10th april 2025 Current Affairs

Mahavir Jayanti 2025

Syllabus: Culture

Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most sacred festivals in Jainism, commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and final Tirthankara.
In 2025, the festival falls on Thursday, April 10, marking the 2623rd birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir.
This auspicious day reflects the core values of Jain philosophy—Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-attachment).
It is observed with devotion, reflection, charity, and celebration by Jain communities across India and around the world.
Festival Date: April 10, 2025 (Thursday)
Tithi: Trayodashi of Shukla Paksha, Chaitra month
Timing: Begins April 9 at 10:55 PM and ends April 11 at 1:00 AM (Drik Panchang)

Historical Background

Born as Vardhamana in 599 BCE at Kundalagrama (present-day Vaishali, Bihar)
Parents: Queen Trishala and King Siddhartha
Renounced royal life at age 30 in pursuit of spiritual truth
Attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) after 12 years of penance
Spread the message of liberation, self-discipline, and non-violence
Achieved Moksha at age 72 in 527 BCE

Significance

Honors Lord Mahavir’s birth and his spiritual teachings
Promotes Jain ideals of truth, non-violence, and minimalism
Encourages detachment from material desires and ego
A time for introspection, spiritual growth, and community service

Celebrations & Rituals

Temple visits, prayer offerings, and spiritual discourses
Reading of Jain Agamas (scriptures)
Acts of charity: feeding the poor, donations, and volunteering
Rath Yatras (chariot processions) with Lord Mahavir’s idol
Hymns, meditation, and teachings shared among devotees
Celebrated not only in India but also in Nepal, UK, USA, and other parts of the world

Cultural Beliefs

According to the Swetambar tradition, Queen Trishala had 14 auspicious dreams before Mahavir’s birth, symbolizing his future greatness
Believed to be destined as either a great emperor or a spiritual leader
The name Mahavira, meaning “Great Hero”, reflects his mastery over worldly temptations and senses

With reference to Lord Mahavir and Jainism, consider the following statements:

Lord Mahavir was born into a royal Kshatriya family in a region corresponding to present-day Uttar Pradesh.
He attained Moksha at Pavapuri, which is located in modern-day Jharkhand.
The Digambara sect of Jainism believes that Mahavir never married, whereas Svetambaras maintain he had a daughter.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: C. 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Mahavir was born in Kundalagrama, near Vaishali in Bihar, not Uttar Pradesh.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Though Pavapuri is associated with Lord Mahavir’s Moksha, it is located in Bihar, not Jharkhand.
Statement 3 is correct: There is a doctrinal difference—Svetambaras believe Mahavir married and had a daughter, whereas Digambaras assert he remained unmarried.

World Homeopathy Day 2025 Date, Significance, Background

Syllabus:Health

Overview:

World Homeopathy Day is observed annually on April 10 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, the German physician and founder of homeopathy.
The day serves to acknowledge homeopathy’s contributions to holistic and integrative healthcare, while encouraging scientific discourse, public awareness, and policy engagement.

Significance and Purpose

Historical Relevance: Honors Dr. Hahnemann, who pioneered homeopathy in the late 18th century based on the core principle of “Similia Similibus Curentur” (like cures like).
Healthcare Contribution: Highlights homeopathy’s role as a complementary medical system focused on natural, non-invasive, and patient-centric healing.
Global Impact: Over 200 million people worldwide, particularly in India, utilize homeopathic treatments for a wide range of ailments.

Core Principles of Homeopathy

Philosophy: Treats patients using highly diluted substances that stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Sources of Remedies: Derived from plants, minerals, animals, and synthetic compounds.
Treatment Approach: Aims to address the root cause of illness, focusing on the mind-body connection.

Objectives of World Homeopathy Day

AwarenessGeneration: Educates the public about the efficacy, safety, and scope of homeopathy in modern healthcare.

ScientificAdvancement: Encourages research, clinical validation, and evidence-based practice through academic and institutional collaboration.

Healthcare:Integration: Promotes dialogue for synergizing homeopathy with conventional medicine to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Myth:Busting: Addresses misconceptions and counters misinformation regarding homeopathy’s effectiveness and scientific basis.

Key Activities and Events (2025)

Health Camps: Free consultations and distribution of homeopathic remedies.
Workshops and Webinars: Expert-led sessions on treatment principles and patient outcomes.
Educational Campaigns: Outreach programs in schools and colleges to inform youth.
Recognition Programs: Awards for distinguished contributions by homeopathic practitioners and researchers.

Community Engagement:

“Plant a Medicinal Garden” initiative to promote herbal awareness.
Student Competitions to foster academic interest in holistic medicine.
Social Media Campaigns using hashtags like #WorldHomeopathyDay.

