Daily Current Affairs & Key Questions for NDA & Competitive Exams – 16 August 2025
Introduction
Stay ahead in your NDA preparation with today’s comprehensive coverage of essential current affairs from multiple domains. This daily digest highlights the most significant developments across politics, defence, economy, science and sports that are crucial for NDA exam success and interview preparation.
Key Recent Current Affairs Highlights
Geopolitics: Today’s Hottest Buzz
- The US-Russia Alaska Summit was announced, signalling a new phase in global diplomatic engagement and raising discussion over regional security and Arctic resource strategies.
Politics & Governance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary, reaffirming Vajpayee’s role in building a developed and self-reliant India. Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate carried out money laundering raids at properties linked to Tamil Nadu Minister I Periyasamy and his family, signifying the government’s continued push for transparency and accountability.
Defence & International Relations
India and Zambia have signed a new bilateral agreement to strengthen cooperative trade ties, marking a progressive step in India’s diplomatic relations. Separately, Uttarakhand has announced a 10% horizontal reservation for ex-Agniveers in government jobs, expanding opportunities for former military youth.
Economy & Environment
India reached the significant solar milestone of 100GW PV module manufacturing capacity, underpinning its push for green energy and climate resilience. The Bihar Cabinet approved major development projects and doubled the pension for ‘JP Senanis’, supporting broader welfare initiatives.
Science & Technology
A Chinese company, GeeSpace, successfully launched 11 satellites dedicated to Internet of Things (IoT) communication. Additionally, the Indian Oil Panipat Refinery received India’s first ISCC CORSIA award for sustainable aviation fuel—an important step for technological innovation and environmental sustainability.
Sports Highlights
- Cricket: Sanju Samson delivered a fluent half-century for Secretary’s XI in a KCA exhibition match, building anticipation around the Asia Cup 2025 team announcement.
- International Football: In a major international football development, FC Goa is set to face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr in the AFC Champions League Two, reflecting India’s growing football pedigree on the global stage.
Awards & Recognitions
Multiple honorary ranks were granted to Indian Army personnel, symbolizing decades of service and national pride.
On Independence Day 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred 127 Gallantry Awards and 40 Distinguished Service Awards to Armed Forces. Notables include Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma (Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal), Captain Lalrinawma Sailo (Kirti Chakra), and others for heroism in Operation Sindoor and field excellence.
Indian Oil Panipat Refinery received India’s first ISCC CORSIA aviation fuel certification.
Importance for NDA and Other Aspirants
Diverse current affairs stories from politics, defence, economy, technology, and sports frequently appear as GK and interview questions in the NDA/SSB exams. Regular exposure to these updates ensures holistic knowledge, improves analytical thinking, and prepares aspirants for both written and personality segments in the NDA exam.
Repeated Past Important Questions (MCQs)
- Who was the Prime Minister of India when the Pokhran II nuclear tests were conducted?
- a) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- b) P.V. Narasimha Rao
- c) Manmohan Singh
- d) Narendra Modi
- Which country is credited for the first-ever launch of a solar probe to study the Sun’s corona?
- a) USA
- b) China
- c) India
- d) Russia
- The ISCC CORSIA award relates to which sector?
- a) Renewable Energy
- b) Sustainable Aviation Fuel
- c) Water Conservation
- d) Green Architecture
- Who recently won the AFC Champions League as the Indian club’s captain?
- a) Sunil Chhetri
- b) Sandesh Jhingan
- c) Brandon Fernandes
- d) Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
- What is the reservation percentage announced for ex-Agniveers in Uttarakhand state government jobs?
- a) 5%
- b) 10%
- c) 15%
- d) 20%
Closing Words & Coaching Mention
Consistent practice with current affairs builds the foundation for NDA success. For expert guidance and comprehensive NDA coaching, Ground Zero Defence Academy provides structured preparation support to transform your military aspirations into reality.
This concise update keeps NDA aspirants well-prepared with relevant and recent developments across multiple fields essential for their success.