18th October 2025 Daily Current Affairs

🇮🇳 India / National

 

The NDTV World Summit 2025 in New Delhi featured remarks from Narendra Modi describing India as a “reliable, responsible and resilient” partner in the global economy, citing rising investment flows and India’s role in global supply chains.

A senior bureaucrat at the Summit emphasised India’s soft-power—culture, tech, heritage—rather than only military might: “Hard power wins wars, but soft power defines time and wins hearts.”

Multiple developments in India’s defence & manufacturing sectors:

The BrahMos Aerospace facility in Lucknow inaugurated a booster & warhead building; ministers highlighted that indigenous defence manufacture is gaining momentum.

The government reaffirmed efforts for self-reliance in critical minerals and processing capabilities.

On the ritual and festive side:

It is reported that Dhanteras will be celebrated on 18 October 2025. Buying of gold/silver and certain auspicious foods is a major tradition for the day.

The Panchang (calendar) notes the tithi and rahu-kaal etc. for 18 October.

Weather/Environment: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued heavy-rainfall warnings across parts of southern India up to 18 October.

🌐 World / Global

A magnitude 5.63 earthquake struck Mindanao in the Philippines on 18 October.

On international diplomacy: commentary suggests that together India and China may play a larger role in “better global governance” as the traditional Western-led multilateral order evolves

On trade/energy diplomacy: The earlier claim by Donald Trump that India would stop buying Russian oil remains in the spotlight—India’s position continues to draw questions.

📅 Cultural / Observance & Miscellaneous

Dhanteras (part of the upcoming Diwali festivities) is observed today, with traditional beliefs around prosperity, wealth and auspicious purchases.

Banks: According to the calendar, banks in India may be closed today (Saturday) depending on regional holiday status.