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Current Affairs 02 May 2025
1. Sujata Chaturvedi Appointed as a UPSC Board Member
Sujata Chaturvedi has been appointed as a member of the Union Public
Service Commission (UPSC). She is a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1989 batch of the Bihar cadre. Before this appointment, she served as the Secretary of the Department of Youth Affairs in the Government of India. Her vast administrative experience across various ministries makes her a valuable addition to the UPSC. Chaturvedi’s appointment is expected to enhance the commission’s functioning in conducting prestigious civil service examinations.
Service Commission (UPSC). She is a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1989 batch of the Bihar cadre. Before this appointment, she served as the Secretary of the Department of Youth Affairs in the Government of India. Her vast administrative experience across various ministries makes her a valuable addition to the UPSC. Chaturvedi’s appointment is expected to enhance the commission’s functioning in conducting prestigious civil service examinations.Foot notes:
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Appointment as Sports Secretary: She was appointed as Secretary, Department of Sports in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in September 2021, taking over from Ravi Mittal.
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Background: Chaturvedi has previously served as an Additional Secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
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Tenure as SAI DG: She has been entrusted with the additional charge of DG, SAI on an interim basis, effective October 1, 2024, until a regular incumbent is appointed or further orders.
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Experience: With over three decades of experience in governance, Chaturvedi has held key positions, showcasing her expertise in administration and sports development.
2. India Remains 4th Largest Economy In World, US at No. 1
India has solidified its position as the world's fourth-largest economy in 2025,
with a nominal GDP of $4.19 trillion, matching Japan's economic output. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), India is projected to be the fastest-growing major economy, with an anticipated growth rate of 6.2% this year . The United States maintains its lead with a GDP of $30.51 trillion, followed by China at $19.23 trillion and Germany at $4.74 trillion. India's robust growth is driven by strong domestic consumption, strategic investments, and a thriving services sector. With this momentum, India is poised to surpass both Germany and Japan to become the world's third-largest economy in the near future.
with a nominal GDP of $4.19 trillion, matching Japan's economic output. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), India is projected to be the fastest-growing major economy, with an anticipated growth rate of 6.2% this year . The United States maintains its lead with a GDP of $30.51 trillion, followed by China at $19.23 trillion and Germany at $4.74 trillion. India's robust growth is driven by strong domestic consumption, strategic investments, and a thriving services sector. With this momentum, India is poised to surpass both Germany and Japan to become the world's third-largest economy in the near future.Foot notes:
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Global Ranking: India remains the fourth-largest economy in the world, with the United States at number one, China at number two, and Germany at number three. India's GDP is estimated to be $4.39 trillion in 2025.
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Growth Rate: India is projected to grow at a rate of 6.2% in 2025, making it the fastest-growing major economy globally. This growth is driven by significant increases in private consumption, especially in rural areas.
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Comparison with Other Economies: India's GDP per capita is estimated to be $4.19 thousand, comparable to Japan's. The United States has the highest GDP per capita at $30.51 thousand.
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Future Outlook: India is poised to become the third-largest economy by 2030, according to the IMF's latest World Economic Outlook. The country's growth trajectory is expected to continue, driven by its dynamic economy.
3. MP Introduced India’s First AI-Powered Real-Time Forest Alert System
Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to implement an AI-based
real-time forest alert system, marking a significant advancement in forest management and conservation. This innovative system utilizes satellite imagery, mobile feedback, and machine learning to detect land encroachment, deforestation, and forest degradation. Currently piloted in five sensitive forest divisions—Shivpuri, Guna, Vidisha, Burhanpur, and Khandwa—the system provides live monitoring on the Divisional Forest Officer's dashboard, displaying real-time alerts categorized by beat and field posts, with filters for date, density, and area. Field staff receive these alerts through a mobile app, enabling them to verify and take immediate action on-site, supported by features like GPS-tagged photos and voice notes.
real-time forest alert system, marking a significant advancement in forest management and conservation. This innovative system utilizes satellite imagery, mobile feedback, and machine learning to detect land encroachment, deforestation, and forest degradation. Currently piloted in five sensitive forest divisions—Shivpuri, Guna, Vidisha, Burhanpur, and Khandwa—the system provides live monitoring on the Divisional Forest Officer's dashboard, displaying real-time alerts categorized by beat and field posts, with filters for date, density, and area. Field staff receive these alerts through a mobile app, enabling them to verify and take immediate action on-site, supported by features like GPS-tagged photos and voice notes.Foot notes:
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Near Real-Time Monitoring: The Forest Survey of India (FSI) has launched the Forest Fire Alert System (FAST) Version 3.0, which provides near real-time monitoring of forest fires using MODIS and SNPP-VIIRS satellite data. This system allows for timely detection and response to forest fires.
