18th August 2025 Daily Current Affairs

National & Economic Highlights

1. India’s Steel Safeguard Tariff Proposal

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has recommended a three-year import tariff on certain steel items—starting at 12% and decreasing to 11% by the third year. This is intended to counter a surge in steel imports, particularly from China, that threaten India’s domestic steel industry. This follows a temporary 12% tariff imposed in April

2. Stock Market Rally: Nifty 50 & Sensex Surge

The Indian equity markets rallied strongly:

• Nifty50 crossed the symbolic 25,000 mark.

• BSE Sensex jumped over 1,000 points intraday.
  This bullish momentum was fueled by next-generation GST reforms announced during the Independence Day address and a credit rating upgrade from S&P Global.

3. Rupee Poised for Recovery Amid US-India Trade Tensions

The Indian rupee is expected to open stronger—around ₹87.50–87.52 per USD, supported by gains in equities. However, lingering trade tensions with the US, including the scheduled 25% import duty set to take effect from August 27 and the cancellation of planned trade talks, continue to cap its appreciation.

Diplomacy & Global Affairs

4. China’s FM Wang Yi Visits India

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in New Delhi for high-level talks with Indian leaders. The agenda includes meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, under the Special Representatives’ dialogue mechanism. The discussions aim to address border issues and broader bilateral relations, ahead of PM Modi’s trip to China for the SCO summit.

Weather Alerts & Local Updates

5. Heavy Rain Warning in Maharashtra

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued:

• A red alert for Mumbai and Pune, indicating extremely heavy rainfall and high risk to life and property.

• An orange alert for Amravati and Gadchiroli, and a yellow alert for regions like Nagpur, Wardha, and others, due to anticipated heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Authorities are bracing for possible floods, high sea waves, and have deployed rescue teams.

6. Mumbai Bears Brunt of Monsoon

Today, Mumbai is expected to face strong winds and heavy rain, with wind speeds reaching up to 40–50 km/h. The city has activated emergency protocols to manage traffic disruptions, waterlogging, and train service suspensions. Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak intensity periods.

7. Indore Awaits Relief from Rain Deficit

Indore continues to experience below-normal rainfall, with a significant deficit of approximately seven inches. Temperatures remain above average: max of 32.2 °C and min of 23.2 °C. Hope lies in a fresh low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal, expected to bring widespread rain between August 18 and 20.

Special Observance

8. World Breast Cancer Research Day

August 18 is observed globally as World Breast Cancer Research Day, honoring progress in research and treatment. The day spotlights awareness of symptoms and the importance of early detection in improving survival outcomes.

Culture & Civic Events

9. Miss Universe India 2025 Pageant in Jaipur

The Miss Universe India 2025 competition took place today in Jaipur, Rajasthan, with 48 entrants competing. The winner will go on to represent India at the 74th Miss Universe Pageant scheduled for November 2025 in Thailand.

10. Bengaluru’s Raj Bhavan Opens to Public

As part of Independence Day celebrations, Bengaluru’s Raj Bhavan opened its gates to the public for three days (August 16–18). Typically off-limits, this allowed citizens rare access to explore the heritage landmark.

Quick Recap Table