Daily Current Affairs & Key Questions for NDA & Competitive Exams – 4 October 2025

Introduction

Stay updated with the latest current affairs essentials for NDA preparation and other competitive exams! This post summarizes today’s top stories across politics, defence, economy, geopolitics, technology, and sports, helping NDA exam aspirants cover the latest GK and trending topics crucial for selection.

Key Recent Current Affairs Highlights

Latest Politics (Past 24 Hours)

• PM Narendra Modi to launch ₹62,000 crore youth welfare initiatives: This includes the PM-SETU program for upgrading government ITIs and Bihar’s Nishchay Svyam Sahayata Bhatta Yojana, which will benefit five lakh young graduates with a monthly allowance for two years.
• Union Cabinet cleared significant projects: Notable approvals include Phase III of the Biomedical Research Career Programme and the Dalhan Aatmanirbharta Mission to boost pulses production, supporting food security and medical research advancement.
• Cabinet approved Dearness Allowance (DA) hike: Central government employees and pensioners will receive a 3% increase; bonuses for railway staff and expanded medical education capacity have also been granted.
• Major infrastructure greenlights: Railways doubling on the Bhagalpur–Dumka–Rampurhat route, four-lane highways in Bihar, and NH-715 expansion in Assam with significant funding for wildlife protection measures.
• PLI scheme for steel and trade partnerships: Over ₹27,000 crore invested under the PLI scheme, focusing on specialty steel, job creation, and import reduction. India is actively pursuing FTAs with GCC countries while avoiding reactive trade bloc policies.
• Leadership update: Rajesh Agarwal (IAS) has taken charge as Commerce Secretary, reflecting a strategic shift in international trade negotiations.
• BJP intensifies Bihar campaign: Senior leaders are focusing efforts in Bihar, OBC/EBC outreach, and strategic seat-sharing among allies. Jagdish Vishwakarma is the new Gujarat BJP chief.
• Jan Suraaj Party and Congress actions: Jan Suraaj to release its first candidate list focusing on inclusivity; Congress leaders voice concerns regarding reservation and recruitment controversies.
• West Bengal flood controversy: CM Mamata Banerjee accused DVC of causing floods with excess water release during Bijoya Dashami, putting state agencies on high alert.
• Odisha jail break probe and recruitment reform: Authorities are investigating a jail break and implementing tighter exam monitoring after a recent leak scandal.
• These are today’s top political stories, crucial for NDA preparation and competitive exam aspirants aiming to stay current with governance and electoral updates

Geopolitics (Today’s Hottest Buzz)

• US President Donald Trump called for an immediate halt to Israeli bombing in Gaza, saying Hamas appears ‘ready for lasting peace’; this marks a significant shift in Washington’s policy and direct presidential intervention in Mideast peacemaking.
• Russia’s President Vladimir Putin issued a direct warning to the US over Ukraine security talks, vowing any aggression will meet with a ‘decisive response’; meanwhile, Putin confirmed his planned visit to New Delhi in December, highlighting India’s balanced ties and economic partnership with Russia despite continued US pressure on oil imports.
• BRICS nations, led by India as the incoming 2026 Chair, expressed concern at the unchecked rise of tariffs and trade coercion, demanding fairer global trade and more representation for the Global South; India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar called for UN reforms and multilateral collaboration.
• A major realignment is unfolding: Russia and China openly back India against US tariffs, with Putin vowing increased imports of Indian goods and emphasizing mutual support at the recent SCO summit with PM Modi and President Xi Jinping; shifting power equations are changing the global economic and strategic landscape.
• India and China are set to resume direct passenger flights after a five-year suspension, signaling reduced tensions and greater people-to-people connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Turkey announced plans to build a new international highway connecting Istanbul to the Red Sea, boosting regional infrastructure and signaling its growing role in Eurasian and Middle Eastern geopolitics.
• Taliban’s Foreign Minister is expected to visit India, in a historic diplomatic breakthrough broadening India’s engagement with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
• These developments reflect escalating diplomacy, fresh alignments, and ongoing policy shifts that will shape major competitive exam questions and global headlines.

