Asteroid 2003 MH4 to Make Close Flyby of Earth on May 24, 2025
Asteroid 2003 MH4, a massive space rock about 335 meters wide—roughly the size of the Eiffel Tower—is expected to make a close approach to Earth on May 24, 2025. Traveling at a speed of over 30,000 km/h, it will pass at a safe distance of 6.68 million kilometers, about 17 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Though classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid, experts confirm it poses no threat. NASA is closely tracking its path as part of ongoing efforts to monitor Near-Earth Objects and strengthen planetary defense against future space hazards.
Kanak Budhwar Wins Gold in 10m Air Pistol at ISSF Junior World Cup 2025
Seventeen-year-old Indian shooter Kanak Budhwar delivered a stellar performance to win gold in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the ISSF Junior World Cup 2025 held in Suhl, Germany. Scoring 239.0, she edged out seasoned Moldovan Olympian Anna Dulce to secure the top podium spot. This marks India’s first gold at the tournament and highlights Kanak’s emergence as a rising star. Trained at Abhinandan Shooting Academy in Rohtak under coach Sandeep Nehra, Kanak’s journey from health challenges to international success reflects her dedication and India’s growing strength in shooting sports.
Fitch Raises India’s Growth Forecast to 6.4% Through FY2026 on Strong Employment Trends
Global ratings agency Fitch has revised India’s medium-term GDP growth forecast to 6.4% till FY2026, citing improved labor force participation and a resilient post-pandemic recovery. The upgrade reflects stronger employment contributions to economic output, outweighing gains from productivity. Fitch expects India to grow at 6.4% in 2025, 6.3% in 2026, and again 6.4% in 2027. This comes as China’s forecast was cut to 4.3%, positioning India as a key emerging economy. The outlook highlights India’s growing economic strength, bolstered by demographic advantage, rising domestic demand, and policy-driven reforms supporting sustained long-term growth.
Inclusive Housing Boost: 4% Quota for Disabled Officials in Government Residences
In a step towards fostering inclusivity, the Indian government has approved a 4% housing quota for central government employees with benchmark disabilities under the General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) scheme. This reservation, covering housing up to Type V and hostels, is aligned with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Implemented through the eSampada portal, the policy ensures greater accessibility in government housing. Applicants must possess a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID). The move reflects the government’s commitment to equitable infrastructure and support for persons with disabilities in public service.
RBI Sells Nearly $400 Billion in FY25 to Defend Rupee Amid Global Uncertainty
In a bold move to stabilize the Indian rupee, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) sold a record $398.71 billion in foreign currency during FY2024-25, significantly higher than the $153 billion sold the previous year. The aggressive intervention came in response to rising global market volatility, a strong U.S. dollar, and foreign portfolio outflows. Despite some purchases, net sales totaled $34.51 billion, the highest since the 2008 global financial crisis. The RBI’s efforts caused a drop in India’s forex reserves by nearly $80 billion, highlighting its commitment to maintaining currency and economic stability.