USD 3.3 billion.
3. Remittances for overseas education also declined by 16%, reaching USD 2.76 billion from last year’s figure.
4. Overseas remittances for purchasing immovable property rose by 28.32%, reaching USD 277.7 million.
5. Investment in equity/debt saw an increase of 8.27%, totaling USD 1.39 billion.

February 2025 Data:

1. Overseas remittances in February 2025 slipped by 2.44%, dropping to USD 1.96 billion from USD 2.01 billion in the same month of the previous year.
2. Remittances for international travel rose by 3.5%, reaching USD 1.09 billion in February 2025, compared to USD 1.05 billion in February 2024.
3. Remittances for overseas education decreased by 26.19%, totaling USD 182.17 million, while funds sent for the maintenance of close relatives fell by 11.78% year-on-year, amounting to USD 235 million.

About the LRS Scheme:

Introduced in 2004, the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) allows all resident individuals, including minors, to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for any permissible current or capital account transaction, or a combination of both.
The scheme was initially introduced with a limit of USD 25,000, and the limit has since been revised in stages in accordance with prevailing macroeconomic and microeconomic conditions.

SBI to Deploy ‘Grahak Mitras‘ to Promote Alternate Banking Channels

In April 2025, the State Bank of India (SBI), headquartered in Mumbai (Maharashtra), announced the launch of the “Grahak Mitras” (Customers’ Friends) initiative. This initiative will see the deployment of Grahak Mitras across 4,500 branches of SBI, representing nearly 20% of its total 22,740 branches nationwide. The aim is to encourage customers to use self-service banking channels, helping reduce congestion in branches.

The Grahak Mitras will be recruited from State Bank Operations Support Services (SBOSS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SBI based in New Delhi (Delhi). These personnel will be primarily stationed at branches with high footfall, particularly those handling government salary accounts, pensions, and Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).

SBI’s Alternate Banking Channels:

SBI offers a wide range of self-service banking options, including:

• Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Automated Deposit Cum Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs)
• Self-service kiosks
• SWAYAM barcode-based passbook printing kiosks
• Cheque deposit kiosks
• Internet banking
• Mobile banking through the YONO App
• WhatsApp banking services

These platforms provide 24/7 access to banking services, ensuring both convenience and security for customers.

Digital Banking Growth:

As of December 2024, a significant 98.1% of SBI’s transactions were conducted through these alternate banking channels, showing a marked increase from 88.1% in March 2019. This reflects a notable shift towards digital banking in the bank’s operations.

HDFC Bank Becomes Third Indian Company to Surpass Rs 15 Lakh Crore m-cap

In April 2025, HDFC Bank Limited, based in Mumbai (Maharashtra), reached a major milestone by surpassing a market capitalization (m-cap) of Rs 15 lakh crore, making it the third Indian company to achieve this milestone. The first two companies to reach this valuation were Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

As of March 31, 2025, HDFC Bank’s m-cap stood at Rs 15,01,289.37 crore, driven by consistent share price growth and strong investor confidence.

Financial Highlights for Q4 FY25:

1. Net Profit: The bank reported a standalone net profit of Rs 17,616 crore for Q4 FY25, reflecting a 6.7% increase compared to Rs 16,512 crore in the same quarter the previous year.
2. Net Interest Income (NII): NII grew by 10.3% year-on-year, reaching Rs 32,070 crore, up from Rs 29,080 crore in Q4 FY24.
3. Total Income: The total income for the quarter was Rs 89,488 crore, which was marginally lower than Rs 89,639 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

RBI Mandates Banks to Transition to ‘.bank.in’ Domain by October 31, 2025

In April 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), based in Mumbai (Maharashtra), issued a directive requiring all banks to transition their digital operations to the exclusive ‘.bank.in’ domain by October 31, 2025. This move aims to bolster the security infrastructure of online banking services across the nation and address the growing concerns related to cybersecurity threats.

The primary goal of this initiative is to counteract the increasing cyber threats targeting online banking platforms.