Ways to Participate

Organize Public Seminars or community events on holistic health.
Offer Free Check-ups at local clinics to encourage first-time users.
Launch Digital Awareness Campaigns featuring patient testimonials and expert interviews.
Collaborate with Healthcare Influencers to amplify reach and trust.
Involve Youth through quizzes, essay contests, and science projects on homeopathy.

Conclusion

World Homeopathy Day is not only a tribute to Dr. Hahnemann’s legacy but also a platform to re-evaluate homeopathy’s role in 21st-century healthcare.
By fostering public awareness, encouraging interdisciplinary research, and promoting inclusive health policies, the day underscores the enduring relevance of holistic healing in a scientifically evolving world.

With reference to World Homeopathy Day, consider the following statements:

It is celebrated annually on April 10 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Edward Bach.
Homeopathy follows the principle of “like cures like.”
India is the country with the largest number of homeopathy users globally.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect; World Homeopathy Day is celebrated on April 10 in honor of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, not Edward Bach.
Statement 2 is correct; homeopathy is based on the principle of “like cures like.”
Statement 3 is also correct; India has the largest number of homeopathy users.

IIM-Ahmedabad to Set Up Campus in Dubai

Syllabus:IR

In a landmark move toward global expansion, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad will establish its first international campus in Dubai, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the UAE government.
This strategic initiative aims to enhance India’s global footprint in management education.

Campus Details

Location: Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) – Phase 1
Permanent Campus: Operational by 2029 on land allocated by the UAE government
Launch Date: September 2025
Program Highlights
Course Offered: One-year full-time MBA
Target Audience: Global working professionals & entrepreneurs
Curriculum: Five-term structure with broad electives and international exposure

Strategic Significance

Dubai’s global position as a hub for innovation, investment, and talent makes it ideal for the new campus
Aligns with IIM Ahmedabad’s vision of delivering world-class education with global accessibility

Institutional & Government Backing

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan welcomed the MoU as a step toward globalizing Indian higher education
IIM-A Director Bharat Bhaskar emphasized its potential for academic excellence and research collaboration
Dubai Economic Development Corp. CEO Hadi Badri and Indian Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir praised the initiative for strengthening bilateral ties and knowledge exchange

Broader Impact

Reinforces India’s image as an emerging education powerhouse
Enhances IIM Ahmedabad’s global reputation
Fosters cross-cultural exchange and prepares leaders for the international business landscape

With reference to IIM Ahmedabad’s overseas expansion, consider the following statements:

The Dubai campus will be IIM Ahmedabad’s second international campus after Singapore.
The MBA program to be offered in Dubai will cater primarily to undergraduate students seeking international placements.
The campus is being established in collaboration with the UAE government, with a permanent facility planned by 2029.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer:B

Explanation: IIM Ahmedabad is opening its first international campus (not second), and the MBA program is designed for working professionals and entrepreneurs, not undergraduates. Statement 3 is correct.

CM Dhami Launches Bhagirath App for Water Conservation in Uttarakhand

Syllabus: Environment

In a significant move towards sustainable water resource management, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the Bhagirath mobile app as part of the Jal Sanrakshan Abhiyan 2025.
The initiative aims to promote citizen involvement in conserving the state’s natural water heritage.

Key Features of the Initiative:

Bhagirath App:

Designed to encourage public participation in water conservation.
Enables users to report endangered water sources like Naulas, Dharaas, and rain-fed rivers.
Facilitates timely government response for restoration and protection.

Campaign Theme:

“Dhara Mera, Naula Mera, Gaon Mera, Prayas Mera” — emphasizes collective responsibility and grassroots involvement in water conservation.
A detailed brochure outlining the campaign strategy was also released.

Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARA):

Key nodal agency overseeing water conservation in the state.
Achievements include storing 12 million cubic meters of rainwater and conserving over 6,500 water sources.
Working in collaboration with the Central Ground Water Board to improve groundwater recharge, especially in plains.

River Rejuvenation Projects:

In partnership with IIT Roorkee and NIH Roorkee, DPRs are being developed for the rejuvenation of rivers such as:

Nayar
Song
Uttarvahini Shipra
Gauri

Community Engagement and Governance:

A Dhara-Naula Conservation Committee formed at the village level.
Statewide campaign to build awareness and train Gram Panchayats through workshops in sustainable water management techniques.

Government’s Vision:

CM Dhami reiterated the importance of natural water sources in ensuring ecological balance and sustainable development.
Emphasis on people-led governance and local resource mobilization for long-term water security.

