Daily Current Affairs & Key Questions for NDA & Competitive Exams – 18 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
Politics & Governance
PM Modi inaugurated ₹11,000 crore worth of national highway projects in Delhi, including the Dwarka Expressway and UER-II, aimed at easing city congestion and advancing next-generation GST reforms. The Election Commission of India (ECI) reinforced its commitment to fair elections, clarifying revised protocols for voter registration and rights nationwide.
Geopolitics: Today’s Hottest Buzz
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov engaged with Turkish and Hungarian counterparts following the Alaska summit between Putin and Trump, which ended without a Ukraine peace deal. Meanwhile, European leaders are set to meet Ukrainian President Zelensky at the White House for critical peace and security discussions.
Defence & International Relations
India awarded 1,090 personnel with Gallantry and Service Medals on Independence Day. BSF jawans received special recognition for Operation Sindoor, reflecting India’s focus on defence valor. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Nepal’s PM and President, strengthening bilateral relations across key sectors.
Economy & Environment
A Group of Ministers will meet next week to advance next-generation GST reforms after the PM’s Independence Day address. Experts expressed concerns about possible job losses due to US tariffs on Indian exports, but pointed to resilience in domestic demand.
Science & Technology
India’s first Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant will begin production soon, marking major progress in green aviation technology. The country also achieved a landmark of 100GW solar PV module manufacturing capacity under the ALMM initiative, boosting national renewable energy security.
Sports
- International Cricket: Pakistan dropped Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from their T20 squad, choosing Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman for the Asia Cup/UAE series.
- Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz defeated Alexander Zverev to reach the Cincinnati Open final, setting up a title clash with Jannik Sinner.
- Football: Arsenal edged past Manchester United 1-0 in a Premier League highlight courtesy of Riccardo Calafiori’s goal.
Awards & Recognitions
- Gallantry Awards: On 15 August, 1,090 personnel in police, fire, and defence services received medals for gallantry and meritorious service, including high honors for acts of bravery in crisis zones like Jammu & Kashmir and operations such as Sindoor.
- Individual Honors: Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai (Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal), Capt Lalrinawma Sailo and Lt Col Satyapal Singh (Kirti Chakra) were honored for exceptional courage and leadership.
Importance for NDA and Other Aspirants
Mastering diverse current affairs is vital for NDA preparation. Questions in the NDA exam and SSB interviews often cover recent national and international events, policies, awards, and sports. Keeping track of daily key updates strengthens your GK base and analytical ability—essential for how to crack NDA exam and excel in defence service selection.
Repeated Past Important Questions
- Which Indian state has the largest installed solar power capacity?
- Who was awarded the Kirti Chakra for exceptional gallantry in 2025?
- What is the significance of Operation Sindoor for BSF?
- Which country hosted the US-Russia Alaska summit in 2025?
- Name the player who won the 2025 Cincinnati Open men’s singles title.
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.