Daily Current Affairs & Key Questions for NDA & Competitive Exams – 29 October 2025
Today’s update brings you the latest current affairs across Politics, Geopolitics, Defence, Economy, Science, and Sports—chosen to boost NDA preparation and help crack NDA exam challenges. Focused, timely news equips you for NDA, SSB, and all top competitive exams with the newest official highlights and quick exam questions.
NDA Exam Update
NDA Exam Update: The National Defence Academy has opened online applications for the NDA 1 2026 exam. Candidates must ensure they meet eligibility criteria, including age and educational qualifications, and prepare with a focus on current affairs, maths, and general ability test sections. Ground Zero Defence Academy in Dehradun continues to offer expert coaching and preparation support.
Key Recent Current Affairs Highlights
Politics & Governance
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the Terms of Reference of the 8th Central Pay Commission, which will review the pay and pension structures of 50 lakh central government employees and 69 lakh pensioners, along with state government staff benefits. Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai was named chairperson of the commission.
- Delhi government conducted cloud seeding after 53 years as a trial measure to induce artificial rain and curb pollution during the forthcoming winter season.
- The Kerala Chief Minister urged unity against the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, calling it a threat to Indian democracy.
- The opposition INDIA bloc unveiled its Bihar election manifesto, promising government jobs for one member per family, restoration of old pension schemes, and 200 units of free electricity to voters.
- Aurangabad Railway Station in Maharashtra was officially renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station, reflecting regional identity changes.
- A judicial commission in Ladakh invited public input on recent violence in Leh, collecting statements until November 28, 2025.
- The Supreme Court constitution bench is set to hear an important issue on judges’ promotions and career progression on October 28-29, highlighting concerns over judicial service conditions and seniority criteria.
- The Central Vigilance Commission led nationwide pledge ceremonies emphasizing vigilance to fight corruption, coinciding with the observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary.
- Uttarakhand government announced plans to introduce a green tax on all vehicles entering the state from outside starting December 2025 to promote environmental conservation.
- At the 2025 SCO Summit, rumors trended on social media about an assassination plot against PM Modi tied to the mysterious death of a U.S. Special Forces officer in Dhaka. Reports say Putin personally escorted Modi in his armoured limousine, breaking protocol to ensure his safety amid credible threats. Indian and Russian intelligence allegedly coordinated to foil the plot, though official sources have not confirmed it.
These are essential governance and politics developments relevant for exam preparation and current affairs tracking.
Geopolitics
- The US and India continue trade talks amid rising tensions over Russian oil imports, with the US urging India to scale back purchases from Russia as part of sanctions enforcement.
- The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) partners, including India, reaffirmed commitments to maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region in recent high-level meetings.
- India strengthened diplomatic ties with ASEAN countries, signing a joint statement for digital infrastructure collaboration at the Digital Silk Road Summit.
- Australia and Papua New Guinea signed the Pukpuk Mutual Defence Treaty to enhance military cooperation in the Pacific amid regional security challenges.
- China expanded economic and security cooperation in Central Asia with a new treaty for permanent friendship, challenging Russia’s regional dominance.
- India’s Navy deployed INS Sahyadri to Malaysia’s Kemaman port, underscoring India-Malaysia maritime security ties in the Indo-Pacific.
- Germany’s Defence Minister highlighted the need for cautious Euro-Atlantic defense posture amid ongoing Russia tensions and called for stronger anti-drone capabilities.
These developments reflect shifting alliances, strategic partnerships, and regional security dynamics crucial for India’s geopolitical positioning.
Defence & International Relations
- India has launched its annual Trishul 2025 tri-Service combat exercise along the western border with Pakistan, involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warned Pakistan against any aggression in the Sir Creek region, promising a response that could change history and geography. Pakistan responded by restricting airspace over central and southern regions.
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Land Forces Commander visited India, receiving briefings on Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-terror strikes using indigenous defence technology. The visit aims to enhance India-UAE military cooperation and explore joint defence collaborations.
- Pakistan and Bangladesh military chiefs met in Dhaka and agreed to enhance bilateral defence cooperation with regular exchange visits to strengthen regional security.
- The Indian Navy’s INS Sahyadri made a port call in Malaysia, reinforcing maritime security ties amid Indo-Pacific strategic interests and cooperation with Japan.
- India and China held in-depth talks to manage tensions along the disputed western border, agreeing to maintain ongoing military and diplomatic communication to reduce conflict risk.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s preparedness for war-like situations and the importance of indigenous weapons like BrahMos and Akash missiles for national defence and security.
These updates show India’s focus on operational readiness, regional defence diplomacy, and strategic communication to strengthen its defence posture.
Economy & Environment
- The Indian stock markets showed positive momentum, with Sensex gaining 300 points and Nifty testing new highs amid global markets’ optimism and expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut.
- The government announced plans to sell a $1-1.5 billion stake in Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) to raise funds and boost public sector investments. This move aims to expand government revenue and privatization efforts.
