Current Affairs 23/10/2025
1. What is the name of the operation launched by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence to curb illegal smuggling of Chinese firecrackers?
Answer : Operation Fire Trail
Operation Fire Trail: A Strategic Move to Curb Illegal Firecracker Smuggling
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has launched “Operation Fire Trail”, a nationwide initiative aimed at tackling the illegal import and distribution of Chinese firecrackers in India. This operation comes ahead of the festive season when the demand for fireworks traditionally surges, providing an opportunity for smugglers to circulate prohibited products in the market.
Chinese firecrackers often contain banned chemicals such as potassium chlorate, which are not only hazardous to human health but also pose significant fire and explosion risks. Moreover, these illegal imports violate India’s environmental and safety regulations, undermining efforts to reduce air pollution and safeguard public health.
Under Operation Fire Trail, DRI officials have intensified surveillance at ports, airports, and border points, along with coordinated raids on suspected warehouses and distribution networks. The initiative also supports the Make in India vision by protecting domestic firecracker manufacturers from unfair competition posed by illegal foreign goods.
Through this operation, the DRI reinforces its commitment to ensuring public safety, environmental protection, and compliance with national laws, setting a strong precedent against cross-border smuggling activities.
2. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a framework designed to tackle which environmental issue in Delhi-NCR?
Answer : Air Pollution
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A Strategic Framework to Control Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a regulatory framework designed to systematically address the rising air pollution levels in the Delhi-NCR region. Developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and enforced under the supervision of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), GRAP provides a step-by-step approach to mitigate pollution based on the severity of the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Under GRAP, specific measures are implemented in stages — from moderate to severe plus conditions — ensuring a targeted and timely response. These measures include restricting construction and industrial activities, limiting vehicular emissions, suspending entry of heavy vehicles, and promoting public transport and clean energy alternatives.
The framework is activated automatically based on real-time air quality data, allowing authorities to respond swiftly to deteriorating conditions. By coordinating efforts among multiple agencies, GRAP plays a vital role in protecting public health, reducing environmental degradation, and promoting sustainable urban living in the national capital region.
In essence, GRAP stands as a dynamic and adaptive action plan, reflecting India’s commitment to combating air pollution through scientific monitoring, policy enforcement, and inter-agency coordination.
3. Which city in Uttar Pradesh created a Guinness World Record by lighting over 26 lakh diyas during the 9th Deepotsav?
Answer : Ayodhya
Ayodhya Sets Guinness World Record with Over 26 Lakh Diyas During 9th Deepotsav
The holy city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh has once again etched its name in history by creating a Guinness World Record during the 9th edition of Deepotsav. The city illuminated the banks of the sacred Saryu River with an astounding 26 lakh (2.6 million) earthen lamps (diyas), symbolizing peace, unity, and devotion.
The grand celebration, organized under the guidance of the Uttar Pradesh Government, marked a spectacular tribute to Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, as described in the Ramayana. The event witnessed the participation of thousands of volunteers, artists, and devotees, creating a breathtaking visual of divine light and cultural pride.
Officials from the Guinness World Records organization were present to verify and certify the record, officially recognizing Ayodhya’s feat. The Deepotsav also featured traditional performances, laser shows, and cultural parades, showcasing India’s rich heritage and spiritual legacy.
This record-breaking celebration not only strengthens Ayodhya’s global identity as a center of faith and tradition but also reflects the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indian culture on an international platform.
4. Which football team won the 125th Indian Football Association (IFA) Shield 2025?
Answer : Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Mohun Bagan Super Giant Clinches the 125th IFA Shield 2025 Title
The prestigious 125th edition of the Indian Football Association (IFA) Shield 2025 concluded with Mohun Bagan Super Giant emerging as the champions, reaffirming their dominance in Indian football. The IFA Shield, one of the oldest football tournaments in Asia, holds immense historical and emotional value for players and fans alike.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant showcased exceptional skill, tactical brilliance, and team coordination throughout the tournament, defeating strong contenders to lift the coveted trophy. Their victory not only reflects the club’s enduring legacy but also highlights the depth of talent and professionalism within Indian football today.
Organized by the Indian Football Association (West Bengal), the tournament saw participation from top domestic clubs and promising young players, providing a platform to promote grassroots football development in the country.
