Today Current Affairs & G.K. 08/08/2025
1. PAHAL scheme was launched by which ministry?
Answer : Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
PAHAL Scheme (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh Yojana)
• Launched by: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
• Year: 2015 (nationwide rollout)
• Purpose: To transfer LPG subsidy directly into the bank accounts of consumers.
• Method: Consumers pay the full price for LPG and get the subsidy amount credited to their linked bank account.
• Goal: To reduce leakage, stop black marketing, and ensure the subsidy reaches the right person.
• Achievement: Recognized as the world’s largest DBT scheme.
2. LEAP-1 is the first commercial satellite mission of which Indian space-tech startup?
Answer : Dhruva Space
LEAP-1 is the first commercial satellite mission of the Indian space-tech startup Dhruva Space.
Quick Info:
• Startup: Dhruva Space (based in Hyderabad)
• Mission Name: LEAP-1 (Launch, Early Orbit, and Platform)
• Significance: Marks Dhruva Space’s entry into full-scale commercial satellite operations.
• Launched by: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
• Objective: To demonstrate in-orbit capabilities of its satellite platform for clients.
3. Which country recently partnered with India for the ‘Mars Sample Return Mission’?
Answer : USA
India recently partnered with the United States (USA) for the Mars Sample Return Mission, marking a significant step in international space collaboration.
About the Partnership:
• Agencies Involved:
* ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
* NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
• Mission Name: Mars Sample Return (MSR) Mission
• Objective: To collect rock and soil samples from Mars and bring them back to Earth for detailed scientific analysis.
Importance of the Collaboration:
• This mission will be humanity’s first attempt to return samples from Mars.
• India’s involvement reflects its growing expertise in planetary exploration.
• Enhances technology sharing, joint research, and space science cooperation between ISRO and NASA.
• Contributes to building capacity for future interplanetary missions and possibly manned Mars missions in the long term.
4. Which organization has recently launched the ‘Artificial Rain Project’ in India?
Answer : IMD
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently launched the ‘Artificial Rain Project’ in India.
Key Details:
• Organization: IMD (Indian Meteorological Department)
• Purpose: To induce artificial rain (cloud seeding) to tackle:
* Air pollution
* Water scarcity
* Delayed monsoons
• Method Used: Cloud Seeding
* Involves spraying substances like silver iodide into clouds to trigger rainfall
• Regions Targeted: Areas with low rainfall or high pollution levels, especially during dry spells
5. Which river is called the ‘Sorrow of Bihar’?
Answer : Kosi River
Why is Kosi River called the “Sorrow of Bihar”?
• The Kosi River frequently floods during the monsoon season, causing widespread destruction in Bihar.
• It changes its course frequently, leading to severe damage to life, agriculture, and infrastructure.
• These floods have historically displaced millions of people and caused economic hardship in the region.
6. Which Indian city ranked 26th in the Global AI City Index 2025?
Answer : Bengaluru
In the Global AI City Index 2025, released by Counterpoint Research, Bengaluru has been ranked 26th globally, making it the highest-ranked Indian city in the index. The index evaluates cities based on their capabilities in artificial intelligence, including factors such as AI research, innovation, government policies, infrastructure, and startup ecosystem. Bengaluru, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India,” stood out due to its strong technological base, thriving startup environment, and growing number of AI and data science professionals. Although no Indian city made it into the top 20, Bengaluru’s position highlights India’s increasing presence in the global AI landscape. Leading the list were cities like Singapore, Seoul, Beijing, Dubai, and San Francisco, which have established themselves as global AI hubs through massive investments and policy support.