UPSC Current Affairs 11 March 2025 - Daily News Headlines

On March 11, 2025,India and the EU aim to finalize a free trade deal by year-end. GAIL seeks LNG cargoes, while India's steel imports hit a record. IndiGo launches budget flights to Europe. India faces Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final. Tamil Nadu schools close for a holiday; a Congress staffer found dead. 

This awareness is crucial for cracking the UPSC prelims, excelling in UPSC mains. It helps perform well in the UPSC personality test, thus becoming an informed and effective UPSC civil servant.

Below are the headlines of the day taken from The Hindu, Indian Express, Press Information Bureau & All India Radio as required for UPSC preparation:

New Delhi considers restoring High Commissioner to Canada to reset ties

Source: The Hindu 

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• The Indian government is considering the restoration of a High Commissioner to Canada to improve diplomatic relations.
• The move aims to reset and strengthen ties between the two nations following recent diplomatic strains.
• The decision underscores the importance of mutual cooperation and addressing bilateral issues through diplomatic channels.
• Restoring the High Commissioner is seen as a step towards rebuilding trust and enhancing collaboration in various sectors.

Canada’s Ontario Province slaps 25% tax increase on electricity exports to U.S.

Source: The Hindu

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• Ontario, a province in Canada, has announced a 25% tax increase on electricity exports to the United States.
• The tax hike is intended to raise additional revenue and address fiscal challenges within the province.
• The increase may affect electricity prices and trade dynamics between Ontario and the U.S., potentially leading to higher costs for American consumers.
• The decision reflects Ontario's efforts to manage its budget while balancing trade relations with regional partners.

Mark Carney will become Canada’s next Prime Minister replacing Justin Trudeau and the Union government is considering restoring a High Commissioner to Canada.

Source: The Indian Express

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• Mark Carney has been named the next Prime Minister of Canada, set to replace Justin Trudeau.
• Carney, known for his expertise in economics and finance, is expected to bring a new focus to Canada's leadership.
• Concurrently, the Indian government is considering restoring a High Commissioner to Canada, signaling a desire to improve bilateral relations.
• These developments underscore the evolving political landscape in Canada and efforts to strengthen international diplomatic ties.

National Security Act (NSA) invoked against people in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh after clashes broke out between two communities

Source: The Indian Express

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• The National Security Act (NSA) has been invoked against individuals involved in communal clashes in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
• The clashes between two communities led to heightened tensions and necessitated stringent measures to restore order.
• Invoking the NSA allows authorities to detain individuals without trial to prevent further violence and ensure public safety.
• The decision underscores the government's commitment to maintaining law and order and preventing communal unrest.

India second-largest arms importer after Ukraine in 2020-24 as per the latest Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Report

Source: The Hindu

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• According to the latest SIPRI report, India is the second-largest arms importer in the world from 2020 to 2024, following Ukraine.
• The report highlights India's significant defense procurement efforts to modernize its military capabilities and enhance national security.
• The ranking reflects India's strategic focus on strengthening its defense infrastructure amid regional and global security dynamics.
• The SIPRI report provides insights into global arms transfer trends and their implications for international security.

6th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise 'Dharma Guardian' in Mount Fuji, Japan concluded

Source: The Indian Express

Syllabus: GS Paper 2

Key Pointers:

• The 6th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise 'Dharma Guardian' has successfully concluded in Mount Fuji, Japan.
• The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the armed forces of both countries.
• The training focused on various tactical operations, counter-terrorism strategies, and joint mission planning.
• 'Dharma Guardian' underscores the strong defense partnership between India and Japan and their commitment to regional security.

Stocks’ sell-off worsens as Wall Street wonders how much pain Trump will accept for the economy

Source: The Hindu

Syllabus: GS Paper 3

Key Pointers:

• The stock market sell-off has intensified, with investors concerned about the extent of economic pain former President Donald Trump is willing to tolerate.
• The sell-off is driven by uncertainties regarding trade policies and their impact on economic growth and stability.
• Market participants are closely watching for signs of potential policy shifts or interventions to stem the decline.
• The situation highlights the sensitivity of financial markets to political and economic decisions and their broader implications.

Government seeks Parliament nod to spend ₹51,463 crore extra in current financial year

Source: The Hindu

Syllabus: GS Paper 3

Key Pointers:

• The Indian government has sought parliamentary approval to spend an additional ₹51,463 crore in the current financial year.
• The supplementary request includes allocations for various programs, initiatives, and addressing unforeseen expenditures.
• Seeking additional funds highlights the government's commitment to fulfilling its fiscal responsibilities and supporting key areas of the economy.
• The request requires parliamentary approval to be implemented, reflecting the ongoing budgetary management process.

India’s wheat production estimated to hit record high of 115.3 million metric tonnes in 2024-25

Source: The Indian Express

Syllabus: GS Paper 3

Key Pointers:

• India's wheat production is estimated to reach a record high of 115.3 million metric tonnes for the 2024-25 agricultural year.
• The anticipated increase in production is attributed to favorable weather conditions, improved farming practices, and government support.
• The record output is expected to enhance food security, stabilize domestic prices, and potentially increase export opportunities.
• The projection highlights the resilience and growth potential of India's agricultural sector, contributing to the overall economy.