Implementation Framework:

1. Registrar Authority: The Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), based in Hyderabad (Telangana), will act as the registrar for the ‘.bank.in’ domain, under the authorization of the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
2. Registration Process: Banks need to reach out to IDRBT at sahyog@idrbt.ac.in to begin the migration process. IDRBT will assist in providing the necessary guidance on the technical and procedural aspects of the transition.
3. IT Infrastructure Modernization: Banks will be required to update their IT infrastructure to comply with the new domain mandate, ensuring secure and seamless digital banking services for their customers.

Economy news

Life Insurance Premium Mobilisation Rises by 5.13% in FY25

The Indian life insurance industry experienced robust growth in the financial year 2024–25, with a 5.13% increase in total new business premium collections, reflecting a strong recovery compared to the previous year. Notably, the individual new business premium segment surged by 11.17%, indicating an uptick in participation from first-time policyholders. This growth highlights the sector’s efforts to expand market reach and enhance financial protection offerings.

Key Highlights of FY25 Life Insurance Performance:

Overall Growth:

• The new business premium for the life insurance industry grew by 5.13% in FY25.
• This marked an improvement from FY24, which saw a more modest 2% growth.

Premium Collection Figures:

• FY25: ₹3,97,336 crore
• FY24: ₹3,77,960 crore
• Absolute Increase: ₹19,376 crore

Individual New Business Premium:

• FY25: ₹1,66,590.81 crore
• FY24: ₹1,49,851.67 crore
• Growth: 11.17%

LIC’s Performance:

• Total New Business Premium: ₹2,26,669 crore
• Individual New Business Premium: ₹62,404 crore (record high)
• LIC’s Market Share: 57.05%

Industry Commentary:

• The growth in FY25 was primarily driven by a strategic focus on attracting first-time buyers and offering comprehensive coverage.
• March 2025 saw a 4.47% increase in combined individual premium collections.

World Bank Lowers India’s GDP Growth Forecast to 6.3% for FY26

On April 23, 2025, the World Bank (WB), headquartered in Washington D.C. (USA), released the “South Asia Development Update April 2025” and revised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for the 2025-26 fiscal year (FY26) down to 6.3%, a 0.4% reduction from its previous estimate of 6.7%.

This adjustment is attributed to slower growth in private investment, lower public capital expenditures, and the impact of global economic challenges and policy uncertainties.

Key Insights:

1. India’s Growth in FY2024-25: The growth forecast for FY2024-25 is projected to slow to 6.3% from 6.5%. The initial positive impact of lower interest rates and easier business regulations might be dampened by weaker global economic conditions.
2. Deceleration in India’s Growth: The World Bank noted a slowdown in India’s GDP growth, dropping from 9.2% in FY24 to an estimated 6.5% in FY25, which is the slowest growth rate observed in the past four years.
3. Regional Growth in South Asia: The South Asian region‘s growth is projected to decline to 5.8% in 2025, which is a 0.4 percentage point drop from earlier forecasts made in October 2024. For 2026, regional growth is expected to rise slightly to 6.1%.

Additionally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) also lowered India’s GDP growth projection for FY26 to 6.2%, from 6.5% as per their January 2025 estimate.

About the World Bank (WB):

• President: Ajay Banga
• Headquarters: Washington D.C., USA
• Founded: 1944
• Members: 189

Ranks and report news

IISc Tops Times Higher Education Asia Rankings 2025

The Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2025 were revealed on April 23, showcasing the top 853 universities across 35 countries and territories in Asia. The rankings highlight institutions excelling in research, teaching, and innovation. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) remains the highest-ranked Indian university at 38th overall in Asia, although it has dropped from its 32nd position in 2024. Several other Indian institutions experienced a slight decline in their rankings, signaling the increasing competition in higher education across Asia.

