Current Affairs: August 12, 2025 – Key Updates for Competitive Exams

Important Days

International Youth Day & World Elephant Day

August 12, 2025, marks International Youth Day, focusing on the development and contributions of young people, and World Elephant Day, dedicated to protecting elephants from threats like poaching and habitat loss. India, with a significant wild Asian elephant population, will hold an event in Coimbatore to emphasize conservation and reduce human-elephant conflict.

National Highlights

Supreme Court Directs Permanent Removal of Stray Dogs in Delhi-NCR

The Supreme Court ordered the permanent removal and sheltering of all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to enhance public safety following increased dog-bite incidents. Authorities must build shelters and monitor them with CCTV to prevent stray dogs from being released back into public areas.

Parliament Passes Bills Amidst Protests

The Lok Sabha passed the National Sports Governance Bill and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill 2025. The Rajya Sabha addressed the Manipur Appropriation and GST Amendment Bills. The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025, also passed, aiming to modernize maritime laws and boost coastal trade.

Defence Acquisition Council Approves ₹30,000 Crore Indigenous Drone Deal

A ₹30,000 crore deal for 87 indigenous Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones was approved by India's Defence Acquisition Council to enhance reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities and support domestic manufacturing.

Other National News

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a Bengaluru Metro line and a Phase-3 project.
  • Three new Vande Bharat Express trains were flagged off.
  • PM Modi inaugurated Multi-Storey Flats for Members of Parliament in New Delhi.
  • The Indian Navy is set to commission two new indigenously built stealth frigates on August 26.
  • Maharashtra adopted the 'Garuda Drishti' system to combat cybercrime.

International Relations

Major Global Developments

  • The Elders group warned of an "unfolding genocide" in Gaza due to humanitarian aid obstruction.
  • India condemned Pakistan's Army Chief for nuclear threat remarks.
  • The US designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.
  • The Philippine President warned about potential national involvement in the Taiwan conflict.
  • The UK added India to its 'Deport Now Appeal Later' list.
  • A new US policy could affect the Green Card eligibility of children of H-1B visa holders.

Economy & Business

Indian Stock Markets End Lower in Volatile Session

Indian equity markets closed lower on August 12, influenced by bank stocks and anticipation of inflation data. The Sensex and Nifty saw declines. Asian markets generally performed better. FIIs were net sellers, while DIIs continued buying.

Key Economic Updates

  • The PM Electric Drive scheme was extended by two years.
  • SEBI proposed a single-window gateway (SWAGAT-FI) for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs).
  • Kerala State Financial Enterprise (KSFE) achieved a significant turnover milestone.

Science & Technology

India's First Animal Stem Cell Biobank Inaugurated

India's first Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory was inaugurated in Hyderabad.

BSNL Partners with Tech Giants for 5G, AI & Digital Skills

BSNL signed MoUs with major tech companies to advance digital transformation and enhance skills in areas like 5G and AI.

Sports

Annu Rani Wins Javelin Gold at Indian Open 2025

Annu Rani won gold in the women's javelin event at the Indian Open 2025 World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meet. India hosted its first event of this kind.

Indian Boxers Win Golds at Asian U19 Championships

Indian boxers secured gold medals at the U19 Asian Boxing Championships in Bangkok.

Rishabh Yadav Wins Bronze at World Games Archery

Rishabh Yadav won India's first individual archery medal at the World Games 2025.

Roger Federer to Return at Shanghai Masters

Roger Federer is expected to return to professional tennis at the 2025 Shanghai Masters.