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Customized Alerts: The system provides customized alerts for 20 states at the beat level and 2 states at the range level, ensuring that forest officials receive relevant and actionable information.
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Forest Fire GeoPortal: The FSI has also launched a Forest Fire GeoPortal, which provides a centralized platform for visualizing and managing forest fire data.
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Fire Danger Rating: The system includes a Forest Fire Danger Rating (FFDR) system, which provides early warnings for potential forest fires. The FFDR is processed and uploaded every Thursday during the fire season and is valid for the ensuing week.
4. Indian boxers win 4 more golds in Asian U-15 and U-17 Championships
Indian boxers concluded their campaign at the inaugural Asian U-15 and U-17
Boxing Championships in Amman, Jordan, with a remarkable haul of 15 gold medals. On the final day, the U-17 girls' team secured four golds, with standout performances from Khushi Chand (46 kg), Ahaana Sharma (50 kg), Jannat (54 kg), and Anshika (80+ kg) . Overall, India amassed 15 gold, 6 silver, and 22 bronze medals, finishing second in the overall standings behind Kazakhstan. The U-15 girls' team was particularly dominant, winning 10 out of 15 available golds and sweeping every final they contested. This impressive performance underscores the depth and promise of India's young boxing talent on the continental stage.
Boxing Championships in Amman, Jordan, with a remarkable haul of 15 gold medals. On the final day, the U-17 girls' team secured four golds, with standout performances from Khushi Chand (46 kg), Ahaana Sharma (50 kg), Jannat (54 kg), and Anshika (80+ kg) . Overall, India amassed 15 gold, 6 silver, and 22 bronze medals, finishing second in the overall standings behind Kazakhstan. The U-15 girls' team was particularly dominant, winning 10 out of 15 available golds and sweeping every final they contested. This impressive performance underscores the depth and promise of India's young boxing talent on the continental stage.Foot notes:
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Girls' U-17 Wins: The Indian girls' U-17 team won four gold medals on the final day of the championships. The winners include Khushi Chand (46 kg), Ahaana Sharma (50 kg), Jannat (54 kg), and Anshika (80+ kg).
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Khushi Chand's Win: Khushi Chand edged past Mongolia's Altanzul Altangadas in a hard-fought 3:2 win to claim her gold medal.
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Ahaana Sharma and Jannat's Dominant Wins: Ahaana Sharma and Jannat delivered dominant 5:0 victories over their opponents from Uzbekistan, showcasing their skills in the ring.
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Anshika's RSC Win: Anshika sealed India's 15th title of the championships with a first-round RSC win against Jordan's Jana Alalawneh in the 80+ kg category.
5. IGCC Dhaka honors Ustad Zakir Hussain with a music tribute
The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in Dhaka, under the High
Commission of India, recently hosted a musical tribute to the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. The event featured a captivating tabla recital by Pallav Sanyal and his ensemble, followed by performances from renowned sarodist Rajrupa Chowdhury and accompanying tabla artists. Their intricate rhythms and soulful melodies paid homage to Hussain's unparalleled contributions to Indian classical music. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, lauded Ustad Zakir Hussain as a global icon and national treasure, emphasizing his role in elevating Indian classical music on the world stage.
Commission of India, recently hosted a musical tribute to the legendary tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain. The event featured a captivating tabla recital by Pallav Sanyal and his ensemble, followed by performances from renowned sarodist Rajrupa Chowdhury and accompanying tabla artists. Their intricate rhythms and soulful melodies paid homage to Hussain's unparalleled contributions to Indian classical music. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, lauded Ustad Zakir Hussain as a global icon and national treasure, emphasizing his role in elevating Indian classical music on the world stage.Foot notes:
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Celebrating 70 Years of India-Bangladesh Diplomatic Relations: The event was part of the celebrations marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh.
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Musical Tribute: The event featured a musical tribute to Ustad Zakir Hussain, showcasing his contributions to Indian classical music and his legacy.
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Cultural Exchange: The event highlighted the strong cultural ties between India and Bangladesh, with Ustad Zakir Hussain being a prominent figure in promoting Indian classical music globally.