Key Highlights of THE Asia Rankings 2025:

• IISc retains the top position for Indian universities, ranked 38th, despite a fall from 32nd last year.
• Anna University and IIT Indore are ranked at 111th and 131st, respectively, both showing slight declines compared to their previous rankings.
• Mahatma Gandhi University ranks 140th, a small dip from its 134th position last year.
• Other notable Indian institutions, including Shoolini University, Saveetha Institute, and Jamia Millia Islamia, also feature in the rankings.

Detailed Breakdown of Indian Universities in the Rankings:

• 38th – Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
• 111th – Anna University
• 131st – Indian Institute of Technology Indore
• 140th – Mahatma Gandhi University
• 146th – Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences
• 149th – Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
• 161st – Jamia Millia Islamia
• 184th – Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati
• 184th – KIIT University
• 188th – Aligarh Muslim University
• 188th – UPES
• 191st – Indian Institute of Technology Patna
• 191st – National Institute of Technology Rourkela
• 200th – International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad

International Trends in the Rankings:

• China’s Dominance: Tsinghua University and Peking University continue to hold the top two positions.
• Singapore’s Rise: National University of Singapore ranks 3rd, followed by Nanyang Technological University at 4th.
• Japan and Hong Kong: Universities such as The University of Tokyo and The University of Hong Kong remain strong in the rankings.
• New Entrants: Universities from Uzbekistan, Bahrain, Mongolia, and Syria appear for the first time in the rankings.

SIAM: Automobile export from India increases 19.2 % in 2024-25

India’s Automobile Exports in 2024-25

According to the Society of Indian Automotive Manufacturers (SIAM), India’s automobile exports saw a 19.2% increase in 2024-25 compared to the previous year. A total of 53,63,089 units were exported, up from 45,00,494 units in 2023-24. The export included a range of vehicles such as passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles, with major export destinations being African and Latin American countries, along with some exports beginning to developed countries.

Break-up of Automobile Exports in 2024-25

• Total Exports: 53,63,089 units in 2024-25.
  • Passenger Vehicles (Cars, Vans, MPVs, SUVs):
    • 7,70,364 units, up from 6,72,105 units in 2023-24 (a 15% growth).
  • Two-Wheelers:
    • 41,98,403 units, marking a 21% growth compared to the previous year.
  • Commercial Vehicles:
    • 80,986 units, reflecting a 23% increase.

Leading Exporters in Different Segments

1. Passenger Vehicle Segment
   • Maruti Suzuki India Limited led the exports in this category, with 332,585 units exported in 2024-25, compared to 283,067 units in 2023-24.
     • Key markets: Africa, West Asia, Latin America, and Japan.
   • Hyundai India Limited followed with 158,686 units exported.
     • Key markets: Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Mexico, Chile, and Peru.
     • Hyundai has also exported over 1.5 million i10 models from India.
2. Two-Wheeler Segment
   • Bajaj Auto, TVS, and Honda Motorcycles & Scooters India Ltd were the top three exporters.
     • The African and Latin American regions were the primary export markets.

Award news

PM Modi presents National Panchayat Awards in Madhubani Bihar

On 24 April 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented awards to the winners of the 2025 National Panchayat Awards in Madhubani, Bihar, on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day. This event marked a significant moment in India’s commitment to empowering local self-governance.

Prime Minister’s Visit to Bihar

The Prime Minister, during his one-day visit to Bihar, also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several developmental projects across the state. Additionally, he flagged off several railway projects.

Key Highlights of the Prime Minister’s Visit:

1. LNG Bottling Plant: He laid the foundation stone for a LNG (liquefied natural gas) bottling plant with a rail unloading facility at Hathua, Gopalganj District.
2. Housing Projects: He handed over the keys of 1 lakh houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin to beneficiaries and 54,000 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban in Bihar.
3. Railway Projects:
   • Flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express between Saharsa and Mumbai.
   • Flagged off the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail between Jaynagar and Patna.
   • Inaugurated trains between Pipra and Saharsa and Saharsa and Samastipur.
   • Inaugurated rail lines in Supaul Pipra, Hasanpur Bithan, and Khagaria-Alauli.
   • Inaugurated two 2-lane Rail over bridges at Chapra and Bagaha.

