Current Affairs - International

India sent $1 million worth of machinery to Suriname to boost the Passion fruit industry as part of its development partnership with the country. This initiative is aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Suriname. This step highlights India's involvement in agricultural development across various countries. Suriname, located in South America, benefits from India's assistance in improving its agricultural infrastructure.

Finland has been ranked as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year, according to the 2024 World Happiness Report. India is ranked 118th in the 2025 report, reflecting challenges in areas like social support and economic disparity. This ranking is based on various factors such as social trust, economic stability, life expectancy, and freedom to make life choices. Despite challenges like increased geopolitical tensions due to its proximity to Russia, Finland continues to maintain high levels of happiness among its citizens, demonstrating the importance of social support and trust in contributing to overall well-being.

The "Frontier Seed" program was launched by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to promote private sector growth and economic resilience in the Pacific region. The initiative focuses on strengthening local capital markets and supporting sustainable business ventures. ADB's initial commitment of $4 million, along with support from international partners, aims to foster economic growth, attract investment, and create jobs. This program aligns with ADB's broader mission to support sustainable infrastructure and regional development across its member countries.

India and New Zealand have officially launched negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to strengthen their bilateral relations and boost economic cooperation. This agreement aims to enhance supply chain integration, expand market access, and promote economic resilience for both nations. The FTA negotiations were announced in March 2025 during a meeting between Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay. This agreement marks India's second FTA in the Oceania region, following the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement signed in 2022.

In 2025, the United States has reported over 300 cases of measles, a highly contagious viral disease. Measles can lead to severe complications such as blindness, pneumonia, and death, particularly due to Vitamin A deficiency. The disease spreads through airborne transmission, and vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is the key preventive measure.