Current affairs 2025
Current Affairs 27 September 2025 brings together the most relevant updates of the day along with their historical context, significance for the Prelims examination, and practice MCQs based on major issues. Our aim is to provide you with the key highlights and latest developments from 27 September 2025, compiled from trusted sources. The coverage includes unique insights from leading newspapers such as The Hindu, The Economic Times, Times of India, Indian Express, Business Standard, as well as official releases from PIB, PTI, and government portals. This comprehensive update is designed to support aspirants preparing for UPSC, State PSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
IAF retires MiG-21 fighter jets after six decades
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has formally retired its MiG-21 fighter jets, marking the end of a six-decade legacy. The move reduces IAF’s operational fighter squadrons to 30, far below the sanctioned strength of 42–45. This shortfall comes amid China’s growing superiority and Pakistan’s significant air strength. To offset the gap, India is relying on air defence systems such as the Russian S-400 and indigenous Akash missiles. Indigenous projects like Tejas Mk1A and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) are planned, along with procurement of 114 foreign fighters. However, persistent delays in induction and uncertainties around technology transfer remain key challenges.
Quiz
Q. Assertion (A): India plans to acquire 114 foreign fighter jets under global procurement.
Reason (R): The majority of these will be manufactured in India under partnership to strengthen the defence ecosystem.
a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation.
b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation.
c) A true, R false
d) Both false
Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation.
India–EU Strategic Agenda 2025: Strengthening Partnership in Trade, Technology, Connectivity and Security
The India–EU Strategic Agenda has been unveiled as a long-term roadmap to strengthen ties between India and the European Union. The framework is built on five pillars: prosperity and sustainability, technology and innovation, security and defence, connectivity and global issues, and people-to-people cooperation. Trade between the two partners has grown rapidly, with bilateral goods trade surpassing €160 billion, while EU investment in India reached €90 billion. Both sides are deepening collaboration in emerging technologies, connectivity corridors, green energy, and clean transport. Security and defence cooperation is expanding, including plans for a Defence Industry Forum, cybersecurity frameworks, and joint maritime exercises. This agenda positions the EU as India’s reliable partner in global alignment and a counterbalance to China.
Quiz
Q. Match the following pillars of the India–EU Strategic Agenda:
- Prosperity and Sustainability
- Technology and Innovation
- Security and Defence
- People-to-People Pillar
a) Digital infrastructure, AI, research
b) Trade, resilient supply chains, sustainable development
c) Countering hybrid threats, regional stability
d) Skills mobility, cultural collaborations
Options:
A. 1-b, 2-a, 3-c, 4-d
B. 1-a, 2-d, 3-b, 4-c
C. 1-c, 2-b, 3-d, 4-a
D. 1-d, 2-c, 3-a, 4-b
Answer: A. 1-b, 2-a, 3-c, 4-d
Jharkhand Names Archery Team ‘Chero Archers’ in APL
The Jharkhand archery team has been officially named “Chero Archers” for the Archery Premier League (APL), honouring the historical Chero warrior clan. The Cheros were known for their defiance against Mughal and British expansion and their deep mastery of archery. This initiative revives tribal heritage while promoting Jharkhand’s modern sporting identity. The move also connects local youth to their roots, strengthens cultural pride, and promotes sports tourism in the state. It symbolises the blending of history, culture, and professional archery on a national platform.
Quiz
Q. Which modern Indian state is most closely linked to the Chero clan’s legacy of archery and resistance?
a) Jharkhand
b) Rajasthan
c) Gujarat
d) Kerala
Answer: a)