Stay updated with the top headlines from 19th April 2025. This GK update covers national, international, economy, banking, defense, science, and important days — tailored for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
National News
1. Who will inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport and when?
Answer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, 2025. It is India’s first semi-automated deep-water container transshipment port, developed under a PPP model with Adani Ports.
2. What tolling system pilot was announced by MoRTH and NHAI?
Answer: A Barrier-Less Tolling System using ANPR and FASTag will be piloted at select toll plazas. Satellite-based tolling will not be launched from May 1, 2025.
3. What new rules were notified under the Legal Metrology Act?
Answer: Radar Speed Measurement Equipment Rules were notified, effective July 1, 2025. All radar devices must be verified and calibrated to meet OIML R 91 standards.
4. What relocation is planned under Project Cheetah?
Answer: Two male cheetahs from Kuno National Park will be relocated to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary on April 20, 2025, expanding India’s cheetah conservation efforts.
International News
5. What is the purpose of PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia in April 2025?
Answer: Scheduled for April 22–23, the visit aims to strengthen ties in trade, energy, defense, and revive the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEEC).
6. What declaration was made by New York City on April 14, 2025?
Answer: NYC Mayor Eric Adams proclaimed April 14 as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day, honoring his legacy in social justice and human rights.
State News
7. What ordinance did Andhra Pradesh approve regarding SC sub-categorisation?
Answer: The cabinet approved a draft ordinance dividing 59 SC sub-castes into three groups based on backwardness, enabling “reservation within reservation.”
Banking News
8. What new co-branded credit card was launched by SBI Card and Tata Digital?
Answer: The Tata Neu SBI Card was launched in two variants — Plus and Infinity — offering up to 10% NeuCoins, lounge access, and cashback benefits.
9. What changes were made to SBI’s Amrit Vrishti FD Scheme?
Answer: Reintroduced from April 15, 2025, the scheme offers 7.55% for senior citizens, 7.65% for super-seniors, and 7.05% for the general public on a 444-day tenure.
Economy News
10. What milestone did India’s pharma exports achieve in FY25?
Answer: Pharma exports crossed $30.47 billion, driven by strong demand from the U.S. and growth in drug formulations and biologicals.
11. What clarification did the Finance Ministry issue on GST and UPI?
Answer: The ministry confirmed that no GST will be levied on UPI transactions above ₹2,000, dismissing circulating misinformation.
12. What growth was recorded in engineering, textile, and apparel exports?
Answer: These sectors saw over 6% growth in FY25, with apparel exports rising 10.03%, positioning India as a trusted global supplier.
Defense News
13. What defense MoU was signed between India and Slovakia?
Answer: India signed its first defense MoU with Slovakia through JCBL Group, focusing on co-development of light tank technologies under Make-in-India.
Science & Technology
14. When is the ISRO–NASA NISAR mission expected to launch?
Answer: The NISAR mission is likely to launch in June 2025 aboard a GSLV, aiming to monitor Earth changes with 1 cm precision.
Important Days
15. What is the theme of World Liver Day 2025?
Answer: “Food is Medicine,” highlighting the role of nutrition in liver health and disease prevention.