Current Affairs: August 06, 2025 – Key Updates for Competitive Exams
National Highlights
Parliament Passes Key Maritime Bills
The Rajya Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, on August 6, 2025. This bill, along with the previously passed Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, aims to modernize India's maritime laws and promote efficient trade.
PM Modi to Address G-77 Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the G-77 Summit in Panama City on August 15, 2025. This summit, coinciding with India's Independence Day, focuses on global challenges and collaboration among developing nations.
Defence Acquisition Council Approves ₹67,000 Crore Proposals
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved proposals worth ₹67,000 crore on August 5, 2025, to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The approvals include upgrades for various systems and the procurement of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) and maintenance contracts, aligning with the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative.
Shayok Village Develops Ladakh's First Botanical Garden
Shayok village in eastern Ladakh is establishing the region's first botanical garden on 10 hectares of land. Supported by the Leh Hill Council, this project aims to conserve local flora, including fruits, medicinal plants, and mountain species, and is part of the "Go Green Go Organic" movement.
GST Evasion Exceeds ₹7 Lakh Crore (FY21-FY25)
The Finance Ministry reported that GST evasion between FY21 and FY25 surpassed ₹7 lakh crore. A significant portion of this evasion is linked to Input Tax Credit (ITC) fraud. The government is using digital tools and initiatives like Project Anveshan to combat this.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Passes Away
Satya Pal Malik, who served as Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya, passed away on August 5, 2025. He was also the last Governor of the undivided state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Cloudburst Devastates Dharali Village, Uttarakhand
A cloudburst in Dharali village, Uttarakhand, on August 5, 2025, caused flash floods in the Kheer Ganga river, resulting in extensive damage and four confirmed fatalities.
International Relations
US Imposes Additional Tariffs on Indian Imports
On August 6, 2025, the US imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, raising the total to 50%. This action, in response to India's imports of Russian oil, was termed "extremely unfortunate" by India's Ministry of External Affairs.
India-Philippines Strategic Partnership Deepens
India and the Philippines have upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership, exchanging nine MoUs on August 5, 2025, in areas like defense and technology. This aligns with India's Act East policy.
Russia Withdraws from INF Treaty
Russia has withdrawn from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, citing its irrelevance and US actions. The treaty had already weakened after the US withdrawal in 2019.
Germany Halts Weapon Shipments to Israel
Germany has halted weapon shipments to Israel that could be used in Gaza, following Israel's plans for a military occupation of Gaza City.
Syria Signs Major Infrastructure Deals
Syria has announced $14 billion in new investment deals for 12 projects, including airport modernization and a new subway system, as part of reconstruction efforts despite sanctions.
US Auctions Russian Oligarch's Superyacht
The US is auctioning a $325 million superyacht seized from a Russian oligarch, the first such sale since the start of the war in Ukraine, as part of efforts to pressure Russian elites.
Technology & Environment
Indian Aquanauts Achieve Deep Ocean Dive Milestone
Indian aquanauts successfully completed deep ocean dives exceeding 4,000 and 5,000 meters in the Atlantic Ocean on August 5 and 6, 2025. This collaboration with a French institute is a precursor to India's Samudrayaan mission and places India among nations capable of deep manned ocean expeditions.
Concerns Over Bird Mortality Near Thar Desert Wind Farms
A study indicates high bird mortality rates near wind farms in India's Thar Desert, raising concerns about the impact of renewable energy on ecosystems and endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard.
Economy
RBI Maintains Repo Rate at 5.5%
The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% on August 6, 2025. This decision reflects a cautious approach amidst global uncertainties. The RBI also maintained the GDP growth forecast for FY26 at 6.5% and lowered the CPI inflation forecast.
Indian Stock Markets Witness Volatility
Indian stock markets experienced volatility on August 6, 2025, influenced by potential US tariff increases and the RBI's monetary policy decision.
Anniversaries
80th Anniversary of Hiroshima Bombing
August 6, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, a reminder of the importance of peace and nuclear disarmament.
Other News
World Breastfeeding Week
World Breastfeeding Week is observed from August 1 to 7, promoting the benefits of breastfeeding.
International Scuba Day
International Scuba Day is celebrated on August 6, highlighting the underwater world and responsible diving.