- Gold and silver prices fluctuated across major Indian cities, influenced by international gold prices and domestic demand, affecting retail prices for small investors.
- The Ministry of Environment announced a plan to introduce a green tax on all vehicles entering Delhi and other metro cities from December 2025 to fund pollution control initiatives and promote electric vehicle adoption.
- The Indian government’s climate mitigation initiative received a $50 million grant from the Green Climate Fund, supporting renewable energy projects and sustainable urban development.
- India’s renewable energy capacity crossed 100 GW, with solar and wind power accounting for the majority, aligning with sustainable energy goals.
These developments highlight India’s ongoing efforts to boost economic growth, attract foreign investments, and advance sustainable development and environmental protection.
Science & Technology
- ISRO is set to launch CMS-03, India’s heaviest communication satellite, expected to enhance space-based military communication and digital infrastructure nationwide.
- India announced the ambitious goal of sending astronauts to the Moon by 2047, marking a significant milestone in Indian space exploration and human spaceflight capabilities.
- The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar mission (NISAR) satellite, designed to monitor Earth’s environment and natural disasters, is undergoing final preparations for launch, promising a leap in climate change study and disaster management.
- ISRO’s new satellite communication technology aims to boost the Indian Navy’s sea communication systems, improving real-time maritime surveillance and defense readiness.
- A breakthrough in drone technology developed by Indian scientists has improved navigation and obstacle avoidance using AI, making drones more efficient for agricultural and surveillance uses.
These advances highlight India’s rising stature in space technology, strategic defense satellite capabilities, and environmental monitoring critical for future scientific and defense sectors.
Sports
- Indian youth kabaddi teams secured gold medals in both boys’ and girls’ categories at the 2025 Asian Youth Games held in Bahrain, showcasing India’s growing dominance in the sport.
- Cricketer Smriti Mandhana ascended to the top of the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings following outstanding recent performances, cementing her status among the world’s best.
- Indian chess prodigy Gukesh D made a strong start by leading after Day 1 in his ongoing high-profile match against former World Champion Magnus Carlsen, drawing global attention.
- Shreyas Iyer was moved out of ICU after a serious injury sustained in Sydney; his condition remains delicate as he recovers.
These achievements highlight India’s increasing success and promising talent in youth kabaddi, women’s cricket, and international chess tournaments.
Awards & Recognitions Section
- The Union government announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025 to honor top Indian scientists and innovators across four major categories, including Vigyan Ratna and Vigyan Team awards.
- The Galien Foundation will reveal winners of the Prix Galien EcoHealth Award today at the United Nations, recognizing global innovators in climate solutions and health.
- Ministry of Youth Affairs has extended applications for National Sports Awards 2025 (Khel Ratna, Arjuna, Dronacharya) to November 4, encouraging more athletes to participate.
Uttarakhand Updates
- Heavy rainfall caused flooding and road damage in Dehradun and nearby areas. The State Disaster Response Force rescued around 200 students stranded due to waterlogging. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inspected the affected areas and assured quick relief and repair work.
- Protests and road blockades occurred in Garhwal and Kumaon regions over local issues, including rice purchase irregularities. Congress leaders led strikes and office shutdowns in some districts, impacting administration.
- The state government plans to complete pothole repairs and road maintenance by October end as part of post-monsoon infrastructure efforts.
These recent developments highlight the ongoing weather impact and political activities affecting Uttarakhand residents.
Importance for NDA and Other Aspirants
These diverse updates provide critical coverage for NDA preparation—covering GK, science, defence, economy, and sports. Daily exposure to upgraded current affairs empowers NDA exam takers to tackle all sections confidently, from SSB interviews to written tests. Consistent revision of trending news is key to mastering NDA coaching in Dehradun, staying ahead, and cracking the NDA exam.
Practice Important Questions Section
- Which satellite was recently launched by ISRO for environmental observation using Synthetic Aperture Radar technology?
A. RISAT-2BR1
B. NISAR
C. Cartosat-3
D. GSAT-29 - Who became the first President of India to fly in both Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale fighter jets?
A. Ram Nath Kovind
B. Pratibha Patil
C. Droupadi Murmu
D. APJ Abdul Kalam - Which Indian athlete has ranked number one in Women’s ODI cricket batting as of October 2025?
A. Mithali Raj
B. Harmanpreet Kaur
C. Smriti Mandhana
D. Shafali Verma - Which government initiative aims to increase urban green cover and fight air pollution in Delhi?
A. Jal Jeevan Mission
B. Green Capital Drive
C. Swachh Bharat Mission
D. Clean Air Project - Which Indian state was most affected by Cyclone Montha leading to mass school closures?
A. Kerala
B. Andhra Pradesh
C. Maharashtra
D. Gujarat
Closing Words & Coaching Mention
Consistent practice of daily current affairs is the best way to excel in NDA preparation. For focused support and expert NDA coaching in Dehradun, trust Ground Zero Defence Academy—your gateway to cracking NDA exam success.