Current Affairs - April 15, 2025 Current Affairs

Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals in Hyderabad, received the prestigious ‘Legends of Endoscopy’ award at the Tokyo Live Global Endoscopy 2025 event held at SHOWA Medical University Koto Toyosu Hospital, Tokyo. The award, presented by the Japanese gastroenterology community, acknowledges his pioneering contributions to the field of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. Dr. Reddy’s live demonstrations of complex procedures at the event highlighted his expertise and reinforced India’s leadership in minimally invasive medical innovations. This recognition not only honours his personal achievements but also reflects the growing global stature of Indian medical professionals in advanced healthcare domains.

The Odisha University (Amendment) Act was enacted in 2024 and introduced significant reforms in the state's higher education system. These reforms include granting universities autonomy in their recruitment processes, introducing a new method for appointing Vice-Chancellors with an increased age limit of up to 70 years, and re-establishing the Senate within universities. The year 2024 is critical as it marks the beginning of these transformative changes aimed at improving academic governance and institutional efficiency in Odisha's university system.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) conducted a study to develop "venom maps" for Russell's viper, one of the most venomous snakes in India. By integrating local climate data, researchers were able to predict regional variations in venom composition, which can significantly impact the effectiveness of antivenom treatment. These venom maps are intended to assist healthcare professionals in administering more targeted and effective treatment to snakebite victims. This research also contributes to a better understanding and conservation of the species, which is listed as protected wildlife under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport was ranked as the 9th busiest airport in the world in 2024 by Airports Council International (ACI) World. This ranking is based on actual passenger traffic data, with the airport handling 77 million passengers during the year. The steady climb from 17th in 2019 to 9th in 2024 demonstrates the airport's rising global prominence, driven by improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and strong growth in India’s aviation sector. It remains the only Indian airport in the global top 10, highlighting its role as a major international hub and reflecting the broader expansion of air travel in the region.

Nagaland launched its Solar Mission under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to support the adoption of rooftop solar power systems. This initiative is aligned with the central government’s PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and offers generous subsidies—up to 96% for 2kW systems and 85% for 3kW systems. The state government has earmarked ₹10 crore for the mission in the financial year 2025–26. The program is a strategic push to make solar energy accessible and affordable, helping households reduce their electricity bills while promoting sustainable and green energy solutions in the state.

Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power, entered into a power purchase agreement with NTPC Ltd for the development of a 200 MW renewable energy project. This partnership significantly boosts TPREL's total renewable utility capacity to 10.9 GW. The project is expected to generate approximately 1,300 million units of electricity annually and is planned to be implemented across various locations in India over the next 24 months. The collaboration represents a strong step toward India's clean energy goals and reflects Tata Power’s commitment to expanding its green energy footprint.

World Art Day is celebrated annually on April 15 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci, a Renaissance icon known for his extraordinary contributions to art and science. The date symbolizes the enduring influence of creativity and serves as a tribute to both legendary and emerging artists across the globe. Initiated in 2012 by the International Association of Art (IAA) and supported by UNESCO, the observance promotes art as a tool for emotional well-being, social cohesion, and freedom of expression. The 2025 theme, “Art for Unity and Healing,” emphasizes art’s role in fostering unity and mental health worldwide.

The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 is a landmark event for Bihar, as the state is hosting the prestigious sports festival for the first time from May 4 to May 15, 2025. The event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Patna and symbolically launched by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. With a vibrant logo and mascot inspired by the region’s cultural and historical richness—such as the Gajsingh figure from Pala-period temples and elements like Madhubani art and Chhath Puja—the Games aim to boost youth involvement in sports and enhance Bihar’s sports infrastructure and cultural pride.

Meghalaya was honoured with two national awards by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on April 8, 2025, for outstanding performance in Aadhaar implementation. The awards recognized the state’s achievements in two critical areas: biometric updates for children and verification of adult Aadhaar enrolment. Despite facing public protests in Shillong over mandatory Aadhaar linkage, the state demonstrated strong administrative coordination and commitment to the digital identity rollout. Shai Kupar War, the nodal officer from the General Administration Department, accepted the awards, reflecting Meghalaya’s leadership in driving inclusive and secure digital governance initiatives across its population.

Crisil has projected India’s GDP growth rate for the financial year 2025–26 at 6.5%. This projection reflects optimism backed by factors like expected monetary easing, tax relief, and a favourable monsoon, which could stimulate agricultural output and consumption. Despite these positive indicators, the forecast includes caution over potential risks such as increased US tariffs that may affect global investor confidence and reduce investment inflows. On the upside, lower crude oil prices and stronger domestic demand are anticipated to bolster economic momentum, making the 6.5% estimate a balanced outlook amidst both opportunities and external challenges.

Shreyas Iyer was honoured with the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for March 2025 due to his exceptional performance during India’s victorious campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy. Scoring 243 runs across three crucial matches, Iyer consistently delivered under pressure, including a match-winning 48 in the final against New Zealand. His batting average of 57.33 and a composed strike rate of 77.47 highlighted his reliability and skill. He surpassed fellow nominees Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra to claim the title, marking another accolade for India following Shubman Gill’s win in February. His performance exemplified leadership and calm in high-stakes situations.