SSC Current Affairs 16th May 2025

National & International News

1. India and UK Sign Free Trade Agreement (FTA) After 10 Years of Negotiations

India and the United Kingdom finally signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Key sectors benefiting include textiles, pharmaceuticals, and IT services.

2. Cyclone ‘Arnab’ Weakens; Relief Operations Underway in Odisha & West Bengal

After causing heavy rainfall and flooding, Cyclone Arnab has weakened into a depression. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) continues rescue operations, with over 50,000 people evacuated so far.

3. RBI Launches ‘Digital Rupee’ for Retail Transactions

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) expanded its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilot to include retail transactions in 15 more cities, promoting cashless payments.

4. India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train Completes Trial Run

Indian Railways successfully tested its first hydrogen fuel-based train between Delhi and Jaipur, aiming for a zero-emission transport system by 2030.

5. Supreme Court Bands Aadhaar Mandate for Private Companies

The Supreme Court ruled that private companies cannot force Aadhaar verification for services, upholding citizens' right to privacy.

Science & Technology

6. ISRO’s Gaganyaan Mission: Final Crew Selection Completed

ISRO finalized four astronauts for Gaganyaan, India’s first manned space mission, set for December 2025.

7. DRDO Tests Hypersonic Missile ‘Shaurya-II’

India successfully tested the indigenous Shaurya-II missile, capable of Mach 6 speed, enhancing strategic defense capabilities.

Economy & Schemes

8. India’s GDP Growth Rate Rises to 7.6% in Q4 2024-25

The Ministry of Statistics reported a 7.6% GDP growth, driven by manufacturing and infrastructure sectors.

9. PM Modi Launches ‘Ayushman Bharat 2.0’

The government expanded Ayushman Bharat to cover senior citizens and middle-class families, benefiting an additional 10 crore people.

Sports & Awards

10. India Wins Thomas Cup 2025

The Indian badminton team clinched its second Thomas Cup title, defeating Indonesia 3-1 in the finals.

11. Neeraj Chopra Breaks Own Javelin World Record

Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra set a new world record (92.37m) at the Doha Diamond League 2025.

Important Days & Appointments

12. International Day of Light (16th May)

UNESCO celebrated the day, emphasizing solar energy innovations and optical technologies.

13. New Chief Justice of India: Justice Sanjiv Khanna Takes Oath

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 50th Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice DY Chandrachud.

Conclusion

These updates are crucial for SSC CGL, CHSL, MTS, and other competitive exams. Stay tuned for 16 may 2025 daily current affairs on government websites and trusted news sources.