This is the current affairs of 23 September 2025. Here are questions and answers of daily current affairs for better preparation of competitive exams for government jobs.
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1. Prime Minister Modi wrote the foreword for the Indian edition of the memoir of which foreign woman Prime Minister?
a. Avika Silina
b. Georgia Meloni
c. Sarah Zafrani
d. Brigitte Haas
Answer: b. Georgia Meloni
– Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written the foreword for the Indian edition of Giorgia Meloni’s autobiography, “I am Giorgia — My Roots, My Principles.”
– The Indian edition is being published by Rupa Publications.
– PM Modi described this book as Meloni’s version of “Mann Ki Baat”, referring to the title of his own radio broadcast.
About Meloni’s Book:
– This autobiography was written by Giorgia Meloni in 2021, when she was the leader of the opposition in Italy.
– The book is already a bestseller.
– In 2022, she became Italy’s first female Prime Minister.
– In the book, Meloni shares her experiences on topics such as being a woman, a single mother, and her political activism during pregnancy.
– She wrote, “I never believed that a woman should enter politics just to represent women. Politics is for everyone — for the common good.”
– In the U.S. edition, the foreword was written by Donald Trump Jr., son of U.S. President Donald Trump.
– In the Indian edition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreword has been included as well.
What PM Modi Wrote in the Foreword:
– In his foreword, PM Modi wrote that Meloni’s life and leadership reflect timeless truths.
– He said, “Prime Minister Meloni’s inspiring and historic journey deeply resonates with Indians. Her commitment to preserving cultural heritage and engaging with the world on the basis of equality reflects our shared values.”
– He praised Meloni’s efforts in defending “motherhood, national identity, and tradition”, and highlighted the civilizational similarities between India and Italy — such as heritage, community, and the celebration of womanhood.
India–Italy Relations:
– India and Italy have historically maintained strong bilateral ties, rooted in exchanges between their ancient civilizations.
– Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1947, these ties have steadily evolved.
– In recent years, especially under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni, the relationship has been elevated to the level of a Strategic Partnership. This partnership is based on cultural heritage, economic cooperation, and addressing global challenges. A detailed outline of the key aspects is provided below.
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2. After Nepal, in which Indian Ocean island country did the President dissolve the government after the massive demonstration of Zen-ji?
a. Maldives
b. Seychelles
c. Madagascar
d. Mauritius
Answer: c. Madagascar
– In September 2025, after Nepal, Gen-Z youth in Madagascar led a coup.
– According to the United Nations, at least 22 people died during the intense protests in Madagascar, with many others injured.
– Following this, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the government of Christian Ntsay on 29 September 2025.
– The youth (Gen Z) were angry over issues like power and water cuts, and lack of timely access to basic services.
– The protests sparked violence in the capital Antananarivo, along with commodity shortages, road blockades, and more.
Why Did Gen-Z Protests Erupt in Madagascar?
– Failure of Basic Services: Unreliable electricity and water supply disrupted daily life. Even in the short term, such failures affect public health, education, transportation, and more.
– Weak Planning and Management: Inefficiency and lack of resources in national institutions like Jirama (National Water and Electricity Company) worsened the crisis.
– Youth Activism and Social Awareness: Youth mobilized and raised their voices through social media and networking platforms.
They drew inspiration from the “Gen Z movements” in Nepal and Kenya, which became models for youth-led protests.
– Political Discontent, Corruption, and Poverty: Long-standing economic backwardness, lack of social justice, and imbalance of power and exploitation created the backdrop for this explosive uprising.
– Delayed or Inadequate Government Response: Initial responses were limited to dismissals of a few ministers and imposing curfews, but no system-level structural reforms were made.
Madagascar – Key Facts
– Capital: Antananarivo
– Currency: Ariary
– Population: 31.9 million
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3. When is World Rivers Day celebrated?
a. On the fourth Sunday of August
b. On the fourth Sunday of September
c. On the first Sunday of October
d. None of these
Answer: b. On the fourth Sunday of September (September 28 in 2025)
Theme 2025
– Our Rivers, Our Future
– The objective of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of rivers, their conservation, and their role in the ecosystem.
