This update covers national, international, economy, banking, appointments, awards, sports, and important days — tailored for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
National News
1. What major diplomatic step did Pakistan take after the Pahalgam terror attack?
Answer: Pakistan suspended the 1972 Simla Agreement, closed the Wagah border, banned Indian airlines from its airspace, and halted all trade with India, escalating tensions and warning that diversion of Indus water would be considered an “Act of War”.
State News
2. Which region was declared India’s 107th National Park?
Answer: Similipal in Odisha was officially declared the 107th National Park of India, covering 845.70 sq km and known for its rich biodiversity including tigers, elephants, and over 360 bird species.
Banking News
3. What change did SEBI make to mutual fund redemption timings?
Answer: SEBI revised cut-off timings for overnight mutual funds: 3:00 PM for offline mode and 7:00 PM for online mode, effective June 1, 2025, to improve fund safety.
4. Which bank’s license was cancelled by RBI?
Answer: RBI cancelled the license of Ajantha Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit due to poor financial health. Depositors are protected under DICGC up to ₹5 lakh.
5. What domain migration has RBI mandated for banks?
Answer: RBI directed all banks to migrate to the ‘.bank.in’ domain by October 31, 2025, to enhance cybersecurity and reduce digital fraud.
Business News
6. Who stepped down as Chairman of Air India Express?
Answer: Campbell Wilson stepped down as part of Tata Group’s airline restructuring. Nipun Aggarwal will take over as Chairman.
Appointments News
7. Who was appointed VP and MD of Boeing India Engineering & Technology Center?
Answer: Stacie Sire was appointed VP and MD of BIETC, bringing 28 years of Boeing experience.
8. Who became the first Indian brand ambassador for Dreame Technology?
Answer: Actress Kriti Sanon was appointed as Dreame Technology’s first Indian brand ambassador.
Awards News
9. Who received the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2024?
Answer: Kumar Mangalam Birla was honored for his contributions to India’s economic growth. Other honorees included Shraddha Kapoor, Sunil Shetty, and Dr. N Rajam.
Defense News
10. What was the objective of Indian Air Force’s Exercise ‘Aakraman’?
Answer: The drill involved Rafale and Su-30MKI jets to simulate mountainous attacks, test electronic warfare, and enhance combat readiness amid rising Indo-Pak tensions.
Schemes News
11. What updates were proposed for Karnataka’s Yeshasvini Health Scheme?
Answer: A 15–25% hike in procedure rates and 50% for complex treatments were proposed, along with 69 new procedures and a ₹40 crore budget boost.
Sports News
12. What milestone did Rohit Sharma achieve in T20 cricket?
Answer: Rohit Sharma became the second Indian after Virat Kohli to reach 12,000 T20 runs, joining an elite group of global players.
Important Days
13. What is the theme of World Malaria Day 2025?
Answer: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite” — emphasizing renewed global efforts in malaria prevention and treatment.
14. What is celebrated on April 25 as International Delegate’s Day?
Answer: It commemorates the 1945 San Francisco conference where delegates drafted the UN Charter, highlighting diplomacy’s role in global peace.
15. What is the theme of World Immunization Week 2025?
Answer: “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible” — promoting universal vaccine access and combating misinformation.
16. Who passed away on 25th April 2025?
Answer: Former ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Kasturirangan passed away at age 84. He led key missions including PSLV, GSLV, and IRS satellites.