Current Affairs - July 12, 2025 Current Affairs

Harikrishnan A. Ra, a 23-year-old chess player from Chennai, has become India’s 87th Grandmaster after securing his final GM norm at the La Plagne Chess Festival in France. This accomplishment is the result of a 7-year-long journey that began when he became an International Master. His achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects India’s rapid rise in the global chess community. With this title, Harikrishnan joins the ranks of elite Indian chess players, contributing to the country's strong presence in the sport on an international level.

The 'Hem Bahadur Malla Award 2080' was conferred on former Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha, Nepal's 25th Chief Justice, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to judicial leadership, institutional development, transitional justice, inclusive democracy, and environmental justice. The award commemorates Hem Bahadur Malla, founder of the Salt Trading Corporation. Justice Shrestha's work has significantly impacted Nepal's legal and democratic framework, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious honour that celebrates excellence in public service and nation-building.

Italy’s men’s cricket team has created history by qualifying for the 2026 T20 World Cup for the very first time. Led by former Australian Test opener Joe Burns, the team secured its spot through the ICC T20 Men's Europe Region Final. This qualification marks a significant milestone in Italy’s cricketing journey, highlighting the sport's growing global reach. Although the Netherlands topped the qualifying group with an unbeaten run, Italy’s performance was strong enough to earn them a place in the upcoming World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The first Governing Council meeting of the National Cadet Corps Alumni Association (NCCAA) was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. The NCCAA is envisioned as a platform to connect former and current NCC cadets, fostering a spirit of unity and continuity among members of the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation. Holding the meeting in the national capital underlines the importance of the initiative and reflects the government's support for strengthening youth involvement in nation-building. The association is poised to play a significant role in energising and modernising the NCC framework going forward.

India’s first Global Conference on Manuscript Heritage will take place from September 11 to 13, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Culture, this international event aims to protect and promote India’s vast manuscript legacy. The conference will feature over 500 delegates, including global scholars, and will include exhibitions, conservation demonstrations, and workshops. It also marks a symbolic tribute to Swami Vivekananda’s 1893 speech in Chicago by aligning the dates accordingly. A key highlight will be the release of the New Delhi Declaration on Manuscript Heritage, guiding global preservation and research efforts in ancient knowledge.

Curtis Campher, an all-rounder from Ireland, made history by becoming the first male cricketer in professional cricket to claim five wickets in five consecutive deliveries. This extraordinary feat occurred during an Inter-Provincial T20 Trophy match held in Dublin, featuring Munster Reds against North-West Warriors. While Kelis Ndhlovu of Zimbabwe was the first cricketer overall (in women’s cricket) to achieve this milestone, Campher’s record is significant as it marks a first in the men’s game. Such rare accomplishments highlight the unpredictability and excitement of T20 cricket, and Campher’s performance will be remembered as a standout moment in the sport’s history.

The Astra missile, a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) developed indigenously by the DRDO, was successfully test-fired by the Indian Air Force from a Sukhoi-30 Mk-I aircraft over Odisha. This marks a significant advancement in India's self-reliant defence capabilities. The Astra missile boasts a range of over 100 km and incorporates sophisticated guidance and navigation technologies. Odisha has become a key location for missile testing due to its strategic coastal ranges and established defence infrastructure. This test further strengthens the operational readiness and technological edge of India’s air defence systems.

On July 10, 2025, Maharashtra officially recognised Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav as a state festival, marking a significant cultural development. The announcement was made by Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar during a session of the Legislative Assembly. This move ensures government support, promotion, and financial assistance for organising large-scale Ganesh celebrations across the state. Originating in 1893 under the leadership of Lokmanya Tilak, the festival was historically intended to foster unity and nationalism during British rule. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural pride, community spirit, and heritage. Declaring it a state festival elevates its importance and preserves its legacy.

The Indian Army has initiated a high-intensity annual security operation named ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’ to safeguard the Shri Amarnath Yatra. This operation is especially significant due to elevated threats posed by Pakistan-backed proxy groups. It involves meticulous coordination between the Indian Army, civil administration, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. The launch of this operation highlights the strategic importance of the Yatra and the proactive measures taken to neutralise any potential threats to national security and civilian safety.

On July 11, 2025, UNESCO added the Maratha Military Forts of India to its prestigious World Heritage List during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris. This recognition honours 12 historically significant forts built by the Maratha Empire between the 17th and 19th centuries in Tamil Nadu. These forts are spread across various terrains hills, coasts, and plains and showcase strategic military architecture, water conservation systems, and innovative use of natural landscapes. Forts like Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sindhudurg reflect the legacy of leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The inclusion highlights their global cultural value and ensures better preservation and international awareness.