Consider the following statements about the Bhagirath mobile app:

It is launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti under the National Water Mission.
It enables citizens to report endangered water sources like Naulas and Dharaas.
It aims to facilitate public participation in water conservation in Uttarakhand.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: The app was launched by the Uttarakhand Government, not the Ministry of Jal Shakti. It enables citizens to report local water sources under threat and promotes public participation in water conservation.

Rajesh Unni Honored With National Maritime Varuna Award

Syllabus:Awards

On April 5, 2025, during the 62nd National Maritime Day celebrations in Mumbai, Rajesh Unni, founder of Synergy Marine Group, was conferred the National Maritime Varuna Award—India’s highest individual honor in the maritime sector.
The award is presented by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) to recognize outstanding and sustained contributions to the maritime industry.

About the Award

The National Maritime Varuna Award honors individuals who have played a pivotal role in advancing India’s maritime landscape.
It goes beyond operational excellence to acknowledge visionary leadership and contributions in areas like innovation, management, and maritime policy.

Rajesh Unni’s Contributions

Founder of Synergy Marine Group, a global leader in third-party ship management and maritime solutions.
His firm manages a substantial fleet of Indian-flagged vessels and is known for integrating technology and sustainability into maritime operations.
Unni’s leadership has significantly enhanced India’s global stature in the maritime sector.

Unni’s Vision

In his acceptance speech, Unni highlighted the transformative potential of India’s maritime workforce.
He emphasized that Indian seafarers and shore-based professionals are not just ship operators—they are future leaders of global shipping.

About Synergy Marine Group

Provides integrated maritime solutions and manages a wide range of vessels.
Recognized for its innovative approach, Synergy plays a crucial role in strengthening maritime operations both in India and globally.

Consider the following statements about the National Maritime Varuna Award:

It is awarded annually by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
The award exclusively recognizes contributions related to the operational efficiency of cargo shipping.
Rajesh Unni, founder of Synergy Marine Group, received the award in 2025.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer:C

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct — The award is conferred by the Directorate General of Shipping under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Statement 2 is incorrect — The award also considers leadership, innovation, and strategic contribution to the maritime sector, not just operational efficiency.
Statement 3 is correct — Rajesh Unni was honored in 2025.

Juspay Becomes India’s First Unicorn of 2025: $1 Billion Valuation Achieved

Syllabus: Awards

Bengaluru-based fintech infrastructure company Juspay has emerged as India’s first unicorn of 2025 after securing $60 million in Series D funding.
The round was led by Kedaara Capital, with continued backing from existing investors SoftBank and Accel.
Despite scaling back from an initially projected $150 million raise, the latest funding round has propelled Juspay’s valuation beyond $1 billion, marking a notable development in India’s digital payments ecosystem.

Key Developments

Funding Snapshot:

Amount Raised: $60 million
Series: D
Lead Investor: Kedaara Capital
Other Participants: SoftBank, Accel
Funding Structure: Mix of primary and secondary investment
Initial Target: $150 million (scaled down)

Unicorn Milestone:

Valuation: Exceeds $1 billion
Status: First Indian unicorn of 2025
Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Strategic Roadmap

Technology Focus:

Investments in AI-based productivity tools
Reduction of manual processes in operational workflows
Development of advanced merchant analytics dashboards

Global Expansion Plans:

Target regions include:
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
Latin America
Europe, UK, and North America

Emerging Challenges

Loss of Key Clients: Major fintech players like Razorpay and PhonePe have exited Juspay’s platform
Impact: Potential slowdown in adoption and growth trajectory
Strategic Response: Emphasis on continuous innovation to retain partners and secure global market share

Consider the following statements regarding India’s startup ecosystem:

Juspay became India’s first unicorn of 2025 after raising $150 million in Series D funding.
The Series D funding round of Juspay was led by SoftBank.
Juspay is primarily known for providing payment infrastructure services.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: C) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Juspay raised $60 million, not $150 million (which was the initial target).
Statement 2 is incorrect: The lead investor was Kedaara Capital, not SoftBank.
Statement 3 is correct: Juspay is a payments infrastructure provider.

Unemployment Rate Dips Marginally to 4.9% in 2024

Syllabus: Economy

Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2024: Key Findings and Trends

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data for the year 2024, offering nuanced insights into India’s labour market dynamics.
The report reflects marginal improvement in overall employment conditions, though disparities persist across gender, region, and sector.

Unemployment Rate (15 Years and Above)

All-India unemployment rate decreased marginally from 5.0% in 2023 to 4.9% in 2024, indicating a slight uptick in employment opportunities.

Rural Areas:

Unemployment rate declined from 4.3% to 4.2%.
Both male and female unemployment recorded minor reductions.

