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National Current Affairs of India, Important for competitive Exams.

Indian Air Force Joins Exercise Desert Flag-10 in UAE

A contingent of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has arrived at Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE to participate in Exercise Desert Flag-10. The multinational air combat exercise is hosted by the UAE Air Force and includes participation from the air forces of Australia, Bahrain, France, Germany, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Republic of Korea, Turkey, UAE, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with India.

The exercise commenced on April 21, 2025, and will continue until May 8, 2025. Its primary objective is to conduct complex fighter engagements and promote the exchange of operational knowledge and best practices among some of the world’s most advanced air forces.

CRPF Celebrates 86th Raising Day in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh

The 86th Raising Day of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was celebrated on April 17, 2025, in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, the birthplace of the CRPF. This day marks the establishment of the CRPF, originally formed as the Crown Representative Police on July 27, 1939, and renamed as the CRPF on December 28, 1949, under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the chief guest at the event, highlighted the CRPF’s pivotal role in maintaining internal security, combating terrorism, and eradicating Naxalism. He announced that Naxalism, which has been confined to just four districts, will be completely eliminated by March 31, 2026, with the CRPF, especially its elite CoBRA battalion, leading the mission.

The celebrations included a ceremonial parade, mock drills, and skill displays by CRPF personnel, showcasing their preparedness and dedication. Tributes were paid to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s unity and integrity.

The CRPF, with over 246 battalions, continues to play a vital role in ensuring peace and security across the country, from counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir to maintaining order in the Northeast.

India’s First Onboard ATM Installed on Panchvati Express

Indian Railways has introduced the first-ever onboard ATM on the Panchvati Express running between Manmad and CSMT, Mumbai, as part of a pilot project. The ATM, installed in an air-conditioned chair car coach, was created by converting a mini pantry space with secure fittings and safety measures.

The initiative, led by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to enhance passenger convenience and explore new sources of non-fare revenue. If successful, similar ATMs may be introduced on other long-distance and high-traffic trains.

India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-6 Begins in Pune

The 6th edition of India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-6 began on 16 April 2025 at the Foreign Training Node, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra. The Indian contingent, represented by a JAT Regiment battalion and the Indian Air Force, is participating alongside personnel from the Uzbekistan Army.

This annual bilateral exercise, held alternately in India and Uzbekistan, aims to strengthen defence cooperation and share best practices in Joint Sub-Conventional Operations. The exercise will continue until 28 April 2025.

Record High Cargo Traffic on National Waterways in FY 2024-25

India’s National Waterways achieved a record cargo traffic of 145.5 million tonnes in the Financial Year 2024-25. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways highlighted a compound annual growth rate of 20.86% in cargo traffic during the last fiscal year. Additionally, traffic movement in FY 2025 showed a 9.34% year-on-year growth compared to FY 2024. Five major commodities—coal, iron ore, iron ore fines, sand, and fly ash—accounted for over 68% of the total cargo transported on National Waterways.

List of Important Waterways in India:

  1. National Waterway 1 (NW-1): Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly River System (1620 km) – Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal.
  2. National Waterway 2 (NW-2): Brahmaputra River (891 km) – Assam.
  3. National Waterway 3 (NW-3): West Coast Canal (205 km) – Kerala.
  4. National Waterway 4 (NW-4): Kakinada Canal and Godavari-Krishna River System (1095 km) – Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry.
  5. National Waterway 5 (NW-5): Brahmani-Mahanadi Delta Rivers (623 km) – Odisha, West Bengal.

India Demonstrates Laser Weapon System, Joins Elite Global Powers

For the first time, India has successfully demonstrated a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system, capable of shooting down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and swarm drones. With this achievement, India joins an elite group of countriesthe US, China, and Russia—that have demonstrated such Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) capabilities.

The Centre for High Energy Systems & Sciences (CHESS), under DRDO, conducted the field demonstration of the land-based, vehicle-mounted Laser Directed Weapon DEW MK-II(A) at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

The system successfully disabled surveillance sensors and caused structural damage to fixed-wing UAVs and swarm drones. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat called it just the beginning, highlighting ongoing projects in high-energy microwaves, electromagnetic pulses, and other futuristic Star Wars-like defense technologies.

DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’ with Su-30 MKI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted release trials of the Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’ from a Su-30 MKI aircraft on 12 April 2025.

The Gaurav bomb demonstrated a range close to 100 km with high accuracy during the trials, according to the Defence Ministry.

