Daily Current Affairs – 25 April 2025

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U.S. President Donald Trump's imposition of reciprocal tariffs has escalated global trade tensions, triggering a fall in oil prices, stock market volatility, and threatening the export-dependent economies of South and Southeast Asia. For India, the stakes are high, and a careful recalibration of trade strategy is essential to turn this challenge into an opportunity. Summary Event: U.S. imposes reciprocal tariffs, leading to a 14% drop in crude oil and concerns of a global trade war. Impact: Major setback for South...

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India is on the brink of introducing two powerful new antibiotics—Cefiderocol and Cefepime-zidebactam. However, experts warn that without clear usage regulations, these last-line drugs could be misused, worsening the country's already critical problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Summary Issue: Overuse of powerful antibiotics like ceftazidime-avibactam is causing resistance. Expert Voice: Dr. Abdul Ghafur has urged the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) to frame strict guidelines on new antibiotics. Drugs Highlighted: Ceftazidime-avibactam – already misused in India. Cefiderocol & Cefepime-zidebactam...

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The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear concerns over Section 19 of the POCSO Act, which mandates the reporting of sexual activity involving minors, even if consensual. The provision is being challenged for leading to the criminalisation of adolescents and posing threats to reproductive and mental health. Summary Issue Raised: Section 19 of POCSO mandates reporting of all sexual activity involving persons under 18, even if consensual. Petitioner: Senior advocate Indira Jaising, serving as amicus curiae, flagged the...

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China successfully launched the Shenzhou-20 mission, sending three astronauts to the Tiangong space station for a six-month stay. This is part of China’s broader ambitions to strengthen its presence in outer space, including future moon and Mars missions. News Summary Event: Launch of three astronauts aboard Shenzhou-20. Destination: Tiangong Space Station, China’s indigenous orbital platform. Purpose: Replacement of the current crew, conduct of scientific experiments, and station maintenance. Significance: Reinforces China’s roadmap for long-term space exploration and future interplanetary missions....

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Solace during summer: Celebrating the Mango Harvest in Odisha   A vibrant celebration unfolds in the tribal heartland of Odisha as the Lanjia Saora women perform traditional dances marking the mango harvest season. Captured in Gunupur, Rayagada district, this image reflects both cultural expression and seasonal gratitude. Summary What happened: Women of the Lanjia Saora tribe were seen celebrating the mango harvest through traditional dance. Where: Gunupur region, Rayagada district, Odisha. Why it's important: The event not only symbolizes the...