Current Affairs – August 8, 2025
1. Social Sector – Education
Semi-Circular Classrooms in Kerala
2. International Relations – Philippines
India–Philippines Strategic Partnership
Marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties (established in 1949), India and the Philippines have elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. A Plan of Action (2025–29) has been prepared to deepen cooperation in defence, economy, digital policy, infrastructure, and connectivity. Key highlights include:
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BrahMos missile deployment
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Joint approach in the South China Sea
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Support for a free and open Indo-Pacific
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Commitment to UNCLOS, WTO, and India’s Act East Policy.
3. Trade – United States
US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Imports
Citing security concerns related to India’s ties with BRICS, trade with Russia, and ongoing trade disagreements, the US has imposed tariffs of up to 50% on certain Indian imports. A 21-day consultation window has been given. While a setback, it could also push India toward structural reforms.
4. Bangladesh – One Year Since Hasina’s Resignation
Following massive student protests in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down. A year later, Bangladesh continues to face political instability, rising extremism, governance challenges, and economic stress. The situation also affects India–Bangladesh issues such as Teesta water sharing and connectivity projects.
5. Infrastructure – Northeast India
Railway Expansion under PM Gati Shakti
Under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, 12 new rail projects are underway in the Northeast. Central budgetary support for the region’s railways has grown from ₹2,122 crore (2009–14) to ₹10,440 crore (2025–26). Major projects completed include:
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Bogibeel Bridge (Assam–Arunachal)
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Agartala–Sabroom Line (Tripura–Bangladesh link)
Upcoming projects include Zubza–Imphal and Aizawl–Sairang lines.
6. Disaster Management – Flood Severity
District Flood Severity Index (DFSI)
Developed using IMD rainfall data since 1967, the DFSI considers flood duration, area affected, fatalities, injuries, and population impacted. Key findings: Patna ranks highest in severity; districts in the Indo-Gangetic plain and parts of Assam (Dhemaji, Kamrup, Nagaon) are among the most flood-prone.
7. Governance – Anti-Money Laundering
India’s Fight Against Money Laundering
According to the Finance Ministry, since 2015 the Enforcement Directorate has registered 5,892 PMLA cases, but only 15 have led to convictions. Assets worth ₹1.5 lakh crore have been provisionally attached. Measures include cracking down on shell companies and compliance with international frameworks like FATF, UNTOC, Vienna Convention, and DTAAs.
8. Human Development – IQ vs EQ
Balancing Intelligence and Emotional Quotient
Rapid urban, tech-driven lifestyles are eroding emotional intelligence (EQ). While IQ refers to cognitive ability, EQ covers empathy, interpersonal skills, and self-awareness. Experts stress social-emotional learning (SEL) in schools, tracking well-being via Gross National Happiness (GNH), and moving beyond GDP as the sole measure of development.
9. In News – Quick Facts
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Mycelium Bricks: Eco-friendly construction material made from the root structure of fungi. Advantages – biodegradable, lightweight (60x lighter than conventional bricks), fire-retardant, thermally insulating. Drawbacks – lower structural strength, moisture/pest sensitivity.
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RBI Growth Forecast: As per IMF’s World Economic Outlook, India’s GDP growth is projected at 6.4% for 2025–26 vs global average 3%. RBI’s MPC has pegged growth at 6.5% with CPI inflation at 3.1%.
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Naangarni Race: A traditional monsoon ploughing race held in Dervan village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. Farmers race oxen yoked to ploughs across wet paddy fields, similar to Karnataka’s Kambala and Kerala’s Maramadi.
