Current Affairs - July 26, 2025 Current Affairs

India’s first hydrogen-powered train coach was successfully tested at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai on July 25, 2025. This pioneering effort is a key milestone in India's transition to green transportation under its “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative. The hydrogen-powered coach represents a cleaner alternative to diesel engines, producing zero tailpipe emissions and only releasing water vapour. ICF’s role in developing this coach reflects the nation's growing capabilities in clean energy technology and its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The project aligns with global trends and enhances India’s standing in sustainable rail innovation.

Sri Lanka has decided to expand its free visa policy to include citizens from 40 countries as a strategy to boost tourism and support its ongoing economic recovery. The policy, which has already been in effect since March 2023 for countries like India, China, Russia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan, received recent cabinet approval for broader implementation. By easing entry requirements for tourists, Sri Lanka aims to attract more international visitors and generate vital foreign exchange, which plays a crucial role in revitalising its post-crisis economy and strengthening the tourism sector.

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have successfully developed an eco-friendly composite material by utilising ‘Bambusa tulda’, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Northeast India. This innovative material has been created by combining bamboo with biodegradable polymers, resulting in a sustainable alternative suitable for use in automobile applications. The development aligns with global efforts to reduce plastic usage and promote green technologies in manufacturing. By leveraging the natural strength and renewability of bamboo, the project not only addresses environmental concerns but also showcases the potential of indigenous resources in driving technological innovation in India.

Joe Root has emerged as the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket history with a remarkable tally of 13,409 runs. This puts him ahead of legendary cricketers such as Rahul Dravid (13,288), Jacques Kallis (13,289), and Ricky Ponting (13,378). The only player ahead of Root is India’s Sachin Tendulkar, who leads with an unmatched 15,921 Test runs. Root’s achievement underscores his consistency and excellence in the longest format of the game and cements his place among the greats of cricket.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 to honour the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who fought during the Kargil War in 1999. This war involved reclaiming key positions in the Kargil sector of Ladakh from Pakistani infiltrators. The day serves as a reminder of India’s military prowess and the resilience of its armed forces under challenging conditions. In 2025, the nation observed the 26th anniversary of this historic victory, paying tribute to those who gave their lives defending the country’s territorial integrity.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives, India and the Maldives signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and three agreements covering key areas such as fisheries and aquaculture, digital solutions, and the recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia. The visit also marked the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence. Additionally, India extended a Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crore to support various developmental projects in the Maldives. These initiatives highlight the strategic and diplomatic significance of India’s relationship with the island nation in the Indian Ocean region.

Dr. V Narayanan, the current Chairman of ISRO and Secretary of the Department of Space, was honoured with the GP Birla Memorial Award in 2025. The award recognises his exceptional contributions to India's space programme, particularly in advancing cryogenic propulsion systems and leading landmark missions like Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1. His leadership has significantly elevated India’s status in global space research. Conferred by the GP Birla Archaeological, Astronomical and Scientific Institute, this prestigious award celebrates individuals who have made notable impacts in science and education, further placing Dr. Narayanan alongside some of India’s most renowned scientific minds.

A major new study has found that vitamin D deficiency may play a significant role in the development of psychological and neurodevelopmental conditions. The research highlights that low vitamin D levels are not only a personal health concern but also a biological factor that can be passed down through generations, potentially affecting brain development as well as bone health. Conducted in Denmark, the study's conclusions are also consistent with clinical observations in countries like India. This reinforces the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels, especially during pregnancy and early childhood, to support both mental and physical health.

Prof Uma Kanjilal made history in 2025 by becoming the first woman Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, the world’s largest open university. With over 36 years of experience in Open and Distance Learning (ODL), she has played a pivotal role in India’s digital education landscape. Her leadership in national initiatives like SWAYAM and SWAYAM PRABHA has been central to advancing accessible and technology-driven education. Before her appointment, she served in several academic and administrative positions, including as Pro Vice Chancellor and Acting VC. Her elevation is a landmark achievement for gender equity in higher education and a major step toward digitally inclusive learning in India.

‘Bold Kurukshetra 2025’ is a bilateral joint military exercise conducted between India and Singapore, aimed at enhancing urban warfare capabilities, counter-terrorism readiness, and joint tactical operations. Held in the desert terrain of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, the exercise showcases the growing strategic defence partnership between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces. It features advanced combat simulations, use of modern technology, and real-time strategic coordination to strengthen interoperability. This exercise is part of broader military cooperation that includes naval and air engagements like SIMBEX and Joint Air Training, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to regional security and Indo-Pacific stability.