16th August 2025 Daily Current Affairs

National Events & Policy Announcements

• India’s Credit Rating Upgraded by S&P
  S&P raised India’s sovereign rating from BBB- to BBB (Stable Outlook) — marking the first upgrade in 18 years, citing robust GDP growth and improved fiscal indicators.

• New National Security Mission Unveiled
  Prime Minister Modi introduced ‘Mission Sudarshan Chakra’, a strategic initiative focused on enhancing protection for critical establishments.

International Diplomacy

• Chinese FM Wang Yi Arrives in India
  Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi began his visit to India (16–18 August) for talks on the ongoing Himalayan border dispute. Prime Minister Modi is also expected to visit China later this month for the SCO summit and meet President Xi Jinping.

Cultural & Religious Observances

• Krishna Janmashtami Celebrated Across India
  The nation observed Janmashtami on 16 August, commemorating Lord Krishna’s birth with widespread pujas. The Panchang highlighted the most auspicious worship time—midnight—and recommended avoiding Rahukal.

• Banks Closed in Several States
  Due to the overlap of Janmashtami and Independence Day holidays, banks in multiple regions remained closed on 16 August — customers were advised to verify local closure schedules.

Institutional & Regulatory Developments

• National Sports Governance Act Passed
  The National Sports Governance Act, 2025 was passed by both houses of Parliament. The legislation establishes a statutory framework for governance of sports bodies in India, aligning operations with international norms and ensuring transparency, athlete welfare, and equitable dispute resolution.

Administrative & Electoral Updates

• ECI to Host Press Conference Amid Controversies
  The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a press briefing on 17 August, aimed at addressing issues surrounding Bihar’s State Identification Register (SIR), allegations of vote theft raised by Rahul Gandhi, and the upcoming vice-presidential election.

UPSC & Competitive Exam Highlights

• Deep-Sea Exploration Progress
  India’s Samudrayaan Mission achieved record-setting aquanaut dives of 5,002 m and 4,025 m using the MATSYA 6000 submersible — underscoring advances in underwater technology and blue economy capabilities.

• Major GST Overhaul Proposed
  The government proposed a simplified GST structure, reducing tax slabs to only 5% and 18%, eliminating the 12% and 28% brackets, introducing a <1% rate for precious metals, and a high 40% “sin tax” for items like tobacco.

• Other Notable Schemes & Announcements

  • SAMARTH: A textile sector skill development initiative under the Ministry of Textiles.

  • FASAL: An agricultural forecasting system using satellite and meteorological data.

  • Namo Drone Didi: Scheme empowering women SHGs with drones for agricultural services.

  • BHASKAR: A registry to connect startups, investors, mentors, and ecosystem stakeholders.

  • MPEDA: Focused on seafood quality, promotion, and infrastructure allowed by the Marine Products Export Development Authority.

Summary Snapshot — 16 August 2025