Current Affairs: 19 August 2025

Here’s a detailed, exam-oriented compilation of the most important developments from India and around the world on 19 August 2025. This extended coverage is designed to provide aspirants with rich context, factual precision, and thematic linkages that are often tested in competitive examinations.

National Affairs

EAM Jaishankar’s Russia Visit: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar embarked on a three-day official visit to Russia from 19–21 August 2025 at the invitation of First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. The visit includes co-chairing the 26th Session of the India–Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) scheduled for 20 August. He will also address the India–Russia Business Forum in Moscow, focusing on deepening bilateral trade, energy cooperation, and technology partnerships. This visit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the United States’ decision earlier this month to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports, raising the total to 50%, in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil.

NTPC adopts global continuity standard: NTPC Limited, India’s largest power producer, became the first PSU in the power sector to adopt a Business Continuity Plan aligned with ISO 22301:2019. This move strengthens NTPC’s preparedness to maintain uninterrupted power generation during crises such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, or supply chain disruptions. The adoption is expected to set a benchmark for resilience in India’s energy infrastructure.

E-Jagriti platform impact: The E-Jagriti consumer dispute redressal platform, launched in January 2025, has significantly improved transparency and efficiency in grievance handling. In July 2025, ten states and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) achieved over 100% disposal rates, meaning they resolved more cases than were filed during the month. This digital initiative enables online filing, real-time judgment tracking, and reduces pendency across all consumer commissions.

International Affairs

India–Africa–UAE Trilateral Framework: Ahead of BRICS 2026, the trilateral partnership between India, Africa, and the UAE is gaining momentum. Initiatives like the Bharat Africa Setu, launched in collaboration with DP World (UAE), aim to double India–Africa trade by leveraging logistics hubs, export finance mechanisms, and certification services. This framework is seen as a strategic counterbalance to other global trade blocs and enhances South–South cooperation.

UN Global Plastics Treaty deadlock: Negotiations in Geneva concluded without consensus due to disagreements over whether to cap virgin plastic production or focus on waste management and recycling. The stalemate underscores the challenge of aligning environmental priorities with industrial and economic interests. Plastic pollution remains a pressing global issue, with over 460 million tonnes produced annually and only 9% recycled. Projections indicate waste could triple by 2060 if current trends continue.

Economy & Policy

US–India trade tensions: The recent tariff hike by the US has raised concerns among Indian exporters, particularly in sectors like textiles, engineering goods, and agricultural products. Analysts warn of potential retaliatory measures and stress the need for diversifying export markets to mitigate risks.

Ethanol blending rollout: India’s nationwide implementation of E20 petrol (20% ethanol blend) from April 2025 is a major step toward reducing fossil fuel dependence and cutting emissions. While the government assures compatibility with modern vehicles, older fleets face risks such as corrosion of engine components, water absorption in fuel systems, and performance issues. The policy aligns with India’s biofuel roadmap and commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Science & Technology

Password-protected Brain–Computer Interface (BCI): Researchers at Stanford University have developed a BCI that requires a mental password before decoding neural signals. This innovation addresses privacy concerns and the emerging discourse on cognitive liberty, ensuring that brain data cannot be accessed without user consent.

India’s space milestone: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission to the International Space Station marks a significant achievement for India’s human spaceflight program. The mission is part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, which aims to position India as a leading spacefaring nation while fostering global collaboration in space exploration.

Environment

Plastic pollution crisis: India continues to enforce measures such as bans on single-use plastics, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance, and promotion of jute and other biodegradable packaging. These steps are critical in addressing the environmental and health hazards posed by plastic waste, especially in urban waterways and coastal regions.

Sports & Achievements

Mountaineering feat: An Arunachalee mountaineer successfully summited Mount Elbrus, Europe’s highest peak at 5,642 meters, located in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia. This achievement adds to India’s growing list of high-altitude expeditions and inspires interest in adventure sports.

Tip: For competitive exams, connect each fact to its broader implications—such as trade policy shifts, environmental commitments, or technological breakthroughs—to enhance both recall and analytical depth.