National Panchayati Raj Day Celebrations

The 2025 National Panchayati Raj Day was celebrated at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat, Jhanjharpur Block, in Madhubani District, Bihar, with prominent figures such as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), and other dignitaries in attendance.

About National Panchayati Raj Day:

National Panchayati Raj Day is observed on 24th April each year, marking the day in 1993 when the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 came into effect. This amendment introduced a three-tier rural self-governance structure in India, comprising:

• Gram Panchayats (village level),
• Panchayat Samitis (intermediate level),
• Zilla Parishads (district level).

2025 National Panchayat Award Winners:

The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj awards Special Category National Panchayat Awards to recognize outstanding Panchayats across India. These awards promote initiatives in key areas such as climate action, self-reliance, and capacity building.

Award Categories & Winners:

1. Climate Action Special Panchayat Award: Encourages Panchayats to implement climate-responsive initiatives.
   • First: Dawwa S Gram Panchayat, Gondia District, Maharashtra
   • Second: Biradahalli Gram Panchayat, Hassan District, Karnataka
   • Third: Motipur Gram Panchayat, Samastipur District, Bihar
2. Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award: Recognizes Panchayats that generate their own revenue to fund activities.
   • First: Mall Gram Panchayat, Ranga Reddy District, Telangana
   • Second: Hatbadra Gram Panchayat, Mayurbhanj District, Odisha
   • Third: Gollapudi Gram Panchayat, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh
3. Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar: Recognizes Panchayats excelling in capacity building and training for Panchayati Raj representatives and functionaries.

Awards and Recognition:

Winners of the National Panchayat Awards were presented with trophies, certificates, and a cash prize. The prizes for the top three positions were:

• First: ₹1 crore
• Second: ₹75 lakh
• Third: ₹50 lakh

These awards recognize the significant contributions of Panchayats in empowering rural governance and driving local development in various sectors.

Appointment news

Campbell Wilson steps down as Chairman of Air India Express; Nipun Aggarwal to take over

In April 2025, Air India Express (IX), a wholly owned subsidiary of Air India based in Mumbai (Maharashtra), announced the resignation of Campbell Wilson, who had been serving as the Chairman of Air India Express since June 2022. This leadership change is part of the ongoing restructuring of the airline operations under the Tata Group.

About Air India Express (IX):

• Air India Express is the low-cost arm of Air India and operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of the parent airline. Along with Air India, it was reacquired by the Tata Group for Rs 18,000 crore in January 2022.
• Headquarters: Gurgaon, Haryana
• Established: 2004

T Rabi Sankar Re-appointed as RBI Deputy Governor for One Year

In April 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the reappointment of T. Rabi Sankar as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a one-year extension, effective May 3, 2025, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

This marks his second consecutive one-year extension since his initial appointment in May 2021, where he succeeded B.P. Kanungo.

Key Responsibilities:

• T. Rabi Sankar currently oversees several key departments within the RBI, including:
  • Foreign Exchange
  • Currency Management
  • Government Accounts Department

Career Background:

• Before his appointment as Deputy Governor, T. Rabi Sankar served as Executive Director (ED) at the RBI.
• He also worked as a Consultant at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2005 to 2011, focusing on the development of government bond markets and debt management.

Additional Roles:

Beyond his duties at the RBI, T. Rabi Sankar holds several prominent positions:

• Chairman, Indian Financial Technology and Allied Services (IFTAS)
• Board Member, Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd (ReBIT)
• Member, Governing Council, Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT)

RBI’s Deputy Governors (As of April 2025):

• T. Rabi Sankar
• M. Rajeshwar Rao
• Swaminathan Janakiraman
• Poonam Gupta

Science and tech news

India’s First Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati

India is making a major advancement in next-generation technologies with the launch of its first Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh. A high-level meeting, chaired by the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS), brought together top technology players including IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to finalize the roadmap for this groundbreaking project. The proposed facility is set to become a world-class hub for quantum computing research, ecosystem development, and innovation, underscoring India’s strategic move to lead in the field of advanced computational technologies.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

• Location: Andhra Pradesh Secretariat, under the RTGS
• Participating Organizations: IBM, TCS, and L&T
• Objective: To finalize the design, infrastructure, and collaboration model for India’s first Quantum Computing Village.