Origin:
– It was started in 2005 by Canadian environmentalist Mark Angelo, inspired by the United Nations’ Water Decade program.
Significance:
– Rivers are vital for drinking water, agriculture, biodiversity, and cultural values.
– This day emphasizes the need to protect rivers from pollution, over-exploitation, and climate change.
Major Initiatives and Schemes by the Government of India for River Conservation:
1) National River Conservation Plan (NRCP)
– Launched: 1985
– Objective: Pollution control in major rivers of the country (like Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna).
– Key Activities: Establishment of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), riverbank cleaning, solid waste management. Projects cover 34 rivers.
2) National River Linking Project (NRLP)
– Launched: 2002
– Objective: To connect 37 rivers through 30 links, including 15,000 km of canals, 3,000 storage dams, and waterways.
– Estimated Cost: ₹5–10 lakh crore.
– Key Activities: In 2021, the Ken-Betwa link (Madhya Pradesh–Uttar Pradesh) was approved.
– In 2025, the Kosi-Mechi link (Bihar) was approved.
– Work is ongoing on both.
3) National Water Mission (NWM)
– Launched: 2011
– Objective: Sustainable management of water resources and addressing the impacts of climate change.
– Key Activities: Rainwater harvesting, improving water use efficiency, basin-level management, maintaining river flow.
4) National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA)
– Launched: 2013
– Objective: Conservation of the ecosystems of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
– Key Activities: Pollution control, improvement in water quality, conservation of aquatic biodiversity.
5) Namami Gange
– Launched: 2014
– Objective: Conservation and rejuvenation of the Ganga River and its tributaries.
– Key Activities: Sewage treatment, Ghats development, Biodiversity conservation, Industrial pollution control, Public awareness, Over 300 projects approved
6) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
– Launched: 2015
– Objective: Sustainable use of river water and improving water efficiency in agriculture.
– Key Activities: Drip/sprinkler irrigation, water harvesting, management of small rivers and watershed areas.
7) Jal Shakti Abhiyan
– Launched: 2019
– Objective: Promotion of water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and rejuvenation of river sources.
– Key Activities: Riverbank cleaning, Desilting, Plantation, Rainwater harvesting, Theme (2024): “Jal Shakti through Nari Shakti”
8) Jal Jeevan Mission
– Launched: 2019
– Objective: Tap water supply in rural areas and conservation of rivers and water sources.
– Key Activities: Water source conservation, Laying pipelines, Sustainable use of river water
9) Atal Bhujal Yojana
– Launched: 2019
– Objective: Groundwater conservation, which also influences base flow in rivers.
– Key Activities: Groundwater recharge, watershed development, community participation.
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4. The Central Government approved the first India-Bhutan rail connectivity project, under which which two major cities of Bhutan will be connected by rail line?
a. Gelephu and Samtse
b. Thimphu and Paro
c. Gelephu and Jakar
d. Punakha and Samtse
Answer: a. Gelephu and Samtse (Project 1: Kokrajhar (Assam) – Gelephu (Bhutan); Project 2: Banarhat (West Bengal) – Samtse (Bhutan)
– On 29 September 2025, the Government of India announced two cross-border railway projects with Bhutan.
– These projects will connect Bhutan to the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal.
– The total estimated cost is approximately ₹4,033 crore.
– These projects are the result of the MoUs signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bhutan in March 2024.
– Both railway lines will be fully electrified and will be capable of running modern trains like Vande Bharat.
– These projects are highly significant, as Gelephu is being developed as a Mindfulness City, and Samtse as an industrial city.
First Project: Kokrajhar (Assam) – Gelephu (Bhutan)
– Length: 69 km (Indian section: 66.66 km, Bhutanese section: 2.39 km)
– Cost: ₹3,456 crore
– Construction period: 4 years
– Facilities: 6 stations, 2 major bridges, 29 large bridges, 65 small bridges, 2 goods sheds, 1 flyover and 39 underpasses
– Significance: Gelephu is being developed as a “Mindfulness City”, which is a visionary project of Bhutan.
