April 2025

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 3 April 2025

Q. By how much has NHAI increased toll charges on highways and expressways from April 1, 2025?

A) 2-3%
B) 4-5%
C) 6-7%
D) 8-10%

Show Answer
Answer: B) 4-5%
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.

Q. Where is the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held on April 4, 2025?

A) New Delhi, India
B) Colombo, Sri Lanka
C) Bangkok, Thailand
D) Dhaka, Bangladesh

Show Answer
Answer: C) 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.

Q. When was the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 passed in the Lok Sabha?

a) March 31, 2025
b) April 2, 2025
c) April 5, 2025
d) April 10, 2025

Show Answer
Answer: b) April 2, 2025
The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 on April 2, 2025, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The House also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill 2024, repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act 1923.

Q. What is the percentage of the reciprocal tariff effective from April 9, 2025 imposed by Donald Trump on Indian goods?

A. 20%
B. 26%
C. 30%
D. 35%

Show Answer
Ans: B. 26%
Donald Trump’s announcement of a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods has significant implications for India’s economy and trade relations. This tariff, effective from April 9, 2025.

Impact of Donald Trump’s 26% Reciprocal Tariff on Indian Economy

Donald Trump’s announcement of a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods has significant implications for India’s economy and trade relations. This tariff, effective from April 9, 2025, is aimed at countering what Trump described as India’s high tariffs on American goods, which he claimed were as high as 52%.

The sectors most affected include automobiles, IT, and pharmaceuticals, with potential declines in export revenues. For instance, Indian automobile companies like Tata Motors, which exports vehicles to the US, have already seen a drop in stock value. On the other hand, pharmaceutical exports are currently exempt from this tariff, offering some relief to Indian companies.

India is reportedly considering reducing tariffs on $23 billion worth of US imports to mitigate the impact, but no agreement has been finalized yet. The broader economic effects will depend on how long these tariffs remain in place and whether India and the US can negotiate a trade deal to ease tensions.

This move underscores the complexities of global trade and the challenges emerging economies like India face in balancing domestic interests with international trade dynamics.

Lok Sabha Passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 Amid Heated Debate

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 on April 2, 2025, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The House also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill 2024, repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act 1923.

Key Provisions and Government’s Stand:

  • Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved the bill, stating that it focuses solely on Waqf properties and aims to make Waqf Boards more inclusive and transparent.
  • The bill mandates representation from different Muslim sects and women in Waqf Boards.
  • Rijiju criticized the 2013 amendments under the UPA government for allowing misuse of Waqf laws and questioned why, despite India having the highest number of Waqf properties globally, Indian Muslims remain economically disadvantaged.

Opposition’s Criticism:

  • Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi called the bill unconstitutional and alleged it was an attempt to defame minorities and divide society.
  • Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav accused the government of using the bill to divert attention from economic issues like unemployment and inflation.
  • TMC’s Kalyan Banerjee, DMK’s A Raja, and other opposition leaders criticized the bill, calling it anti-minority and an attack on Muslim rights.

Government’s Response:

  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that non-Muslims will not manage Waqf properties, dismissing fears of interference in religious practices.
  • He argued that the bill aims to prevent land mismanagement and enhance transparency, blaming the Congress for past misuses of Waqf-related laws.
  • BJP’s Ravi Shankar Prasad emphasized that the bill promotes gender justice by ensuring women’s representation in Waqf Boards.

Support from Other Parties:

  • TDP’s Krishna Prasad Tenneti supported the bill, highlighting the mismanagement of Waqf properties worth ₹1.2 lakh crore.
  • JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan Singh asserted that the bill ensures justice for all sections of Muslims while curbing misuse of Waqf properties.
  • Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde referred to the legislation as “UMEED” (Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development), aimed at uplifting minorities.

The bill’s passage marks a significant move in reforming Waqf property management, though controversy and political opposition remain strong.

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 2 April 2025

Q. When did the RBI announce the withdrawal of ₹2000 banknotes from circulation?

A) March 31, 2024
B) May 19, 2023
C) October 7, 2023
D) January 1, 2024

Show Answer
Answer: B) May 19, 2023
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that 98.21% of ₹2000 banknotes have been returned to the banking system as on March 31, 2024. On May 19, 2023, the RBI declared the withdrawal of ₹2000 notes from circulation.

Q. How much renewable energy capacity did India add in the 2024-2025 financial year?

A) 18.57 GW
B) 21 GW
C) 25 GW
D) 9 GW

Show Answer
Answer: C) 25 GW
India’s renewable energy sector recorded its highest-ever capacity addition of 25 gigawatts (GW) in the 2024-2025 financial year, marking a 35% increase from the 18.57 GW installed in 2023-24.

Q. Who is the President of Chile visiting India in April 2025?

A) Sebastián Piñera
B) Michelle Bachelet
C) Gabriel Boric Font
D) Ricardo Lagos

Show Answer
Answer: C) Gabriel Boric Font
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.