Gaurav is a 1000-kg class indigenously developed glide bomb, designed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), and the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha.

Senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Air Force (IAF) were present and reviewed the trials.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, IAF, and industry for the successful development, stating that Gaurav will significantly enhance the Armed Forces’ capabilities. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat also congratulated the DRDO team on the successful trials.

Tahawwur Rana Extradited to India: Major Breakthrough in 26/11 Mumbai Terror Case

Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, was extradited to India on April 9, 2025. A Canadian national of Pakistani origin, Rana aided David Headley in conducting reconnaissance for the attacks. He will be in NIA custody for 18 days for interrogation.

His extradition, following failed legal appeals in the U.S., marks a major step in India’s pursuit of justice. This move highlights global cooperation against terrorism and may reveal further details about the 2008 attacks that killed 166 people and injured over 238.

India Approves Purchase of 26 Rafale Jets for Navy

On April 9, 2025, India approved the acquisition of 26 Rafale fighter jets from France to strengthen its naval capabilities amid growing Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean. The deal, estimated at ₹630 billion (approx. $7 billion), includes 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater jets from Dassault Aviation.

Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the agreement is expected to be signed soon, with France’s defence minister likely to visit India beforehand. This move aligns with India’s goals to modernize its military, reduce dependence on Soviet-origin systems, and bolster defence ties with France, its second-largest arms supplier.

India’s First Vertical-Lift Sea Bridge: Connecting Rameswaram Island to Mainland India

On April 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, India’s first vertical-lift sea bridge, marking a major milestone in the country’s infrastructure and engineering capabilities. Spanning 2.07 km across the Palk Strait, the bridge enhances connectivity between Rameswaram Island and mainland India, replacing the original 1914 structure.

The bridge was built by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and offers improved vertical clearance for maritime traffic, as demonstrated by the successful passage of an Indian Coast Guard boat and a train during the event. The project was sanctioned in 2019, is three metres taller than the original, and designed for higher speed, load capacity, and durability.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi joined the inauguration. Vaishnaw also marked the BJP’s foundation day by hoisting the party flag. The New Pamban Bridge symbolizes India’s leap in infrastructure, standing alongside global engineering icons like the Golden Gate and Tower Bridge.

PM Modi Honoured with Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Award for Strengthening Bilateral Ties

On April 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana, Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honour for foreign Heads of State and Government, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo. The award recognizes PM Modi’s significant contributions to strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations and symbolizes deep friendship between the two nations.

PM Modi expressed gratitude, calling it an honour for all 140 crore Indians, and highlighted the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of both countries. The medal’s design features symbols such as the Dharma Chakra and Pun Kalasa, reflecting their Buddhist legacy and prosperity.

This marks Modi’s 22nd international recognition, reinforcing his image as a global statesman. During the visit, both leaders also launched bilateral projects like the Sampur Solar Power Project and signed MoUs in energy, digital transformation, and trilateral cooperation (including the UAE). India’s aid to Sri Lanka now totals around $7 billion, including grants and investments exceeding $2 billion.

DRDO and Indian Army Successfully Test Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM)

On April 4, 2025, the DRDO and Indian Army successfully conducted four flight tests of the Army version of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.

The missiles intercepted and destroyed aerial targets at various ranges and altitudes, demonstrating full operational capability. The tests involved targets at long range, short range, high altitude, and low altitude. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated all involved and said the tests re-established the weapon system’s effectiveness.

PM Modi’s Bangkok Summit and Sri Lanka State Visit

On April 4, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, where he unveiled several India-led initiatives focused on institution and capacity building across the region. Key announcements included the setting up of BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence in India for Disaster Management, Sustainable Maritime Transport, Traditional Medicine, and Agriculture Research & Training.

He also launched the BODHI programme (BIMSTEC for Organized Development of Human Resource Infrastructure), aimed at providing training and scholarships to youth, professionals, and researchers. Other initiatives included a pilot study on Digital Public Infrastructure, a cancer care capacity-building programme, and the proposal for an annual BIMSTEC Business Summit in India, alongside the creation of a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce.

PM Modi welcomed the signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030, and the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group Report. He paid tribute to victims of the recent earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand, and praised Thailand’s leadership in BIMSTEC.

Additionally, PM Modi visited the Wat Pho Buddhist Temple in Bangkok, highlighting the cultural ties between India and Thailand.

