Daily Current Affairs of 22nd March 2025 in English

Introduction:

Daily Current Affairs of 22nd March 2025, witnessed a series of significant events across various domains, ranging from infrastructure development to geopolitical concerns, cultural celebrations, and scientific discoveries. Here's an in-depth look at the noteworthy occurrences of the day.

Top Current Affairs and News Headlines – March 22, 2025

Daily GK Update – 22nd March 2025: Current Affairs

Here are the major national and international updates, developments, and key events from 22nd March 2025:

National News

Purple Fest 2025: Celebrating Inclusivity and Empowerment

The prestigious Purple Fest 2025 took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan, orchestrated by DePwD (Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Drawing a remarkable 23,500 participants, the event stood as a beacon of accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities (Divyangjan). The festival showcased an array of engaging activities, including literary forums, sporting events, corporate collaborations, and cultural performances, reinforcing the vision of an inclusive society.

C-DOT Introduces ‘Samarth’ – A Pioneering Incubation Initiative for Startups

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has unveiled ‘Samarth’, a cutting-edge incubation program aimed at boosting innovation in the telecom and IT sectors. This initiative is designed to support startups specializing in Telecom Software, Cybersecurity, 5G/6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Quantum Technologies. Partnering with Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) for implementation, the program operates in a hybrid mode and features two annual cohorts, each comprising 18 startups. Participants benefit from mentorship, financial aid, and infrastructure support, fostering a robust ecosystem for next-gen technological advancements.

International News

Funding for Women-Led Startups Declines in 2024; India Secures 2nd Spot in Tech Investments

Global investment in women-led tech startups witnessed a downturn in 2024, with funding dropping to $29.6 billion, marking an 11% decline from 2023 and a 21% reduction compared to 2022. Economic challenges contributed to this decline. However, India emerged as the second-largest nation for cumulative funding in women-led tech startups, following the United States, as per Tracxn’s report. These startups accounted for 11.7% of total global investment, with 45 funding rounds exceeding $100 million. Key industries such as Enterprise Applications, Life Sciences, and FinTech continued to attract significant capital despite the broader slowdown.

State News

UK Delegation Explores Skill Development Collaboration in Odisha

A UK Skills and Chartered Bodies Mission delegation visited Odisha to discuss partnerships in vocational education and skill training. The discussions centered on industry-led skilling programs, UK-style apprenticeships, and specialized training in areas like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, digital technology, and sustainable infrastructure. The meeting saw participation from Minister Sampad Chandra Swain and British Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Fleming, both highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in creating a globally competitive workforce.

Meghalaya Unveils First Scientific Coal Mining Block – A Historic Milestone

Meghalaya achieved a major milestone with the inauguration of its first scientific coal mining block, “Saryngkham-A”, at Byndihati, East Jaintia Hills. The initiative, led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, represents a shift away from rat-hole mining, which was banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 due to safety and environmental concerns. This scientifically managed mining approach aims to ensure sustainability and worker safety, marking a significant step forward in responsible resource extraction.

58-Foot Statue of Potti Sriramulu to be Installed in Amaravati

To honor the legacy of Potti Sriramulu, who played a pivotal role in the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1953, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced the construction of a 58-foot statue in Amaravati. Additionally, Sriramulu’s ancestral home in Padamatipalli will be transformed into a museum, alongside the establishment of a modern healthcare center and high school in his village. The project is scheduled for completion before his next birth anniversary.

Business News

BPCL Commissions Floating Solar Power Plant at Kochi Refinery

In a step toward sustainable energy, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) inaugurated a 3.2 MW AC floating solar power plant at its Kochi Refinery. The project, inaugurated by Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan on March 22, 2025, is spread across an 8-acre rainwater harvesting pond. Developed at an investment of ₹28.93 crore, the initiative aligns with BPCL’s commitment to integrating renewable energy solutions.

Appointments News

Goibibo Appoints Rishabh Pant as Brand Ambassador in a Campaign Featuring Sunil Gavaskar

Travel booking platform Goibibo has named Rishabh Pant as its brand ambassador, launching a marketing campaign that incorporates cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar’s iconic “Stupid, Stupid, Stupid” phrase in a lighthearted manner. The campaign seeks to connect with younger audiences by blending cricket nostalgia with exciting travel deals, making trip planning more enjoyable.

Amitabh Kant Appointed as Chancellor of NIIT University

Former NITI Aayog CEO and India’s G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, has been appointed as the Chancellor of NIIT University (NU), effective March 10, 2025. Succeeding K Kasturirangan, Kant’s leadership will focus on economic transformation, policy-making, and technology-driven education, strengthening NU’s commitment to industry-aligned learning.

