Daily Current Affairs Quiz: 16 July 2025

Detailed explanation: In a significant step towards women’s empowerment, Coal India has inaugurated its first fully women-operated dispensary at South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL). The facility, from the doctor to the security guard, is managed entirely by women employees. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive work environment and provide dedicated healthcare services.

Detailed explanation: In July 2025, the President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, nominated 04 members to the Rajya Sabha. These nominations were made to fill vacancies that arose from the retirement of previous members. The President nominates individuals having special knowledge or practical experience in fields such as literature, science, art, and social service, as per Article 80 of the Constitution.

Detailed explanation: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, part of a private mission to the International Space Station (ISS), has safely returned to Earth. The spacecraft splashed down off the coast of Florida after an 18-day stay in space. Shukla, one of the astronauts selected for India’s Gaganyaan mission, conducted several experiments during his stay. This mission is a crucial precursor to India’s own human spaceflight program.

Detailed explanation: Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 9 National Highway (NH) projects in Telangana. These projects aim to improve connectivity, boost economic growth, and enhance road safety in the state. The development of this infrastructure is part of the government’s broader vision to build a world-class road network across the country.

Detailed explanation: India has secured its fertilizer supply by signing a five-year agreement with Ma’aden, a leading Saudi Arabian mining company. Under this agreement, Ma’aden will supply Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) and other fertilizers to India. This long-term deal is crucial for ensuring food security and stabilizing fertilizer prices for Indian farmers.

Detailed explanation: In the Swachh Survekshan 2024 rankings (announced in 2025), Noida has made a remarkable jump from 44th position to become the third cleanest city in India. This significant improvement is attributed to the Noida Authority’s focused efforts on waste management, citizen awareness campaigns, and enhancing sanitation infrastructure. Indore and Surat retained their top positions.

Detailed explanation: The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly has passed the ‘Jan Suraksha Bill, 2024’ (Public Safety Bill). The bill aims to establish a unified framework for ensuring the safety and security of citizens in public places through the use of technology like CCTV surveillance. It mandates the installation and monitoring of camera networks in major cities and towns across the state.

Detailed explanation: The third national conference on the Shalya Tantra (ancient surgery), “Shalyacon 2025,” was inaugurated in New Delhi. The conference brought together practitioners, researchers, and students of Ayurveda to discuss advancements and research in the field of Ayurvedic surgery. The event was organized by the All India Institute of Ayurveda to promote traditional Indian medical systems.

Detailed explanation: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has announced the ‘Youth Spiritual Summit’ to be held in Varanasi from July 18-20, 2025. The summit aims to connect the youth with India’s rich spiritual heritage and promote values of peace and harmony. Varanasi, being a major spiritual and cultural center, was chosen as the ideal location for this gathering.

Detailed explanation: The Haryana government is developing a massive jungle safari park spread across 10,000 acres in the Aravalli mountain range. Located in the Gurugram and Nuh districts, it is slated to be the largest such park in Asia. The project aims to boost tourism, create employment opportunities, and promote conservation of the Aravalli biodiversity.

Detailed explanation: The third edition of the “Trade Watch Quarterly” report was launched by the Union Ministry of Commerce in New Delhi. This report provides a detailed analysis of India’s trade performance, global trade trends, and sector-specific challenges and opportunities. It serves as a vital resource for policymakers, exporters, and industry stakeholders to make informed decisions and formulate trade strategies.

Detailed explanation: The Uttar Pradesh government has launched an ambitious initiative to revive 75 small and extinct rivers across the state. The campaign uses a technology-driven approach, including GIS mapping and satellite imagery, to identify old river channels and plan their rejuvenation through desilting and rainwater harvesting. The number 75 is inspired by the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations.

Detailed explanation: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has invited applications for the sixth edition of the National Startup Awards (NSA 2025). These awards recognize and reward outstanding startups and ecosystem enablers that are contributing to economic dynamism by spurring innovation and injecting competition.

Detailed explanation: The appointment of a Governor for any state in India is made by the President. Accordingly, Prof. Asim Kumar Ghosh was appointed as the new Governor of Haryana by the President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, based on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers. The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the state executive.

Detailed explanation: Muhammadu Buhari, who served as the President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, has passed away. A retired major general in the Nigerian Army, he also previously served as the nation’s head of state from 1983 to 1985 after taking power in a military coup. He was a prominent political figure in Nigerian and African politics for several decades.