UPSC Weekly Current Affairs: National Civil Services Day, Indus Waters Treaty, WAVES Summit

Keeping up with weekly current affairs is crucial for UPSC and other competitive exams. This week's major events — from the National Civil Services Day to critical updates on the Indus Waters Treaty — are important for both prelims and mains preparation. Let's dive into the essential highlights from April 21 to April 27, 2025.

Important Days and Events

National Civil Services Day 2025

Date Observed: April 21, 2025
Theme: Holistic Development of India
Highlights:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the civil servants, emphasizing their role in India's development.
- PM’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration were distributed.
- Background: First celebrated in 2006, inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s historic 1947 address to administrative officers at Metcalfe House, Delhi.

Key Summits and Forums

WAVES Summit 2025

Full Form: World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES)
Venue: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Dates: May 1–4, 2025
Organized by: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India
Significance: A global platform to discuss trends, trade prospects, and innovations in the media and entertainment industry.

Government Schemes and Policies

Jal Jeevan Mission Update

Objective: Provide potable drinking water to every rural household — 55 litres per capita per day by 2024.
Latest Update:
- Expenditure Finance Committee approved ₹1.51 lakh crore for funding till 2028.
- This is 46% less than what the Ministry of Jal Shakti initially sought.
Fund-sharing pattern:
- 90:10 for Himalayan and North-Eastern states.
- 50:50 for all other states.
Launched: Independence Day, 2019.

Economic and Digital Initiatives

Introduction of Domain

Launched by: Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Objective: Enhance cybersecurity in digital banking.
Mandatory Migration Date: October 31, 2025
Details:
- will be an exclusive domain for Indian banks.
- Aims to reduce phishing attacks and digital payment frauds.

International Relations

Simla Agreement Put on Hold

Context:
- Following the terror attack in Pahalgam, India took strong retaliatory measures against Pakistan.
- Pakistan announced the suspension of all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement.
Simla Agreement Key Points:
- Signed in 1972 after the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
- Emphasized peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, and a commitment to resolve issues bilaterally.
- Stipulated that the Line of Control (LOC) must not be altered unilaterally.
- Promised restoration of communication and diplomatic relations.

Quick Facts You Should Remember

Topic	Key Details
National Civil Services Day	Celebrated every year on April 21
WAVES Summit 2025	May 1–4, 2025 in Mumbai
Jal Jeevan Mission Fund Update	₹1.51 lakh crore approved till 2028
RBI’s domain	Mandatory for banks by October 31, 2025
Simla Agreement Status	Suspended by Pakistan

Practice MCQs

1. What is the theme of National Civil Services Day 2025?
a) Atmanirbhar Bharat
b) Holistic Development of India
c) Good Governance
d) Digital India

Answer: b) Holistic Development of India

2. The WAVES Summit 2025 is focused on which sector?
a) Agriculture
b) Media and Entertainment
c) Defence Innovation
d) Health Infrastructure

Answer: b) Media and Entertainment

3. What is the deadline for Indian banks to migrate to the domain?
a) March 31, 2025
b) October 31, 2025
c) December 31, 2025
d) January 1, 2026

Answer: b) October 31, 2025

Conclusion

For serious aspirants, staying updated with such detailed and well-structured current affairs is vital for excelling in the UPSC Prelims, Mains, and State PCS exams. Stay tuned every week for concise yet comprehensive coverage of major events and government initiatives.