Current Affairs Today — 18 August 2025
Markets rally on tax-reform buzz; Nifty/Sensex finish higher
Indian equities closed higher as investors cheered signals of upcoming tax/GST reforms. Benchmarks gained through the session, with reports noting the Nifty 50 above ~24,850 and the Sensex up ~676 points by close.
Source: Economic Times live blog & Reuters coverage. Reuters • Economic Times
Rupee firms alongside equities
The Indian rupee appreciated versus the U.S. dollar, supported by improved risk sentiment after reform signals; intraday prints hovered near ₹87.35–₹87.39 per USD.
Source: Reuters
IMD issues heavy to extremely heavy rainfall alerts
IMD warned of heavy rainfall over parts of Maharashtra (Konkan & Ghat areas), Goa, Telangana, Karnataka and adjoining regions on 18–19 Aug, with Gujarat risk peaking 19–20 Aug.
India–Sri Lanka SLINEX-25 concludes off Colombo
The bilateral naval exercise wrapped up after harbour (14–16 Aug) and sea phases (17–18 Aug), enhancing interoperability across fleets and special forces.
Source: PIB • High Commission of India, Colombo
Uttarakhand clears Minority Education Bill; to repeal Madrasa Act
The state cabinet approved the Minority Education Bill-2025, proposing to extend minority-institution status beyond madrasas and repeal earlier Madrasa-specific laws, subject to Assembly passage.
Source: Times of India • New Indian Express • Deccan Herald
Why this matters (exam angle)
- Economy/Currency: indices & rupee moves = frequent SSC/Banking GK items.
- Weather: IMD alerts—states & dates are asked directly.
- Defence: SLINEX chronology, participating ships, phases.
- Policy: bill name, state, what it changes/repeals.
Sources
Full links embedded in each card above for transparency and quick verification.
