Current Affairs: 21 August 2025
This extended digest covers the most relevant national, international, economic, defence, science, and important day updates from 21 August 2025. The details are curated to help competitive exam aspirants grasp both factual data and the broader context behind each development.
National Affairs
130th Constitution Amendment Bill Introduced: Union Home Minister Amit Shah tabled the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, proposing automatic removal of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and ministers if detained for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges. The bill seeks to amend Articles 75, 164, and 239AA, mandating cessation from office without the need for conviction, though reappointment is possible post-release. Supporters hail it as a step toward clean governance, while critics warn of potential misuse and erosion of the presumption of innocence. The bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for review.
Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025 Passed: The Lok Sabha passed legislation to promote e-sports and online social games while banning harmful real-money gaming platforms. It establishes an Online Gaming Authority to regulate the sector, protect vulnerable populations, and curb addiction, fraud, and related harms. Violations can attract up to 3 years’ imprisonment and fines up to ₹1 crore, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders.
India Post IT 2.0 Launch: India Post unveiled its Advanced Postal Technology (APT) platform, developed by the Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology. Operating on the MeghRaj 2.0 cloud and BSNL’s network, it offers a unified interface, QR-code-based payments, OTP-based delivery, and a 10-digit alphanumeric DIGIPIN to improve delivery accuracy.
NCERT’s Operation Sindoor Modules: NCERT introduced two educational modules — “Operation Sindoor – A Saga of Valour” (Classes 3–8) and “Operation Sindoor – A Mission of Honour and Bravery” (Classes 9–12) — to teach students about the military operation’s bravery, technological innovation, and strategic significance.
Economic & Sectoral Updates
EPFO Payroll Additions: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation reported record net payroll additions of 21.89 lakh in June 2025, indicating strong formal job creation.
Marine Fish Production: India’s marine fish production reached 44.95 lakh tonnes in 2024–25, reflecting growth in the fisheries sector.
Core Sector Growth: The eight core industries grew by 2% in July 2025, with cement, steel, and electricity output offsetting declines in crude oil and natural gas.
Defence & Strategic Affairs
Agni-5 Missile Test: India successfully test-fired the Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile, enhancing its strategic deterrence capabilities.
Centum–BEL Partnership: Centum Electronics signed an agreement with Bharat Electronics Limited to collaborate on advanced defence electronics projects.
Science, Technology & Innovation
IIT Madras–FedEx SMART Centre: IIT Madras and FedEx inaugurated the SMART Centre (Supply Chain Modelling, Algorithms, Research, and Technology) to develop AI-driven, sustainable logistics solutions. The centre is backed by a five-year USD 5 million grant from FedEx.
Indian Oil–Air India MoU: Indian Oil Corporation and Air India signed an MoU for the supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), supporting India’s decarbonisation goals in aviation.
Suzlon Joins RE100: Suzlon became the first Indian energy company to join the RE100 initiative, committing to 100% renewable energy usage across its operations.
State & Governance
Delhi Mitra App: The Delhi government announced the launch of the “Delhi Mitra” app to improve citizen engagement and access to public services.
International News
International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism: Observed globally on 21 August, the 2025 theme focused on “United by Hope and Solidarity,” honouring victims and survivors while promoting global cooperation against terrorism.
Important Days
- World Senior Citizens Day – 21 August
- World Entrepreneurs’ Day – 21 August
- International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism – 21 August
Tip: For exam prep, connect sectoral data (like EPFO payroll or core sector growth) with macroeconomic indicators, and link legislative changes to constitutional provisions for better retention.