Current Affairs - National

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹5,200 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, on 22 August 2025. The initiatives included major metro network extensions such as the Noapara–Jai Hind Bimanbandar line for direct airport access, the Sealdah–Esplanade line reducing travel time drastically, and the Beleghata–Hemanta Mukhopadhyay section enhancing IT hub connectivity. Alongside these, he laid the foundation for the six-lane elevated Kona Expressway, expected to boost trade, tourism, and logistics. These projects highlight Kolkata’s transformation into a modern urban mobility hub while strengthening its historical role in India’s economic development.

Air India has entered into a collaboration with Indian Oil to promote sustainable aviation practices through the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This partnership is significant as Indian Oil recently became the first Indian company to achieve ISCC CORSIA certification for SAF production at its Panipat Refinery, meeting international emission standards. The agreement between Air India and Indian Oil marks an important step in reducing the carbon footprint of India’s aviation sector. It highlights the industry’s commitment to adopting greener technologies, aligning with global environmental goals, and contributing toward long-term climate sustainability.

The SASCI scheme, with a sanctioned outlay of ₹3,295.76 crore, is primarily aimed at boosting tourism development in India, particularly by promoting lesser-known but iconic destinations. The initiative focuses on creating comprehensive and responsible tourism experiences through 100% central funding support. Projects are selected using a challenge-based model to ensure quality, transparency, and long-term sustainability. These projects cover heritage restoration, eco-tourism, spiritual site development, and modern tourist amenities. By enhancing connectivity, infrastructure, and visitor facilities, the scheme significantly increases the attractiveness of such destinations, generating employment opportunities and uplifting local economies while fostering sustainable growth.

India signed the Terms of Reference with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to begin negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement. The EAEU comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and Russia. This agreement lays the groundwork for boosting bilateral trade, supporting MSMEs, and diversifying India’s market access in Eurasia. With bilateral trade already reaching USD 69 billion in 2024, the FTA is expected to further accelerate growth across sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT services, textiles, machinery, and agriculture. Strengthening these ties not only enhances India’s trade prospects but also deepens its strategic and economic footprint in the Eurasian region.

A total of 34 Indian students were flagged off to take part in the Sakura Science Programme 2025 held in Japan. This initiative, launched in 2014 by Japan and joined by India in 2016, is organised by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). The programme encourages international youth exchange in science and technology, fostering collaboration and mutual learning among young participants. Apart from India, countries such as Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, and other Asian nations are also part of this initiative, making it a significant platform for global scientific cooperation and cultural exchange.