Daily Current Affairs Quiz
24&25 August, 2025
National Affairs
1. Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS)
Context:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the first flight tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), a key project under Mission Sudarshan Chakra. This marks a significant step towards India’s goal of developing an indigenous, multi-layered air defence shield.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra:
- Launched on the 79th Independence Day.
- Aims to build an indigenous Iron Dome-like air defence system by 2035.
- Focused on protecting critical civil and defence infrastructure with rapid, precise counterstrike capabilities.
Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS):
What it is?
- A multi-layered, network-centric air defence system developed by DRDO under Project Sudarshan Chakra.
- Integrates Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), and Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) into a unified command system.
- Developed by: Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
Aim
- To provide comprehensive protection for military and critical national assets: airbases, radar sites, command centres, nuclear and space installations, power plants.
- To counter modern aerial threats including high-speed aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, swarm UAVs, and loitering munitions.
2. ISRO Successfully Conducts First Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-1)
Context:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) to validate the parachute-based recovery system of the Gaganyaan crew module, a crucial milestone in India’s first human spaceflight programme.
ISRO Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01)
What it is?
- A specialised air-drop test to validate the end-to-end parachute recovery system of the Gaganyaan crew module.
- Conducted using a dummy crew capsule (~5 tonnes) dropped from an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter.
- Developed by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Aim
- To demonstrate the reliability and sequencing of parachutes required to slow and stabilise the crew module during re-entry and splashdown.
- To ensure astronaut safety during the descent and landing phases, the most critical stage of human spaceflight.
3. Global Warming Curtailing Workers’ Productivity: WHO-WMO Report
Context:
A joint report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns that rising global temperatures are increasingly harming workers’ health and reducing productivity worldwide.
Key Highlights:
- Rising Heat Levels: 2024 was the hottest year on record; daytime temperatures of 40°C–50°C are becoming more frequent.
- Health Impact: Workers face higher risks of heatstroke, dehydration, kidney dysfunction, and other heat-related illnesses.
- Economic Impact: Productivity drops 2–3% for every degree above 20°C, making this not just a health issue but also an economic challenge.
- Affected Sectors: Outdoor manual labourers in construction, agriculture, and fisheries are the most impacted.
- Geographical Scope: Impacts are global, not limited to equatorial nations; nearly half of the world’s population faces adverse effects of heat.
- Proposed Solutions:
- Adjusting work hours to avoid peak midday heat.
- Encouraging “siesta culture” in temperate regions.
- Workplace policies to mitigate heat exposure.
4. Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR) Becomes India’s 2nd-Largest Tiger Reserve
Context:
National Board of Wildlife (NBWL), led by the Union minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, approved the West Bengal government’s proposal to increase the area of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR). STR has become India’s second-largest tiger reserve. Total area now: 3,629.57 sq km, up from its previous rank of seventh in size among tiger reserves.
Significance
- Part of India’s Project Tiger network.
- Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Globally important for the mangrove–tiger ecosystem, combining rich biodiversity with unique mangrove habitats.
Establishment
- Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973 under the first phase of Project Tiger.
- Designated a Biosphere Reserve in 1989.
- Recognized by UNESCO in 2001.
Banking/Finance
1. SEBI Proposes Closing Auction Session (CAS) for Derivative Stocks
Context:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed introducing a Closing Auction Session (CAS) initially for stocks deriving from derivatives to streamline and stabilize how closing prices are determined in the stock market.
Closing Auction Session (CAS)
The Closing Auction Session (CAS) is a process used by stock exchanges to decide the final price of a share at the end of the trading day. It ensures fair price discovery by consolidating buy and sell orders into a single closing price.
Key Features:
- Purpose:
- To arrive at a single closing price for securities.
- Reduce volatility and manipulation during market close.
- How it Works:
- Participants can place buy or sell orders during the CAS period.
- The exchange matches orders at a single equilibrium price where the maximum volume can be traded.