Later the same day, PM Modi arrived in Colombo for a three-day state visit to Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka. He was received by Sri Lankan ministers at the airport. During his visit, PM Modi will engage in bilateral talks, inaugurate Indian-assisted projects, and visit Anuradhapura, where he will pray at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple and inaugurate railway connectivity projects in the northern region.

6th BIMSTEC Summit on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand

The 6th BIMSTEC Summit is set to take place on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. This summit marks a significant milestone as it is the first in-person BIMSTEC meeting since 2018. The theme for this year’s summit is “BIMSTEC – Prosperous, Resilient, and Open”, reflecting the organization’s focus on enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as trade, security, connectivity, and human security.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Established in 1997, BIMSTEC aims to foster economic and technical collaboration among countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.

During the summit, leaders are expected to adopt the Bangkok Vision 2030, which outlines a roadmap for regional development and cooperation. Key discussions will focus on enhancing maritime transport, completing the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway, and addressing shared challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and poverty.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the summit and will also hold bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to strengthen India-Thailand relations. Following the summit, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka to further enhance bilateral ties.

This summit underscores BIMSTEC’s role as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, promoting regional integration and collaboration across various sectors. It is a pivotal moment for the member states to reaffirm their commitment to a prosperous and resilient Bay of Bengal region.

NHAI Raises Toll Charges by Up to 5% Across Highways

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has raised toll charges by 4-5% as part of its annual inflation adjustment based on the wholesale price index. The additional revenue will support highway maintenance and expansion projects.

Key toll hikes include:

  • Delhi-Meerut Expressway: Toll for cars from Sarai Kale Khan to Meerut increased from ₹165 to ₹170, and from Ghaziabad to Meerut from ₹70 to ₹75.
  • Chhijarsi toll plaza (NH-9): Car tolls rose from ₹170 to ₹175, light commercial vehicles to ₹280, and trucks to ₹590.
  • Lucknow Highways: Light vehicles will pay ₹5-10 more per trip, while heavy vehicles will pay ₹20-25 extra.
  • Delhi-Jaipur Highway (Kherki Daula toll plaza): No hike for private cars and jeeps, but larger vehicles face a ₹5 increase per trip.
  • Monthly passes: For cars, it increased from ₹930 to ₹950, and for cabs, from ₹1,225 to ₹1,255.

India has 855 toll plazas, with 675 government-funded and 180 privately operated.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font Visits India to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font is on a state visit to India from April 1 to April 5, 2025, marking 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. President Droupadi Murmu welcomed him at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in his honor.

During his visit, President Boric is engaging in New Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. He held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on minerals, energy, defense, agriculture, and space cooperation. Both leaders agreed to initiate talks for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

The visit also highlights cultural and educational exchanges, including student programs and Chile’s growing interest in Yoga and Ayurveda. President Boric emphasized Chile’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, recognizing its global geopolitical significance.

This visit reinforces India-Chile cooperation in trade, innovation, and culture, reflecting a shared vision for a prosperous future.

India and US Launch Fourth Edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025 for HADR Cooperation

Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025, the fourth edition of the India-US bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, began in Visakhapatnam on April 1, 2025. The Harbour Phase will run from April 1 to April 7, including an Opening Ceremony with a joint Flag Parade on INS Jalashwa. The exercise will conclude on April 13 with a Closing Ceremony on the US Navy Ship Comstock.

Following the Harbour Phase, participants will proceed to the Sea Phase off Kakinada for Maritime, Amphibious, and HADR operations. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for a Combined Coordination Center (CCC) to facilitate cooperation between the Indian and US Joint Task Forces (JTF) during emergencies.

India will be represented by INS Jalashwa, Gharial, Mumbai, and Shakti, along with P8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Army troops from 91 Inf Brigade and 12 Mech Infantry Battalion, Air Force C-130 Aircraft, MI-17 Helicopters, and the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT). The US will participate with US Navy Ships Comstock and Ralph Johnson and troops from the US Marine Division.

Indian Air Force Joins Multinational Air Exercise INIOCHOS-25 in Greece

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the multinational air exercise INIOCHOS-25, which began today, March 31, 2025, at Andravida Air Base in Greece. Hosted by Greece’s Hellenic Air Force, the 12-day exercise will run until April 11. The IAF contingent includes Su-30 MKI fighters, IL-78, and C-17 aircraft.

