Current Affairs: 18 October 2025 for Indian Govt Job Exams

SC Flags Digital Arrest Scams, Cites 'Grave Concern'

The Supreme Court of India has taken *suo motu* cognizance of widespread "digital arrest" scams. The court noted the increasing number of cases where criminals impersonate law enforcement officials like the CBI or ED to extort money. This action followed an incident involving an elderly couple in Haryana who lost a significant amount.

Key Facts

  • Modus Operandi: Fraudsters use technology, including deepfakes and fake documents, to appear legitimate and pressure victims.
  • Victims: The elderly and other vulnerable groups are frequently targeted.
  • NCRP Data: Data from the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal indicates a rise in financial fraud and impersonation.
  • Legal Framework: Scams violate the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
  • Potential Outcome: The Supreme Court's involvement is expected to lead to enhanced public awareness, improved cybersecurity, and better coordination among agencies.

Background Story: Understanding Digital Arrest Scams

Digital arrest scams combine social engineering and digital impersonation. Fraudsters contact victims, often via video call, claiming they are law enforcement and fabricating stories about the victim's involvement in crimes. They demand money to resolve the issue. The Supreme Court's intervention highlights this as a significant national issue requiring a strong governmental response.

India Turns to Russia for Rare Earths to Counter China's Monopoly

India is pursuing partnerships with Russian companies to secure access to critical minerals and reduce its dependence on China for rare earth elements. This follows China's export restrictions on certain rare earth materials vital for India's defense and aerospace industries. Indian firms are exploring collaborations with Russian entities, including Nornickel and Rosatom, for advanced processing technologies.

Key Facts

  • Strategic Minerals: Rare earth elements are crucial for military equipment, electronics, and space technology.
  • Indian Industry Partners: Indian companies and research bodies are assessing Russian processing technologies.
  • Russian Entities: Discussions are ongoing with major state-run Russian mining and nuclear energy companies.
  • China's Role: China dominates the global rare earths market, giving it significant influence. Export curbs have prompted India to diversify its supply.

Background Story: The Geopolitics of Rare Earths

China's control of a large portion of global rare earth production has become a geopolitical concern. These minerals are essential for high-tech applications, and India's reliance on China for its defense and electronics sectors makes it vulnerable to supply disruptions. The partnership with Russia is a strategic move to lessen this dependency and bolster India's technological self-reliance under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' policy.

India Opens Advanced Titanium and Superalloy Facility in Lucknow

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant in Lucknow at PTC Industries' Strategic Materials Technology Complex. This facility is a significant step towards self-reliance in producing critical materials for India's defense and aerospace sectors, focusing on high-performance alloys for fighter jets, missiles, and other advanced systems.

Key Facts

  • Purpose: To produce high-performance alloys for strategic defense and aerospace applications.
  • Location: Strategic Materials Technology Complex in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Significance: Supports the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives by reducing reliance on imported defense components.
  • MoU Signed: PTC Industries and Bharat Dynamics Limited signed an MoU for a joint venture to develop various systems, including propulsion systems and guided bombs.

Background Story: Strategic Materials and India's Defense Ambitions

India's defense and aerospace industries have traditionally depended on imported materials, leading to delays and increased costs. The new plant aims to build indigenous capacity for advanced alloys, crucial for technological sovereignty. This development is expected to strengthen the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor and create jobs.

India Wins ISSA Award for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security 2025

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya accepted the International Social Security Association (ISSA) Award for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security 2025 on behalf of India. The award was presented during the ISSA World Social Security Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Key Facts

  • Award Recipient: India.
  • Presenting Authority: International Social Security Association (ISSA).
  • Recognition for: India's progress and innovative strategies in social security.

Background Story: India's Social Security Expansion

India has expanded its social security network through various schemes, including healthcare, pensions, and employment benefits. The ISSA award acknowledges these efforts, particularly the use of digital technology and policy reforms to increase coverage and efficiency. The award underscores the government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens, especially vulnerable groups.

Supreme Court Dismisses FIRs Under UP Conversion Law, Experts See Far-Reaching Implications

The Supreme Court has quashed multiple FIRs filed in Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur district under the state's anti-conversion law, the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. The FIRs were against individuals, including a university Vice-Chancellor, regarding alleged "mass religious conversions". Experts believe this decision could impact pending cases and help prevent the misuse of the law.

Key Facts

  • Judgment Date: The Supreme Court's judgment was delivered on October 17, 2025.
  • Background of the Law: The UP law, also known as the "love jihad" law, aims to prevent forced or fraudulent conversions.
  • Implications: The ruling suggests stricter judicial review of cases under this law and aims to protect against its potential misuse, particularly against minorities.

Background Story: The Controversial UP Conversion Law

The UP Conversion Law has been controversial, with critics arguing it can be misused and violate individual freedoms. Many cases were filed after its enactment, with some seen as politically motivated. The Supreme Court's decision to quash the Fatehpur FIRs is viewed as a significant step to uphold due process and prevent the law's use for harassment.

IndiaAI and WHO Partner for Global Call for AI Health Use Cases

The IndiaAI Mission, part of MeitY, has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO) to launch a global call for abstracts on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in health systems. The initiative seeks to compile a casebook of effective and scalable AI health solutions from the Global South.

Key Facts

  • Partners: IndiaAI Mission (MeitY) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Purpose: To identify and document successful AI applications in healthcare, especially in developing countries.
  • Casebook: A comprehensive collection of AI health solutions will be created as a resource.
  • Submission Deadline: Abstracts are due by October 31, 2025.

Background Story: AI and Global Health

AI in healthcare offers significant potential for improving outcomes, particularly in areas with limited resources. AI can enhance diagnostics, optimize resource allocation, and improve public health surveillance. The IndiaAI and WHO collaboration focuses on highlighting and expanding these solutions in the Global South. This partnership demonstrates India's leadership in digital innovation and its commitment to global health initiatives.