Introduction
For aspirants of the UGC NET, particularly those concentrating on Paper 1 and general awareness, staying updated with daily current affairs is essential—it can make a significant difference in exam performance. The updates for 21st August 2025 span multiple sectors, including national policies, international relations, economy, business, defense, sports, science, and culture. This carefully compiled digest is designed to strengthen your preparation and keep you fully exam-ready.
Online Gaming Bill 2025 Passed: E-Sports Promoted, Real Money Gaming Prohibited
The Lok Sabha passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, aiming to encourage e-sports and online social games while banning real money gaming platforms that pose financial and social risks. The legislation establishes an Online Gaming Authority responsible for regulation and sector development. The bill targets the protection of youth and vulnerable groups from harms linked to real money games like poker and rummy, which have caused fraud, addiction, and suicides. Offenders may face up to three years in prison and fines of ₹1 crore, with stricter penalties for repeat violations.
Frank Caprio, ‘Nicest Judge in the World’, Dies at 88
Judge Frank Caprio, known for his role in Caught in Providence, passed away at 88 due to pancreatic cancer. Celebrated for his compassion and humor on the bench, he served nearly 40 years in the Providence Municipal Court. His death sparked tributes worldwide, with his legacy of fairness and kindness remembered by millions.
India’s Core Industries Grow 2% in July 2025, Led by Steel and Cement
India’s eight core industries expanded 2% in July 2025 year-on-year, with steel (12.8%), cement (11.7%), fertilisers (2%), and electricity (0.5%) driving growth, according to the Commerce and Industry Ministry. Coal, crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum refinery output declined slightly due to monsoon impacts. Overall growth reflects strong infrastructure demand and a good kharif sowing season, with cumulative growth for April–July 2025 at 1.6%.
130th Constitution Amendment Bill: PM, CMs Could Be Removed if Detained for 30 Days
Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, proposing that the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and other ministers be automatically removed from office if detained for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges. This amendment affects Articles 75, 164, and 239AA, mandating resignation or cessation of office during detention, with the possibility of reappointment once released. While the bill is designed to promote transparent governance and enhance public trust, critics warn of potential political misuse, undermining the presumption of innocence, and federalism concerns. The bill is currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
Marine Fish Production Hits 44.95 Lakh Tonnes
India’s marine fish production reached 44.95 lakh tonnes in 2023–24, growing 8.9% annually, with 91.1% sustainable fish stocks, according to ICAR-CMFRI. Programs under PMMSY, NICRA, and MPEDA’s NETFISH support sustainable fishing, improve seafood quality, and enhance fisher incomes.
Jalalabad Renamed Parashurampuri to Honour Lord Parashuram
The Centre approved renaming Jalalabad in Uttar Pradesh as Parashurampuri, announced by Union Minister Jitin Prasada. Locals welcomed the change, viewing the former name as associated with “slavery” and appreciating the shift toward Sanatan traditions. This renaming aligns with broader government efforts to replace names linked to historical oppression. Official gazette notification is expected soon.
India Post Introduces IT 2.0: Upgraded Postal Technology to Boost Digital India
India Post rolled out IT 2.0 – Advanced Postal Technology (APT) as part of its digital transformation efforts under the Digital India initiative. Developed by the Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology, it operates on the MeghRaj 2.0 cloud and uses BSNL’s nationwide connectivity. The system features a unified interface, QR-code payments, OTP-based delivery, and a 10-digit alphanumeric DIGIPIN, all aimed at improving delivery accuracy.
EPFO Records Highest Net Payroll Additions in June 2025
EPFO saw a record net addition of 21.89 lakh members in June 2025, the strongest monthly growth since April 2018. This represents a 9.14% increase from May 2025 and a 13.46% rise compared to June 2024. Over 10.62 lakh new members joined, with the majority in the 18–25 age group (6.39 lakh). Re-enrolments reached 16.93 lakh, showing a trend of transferring savings rather than withdrawing. Female participation surged, with 3.02 lakh new women members and a net increase of 4.72 lakh. Maharashtra led in state-wise additions, contributing over 20%.
