Daily Current Affairs — 18 August 2025
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
New Type of Supernova Triggered by Black Hole-Star Interaction
Context Astronomers have recently observed a previously unknown type of supernova, in which a massive star exploded under the gravitational influence of a black hole companion. About the recent phenomenon A binary star system, about 700 million light-years away, initially composed of two massive stars, was observed. One of the stars reached the end of its life, going supernova and collapsing into a black hole.
S&P Upgrades India’s Sovereign Rating to ‘BBB’
In News SP Global Ratings has upgraded India’s long-term sovereign credit rating from ‘BBB-’ to ‘BBB’ with a Stable Outlook. More about the News This is the first upgrade of India’s sovereign rating by SP in 18 years. SP’s decision reflects India’s sustained high economic growth, successful fiscal consolidation, and improved policy predictability.
Impact of Ethanol Blending
In News India achieved 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20) in 2025, five years earlier than the 2030 target set under the National Policy on Biofuels (2018). Way Forward Diversify Feedstock: Shift away from sugarcane to alternative sources such as maize, bamboo, and agricultural residues to reduce environmental impact. Consumer Protection: Implement tax incentives or compensation as recommended by NITI Aayog to address concerns over fuel efficiency drop.
PM Announced Next-gen GST Reforms
Context Recently, the Prime Minister of India has unveiled a new vision for India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime aimed at simplifying tax structures benefiting the poor, middle class, entrepreneurs, traders, and business owners. Suggestions for Future Improvements Settle classification disputes to reduce litigation; Correct inverted duty structures, especially in textiles and MSMEs; Establish GST Appellate Tribunals for faster resolution of disputes; Enhance digital infrastructure for smo
India To Launch Demographic Mission to Tackle Illegal Infiltration
In News On Indias 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a high-powered demography mission to protect the country from the dangers posed by illegal immigrants. Illegal immigration in India It is a multifaceted issue involving unauthorized entry, overstaying of visas, and undocumented migration across porous borders. India faces challenges from cross-border migration, especially in northeastern states like Assam and West Bengal, leading to concerns over jobs, social stabili
How ‘Honour’ Killings in India are Reinforced and Legitimised?
Context In India, caste remains a deeply rooted social structure, and ‘honour’ killings are emerging as a violent yet socially legitimised tool to preserve caste hierarchies, especially against inter-caste unions. About Honour Killings Definition: Honour killings refer to the murder of individuals (mostly young couples) by family or community members for allegedly bringing “dishonour” through relationships that defy caste, community, or gender norms. Geographical Pattern: States like Tamil Nadu,