Defence News & Developments

• India is in advanced talks to acquire additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia following their success in Operation Sindoor; there’s also rising interest in the S-500 Prometey air defence system with possibilities for technology transfer and co-production in India, boosting self-reliance and export capability.
• Indian Air Force (IAF) destroyed 10 Pakistani fighter jets during Operation Sindoor, marking a significant aviation milestone according to Chief AP Singh. The IAF is also upgrading 75% of its Su-30MKI fleet with the ‘Super Sukhoi’ program, and DRDO is progressing rapidly on new indigenous air defence and radar technologies.
• India and France concluded their 21st Army-to-Army Staff Talks, enhancing defence ties and exploring new joint exercises and training programs. India’s bilateral projects with other partners continue to expand as part of its ‘Make in India’ initiative and global outreach.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing at the JITO Connect-2025 event—emphasizing the surge in defence exports and ‘national pride’ anchoring India’s military modernization.
• The government may allow wholly owned local subsidiaries of foreign defence manufacturers to quality as ‘Indian vendors’ for defence procurement, aiming to attract investment and technology partnerships.

Military Diplomacy & International Relations

• Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Pakistan to halt terrorism support or risk its global standing, emphasizing the precision of Indian military operations, technological modernization, and honouring personnel involved in Operation Sindoor.
• India will host the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries’ (UNTCC) Chiefs Conclave in New Delhi from 14-16 October, boosting military diplomacy and global defence ties.
• PM Modi welcomed US President Trump’s decisive leadership in recent Gaza peace initiatives, underscoring the importance of India-US cooperation on international security matters.
• Jaishankar, India’s EAM, led discussions on BRICS reforms, global tariff issues, and strategic collaboration, highlighting India’s stance on multilateralism and emerging partnerships in Asia and beyond.
• Diplomatic engagement is underway with Ukraine, Singapore, and EU officials, addressing Russia-Ukraine conflict, regional free trade agreements, and global security concerns.
• Lt. Gen. Rajesh Pushkar spearheaded a seminar on recalibrating India’s strategic approach to Pakistan in Chandigarh, signaling ongoing review of operational preparedness and policy frameworks.
• These headlines reflect India’s evolving defence policies, technological strides, and expanding diplomatic leadership—crucial for competitive exam GK and interviews on international relations.

Economy

• India’s GDP growth hit a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the June quarter, with RBI projecting 6.8% expansion for FY2026. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized robust domestic consumption as the main driver, cushioning external shocks during turbulent global times. She urged developing nations to actively participate in global economic progress.
• RBI kept the repo rate steady at 5.5%, citing subdued inflation and room to support growth, while lowering the inflation outlook to 2.6% from 3.1% for FY2026. Fiscal measures like GST cuts and consumer-friendly tax policies were highlighted as growth enablers.
• GST rate rationalization pushed Navratri sales to a decade high, boosting demand for automobiles, consumer electronics, and lifestyle products. Companies reported 25% to 100% sales growth, driven by lower taxes on essentials and aspirational goods, fueling the consumption-driven economy.
• Foreign exchange reserves stood at $700.2 billion despite a $2.3 billion drop. Regulatory changes aim to strengthen non-bank lending and ease credit flows while balancing inflation and market stability.

Environment Updates

• Heavy rainfall forecast for eastern and central India over the next two days as a depression moves over Odisha; Delhi to see wet spells starting October 5. IMD advises vigilance with possible flooding risks in Madhya Pradesh and Odisha.
• The Environment Ministry notified the Environment Protection (Management of Contaminated Sites) Rules, 2025, codifying procedures to identify and remediate hazardous chemical sites, a significant step toward pollution control and ecological safety.
• The National Green Tribunal ordered an investigation into illegal blasting at Bajabati black stone quarry in Odisha, citing environmental clearance violations and risks to nearby residents. A joint committee is tasked with submitting a report within one month.
• Delhi’s air pollution mitigation plan includes stricter vehicle regulations, anti-smog measures, tree planting, and construction monitoring, but gaps remain with coal-power plant emissions still a challenge.
• Climate change impacts continue to unfold globally with new studies revealing food-related emissions mostly from the richest 30%, spotlighting urgent sustainability efforts across sectors.