Key Focus Areas:

• Infrastructure Blueprint: Establishing the framework for the quantum computing facility.
• Quantum Hardware Deployment: Plans to integrate cutting-edge quantum computing systems.
• Long-term Research Collaboration Ecosystem: Building a collaborative environment for ongoing research and development in quantum technologies.

Infrastructure & Technical Details:

• Iconic Building:
  • Designed by L&T and conceptualized by IBM.
  • The facility will house IBM’s Quantum System Two, one of the most advanced quantum computing systems globally.
  • A dedicated on-site data center will be featured.
• Collaboration:
  • IBM and TCS will jointly finalize the specifications for the facility’s infrastructure.
  • The planning will include provisions for long-term facility expansion.

India Dispatches 2nd Batch of BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles to Philippines

In April 2025, India successfully dispatched the 2nd batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines as part of a USD 375 million (Rs. 3,202 crore) defense deal signed in 2022. This marks a significant milestone in India’s growing defense export capabilities, as the Philippines becomes the first nation to sign an agreement with India to import the BrahMos missile.

Key Details:

• Agreement Signed: In January 2022, BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (an India-Russia joint venture) and the Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) signed the deal, including the delivery of three BrahMos missile batteries.
• Delivery Process:
  • The second batch was dispatched by ship, following the first delivery made in April 2024 via an Indian Air Force (IAF) transport aircraft.

About the BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles:

• Developed By: Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), India and the Military Industrial Consortium NPO Mashinostroyeniya (NPOM) of Russia.
• Specifications:
  • Range: 290 km
  • Speed: Mach 2.8 (three times the speed of sound)
  • Payload: Capable of carrying warheads weighing between 200 kg to 300 kg.
• Strategic Importance: The missile is designed to enhance the Philippines’ coastal defense, especially amid rising tensions in the South China Sea (SCS).

India’s Growing Defense Capabilities:

• Indigenization: Currently, 83% of BrahMos components are indigenized as part of India’s Make in India (MII) initiative.
• Future Goals: India aims to produce defense equipment worth Rs 3 lakh crore by 2029.

Other Developments:

• Vietnam is set to become the second Asian nation to acquire the BrahMos missile, with a deal valued at approximately USD 700 million (Rs. 5,990 crore).

About the Philippines:

• President: Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
• Capital: Manila
• Currency: Philippine Peso

China Launches World’s 1st 10G Broadband Network

In April 2025, China achieved a significant milestone by launching the world’s first 10-Gigabit (10G) broadband network in Sunan County, Hebei Province. This development represents a breakthrough in internet infrastructure, offering incredibly fast and low-latency internet access.

Key Highlights:

• Partnership: The project is a collaborative effort between Huawei, the global telecommunications giant, and China Unicom, a state-run telecom operator.
• Technology: The network is powered by 50G PON (Passive Optical Network) technology, which is a next-generation system designed to enhance data transmission over existing fibre-optic infrastructure.
• Infrastructure: The upgrade is likely supported by Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (DWDM), an advanced technology that boosts the capacity and efficiency of optical networks.

Performance Metrics:

• Download Speeds: Reached 9,834 Megabits per second (Mbps).
• Upload Speeds: Recorded at 1,008 Mbps.
• Latency: Reduced to as low as 3 milliseconds (ms), which is ideal for applications that require near-instantaneous data transfer, like gaming and real-time communications.