Urban Areas:

Male unemployment slightly increased from 6.0% to 6.1%.
Female unemployment declined from 8.9% to 8.2%.
Overall urban unemployment remained static at 6.7%.

Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)

National LFPR (15+ years, PS+SS) declined modestly from 59.8% to 59.6%.

Urban LFPR Trends:

Male LFPR rose from 74.3% to 75.6%.
Female LFPR improved slightly from 25.5% to 25.8%.
Overall urban LFPR increased from 50.3% to 51.0%.
Total LFPR across India remained largely unchanged at 56.2%, with minor variations by category.

Worker Population Ratio (WPR)

All-India WPR declined from 58.0% to 57.7%, indicating a marginal contraction in the working population.
Urban WPR improved slightly from 47.0% to 47.6%, suggesting better employment absorption in cities.
Rural Female WPR dropped, likely due to a reduction in unpaid female workers in household enterprises:
Share of female helpers fell from 19.9% to 18.1%.

Employment Shifts and Emerging Trends

There is a gradual movement away from unpaid household roles, particularly among rural women, possibly signaling a transition towards formal or more productive employment.

Sectoral Hiring Outlook:

IT and manufacturing sectors are expected to witness a revival in hiring in early 2025.
Youth employability continues to pose challenges amid growing automation and AI-driven disruptions across multiple industries.
Despite overall improvements, joblessness among minority communities saw an uptick during the 2023–24 period (July–June).

Consider the following statements regarding India’s labour market trends as per PLFS 2024:

The all-India unemployment rate for persons aged 15 years and above decreased from the previous year.
Urban male unemployment rate declined while rural female unemployment rate increased.
The overall Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) remained static despite sectoral fluctuations.
Urban Worker Population Ratio (WPR) saw a marginal decline due to falling formal employment.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1 and 4 only

Correct Answer: A. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: The all-India unemployment rate for persons aged 15 years and above decreased from the previous year.

According to PLFS 2024:

Unemployment rate decreased from 0% in 2023 to 4.9% in 2024.
This confirms a slight overall improvement.

Nilgiri Tahr Census

Syllabus:Environment

The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), an endangered mountain ungulate, is endemic to the southern Western Ghats of India and serves as the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
Culturally revered and referenced in ancient Tamil literature, adult males are colloquially known as “Saddlebacks” due to the distinct light grey saddle-shaped patch on their backs.

2024 Census Initiative

In a joint initiative commemorating the 50th anniversary of Eravikulam National Park, a comprehensive Nilgiri Tahr census is scheduled from April 24 to 27 across 89 blocks in Kerala and 176 blocks in Tamil Nadu.
The operation will involve forest officials and trained volunteers, utilizing camera traps and pellet sampling to facilitate genetic studies.
The ‘bounded count’ method will be employed to estimate the species’ population density accurately.

Habitat and Distribution

The species is primarily found in the montane grasslands, Shola forests, and high-altitude rocky terrains of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
The largest contiguous population is located in Eravikulam National Park, Kerala, which offers the species a cold, wet, and rugged terrain ideal for survival.
The Nilgiri Tahr is diurnal and exhibits a high degree of ecological resilience and adaptability.

Conservation Status

Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The population has declined significantly due to habitat degradation, poaching, and anthropogenic pressures.
As per a 2015 WWF assessment, the wild population stood at an estimated 3,122 individuals, indicating a major contraction from its historical range.

Project Nilgiri Tahr

Launched in December 2022 by the Tamil Nadu Government, Project Nilgiri Tahr is a five-year conservation initiative with a financial outlay of ₹25.14 crore. The project’s key objectives include:
Conducting systematic population surveys.
Implementing radio telemetry studies.
Reintroducing the species to historical habitats.
Mitigating immediate threats such as habitat encroachment and climate vulnerability.

With reference to the Nilgiri Tahr, consider the following statements:

It is found only in Tamil Nadu and nowhere else in India.
It inhabits both tropical montane grasslands and Shola forests.
Adult males are commonly referred to as “Saddlebacks” due to a light grey patch on their back.
The Nilgiri Tahr is nocturnal and prefers dry scrublands.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 4 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer: B. 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: While the largest population is in Tamil Nadu, it is also found in Kerala, especially in Eravikulam National Park.
Statement 2 is correct: It inhabits tropical montane grasslands, Shola forests, and high-altitude rocky areas.
Statement 3 is correct: Adult males are called “Saddlebacks” due to the light grey saddle-shaped patch.
Statement 4 is incorrect: The Nilgiri Tahr is diurnal, not nocturnal, and does not prefer dry scrublands.