INIOCHOS-25 aims to enhance international cooperation, interoperability, and combat readiness through combined air operations and tactical training in complex scenarios. With participation from 15 countries, the exercise promotes mutual learning and strengthens military ties.

‘Sahkar’ Taxi: A Cooperative Model for Fairer Transportation

The Indian government is set to introduce a new cooperative-based taxi service called ‘Sahkar Taxi.‘ This initiative, announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament on March 27, 2025, aims to provide an alternative to private ride-hailing platforms like Ola and Uber. The service will include bike, cab, and auto rides, ensuring that profits go directly to the drivers instead of large corporations.

The ‘Sahkar Taxi’ service aligns with the vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation). Drivers will be able to register their vehicles—two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, and four-wheelers—through cooperative societies. This model eliminates middlemen, allowing drivers to retain their full earnings and achieve better financial security.

Additionally, the government plans to establish a cooperative insurance company to support this initiative. This company will provide financial protection to drivers and others in the cooperative sector. The rollout of the ‘Sahkar Taxi’ service is expected in the coming months, offering affordable transport for passengers and fairer opportunities for drivers.

This move reflects the government’s commitment to promoting cooperative models and addressing concerns about high commission fees charged by private platforms. It is a step toward creating a more equitable and transparent transportation system in India.

Govt procures Nag Missile system to enhance defence capabilities

On March 27, 2025, the Ministry of Defence signed contracts with Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited, Force Motors Ltd, and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd to procure the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked version and 5,000 light vehicles for the Armed Forces, totaling Rs 2,500 crore.

The NAMIS (Tr) contract, worth Rs 1,801.34 crore, was developed by DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory. It is an advanced fire-and-forget anti-tank weapon system designed to enhance the Indian Army’s mechanised operations and combat capabilities.

The light vehicles feature modern technology, offering enhanced engine power and an 800 kg payload capacity. They will improve mobility for the Armed Forces across various terrains and operational environments.

These procurements will boost indigenous defence manufacturing, generating employment opportunities in the MSME sector. This step reinforces the country’s defence capabilities and supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Indian Armed Forces conduct tri-services Exercise Prachand Prahar from March 25 to 27, 2025

From March 25 to 27, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces conducted a tri-service integrated exercise called Prachand Prahar in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh. The Army, Air Force, and Navy collaborated to test their coordinated operational capabilities.

The exercise involved the deployment of advanced surveillance assets like long-range aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and space-based resources. Special Forces were also used to detect and track simulated targets.

Once targets were identified, they were neutralized using joint firepower from fighter aircraft, rocket systems, artillery, drones, and loitering munitions. Operations were conducted in a contested electronic environment to ensure precise strikes.

The exercise was reviewed by Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, Eastern Air Commander Air Marshal Surat Singh, and Navy Commodore Ajay Yadav. They praised the forces for their professionalism and operational skills.

Prachand Prahar demonstrated the Armed Forces’ capability to conduct integrated operations across multiple domains, reaffirming India’s readiness to counter emerging threats along its borders.

India’s social security coverage doubled from 24.4 % to 48.8 % in 3 years

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), World Social Security Report 2024-26, India’s coverage has jumped from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted this progress during the webinar on ‘Investing in People’. Key achievements include:

  • 17.1 crore jobs created between 2014 and 2024, with 4.6 crore added in the past year alone.
  • Unemployment rate dropped from 6% (2017-18) to 3.2% (2023-24).
  • Female workforce participation surged from 22% to 40.3%.

Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the government’s focus on empowering youth through skill development and its commitment to fostering global economic contributions. 💼

Supreme Court Collegium Recommends Transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma

The Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma, a sitting judge of the Delhi High Court, back to his parent court, the Allahabad High Court. This decision, taken during meetings on March 20 and March 24.

However, the transfer has sparked controversy, with the Allahabad High Court Bar Association raising objections. Justice Varma is currently under scrutiny following allegations of a large stash of cash being discovered at his Delhi residence after a fire broke out on March 14. Reports suggest that firefighters found the cash while extinguishing the flames, though Justice Varma was not present at the time.

In response to the allegations, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has formed a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the matter. The committee includes:

  • Justice Sheel Nagu (Chief Justice, Punjab & Haryana High Court)
  • Justice G.S. Sandhawalia (Chief Justice, Himachal Pradesh High Court)
  • Justice Anu Sivaraman (Judge, Karnataka High Court)

Meanwhile, Delhi High Court Chief Justice Devendra Upadhyaya has been directed not to assign any judicial work to Justice Varma until further notice.