Q. Which Indian equestrian won first place at the Azelhof CSI Lier competition in 2025?

A) Rohan Bopanna
B) Niharika Singhania
C) Fouaad Mirza
D) Anush Agarwal

Show Answer
Answer: B) Niharika Singhania
On April 1, 2025, young Indian equestrian Niharika Singhania secured first place at the prestigious Azelhof CSI Lier competition in Belgium.

Niharika Singhania Wins Gold at Azelhof CSI Lier Equestrian Competition

On April 1, 2025, young Indian equestrian Niharika Singhania secured first place at the prestigious Azelhof CSI Lier competition in Belgium. Competing against international riders, she showcased exceptional skill and composure.

Niharika participated in the Two Phases special event, riding Hotese Charboniere, and finished with 40.72 and 40.34 penalty points, earning gold.

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 Achieves Record 25 GW Renewable Energy Addition

India’s renewable energy sector recorded its highest-ever capacity addition of 25 gigawatts (GW) in the 2024-2025 financial year, marking a 35% increase from the 18.57 GW installed in 2023-24. Solar energy led the growth, rising from 15 GW to nearly 21 GW, a 38% increase.

New and Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi announced initiatives to decarbonize transportation and households, including mandating bioCNG blending with compressed and piped natural gas. Solar PV cell manufacturing capacity tripled to 9 GW, and the PM KUSUM Scheme showed significant progress. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana benefited 1.1 lakh households and generated 7 lakh jobs.

RBI Reports 98.21% Return of ₹2000 Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that 98.21% of ₹2000 banknotes have been returned to the banking system as on March 31, 2024. On May 19, 2023, the RBI declared the withdrawal of ₹2000 notes from circulation. At that time, ₹3.56 lakh crore worth of ₹2000 notes were in circulation, which has now reduced to ₹6,366 crore as of March 31, 2024.

The deposit and exchange facility at bank branches was available until October 7, 2023, but remains open at 19 RBI issue offices. People can also send ₹2000 notes via India Post for credit to their bank accounts. Despite withdrawal, ₹2000 notes remain legal tender.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 1 April 2025

Q. Who assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 1, 2025?

A) Patricia Scotland
B) Shirley Botchwey
C) Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
D) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Show Answer
Answer: B) Shirley Botchwey
Shirley Botchwey assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 1, 2025, becoming the first African woman to hold the position.

Q. Where will the Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 be held from August 29 to September 7?

A) Patna
B) Rajgir
C) Kolkata
D) Delhi

Show Answer
Answer: B) Rajgir
Rajgir, Bihar, will host the Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7 at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium.

Q. What is the name of the bilateral India-US bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, began in Visakhapatnam on April 1, 2025?

A) Exercise Malabar
B) Exercise Yudh Abhyas
C) Exercise Tiger Triumph
D) Exercise Vajra Prahar

Show Answer
Answer: C) Exercise Tiger Triumph
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.

Q. When did the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) come into effect?

A) January 1, 2025
B) March 31, 2025
C) April 1, 2025
D) April 30, 2025

Show Answer
Answer: C) April 1, 2025
The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees came into effect on April 1, 2025, as an option under the National Pension System (NPS).

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees came into effect on April 1, 2025

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees came into effect on April 1, 2025, as an option under the National Pension System (NPS). The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has issued regulations for its implementation, covering three categories of employees:

  1. Existing central government employees under NPS as of April 1, 2025.
  2. New recruits joining the service on or after April 1, 2025.
  3. Retired employees under NPS who retired on or before April 30, 2025, through regular or voluntary retirement.

Approximately 23 lakh employees are expected to benefit from the scheme. Employees who joined on or after January 1, 2004, can choose to switch from NPS to UPS. Eligible employees can enroll and submit claims through the Protean CRA portal starting April 1.

The UPS offers 50% of the average basic pay drawn in the last 12 months before retirement, provided the employee has completed a minimum of 25 years of service. In the case of the employee’s demise, the family will receive 60% of the pension. The scheme also guarantees a minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month for those with at least 10 years of service.

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.

Rajgir to Host Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7

Rajgir, Bihar, will host the Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7 at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium. This will be the second international event in Rajgir, following the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in 2024.

Eight teams, including India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia, will compete, with two additional teams qualifying through the AHF Cup. South Korea leads the tournament’s history with five titles, while India and Pakistan have won three each.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the event was signed between Hockey India and the Bihar State Sports Authority at the Patliputra Sports Complex. Present at the signing were Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh, Bihar Sports Department’s Additional Chief Secretary B. Rajender, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, and Indian team captain Harmanpreet Singh. Approximately 20,000 spectators are expected, with officials highlighting the tournament’s role in boosting Bihar’s sports infrastructure.

Shirley Botchwey Becomes First African Woman to assume office as Commonwealth Secretary-General

Shirley Botchwey assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 1, 2025, becoming the first African woman to hold the position. With 20 years of leadership experience in diplomacy, international relations, governance, and public service, she previously served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration from 2017 to 2024 and was a member of Ghana’s National Security Council.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, nominated by Commonwealth leaders, serves a maximum of two four-year terms and is responsible for upholding Commonwealth values, representing the organization, and managing the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Scroll to Top