Current Affairs: August 10, 2025 – Key Updates for Competitive Exams

Important Days

World Biofuel Day & World Lion Day

August 10, 2025, marks World Biofuel Day, raising awareness of non-fossil fuels and governmental efforts in the biofuel sector. This day also honors Rudolf Diesel, creator of the diesel engine. India, a significant oil consumer and biofuel producer, has met its 20% ethanol blending target in petrol early. Also on August 10, World Lion Day is observed to promote awareness and conservation of lions.

National Highlights

First Freight Train Enters Kashmir Valley

On August 9, 2025, the first freight train arrived in the Kashmir Valley at the Anantnag Goods Shed, traveling from Punjab. The journey covered nearly 600 kilometers in under 18 hours, reducing transportation costs and enhancing trade, particularly for the apple industry, by lessening dependence on the Srinagar–Jammu highway.

Defence Manufacturing Output Reaches Record High

India's defence manufacturing output hit a record ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, an 18% increase from the prior year. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 'Brahma' BEML Rail Hub in Madhya Pradesh, a ₹1,800 crore facility that will produce coaches for various Indian trains and create over 5,000 jobs, boosting the 'Make in India' initiative.

Trial Run of Asia's Longest Freight Train 'Rudrastra'

Indian Railways successfully tested 'Rudrastra', Asia's longest freight train at 4.5 kilometers, comprising 345 wagons and seven locomotives, traveling 209 kilometers from Uttar Pradesh to Jharkhand. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted its potential to improve efficiency and lower logistics costs for freight transport.

Microplastic Pollution in India's Coastal Waters

A National Centre for Coastal Research survey (2022-2025) found significant microplastic contamination in India's coastal waters and sediments, mainly from riverine inputs and abandoned fishing gear. Microplastics were also found in salt and sugar samples nationwide.

First World Athletics Continental Tour Event in India

India hosted its first World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze competition in Bhubaneswar on August 10, 2025. This event signifies India's return to hosting major global athletics events, aiming to promote the sport domestically.

ISRO to Launch US-Built Satellite

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced plans to launch a 6,500 kg US-built communication satellite, following the NISAR mission, highlighting India's growing role in global space collaborations.

Additional Budget for PMKSY & Crop Insurance Released

An additional ₹1,920 crore was allocated to the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for agricultural infrastructure. The Centre also released ₹3,200 crore in crop insurance to 30 lakh farmers.

ICRIER Suggests Negotiation and Diversification Amid US Tariffs

Following US tariffs on certain Indian goods, ICRIER suggests that India negotiate and diversify trade, as only 7.38% of Indian exports are directly affected. Context on tariffs related to India's energy security strategy is also available.

ECI Delists 334 Non-Functional Political Parties

The Election Commission of India delisted 334 non-functional political parties to streamline the electoral process.

International Relations

Conflict in Gaza Escalates Amid Aid Shortages

On August 10, 2025, at least 26 Palestinians died seeking aid in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict and hunger. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended expanding military operations despite international criticism and calls for a strike from Israeli hostage families. Netanyahu acknowledged deprivation but denied starvation, though 100 children have died from malnutrition since the war began. Violence also increased in the West Bank, displacing around 40,000 Palestinians this year.

Thousands Rally Against Netanyahu's Gaza Plan

Thousands protested in Tel Aviv on August 10, 2025, against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to expand the Gaza war and demanded the release of hostages. This was a significant anti-government demonstration.

600+ Pilgrims Hospitalized in Iraq Due to Chlorine Gas Leak

Over 600 pilgrims in Iraq were hospitalized with respiratory issues on August 10, 2025, following a chlorine gas leak at a water treatment station between Najaf and Karbala.

Anand Sharma Resigns as Congress Foreign Affairs Chairman

Congress leader Anand Sharma resigned as chairman of the party's foreign affairs department after serving for about a decade, facilitating reconstitution with younger leaders.

Sports

Ramesh Budihal Wins Historic Bronze at Asian Surfing Championship

Indian surfer Ramesh Budihal won a bronze medal in the men's open event at the Asian Surfing Championships 2025 in Mahabalipuram on August 10, 2025. This is the first individual medal for an Indian surfer at the continental championships, which also served as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games.

Indian Boxers Win Gold at U19 Asian Boxing Championships

Indian boxers Nisha (54kg) and Muskan (57kg) won gold at the U19 Asian Boxing Championships in Bangkok. Rahul Kundu also secured gold in the men's 75kg category.

Japanese Boxer Hiromasa Urakawa Dies After Match

Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, 28, died after sustaining severe head trauma during a match in Tokyo.