- Any unmatched orders are carried forward to the next trading day (subject to exchange rules).
- Timing:
- Typically occurs in the last few minutes of the trading session.
- Duration may vary by exchange (e.g., NSE CAS runs from 3:30 PM to 3:40 PM for most securities).
- Importance:
- Provides transparent and fair price discovery.
- Reflects the true market value of a security at the close of the trading day.
- Used for portfolio valuations, index calculation, and mutual fund NAVs.
- Exchanges Implementing CAS:
- NSE (National Stock Exchange of India)
- BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange)
2. SEBI Seeks States’ Help to Combat Cyber Fraud in Securities Market
Context:
SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey has urged state governments to collaborate in tackling rising cyber frauds in the securities market, particularly those exploiting social media platforms to mislead investors.
Key Highlights:
- Modus Operandi:
- Fraudsters impersonate registered intermediaries or market experts.
- They create fake profiles, run WhatsApp/Telegram groups as “educational” platforms, and give investment advice.
- SEBI’s Initiatives:
- Proposed state-level working group with police and SEBI officials.
- Offer to train state officials to fight cyber fraud.
- Increased monitoring of unlawful content on social media in collaboration with platforms.
- Action against unregistered investment advisors, research analysts, and “finfluencers”.
- Directives to stock exchanges to curb unauthorised schemes and practices.
Additional Protective Measures
- Verified Social Media Advertising
- Intermediaries are now required to register on social platforms using verified email and mobile numbers, and platforms must verify their credentials before allowing advertising.
- Verified UPI Mechanism
- Launching a new feature, SEBI enables investors to confirm if funds are being transferred to genuine SEBI-registered entities, reducing the risk of falling for impersonation scams.
- SEBIvsSCAM Awareness Campaign
- In collaboration with NSE, SEBI launched the #SEBIvsSCAM initiative, a multimedia drive to educate investors about fraud methods—including spoofed apps, fake advisory content, and phishing attempts.
3. Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
Context:
Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana, launched on August 28, 2014, has become the cornerstone of India’s financial inclusion agenda. It has dramatically expanded access to banking services, especially for rural and marginalized communities, and underpins the JAM (Jan-Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile) trinity enabling direct benefit transfers (DBTs).
- Ministry: Ministry of Finance
Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
Launched on 28 August 2014, PMJDY is the Government of India’s flagship financial inclusion programme aimed at providing universal access to banking services.
Key Objectives
- Ensure access to basic banking services like savings accounts, deposits, withdrawals, remittances, credit, insurance, and pensions.
- Promote financial literacy and encourage formal financial savings.
- Expand Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for subsidies and welfare schemes.
Key Features
- Zero Balance Accounts: No minimum balance required.
- RuPay Debit Card: Provided to account holders with inbuilt accidental insurance cover.
- Overdraft Facility: Up to ₹10,000 available per household after satisfactory account operation.
- Life and Accident Insurance:
- ₹2 lakh accidental insurance cover under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY).
- ₹30,000 life insurance cover for eligible beneficiaries at account opening.
4. Crisil Removes Watch Negative Tag for IndusInd Bank’s Long-Term Ratings
Context:
Rating agency Crisil has removed IndusInd Bank’s long-term debt instruments from the “watch with negative implications” list and reaffirmed the ratings.
Key Highlights:
- Revised Status: Crisil reaffirmed IndusInd Bank’s long-term rating at AA+, removing the Watch Negative tag but maintaining a Negative Outlook.
- Implications:
- Signals restored confidence in the bank’s capital position and governance reforms.
- Likely to reduce borrowing costs and enhance investor sentiment.
- Background Controversy:
- Accounting Irregularities: Undisclosed losses in its derivatives portfolio, leading to inflated profits.
- Management Shakeup: CEO and Deputy CEO resigned following the revelations.
- Regulatory Action:
- RBI mandated external audits and compliance fixes.
- SEBI launched investigations into insider trading by top executives.
