Current Affairs - April 24, 2025 Current Affairs

The Modi Memento Museum was recently launched in the state of Bihar by entrepreneur Yamuna Sikariya from Motihari. This unique museum showcases 56 souvenirs that were gifted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and later auctioned. The proceeds from these auctions support the Namami Gange initiative, a key environmental project aimed at rejuvenating the Ganga River. The museum not only celebrates Modi’s leadership and policies but also aligns with environmental sustainability efforts. Bihar’s role in hosting such a tribute highlights the state’s engagement with national initiatives and cultural commemoration.

Project SeaCURE is a UK pilot initiative focused on combating climate change by improving the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide. The project works by extracting CO₂ directly from seawater through a chemical process that acidifies the water, causing the CO₂ to be released and captured before it can re-enter the atmosphere. This innovative technique leverages the ocean’s natural carbon sink capacity and aims to offer a scalable, cost-effective method to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels. If successful, it could become a vital tool in the global effort to mitigate climate change.

The Davis Strait proto-microcontinent was discovered between Greenland and Canada, buried beneath the Davis Strait. This landmass is composed of thick continental crust and originated during the tectonic separation of Greenland and North America. The finding enhances our understanding of how lithospheric structures influence plate tectonics and opens up the possibility that microcontinents may be more widespread than previously believed. The identification of this microcontinent contributes significantly to geological studies, offering insights into the ancient processes that shaped the Earth's crust in the North Atlantic region.

The Pink E-Rickshaw Initiative was launched in Maharashtra with the aim of empowering women by providing them with sustainable and affordable livelihood opportunities. Spearheaded by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the initiative began in Pune and is now expanding to eight districts across the state. It targets women from vulnerable groups, such as widows, divorcees, and those from low-income households, by offering them electric rickshaws along with financial assistance. The program includes subsidies from both central and state governments, loan support, and training—making it a comprehensive effort to combine women’s empowerment with green transportation.

The 10th Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 24, was officially inducted into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. These barges play a crucial role in transporting ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles to various naval platforms. Designed by M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd from Thane, the barge represents an effort to strengthen Indigenous defence manufacturing and enhance logistics capability. The delivery of LSAM 24 continues a series of successful inductions, with additional contracts aimed at encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the defence sector.

National Panchayati Raj Day is observed every year on April 24 to honour and promote the Panchayati Raj system in India, which was constitutionally recognized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1993. This system empowers local self-governance through a three-tier structure—Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad—ensuring inclusive and participatory development at the village, block, and district levels. First celebrated in 2010 as declared by then Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, the day recognizes the critical role Panchayats play in grassroots democracy. In 2025, the occasion also included Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bihar to launch development projects.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) commemorated its 131st foundation day on April 12, 2025, by unveiling 34 new products and services aimed at enhancing digital operations, financial inclusion, and customer engagement. Established in 1895 in Lahore as part of the Swadeshi Movement, PNB has played a pioneering role in Indian banking history. The foundation day event was attended by Financial Services Secretary M. Nagaraju and featured initiatives like tailored deposit schemes for various demographics, an AI-powered chat assistant named “Pihu,” and advanced digital infrastructure upgrades. These steps reaffirm PNB’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity in financial services.

T. Rabi Sankar has been re-appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for another year beginning May 3, 2025. This is his second extension since his initial appointment in May 2021. As Deputy Governor, he oversees key departments including foreign exchange, currency management, and government accounts. His continued role signals the government's confidence in his leadership and expertise in managing critical aspects of the Indian financial system. His re-appointment is essential to maintaining continuity in these sensitive areas within the RBI.

The international conference SEFCO-2025 was inaugurated at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum in Dehradun. This major event focuses on sustainable energy and chemicals under the theme "Catalysing a Sustainable Future with Affordable Energy and Chemicals." It brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss innovative approaches for addressing energy challenges and shaping a sustainable future. Dehradun, as the host city, reinforces its role in promoting scientific research and environmental progress. The event continues the legacy of the first SEFCO conference held in 2017, highlighting its growing significance in global energy discourse.

A 1% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) has been introduced on luxury goods priced above ₹10 lakh, as per the provisions of the Finance Act, 2024. This includes high-end items such as luxury watches, designer handbags, and yachts. The new tax is effective from April 22 and aims to increase oversight of high-value transactions while promoting financial transparency. It also mandates that sellers comply with TCS regulations and requires buyers to undergo stricter KYC procedures. This initiative is a part of the government’s broader strategy to track and regulate luxury spending in the economy.

World Book and Copyright Day are celebrated annually on April 23, honouring the importance of books, reading, and copyright protection. This day encourages global readership and highlights the significant role of literature in fostering education, cultural diversity, and intellectual property rights. The date also marks the anniversaries of famous literary figures like William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. In 2025, the theme focuses on the role of literature in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underlining how books and stories can inspire positive social change and awareness of global challenges such as poverty and inequality.