Daily Current Affairs — 19 September 2025
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Army Scales Up Drone Induction
In News The Indian Army is rapidly expanding its drone and counter-drone capabilities, with multiple units operational and training centers. About Indian Army’s Plans The Indian Army plans to set up drone training centers at 19 major training institutions, including the Indian Military Academy, Infantry School, and Officers Training Academy, to integrate drone training into the standard curriculum for all ranks. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi announced that every infantry battalion will have
Analog Experiments: Attempt to Simulate Space on Earth
Context Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is conducting a series of analog experiments (Gyanex) to test human endurance, refine mission protocols, and validate technologies, as India prepares for its first human spaceflight mission under the Gaganyaan Programme. Strategic Purposes of These Experiments Human Readiness: Preparing astronauts for long-duration space travel Technology Validation: Testing equipment and protocols in realistic conditions Scientific Research: Understanding human
Artificial Intelligence as a Catalyst For Trade Growth
Context The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) World Trade Report 2025 found that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to boost global trade by up to nearly 40 per cent over the next 15 years, provided critical policy and infrastructure gaps are plugged. AI as a Driver of Trade-Led Growth Trade facilitation: AI in logistics and customs can reduce trade costs by up to 15%, according to WTO simulations. Productivity boost: AI-driven automation enhances efficiency across manufacturing and s
Why did India Condemn the Doha Strike?
Context India’s recent condemnation of Israel’s bombing in Doha is a shift from its more muted positions on previous Israeli operations in other countries. About Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) bombed a home in Doha, Qatar, where Hamas leaders were reportedly meeting in the U.S.-proposed ceasefire plan. Israel PM Netanyahu claimed the strike was “justified,” accusing Qatar of “harbouring and funding” Hamas operatives.
Closing Gender Gaps Holds the Key to Ending Poverty
Context The UN Gender Snapshot 2025, released by UN Women and UN DESA, highlights that without urgent action more than 351 million women and girls could remain in extreme poverty by 2030. Key Findings Persistent Poverty: Female poverty has remained stuck at 10% since 2020. Climate change and conflict are worsening vulnerabilities.
Defence Pact Between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan
Context Recently, Pakistan signed a mutual defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, India has said that it was aware of the development and reiterated its commitment to “comprehensive national security”. About Background of Meeting: The agreement was signed in the aftermath of an emergency summit of Arab and Muslim nations hosted by Qatar following Israel’s military strikes against Hamas leaders. The meeting brought together almost 60 countries that are members of the Arab League and the Organisatio