Current Affairs

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a major milestone in hypersonic technology by successfully conducting ground testing of an active cooled scramjet subscale combustor for over 1,000 seconds. This test, conducted at DRDL Hyderabad in a new state-of-the-art Scramjet Connect Test Facility, builds on a previous 120-second test in January.

The achievement brings India closer to developing a full-scale flight-worthy scramjet engine. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO, industry, and academia, calling it a testament to India’s commitment to developing critical hypersonic weapon technologies.

Hypersonic cruise missiles, which travel at speeds over Mach 5, rely on air-breathing propulsion systems like scramjets, and this test validates both the long-duration combustor design and the new testing infrastructure.

The National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025–26 was launched on 24 April 2025 in New Delhi, marking the start of World Immunisation Week. The campaign aims to eliminate Measles and Rubella by 2026 by ensuring 100% immunisation coverage with two vaccine doses for children.

Health Minister J. P. Nadda, launching the campaign virtually, noted that 332 districts reported zero measles cases and 487 districts zero rubella cases from January to March 2025. He urged public involvement (Jan Bhagidari) and the participation of MLAs, MPs, and local leaders to spread awareness.

Measles and Rubella are highly infectious viral diseases that can lead to serious health issues or death. Under the Universal Immunisation Programme, vaccines are provided free of cost at 9–12 months and 16–24 months of age. In 2024, India recorded a 73% drop in Measles and a 17% drop in Rubella cases compared to 2023.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has implemented strong retaliatory measures. On April 23, 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the situation and directed all security forces to remain on high alert.

India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (1960) and shut down the Integrated Check Post at Attari with immediate effect. Additionally, Pakistani nationals are no longer permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), and previously issued SVES visas to them are now cancelled. Pakistani nationals in India under this visa scheme must leave the country within 48 hours.

The CCS highlighted the cross-border links of the terror attack, which coincided with Jammu and Kashmir’s peaceful elections and developmental progress. The attack was condemned strongly, and international support has poured in, with many countries expressing solidarity and a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.

On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, left the nation in shock. Armed militants opened fire on tourists at Baisaran, a scenic meadow, resulting in at least 24 civilian deaths and multiple critical injuries.

The attack, described as one of the worst in recent years, has sparked widespread shock and outrage across India. No group has claimed responsibility yet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cut short his Saudi Arabia visit to return to Delhi and address the situation. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the incident “much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.”

Although Kashmir has experienced a long-running insurgency, attacks specifically targeting tourists are rare, making this tragedy even more alarming.

On April 22, 2025, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) officially announced the final results of the Civil Services Examination 2024. This prestigious exam, known for its rigorous selection process, determines candidates for key administrative positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and other central services.

Highlights of the Results:

• Top Ranker: Shakti Dubey secured the first position.
• Diversity in Selection: Among the successful candidates, 11 women made it to the top 25.
• Muslim Representation: A total of 26 Muslim candidates featured among the toppers.
• Complete List: The full list of successful candidates is available online.

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is widely regarded as one of the toughest exams in India, requiring years of preparation and dedication. The announcement of results marks a significant milestone for aspirants who have worked tirelessly to achieve their dreams of serving the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia on April 22, 2025, aiming to strengthen the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. In his departure statement, he highlighted the importance of India-Saudi Arabia ties, which now encompass defence, trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people connections.

PM Modi emphasized his intent to engage with the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia and attend the 2nd Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council, building on Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s 2023 visit to India.

He is set to arrive in Jeddah, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the commercial hub in over 40 years. The visit includes a factory tour and interaction with Indian workers.

India’s investments in Saudi Arabia reached around USD 3 billion by August 2023, spanning key sectors like IT, telecom, pharmaceuticals, construction, and consultancy, underlining the countries’ deepening economic cooperation.

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.

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.

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.