Anuj Kumar Singh Named Joint Secretary in UPSC

Anuj Kumar Singh, a 2009-batch IRSEE officer, has been appointed as Joint Secretary (Director level) at UPSC, Delhi, under the Central Staffing Scheme. Recommended by the Ministry of Railways, his technical expertise and administrative experience are expected to enhance UPSC’s operational efficiency over his five-year tenure.

Ranks & Reports News

World Happiness Report 2025: India Climbs to 118th Position

India has improved its position in the World Happiness Report 2025, ranking 118th, compared to 126th in 2023 and 139th in 2020. This positive trend is driven by economic growth, enhanced corruption perception (ranked 56th in 2024 from 71st in 2022), and improved personal freedom (23rd in 2024, highest in five years). However, India still trails behind Pakistan (109th) and Nepal (92nd) due to lower social support and economic inequality.

Science & Technology News

Scientists Create World’s First ‘Supersolid’ from Light

Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking discovery by transforming light into a supersolid, a new phase of matter that simultaneously exhibits superfluid and solid properties. Published in Nature (March 5, 2025), the study, conducted by CNR-INO, CNR-Nanotec, and the University of Pavia, demonstrates that the light-based supersolid maintains a coherent quantum droplet structure while enabling friction-free movement. This discovery has far-reaching implications for quantum computing, materials science, and future photonic applications.

Important Days

World Water Day 2025: Glacier Preservation Takes Center Stage

Observed on March 22, World Water Day 2025 spotlights the theme “Glacier Preservation”, emphasizing their vital role in water security, climate stability, and sustaining life. The United Nations has called for global efforts to protect glaciers, as they are critical to addressing climate change and water scarcity.

World Meteorological Day 2025: Focus on Early Warning Systems

Marking its 75th anniversary, World Meteorological Day 2025 will be observed on March 23 with the theme “Closing the Early Warning Gap Together”. The event underscores the importance of early warning systems in mitigating climate-related disasters and enhancing global preparedness.

Obituaries

Boxing Legend George Foreman Passes Away at 76

Two-time heavyweight champion and business icon George Foreman passed away on March 21, 2025, at age 76. Known for his remarkable comeback in boxing and his entrepreneurial success with the George Foreman Grill, he was revered as a humanitarian and sports legend.

Miscellaneous News

East Coast Railway Sets Record with 250 MT of Freight Loading

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) became the first railway zone in India to achieve 250 million tons (MT) of freight loading in FY 2024-25, reaching the milestone 11 days ahead of schedule. This marks the second consecutive year ECoR has surpassed 250 MT, reinforcing its status as India’s top freight-loading railway zone.

Daily Current Affairs Question Answers in English of

22nd March 2025

1. Which ministry organized the Purple Fest 2025?

A) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

B) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

C) Ministry of Cultural Affairs

D) Ministry of Human Resource Development

✅ Answer: B) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

📝 Explanation: The Purple Fest 2025 was organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DePwD), which operates under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The festival promoted accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment for people with disabilities.

2. How many participants attended the Purple Fest 2025?

A) 15,000

B) 20,000

C) 23,500

D) 25,000

✅ Answer: C) 23,500

📝 Explanation: The Purple Fest 2025 attracted 23,500 participants, showcasing various activities such as literary forums, sports events, corporate collaborations, and cultural performances to promote inclusivity.

3. What is the name of the incubation program launched by C-DOT?

A) Udyam

B) Samarth

C) Navodaya

D) StartupX

✅ Answer: B) Samarth

📝 Explanation: The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) launched ‘Samarth’, an incubation initiative to support startups specializing in telecom and IT sectors, including 5G/6G, AI, IoT, and cybersecurity.

4. Which organization is partnering with C-DOT for implementing the Samarth program?

A) NITI Aayog

B) Software Technology Parks of India (STPI)

C) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

D) Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

✅ Answer: B) Software Technology Parks of India (STPI)

📝 Explanation: STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) is collaborating with C-DOT to implement the Samarth incubation program in a hybrid mode, supporting 18 startups per cohort.

5. What percentage of global funding did women-led startups receive in 2024?

A) 9.2%

B) 11.7%

C) 14.5%

D) 17.8%

✅ Answer: B) 11.7%

📝 Explanation: Women-led tech startups received 11.7% of total global investments in 2024, despite an 11% decline in overall funding from 2023.

6. Which country ranked first in cumulative funding for women-led startups in 2024?

A) China

B) India

C) United States

D) Germany

✅ Answer: C) United States

📝 Explanation: The United States ranked first, while India secured the second position in cumulative funding for women-led tech startups in 2024.