Justice Varma has strongly denied the allegations, claiming that this is a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation. He clarified that the room where the cash was allegedly found is an outhouse, separate from his main residence.

The Supreme Court has emphasized that the transfer decision is unrelated to the ongoing controversy, aiming to maintain transparency and fairness.

March 24th: Assam Rifles Commemorates 190th Raising Day

“Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force, commemorated its Raising Day on March 24, 2025, with profound pride and solemnity. This day marked the 190th Raising day, and celebrated the rich history and unwavering dedication of the “Sentinels of the Northeast.”

Here’s a glimpse into the significance of Assam Rifles Raising Day:

A Legacy of Service:

  • Established in 1835 as the ‘Cachar Levy,’ the Assam Rifles has evolved through numerous historical events, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the northeastern region.
  • Their contributions span from maintaining law and order to counter-insurgency operations and border security.
  • They also perform vital humanitarian aid during natural disasters.

Guardians of the Northeast:

  • The Assam Rifles are deeply integrated with the local communities, fostering trust and cooperation.
  • Their presence ensures stability and security in a region known for its diverse cultures and challenging terrain.

Government Approves Key Initiatives for Livestock, Dairy, and Digital Payments

On March 19, 2025, the government announced major decisions to boost growth across multiple sectors. Here’s a quick overview of the key approvals:

1️⃣ Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission: With an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore, this mission aims to enhance milk production and productivity, directly benefiting farmers by increasing their incomes.

2️⃣ National Program for Dairy Development: Focused on modernizing and expanding dairy infrastructure, the revised program will ensure the sector’s sustained growth and productivity.

3️⃣ Incentive Scheme for BHIM-UPI Transactions: To promote low-value digital payments, small merchants will receive a 0.15% incentive per transaction (up to ₹2,000) at no extra cost, encouraging the adoption of UPI services.

4️⃣ New Ammonia-Urea Fertilizer Plant in Assam: A Brownfield Ammonia-Urea Complex will be established at Namrup, enhancing domestic urea production. This plant will meet the rising fertilizer demand in Northeast India, Bihar, West Bengal, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand.

Bill Gates in India: March 2025 Visit Highlights

Bill Gates visited India in March 2025, focusing on fostering innovation and partnerships in healthcare, agriculture, and AI. Key highlights of his visit include:

March 18, 2025: Gates met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision and India’s progress in digital public infrastructure, including Aadhaar and UPI. They explored the use of AI and technology for solving global challenges.

March 19, 2025: He engaged with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, reviewing collaborative efforts in maternal health, immunization, and sanitation. They also discussed renewed healthcare partnerships.

March 20, 2025: Gates met with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to explore advancements in climate-resilient crops, biofortification, and AI-powered farming.

India and France Conduct 23rd Edition of Naval Exercise VARUNA, March 2025

The Indian Navy and the French Navy conducted the 23rd edition of Exercise VARUNA from March 19 to 22, 2025, reinforcing their longstanding maritime partnership. Launched in 2001, this bilateral exercise has become a symbol of both nations’ commitment to regional and global maritime security.

This year’s drills featured major naval assets, including INS Vikrant and FS Charles de Gaulle, accompanied by fighter jets like MiG-29K and Rafale-M, destroyers, frigates, and an Indian Scorpene-class submarine. The exercise involved air defense drills, mock air-to-air combat, and anti-submarine warfare to enhance operational coordination.

Additional activities, such as surface warfare maneuvers, maritime patrols, and replenishment-at-sea exercises, further bolstered logistical and tactical interoperability.

VARUNA 2025 stands as a testament to the strong defense ties between India and France, promoting a shared vision of a free, open, and secure maritime environment.

Raisina Dialogue 2025: A Global Confluence of Ideas

The 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, took place from March 17 to March 19, 2025, in New Delhi. Organized by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, this flagship event brought together leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world to address pressing global challenges.

