Current Affairs: 24 August 2025

National News

  • India halts postal services to the US from August 25 following new customs rules and rising trade tensions between the two countries. The move is a response to new tariffs and penalties imposed on India.[web:2]
  • The I-T Bill 2025 received Presidential assent, introducing the concept of a single “Tax Year” and streamlining compliance to be effective from April 2026.[web:1]
  • The GST Council is to meet on September 3-4, with a likely decision to reduce tax slabs from four to two, simplifying GST to just 5% and 18% categories.[web:2]
  • Prime Minister Modi celebrates National Space Day 2025, highlighting the nation’s journey from Aryabhata satellite to the ongoing Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.[web:2]
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the All India Speakers’ Conference.[web:4]
  • Tamil Nadu launches a new reform-oriented community service punishment system for offenders, including tasks such as hospital cleaning and traffic regulation.[web:2][web:4]
  • India’s first removable solar panel project launched in Varanasi.[web:4]

International News

  • US President Donald Trump orders deployment of two US Navy nuclear submarines near Russia, signaling increased military pressure while peace discussions are underway for the Russia-Ukraine conflict.[web:3]
  • China and the US agree to extend their trade truce by 90 days amid newly implemented global tariffs targeting more than 90 countries, including 35% tariffs on certain Canadian goods.[web:3]
  • President Trump finalizes an $8.9 billion deal for a nearly 10% stake in Intel, aiming to revive the US semiconductor sector.[web:2]
  • The German Air Force begins air drops of humanitarian aid into Gaza following severe famine concerns and Israeli blockades.[web:3]
  • Vietnam and China prepare emergency measures as Typhoon Kajiki gathers strength.[web:4]
  • Sri Lankan leaders visit former President Ranil Wickremesinghe at prison hospital after arrest over fund misuse charges.[web:2]

Business and Economy

  • Foxconn withdraws 300 Chinese engineers from its Tamil Nadu plant due to supply chain issues, sending replacement staff from Taiwan instead.[web:2]
  • The Reserve Bank of India approves Sumitomo Mitsui’s proposal to acquire nearly 25% stake in Yes Bank, strengthening Japanese interests in India’s banking sector.[web:2]
  • The Evergrande Group confirms its delisting from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after prolonged financial crisis and failed restructuring.[web:3]

Science, Tech & Sports

  • India clinches victory in mixed air rifle events at the 16th Asian Shooting Championship with a clean sweep.[web:4]
  • Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara announces his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket.[web:4]
  • National Space Day is celebrated, promoting science and recognizing India’s achievements in space exploration.[web:1][web:4]
  • Liverpool’s Mo Salah and Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentay win PFA Player of the Year awards for the 2024-25 season.[web:1]

Other Important Events

  • Four people are killed in flash floods around Chattanooga, Tennessee; severe flooding disrupts communities and traffic.[web:3]
  • Wildfires destroy parts of Spain's historic Las Médulas site, affecting ancient chestnut trees and tourist infrastructure.[web:3]