Introduction
Today’s Top Current Affairs July 18 2025 snapshot covers major developments—India’s policy moves, economic indicators, global trade shifts, scientific advances, and key cultural and climate stories. This digest is tailored for readers tracking India current affairs July 18 2025 and July 18 2025 news highlights. Below are 16 impactful stories in a structured, cited format.
National News (India)
- Bihar Announces Free Electricity for Low Consumption
Category: Economy
Summary: Bihar government will provide up to 125 units of free electricity monthly from August 1, easing household burdens.
Key Points:- Applies to domestic consumers using ≤ 125 units/month
- Aims to assist low-income and rural households
- Gujarat Launches Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
Category: Science & Health
Summary: Gujarat becomes first Indian state to begin tribal genome sequencing to improve healthcare and detection of hereditary diseases.
Key Points:- Targets 2,000 tribal individuals initially
- Will help detect conditions like sickle-cell and thalassemia
- Cabinet Approves New PM-DDKY Agricultural Scheme
Category: Governance
Summary: Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approves PM-DDKY, merging 36 schemes with ₹24,000 crore annual outlay for six years.
Key Points:- Aim: streamlined agricultural support across multiple departments
- Extended tenure of NTPC CMD also approved
- Dr Puneet Goel Appointed Chief Secretary of Manipur
Category: Governance
Summary: Dr Goel, a 1991‑batch IAS officer, appointed CS of Manipur effective July 16, 2025 under President’s Rule.
Key Points:- Will serve until August 31, 2025
- Succeeds Prashant Kumar Singh as CS of Manipur
- Delegation to Discuss Tribal Issues with President Murmu
Category: Social Policy
Summary: Five tribal leaders invited to Rashtrapati Bhavan on July 21 to advise on tribal policy, including planning an autonomous tribal university.
Key Points:- Delegation includes Padma Shri awardee Jamuna Tudu
- Will propose establishment of Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon Adivasi University
Economy & Business
- India–UK Free Trade Deal Nears Final Signing
Category: Economy
Summary: India and UK expected to unveil a landmark FTA next week covering textiles, EVs, whisky, and food items.
Key Points:- Provides duty-free access to key sectors
- Strengthens strategic and economic ties
- Surat SME Summit Charts $1.5 Trillion Vision
Category: Business / MSMEs
Summary: ET Make in India SME summit in Surat showcased city’s transformation and MSME-led economic roadmap.
Key Points:- Speakers emphasized MSMEs as growth drivers
- IDBI Bank and others back SME finance initiatives
- India’s Forex Reserves Dip to $695.49 bn
Category: Economy
Summary: RBI data shows ₹1.18 billion drop in reserves as of July 18; gold holdings rose by $150 million.
Key Points:- Total reserves at $695.49 billion
- Gold now a fast-growing component of reserves
- RBI to Hold Rate in August, Further Cuts Possible
Category: Monetary Policy
Summary: Reuters poll suggests RBI will maintain the repo rate at 5.50% in August, with potential cut later in year amid low inflation and strong GDP growth.
Key Points:- Q1 GDP growth at 7.4%
- Inflation projected at 3.4% vs RBI’s 3.7% estimate
- Climate Risk Disclosure Rules for Banks Forthcoming
Category: Economy / Environment
Summary: RBI plans mandatory climate-risk disclosure requirements for Indian banks by FY 2027–28, including stress tests for borrowers.
Key Points:- Aligns with India’s climate-friendly investment framework
- Prepares banks for climate-related financial risks
International Affairs
- China Issues Rare Earth Quotas for 2025
Category: Global Trade
Summary: Beijing quietly released its 2025 quotas for rare earth mining and smelting, limiting access amid geopolitical tensions.
Key Points:- Quotas hidden from public release
- Tightened state control over critical minerals
- IMF Revises Global Outlook Amid Trade Tensions
Category: International Economy
Summary: IMF signals possible downward revision in growth forecast as trade tensions wear on global recovery.
Key Points:- Trade friction a persistent headwind
- Monitoring geopolitical risks closely
Science & Technology
- (If additional found, but none specific on July 18)
(No new India-specific science item directly dated July 18 2025 in searches.)
Natural & Climate Events
- Torrential Rain Hits South Korea for Third Day
Category: Climate / Disasters
Summary: Western and southern South Korea faced a third day of heavy rain causing floods, evacuations, and at least four deaths.
Key Points:- Thousands displaced
- Warnings issued for landslides and flooding
Sports & Culture
- England Beats India at Lord’s in Third Test
Category: Sports
Summary: England secured a dramatic win over India in the third Test at Lord’s, completing a series comeback.
Key Points:- Match result at cricket’s iconic venue
- England regained upper hand in series
Conclusion
These Current Affairs July 18 2025 stories reflect India’s focus on climate policy, trade expansion, and inclusive governance, while global trends emphasize supply‑chain control and economic uncertainty. The overarching themes: sustainable growth, strategic economic partnerships, and climate-resilient financial planning dominate today’s headlines.
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