These developments provide a comprehensive overview of India’s economic resilience, growth initiatives, and ongoing environmental governance—critical for competitive exam preparation and general awareness.

Science & Technology

• Indian scientists developed a simpler method for generating truly random numbers using quantum computers. This breakthrough enhances digital security by making encryption keys virtually unguessable, using just one qubit measured over time rather than complex multi-particle setups. The method is deployable on accessible cloud-based quantum computers, widening practical use.
• PM Narendra Modi will launch a ₹62,000 crore youth-centric program including the PM-SETU skill development initiative to upgrade Government ITIs nationally. The Bihta campus of NIT Patna, equipped with advanced 5G and ISRO collaboration research centres, will be inaugurated as part of this push for education and innovation.
• India leads key global tech trends in 2025 including Artificial Intelligence, 6G networks, quantum computing, green hydrogen, and biotechnology. These advances are transforming sectors from healthcare and agriculture to clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing, supporting India’s push toward Atmanirbhar Bharat and digital transformation.
• IMD forecast cyclone ‘Shakti’ bringing heavy rains and winds across Maharashtra and central India, with preparedness ongoing for flood mitigation. Meteorological updates also brought a western disturbance impacting northern India’s weather patterns, highlighting climate variability and disaster management links to tech innovations.
• Innovations in space science include largest universe simulations and studies on exoplanets like TRAPPIST-1e showing signs of Earth-like atmospheres, fueling excitement in astronomy and astrophysics sectors. New technologies underpinning Wi-Fi and MRI are traced back to discoveries inspired by natural phenomena.
• Government digital initiatives like the ‘My Bharat’ app and expanded NIELIT Digital University platforms advance digital skills training, contributing to future-ready workforce development. AI-enabled tools and cloud technologies boost governance efficiency, cybersecurity, and rural connectivity.

These significant advances and initiatives mark India’s rapid strides in cutting-edge technology, scientific research, and educational reforms, essential for NDA aspirants and GK enthusiasts.

Sports

• Cricket: India declared its first innings at 448/5 against West Indies on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test, with centuries from Dhruv Jurel (his maiden Test century), Ravindra Jadeja (104), and KL Rahul (100). Jurel and Jadeja’s 206-run partnership was a highlight, narrowly missing the Indian fifth-wicket record. The upcoming India vs Australia ODI and T20I squads announcement is highly anticipated, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli expected to make a comeback after nearly five months.
• Para Athletics: India continued its strong showing at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi. Nishad Kumar won gold and set a new Asian record in men’s high jump T47, while Simran Sharma claimed gold in the women’s 100m T12. Additionally, Pardeep Kumar and Preethi Pal secured bronze medals, taking India’s overall medal tally to 15 at the event.
• Kabaddi: Dabang Delhi reclaimed the top spot in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12. Tamil Thalaivas also achieved their first home win since 2018, marking a notable comeback.
• Archery: The inaugural Archery Premier League is underway in New Delhi featuring world-class archers including WR1 Brady Ellison.
• Volleyball: The Prime Volleyball League season is ongoing with exciting matches, including a five-set thriller victory by Bengaluru Torpedoes.
• Weightlifting: Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal at the World Weightlifting Championships held in Norway, continuing India’s impressive presence on the international weightlifting stage.

Upcoming Sports Events in India 2025 (October highlights)

• ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (Sep 30 – Nov 2) – ongoing in India & Sri Lanka.
• BWF World Junior Championships in Guwahati (Oct 6–19).
• World Para Athletics Championships continues in New Delhi until Oct 5.
• ITTF Asian Team Championships (Oct 10–15).
• World Shotgun Championships in Athens (Oct 10–18).
• Archery World Cup Final in China (Oct 17–19).
• Track Cycling World Championships in Chile (Oct 15–19).
• World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Indonesia (Oct 19–25).

These updates are essential for current affairs preparation for NDA and other competitive exams, highlighting India’s performances and major sports calendars.

