Current Affairs of 6 April 2025

National and International Current Affairs - April 6, 2025

International Relations

• India and Sri Lanka Sign Defense and Energy Agreements: During his visit to Sri Lanka, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake signed multiple agreements aimed at strengthening defense and energy cooperation. These agreements are expected to bolster India's strategic and economic influence in Sri Lanka, particularly in light of China's expanding presence in the region. The visit also included the inauguration of a 120-megawatt solar power plant and the conferral of Sri Lanka's highest honor for foreign leaders, the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana, upon Prime Minister Modi. However, the visit sparked protests in Colombo, with critics accusing the government of compromising national sovereignty in favor of Indian influence.

Economy

• India Unlikely to Retaliate Against U.S. Tariffs Amid Ongoing Trade Negotiations: Following the U.S. imposition of a 26% tariff on Indian imports, India is unlikely to retaliate, focusing instead on progressing trade deal negotiations with Washington. Government officials indicate that India aims to finalize a trade deal by autumn 2025, viewing strategic value in being among the early countries to initiate such talks. Concessions made by India include reducing tariffs on luxury American goods and eliminating a digital services tax. Despite concerns that the tariffs could slow economic growth and impact key sectors like the diamond industry, the government remains focused on leveraging the trade talks for long-term benefits.

National News

• Delhi Government Signs MoU to Implement Ayushman Bharat Scheme: The Delhi government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Health Authority to roll out the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, making Delhi the 35th Union Territory/state to implement this flagship health insurance scheme. West Bengal remains the only state yet to adopt it.

Science & Technology

• Launch of Indigenous Trainer Aircraft 'HANSA-3(NG)': On April 4, 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled the indigenous trainer aircraft 'HANSA-3(Next Generation)' at the National Media Centre in New Delhi. This initiative aims to boost the pilot training ecosystem in India and involves collaboration with the private sector for manufacturing.

Defense

• INS Sunayna Flagged Off for Indian Ocean Mission: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off INS Sunayna as part of the Indian Ocean mission SAGAR at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka on April 5, 2025. This mission underscores India's commitment to enhancing maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.

Sports

• India Sends Humanitarian Aid to Myanmar and Thailand After Earthquake: India, along with other Quad countries (USA, Japan, and Australia), has sent over $20 million in humanitarian aid to Myanmar and Thailand following a devastating earthquake. This collective effort highlights international cooperation in disaster relief.