UIDAI Partners with Starlink for Aadhaar-Based e-KYC
UIDAI has partnered with Starlink Satellite Communication Pvt Ltd to enable Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification, allowing quick, secure, paperless customer onboarding. The collaboration leverages Starlink’s satellite internet with India’s trusted digital identity system, reinforcing scalability and innovation.
India and Saudi Arabia Establish Joint Working Group on Maritime Cooperation
India and Saudi Arabia agreed to strengthen maritime ties through a Joint Working Group (JWG) focusing on shipping and logistics collaboration. The partnership complements India’s Maritime Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and India’s Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Initiatives include investment in ports like Vadhavan Port and the Outer Harbour Project at VO Chidambaranar Port, supported by a USD 3 billion Maritime Development Fund.
IS&P Upgrades India’s Credit Rating to BBB After 18 Years
S&P Global Ratings upgraded India’s sovereign credit rating to “BBB” with a stable outlook, citing strong domestic demand, fiscal consolidation, and infrastructure reforms. The upgrade, first in 18 years, also lifted ratings for major banks and NBFCs, reflecting resilience despite global trade tensions.
NCERT Launches “Operation Sindoor” Educational Modules
NCERT introduced educational modules titled “Operation Sindoor – A Saga of Valour” (Classes 3–8) and “Operation Sindoor – A Mission of Honour and Bravery” (Classes 9–12). These modules highlight Operation Sindoor as a military achievement, technological advancement, and political message, aiming to instill values of courage, patriotism, and national security in students.
India Successfully Tests Agni-5 Missile
India test-fired the Agni-5 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) on 20 August 2025 from Chandipur, Odisha, under the Strategic Forces Command. The three-stage, solid-fuel, canisterised missile has a range exceeding 5,000 km, capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads, strengthening India’s nuclear deterrence and adhering to its No First Use policy.
West Bengal Launches ‘Shramshree’ Scheme for Returning Migrant Workers
Launched on 18 August 2025 by CM Mamata Banerjee, the Shramshree Scheme provides returning Bengali migrant workers ₹5,000/month for one year or until employed. Additional support includes skill training, job cards, and self-employment loans to help workers rebuild their lives.
Mohamed Salah Wins Third PFA Player of the Year Award
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah made history by winning the PFA Player of the Year award for a third time. He scored 29 goals, provided 18 assists, led Liverpool to the Premier League title, and also won the Golden Boot, Playmaker Award, and Premier League Player of the Season, becoming the first player to claim all three in one season.
World Entrepreneurs’ Day 2025: Honouring Innovation and Impact
Celebrated on 21 August 2025, World Entrepreneurs’ Day recognises the vision, resilience, and economic contributions of entrepreneurs in over 170 countries. The day promotes education, awareness, and support for startups, highlighting the role of entrepreneurs in job creation, innovation, and technological progress.
World Senior Citizens’ Day 2025: Empowering Elderly Voices
Observed on 21 August 2025, the day celebrates senior citizens’ contributions while highlighting issues like health, isolation, and financial security. The 2025 theme, “Empowering Elderly Voices for an Inclusive Future”, encourages active participation of older adults in policy-making.
International Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism 2025
Observed on 21 August 2025, this day marks the eighth anniversary since its UN establishment in 2017. The theme, “United by Hope: Collective Action for Victims of Terrorism”, emphasises global solidarity, victim support, human rights, and the pursuit of peace.
https://claude.ai/public/artifacts/44627599-9450-4380-b865-a553bd10a5d9
1 What is the maximum penalty for violators under the Online Gaming Bill 2025?
A) 2 years prison and ₹50 lakh fine
B) 3 years prison and ₹1 crore fine
C) 5 years prison and ₹2 crore fine
D) 1 year prison and ₹25 lakh fine
2 Judge Frank Caprio, known as the ‘Nicest Judge in the World’, died at what age?
A) 85 years
B) 87 years
C) 88 years
D) 90 years
3 India’s core industries grew by what percentage in July 2025?
A) 1.5%
B) 2%
C) 2.5%
D) 3%
4 According to the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill, PM/CMs will be removed after how many consecutive days of detention?