Awards & Recognitions

• India won the prestigious ISSA Award 2025 for “Outstanding Achievement in Social Security,” recognizing the Modi government’s efforts in increasing social security coverage from 19% to 64% in a decade. This global recognition underlines India’s social welfare progress.
• Padma Awards 2025 were conferred, honoring 139 individuals across various fields including arts, medicine, education, literature, public affairs, and sports. Notable Padma Vibhushan recipients include A Surya Prakash (Literature and Education), Anant Nag (Art), and Bibek Debroy (Posthumous, Literature and Education). Sports personality P R Sreejesh was honored in Hockey.
• The Ministry of Ayush conferred the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards 2025 on scholars and practitioners contributing to classical, traditional, and scientific advancement of Ayurveda.
• Shocking news from Pakistan, where Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is set to receive the Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal, stirring controversy due to his alleged snubbing of the India Asia Cup trophy.
• Mahatma Gandhi Seva Award 2025 in Karnataka was awarded to renowned historian Ramachandra Guha for his role in spreading Gandhian philosophy and values.
• Sports Awards
• The National Sports Awards 2024 recipients, who were honored in January, remain fresh in public memory with sportspersons like Gukesh D (Chess), Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey), and Manu Bhaker (Shooting) widely recognized for their outstanding contributions to Indian sports.
• Other Recognitions
• Corporate and business leadership received honors such as from Forbes India Leadership Awards 2025 where Jay Shah was named Icon of Excellence.
• Various literary awards and journalism awards continue to be announced, celebrating outstanding contributions across India’s cultural and social landscape.
• These awards highlight India’s continued excellence and recognition at national and global levels across social security, arts, medicine, sports, and Ayurveda fields—important for current affairs and general knowledge.

Uttarakhand State News (Latest 24 Hours)

• Heavy rainfall and snowfall warnings issued for Uttarakhand over the next two days, affecting districts including Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, and Chamoli. Precautionary measures are being taken ahead of the expected weather changes, especially in high-altitude areas where snowfall is likely to impact local life and tourism.
• Authorities are closely monitoring flood-prone zones following recent heavy rains. The state disaster management team is on alert, coordinating with local officials to ensure timely evacuation and relief operations if required.
• Traffic and road safety authorities in Dehradun have intensified checks following multiple incidents involving reckless driving, focusing on curbing accidents as rainy conditions prevail.
• Weather disruptions have caused minor delays in public transportation and some school closures in affected areas. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and plan travel accordingly.

These timely updates are critical for safety, daily planning, and are useful for state-specific current affairs for competitive exams.

Importance for NDA and Other Aspirants

Mastering a broad spectrum of current affairs—from politics and defence to science and sports—not only strengthens your NDA exam preparation but is vital for cracking SSB interviews and other competitive exams. Diverse topics polish analytical skills and keep you exam-ready as GK questions often reflect these timely news themes.

Repeated Past Important Questions Section

Repeated Past Important Questions for NDA & Competitive Exams

1. Which organization celebrated its centenary recently and launched the ‘My UPSC Interview’ portal?
   a) National Defence Academy (NDA)
   b) Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
   c) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
   d) Indian Armed Forces
   Answer: b) Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
2. The ‘Dalhan Aatmanirbharta Mission’ launched by the Indian government targets self-reliance in which sector?
   a) Dairy production
   b) Pulse production
   c) Textile manufacturing
   d) Electronics manufacturing
   Answer: b) Pulse production
3. India’s S-400 air defence missile system is procured from which country?
   a) United States
   b) France
   c) Russia
   d) Israel
   Answer: c) Russia
4. Who is the MoS Defence that launched the NIELIT Digital University Platform recently?
   a) Rajnath Singh
   b) Ashwini Vaishnaw
   c) Subhas Sarkar
   d) Narendra Modi
   Answer: b) Ashwini Vaishnaw
5. Which Indian athlete recently won gold in the Men’s High Jump T47 category at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025?
   a) Avani Lekhara
   b) Nishad Kumar
   c) Devendra Jhajharia
   d) Mariyappan Thangavelu
   Answer: b) Nishad Kumar

These questions are relevant, non-trivial, and frequently appear in NDA and other competitive exams based on trending and important current affairs.

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