- Forensic Probes: Additional lapses found in microfinance arm and asset accounting.
BS
5. SEBI Approves Reclassification of LIC as Public Shareholder in IDBI Bank
Context:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the reclassification of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) as a public shareholder in IDBI Bank following the completion of its strategic disinvestment. SEBI’s clearance enables LIC to be treated as a public shareholder post-divestment.
What changes with this reclassification?
- Loss of Control:
- As a promoter, LIC earlier had significant control over IDBI Bank’s management, policies, and decision-making.
- As a public shareholder, LIC cannot control or influence the bank’s operations.
- Voting Rights Limited:
- LIC’s voting rights will be capped at 10%, meaning it cannot dominate shareholder decisions.
- No Special Rights or Board Seat:
- LIC cannot have special rights such as nominating directors, influencing policy decisions, or having veto powers.
- Stake Reduction:
- LIC must bring down its holding in IDBI Bank to 15% or below within two years.
Why is this important?
- For IDBI Bank: It shows that the government’s strategic disinvestment plan is progressing, turning IDBI into a fully private, professionally managed bank.
- For LIC: It becomes a passive investor, reducing regulatory obligations and control responsibilities.
- For Investors: It boosts market perception, as IDBI will now be seen as a private bank with greater autonomy and potential for growth.
6. South Indian Bank Launches ‘SIB Gold Xpress’
Context:
South Indian Bank has introduced a new gold loan product, ‘SIB Gold Xpress’, aiming to offer quick and transparent credit access.
Target Audience & Advantages:
- Designed for MSMEs, small businesses, and individuals, particularly first-time or “new-to-credit” borrowers.
- Funds can be used for business expansion, working capital, or personal needs, offering fast, credit-helpful solutions.
What’s New:
- Borrowers can get loans worth up to 90% of their pledged gold’s value.
- Loan amounts range from ₹25,000 to ₹25 lakh, with tenures of up to 3 years.
- The process is digital and hassle-free, with zero hidden charges and a nationwide network ensuring convenience and security.
7. IndusInd Bank Signs MoU with NSIC to Boost MSME Credit Delivery
Context:
IndusInd Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of MSME, to enhance financial access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Key Highlights:
- Purpose: To accelerate credit delivery and extend financial support to 6.7+ crore Udyam-registered MSMEs across India.
- Offerings: Customized banking solutions, including working capital, term loans, and structured credit facilities for NSIC-associated MSMEs.
- Scope: Aims to strengthen MSME financing, aiding in business expansion and financial inclusion.
About IndusInd Bank:
- Founded: 1994
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Promoter: Hinduja Group
- Type: Private sector bank
- Offers a diverse portfolio: microfinance, personal loans, commercial vehicle loans, credit cards, and SME loans.
8. SBI Launches Centre of Excellence for MSMEs at Gurugram Academy
Context:
State Bank of India (SBI) has inaugurated a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for MSMEs at its State Bank Academy (SBA) in Gurugram to strengthen the MSME ecosystem through capacity building, research, and industry collaboration.
Key Highlights:
- Purpose:
- Enhance the MSME ecosystem by engaging with promoters, startups, industry associations, academia, government, regulators, and banking professionals.
- Support India’s vision of becoming a developed nation.
- Strategic Importance:
- Promotes continuous innovation, deep engagement with fintechs and startups, and better access to credit.
- Strengthens SBI’s position as a key driver of MSME growth in India.
Agriculture
1. VOPPA Regulation Order, 2025
Context:
On August 1, 2025, the Government of India unveiled the Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability (VOPPA) Regulation Order, 2025, replacing the 2011 framework under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. This policy aims to improve oversight and transparency in the edible oil sector, a critical commodity in India’s food supply chain.
Key Features of VOPPA 2025
- Mandatory Producer Registration
- All vegetable oil producers must now register with the Directorate of Sugar and Vegetable Oils in New Delhi, submitting details such as factory location and production capacity.
