Online Current Affairs Test - Current Affairs Test - Random (Last 4 months)

Kirti Ganorkar has been appointed as the Managing Director of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, effective from September 1, 2025. This leadership change marks a key phase in Sun Pharma’s succession planning, with founder Dilip Shanghvi transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman to focus on strategic oversight. Ganorkar, a long-standing executive who joined the company in 1996, has held various critical roles in business development, marketing, M&A, and project management. Most recently, he led Sun Pharma’s India Business, driving strong market performance. His appointment reflects the company’s commitment to leadership continuity and a strategic focus on sustained global growth.

K Paul Thomas, the Managing Director and CEO of ESAF Small Finance Bank, has been elected as the chairman of Sa-Dhan, an association of microfinance and impact finance institutions recognized by the Reserve Bank of India as a self-regulatory organization (SRO). His election took place during the annual general meeting, which was attended by nearly 100 members. This appointment signifies a continued commitment to strengthening the microfinance sector in India, with Thomas bringing valuable leadership experience and insight from his role at ESAF to guide Sa-Dhan’s mission of promoting financial inclusion.

Kasaragod district in Kerala was honoured with the Fisheries Department Excellence Award 2025 for its exceptional performance in implementing fisheries-related schemes effectively at the grassroots level. The award, given as part of the Annual State Farmer Awards, acknowledges districts that demonstrate leadership and efficiency in aquaculture and fisheries development. Kasaragod's recognition highlights its commitment to sustainable fishery practices, support for local fishermen, and innovation in the sector. The award encourages other districts to adopt best practices and improve the livelihood of those dependent on fisheries across the state.

The Indian Army received its first batch of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States, marking a key milestone in India's military modernisation. These advanced helicopters, developed by Boeing, offer cutting-edge combat capabilities including Hellfire and Stinger missiles, modern avionics, and high survivability in diverse terrains. The acquisition, finalised through a government-to-government deal, reflects the deepening defence partnership between India and the U.S. The Apache helicopters will significantly enhance the Army’s operational autonomy, especially in high-altitude and border regions, while also reducing dependence on the Indian Air Force for tactical air support in offensive operations.

Cloves Syndrome Awareness Day is observed every year on August 3 to raise awareness about CLOVES syndrome, a rare and complex genetic disorder characterised by congenital overgrowths, vascular malformations, and skin anomalies. The day aims to spread knowledge about the condition, encourage early diagnosis, and promote better care for those affected. By dedicating a specific day to this rare disorder, medical professionals, caregivers, and the general public are reminded of the importance of recognising symptoms early, which can significantly impact treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients.

Operation Midnight Hammer was the codename for a highly classified U.S. military mission aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The operation featured an intricate combination of stealth B-2 Spirit bombers, Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from submarines, and advanced electronic warfare measures. Carefully planned and executed, the mission targeted key Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—with surgical precision. It demonstrated America's ability to carry out complex strikes involving in-flight refuelling, global coordination, and deception strategies to maintain the tactical surprise. The operation also highlighted the U.S. military's strategic objective of neutralizing threats without provoking a full-scale conflict.

India is actively working to become a global hub for arbitration by strengthening its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) framework, which includes arbitration, mediation, and conciliation. At a high-level conference in New Delhi, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the government's efforts to create a fast, efficient, and investor-friendly dispute resolution ecosystem. These efforts aim to reduce the burden on courts, attract global businesses, and ensure the timely resolution of commercial disputes. By promoting institutional arbitration over ad hoc processes and encouraging minimal judicial intervention, India is laying the foundation to emerge as a preferred destination for international dispute settlement.

The Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercise is a long-standing joint drill between the United States and South Korea. Originally beginning in the 1960s as the Taeguk Exercise, it evolved over time to strengthen readiness against potential threats in the region. In 2008, the exercise was renamed Ulchi-Freedom Guardian, and later became Ulchi Freedom Shield. The drills not only demonstrate military preparedness but also symbolise the close defence partnership between the U.S. and South Korea. Their collaboration ensures stability on the Korean Peninsula while reinforcing cooperation across land, air, sea, and cyber domains.

Mauritius is the country designated to regain control over the Chagos Archipelago under a recent agreement with the United Kingdom. However, the deal notably excludes Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, which will remain under UK-U.S. control for military purposes through a 99-year lease. This arrangement continues to spark controversy, especially among the Chagossian diaspora, many of whom were forcibly evicted in the 1960s. Despite international pressure from bodies like the ICJ and the UN General Assembly, the partial handover highlights the tension between decolonisation efforts and strategic military interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

France hosted the 3rd United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC), which concentrated on advancing marine biodiversity protection beyond national jurisdictions through the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty. Also called the High Seas Treaty, this agreement is vital for safeguarding biodiversity in international waters, which constitute around two-thirds of the ocean surface. France is among the 56 nations that have ratified the treaty, supporting key measures like the creation of marine protected areas, mandatory environmental impact assessments, and equitable access to marine genetic resources. Hosting the conference reflects France’s commitment to global marine conservation and international environmental leadership.

India signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the World Food Programme (WFP) on August 25, 2025, to supply fortified rice to crisis-hit regions worldwide. Fortified rice, enriched with vital nutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, plays a crucial role in addressing hidden hunger caused by nutrient deficiencies. India’s agricultural surplus makes it a dependable global supplier, and this step strengthens its humanitarian commitment under the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "the world is one family." The partnership not only ensures immediate food aid but also enhances long-term global food security, reinforcing India’s leadership role in combating hunger.

India’s first dedicated wildlife corridor has been developed on the Delhi-Mumbai Highway by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This 12-kilometre stretch includes five wildlife overpasses and the country’s longest underpass built exclusively for the safe movement of animals. The corridor passes through the buffer zone of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, ensuring minimal disruption to the habitat and natural migration routes of wildlife. This initiative reflects a significant step towards sustainable infrastructure development by balancing environmental conservation with modern highway expansion, marking a milestone in India's approach to wildlife protection.

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.

Sonu Sood was recognized with the Humanitarian Award at the 72nd Miss World Festival held in Hyderabad on May 31, 2025. He was honoured for his extensive relief work during the COVID-19 pandemic, including assistance to migrant workers and students. His organization, the Sood Charity Foundation, has made impactful contributions across multiple areas such as healthcare, education, skill development, and disaster relief. These efforts have earned him widespread admiration and this notable recognition by the Miss World Organisation.

Velavan Senthilkumar, an Indian squash player ranked 45th in the world, secured a bronze medal in the men’s singles event at the Asian Squash Championships. He put up a strong performance but eventually lost in a gruelling 65-minute semifinal to Hong Kong’s second seed Alex Lau Tsz Kwan, who is ranked 41st. Despite the defeat, Senthilkumar’s effort earned him a podium finish, contributing to India’s achievements in the continental tournament and underlining his rising profile in the international squash circuit.

The first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival is set to take place in Srinagar, specifically on the iconic Dal Lake. This event marks a significant step in promoting water sports in India and is expected to attract over 400 athletes from across 36 States and Union Territories. The festival will include five water sports—kayaking and canoeing, rowing, water skiing, shikara race, and dragon boat—making it a landmark event in Indian aquatic sports. Srinagar, with its scenic lake and cultural heritage, has been chosen as the ideal venue to host this large-scale sports initiative.

Manav Thakkar and Manush Shah finished as runners-up in the men’s doubles final at the WTT Contender Skopje 2025, held in North Macedonia. They were defeated by the South Korean duo of Jonghoon Lim and Junsung Oh. This final marked a significant achievement for the Indian pair, as it was their first appearance in a contender-level final together. Their performance highlights the growing competitiveness of Indian table tennis on the international stage and underscores their potential as a promising partnership in future international tournaments.

Karnataka has been selected as the location for India’s first private helicopter assembly facility, where Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems will set up a final assembly line for the H125 helicopter. This plant will be located in Kolar and aims to strengthen India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities as part of the Make in India initiative. The facility will not only serve domestic needs but also cater to the helicopter requirements of neighbouring countries. This move is a significant step towards promoting self-reliance in the defence and aerospace sector and underscores Karnataka’s growing importance in India’s industrial development.

Assam has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by granting OBC (Other Backward Class) status to the transgender community, thereby enabling their access to educational, employment, and welfare benefits reserved for OBCs. Simultaneously, the state announced a 50% reservation for Anganwadi workers in supervisory roles under the Women and Child Development Department. This dual announcement, made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on June 23, 2025, aims to address both gender minority rights and the recognition of grassroots workers. These initiatives reflect Assam's broader push to institutionalize equity and improve the representation of marginalized communities in governance structures.

Ananth Technologies, a Hyderabad-based company, has received approval from IN-SPACe to launch India’s first private satellite internet service, marking a historic move in the country’s space and telecommunications sectors. Scheduled to begin operations in 2028, the service will utilise Indian-made satellites placed in geostationary orbit, enabling consistent internet delivery, especially in rural and underserved regions. With a planned investment of ₹3,000 crore, the project positions Ananth Tech as India’s domestic alternative to global players like Starlink and OneWeb. This move also reflects India’s push to open its space sector to private firms, aiming for faster innovation and broader digital access.