Second Project: Banarhat (West Bengal) – Samtse (Bhutan)
– Length: 20 km (Indian section: 17.42 km, Bhutanese section: 2.13 km)
– Cost: ₹577 crore
– Construction period: 3 years
– Facilities: 2 stations, 1 major bridge, 24 small bridges, 1 overpass, 37 underpasses
– Significance: Samtse is being developed as an industrial city.
About Gelephu Mindfulness City
– A Special Administrative Region (SAR) envisioned by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan.
– Gelephu is being developed as a Mindfulness City.
– It is part of Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan and its Gross National Happiness (GNH) initiative.
– The city will spread across 1,000+ square kilometers, and is being designed as a regenerative city.
– It will be a blend of nature, culture, and modern development.
– It aims to become Bhutan’s economic hub, connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia.
– The city will include two protected areas (a national park and a wildlife sanctuary) and ensure clean river systems.
About Samtse
– Samtse is an industrial town in Bhutan, from where exports to India include dolomite, ferro-silicon, quartzite, and stone chips.
– With rail connectivity, these exports will become cheaper and faster.
– Bhutan is developing Samtse as an industrial city.
Economic Importance of Both Railway Projects
– India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, accounting for 80% of Bhutan’s trade.
– Rail freight will be cheaper than road transport, thereby increasing trade volume.
– Bhutan’s EXIM (export-import) trade will gain easier access to Indian ports.
– These projects will generate employment and economic development in the region, especially in Assam and West Bengal.
– Mineral exports from Samtse will increase, and Gelephu will emerge as a tourism hub.
Strategic Importance of Both Railway Projects
– These projects are designated as “Special Railway Projects”, linked to national security and socio-economic development.
– By connecting Bhutan to India’s 150,000 km railway network, travel time will be reduced from days to hours.
– The projects will strengthen regional connectivity, serving as a counterbalance to Chinese influence (with no third-country involvement).
– Trade, tourism, and cultural exchange will grow, further strengthening India–Bhutan relations.
– Amid challenges in Myanmar and Bangladesh, this is part of India’s broader connectivity strategy.
Background of India–Bhutan Relations
– India is Bhutan’s largest development partner. The ties are rooted in the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, which has long strengthened bilateral relations.
– Other collaborative projects include the Mangdechhu and Puna Tsangchhu hydropower projects, where India provides assistance.
– These railway projects are part of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.
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UPSC and State PCS Prelims Level Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements:
1) The Kokrajhar–Gelphu railway line is the first rail link to be built between India and Bhutan.
2) Kokrajhar is located in the Bodoland region of Assam.
3) Gelphu is a major border town of Bhutan.
Choose the correct statement(s):
a. 1 and 2 only
b. 2 and 3 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: d. 1, 2, and 3 (All three statements are correct. The Kokrajhar–Gelphu railway project will strengthen connectivity between Northeast India and Bhutan.)
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– GS Paper 2 (International Relations): India–Bhutan Relations, Regional Connectivity (e.g., BBIN Initiative), Border Issues with China.
– GS Paper 3 (Economy & Infrastructure): Railway Development, Transport Economics, Sustainable Development (Mindfulness City).
Q1. Evaluate the role of the Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse railway projects in the development of Gelephu as a Mindfulness City and Samtse as an industrial hub. How will these projects impact India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy?
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5. When is World Heart Day celebrated?
a. 25 September
b. 26 September
c. 27 September
d. 29 September
Answer: d. 29 September
Theme 2025
– Don’t Miss a Beat
– This day is organized by the World Heart Federation.
– Its purpose is to raise awareness about heart diseases and stroke and to motivate people to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Facts
– According to Harvard Health, the heart beats about 2.5 billion times in an average lifetime, delivering millions of gallons of blood to every part of the body.
– The Lancet states that in India, heart-related diseases are a major cause of death and disability. The heart disease epidemic in Indians is characterized by a high relative risk burden, early onset of disease, increased mortality, and a rise in premature deaths.
