Current Affairs [Prelims] Lexicon – July, 2025
Polity & Governance
Akashvani
Akashvani is the national public radio broadcaster of India, established in 1936. It operates under the Prasar Bharati corporation and broadcasts in multiple Indian languages. It played a key role during India’s independence movement by disseminating information. The broadcaster covers news, music, culture, and educational programs. It has over 400 stations and reaches millions of listeners daily. Akashvani also pioneered radio drama and plays role in rural communication. It is funded by the government but also generates revenue through advertisements and sponsored programs. It is one of the oldest radio networks in Asia.
Why in news?
Akashvani’s correspondent reported on India’s electronics export surge, denoting the country’s growing role in global manufacturing.
Appointments Committee of the Cabinet
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is a key body in the Government of India responsible for appointments to top posts in the central government, including regulatory authorities, public sector undertakings, and constitutional bodies. The ACC is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes the Minister of Home Affairs. It approves appointments of senior bureaucrats, judges, and heads of important institutions. The committee’s decisions ensure merit-based and transparent selection processes. The ACC’s role is crucial in maintaining the administrative machinery’s efficiency and integrity by placing experienced and capable individuals in leadership positions.
Why in news?
The ACC approved Ajay Seth’s appointment as chairman of IRDAI for a three-year term in July 2025.
Ashoka Chakra
The Ashoka Chakra is a 24-spoke navy blue wheel located at the center of the Indian national flag. It is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka , an ancient emblem from Emperor Ashoka’s reign in the 3rd century BCE. The chakra symbolizes the wheel of law (Dharma) and continuous movement, reflecting progress and justice. It replaced the earlier spinning wheel (charkha) on the flag to emphasize law and governance rather than the textile industry. The Ashoka Chakra also appears on various Government of India seals and currency notes.
Why in news?
Highlighted as the key emblem on the Indian flag officially adopted on July 22, 1947, replacing the charkha.
Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board is India’s nuclear safety authority responsible for regulating nuclear and radiation safety. Established in 1983, it oversees licensing, safety reviews, and compliance monitoring of nuclear facilities. AERB conducts multi-tiered safety assessments covering reactor design, construction, commissioning, and operational phases. It collaborates with technical support organizations and experts to ensure adherence to international safety standards. The board’s approval is mandatory for the operation of nuclear reactors in India and is valid for specific periods, typically five years, subject to periodic reviews.
Why in news?
AERB granted a five-year operation license to NPCIL for KAPS-3 and KAPS-4, following extensive safety evaluations of the first indigenous 700 MWe PHWRs.
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the National Standards Body of India responsible for the development and implementation of standards across various sectors. It certifies products, services, and systems, including the IS/ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certification. BIS operates through regional offices, including the Southern Regional Office, which awarded the certification to Arthunkal Police Station. The organization plays important role in ensuring quality, safety, and reliability in Indian industries and services. BIS also facilitates adoption of international standards to promote global competitiveness and quality governance.
Why in news?
BIS awarded the IS/ISO 9001:2015 QMS certification to Arthunkal Police Station in July 2025, recognizing its commitment to quality service standards.
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is a part of the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance. It administers the country’s indirect tax laws, including Goods and Services Tax (GST), customs, central excise, and service tax. CBIC is responsible for policy formulation, tax administration, and enforcement related to indirect taxes. It also oversees the functioning of customs and excise departments, including laboratories like CRCL. CBIC plays a key role in trade facilitation and revenue collection, leveraging technology and scientific methods to improve compliance and ease of doing business.
Why in news?
CBIC co-organized the Trade Facilitation Conference 2025 to promote scientific excellence and modernize trade testing frameworks.