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Honoring a Legend: The tribute event was a fitting recognition of Ustad Zakir Hussain's achievements and contributions to music, both in India and internationally.
6. OPG Mobility appoints Ajay Dhiman as President
OPG Mobility, formerly known as Okaya EV, has appointed Ajay Dhiman as
President, Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to spearhead its Electric Vehicle and EV Components division. In this strategic leadership role, Dhiman will oversee core operational and technological functions, including manufacturing, research and development, product development, quality assurance, strategic sourcing, supply chain management, and business strategy. With over two decades of experience in the automotive and EV industry, Dhiman previously served as Senior Vice President at Revolt Motors, where he led operations, R&D, product engineering, strategic sourcing, supply chain, and P&L management.
President, Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to spearhead its Electric Vehicle and EV Components division. In this strategic leadership role, Dhiman will oversee core operational and technological functions, including manufacturing, research and development, product development, quality assurance, strategic sourcing, supply chain management, and business strategy. With over two decades of experience in the automotive and EV industry, Dhiman previously served as Senior Vice President at Revolt Motors, where he led operations, R&D, product engineering, strategic sourcing, supply chain, and P&L management.Foot notes:
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Appointment Details: Unfortunately, the search results don't provide specific details about Ajay Dhiman's appointment as President, including the date and his background.
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OPG Mobility's Vision: The company aims to lead India's transition to a zero-emission and smart transportation ecosystem, delivering innovative, reliable, and safe electric mobility solutions.
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Product Range: OPG Mobility offers a diverse range of high-quality electric vehicles, including:
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FAAST F4: Ex-showroom price 1,099,999, top speed 70 km/hr, range 160 km
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DEFY 22: Introductory price 99,999, top speed 70 km/hr, range 80 km
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FAAST F3: Ex-showroom price 1,049,999, top speed 70 km/hr, range 120-130 km
7. Paul & Shark appoints KL Rahul as Global Brand Ambassador
Italian luxury clothing brand Paul & Shark has appointed Indian cricketer KL
Rahul as its first-ever global brand ambassador from India, marking a significant milestone in the brand's 15-year presence in the country. Rahul will lead the Spring/Summer 2025 campaign, which launched globally on May 2, 2025, across Paul & Shark's platforms and his own social media channels, with a special focus on the Indian market. The collaboration reflects shared values of authenticity, adventure, and contemporary elegance, aligning Rahul's distinctive style with the brand's commitment to Italian craftsmanship and innovation.
Rahul as its first-ever global brand ambassador from India, marking a significant milestone in the brand's 15-year presence in the country. Rahul will lead the Spring/Summer 2025 campaign, which launched globally on May 2, 2025, across Paul & Shark's platforms and his own social media channels, with a special focus on the Indian market. The collaboration reflects shared values of authenticity, adventure, and contemporary elegance, aligning Rahul's distinctive style with the brand's commitment to Italian craftsmanship and innovation.Foot notes:
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Recent Partnerships: In November 2024, Rahul partnered with Police Lifestyle for a two-year term, launching a collection of leather goods. He also introduced a premium cricket equipment line, KLR x SG, with Sanspareils Greenlands.
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Diverse Endorsements: Rahul's endorsements span various sectors, including sports, fashion, and technology. He has worked with Hublot, a luxury Swiss watch brand, and NUMI Paris, a French luxury eyewear brand.
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Entrepreneurial Ventures: Rahul has invested in and become a brand ambassador for HyugaLife, a health and wellness platform, and Gully, a streetwear brand he co-founded.
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Fitness and Wellness: He has also partnered with Cure.fit and ARC Athlete Recovery, highlighting his interest in fitness and wellness.
8. Air Marshal Narmadeshwar Tiwari assumed the role of 49th Vice Chief of the Air Staff
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari assumed the role of the 49th Vice Chief of the
Air Staff on May 2, 2025, succeeding Air Marshal S P Dharkar, who retired on April 30. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command in Gandhinagar. Commissioned into the fighter stream in June 1986, Air Marshal Tiwari is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and a recipient of the President's Gold Medal. A qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot, he has extensive experience flying various aircraft, notably the Mirage-2000, and played a significant role during the Kargil conflict.
Air Staff on May 2, 2025, succeeding Air Marshal S P Dharkar, who retired on April 30. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command in Gandhinagar. Commissioned into the fighter stream in June 1986, Air Marshal Tiwari is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and a recipient of the President's Gold Medal. A qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot, he has extensive experience flying various aircraft, notably the Mirage-2000, and played a significant role during the Kargil conflict.Foot notes:
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Background and Experience: Tiwari is a seasoned officer with over 37 years of flying experience, including more than 3,600 hours on various fighter jets. He has served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff.