– A 2014 report by the World Economic Forum and Harvard School of Public Health estimated that between 2012 and 2030, heart diseases would cause India an economic loss of approximately 2.17 trillion dollars.
What is the heart and why is it important for our overall health?
– The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout your entire body and supplies it with oxygen and nutrients.
– It is important for overall health because it ensures that all your organs and tissues receive the necessary resources to function properly.
What are the major risk factors for heart disease, and how can I assess my risk?
– Major risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle.
– You can assess your risk through medical check-ups and risk assessment tools provided by healthcare professionals.
– How does a healthy diet affect heart health, and which foods should I include or avoid for a healthy heart?
– A healthy diet can have a significant impact on heart health.
– Include foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet.
– Avoid or limit saturated fats, trans fats, excess salt, and added sugars for a healthy heart.
How much exercise is recommended to maintain a healthy heart?
– Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days.
– Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling are beneficial.
What is cholesterol and how is it related to heart health? How can I control it?
– Cholesterol is a waxy substance present in your blood. High levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
– Control it through a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and medications as prescribed by your doctor.
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6. Who has been given the prestigious ‘Living Bridge’ award by the India Business Group (IBG) for his role in strengthening India-UK relations and securing the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
a. Rishi Sunak
b. Liz Truss
c. Boris Johnson
d. Keir Starmer
Answer: d. Keir Starmer
– This award was presented to the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer at a ceremony held on September 23, 2025, at the House of Lords in London.
What is the ‘Living Bridge’ award?
– It is an annual award organized by the India Business Group (IBG).
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7. India defeated which country in the final match to win the seventh SAFF Under-17 football title?
a. Bangladesh
b. China
c. Sri Lanka
d. Bhutan
Answer: a. Bangladesh
– The final match took place in Colombo on September 27, 2025.
– India won the title by defeating Bangladesh.
– India secured a 4-1 victory in the penalty shootout at the Racecourse International Stadium.
– This is India’s 7th title in the history of the SAFF U-17/U-16 Championship.
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8. UNICEF, in collaboration with which organisation, launched the ‘Promise to Children’ digital campaign during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025?
a. World Trade Organization (WTO)
b. FIFA
c. International Cricket Council (ICC)
d. None of the above
Answer: c. International Cricket Council (ICC)
– The purpose of this campaign is to highlight these issues by leveraging the global popularity and influence of cricket and to inspire public commitments.
– Bollywood actor and UNICEF National Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana is the face of this campaign. Meanwhile, Indian women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana also supports this initiative.
‘Promise to Children’ campaign aims to promote children’s rights in key areas:
– Quality education
– Healthcare and nutrition
– Access to safe water and sanitation
– Protection from violence
– Opportunities to play and grow
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9. Which medal did player Sheetal Devi win in the women’s compound individual event of the World Archery Para Championships 2025?
a. Gold
b. Silver
c. Bronze
d. None of the above
Answer: a. Gold
World Archery Para Championship 2025
– Where: Gwangju, South Korea
– When: September 2025
– First Gold Medal in 2025 Championship: Sheetal Devi
– Defeated whom in the final to win Gold: [The original text doesn’t specify the opponent’s name]
– Sheetal Devi was the only player in this competition who used her feet and chin to shoot the arrow.
Three medals in one day
– Gold: Sheetal Devi in Women’s Compound Individual event
– Silver: Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar together in Compound Mixed Team Open
– Silver: Sheetal Devi and Sarita together in Women’s Compound Open Team
About Sheetal Devi
– Born in 2007 in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir.
– She was born with a condition called Phocomelia.
– This condition means both hands are absent.
– Despite this, Sheetal learned archery by using her feet and chin.
– This technique has now become unique and inspirational.
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10. When is World Contraception Day celebrated?
a. September 25th
b. September 26th
c. September 27th
d. September 29th
Answer: b. September 26th
Theme for 2025: A Choice for All – Agency, Intent, Access.
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