Current Affairs of 2 April 2025

National and International Current Affairs - April 2, 2025

Economy

• India's GDP Growth May Slow Due to U.S. Tariffs: Analysts predict that the U.S. tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump could reduce India's GDP growth by 20-40 basis points in FY 2025-26. Economists suggest that this may lead to additional interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to support economic stability. Key export sectors, including textiles, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals, are expected to be impacted.
• India Considers Lowering EV Tariffs for U.S. Trade Deal: The Indian government is evaluating a proposal to reduce tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) as part of an effort to strengthen trade relations with the U.S. This move is facing opposition from domestic automobile manufacturers, who argue that it could lead to an influx of foreign EVs, reducing the market share of Indian brands such as Tata and Mahindra. The government, however, believes that easing EV import duties could encourage global investments in India’s green energy sector.
• Stock Market Volatility Amid Global Trade Uncertainty: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) witnessed fluctuations due to global economic concerns stemming from the new U.S. trade policies. The Sensex dropped by 350 points in early trade but recovered slightly by the end of the day. Sectors such as IT and FMCG remained stable, while auto and export-driven companies faced pressure.

International Relations

• India Prepares for Impact of New U.S. Tariffs: President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on imported goods, calling April 2 ""Liberation Day."" India, being a major exporter to the U.S., is expected to experience challenges in sectors like steel, textiles, and electronics. The Indian government is considering retaliatory measures, including higher duties on select U.S. goods, while also exploring new trade agreements with the European Union and ASEAN nations.
• India and UAE Strengthen Energy Partnership: India and the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in energy security and renewable energy projects. The agreement includes plans for increased crude oil supplies and joint investments in solar and hydrogen energy projects.

National News

• India Records Highest Child Adoptions in 12 Years: The country witnessed a significant increase in child adoptions, with over 4,000 legal adoptions recorded in the last financial year, marking the highest figure in over a decade. Experts attribute this growth to improved legal procedures, awareness campaigns, and government incentives for adoptive parents.
• Railway Safety Gets a Boost with New AI System: Indian Railways has launched an AI-based safety monitoring system to prevent accidents and improve railway operations. The system will use real-time data analysis to detect faults in tracks and signaling systems, reducing the risk of derailments and collisions.

Sports

• IPL 2025 Begins with Strong Performances: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicked off with thrilling matches. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-scoring game, while Delhi Capitals (DC) secured a last-over win against Mumbai Indians (MI). Star players like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant delivered standout performances.
• India to Host 2036 Olympics? Talks Underway: India has formally submitted its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. The government is in discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to finalize plans, with Ahmedabad being proposed as the primary host city.

Government Initiatives

• India Launches 'Krishi Nivesh' Digital Platform: The central government has introduced 'Krishi Nivesh,' a unified digital platform designed to streamline agricultural investments. This initiative aims to improve transparency in the sector, attract private investors, and provide farmers with better financial assistance programs.
• New AI-Powered Chatbot for Government Services: The Ministry of Electronics and IT has launched an AI-based chatbot to assist citizens in accessing government services, including passport applications, PAN card inquiries, and income tax filing.

Science & Technology

• ISRO Prepares for Chandrayaan-4 Mission: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that its Chandrayaan-4 lunar mission is set for launch in 2026. This mission will focus on collecting soil samples and testing advanced robotic systems for deep-space exploration.
• India’s First Quantum Computing Lab Inaugurated: The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru inaugurated the country's first quantum computing lab in collaboration with IBM, marking a significant step towards advancements in artificial intelligence and data security.