Current Affairs - July 9, 2025 Current Affairs

Coartem is the first-ever malaria drug that has been approved for use specifically in newborns and very young children, marking a significant milestone in the fight against malaria. Developed by Novartis, this drug received approval from Swiss authorities and aims to reduce the high mortality rate of malaria among infants, particularly in Africa, where the majority of malaria-related deaths occur. In 2023 alone, malaria caused over half a million deaths worldwide, highlighting the critical need for targeted treatments like Coartem to protect the most vulnerable populations.

The Uttar Pradesh Agritech Innovation Hub was inaugurated in Meerut at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT) by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alongside Minister of State Jayant Chaudhary. This state-of-the-art hub is part of a strategic initiative to revolutionise Indian agriculture through next-generation technologies like IoT-enabled devices, real-time analytics, and smart irrigation systems. By situating the hub in Meerut, the government aims to empower local farmers, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen collaboration among agricultural institutions, startups, and rural communities—ultimately contributing to a self-reliant, technologically advanced farming ecosystem.

Amaravati has been designated as the site for India’s first Quantum Valley under the Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration (AQVD), officially approved by the Government of Andhra Pradesh. This initiative aims to transform the city into a global hub for quantum technologies, aligning closely with India’s National Quantum Mission. By focusing on deep-tech advancements, Amaravati is expected to become a centre for research, innovation, and development in quantum computing, communication, and sensing. This strategic move not only places Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of cutting-edge technology but also contributes to India's broader scientific and technological leadership on the global stage.

HCLSoftware, the software division of HCLTech, launched Domino 14.5 with Domino IQ, a sovereign AI platform focused on ensuring data sovereignty and privacy for governments and regulated sectors. This platform is specifically designed to prevent foreign surveillance by keeping sensitive data within national boundaries. As nations increasingly update their data protection laws, tools like Domino IQ become vital for secure and autonomous digital governance. The launch also complements HCLTech’s broader strategy of promoting AI adoption through sovereign and global frameworks, including its collaboration with OpenAI, to meet various enterprise-level data and security demands.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, Brazil’s highest civilian honour. This prestigious award, presented by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, acknowledges Modi’s contributions to strengthening bilateral ties between India and Brazil and enhancing India’s presence on the global stage. It symbolises Brazil’s appreciation for India’s role in global diplomacy and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in multilateral platforms such as BRICS and G20. This honour not only recognizes an individual achievement but also marks the growing strategic and diplomatic collaboration between the two democratic nations.

Hardeep Singh Brar has been named the new President and CEO of BMW Group India, with his appointment taking effect from 1 September 2025. He will succeed Vikram Pawah, who is transitioning to lead BMW’s operations in Australia and New Zealand. With over three decades of experience in the Indian automotive industry, Hardeep Singh brings deep expertise in sales, marketing, and business strategy. His leadership is expected to further BMW’s growth in the Indian market, which is becoming increasingly important for the company's global expansion, especially in areas like electric mobility and premium automotive services.

Bihar has introduced a significant policy reserving 35% of state government jobs exclusively for women who are domiciled in Bihar. This marks a shift from the earlier system that allowed women from any state to benefit from the reservation. The policy aims to enhance women's participation in governance and prioritise local candidates in public employment. Alongside this, the Bihar cabinet has also approved the establishment of the Bihar Youth Commission to support skill development, employment, and educational opportunities for the state's youth. These decisions are viewed as critical steps toward inclusive development and empowerment within Bihar.

The successful user trials of the indigenous Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) were conducted from INS Kavaratti, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ERASR enhances India's underwater combat capabilities by accurately detecting and neutralising enemy submarines. The tests, carried out between June 23 and July 7, 2025, involved 17 rockets fired at varying distances to verify performance under operational conditions. INS Kavaratti’s role in these trials highlights its strategic importance and reflects India’s growing focus on self-reliance in cutting-edge defence technology and naval warfare systems.

Vatsala, Asia’s oldest elephant, passed away at over 100 years of age in the Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, on July 8, 2025. Originally from the Nilambur forests of Kerala, she was relocated to Madhya Pradesh in the 1970s and became a central figure in tiger tracking and forest patrol at Panna National Park. Even after retirement in 2003, she remained active in conservation efforts by mentoring younger elephants. Panna Tiger Reserve, known for its success in tiger reintroduction after facing extinction from poaching, gained further prominence through Vatsala’s iconic presence and contribution to wildlife conservation in the region.

Bulgaria will officially join the eurozone on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member to adopt the euro as its official currency. The European Union finance ministers gave final approval for this move on July 8, 2025. Bulgaria will replace its national currency, the lev, at a fixed rate of 1.95583 lev per euro. The adoption of the euro is expected to improve economic stability, enhance integration with Western Europe, and shield the country from external influences. Despite internal political challenges and public concerns, the Bulgarian government views this as a landmark moment in the nation’s economic development.

Sabih Khan has been appointed as Apple’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO), taking over from Jeff Williams, who is set to retire. With nearly 30 years at Apple, Khan has played a crucial role in managing global supply chains and driving operational excellence. He holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics, and his career includes notable experience at GE Plastics before joining Apple in 1995. As Senior Vice President of Operations, he helped Apple navigate major global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical disruptions. His elevation reflects Apple’s focus on operational resilience and strategic leadership amid shifting global dynamics.

Haryana has announced that it will build Asia’s largest jungle safari in the Aravalli Hills, covering approximately 10,000 acres of forest land. This ambitious project aims to protect wildlife, promote eco-tourism, and create employment opportunities for local communities. The initiative is being closely monitored by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and supported by both the Forest and Tourism Departments. By using modern, eco-friendly technology and drawing inspiration from successful models like the Vantara Wildlife Facility in Gujarat, Haryana hopes to lead the way in environmental conservation and green development. The project reflects a balanced approach to tourism and ecological preservation.

The Mukhya Mantri Sehat Yojana was launched by the state of Punjab under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The scheme aims to provide cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh annually for every family in the state, including beneficiaries of existing central health schemes. This initiative ensures that healthcare is accessible to nearly 3 crore residents across government and private hospitals. By distributing digital health cards and eliminating previous colour-coded card systems, the scheme simplifies access to treatment for over 2000 diseases, making it one of the most comprehensive healthcare programs in India.

Adani Power Ltd acquired the 600 MW Vidarbha Unit, located in Nagpur, Maharashtra, for ₹4,000 crore through the insolvency resolution process. This acquisition, completed on July 7, 2025, was approved by the National Company Law Tribunal and adds significantly to the company’s growing energy portfolio. The Vidarbha Unit, formerly operated by Vidarbha Industries Power Ltd, consists of two 300 MW units powered by domestic coal. This strategic purchase increases Adani Power’s total operating capacity to 18,150 MW, reinforcing its position as India’s largest private thermal power producer and aligning with its target of reaching 30,670 MW by 2030.