- Monthly Reporting Requirements
- Registered producers must file detailed monthly reports (by the 15th) on production, stocks, sales, and usage. This tightens supply chain tracking and helps maintain fair retail prices.
- Enhanced Enforcement Powers
- The Director is now empowered to conduct factory inspections, demand information, and seize stocks if false reporting or hoarding is suspected.
- Regulatory Simplification and Clarity
- The amendment brings harmonisation in terminology, aligns definitions (Producer, Vegetable Oil, Director) with relevant laws, removes obsolete references, and streamlines the regulatory text for clarity.
2. Union Government Launches Pilot Project to Boost Fisheries in Kuttanad, Kerala
Context:
Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian, announced a pilot project to enhance livelihood opportunities for fish farmers in the Kuttanad region of Kerala. The decision was taken at a consultative meeting held at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi.
Key Highlights:
- Objective: Enhance income and livelihood for fish farmers in Kuttanad.
- Scope of the Project:
- Promote modern and traditional aquaculture practices, including:
- Integrated fish farming
- Cage fish farming
- “One fish, one paddy” sustainable initiative
- Biofloc fish farming
- Promote modern and traditional aquaculture practices, including:
- Formation of Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs) to empower local communities and streamline operations.
- Extensive training programs to build technical skills in aquaculture.
- Encouragement of startups for post-harvest activities like processing, cleaning, packing, and trade of fish.
Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs)
- FFPOs are collectives of fish farmers, structured as companies, where members come together to improve production, marketing, and income.
- Aim to empower small and marginal fish farmers by pooling resources and providing collective bargaining power.
Science & Tech
1. ICMR Launches Portable Brain Injury Diagnostic Device ‘CEREBO’
Context:
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has introduced CEREBO, a portable, non-invasive diagnostic device aimed at reducing mortality and disability due to traumatic brain injuries (TBI), particularly in rural and resource-limited settings.
About CEREBO:
- Technology: Uses near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) powered by machine learning.
- Features:
- Detects intracranial bleeding and edema in under a minute.
- Radiation-free, low-cost, and colour-coded results.
- Safe for infants and pregnant women.
- Operable by paramedical staff/unskilled personnel after 30 minutes of training.
- Deployment: Designed for ambulances, trauma centres, rural clinics, and disaster response units.
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Facts To Remember
1. India sweeps mixed air rifle gold medals
It was a sweep of the air rifle mixed team gold medals for India as it won the three events, including juniors and youth, in the 16th Asian shooting championship in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
2. Chikitha, Sharvari strike gold
Chikitha Taniparthi became the first Indian compound archer to win the women’s under-21 individual title at the World youth archery championships in Winnipeg, Canada.
3. Aishwary Pratap wins gold in rifle 3-position event
Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar beat the qualification topper Zhao Wenyu (587) of China by half-a-point to clinch the gold in the 50-metre rifle 3-position event in the 16th Asian shooting championship in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
4. Webb Telescope Finds Hidden Uranus Moon
Nasa announced the discovery of a previously undetected moon orbiting Uranus on Aug 20, bringing the number of known satellites orbiting the icy planet to 29.
5. SpaceX set for 10th Starship launch
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is set to launch its massive Starship rocket for a tenth time from Texas to achieve several long-sought development milestones missed due to past tests ending in early failures.
6. RBI Approves SMBC to Acquire up to 24.99% Stake in Yes Bank
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval to Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) to acquire up to 24.99% stake in Yes Bank.
7. CISF launches its first all-women commando unit to boost gender parity
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its first all-women commando unit to boost gender parity. Training is underway at the Regional Training Centre in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh.
8. INS Kadmatt Completes Port Call at Surabaya, Indonesia
Indian Naval Ship Kadmatt has successfully completed a three-day port call at Surabaya in Indonesia. In a statment. Ministry of Defence said that the port call reinforces long-standing maritime partnership between India and Indonesia under the shared vision of Partnership Across Sea.
