Stay updated with the top headlines from 16th April 2025. This GK update covers international, national, economy, appointments, awards, defense, and science news — tailored for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
International News
1. Why did China halt Boeing aircraft orders in April 2025?
Answer: China suspended Boeing purchases due to escalating US-China trade tensions after President Trump imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, affecting 179 aircraft orders.
2. Who won Ecuador’s 2025 presidential run-off election?
Answer: Daniel Noboa was re-elected with 55.8% votes, defeating Luisa Gonzalez. His “mano dura” anti-crime strategy and U.S. cooperation played a key role.
Business & Economy News
3. What action did SEBI take against Gensol Engineering Ltd (GEL)?
Answer: SEBI barred GEL and its promoters from the securities market over fund diversion, price manipulation, and forged documents. A forensic audit was ordered.
4. What is CRISIL’s projection for banking credit growth in FY26?
Answer: CRISIL projects 12–13% growth, driven by regulatory support, tax cuts, and softer interest rates. NBFC lending is expected to remain strong.
5. What was India’s WPI inflation rate in March 2025?
Answer: WPI inflation eased to 2.05%, down from 2.38% in February. Primary articles inflation dropped to 0.76%, while manufactured products rose to 3.07%.
6. Why did Morgan Stanley lower India’s FY26 GDP forecast?
Answer: Due to global uncertainty from Trump’s new tariffs, India’s GDP forecast was cut to 6.1% and Sensex target to 82,000. Financials and consumer cyclicals remain favored.
Appointments News
7. Who was appointed Chairperson of IWLF Athletes Commission?
Answer: Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu was appointed by the Indian Weightlifting Federation to amplify athlete voices and promote athlete-led governance.
8. Who is the next Chief Justice of India?
Answer: Justice B.R. Gavai was named the 52nd CJI, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He will take office on May 13, 2025.
Agreements News
9. What MoU was signed between the Labour Ministry and Swiggy?
Answer: To boost gig and logistics employment via the NCS portal, aiming to create 12 lakh jobs over 2–3 years with inclusive hiring practices.
Awards News
10. Which companies won at the National Highways Excellence Awards 2023?
Answer: H.G. Infra Engineering (PPP), Bhartia Infra Projects (EPC), and Ashoka Buildcon (Green Highways Gold) were key winners. ULCCS received special recognition.
Defense News
11. What was the theme of the Defence Literature Festival ‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’?
Answer: “Securing India’s Rise through Defence Reforms,” focusing on AI, quantum tech, drones, and modernizing procurement policies.
Ranks & Reports
12. What export potential did NITI Aayog highlight in its latest report?
Answer: India’s hand and power tools sector could unlock $25B in exports and generate 35 lakh jobs by 2035, despite cost disadvantages.
Summits & Conferences
13. What was the focus of the WHO–IDF event in Bangkok?
Answer: Integrated strategies to address TB and diabetes, with new WHO guidance on bidirectional screening and primary healthcare strengthening.
Sports News
14. Who won bronze in 10m Air Pistol at ISSF World Cup 2025?
Answer: Saurabh Chaudhary made a comeback with a bronze medal in Lima, Peru, scoring 219.1 after a 2+ year break.
Science & Technology
15. What milestone did Blue Origin achieve in April 2025?
Answer: Completed a historic all-female spaceflight with Katy Perry, Gayle King, and others, marking a leap in gender representation and reusable space tech.
Miscellaneous News
16. What cultural item received a GI tag in April 2025?
Answer: The Banaras Shehnai, known for its ceremonial significance and craftsmanship, was awarded the GI tag, honoring its heritage and artisans.