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Notable Roles: He has held key positions such as Chief Test Pilot at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) and Air Attaché at the Embassy of India in France. Tiwari has also been instrumental in test flying HAL Tejas and extensive weapons testing on Mirage 2000.
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Awards and Decorations: Air Marshal Tiwari has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022, and Vayu Sena Medal in 2008 for his exceptional service.
9. Sonia Bompastor and Catarina Macario nominated for WSL awards
Chelsea FC Women’s manager Sonia Bompastor and forward Catarina
Macario have been nominated for the Women's Super League (WSL) Manager of the Month and Goal of the Month awards for April 2025, respectively. Bompastor guided Chelsea to two victories in April, including a decisive 1-0 win over Manchester United that clinched the WSL title in her debut season . Macario's nomination follows her impressive goal against Crystal Palace, where she skillfully finished from a Sandy Baltimore cross during Chelsea's 4-0 triumph .
Macario have been nominated for the Women's Super League (WSL) Manager of the Month and Goal of the Month awards for April 2025, respectively. Bompastor guided Chelsea to two victories in April, including a decisive 1-0 win over Manchester United that clinched the WSL title in her debut season . Macario's nomination follows her impressive goal against Crystal Palace, where she skillfully finished from a Sandy Baltimore cross during Chelsea's 4-0 triumph .Foot notes:
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Sonia Bompastor's Nomination: Sonia Bompastor has been nominated for the Women's Super League Manager of the Month award for April, after securing the league title with two wins from two WSL games in April.
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Catarina Macario's Nomination: Catarina Macario's strike against Crystal Palace is up for the Goal of the Month prize, where she scored Chelsea's second goal with a smart finish from Sandy Baltimore's cross.
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Chelsea's Wins: Chelsea defeated Crystal Palace 4-0 at Kingmeadow and clinched the trophy with a 1-0 win over Manchester United, showcasing their dominance in the league.
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Voting Details: Voting for Manager of the Month and Goal of the Month is open until May 3, 12 noon, with the winner announced on May 6.
10. India’s Coal Production Increases by 3.63% to 81.57 Million Tonnes in April 2025
India's coal production reached 81.57 million tonnes in April 2025, reflecting a
3.63% increase from the 78.71 million tonnes produced in April 2024 . This growth was significantly driven by captive and non-Coal India Limited (CIL) mines, which saw a 26.6% rise in output, producing 14.51 million tonnes compared to 11.46 million tonnes the previous year . Coal dispatches also experienced a steady uptick, reaching 86.64 million tonnes in April 2025, up from 85.11 million tonnes in the same month last year . As of April 30, 2025, coal stockpiles stood at 125.76 million tonnes, with CIL alone accounting for 105 million tonnes, marking a 22.1% increase from the previous year's figures.
3.63% increase from the 78.71 million tonnes produced in April 2024 . This growth was significantly driven by captive and non-Coal India Limited (CIL) mines, which saw a 26.6% rise in output, producing 14.51 million tonnes compared to 11.46 million tonnes the previous year . Coal dispatches also experienced a steady uptick, reaching 86.64 million tonnes in April 2025, up from 85.11 million tonnes in the same month last year . As of April 30, 2025, coal stockpiles stood at 125.76 million tonnes, with CIL alone accounting for 105 million tonnes, marking a 22.1% increase from the previous year's figures.Foot notes:
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Coal Production Growth: Coal India Limited (CIL) has been experiencing growth in coal production, with a notable increase of 8% to 189.3 million tonnes (MTs) in the first quarter of FY 2025, compared to 175.5 MTs in the same period of FY 2024.
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Production Targets: CIL has been meeting its production targets, with a goal to produce 838 MTs in FY 2025. In FY 2024, CIL produced 773.6 million tonnes (MTs) of coal, registering a 10% growth over the previous year.
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Supply to Power Sector: CIL's supplies to the power sector have also increased, with a 4% growth to 160 MTs during Q1 FY 2025, compared to 154 MTs in the same period of FY 2024.
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Non-Power Sector Growth: The company has seen significant growth in supplies to the non-power sector, with a 16% growth to 38.4 MTs during Q1 FY 2025, compared to 33 MTs in the same period of FY 2024.
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