7. Which Indian state did the UK delegation visit for skill development collaboration?

A) Karnataka

B) Odisha

C) Tamil Nadu

D) Maharashtra

✅ Answer: B) Odisha

📝 Explanation: A UK delegation visited Odisha to explore partnerships in vocational education and skill training, focusing on areas like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital technology.

8. What is the name of Meghalaya’s first scientific coal mining block?

A) Jaintia-B

B) Saryngkham-A

C) Khasi-C

D) Shillong-D

✅ Answer: B) Saryngkham-A

📝 Explanation: Meghalaya inaugurated its first scientific coal mining block, Saryngkham-A, marking a shift from rat-hole mining, which was banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014.

9. Where is the 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu being installed?

A) Hyderabad

B) Amaravati

C) Visakhapatnam

D) Bengaluru

✅ Answer: B) Amaravati

📝 Explanation: Andhra Pradesh is installing a 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in Amaravati, honoring his role in the state's formation.

10. Where did BPCL commission its floating solar power plant?

A) Mumbai

B) Kochi

C) Chennai

D) Panaji

✅ Answer: B) Kochi

📝 Explanation: BPCL commissioned a 3.2 MW AC floating solar power plant at its Kochi Refinery, developed at a cost of ₹28.93 crore.

11. Who was appointed as the brand ambassador of Goibibo?

A) Virat Kohli

B) M.S. Dhoni

C) Rishabh Pant

D) Sunil Gavaskar

✅ Answer: C) Rishabh Pant

📝 Explanation: Travel booking platform Goibibo appointed Rishabh Pant as its brand ambassador, featuring Sunil Gavaskar in a promotional campaign.

12. Who was appointed as the Chancellor of NIIT University?

A) K. Kasturirangan

B) Amitabh Kant

C) Raghuram Rajan

D) Arundhati Bhattacharya

✅ Answer: B) Amitabh Kant

📝 Explanation: Former NITI Aayog CEO, Amitabh Kant, was appointed as the Chancellor of NIIT University, succeeding K. Kasturirangan.

13. What position did India achieve in the World Happiness Report 2025?

A) 126

B) 139

C) 118

D) 92

✅ Answer: C) 118

📝 Explanation: India climbed to 118th position in the World Happiness Report 2025, improving from 126th in 2023 and 139th in 2020.

14. Which country ranked ahead of India in the World Happiness Report 2025?

A) China

B) Pakistan

C) Bangladesh

D) Myanmar

✅ Answer: B) Pakistan

📝 Explanation: Pakistan (109th) and Nepal (92nd) ranked higher than India (118th) in the World Happiness Report 2025.

15. Which element was used to create the world’s first 'supersolid'?

A) Water

B) Light

C) Copper

D) Hydrogen

✅ Answer: B) Light

📝 Explanation: Scientists transformed light into a supersolid, a unique phase of matter with both superfluid and solid properties.

16. What is the theme of World Water Day 2025?

A) Plastic Waste Management

B) River Conservation

C) Glacier Preservation

D) Ocean Cleaning

✅ Answer: C) Glacier Preservation

📝 Explanation: The theme for World Water Day 2025 is “Glacier Preservation”, emphasizing their role in water security and climate stability.

17. What is the theme of World Meteorological Day 2025?

A) Air Pollution Control

B) Natural Disaster Management

C) Closing the Early Warning Gap

D) Heatwave Prevention

✅ Answer: C) Closing the Early Warning Gap

📝 Explanation: World Meteorological Day 2025 highlights "Closing the Early Warning Gap", emphasizing disaster preparedness.

18. Which legendary boxer passed away in March 2025?

A) Muhammad Ali

B) Mike Tyson

C) George Foreman

D) Floyd Mayweather

✅ Answer: C) George Foreman

📝 Explanation: George Foreman, a two-time heavyweight boxing champion, passed away at the age of 76.

19. Which railway zone achieved a record 250 million tons of freight loading?

A) Western Railway

B) East Coast Railway

C) Northern Railway

D) Southern Railway

✅ Answer: B) East Coast Railway

📝 Explanation: East Coast Railway (ECoR) became the first railway zone to achieve 250 million tons of freight loading in FY 2024-25.

20. How many startups does each cohort of the Samarth program support annually?

A) 10

B) 15

C) 18

D) 25

✅ Answer: C) 18

📝 Explanation: The Samarth program runs two cohorts per year, each supporting 18 startups, focusing on next-gen technology development.