Winning the 125th IFA Shield adds yet another milestone to Mohun Bagan’s illustrious history, reinforcing their reputation as one of India’s most iconic and successful football clubs. The triumph also serves as an inspiration for emerging players and a celebration of India’s growing football culture.
5. Who became Japan’s first female Prime Minister in October 2025?
Answer : Sanae Takaichi
Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister: A Historic Milestone in Japanese Politics
Japan marked a historic turning point in its political history with the appointment of Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female Prime Minister in October 2025. Elected by Japan’s Parliament following the resignation of her predecessor, Takaichi’s rise represents a significant breakthrough in a nation long criticized for its limited female representation in leadership roles.
A veteran politician and a senior leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Takaichi is known for her strong conservative ideology and her admiration for former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Under her leadership, the LDP formed a coalition with the Japan Innovation Party, setting the stage for a new era in Japanese politics.
Takaichi’s political priorities include strengthening national defense, boosting economic resilience, and enhancing Japan’s strategic partnership with the United States. However, her appointment also comes with challenges — addressing Japan’s aging population, economic stagnation, and the need for gender equality reforms.
While her ascent to the top office is a major stride toward inclusivity, analysts note that her traditional views on social policies may temper expectations for radical change in gender rights. Nonetheless, her leadership stands as a powerful symbol of progress and empowerment in a country striving to balance tradition with modernization.
Sanae Takaichi’s premiership not only reshapes Japan’s political narrative but also underscores the growing global momentum for female representation in governance and leadership.
6. Who has won the US Grand Prix 2025 title?
Answer : Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen Clinches Victory at the 2025 United States Grand Prix
Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull Racing, emerged victorious at the 2025 United States Grand Prix held in Austin, Texas, delivering a commanding performance that highlighted his skill and the team’s engineering excellence. Starting from pole position, Verstappen led the race from start to finish, demonstrating remarkable consistency and strategic mastery on the challenging Circuit of the Americas track.
The race concluded with Lando Norris of McLaren finishing second and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari taking third, rounding out a competitive podium. Verstappen’s win significantly impacted the Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship standings, narrowing the gap between him and the current leader and strengthening his contention for the season title.
Red Bull’s strategic approach, including a one-stop tire strategy and efficient pit-stop execution, played a critical role in maintaining Verstappen’s lead. His performance not only underscores his dominance in the current F1 season but also highlights Red Bull Racing’s continued excellence in car design, aerodynamics, and race-day execution.
This victory adds to Verstappen’s growing legacy, reinforcing his position as one of the most formidable drivers in modern Formula 1, while setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the 2025 season. The win also strengthens Red Bull’s bid in the Constructors’ Championship, emphasizing the synergy between driver skill and team strategy that defines elite motorsport success.
7. Who won the 2025 Presidential Election of Bolivia?
Answer : Rodrigo Paz
Rodrigo Paz Wins Bolivia’s 2025 Presidential Election: A Historic Shift in the Nation’s Politics
In a significant political development, Rodrigo Paz Pereira was elected as the President of Bolivia in the 2025 presidential election, marking a historic shift in the country’s political landscape. Paz, representing the Christian Democratic Party (PDC), won the runoff election with approximately 54.6% of the votes, defeating his main rival and former president Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga, who secured 45.4%.
Paz’s victory ends nearly two decades of leftist rule under the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party, signaling a clear preference among Bolivians for center-right, pro-market governance. A seasoned politician, Paz has served as Mayor of Tarija and as a Senator, following a legacy of public service inspired by his father, former president Jaime Paz Zamora.
His campaign focused on revitalizing Bolivia’s struggling economy, which is currently facing high inflation, fuel shortages, and declining natural gas revenues. Paz pledged to implement market-friendly economic reforms, including adjusting fuel subsidies and pursuing international cooperation to attract investment. He also emphasized restoring diplomatic ties with the United States, which had been strained during prior administrations.
Despite his victory, Paz faces challenges in governance, as his party holds only 16 seats in the Senate, requiring him to build coalitions to pass legislation and implement reforms effectively. Additionally, public protests in the capital, La Paz, reflect ongoing tensions, although electoral authorities have confirmed the integrity of the election process.
Rodrigo Paz’s ascension to the presidency represents a new chapter for Bolivia, with potential shifts in economic policy, international relations, and domestic governance. His administration will be closely watched as it navigates the dual challenges of rebuilding the economy and maintaining political stability in a historically polarized nation.