Sports news

Neeraj Chopra Wins Gold at Potch Invitational 2025 in South Africa

In April 2025, Neeraj Chopra, India’s two-time Olympic medallist in javelin throw, kicked off his 2025 season with a gold medal at the NWU Potch Invitational in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Key Achievements:

• Throw: Neeraj achieved a distance of 84.52 meters, securing the top spot on the podium and surpassing South Africa’s Douw Smit (82.44m) and Duncan Robertson (71.22m).
• Season Best: This throw marked a new Indian season-best, surpassing the previous record set by Sachin Yadav (84.39m).
• Coaching: This was Chopra’s first competition under the guidance of Jan Železný, a Czech javelin throw legend, three-time Olympic gold medallist, and world record holder with a mark of 98.48m.

Personal Best:

• Neeraj Chopra’s personal best stands at 89.94 meters, achieved in June 2022, which continues to be one of the top performances in javelin history.

This victory sets a strong tone for Neeraj Chopra’s 2025 season, underlining his consistency and potential as he continues his journey towards future championships.

Important Days

National Panchayati Raj Day 2025 – April 24

National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD), also known as National Local Self-Government Day, is observed annually in India on 24 April to acknowledge the importance of the Panchayati Raj System in decentralised governance at the grassroots level.

NPRD 2025: Key Highlights

• Date: 24 April 2025 marks the 16th National Panchayati Raj Day.
• Significance: This year marks 32 years since the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which granted constitutional status to Panchayats.
• Background:
  • In 2010, then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh officially declared 24 April as National Panchayati Raj Day. The first NPRD was observed on this day in 2010.

2025 Event:

• Location: The main event of NPRD 2025 was held at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat (GP), Jhanjharpur Block, Madhubani District, Bihar, in collaboration with the Government of Bihar.
• Chief Guest: Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, addressing Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Gram Sabhas across India.
• Awards: The National Panchayat Awards (Special Categories) for 2025 were conferred for the first time by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR). The awards recognize exemplary efforts in:
  • Climate Action
  • Atmanirbharta (Self-Reliance)
  • Capacity Building aligned with the Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs).

Books and author news

MeitY Launches ‘I Am Circular’ Coffee Table Book

On April 23, 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in partnership with the International Council for Circular Economy (ICCE), unveiled the ‘I Am Circular’ Coffee Table Book. This book highlights India’s dedication to sustainability and innovation, focusing on the principles of the circular economy—reusing, recycling, and minimizing waste. The event aimed to promote technology-driven sustainable development and featured 30 groundbreaking Indian innovations that are driving the circular economy through smart, scalable, and sustainable practices.

Key Highlights of the Initiative:

• Organizers: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and International Council for Circular Economy (ICCE).
• Event Date: April 23, 2025.
• Objective: To celebrate and present India’s top 30 circular economy innovations through a visually captivating Coffee Table Book.
• Book Title: ‘I Am Circular’ Coffee Table Book.
• Curated By: ICCE (International Council for Circular Economy).

Core Themes of Innovation:

The featured innovations are categorized into three key themes:

1. Design to Last: Prioritizing the creation of durable products with long life cycles.
2. Work with Nature: Emphasizing sustainable, eco-friendly solutions that work in harmony with natural ecosystems.
3. Use Existing Resources: Focusing on optimizing materials and waste to reduce environmental impact and create value.

Types of Innovations Highlighted:

• Platforms for recycling electronic waste.
• Green materials designed to lower carbon footprints.
• IoT-enabled circular systems for real-time monitoring.
• Digital repair and reuse solutions.
• Biodegradable packaging innovations.
• Reverse logistics and supply chain management techniques.
• Circular textile solutions.
• Smart composting and energy generation from waste.

Key Remarks at the Launch Event:

Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, MeitY, stated: “‘I Am Circular’ is more than just a publication; it represents India’s commitment to responsible innovation and sustainability. It aligns with MeitY’s vision of leveraging technology for inclusive and sustainable development.”

24 April 2025 Current Affairs