A) 15 days
B) 20 days
C) 30 days
D) 45 days
5 India’s marine fish production in 2023-24 reached how many lakh tonnes?
A) 42.50 lakh tonnes
B) 44.95 lakh tonnes
C) 46.20 lakh tonnes
D) 48.75 lakh tonnes
6 Jalalabad in Uttar Pradesh was renamed to which name?
A) Parameshwarpuri
B) Parashurampuri
C) Parmatmapuri
D) Parikshitpuri
7 What is the name of India Post’s upgraded postal technology system?
A) IT 3.0 – Smart Postal System
B) Digital Post Technology
C) IT 2.0 – Advanced Postal Technology (APT)
D) Post Tech Revolution
8 EPFO recorded the highest net payroll additions in which month of 2025?
A) May 2025
B) June 2025
C) July 2025
D) April 2025
9 UIDAI partnered with Starlink to enable which type of verification?
A) Digital signature verification
B) Biometric authentication
C) Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification
D) Mobile number verification
10 What is the value of the Maritime Development Fund supporting India-Saudi cooperation?
A) USD 2 billion
B) USD 3 billion
C) USD 4 billion
D) USD 5 billion
11 After how many years did S&P upgrade India’s credit rating to BBB?
A) 15 years
B) 16 years
C) 18 years
D) 20 years
12 NCERT’s “Operation Sindoor” educational modules are designed for which class ranges?
A) Classes 1-5 and 6-10
B) Classes 2-7 and 8-12
C) Classes 3-8 and 9-12
D) Classes 4-9 and 10-12
13 The Agni-5 missile tested on August 20, 2025 has a range exceeding how many kilometers?
A) 3,000 km
B) 4,000 km
C) 5,000 km
D) 6,000 km
14 Under the ‘Shramshree’ scheme, returning migrant workers receive how much monthly support?
A) ₹3,000
B) ₹4,000
C) ₹5,000
D) ₹6,000
15 Mohamed Salah won his PFA Player of the Year award for which time?
A) Second time
B) Third time
C) Fourth time
D) Fifth time
16 World Entrepreneurs’ Day 2025 was celebrated on which date?
A) August 20, 2025
B) August 21, 2025
C) August 22, 2025
D) August 23, 2025
17 What is the theme of World Senior Citizens’ Day 2025?
A) “Honoring Our Elders”
B) “Age with Dignity”
C) “Empowering Elderly Voices for an Inclusive Future”
D) “Celebrating Senior Wisdom”
18 The International Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism marks how many years since its UN establishment in 2017?
A) Sixth anniversary
B) Seventh anniversary
C) Eighth anniversary
D) Ninth anniversary
MCQ 1: B) 3 years prison and ₹1 crore fine
MCQ 2: C) 88 years
MCQ 3: B) 2%
MCQ 4: C) 30 days
MCQ 5: B) 44.95 lakh tonnes
MCQ 6: B) Parashurampuri
MCQ 7: C) IT 2.0 – Advanced Postal Technology (APT)
MCQ 8: B) June 2025
MCQ 9: C) Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification
MCQ 10: B) USD 3 billion
MCQ 11: C) 18 years
MCQ 12: C) Classes 3-8 and 9-12
MCQ 13: C) 5,000 km
MCQ 14: C) ₹5,000
MCQ 15: B) Third time
MCQ 16: B) August 21, 2025
MCQ 17: C) “Empowering Elderly Voices for an Inclusive Future”
MCQ 18: C) Eighth anniversary
Final Thoughts
The current affairs from 20th August 2025 highlight India’s growing influence in trade, technology, defense, and cultural spheres, while also covering key global developments in diplomacy and the economy. For UGC NET aspirants, a clear understanding of these updates is vital to building a well-rounded knowledge base and achieving top scores.
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