Key Highlights:

  • Theme: The 2025 edition was centered around the theme “Kālachakra – People, Peace, and Planet”, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity, sustainability, and global harmony.
  • Inauguration: The event was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon as the chief guest, who delivered the keynote address.
  • Participation: Over 3,500 participants from 125 countries, including ministers, former heads of state, military commanders, industry leaders, academics, and youth, engaged in vibrant discussions.
  • Thematic Pillars: The dialogue revolved around six key areas:
  1. Politics Interrupted: Shifting political dynamics and rising global challenges.
  2. Resolving the Green Trilemma: Addressing environmental sustainability.
  3. Digital Planet: Governance in the digital age.
  4. Militant Mercantilism: Trade, supply chains, and economic resilience.
  5. The Tiger’s Tale: Reimagining development strategies.
  6. Investing in Peace: Leadership and institutions driving global peace.

India Successfully Tests Astra BVRAAM from LCA AF MK1 Prototype

India has achieved a major milestone in its defense capabilities with the successful test launch of the Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF MK1 prototype on 12 March 2025. The test was conducted off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha, marking a significant step toward the advancement of India’s indigenous defense technology.

Astra Missile Test: A Remarkable Success

The Astra missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully hit a flying target with pinpoint accuracy, demonstrating its advanced capabilities. All subsystems performed optimally, meeting the mission’s parameters and objectives.

Key Features of Astra Missile:

Beyond Visual Range (BVR): Engages targets over 100 km away.
Advanced Guidance & Navigation: Ensures high precision and effectiveness.
Enhances IAF’s Combat Readiness: Already inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF).

A Step Toward LCA AF MK1A Induction

This successful test is a crucial step toward the induction of the LCA AF MK1A variant, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening its indigenous defense systems. The achievement was made possible by the dedicated efforts of ADA, DRDO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), CEMILAC, DG-AQA, IAF, and the test range team.

Leaders Applaud the Achievement

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the teams involved, while Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, praised the collaborative efforts of scientists, engineers, and technicians from multiple organizations and industries.

Nine Indian Universities Among World’s Top 50 in QS Subject Rankings 2025

India has made a remarkable achievement in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with nine prestigious universities securing positions among the world’s top 50 across various disciplines. According to the 15th edition of the QS rankings, announced on March 12, 2025, India celebrates 12 top 50 positions across different subjects and faculty areas.

Top Indian Universities in QS Subject Rankings 2025

Leading the way is the Indian School of Mines (ISM) Dhanbad, which ranks 20th globally in Engineering-Mineral and Mining, making it the highest-ranked subject area for India.

Other notable rankings include:

  • IIT Bombay28th position in Engineering-Mineral and Mining
  • IIT Kharagpur45th position in Engineering-Mineral and Mining
  • IIT Delhi26th position in Engineering and Technology
  • IIT Bombay28th position in Engineering and Technology
  • IIM Ahmedabad27th position in Business and Management Studies
  • IIM Bangalore40th position in Business and Management Studies
  • IIT Madras – Featured in the top 50 for Petroleum Engineering
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) – Featured in the top 50 for Development Studies

India’s Higher Education Growth Reflected in QS Rankings

QS reports that a total of 79 Indian universities, 10 more than last year, have been featured 533 times across the 2025 QS subject rankings. This marks a 25.7% increase compared to the previous edition. India ranks 5th globally for the highest number of new entries, following China, the USA, the UK, and South Korea.

This growth highlights India’s expanding higher education ecosystem, both in terms of size and quality. With an increasing number of Indian institutions making their mark globally, the country continues to establish itself as a hub for world-class education and research.

Why These Rankings Matter?

The QS World University Rankings by Subject are highly regarded worldwide and help students, researchers, and academic institutions assess global educational excellence. India’s strong performance reflects improving academic standards, enhanced research output, and growing global recognition of its institutions.

MCQs on QS World University Rankings 2025

Q: According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, how many Indian universities are among the world’s top 50?

a) 5
b) 7
c) 9
d) 12

Answer: c) 9

Q: Which Indian institution secured the highest rank in the QS Subject Rankings 2025?

a) IIT Bombay
b) IIT Delhi
c) Indian School of Mines (ISM) Dhanbad
d) IIM Ahmedabad

Answer: c) Indian School of Mines (ISM) Dhanbad

Q: Which two IITs ranked in the top 50 for Engineering and Technology?

a) IIT Madras and IIT Delhi
b) IIT Kharagpur and IIT Roorkee
c) IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay
d) IIT Kanpur and IIT Guwahati

Answer: c) IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay

Q: Which Indian institutions ranked in the top 50 for Business and Management Studies?

a) IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore
b) IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay
c) IIM Calcutta and IIM Indore
d) IIT Madras and IIT Kanpur

Answer: a) IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Bangalore

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